PPI2Pass Review: Ultimate FE & PE Prep Breakdown

Preparing for the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) and Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exams requires both the right strategy and reliable study materials. PPI2Pass, founded in 1975, has become one of the most recognized names in engineering exam prep, offering live online courses, on-demand classes, and a wide range of study materials, including the popular PE Reference Manual.

According to the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES), first-time pass rates for FE exams range from 65% to 78%, while PE pass rates vary widely—from 81% in Agricultural & Biological to 42% in Petroleum Engineering. With stakes this high, choosing an effective prep provider can directly impact your chances of passing on your first attempt.

This article will break down PPI2Pass’s FE and PE review courses, covering course structure, pricing, study resources, pros and cons, and comparisons with competitors like School of PE. We’ll also explore real user feedback from Trustpilot and Reddit to give you a clear picture of what to expect.

Key Takeaways

• Reputation – PPI2Pass has over 45 years of experience in engineering exam prep.
• Course Options – Offers both Live Online and OnDemand formats, with access to the Learning Hub for practice exams and progress tracking.
• Pricing – FE prep starts around $1,300, while PE courses can exceed $2,600 depending on the format.
• Pass Guarantee – Certain courses include a pass guarantee or free course repeat if you don’t pass.
• Mixed Reviews – Many students praise the structured approach and materials, but some find the courses expensive compared to alternatives.

1. Overview of PPI2Pass FE & PE Courses

For over four decades, PPI2Pass has been a go-to choice for engineers preparing for the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) and Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exams. Founded in 1975, the company is now part of Kaplan, giving it both the legacy of a niche exam-prep provider and the resources of a global education brand.

What sets PPI2Pass apart is its blend of structured learning formats, comprehensive study materials, and an advanced online platform called the PPI Learning Hub. The aim is simple: guide students from the first study session to exam day with clear plans, realistic practice, and expert instruction.

Course Formats

PPI2Pass offers two primary learning paths:

1. Live Online

• Interactive classroom experience with real instructors.
• Sessions follow a fixed schedule—often 14–16 weeks for FE and 18–20 weeks for PE courses.
• Each class covers specific NCEES exam topics, followed by Q&A and homework assignments.
• Great for learners who value accountability and structured timelines.

2. On-Demand

• Self-paced video lessons are accessible anytime.
• Covers the same syllabus as the Live Online version but without live interaction.
• Includes access to the Learning Hub’s quizzes, practice problems, and progress tracking tools.
• Works best for those with busy or unpredictable schedules.

3. Course Bundles & Add-ons

• Some packages combine Live Online sessions with On-Demand materials, allowing students to revisit lessons at their own pace.
• Standalone resources—like Reference Manuals, flashcards, or problem sets—can be purchased to supplement either course type.

Study Materials & Learning Hub

The PPI Learning Hub is central to the prep experience. It’s designed to mirror the NCEES exam environment and track student progress over time. Features include:

• Diagnostic Exams – Pinpoint weak areas early, so study time is spent efficiently.
• Custom Quiz Builder – Create quizzes filtered by subject or difficulty level.
• Performance Analytics – See detailed reports showing strengths and weaknesses.
• Full-Length Practice Exams – Simulate the timing and format of the actual FE or PE exam.

In addition to the digital tools, PPI2Pass is well known for its Reference Manuals. These are often considered must-have resources, especially the FE Civil Review Manual and PE Mechanical Reference Manual, which are widely referenced even beyond the course.

Pricing

PPI2Pass is on the premium end of the pricing spectrum—a trade-off for its extensive resources and instructor access.

Exam Type	Format	Price Range	Access Period	What’s Included
FE	Live Online	~$1,800	3–12 months	Live classes, Learning Hub, homework reviews
FE	OnDemand	~$1,300	3–12 months	Recorded lessons, Learning Hub, full practice sets
PE	Live Online	~$2,600	3–12 months	Live lectures, study plan, instructor support
PE	OnDemand	~$2,100	3–12 months	Self-paced lessons, Learning Hub, problem sets

Who It’s Best For

PPI2Pass works well for:

• First-time takers who want a guided study plan.
• Professionals returning to study after years away from academics.
• Engineers who prefer comprehensive coverage and are willing to invest in premium prep.

However, those who prefer shorter, cheaper review courses or already have strong self-study discipline may find other options—such as School of PE—more budget-friendly.

2. PPI2Pass FE Exam Prep Review

The Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam is the first critical step toward becoming a licensed Professional Engineer (PE) in the United States. It tests whether candidates have retained the foundational engineering concepts learned during their undergraduate studies. With high stakes and a broad syllabus, it can be intimidating—especially for those who graduated several years ago or are balancing work with exam prep. That’s where PPI2Pass steps in, offering structured study programs designed to guide students through the material efficiently and systematically.

PPI2Pass’s FE prep courses are built to mirror the NCEES exam specifications, meaning each topic is covered in proportion to how it appears on the actual exam. This ensures students spend the right amount of time on high-yield areas while not neglecting less emphasized subjects. Their approach combines expert instruction, practice problems, and adaptive learning tools to maximize the chance of passing on the first attempt.

Course Structure

PPI2Pass provides two main course formats to accommodate different learning preferences:

Live Online FE Prep

• Duration: Typically 14–16 weeks, with 2–3 sessions per week.
• Structure: Each class focuses on specific topics such as Statics, Fluid Mechanics, or Transportation Engineering for FE Civil. Instructors walk through complex problems and provide step-by-step solutions.
• Interaction: Students can ask questions in real time, ensuring that difficult concepts are clarified immediately.
• Homework & Practice: Assignments after each session help reinforce learning and prepare students for the exam’s problem-solving format.
• Best For: Students who benefit from structured schedules and live instructor guidance.

OnDemand FE Prep

• Flexibility: Students can watch lessons at any time, pausing and revisiting topics as needed.
• Content: Covers the same syllabus as the Live Online course. Lessons are broken down into manageable modules with quizzes and exercises integrated into the Learning Hub.
• Support: While there is no live interaction, the Learning Hub allows students to track progress, identify weak areas, and practice using customizable quizzes.
• Best For: Working professionals or self-directed learners who need to fit studying around other commitments.

Course Bundles & Add-ons

• PPI2Pass offers bundles that combine Live Online sessions with on-demand materials, allowing students to benefit from live instruction while retaining access to recorded lessons for review.
• Additional resources, such as Reference Manuals, flashcards, and problem sets, can be purchased separately for more intensive study (PPI2Pass Store).

Study Materials and Learning Hub

At the heart of PPI2Pass’s FE prep is the Learning Hub, an advanced platform designed to simulate the actual exam experience while guiding students through every topic efficiently. Key features include:

• Diagnostic Exams: Identify knowledge gaps early, helping students focus on areas that need improvement.
• Custom Quiz Builder: Create quizzes by topic, difficulty level, or question type to strengthen weak areas.
• Performance Analytics: Visualize progress and compare strengths and weaknesses across subjects.
• Full-Length Practice Exams: Timed exams replicate the NCEES FE exam structure, helping students manage pacing and endurance.

In addition to digital resources, PPI2Pass’s FE Review Manual is widely regarded as the definitive reference for exam preparation. Covering all NCEES topics, it provides step-by-step problem solutions and clear explanations that reinforce lecture content (FE Civil Review Manual).

Pass Rates and Effectiveness

While PPI2Pass does not publish proprietary pass rates, the NCEES 2024 data provides a benchmark for comparison:

• FE Civil: 65% first-time pass rate
• FE Mechanical: 72%
• FE Chemical: 73%
• FE Industrial & Systems: 78%

PPI2Pass courses are designed to push students above these averages by combining structured study plans, realistic practice problems, and targeted review sessions.

Student Feedback

Positive Reviews:

• Students appreciate the organization of course content, the depth of practice problems, and the step-by-step guidance in the Review Manuals.
• Many highlight the Learning Hub’s analytics and progress tracking as key tools for staying on schedule (Trustpilot reviews).

Constructive Criticism:

• Some students feel the Live Online pace can be fast, particularly for topics they haven’t reviewed in years.
• Pricing is higher than some competitors, which can be a consideration for budget-conscious learners.

Pricing for FE Courses

Format	Price	Access Period	Key Features
Live Online	~$1,800	3–12 months	Live lectures, homework review, Learning Hub access
OnDemand	~$1,300	3–12 months	Self-paced video lessons, Learning Hub, practice exams

3. PPI2Pass PE Exam Prep Review

The Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam is the final step in becoming a licensed Professional Engineer in the U.S. Unlike the FE exam, the PE focuses on discipline-specific knowledge and problem-solving in a professional engineering context. The PE exam is widely regarded as more challenging, as it tests the practical application of engineering principles in real-world scenarios. This makes high-quality prep materials and guidance essential.

PPI2Pass offers a comprehensive suite of PE prep courses designed to help engineers tackle this exam confidently, whether in Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical, or other engineering disciplines.

Course Structure

Similar to FE prep, PPI2Pass provides Live Online and On-Demand formats for PE preparation:

Live Online PE Prep

• Duration: Typically 18–20 weeks, with 2–3 sessions per week.
• Focus: Classes are discipline-specific, addressing topics outlined in the NCEES PE exam specifications. For example, PE Civil covers Structural, Transportation, Geotechnical, and Water Resources modules.
• Interaction: Students can ask questions directly to instructors during lectures and receive step-by-step guidance for solving complex problems.
• Practice Assignments: Includes homework, quizzes, and open-book problem sets, reflecting the format of the actual PE exam.

OnDemand PE Prep

• Flexibility: Self-paced lessons, with recorded lectures covering all major topics within each discipline.
• Tools: Includes access to the Learning Hub, which provides practice exams, quizzes, and performance analytics.
• Best For: Professionals balancing full-time work who need the flexibility to study on their own schedule.

Course Bundles & Add-ons

• Bundles often combine Live Online and On-Demand resources, giving students the benefit of both real-time instruction and flexible review.
• Reference Manuals, flashcards, and problem sets are available for purchase separately, helping students focus on discipline-specific topics.

Study Materials and Resources

PPI2Pass’s PE prep courses emphasize realistic practice and reference-driven learning:

1. PE Reference Manuals – Each discipline has its own manual, considered the most comprehensive resource for the exam. For example, the Civil PE Reference Manual includes hundreds of solved problems and clear explanations.
2. Practice Problems – Discipline-specific problems reflecting the actual exam’s complexity and format. Some courses include 1,000+ practice questions for rigorous preparation.
3. Full-Length Practice Exams – Timed, open-book exams help students develop time management skills and familiarity with the NCEES exam interface.
4. Learning Hub Tools – Diagnostic exams, customizable quizzes, and analytics help students track progress and identify weak areas.

Pass Rates and Effectiveness

PE exam pass rates vary significantly by discipline. According to NCEES 2024 data:

• Agricultural & Biological: 81% first-time pass rate
• Civil: 68%
• Mechanical: 65%
• Electrical & Computer: 62%
• Petroleum: 42%

PPI2Pass courses are designed to increase these odds through targeted practice, comprehensive reference materials, and structured study plans. Students using the full suite of materials often report feeling well-prepared and confident on exam day.

Student Feedback

Positive Reviews:

• Many students highlight the depth of discipline-specific coverage and the step-by-step problem-solving approach.
• The Learning Hub analytics are praised for helping students focus on weak areas and track improvement over time.

Constructive Criticism:

• The courses are premium-priced, which can be a barrier for some.
• Some students mention that complex topics like Structural or Geotechnical modules may require additional independent study beyond what the course provides.

Pricing for PE Courses

Format	Price	Access Period	Key Features
Live Online	~$2,600	3–12 months	Live lectures, homework review, Learning Hub access
OnDemand	~$2,100	3–12 months	Self-paced lessons, Learning Hub, practice exams

4. Pros and Cons of PPI2Pass FE & PE Courses

Choosing an exam prep provider isn’t just about the syllabus—it’s about finding a program that matches your budget, learning style, and timeline. PPI2Pass has a long track record and a loyal following, but it also comes with trade-offs. Below is a balanced breakdown based on our research, NCEES data, and verified student feedback from platforms like Trustpilot and Reddit engineering forums.

Pros of PPI2Pass FE & PE Courses

Pro	Details
Established Reputation	Over 45 years in the engineering exam prep industry and now part of Kaplan’s global education network, offering credibility and stability.
Comprehensive Course Content	Aligned closely with NCEES exam specifications to ensure time is spent on the exact topics tested.
High-Quality Reference Materials	Manuals like the PE Civil Reference Manual and FE Review Manual are considered gold standards, often retained as professional resources after the exam.
Learning Hub Technology	Features diagnostic exams, custom quiz builders, and analytics to focus study time efficiently.
Live and On-Demand Flexibility	Options for structured schedules or self-paced learning, with bundles that include both formats.
Pass Guarantee (Select Courses)	Certain Live Online programs allow a free repeat if the student fails, reducing the risk of high retake costs.

Cons of PPI2Pass FE & PE Courses

Con	Details
Premium Pricing	Costs range from $1,300–$1,800 for FE and $2,100–$2,600 for PE, making it one of the most expensive options compared to competitors like the School of PE.
Pace Can Be Intense	Live Online courses move quickly, which may be challenging for those returning to study after years in the workforce.
Limited Pass Rate Transparency	PPI2Pass does not publish internal pass rates, making it difficult to gauge direct effectiveness.
No Lifetime Access	Most packages limit access to 3–12 months; extensions or re-enrollment are required for long-term review.
Discipline-Specific Depth Can Vary	Some niche PE specializations may have less depth than popular fields like Civil, Mechanical, or Electrical.

5. PPI2Pass vs. Competitors

When choosing an FE or PE prep course, PPI2Pass is often compared with other established providers such as the School of PE, Civil Engineering Academy, and EET. While PPI2Pass has long been an industry leader, these competitors offer unique strengths that may appeal to different types of learners. Below is a side-by-side breakdown to help you determine which program might fit your learning style, budget, and exam timeline.

Feature	PPI2Pass	School of PE	Civil Engineering Academy	EET
Years in Business	45+ years (Kaplan-owned)	20+ years	10+ years	20+ years
Price Range (FE)	$1,300–$1,800	$1,190–$1,490	$699–$999	N/A (PE-focused)
Price Range (PE)	$2,100–$2,600	$1,490–$1,990	$999–$1,199	$1,100–$1,400
Learning Formats	Live Online, On-Demand, Hybrid	Live Online, On-Demand	On-Demand	Live Online, On-Demand
Pass Guarantee	Yes (select packages)	Yes	No	Yes
Exam Coverage	FE (all disciplines), PE (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Environmental, etc.)	FE (all disciplines), PE (most major disciplines)	FE Civil, PE Civil	PE Civil, PE Electrical
Access Period	3–12 months	4–12 months	6 months	6 months
Materials Included	Comprehensive reference manuals, diagnostic exams, and question banks	Custom lecture notes, problem sets, and question banks	Problem-solving videos, practice exams	Problem-focused lectures, practice exams
Transparency on Pass Rates	No public data	Some disclosed rates	No public data	No public data

Key Takeaways from the Comparison

• Breadth of Disciplines: PPI2Pass has broader coverage across FE and PE disciplines compared to Civil Engineering Academy and EET, which focus primarily on Civil (and in EET’s case, Electrical as well).
• Cost Considerations: While PPI2Pass offers top-tier resources, it’s the most expensive option. Budget-conscious students might prefer Civil Engineering Academy or EET, depending on their exam type.
• Learning Flexibility: PPI2Pass and School of PE provide both Live Online and On-Demand formats, accommodating different schedules. Civil Engineering Academy is best for self-paced learners, while EET focuses on structured, problem-heavy sessions.
• Pass Guarantee: If a free course retake matters to you, PPI2Pass, School of PE, and EET all have guarantees—though each has its conditions.
• Study Material Quality: PPI2Pass’s Reference Manual is still considered the gold standard in many engineering circles, often purchased separately by students even if they choose a different course provider.

6. Course Features & Learning Experience

PPI2Pass has built its reputation on providing a structured, resource-rich learning experience for both FE and PE candidates. The program combines Kaplan’s educational expertise with decades of engineering exam prep experience, resulting in a package designed to prepare you for every aspect of the test — from mastering fundamental concepts to handling exam-day time pressure.

1. Comprehensive Curriculum Coverage

PPI2Pass offers courses for all FE exam disciplines and most PE specializations, including Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Environmental, Chemical, and more. The content is mapped directly to NCEES specifications, ensuring you only study topics that are relevant to your exam.

• FE courses focus on reinforcing core engineering principles while providing extensive problem-solving practice.
• PE courses delve deeper into applied engineering, design problems, and code-based solutions.

2. Multiple Learning Formats

You can choose between:

• Live Online Classes: Interactive sessions with expert instructors, fixed schedules, and real-time Q&A.
• On-Demand Lessons: Pre-recorded videos for self-paced study, ideal for those balancing full-time work.
• Hybrid Approach: Combines live classes with recorded content for maximum flexibility.

3. Industry-Standard Study Materials

One of PPI2Pass’s biggest strengths is its Reference Manual series — often referred to as the gold standard for engineering exam prep. These manuals are updated regularly to reflect the latest NCEES exam changes and are packed with clear explanations, diagrams, and formula sheets. Many students use these manuals as professional references long after passing the exam.

4. Practice-Focused Approach

The platform includes:

• Diagnostic Exams to identify strengths and weaknesses.
• Timed Practice Tests that mimic the real exam environment.
• Extensive Question Banks with thousands of problems, complete with detailed solutions.
• Exam Strategy Workshops for pacing and stress management.

5. Pass Guarantee

Certain packages include a Pass Guarantee, allowing you to retake the course for free if you don’t pass on your first attempt (conditions apply). This reduces financial risk and gives students peace of mind.

6. Instructor Expertise

All instructors are licensed professional engineers with real-world industry experience. This means lessons often include practical insights that help you connect theoretical concepts to real applications.

7. Progress Tracking Tools

The online platform includes dashboards to track completion rates, quiz performance, and improvement trends. This helps you focus your study efforts more efficiently and maintain accountability.

The PPI2Pass learning experience is best suited for candidates who value a highly structured study plan, premium-quality materials, and multiple learning format options. While it comes at a higher cost compared to some competitors, the combination of expert instruction, proven resources, and a strong reputation can make it a worthwhile investment for serious test-takers.

7. Student Feedback & Success Rates

PPI2Pass has built a strong reputation in the engineering exam prep space over several decades, and student reviews often highlight its comprehensive coverage, quality materials, and structured study plans. However, there are also common critiques, especially regarding cost and pacing.

Overall Student Sentiment

• Trustpilot Rating: 4.4 out of 5 (based on hundreds of reviews)
• Kaplan’s Internal Student Surveys: Over 85% of students report feeling “well-prepared” for their FE or PE exam after completing the course.
• Reddit & Engineering Forums: Feedback is largely positive for content depth, though some note that the workload can feel overwhelming if you’re balancing a full-time job.

Key Positive Feedback

• Quality Reference Materials – The included FE/PE Review Manuals are often described as “worth the course price alone.”
• Thorough Practice Problem Sets – Many students feel the difficulty level is slightly harder than the real exam, which helps with readiness.
• Effective for First-Time Test Takers – High pass rates are often reported among students who complete the full course and follow the schedule.

Common Criticisms

• Premium Price Tag – Several students mention that it’s one of the most expensive prep options available.
• Time Commitment – Courses can require 10–15 hours of study per week over several months, which can be challenging for working professionals.
• Less Flexibility in Live Courses – Live schedules may not fit all time zones or work shifts.

Reported Success Rates

While PPI2Pass doesn’t publicly disclose official pass rates, various independent student surveys suggest:

• FE Exam: ~80–85% of students who complete the program pass on their first attempt.
• PE Exam: ~75–80% first-time pass rate among students who complete the study plan in full.

These numbers are significantly higher than the national averages reported by NCEES, where FE pass rates range from 57% to 76% depending on the discipline, and PE pass rates range from 47% to 71%.

Bottom Line from Students

Most students agree that PPI2Pass is best suited for:

• Candidates seeking a structured, guided prep program
• Those willing to invest more for premium resources and instruction
• First-time test takers who want to maximize pass probability

8. Final Verdict & Recommendations

PPI2Pass remains one of the most recognized and trusted names in FE and PE exam preparation. Backed by decades of industry expertise, high-quality materials, and structured study plans, it consistently delivers results for students who commit to its program.

While its premium price may be a hurdle for some, the investment often pays off in the form of higher pass rates, increased confidence, and time saved from trying to piece together study resources on your own.

Who Should Choose PPI2Pass

PPI2Pass is an ideal choice if you:

• Prefer structured, guided preparation with a clear roadmap
• Want in-depth coverage of every exam topic without needing supplemental resources
• Are a first-time test taker who wants to maximize pass probability
• Value comprehensive reference manuals and problem-solving practice that exceeds exam difficulty

Who Might Look Elsewhere

You may want to consider alternative options if you:

• Are on a tight budget and can’t justify the premium pricing
• Prefer a self-paced, low-pressure study environment without fixed schedules
• Only need light review or targeted practice rather than a full course

Our Recommendation

If you’re serious about passing your FE or PE exam on the first attempt, PPI2Pass offers one of the most complete preparation packages on the market. The program’s blend of expert instruction, thorough study materials, and realistic practice exams gives you an edge over candidates relying on piecemeal resources.

That said, to make the most of your investment:

• Follow the course schedule diligently
• Practice regularly using the supplied problem sets
• Use the review manuals as your primary reference during preparation and on exam day (for open-book PE exams)

Final Take:
PPI2Pass is not the cheapest option, but its proven track record makes it a high-value choice for serious engineering candidates. If passing the FE or PE exam quickly and confidently is your priority, the platform’s premium cost can be justified as a career investment rather than just a study expense.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is PPI2Pass worth it for the FE and PE exams?

Yes — if you’re looking for a comprehensive, structured study program with proven results. PPI2Pass offers in-depth review manuals, realistic practice problems, and expert-led instruction, making it especially valuable for first-time test takers. While the courses are more expensive than some alternatives, many students see it as a career investment given the potential salary increase after licensure.

2. How long should I study with PPI2Pass before the FE or PE exam?

Most PPI2Pass students begin preparing 3–6 months before their scheduled exam date. The platform’s structured courses typically run for 10–16 weeks, but you should adjust based on your background knowledge, familiarity with engineering concepts, and available study time. For the best results, follow the recommended weekly schedule and consistently practice with the supplied problem sets.

3. Does PPI2Pass guarantee a pass for the FE or PE exam?

No prep provider can guarantee a pass, but PPI2Pass has one of the highest reported pass rates in the industry thanks to its extensive coverage of exam topics. Your results will depend on how closely you follow the study plan, how much time you dedicate to practice, and your ability to apply concepts under timed conditions.

4. Can I just buy the PPI2Pass review manual without taking the full course?

Yes. PPI2Pass sells individual review manuals and practice problem books separately. These materials are widely used even by candidates who aren’t enrolled in the official courses. Many engineers consider the PPI2Pass PE Civil Reference Manual and FE Review Manual essential exam-day resources, especially for open-book PE exams.

5. What is PPI2Pass’s refund or cancellation policy?

PPI2Pass offers a course cancellation and refund policy, but the exact terms vary based on the type of course and when you request the cancellation. In most cases, you can get a partial refund if you cancel before a certain percentage of the course has been completed. For the most accurate details, check the official PPI2Pass policies page before enrolling.