Best SE Prep Courses: Boost Your Exam Success

Embarking on the journey to become a licensed Structural Engineer (SE) is both challenging and rewarding. With the shift to the Computer-Based Testing (CBT) format, the SE exam has become increasingly demanding, particularly in areas like the Vertical and Lateral Forces sections. First-time pass rates highlight this difficulty: the Vertical Depth Buildings section sits at just 12%, while the Lateral Depth Buildings section is around 17% (W. G. Williams & Associates).

Given these numbers, enrolling in a well-structured SE prep course can make a significant difference. Programs such as those from the School of PE report impressive average pass rates of 93%, demonstrating how guided preparation can dramatically improve outcomes.

Key Takeaways

• Understand the Exam Structure: The SE exam consists of both breadth and depth sections, each focusing on distinct knowledge areas. Knowing the format is essential for efficient and effective preparation.
• Leverage Prep Courses: Structured courses provide curated study materials, practice exams, and expert instruction—tools that are critical when tackling low pass-rate sections.
• Select the Right Program for You: Choose a course that matches your learning style, schedule, and the specific exam focus areas you need to strengthen.

In this guide, we’ll explore the top SE prep courses available in 2025, breaking down their features, outcomes, and pricing to help you identify the best fit for your exam success.

1. School of PE – Comprehensive SE Exam Preparation Program

The School of PE has been a trusted name in engineering exam preparation for over four decades, helping tens of thousands of professionals pass licensure exams across various disciplines. For Structural Engineering (SE) candidates, they offer one of the most comprehensive and results-driven prep programs in the industry.

The SE Exam Prep program is built around the latest NCEES specifications. It covers both Vertical and Lateral components, including the breadth and depth sections in detail. Students can choose live online classes to interact directly with instructors. Alternatively, on-demand courses offer flexibility for those balancing work and study.

School of PE stands out for its expert-led instruction. It provides structured practice and targeted exam strategies. These are designed to help students overcome the SE exam’s notoriously low first-time pass rates, which can be as low as 12–17% for some sections.

Key Features

• Flexible Learning Formats: Live online classes for interactive learning or on-demand videos for self-paced study.
• Comprehensive Content Coverage: In-depth review of all topics tested in both Vertical and Lateral sections.
• Practice-Driven Approach: Hundreds of exam-style practice problems with fully worked-out solutions.
• Exam Strategy Sessions: Focus on time management, common pitfalls, and maximizing scoring opportunities.
• Experienced Faculty: Licensed SE professionals with industry experience and teaching expertise.

Stats & Outcomes

• Average Pass Rate: 93% among enrolled students
• Total Students Trained: Over 25,000 SE candidates
• Student Satisfaction: 4.7/5 based on verified reviews

Pricing

• Full SE Prep Program: $1,800–$2,000
• On-Demand Modules: Around $1,000
• Individual Section Courses: From $700

Pros – Why School of PE Stands Out

1. Exceptionally High Pass Rate
   With a reported 93% pass rate, the School of PE far exceeds the national averages for the SE exam. This track record gives students confidence that the program’s methods are both effective and proven.
2. Dual Learning Options for All Schedules
   Students can opt for live, instructor-led classes for structured learning or self-paced videos to study around work commitments. This flexibility ensures accessibility without compromising content quality.
3. Instructors with Real-World SE Experience
   Every instructor is a licensed Structural Engineer, bringing not only technical knowledge but also practical insights into how principles are applied in the field—something that can help in tackling real-world-style exam problems.
4. Rigorous Practice Problem Sets
   The course includes hundreds of NCEES-style problems, full-length mock exams, and detailed solution walkthroughs. This allows students to build exam endurance while identifying and fixing weak areas before test day.
5. Strong Exam Strategy Component
   Beyond content review, the program includes targeted workshops on time management, pacing, and avoiding common exam mistakes—skills that can be the deciding factor between passing and failing.

Cons – Where It May Fall Short

1. Premium Pricing
   At up to $2,000 for the full program, the School of PE is one of the more expensive SE prep options, which might deter budget-conscious candidates.
2. Time-Intensive Commitment
   Live courses often follow a fixed and demanding schedule, which can be challenging for those with irregular work hours or personal commitments.
3. Limited Peer Interaction in On-Demand Mode
   Students who choose the self-paced option may miss out on the networking, peer discussion, and live Q&A opportunities available in the live format.
4. Dense, Information-Heavy Sessions
   The volume of material covered in each class can be overwhelming, especially for those returning to technical study after a long break. This requires consistent effort to keep pace.
5. Not Tailored for Repeat Takers
   While comprehensive, the program’s structure is geared toward full coverage. Repeat exam takers who only need to target specific weak areas may find it less efficient without additional personalized support.

2. Advanced Engineering Institute (AEI) – Focused SE Exam Preparation for Breadth & Depth Success

The Advanced Engineering Institute (AEI) has earned a strong reputation among engineers for its exam-focused, example-driven teaching style. Designed specifically for the NCEES SE exam, AEI offers separate modules for the breadth and depth sections, with specialized tracks for both building and bridge depth options.

One of AEI’s standout qualities, frequently discussed on Structural Engineering Reddit forums, is the way its materials mirror the actual difficulty and scope of the SE exam—particularly for the lateral depth section, which has one of the lowest first-time pass rates in the country. AEI provides both on-demand video lectures and live webinars, enabling candidates to choose between structured, real-time learning or fully self-paced preparation.

The course emphasizes realistic, timed practice through mini-quizzes and topic tests, giving students not just the content knowledge but also the pacing skills needed to perform under CBT time constraints.

Key Features

• Separate Breadth and Depth Courses: Tailored content for building or bridge specialization.
• Flexible Learning Formats: Choose between on-demand modules or interactive live webinars.
• Complete Printed Course Binder: Includes summary sheets, fully worked examples, and practice problems.
• Exam Simulation Practice: Timed mini-quizzes after each module to improve speed and accuracy.
• Lateral Depth Specialization: Recognized for in-depth coverage of lateral force design topics, including seismic and wind design.

Stats & Candidate Feedback

• Frequently recommended by past candidates for lateral section readiness (Reddit).
• Reported by many as more difficult than the actual exam, helping build resilience under test conditions.
• Positive reviews emphasize clear, concise summary sheets that are easy to reference during the exam.

Pricing

• On-Demand Bundle (Breadth + Depth): Around $995
• Webinar Bundle (Breadth + Depth): Around $1,100
• Individual Sections: Pricing varies by module

Pros – Why AEI Stands Out

1. Realistic, Exam-Level Difficulty
   AEI’s practice problems often match—or slightly exceed—the complexity of the NCEES SE exam. This approach prepares candidates for worst-case scenarios, so the actual test feels more manageable.
2. Complete All-in-One Course Materials
   Students receive a printed binder containing summary sheets, solved examples, and practice exams, reducing the need to purchase extra reference books. This saves both money and time when assembling study resources (Reddit).
3. Timed Mini-Exams for Pacing Mastery
   Each module concludes with a timed quiz, replicating exam conditions. These drills help students develop the pacing and time management skills needed for CBT success, a crucial factor for sections with tight time limits.
4. Strong Lateral Depth Preparation
   AEI’s lateral force design content—including seismic, wind, and stability topics—receives consistent praise for being clear, organized, and thorough, an area where many other courses fall short.
5. Flexible Delivery Options
   With both on-demand and live webinar formats, AEI accommodates different learning preferences—whether you want to follow a strict schedule or study entirely at your own pace.

Cons – Where AEI May Fall Short

1. No Official Pass-Rate Publication
   AEI does not publicly release verified pass-rate statistics, so its success claims rely largely on student testimonials and third-party reviews. This may make it harder for candidates to quantify outcomes compared to providers like the School of PE.
2. Potential Lag in Content Updates
   While AEI updates its content for the CBT format, some students have raised concerns on Reddit about whether every lecture and example fully reflects the latest NCEES specification changes.
3. Requires Self-Discipline for On-Demand Learning
   The on-demand format offers flexibility but requires a high level of self-motivation to maintain study consistency without fixed class times.
4. Limited Peer Networking Opportunities
   Unlike some programs that foster active online communities, AEI’s interaction channels are more limited, which may be a drawback for those who benefit from collaborative learning or peer accountability.
5. Higher Cost for Live Access
   While the on-demand course is competitively priced, live webinar access costs more, potentially pushing total prep expenses closer to premium-tier providers.

3. PPI2Pass – SE Exam Prep Program

PPI2Pass is a leading provider of SE exam preparation, known for its comprehensive and concept-driven approach. Designed for both Vertical and Lateral sections of the SE exam, it combines self-paced modules and live online instruction, enabling flexibility while ensuring deep understanding. The program emphasizes exam strategies, time management, and realistic problem-solving, making it suitable for both first-time and repeat candidates.

Many candidates value PPI2Pass for its in-depth study manuals. It also offers an extensive practice problem library and a structured review plan. These resources provide clarity on difficult SE concepts and exam tactics. The materials are regularly updated to reflect the latest NCEES SE exam specifications. This ensures candidates study relevant, current content.

Key Features

• Flexible Learning Options: Self-paced modules or live online classes.
• Extensive Problem Library: Thousands of SE-specific problems with fully worked solutions.
• Exam Strategy Guidance: Focused lessons on time management, problem prioritization, and efficient problem-solving.
• Comprehensive Study Manuals: Step-by-step explanations of all exam topics for vertical and lateral sections.
• Updated Content: Materials aligned with the latest SE exam specifications and CBT format.

Stats & Candidate Feedback

• Average Pass Rate: 85–90%
• Students Trained Globally: 10,000+ SE candidates
• Student Satisfaction: 90% of students report improved confidence and understanding after completing the course

Pricing

• Full Exam Prep Package: $1,500–$1,700
• Individual Section Modules: Priced separately

Pros – Why PPI2Pass Excels

1. Comprehensive Conceptual Understanding
   PPI2Pass focuses on a deep understanding of engineering principles, not just formula memorization. Candidates gain the ability to tackle complex SE problems confidently, which is critical for both vertical and lateral depth sections.
2. Flexible Study Options
   With live instructor-led classes and self-paced on-demand modules, PPI2Pass accommodates professionals with full-time jobs, offering the ability to study at one’s own pace or interact directly with instructors.
3. Robust Problem-Solving Resources
   The program provides thousands of practice problems, including full-length mock exams, that simulate real SE exam conditions. This repetition builds exam endurance, problem-solving speed, and familiarity with common question types.
4. Focused Exam Strategy & Time Management
   PPI2Pass emphasizes practical exam skills such as how to prioritize difficult questions, allocate time per section, and avoid common mistakes, giving students a strategic advantage on test day.
5. Continuously Updated Content
   All course materials are regularly revised to reflect NCEES changes and CBT format updates, ensuring candidates are always studying current, relevant material without needing external resources.

Cons – Considerations Before Choosing PPI2Pass

1. Self-Motivation Needed for On-Demand Learning
   Success in self-paced modules requires strong personal discipline and time management, which may challenge candidates who prefer structured classroom learning.
2. Moderate Pass Rate Compared to Top Competitors
   With an average pass rate of 85–90%, PPI2Pass is effective but slightly lower than higher-end programs like School of PE, which may be a consideration for high-stakes first-time exam takers.
3. Additional Focus Required for Lateral Depth
   Some candidates find that the lateral depth modules, while thorough, require supplemental materials or targeted practice to master fully, especially for complex wind and seismic design problems.
4. Cost for Multiple Sections
   While the full package is comprehensive, purchasing individual section modules separately can increase total preparation costs, making it potentially expensive for candidates who need only targeted review.
5. Limited Interactive Peer Engagement
   Compared to programs with robust student forums or study groups, PPI2Pass offers less peer-to-peer interaction, which may reduce collaborative learning opportunities for those who thrive in group study environments.

4. ASCE SE Review Course – Comprehensive SE Exam Preparation

The ASCE SE Review Course is a flagship program offered by the American Society of Civil Engineers, designed to provide a highly structured and authoritative preparation for the Structural Engineering (SE) exam. Known for its industry credibility and rigorous curriculum, the course is tailored to cover both the Vertical and Lateral sections in depth, including building and bridge depth specializations.

ASCE’s program stands out for its combination of lecture-based content, practice problems, and expert insights from licensed Structural Engineers. It gives candidates both conceptual understanding and practical exam strategies. The course also emphasizes real-world applications. This helps candidates relate theoretical concepts to engineering practice. Many find this feature useful for solving complex SE exam questions.

The program is offered in multiple formats: live in-person sessions, live online webinars, and on-demand modules, allowing candidates flexibility in how they engage with the material. This makes it suitable for professionals balancing work with exam preparation. Additionally, ASCE’s review course integrates problem-solving workshops, exam simulations, and detailed study guides to ensure comprehensive coverage of NCEES specifications.

Key Features

• Multiple Delivery Formats: Live in-person classes, live online webinars, and on-demand modules.
• Expert Instruction: Licensed Structural Engineers lead sessions and provide practical problem-solving guidance.
• Comprehensive Curriculum: Covers all topics tested in the SE exam, including vertical and lateral sections with building and bridge depth options.
• Practice-Driven Learning: Includes hundreds of exam-style problems, full-length mock exams, and step-by-step solution walkthroughs.
• Exam Strategy Workshops: Focused sessions on time management, prioritization, and efficient problem-solving techniques under CBT conditions.
• Authoritative Materials: Study guides and problem sets are designed and updated by the ASCE SE Exam Committee to ensure alignment with NCEES standards.

Stats & Candidate Feedback

• Historical Success: ASCE SE Review Course has trained thousands of SE candidates over the years, contributing to pass rates above the national average.
• Student Feedback: Reviews highlight the clarity of instruction, the depth of practice problems, and the practical applicability of exam strategies.
• Exam Readiness: Candidates consistently report increased confidence and reduced exam anxiety after completing ASCE review courses.

Pricing

• Live Webinar or In-Person Full Course: Approximately $1,800–$2,200
• On-Demand Modules: Around $1,200
• Individual Section Access: Pricing varies depending on module and format

Pros – Why ASCE SE Review Course Excels

1. Authoritative and Credible Source
   Being offered by ASCE, the program benefits from industry recognition and credibility, giving students confidence that the content is aligned with professional standards and exam expectations.
2. Comprehensive Coverage
   The course thoroughly addresses all SE exam topics, including complex lateral and vertical design principles, bridge and building depth content, and practical examples directly related to professional practice.
3. Expert Instruction from Licensed SEs
   Classes are led by experienced Structural Engineers who share both theoretical knowledge and real-world insights, helping students understand how to apply principles efficiently on exam problems.
4. Practice-Oriented Approach
   With hundreds of practice problems, timed mock exams, and problem-solving workshops, students get ample opportunity to reinforce concepts and simulate real exam conditions, improving confidence and speed.
5. Flexible Learning Options
   The availability of live webinars, on-demand modules, and in-person classes allows candidates to choose a format that fits their schedule, making the course accessible for working professionals.

Cons – Considerations Before Enrolling

1. Higher Cost
   The full course package, especially live or in-person sessions, can be expensive (up to $2,200), which may be a barrier for budget-conscious candidates.
2. Intensive Time Commitment
   The course is comprehensive, requiring significant time investment for lectures, practice problems, and exam simulations, which may be challenging for full-time professionals.
3. Limited Peer Interaction in On-Demand Modules
   While convenient, on-demand learners may miss out on live Q&A, discussions, and peer networking, which can enhance learning for some candidates.
4. Content Density
   The volume of material covered in each session is substantial. Students may need to review materials multiple times to fully internalize complex lateral and vertical design concepts.
5. Updates May Lag Between Exam Changes
   While materials are generally updated regularly, some candidates note that minor content adjustments may lag behind the latest NCEES SE exam updates, requiring them to supplement with additional references.

5. Civil Engineering Academy – SE Exam Review Course

The Civil Engineering Academy (CEA) is designed to provide a comprehensive and structured approach to preparing for the Structural Engineering (SE) exam. Tailored for both the Vertical and Lateral sections, the course offers a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical problem-solving techniques to ensure candidates are well-prepared for the exam.

CEA’s program is particularly noted for its step-by-step problem-solving approach, which helps demystify complex concepts and makes them more accessible. The course materials are regularly updated to align with the latest NCEES SE exam specifications, ensuring that students are studying the most current content.

Key Features

• Comprehensive Coverage: Addresses all topics tested in the SE exam, including both Vertical and Lateral sections.
• Structured Learning Path: Organized modules that guide students through each topic systematically.
• Extensive Practice Problems: A wide array of practice questions with detailed solutions to reinforce learning.
• Expert Instruction: Courses led by experienced instructors with a deep understanding of the SE exam content.
• Flexible Learning Options: Access to course materials at any time, allowing students to study at their own pace.
• Updated Content: Regularly revised materials to reflect the latest exam standards and codes.

Stats & Candidate Feedback

• Pass Rate: While specific pass rates are not publicly disclosed, many students report significant improvements in their understanding and confidence after completing the course.
• Student Satisfaction: Reviews indicate high levels of satisfaction, with students appreciating the clarity of instruction and the practical approach to problem-solving.
• Global Reach: The course has been utilized by aspiring structural engineers worldwide, contributing to its reputation as a reliable preparation resource.

Pricing

• Full Course Access: Approximately $1,200.
• Individual Modules: Pricing varies depending on the specific module or section.
• Free Repeat Policy: If you don’t pass, you can come back at any time and take the On-Demand prep course for free.

Pros – Why Civil Engineering Academy Stands Out

1. Structured and Comprehensive Curriculum
   The course offers a well-organized curriculum that covers all necessary topics for the SE exam, ensuring that students receive a thorough review without feeling overwhelmed.
2. Step-by-Step Problem-Solving Approach
   CEA emphasizes a methodical approach to solving problems, which helps students build confidence and develop the skills needed to tackle complex exam questions.
3. Extensive Practice Materials
   With a vast collection of practice problems and detailed solutions, students have ample opportunity to reinforce their learning and identify areas that require further study.
4. Experienced Instructors
   Courses are taught by instructors with extensive experience in structural engineering, providing students with insights and tips that go beyond the textbook.
5. Flexible Learning Options
   The ability to access course materials at any time allows students to study at their own pace, making it easier to balance exam preparation with other commitments.

Cons – Considerations Before Enrolling

1. Self-Paced Learning Requires Discipline
   While the flexibility of on-demand access is beneficial, it requires self-motivation and discipline to stay on track without the structure of live classes.
2. Limited Live Interaction
   The course primarily offers pre-recorded materials, which may not provide the same level of interactive engagement as live classes.
3. No Personalized Feedback
   While the course provides extensive practice problems, there may be limited opportunities for personalized feedback on individual performance.
4. No Formal Accreditation
   The course is not affiliated with any formal accreditation body, which may be a consideration for some students.
5. Potentially Overwhelming for Beginners
   The comprehensive nature of the course may be overwhelming for those new to the SE exam or structural engineering concepts.

How to Choose the Best SE Prep Course

Choosing the right Structural Engineering (SE) exam prep course is critical to maximizing your chances of passing. With multiple options available, it’s important to evaluate courses based on your learning style, exam focus, budget, and level of support needed.

1. Identify Your Learning Style

• Self-Paced vs. Live Classes:
  • If you prefer studying at your own speed and balancing work, self-paced courses like PPI2Pass or Civil Engineering Academy are ideal.
  • If you thrive on interaction and real-time guidance, live webinars or in-person courses from the School of PE or ASCE SE Review may suit you better.
• Visual vs. Text-Based Learners:
  • Look for courses with comprehensive video lectures if you learn better visually.
  • If you retain information through reading, choose programs with detailed manuals and study guides.

2. Determine Your Exam Focus

• Breadth vs. Depth Sections:
  • Some courses excel in lateral depth preparation (e.g., AEI), which is often challenging for candidates.
  • Others offer strong coverage across both vertical and lateral sections (e.g., School of PE, ASCE SE Review).
• Specialization Tracks:
  • If you are taking a bridge or building depth, make sure the course has dedicated modules for your focus.

3. Evaluate Course Materials

• Practice Problems: The SE exam is problem-heavy. Choose a course offering hundreds to thousands of practice problems and mock exams.
• Study Guides & Summaries: Condensed, step-by-step guides are invaluable for last-minute review.
• Updates & Accuracy: Ensure the materials are updated according to the latest NCEES SE specifications.

4. Assess Instructor Expertise

• Licensed SE Instructors: Programs like ASCE SE Review and School of PE are led by experienced licensed engineers.
• Exam Strategy Guidance: Instructors should provide tips on time management, prioritization, and solving complex problems efficiently.

5. Check Flexibility and Access

• Course Duration & Access: Some programs offer lifetime access, while others have limited access periods.
• Replay Options: For live webinars, confirm whether recordings are available in case you miss a session.
• Mobile Access: Courses with mobile or tablet compatibility allow studying on the go.

6. Compare Pricing and Value

• Full Course vs. Individual Modules: Consider whether purchasing individual sections is more cost-effective than a full package.
• Additional Features: Look for extra practice sets, retake options, or exam simulations included in the price.
• Budget vs. Benefit: A slightly higher-cost course might be worth it if it provides better materials, expert instruction, and proven results.

7. Look for Student Reviews and Pass Rates

• Testimonials: Check forums like Reddit’s Structural Engineering community for honest feedback.
• Reported Pass Rates: While not all providers release official statistics, programs like PPI2Pass and School of PE often have user-reported pass-rate data.

8. Consider Your Time Commitment

• Workload: A comprehensive course requires several hours per week for study, practice, and review.
• Schedule Flexibility: Ensure the course fits with your work, family, and other commitments.

9. Decide Based on Personal Strengths and Weaknesses

• If weak in Lateral Depth: Consider AEI or ASCE for focused preparation.
• If need overall structured review: School of PE or PPI2Pass are ideal.
• If want self-paced and cost-effective: Civil Engineering Academy provides flexibility and extensive problem sets.

Final Recommendation

To choose the best SE prep course:

1. Identify your learning style.
2. Focus on your exam section needs.
3. Review course materials and instructor expertise.
4. Compare flexibility, cost, and access options.
5. Check student feedback and pass rate reports.

Choosing the right course is about matching your study habits, exam focus, and professional schedule to the course that gives the best chance of success. Combining structured practice, expert instruction, and strategic exam preparation is key to passing the SE exam.

Conclusion

Choosing the right SE exam prep course can significantly influence your success. The Structural Engineering exam is challenging, requiring both conceptual understanding and practical problem-solving skills. With multiple prep options available, selecting a program that aligns with your learning style, exam focus, schedule, and budget is crucial.

By assessing your strengths, weaknesses, and preferred learning environment, you can select a course that maximizes your efficiency and confidence. Remember, the key to passing the SE exam lies in consistent practice, understanding core concepts, and mastering exam strategies.

Investing in a high-quality prep course is not just about passing the exam, but also about building a strong foundation for your career as a licensed Structural Engineer. Whether you choose live instruction, self-paced modules, or a hybrid approach, the right course can help you approach the SE exam with confidence, reduce anxiety, and achieve success.

Selecting the right SE prep course today means investing in your professional growth and setting yourself up for long-term success in structural engineering.

FAQs – Best SE Prep Courses

1. What is the best SE prep course for first-time exam takers?
Courses like the School of PE and ASCE SE Review are ideal for first-time takers due to their structured curriculum, expert instructors, and comprehensive coverage of both vertical and lateral sections.

2. Can I prepare for the SE exam with a self-paced course?
Yes. Programs like PPI2Pass and Civil Engineering Academy offer self-paced modules that allow flexibility while covering all exam topics. However, self-discipline and consistent practice are essential.

3. How important are practice problems in SE exam prep?
Extremely important. The SE exam is problem-heavy, so courses that provide hundreds to thousands of practice questions and mock exams—like AEI and PPI2Pass—help build speed, confidence, and familiarity with exam-style problems.

4. Should I focus more on vertical or lateral sections when choosing a course?
It depends on your strengths. If you struggle with lateral depth, courses like AEI provide targeted practice. For overall preparation, programs like the School of PE and ASCE SE Review cover both vertical and lateral comprehensively.

5. Are these courses worth the investment?
Yes. A quality SE prep course not only helps you pass the exam but also strengthens your understanding of structural engineering concepts, improves problem-solving skills, and builds confidence for professional practice.