Preparing for the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam is a serious commitment. With pass rates averaging between 55% and 70% depending on discipline and attempt history, according to NCEES data, choosing the right prep course can make the difference between passing on the first try and facing months of extra study. Two of the most popular providers are Engineering Education & Training (EET) and School of PE, each offering distinct formats, pricing models, and teaching approaches.
School of PE markets itself as a comprehensive, feature-rich platform with live classes, recorded lectures, mobile tools, and a reported 93% average pass rate among students who complete their program. EET, on the other hand, focuses on a practice-heavy, problem-solving approach, with simulated exams and a more affordable price point, while still maintaining strong pass rates often cited around 80–85% for engaged students.
This article will give you a complete comparison of both providers—covering course content, pricing, pass rates, pros and cons, and which one aligns best with your study style—so you can make an informed decision.
Key Takeaways
- Both EET and the School of PE enjoy high regard but cater to different learning styles: EET emphasizes hands-on practice, while the School of PE provides a structured, lecture-based program with extensive tools.
- Pass rate claims differ: School of PE cites around 93% for dedicated students, while EET’s results hover around 80–85% with consistent engagement.
- Pricing is a key factor: EET courses typically range from $950–$1,250, whereas the School of PE often charges $1,500–$2,000 depending on discipline and format.
- Discipline matters: Civil engineers often gravitate toward EET for problem-focused prep, while broader engineering disciplines may prefer the School of PE’s diverse course catalog.
- Your learning style decides: If you learn best by solving problems under exam-like conditions, EET may be better. If you prefer structured lectures, study tools, and guided learning, the School of PE is the stronger option.
EET vs School of PE: Quick Comparison
| Feature | EET (Engineering Education & Training) | School of PE |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Focus | Practice-heavy learning, problem-solving, and simulated exams | Structured lectures, guided study plans, and digital learning tools |
| Pass Rate Claims | ~80–85% (for students who complete classes, homework, and mock exams) | ~93% (for students who attend/watch all sessions) |
| Course Format | Live webinars, on-demand videos, detailed practice problems, full-length practice exams | Live online, OnDemand, and OnDemand+ (recorded + live), mobile app, flashcards, and question banks |
| Pricing (Typical Range) | $950–$1,250 depending on course and format | $1,500–$2,000 depending on format and discipline |
| Strengths | Affordable, excellent for problem-solving practice, realistic simulated exams | Comprehensive features, flexible study formats, large question banks, and pass guarantee |
| Weaknesses | Limited extra tools (apps, flashcards), narrower course catalog (primarily civil disciplines) | Higher cost, some users report lectures can feel lengthy and less problem-focused |
| Best For | Civil engineers and those who learn best by practicing problems under exam conditions | Engineers who prefer structured lectures, extensive resources, and multiple learning tools |
School of PE: In-Depth Review
Since its founding in 2004, the School of PE has become one of the most recognized names in engineering exam preparation. It not only prepares students for the PE exam but also offers courses for FE, SE, PMP, and surveying exams, making it a one-stop destination for engineering licensure support. Thousands of engineers across the United States and internationally have enrolled in the program, many crediting its structured approach and extensive study tools for their success.
For engineers tackling the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam, the School of PE emphasizes a balance between comprehensive lectures and applied practice, aiming to equip students with both the theory and problem-solving skills necessary to succeed.
Course Formats
School of PE offers multiple formats to meet the needs of busy professionals who may be balancing exam prep with full-time jobs and family obligations:
- Live Online – Real-time virtual classes led by expert instructors, allowing students to interact, ask questions, and follow a structured schedule.
- On-Demand – Pre-recorded lectures that can be accessed anytime, ideal for self-paced learners who prefer flexibility.
- On-Demand+ – A hybrid option that includes all pre-recorded content plus scheduled live Q&A or problem-solving sessions.
- In-Person Classes – Available in select cities, though less common today, especially as most students prefer online access.
This variety ensures that students can choose between the accountability of live sessions or the flexibility of self-paced study.
Key Features
- Comprehensive Lecture Hours – Most PE courses include 60–80+ hours of instruction, broken down by exam topic. These lectures cover both theoretical concepts and practical applications, ensuring no subject area is left unaddressed.
- Mobile App Access – Students can watch lectures, practice problems, or review notes directly on a mobile device, making it easier to study during commutes or travel.
- Flashcards and Digital Tools – A library of interactive flashcards helps reinforce key formulas and definitions critical for quick recall on exam day.
- Practice Question Bank – Thousands of discipline-specific practice problems, many modeled after NCEES exam formats, provide targeted practice and exposure to exam-style wording.
- Pass Guarantee – Students who complete the course requirements (such as attending all classes or completing lectures) and still do not pass the PE exam are allowed to retake the course at no additional cost.
- Instructor Support – Instructors, many of whom are licensed engineers with years of industry and teaching experience, provide clarifications during and after lectures.
- Structured Study Plan – The course is designed to keep students on track with a consistent schedule, reducing the stress of planning and pacing.
Strengths
- High Claimed Pass Rate: School of PE markets a 93% pass rate for students who fully engage with the program, which is significantly higher than the national average reported by NCEES (often between 55% and 70% depending on discipline).
- Wide Discipline Coverage: While EET is heavily focused on Civil PE disciplines, the School of PE offers prep across multiple engineering fields, including Mechanical, Electrical, Environmental, Chemical, and Structural, making it more versatile.
- All-in-One Resources: From flashcards and notes to mobile apps and practice tests, students don’t need to rely on third-party resources.
- Flexibility: With both live and self-paced formats available, the program adapts well to different learning preferences and work schedules.
- Pass Guarantee Safety Net: The option to retake the course for free adds peace of mind, especially given the investment in time and money.
Weaknesses
- Cost Barrier: At $1,500–$2,000 per course, the School of PE sits at the higher end of the market. For some engineers, especially those not reimbursed by employers, this can be a significant hurdle.
- Lecture-Heavy Approach: While comprehensive, lectures can feel lengthy. Students who prefer hands-on problem-solving may find the format less engaging compared to providers like EET, which emphasize practice.
- High Time Commitment: With over 60 hours of lectures plus practice work, students must commit substantial weekly study time to stay on pace. Those who fall behind may struggle to catch up.
- Less Emphasis on Exam Simulation: Although practice problems are abundant, the course is more focused on teaching concepts than replicating the intensity of a timed, full-length exam.
Best Fit
School of PE is a strong choice for:
- Engineers who thrive with structured, lecture-driven learning supplemented by guided resources.
- Professionals in disciplines other than Civil (such as Mechanical, Chemical, or Environmental), where EET options may be limited.
- Students who want the security of a pass guarantee and the reassurance of comprehensive tools at their disposal.
- Those seeking flexibility between live, self-paced, or hybrid course structures.
EET (Engineering Education & Training): In-Depth Review
Engineering Education & Training (EET) is a smaller but highly respected PE exam prep provider, especially well-known among Civil engineers. Unlike some competitors that spread across many disciplines, EET specializes in civil PE courses, building a reputation for focused instruction, affordable pricing, and practice-heavy learning. Many candidates who prefer solving problems over sitting through long lectures find EET’s approach effective because it mimics the exam environment more closely.
EET emphasizes learning by doing, with carefully designed practice problems, homework assignments, and simulated exams. This approach appeals to engineers who already have a solid theoretical foundation but need structured practice and exam-day readiness.
Course Formats
EET’s offerings are streamlined compared to larger providers, but they are purpose-built for maximum effectiveness:
- Live Webinars – Interactive online classes where instructors explain concepts, solve problems, and engage with students in real-time.
- On-Demand Courses – Recorded sessions that allow students to study at their own pace, perfect for working professionals with unpredictable schedules.
- Simulated Exams – Full-length, timed practice exams that replicate the pressure and pacing of the actual PE exam.
This narrower but focused format ensures that every element is designed with the civil PE exam in mind.
Key Features
- Practice-Driven Learning – Courses are built around problem-solving, with hundreds of practice questions assigned as homework and reviewed in class.
- Full-Length Simulated Exams – Students take timed practice exams to build stamina, improve speed, and identify weak areas before exam day.
- Detailed Course Notes – Concise, well-organized handouts and references accompany the lectures, providing a reliable resource during both prep and the actual exam.
- Flexible Access – Both live and on-demand options allow students to choose the style that works best for their schedule.
- Instructor Expertise – Instructors are often licensed professional engineers with years of teaching and industry experience, making explanations practical and exam-focused.
- Lower Pricing – Typically priced between $950 and $1,250, EET is more budget-friendly compared to competitors like the School of PE.
Strengths
- Affordable Pricing: One of EET’s biggest advantages is cost. With courses nearly 30–40% less expensive than the School of PE, it’s a strong option for those paying out of pocket.
- Practice-Oriented Approach: The emphasis on homework and timed mock exams makes it particularly effective for engineers who learn best by solving problems.
- Civil PE Specialization: With a focus on civil engineering disciplines (Construction, Transportation, Geotechnical, Structural, and Water Resources/Environmental), EET tailors its content directly to the needs of civil engineers.
- Efficient Study Materials: Notes and problem sets are streamlined, helping students focus on the most relevant exam content instead of wading through overly dense material.
- Strong Pass Rates: While not as heavily advertised as the School of PE’s numbers, EET consistently reports 80–85% pass rates among students who complete the program.
Weaknesses
- Limited Discipline Coverage: EET primarily serves Civil engineers. If you’re in Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical, or Environmental engineering, you’ll need to look elsewhere.
- Fewer Extra Tools: Unlike School of PE, EET doesn’t provide mobile apps, flashcards, or large digital libraries. Its focus is narrow—practice and instruction.
- Less Emphasis on Lectures: Students who prefer long, detailed lecture-style teaching might find EET’s format less comprehensive.
- No Pass Guarantee: Unlike the School of PE, EET does not typically offer a repeat-for-free policy if you fail after completing the program.
Best Fit
EET is best for:
- Civil engineers who want a course tailored specifically to their discipline.
- Students who prefer solving problems and timed exams over attending lengthy lectures.
- Professionals seeking a budget-friendly option without sacrificing quality.
- Candidates who already have a good understanding of theory and want to strengthen their problem-solving and exam stamina.
Bottom Line
EET is a practice-focused, cost-effective choice that is especially well-suited for Civil engineers. Its emphasis on simulated exams and problem-solving builds the speed, accuracy, and confidence necessary for exam day. While it lacks the flashy tools and broad catalog of the School of PE, EET compensates with a targeted curriculum, experienced instructors, and affordability. For engineers who value hands-on practice over lecture-heavy learning—and especially for those in Civil disciplines—EET is one of the most effective prep programs available.
Side-by-Side Analysis: EET vs School of PE
When comparing EET and the School of PE, it’s important to move beyond general overviews and look at how they perform across specific areas. Below is a deeper analysis of their content, support, and structure.
Course Content and Structure
School of PE
- Provides 60–80+ hours of lectures, covering every topic tested on the PE exam.
- Designed for students who want to review theory as well as practice problems.
- Includes supplemental resources such as flashcards, formula sheets, and digital study aids.
- Offers coverage across all major PE disciplines, not just Civil.
EET
- Content is problem-driven with a heavy focus on solving exam-style questions.
- Lectures are shorter and more problem-focused rather than extensive theory sessions.
- Provides full-length practice exams to simulate the real testing environment.
- Focused primarily on Civil PE exam disciplines, limiting accessibility for engineers in other fields.
Learning Tools and Extras
School of PE
- Mobile app access for learning on the go.
- Digital flashcards for quick formula and concept review.
- A structured study plan is built into the course design.
- Pass guarantee, allowing students to repeat the course at no cost if requirements are met.
EET
- Streamlined course notes and problem sets.
- Assignments and homework are integrated with class instruction.
- Simulated exams to test readiness under timed conditions.
- No mobile app or digital flashcards—tools remain traditional but highly focused.
Instructor Support
School of PE
- Multiple instructors for each discipline, often specialists in their area.
- Students can submit questions during live sessions or through the learning platform.
- Instructors typically have both industry and teaching experience, making lectures more applied.
EET
- Classes are led by licensed engineers who also bring practical knowledge to problem-solving.
- Support is built into smaller, more focused sessions, allowing for closer interaction in some formats.
- Emphasis on walking students through step-by-step solutions for exam-style problems.
Cost and Value
School of PE
- Courses generally range from $1,500–$2,000.
- Higher price justified by extensive features, multiple formats, and a broad course catalog.
- More suitable for those whose employers may reimburse exam prep expenses.
EET
- Courses typically range between $950–$1,250.
- Offers strong value, especially for Civil engineers, with a focus on exam simulations and problem practice.
- More accessible option for those funding prep entirely out of pocket.
Claimed Pass Rates
School of PE
- Advertises a 93% pass rate for students who complete all course requirements.
- Higher than national averages, but should be considered alongside personal study habits.
EET
- Reports 80–85% pass rates for students who actively participate and complete assignments.
- Numbers are competitive, especially given the lower cost and focused format.
Overall Comparison
- Breadth vs Focus: School of PE covers all disciplines with feature-rich tools, while EET is highly specialized in Civil PE preparation.
- Price vs Features: School of PE is costlier but offers a wider set of tools; EET is budget-friendly but lean in extras.
- Study Style: School of PE suits those who learn best from lectures and structured study plans; EET benefits students who prefer practice-based learning and timed exam simulations.
Discipline-Specific Advice: Which Course Fits Your Exam?
While both EET and the School of PE prepare engineers for the PE exam, the right choice often depends on your discipline. Different fields place varying emphasis on theoretical understanding versus applied problem-solving, and that can influence which provider aligns better with your needs.
Civil Engineering
- EET: Built with Civil engineers in mind, EET specializes in Civil PE exam tracks, including Construction, Transportation, Geotechnical, Structural, and Water Resources/Environmental. The problem-heavy approach, full-length simulated exams, and discipline-focused notes make it one of the most popular choices for Civil engineers.
- School of PE: Also offers Civil PE prep, but its strength lies in a broader lecture format with a wide range of tools. Students who want a structured review of both theory and practice may still prefer this option.
- Recommendation: Civil engineers who prefer practice and simulations may lean toward EET, while those who want lectures and extensive resources may prefer the School of PE.
Mechanical Engineering
- EET: Currently does not provide Mechanical PE courses.
- School of PE: Offers comprehensive coverage of the Mechanical PE exam, including HVAC and Refrigeration, Machine Design, Thermal and Fluid Systems, and Power. The structured lectures and problem sets provide balanced preparation.
- Recommendation: Mechanical engineers should choose the School of PE, as it is one of the few established providers with strong mechanical coverage.
Electrical Engineering
- EET: No dedicated Electrical PE exam prep options.
- School of PE: Covers Electrical and Computer PE exams, including Power, Electronics, and Computer Engineering specializations. Their format combines detailed explanations with practice questions, making it suitable for first-time and repeat test takers.
- Recommendation: Electrical engineers should go with the School of PE for comprehensive discipline-specific prep.
Environmental and Chemical Engineering
- EET: Limited or no offerings outside of Civil.
- School of PE: Offers Environmental and Chemical PE prep courses. These include specialized question banks and lectures tailored to the unique structure of these exams.
- Recommendation: Environmental and Chemical engineers should choose the School of PE, as it is among the few providers covering these areas in depth.
Structural Engineering (SE Exam)
- EET: Focuses on Civil PE with Structural depth, which may help Civil Structural candidates preparing for that version of the PE exam. However, EET does not provide a dedicated SE (Structural Engineering) exam prep course.
- School of PE: Provides dedicated SE exam prep for engineers taking the two-day SE exam. With lecture-heavy content and detailed design examples, it is better suited for those seeking SE licensure.
- Recommendation: For the Civil PE Structural depth exam, EET is strong. For the full SE licensure exam, the School of PE is the better option.
Key Insights by Discipline
- Civil → EET offers strong value with its Civil-specific focus.
- Mechanical, Electrical, Environmental, Chemical, SE → School of PE covers these comprehensively.
- Multidisciplinary Candidates → If you’re uncertain or need crossover resources, the School of PE’s wider catalog gives more options.
Sample 12-Week Study Plans
Preparing for the PE exam requires consistency, discipline, and structured study. Both EET and the School of PE provide resources to guide preparation, but how you use them makes the real difference. Below are three 12-week sample study plans: one designed for the School of PE, one for EET, and a hybrid approach for students who want to combine structured lectures with heavy problem-solving.
Study Plan 1: School of PE (Lecture-Centered Approach)
Target Student: Best for engineers who prefer structured lectures, a comprehensive review of theory, and the security of guided study.
Weeks 1–4: Foundation Building
- Attend or watch all scheduled lectures covering fundamental topics.
- Begin reviewing digital flashcards and formula sheets daily.
- Work through 50–75 practice problems per week from the question bank.
Weeks 5–8: Deep Dive & Application
- Continue scheduled lectures, focusing on discipline-specific areas.
- Revisit difficult concepts through On-Demand recordings.
- Increase practice to 100–120 problems weekly.
- Start timed sets of 10–15 problems to practice pacing.
Weeks 9–12: Exam Simulation & Final Review
- Dedicate 2 weekends to full-length practice exams under timed conditions.
- Focus on reviewing mistakes using lecture notes and instructor feedback.
- Final two weeks: intensive formula review and flashcard drills.
- Ensure all lectures and practice requirements are completed to qualify for the pass guarantee.
Study Plan 2: EET (Problem-Solving Approach)
Target Student: Best for Civil engineers who learn by solving problems and want heavy emphasis on timed exam practice.
Weeks 1–4: Core Concept Application
- Attend live webinars or begin On-Demand sessions.
- Solve 40–60 assigned homework problems weekly, reviewing step-by-step solutions in detail.
- Maintain a formula sheet, updating it as new problems are solved.
Weeks 5–8: Intensive Practice
- Complete full sets of discipline-specific problems after each lecture.
- Begin simulated timed sections (30–40 problems in 4 hours).
- Dedicate 2 evenings a week to reviewing missed questions.
- Participate in Q&A with instructors if enrolled in webinars.
Weeks 9–12: Exam Simulation & Stamina Training
- Take at least two full-length simulated exams (8 hours each).
- Analyze results, focusing on weak areas with targeted practice.
- Final two weeks: review course notes, re-solve previously missed questions, and refine time management.
- Use the last week for light review only to avoid burnout.
Study Plan 3: Hybrid Approach (Balanced Learning)
Target Student: Best for those who want the structure of the School of PE but also the exam simulation rigor of EET.
Weeks 1–4: Structured Start
- Follow the School of PE’s lecture schedule (live or OnDemand).
- Work through 40–50 practice problems weekly from EET-style resources or problem sets.
- Begin creating a consolidated reference binder (formulas, shortcuts, key examples).
Weeks 5–8: Blended Practice
- Continue School of PE lectures, focusing on theory-heavy areas.
- Add EET-style timed practice sessions (10–20 problems per session).
- Start flashcard review to reinforce formulas.
Weeks 9–12: Real Exam Prep
- Take one full-length exam simulation (EET format).
- Supplement with the School of PE’s comprehensive question bank for variety.
- Review mistakes and update the formula/reference binder.
- Final two weeks: focus on exam stamina, re-solve problem areas, and condense notes into quick-reference sheets.
General Tips Across All Plans
- Consistency matters more than hours in a single day. Aim for 10–15 study hours per week in the early weeks, increasing to 20–25 hours in the last month.
- Use weekends for longer problem-solving blocks and weekdays for lecture review or smaller sets.
- Build exam stamina by simulating the 8-hour PE test environment at least twice before exam day.
- Keep a running “error log” of missed problems to identify recurring weaknesses.
Final Recommendations: Choosing Between EET and School of PE
Deciding whether EET or the School of PE is the right choice for your PE exam prep depends on your learning style, discipline, and budget. Both programs are highly regarded, but they cater to different types of learners. Below is a structured set of recommendations to help you make the most informed choice.
1. Consider Your Discipline
- Civil Engineers: EET is often the stronger choice, as it specializes heavily in civil engineering exam prep with problem-heavy courses and simulations.
- Other Disciplines (Mechanical, Electrical, Environmental, etc.): School of PE is the safer option, offering broader coverage across multiple PE disciplines with structured theory-based learning.
2. Identify Your Learning Style
- Lecture-Driven Learners: If you learn best with structured lectures, detailed notes, and instructor guidance, the School of PE is better suited for you.
- Problem-Solvers: If you learn best by tackling hundreds of problems and analyzing mistakes, EET will feel more effective.
- Balanced Learners: Some engineers benefit from blending both (using School of PE for structured lectures and EET for intensive problem-solving).
3. Evaluate Your Schedule
- Busy Workload / Limited Study Time: School of PE’s recorded OnDemand sessions and modular scheduling are flexible for professionals with unpredictable schedules.
- Dedicated Study Block: EET is ideal if you can consistently attend live sessions or commit to rigorous problem-solving without needing heavy lecture support.
4. Compare Costs and Value
- EET: Slightly more affordable, particularly for civil engineers. Its biggest value comes from high problem volume and realistic exam simulations.
- School of PE: Higher upfront cost, but it offers a pass guarantee and extensive discipline coverage, making it worth the investment if you want extra security.
5. Don’t Forget Support & Extras
- School of PE: Offers structured schedules, a pass guarantee, lecture notes, flashcards, and extensive student support.
- EET: Provides highly detailed solutions, exam-focused simulations, and practical insights from experienced instructors.
Conclusion: Making the Right Choice for Your PE Success
Preparing for the PE exam is a demanding journey, and the prep course you choose can make the difference between passing on your first attempt and retaking the test. Both EET and the School of PE offer high-quality preparation, but their approaches differ: EET emphasizes realistic problem-solving and exam simulations, while the School of PE provides structured lectures, comprehensive notes, and a pass guarantee.
The right choice depends on your discipline, study habits, and personal learning style. Civil engineers may find EET’s problem-intensive model more effective, while engineers in other fields often benefit from the School of PE’s broad coverage and structured support.
Ultimately, success comes down to consistent study, practice under exam-like conditions, and using the resources that best match your strengths. By carefully aligning your study plan with the right prep provider, you can enter exam day with confidence and increase your chances of passing on the first try.
FAQs: EET vs School of PE
1. Which prep course is better for Civil PE exam candidates?
For Civil engineers, EET is often preferred due to its problem-focused approach, simulated exams, and discipline-specific materials. School of PE is still effective but may be more lecture-heavy than some students prefer.
2. Does the School of PE offer a pass guarantee?
Yes. Students who complete all course requirements and do not pass the PE exam are eligible to retake the course at no additional cost. EET does not typically offer a formal pass guarantee.
3. Are these courses suitable for other engineering disciplines?
School of PE covers a wide range of disciplines, including Mechanical, Electrical, Environmental, and Chemical, making it a good option for non-Civil engineers. EET is primarily focused on Civil PE exam prep.
4. How do costs compare between EET and the School of PE?
EET courses generally cost between $950–$1,250, offering an affordable solution for Civil engineers. School of PE courses range from $1,500–$2,000, reflecting the additional features, broader coverage, and pass guarantee.
5. Can I combine both courses for exam preparation?
Yes. Some candidates use the School of PE for structured lectures and theory review, while supplementing with EET for intensive problem-solving and timed exam simulations. This hybrid approach can maximize readiness and confidence for exam day.