Save up to $500 on nearly all of our exam prep courses for a limited time. Shop Now »

About the NCEES PE Chemical CBT Exam

By: PPI
October 6, 2020
Woman sitting at a table working on a laptop in a library image
Looking for more information about the changes to the PE Chemical exam after it went CBT? On January 1, 2018, the NCEES PE Chemical exam moved to a CBT (Computer-Based Testing) format administered year-round at NCEES-approved Pearson VUE test centers. The exam includes multiple-choice questions as well as Alternative Item Types (AITs). Take a look below for more information on the different question types for the PE Chemical exam.

Alternative Item Types (AITs)

AITs include:

  • Multiple correct—allows examinees to select multiple correct answers
  • Point and click—requires examinees to click on part of a graphic
  • Drag and drop—requires examinees to click on and drag items to match, sort, rank, or label
  • Fill in the blank—provides a space for examinees to enter a response
Learn More About the New NCEES Alternative Item Types (AITs)

PE Chemical CBT Exam Specifications

The PE Chemical exam contains 80 questions. The exam appointment time is 9 hours and includes:

  • Nondisclosure agreement (2 minutes)
  • Tutorial (8 minutes)
  • Exam (8 hours)
  • Scheduled break (50 minutes)

PE Chemical CBT Exam Scoring

PE Chemical exam results are typically available 7–10 days after you take the exam. Exam results are reported pass/fail. If you did not pass the exam, you will receive a diagnostic report indicating subject areas of relative strength and weakness. The diagnostic report can assist you if you decide to retake the exam.

Register for the PE Chemical exam by logging in to your MyNCEES account and following the onscreen instructions.

What is the best way to prepare for the exam?

PPI offers a comprehensive selection of products and solutions to help you prepare for the exam. From complete review packages for self-study to instructor-led prep courses with a guarantee to pass, there are options for every type of schedule and study habit.

Browse PPI’s selection of Chemical PE exam materials by clicking here. Take a look at the current course offerings and schedules for the exam by clicking here.

What should I do if my question isn't answered here?

You can find more general exam questions answered in our General PE FAQ section by clicking here.

For unresolved questions about exam licensing and accreditation processes, visit NCEES.org.

For any other questions about how PPI can help you pass the Chemical PE exam, contact our customer service team by using the form below, or by calling 650.593.9119, ext. 2. We are available to provide you with personalized product assistance Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, PT.

Ready to ace the PE exam?

Enroll Now

Industry Insights

PE Exam Pass Rates
2024 PE Exam Pass Rates
Review the latest 2024 PE exam pass rates, including the easiest and most difficult PE disciplines by pass rate.
Engineering Resume Tips and Templates
Engineering Resume Tips and Templates
Follow this checklist for what to put in your PE exam kit, and find out what you should leave at home.