The National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) permits only specific calculator models for use during the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam. These approved models are selected based on their capabilities and to ensure fairness and security during the examination process. Using a calculator not on the approved list can result in disqualification from the exam.
Restricting the types of calculators allowed is essential for maintaining a standardized testing environment. This policy ensures that all examinees have access to similar computational tools, preventing any candidate from gaining an unfair advantage due to having a more advanced or specialized device. Historically, this standardization has evolved alongside technological advancements, with NCEES regularly updating its list to reflect current calculator models while adhering to core principles of fairness and test integrity.