The SE exam is a PE exam, but it’s one of the most demanding versions you can take, especially once you reach the lateral portion. When I started testing SE exam prep courses, it became obvious pretty quickly that not every PE exam review course is built for this level of depth or structure.
Getting ready to take your SE exam, but not sure which course actually makes sense to start with? You’re not alone. A lot of people are in the same boat and don’t know where to begin, so you’re in good company.
Some courses felt too heavy. Some felt too light. A few actually made studying feel manageable and helped me understand how topics really show up on the actual exam. This list breaks down the main options I tested so you can figure out which one fits how you actually like to study, not just what sounds good in marketing copy.
Top SE Prep Courses at a Glance
- School of PE: Best all-around option for structured SE exam prep with live instruction and guided study flow
- PPI2PASS: Best for traditional, schedule-driven prep with deep practice problem sets
- Advanced Engineering Institute (AEI): Best for targeted breadth or depth drilling with heavy exam-style practice
- Engineering Education & Training (EET): Best for long, lecture-based review with fixed pacing
- American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE): Best as a lightweight supplement rather than full SE exam prep
| SE Course Comparison Table | ||
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1. School of PE: Best Overall
School of PE was the most balanced SE prep course I tested. I spent time using the Study Hub, watching on-demand video lectures, attending live classes, and working through practice problems after each topic. What stood out was how everything connected. The lessons followed the SE exam format closely, especially for the lateral portion, so I never felt like I was guessing what mattered.
I liked having both formats available. On weeks when my schedule was tight and research was much more difficult, I relied on recorded video lectures. When I hit tougher concepts, the live classes helped because instructors walked through problems the way they actually appear on the exam. The instructor-prepared notes matched the lectures well, which made reviewing easier.
Overall, this felt like a true review course, not just access to content. It works best if you want structure, live instruction, and realistic SE exam prep without having to organize everything yourself.
| School of PE Ratings | |
|---|---|
| Feature | Rating |
| Ease of Use | 9.6 |
| Practice Tools | 9.7 |
| Video Lessons | 9.8 |
| Technology | 10.0 |
| Instruction | 9.9 |
| Student Support | 9.8 |
| Guarantees | 9.6 |
| Policies & Access | 9.7 |
| Overall Value | 9.8 |
Package Options
- ➡️ OnDemand
Immediate access to video lectures, instructor-prepared notes, practice problems, and a pass guarantee option. - ➡️ Live Online
Live classes with instructor interaction, class recordings, homework assignments, and structured pacing.
Key Features
- SE exam-aligned course structure
- Lateral portion focused instruction
- Live classes and live instruction
- On-demand video lectures
- Instructor-prepared course notes
- Practice problems after each topic
- Homework assignments built in
- Instructor support and Q&A access
- Study Hub for tracking progress
- Pass guarantee on eligible plans
Pros
- Strong SE Exam Alignment: The content matches how topics appear on the actual exam.
- Flexible Study Formats: Easy to switch between live classes and on demand.
- Clear Study Flow: Lessons, practice problems, and homework are organized well.
- Instructor Support: Questions get answered clearly instead of being brushed off.
- Comprehensive Course Materials: Notes, videos, and practice tools all work together.
Cons
- Content Can Feel Heavy: The depth is great, but it may feel overwhelming at first.
Bottom Line: Why Choose School of PE?
If you want one of the best SE prep courses that actually feels built for the SE exam, this review course stood out the most when I tested it. It combines structure, live classes, on-demand study, and realistic practice problems in a way that prepares you for the actual exam. I liked that I could adjust my pace while still following a clear study plan. For civil engineers who want a reliable prep course without gaps, this option felt the most complete.
School of PE
2. PPI2PASS: Best for Structured, Traditional Prep
PPI felt very structured from the moment I started using it. Most of the setup focuses on entering your exam date and letting the system map out what you should be working on each week. Once that plan is in place, the course doesn’t leave much room for improvising, which I actually see as a benefit. It takes the guesswork out of deciding what to study and when.
When I tested PPI2Pass, most of my time was spent rotating between reading-based study materials, assigned video lectures, and homework-style practice problems. The practice questions were detailed and often more challenging than I expected, which helped me identify weak areas and understand concepts more thoroughly.
Compared to School of PE, the platform has a more traditional feel. Overall, PPI works best if you want your SE exam prep to feel like a formal review course with clear expectations. It’s not as flexible as some options, but it’s very deliberate and consistent if you follow the study plan closely.
| PPI2PASS Ratings | |
|---|---|
| Feature | Rating |
| Ease of Use | 9.0 |
| Practice Tools | 9.3 |
| Video Lessons | 9.1 |
| Technology | 8.9 |
| Instruction | 9.4 |
| Student Support | 9.2 |
| Guarantees | 9.3 |
| Policies & Access | 9.0 |
| Overall Value | 9.2 |
Package Options
- ➡️ Live Online Course Bundle
Live classes with instructors, structured homework assignments, practice problems, and a passing guarantee. - ➡️ On-Demand Course Bundle
Self-paced video lectures with a built-in study schedule, practice exams, quizzes, and web-based course materials. - ➡️ Self-Study Print Bundle
Printed reference materials and problem books designed to support independent SE exam prep.
Key Features
- SE exam-aligned curriculum
- Structured syllabus and study plan
- Live online classes available
- On-demand video lectures
- Large practice problem library
- Full-length practice exams
- Detailed solution explanations
- Homework assignments included
- Instructor support and office hours
- Passing guarantee on qualifying courses
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Sale – PPI2Pass PE Live Online Course Bundle Now $2,595
Pros
- Very Structured Study Plan: You always know what to work on and when.
- Heavy Practice Focus: Lots of problems to build confidence before exam day.
- Strong Instruction Quality: Explanations are thorough and clear.
- Traditional Class Feel: Works well if you like assignments and pacing.
- Passing Guarantee: Extra reassurance if you follow the program.
Cons
- Content Can Feel Dense: The depth is helpful, but it can feel heavy at times.
- Less Flexible Study Flow: The rigid study plan works well if you follow it closely, but it can feel restrictive.
Bottom Line: Why Choose PPI2PASS?
This is a good option if you want a very structured, no-guesswork approach to SE exam prep. It’s not flashy, and it’s not lightweight, but it does a solid job preparing you through repetition and depth. I liked it most when I committed to the schedule and treated it like a real course. If you prefer traditional instruction and lots of practice problems over flexibility and speed, this one makes sense.
PPI2PASS
3. Engineers Education & Training (EET): Best for Weekly, Lecture-Based Prep
EET felt very traditional when I used it. The course runs on a weekly schedule with long lectures and guided problem walkthroughs, and the pace stays consistent the whole time. You’re not really customizing much. You log in, follow the lecture, and work through the problems tied to that topic.
I liked that the structure made it easy to stay consistent without overthinking my plan. Most of the learning happens during the lectures, with repetition built in through the problem walkthroughs. The platform itself is simple and doesn’t add a lot of extra tools or layers.
Compared to PPI, this felt lighter and more lecture-focused. There’s less practice volume and less emphasis on exam-style simulation, but also less to manage week to week.
Overall, EET works well if you want a predictable routine and learn best by listening and following along. It’s a steady option for SE prep, just not as deep or flexible as the top-tier courses.
| EET Ratings | |
|---|---|
| Feature | Rating |
| Ease of Use | 7.2 |
| Practice Tools | 7.0 |
| Video Lessons | 7.3 |
| Technology | 6.8 |
| Instruction | 7.6 |
| Student Support | 7.3 |
| Guarantees | 7.1 |
| Policies & Access | 7.0 |
| Overall Value | 6.9 |
Package Options
- ➡️ Live Webinar Format
Weekly live classes with recorded lectures, workshops, quizzes, and a full-length simulation exam. - ➡️ On-Demand Format
Recorded lectures and workshops with quizzes, a simulation exam, and instructor access. - ➡️ Access Length Options
10-week, 16-week, or 20-week subscriptions, depending on your timeline.
Key Features
- SE exam-focused lecture structure
- Weekly class-based pacing.
- Live webinar and on-demand formats
- Long-form video lectures.
- Workshop-style problem sessions
- Practice quizzes included
- Full-length simulation exam
- Printed binder for notes
- Instructor access during the course
- Free repeat option available
Pros
- Predictable Weekly Structure: Easy to know what you should be studying each week.
- Helpful Workshops: Problem walkthroughs reinforce lecture material well.
- Free Repeat Option: Useful if you need more time to prepare.
Cons
- Limited Disciplines: Focused mainly on structural content only.
- Slow Pacing: Longer lectures may feel heavy for faster learners.
- Basic Platform: Fewer tools and analytics than top-tier options.
- Less Flexible: Works best if you follow their schedule closely.
Bottom Line: Why Choose Engineers Education & Training?
EET is a good fit if you prefer a steady, lecture-first routine and don’t want to overthink your study plan. The weekly structure makes it easy to show up and stay consistent, and the walkthroughs help reinforce concepts. It’s simpler and lighter than other options, with fewer tools and less flexibility, but that can be a plus if you just want a predictable flow without extra layers.
Engineers Education & Training (EET)
4. Advanced Engineering Institute (AEI): Best for Targeted SE Breadth and Depth
AEI felt much more modular than the other SE prep courses I tested. Instead of one all-in review, everything is split into Breadth and Depth first, then narrowed further into Building or Bridge. When I went through the materials, it was clear this course assumes you already know which part of the SE exam you need to work on and just want to drill it.
The experience is very exam-heavy. Most of the time is spent in CBT-style MCQs, AIT homework, mini-exams, and full simulation exams rather than long theory lectures. The recorded webinars were solid, and I liked that access included both past recordings and newer sessions tied to the class schedule.
There’s very little hand-holding here. You manage pacing, scheduling, and progress on your own, which can be a downside if you want guidance.
| AEI Ratings | |
|---|---|
| Feature | Rating |
| Ease of Use | 7.8 |
| Practice Tools | 8.2 |
| Video Lessons | 7.9 |
| Technology | 7.5 |
| Instruction | 8.0 |
| Student Support | 7.4 |
| Guarantees | 7.0 |
| Policies & Access | 7.8 |
| Overall Value | 7.8 |
Package Options
- ➡️ SE Breadth Courses
Breadth-focused review options covering core SE exam topics, including recorded webinars, CBT-style multiple-choice homework, mini-exams, digital handouts, instructor access, and discussion forum support. - ➡️ SE Depth Courses (Building or Bridge)
Depth-specific courses for either building or bridge focus areas. Includes recorded webinars, AIT homework workshops, CBT-style practice, full simulation exams, digital class materials, and instructor portal access. - ➡️ SE Breadth + Depth Bundles
Combined breadth and depth packages are designed to cover both portions of the SE exam. Bundles include recorded webinars, CBT practice, AIT workshops, simulation exams, instructor support, discussion forums, and a free one-time repeat. - ➡️ Live Webinar Courses
Instructor-led webinar courses for breadth and depth topics. Sessions are recorded and included with enrollment, along with digital handouts, homework, workshops, and simulation exams. - ➡️ On-Demand Courses
Self-paced access to recorded webinars and all associated practice materials, with access lasting through the exam window, depending on the course selection.
Key Features
- Modular Breadth & Depth class structure
- Separate building and bridge focus
- CBT-style MCQ workshops
- AIT homework and workshops
- Full simulation exams included
- Recorded webinars are included at no extra charge
- Digital class handouts (fundamentals, examples, solutions)
- Ask the Instructor for portal access
- Discussion forum access
- Free one-time repeat included
Pros
- Targeted Review: Focused breadth and depth modules make it easy to drill specific areas.
- Webinar Access: Live webinars are recorded and included without extra charge.
- Detailed Handouts: Practical handouts for fundamentals, examples, and workshops.
Cons
- No Guided Pacing: You have to manage study scheduling on your own.
- Setup Required: Handouts require a special viewer and a license tied to one computer.
- Not Full Platform: Lacks the pacing tools, dashboards, and guided pathways of top-tier providers.
- Moderate Support: Instructor and forum support are more limited compared to bigger courses.
Bottom Line: Why Choose AEI?
AEI works best if you already know your weak areas and want focused SE exam practice without paying for a large, all-in platform. The practice depth and simulation exams are strong, but the lack of built-in pacing and a more utilitarian platform means it’s not ideal if you need structure. It’s a good supplemental or targeted option, but not the easiest course to manage if you want step-by-step guidance.
Advanced Engineering Institute (AEI)
5. American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE): Best for Lightweight, Supplemental Review
ASCE felt clean and straightforward when I used it. The content is organized by topic, the lessons stay close to the exam format, and it’s easy to jump in and review exactly what you need without a lot of setup. I liked using it to reinforce concepts or get a second explanation when something wasn’t clicking elsewhere. Most of my time here went into watching the shorter video lessons and reviewing the study materials tied to each section. Everything feels focused and practical, and the platform itself is easy to navigate without extra tools getting in the way.
That said, the depth is lighter than a full SE prep course. There aren’t many practice problems or exam-style simulations, so it didn’t feel like enough on its own, especially for the lateral portion. It works best alongside another prep course, not as a standalone system. Overall, ASCE fits well if you want a simple, low-stress way to review specific SE topics without committing to another full study program.
| ASCE Ratings | |
|---|---|
| Feature | Rating |
| Ease of Use | 7.8 |
| Practice Tools | 6.6 |
| Video Lessons | 7.0 |
| Technology | 7.4 |
| Instruction | 7.5 |
| Student Support | 7.0 |
| Guarantees | 6.5 |
| Policies & Access | 7.2 |
| Overall Value | 7.0 |
Package Options
➡️ On-Demand SE Review Course
Short video sessions, practice problems, handouts, and email access to instructors.
Key Features
- On-demand video sessions
- SE-related topic coverage
- Practice problems included
- Step-by-step solution walkthroughs
- Reference handbook emphasis
- Downloadable handouts
- Instructor email support
- Six-month access period
- Simple, clean platform
- Good supplemental option
Pros
- Good for Refreshing Concepts: Works well as a review layer.
- Low Commitment: Not overwhelming or time-intensive.
Cons
- Not A Full SE Exam Prep Course: Cannot stand alone as your main review course.
- Very Limited Practice Problems: Nowhere near enough repetition for exam readiness.
- No Live Instruction: No live classes or real-time explanations.
- No Practice Exams or Simulations: Does not prepare you for exam day pressure.
- Lacks Structure and Accountability: No study plan or guided progression like the School of PE.
Bottom Line: Why Choose ASCE?
ASCE works best as an add-on, not a main prep course. I liked it for reviewing specific topics and getting a second explanation without feeling overwhelmed. The content is clear and easy to access, but it doesn’t go deep enough to cover everything on its own. If you already have a primary SE prep course and want a simple way to reinforce concepts, this fits nicely without adding stress.
American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)
Other SE Prep Options Worth a Look
These SE prep options didn’t make my top picks, but they can still be useful as supplemental resources if you want extra explanations or practice outside your main course.
- Varsity Tutors (1-on-1 Tutoring)
- Brainscape (Flashcards)
- Wyzant (1-on-1 Tutoring)
- McGraw-Hill (Printed Exam Guide)
Head-to-Head: A Closer SE Prep Comparison
School of PE vs. PPI2PASS
Both are complete SE exam prep courses, but they differ in delivery and pacing. School of PE offers 2 core formats (live online and on-demand) and lets you study in shorter, flexible blocks. PPI is more rigid, built around a fixed study plan tied to your exam date, with heavier manuals and larger problem sets. I found PPI sessions often ran 2–3 hours, while School of PE was easier to manage in 60–90 minute sessions.
Bottom Line:
→ Choose the School of PE if you want flexibility with structure
→ Choose PPI if you want a strict, traditional review course
School of PE vs. Engineers Education & Training (EET)
Both rely on instructor-led teaching, but the experience feels different. School of PE mixes live classes with on-demand lectures and built-in pacing tools. EET follows a weekly lecture-first model, with subscriptions typically lasting 10 to 24 weeks. EET felt closer to a traditional classroom, while the School of PE felt more adaptable, especially when balancing work and studying.
Bottom Line:
→ Choose School of PE if you want mixed formats and pacing support
→ Choose EET if you want long, structured weekly lectures
School of PE vs. Advanced Engineering Institute (AEI)
School of PE is a full SE review platform with guided pacing, structured lessons, and built-in support that walks you through the exam without guesswork. AEI is much more modular and practice-heavy, focusing on breadth and depth workshops with CBT-style problems and simulation exams. AEI works well for targeted drilling, but it doesn’t guide your study flow the way School of PE does.
Bottom Line:
→ Choose School of PE for full, guided SE prep
→ Choose AEI for focused practice when you know your weak spots
PPI2PASS vs. Engineers Education & Training (EET)
PPI and EET both lean traditional, but they emphasize different things. PPI centers on manuals, diagnostics, and large problem sets, while EET puts most of the workload into live or recorded lectures. I noticed PPI required more independent study time, while EET concentrated learning into scheduled sessions. PPI felt deeper overall, while EET felt more contained and predictable.
Bottom Line:
→ Choose PPI if you want problem-heavy, self-managed prep
→ Choose EET if you want a lecture-driven structure
Course Ranking Methodology
I ranked every SE exam prep by using it the way an actual SE candidate would. That meant logging in repeatedly, working through real problem sets, testing how breadth and depth content were separated, and paying attention to how each course handled lateral versus vertical material.
The SE exam is a PE exam, but it punishes weak structure and poor pacing. So I focused on whether a course helped me understand how problems are asked, not just which formulas to memorize. Courses that made studying feel intentional and exam-driven scored higher. Courses that relied too much on long lectures or left pacing completely up to the student scored lower.
| SE Exam Course Rating Criteria | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Weight (%) | What It Measures |
| Content Depth & Accuracy | 25% | How well the course covers SE-level breadth and depth topics, including lateral and vertical forces |
| Practice Quality & Realism | 20% | Difficulty, variety, and realism of practice problems, AIT work, and simulations |
| Study Flow & Organization | 15% | How clearly the material is structured and how easy it is to follow without feeling overwhelmed |
| Exam Simulation & CBT Readiness | 12% | Use of full simulations, timed practice, and CBT-style problem formats |
| Instructor Support | 10% | Access to instructors, clarity of explanations, and responsiveness |
| Platform Experience | 8% | Ease of navigation, reliability, and overall usability during long study sessions |
| Access & Flexibility | 5% | Length of access, repeat options, and schedule flexibility |
| Price-to-Value | 5% | How much real SE exam readiness you get for the cost |
Final Thoughts
After testing these SE prep courses, what stood out most was how different they feel to use day to day. School of PE felt the most guided and put-together when I wanted structure and live support. Meanwhile, PPI2PASS worked better when I wanted a traditional, no-nonsense setup with lots of practice. AEI was the most exam-heavy and made sense when I wanted to drill specific breadth or depth sections without extra layers. Finally, EET felt more like a classic lecture course with a steady weekly rhythm.
None of these is a one-size-fits-all course. The best pick is the one that matches how you study and keeps you showing up consistently.
FAQs
A live online course bundle mixes live classes with on-demand access. I liked being able to show up for live instruction, then rewatch the video lectures later when I needed a reset.
Yes. A PE FE review course is more fundamentals-based, while SE exam prep is deeper and more focused on the exam format, tougher topics, and how problems show up on exam day.
A lot. The courses that helped me most had practice problems after each topic, plus homework assignments, not just a small set of practice questions.
For me, yes. Live classes helped when I got stuck because I could hear real-time explanations instead of replaying video lessons and still feeling confused.
Earlier than you think. Starting months out gave me time to work through study materials, practice problems, and simulated exams without cramming.
