Fundamental of Surveying Study Material : Free FS Exam Questions
The Fundamental of Surveying study material provided in this guide is designed to help you prepare for the first step toward professional licensure. Passing the FS exam demonstrates your competence in the fundamental principles of surveying and qualifies you as a Surveyor in Training (SIT). This exam covers essential topics ranging from mathematics and boundary law to geodesy and GIS.
Whether you are a recent graduate or gaining field experience, our free resources include a comprehensive Fundamental of Surveying Exam review. Access our Fundamental of Surveying PDF resources and practice questions to master the material required by the NCEES. Begin your journey to becoming a professional surveyor with these targeted Fundamentals of Surveying practice test modules.
The NCEES FS exam is a closed-book, computer-based test that allows only an NCEES-approved calculator and the supplied reference handbook. Success requires understanding fundamental of land surveying concepts and the ability to apply them to complex problems.
Free Fundamental of Surveying Practice Test
Take our Fundamental of Surveying practice test to assess your readiness. These FS exam questions mimic the actual test format, covering key areas like basic sciences, mathematics, and professional practice.
FS Exam Flashcards
Quick review for the Fundamental of Surveying Exam
Fundamental of Surveying Exam Study Guide
This Fundamental of Surveying study material section covers essential information for candidates. Understanding the fundamental of surveying exam requirements, format, and scoring is crucial for success.
| What is the FS exam? | The FS exam (Fundamentals of Surveying) is the first step toward professional licensure for surveyors. It tests knowledge of the fundamental principles of surveying. |
| Who takes the FS exam? | Recent graduates or students in their final year of a surveying degree program typically take the Fundamental of Surveying exam to become a Surveyor in Training (SIT). |
| Is the FS exam hard? | The FS exam difficulty varies by candidate, but pass rates typically hover around 45-55% for first-time takers. Proper study with Fundamental of Surveying study material is essential. |
| What does the FS exam cover? | The exam covers topics such as geodesy, boundary law, GIS, photogrammetry, and mathematics. Reviewing the FS exam syllabus is key to preparation. |
| How many questions are on the FS exam? | The NCEES FS exam consists of 110 questions. 100 are scored items, and 10 are pretest items that do not count toward your score. |
| How long is the FS exam? | The total appointment time is 6 hours, which includes a tutorial, the exam itself (5 hours and 20 minutes), and a scheduled break. |
| Is the FS exam computer-based? | Yes, the FS exam is a Computer-Based Test (CBT) administered at Pearson VUE test centers year-round. |
| What reference materials can I use? | You are only allowed to use the supplied NCEES FS reference handbook during the exam. No personal books are permitted. |
| How do I register for the FS exam? | You must create a MyNCEES account on the NCEES website to register for the Fundamental of Surveying exam and schedule your appointment. |
| What is the FS exam cost? | The FS exam cost is typically $225 payable directly to NCEES. Some state boards may require a separate application fee. |
| Can I take the FS exam online? | No, the FS exam must be taken in person at an approved Pearson VUE testing center. Fundamentals of surveying online exams are not available. |
| When can I take the FS exam? | The exam is offered year-round. You can check for available FS exam dates through your MyNCEES account. |
| What is the passing score for the FS exam? | NCEES does not publish a specific passing percentage. The FS exam passing score is scaled based on the difficulty of the specific question set. |
| When do FS exam results come out? | Results for the Fundamental of Surveying exam are typically released 7–10 days after you take the test. |
| How many times can I retake the FS exam? | NCEES policy allows you to take the exam once per testing window, up to three times per 12-month period. |
| Do FS exam scores expire? | In most states, your FS exam results do not expire, but you should check with your specific state licensing board for local rules. |
| What is the salary for a Surveyor in Training? | The average surveyor in training salary is approximately $60,000 per year, depending on location and experience. |
| How much does a Professional Surveyor make? | A licensed Professional Surveyor can earn an average land surveyor salary of $85,000 to over $100,000 annually. |
| Does the FS exam increase salary? | Yes, passing the FS exam and becoming an SIT often leads to a salary increase and eligibility for promotion. |
| Are surveyors in demand? | Yes, there is a high demand for qualified surveyors, making the Fundamental of Surveying exam a valuable career investment. |
Fundamental of Surveying Test Format
The FS exam format covers seven major knowledge areas. The FS exam questions are designed to test your understanding of the fundamental principles of surveying required for entry-level practice.
Covers algebra, trigonometry, and statistical analysis used in surveying.
- Topics: Analytical geometry, calculus, matrix algebra
- Questions: 13-20 items
Tests knowledge of physical sciences relevant to surveying.
- Topics: Optics, cartography, environmental science
- Questions: 5-8 items
Focuses on the shape of the Earth and celestial observations.
- Topics: Coordinate systems, satellite positioning
- Questions: 6-9 items
Examines legal principles of property boundaries and descriptions.
- Topics: Real property law, sequential conveyances
- Questions: 13-20 items
The largest section, covering methods and data analysis.
- Topics: Control surveys, photogrammetry, remote sensing
- Questions: 20-30 items
Tests understanding of professional ethics and business practices.
- Topics: Professional responsibility, risk management
- Questions: 6-9 items
The NCEES FS reference handbook is the only resource allowed during the exam. Familiarize yourself with its layout and formulas during your Fundamental of Surveying Exam preparation to save valuable time on test day.
FS Exam Score Calculator
Estimate your readiness for the NCEES FS Exam
Fundamental of Surveying Salary Information
Passing the Fundamental of Surveying exam is the first step toward a lucrative career. Becoming a Surveyor in Training (SIT) significantly boosts earning potential.
| Experience Level | Annual Salary | Monthly Income | Typical Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Survey Technician | $45,000 | ~$3,750 | 0-2 Years |
| Surveyor in Training (SIT) | $62,500 | ~$5,200 | Pass FS Exam |
| Project Surveyor | $75,000 | ~$6,250 | 2-4 Years |
| Professional Surveyor (PS) | $85,000 | ~$7,080 | Pass PS Exam |
| Survey Manager | $110,000 | ~$9,160 | 8+ Years |
Earning your SIT designation by passing the FS exam is a critical milestone that opens doors to higher responsibilities and eventually professional licensure, where salaries can exceed $100,000.
How to Become a Surveyor in Training
The path to becoming a Surveyor in Training involves education and passing the Fundamental of Surveying exam. Many candidates enroll in fundamentals of surveying online courses to supplement their degree.
- Obtain Education - Complete a degree in surveying, geomatics, or a related field from an ABET-accredited program.
- Register for FS Exam - Create a MyNCEES account and register for the Fundamental of Surveying exam.
- Study for Exam - Use Fundamental of Surveying study material and FS exam questions to prepare.
- Pass FS Exam - Achieve a passing score on the 110-question computer-based test.
- Apply for SIT - Submit your application to your state board to become a Surveyor in Training.
- Gain Experience - Work under a Professional Surveyor (PS) for the required number of years (typically 4).
- Pass PS Exam - Take the Principles and Practice of Surveying (PS) exam to become a licensed professional.
FS Exam Cost Breakdown
Understanding the FS exam cost helps in planning your budget. The primary fee is paid to NCEES, but other costs apply.
Expect to spend between $350 and $600 total for the Fundamental of Surveying exam process, including fees and study materials. This is a small investment for a significant career advancement.
Surveyor Career Opportunities
Passing the FS exam opens diverse career paths in land development, construction, and government.
FS Testing Contacts
For official information regarding the Fundamental of Surveying exam, contact NCEES or your state licensing board.
Many surveying firms hire candidates who have passed the FS exam even before they are fully licensed. Check local job boards for Surveyor in Training positions.
FS Test Day Checklist
Start Your FS Exam Prep
Get ready for the NCEES FS exam with our comprehensive study resources. Practice with real exam questions and master the fundamental principles of surveying today.
FREE FS PRACTICE TESTFS Renewal Requirements
While the SIT designation itself typically does not require renewal in the same way a professional license does, maintaining your status and progressing toward full licensure is key.
Focus on gaining your 4 years of experience to qualify for the Principles and Practice of Surveying (PS) exam. Keep track of your work history for your future license application.
FS Exam Questions and Answers
The FS exam (Fundamentals of Surveying) is the initial licensure exam for surveyors, testing knowledge of fundamental principles of surveying.
You can find FS exam centers near you by logging into your MyNCEES account and searching for approved Pearson VUE testing locations.
The FS exam cost is $225, payable to NCEES. Additional state application fees may apply.
NCEES uses a scaled score, but the FS exam passing score roughly equates to correctly answering 70% of the questions.
No, the FS exam is a computer-based test that must be taken in person at a Pearson VUE center. Fundamentals of surveying online exams are not an option.
The FS exam difficulty is significant, with pass rates around 45-55% for first-time takers. Thorough preparation with Fundamental of Surveying study material is recommended.
Only the NCEES FS reference handbook is allowed. It is provided electronically during the exam.
The appointment is 6 hours total, with 5 hours and 20 minutes allocated for answering the 110 FS exam questions.
You must use an NCEES-approved calculator, such as specific models from Casio, HP, or Texas Instruments.
FS exam results are posted to your MyNCEES account 7–10 days after testing.