What the Course Entails and Exam Details

Preparing for the Texas SIT exam requires a strong grasp of both technical and legal concepts. The knowledge tested is primarily encapsulated in the NCEES Fundamentals of Surveying (FS) exam, which is a prerequisite for the Texas SIT application. This exam is a national standard, ensuring a uniform baseline of competency.

A comprehensive study plan must cover a wide array of topics, including:

• Mathematics: Advanced applications of algebra, trigonometry, coordinate geometry, and statistics in a surveying context.
• Data Acquisition: Methods for collecting field data using total stations, Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS), levels, and other measurement tools.
• Computations: Performing complex calculations related to traverses, curves, area, volume, and coordinate conversions.
• Land Boundary Law: Principles of legal descriptions, boundary establishment, chains of title, and water boundaries, with specific reference to Texas statutes and common law.
• Geospatial Data: Understanding and managing spatial information, including Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and photogrammetry.
• Standard Practices: Industry standards, ethical considerations, and safety protocols for field and office work.

What to Expect in the Final Exam

The actual exam to achieve the educational prerequisite for the SIT is the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) Fundamentals of Surveying (FS). This is a nationwide exam that Texas uses to measure baseline competency.

The NCEES FS exam is a rigorous test of your knowledge and problem-solving abilities. It is a computer-based test (CBT) that contains 110 multiple-choice questions.

You will have a total of 6 hours for the entire appointment, which includes:

• Nondisclosure agreement: 2 minutes
• Tutorial: 8 minutes
• Exam: 5 hours and 20 minutcheduled break: 25 minutes

The exam is divided into two parts, with the break taken in the middle. You may not return to the first part of the exam after the break. Passing requires a composite score determined by a conversion of raw points. While there is no predetermined passing percentage, it is designed to ensure candidates meet a minimum standard of competency.

 How to Study and Exam Centers

Preparation is the key to success on the Texas SIT/FS exam. Here are actionable strategies to build your confidence and knowledge:

• Review NCEES Materials: Utilize the official NCEES FS Reference Handbook and examinee-provided practice exams. This is your most accurate study tool.
• Structured Study Guide: Break down the syllabus into manageable sections and create a regular study schedule, avoiding last-minute cramming.
• Interactive Practice: Take full-length, timed mock exams to simulate the testing environment and identify areas for improvement.
• Focus on Texas-Specific Law: While the FS is a national exam, a portion of the application process with the Texas Board will require knowledge of Texas rules. Seek out resources specific to Texas land law.
• Join Study Groups: Discussing concepts with peers can provide new insights and keep you motivated.

The NCEES FS exam is administered year-round at approved Pearson VUE testing centers. Once you register through NCEES and pay the exam fee, you can schedule your appointment at a center most convenient for you in Texas or other participating states. Note that while you must pass the FS exam, you still need to submit a separate application to the Texas Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors (TBPELS) to formally obtain your SIT designation.

 Job Opportunities from the Course

Obtaining your SIT certification is a powerful career accelerator. In addition to being a critical step on the path to becoming a licensed Registered Professional Land Surveyor (RPLS), it makes you a highly attractive candidate for several roles. Key job opportunities unlocked by this certification include:

• Surveyor in Training: Working under the direct supervision of an RPLS to gain the required years of delegated responsible charge experience.
• Survey Crew Chief: Leading a field party to perform boundary, topographic, or construction surveys.
• Office Surveyor / CAD Technician: Processing field data, creating detailed plats, and performing research and calculations in an office setting.
• Geospatial / GIS Analyst: Utilizing spatial data and technology to manage complex projects for public or private entities.