FCE Study Guide 2026
Everything you need to pass the FCE exam in one place: the exam format, every topic to study, real practice questions with explanations, flashcards, and full-length practice tests. Free, no sign-up needed.
📋 FCE Exam Format at a Glance
📚 FCE Topics to Study (70)
✍️ Sample FCE Questions & Answers
1. Which factor most directly distinguishes an FCE from a simple physical examination conducted by a physician?
The defining feature of an FCE is assessment of functional performance under real or simulated work conditions, going beyond the clinical examination of impairment.
2. An FCE evaluator notices a claimant's observed functional performance significantly exceeds self-reported limitations. This discrepancy should be:
Discrepancies between self-reported limitations and observed performance must be documented objectively; the evaluator's role is to report findings, not adjudicate credibility.
3. What is the primary purpose of the Waddell signs in the context of an FCE?
Waddell signs are used to identify non-organic or behavioral components in a client's pain presentation, which may indicate psychological factors affecting FCE performance.
4. In risk management terms, which FCE activity carries the HIGHEST liability if not properly supervised?
Maximal floor-to-waist lifting involves spinal loading and fall risk, making it the highest liability task if not directly supervised.
5. A physician requests clarification on an FCE report finding. What is the most appropriate evaluator response?
A written addendum with supporting objective data is the professional way to clarify FCE findings without altering the original report.
6. Which Matheson criterion is used to assess whether an evaluee gave full effort during an FCE?
A coefficient of variation below 15% on repeated grip strength trials is a widely used indicator of consistent, reliable effort.