So I just got my results yesterday and I passed with a 78%. Honestly didn't think I'd make it after failing by four points the first time around. I work as a fire protection engineer for a mid-size consulting firm and my company basically required this cert for a promotion I've been gunning for since last year. First attempt I went in pretty cocky — figured my on-the-job experience would carry me. Big mistake.
Second time I completely changed my approach. I spent about six weeks using a structured CFPS study guide alongside the SFPE Handbook, focusing heavily on hydraulic calculations and the sprinkler system design sections since those killed me before. I also drilled with a CFPS practice test every weekend to get comfortable with the question format, which is way more application-heavy than I expected.
Anyone else find the water supply analysis questions particularly brutal? And for folks still studying — don't underestimate the foam systems section. That one caught me totally off guard both times until I really buckled down on it.