2.2.0.25truefalse040000 - Disclosure - Risk/Return Detail Data {Elements}truetruefalse1falsefalsefalsefalse2/1/2010 - 1/31/2011 TwelveMonthsEnded_31Jan2011http://www.sec.gov/CIK0001364608duration2010-02-01T00:00:002011-01-31T00:00:00PureStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0USDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso421702true0rr_RiskReturnAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseRisk/Return:3false0dei_DocumentTypedeifalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00485BPOSfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:SECReportItemTypenaThe type of document being provided (such as 10-K, 10-Q, N-1A, etc). The document type should be limited to the same value as the supporting SEC submission type. The acceptable values are as follows: S-1, S-3, S-4, S-11, F-1, F-3, F-4, F-9, F-10, 6-K, 8-K, 10, 10-K, 10-Q, 20-F, 40-F, N-1A, 485BPOS, NCSR, N-Q, and Other.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseDocument Type4false0dei_DocumentPeriodEndDatedeifalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse002010-09-30falsefalsetruefalsefalseOtherxbrli:dateItemTypedateThe end date of the period reflected on the cover page if a periodic report. For all other reports and registration statements this will be the filing date. The format of the date is CCYY-MM-DD.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseDocument Period End Date5false0dei_EntityRegistrantNamedeifalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00FIRST TRUST EXCHANGE-TRADED FUND IIfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:normalizedStringItemTypenormalizedstringThe exact name of the entity filing the report as specified in its charter, which is required by forms filed with the SEC.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation 12B -Number 240 -Section 12b -Subsection 1 falsefalseRegistrant Name6false0dei_EntityCentralIndexKeydeifalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse000001364608falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:centralIndexKeyItemTypenaA unique 10-digit SEC-issued value to identify entities that have filed disclosures with the SEC. It is commonly abbreviated as CIK.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation 12B -Number 240 -Section 12b -Subsection 1 falsefalseCentral Index Key7false0dei_AmendmentFlagdeifalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:booleanItemTypenaIf the value is true, then the document as an amendment to previously-filed/accepted document.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseAmendment Flag8false0dei_DocumentCreationDatedeifalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse002011-01-28falsefalsetruefalsefalseOtherxbrli:dateItemTypedateThe date the document was made available and submitted, in CCYY-MM-DD format. The date of submission, date of acceptance by the recipient, and the document effective date are all potentially different.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseDocument Creation Date9false0dei_DocumentEffectiveDatedeifalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse002011-01-31falsefalsetruefalsefalseOtherxbrli:dateItemTypedateThe date when a document, upon receipt and acceptance, becomes officially effective, in CCYY-MM-DD format. Usually it is a system-assigned date time value, but it may be declared by the submitter in some cases.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseDocument Effective Date10false0rr_ProspectusDaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse002011-01-31falsefalsetruefalsefalseOtherxbrli:dateItemTypedateThe date of the prospectus.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 1 -Paragraph 3 -Subsection a falsefalseProspectus Date19false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://ftportfolios.com/role/riskreturndetaildata1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalseUSDtruefalse{dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxis} : First Trust BICK Index Fund [Member] 2/1/2010 - 1/31/2011 USD ($) $TwelveMonthsEnded_31Jan2011_S000028547_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0001364608duration2010-02-01T00:00:002011-01-31T00:00:00falsefalseFirst Trust BICK Index Fund [Member]dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiftetf1364608_S000028547Memberdei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisexplicitMemberUSDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170PureStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0USDUSD$OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseFirst Trust BICK Index Fund [Member]20true0rr_RiskReturnAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseRisk/Return:21false0dei_TradingSymboldeifalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00BICKfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:normalizedStringItemTypenormalizedstringTrading symbol of an instrument as listed on an exchange.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseTrading Symbol22false0rr_RiskReturnHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00SUMMARY INFORMATION First Trust BICK Index FundfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringRisk/Return Summary Investment Objectives/Goals Include the following information, in plain English under rule 421(d) under the Securities Act, in the order and subject matter indicatedReference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 2 falsefalseRisk/Return [Heading]23false0rr_ObjectiveHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00INVESTMENT OBJECTIVEfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringInvestment Objectives/Goals. Disclose the Fund's investment objectives or goals. A Fund also may identify its type or category (e.g., that it is a Money Market Fund or a balanced fund).Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 2 -Subsection a falsefalseObjective [Heading]24false0rr_ObjectivePrimaryTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The First Trust BICK Index Fund (the "Fund") seeks investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield (before the Fund's fees and expenses) of an equity index called the ISE BICK(TM) (Brazil, India, China, South Korea) Index (the "Index").falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringInvestment Objectives/Goals. Disclose the Fund's investment objectives or goals. A Fund also may identify its type or category (e.g., that it is a Money Market Fund or a balanced fund).Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 2 -Subsection a falsefalseObjective, Primary [Text Block]25true0ftetf1364608_FundFeesAndExpensesAbstractftetf1364608falsenadurationFund fees and expenses.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringFund fees and expenses.falsefalseFEES AND EXPENSES OF THE FUND26false0rr_ExpenseHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00FEES AND EXPENSES OF THE FUNDfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringRisk/Return Summary Fee Table Includes the following information, in plain English under rule 421(d) under the Securities Act, after Item 2 Fees and expenses of the Fund This table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold shared of the Fund. You may qualify for sales charge discounts if you and your family invest, or agree to invest in the future, at least $[_____] in [name of fund family] funds. Shareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment) Example This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds. The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then you redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return per year and that the Fund's operating expenses remained the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be You would pay the following expenses if you did not redeem your shares The Example does not reflect sales charges (loads) on reinvested dividends [and other distributions]. If these sales charges (loads) were included, your costs would be higher. Portfolio Turnover The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover may indicate higher transaction costs. These costs, which are not reflected in annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During the most recent fiscal year, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was __% of the average value of its whole portfolio. Instructions. A.3.instructions.6 New Funds. For purposes of this Item, a "New Fund" is a Fund that does not include in Form N-1A financial statements reporting operating results or that includes financial statements for the Fund's initial fiscal year reporting operating results for a period of 6 months or less. The following Instructions apply to New Funds.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph d -Subsection instructions falsefalseExpense [Heading]27false0rr_ExpenseNarrativeTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The following table describes the fees and expenses you may pay if you buy and hold Shares of the Fund. Investors purchasing and selling Shares may be subject to costs (including customary brokerage commissions) charged by their broker.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringThis table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold shared of the Fund. You may qualify for sales charge discounts if you and your family invest, or agree to invest in the future, at least $[_____] in [name of fund family] funds. Include the narrative explanations in the order indicated. A Fund may modify the narrative explanations if the explanation contains comparable information to that shown.The narrative explanation regarding sales charge discounts is only required by a Fund that offers such discounts and should specify the minimum level of investment required to qualify for a discount. Modify the narrative explanation to state that Fund shares are sold on a national securities exchange at the end of the time periods indicated, and that brokerage commissions for buying and selling Fund shares through a broker are not reflected.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph b -Subsection instructions falsefalseExpense Narrative [Text Block]28true0rr_ShareholderFeesAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseSHAREHOLDER FEES29false0rr_ShareholderFeesCaptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00SHAREHOLDER FEES (fees paid directly from your investment)falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringShareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment).Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subsection table falsefalseShareholder Fees Caption [Text]30false0rr_MaximumSalesChargeImposedOnPurchasesOverOfferingPricerrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truetruetrue0.00000.0000falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherrr:NonNegativePure4TypepureMaximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load) (as a percentage of ____) A.3.instructions.2.a.i "Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load)" includes the maximum total deferred sales charge (load) payable upon redemption, in installments, or both, expressed as a percentage of the amount or amounts stated in response to Item 7(a), except that, for a sales charge (load) based on net asset value at the time of purchase, show the sales charge (load) as a percentage of the offering price at the time of purchase. A Fund may include in a footnote to the table, if applicable, a tabular presentation showing the amount of deferred sales charges (loads) over time or a narrative explanation of the sales charges (loads) (e.g., __% in the first year after purchase, declining to __% in the __ year and eliminated thereafter). A.3.instructions.2.a.ii If more than one type of sales charge (load) is imposed (e.g., a deferred sales charge (load) and a front-end sales charge (load)), the first caption in the table should read "Maximum Sales Charge (Load)" and show the maximum cumulative percentage. Show the percentage amounts and the terms of each sales charge (load) comprising that figure on separate lines below.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 1 -Subsection table falsefalseMaximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases (as a percentage of offering price)31true0rr_OperatingExpensesAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES32false0rr_OperatingExpensesCaptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES (Expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringAnnual Fund Operating Expenses (ongoing expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 7 -Subsection table falsefalseOperating Expenses Caption [Text]33false0rr_ManagementFeesOverAssetsrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truetruetrue0.00640.0064falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherrr:NonNegativePure4TypepureManagement Fees include investment advisory fees (including any fees based on the Fund's performance), any other management fees payable to the investment adviser or its affiliates, and administrative fees payable to the investment adviser or its affiliates that are not included as "Other Expenses."Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 3 -Subparagraph a -Subsection instructions falsefalseManagement Fees34false0rr_DistributionAndService12b1FeesOverAssetsrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truetruetrue0.00000.0000falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherrr:NonNegativePure4TypepureDistribution [and/or Service] (12b-1) Fees" include all distribution or other expenses incurred during the most recent fiscal year under a plan adopted pursuant to rule 12b-1 [17 CFR 270.12b-1]. Under an appropriate caption or a subcaption of "Other Expenses," disclose the amount of any distribution or similar expenses deducted from the Fund's assets other than pursuant to a rule 12b-1 plan.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 9 -Subsection table falsefalseDistribution and Service (12b-1) Fees35false0rr_OtherExpensesOverAssetsrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsetotallabel1truetruetrue0.00000.0000falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherrr:NonNegativePure4Typepure"Other Expenses" include all expenses not otherwise disclosed in the table that are deducted from the Fund's assets or charged to all shareholder accounts. The amount of expenses deducted from the Fund's assets are the amounts shown as expenses in the Fund's statement of operations (including increases resulting from complying with paragraph 2(g) of rule 6-07 of Regulation S-X [17 CFR 210.6-07]). "Other Expenses" do not include extraordinary expenses as determined under generally accepted accounting principles (see Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 30). If extraordinary expenses were incurred that materially affected the Fund's "Other Expenses," disclose in a footnote to the table what "Other Expenses" would have been had the extraordinary expenses been included.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 3 -Subparagraph c -Clause i -Subsection instructions truefalseOther Expenses36false0rr_ExpensesOverAssetsrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truetruetrue0.00640.0064falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherrr:NonNegativePure4TypepureTotal Annual Fund Operating Expenses. If the Fund is a Feeder Fund, reflect the aggregate expenses of the Feeder Fund and the Master Fund in a single fee table using the captions provided. In a footnote to the fee table, state that the table and Example reflect the expenses of both the Feeder and Master Funds. If the prospectus offers more than one Class of a Multiple Class Fund or more than one Feeder Fund that invests in the same Master Fund, provide a separate response for each Class or Feeder Fund. Base the percentages of "Annual Fund Operating Expenses" on amounts incurred during the Fund's most recent fiscal year, but include in expenses amounts that would have been incurred absent expense reimbursement or fee waiver arrangements. If the Fund has changed its fiscal year and, as a result, the most recent fiscal year is less than three months, use the fiscal year prior to the most recent fiscal year as the basis for determining "Annual Fund Operating Expenses."Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 3 -Subparagraph d -Subsection instructions falsefalseTotal Annual Fund Operating Expenses37true0rr_ExpenseExampleAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseEXAMPLE38false0rr_ExpenseExampleHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00EXAMPLEfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringHeading for Expense Example.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 4 -Subsection instructions falsefalseExpense Example [Heading]39false0rr_ExpenseExampleNarrativeTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00<p>The example below is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other funds. This example does not take into account customary brokerage commissions that you pay when purchasing or selling Shares of the Fund in the secondary market.</p><p>The example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then you retain the Shares or redeem all of your Shares at the end of those periods. The example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the Fund's net operating expenses remain at current levels until April 1, 2012. Additionally, the example assumes that the Fund imposes a 12b-1 fee of 0.25% per annum of the Fund's average daily net assets following April 1, 2012. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:</p>falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringThe Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 1 -Subsection example falsefalseExpense Example Narrative [Text Block]40false0rr_ExpenseExampleYear01rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truefalsetrue6565falsetruefalsefalsefalseMonetaryrr:NonNegativeMonetaryTypemonetaryThe Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then you redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return per year and that the Fund's operating expenses remained the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 4 -Subsection instructions falsefalse1 Year41false0rr_ExpenseExampleYear03rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truefalsetrue246246falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryrr:NonNegativeMonetaryTypemonetaryThe Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then you redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return per year and that the Fund's operating expenses remained the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 2 -Subsection example falsefalse3 Years42false0rr_ExpenseExampleYear05rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truefalsetrue456456falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryrr:NonNegativeMonetaryTypemonetaryThe Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then you redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return per year and that the Fund's operating expenses remained the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 2 -Subsection example falsefalse5 Years43false0rr_ExpenseExampleYear10rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truefalsetrue10611061falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryrr:NonNegativeMonetaryTypemonetaryThe Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then you redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return per year and that the Fund's operating expenses remained the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 2 -Subsection example falsefalse10 Years44true0ftetf1364608_PortfolioTurnoverAltAbstractftetf1364608falsenadurationPortfolio Turnover Alt.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringPortfolio Turnover Alt.falsefalsePORTFOLIO TURNOVER45false0rr_PortfolioTurnoverHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00PORTFOLIO TURNOVERfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringDisclose the portfolio turnover rate provided in response to Item 14(a) for the most recent fiscal year (or for such shorter period as the Fund has been in operation). Disclose the period for which the information is provided if less than a full fiscal year. A Fund that is a Money Market Fund may omit the portfolio turnover information required by this Item.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 5 -Subsection instructions falsefalsePortfolio Turnover [Heading]46false0rr_PortfolioTurnoverTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when Fund Shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During the fiscal period April 12, 2010 (inception) through September 30, 2010, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was 32% of the average value of its portfolio.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringDisclose the portfolio turnover rate provided in response to Item 14(a) for the most recent fiscal year (or for such shorter period as the Fund has been in operation). Disclose the period for which the information is provided if less than a full fiscal year. A Fund that is a Money Market Fund may omit the portfolio turnover information required by this Item.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 3 -Subsection example falsefalsePortfolio Turnover [Text Block]47false0rr_PortfolioTurnoverRaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruefalse0.320.32falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureThis element represents the rate of portfolio turnover presented as a percentage (SEC Form N-1A 2006-09-14 A.3.example.3 Portfolio Turnover A.3.instructions.5 Portfolio Turnover).Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 3 -Subsection example falsefalsePortfolio Turnover, Rate48false0rr_StrategyHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIESfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringPrincipal investment strategies of the Fund. Summarize how the Fund intends to achieve its investment objectives by identifying the Fund's principal investment strategies (including the type or types of securities in which the Fund invests or will invest principally) and any policy to concentrate in securities of issuers in a particular industry or group of industries.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Subsection a falsefalseStrategy [Heading]49false0rr_StrategyNarrativeTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00<p>The Fund will normally invest at least 90% of its net assets in common stocks or in depositary receipts that may include American Depositary Receipts ("ADRs"), Global Depositary Receipts ("GDRs"), European Depositary Receipts ("EDRs") or other depositary receipts (collectively, "Depositary Receipts") representing securities in the Index. First Trust will seek to match the performance of the Index (before the Fund's fees and expenses).</p><p>The Fund, using an "indexing" investment approach, attempts to replicate, before fees and expenses, the performance of the Index. First Trust Advisors L.P. ("First Trust"), the Fund's investment advisor, seeks a correlation of 0.95 or better (before fees and expenses) between the Fund's performance and the performance of the Index; a figure of 1.00 would represent perfect correlation. First Trust will regularly monitor the Fund's tracking accuracy and will seek to maintain an appropriate correlation.</p><p>The Index is developed and owned by International Securities Exchange, LLC ("ISE" or the "Index Provider"). The Index is designed to provide a benchmark for investors interested in tracking some of the largest and most liquid public companies that are domiciled in Brazil, India, China (including Hong Kong) and South Korea that are accessible for investment by U.S. investors. The Index has been created to provide investors an opportunity to take advantage of both event-driven news and long-term economic trends as the economies of these countries continue to evolve.</p><p>ISE reviews the Index components quarterly in March, June, September and December of each year for eligibility and weights the Index so that each country represents approximately 25% of the Index. Changes are announced on ISE's publicly available website at www.ise.com at least five days prior to the effective date.</p><p>As of March 8, 2010, there were 87 securities that comprised the Index, 25 of which were of companies domiciled in each of Brazil, China and South Korea and 12 of which were domiciled in India. Also as of March 8, 2010, 13 Brazilian securities in the Index were common stocks trading on the Sao Paulo Stock Exchange and 12 Brazilian securities in the Index were Depositary Receipts trading on the New York Stock Exchange; 20 Chinese securities in the Index were H shares trading on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, four Chinese securities in the Index were Depositary Receipts trading on NASDAQ (R) or the New York Stock Exchange and one Chinese security in the Index was a U.S.-listed common stock trading on NASDAQ (R); all 12 Indian securities in the Index were Depositary Receipts trading on NASDAQ (R), the New York Stock Exchange or the London Stock Exchange; and all 25 South Korean securities in the Index were common stocks trading on the Korea Stock Exchange.</p>falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringPrincipal investment strategies of the Fund. Summarize how the Fund intends to achieve its investment objectives by identifying the Fund's principal investment strategies (including the type or types of securities in which the Fund invests or will invest principally) and any policy to concentrate in securities of issuers in a particular industry or group of industries.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Subsection a falsefalseStrategy Narrative [Text Block]50false0rr_StrategyPortfolioConcentrationrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The Fund will normally invest at least 90% of its net assets in common stocks or in depositary receipts that may include American Depositary Receipts ("ADRs"), Global Depositary Receipts ("GDRs"), European Depositary Receipts ("EDRs") or other depositary receipts (collectively, "Depositary Receipts") representing securities in the Index. First Trust will seek to match the performance of the Index (before the Fund's fees and expenses).falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringPrincipal investment strategies of the Fund. Summarize how the Fund intends to achieve its investment objectives by identifying the Fund's principal investment strategies (including the type or types of securities in which the Fund invests or will invest principally) and any policy to concentrate in securities of issuers in a particular industry or group of industries.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Subsection a falsefalseStrategy Portfolio Concentration [Text]51false0rr_RiskHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00PRINCIPAL RISKSfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNarrative Risk Disclosure.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 1 -Subsection b falsefalseRisk [Heading]52false0rr_RiskNarrativeTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00<p>You could lose money by investing in the Fund. An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of a bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other governmental agency.</p><p>MARKET RISK. Market risk is the risk that a particular stock owned by the Fund, Shares of the Fund or stocks in general may fall in value. Shares are subject to market fluctuations caused by such factors as economic, political, regulatory or market developments, changes in interest rates and perceived trends in stock prices. Overall stock values could decline generally or could underperform other investments. Companies with smaller market capitalizations are generally subject to additional market risk.</p><p>NON-CORRELATION RISK. The Fund's return may not match the return of the Index for a number of reasons. For example, the Fund incurs operating expenses not applicable to the Index, and may incur costs in buying and selling securities, especially when rebalancing the Fund's portfolio holdings to reflect changes in the composition of the Index. In addition, the Fund's portfolio holdings may not exactly replicate the securities included in the Index or the ratios between the securities included in the Index.</p><p>REPLICATION MANAGEMENT RISK. The Fund is exposed to additional market risk due to its policy of investing principally in the securities included in the Index. As a result of this policy, securities held by the Fund will generally not be bought or sold in response to market fluctuations, and the securities may be issued by companies concentrated in a particular industry. Therefore, the Fund will generally not sell a stock because the stock's issuer is in financial trouble, unless that stock is removed or is anticipated to be removed from the Index.</p><p>NON-DIVERSIFICATION RISK. The Fund is classified as "non-diversified" under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act"). As a result, the Fund is only limited as to the percentage of its assets which may be invested in the securities of any one issuer by the diversification requirements imposed by the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"). The Fund may invest a relatively high percentage of its assets in a limited number of issuers.</p><p>NON-U.S. SECURITIES AND EMERGING MARKETS RISK. The Fund invests in securities of non-U.S. issuers, including non-U.S. dollar-denominated securities traded outside of the United States and U.S. dollar-denominated securities of non-U.S. issuers traded in the United States. Such securities are subject to higher volatility than securities of domestic issuers due to possible adverse political, social or economic developments; restrictions on foreign investment or exchange of securities; lack of liquidity; excessive taxation; government seizure of assets; different legal or accounting standards; and less government supervision and regulation of exchanges in foreign countries. These risks may be heightened for securities of companies located in, or with significant operations in, emerging market countries.</p><p>BRAZIL RISK. The Fund invests in common stock and depositary receipts of companies that are domiciled in Brazil. If a holder of depositary receipts exchanges its interest in the depositary receipts for the underlying shares, it may risk losing the ability to remit foreign currency abroad and certain Brazilian tax advantages. Brazil has experienced substantial economic instability resulting from, among other things, periods of very high inflation, persistent structural public sector deficits and significant devaluations of its currency leading also to a high degree of price volatility in both the Brazilian equity and foreign currency markets. Brazilian companies may also be adversely affected by high interest and unemployment rates, and are particularly sensitive to fluctuations in commodity prices.</p><p>INDIA RISK. The Fund invests in depositary receipts of companies that are domiciled in India. Investment restrictions in India may limit the ability to convert equity shares into depositary receipts and vice versa. These restrictions may cause equity shares of the underlying issuer to trade at a premium or discount to the market price of the depositary receipt. Investing in securities of Indian companies involves additional risks, including, but not limited to: greater price volatility; substantially less liquidity and significantly smaller market capitalization of securities markets; more substantial governmental involvement in the economy; higher rates of inflation; and greater political, economic and social uncertainty. Government controls have been reduced on imports and foreign investment, and privatization of domestic output has proceeded slowly. The rapid economic growth of the last few years has put heavy stress on India's infrastructural facilities. Furthermore, although the Indian government is well aware of the need for reform and is pushing ahead in this area, businesses still have to deal with an inefficient and sometimes slow-moving bureaucracy.</p><p>CHINA RISK. The Fund invests in H shares, depositary receipts and U.S.-listed common stock of companies that are domiciled in China, including Hong Kong. Some Chinese companies are listed on both the Hong Kong Stock Exchange with H shares and the Shanghai Stock Exchange with A shares. Price differentials between H shares and A shares of the same company may be significant. Also, price fluctuations of A shares are limited to either 5% or 10% per trading day, while no such limitations exist for H shares. Investing in securities of companies in China involves additional risks, including, but not limited to: the economy of China differs, often unfavorably, from the U.S. economy in such respects as structure, general development, government involvement, wealth distribution, rate of inflation, growth rate, allocation of resources and capital reinvestment, among others; the central government has historically exercised substantial control over virtually every sector of the Chinese economy through administrative regulation and/or state ownership; and actions of the Chinese central and local government authorities continue to have a substantial effect on economic conditions in China. Furthermore, China's economy is dependent on the economies of other Asian countries and can be significantly affected by currency fluctuations and increasing competition from Asia's other low-cost emerging economies.</p><p>SOUTH KOREA RISK. The Fund invests in common stock of companies that are domiciled in South Korea. The South Korean economy is dependent on the economies of Asia and the United States as key trading partners. Reduction in spending by these economies on South Korean products and services or negative changes in any of these economies, mainly in China or Southeast Asia, may cause an adverse impact on the South Korean economy. Furthermore, South Korea's economy is also dependent on the economies of other Asian countries and can be significantly affected by currency fluctuations and increasing competition from Asia's other low-cost emerging economies. Also, the political tensions with North Korea could escalate and lead to further uncertainty in the political and economic climate on the Korean peninsula.</p><p>DEPOSITARY RECEIPTS RISK. Depositary receipts may be less liquid than the underlying shares in their primary trading market. Any distributions paid to the holders of depositary receipts are usually subject to a fee charged by the depositary. Holders of depositary receipts may have limited voting rights, and investment restrictions in certain countries may adversely impact the value of depositary receipts because such restrictions may limit the ability to convert equity shares into depositary receipts and vice versa. Such restrictions may cause equity shares of the underlying issuer to trade at a discount or premium to the market price of the depositary receipts.</p><p>INDEX TRACKING RISK. You should anticipate that the value of Fund Shares will decline more or less in correlation with any decline in the value of the Fund's Index.</p><p>CURRENCY RISK. Because the Fund's NAV is determined on the basis of U.S. dollars and the Fund invests in foreign securities, you may lose money if the local currency of a foreign market depreciates against the U.S. dollar, even if the local currency value of the Fund's holdings goes up.</p><p>FINANCIALS SECTOR RISK. The Fund invests in the securities of companies in the financials sector which may include banks, thrifts, brokerage firms, broker/dealers, investment banks, finance companies and companies involved in the insurance industry. Banks, thrifts and their holding companies are especially subject to the adverse effects of economic recession; government regulation; decreases in the availability of capital; volatile interest rates; portfolio concentrations in geographic markets and in commercial and residential real estate loans; and competition from new entrants in their fields of business.</p>falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringNarrative Risk Disclosure. A Fund may, in responding to this Item, describe the types of investors for whom the Fund is intended or the types of investment goals that may be consistent with an investment in the Fund.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph i -Clause instruction -Subsection b falsefalseRisk Narrative [Text Block]53false0rr_RiskLoseMoneyrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00You could lose money by investing in the Fund.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringSummarize the principal risks of investing in the Fund, including the risks to which the Fund's portfolio as a whole is subject and the circumstances reasonably likely to affect adversely the Fund's net asset value, yield, and total return. Unless the Fund is a Money Market Fund, disclose that loss of money is a risk of investing in the Fund. A Fund may, in responding to this Item, describe the types of investors for whom the Fund is intended or the types of investment goals that may be consistent with an investment in the Fund.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph i -Subsection b falsefalseRisk Lose Money [Text]54false0rr_RiskNondiversifiedStatusrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00NON-DIVERSIFICATION RISK. The Fund is classified as "non-diversified" under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act"). As a result, the Fund is only limited as to the percentage of its assets which may be invested in the securities of any one issuer by the diversification requirements imposed by the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"). The Fund may invest a relatively high percentage of its assets in a limited number of issuers.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringIf applicable, state that the Fund is non-diversified, describe the effect of non-diversification (e.g., disclose that, compared with other funds, the Fund may invest a greater percentage of its assets in a particular issuer), and summarize the risks of investing in a non-diversified fund.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph iv -Subsection b falsefalseRisk Nondiversified Status [Text]55false0rr_RiskNotInsuredDepositoryInstitutionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of a bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other governmental agency.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringIf the Fund is advised by or sold through an insured depository institution, state that An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of the bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency. A Money Market Fund that is advised by or sold through an insured depository institution should combine the disclosure required by Items 2(c)(1)(ii) and (iii) in a single statement.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph iii -Subsection b falsefalseRisk Not Insured Depository Institution [Text]56true0ftetf1364608_FundPastPerformanceAbstractftetf1364608falsenadurationFund past performance.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringFund past performance.falsefalsePERFORMANCE57false0rr_BarChartAndPerformanceTableHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringRisk/Return Bar Chart and Table.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subsection b falsefalseBar Chart and Performance Table [Heading]59true0rr_AverageAnnualReturnAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsetruefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseAVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS60false0rr_PerformanceOneYearOrLessrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The Fund has not yet operated for a full calendar year and, therefore, performance information is not included in this section of the Prospectus. See "Total Return Information" for performance information regarding the Fund.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringFor a Fund that provides annual total returns for only one calendar year or for a Fund that does not include the bar chart because it does not have annual returns for a full calendar year, modify, as appropriate, the narrative explanation required by stating that the information gives some indication of the risks of an investment in the Fund by comparing the Fund's performance with a broad measure of market performance). Provide a brief explanation of how the information illustrates the variability of the Fund's returns (e.g., by stating that the information provides some indication of the risks of investing in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's performance from year to year and by showing how the Fund's average annual returns for 1, 5, and 10 years compare with those of a broad measure of market performance). Provide a statement to the effect that the Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) is not necessarily an indication of how the Fund will perform in the future.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph i -Subsection b Reference 2: 2 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph instructions -Clause 1 -Exhibit b -Subsection b falsefalsePerformance One Year or Less [Text]61false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://ftportfolios.com/role/riskreturndetaildata1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3falsefalseUSDtruefalse{dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxis} : First Trust Dow Jones Global Select Dividend Index Fund [Member] 2/1/2010 - 1/31/2011 USD ($) $TwelveMonthsEnded_31Jan2011_S000019507_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0001364608duration2010-02-01T00:00:002011-01-31T00:00:00falsefalseFirst Trust Dow Jones Global Select Dividend Index Fund [Member]dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiftetf1364608_S000019507Memberdei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisexplicitMemberPureStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0USDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseFirst Trust Dow Jones Global Select Dividend Index Fund [Member]62true0rr_RiskReturnAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseRisk/Return:63false0dei_TradingSymboldeifalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00FGDfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:normalizedStringItemTypenormalizedstringTrading symbol of an instrument as listed on an exchange.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseTrading Symbol64false0rr_RiskReturnHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00SUMMARY INFORMATION First Trust Dow Jones Global Select Dividend Index FundfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringRisk/Return Summary Investment Objectives/Goals Include the following information, in plain English under rule 421(d) under the Securities Act, in the order and subject matter indicatedReference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 2 falsefalseRisk/Return [Heading]65false0rr_ObjectiveHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00INVESTMENT OBJECTIVEfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringInvestment Objectives/Goals. Disclose the Fund's investment objectives or goals. A Fund also may identify its type or category (e.g., that it is a Money Market Fund or a balanced fund).Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 2 -Subsection a falsefalseObjective [Heading]66false0rr_ObjectivePrimaryTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The First Trust Dow Jones Global Select Dividend Index Fund (the "Fund") seeks investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield (before the Fund's fees and expenses) of an equity index called the Dow Jones Global Select Dividend Index(SM) (the "Index").falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringInvestment Objectives/Goals. Disclose the Fund's investment objectives or goals. A Fund also may identify its type or category (e.g., that it is a Money Market Fund or a balanced fund).Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 2 -Subsection a falsefalseObjective, Primary [Text Block]67true0ftetf1364608_FundFeesAndExpensesAbstractftetf1364608falsenadurationFund fees and expenses.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringFund fees and expenses.falsefalseFEES AND EXPENSES OF THE FUND68false0rr_ExpenseHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00FEES AND EXPENSES OF THE FUNDfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringRisk/Return Summary Fee Table Includes the following information, in plain English under rule 421(d) under the Securities Act, after Item 2 Fees and expenses of the Fund This table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold shared of the Fund. You may qualify for sales charge discounts if you and your family invest, or agree to invest in the future, at least $[_____] in [name of fund family] funds. Shareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment) Example This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds. The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then you redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return per year and that the Fund's operating expenses remained the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be You would pay the following expenses if you did not redeem your shares The Example does not reflect sales charges (loads) on reinvested dividends [and other distributions]. If these sales charges (loads) were included, your costs would be higher. Portfolio Turnover The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover may indicate higher transaction costs. These costs, which are not reflected in annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During the most recent fiscal year, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was __% of the average value of its whole portfolio. Instructions. A.3.instructions.6 New Funds. For purposes of this Item, a "New Fund" is a Fund that does not include in Form N-1A financial statements reporting operating results or that includes financial statements for the Fund's initial fiscal year reporting operating results for a period of 6 months or less. The following Instructions apply to New Funds.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph d -Subsection instructions falsefalseExpense [Heading]69false0rr_ExpenseNarrativeTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The following table describes the fees and expenses you may pay if you buy and hold Shares of the Fund. Investors purchasing and selling Shares may be subject to costs (including customary brokerage commissions) charged by their broker.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringThis table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold shared of the Fund. You may qualify for sales charge discounts if you and your family invest, or agree to invest in the future, at least $[_____] in [name of fund family] funds. Include the narrative explanations in the order indicated. A Fund may modify the narrative explanations if the explanation contains comparable information to that shown.The narrative explanation regarding sales charge discounts is only required by a Fund that offers such discounts and should specify the minimum level of investment required to qualify for a discount. Modify the narrative explanation to state that Fund shares are sold on a national securities exchange at the end of the time periods indicated, and that brokerage commissions for buying and selling Fund shares through a broker are not reflected.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph b -Subsection instructions falsefalseExpense Narrative [Text Block]70true0rr_ShareholderFeesAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseSHAREHOLDER FEES71false0rr_ShareholderFeesCaptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00SHAREHOLDER FEES (fees paid directly from your investment)falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringShareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment).Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subsection table falsefalseShareholder Fees Caption [Text]72false0rr_MaximumSalesChargeImposedOnPurchasesOverOfferingPricerrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truetruetrue0.00000.0000falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherrr:NonNegativePure4TypepureMaximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load) (as a percentage of ____) A.3.instructions.2.a.i "Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load)" includes the maximum total deferred sales charge (load) payable upon redemption, in installments, or both, expressed as a percentage of the amount or amounts stated in response to Item 7(a), except that, for a sales charge (load) based on net asset value at the time of purchase, show the sales charge (load) as a percentage of the offering price at the time of purchase. A Fund may include in a footnote to the table, if applicable, a tabular presentation showing the amount of deferred sales charges (loads) over time or a narrative explanation of the sales charges (loads) (e.g., __% in the first year after purchase, declining to __% in the __ year and eliminated thereafter). A.3.instructions.2.a.ii If more than one type of sales charge (load) is imposed (e.g., a deferred sales charge (load) and a front-end sales charge (load)), the first caption in the table should read "Maximum Sales Charge (Load)" and show the maximum cumulative percentage. Show the percentage amounts and the terms of each sales charge (load) comprising that figure on separate lines below.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 1 -Subsection table falsefalseMaximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases (as a percentage of offering price)73true0rr_OperatingExpensesAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES74false0rr_OperatingExpensesCaptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES (Expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringAnnual Fund Operating Expenses (ongoing expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 7 -Subsection table falsefalseOperating Expenses Caption [Text]75false0rr_ManagementFeesOverAssetsrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truetruetrue0.00400.0040falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherrr:NonNegativePure4TypepureManagement Fees include investment advisory fees (including any fees based on the Fund's performance), any other management fees payable to the investment adviser or its affiliates, and administrative fees payable to the investment adviser or its affiliates that are not included as "Other Expenses."Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 3 -Subparagraph a -Subsection instructions falsefalseManagement Fees76false0rr_DistributionAndService12b1FeesOverAssetsrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truetruetrue0.00000.0000falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherrr:NonNegativePure4TypepureDistribution [and/or Service] (12b-1) Fees" include all distribution or other expenses incurred during the most recent fiscal year under a plan adopted pursuant to rule 12b-1 [17 CFR 270.12b-1]. Under an appropriate caption or a subcaption of "Other Expenses," disclose the amount of any distribution or similar expenses deducted from the Fund's assets other than pursuant to a rule 12b-1 plan.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 9 -Subsection table falsefalseDistribution and Service (12b-1) Fees77false0rr_OtherExpensesOverAssetsrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsetotallabel1truetruetrue0.00570.0057falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherrr:NonNegativePure4Typepure"Other Expenses" include all expenses not otherwise disclosed in the table that are deducted from the Fund's assets or charged to all shareholder accounts. The amount of expenses deducted from the Fund's assets are the amounts shown as expenses in the Fund's statement of operations (including increases resulting from complying with paragraph 2(g) of rule 6-07 of Regulation S-X [17 CFR 210.6-07]). "Other Expenses" do not include extraordinary expenses as determined under generally accepted accounting principles (see Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 30). If extraordinary expenses were incurred that materially affected the Fund's "Other Expenses," disclose in a footnote to the table what "Other Expenses" would have been had the extraordinary expenses been included.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 3 -Subparagraph c -Clause i -Subsection instructions truefalseOther Expenses78false0rr_ExpensesOverAssetsrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truetruetrue0.00970.0097falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherrr:NonNegativePure4TypepureTotal Annual Fund Operating Expenses. If the Fund is a Feeder Fund, reflect the aggregate expenses of the Feeder Fund and the Master Fund in a single fee table using the captions provided. In a footnote to the fee table, state that the table and Example reflect the expenses of both the Feeder and Master Funds. If the prospectus offers more than one Class of a Multiple Class Fund or more than one Feeder Fund that invests in the same Master Fund, provide a separate response for each Class or Feeder Fund. Base the percentages of "Annual Fund Operating Expenses" on amounts incurred during the Fund's most recent fiscal year, but include in expenses amounts that would have been incurred absent expense reimbursement or fee waiver arrangements. If the Fund has changed its fiscal year and, as a result, the most recent fiscal year is less than three months, use the fiscal year prior to the most recent fiscal year as the basis for determining "Annual Fund Operating Expenses."Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 3 -Subparagraph d -Subsection instructions falsefalseTotal Annual Fund Operating Expenses79false0rr_FeeWaiverOrReimbursementOverAssetsrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsetruenegated1truetruetrue0.00370.0037[1]falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherrr:NonPositivePure4TypepureTotal Annual Fund Operating Expenses. If there were expense reimbursement or fee waiver arrangements that reduced any Fund operating expenses and will continue to reduce them for no less than one year from the effective date of the Fund's registration statement, a Fund may add two captions to the table one caption showing the amount of the expense reimbursement or fee waiver, and a second caption showing the Fund's net expenses after subtracting the fee reimbursement or expense waiver from the total fund operating expenses. The Fund should place these additional captions directly below the "Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses" caption of the table and should use appropriate descriptive captions, such as "Fee Waiver [and/or Expense Reimbursement]" and "Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses After Fee Waiver [and/or Expense Reimbursement]," respectively. If the Fund provides this disclosure, also disclose the period for which the expense reimbursement or fee waiver arrangement is expected to continue, and briefly describe who can terminate the arrangement and under what circumstances.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 11 -Subsection table falsefalseFee Waiver and Expense Reimbursement80false0rr_NetExpensesOverAssetsrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truetruetrue0.00600.0060falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherrr:NonNegativePure4TypepureTotal Annual Fund Operating Expenses.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 11 -Subsection table falsefalseTotal Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses After Fee Waiver and Expense Reimbursement81true0rr_ExpenseExampleAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseEXAMPLE82false0rr_ExpenseExampleHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00EXAMPLEfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringHeading for Expense Example.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 4 -Subsection instructions falsefalseExpense Example [Heading]83false0rr_ExpenseExampleNarrativeTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00<p> The example below is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other funds. This example does not take into account customary brokerage commissions that you pay when purchasing or selling Shares of the Fund in the secondary market.</p><p>The example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then you retain the Shares or redeem all of your Shares at the end of those periods. The example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the Fund's net operating expenses remain at current levels until December 20, 2012. Additionally, the example assumes that the Fund imposes a 12b-1 fee of 0.25% per annum of the Fund's average daily net assets following January 31, 2012. The example assumes that First Trust's agreement to waive fees and/or pay the Fund's expenses to the extent necessary to prevent the operating expenses of the Fund (excluding interest expense, brokerage commissions and other trading expenses, taxes, and extraordinary expenses) from exceeding 0.60% of average daily net assets per year will be terminated following December 20, 2012. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:</p>falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringThe Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 1 -Subsection example falsefalseExpense Example Narrative [Text Block]84false0rr_ExpenseExampleYear01rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truefalsetrue6161falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryrr:NonNegativeMonetaryTypemonetaryThe Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then you redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return per year and that the Fund's operating expenses remained the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 4 -Subsection instructions falsefalse1 Year85false0rr_ExpenseExampleYear03rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truefalsetrue246246falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryrr:NonNegativeMonetaryTypemonetaryThe Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then you redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return per year and that the Fund's operating expenses remained the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 2 -Subsection example falsefalse3 Years86false0rr_ExpenseExampleYear05rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truefalsetrue533533falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryrr:NonNegativeMonetaryTypemonetaryThe Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then you redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return per year and that the Fund's operating expenses remained the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 2 -Subsection example falsefalse5 Years87false0rr_ExpenseExampleYear10rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truefalsetrue13501350falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryrr:NonNegativeMonetaryTypemonetaryThe Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then you redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return per year and that the Fund's operating expenses remained the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 2 -Subsection example falsefalse10 Years88true0ftetf1364608_PortfolioTurnoverAltAbstractftetf1364608falsenadurationPortfolio Turnover Alt.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringPortfolio Turnover Alt.falsefalsePORTFOLIO TURNOVER89false0rr_PortfolioTurnoverHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00PORTFOLIO TURNOVERfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringDisclose the portfolio turnover rate provided in response to Item 14(a) for the most recent fiscal year (or for such shorter period as the Fund has been in operation). Disclose the period for which the information is provided if less than a full fiscal year. A Fund that is a Money Market Fund may omit the portfolio turnover information required by this Item.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 5 -Subsection instructions falsefalsePortfolio Turnover [Heading]90false0rr_PortfolioTurnoverTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when Fund Shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During the most recent fiscal year, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was 51% of the average value of its portfolio.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringDisclose the portfolio turnover rate provided in response to Item 14(a) for the most recent fiscal year (or for such shorter period as the Fund has been in operation). Disclose the period for which the information is provided if less than a full fiscal year. A Fund that is a Money Market Fund may omit the portfolio turnover information required by this Item.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 3 -Subsection example falsefalsePortfolio Turnover [Text Block]91false0rr_PortfolioTurnoverRaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruefalse0.510.51falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureThis element represents the rate of portfolio turnover presented as a percentage (SEC Form N-1A 2006-09-14 A.3.example.3 Portfolio Turnover A.3.instructions.5 Portfolio Turnover).Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 3 -Subsection example falsefalsePortfolio Turnover, Rate92false0rr_StrategyHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIESfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringPrincipal investment strategies of the Fund. Summarize how the Fund intends to achieve its investment objectives by identifying the Fund's principal investment strategies (including the type or types of securities in which the Fund invests or will invest principally) and any policy to concentrate in securities of issuers in a particular industry or group of industries.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Subsection a falsefalseStrategy [Heading]93false0rr_StrategyNarrativeTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00<p>The Fund will normally invest at least 90% of its net assets in common stocks that comprise the Index or in depositary receipts that may include American Depositary Receipts ("ADRs"), Global Depositary Receipts ("GDRs"), European Depositary Receipts ("EDRs") or other depositary receipts (collectively, "Depositary Receipts") representing securities in the Index. First Trust will seek to match the performance of the Index (before the Fund's fees and expenses).</p><p>The Fund, using an "indexing" investment approach, attempts to replicate, before fees and expenses, the performance of the Index. First Trust seeks a correlation of 0.95 or better (before fees and expenses) between the Fund's performance and the performance of the Index; a figure of 1.00 would represent perfect correlation. First Trust will regularly monitor the Fund's tracking accuracy and will seek to maintain an appropriate correlation.</p><p>The Index is an indicated annual dividend yield weighted index of 100 stocks selected from the developed-market portion of the Dow Jones World Index(SM). Indicated annual dividend yield is a stock's unadjusted indicated annual dividend (not including any special dividends) divided by its unadjusted price. The Index is compiled and maintained by Dow Jones and Company, Inc. ("Dow Jones" or the "Index Provider"). The Index universe consists of all dividend-paying companies in the Dow Jones World Developed Index which are subjected to eligibility screens for dividend quality and liquidity before being selected for inclusion in the Index. Component securities are weighted on indicated annual dividend yield. Weights of individual securities are capped at 10%. The Index is rebalanced and reconstituted annually in December. The Fund will make changes to its portfolio holdings when changes are made by the Index Provider in the composition of the Index.</p>falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringPrincipal investment strategies of the Fund. Summarize how the Fund intends to achieve its investment objectives by identifying the Fund's principal investment strategies (including the type or types of securities in which the Fund invests or will invest principally) and any policy to concentrate in securities of issuers in a particular industry or group of industries.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Subsection a falsefalseStrategy Narrative [Text Block]94false0rr_StrategyPortfolioConcentrationrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The Fund will normally invest at least 90% of its net assets in common stocks that comprise the Index or in depositary receipts that may include American Depositary Receipts ("ADRs"), Global Depositary Receipts ("GDRs"), European Depositary Receipts ("EDRs") or other depositary receipts (collectively, "Depositary Receipts") representing securities in the Index. First Trust will seek to match the performance of the Index (before the Fund's fees and expenses).falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringPrincipal investment strategies of the Fund. Summarize how the Fund intends to achieve its investment objectives by identifying the Fund's principal investment strategies (including the type or types of securities in which the Fund invests or will invest principally) and any policy to concentrate in securities of issuers in a particular industry or group of industries.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Subsection a falsefalseStrategy Portfolio Concentration [Text]95false0rr_RiskHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00PRINCIPAL RISKSfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNarrative Risk Disclosure.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 1 -Subsection b falsefalseRisk [Heading]96false0rr_RiskNarrativeTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00<p>You could lose money by investing in the Fund. An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of a bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other governmental agency.</p><p>MARKET RISK. Market risk is the risk that a particular stock owned by the Fund, Shares of the Fund or stocks in general may fall in value. Shares are subject to market fluctuations caused by such factors as economic, political, regulatory or market developments, changes in interest rates and perceived trends in stock prices. Overall stock values could decline generally or could underperform other investments. Companies with smaller market capitalizations are generally subject to additional market risk.</p><p>NON-CORRELATION RISK. The Fund's return may not match the return of the Index for a number of reasons. For example, the Fund incurs operating expenses not applicable to the Index, and may incur costs in buying and selling securities, especially when rebalancing the Fund's portfolio holdings to reflect changes in the composition of the Index. In addition, the Fund's portfolio holdings may not exactly replicate the securities included in the Index or the ratios between the securities included in the Index.</p><p>REPLICATION MANAGEMENT RISK. The Fund is exposed to additional market risk due to its policy of investing principally in the securities included in the Index. As a result of this policy, securities held by the Fund will generally not be bought or sold in response to market fluctuations, and the securities may be issued by companies concentrated in a particular industry. Therefore, the Fund will generally not sell a stock because the stock's issuer is in financial trouble, unless that stock is removed or is anticipated to be removed from the Index.</p><p>NON-DIVERSIFICATION RISK. The Fund is classified as "non-diversified" under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act"). As a result, the Fund is only limited as to the percentage of its assets which may be invested in the securities of any one issuer by the diversification requirements imposed by the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"). The Fund may invest a relatively high percentage of its assets in a limited number of issuers.</p><p>INDUSTRIALS SECTOR RISK. The Fund invests in the securities of companies in the industrials sector. Many companies in this sector convert unfinished goods into finished durables used to manufacture other goods or provide services. Some industries included in this sector are electrical equipment and components, industrial products, manufactured housing and telecommunications equipment. General risks of these companies include the general state of the economy, intense competition, consolidation, domestic and international politics, excess capacity and consumer demand and spending trends. In addition, they may also be significantly affected by overall capital spending levels, economic cycles, technical obsolescence, delays in modernization, labor relations, government regulations and e-commerce initiatives.</p><p>NON-U.S. SECURITIES RISK. The Fund invests in securities of non-U.S. issuers. Such securities are subject to higher volatility than securities of domestic issuers due to possible adverse political, social or economic developments; restrictions on foreign investment or exchange of securities; lack of liquidity; excessive taxation; government seizure of assets; different legal or accounting standards; and less government supervision and regulation of exchanges in foreign countries.</p><p>CURRENCY RISK. Because the Fund's NAV is determined on the basis of U.S. dollars, you may lose money if the local currency of a foreign market depreciates against the U.S. dollar, even if the local currency value of the Fund's holdings goes up.</p>falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringNarrative Risk Disclosure. A Fund may, in responding to this Item, describe the types of investors for whom the Fund is intended or the types of investment goals that may be consistent with an investment in the Fund.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph i -Clause instruction -Subsection b falsefalseRisk Narrative [Text Block]97false0rr_RiskLoseMoneyrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00You could lose money by investing in the Fund.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringSummarize the principal risks of investing in the Fund, including the risks to which the Fund's portfolio as a whole is subject and the circumstances reasonably likely to affect adversely the Fund's net asset value, yield, and total return. Unless the Fund is a Money Market Fund, disclose that loss of money is a risk of investing in the Fund. A Fund may, in responding to this Item, describe the types of investors for whom the Fund is intended or the types of investment goals that may be consistent with an investment in the Fund.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph i -Subsection b falsefalseRisk Lose Money [Text]98false0rr_RiskNondiversifiedStatusrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00NON-DIVERSIFICATION RISK. The Fund is classified as "non-diversified" under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act"). As a result, the Fund is only limited as to the percentage of its assets which may be invested in the securities of any one issuer by the diversification requirements imposed by the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"). The Fund may invest a relatively high percentage of its assets in a limited number of issuers.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringIf applicable, state that the Fund is non-diversified, describe the effect of non-diversification (e.g., disclose that, compared with other funds, the Fund may invest a greater percentage of its assets in a particular issuer), and summarize the risks of investing in a non-diversified fund.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph iv -Subsection b falsefalseRisk Nondiversified Status [Text]99false0rr_RiskNotInsuredDepositoryInstitutionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of a bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other governmental agency.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringIf the Fund is advised by or sold through an insured depository institution, state that An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of the bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency. A Money Market Fund that is advised by or sold through an insured depository institution should combine the disclosure required by Items 2(c)(1)(ii) and (iii) in a single statement.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph iii -Subsection b falsefalseRisk Not Insured Depository Institution [Text]100true0ftetf1364608_FundPastPerformanceAbstractftetf1364608falsenadurationFund past performance.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringFund past performance.falsefalsePERFORMANCE101false0rr_BarChartAndPerformanceTableHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringRisk/Return Bar Chart and Table.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subsection b falsefalseBar Chart and Performance Table [Heading]102false0rr_PerformanceNarrativeTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00<p>The bar chart and table below illustrate the annual calendar year returns of the Fund based on NAV for the past three years as well as the average annual Fund and Index returns for the one year and since inception periods ended December 31, 2010. The bar chart and table provide an indication of the risks of investing in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's performance from year-to-year and by showing how the Fund's average annual total returns based on NAV compare to those of the Index and two broad-based securities market indices. See "Total Return Information" for additional performance information regarding the Fund. The Fund's performance information is accessible on the Fund's website at www.ftportfolios.com.</p><p>Returns before taxes do not reflect the effects of any income or capital gains taxes. All after-tax returns are calculated using the historical highest individual federal marginal income tax rates and do not reflect the impact of any state or local tax. Returns after taxes on distributions reflect the taxed return on the payment of dividends and capital gains. Returns after taxes on distributions and sale of Shares assume you sold your Shares at period end, and, therefore, are also adjusted for any capital gains or losses incurred. Returns for the market indices do not include expenses, which are deducted from Fund returns, or taxes.</p><p>Your own actual after-tax returns will depend on your specific tax situation and may differ from what is shown here. After-tax returns are not relevant to investors who hold Fund Shares in tax-deferred accounts such as individual retirement accounts (IRAs) or employee-sponsored retirement plans.</p>falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringRisk/Return Bar Chart and Table.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subsection b falsefalsePerformance Narrative [Text Block]103false0rr_PerformanceInformationIllustratesVariabilityOfReturnsrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The bar chart and table provide an indication of the risks of investing in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's performance from year-to-year and by showing how the fund's average annual total returns based on NAV compare to those of the Index and two broad-based securities market indices.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringInclude the bar chart and table required by paragraphs (b)(2)(ii) and (iii) of this section. Provide a brief explanation of how the information illustrates the variability of the Fund's returns (e.g., by stating that the information provides some indication of the risks of investing in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's performance from year to year and by showing how the Fund's average annual returns for 1, 5, and 10 years compare with those of a broad measure of market performance). Provide a statement to the effect that the Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) is not necessarily an indication of how the Fund will perform in the future.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph i -Subsection b falsefalsePerformance Information Illustrates Variability of Returns [Text]104false0rr_PerformanceTableClosingTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The Fund's performance information is accessible on the Fund's website at www.ftportfolios.com.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a table showing the Fund's (A) average annual total return; (B) average annual total return (after taxes on distributions); and (C) average annual total return (after taxes on distributions and redemption). A Money Market Fund should show only the returns described in clause (A) of the preceding sentence. All returns should be shown for 1-, 5-, and 10- calendar year periods ending on the date of the most recently completed calendar year (or for the life of the Fund, if shorter), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. The table also shouldshow the returns of an appropriate broadbased securities market index as defined in Instruction 5 to Item 22(b)(7) for the same periods. A Fund that has been in existence for more than 10 years also may include returns for the life of the Fund. A Money Market Fund may provide the Fund's 7-day yield ending on the date of the most recent calendar year or disclose a toll-free (or collect) telephone number that investors can use to obtain the Fund's current 7-day yield. For a Fund (other than a Money Market Fund or a Fund described in General Instruction C.3.(d)(iii)), provide the information in the following table with the specified captions AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS (For the periods ended December 31, _____)Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Subsection b falsefalsePerformance Table Closing [Text Block]105false0rr_PerformanceAvailabilityWebSiteAddressrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00ftportfolios.comfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringIf applicable, include a statement explaining that updated performance information is available and providing a Website address and/or toll-free (or collect) telephone number where the updated information may be obtained.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph i -Subsection b falsefalsePerformance Availability Website Address [Text]106false0rr_PerformanceTableUsesHighestFederalRaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00All after-tax returns are calculated using the historical highest individual federal marginal income tax rates and do not reflect the impact of any state or local tax.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringProvide a brief explanation that after-tax returns are calculated using the historical highest individual federal marginal income tax rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Subsection b falsefalsePerformance Table Uses Highest Federal Rate107false0rr_PerformanceTableNotRelevantToTaxDeferredrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00Your own actual after-tax returns will depend on your specific tax situation and may differ from what is shown here. After-tax returns are not relevant to investors who hold Fund Shares in tax-deferred accounts such as individual retirement accounts (IRAs) or employee-sponsored retirement plans.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringProvide a brief explanation that the actual after-tax returns depend on an investor's tax situation and may differ from those shown, and after-tax returns shown are not relevant to investors who hold their Fund shares through tax-deferred arrangements, such as 401(k) plans or individual retirement accounts.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iv -Clause B -Subsection b falsefalsePerformance Table Not Relevant to Tax Deferred108true0rr_BarChartTableAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS109false0rr_AnnualReturnCaptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse00FIRST TRUST DOW JONES GLOBAL SELECT DIVIDEND INDEX FUND--TOTAL RETURNSfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart. Provide annual total returns beginning with the earliest calendar year. Calculate annual returns using the Instructions to Item 8(a), except that the calculations should be based on calendar years. If a Fund's shares are sold subject to a sales load or account fees, state that sales loads or account fees are not reflected in the bar chart and that, if these amounts were reflected, returns would be less than those shown. When a Multiple Class Fund offers more than one Class in the prospectus, provide annual total returns in the bar chart for only one of those Classes. The Fund can select which Class to include (e.g., the oldest Class, the Class with the greatest net assets). When a Multiple Class Fund offering one or more Classes offers a new Class in a prospectus that does not offer the shares of any other Class, include the bar chart with annual total returns for any other existing Class for the first year that the Class is offered. Explain in a footnote that the returns are for a Class that is not offered in the prospectus that would have substantially similar annual returns because the shares are invested in the same portfolio of securities and the annual returns would differ only to the extent that the Classes do not have the same expenses. Include return information for the other Class reflected in the bar chart in the performance table.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph instructions -Clause 3 -Exhibit b -Subsection b falsefalseAnnual Return Caption [Text]110false0rr_AnnualReturn2008rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruefalse-0.5057-0.5057falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart. When a Multiple Class Fund offers more than one Class in the prospectus, provide annual total returns in the bar chart for only one of those Classes. The Fund can select which Class to include (e.g., the oldest Class, the Class with the greatest net assets).Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph ii -Subsection b falsefalseAnnual Return 2008111false0rr_AnnualReturn2009rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruefalse0.64280.6428falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart. When a Multiple Class Fund offers more than one Class in the prospectus, provide annual total returns in the bar chart for only one of those Classes. The Fund can select which Class to include (e.g., the oldest Class, the Class with the greatest net assets).Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph instructions -Clause 3 -Exhibit a -Subsection b falsefalseAnnual Return 2009112false0rr_AnnualReturn2010rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruefalse0.12270.1227falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart. When a Multiple Class Fund offers more than one Class in the prospectus, provide annual total returns in the bar chart for only one of those Classes. The Fund can select which Class to include (e.g., the oldest Class, the Class with the greatest net assets).Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph ii -Subsection b falsefalseAnnual Return 2010113false0rr_BarChartClosingTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00During the three-year period ended December 31, 2010, the Fund's highest and lowest calendar quarter returns were 38.58% and -12.03%, respectively, for the quarters ended June 30, 2009 and March 31, 2009. The Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) is not necessarily an indication of how the Fund will perform in the future.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph ii -Subsection b falsefalseBar Chart Closing [Text Block]114false0rr_HighestQuarterlyReturnLabelrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00highest calendar quarter returnsfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph ii -Subsection b falsefalseHighest Quarterly Return, Label115false0rr_BarChartHighestQuarterlyReturnDaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse002009-06-30falsefalsetruefalsefalseOtherxbrli:dateItemTypedateIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph ii -Subsection b falsefalseHighest Quarterly Return, Date116false0rr_BarChartHighestQuarterlyReturnrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruefalse0.38580.3858falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph ii -Subsection b falsefalseHighest Quarterly Return117false0rr_LowestQuarterlyReturnLabelrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00lowest calendar quarter returnsfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph ii -Subsection b falsefalseLowest Quarterly Return, Label118false0rr_BarChartLowestQuarterlyReturnDaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse002009-03-31falsefalsetruefalsefalseOtherxbrli:dateItemTypedateIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph ii -Subsection b falsefalseLowest Quarterly Return, Date119false0rr_BarChartLowestQuarterlyReturnrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruefalse-0.1203-0.1203falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph ii -Subsection b falsefalseLowest Quarterly Return120false0rr_PerformancePastDoesNotIndicateFuturerrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) is not necessarily an indication of how the Fund will perform in the future.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringInclude the bar chart and table required by paragraphs (b)(2)(ii) and (iii) of this section. Provide a brief explanation of how the information illustrates the variability of the Fund's returns (e.g., by stating that the information provides some indication of the risks of investing in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's performance from year to year and by showing how the Fund's average annual returns for 1, 5, and 10 years compare with those of a broad measure of market performance). Provide a statement to the effect that the Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) is not necessarily an indication of how the Fund will perform in the future.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph i -Subsection b falsefalsePerformance Past Does Not Indicate Future [Text]121true0rr_AverageAnnualReturnAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsetruefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseAVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS122false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnCaptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse00AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS FOR THE PERIODS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2010falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringThis item represents Average Anuual Total Returns. If a Multiple Class Fund offers a Class in the prospectus that converts into another Class after a stated period, compute average annual total returns in the table by using the returns of the other Class for the period after conversion.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph instructions -Clause 5 -Subsection b falsefalseCaption123false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://ftportfolios.com/role/riskreturndetaildata1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse4falsefalsetruefalse{dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxis} : First Trust Dow Jones Global Select Dividend Index Fund [Member] {rr_PerformanceMeasureAxis} : Return Before Taxes [Member] 2/1/2010 - 1/31/2011 TwelveMonthsEnded_31Jan2011_Return_Before_Taxes_Member_S000019507_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0001364608duration2010-02-01T00:00:002011-01-31T00:00:00falsefalseFirst Trust Dow Jones Global Select Dividend Index Fund [Member]dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiftetf1364608_S000019507Memberdei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseReturn Before Taxes [Member]rr_PerformanceMeasureAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiftetf1364608_ReturnBeforeTaxesMemberrr_PerformanceMeasureAxisexplicitMemberPureStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseFirst Trust Dow Jones Global Select Dividend Index Fund [Member] | Return Before Taxes [Member]132true0rr_AverageAnnualReturnAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsetruefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseAVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS133false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnLabelrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse00Return Before TaxesfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringThis item represents Average Anuual Total Returns. If a Multiple Class Fund offers a Class in the prospectus that converts into another Class after a stated period, compute average annual total returns in the table by using the returns of the other Class for the period after conversion.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseLabel134false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue0.12270.1227falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalse1 Year135false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnSinceInceptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue-0.0280-0.0280falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseSince Inception136false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnInceptionDaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse002007-11-21falsefalsetruefalsefalseOtherxbrli:dateItemTypedateReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph instructions -Clause 4 -Subsection b falsefalseInception Date137false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://ftportfolios.com/role/riskreturndetaildata1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse5falsefalsetruefalse{dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxis} : First Trust Dow Jones Global Select Dividend Index Fund [Member] {rr_PerformanceMeasureAxis} : Return After Taxes on Distributions 2/1/2010 - 1/31/2011 TwelveMonthsEnded_31Jan2011_After_Taxes_On_Distributions_Member_S000019507_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0001364608duration2010-02-01T00:00:002011-01-31T00:00:00falsefalseFirst Trust Dow Jones Global Select Dividend Index Fund [Member]dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiftetf1364608_S000019507Memberdei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseReturn After Taxes on Distributionsrr_PerformanceMeasureAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldirr_AfterTaxesOnDistributionsMemberrr_PerformanceMeasureAxisexplicitMemberPureStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseFirst Trust Dow Jones Global Select Dividend Index Fund [Member] | Return After Taxes on Distributions146true0rr_AverageAnnualReturnAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsetruefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseAVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS147false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnLabelrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse00Return After Taxes on DistributionsfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringThis item represents Average Anuual Total Returns. If a Multiple Class Fund offers a Class in the prospectus that converts into another Class after a stated period, compute average annual total returns in the table by using the returns of the other Class for the period after conversion.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseLabel148false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue0.10450.1045falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalse1 Year149false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnSinceInceptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue-0.0450-0.0450falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseSince Inception150false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnInceptionDaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse002007-11-21falsefalsetruefalsefalseOtherxbrli:dateItemTypedateReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph instructions -Clause 4 -Subsection b falsefalseInception Date151false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://ftportfolios.com/role/riskreturndetaildata1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse6falsefalsetruefalse{dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxis} : First Trust Dow Jones Global Select Dividend Index Fund [Member] {rr_PerformanceMeasureAxis} : Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Shares 2/1/2010 - 1/31/2011 TwelveMonthsEnded_31Jan2011_After_Taxes_On_Distributions_And_Sales_Member_S000019507_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0001364608duration2010-02-01T00:00:002011-01-31T00:00:00falsefalseFirst Trust Dow Jones Global Select Dividend Index Fund [Member]dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiftetf1364608_S000019507Memberdei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseReturn After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Sharesrr_PerformanceMeasureAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldirr_AfterTaxesOnDistributionsAndSalesMemberrr_PerformanceMeasureAxisexplicitMemberPureStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseFirst Trust Dow Jones Global Select Dividend Index Fund [Member] | Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Shares160true0rr_AverageAnnualReturnAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsetruefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseAVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS161false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnLabelrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse00Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of SharesfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringThis item represents Average Anuual Total Returns. If a Multiple Class Fund offers a Class in the prospectus that converts into another Class after a stated period, compute average annual total returns in the table by using the returns of the other Class for the period after conversion.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseLabel162false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue0.07840.0784falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalse1 Year163false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnSinceInceptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue-0.0341-0.0341falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseSince Inception164false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnInceptionDaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse002007-11-21falsefalsetruefalsefalseOtherxbrli:dateItemTypedateReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph instructions -Clause 4 -Subsection b falsefalseInception Date165false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://ftportfolios.com/role/riskreturndetaildata1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse7falsefalseUSDtruefalse{dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxis} : First Trust FTSE EPRA/NAREIT Developed Markets Real Estate Index Fund [Member] 2/1/2010 - 1/31/2011 USD ($) $TwelveMonthsEnded_31Jan2011_S000018785_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0001364608duration2010-02-01T00:00:002011-01-31T00:00:00falsefalseFirst Trust FTSE EPRA/NAREIT Developed Markets Real Estate Index Fund [Member]dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiftetf1364608_S000018785Memberdei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisexplicitMemberPureStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0USDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseFirst Trust FTSE EPRA/NAREIT Developed Markets Real Estate Index Fund [Member]166true0rr_RiskReturnAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseRisk/Return:167false0dei_TradingSymboldeifalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00FFRfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:normalizedStringItemTypenormalizedstringTrading symbol of an instrument as listed on an exchange.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseTrading Symbol168false0rr_RiskReturnHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00SUMMARY INFORMATION First Trust FTSE EPRA/NAREIT Developed Markets Real Estate Index FundfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringRisk/Return Summary Investment Objectives/Goals Include the following information, in plain English under rule 421(d) under the Securities Act, in the order and subject matter indicatedReference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 2 falsefalseRisk/Return [Heading]169false0rr_ObjectiveHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00INVESTMENT OBJECTIVEfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringInvestment Objectives/Goals. Disclose the Fund's investment objectives or goals. A Fund also may identify its type or category (e.g., that it is a Money Market Fund or a balanced fund).Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 2 -Subsection a falsefalseObjective [Heading]170false0rr_ObjectivePrimaryTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The First Trust FTSE EPRA/NAREIT Developed Markets Real Estate Index Fund (the "Fund") seeks investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield (before the Fund's fees and expenses) of an equity index called the FTSE EPRA/NAREIT Developed Index (the "Index").falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringInvestment Objectives/Goals. Disclose the Fund's investment objectives or goals. A Fund also may identify its type or category (e.g., that it is a Money Market Fund or a balanced fund).Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 2 -Subsection a falsefalseObjective, Primary [Text Block]171true0ftetf1364608_FundFeesAndExpensesAbstractftetf1364608falsenadurationFund fees and expenses.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringFund fees and expenses.falsefalseFEES AND EXPENSES OF THE FUND172false0rr_ExpenseHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00FEES AND EXPENSES OF THE FUNDfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringRisk/Return Summary Fee Table Includes the following information, in plain English under rule 421(d) under the Securities Act, after Item 2 Fees and expenses of the Fund This table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold shared of the Fund. You may qualify for sales charge discounts if you and your family invest, or agree to invest in the future, at least $[_____] in [name of fund family] funds. Shareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment) Example This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds. The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then you redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return per year and that the Fund's operating expenses remained the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be You would pay the following expenses if you did not redeem your shares The Example does not reflect sales charges (loads) on reinvested dividends [and other distributions]. If these sales charges (loads) were included, your costs would be higher. Portfolio Turnover The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover may indicate higher transaction costs. These costs, which are not reflected in annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During the most recent fiscal year, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was __% of the average value of its whole portfolio. Instructions. A.3.instructions.6 New Funds. For purposes of this Item, a "New Fund" is a Fund that does not include in Form N-1A financial statements reporting operating results or that includes financial statements for the Fund's initial fiscal year reporting operating results for a period of 6 months or less. The following Instructions apply to New Funds.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph d -Subsection instructions falsefalseExpense [Heading]173false0rr_ExpenseNarrativeTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The following table describes the fees and expenses you may pay if you buy and hold Shares of the Fund. Investors purchasing and selling Shares may be subject to costs (including customary brokerage commissions) charged by their broker.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringThis table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold shared of the Fund. You may qualify for sales charge discounts if you and your family invest, or agree to invest in the future, at least $[_____] in [name of fund family] funds. Include the narrative explanations in the order indicated. A Fund may modify the narrative explanations if the explanation contains comparable information to that shown.The narrative explanation regarding sales charge discounts is only required by a Fund that offers such discounts and should specify the minimum level of investment required to qualify for a discount. Modify the narrative explanation to state that Fund shares are sold on a national securities exchange at the end of the time periods indicated, and that brokerage commissions for buying and selling Fund shares through a broker are not reflected.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph b -Subsection instructions falsefalseExpense Narrative [Text Block]174true0rr_ShareholderFeesAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseSHAREHOLDER FEES175false0rr_ShareholderFeesCaptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00SHAREHOLDER FEES (fees paid directly from your investment)falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringShareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment).Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subsection table falsefalseShareholder Fees Caption [Text]176false0rr_MaximumSalesChargeImposedOnPurchasesOverOfferingPricerrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truetruetrue0.00000.0000falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherrr:NonNegativePure4TypepureMaximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load) (as a percentage of ____) A.3.instructions.2.a.i "Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load)" includes the maximum total deferred sales charge (load) payable upon redemption, in installments, or both, expressed as a percentage of the amount or amounts stated in response to Item 7(a), except that, for a sales charge (load) based on net asset value at the time of purchase, show the sales charge (load) as a percentage of the offering price at the time of purchase. A Fund may include in a footnote to the table, if applicable, a tabular presentation showing the amount of deferred sales charges (loads) over time or a narrative explanation of the sales charges (loads) (e.g., __% in the first year after purchase, declining to __% in the __ year and eliminated thereafter). A.3.instructions.2.a.ii If more than one type of sales charge (load) is imposed (e.g., a deferred sales charge (load) and a front-end sales charge (load)), the first caption in the table should read "Maximum Sales Charge (Load)" and show the maximum cumulative percentage. Show the percentage amounts and the terms of each sales charge (load) comprising that figure on separate lines below.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 1 -Subsection table falsefalseMaximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases (as a percentage of offering price)177true0rr_OperatingExpensesAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES178false0rr_OperatingExpensesCaptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES (Expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringAnnual Fund Operating Expenses (ongoing expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 7 -Subsection table falsefalseOperating Expenses Caption [Text]179false0rr_ManagementFeesOverAssetsrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truetruetrue0.00400.0040falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherrr:NonNegativePure4TypepureManagement Fees include investment advisory fees (including any fees based on the Fund's performance), any other management fees payable to the investment adviser or its affiliates, and administrative fees payable to the investment adviser or its affiliates that are not included as "Other Expenses."Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 3 -Subparagraph a -Subsection instructions falsefalseManagement Fees180false0rr_DistributionAndService12b1FeesOverAssetsrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truetruetrue0.00000.0000falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherrr:NonNegativePure4TypepureDistribution [and/or Service] (12b-1) Fees" include all distribution or other expenses incurred during the most recent fiscal year under a plan adopted pursuant to rule 12b-1 [17 CFR 270.12b-1]. Under an appropriate caption or a subcaption of "Other Expenses," disclose the amount of any distribution or similar expenses deducted from the Fund's assets other than pursuant to a rule 12b-1 plan.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 9 -Subsection table falsefalseDistribution and Service (12b-1) Fees181false0rr_OtherExpensesOverAssetsrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsetotallabel1truetruetrue0.00700.0070falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherrr:NonNegativePure4Typepure"Other Expenses" include all expenses not otherwise disclosed in the table that are deducted from the Fund's assets or charged to all shareholder accounts. The amount of expenses deducted from the Fund's assets are the amounts shown as expenses in the Fund's statement of operations (including increases resulting from complying with paragraph 2(g) of rule 6-07 of Regulation S-X [17 CFR 210.6-07]). "Other Expenses" do not include extraordinary expenses as determined under generally accepted accounting principles (see Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 30). If extraordinary expenses were incurred that materially affected the Fund's "Other Expenses," disclose in a footnote to the table what "Other Expenses" would have been had the extraordinary expenses been included.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 3 -Subparagraph c -Clause i -Subsection instructions truefalseOther Expenses182false0rr_ExpensesOverAssetsrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truetruetrue0.01100.0110falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherrr:NonNegativePure4TypepureTotal Annual Fund Operating Expenses. If the Fund is a Feeder Fund, reflect the aggregate expenses of the Feeder Fund and the Master Fund in a single fee table using the captions provided. In a footnote to the fee table, state that the table and Example reflect the expenses of both the Feeder and Master Funds. If the prospectus offers more than one Class of a Multiple Class Fund or more than one Feeder Fund that invests in the same Master Fund, provide a separate response for each Class or Feeder Fund. Base the percentages of "Annual Fund Operating Expenses" on amounts incurred during the Fund's most recent fiscal year, but include in expenses amounts that would have been incurred absent expense reimbursement or fee waiver arrangements. If the Fund has changed its fiscal year and, as a result, the most recent fiscal year is less than three months, use the fiscal year prior to the most recent fiscal year as the basis for determining "Annual Fund Operating Expenses."Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 3 -Subparagraph d -Subsection instructions falsefalseTotal Annual Fund Operating Expenses183false0rr_FeeWaiverOrReimbursementOverAssetsrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsetruenegated1truetruetrue0.00500.0050[2]falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherrr:NonPositivePure4TypepureTotal Annual Fund Operating Expenses. If there were expense reimbursement or fee waiver arrangements that reduced any Fund operating expenses and will continue to reduce them for no less than one year from the effective date of the Fund's registration statement, a Fund may add two captions to the table one caption showing the amount of the expense reimbursement or fee waiver, and a second caption showing the Fund's net expenses after subtracting the fee reimbursement or expense waiver from the total fund operating expenses. The Fund should place these additional captions directly below the "Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses" caption of the table and should use appropriate descriptive captions, such as "Fee Waiver [and/or Expense Reimbursement]" and "Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses After Fee Waiver [and/or Expense Reimbursement]," respectively. If the Fund provides this disclosure, also disclose the period for which the expense reimbursement or fee waiver arrangement is expected to continue, and briefly describe who can terminate the arrangement and under what circumstances.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 11 -Subsection table falsefalseFee Waiver and Expense Reimbursement184false0rr_NetExpensesOverAssetsrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truetruetrue0.00600.0060falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherrr:NonNegativePure4TypepureTotal Annual Fund Operating Expenses.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 11 -Subsection table falsefalseTotal Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses After Fee Waiver and Expense Reimbursement185true0rr_ExpenseExampleAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseEXAMPLE186false0rr_ExpenseExampleHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00EXAMPLEfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringHeading for Expense Example.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 4 -Subsection instructions falsefalseExpense Example [Heading]187false0rr_ExpenseExampleNarrativeTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00<p>The example below is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other funds. This example does not take into account customary brokerage commissions that you pay when purchasing or selling Shares of the Fund in the secondary market.</p><p>The example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then you retain the Shares or redeem all of your Shares at the end of those periods. The example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the Fund's net operating expenses remain at current levels until December 6, 2012. Additionally, the example assumes that the Fund imposes a 12b-1 fee of 0.25% per annum of the Fund's average daily net assets following January 31, 2012. The example assumes that First Trust's agreement to waive fees and/or pay the Fund's expenses to the extent necessary to prevent the operating expenses of the Fund (excluding interest expense, brokerage commissions and other trading expenses, taxes, and extraordinary expenses) from exceeding 0.60% of average daily net assets per year will be terminated following December 6, 2012. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:</p>falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringThe Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 1 -Subsection example falsefalseExpense Example Narrative [Text Block]188false0rr_ExpenseExampleYear01rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truefalsetrue6161falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryrr:NonNegativeMonetaryTypemonetaryThe Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then you redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return per year and that the Fund's operating expenses remained the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 4 -Subsection instructions falsefalse1 Year189false0rr_ExpenseExampleYear03rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truefalsetrue260260falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryrr:NonNegativeMonetaryTypemonetaryThe Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then you redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return per year and that the Fund's operating expenses remained the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 2 -Subsection example falsefalse3 Years190false0rr_ExpenseExampleYear05rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truefalsetrue577577falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryrr:NonNegativeMonetaryTypemonetaryThe Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then you redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return per year and that the Fund's operating expenses remained the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 2 -Subsection example falsefalse5 Years191false0rr_ExpenseExampleYear10rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truefalsetrue14751475falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryrr:NonNegativeMonetaryTypemonetaryThe Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then you redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return per year and that the Fund's operating expenses remained the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 2 -Subsection example falsefalse10 Years192true0ftetf1364608_PortfolioTurnoverAltAbstractftetf1364608falsenadurationPortfolio Turnover Alt.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringPortfolio Turnover Alt.falsefalsePORTFOLIO TURNOVER193false0rr_PortfolioTurnoverHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00PORTFOLIO TURNOVERfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringDisclose the portfolio turnover rate provided in response to Item 14(a) for the most recent fiscal year (or for such shorter period as the Fund has been in operation). Disclose the period for which the information is provided if less than a full fiscal year. A Fund that is a Money Market Fund may omit the portfolio turnover information required by this Item.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 5 -Subsection instructions falsefalsePortfolio Turnover [Heading]194false0rr_PortfolioTurnoverTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when Fund Shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During the most recent fiscal year, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was 11% of the average value of its portfolio.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringDisclose the portfolio turnover rate provided in response to Item 14(a) for the most recent fiscal year (or for such shorter period as the Fund has been in operation). Disclose the period for which the information is provided if less than a full fiscal year. A Fund that is a Money Market Fund may omit the portfolio turnover information required by this Item.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 3 -Subsection example falsefalsePortfolio Turnover [Text Block]195false0rr_PortfolioTurnoverRaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruefalse0.110.11falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureThis element represents the rate of portfolio turnover presented as a percentage (SEC Form N-1A 2006-09-14 A.3.example.3 Portfolio Turnover A.3.instructions.5 Portfolio Turnover).Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 3 -Subsection example falsefalsePortfolio Turnover, Rate196false0rr_StrategyHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIESfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringPrincipal investment strategies of the Fund. Summarize how the Fund intends to achieve its investment objectives by identifying the Fund's principal investment strategies (including the type or types of securities in which the Fund invests or will invest principally) and any policy to concentrate in securities of issuers in a particular industry or group of industries.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Subsection a falsefalseStrategy [Heading]197false0rr_StrategyNarrativeTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00<p>The Fund will normally invest at least 90% of its net assets in common stocks that comprise the Index or in depositary receipts that may include American Depositary Receipts ("ADRs"), Global Depositary Receipts ("GDRs"), European Depositary Receipts ("EDRs") or other depositary receipts (collectively, "Depositary Receipts") representing securities in the Index. First Trust will seek to match the performance of the Index (before the Fund's fees and expenses).</p><p>The Fund, using an "indexing" investment approach, attempts to replicate, before fees and expenses, the performance of the Index. First Trust seeks a correlation of 0.95 or better (before fees and expenses) between the Fund's performance and the performance of the Index; a figure of 1.00 would represent perfect correlation. First Trust will regularly monitor the Fund's tracking accuracy and will seek to maintain an appropriate correlation.</p><p>The Index is compiled and maintained by FTSE International Limited ("FTSE" or the "Index Provider"). The Index is modified market cap weighted based on free float market capitalization and tracks the performance of listed real estate companies or real estate investment trusts ("REITs") in North America, Europe and Asia. The Index is rebalanced and reconstituted quarterly in March, June, September and December. The Fund will make changes to its portfolio holdings when changes are made by FTSE in the composition of the Index. The Index is designed to measure the stock performance of companies engaged in specific real estate activities in the North American, European and Asian real estate markets. Specific real estate activities include the ownership, trading and development of income-producing real estate.</p>falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringPrincipal investment strategies of the Fund. Summarize how the Fund intends to achieve its investment objectives by identifying the Fund's principal investment strategies (including the type or types of securities in which the Fund invests or will invest principally) and any policy to concentrate in securities of issuers in a particular industry or group of industries.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Subsection a falsefalseStrategy Narrative [Text Block]198false0rr_StrategyPortfolioConcentrationrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The Fund will normally invest at least 90% of its net assets in common stocks that comprise the Index or in depositary receipts that may include American Depositary Receipts ("ADRs"), Global Depositary Receipts ("GDRs"), European Depositary Receipts ("EDRs") or other depositary receipts (collectively, "Depositary Receipts") representing securities in the Index. First Trust will seek to match the performance of the Index (before the Fund's fees and expenses).falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringPrincipal investment strategies of the Fund. Summarize how the Fund intends to achieve its investment objectives by identifying the Fund's principal investment strategies (including the type or types of securities in which the Fund invests or will invest principally) and any policy to concentrate in securities of issuers in a particular industry or group of industries.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Subsection a falsefalseStrategy Portfolio Concentration [Text]199false0rr_RiskHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00PRINCIPAL RISKSfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNarrative Risk Disclosure.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 1 -Subsection b falsefalseRisk [Heading]200false0rr_RiskNarrativeTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00<p>You could lose money by investing in the Fund. An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of a bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other governmental agency.</p><p>MARKET RISK. Market risk is the risk that a particular stock owned by the Fund, Shares of the Fund or stocks in general may fall in value. Shares are subject to market fluctuations caused by such factors as economic, political, regulatory or market developments, changes in interest rates and perceived trends in stock prices. Overall stock values could decline generally or could underperform other investments. Companies with smaller market capitalizations are generally subject to additional market risk.</p><p>NON-CORRELATION RISK. The Fund's return may not match the return of the Index for a number of reasons. For example, the Fund incurs operating expenses not applicable to the Index, and may incur costs in buying and selling securities, especially when rebalancing the Fund's portfolio holdings to reflect changes in the composition of the Index. In addition, the Fund's portfolio holdings may not exactly replicate the securities included in the Index or the ratios between the securities included in the Index.</p><p>REPLICATION MANAGEMENT RISK. The Fund is exposed to additional market risk due to its policy of investing principally in the securities included in the Index. As a result of this policy, securities held by the Fund will generally not be bought or sold in response to market fluctuations, and the securities may be issued by companies concentrated in a particular industry. Therefore, the Fund will generally not sell a stock because the stock's issuer is in financial trouble, unless that stock is removed or is anticipated to be removed from the Index.</p><p>NON-DIVERSIFICATION RISK. The Fund is classified as "non-diversified" under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act"). As a result, the Fund is only limited as to the percentage of its assets which may be invested in the securities of any one issuer by the diversification requirements imposed by the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"). The Fund may invest a relatively high percentage of its assets in a limited number of issuers.</p><p>REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT RISK. The Fund invests in companies in the real estate industry, including REITs. Therefore, the Fund is subject to the risks associated with investing in real estate, which may include, but are not limited to, fluctuations in the value of underlying properties; defaults by borrowers or tenants; market saturation; changes in general and local economic conditions; decreases in market rates for rents; increases in competition, property taxes, capital expenditures or operating expenses; and other economic, political or regulatory occurrences affecting companies in the real estate industry.</p><p>The Fund invests in real estate companies that may be adversely impacted by the downturn in the subprime mortgage lending market in the United States. Subprime loans have higher defaults and losses than prime loans. Subprime loans also have higher serious delinquency rates than prime loans. The downturn in the subprime mortgage lending market may have far-reaching consequences into many aspects and geographic regions of the real estate business, and consequently, the value of the Fund may decline in response to such developments.</p><p>REIT INVESTMENT RISK. In addition to risks related to investments in real estate generally, investing in REITs involves certain other risks related to their structure and focus, which include, but are not limited to, dependency upon management skills, limited diversification, the risks of locating and managing financing for projects, heavy cash flow dependency, possible default by borrowers, the costs and potential losses of self-liquidation of one or more holdings, the risk of a possible lack of mortgage funds and associated interest rate risks, overbuilding, property vacancies, increases in property taxes and operating expenses, changes in zoning laws, losses due to environmental damages, changes in neighborhood values and appeal to purchases, the possibility of failing to maintain exemptions from registration under the 1940 Act and, in many cases, relatively small market capitalization, which may result in less market liquidity and greater price volatility.</p><p>REITs are also subject to the risk that the real estate market may experience an economic downturn generally, which may have a material effect on the real estate in which the REITs invest and their underlying portfolio securities.</p><p>INTEREST RATE RISK. The Fund is subject to interest rate risk. Increases in interest rates typically lower the present value of a REIT's future earnings stream, and may make financing property purchases and improvements more costly. Because the market price of REIT stocks may change based upon investors' collective perceptions of future earnings, the value of the Fund will generally decline when investors anticipate or experience rising interest rates.</p><p>NON-U.S. SECURITIES RISK. The Fund invests in securities of non-U.S. issuers. Such securities are subject to higher volatility than securities of domestic issuers due to possible adverse political, social or economic developments; restrictions on foreign investment or exchange of securities; lack of liquidity; excessive taxation; government seizure of assets; different legal or accounting standards; and less government supervision and regulation of exchanges in foreign countries.</p><p>ASIA RISK. The Fund invests, in part, in securities issued by companies operating in Asia. The Fund is therefore subject to certain risks associated specifically with Asia. For example, some of the currencies of these countries have experienced devaluations relative to the U.S. dollar, and adjustments have been made periodically in certain of such currencies. Certain countries, such as Indonesia, face serious exchange constraints. Jurisdictional disputes also exist, for example, between South Korea and North Korea. The Tokyo stock market, as measured by the Tokyo Stock Price Index, has been volatile. Declines in the Tokyo stock market have made the country's banks and financial institutions vulnerable because of their large share portfolios. Japanese banks have been left with large numbers of nonperforming loans. The Japanese economy labors under a heavy government budget deficit and historically low interest rates. As a result of these factors, several high-profile bankruptcies of Japanese banks, brokerage firms and insurance companies have occurred.</p><p>CURRENCY RISK. Because the Fund's NAV is determined on the basis of U.S. dollars, you may lose money if the local currency of a foreign market depreciates against the U.S. dollar, even if the local currency value of the Fund's holdings goes up.</p>falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringNarrative Risk Disclosure. A Fund may, in responding to this Item, describe the types of investors for whom the Fund is intended or the types of investment goals that may be consistent with an investment in the Fund.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph i -Clause instruction -Subsection b falsefalseRisk Narrative [Text Block]201false0rr_RiskLoseMoneyrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00You could lose money by investing in the Fund.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringSummarize the principal risks of investing in the Fund, including the risks to which the Fund's portfolio as a whole is subject and the circumstances reasonably likely to affect adversely the Fund's net asset value, yield, and total return. Unless the Fund is a Money Market Fund, disclose that loss of money is a risk of investing in the Fund. A Fund may, in responding to this Item, describe the types of investors for whom the Fund is intended or the types of investment goals that may be consistent with an investment in the Fund.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph i -Subsection b falsefalseRisk Lose Money [Text]202false0rr_RiskNondiversifiedStatusrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00NON-DIVERSIFICATION RISK. The Fund is classified as "non-diversified" under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act"). As a result, the Fund is only limited as to the percentage of its assets which may be invested in the securities of any one issuer by the diversification requirements imposed by the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"). The Fund may invest a relatively high percentage of its assets in a limited number of issuers.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringIf applicable, state that the Fund is non-diversified, describe the effect of non-diversification (e.g., disclose that, compared with other funds, the Fund may invest a greater percentage of its assets in a particular issuer), and summarize the risks of investing in a non-diversified fund.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph iv -Subsection b falsefalseRisk Nondiversified Status [Text]203false0rr_RiskNotInsuredDepositoryInstitutionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of a bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other governmental agency.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringIf the Fund is advised by or sold through an insured depository institution, state that An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of the bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency. A Money Market Fund that is advised by or sold through an insured depository institution should combine the disclosure required by Items 2(c)(1)(ii) and (iii) in a single statement.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph iii -Subsection b falsefalseRisk Not Insured Depository Institution [Text]204true0ftetf1364608_FundPastPerformanceAbstractftetf1364608falsenadurationFund past performance.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringFund past performance.falsefalsePERFORMANCE205false0rr_BarChartAndPerformanceTableHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringRisk/Return Bar Chart and Table.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subsection b falsefalseBar Chart and Performance Table [Heading]206false0rr_PerformanceNarrativeTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00<p>The bar chart and table below illustrate the annual calendar year returns of the Fund based on NAV for the past three years as well as the average annual Fund and Index returns for the one year and since inception periods ended December 31, 2010. The bar chart and table provide an indication of the risks of investing in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's performance from year-to-year and by showing how the Fund's average annual total returns based on NAV compare to those of the Index, the S and P Global REIT Index, which is a broad-based securities market index, and a specialized securities market index. See "Total Return Information" for additional performance information regarding the Fund. The Fund's performance information is accessible on the Fund's website at www.ftportfolios.com.</p><p>Returns before taxes do not reflect the effects of any income or capital gains taxes. All after-tax returns are calculated using the historical highest individual federal marginal income tax rates and do not reflect the impact of any state or local tax. Returns after taxes on distributions reflect the taxed return on the payment of dividends and capital gains. Returns after taxes on distributions and sale of Shares assume you sold your Shares at period end, and, therefore, are also adjusted for any capital gains or losses incurred. Returns for the market indices do not include expenses, which are deducted from Fund returns, or taxes.</p><p>Your own actual after-tax returns will depend on your specific tax situation and may differ from what is shown here. After-tax returns are not relevant to investors who hold Fund Shares in tax-deferred accounts such as individual retirement accounts (IRAs) or employee-sponsored retirement plans.</p>falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringRisk/Return Bar Chart and Table.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subsection b falsefalsePerformance Narrative [Text Block]207false0rr_PerformanceInformationIllustratesVariabilityOfReturnsrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The bar chart and table below illustrate the annual calendar year returns of the Fund based on NAV for the past three years as well as the average annual Fund and Index returns for the one year and since inception periods ended December 31, 2010.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringInclude the bar chart and table required by paragraphs (b)(2)(ii) and (iii) of this section. Provide a brief explanation of how the information illustrates the variability of the Fund's returns (e.g., by stating that the information provides some indication of the risks of investing in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's performance from year to year and by showing how the Fund's average annual returns for 1, 5, and 10 years compare with those of a broad measure of market performance). Provide a statement to the effect that the Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) is not necessarily an indication of how the Fund will perform in the future.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph i -Subsection b falsefalsePerformance Information Illustrates Variability of Returns [Text]208false0rr_PerformanceAdditionalMarketIndexrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The bar chart and table provide an indication of the risks of investing in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's performance from year-to-year and by showing how the Fund's average annual total returns based on NAV compare to those of the Index, the S and P Global REIT Index, which is a broad-based securities market index, and a specialized securities market index.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringInclude the bar chart and table required by paragraphs (b)(2)(ii) and (iii) of this section. Provide a brief explanation of how the information illustrates the variability of the Fund's returns (e.g., by stating that the information provides some indication of the risks of investing in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's performance from year to year and by showing how the Fund's average annual returns for 1, 5, and 10 years compare with those of a broad measure of market performance). Provide a statement to the effect that the Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) is not necessarily an indication of how the Fund will perform in the future.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph i -Subsection b falsefalsePerformance Additional Market Index [Text]209false0rr_PerformanceTableClosingTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The Fund's performance information is accessible on the Fund's website at www.ftportfolios.com.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a table showing the Fund's (A) average annual total return; (B) average annual total return (after taxes on distributions); and (C) average annual total return (after taxes on distributions and redemption). A Money Market Fund should show only the returns described in clause (A) of the preceding sentence. All returns should be shown for 1-, 5-, and 10- calendar year periods ending on the date of the most recently completed calendar year (or for the life of the Fund, if shorter), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. The table also shouldshow the returns of an appropriate broadbased securities market index as defined in Instruction 5 to Item 22(b)(7) for the same periods. A Fund that has been in existence for more than 10 years also may include returns for the life of the Fund. A Money Market Fund may provide the Fund's 7-day yield ending on the date of the most recent calendar year or disclose a toll-free (or collect) telephone number that investors can use to obtain the Fund's current 7-day yield. For a Fund (other than a Money Market Fund or a Fund described in General Instruction C.3.(d)(iii)), provide the information in the following table with the specified captions AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS (For the periods ended December 31, _____)Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Subsection b falsefalsePerformance Table Closing [Text Block]210false0rr_PerformanceAvailabilityWebSiteAddressrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00www.ftportfolios.comfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringIf applicable, include a statement explaining that updated performance information is available and providing a Website address and/or toll-free (or collect) telephone number where the updated information may be obtained.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph i -Subsection b falsefalsePerformance Availability Website Address [Text]211false0rr_PerformanceTableUsesHighestFederalRaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00All after-tax returns are calculated using the historical highest individual federal marginal income tax rates and do not reflect the impact of any state or local tax.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringProvide a brief explanation that after-tax returns are calculated using the historical highest individual federal marginal income tax rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Subsection b falsefalsePerformance Table Uses Highest Federal Rate212false0rr_PerformanceTableNotRelevantToTaxDeferredrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00After-tax returns are not relevant to investors who hold Fund Shares in tax-deferred accounts such as individual retirement accounts (IRAs) or employee-sponsored retirement plans.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringProvide a brief explanation that the actual after-tax returns depend on an investor's tax situation and may differ from those shown, and after-tax returns shown are not relevant to investors who hold their Fund shares through tax-deferred arrangements, such as 401(k) plans or individual retirement accounts.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iv -Clause B -Subsection b falsefalsePerformance Table Not Relevant to Tax Deferred213true0rr_BarChartTableAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS214false0rr_AnnualReturnCaptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse00FIRST TRUST FTSE EPRA/NAREIT DEVELOPED MARKETS REAL ESTATE INDEX FUND--TOTAL RETURNSfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart. Provide annual total returns beginning with the earliest calendar year. Calculate annual returns using the Instructions to Item 8(a), except that the calculations should be based on calendar years. If a Fund's shares are sold subject to a sales load or account fees, state that sales loads or account fees are not reflected in the bar chart and that, if these amounts were reflected, returns would be less than those shown. When a Multiple Class Fund offers more than one Class in the prospectus, provide annual total returns in the bar chart for only one of those Classes. The Fund can select which Class to include (e.g., the oldest Class, the Class with the greatest net assets). When a Multiple Class Fund offering one or more Classes offers a new Class in a prospectus that does not offer the shares of any other Class, include the bar chart with annual total returns for any other existing Class for the first year that the Class is offered. Explain in a footnote that the returns are for a Class that is not offered in the prospectus that would have substantially similar annual returns because the shares are invested in the same portfolio of securities and the annual returns would differ only to the extent that the Classes do not have the same expenses. Include return information for the other Class reflected in the bar chart in the performance table.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph instructions -Clause 3 -Exhibit b -Subsection b falsefalseAnnual Return Caption [Text]215false0rr_AnnualReturn2008rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruefalse-0.4746-0.4746falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart. When a Multiple Class Fund offers more than one Class in the prospectus, provide annual total returns in the bar chart for only one of those Classes. The Fund can select which Class to include (e.g., the oldest Class, the Class with the greatest net assets).Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph ii -Subsection b falsefalseAnnual Return 2008216false0rr_AnnualReturn2009rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruefalse0.35000.3500falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart. When a Multiple Class Fund offers more than one Class in the prospectus, provide annual total returns in the bar chart for only one of those Classes. The Fund can select which Class to include (e.g., the oldest Class, the Class with the greatest net assets).Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph instructions -Clause 3 -Exhibit a -Subsection b falsefalseAnnual Return 2009217false0rr_AnnualReturn2010rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruefalse0.19590.1959falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart. When a Multiple Class Fund offers more than one Class in the prospectus, provide annual total returns in the bar chart for only one of those Classes. The Fund can select which Class to include (e.g., the oldest Class, the Class with the greatest net assets).Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph ii -Subsection b falsefalseAnnual Return 2010218false0rr_BarChartClosingTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00During the three-year period ended December 31, 2010, the Fund's highest and lowest calendar quarter returns were 35.30% and -23.08%, respectively, for the quarters ended June 30, 2009 and March 31, 2009. The Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) is not necessarily an indication of how the Fund will perform in the future.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph ii -Subsection b falsefalseBar Chart Closing [Text Block]219false0rr_HighestQuarterlyReturnLabelrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00highest calendar quarter returnsfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph ii -Subsection b falsefalseHighest Quarterly Return, Label220false0rr_BarChartHighestQuarterlyReturnDaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse002009-06-30falsefalsetruefalsefalseOtherxbrli:dateItemTypedateIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph ii -Subsection b falsefalseHighest Quarterly Return, Date221false0rr_BarChartHighestQuarterlyReturnrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruefalse0.35300.3530falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph ii -Subsection b falsefalseHighest Quarterly Return222false0rr_LowestQuarterlyReturnLabelrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00lowest calendar quarter returnsfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph ii -Subsection b falsefalseLowest Quarterly Return, Label223false0rr_BarChartLowestQuarterlyReturnDaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse002009-03-31falsefalsetruefalsefalseOtherxbrli:dateItemTypedateIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph ii -Subsection b falsefalseLowest Quarterly Return, Date224false0rr_BarChartLowestQuarterlyReturnrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruefalse-0.2308-0.2308falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph ii -Subsection b falsefalseLowest Quarterly Return225false0rr_PerformancePastDoesNotIndicateFuturerrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) is not necessarily an indication of how the Fund will perform in the future.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringInclude the bar chart and table required by paragraphs (b)(2)(ii) and (iii) of this section. Provide a brief explanation of how the information illustrates the variability of the Fund's returns (e.g., by stating that the information provides some indication of the risks of investing in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's performance from year to year and by showing how the Fund's average annual returns for 1, 5, and 10 years compare with those of a broad measure of market performance). Provide a statement to the effect that the Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) is not necessarily an indication of how the Fund will perform in the future.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph i -Subsection b falsefalsePerformance Past Does Not Indicate Future [Text]226true0rr_AverageAnnualReturnAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsetruefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseAVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS227false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnCaptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse00AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS FOR THE PERIODS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2010falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringThis item represents Average Anuual Total Returns. If a Multiple Class Fund offers a Class in the prospectus that converts into another Class after a stated period, compute average annual total returns in the table by using the returns of the other Class for the period after conversion.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph instructions -Clause 5 -Subsection b falsefalseCaption228false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://ftportfolios.com/role/riskreturndetaildata1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse8falsefalsetruefalse{dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxis} : First Trust FTSE EPRA/NAREIT Developed Markets Real Estate Index Fund [Member] {rr_PerformanceMeasureAxis} : Return Before Taxes [Member] 2/1/2010 - 1/31/2011 TwelveMonthsEnded_31Jan2011_S000018785_Member_Return_Before_Taxes_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0001364608duration2010-02-01T00:00:002011-01-31T00:00:00falsefalseFirst Trust FTSE EPRA/NAREIT Developed Markets Real Estate Index Fund [Member]dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiftetf1364608_S000018785Memberdei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseReturn Before Taxes [Member]rr_PerformanceMeasureAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiftetf1364608_ReturnBeforeTaxesMemberrr_PerformanceMeasureAxisexplicitMemberPureStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseFirst Trust FTSE EPRA/NAREIT Developed Markets Real Estate Index Fund [Member] | Return Before Taxes [Member]237true0rr_AverageAnnualReturnAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsetruefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseAVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS238false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnLabelrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse00Return Before TaxesfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringThis item represents Average Anuual Total Returns. If a Multiple Class Fund offers a Class in the prospectus that converts into another Class after a stated period, compute average annual total returns in the table by using the returns of the other Class for the period after conversion.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseLabel239false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue0.19590.1959falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalse1 Year240false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnSinceInceptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue-0.0618-0.0618falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseSince Inception241false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnInceptionDaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse002007-08-27falsefalsetruefalsefalseOtherxbrli:dateItemTypedateReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph instructions -Clause 4 -Subsection b falsefalseInception Date242false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://ftportfolios.com/role/riskreturndetaildata1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse9falsefalsetruefalse{dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxis} : First Trust FTSE EPRA/NAREIT Developed Markets Real Estate Index Fund [Member] {rr_PerformanceMeasureAxis} : Return After Taxes on Distributions 2/1/2010 - 1/31/2011 TwelveMonthsEnded_31Jan2011_S000018785_Member_After_Taxes_On_Distributions_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0001364608duration2010-02-01T00:00:002011-01-31T00:00:00falsefalseFirst Trust FTSE EPRA/NAREIT Developed Markets Real Estate Index Fund [Member]dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiftetf1364608_S000018785Memberdei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseReturn After Taxes on Distributionsrr_PerformanceMeasureAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldirr_AfterTaxesOnDistributionsMemberrr_PerformanceMeasureAxisexplicitMemberPureStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseFirst Trust FTSE EPRA/NAREIT Developed Markets Real Estate Index Fund [Member] | Return After Taxes on Distributions251true0rr_AverageAnnualReturnAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsetruefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseAVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS252false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnLabelrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse00Return After Taxes on DistributionsfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringThis item represents Average Anuual Total Returns. If a Multiple Class Fund offers a Class in the prospectus that converts into another Class after a stated period, compute average annual total returns in the table by using the returns of the other Class for the period after conversion.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseLabel253false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue0.17900.1790falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalse1 Year254false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnSinceInceptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue-0.0761-0.0761falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseSince Inception255false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnInceptionDaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse002007-08-27falsefalsetruefalsefalseOtherxbrli:dateItemTypedateReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph instructions -Clause 4 -Subsection b falsefalseInception Date256false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://ftportfolios.com/role/riskreturndetaildata1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse10falsefalsetruefalse{dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxis} : First Trust FTSE EPRA/NAREIT Developed Markets Real Estate Index Fund [Member] {rr_PerformanceMeasureAxis} : Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Shares 2/1/2010 - 1/31/2011 TwelveMonthsEnded_31Jan2011_S000018785_Member_After_Taxes_On_Distributions_And_Sales_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0001364608duration2010-02-01T00:00:002011-01-31T00:00:00falsefalseFirst Trust FTSE EPRA/NAREIT Developed Markets Real Estate Index Fund [Member]dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiftetf1364608_S000018785Memberdei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseReturn After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Sharesrr_PerformanceMeasureAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldirr_AfterTaxesOnDistributionsAndSalesMemberrr_PerformanceMeasureAxisexplicitMemberPureStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseFirst Trust FTSE EPRA/NAREIT Developed Markets Real Estate Index Fund [Member] | Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Shares265true0rr_AverageAnnualReturnAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsetruefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseAVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS266false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnLabelrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse00Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of SharesfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringThis item represents Average Anuual Total Returns. If a Multiple Class Fund offers a Class in the prospectus that converts into another Class after a stated period, compute average annual total returns in the table by using the returns of the other Class for the period after conversion.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseLabel267false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue0.12660.1266falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalse1 Year268false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnSinceInceptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue-0.0604-0.0604falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseSince Inception269false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnInceptionDaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse002007-08-27falsefalsetruefalsefalseOtherxbrli:dateItemTypedateReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph instructions -Clause 4 -Subsection b falsefalseInception Date270false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://ftportfolios.com/role/riskreturndetaildata1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse11falsefalseUSDtruefalse{dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxis} : First Trust ISE Global Copper Index Fund [Member] 2/1/2010 - 1/31/2011 USD ($) $TwelveMonthsEnded_31Jan2011_S000028545_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0001364608duration2010-02-01T00:00:002011-01-31T00:00:00falsefalseFirst Trust ISE Global Copper Index Fund [Member]dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiftetf1364608_S000028545Memberdei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisexplicitMemberUSDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170PureStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0USDUSD$OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseFirst Trust ISE Global Copper Index Fund [Member]271true0rr_RiskReturnAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseRisk/Return:272false0dei_TradingSymboldeifalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00CUfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:normalizedStringItemTypenormalizedstringTrading symbol of an instrument as listed on an exchange.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseTrading Symbol273false0rr_RiskReturnHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00SUMMARY INFORMATION First Trust ISE Global Copper Index FundfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringRisk/Return Summary Investment Objectives/Goals Include the following information, in plain English under rule 421(d) under the Securities Act, in the order and subject matter indicatedReference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 2 falsefalseRisk/Return [Heading]274false0rr_ObjectiveHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00INVESTMENT OBJECTIVEfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringInvestment Objectives/Goals. Disclose the Fund's investment objectives or goals. A Fund also may identify its type or category (e.g., that it is a Money Market Fund or a balanced fund).Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 2 -Subsection a falsefalseObjective [Heading]275false0rr_ObjectivePrimaryTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The First Trust ISE Global Copper Index Fund (the "Fund") seeks investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield (before the Fund's fees and expenses) of an equity index called the ISE Global Copper(TM) Index (the "Index").falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringInvestment Objectives/Goals. Disclose the Fund's investment objectives or goals. A Fund also may identify its type or category (e.g., that it is a Money Market Fund or a balanced fund).Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 2 -Subsection a falsefalseObjective, Primary [Text Block]276true0ftetf1364608_FundFeesAndExpensesAbstractftetf1364608falsenadurationFund fees and expenses.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringFund fees and expenses.falsefalseFEES AND EXPENSES OF THE FUND277false0rr_ExpenseHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00FEES AND EXPENSES OF THE FUNDfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringRisk/Return Summary Fee Table Includes the following information, in plain English under rule 421(d) under the Securities Act, after Item 2 Fees and expenses of the Fund This table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold shared of the Fund. You may qualify for sales charge discounts if you and your family invest, or agree to invest in the future, at least $[_____] in [name of fund family] funds. Shareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment) Example This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds. The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then you redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return per year and that the Fund's operating expenses remained the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be You would pay the following expenses if you did not redeem your shares The Example does not reflect sales charges (loads) on reinvested dividends [and other distributions]. If these sales charges (loads) were included, your costs would be higher. Portfolio Turnover The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover may indicate higher transaction costs. These costs, which are not reflected in annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During the most recent fiscal year, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was __% of the average value of its whole portfolio. Instructions. A.3.instructions.6 New Funds. For purposes of this Item, a "New Fund" is a Fund that does not include in Form N-1A financial statements reporting operating results or that includes financial statements for the Fund's initial fiscal year reporting operating results for a period of 6 months or less. The following Instructions apply to New Funds.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph d -Subsection instructions falsefalseExpense [Heading]278false0rr_ExpenseNarrativeTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The following table describes the fees and expenses you may pay if you buy and hold Shares of the Fund. Investors purchasing and selling Shares may be subject to costs (including customary brokerage commissions) charged by their broker.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringThis table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold shared of the Fund. You may qualify for sales charge discounts if you and your family invest, or agree to invest in the future, at least $[_____] in [name of fund family] funds. Include the narrative explanations in the order indicated. A Fund may modify the narrative explanations if the explanation contains comparable information to that shown.The narrative explanation regarding sales charge discounts is only required by a Fund that offers such discounts and should specify the minimum level of investment required to qualify for a discount. Modify the narrative explanation to state that Fund shares are sold on a national securities exchange at the end of the time periods indicated, and that brokerage commissions for buying and selling Fund shares through a broker are not reflected.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph b -Subsection instructions falsefalseExpense Narrative [Text Block]279true0rr_ShareholderFeesAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseSHAREHOLDER FEES280false0rr_ShareholderFeesCaptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00SHAREHOLDER FEES (fees paid directly from your investment)falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringShareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment).Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subsection table falsefalseShareholder Fees Caption [Text]281false0rr_MaximumSalesChargeImposedOnPurchasesOverOfferingPricerrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truetruetrue0.00000.0000falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherrr:NonNegativePure4TypepureMaximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load) (as a percentage of ____) A.3.instructions.2.a.i "Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load)" includes the maximum total deferred sales charge (load) payable upon redemption, in installments, or both, expressed as a percentage of the amount or amounts stated in response to Item 7(a), except that, for a sales charge (load) based on net asset value at the time of purchase, show the sales charge (load) as a percentage of the offering price at the time of purchase. A Fund may include in a footnote to the table, if applicable, a tabular presentation showing the amount of deferred sales charges (loads) over time or a narrative explanation of the sales charges (loads) (e.g., __% in the first year after purchase, declining to __% in the __ year and eliminated thereafter). A.3.instructions.2.a.ii If more than one type of sales charge (load) is imposed (e.g., a deferred sales charge (load) and a front-end sales charge (load)), the first caption in the table should read "Maximum Sales Charge (Load)" and show the maximum cumulative percentage. Show the percentage amounts and the terms of each sales charge (load) comprising that figure on separate lines below.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 1 -Subsection table falsefalseMaximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases (as a percentage of offering price)282true0rr_OperatingExpensesAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES283false0rr_OperatingExpensesCaptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES (Expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringAnnual Fund Operating Expenses (ongoing expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 7 -Subsection table falsefalseOperating Expenses Caption [Text]284false0rr_ManagementFeesOverAssetsrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truetruetrue0.00700.0070falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherrr:NonNegativePure4TypepureManagement Fees include investment advisory fees (including any fees based on the Fund's performance), any other management fees payable to the investment adviser or its affiliates, and administrative fees payable to the investment adviser or its affiliates that are not included as "Other Expenses."Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 3 -Subparagraph a -Subsection instructions falsefalseManagement Fees285false0rr_DistributionAndService12b1FeesOverAssetsrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truetruetrue0.00000.0000falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherrr:NonNegativePure4TypepureDistribution [and/or Service] (12b-1) Fees" include all distribution or other expenses incurred during the most recent fiscal year under a plan adopted pursuant to rule 12b-1 [17 CFR 270.12b-1]. Under an appropriate caption or a subcaption of "Other Expenses," disclose the amount of any distribution or similar expenses deducted from the Fund's assets other than pursuant to a rule 12b-1 plan.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 9 -Subsection table falsefalseDistribution and Service (12b-1) Fees286false0rr_OtherExpensesOverAssetsrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsetotallabel1truetruetrue0.00000.0000falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherrr:NonNegativePure4Typepure"Other Expenses" include all expenses not otherwise disclosed in the table that are deducted from the Fund's assets or charged to all shareholder accounts. The amount of expenses deducted from the Fund's assets are the amounts shown as expenses in the Fund's statement of operations (including increases resulting from complying with paragraph 2(g) of rule 6-07 of Regulation S-X [17 CFR 210.6-07]). "Other Expenses" do not include extraordinary expenses as determined under generally accepted accounting principles (see Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 30). If extraordinary expenses were incurred that materially affected the Fund's "Other Expenses," disclose in a footnote to the table what "Other Expenses" would have been had the extraordinary expenses been included.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 3 -Subparagraph c -Clause i -Subsection instructions truefalseOther Expenses287false0rr_ExpensesOverAssetsrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truetruetrue0.00700.0070falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherrr:NonNegativePure4TypepureTotal Annual Fund Operating Expenses. If the Fund is a Feeder Fund, reflect the aggregate expenses of the Feeder Fund and the Master Fund in a single fee table using the captions provided. In a footnote to the fee table, state that the table and Example reflect the expenses of both the Feeder and Master Funds. If the prospectus offers more than one Class of a Multiple Class Fund or more than one Feeder Fund that invests in the same Master Fund, provide a separate response for each Class or Feeder Fund. Base the percentages of "Annual Fund Operating Expenses" on amounts incurred during the Fund's most recent fiscal year, but include in expenses amounts that would have been incurred absent expense reimbursement or fee waiver arrangements. If the Fund has changed its fiscal year and, as a result, the most recent fiscal year is less than three months, use the fiscal year prior to the most recent fiscal year as the basis for determining "Annual Fund Operating Expenses."Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 3 -Subparagraph d -Subsection instructions falsefalseTotal Annual Fund Operating Expenses288true0rr_ExpenseExampleAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseEXAMPLE289false0rr_ExpenseExampleHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00EXAMPLEfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringHeading for Expense Example.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 4 -Subsection instructions falsefalseExpense Example [Heading]290false0rr_ExpenseExampleNarrativeTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00<p>The example below is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other funds. This example does not take into account customary brokerage commissions that you pay when purchasing or selling Shares of the Fund in the secondary market.</p><p>The example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then you retain the Shares or redeem all of your Shares at the end of those periods. The example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the Fund's net operating expenses remain at current levels until March 8, 2012. Additionally, the example assumes that the Fund imposes a 12b-1 fee of 0.25% per annum of the Fund's average daily net assets following March 8, 2012. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:</p>falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringThe Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 1 -Subsection example falsefalseExpense Example Narrative [Text Block]291false0rr_ExpenseExampleYear01rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truefalsetrue7272falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryrr:NonNegativeMonetaryTypemonetaryThe Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then you redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return per year and that the Fund's operating expenses remained the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 4 -Subsection instructions falsefalse1 Year292false0rr_ExpenseExampleYear03rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truefalsetrue266266falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryrr:NonNegativeMonetaryTypemonetaryThe Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then you redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return per year and that the Fund's operating expenses remained the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 2 -Subsection example falsefalse3 Years293false0rr_ExpenseExampleYear05rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truefalsetrue490490falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryrr:NonNegativeMonetaryTypemonetaryThe Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then you redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return per year and that the Fund's operating expenses remained the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 2 -Subsection example falsefalse5 Years294false0rr_ExpenseExampleYear10rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truefalsetrue11331133falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryrr:NonNegativeMonetaryTypemonetaryThe Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then you redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return per year and that the Fund's operating expenses remained the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 2 -Subsection example falsefalse10 Years295true0ftetf1364608_PortfolioTurnoverAltAbstractftetf1364608falsenadurationPortfolio Turnover Alt.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringPortfolio Turnover Alt.falsefalsePORTFOLIO TURNOVER296false0rr_PortfolioTurnoverHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00PORTFOLIO TURNOVERfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringDisclose the portfolio turnover rate provided in response to Item 14(a) for the most recent fiscal year (or for such shorter period as the Fund has been in operation). Disclose the period for which the information is provided if less than a full fiscal year. A Fund that is a Money Market Fund may omit the portfolio turnover information required by this Item.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 5 -Subsection instructions falsefalsePortfolio Turnover [Heading]297false0rr_PortfolioTurnoverTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when Fund Shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During the fiscal period March 11, 2010 (inception) through September 30, 2010, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was 22% of the average value of its portfolio.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringDisclose the portfolio turnover rate provided in response to Item 14(a) for the most recent fiscal year (or for such shorter period as the Fund has been in operation). Disclose the period for which the information is provided if less than a full fiscal year. A Fund that is a Money Market Fund may omit the portfolio turnover information required by this Item.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 3 -Subsection example falsefalsePortfolio Turnover [Text Block]298false0rr_PortfolioTurnoverRaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruefalse0.220.22falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureThis element represents the rate of portfolio turnover presented as a percentage (SEC Form N-1A 2006-09-14 A.3.example.3 Portfolio Turnover A.3.instructions.5 Portfolio Turnover).Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 3 -Subsection example falsefalsePortfolio Turnover, Rate299false0rr_StrategyHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIESfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringPrincipal investment strategies of the Fund. Summarize how the Fund intends to achieve its investment objectives by identifying the Fund's principal investment strategies (including the type or types of securities in which the Fund invests or will invest principally) and any policy to concentrate in securities of issuers in a particular industry or group of industries.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Subsection a falsefalseStrategy [Heading]300false0rr_StrategyNarrativeTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00<p>The Fund will normally invest at least 90% of its net assets in securities that comprise the Index or in depositary receipts that may include American Depositary Receipts ("ADRs"), Global Depositary Receipts ("GDRs"), European Depositary Receipts ("EDRs") or other depositary receipts (collectively, "Depositary Receipts") representing securities in the Index. First Trust will seek to match the performance of the Index (before the Fund's fees and expenses).</p><p>The Fund, using an "indexing" investment approach, attempts to replicate, before fees and expenses, the performance of the Index. First Trust Advisors L.P. ("First Trust"), the Fund's investment advisor, seeks a correlation of 0.95 or better (before fees and expenses) between the Fund's performance and the performance of the Index; a figure of 1.00 would represent perfect correlation. First Trust will regularly monitor the Fund's tracking accuracy and will seek to maintain an appropriate correlation.</p><p>The Index is developed and owned by International Securities Exchange, LLC ("ISE" or the "Index Provider"). The Index is designed to provide a benchmark for investors interested in tracking public companies that are active in the copper mining business based on analysis of revenue derived from the sale of copper. Issuers of component securities must be actively engaged in some aspect of the copper mining business such as copper mining, refining or exploration. The Index has been created to provide investors with a product allowing them to quickly take advantage of both event-driven news and long-term trends as the need for copper continues to evolve.</p><p>ISE reviews the Index components quarterly in March, June, September and December of each year for eligibility and sets each component's weight in the Index according to the Index methodology. Changes are announced on ISE's publicly available website at www.ise.com at least five days prior to the effective date.</p>falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringPrincipal investment strategies of the Fund. Summarize how the Fund intends to achieve its investment objectives by identifying the Fund's principal investment strategies (including the type or types of securities in which the Fund invests or will invest principally) and any policy to concentrate in securities of issuers in a particular industry or group of industries.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Subsection a falsefalseStrategy Narrative [Text Block]301false0rr_StrategyPortfolioConcentrationrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The Fund will normally invest at least 90% of its net assets in securities that comprise the Index or in depositary receipts that may include American Depositary Receipts ("ADRs"), Global Depositary Receipts ("GDRs"), European Depositary Receipts ("EDRs") or other depositary receipts (collectively, "Depositary Receipts") representing securities in the Index. First Trust will seek to match the performance of the Index (before the Fund's fees and expenses).falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringPrincipal investment strategies of the Fund. Summarize how the Fund intends to achieve its investment objectives by identifying the Fund's principal investment strategies (including the type or types of securities in which the Fund invests or will invest principally) and any policy to concentrate in securities of issuers in a particular industry or group of industries.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Subsection a falsefalseStrategy Portfolio Concentration [Text]302false0rr_RiskHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00PRINCIPAL RISKSfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNarrative Risk Disclosure.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 1 -Subsection b falsefalseRisk [Heading]303false0rr_RiskNarrativeTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00<p>You could lose money by investing in the Fund. An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of a bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other governmental agency.</p><p>MARKET RISK. Market risk is the risk that a particular stock owned by the Fund, Shares of the Fund or stocks in general may fall in value. Shares are subject to market fluctuations caused by such factors as economic, political, regulatory or market developments, changes in interest rates and perceived trends in stock prices. Overall stock values could decline generally or could underperform other investments. Companies with smaller market capitalizations are generally subject to additional market risk.</p><p>NON-CORRELATION RISK. The Fund's return may not match the return of the Index for a number of reasons. For example, the Fund incurs operating expenses not applicable to the Index, and may incur costs in buying and selling securities, especially when rebalancing the Fund's portfolio holdings to reflect changes in the composition of the Index. In addition, the Fund's portfolio holdings may not exactly replicate the securities included in the Index or the ratios between the securities included in the Index.</p><p>REPLICATION MANAGEMENT RISK. The Fund is exposed to additional market risk due to its policy of investing principally in the securities included in the Index. As a result of this policy, securities held by the Fund will generally not be bought or sold in response to market fluctuations, and the securities may be issued by companies concentrated in a particular industry. Therefore, the Fund will generally not sell a stock because the stock's issuer is in financial trouble, unless that stock is removed or is anticipated to be removed from the Index.</p><p>NON-DIVERSIFICATION RISK. The Fund is classified as "non-diversified" under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act"). As a result, the Fund is only limited as to the percentage of its assets which may be invested in the securities of any one issuer by the diversification requirements imposed by the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"). The Fund may invest a relatively high percentage of its assets in a limited number of issuers.</p><p>COPPER MINING COMPANY RISK. Securities in the Fund's portfolio may be significantly impacted by competitive pressures in the copper mining business and the price of copper. Because more than half of the world's copper production occurs in the United States, Chile, Canada, Russia and Zambia, the Fund's Share price may be particularly sensitive to any adverse political or economic developments affecting these countries. The Fund's Share price may experience volatility because the price of copper may fluctuate substantially over short periods of time. Moreover, the Index tracks companies involved in the copper mining business and not the price of copper. The securities of companies involved in the copper mining business may under- or over-perform the price of copper over the short term or the long term.</p><p>MATERIALS RISK. The Fund invests significantly in companies involved in the materials sector. General risks of the materials sector include the general state of the economy, consolidation, domestic and international politics and excess capacity. In addition, basic materials companies may also be significantly affected by volatility of commodity prices, import controls, worldwide competition, liability for environmental damage, depletion of resources and mandated expenditures for safety and pollution control devices.</p><p>COPPER RISK. The Fund may be adversely affected by a decrease in the worldwide demand and price of copper. Various factors may lead to a decreased demand and price of copper. As an industrial metal, the demand for and price of copper may be negatively impacted by a decreased level of industrial activity using copper. Other factors include the availability of substitutes such as man-made or synthetic substitutes, disruptions in the supply chain, from mining to storage to smelting or refining, adjustments to inventory, variations in production costs, including storage, labor and energy costs, costs associated with regulatory compliance, including environmental regulations and changes in industrial, government and consumer demand, both in individual consuming nations and internationally.</p><p>CANADA RISK. Because the Fund invests a significant portion of its assets in companies that are domiciled in Canada, the Fund is particularly sensitive to political, economic and social conditions in that country. Canada is a major producer of metals and energy-related products. The Canadian economy is very dependent on the demand for, and supply and price of, natural resources, and the Canadian market is relatively concentrated in issuers involved in the production and distribution of natural resources. Any adverse events that affect Canada's major industries may have a negative impact on the overall Canadian economy and the Shares of the Fund.</p><p>UNITED KINGDOM RISK. Because the Fund invests a significant portion of its assets in companies that are domiciled in the United Kingdom, the Fund is particularly sensitive to political, economic and social conditions in that country. The Fund may be affected unfavorably by political developments, social instability, changes in government policies and other political and economic developments in the United Kingdom.</p><p>NON-U.S. SECURITIES AND EMERGING MARKETS RISK. The Fund invests in securities of non-U.S. issuers. Such securities are subject to higher volatility than securities of domestic issuers due to possible adverse political, social or economic developments; restrictions on foreign investment or exchange of securities; lack of liquidity; excessive taxation; government seizure of assets; different legal or accounting standards; and less government supervision and regulation of exchanges in foreign countries. These risks may be heightened for securities of companies located in, or with significant operations in, emerging market countries. CURRENCY RISK. Because the Fund's NAV is determined on the basis of U.S. dollars and the Fund invests in foreign securities, you may lose money if the local currency of a foreign market depreciates against the U.S. dollar, even if the local currency value of the Fund's holdings goes up.</p>falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringNarrative Risk Disclosure. A Fund may, in responding to this Item, describe the types of investors for whom the Fund is intended or the types of investment goals that may be consistent with an investment in the Fund.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph i -Clause instruction -Subsection b falsefalseRisk Narrative [Text Block]304false0rr_RiskLoseMoneyrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00You could lose money by investing in the Fund.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringSummarize the principal risks of investing in the Fund, including the risks to which the Fund's portfolio as a whole is subject and the circumstances reasonably likely to affect adversely the Fund's net asset value, yield, and total return. Unless the Fund is a Money Market Fund, disclose that loss of money is a risk of investing in the Fund. A Fund may, in responding to this Item, describe the types of investors for whom the Fund is intended or the types of investment goals that may be consistent with an investment in the Fund.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph i -Subsection b falsefalseRisk Lose Money [Text]305false0rr_RiskNondiversifiedStatusrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00NON-DIVERSIFICATION RISK. The Fund is classified as "non-diversified" under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act"). As a result, the Fund is only limited as to the percentage of its assets which may be invested in the securities of any one issuer by the diversification requirements imposed by the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"). The Fund may invest a relatively high percentage of its assets in a limited number of issuers.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringIf applicable, state that the Fund is non-diversified, describe the effect of non-diversification (e.g., disclose that, compared with other funds, the Fund may invest a greater percentage of its assets in a particular issuer), and summarize the risks of investing in a non-diversified fund.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph iv -Subsection b falsefalseRisk Nondiversified Status [Text]306false0rr_RiskNotInsuredDepositoryInstitutionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of a bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal DepositInsurance Corporation or any other governmental agency.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringIf the Fund is advised by or sold through an insured depository institution, state that An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of the bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency. A Money Market Fund that is advised by or sold through an insured depository institution should combine the disclosure required by Items 2(c)(1)(ii) and (iii) in a single statement.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph iii -Subsection b falsefalseRisk Not Insured Depository Institution [Text]307true0ftetf1364608_FundPastPerformanceAbstractftetf1364608falsenadurationFund past performance.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringFund past performance.falsefalsePERFORMANCE308false0rr_BarChartAndPerformanceTableHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringRisk/Return Bar Chart and Table.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subsection b falsefalseBar Chart and Performance Table [Heading]309false0rr_PerformanceNarrativeTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The Fund has not yet operated for a full calendar year and, therefore, performance information is not included in this section of the Prospectus. See "Total Return Information" for performance information regarding the Fund.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringRisk/Return Bar Chart and Table.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subsection b falsefalsePerformance Narrative [Text Block]312false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://ftportfolios.com/role/riskreturndetaildata1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse12falsefalseUSDtruefalse{dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxis} : First Trust ISE Global Engineering and Construction Index Fund [Member] 2/1/2010 - 1/31/2011 USD ($) $TwelveMonthsEnded_31Jan2011_S000024215_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0001364608duration2010-02-01T00:00:002011-01-31T00:00:00falsefalseFirst Trust ISE Global Engineering and Construction Index Fund [Member]dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiftetf1364608_S000024215Memberdei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisexplicitMemberPureStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0USDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseFirst Trust ISE Global Engineering and Construction Index Fund [Member]313true0rr_RiskReturnAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseRisk/Return:314false0dei_TradingSymboldeifalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00FLMfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:normalizedStringItemTypenormalizedstringTrading symbol of an instrument as listed on an exchange.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseTrading Symbol315false0rr_RiskReturnHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00SUMMARY INFORMATION First Trust ISE Global Engineering and Construction Index FundfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringRisk/Return Summary Investment Objectives/Goals Include the following information, in plain English under rule 421(d) under the Securities Act, in the order and subject matter indicatedReference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 2 falsefalseRisk/Return [Heading]316false0rr_ObjectiveHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00INVESTMENT OBJECTIVEfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringInvestment Objectives/Goals. Disclose the Fund's investment objectives or goals. A Fund also may identify its type or category (e.g., that it is a Money Market Fund or a balanced fund).Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 2 -Subsection a falsefalseObjective [Heading]317false0rr_ObjectivePrimaryTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The First Trust ISE Global Engineering and Construction Index Fund (the "Fund") seeks investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield (before the Fund's fees and expenses) of an equity index called the ISE Global Engineering and Construction(TM) Index (the "Index").falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringInvestment Objectives/Goals. Disclose the Fund's investment objectives or goals. A Fund also may identify its type or category (e.g., that it is a Money Market Fund or a balanced fund).Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 2 -Subsection a falsefalseObjective, Primary [Text Block]318true0ftetf1364608_FundFeesAndExpensesAbstractftetf1364608falsenadurationFund fees and expenses.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringFund fees and expenses.falsefalseFEES AND EXPENSES OF THE FUND319false0rr_ExpenseHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00FEES AND EXPENSES OF THE FUNDfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringRisk/Return Summary Fee Table Includes the following information, in plain English under rule 421(d) under the Securities Act, after Item 2 Fees and expenses of the Fund This table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold shared of the Fund. You may qualify for sales charge discounts if you and your family invest, or agree to invest in the future, at least $[_____] in [name of fund family] funds. Shareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment) Example This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds. The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then you redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return per year and that the Fund's operating expenses remained the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be You would pay the following expenses if you did not redeem your shares The Example does not reflect sales charges (loads) on reinvested dividends [and other distributions]. If these sales charges (loads) were included, your costs would be higher. Portfolio Turnover The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover may indicate higher transaction costs. These costs, which are not reflected in annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During the most recent fiscal year, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was __% of the average value of its whole portfolio. Instructions. A.3.instructions.6 New Funds. For purposes of this Item, a "New Fund" is a Fund that does not include in Form N-1A financial statements reporting operating results or that includes financial statements for the Fund's initial fiscal year reporting operating results for a period of 6 months or less. The following Instructions apply to New Funds.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph d -Subsection instructions falsefalseExpense [Heading]320false0rr_ExpenseNarrativeTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The following table describes the fees and expenses you may pay if you buy and hold Shares of the Fund. Investors purchasing and selling Shares may be subject to costs (including customary brokerage commissions) charged by their broker.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringThis table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold shared of the Fund. You may qualify for sales charge discounts if you and your family invest, or agree to invest in the future, at least $[_____] in [name of fund family] funds. Include the narrative explanations in the order indicated. A Fund may modify the narrative explanations if the explanation contains comparable information to that shown.The narrative explanation regarding sales charge discounts is only required by a Fund that offers such discounts and should specify the minimum level of investment required to qualify for a discount. Modify the narrative explanation to state that Fund shares are sold on a national securities exchange at the end of the time periods indicated, and that brokerage commissions for buying and selling Fund shares through a broker are not reflected.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph b -Subsection instructions falsefalseExpense Narrative [Text Block]321true0rr_ShareholderFeesAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseSHAREHOLDER FEES322false0rr_ShareholderFeesCaptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00SHAREHOLDER FEES (fees paid directly from your investment)falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringShareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment).Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subsection table falsefalseShareholder Fees Caption [Text]323false0rr_MaximumSalesChargeImposedOnPurchasesOverOfferingPricerrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truetruetrue0.00000.0000falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherrr:NonNegativePure4TypepureMaximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load) (as a percentage of ____) A.3.instructions.2.a.i "Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load)" includes the maximum total deferred sales charge (load) payable upon redemption, in installments, or both, expressed as a percentage of the amount or amounts stated in response to Item 7(a), except that, for a sales charge (load) based on net asset value at the time of purchase, show the sales charge (load) as a percentage of the offering price at the time of purchase. A Fund may include in a footnote to the table, if applicable, a tabular presentation showing the amount of deferred sales charges (loads) over time or a narrative explanation of the sales charges (loads) (e.g., __% in the first year after purchase, declining to __% in the __ year and eliminated thereafter). A.3.instructions.2.a.ii If more than one type of sales charge (load) is imposed (e.g., a deferred sales charge (load) and a front-end sales charge (load)), the first caption in the table should read "Maximum Sales Charge (Load)" and show the maximum cumulative percentage. Show the percentage amounts and the terms of each sales charge (load) comprising that figure on separate lines below.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 1 -Subsection table falsefalseMaximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases (as a percentage of offering price)324true0rr_OperatingExpensesAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES325false0rr_OperatingExpensesCaptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES (Expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringAnnual Fund Operating Expenses (ongoing expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 7 -Subsection table falsefalseOperating Expenses Caption [Text]326false0rr_ManagementFeesOverAssetsrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truetruetrue0.00400.0040falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherrr:NonNegativePure4TypepureManagement Fees include investment advisory fees (including any fees based on the Fund's performance), any other management fees payable to the investment adviser or its affiliates, and administrative fees payable to the investment adviser or its affiliates that are not included as "Other Expenses."Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 3 -Subparagraph a -Subsection instructions falsefalseManagement Fees327false0rr_DistributionAndService12b1FeesOverAssetsrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truetruetrue0.00000.0000falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherrr:NonNegativePure4TypepureDistribution [and/or Service] (12b-1) Fees" include all distribution or other expenses incurred during the most recent fiscal year under a plan adopted pursuant to rule 12b-1 [17 CFR 270.12b-1]. Under an appropriate caption or a subcaption of "Other Expenses," disclose the amount of any distribution or similar expenses deducted from the Fund's assets other than pursuant to a rule 12b-1 plan.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 9 -Subsection table falsefalseDistribution and Service (12b-1) Fees328false0rr_OtherExpensesOverAssetsrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsetotallabel1truetruetrue0.00520.0052falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherrr:NonNegativePure4Typepure"Other Expenses" include all expenses not otherwise disclosed in the table that are deducted from the Fund's assets or charged to all shareholder accounts. The amount of expenses deducted from the Fund's assets are the amounts shown as expenses in the Fund's statement of operations (including increases resulting from complying with paragraph 2(g) of rule 6-07 of Regulation S-X [17 CFR 210.6-07]). "Other Expenses" do not include extraordinary expenses as determined under generally accepted accounting principles (see Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 30). If extraordinary expenses were incurred that materially affected the Fund's "Other Expenses," disclose in a footnote to the table what "Other Expenses" would have been had the extraordinary expenses been included.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 3 -Subparagraph c -Clause i -Subsection instructions truefalseOther Expenses329false0rr_ExpensesOverAssetsrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truetruetrue0.00920.0092falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherrr:NonNegativePure4TypepureTotal Annual Fund Operating Expenses. If the Fund is a Feeder Fund, reflect the aggregate expenses of the Feeder Fund and the Master Fund in a single fee table using the captions provided. In a footnote to the fee table, state that the table and Example reflect the expenses of both the Feeder and Master Funds. If the prospectus offers more than one Class of a Multiple Class Fund or more than one Feeder Fund that invests in the same Master Fund, provide a separate response for each Class or Feeder Fund. Base the percentages of "Annual Fund Operating Expenses" on amounts incurred during the Fund's most recent fiscal year, but include in expenses amounts that would have been incurred absent expense reimbursement or fee waiver arrangements. If the Fund has changed its fiscal year and, as a result, the most recent fiscal year is less than three months, use the fiscal year prior to the most recent fiscal year as the basis for determining "Annual Fund Operating Expenses."Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 3 -Subparagraph d -Subsection instructions falsefalseTotal Annual Fund Operating Expenses330false0rr_FeeWaiverOrReimbursementOverAssetsrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsetruenegated1truetruetrue0.00220.0022[3]falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherrr:NonPositivePure4TypepureTotal Annual Fund Operating Expenses. If there were expense reimbursement or fee waiver arrangements that reduced any Fund operating expenses and will continue to reduce them for no less than one year from the effective date of the Fund's registration statement, a Fund may add two captions to the table one caption showing the amount of the expense reimbursement or fee waiver, and a second caption showing the Fund's net expenses after subtracting the fee reimbursement or expense waiver from the total fund operating expenses. The Fund should place these additional captions directly below the "Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses" caption of the table and should use appropriate descriptive captions, such as "Fee Waiver [and/or Expense Reimbursement]" and "Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses After Fee Waiver [and/or Expense Reimbursement]," respectively. If the Fund provides this disclosure, also disclose the period for which the expense reimbursement or fee waiver arrangement is expected to continue, and briefly describe who can terminate the arrangement and under what circumstances.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 11 -Subsection table falsefalseFee Waiver and Expense Reimbursement331false0rr_NetExpensesOverAssetsrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truetruetrue0.00700.0070falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherrr:NonNegativePure4TypepureTotal Annual Fund Operating Expenses.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 11 -Subsection table falsefalseTotal Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses After Fee Waiver and Expense Reimbursement332true0rr_ExpenseExampleAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseEXAMPLE333false0rr_ExpenseExampleHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00EXAMPLEfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringHeading for Expense Example.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 4 -Subsection instructions falsefalseExpense Example [Heading]334false0rr_ExpenseExampleNarrativeTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00<p>The example below is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other funds. This example does not take into account customary brokerage commissions that you pay when purchasing or selling Shares of the Fund in the secondary market.</p><p>The example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then you retain the Shares or redeem all of your Shares at the end of those periods. The example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the Fund's net operating expenses remain at current levels until December 6, 2012. Additionally, the example assumes that the Fund imposes a 12b-1 fee of 0.25% per annum of the Fund's average daily net assets following January 31, 2012. The example assumes that First Trust's agreement to waive fees and/or pay the Fund's expenses to the extent necessary to prevent the operating expenses of the Fund (excluding interest expense, brokerage commissions and other trading expenses, taxes, and extraordinary expenses) from exceeding 0.70% of average daily net assets per year will be terminated following December 6, 2012. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:</p>falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringThe Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 1 -Subsection example falsefalseExpense Example Narrative [Text Block]335false0rr_ExpenseExampleYear01rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truefalsetrue7272falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryrr:NonNegativeMonetaryTypemonetaryThe Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then you redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return per year and that the Fund's operating expenses remained the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 4 -Subsection instructions falsefalse1 Year336false0rr_ExpenseExampleYear03rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truefalsetrue266266falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryrr:NonNegativeMonetaryTypemonetaryThe Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then you redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return per year and that the Fund's operating expenses remained the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 2 -Subsection example falsefalse3 Years337false0rr_ExpenseExampleYear05rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truefalsetrue541541falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryrr:NonNegativeMonetaryTypemonetaryThe Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then you redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return per year and that the Fund's operating expenses remained the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 2 -Subsection example falsefalse5 Years338false0rr_ExpenseExampleYear10rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truefalsetrue13251325falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryrr:NonNegativeMonetaryTypemonetaryThe Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then you redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return per year and that the Fund's operating expenses remained the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 2 -Subsection example falsefalse10 Years339true0ftetf1364608_PortfolioTurnoverAltAbstractftetf1364608falsenadurationPortfolio Turnover Alt.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringPortfolio Turnover Alt.falsefalsePORTFOLIO TURNOVER340false0rr_PortfolioTurnoverHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00PORTFOLIO TURNOVERfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringDisclose the portfolio turnover rate provided in response to Item 14(a) for the most recent fiscal year (or for such shorter period as the Fund has been in operation). Disclose the period for which the information is provided if less than a full fiscal year. A Fund that is a Money Market Fund may omit the portfolio turnover information required by this Item.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 5 -Subsection instructions falsefalsePortfolio Turnover [Heading]341false0rr_PortfolioTurnoverTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when Fund Shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During the most recent fiscal year, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was 26% of the average value of its portfolio.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringDisclose the portfolio turnover rate provided in response to Item 14(a) for the most recent fiscal year (or for such shorter period as the Fund has been in operation). Disclose the period for which the information is provided if less than a full fiscal year. A Fund that is a Money Market Fund may omit the portfolio turnover information required by this Item.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 3 -Subsection example falsefalsePortfolio Turnover [Text Block]342false0rr_PortfolioTurnoverRaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruefalse0.260.26falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureThis element represents the rate of portfolio turnover presented as a percentage (SEC Form N-1A 2006-09-14 A.3.example.3 Portfolio Turnover A.3.instructions.5 Portfolio Turnover).Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 3 -Subsection example falsefalsePortfolio Turnover, Rate343false0rr_StrategyHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIESfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringPrincipal investment strategies of the Fund. Summarize how the Fund intends to achieve its investment objectives by identifying the Fund's principal investment strategies (including the type or types of securities in which the Fund invests or will invest principally) and any policy to concentrate in securities of issuers in a particular industry or group of industries.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Subsection a falsefalseStrategy [Heading]344false0rr_StrategyNarrativeTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00<p>The Fund will normally invest at least 90% of its net assets in common stocks that comprise the Index or in depositary receipts that may include American Depositary Receipts ("ADRs"), Global Depositary Receipts ("GDRs"), European Depositary Receipts ("EDRs") or other depositary receipts (collectively, "Depositary Receipts") representing securities in the Index. First Trust will seek to match the performance of the Index (before the Fund's fees and expenses).</p><p>The Fund, using an "indexing" investment approach, attempts to replicate, before fees and expenses, the performance of the Index. First Trust seeks a correlation of 0.95 or better (before fees and expenses) between the Fund's performance and the performance of the Index; a figure of 1.00 would represent perfect correlation. First Trust will regularly monitor the Fund's tracking accuracy and will seek to maintain an appropriate correlation.</p><p>The Index is developed and owned by the International Securities Exchange, LLC(R) ("ISE" or "Index Provider"), in consultation with Standard and Poor's, a Division of The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc. ("S And P"), which calculates and maintains the Index. The Index provides a benchmark for investors interested in tracking public companies throughout the world that are active in the engineering and construction industries, based on analysis of the products and services offered by those companies. The Index specifically targets companies that are engaged in large civil and capital projects such as infrastructure, utilities, transportation, telecommunications, commercial, residential, and commerce facilities and whose roles are within the engineering, designing, planning, consulting, project managing, and/or constructing of these projects. To be included in the Index, a company must receive at least 70% of revenues from these types of services and projects based on the reportable segment/division from its most recent annual report.</p>falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringPrincipal investment strategies of the Fund. Summarize how the Fund intends to achieve its investment objectives by identifying the Fund's principal investment strategies (including the type or types of securities in which the Fund invests or will invest principally) and any policy to concentrate in securities of issuers in a particular industry or group of industries.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Subsection a falsefalseStrategy Narrative [Text Block]345false0rr_StrategyPortfolioConcentrationrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The Fund will normally invest at least 90% of its net assets in common stocks that comprise the Index or in depositary receipts that may include American Depositary Receipts ("ADRs"), Global Depositary Receipts ("GDRs"), European Depositary Receipts ("EDRs") or other depositary receipts (collectively, "Depositary Receipts") representing securities in the Index. First Trust will seek to match the performance of the Index (before the Fund's fees and expenses).falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringPrincipal investment strategies of the Fund. Summarize how the Fund intends to achieve its investment objectives by identifying the Fund's principal investment strategies (including the type or types of securities in which the Fund invests or will invest principally) and any policy to concentrate in securities of issuers in a particular industry or group of industries.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Subsection a falsefalseStrategy Portfolio Concentration [Text]346false0rr_RiskHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00PRINCIPAL RISKSfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNarrative Risk Disclosure.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 1 -Subsection b falsefalseRisk [Heading]347false0rr_RiskNarrativeTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00<p>You could lose money by investing in the Fund. An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of a bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other governmental agency.</p><p>MARKET RISK. Market risk is the risk that a particular stock owned by the Fund, Shares of the Fund or stocks in general may fall in value. Shares are subject to market fluctuations caused by such factors as economic, political, regulatory or market developments, changes in interest rates and perceived trends in stock prices. Overall stock values could decline generally or could underperform other investments. Companies with smaller market capitalizations are generally subject to additional market risk.</p><p>NON-CORRELATION RISK. The Fund's return may not match the return of the Index for a number of reasons. For example, the Fund incurs operating expenses not applicable to the Index, and may incur costs in buying and selling securities, especially when rebalancing the Fund's portfolio holdings to reflect changes in the composition of the Index. In addition, the Fund's portfolio holdings may not exactly replicate the securities included in the Index or the ratios between the securities included in the Index.</p><p>REPLICATION MANAGEMENT RISK. The Fund is exposed to additional market risk due to its policy of investing principally in the securities included in the Index. As a result of this policy, securities held by the Fund will generally not be bought or sold in response to market fluctuations, and the securities may be issued by companies concentrated in a particular industry. Therefore, the Fund will generally not sell a stock because the stock's issuer is in financial trouble, unless that stock is removed or is anticipated to be removed from the Index.</p><p>NON-DIVERSIFICATION RISK. The Fund is classified as "non-diversified" under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act"). As a result, the Fund is only limited as to the percentage of its assets which may be invested in the securities of any one issuer by the diversification requirements imposed by the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"). The Fund may invest a relatively high percentage of its assets in a limited number of issuers.</p><p>ENGINEERING AND CONSTRUCTION RISK. The Fund invests in the securities of engineering and construction companies. Risks associated with investing in these companies include the general state of the economy, demand for their specific products or services, changes in government spending, zoning laws, interest rates, declines in real estate values, environmental damage and product liability claims. In addition, they may also be significantly affected by overall capital spending levels, economic cycles, technical obsolescence, delays in modernization, labor relations, government regulations and e-commerce initiatives.</p><p>NON-U.S. SECURITIES RISK. The Fund invests in securities of non-U.S. issuers. Such securities are subject to higher volatility than securities of domestic issuers due to possible adverse political, social or economic developments; restrictions on foreign investment or exchange of securities; lack of liquidity; excessive taxation; government seizure of assets; different legal or accounting standards; and less government supervision and regulation of exchanges in foreign countries.</p><p>CURRENCY RISK. Because the Fund's NAV is determined on the basis of U.S. dollars, you may lose money if the local currency of a foreign market depreciates against the U.S. dollar, even if the local currency value of the Fund's holdings goes up.</p>falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringNarrative Risk Disclosure. A Fund may, in responding to this Item, describe the types of investors for whom the Fund is intended or the types of investment goals that may be consistent with an investment in the Fund.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph i -Clause instruction -Subsection b falsefalseRisk Narrative [Text Block]348false0rr_RiskLoseMoneyrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00You could lose money by investing in the Fund.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringSummarize the principal risks of investing in the Fund, including the risks to which the Fund's portfolio as a whole is subject and the circumstances reasonably likely to affect adversely the Fund's net asset value, yield, and total return. Unless the Fund is a Money Market Fund, disclose that loss of money is a risk of investing in the Fund. A Fund may, in responding to this Item, describe the types of investors for whom the Fund is intended or the types of investment goals that may be consistent with an investment in the Fund.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph i -Subsection b falsefalseRisk Lose Money [Text]349false0rr_RiskNondiversifiedStatusrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00NON-DIVERSIFICATION RISK. The Fund is classified as "non-diversified" under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act"). As a result, the Fund is only limited as to the percentage of its assets which may be invested in the securities of any one issuer by the diversification requirements imposed by the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"). The Fund may invest a relatively high percentage of its assets in a limited number of issuers.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringIf applicable, state that the Fund is non-diversified, describe the effect of non-diversification (e.g., disclose that, compared with other funds, the Fund may invest a greater percentage of its assets in a particular issuer), and summarize the risks of investing in a non-diversified fund.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph iv -Subsection b falsefalseRisk Nondiversified Status [Text]350false0rr_RiskNotInsuredDepositoryInstitutionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of a bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other governmental agency.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringIf the Fund is advised by or sold through an insured depository institution, state that An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of the bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency. A Money Market Fund that is advised by or sold through an insured depository institution should combine the disclosure required by Items 2(c)(1)(ii) and (iii) in a single statement.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph iii -Subsection b falsefalseRisk Not Insured Depository Institution [Text]351true0ftetf1364608_FundPastPerformanceAbstractftetf1364608falsenadurationFund past performance.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringFund past performance.falsefalsePERFORMANCE352false0rr_BarChartAndPerformanceTableHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00FIRST TRUST ISE GLOBAL ENGINEERING AND CONSTRUCTION INDEX FUND--TOTAL RETURNfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringRisk/Return Bar Chart and Table.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subsection b falsefalseBar Chart and Performance Table [Heading]353false0rr_PerformanceNarrativeTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00<p>The bar chart and table below illustrate the annual calendar year return of the Fund based on NAV for the past two years as well as the average annual Fund and Index returns for the one year and since inception periods ended December 31, 2010. The bar chart and table provide an indication of the risks of investing in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's performance from year-to-year and by showing how the Fund's average annual total returns based on NAV compare to those of the Index, the Russell 3000(R) Index, which is a broad-based securities market index, and a specialized securities market index. See "Total Return Information" for additional performance information regarding the Fund. The Fund's performance information is accessible on the Fund's website at www.ftportfolios.com.</p><p>Returns before taxes do not reflect the effects of any income or capital gains taxes. All after-tax returns are calculated using the historical highest individual federal marginal income tax rates and do not reflect the impact of any state or local tax. Returns after taxes on distributions reflect the taxed return on the payment of dividends and capital gains. Returns after taxes on distributions and sale of Shares assume you sold your Shares at period end, and, therefore, are also adjusted for any capital gains or losses incurred. Returns for the market indices do not include expenses, which are deducted from Fund returns, or taxes.</p><p>Your own actual after-tax returns will depend on your specific tax situation and may differ from what is shown here. After-tax returns are not relevant to investors who hold Fund Shares in tax-deferred accounts such as individual retirement accounts (IRAs) or employee-sponsored retirement plans.</p>falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringRisk/Return Bar Chart and Table.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subsection b falsefalsePerformance Narrative [Text Block]354false0rr_PerformanceInformationIllustratesVariabilityOfReturnsrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The bar chart and table provide an indication of the risks of investing in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's performance from year-to-year and by showing how the Fund's average annual total returns based on NAV compare to those of the Index, the Russell 3000(R) Index, which is a broad-based securities market index, and a specialized securities market index.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringInclude the bar chart and table required by paragraphs (b)(2)(ii) and (iii) of this section. Provide a brief explanation of how the information illustrates the variability of the Fund's returns (e.g., by stating that the information provides some indication of the risks of investing in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's performance from year to year and by showing how the Fund's average annual returns for 1, 5, and 10 years compare with those of a broad measure of market performance). Provide a statement to the effect that the Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) is not necessarily an indication of how the Fund will perform in the future.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph i -Subsection b falsefalsePerformance Information Illustrates Variability of Returns [Text]355false0rr_PerformanceTableClosingTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The Fund's performance information is accessible on the Fund's website at www.ftportfolios.com.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a table showing the Fund's (A) average annual total return; (B) average annual total return (after taxes on distributions); and (C) average annual total return (after taxes on distributions and redemption). A Money Market Fund should show only the returns described in clause (A) of the preceding sentence. All returns should be shown for 1-, 5-, and 10- calendar year periods ending on the date of the most recently completed calendar year (or for the life of the Fund, if shorter), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. The table also shouldshow the returns of an appropriate broadbased securities market index as defined in Instruction 5 to Item 22(b)(7) for the same periods. A Fund that has been in existence for more than 10 years also may include returns for the life of the Fund. A Money Market Fund may provide the Fund's 7-day yield ending on the date of the most recent calendar year or disclose a toll-free (or collect) telephone number that investors can use to obtain the Fund's current 7-day yield. For a Fund (other than a Money Market Fund or a Fund described in General Instruction C.3.(d)(iii)), provide the information in the following table with the specified captions AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS (For the periods ended December 31, _____)Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Subsection b falsefalsePerformance Table Closing [Text Block]356false0rr_PerformanceAvailabilityWebSiteAddressrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00www.ftportfolios.comfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringIf applicable, include a statement explaining that updated performance information is available and providing a Website address and/or toll-free (or collect) telephone number where the updated information may be obtained.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph i -Subsection b falsefalsePerformance Availability Website Address [Text]357false0rr_PerformanceTableUsesHighestFederalRaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00All after-tax returns are calculated using the historical highest individual federal marginal income tax rates and do not reflect the impact of any state or local tax.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringProvide a brief explanation that after-tax returns are calculated using the historical highest individual federal marginal income tax rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Subsection b falsefalsePerformance Table Uses Highest Federal Rate358false0rr_PerformanceTableNotRelevantToTaxDeferredrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00After-tax returns are not relevant to investors who hold Fund Shares in tax-deferred accounts such as individual retirement accounts (IRAs) or employee-sponsored retirement plans.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringProvide a brief explanation that the actual after-tax returns depend on an investor's tax situation and may differ from those shown, and after-tax returns shown are not relevant to investors who hold their Fund shares through tax-deferred arrangements, such as 401(k) plans or individual retirement accounts.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iv -Clause B -Subsection b falsefalsePerformance Table Not Relevant to Tax Deferred359true0rr_BarChartTableAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS360false0rr_AnnualReturn2009rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruefalse0.25440.2544falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart. When a Multiple Class Fund offers more than one Class in the prospectus, provide annual total returns in the bar chart for only one of those Classes. The Fund can select which Class to include (e.g., the oldest Class, the Class with the greatest net assets).Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph instructions -Clause 3 -Exhibit a -Subsection b falsefalseAnnual Return 2009361false0rr_AnnualReturn2010rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruefalse0.18230.1823falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart. When a Multiple Class Fund offers more than one Class in the prospectus, provide annual total returns in the bar chart for only one of those Classes. The Fund can select which Class to include (e.g., the oldest Class, the Class with the greatest net assets).Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph ii -Subsection b falsefalseAnnual Return 2010362false0rr_BarChartClosingTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00During the two-year period ended December 31, 2010, the Fund's highest and lowest calendar quarter returns were 28.36% and -16.09%, respectively, for the quarters ended June 30, 2009 and June 30, 2010. The Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) is not necessarily an indication of how the Fund will perform in the future.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph ii -Subsection b falsefalseBar Chart Closing [Text Block]363false0rr_HighestQuarterlyReturnLabelrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00highest calendar quarter returnsfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph ii -Subsection b falsefalseHighest Quarterly Return, Label364false0rr_BarChartHighestQuarterlyReturnDaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse002009-06-30falsefalsetruefalsefalseOtherxbrli:dateItemTypedateIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph ii -Subsection b falsefalseHighest Quarterly Return, Date365false0rr_BarChartHighestQuarterlyReturnrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruefalse0.28360.2836falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph ii -Subsection b falsefalseHighest Quarterly Return366false0rr_LowestQuarterlyReturnLabelrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00lowest calendar quarter returnsfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph ii -Subsection b falsefalseLowest Quarterly Return, Label367false0rr_BarChartLowestQuarterlyReturnDaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse002010-06-30falsefalsetruefalsefalseOtherxbrli:dateItemTypedateIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph ii -Subsection b falsefalseLowest Quarterly Return, Date368false0rr_BarChartLowestQuarterlyReturnrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruefalse-0.1609-0.1609falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph ii -Subsection b falsefalseLowest Quarterly Return369false0rr_PerformancePastDoesNotIndicateFuturerrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) is not necessarily an indication of how the Fund will perform in the future.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringInclude the bar chart and table required by paragraphs (b)(2)(ii) and (iii) of this section. Provide a brief explanation of how the information illustrates the variability of the Fund's returns (e.g., by stating that the information provides some indication of the risks of investing in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's performance from year to year and by showing how the Fund's average annual returns for 1, 5, and 10 years compare with those of a broad measure of market performance). Provide a statement to the effect that the Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) is not necessarily an indication of how the Fund will perform in the future.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph i -Subsection b falsefalsePerformance Past Does Not Indicate Future [Text]370true0rr_AverageAnnualReturnAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsetruefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseAVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS371false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnCaptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse00AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS FOR THE PERIODS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2010falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringThis item represents Average Anuual Total Returns. If a Multiple Class Fund offers a Class in the prospectus that converts into another Class after a stated period, compute average annual total returns in the table by using the returns of the other Class for the period after conversion.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph instructions -Clause 5 -Subsection b falsefalseCaption372false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://ftportfolios.com/role/riskreturndetaildata1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse13falsefalsetruefalse{dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxis} : First Trust ISE Global Engineering and Construction Index Fund [Member] {rr_PerformanceMeasureAxis} : Return Before Taxes [Member] 2/1/2010 - 1/31/2011 TwelveMonthsEnded_31Jan2011_S000024215_Member_Return_Before_Taxes_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0001364608duration2010-02-01T00:00:002011-01-31T00:00:00falsefalseFirst Trust ISE Global Engineering and Construction Index Fund [Member]dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiftetf1364608_S000024215Memberdei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseReturn Before Taxes [Member]rr_PerformanceMeasureAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiftetf1364608_ReturnBeforeTaxesMemberrr_PerformanceMeasureAxisexplicitMemberPureStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseFirst Trust ISE Global Engineering and Construction Index Fund [Member] | Return Before Taxes [Member]381true0rr_AverageAnnualReturnAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsetruefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseAVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS382false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnLabelrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse00Return Before TaxesfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringThis item represents Average Anuual Total Returns. If a Multiple Class Fund offers a Class in the prospectus that converts into another Class after a stated period, compute average annual total returns in the table by using the returns of the other Class for the period after conversion.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseLabel383false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue0.18230.1823falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalse1 Year384false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnSinceInceptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue0.21070.2107falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseSince Inception385false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnInceptionDaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse002008-10-13falsefalsetruefalsefalseOtherxbrli:dateItemTypedateReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph instructions -Clause 4 -Subsection b falsefalseInception Date386false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://ftportfolios.com/role/riskreturndetaildata1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse14falsefalsetruefalse{dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxis} : First Trust ISE Global Engineering and Construction Index Fund [Member] {rr_PerformanceMeasureAxis} : Return After Taxes on Distributions 2/1/2010 - 1/31/2011 TwelveMonthsEnded_31Jan2011_S000024215_Member_After_Taxes_On_Distributions_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0001364608duration2010-02-01T00:00:002011-01-31T00:00:00falsefalseFirst Trust ISE Global Engineering and Construction Index Fund [Member]dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiftetf1364608_S000024215Memberdei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseReturn After Taxes on Distributionsrr_PerformanceMeasureAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldirr_AfterTaxesOnDistributionsMemberrr_PerformanceMeasureAxisexplicitMemberPureStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseFirst Trust ISE Global Engineering and Construction Index Fund [Member] | Return After Taxes on Distributions395true0rr_AverageAnnualReturnAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsetruefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseAVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS396false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnLabelrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse00Return After Taxes on DistributionsfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringThis item represents Average Anuual Total Returns. If a Multiple Class Fund offers a Class in the prospectus that converts into another Class after a stated period, compute average annual total returns in the table by using the returns of the other Class for the period after conversion.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseLabel397false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue0.17560.1756falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalse1 Year398false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnSinceInceptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue0.20530.2053falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseSince Inception399false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnInceptionDaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse002008-10-13falsefalsetruefalsefalseOtherxbrli:dateItemTypedateReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph instructions -Clause 4 -Subsection b falsefalseInception Date400false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://ftportfolios.com/role/riskreturndetaildata1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse15falsefalsetruefalse{dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxis} : First Trust ISE Global Engineering and Construction Index Fund [Member] {rr_PerformanceMeasureAxis} : Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Shares 2/1/2010 - 1/31/2011 TwelveMonthsEnded_31Jan2011_S000024215_Member_After_Taxes_On_Distributions_And_Sales_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0001364608duration2010-02-01T00:00:002011-01-31T00:00:00falsefalseFirst Trust ISE Global Engineering and Construction Index Fund [Member]dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiftetf1364608_S000024215Memberdei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseReturn After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Sharesrr_PerformanceMeasureAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldirr_AfterTaxesOnDistributionsAndSalesMemberrr_PerformanceMeasureAxisexplicitMemberPureStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseFirst Trust ISE Global Engineering and Construction Index Fund [Member] | Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Shares409true0rr_AverageAnnualReturnAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsetruefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseAVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS410false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnLabelrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse00Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of SharesfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringThis item represents Average Anuual Total Returns. If a Multiple Class Fund offers a Class in the prospectus that converts into another Class after a stated period, compute average annual total returns in the table by using the returns of the other Class for the period after conversion.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseLabel411false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue0.11760.1176falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalse1 Year412false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnSinceInceptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue0.17820.1782falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseSince Inception413false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnInceptionDaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse002008-10-13falsefalsetruefalsefalseOtherxbrli:dateItemTypedateReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph instructions -Clause 4 -Subsection b falsefalseInception Date414false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://ftportfolios.com/role/riskreturndetaildata1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse16falsefalseUSDtruefalse{dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxis} : First Trust ISE Global Platinum Index Fund [Member] 2/1/2010 - 1/31/2011 USD ($) $TwelveMonthsEnded_31Jan2011_S000028546_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0001364608duration2010-02-01T00:00:002011-01-31T00:00:00falsefalseFirst Trust ISE Global Platinum Index Fund [Member]dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiftetf1364608_S000028546Memberdei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisexplicitMemberPureStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0USDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseFirst Trust ISE Global Platinum Index Fund [Member]415true0rr_RiskReturnAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseRisk/Return:416false0dei_TradingSymboldeifalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00PLTMfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:normalizedStringItemTypenormalizedstringTrading symbol of an instrument as listed on an exchange.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseTrading Symbol417false0rr_RiskReturnHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00SUMMARY INFORMATION First Trust ISE Global Platinum Index FundfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringRisk/Return Summary Investment Objectives/Goals Include the following information, in plain English under rule 421(d) under the Securities Act, in the order and subject matter indicatedReference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 2 falsefalseRisk/Return [Heading]418false0rr_ObjectiveHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00INVESTMENT OBJECTIVEfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringInvestment Objectives/Goals. Disclose the Fund's investment objectives or goals. A Fund also may identify its type or category (e.g., that it is a Money Market Fund or a balanced fund).Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 2 -Subsection a falsefalseObjective [Heading]419false0rr_ObjectivePrimaryTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The First Trust ISE Global Platinum Index Fund (the "Fund") seeks investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield (before the Fund's fees and expenses) of an equity index called the ISE Global Platinum (TM) Index (the "Index").falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringInvestment Objectives/Goals. Disclose the Fund's investment objectives or goals. A Fund also may identify its type or category (e.g., that it is a Money Market Fund or a balanced fund).Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 2 -Subsection a falsefalseObjective, Primary [Text Block]420true0ftetf1364608_FundFeesAndExpensesAbstractftetf1364608falsenadurationFund fees and expenses.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringFund fees and expenses.falsefalseFEES AND EXPENSES OF THE FUND421false0rr_ExpenseHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00FEES AND EXPENSES OF THE FUNDfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringRisk/Return Summary Fee Table Includes the following information, in plain English under rule 421(d) under the Securities Act, after Item 2 Fees and expenses of the Fund This table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold shared of the Fund. You may qualify for sales charge discounts if you and your family invest, or agree to invest in the future, at least $[_____] in [name of fund family] funds. Shareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment) Example This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds. The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then you redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return per year and that the Fund's operating expenses remained the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be You would pay the following expenses if you did not redeem your shares The Example does not reflect sales charges (loads) on reinvested dividends [and other distributions]. If these sales charges (loads) were included, your costs would be higher. Portfolio Turnover The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover may indicate higher transaction costs. These costs, which are not reflected in annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During the most recent fiscal year, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was __% of the average value of its whole portfolio. Instructions. A.3.instructions.6 New Funds. For purposes of this Item, a "New Fund" is a Fund that does not include in Form N-1A financial statements reporting operating results or that includes financial statements for the Fund's initial fiscal year reporting operating results for a period of 6 months or less. The following Instructions apply to New Funds.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph d -Subsection instructions falsefalseExpense [Heading]422false0rr_ExpenseNarrativeTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The following table describes the fees and expenses you may pay if you buy and hold Shares of the Fund. Investors purchasing and selling Shares may be subject to costs (including customary brokerage commissions) charged by their broker.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringThis table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold shared of the Fund. You may qualify for sales charge discounts if you and your family invest, or agree to invest in the future, at least $[_____] in [name of fund family] funds. Include the narrative explanations in the order indicated. A Fund may modify the narrative explanations if the explanation contains comparable information to that shown.The narrative explanation regarding sales charge discounts is only required by a Fund that offers such discounts and should specify the minimum level of investment required to qualify for a discount. Modify the narrative explanation to state that Fund shares are sold on a national securities exchange at the end of the time periods indicated, and that brokerage commissions for buying and selling Fund shares through a broker are not reflected.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph b -Subsection instructions falsefalseExpense Narrative [Text Block]423true0rr_ShareholderFeesAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseSHAREHOLDER FEES424false0rr_ShareholderFeesCaptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00SHAREHOLDER FEES (fees paid directly from your investment)falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringShareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment).Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subsection table falsefalseShareholder Fees Caption [Text]425false0rr_MaximumSalesChargeImposedOnPurchasesOverOfferingPricerrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truetruetrue0.00000.0000falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherrr:NonNegativePure4TypepureMaximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load) (as a percentage of ____) A.3.instructions.2.a.i "Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load)" includes the maximum total deferred sales charge (load) payable upon redemption, in installments, or both, expressed as a percentage of the amount or amounts stated in response to Item 7(a), except that, for a sales charge (load) based on net asset value at the time of purchase, show the sales charge (load) as a percentage of the offering price at the time of purchase. A Fund may include in a footnote to the table, if applicable, a tabular presentation showing the amount of deferred sales charges (loads) over time or a narrative explanation of the sales charges (loads) (e.g., __% in the first year after purchase, declining to __% in the __ year and eliminated thereafter). A.3.instructions.2.a.ii If more than one type of sales charge (load) is imposed (e.g., a deferred sales charge (load) and a front-end sales charge (load)), the first caption in the table should read "Maximum Sales Charge (Load)" and show the maximum cumulative percentage. Show the percentage amounts and the terms of each sales charge (load) comprising that figure on separate lines below.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 1 -Subsection table falsefalseMaximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases (as a percentage of offering price)426true0rr_OperatingExpensesAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES427false0rr_OperatingExpensesCaptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES (Expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringAnnual Fund Operating Expenses (ongoing expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 7 -Subsection table falsefalseOperating Expenses Caption [Text]428false0rr_ManagementFeesOverAssetsrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truetruetrue0.00700.0070falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherrr:NonNegativePure4TypepureManagement Fees include investment advisory fees (including any fees based on the Fund's performance), any other management fees payable to the investment adviser or its affiliates, and administrative fees payable to the investment adviser or its affiliates that are not included as "Other Expenses."Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 3 -Subparagraph a -Subsection instructions falsefalseManagement Fees429false0rr_DistributionAndService12b1FeesOverAssetsrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truetruetrue0.00000.0000falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherrr:NonNegativePure4TypepureDistribution [and/or Service] (12b-1) Fees" include all distribution or other expenses incurred during the most recent fiscal year under a plan adopted pursuant to rule 12b-1 [17 CFR 270.12b-1]. Under an appropriate caption or a subcaption of "Other Expenses," disclose the amount of any distribution or similar expenses deducted from the Fund's assets other than pursuant to a rule 12b-1 plan.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 9 -Subsection table falsefalseDistribution and Service (12b-1) Fees430false0rr_OtherExpensesOverAssetsrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsetotallabel1truetruetrue0.00000.0000falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherrr:NonNegativePure4Typepure"Other Expenses" include all expenses not otherwise disclosed in the table that are deducted from the Fund's assets or charged to all shareholder accounts. The amount of expenses deducted from the Fund's assets are the amounts shown as expenses in the Fund's statement of operations (including increases resulting from complying with paragraph 2(g) of rule 6-07 of Regulation S-X [17 CFR 210.6-07]). "Other Expenses" do not include extraordinary expenses as determined under generally accepted accounting principles (see Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 30). If extraordinary expenses were incurred that materially affected the Fund's "Other Expenses," disclose in a footnote to the table what "Other Expenses" would have been had the extraordinary expenses been included.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 3 -Subparagraph c -Clause i -Subsection instructions truefalseOther Expenses431false0rr_ExpensesOverAssetsrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truetruetrue0.00700.0070falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherrr:NonNegativePure4TypepureTotal Annual Fund Operating Expenses. If the Fund is a Feeder Fund, reflect the aggregate expenses of the Feeder Fund and the Master Fund in a single fee table using the captions provided. In a footnote to the fee table, state that the table and Example reflect the expenses of both the Feeder and Master Funds. If the prospectus offers more than one Class of a Multiple Class Fund or more than one Feeder Fund that invests in the same Master Fund, provide a separate response for each Class or Feeder Fund. Base the percentages of "Annual Fund Operating Expenses" on amounts incurred during the Fund's most recent fiscal year, but include in expenses amounts that would have been incurred absent expense reimbursement or fee waiver arrangements. If the Fund has changed its fiscal year and, as a result, the most recent fiscal year is less than three months, use the fiscal year prior to the most recent fiscal year as the basis for determining "Annual Fund Operating Expenses."Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 3 -Subparagraph d -Subsection instructions falsefalseTotal Annual Fund Operating Expenses432true0rr_ExpenseExampleAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseEXAMPLE433false0rr_ExpenseExampleHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00EXAMPLEfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringHeading for Expense Example.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 4 -Subsection instructions falsefalseExpense Example [Heading]434false0rr_ExpenseExampleNarrativeTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00<p>The example below is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other funds. This example does not take into account customary brokerage commissions that you pay when purchasing or selling Shares of the Fund in the secondary market.</p><p>The example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then you retain the Shares or redeem all of your Shares at the end of those periods. The example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the Fund's net operating expenses remain at current levels until March 8, 2012. Additionally, the example assumes that the Fund imposes a 12b-1 fee of 0.25% per annum of the Fund's average daily net assets following March 8, 2012. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:</p>falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringThe Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 1 -Subsection example falsefalseExpense Example Narrative [Text Block]435false0rr_ExpenseExampleYear01rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truefalsetrue7272falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryrr:NonNegativeMonetaryTypemonetaryThe Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then you redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return per year and that the Fund's operating expenses remained the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 4 -Subsection instructions falsefalse1 Year436false0rr_ExpenseExampleYear03rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truefalsetrue266266falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryrr:NonNegativeMonetaryTypemonetaryThe Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then you redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return per year and that the Fund's operating expenses remained the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 2 -Subsection example falsefalse3 Years437false0rr_ExpenseExampleYear05rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truefalsetrue490490falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryrr:NonNegativeMonetaryTypemonetaryThe Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then you redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return per year and that the Fund's operating expenses remained the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 2 -Subsection example falsefalse5 Years438false0rr_ExpenseExampleYear10rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truefalsetrue11331133falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryrr:NonNegativeMonetaryTypemonetaryThe Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then you redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return per year and that the Fund's operating expenses remained the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 2 -Subsection example falsefalse10 Years439true0ftetf1364608_PortfolioTurnoverAltAbstractftetf1364608falsenadurationPortfolio Turnover Alt.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringPortfolio Turnover Alt.falsefalsePORTFOLIO TURNOVER440false0rr_PortfolioTurnoverHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00PORTFOLIO TURNOVERfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringDisclose the portfolio turnover rate provided in response to Item 14(a) for the most recent fiscal year (or for such shorter period as the Fund has been in operation). Disclose the period for which the information is provided if less than a full fiscal year. A Fund that is a Money Market Fund may omit the portfolio turnover information required by this Item.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 5 -Subsection instructions falsefalsePortfolio Turnover [Heading]441false0rr_PortfolioTurnoverTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when Fund Shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During the fiscal period March 11, 2010 (inception) through September 30, 2010, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was 29% of the average value of its portfolio.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringDisclose the portfolio turnover rate provided in response to Item 14(a) for the most recent fiscal year (or for such shorter period as the Fund has been in operation). Disclose the period for which the information is provided if less than a full fiscal year. A Fund that is a Money Market Fund may omit the portfolio turnover information required by this Item.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 3 -Subsection example falsefalsePortfolio Turnover [Text Block]442false0rr_PortfolioTurnoverRaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruefalse0.290.29falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureThis element represents the rate of portfolio turnover presented as a percentage (SEC Form N-1A 2006-09-14 A.3.example.3 Portfolio Turnover A.3.instructions.5 Portfolio Turnover).Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 3 -Subsection example falsefalsePortfolio Turnover, Rate443false0rr_StrategyHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIESfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringPrincipal investment strategies of the Fund. Summarize how the Fund intends to achieve its investment objectives by identifying the Fund's principal investment strategies (including the type or types of securities in which the Fund invests or will invest principally) and any policy to concentrate in securities of issuers in a particular industry or group of industries.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Subsection a falsefalseStrategy [Heading]444false0rr_StrategyNarrativeTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00<p>The Fund will normally invest at least 90% of its net assets in securities that comprise the Index or in depositary receipts that may include American Depositary Receipts ("ADRs"), Global Depositary Receipts ("GDRs"), European Depositary Receipts ("EDRs") or other depositary receipts (collectively,"Depositary Receipts") representing securities in the Index. First Trust will seek to match the performance of the Index (before the Fund's fees and expenses).</p><p>The Fund, using an "indexing" investment approach, attempts to replicate, before fees and expenses, the performance of the Index. First Trust Advisors L.P. ("First Trust"), the Fund's investment advisor, seeks a correlation of 0.95 or better (before fees and expenses) between the Fund's performance and the performance of the Index; a figure of 1.00 would represent perfect correlation. First Trust will regularly monitor the Fund's tracking accuracy and will seek to maintain an appropriate correlation.</p><p>The Index is developed and owned by International Securities Exchange, LLC ("ISE" or the "Index Provider"). The Index is designed to provide a benchmark for investors interested in tracking public companies that are active in platinum group metals ("PGM") mining based on revenue analysis of those companies. PGMs collectively refer to six elements, platinum, palladium, osmium, iridium, ruthenium and rhodium, which have similar physical and chemical properties and tend to occur together in the same mineral deposits. Issuers of component securities must be actively engaged in some aspect of PGM mining suchas mining, refining or exploration. The Index has been created to provide investors with a product allowing them to quickly take advantage of both event-driven news and long-term trends as the need for PGMs continues to evolve.</p><p>ISE reviews the Index components quarterly in March, June, September and December of each year for eligibility and sets each component's weight in the Index according to the Index methodology. Changes are announced on ISE's publicly available website at www.ise.com at least five days prior to the effective date.</p>falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringPrincipal investment strategies of the Fund. Summarize how the Fund intends to achieve its investment objectives by identifying the Fund's principal investment strategies (including the type or types of securities in which the Fund invests or will invest principally) and any policy to concentrate in securities of issuers in a particular industry or group of industries.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Subsection a falsefalseStrategy Narrative [Text Block]445false0rr_StrategyPortfolioConcentrationrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The Fund will normally invest at least 90% of its net assets in securities that comprise the Index or in depositary receipts that may include American Depositary Receipts ("ADRs"), Global Depositary Receipts ("GDRs"), European Depositary Receipts ("EDRs") or other depositary receipts (collectively,"Depositary Receipts") representing securities in the Index. First Trust will seek to match the performance of the Index (before the Fund's fees and expenses).falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringPrincipal investment strategies of the Fund. Summarize how the Fund intends to achieve its investment objectives by identifying the Fund's principal investment strategies (including the type or types of securities in which the Fund invests or will invest principally) and any policy to concentrate in securities of issuers in a particular industry or group of industries.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Subsection a falsefalseStrategy Portfolio Concentration [Text]446false0rr_RiskHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00PRINCIPAL RISKSfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNarrative Risk Disclosure.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 1 -Subsection b falsefalseRisk [Heading]447false0rr_RiskNarrativeTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00<p>You could lose money by investing in the Fund. An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of a bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other governmental agency.</p><p>MARKET RISK. Market risk is the risk that a particular stock owned by the Fund,Shares of the Fund or stocks in general may fall in value. Shares are subject to market fluctuations caused by such factors as economic, political, regulatory or market developments, changes in interest rates and perceived trends in stock prices. Overall stock values could decline generally or could underperform other investments. Companies with smaller market capitalizations are generally subject to additional market risk.</p><p>NON-CORRELATION RISK. The Fund's return may not match the return of the Index for a number of reasons. For example, the Fund incurs operating expenses not applicable to the Index, and may incur costs in buying and selling securities, especially when rebalancing the Fund's portfolio holdings to reflect changes inthe composition of the Index. In addition, the Fund's portfolio holdings may not exactly replicate the securities included in the Index or the ratios between the securities included in the Index.</p><p>REPLICATION MANAGEMENT RISK. The Fund is exposed to additional market risk due to its policy of investing principally in the securities included in the Index. As a result of this policy, securities held by the Fund will generally not be bought or sold in response to market fluctuations, and the securities may be issued by companies concentrated in a particular industry. Therefore, the Fund will generally not sell a stock because the stock's issuer is in financial trouble, unless that stock is removed or is anticipated to be removed from the Index.</p><p>NON-DIVERSIFICATION RISK. The Fund is classified as "non-diversified" under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act"). As a result, theFund is only limited as to the percentage of its assets which may be invested in the securities of any one issuer by the diversification requirements imposed by the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"). The Fund may invest a relatively high percentage of its assets in a limited number of issuers.</p><p>PGM MINING COMPANY RISK. Securities in the Fund's portfolio may be significantly impacted by competitive pressures in the PGM mining business and the price of PGMs. Because a vast majority of the world's PGM production occurs in Russia and South Africa, the Fund's Share price may be particularly sensitive to any adverse political or economic developments affecting these countries. The Fund's Share price may experience volatility because the price of PGMs may fluctuate substantially over short periods of time. Moreover, the Index tracks companies involved in the PGM mining business and not the price of PGMs. The securities of companies involved in the PGM mining business may under- or over-perform the price of PGMs over the short term or the long term.</p><p>RUSSIA RISK. Because a significant percentage of the world's PGM mining takes place in Russia, the Fund is particularly sensitive to political and economic conditions in that country. The Fund may be affected unfavorably by political developments, social instability, changes in government policies and other political and economic developments in Russia.</p><p>SOUTH AFRICA RISK. Because a significant percentage of the world's PGM mining takes place in South Africa, the Fund is particularly sensitive to political and economic conditions in that country. South Africa has historically experienced acts of terrorism and strained international relations related to border disputes, historical animosities, racial tensions and other domestic concerns. These situations may cause uncertainty in the South African market and may adversely affect the performance of the South African economy.</p><p>PGM RISK. The Fund may be adversely affected by a decrease in the worldwide demand and price of PGMs. Various factors may lead to a decreased demand and price of PGMs. An increase in the level of hedge activity of PGM producing companies could cause a decline in world PGM prices. A significant negative change in the attitude of speculators and investors towards PGMs could cause a decline in world PGM prices. A widening of interest rate differentials between the cost of money and the cost of PGMs could also negatively affect the price of PGMs which, in turn, could negatively affect the price of the Shares. In addition, automobile components that use PGMs account for a significant percentage of the global demand for PGMs. Because of the decline in demand and reduction in sales experienced by the global automotive industry the price of PGMs may be negatively affected. PGM companies are also subject to risks associated with the exploration, development and production of PGMs, including competition for land, difficulties in obtaining required governmental approval to mine land, inability to raise adequate capital, increases in production costs and political unrest in nations where sources of PGMs are located, particularly Russia and South Africa.</p><p>MATERIALS RISK. The Fund invests significantly in companies involved in the materials sector. General risks of the materials sector include the general state of the economy, consolidation, domestic and international politics and excess capacity. In addition, basic materials companies may also be significantly affected by volatility of commodity prices, import controls, worldwide competition, liability for environmental damage, depletion of resources and mandated expenditures for safety and pollution control devices.</p><p>NON-U.S. SECURITIES AND EMERGING MARKETS RISK. The Fund invests in securities of non-U.S. issuers. Such securities are subject to higher volatility than securities of domestic issuers due to possible adverse political, social or economic developments; restrictions on foreign investment or exchange of securities; lack of liquidity; excessive taxation; government seizure of assets; different legal or accounting standards; and less government supervision and regulation of exchanges in foreign countries. These risks may be heightened for securities of companies located in, or with significant operations in, emerging market countries.</p><p>CURRENCY RISK. Because the Fund's NAV is determined on the basis of U.S. dollars and the Fund invests in foreign securities, you may lose money if the local currency of a foreign market depreciates against the U.S. dollar, even if the local currency value of the Fund's holdings goes up.</p>falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringNarrative Risk Disclosure. A Fund may, in responding to this Item, describe the types of investors for whom the Fund is intended or the types of investment goals that may be consistent with an investment in the Fund.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph i -Clause instruction -Subsection b falsefalseRisk Narrative [Text Block]448false0rr_RiskLoseMoneyrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00You could lose money by investing in the Fund.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringSummarize the principal risks of investing in the Fund, including the risks to which the Fund's portfolio as a whole is subject and the circumstances reasonably likely to affect adversely the Fund's net asset value, yield, and total return. Unless the Fund is a Money Market Fund, disclose that loss of money is a risk of investing in the Fund. A Fund may, in responding to this Item, describe the types of investors for whom the Fund is intended or the types of investment goals that may be consistent with an investment in the Fund.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph i -Subsection b falsefalseRisk Lose Money [Text]449false0rr_RiskNondiversifiedStatusrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00NON-DIVERSIFICATION RISK. The Fund is classified as "non-diversified" under theInvestment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act"). As a result, theFund is only limited as to the percentage of its assets which may be invested inthe securities of any one issuer by the diversification requirements imposed bythe Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"). The Fund may investa relatively high percentage of its assets in a limited number of issuers.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringIf applicable, state that the Fund is non-diversified, describe the effect of non-diversification (e.g., disclose that, compared with other funds, the Fund may invest a greater percentage of its assets in a particular issuer), and summarize the risks of investing in a non-diversified fund.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph iv -Subsection b falsefalseRisk Nondiversified Status [Text]450false0rr_RiskNotInsuredDepositoryInstitutionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of a bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other governmental agency.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringIf the Fund is advised by or sold through an insured depository institution, state that An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of the bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency. A Money Market Fund that is advised by or sold through an insured depository institution should combine the disclosure required by Items 2(c)(1)(ii) and (iii) in a single statement.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph iii -Subsection b falsefalseRisk Not Insured Depository Institution [Text]451true0ftetf1364608_FundPastPerformanceAbstractftetf1364608falsenadurationFund past performance.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringFund past performance.falsefalsePERFORMANCE452false0rr_BarChartAndPerformanceTableHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringRisk/Return Bar Chart and Table.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subsection b falsefalseBar Chart and Performance Table [Heading]453false0rr_PerformanceNarrativeTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The Fund has not yet operated for a full calendar year and, therefore, performance information is not included in this section of the Prospectus. See "Total Return Information" for performance information regarding the Fund.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringRisk/Return Bar Chart and Table.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subsection b falsefalsePerformance Narrative [Text Block]456false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://ftportfolios.com/role/riskreturndetaildata1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse17falsefalseUSDtruefalse{dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxis} : First Trust ISE Global Wind Energy Index Fund [Member] 2/1/2010 - 1/31/2011 USD ($) $TwelveMonthsEnded_31Jan2011_S000022933_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0001364608duration2010-02-01T00:00:002011-01-31T00:00:00falsefalseFirst Trust ISE Global Wind Energy Index Fund [Member]dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiftetf1364608_S000022933Memberdei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisexplicitMemberPureStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0USDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseFirst Trust ISE Global Wind Energy Index Fund [Member]457true0rr_RiskReturnAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseRisk/Return:458false0dei_TradingSymboldeifalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00FANfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:normalizedStringItemTypenormalizedstringTrading symbol of an instrument as listed on an exchange.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseTrading Symbol459false0rr_RiskReturnHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00SUMMARY INFORMATION First Trust ISE Global Wind Energy Index FundfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringRisk/Return Summary Investment Objectives/Goals Include the following information, in plain English under rule 421(d) under the Securities Act, in the order and subject matter indicatedReference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 2 falsefalseRisk/Return [Heading]460false0rr_ObjectiveHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00INVESTMENT OBJECTIVEfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringInvestment Objectives/Goals. Disclose the Fund's investment objectives or goals. A Fund also may identify its type or category (e.g., that it is a Money Market Fund or a balanced fund).Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 2 -Subsection a falsefalseObjective [Heading]461false0rr_ObjectivePrimaryTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The First Trust ISE Global Wind Energy Index Fund (the "Fund") seeks investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield (before the Fund's fees and expenses) of an equity index called the ISE Global Wind Energy(TM) Index (the "Index").falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringInvestment Objectives/Goals. Disclose the Fund's investment objectives or goals. A Fund also may identify its type or category (e.g., that it is a Money Market Fund or a balanced fund).Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 2 -Subsection a falsefalseObjective, Primary [Text Block]462true0ftetf1364608_FundFeesAndExpensesAbstractftetf1364608falsenadurationFund fees and expenses.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringFund fees and expenses.falsefalseFEES AND EXPENSES OF THE FUND463false0rr_ExpenseHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00FEES AND EXPENSES OF THE FUNDfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringRisk/Return Summary Fee Table Includes the following information, in plain English under rule 421(d) under the Securities Act, after Item 2 Fees and expenses of the Fund This table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold shared of the Fund. You may qualify for sales charge discounts if you and your family invest, or agree to invest in the future, at least $[_____] in [name of fund family] funds. Shareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment) Example This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds. The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then you redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return per year and that the Fund's operating expenses remained the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be You would pay the following expenses if you did not redeem your shares The Example does not reflect sales charges (loads) on reinvested dividends [and other distributions]. If these sales charges (loads) were included, your costs would be higher. Portfolio Turnover The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover may indicate higher transaction costs. These costs, which are not reflected in annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During the most recent fiscal year, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was __% of the average value of its whole portfolio. Instructions. A.3.instructions.6 New Funds. For purposes of this Item, a "New Fund" is a Fund that does not include in Form N-1A financial statements reporting operating results or that includes financial statements for the Fund's initial fiscal year reporting operating results for a period of 6 months or less. The following Instructions apply to New Funds.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph d -Subsection instructions falsefalseExpense [Heading]464false0rr_ExpenseNarrativeTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The following table describes the fees and expenses you may pay if you buy and hold Shares of the Fund. Investors purchasing and selling Shares may be subject to costs (including customary brokerage commissions) charged by their broker.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringThis table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold shared of the Fund. You may qualify for sales charge discounts if you and your family invest, or agree to invest in the future, at least $[_____] in [name of fund family] funds. Include the narrative explanations in the order indicated. A Fund may modify the narrative explanations if the explanation contains comparable information to that shown.The narrative explanation regarding sales charge discounts is only required by a Fund that offers such discounts and should specify the minimum level of investment required to qualify for a discount. Modify the narrative explanation to state that Fund shares are sold on a national securities exchange at the end of the time periods indicated, and that brokerage commissions for buying and selling Fund shares through a broker are not reflected.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph b -Subsection instructions falsefalseExpense Narrative [Text Block]465true0rr_ShareholderFeesAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseSHAREHOLDER FEES466false0rr_ShareholderFeesCaptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00SHAREHOLDER FEES (fees paid directly from your investment)falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringShareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment).Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subsection table falsefalseShareholder Fees Caption [Text]467false0rr_MaximumSalesChargeImposedOnPurchasesOverOfferingPricerrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truetruetrue0.00000.0000falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherrr:NonNegativePure4TypepureMaximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load) (as a percentage of ____) A.3.instructions.2.a.i "Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load)" includes the maximum total deferred sales charge (load) payable upon redemption, in installments, or both, expressed as a percentage of the amount or amounts stated in response to Item 7(a), except that, for a sales charge (load) based on net asset value at the time of purchase, show the sales charge (load) as a percentage of the offering price at the time of purchase. A Fund may include in a footnote to the table, if applicable, a tabular presentation showing the amount of deferred sales charges (loads) over time or a narrative explanation of the sales charges (loads) (e.g., __% in the first year after purchase, declining to __% in the __ year and eliminated thereafter). A.3.instructions.2.a.ii If more than one type of sales charge (load) is imposed (e.g., a deferred sales charge (load) and a front-end sales charge (load)), the first caption in the table should read "Maximum Sales Charge (Load)" and show the maximum cumulative percentage. Show the percentage amounts and the terms of each sales charge (load) comprising that figure on separate lines below.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 1 -Subsection table falsefalseMaximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases (as a percentage of offering price)468true0rr_OperatingExpensesAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES469false0rr_OperatingExpensesCaptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES (Expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringAnnual Fund Operating Expenses (ongoing expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 7 -Subsection table falsefalseOperating Expenses Caption [Text]470false0rr_ManagementFeesOverAssetsrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truetruetrue0.00400.0040falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherrr:NonNegativePure4TypepureManagement Fees include investment advisory fees (including any fees based on the Fund's performance), any other management fees payable to the investment adviser or its affiliates, and administrative fees payable to the investment adviser or its affiliates that are not included as "Other Expenses."Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 3 -Subparagraph a -Subsection instructions falsefalseManagement Fees471false0rr_DistributionAndService12b1FeesOverAssetsrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truetruetrue0.00000.0000falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherrr:NonNegativePure4TypepureDistribution [and/or Service] (12b-1) Fees" include all distribution or other expenses incurred during the most recent fiscal year under a plan adopted pursuant to rule 12b-1 [17 CFR 270.12b-1]. Under an appropriate caption or a subcaption of "Other Expenses," disclose the amount of any distribution or similar expenses deducted from the Fund's assets other than pursuant to a rule 12b-1 plan.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 9 -Subsection table falsefalseDistribution and Service (12b-1) Fees472false0rr_OtherExpensesOverAssetsrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsetotallabel1truetruetrue0.00410.0041falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherrr:NonNegativePure4Typepure"Other Expenses" include all expenses not otherwise disclosed in the table that are deducted from the Fund's assets or charged to all shareholder accounts. The amount of expenses deducted from the Fund's assets are the amounts shown as expenses in the Fund's statement of operations (including increases resulting from complying with paragraph 2(g) of rule 6-07 of Regulation S-X [17 CFR 210.6-07]). "Other Expenses" do not include extraordinary expenses as determined under generally accepted accounting principles (see Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 30). If extraordinary expenses were incurred that materially affected the Fund's "Other Expenses," disclose in a footnote to the table what "Other Expenses" would have been had the extraordinary expenses been included.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 3 -Subparagraph c -Clause i -Subsection instructions truefalseOther Expenses473false0rr_ExpensesOverAssetsrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truetruetrue0.00810.0081falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherrr:NonNegativePure4TypepureTotal Annual Fund Operating Expenses. If the Fund is a Feeder Fund, reflect the aggregate expenses of the Feeder Fund and the Master Fund in a single fee table using the captions provided. In a footnote to the fee table, state that the table and Example reflect the expenses of both the Feeder and Master Funds. If the prospectus offers more than one Class of a Multiple Class Fund or more than one Feeder Fund that invests in the same Master Fund, provide a separate response for each Class or Feeder Fund. Base the percentages of "Annual Fund Operating Expenses" on amounts incurred during the Fund's most recent fiscal year, but include in expenses amounts that would have been incurred absent expense reimbursement or fee waiver arrangements. If the Fund has changed its fiscal year and, as a result, the most recent fiscal year is less than three months, use the fiscal year prior to the most recent fiscal year as the basis for determining "Annual Fund Operating Expenses."Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 3 -Subparagraph d -Subsection instructions falsefalseTotal Annual Fund Operating Expenses474false0rr_FeeWaiverOrReimbursementOverAssetsrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsetruenegated1truetruetrue0.00210.0021[4]falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherrr:NonPositivePure4TypepureTotal Annual Fund Operating Expenses. If there were expense reimbursement or fee waiver arrangements that reduced any Fund operating expenses and will continue to reduce them for no less than one year from the effective date of the Fund's registration statement, a Fund may add two captions to the table one caption showing the amount of the expense reimbursement or fee waiver, and a second caption showing the Fund's net expenses after subtracting the fee reimbursement or expense waiver from the total fund operating expenses. The Fund should place these additional captions directly below the "Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses" caption of the table and should use appropriate descriptive captions, such as "Fee Waiver [and/or Expense Reimbursement]" and "Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses After Fee Waiver [and/or Expense Reimbursement]," respectively. If the Fund provides this disclosure, also disclose the period for which the expense reimbursement or fee waiver arrangement is expected to continue, and briefly describe who can terminate the arrangement and under what circumstances.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 11 -Subsection table falsefalseFee Waiver and Expense Reimbursement475false0rr_NetExpensesOverAssetsrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truetruetrue0.00600.0060falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherrr:NonNegativePure4TypepureTotal Annual Fund Operating Expenses.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 11 -Subsection table falsefalseTotal Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses After Fee Waiver and Expense Reimbursement476true0rr_ExpenseExampleAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseEXAMPLE477false0rr_ExpenseExampleHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00EXAMPLEfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringHeading for Expense Example.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 4 -Subsection instructions falsefalseExpense Example [Heading]478false0rr_ExpenseExampleNarrativeTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00<p>The example below is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other funds. This example does not take into account customary brokerage commissions that you pay when purchasing or selling Shares of the Fund in the secondary market.</p><p>The example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then you retain the Shares or redeem all of your Shares at the end of those periods. The example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the Fund's net operating expenses remain at current levels until January 20, 2013. Additionally, the example assumes that the Fund imposes a 12b-1 fee of 0.25% per annum of the Fund's average daily net assets following January 31, 2012. The example assumes that First Trust's agreement to waive fees and/or pay the Fund's expenses to the extent necessary to prevent the operating expenses of the Fund (excluding interest expense, brokerage commissions and other trading expenses, taxes, and extraordinary expenses) from exceeding 0.60% of average daily net assets per year will be terminated following January 20, 2013. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:</p>falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringThe Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 1 -Subsection example falsefalseExpense Example Narrative [Text Block]479false0rr_ExpenseExampleYear01rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truefalsetrue6161falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryrr:NonNegativeMonetaryTypemonetaryThe Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then you redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return per year and that the Fund's operating expenses remained the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 4 -Subsection instructions falsefalse1 Year480false0rr_ExpenseExampleYear03rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truefalsetrue228228falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryrr:NonNegativeMonetaryTypemonetaryThe Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then you redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return per year and that the Fund's operating expenses remained the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 2 -Subsection example falsefalse3 Years481false0rr_ExpenseExampleYear05rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truefalsetrue478478falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryrr:NonNegativeMonetaryTypemonetaryThe Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then you redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return per year and that the Fund's operating expenses remained the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 2 -Subsection example falsefalse5 Years482false0rr_ExpenseExampleYear10rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truefalsetrue11941194falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryrr:NonNegativeMonetaryTypemonetaryThe Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then you redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return per year and that the Fund's operating expenses remained the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 2 -Subsection example falsefalse10 Years483true0ftetf1364608_PortfolioTurnoverAltAbstractftetf1364608falsenadurationPortfolio Turnover Alt.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringPortfolio Turnover Alt.falsefalsePORTFOLIO TURNOVER484false0rr_PortfolioTurnoverHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00PORTFOLIO TURNOVERfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringDisclose the portfolio turnover rate provided in response to Item 14(a) for the most recent fiscal year (or for such shorter period as the Fund has been in operation). Disclose the period for which the information is provided if less than a full fiscal year. A Fund that is a Money Market Fund may omit the portfolio turnover information required by this Item.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 5 -Subsection instructions falsefalsePortfolio Turnover [Heading]485false0rr_PortfolioTurnoverTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when Fund Shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During the most recent fiscal year, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was 24% of the average value of its portfolio.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringDisclose the portfolio turnover rate provided in response to Item 14(a) for the most recent fiscal year (or for such shorter period as the Fund has been in operation). Disclose the period for which the information is provided if less than a full fiscal year. A Fund that is a Money Market Fund may omit the portfolio turnover information required by this Item.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 3 -Subsection example falsefalsePortfolio Turnover [Text Block]486false0rr_PortfolioTurnoverRaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruefalse0.240.24falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureThis element represents the rate of portfolio turnover presented as a percentage (SEC Form N-1A 2006-09-14 A.3.example.3 Portfolio Turnover A.3.instructions.5 Portfolio Turnover).Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 3 -Subsection example falsefalsePortfolio Turnover, Rate487false0rr_StrategyHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIESfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringPrincipal investment strategies of the Fund. Summarize how the Fund intends to achieve its investment objectives by identifying the Fund's principal investment strategies (including the type or types of securities in which the Fund invests or will invest principally) and any policy to concentrate in securities of issuers in a particular industry or group of industries.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Subsection a falsefalseStrategy [Heading]488false0rr_StrategyNarrativeTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00<p>The Fund will normally invest at least 90% of its net assets in common stocks that comprise the Index or in depositary receipts that may include American Depositary Receipts ("ADRs"), Global Depositary Receipts ("GDRs"), European Depositary Receipts ("EDRs") or other depositary receipts (collectively, "Depositary Receipts") representing securities in the Index. First Trust will seek to match the performance of the Index (before the Fund's fees and expenses).</p><p>The Fund, using an "indexing" investment approach, attempts to replicate, before fees and expenses, the performance of the Index. First Trust seeks a correlation of 0.95 or better (before fees and expenses) between the Fund's performance and the performance of the Index; a figure of 1.00 would represent perfect correlation. First Trust will regularly monitor the Fund's tracking accuracy and will seek to maintain an appropriate correlation.</p><p>The Index is developed and owned by the International Securities Exchange,LLC(R) ("ISE" or "Index Provider"), in consultation with Standard and Poor's, a Division of The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc. ("S and P"), which calculates and maintains the Index. The Index provides a benchmark for investors interested in tracking public companies throughout the world that are active in the wind energy industry based on analysis of the products and services offered by those companies.</p>falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringPrincipal investment strategies of the Fund. Summarize how the Fund intends to achieve its investment objectives by identifying the Fund's principal investment strategies (including the type or types of securities in which the Fund invests or will invest principally) and any policy to concentrate in securities of issuers in a particular industry or group of industries.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Subsection a falsefalseStrategy Narrative [Text Block]489false0rr_StrategyPortfolioConcentrationrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The Fund will normally invest at least 90% of its net assets in common stocks that comprise the Index or in depositary receipts that may include American Depositary Receipts ("ADRs"), Global Depositary Receipts ("GDRs"), European Depositary Receipts ("EDRs") or other depositary receipts (collectively, "Depositary Receipts") representing securities in the Index. First Trust will seek to match the performance of the Index (before the Fund's fees and expenses).falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringPrincipal investment strategies of the Fund. Summarize how the Fund intends to achieve its investment objectives by identifying the Fund's principal investment strategies (including the type or types of securities in which the Fund invests or will invest principally) and any policy to concentrate in securities of issuers in a particular industry or group of industries.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Subsection a falsefalseStrategy Portfolio Concentration [Text]490false0rr_RiskHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00PRINCIPAL RISKSfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNarrative Risk Disclosure.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 1 -Subsection b falsefalseRisk [Heading]491false0rr_RiskNarrativeTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00<p>You could lose money by investing in the Fund. An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of a bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other governmental agency.</p><p>MARKET RISK. Market risk is the risk that a particular stock owned by the Fund, Shares of the Fund or stocks in general may fall in value. Shares are subject to market fluctuations caused by such factors as economic, political, regulatory or market developments, changes in interest rates and perceived trends in stockprices. Overall stock values could decline generally or could under perform other investments. Companies with smaller market capitalizations are generally subject to additional market risk.</p><p>NON-CORRELATION RISK. The Fund's return may not match the return of the Index for a number of reasons. For example, the Fund incurs operating expenses not applicable to the Index, and may incur costs in buying and selling securities, especially when rebalancing the Fund's portfolio holdings to reflect changes in the composition of the Index. In addition, the Fund's portfolio holdings may not exactly replicate the securities included in the Index or the ratios between the securities included in the Index.</p><p>REPLICATION MANAGEMENT RISK. The Fund is exposed to additional market risk due to its policy of investing principally in the securities included in the Index. As a result of this policy, securities held by the Fund will generally not be bought or sold in response to market fluctuations, and the securities may be issued by companies concentrated in a particular industry. Therefore, the Fund will generally not sell a stock because the stock's issuer is in financial trouble, unless that stock is removed or is anticipated to be removed from the Index.</p><p>NON-DIVERSIFICATION RISK. The Fund is classified as "non-diversified" under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act"). As a result, theFund is only limited as to the percentage of its assets which may be invested in the securities of any one issuer by the diversification requirements imposed bythe Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"). The Fund may invest a relatively high percentage of its assets in a limited number of issuers.</p><p>WIND ENERGY RISK. The Fund invests in wind energy companies. Wind energy companies can be significantly affected by obsolescence of existing technology,short product cycles, falling prices and profits, competition from new market entrants and general economic conditions. This can be significantly affected by fluctuations in energy prices and supply and demand of alternative energy fuels, energy conservation, the success of exploration projects and tax and other government regulations. Wind energy companies could be adversely affected by commodity price volatility, changes in exchange rates, imposition of import controls, increased competition, depletion of resources, technological developments and labor relations. In addition, the Fund may include companies affected by industry consolidation, domestic and international politics, excess capacity and consumer demand and spending trends. They may also be significantly affected by overall capital spending levels, economic cycles, delays in modernization, labor relations, government regulations and e-commerce initiatives.</p><p>UTILITIES SECTOR RISK. The Fund invests in the securities of companies in the utilities sector. General problems of issuers in the utilities sector include the imposition of rate caps, increased competition due to deregulation, the difficulty in obtaining an adequate return on invested capital or in financing large construction projects, the limitations on operations and increased costs and delays attributable to environmental considerations and the capital market's ability to absorb utility debt. In addition, taxes, government regulation, international politics, price and supply fluctuations, volatile interest rates and energy conservation may cause difficulties for utilities. All of such issuers have been experiencing certain of these problems in varying degrees.</p><p>LIQUIDITY RISK. Whether or not the equity securities in the Fund are listed on a securities exchange, the principal trading market for certain of the equity securities in the Fund may be in the over-the-counter market. As a result, the existence of a liquid trading market for the equity securities may depend on whether dealers will make a market in the equity securities. There can be no assurance that a market will be made for any of the equity securities, that any market for the equity securities will be maintained or that there will be sufficient liquidity of the equity securities in any markets made. The price at which the equity securities are held in the Fund will be adversely affected if trading markets for the equity securities are limited or absent.</p><p>NON-U.S. SECURITIES RISK. The Fund invests in securities of non-U.S. issuers. Such securities are subject to higher volatility than securities of domestic issuers due to possible adverse political, social or economic developments; restrictions on foreign investment or exchange of securities; lack of liquidity; excessive taxation; government seizure of assets; different legal or accounting standards; and less government supervision and regulation of exchanges inforeign countries.</p><p>CURRENCY RISK. Because the Fund's NAV is determined on the basis of U.S. dollars, you may lose money if the local currency of a foreign market depreciates against the U.S. dollar, even if the local currency value of the Fund's holdings goes up.</p>falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringNarrative Risk Disclosure. A Fund may, in responding to this Item, describe the types of investors for whom the Fund is intended or the types of investment goals that may be consistent with an investment in the Fund.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph i -Clause instruction -Subsection b falsefalseRisk Narrative [Text Block]492false0rr_RiskLoseMoneyrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00You could lose money by investing in the Fund.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringSummarize the principal risks of investing in the Fund, including the risks to which the Fund's portfolio as a whole is subject and the circumstances reasonably likely to affect adversely the Fund's net asset value, yield, and total return. Unless the Fund is a Money Market Fund, disclose that loss of money is a risk of investing in the Fund. A Fund may, in responding to this Item, describe the types of investors for whom the Fund is intended or the types of investment goals that may be consistent with an investment in the Fund.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph i -Subsection b falsefalseRisk Lose Money [Text]493false0rr_RiskNondiversifiedStatusrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00NON-DIVERSIFICATION RISK. The Fund is classified as "non-diversified" under theInvestment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act"). As a result, theFund is only limited as to the percentage of its assets which may be invested inthe securities of any one issuer by the diversification requirements imposed bythe Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"). The Fund may investa relatively high percentage of its assets in a limited number of issuers.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringIf applicable, state that the Fund is non-diversified, describe the effect of non-diversification (e.g., disclose that, compared with other funds, the Fund may invest a greater percentage of its assets in a particular issuer), and summarize the risks of investing in a non-diversified fund.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph iv -Subsection b falsefalseRisk Nondiversified Status [Text]494false0rr_RiskNotInsuredDepositoryInstitutionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of a bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other governmental agency.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringIf the Fund is advised by or sold through an insured depository institution, state that An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of the bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency. A Money Market Fund that is advised by or sold through an insured depository institution should combine the disclosure required by Items 2(c)(1)(ii) and (iii) in a single statement.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph iii -Subsection b falsefalseRisk Not Insured Depository Institution [Text]495true0ftetf1364608_FundPastPerformanceAbstractftetf1364608falsenadurationFund past performance.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringFund past performance.falsefalsePERFORMANCE496false0rr_BarChartAndPerformanceTableHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringRisk/Return Bar Chart and Table.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subsection b falsefalseBar Chart and Performance Table [Heading]497false0rr_PerformanceNarrativeTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00<p>The bar chart and table below illustrate the annual calendar year return of the Fund based on NAV for the past two years as well as the average annual Fund and Index returns for the one year and since inception periods ended December 31, 2010. The bar chart and table provide an indication of the risks of investing in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's performance from year-to-year and by showing how the Fund's average annual total returns based on NAV compare to those of the Index and two broad-based securities market indices. See "Total Return Information" for additional performance information regarding the Fund. The Fund's performance information is accessible on the Fund's website at www.ftportfolios.com.</p><p>Returns before taxes do not reflect the effects of any income or capital gains taxes. All after-tax returns are calculated using the historical highest individual federal marginal income tax rates and do not reflect the impact of any state or local tax. Returns after taxes on distributions reflect the taxed return on the payment of dividends and capital gains. Returns after taxes on distributions and sale of Shares assume you sold your Shares at period end, and, therefore, are also adjusted for any capital gains or losses incurred. Returns for the market indices do not include expenses, which are deducted from Fund returns, or taxes.</p><p>Your own actual after-tax returns will depend on your specific tax situation and may differ from what is shown here. After-tax returns are not relevant to investors who hold Fund Shares in tax-deferred accounts such as individual retirement accounts (IRAs) or employee-sponsored retirement plans.</p>falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringRisk/Return Bar Chart and Table.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subsection b falsefalsePerformance Narrative [Text Block]498false0rr_PerformanceInformationIllustratesVariabilityOfReturnsrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The bar chart and table below illustrate the annual calendar year return of the Fund based on NAV for the past two years as well as the average annual Fund and Index returns for the one year and since inception periods ended December 31, 2010.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringInclude the bar chart and table required by paragraphs (b)(2)(ii) and (iii) of this section. Provide a brief explanation of how the information illustrates the variability of the Fund's returns (e.g., by stating that the information provides some indication of the risks of investing in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's performance from year to year and by showing how the Fund's average annual returns for 1, 5, and 10 years compare with those of a broad measure of market performance). Provide a statement to the effect that the Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) is not necessarily an indication of how the Fund will perform in the future.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph i -Subsection b falsefalsePerformance Information Illustrates Variability of Returns [Text]499false0rr_PerformanceAdditionalMarketIndexrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The bar chart and table provide an indication of the risks of investing in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's performance from year-to-year and by showing how the Fund's average annual total returns based on NAV compare to those of the Index and two broad-based securities market indices.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringInclude the bar chart and table required by paragraphs (b)(2)(ii) and (iii) of this section. Provide a brief explanation of how the information illustrates the variability of the Fund's returns (e.g., by stating that the information provides some indication of the risks of investing in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's performance from year to year and by showing how the Fund's average annual returns for 1, 5, and 10 years compare with those of a broad measure of market performance). Provide a statement to the effect that the Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) is not necessarily an indication of how the Fund will perform in the future.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph i -Subsection b falsefalsePerformance Additional Market Index [Text]500false0rr_PerformanceTableClosingTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The Fund's performance information is accessible on the Fund's website at www.ftportfolios.com.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a table showing the Fund's (A) average annual total return; (B) average annual total return (after taxes on distributions); and (C) average annual total return (after taxes on distributions and redemption). A Money Market Fund should show only the returns described in clause (A) of the preceding sentence. All returns should be shown for 1-, 5-, and 10- calendar year periods ending on the date of the most recently completed calendar year (or for the life of the Fund, if shorter), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. The table also shouldshow the returns of an appropriate broadbased securities market index as defined in Instruction 5 to Item 22(b)(7) for the same periods. A Fund that has been in existence for more than 10 years also may include returns for the life of the Fund. A Money Market Fund may provide the Fund's 7-day yield ending on the date of the most recent calendar year or disclose a toll-free (or collect) telephone number that investors can use to obtain the Fund's current 7-day yield. For a Fund (other than a Money Market Fund or a Fund described in General Instruction C.3.(d)(iii)), provide the information in the following table with the specified captions AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS (For the periods ended December 31, _____)Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Subsection b falsefalsePerformance Table Closing [Text Block]501false0rr_PerformanceAvailabilityWebSiteAddressrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00www.ftportfolios.comfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringIf applicable, include a statement explaining that updated performance information is available and providing a Website address and/or toll-free (or collect) telephone number where the updated information may be obtained.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph i -Subsection b falsefalsePerformance Availability Website Address [Text]502false0rr_PerformanceTableUsesHighestFederalRaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00All after-tax returns are calculated using the historical highest individual federal marginal income tax rates and do not reflect the impact of any state or local tax.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringProvide a brief explanation that after-tax returns are calculated using the historical highest individual federal marginal income tax rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Subsection b falsefalsePerformance Table Uses Highest Federal Rate503false0rr_PerformanceTableNotRelevantToTaxDeferredrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00After-tax returns are not relevant to investors who hold Fund Shares in tax-deferred accounts such as individual retirement accounts (IRAs) or employee-sponsored retirement plans.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringProvide a brief explanation that the actual after-tax returns depend on an investor's tax situation and may differ from those shown, and after-tax returns shown are not relevant to investors who hold their Fund shares through tax-deferred arrangements, such as 401(k) plans or individual retirement accounts.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iv -Clause B -Subsection b falsefalsePerformance Table Not Relevant to Tax Deferred504true0rr_BarChartTableAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS505false0rr_AnnualReturnCaptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse00FIRST TRUST ISE GLOBAL WIND ENERGY INDEX FUND--TOTAL RETURNfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart. Provide annual total returns beginning with the earliest calendar year. Calculate annual returns using the Instructions to Item 8(a), except that the calculations should be based on calendar years. If a Fund's shares are sold subject to a sales load or account fees, state that sales loads or account fees are not reflected in the bar chart and that, if these amounts were reflected, returns would be less than those shown. When a Multiple Class Fund offers more than one Class in the prospectus, provide annual total returns in the bar chart for only one of those Classes. The Fund can select which Class to include (e.g., the oldest Class, the Class with the greatest net assets). When a Multiple Class Fund offering one or more Classes offers a new Class in a prospectus that does not offer the shares of any other Class, include the bar chart with annual total returns for any other existing Class for the first year that the Class is offered. Explain in a footnote that the returns are for a Class that is not offered in the prospectus that would have substantially similar annual returns because the shares are invested in the same portfolio of securities and the annual returns would differ only to the extent that the Classes do not have the same expenses. Include return information for the other Class reflected in the bar chart in the performance table.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph instructions -Clause 3 -Exhibit b -Subsection b falsefalseAnnual Return Caption [Text]506false0rr_AnnualReturn2009rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruefalse0.26010.2601falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart. When a Multiple Class Fund offers more than one Class in the prospectus, provide annual total returns in the bar chart for only one of those Classes. The Fund can select which Class to include (e.g., the oldest Class, the Class with the greatest net assets).Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph instructions -Clause 3 -Exhibit a -Subsection b falsefalseAnnual Return 2009507false0rr_AnnualReturn2010rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruefalse-0.3142-0.3142falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart. When a Multiple Class Fund offers more than one Class in the prospectus, provide annual total returns in the bar chart for only one of those Classes. The Fund can select which Class to include (e.g., the oldest Class, the Class with the greatest net assets).Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph ii -Subsection b falsefalseAnnual Return 2010508false0rr_BarChartClosingTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00During the two-year period ended December 31, 2010, the Fund's highest and lowest calendar quarter returns were 41.69% and -25.75%, respectively, for the quarters ended June 30, 2009 and June 30, 2010. The Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) is not necessarily an indication of how the Fund will perform in the future.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph ii -Subsection b falsefalseBar Chart Closing [Text Block]509false0rr_HighestQuarterlyReturnLabelrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00highest calendar quarter returnsfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph ii -Subsection b falsefalseHighest Quarterly Return, Label510false0rr_BarChartHighestQuarterlyReturnDaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse002009-06-30falsefalsetruefalsefalseOtherxbrli:dateItemTypedateIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph ii -Subsection b falsefalseHighest Quarterly Return, Date511false0rr_BarChartHighestQuarterlyReturnrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruefalse0.41690.4169falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph ii -Subsection b falsefalseHighest Quarterly Return512false0rr_LowestQuarterlyReturnLabelrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00lowest calendar quarter returnsfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph ii -Subsection b falsefalseLowest Quarterly Return, Label513false0rr_BarChartLowestQuarterlyReturnDaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse002010-06-30falsefalsetruefalsefalseOtherxbrli:dateItemTypedateIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph ii -Subsection b falsefalseLowest Quarterly Return, Date514false0rr_BarChartLowestQuarterlyReturnrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruefalse-0.2575-0.2575falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph ii -Subsection b falsefalseLowest Quarterly Return515false0rr_PerformancePastDoesNotIndicateFuturerrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) is not necessarily an indication of how the Fund will perform in the future.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringInclude the bar chart and table required by paragraphs (b)(2)(ii) and (iii) of this section. Provide a brief explanation of how the information illustrates the variability of the Fund's returns (e.g., by stating that the information provides some indication of the risks of investing in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's performance from year to year and by showing how the Fund's average annual returns for 1, 5, and 10 years compare with those of a broad measure of market performance). Provide a statement to the effect that the Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) is not necessarily an indication of how the Fund will perform in the future.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph i -Subsection b falsefalsePerformance Past Does Not Indicate Future [Text]516true0rr_AverageAnnualReturnAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsetruefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseAVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS517false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnCaptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse00AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS FOR THE PERIODS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2010falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringThis item represents Average Anuual Total Returns. If a Multiple Class Fund offers a Class in the prospectus that converts into another Class after a stated period, compute average annual total returns in the table by using the returns of the other Class for the period after conversion.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph instructions -Clause 5 -Subsection b falsefalseCaption518false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://ftportfolios.com/role/riskreturndetaildata1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse18falsefalsetruefalse{dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxis} : First Trust ISE Global Wind Energy Index Fund [Member] {rr_PerformanceMeasureAxis} : Return Before Taxes [Member] 2/1/2010 - 1/31/2011 TwelveMonthsEnded_31Jan2011_S000022933_Member_Return_Before_Taxes_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0001364608duration2010-02-01T00:00:002011-01-31T00:00:00falsefalseFirst Trust ISE Global Wind Energy Index Fund [Member]dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiftetf1364608_S000022933Memberdei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseReturn Before Taxes [Member]rr_PerformanceMeasureAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiftetf1364608_ReturnBeforeTaxesMemberrr_PerformanceMeasureAxisexplicitMemberPureStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseFirst Trust ISE Global Wind Energy Index Fund [Member] | Return Before Taxes [Member]527true0rr_AverageAnnualReturnAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsetruefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseAVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS528false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnLabelrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse00Return Before TaxesfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringThis item represents Average Anuual Total Returns. If a Multiple Class Fund offers a Class in the prospectus that converts into another Class after a stated period, compute average annual total returns in the table by using the returns of the other Class for the period after conversion.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseLabel529false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue-0.3142-0.3142falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalse1 Year530false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnSinceInceptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue-0.3355-0.3355falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseSince Inception531false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnInceptionDaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse002008-06-16falsefalsetruefalsefalseOtherxbrli:dateItemTypedateReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph instructions -Clause 4 -Subsection b falsefalseInception Date532false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://ftportfolios.com/role/riskreturndetaildata1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse19falsefalsetruefalse{dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxis} : First Trust ISE Global Wind Energy Index Fund [Member] {rr_PerformanceMeasureAxis} : Return After Taxes on Distributions 2/1/2010 - 1/31/2011 TwelveMonthsEnded_31Jan2011_S000022933_Member_After_Taxes_On_Distributions_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0001364608duration2010-02-01T00:00:002011-01-31T00:00:00falsefalseFirst Trust ISE Global Wind Energy Index Fund [Member]dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiftetf1364608_S000022933Memberdei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseReturn After Taxes on Distributionsrr_PerformanceMeasureAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldirr_AfterTaxesOnDistributionsMemberrr_PerformanceMeasureAxisexplicitMemberPureStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseFirst Trust ISE Global Wind Energy Index Fund [Member] | Return After Taxes on Distributions541true0rr_AverageAnnualReturnAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsetruefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseAVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS542false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnLabelrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse00Return After Taxes on DistributionsfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringThis item represents Average Anuual Total Returns. If a Multiple Class Fund offers a Class in the prospectus that converts into another Class after a stated period, compute average annual total returns in the table by using the returns of the other Class for the period after conversion.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseLabel543false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue-0.3164-0.3164falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalse1 Year544false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnSinceInceptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue-0.3386-0.3386falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseSince Inception545false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnInceptionDaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse002008-06-16falsefalsetruefalsefalseOtherxbrli:dateItemTypedateReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph instructions -Clause 4 -Subsection b falsefalseInception Date546false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://ftportfolios.com/role/riskreturndetaildata1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse20falsefalsetruefalse{dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxis} : First Trust ISE Global Wind Energy Index Fund [Member] {rr_PerformanceMeasureAxis} : Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Shares 2/1/2010 - 1/31/2011 TwelveMonthsEnded_31Jan2011_S000022933_Member_After_Taxes_On_Distributions_And_Sales_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0001364608duration2010-02-01T00:00:002011-01-31T00:00:00falsefalseFirst Trust ISE Global Wind Energy Index Fund [Member]dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiftetf1364608_S000022933Memberdei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseReturn After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Sharesrr_PerformanceMeasureAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldirr_AfterTaxesOnDistributionsAndSalesMemberrr_PerformanceMeasureAxisexplicitMemberPureStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseFirst Trust ISE Global Wind Energy Index Fund [Member] | Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Shares555true0rr_AverageAnnualReturnAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsetruefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseAVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS556false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnLabelrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse00Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of SharesfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringThis item represents Average Anuual Total Returns. If a Multiple Class Fund offers a Class in the prospectus that converts into another Class after a stated period, compute average annual total returns in the table by using the returns of the other Class for the period after conversion.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseLabel557false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue-0.2043-0.2043falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalse1 Year558false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnSinceInceptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue-0.2703-0.2703falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseSince Inception559false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnInceptionDaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse002008-06-16falsefalsetruefalsefalseOtherxbrli:dateItemTypedateReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph instructions -Clause 4 -Subsection b falsefalseInception Date560false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://ftportfolios.com/role/riskreturndetaildata1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse21falsefalseUSDtruefalse{dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxis} : First Trust NASDAQ (R) Clean Edge (R) Smart Grid Infrastructure Index Fund [Member] 2/1/2010 - 1/31/2011 USD ($) $TwelveMonthsEnded_31Jan2011_S000026919_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0001364608duration2010-02-01T00:00:002011-01-31T00:00:00falsefalseFirst Trust NASDAQ (R) Clean Edge (R) Smart Grid Infrastructure Index Fund [Member]dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiftetf1364608_S000026919Memberdei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisexplicitMemberPureStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0USDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseFirst Trust NASDAQ (R) Clean Edge (R) Smart Grid Infrastructure Index Fund [Member]561true0rr_RiskReturnAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseRisk/Return:562false0dei_TradingSymboldeifalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00GRIDfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:normalizedStringItemTypenormalizedstringTrading symbol of an instrument as listed on an exchange.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseTrading Symbol563false0rr_RiskReturnHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00SUMMARY INFORMATION First Trust NASDAQ(R) Clean Edge(R) Smart Grid Infrastructure Index FundfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringRisk/Return Summary Investment Objectives/Goals Include the following information, in plain English under rule 421(d) under the Securities Act, in the order and subject matter indicatedReference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 2 falsefalseRisk/Return [Heading]564false0rr_ObjectiveHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00INVESTMENT OBJECTIVEfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringInvestment Objectives/Goals. Disclose the Fund's investment objectives or goals. A Fund also may identify its type or category (e.g., that it is a Money Market Fund or a balanced fund).Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 2 -Subsection a falsefalseObjective [Heading]565false0rr_ObjectivePrimaryTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The First Trust NASDAQ(R) Clean Edge(R) Smart Grid Infrastructure Index Fund (the "Fund") seeks investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield (before the Fund's fees and expenses) of an equity index called the NASDAQ OMX(R) Clean Edge(R) Smart Grid Infrastructure Index(SM) (the "Index").falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringInvestment Objectives/Goals. Disclose the Fund's investment objectives or goals. A Fund also may identify its type or category (e.g., that it is a Money Market Fund or a balanced fund).Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 2 -Subsection a falsefalseObjective, Primary [Text Block]566true0ftetf1364608_FundFeesAndExpensesAbstractftetf1364608falsenadurationFund fees and expenses.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringFund fees and expenses.falsefalseFEES AND EXPENSES OF THE FUND567false0rr_ExpenseHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00FEES AND EXPENSES OF THE FUNDfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringRisk/Return Summary Fee Table Includes the following information, in plain English under rule 421(d) under the Securities Act, after Item 2 Fees and expenses of the Fund This table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold shared of the Fund. You may qualify for sales charge discounts if you and your family invest, or agree to invest in the future, at least $[_____] in [name of fund family] funds. Shareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment) Example This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds. The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then you redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return per year and that the Fund's operating expenses remained the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be You would pay the following expenses if you did not redeem your shares The Example does not reflect sales charges (loads) on reinvested dividends [and other distributions]. If these sales charges (loads) were included, your costs would be higher. Portfolio Turnover The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover may indicate higher transaction costs. These costs, which are not reflected in annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During the most recent fiscal year, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was __% of the average value of its whole portfolio. Instructions. A.3.instructions.6 New Funds. For purposes of this Item, a "New Fund" is a Fund that does not include in Form N-1A financial statements reporting operating results or that includes financial statements for the Fund's initial fiscal year reporting operating results for a period of 6 months or less. The following Instructions apply to New Funds.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph d -Subsection instructions falsefalseExpense [Heading]568false0rr_ExpenseNarrativeTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The following table describes the fees and expenses you may pay if you buy and hold Shares of the Fund. Investors purchasing and selling Shares may be subject to costs (including customary brokerage commissions) charged by their broker.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringThis table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold shared of the Fund. You may qualify for sales charge discounts if you and your family invest, or agree to invest in the future, at least $[_____] in [name of fund family] funds. Include the narrative explanations in the order indicated. A Fund may modify the narrative explanations if the explanation contains comparable information to that shown.The narrative explanation regarding sales charge discounts is only required by a Fund that offers such discounts and should specify the minimum level of investment required to qualify for a discount. Modify the narrative explanation to state that Fund shares are sold on a national securities exchange at the end of the time periods indicated, and that brokerage commissions for buying and selling Fund shares through a broker are not reflected.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph b -Subsection instructions falsefalseExpense Narrative [Text Block]569true0rr_ShareholderFeesAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseSHAREHOLDER FEES570false0rr_ShareholderFeesCaptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00SHAREHOLDER FEES (fees paid directly from your investment)falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringShareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment).Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subsection table falsefalseShareholder Fees Caption [Text]571false0rr_MaximumSalesChargeImposedOnPurchasesOverOfferingPricerrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truetruetrue0.00000.0000falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherrr:NonNegativePure4TypepureMaximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load) (as a percentage of ____) A.3.instructions.2.a.i "Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load)" includes the maximum total deferred sales charge (load) payable upon redemption, in installments, or both, expressed as a percentage of the amount or amounts stated in response to Item 7(a), except that, for a sales charge (load) based on net asset value at the time of purchase, show the sales charge (load) as a percentage of the offering price at the time of purchase. A Fund may include in a footnote to the table, if applicable, a tabular presentation showing the amount of deferred sales charges (loads) over time or a narrative explanation of the sales charges (loads) (e.g., __% in the first year after purchase, declining to __% in the __ year and eliminated thereafter). A.3.instructions.2.a.ii If more than one type of sales charge (load) is imposed (e.g., a deferred sales charge (load) and a front-end sales charge (load)), the first caption in the table should read "Maximum Sales Charge (Load)" and show the maximum cumulative percentage. Show the percentage amounts and the terms of each sales charge (load) comprising that figure on separate lines below.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 1 -Subsection table falsefalseMaximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases (as a percentage of offering price)572true0rr_OperatingExpensesAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES573false0rr_OperatingExpensesCaptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES (Expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringAnnual Fund Operating Expenses (ongoing expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 7 -Subsection table falsefalseOperating Expenses Caption [Text]574false0rr_ManagementFeesOverAssetsrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truetruetrue0.00400.0040falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherrr:NonNegativePure4TypepureManagement Fees include investment advisory fees (including any fees based on the Fund's performance), any other management fees payable to the investment adviser or its affiliates, and administrative fees payable to the investment adviser or its affiliates that are not included as "Other Expenses."Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 3 -Subparagraph a -Subsection instructions falsefalseManagement Fees575false0rr_DistributionAndService12b1FeesOverAssetsrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truetruetrue0.00000.0000falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherrr:NonNegativePure4TypepureDistribution [and/or Service] (12b-1) Fees" include all distribution or other expenses incurred during the most recent fiscal year under a plan adopted pursuant to rule 12b-1 [17 CFR 270.12b-1]. Under an appropriate caption or a subcaption of "Other Expenses," disclose the amount of any distribution or similar expenses deducted from the Fund's assets other than pursuant to a rule 12b-1 plan.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 9 -Subsection table falsefalseDistribution and Service (12b-1) Fees576false0rr_OtherExpensesOverAssetsrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsetotallabel1truetruetrue0.00590.0059falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherrr:NonNegativePure4Typepure"Other Expenses" include all expenses not otherwise disclosed in the table that are deducted from the Fund's assets or charged to all shareholder accounts. The amount of expenses deducted from the Fund's assets are the amounts shown as expenses in the Fund's statement of operations (including increases resulting from complying with paragraph 2(g) of rule 6-07 of Regulation S-X [17 CFR 210.6-07]). "Other Expenses" do not include extraordinary expenses as determined under generally accepted accounting principles (see Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 30). If extraordinary expenses were incurred that materially affected the Fund's "Other Expenses," disclose in a footnote to the table what "Other Expenses" would have been had the extraordinary expenses been included.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 3 -Subparagraph c -Clause i -Subsection instructions truefalseOther Expenses577false0rr_ExpensesOverAssetsrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truetruetrue0.00990.0099falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherrr:NonNegativePure4TypepureTotal Annual Fund Operating Expenses. If the Fund is a Feeder Fund, reflect the aggregate expenses of the Feeder Fund and the Master Fund in a single fee table using the captions provided. In a footnote to the fee table, state that the table and Example reflect the expenses of both the Feeder and Master Funds. If the prospectus offers more than one Class of a Multiple Class Fund or more than one Feeder Fund that invests in the same Master Fund, provide a separate response for each Class or Feeder Fund. Base the percentages of "Annual Fund Operating Expenses" on amounts incurred during the Fund's most recent fiscal year, but include in expenses amounts that would have been incurred absent expense reimbursement or fee waiver arrangements. If the Fund has changed its fiscal year and, as a result, the most recent fiscal year is less than three months, use the fiscal year prior to the most recent fiscal year as the basis for determining "Annual Fund Operating Expenses."Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 3 -Subparagraph d -Subsection instructions falsefalseTotal Annual Fund Operating Expenses578false0rr_FeeWaiverOrReimbursementOverAssetsrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsetruenegated1truetruetrue0.00290.0029[5]falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherrr:NonPositivePure4TypepureTotal Annual Fund Operating Expenses. If there were expense reimbursement or fee waiver arrangements that reduced any Fund operating expenses and will continue to reduce them for no less than one year from the effective date of the Fund's registration statement, a Fund may add two captions to the table one caption showing the amount of the expense reimbursement or fee waiver, and a second caption showing the Fund's net expenses after subtracting the fee reimbursement or expense waiver from the total fund operating expenses. The Fund should place these additional captions directly below the "Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses" caption of the table and should use appropriate descriptive captions, such as "Fee Waiver [and/or Expense Reimbursement]" and "Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses After Fee Waiver [and/or Expense Reimbursement]," respectively. If the Fund provides this disclosure, also disclose the period for which the expense reimbursement or fee waiver arrangement is expected to continue, and briefly describe who can terminate the arrangement and under what circumstances.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 11 -Subsection table falsefalseFee Waiver and Expense Reimbursement579false0rr_NetExpensesOverAssetsrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truetruetrue0.00700.0070falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherrr:NonNegativePure4TypepureTotal Annual Fund Operating Expenses.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 11 -Subsection table falsefalseTotal Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses After Fee Waiver and Expense Reimbursement580true0rr_ExpenseExampleAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseEXAMPLE581false0rr_ExpenseExampleHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00EXAMPLEfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringHeading for Expense Example.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 4 -Subsection instructions falsefalseExpense Example [Heading]582false0rr_ExpenseExampleNarrativeTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00<p>The example below is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other funds. This example does not take into account customary brokerage commissions that you pay when purchasing or selling Shares of the Fund in the secondary market.</p><p>The example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then you retain the Shares or redeem all of your Shares at the end of those periods. The example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the Fund's net operating expenses remain at current levels until January 20, 2013. Additionally, the example assumes that the Fund imposes a 12b-1 fee of 0.25% per annum of the Fund's average daily net assets following January 31, 2012. The example assumes that First Trust's agreement to waive fees and/or pay the Fund's expenses to the extent necessary to prevent the operating expenses of the Fund (excluding interest expense, brokerage commissions and other trading expenses, taxes, and extraordinary expenses) from exceeding 0.70% of average daily net assets per year will be terminated following January 20, 2013. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:</p>falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringThe Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 1 -Subsection example falsefalseExpense Example Narrative [Text Block]583false0rr_ExpenseExampleYear01rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truefalsetrue7272falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryrr:NonNegativeMonetaryTypemonetaryThe Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then you redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return per year and that the Fund's operating expenses remained the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 4 -Subsection instructions falsefalse1 Year584false0rr_ExpenseExampleYear03rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truefalsetrue265265falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryrr:NonNegativeMonetaryTypemonetaryThe Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then you redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return per year and that the Fund's operating expenses remained the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 2 -Subsection example falsefalse3 Years585false0rr_ExpenseExampleYear05rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truefalsetrue556556falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryrr:NonNegativeMonetaryTypemonetaryThe Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then you redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return per year and that the Fund's operating expenses remained the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 2 -Subsection example falsefalse5 Years586false0rr_ExpenseExampleYear10rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truefalsetrue13851385falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryrr:NonNegativeMonetaryTypemonetaryThe Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then you redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return per year and that the Fund's operating expenses remained the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 2 -Subsection example falsefalse10 Years587true0ftetf1364608_PortfolioTurnoverAltAbstractftetf1364608falsenadurationPortfolio Turnover Alt.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringPortfolio Turnover Alt.falsefalsePORTFOLIO TURNOVER588false0rr_PortfolioTurnoverHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00PORTFOLIO TURNOVERfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringDisclose the portfolio turnover rate provided in response to Item 14(a) for the most recent fiscal year (or for such shorter period as the Fund has been in operation). Disclose the period for which the information is provided if less than a full fiscal year. A Fund that is a Money Market Fund may omit the portfolio turnover information required by this Item.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 5 -Subsection instructions falsefalsePortfolio Turnover [Heading]589false0rr_PortfolioTurnoverTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when Fund Shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During the fiscal period November 16, 2009 (inception) through September 30, 2010, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was 50% of the average value of its portfolio.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringDisclose the portfolio turnover rate provided in response to Item 14(a) for the most recent fiscal year (or for such shorter period as the Fund has been in operation). Disclose the period for which the information is provided if less than a full fiscal year. A Fund that is a Money Market Fund may omit the portfolio turnover information required by this Item.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 3 -Subsection example falsefalsePortfolio Turnover [Text Block]590false0rr_PortfolioTurnoverRaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruefalse0.50.5falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureThis element represents the rate of portfolio turnover presented as a percentage (SEC Form N-1A 2006-09-14 A.3.example.3 Portfolio Turnover A.3.instructions.5 Portfolio Turnover).Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 3 -Subsection example falsefalsePortfolio Turnover, Rate591false0rr_StrategyHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIESfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringPrincipal investment strategies of the Fund. Summarize how the Fund intends to achieve its investment objectives by identifying the Fund's principal investment strategies (including the type or types of securities in which the Fund invests or will invest principally) and any policy to concentrate in securities of issuers in a particular industry or group of industries.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Subsection a falsefalseStrategy [Heading]592false0rr_StrategyNarrativeTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00<p>The Fund will normally invest at least 90% of its net assets in common stocks that comprise the Index or in depositary receipts that may include American Depositary Receipts ("ADRs"), Global Depositary Receipts ("GDRs"), European Depositary Receipts ("EDRs") or other depositary receipts (collectively "Depositary Receipts") representing securities in the Index. First Trust will seek to match the performance of the Index (before the Fund's fees and expenses).</p><p>The Fund, using an "indexing" investment approach, attempts to replicate, before fees and expenses, the performance of the Index. First Trust seeks a correlation of 0.95 or better (before fees and expenses) between the Fund's performance and the performance of the Index; a figure of 1.00 would represent perfect correlation. First Trust will regularly monitor the Fund's tracking accuracy and will seek to maintain an appropriate correlation.</p><p>The Index is designed to act as a transparent and liquid benchmark for the grid and electric energy infrastructure sector. The Index includes companies that are primarily engaged and involved in electric grid, electric meters and devices, networks, energy storage and management, and enabling software used by the smart grid infrastructure sector.</p><p>Each March and September, Clean Edge, Inc. ("Clean Edge") provides NASDAQ OMX Group, Inc. ("NASDAQ OMX") with a list of companies to be included in the Index. In order to be eligible for inclusion in the Index, the issuer of the security must be classified by Clean Edge as a smart grid, electric infrastructure and/or other grid-related activities company. Clean Edge then screens the companies identified as such using the eligibility criteria described under "Index Information." The list of remaining companies is provided to NASDAQ OMX, which then compiles the Index. NASDAQ OMX determines the respective market-capitalization weighting of each of the securities included in the Index (the "Index Securities") and balances the Index accordingly each March, June, September and December.</p><p>Clean Edge, founded in 2000, is the world's first research and publishing firm devoted to the clean-tech sector. The company, via its publications, events, and online services, helps companies, investors, and governments understand and profit from clean technologies. NASDAQ OMX is the world's largest exchange company with trading, technology and public company service capability spanning six continents.</p>falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringPrincipal investment strategies of the Fund. Summarize how the Fund intends to achieve its investment objectives by identifying the Fund's principal investment strategies (including the type or types of securities in which the Fund invests or will invest principally) and any policy to concentrate in securities of issuers in a particular industry or group of industries.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Subsection a falsefalseStrategy Narrative [Text Block]593false0rr_StrategyPortfolioConcentrationrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The Fund will normally invest at least 90% of its net assets in common stocks that comprise the Index or in depositary receipts that may include American Depositary Receipts ("ADRs"), Global Depositary Receipts ("GDRs"), European Depositary Receipts ("EDRs") or other depositary receipts (collectively "Depositary Receipts") representing securities in the Index. First Trust will seek to match the performance of the Index (before the Fund's fees and expenses).falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringPrincipal investment strategies of the Fund. Summarize how the Fund intends to achieve its investment objectives by identifying the Fund's principal investment strategies (including the type or types of securities in which the Fund invests or will invest principally) and any policy to concentrate in securities of issuers in a particular industry or group of industries.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Subsection a falsefalseStrategy Portfolio Concentration [Text]594false0rr_RiskHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00PRINCIPAL RISKSfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNarrative Risk Disclosure.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 1 -Subsection b falsefalseRisk [Heading]595false0rr_RiskNarrativeTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00<p>You could lose money by investing in the Fund. An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of a bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other governmental agency.</p><p>MARKET RISK. Market risk is the risk that a particular stock owned by the Fund, Shares of the Fund or stocks in general may fall in value. Shares are subject to market fluctuations caused by such factors as economic, political, regulatory or market developments, changes in interest rates and perceived trends in stock prices. Overall stock values could decline generally or could underperform other investments. Companies with smaller market capitalizations are generally subject to additional market risk.</p><p>NON-CORRELATION RISK. The Fund's return may not match the return of the Index for a number of reasons. For example, the Fund incurs operating expenses not applicable to the Index, and may incur costs in buying and selling securities, especially when rebalancing the Fund's portfolio holdings to reflect changes in the composition of the Index. In addition, the Fund's portfolio holdings may not exactly replicate the securities included in the Index or the ratios between the securities included in the Index.</p><p>REPLICATION MANAGEMENT RISK. The Fund is exposed to additional market risk due to its policy of investing principally in the securities included in the Index. As a result of this policy, securities held by the Fund will generally not be bought or sold in response to market fluctuations, and the securities may be issued by companies concentrated in a particular industry. Therefore, the Fund will generally not sell a stock because the stock's issuer is in financial trouble, unless that stock is removed or is anticipated to be removed from the Index.</p><p>NON-DIVERSIFICATION RISK. The Fund is classified as "non-diversified" under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act"). As a result, the Fund is only limited as to the percentage of its assets which may be invested in the securities of any one issuer by the diversification requirements imposed by the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"). The Fund may invest a relatively high percentage of its assets in a limited number of issuers.</p><p>SMART GRID RISK. The Fund will be concentrated in smart grid companies. Smart grid companies can be negatively affected by high costs of research and development, high capital requirements for implementation, uncertain government regulations and input, limited ability of industrial and utility companies to quickly transform their businesses in order to implement new technologies and uncertainty of the ability of new products to penetrate established industries. Smart grid companies are often reliant upon contracts with government and commercial customers which may expire from time to time. Such companies are also affected by the general business conditions within the industrial, utility, information technology and telecommunications sectors and the overall global economy.</p><p>NON-U.S. SECURITIES RISK. The Fund invests in securities of non-U.S. issuers. Such securities are subject to higher volatility than securities of domestic issuers due to possible adverse political, social or economic developments; restrictions on foreign investment or exchange of securities; lack of liquidity; excessive taxation; government seizure of assets; different legal or accounting standards; and less government supervision and regulation of exchanges in foreign countries.</p><p>CURRENCY RISK. Because the Fund's NAV is determined on the basis of U.S.dollars, you may lose money if the local currency of a foreign market depreciates against the U.S. dollar, even if the local currency value of a Fund's holdings goes up.</p>falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringNarrative Risk Disclosure. A Fund may, in responding to this Item, describe the types of investors for whom the Fund is intended or the types of investment goals that may be consistent with an investment in the Fund.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph i -Clause instruction -Subsection b falsefalseRisk Narrative [Text Block]596false0rr_RiskLoseMoneyrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00You could lose money by investing in the Fund.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringSummarize the principal risks of investing in the Fund, including the risks to which the Fund's portfolio as a whole is subject and the circumstances reasonably likely to affect adversely the Fund's net asset value, yield, and total return. Unless the Fund is a Money Market Fund, disclose that loss of money is a risk of investing in the Fund. A Fund may, in responding to this Item, describe the types of investors for whom the Fund is intended or the types of investment goals that may be consistent with an investment in the Fund.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph i -Subsection b falsefalseRisk Lose Money [Text]597false0rr_RiskNondiversifiedStatusrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00NON-DIVERSIFICATION RISK. The Fund is classified as "non-diversified" under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act"). As a result, the Fund is only limited as to the percentage of its assets which may be invested in the securities of any one issuer by the diversification requirements imposed by the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"). The Fund may invest a relatively high percentage of its assets in a limited number of issuers.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringIf applicable, state that the Fund is non-diversified, describe the effect of non-diversification (e.g., disclose that, compared with other funds, the Fund may invest a greater percentage of its assets in a particular issuer), and summarize the risks of investing in a non-diversified fund.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph iv -Subsection b falsefalseRisk Nondiversified Status [Text]598false0rr_RiskNotInsuredDepositoryInstitutionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of a bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other governmental agency.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringIf the Fund is advised by or sold through an insured depository institution, state that An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of the bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency. A Money Market Fund that is advised by or sold through an insured depository institution should combine the disclosure required by Items 2(c)(1)(ii) and (iii) in a single statement.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph iii -Subsection b falsefalseRisk Not Insured Depository Institution [Text]599true0ftetf1364608_FundPastPerformanceAbstractftetf1364608falsenadurationFund past performance.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringFund past performance.falsefalsePERFORMANCE600false0rr_BarChartAndPerformanceTableHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringRisk/Return Bar Chart and Table.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subsection b falsefalseBar Chart and Performance Table [Heading]601false0rr_PerformanceNarrativeTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00<p>The bar chart and table below illustrate the annual calendar year returns of the Fund based on NAV for the past year as well as the average annual Fund and Index returns for the one year and since inception periods ended December 31, 2010. The bar chart and table provide an indication of the risks of investing in the Fund by showing how the Fund's average annual total returns based on NAV compare to those of the Index and two broad-based securities market indices. See "Total Return Information" for additional performance information regarding the Fund. The Fund's performance information is accessible on the Fund's website at www.ftportfolios.com.</p><p>Returns before taxes do not reflect the effects of any income or capital gains taxes. All after-tax returns are calculated using the historical highest individual federal marginal income tax rates and do not reflect the impact of any state or local tax. Returns after taxes on distributions reflect the taxed return on the payment of dividends and capital gains. Returns after taxes on distributions and sale of Shares assume you sold your Shares at period end, and, therefore, are also adjusted for any capital gains or losses incurred. Returns for the market indices do not include expenses, which are deducted from Fund returns, or taxes.</p><p>Your own actual after-tax returns will depend on your specific tax situation and may differ from what is shown here. After-tax returns are not relevant to investors who hold Fund Shares in tax-deferred accounts such as individual retirement accounts (IRAs) or employee-sponsored retirement plans.</p>falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringRisk/Return Bar Chart and Table.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subsection b falsefalsePerformance Narrative [Text Block]602false0rr_PerformanceInformationIllustratesVariabilityOfReturnsrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The bar chart and table provide an indication of the risks of investing in the Fund by showing how the Fund's average annual total returns based on NAV compare to those of the Index and two broad-based securities market indices.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringInclude the bar chart and table required by paragraphs (b)(2)(ii) and (iii) of this section. Provide a brief explanation of how the information illustrates the variability of the Fund's returns (e.g., by stating that the information provides some indication of the risks of investing in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's performance from year to year and by showing how the Fund's average annual returns for 1, 5, and 10 years compare with those of a broad measure of market performance). Provide a statement to the effect that the Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) is not necessarily an indication of how the Fund will perform in the future.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph i -Subsection b falsefalsePerformance Information Illustrates Variability of Returns [Text]603false0rr_PerformanceTableClosingTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The Fund's performance information is accessible on the Fund's website at www.ftportfolios.com.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a table showing the Fund's (A) average annual total return; (B) average annual total return (after taxes on distributions); and (C) average annual total return (after taxes on distributions and redemption). A Money Market Fund should show only the returns described in clause (A) of the preceding sentence. All returns should be shown for 1-, 5-, and 10- calendar year periods ending on the date of the most recently completed calendar year (or for the life of the Fund, if shorter), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. The table also shouldshow the returns of an appropriate broadbased securities market index as defined in Instruction 5 to Item 22(b)(7) for the same periods. A Fund that has been in existence for more than 10 years also may include returns for the life of the Fund. A Money Market Fund may provide the Fund's 7-day yield ending on the date of the most recent calendar year or disclose a toll-free (or collect) telephone number that investors can use to obtain the Fund's current 7-day yield. For a Fund (other than a Money Market Fund or a Fund described in General Instruction C.3.(d)(iii)), provide the information in the following table with the specified captions AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS (For the periods ended December 31, _____)Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Subsection b falsefalsePerformance Table Closing [Text Block]604false0rr_PerformanceAvailabilityWebSiteAddressrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00www.ftportfolios.comfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringIf applicable, include a statement explaining that updated performance information is available and providing a Website address and/or toll-free (or collect) telephone number where the updated information may be obtained.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph i -Subsection b falsefalsePerformance Availability Website Address [Text]605false0rr_PerformanceTableUsesHighestFederalRaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00All after-tax returns are calculated using the historical highest individual federal marginal income tax rates and do not reflect the impact of any state or local tax.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringProvide a brief explanation that after-tax returns are calculated using the historical highest individual federal marginal income tax rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Subsection b falsefalsePerformance Table Uses Highest Federal Rate606false0rr_PerformanceTableNotRelevantToTaxDeferredrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00After-tax returns are not relevant to investors who hold Fund Shares in tax-deferred accounts such as individual retirement accounts (IRAs) or employee-sponsored retirement plans.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringProvide a brief explanation that the actual after-tax returns depend on an investor's tax situation and may differ from those shown, and after-tax returns shown are not relevant to investors who hold their Fund shares through tax-deferred arrangements, such as 401(k) plans or individual retirement accounts.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iv -Clause B -Subsection b falsefalsePerformance Table Not Relevant to Tax Deferred607true0rr_BarChartTableAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS608false0rr_AnnualReturnCaptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse00FIRST TRUST NASDAQ(R) CLEAN EDGE(R) SMART GRID INFRASTRUCTURE INDEX FUND--TOTAL RETURNSfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart. Provide annual total returns beginning with the earliest calendar year. Calculate annual returns using the Instructions to Item 8(a), except that the calculations should be based on calendar years. If a Fund's shares are sold subject to a sales load or account fees, state that sales loads or account fees are not reflected in the bar chart and that, if these amounts were reflected, returns would be less than those shown. When a Multiple Class Fund offers more than one Class in the prospectus, provide annual total returns in the bar chart for only one of those Classes. The Fund can select which Class to include (e.g., the oldest Class, the Class with the greatest net assets). When a Multiple Class Fund offering one or more Classes offers a new Class in a prospectus that does not offer the shares of any other Class, include the bar chart with annual total returns for any other existing Class for the first year that the Class is offered. Explain in a footnote that the returns are for a Class that is not offered in the prospectus that would have substantially similar annual returns because the shares are invested in the same portfolio of securities and the annual returns would differ only to the extent that the Classes do not have the same expenses. Include return information for the other Class reflected in the bar chart in the performance table.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph instructions -Clause 3 -Exhibit b -Subsection b falsefalseAnnual Return Caption [Text]609false0rr_AnnualReturn2010rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruefalse-0.0020-0.0020falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart. When a Multiple Class Fund offers more than one Class in the prospectus, provide annual total returns in the bar chart for only one of those Classes. The Fund can select which Class to include (e.g., the oldest Class, the Class with the greatest net assets).Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph ii -Subsection b falsefalseAnnual Return 2010610false0rr_BarChartClosingTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00During the year ended December 31, 2010, the Fund's highest and lowest calendar quarter returns were 10.90% and -10.74%, respectively, for the quarters ended September 30, 2010 and June 30, 2010. The Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) is not necessarily an indication of how the Fund will perform in the future.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph ii -Subsection b falsefalseBar Chart Closing [Text Block]611false0rr_HighestQuarterlyReturnLabelrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00highest calendar quarter returnsfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph ii -Subsection b falsefalseHighest Quarterly Return, Label612false0rr_BarChartHighestQuarterlyReturnDaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse002010-09-30falsefalsetruefalsefalseOtherxbrli:dateItemTypedateIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph ii -Subsection b falsefalseHighest Quarterly Return, Date613false0rr_BarChartHighestQuarterlyReturnrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruefalse0.10900.1090falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph ii -Subsection b falsefalseHighest Quarterly Return614false0rr_LowestQuarterlyReturnLabelrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00lowest calendar quarter returnsfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph ii -Subsection b falsefalseLowest Quarterly Return, Label615false0rr_BarChartLowestQuarterlyReturnDaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse002010-06-30falsefalsetruefalsefalseOtherxbrli:dateItemTypedateIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph ii -Subsection b falsefalseLowest Quarterly Return, Date616false0rr_BarChartLowestQuarterlyReturnrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruefalse-0.1074-0.1074falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph ii -Subsection b falsefalseLowest Quarterly Return617false0rr_PerformancePastDoesNotIndicateFuturerrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) is not necessarily an indication of how the Fund will perform in the future.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringInclude the bar chart and table required by paragraphs (b)(2)(ii) and (iii) of this section. Provide a brief explanation of how the information illustrates the variability of the Fund's returns (e.g., by stating that the information provides some indication of the risks of investing in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's performance from year to year and by showing how the Fund's average annual returns for 1, 5, and 10 years compare with those of a broad measure of market performance). Provide a statement to the effect that the Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) is not necessarily an indication of how the Fund will perform in the future.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph i -Subsection b falsefalsePerformance Past Does Not Indicate Future [Text]618true0rr_AverageAnnualReturnAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsetruefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseAVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS619false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnCaptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse00AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS FOR THE PERIODS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2010falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringThis item represents Average Anuual Total Returns. If a Multiple Class Fund offers a Class in the prospectus that converts into another Class after a stated period, compute average annual total returns in the table by using the returns of the other Class for the period after conversion.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph instructions -Clause 5 -Subsection b falsefalseCaption620false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://ftportfolios.com/role/riskreturndetaildata1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse22falsefalsetruefalse{dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxis} : First Trust NASDAQ (R) Clean Edge (R) Smart Grid Infrastructure Index Fund [Member] {rr_PerformanceMeasureAxis} : Return Before Taxes [Member] 2/1/2010 - 1/31/2011 TwelveMonthsEnded_31Jan2011_S000026919_Member_Return_Before_Taxes_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0001364608duration2010-02-01T00:00:002011-01-31T00:00:00falsefalseFirst Trust NASDAQ (R) Clean Edge (R) Smart Grid Infrastructure Index Fund [Member]dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiftetf1364608_S000026919Memberdei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseReturn Before Taxes [Member]rr_PerformanceMeasureAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiftetf1364608_ReturnBeforeTaxesMemberrr_PerformanceMeasureAxisexplicitMemberPureStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseFirst Trust NASDAQ (R) Clean Edge (R) Smart Grid Infrastructure Index Fund [Member] | Return Before Taxes [Member]629true0rr_AverageAnnualReturnAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsetruefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseAVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS630false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnLabelrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse00Return Before TaxesfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringThis item represents Average Anuual Total Returns. If a Multiple Class Fund offers a Class in the prospectus that converts into another Class after a stated period, compute average annual total returns in the table by using the returns of the other Class for the period after conversion.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseLabel631false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue-0.0020-0.0020falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalse1 Year632false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnSinceInceptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue0.05610.0561falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseSince Inception633false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnInceptionDaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse002009-11-16falsefalsetruefalsefalseOtherxbrli:dateItemTypedateReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph instructions -Clause 4 -Subsection b falsefalseInception Date634false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://ftportfolios.com/role/riskreturndetaildata1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse23falsefalsetruefalse{dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxis} : First Trust NASDAQ (R) Clean Edge (R) Smart Grid Infrastructure Index Fund [Member] {rr_PerformanceMeasureAxis} : Return After Taxes on Distributions 2/1/2010 - 1/31/2011 TwelveMonthsEnded_31Jan2011_S000026919_Member_After_Taxes_On_Distributions_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0001364608duration2010-02-01T00:00:002011-01-31T00:00:00falsefalseFirst Trust NASDAQ (R) Clean Edge (R) Smart Grid Infrastructure Index Fund [Member]dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiftetf1364608_S000026919Memberdei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseReturn After Taxes on Distributionsrr_PerformanceMeasureAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldirr_AfterTaxesOnDistributionsMemberrr_PerformanceMeasureAxisexplicitMemberPureStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseFirst Trust NASDAQ (R) Clean Edge (R) Smart Grid Infrastructure Index Fund [Member] | Return After Taxes on Distributions643true0rr_AverageAnnualReturnAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsetruefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseAVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS644false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnLabelrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse00Return After Taxes on DistributionsfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringThis item represents Average Anuual Total Returns. If a Multiple Class Fund offers a Class in the prospectus that converts into another Class after a stated period, compute average annual total returns in the table by using the returns of the other Class for the period after conversion.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseLabel645false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue-0.0034-0.0034falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalse1 Year646false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnSinceInceptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue0.05470.0547falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseSince Inception647false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnInceptionDaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse002009-11-16falsefalsetruefalsefalseOtherxbrli:dateItemTypedateReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph instructions -Clause 4 -Subsection b falsefalseInception Date648false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://ftportfolios.com/role/riskreturndetaildata1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse24falsefalsetruefalse{dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxis} : First Trust NASDAQ (R) Clean Edge (R) Smart Grid Infrastructure Index Fund [Member] {rr_PerformanceMeasureAxis} : Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Shares 2/1/2010 - 1/31/2011 TwelveMonthsEnded_31Jan2011_S000026919_Member_After_Taxes_On_Distributions_And_Sales_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0001364608duration2010-02-01T00:00:002011-01-31T00:00:00falsefalseFirst Trust NASDAQ (R) Clean Edge (R) Smart Grid Infrastructure Index Fund [Member]dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiftetf1364608_S000026919Memberdei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseReturn After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Sharesrr_PerformanceMeasureAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldirr_AfterTaxesOnDistributionsAndSalesMemberrr_PerformanceMeasureAxisexplicitMemberPureStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseFirst Trust NASDAQ (R) Clean Edge (R) Smart Grid Infrastructure Index Fund [Member] | Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Shares657true0rr_AverageAnnualReturnAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsetruefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseAVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS658false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnLabelrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse00Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of SharesfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringThis item represents Average Anuual Total Returns. If a Multiple Class Fund offers a Class in the prospectus that converts into another Class after a stated period, compute average annual total returns in the table by using the returns of the other Class for the period after conversion.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseLabel659false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue-0.0014-0.0014falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalse1 Year660false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnSinceInceptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue0.04680.0468falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseSince Inception661false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnInceptionDaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse002009-11-16falsefalsetruefalsefalseOtherxbrli:dateItemTypedateReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph instructions -Clause 4 -Subsection b falsefalseInception Date662false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://ftportfolios.com/role/riskreturndetaildata1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse25falsefalseUSDtruefalse{dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxis} : First Trust STOXX (R) European Select Dividend Index Fund [Member] 2/1/2010 - 1/31/2011 USD ($) $TwelveMonthsEnded_31Jan2011_S000018784_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0001364608duration2010-02-01T00:00:002011-01-31T00:00:00falsefalseFirst Trust STOXX (R) European Select Dividend Index Fund [Member]dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiftetf1364608_S000018784Memberdei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisexplicitMemberPureStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0USDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseFirst Trust STOXX (R) European Select Dividend Index Fund [Member]663true0rr_RiskReturnAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseRisk/Return:664false0dei_TradingSymboldeifalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00FDDfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:normalizedStringItemTypenormalizedstringTrading symbol of an instrument as listed on an exchange.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseTrading Symbol665false0rr_RiskReturnHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00SUMMARY INFORMATION First Trust STOXX(R) European Select Dividend Index FundfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringRisk/Return Summary Investment Objectives/Goals Include the following information, in plain English under rule 421(d) under the Securities Act, in the order and subject matter indicatedReference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 2 falsefalseRisk/Return [Heading]666false0rr_ObjectiveHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00INVESTMENT OBJECTIVEfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringInvestment Objectives/Goals. Disclose the Fund's investment objectives or goals. A Fund also may identify its type or category (e.g., that it is a Money Market Fund or a balanced fund).Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 2 -Subsection a falsefalseObjective [Heading]667false0rr_ObjectivePrimaryTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The First Trust STOXX(R) European Select Dividend Index Fund (the "Fund") seeks investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield (before the Fund's fees and expenses) of an equity index called the STOXX(R) Europe Select Dividend 30 Index (the "Index"). Effective March 1, 2010, the Index Provider changed the name of the Fund's underlying Index from the "Dow Jones STOXX Select Dividend 30 Index" to the "STOXX Europe Select Dividend 30 Index." Prior to September 24, 2010, the name of this Fund was First Trust Dow Jones STOXX(R) European Select Dividend Index Fund.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringInvestment Objectives/Goals. Disclose the Fund's investment objectives or goals. A Fund also may identify its type or category (e.g., that it is a Money Market Fund or a balanced fund).Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 2 -Subsection a falsefalseObjective, Primary [Text Block]668true0ftetf1364608_FundFeesAndExpensesAbstractftetf1364608falsenadurationFund fees and expenses.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringFund fees and expenses.falsefalseFEES AND EXPENSES OF THE FUND669false0rr_ExpenseHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00FEES AND EXPENSES OF THE FUNDfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringRisk/Return Summary Fee Table Includes the following information, in plain English under rule 421(d) under the Securities Act, after Item 2 Fees and expenses of the Fund This table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold shared of the Fund. You may qualify for sales charge discounts if you and your family invest, or agree to invest in the future, at least $[_____] in [name of fund family] funds. Shareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment) Example This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds. The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then you redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return per year and that the Fund's operating expenses remained the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be You would pay the following expenses if you did not redeem your shares The Example does not reflect sales charges (loads) on reinvested dividends [and other distributions]. If these sales charges (loads) were included, your costs would be higher. Portfolio Turnover The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover may indicate higher transaction costs. These costs, which are not reflected in annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During the most recent fiscal year, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was __% of the average value of its whole portfolio. Instructions. A.3.instructions.6 New Funds. For purposes of this Item, a "New Fund" is a Fund that does not include in Form N-1A financial statements reporting operating results or that includes financial statements for the Fund's initial fiscal year reporting operating results for a period of 6 months or less. The following Instructions apply to New Funds.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph d -Subsection instructions falsefalseExpense [Heading]670false0rr_ExpenseNarrativeTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The following table describes the fees and expenses you may pay if you buy and hold Shares of the Fund. Investors purchasing and selling Shares may be subject to costs (including customary brokerage commissions) charged by their broker.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringThis table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold shared of the Fund. You may qualify for sales charge discounts if you and your family invest, or agree to invest in the future, at least $[_____] in [name of fund family] funds. Include the narrative explanations in the order indicated. A Fund may modify the narrative explanations if the explanation contains comparable information to that shown.The narrative explanation regarding sales charge discounts is only required by a Fund that offers such discounts and should specify the minimum level of investment required to qualify for a discount. Modify the narrative explanation to state that Fund shares are sold on a national securities exchange at the end of the time periods indicated, and that brokerage commissions for buying and selling Fund shares through a broker are not reflected.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph b -Subsection instructions falsefalseExpense Narrative [Text Block]671true0rr_ShareholderFeesAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseSHAREHOLDER FEES672false0rr_ShareholderFeesCaptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00SHAREHOLDER FEES (fees paid directly from your investment)falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringShareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment).Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subsection table falsefalseShareholder Fees Caption [Text]673false0rr_MaximumSalesChargeImposedOnPurchasesOverOfferingPricerrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truetruetrue0.00000.0000falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherrr:NonNegativePure4TypepureMaximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load) (as a percentage of ____) A.3.instructions.2.a.i "Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load)" includes the maximum total deferred sales charge (load) payable upon redemption, in installments, or both, expressed as a percentage of the amount or amounts stated in response to Item 7(a), except that, for a sales charge (load) based on net asset value at the time of purchase, show the sales charge (load) as a percentage of the offering price at the time of purchase. A Fund may include in a footnote to the table, if applicable, a tabular presentation showing the amount of deferred sales charges (loads) over time or a narrative explanation of the sales charges (loads) (e.g., __% in the first year after purchase, declining to __% in the __ year and eliminated thereafter). A.3.instructions.2.a.ii If more than one type of sales charge (load) is imposed (e.g., a deferred sales charge (load) and a front-end sales charge (load)), the first caption in the table should read "Maximum Sales Charge (Load)" and show the maximum cumulative percentage. Show the percentage amounts and the terms of each sales charge (load) comprising that figure on separate lines below.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 1 -Subsection table falsefalseMaximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases (as a percentage of offering price)674true0rr_OperatingExpensesAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES675false0rr_OperatingExpensesCaptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES (Expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringAnnual Fund Operating Expenses (ongoing expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 7 -Subsection table falsefalseOperating Expenses Caption [Text]676false0rr_ManagementFeesOverAssetsrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truetruetrue0.00400.0040falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherrr:NonNegativePure4TypepureManagement Fees include investment advisory fees (including any fees based on the Fund's performance), any other management fees payable to the investment adviser or its affiliates, and administrative fees payable to the investment adviser or its affiliates that are not included as "Other Expenses."Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 3 -Subparagraph a -Subsection instructions falsefalseManagement Fees677false0rr_DistributionAndService12b1FeesOverAssetsrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truetruetrue0.00000.0000falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherrr:NonNegativePure4TypepureDistribution [and/or Service] (12b-1) Fees" include all distribution or other expenses incurred during the most recent fiscal year under a plan adopted pursuant to rule 12b-1 [17 CFR 270.12b-1]. Under an appropriate caption or a subcaption of "Other Expenses," disclose the amount of any distribution or similar expenses deducted from the Fund's assets other than pursuant to a rule 12b-1 plan.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 9 -Subsection table falsefalseDistribution and Service (12b-1) Fees678false0rr_OtherExpensesOverAssetsrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsetotallabel1truetruetrue0.01950.0195falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherrr:NonNegativePure4Typepure"Other Expenses" include all expenses not otherwise disclosed in the table that are deducted from the Fund's assets or charged to all shareholder accounts. The amount of expenses deducted from the Fund's assets are the amounts shown as expenses in the Fund's statement of operations (including increases resulting from complying with paragraph 2(g) of rule 6-07 of Regulation S-X [17 CFR 210.6-07]). "Other Expenses" do not include extraordinary expenses as determined under generally accepted accounting principles (see Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 30). If extraordinary expenses were incurred that materially affected the Fund's "Other Expenses," disclose in a footnote to the table what "Other Expenses" would have been had the extraordinary expenses been included.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 3 -Subparagraph c -Clause i -Subsection instructions truefalseOther Expenses679false0rr_ExpensesOverAssetsrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truetruetrue0.02350.0235falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherrr:NonNegativePure4TypepureTotal Annual Fund Operating Expenses. If the Fund is a Feeder Fund, reflect the aggregate expenses of the Feeder Fund and the Master Fund in a single fee table using the captions provided. In a footnote to the fee table, state that the table and Example reflect the expenses of both the Feeder and Master Funds. If the prospectus offers more than one Class of a Multiple Class Fund or more than one Feeder Fund that invests in the same Master Fund, provide a separate response for each Class or Feeder Fund. Base the percentages of "Annual Fund Operating Expenses" on amounts incurred during the Fund's most recent fiscal year, but include in expenses amounts that would have been incurred absent expense reimbursement or fee waiver arrangements. If the Fund has changed its fiscal year and, as a result, the most recent fiscal year is less than three months, use the fiscal year prior to the most recent fiscal year as the basis for determining "Annual Fund Operating Expenses."Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 3 -Subparagraph d -Subsection instructions falsefalseTotal Annual Fund Operating Expenses680false0rr_FeeWaiverOrReimbursementOverAssetsrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsetruenegated1truetruetrue0.01750.0175[6]falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherrr:NonPositivePure4TypepureTotal Annual Fund Operating Expenses. If there were expense reimbursement or fee waiver arrangements that reduced any Fund operating expenses and will continue to reduce them for no less than one year from the effective date of the Fund's registration statement, a Fund may add two captions to the table one caption showing the amount of the expense reimbursement or fee waiver, and a second caption showing the Fund's net expenses after subtracting the fee reimbursement or expense waiver from the total fund operating expenses. The Fund should place these additional captions directly below the "Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses" caption of the table and should use appropriate descriptive captions, such as "Fee Waiver [and/or Expense Reimbursement]" and "Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses After Fee Waiver [and/or Expense Reimbursement]," respectively. If the Fund provides this disclosure, also disclose the period for which the expense reimbursement or fee waiver arrangement is expected to continue, and briefly describe who can terminate the arrangement and under what circumstances.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 11 -Subsection table falsefalseFee Waiver and Expense Reimbursement681false0rr_NetExpensesOverAssetsrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truetruetrue0.00600.0060falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherrr:NonNegativePure4TypepureTotal Annual Fund Operating Expenses.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 11 -Subsection table falsefalseTotal Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses After Fee Waiver and Expense Reimbursement682true0rr_ExpenseExampleAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseEXAMPLE683false0rr_ExpenseExampleHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00EXAMPLEfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringHeading for Expense Example.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 4 -Subsection instructions falsefalseExpense Example [Heading]684false0rr_ExpenseExampleNarrativeTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00<p>The example below is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other funds. This example does not take into account customary brokerage commissions that you pay when purchasing or selling Shares of the Fund in the secondary market.</p><p>The example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then you retain the Shares or redeem all of your Shares at the end of those periods. The example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the Fund's net operating expenses remain at current levels until December 20, 2012. Additionally, the example assumes that the Fund imposes a 12b-1 fee of 0.25% per annum of the Fund's average daily net assets following January 31, 2012. The example assumes that First Trust's agreement to waive fees and/or pay the Fund's expenses to the extent necessary to prevent the operating expenses of the Fund (excluding interest expense, brokerage commissions and other trading expenses, taxes, and extraordinary expenses) from exceeding 0.60% of average daily net assets per year will be terminated following December 20, 2012. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:</p>falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringThe Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 1 -Subsection example falsefalseExpense Example Narrative [Text Block]685false0rr_ExpenseExampleYear01rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truefalsetrue6161falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryrr:NonNegativeMonetaryTypemonetaryThe Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then you redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return per year and that the Fund's operating expenses remained the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 4 -Subsection instructions falsefalse1 Year686false0rr_ExpenseExampleYear03rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truefalsetrue364364falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryrr:NonNegativeMonetaryTypemonetaryThe Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then you redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return per year and that the Fund's operating expenses remained the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 2 -Subsection example falsefalse3 Years687false0rr_ExpenseExampleYear05rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truefalsetrue961961falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryrr:NonNegativeMonetaryTypemonetaryThe Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then you redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return per year and that the Fund's operating expenses remained the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 2 -Subsection example falsefalse5 Years688false0rr_ExpenseExampleYear10rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truefalsetrue25832583falsetruefalsefalsefalseMonetaryrr:NonNegativeMonetaryTypemonetaryThe Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then you redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return per year and that the Fund's operating expenses remained the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph 2 -Subsection example falsefalse10 Years689true0ftetf1364608_PortfolioTurnoverAltAbstractftetf1364608falsenadurationPortfolio Turnover Alt.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringPortfolio Turnover Alt.falsefalsePORTFOLIO TURNOVER690false0rr_PortfolioTurnoverHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00PORTFOLIO TURNOVERfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringDisclose the portfolio turnover rate provided in response to Item 14(a) for the most recent fiscal year (or for such shorter period as the Fund has been in operation). Disclose the period for which the information is provided if less than a full fiscal year. A Fund that is a Money Market Fund may omit the portfolio turnover information required by this Item.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 5 -Subsection instructions falsefalsePortfolio Turnover [Heading]691false0rr_PortfolioTurnoverTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when Fund Shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During the most recent fiscal year, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was 54% of the average value of its portfolio.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringDisclose the portfolio turnover rate provided in response to Item 14(a) for the most recent fiscal year (or for such shorter period as the Fund has been in operation). Disclose the period for which the information is provided if less than a full fiscal year. A Fund that is a Money Market Fund may omit the portfolio turnover information required by this Item.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 3 -Subsection example falsefalsePortfolio Turnover [Text Block]692false0rr_PortfolioTurnoverRaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruefalse0.540.54falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureThis element represents the rate of portfolio turnover presented as a percentage (SEC Form N-1A 2006-09-14 A.3.example.3 Portfolio Turnover A.3.instructions.5 Portfolio Turnover).Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 3 -Paragraph 3 -Subsection example falsefalsePortfolio Turnover, Rate693false0rr_StrategyHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIESfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringPrincipal investment strategies of the Fund. Summarize how the Fund intends to achieve its investment objectives by identifying the Fund's principal investment strategies (including the type or types of securities in which the Fund invests or will invest principally) and any policy to concentrate in securities of issuers in a particular industry or group of industries.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Subsection a falsefalseStrategy [Heading]694false0rr_StrategyNarrativeTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00<p>The Fund will normally invest at least 90% of its net assets in common stocks that comprise the Index or in depositary receipts that may include American Depositary Receipts ("ADRs"), Global Depositary Receipts ("GDRs"), European Depositary Receipts ("EDRs") or other depositary receipts (collectively, "Depositary Receipts") representing securities in the Index. First Trust will seek to match the performance of the Index (before the Fund's fees and expenses).</p><p>The Fund, using an "indexing" investment approach, attempts to replicate, before fees and expenses, the performance of the Index. First Trust seeks a correlation of 0.95 or better (before fees and expenses) between the Fund's performance and the performance of the Index; a figure of 1.00 would represent perfect correlation. First Trust will regularly monitor the Fund's tracking accuracy and will seek to maintain an appropriate correlation.</p><p>The Index consists of 30 high dividend-yielding securities selected from the STOXX(R) Europe 600 Index, including secondary lines of those companies (where there are multiple lines of equity capital in a company). The STOXX(R) Europe 600 Index covers 18 European countries: Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and the United Kingdom. The Index is compiled and maintained by STOXX Limited ("STOXX" or the "Index Provider"). Only dividend-paying companies in the STOXX(R) Europe 600 Index (including secondary lines of those companies) are considered for inclusion in the Index. In addition, a company must have a non-negative five-year dividend-per-share growth rate and a dividend-to-earnings ratio of 60% or less. The Index is rebalanced and reconstituted annually in March. The Fund will make changes to its portfolio holdings when changes are made by the Index Provider in the composition of the Index. Prior to March 1, 2010, the STOXX(R) Europe 600 Index was known as the Dow Jones STOXX(R) 600 Index.</p>falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringPrincipal investment strategies of the Fund. Summarize how the Fund intends to achieve its investment objectives by identifying the Fund's principal investment strategies (including the type or types of securities in which the Fund invests or will invest principally) and any policy to concentrate in securities of issuers in a particular industry or group of industries.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Subsection a falsefalseStrategy Narrative [Text Block]695false0rr_StrategyPortfolioConcentrationrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The Fund will normally invest at least 90% of its net assets in common stocks that comprise the Index or in depositary receipts that may include American Depositary Receipts ("ADRs"), Global Depositary Receipts ("GDRs"), European Depositary Receipts ("EDRs") or other depositary receipts (collectively,"Depositary Receipts") representing securities in the Index.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringPrincipal investment strategies of the Fund. Summarize how the Fund intends to achieve its investment objectives by identifying the Fund's principal investment strategies (including the type or types of securities in which the Fund invests or will invest principally) and any policy to concentrate in securities of issuers in a particular industry or group of industries.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Subsection a falsefalseStrategy Portfolio Concentration [Text]696false0rr_RiskHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00PRINCIPAL RISKSfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNarrative Risk Disclosure.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 1 -Subsection b falsefalseRisk [Heading]697false0rr_RiskNarrativeTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00<p>You could lose money by investing in the Fund. An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of a bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other governmental agency.</p><p>MARKET RISK. Market risk is the risk that a particular stock owned by the Fund, Shares of the Fund or stocks in general may fall in value. Shares are subject to market fluctuations caused by such factors as economic, political, regulatory or market developments, changes in interest rates and perceived trends in stock prices. Overall stock values could decline generally or could underperform other investments. Companies with smaller market capitalizations are generally subject to additional market risk.</p><p>NON-CORRELATION RISK. The Fund's return may not match the return of the Index for a number of reasons. For example, the Fund incurs operating expenses not applicable to the Index, and may incur costs in buying and selling securities, especially when rebalancing the Fund's portfolio holdings to reflect changes in the composition of the Index. In addition, the Fund's portfolio holdings may not exactly replicate the securities included in the Index or the ratios between the securities included in the Index.</p><p>REPLICATION MANAGEMENT RISK. The Fund is exposed to additional market risk due to its policy of investing principally in the securities included in the Index. As a result of this policy, securities held by the Fund will generally not be bought or sold in response to market fluctuations, and the securities may be issued by companies concentrated in a particular industry. Therefore, the Fund will generally not sell a stock because the stock's issuer is in financial trouble, unless that stock is removed or is anticipated to be removed from the Index.</p><p>NON-DIVERSIFICATION RISK. The Fund is classified as "non-diversified" under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act"). As a result, the Fund is only limited as to the percentage of its assets which may be invested in the securities of any one issuer by the diversification requirements imposed by the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"). The Fund may invest a relatively high percentage of its assets in a limited number of issuers.</p><p>FINANCIALS SECTOR RISK. The Fund invests in the securities of companies in the financials sector which may include banks, thrifts, brokerage firms, broker/dealers, investment banks, finance companies and companies involved in the insurance industry. Banks, thrifts and their holding companies are especially subject to the adverse effects of economic recession; government regulation; decreases in the availability of capital; volatile interest rates; portfolio concentrations in geographic markets and in commercial and residential real estate loans; and competition from new entrants in their fields of business. In addition, the Fund may invest in companies that may be significantly affected by the downturn in the U.S. and world economies that began with the significant decline in the subprime mortgage lending market in the United States.</p><p>INDUSTRIALS SECTOR RISK. The Fund invests in the securities of companies in the industrials sector. Many companies in this sector convert unfinished goods into finished durables used to manufacture other goods or provide services. Some industries included in this sector are electrical equipment and components, industrial products, manufactured housing and telecommunications equipment. General risks of these companies include the general state of the economy, intense competition, consolidation, domestic and international politics, excess capacity and consumer demand and spending trends. In addition, they may also be significantly affected by overall capital spending levels, economic cycles, technical obsolescence, delays in modernization, labor relations, government regulations and e-commerce initiatives.</p><p>EUROPE RISK. The Fund invests in securities issued by companies operating in Europe. Investments in a single region, even though representing a number of different countries within the region, may be affected by common economic forces and other factors. The Fund is subject to greater risks of adverse events which occur in the European region and may experience greater volatility than a fund that is more broadly diversified geographically. Political or economic disruptions in European countries, even in countries in which the Fund is not invested, may adversely affect security values and thus the Fund's holdings. A significant number of countries in Europe are member states in the European Union (the "EU"), and the member states no longer control their own monetary policies by directing independent interest rates for their currencies. In these member states, the authority to direct monetary policies, including money supply and official interest rates for the Euro, is exercised by the European Central Bank.</p><p>NON-U.S. SECURITIES RISK. The Fund invests in securities of non-U.S. issuers. Such securities are subject to higher volatility than securities of domestic issuers due to possible adverse political, social or economic developments; restrictions on foreign investment or exchange of securities; lack of liquidity; excessive taxation; government seizure of assets; different legal or accounting standards; and less government supervision and regulation of exchanges in foreign countries.</p><p>CURRENCY RISK. Because the Fund's NAV is determined on the basis of U.S. dollars, you may lose money if the local currency of a foreign market depreciates against the U.S. dollar, even if the local currency value of the Fund's holdings goes up.</p>falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringNarrative Risk Disclosure. A Fund may, in responding to this Item, describe the types of investors for whom the Fund is intended or the types of investment goals that may be consistent with an investment in the Fund.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph i -Clause instruction -Subsection b falsefalseRisk Narrative [Text Block]698false0rr_RiskLoseMoneyrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00You could lose money by investing in the Fund.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringSummarize the principal risks of investing in the Fund, including the risks to which the Fund's portfolio as a whole is subject and the circumstances reasonably likely to affect adversely the Fund's net asset value, yield, and total return. Unless the Fund is a Money Market Fund, disclose that loss of money is a risk of investing in the Fund. A Fund may, in responding to this Item, describe the types of investors for whom the Fund is intended or the types of investment goals that may be consistent with an investment in the Fund.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph i -Subsection b falsefalseRisk Lose Money [Text]699false0rr_RiskNondiversifiedStatusrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00NON-DIVERSIFICATION RISK. The Fund is classified as "non-diversified" under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act"). As a result, the Fund is only limited as to the percentage of its assets which may be invested in the securities of any one issuer by the diversification requirements imposed by the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"). The Fund may invest a relatively high percentage of its assets in a limited number of issuers.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringIf applicable, state that the Fund is non-diversified, describe the effect of non-diversification (e.g., disclose that, compared with other funds, the Fund may invest a greater percentage of its assets in a particular issuer), and summarize the risks of investing in a non-diversified fund.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph iv -Subsection b falsefalseRisk Nondiversified Status [Text]700false0rr_RiskNotInsuredDepositoryInstitutionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of a bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other governmental agency.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringIf the Fund is advised by or sold through an insured depository institution, state that An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of the bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency. A Money Market Fund that is advised by or sold through an insured depository institution should combine the disclosure required by Items 2(c)(1)(ii) and (iii) in a single statement.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph iii -Subsection b falsefalseRisk Not Insured Depository Institution [Text]701true0ftetf1364608_FundPastPerformanceAbstractftetf1364608falsenadurationFund past performance.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringFund past performance.falsefalsePERFORMANCE702false0rr_BarChartAndPerformanceTableHeadingrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringRisk/Return Bar Chart and Table.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subsection b falsefalseBar Chart and Performance Table [Heading]703false0rr_PerformanceNarrativeTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00<p>The bar chart and table below illustrate the annual calendar year returns of the Fund based on NAV for the past three years as well as the average annual Fund and Index returns for the one year and since inception periods ended December 31, 2010. The bar chart and table provide an indication of the risks of investing in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's performance from year-to-year and by showing how the Fund's average annual total returns based on NAV compare to those of the Index and two broad-based securities market indices. See "Total Return Information" for additional performance information regarding the Fund. The Fund's performance information is accessible on the Fund's website at www.ftportfolios.com.</p><p>Returns before taxes do not reflect the effects of any income or capital gains taxes. All after-tax returns are calculated using the historical highest individual federal marginal income tax rates and do not reflect the impact of any state or local tax. Returns after taxes on distributions reflect the taxed return on the payment of dividends and capital gains. Returns after taxes on distributions and sale of Shares assume you sold your Shares at period end, and, therefore, are also adjusted for any capital gains or losses incurred. Returns for the market indices do not include expenses, which are deducted from Fund returns, or taxes.</p><p>Your own actual after-tax returns will depend on your specific tax situation and may differ from what is shown here. After-tax returns are not relevant to investors who hold Fund Shares in tax-deferred accounts such as individual retirement accounts (IRAs) or employee-sponsored retirement plans.</p>falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringRisk/Return Bar Chart and Table.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subsection b falsefalsePerformance Narrative [Text Block]704false0rr_PerformanceInformationIllustratesVariabilityOfReturnsrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The bar chart and table provide an indication of the risks of investing in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's performance from year-to-year and by showing how the Fund's average annual total returns based on NAV compare to those of the Index and two broad-based securities market indices.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringInclude the bar chart and table required by paragraphs (b)(2)(ii) and (iii) of this section. Provide a brief explanation of how the information illustrates the variability of the Fund's returns (e.g., by stating that the information provides some indication of the risks of investing in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's performance from year to year and by showing how the Fund's average annual returns for 1, 5, and 10 years compare with those of a broad measure of market performance). Provide a statement to the effect that the Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) is not necessarily an indication of how the Fund will perform in the future.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph i -Subsection b falsefalsePerformance Information Illustrates Variability of Returns [Text]705false0rr_PerformanceTableClosingTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The Fund's performance information is accessible on the Fund's website at www.ftportfolios.com.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a table showing the Fund's (A) average annual total return; (B) average annual total return (after taxes on distributions); and (C) average annual total return (after taxes on distributions and redemption). A Money Market Fund should show only the returns described in clause (A) of the preceding sentence. All returns should be shown for 1-, 5-, and 10- calendar year periods ending on the date of the most recently completed calendar year (or for the life of the Fund, if shorter), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. The table also shouldshow the returns of an appropriate broadbased securities market index as defined in Instruction 5 to Item 22(b)(7) for the same periods. A Fund that has been in existence for more than 10 years also may include returns for the life of the Fund. A Money Market Fund may provide the Fund's 7-day yield ending on the date of the most recent calendar year or disclose a toll-free (or collect) telephone number that investors can use to obtain the Fund's current 7-day yield. For a Fund (other than a Money Market Fund or a Fund described in General Instruction C.3.(d)(iii)), provide the information in the following table with the specified captions AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS (For the periods ended December 31, _____)Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Subsection b falsefalsePerformance Table Closing [Text Block]706false0rr_PerformanceAvailabilityWebSiteAddressrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00www.ftportfolios.comfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringIf applicable, include a statement explaining that updated performance information is available and providing a Website address and/or toll-free (or collect) telephone number where the updated information may be obtained.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph i -Subsection b falsefalsePerformance Availability Website Address [Text]707false0rr_PerformanceTableUsesHighestFederalRaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00All after-tax returns are calculated using the historical highest individual federal marginal income tax rates and do not reflect the impact of any state or local tax.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringProvide a brief explanation that after-tax returns are calculated using the historical highest individual federal marginal income tax rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Subsection b falsefalsePerformance Table Uses Highest Federal Rate708false0rr_PerformanceTableNotRelevantToTaxDeferredrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00After-tax returns are not relevant to investors who hold Fund Shares in tax-deferred accounts such as individual retirement accounts (IRAs) or employee-sponsored retirement plans.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringProvide a brief explanation that the actual after-tax returns depend on an investor's tax situation and may differ from those shown, and after-tax returns shown are not relevant to investors who hold their Fund shares through tax-deferred arrangements, such as 401(k) plans or individual retirement accounts.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iv -Clause B -Subsection b falsefalsePerformance Table Not Relevant to Tax Deferred709true0rr_BarChartTableAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS710false0rr_AnnualReturnCaptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse00FIRST TRUST STOXX(R) EUROPEAN SELECT DIVIDEND INDEX FUND--TOTAL RETURNSfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart. Provide annual total returns beginning with the earliest calendar year. Calculate annual returns using the Instructions to Item 8(a), except that the calculations should be based on calendar years. If a Fund's shares are sold subject to a sales load or account fees, state that sales loads or account fees are not reflected in the bar chart and that, if these amounts were reflected, returns would be less than those shown. When a Multiple Class Fund offers more than one Class in the prospectus, provide annual total returns in the bar chart for only one of those Classes. The Fund can select which Class to include (e.g., the oldest Class, the Class with the greatest net assets). When a Multiple Class Fund offering one or more Classes offers a new Class in a prospectus that does not offer the shares of any other Class, include the bar chart with annual total returns for any other existing Class for the first year that the Class is offered. Explain in a footnote that the returns are for a Class that is not offered in the prospectus that would have substantially similar annual returns because the shares are invested in the same portfolio of securities and the annual returns would differ only to the extent that the Classes do not have the same expenses. Include return information for the other Class reflected in the bar chart in the performance table.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph instructions -Clause 3 -Exhibit b -Subsection b falsefalseAnnual Return Caption [Text]711false0rr_AnnualReturn2008rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruefalse-0.6115-0.6115falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart. When a Multiple Class Fund offers more than one Class in the prospectus, provide annual total returns in the bar chart for only one of those Classes. The Fund can select which Class to include (e.g., the oldest Class, the Class with the greatest net assets).Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph ii -Subsection b falsefalseAnnual Return 2008712false0rr_AnnualReturn2009rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruefalse0.37080.3708falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart. When a Multiple Class Fund offers more than one Class in the prospectus, provide annual total returns in the bar chart for only one of those Classes. The Fund can select which Class to include (e.g., the oldest Class, the Class with the greatest net assets).Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph instructions -Clause 3 -Exhibit a -Subsection b falsefalseAnnual Return 2009713false0rr_AnnualReturn2010rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruefalse0.00900.0090falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart. When a Multiple Class Fund offers more than one Class in the prospectus, provide annual total returns in the bar chart for only one of those Classes. The Fund can select which Class to include (e.g., the oldest Class, the Class with the greatest net assets).Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph ii -Subsection b falsefalseAnnual Return 2010714false0rr_BarChartClosingTextBlockrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00During the three-year period ended December 31, 2010, the Fund's highest and lowest calendar quarter returns were 27.30% and -17.43%, respectively, for the quarters ended June 30, 2009 and March 31, 2009. The Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) is not necessarily an indication of how the Fund will perform in the future.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherus-types:textBlockItemTypestringIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph ii -Subsection b falsefalseBar Chart Closing [Text Block]715false0rr_HighestQuarterlyReturnLabelrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00highest calendar quarter returnsfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph ii -Subsection b falsefalseHighest Quarterly Return, Label716false0rr_BarChartHighestQuarterlyReturnDaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse002009-06-30falsefalsetruefalsefalseOtherxbrli:dateItemTypedateIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph ii -Subsection b falsefalseHighest Quarterly Return, Date717false0rr_BarChartHighestQuarterlyReturnrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruefalse0.27300.2730falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph ii -Subsection b falsefalseHighest Quarterly Return718false0rr_LowestQuarterlyReturnLabelrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00lowest calendar quarter returnsfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph ii -Subsection b falsefalseLowest Quarterly Return, Label719false0rr_BarChartLowestQuarterlyReturnDaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse002009-03-31falsefalsetruefalsefalseOtherxbrli:dateItemTypedateIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph ii -Subsection b falsefalseLowest Quarterly Return, Date720false0rr_BarChartLowestQuarterlyReturnrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruefalse-0.1743-0.1743falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureIf the Fund has annual returns for at least one calendar year, provide a bar chart showing the Fund's annual total returns for each of the last 10 calendar years (or for the life of the Fund if less than 10 years), but only for periods subsequent to the effective date of the Fund's registration statement. Present the corresponding numerical return adjacent to each bar. If the Fund's fiscal year is other than a calendar year, include the year-to-date return information as of the end of the most recent quarter in a footnote to the bar chart. Following the bar chart, disclose the Fund's highest and lowest return for a quarter during the 10 years or other period of the bar chart.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph ii -Subsection b falsefalseLowest Quarterly Return721false0rr_PerformancePastDoesNotIndicateFuturerrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00The Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) is not necessarily an indication of how the Fund will perform in the future.falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringInclude the bar chart and table required by paragraphs (b)(2)(ii) and (iii) of this section. Provide a brief explanation of how the information illustrates the variability of the Fund's returns (e.g., by stating that the information provides some indication of the risks of investing in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's performance from year to year and by showing how the Fund's average annual returns for 1, 5, and 10 years compare with those of a broad measure of market performance). Provide a statement to the effect that the Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) is not necessarily an indication of how the Fund will perform in the future.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph i -Subsection b falsefalsePerformance Past Does Not Indicate Future [Text]722true0rr_AverageAnnualReturnAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsetruefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseAVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS723false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnCaptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse00AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS FOR THE PERIODS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2010falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringThis item represents Average Anuual Total Returns. If a Multiple Class Fund offers a Class in the prospectus that converts into another Class after a stated period, compute average annual total returns in the table by using the returns of the other Class for the period after conversion.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph instructions -Clause 5 -Subsection b falsefalseCaption724false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://ftportfolios.com/role/riskreturndetaildata1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse26falsefalsetruefalse{dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxis} : First Trust STOXX (R) European Select Dividend Index Fund [Member] {rr_PerformanceMeasureAxis} : Return Before Taxes [Member] 2/1/2010 - 1/31/2011 TwelveMonthsEnded_31Jan2011_S000018784_Member_Return_Before_Taxes_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0001364608duration2010-02-01T00:00:002011-01-31T00:00:00falsefalseFirst Trust STOXX (R) European Select Dividend Index Fund [Member]dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiftetf1364608_S000018784Memberdei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseReturn Before Taxes [Member]rr_PerformanceMeasureAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiftetf1364608_ReturnBeforeTaxesMemberrr_PerformanceMeasureAxisexplicitMemberPureStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseFirst Trust STOXX (R) European Select Dividend Index Fund [Member] | Return Before Taxes [Member]733true0rr_AverageAnnualReturnAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsetruefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseAVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS734false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnLabelrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse00Return Before TaxesfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringThis item represents Average Anuual Total Returns. If a Multiple Class Fund offers a Class in the prospectus that converts into another Class after a stated period, compute average annual total returns in the table by using the returns of the other Class for the period after conversion.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseLabel735false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue0.00900.0090falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalse1 Year736false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnSinceInceptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue-0.1700-0.1700falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseSince Inception737false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnInceptionDaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse002007-08-27falsefalsetruefalsefalseOtherxbrli:dateItemTypedateReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph instructions -Clause 4 -Subsection b falsefalseInception Date738false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://ftportfolios.com/role/riskreturndetaildata1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse27falsefalsetruefalse{dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxis} : First Trust STOXX (R) European Select Dividend Index Fund [Member] {rr_PerformanceMeasureAxis} : Return After Taxes on Distributions 2/1/2010 - 1/31/2011 TwelveMonthsEnded_31Jan2011_After_Taxes_On_Distributions_Member_S000018784_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0001364608duration2010-02-01T00:00:002011-01-31T00:00:00falsefalseFirst Trust STOXX (R) European Select Dividend Index Fund [Member]dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiftetf1364608_S000018784Memberdei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseReturn After Taxes on Distributionsrr_PerformanceMeasureAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldirr_AfterTaxesOnDistributionsMemberrr_PerformanceMeasureAxisexplicitMemberPureStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseFirst Trust STOXX (R) European Select Dividend Index Fund [Member] | Return After Taxes on Distributions747true0rr_AverageAnnualReturnAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsetruefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseAVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS748false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnLabelrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse00Return After Taxes on DistributionsfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringThis item represents Average Anuual Total Returns. If a Multiple Class Fund offers a Class in the prospectus that converts into another Class after a stated period, compute average annual total returns in the table by using the returns of the other Class for the period after conversion.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseLabel749false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue-0.0067-0.0067falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalse1 Year750false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnSinceInceptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue-0.1843-0.1843falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseSince Inception751false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnInceptionDaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse002007-08-27falsefalsetruefalsefalseOtherxbrli:dateItemTypedateReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph instructions -Clause 4 -Subsection b falsefalseInception Date752false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://ftportfolios.com/role/riskreturndetaildata1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse28falsefalsetruefalse{dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxis} : First Trust STOXX (R) European Select Dividend Index Fund [Member] {rr_PerformanceMeasureAxis} : Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Shares 2/1/2010 - 1/31/2011 TwelveMonthsEnded_31Jan2011_After_Taxes_On_Distributions_And_Sales_Member_S000018784_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0001364608duration2010-02-01T00:00:002011-01-31T00:00:00falsefalseFirst Trust STOXX (R) European Select Dividend Index Fund [Member]dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiftetf1364608_S000018784Memberdei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseReturn After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Sharesrr_PerformanceMeasureAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldirr_AfterTaxesOnDistributionsAndSalesMemberrr_PerformanceMeasureAxisexplicitMemberPureStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseFirst Trust STOXX (R) European Select Dividend Index Fund [Member] | Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Shares761true0rr_AverageAnnualReturnAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsetruefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseAVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS762false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnLabelrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse00Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of SharesfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringThis item represents Average Anuual Total Returns. If a Multiple Class Fund offers a Class in the prospectus that converts into another Class after a stated period, compute average annual total returns in the table by using the returns of the other Class for the period after conversion.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseLabel763false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue0.00480.0048falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalse1 Year764false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnSinceInceptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue-0.1466-0.1466falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseSince Inception765false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnInceptionDaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse002007-08-27falsefalsetruefalsefalseOtherxbrli:dateItemTypedateReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph instructions -Clause 4 -Subsection b falsefalseInception Date766false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://ftportfolios.com/role/riskreturndetaildata1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse29falsefalsetruefalse{dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxis} : Dow Jones Global Select Dividend Index SM [Member] 2/1/2010 - 1/31/2011 TwelveMonthsEnded_31Jan2011_Dow_Jones_Global_Select_Dividend_Index_S_M_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0001364608duration2010-02-01T00:00:002011-01-31T00:00:00falsefalseDow Jones Global Select Dividend Index SM [Member]dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiftetf1364608_DowJonesGlobalSelectDividendIndexSMMemberdei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisexplicitMemberPureStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseDow Jones Global Select Dividend Index SM [Member]775true0rr_AverageAnnualReturnAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsetruefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseAVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS776false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnLabelrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse00Dow Jones Global Select Dividend Index(SM)falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringThis item represents Average Anuual Total Returns. If a Multiple Class Fund offers a Class in the prospectus that converts into another Class after a stated period, compute average annual total returns in the table by using the returns of the other Class for the period after conversion.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseLabel777false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue0.12250.1225falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalse1 Year778false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnSinceInceptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue-0.0257-0.0257falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseSince Inception779false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnInceptionDaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse002007-11-21falsefalsetruefalsefalseOtherxbrli:dateItemTypedateReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph instructions -Clause 4 -Subsection b falsefalseInception Date780false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://ftportfolios.com/role/riskreturndetaildata1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse30falsefalsetruefalse{dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxis} : Dow Jones World Developed Markets Index SM [Member] 2/1/2010 - 1/31/2011 TwelveMonthsEnded_31Jan2011_Dow_Jones_World_Developed_Markets_Index_S_M_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0001364608duration2010-02-01T00:00:002011-01-31T00:00:00falsefalseDow Jones World Developed Markets Index SM [Member]dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiftetf1364608_DowJonesWorldDevelopedMarketsIndexSMMemberdei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisexplicitMemberPureStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseDow Jones World Developed Markets Index SM [Member]789true0rr_AverageAnnualReturnAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsetruefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseAVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS790false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnLabelrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse00Dow Jones World Developed Markets Index(SM)falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringThis item represents Average Anuual Total Returns. If a Multiple Class Fund offers a Class in the prospectus that converts into another Class after a stated period, compute average annual total returns in the table by using the returns of the other Class for the period after conversion.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseLabel791false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue0.13380.1338falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalse1 Year792false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnSinceInceptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue-0.0277-0.0277falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseSince Inception793false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnInceptionDaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse002007-11-21falsefalsetruefalsefalseOtherxbrli:dateItemTypedateReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph instructions -Clause 4 -Subsection b falsefalseInception Date794false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://ftportfolios.com/role/riskreturndetaildata1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse31falsefalsetruefalse{dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxis} : MSCI World Index [Member] 2/1/2010 - 1/31/2011 TwelveMonthsEnded_31Jan2011_M_S_C_I_World_Index_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0001364608duration2010-02-01T00:00:002011-01-31T00:00:00falsefalseMSCI World Index [Member]dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiftetf1364608_MSCIWorldIndexMemberdei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisexplicitMemberPureStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseMSCI World Index [Member]803true0rr_AverageAnnualReturnAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsetruefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseAVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS804false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnLabelrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse00MSCI World IndexfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringThis item represents Average Anuual Total Returns. If a Multiple Class Fund offers a Class in the prospectus that converts into another Class after a stated period, compute average annual total returns in the table by using the returns of the other Class for the period after conversion.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseLabel805false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue0.11760.1176falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalse1 Year806false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnSinceInceptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue-0.0374-0.0374falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseSince Inception807false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnInceptionDaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse002007-11-21falsefalsetruefalsefalseOtherxbrli:dateItemTypedateReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph instructions -Clause 4 -Subsection b falsefalseInception Date808false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://ftportfolios.com/role/riskreturndetaildata1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse32falsefalsetruefalse{dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxis} : MSCI World Index [Member] {dei_LegalEntityAxis} : Inception period since 6/16/2008 [Member] 2/1/2010 - 1/31/2011 TwelveMonthsEnded_31Jan2011_M_S_C_I_World_Index_Member_Inception_Period_Two_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0001364608duration2010-02-01T00:00:002011-01-31T00:00:00falsefalseMSCI World Index [Member]dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiftetf1364608_MSCIWorldIndexMemberdei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseInception period since 6/16/2008 [Member]dei_LegalEntityAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiftetf1364608_InceptionPeriodTwoMemberdei_LegalEntityAxisexplicitMemberPureStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseMSCI World Index [Member] | Inception period since 6/16/2008 [Member]817true0rr_AverageAnnualReturnAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsetruefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseAVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS818false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnLabelrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse00MSCI World IndexfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringThis item represents Average Anuual Total Returns. If a Multiple Class Fund offers a Class in the prospectus that converts into another Class after a stated period, compute average annual total returns in the table by using the returns of the other Class for the period after conversion.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseLabel819false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue0.11760.1176falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalse1 Year820false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnSinceInceptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue-0.0320-0.0320falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseSince Inception821false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnInceptionDaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse002008-06-16falsefalsetruefalsefalseOtherxbrli:dateItemTypedateReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph instructions -Clause 4 -Subsection b falsefalseInception Date822false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://ftportfolios.com/role/riskreturndetaildata1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse33falsefalsetruefalse{dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxis} : FTSE EPRA/NAREIT Developed Index [Member] 2/1/2010 - 1/31/2011 TwelveMonthsEnded_31Jan2011_Ftse_Epra_Nareit_Developed_Index_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0001364608duration2010-02-01T00:00:002011-01-31T00:00:00falsefalseFTSE EPRA/NAREIT Developed Index [Member]dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiftetf1364608_FtseEpraNareitDevelopedIndexMemberdei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisexplicitMemberPureStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseFTSE EPRA/NAREIT Developed Index [Member]831true0rr_AverageAnnualReturnAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsetruefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseAVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS832false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnLabelrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse00FTSE EPRA/NAREIT Developed IndexfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringThis item represents Average Anuual Total Returns. If a Multiple Class Fund offers a Class in the prospectus that converts into another Class after a stated period, compute average annual total returns in the table by using the returns of the other Class for the period after conversion.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseLabel833false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue0.20400.2040falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalse1 Year834false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnSinceInceptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue-0.0524-0.0524falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseSince Inception835false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnInceptionDaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse002007-08-27falsefalsetruefalsefalseOtherxbrli:dateItemTypedateReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph instructions -Clause 4 -Subsection b falsefalseInception Date836false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://ftportfolios.com/role/riskreturndetaildata1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse34falsefalsetruefalse{dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxis} : S&P Global REIT Index [Member] 2/1/2010 - 1/31/2011 TwelveMonthsEnded_31Jan2011_S_And_P_Global_Reit_Index_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0001364608duration2010-02-01T00:00:002011-01-31T00:00:00falsefalseS&P Global REIT Index [Member]dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiftetf1364608_SAndPGlobalReitIndexMemberdei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisexplicitMemberPureStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseS&P Global REIT Index [Member]845true0rr_AverageAnnualReturnAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsetruefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseAVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS846false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnLabelrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse00S&P Global REIT IndexfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringThis item represents Average Anuual Total Returns. If a Multiple Class Fund offers a Class in the prospectus that converts into another Class after a stated period, compute average annual total returns in the table by using the returns of the other Class for the period after conversion.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseLabel847false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue0.23440.2344falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalse1 Year848false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnSinceInceptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue-0.0487-0.0487falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseSince Inception849false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnInceptionDaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse002007-08-27falsefalsetruefalsefalseOtherxbrli:dateItemTypedateReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph instructions -Clause 4 -Subsection b falsefalseInception Date850false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://ftportfolios.com/role/riskreturndetaildata1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse35falsefalsetruefalse{dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxis} : MSCI World REIT Index [Member] 2/1/2010 - 1/31/2011 TwelveMonthsEnded_31Jan2011_Msci_World_Reit_Index_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0001364608duration2010-02-01T00:00:002011-01-31T00:00:00falsefalseMSCI World REIT Index [Member]dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiftetf1364608_MsciWorldReitIndexMemberdei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisexplicitMemberPureStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseMSCI World REIT Index [Member]859true0rr_AverageAnnualReturnAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsetruefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseAVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS860false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnLabelrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse00MSCI World REIT IndexfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringThis item represents Average Anuual Total Returns. If a Multiple Class Fund offers a Class in the prospectus that converts into another Class after a stated period, compute average annual total returns in the table by using the returns of the other Class for the period after conversion.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseLabel861false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue0.19850.1985falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalse1 Year862false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnSinceInceptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue-0.0792-0.0792falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseSince Inception863false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnInceptionDaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse002007-08-27falsefalsetruefalsefalseOtherxbrli:dateItemTypedateReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph instructions -Clause 4 -Subsection b falsefalseInception Date864false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://ftportfolios.com/role/riskreturndetaildata1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse36falsefalsetruefalse{dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxis} : ISE Global Engineering and Construction(TM) Index [Member] 2/1/2010 - 1/31/2011 TwelveMonthsEnded_31Jan2011_I_S_E_Global_Engineering_And_Construction_T_M_Index_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0001364608duration2010-02-01T00:00:002011-01-31T00:00:00falsefalseISE Global Engineering and Construction(TM) Index [Member]dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiftetf1364608_ISEGlobalEngineeringAndConstructionTMIndexMemberdei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisexplicitMemberPureStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseISE Global Engineering and Construction(TM) Index [Member]873true0rr_AverageAnnualReturnAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsetruefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseAVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS874false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnLabelrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse00ISE Global Engineering and Construction(TM) IndexfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringThis item represents Average Anuual Total Returns. If a Multiple Class Fund offers a Class in the prospectus that converts into another Class after a stated period, compute average annual total returns in the table by using the returns of the other Class for the period after conversion.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseLabel875false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue0.19330.1933falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalse1 Year876false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnSinceInceptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue0.24690.2469falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseSince Inception877false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnInceptionDaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse002008-10-13falsefalsetruefalsefalseOtherxbrli:dateItemTypedateReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph instructions -Clause 4 -Subsection b falsefalseInception Date878false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://ftportfolios.com/role/riskreturndetaildata1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse37falsefalsetruefalse{dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxis} : Russell 3000(R) Index [Member] 2/1/2010 - 1/31/2011 TwelveMonthsEnded_31Jan2011_Russell_Three_Thousand_R_Index_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0001364608duration2010-02-01T00:00:002011-01-31T00:00:00falsefalseRussell 3000(R) Index [Member]dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiftetf1364608_RussellThreeThousandRIndexMemberdei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisexplicitMemberPureStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseRussell 3000(R) Index [Member]887true0rr_AverageAnnualReturnAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsetruefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseAVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS888false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnLabelrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse00Russell 3000(R) IndexfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringThis item represents Average Anuual Total Returns. If a Multiple Class Fund offers a Class in the prospectus that converts into another Class after a stated period, compute average annual total returns in the table by using the returns of the other Class for the period after conversion.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseLabel889false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue0.16930.1693falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalse1 Year890false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnSinceInceptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue0.14660.1466falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseSince Inception891false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnInceptionDaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse002008-10-13falsefalsetruefalsefalseOtherxbrli:dateItemTypedateReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph instructions -Clause 4 -Subsection b falsefalseInception Date892false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://ftportfolios.com/role/riskreturndetaildata1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse38falsefalsetruefalse{dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxis} : Russell 3000(R) Index [Member] {dei_LegalEntityAxis} : Inception period since 11/16/2009 [Member] 2/1/2010 - 1/31/2011 TwelveMonthsEnded_31Jan2011_Russell_Three_Thousand_R_Index_Member_Inception_Period_One_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0001364608duration2010-02-01T00:00:002011-01-31T00:00:00falsefalseRussell 3000(R) Index [Member]dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiftetf1364608_RussellThreeThousandRIndexMemberdei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseInception period since 11/16/2009 [Member]dei_LegalEntityAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiftetf1364608_InceptionPeriodOneMemberdei_LegalEntityAxisexplicitMemberPureStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseRussell 3000(R) Index [Member] | Inception period since 11/16/2009 [Member]901true0rr_AverageAnnualReturnAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsetruefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseAVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS902false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnLabelrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse00Russell 3000(R) IndexfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringThis item represents Average Anuual Total Returns. If a Multiple Class Fund offers a Class in the prospectus that converts into another Class after a stated period, compute average annual total returns in the table by using the returns of the other Class for the period after conversion.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseLabel903false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue0.16930.1693falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalse1 Year904false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnSinceInceptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue0.16260.1626falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseSince Inception905false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnInceptionDaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse002009-11-16falsefalsetruefalsefalseOtherxbrli:dateItemTypedateReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph instructions -Clause 4 -Subsection b falsefalseInception Date906false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://ftportfolios.com/role/riskreturndetaildata1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse39falsefalsetruefalse{dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxis} : Russell 3000(R) Index [Member] {dei_LegalEntityAxis} : Inception period since 6/16/2008 [Member] 2/1/2010 - 1/31/2011 TwelveMonthsEnded_31Jan2011_Russell_Three_Thousand_R_Index_Member_Inception_Period_Two_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0001364608duration2010-02-01T00:00:002011-01-31T00:00:00falsefalseRussell 3000(R) Index [Member]dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiftetf1364608_RussellThreeThousandRIndexMemberdei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseInception period since 6/16/2008 [Member]dei_LegalEntityAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiftetf1364608_InceptionPeriodTwoMemberdei_LegalEntityAxisexplicitMemberPureStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseRussell 3000(R) Index [Member] | Inception period since 6/16/2008 [Member]915true0rr_AverageAnnualReturnAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsetruefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseAVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS916false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnLabelrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse00Russell 3000(R) IndexfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringThis item represents Average Anuual Total Returns. If a Multiple Class Fund offers a Class in the prospectus that converts into another Class after a stated period, compute average annual total returns in the table by using the returns of the other Class for the period after conversion.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseLabel917false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue0.16930.1693falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalse1 Year918false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnSinceInceptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue-0.0021-0.0021falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseSince Inception919false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnInceptionDaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse002008-06-16falsefalsetruefalsefalseOtherxbrli:dateItemTypedateReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph instructions -Clause 4 -Subsection b falsefalseInception Date920false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://ftportfolios.com/role/riskreturndetaildata1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse40falsefalsetruefalse{dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxis} : MSCI World Industrials Index [Member] 2/1/2010 - 1/31/2011 TwelveMonthsEnded_31Jan2011_Msci_World_Industrials_Index_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0001364608duration2010-02-01T00:00:002011-01-31T00:00:00falsefalseMSCI World Industrials Index [Member]dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiftetf1364608_MsciWorldIndustrialsIndexMemberdei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisexplicitMemberPureStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseMSCI World Industrials Index [Member]929true0rr_AverageAnnualReturnAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsetruefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseAVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS930false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnLabelrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse00MSCI World Industrials IndexfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringThis item represents Average Anuual Total Returns. If a Multiple Class Fund offers a Class in the prospectus that converts into another Class after a stated period, compute average annual total returns in the table by using the returns of the other Class for the period after conversion.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseLabel931false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue0.23350.2335falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalse1 Year932false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnSinceInceptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue0.18890.1889falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseSince Inception933false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnInceptionDaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse002008-10-13falsefalsetruefalsefalseOtherxbrli:dateItemTypedateReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph instructions -Clause 4 -Subsection b falsefalseInception Date934false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://ftportfolios.com/role/riskreturndetaildata1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse41falsefalsetruefalse{dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxis} : MSCI World Industrials Index [Member] {dei_LegalEntityAxis} : Inception period since 11/16/2009 [Member] 2/1/2010 - 1/31/2011 TwelveMonthsEnded_31Jan2011_Msci_World_Industrials_Index_Member_Inception_Period_One_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0001364608duration2010-02-01T00:00:002011-01-31T00:00:00falsefalseMSCI World Industrials Index [Member]dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiftetf1364608_MsciWorldIndustrialsIndexMemberdei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseInception period since 11/16/2009 [Member]dei_LegalEntityAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiftetf1364608_InceptionPeriodOneMemberdei_LegalEntityAxisexplicitMemberPureStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseMSCI World Industrials Index [Member] | Inception period since 11/16/2009 [Member]943true0rr_AverageAnnualReturnAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsetruefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseAVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS944false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnLabelrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse00MSCI World Industrials IndexfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringThis item represents Average Anuual Total Returns. If a Multiple Class Fund offers a Class in the prospectus that converts into another Class after a stated period, compute average annual total returns in the table by using the returns of the other Class for the period after conversion.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseLabel945false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue0.23350.2335[7]falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalse1 Year946false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnSinceInceptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue0.19730.1973[7]falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseSince Inception947false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnInceptionDaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse002009-11-16[7]falsefalsetruefalsefalseOtherxbrli:dateItemTypedateReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph instructions -Clause 4 -Subsection b falsefalseInception Date948false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://ftportfolios.com/role/riskreturndetaildata1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse42falsefalsetruefalse{dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxis} : ISE Global Wind Energy(TM) Index [Member] 2/1/2010 - 1/31/2011 TwelveMonthsEnded_31Jan2011_Ise_Global_Wind_Energy_Tm_Index_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0001364608duration2010-02-01T00:00:002011-01-31T00:00:00falsefalseISE Global Wind Energy(TM) Index [Member]dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiftetf1364608_IseGlobalWindEnergyTmIndexMemberdei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisexplicitMemberPureStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseISE Global Wind Energy(TM) Index [Member]957true0rr_AverageAnnualReturnAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsetruefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseAVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS958false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnLabelrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse00ISE Global Wind Energy(TM) IndexfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringThis item represents Average Anuual Total Returns. If a Multiple Class Fund offers a Class in the prospectus that converts into another Class after a stated period, compute average annual total returns in the table by using the returns of the other Class for the period after conversion.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseLabel959false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue-0.3066-0.3066falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalse1 Year960false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnSinceInceptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue-0.3292-0.3292falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseSince Inception961false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnInceptionDaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse002008-06-16falsefalsetruefalsefalseOtherxbrli:dateItemTypedateReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph instructions -Clause 4 -Subsection b falsefalseInception Date962false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://ftportfolios.com/role/riskreturndetaildata1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse43falsefalsetruefalse{dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxis} : NASDAQ OMX(R) Clean Edge(R) Smart Grid Infrastructure Index(SM) [Member] 2/1/2010 - 1/31/2011 TwelveMonthsEnded_31Jan2011_Nasdaq_Omx_Clean_Edge_Smart_Grid_Infrastructure_Index_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0001364608duration2010-02-01T00:00:002011-01-31T00:00:00falsefalseNASDAQ OMX(R) Clean Edge(R) Smart Grid Infrastructure Index(SM) [Member]dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiftetf1364608_NasdaqOmxCleanEdgeSmartGridInfrastructureIndexMemberdei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisexplicitMemberPureStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseNASDAQ OMX(R) Clean Edge(R) Smart Grid Infrastructure Index(SM) [Member]971true0rr_AverageAnnualReturnAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsetruefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseAVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS972false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnLabelrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse00NASDAQ OMX(R) Clean Edge(R) Smart Grid Infrastructure Index(SM)falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringThis item represents Average Anuual Total Returns. If a Multiple Class Fund offers a Class in the prospectus that converts into another Class after a stated period, compute average annual total returns in the table by using the returns of the other Class for the period after conversion.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseLabel973false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue0.00710.0071falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalse1 Year974false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnSinceInceptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue0.06620.0662falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseSince Inception975false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnInceptionDaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse002009-11-16falsefalsetruefalsefalseOtherxbrli:dateItemTypedateReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph instructions -Clause 4 -Subsection b falsefalseInception Date976false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://ftportfolios.com/role/riskreturndetaildata1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse44falsefalsetruefalse{dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxis} : S&P 1500 Industrials Index [Member] 2/1/2010 - 1/31/2011 TwelveMonthsEnded_31Jan2011_S_And_P_One_Thousand_Five_Hundred_Industrials_Index_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0001364608duration2010-02-01T00:00:002011-01-31T00:00:00falsefalseS&P 1500 Industrials Index [Member]dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiftetf1364608_SAndPOneThousandFiveHundredIndustrialsIndexMemberdei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisexplicitMemberPureStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseS&P 1500 Industrials Index [Member]985true0rr_AverageAnnualReturnAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsetruefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseAVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS986false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnLabelrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse00S&P 1500 Industrials IndexfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringThis item represents Average Anuual Total Returns. If a Multiple Class Fund offers a Class in the prospectus that converts into another Class after a stated period, compute average annual total returns in the table by using the returns of the other Class for the period after conversion.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseLabel987false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue0.27240.2724falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalse1 Year988false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnSinceInceptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue0.23760.2376falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseSince Inception989false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnInceptionDaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse002009-11-16falsefalsetruefalsefalseOtherxbrli:dateItemTypedateReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph instructions -Clause 4 -Subsection b falsefalseInception Date990false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://ftportfolios.com/role/riskreturndetaildata1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse45falsefalsetruefalse{dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxis} : STOXX Europe Select Dividend 30 Index [Member] 2/1/2010 - 1/31/2011 TwelveMonthsEnded_31Jan2011_Stoxx_Europe_Select_Dividend_Thirty_Index_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0001364608duration2010-02-01T00:00:002011-01-31T00:00:00falsefalseSTOXX Europe Select Dividend 30 Index [Member]dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiftetf1364608_StoxxEuropeSelectDividendThirtyIndexMemberdei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisexplicitMemberPureStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseSTOXX Europe Select Dividend 30 Index [Member]999true0rr_AverageAnnualReturnAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsetruefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseAVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS1000false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnLabelrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse00STOXX(R) Europe Select Dividend 30 Index(1)[8]falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringThis item represents Average Anuual Total Returns. If a Multiple Class Fund offers a Class in the prospectus that converts into another Class after a stated period, compute average annual total returns in the table by using the returns of the other Class for the period after conversion.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseLabel1001false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue0.01310.0131falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalse1 Year1002false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnSinceInceptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue-0.1627-0.1627falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseSince Inception1003false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnInceptionDaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse002007-08-27falsefalsetruefalsefalseOtherxbrli:dateItemTypedateReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph instructions -Clause 4 -Subsection b falsefalseInception Date1004false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://ftportfolios.com/role/riskreturndetaildata1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse46falsefalsetruefalse{dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxis} : STOXX Europe 600 Index [Member] 2/1/2010 - 1/31/2011 TwelveMonthsEnded_31Jan2011_Stoxx_Europe_Six_Hundred_Index_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0001364608duration2010-02-01T00:00:002011-01-31T00:00:00falsefalseSTOXX Europe 600 Index [Member]dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiftetf1364608_StoxxEuropeSixHundredIndexMemberdei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisexplicitMemberPureStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseSTOXX Europe 600 Index [Member]1013true0rr_AverageAnnualReturnAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsetruefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseAVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS1014false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnLabelrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse00STOXX(R) Europe 600 Index(2)[9]falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringThis item represents Average Anuual Total Returns. If a Multiple Class Fund offers a Class in the prospectus that converts into another Class after a stated period, compute average annual total returns in the table by using the returns of the other Class for the period after conversion.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseLabel1015false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue0.04360.0436falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalse1 Year1016false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnSinceInceptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue-0.0625-0.0625falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseSince Inception1017false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnInceptionDaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse002007-08-27falsefalsetruefalsefalseOtherxbrli:dateItemTypedateReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph instructions -Clause 4 -Subsection b falsefalseInception Date1018false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://ftportfolios.com/role/riskreturndetaildata1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse47falsefalsetruefalse{dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxis} : MSCI Europe Index [Member] 2/1/2010 - 1/31/2011 TwelveMonthsEnded_31Jan2011_Msci_Europe_Index_Memberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0001364608duration2010-02-01T00:00:002011-01-31T00:00:00falsefalseMSCI Europe Index [Member]dei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiftetf1364608_MsciEuropeIndexMemberdei_DocumentInformationDocumentAxisexplicitMemberPureStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseMSCI Europe Index [Member]1027true0rr_AverageAnnualReturnAbstractrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1falsetruefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringNo definition available.falsefalseAVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS1028false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnLabelrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse00MSCI Europe IndexfalsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringThis item represents Average Anuual Total Returns. If a Multiple Class Fund offers a Class in the prospectus that converts into another Class after a stated period, compute average annual total returns in the table by using the returns of the other Class for the period after conversion.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseLabel1029false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01rrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue0.03880.0388falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalse1 Year1030false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnSinceInceptionrrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truetruetrue-0.0644-0.0644falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:pureItemTypepureReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph iii -Clause 1 -Exhibit 2 -Subsection b falsefalseSince Inception1031false0rr_AverageAnnualReturnInceptionDaterrfalsenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsetruefalse002007-08-27falsefalsetruefalsefalseOtherxbrli:dateItemTypedateReturn Before Taxes.Reference 1: 1 -Publisher SEC -Name Form -Number N-1A -Chapter A -Section 4 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph instructions -Clause 4 -Subsection b falsefalseInception Date1First Trust has agreed to waive fees and/or pay the Fund's expenses to the extent necessary to prevent the operating expenses of the Fund (excluding interest expense, brokerage commissions and other trading expenses, taxes, and extraordinary expenses) from exceeding 0.60% of its average daily net assets per year at least until December 20, 2012. Expenses borne by First Trust are subject to reimbursement by the Fund for up to three years from the date the fee or expense was incurred, but no reimbursement payment will be made by the Fund at any time if it would result in the Fund's expenses exceeding 0.60% of its average daily net assets per year. The agreement may be terminated by the Trust on behalf of the Fund at any time and by First Trust only after December 20, 2012 upon 60 days' written notice.2First Trust has agreed to waive fees and/or pay the Fund's expenses to the extent necessary to prevent the operating expenses of the Fund (excluding interest expense, brokerage commissions and other trading expenses, taxes, and extraordinary expenses) from exceeding 0.60% of its average daily net assets per year at least until December 6, 2012. Expenses borne by First Trust are subject to reimbursement by the Fund for up to three years from the date the fee or expense was incurred, but no reimbursement payment will be made by the Fund at any time if it would result in the Fund's expenses exceeding 0.60% of its average daily net assets per year. The agreement may be terminated by the Trust on behalf of the Fund at any time and by First Trust only after December 6, 2012 upon 60 days' written notice.3First Trust has agreed to waive fees and/or pay the Fund's expenses to the extent necessary to prevent the operating expenses of the Fund (excluding interest expense, brokerage commissions and other trading expenses, taxes, and extraordinary expenses) from exceeding 0.60% of its average daily net assets per year at least until December 6, 2012. Expenses borne by First Trust are subject to reimbursement by the Fund for up to three years from the date the fee or expense was incurred, but no reimbursement payment will be made by the Fund at any time if it would result in the Fund's expenses exceeding 0.70% of its average daily net assets per year. The agreement may be terminated by the Trust on behalf of the Fund at any time and by First Trust only after December 6, 2012 upon 60 days' written notice.4First Trust has agreed to waive fees and/or pay the Fund's expenses to the extent necessary to prevent the operating expenses of the Fund (excluding interest expense, brokerage commissions and other trading expenses, taxes, and extraordinary expenses) from exceeding 0.60% of its average daily net assets per year at least until January 20, 2013. Expenses borne by First Trust are subject to reimbursement by the Fund for up to three years from the date the fee or expense was incurred, but no reimbursement payment will be made by the Fund at any time if it would result in the Fund's expenses exceeding 0.60% of its average daily net assets per year. The agreement may be terminated by the Trust on behalf of the Fund at any time and by First Trust only after January 20, 2013 upon 60 days' written notice.5First Trust has agreed to waive fees and/or pay the Fund's expenses to the extent necessary to prevent the operating expenses of the Fund (excluding interest expense, brokerage commissions and other trading expenses, taxes, and extraordinary expenses) from exceeding 0.60% of its average daily net assets per year at least until January 20, 2013. Expenses borne by First Trust are subject to reimbursement by the Fund or up to three years from the date the fee or expense was incurred, but no reimbursement payment will be made by the Fund at any time if it would result in the Fund's expenses exceeding 0.70% of its average daily net assets per year. The agreement may be terminated by the Trust on behalf of the Fund at any time and by First Trust only after January 20, 2013 upon 60 days' written notice.6First Trust has agreed to waive fees and/or pay the Fund's expenses to the extent necessary to prevent the operating expenses of the Fund (excluding interest expense, brokerage commissions and other trading expenses, taxes, and extraordinary expenses) from exceeding 0.60% of its average daily net assets per year at least until December 20, 2012. Expenses borne by First Trust are subject to reimbursement by the Fund for up to three years from the date the fee or expense was incurred, but no reimbursement payment will be made by the Fund at any time if it would result in the Fund's expenses exceeding 0.60% of its average daily net assets per year. The agreement may be terminated by the Trust on behalf of the Fund at any time and by First Trust only after December 20, 2012 upon 60 days' written notice.7The broad-based securities market index is changing from S and P 1500 Industrials Index to MSCI World Industrials Index because the MSCI World Industrials Index better reflects the composition of the Fund.8Formerly known as the Dow Jones STOXX(R) Select Dividend 30 Index.9Formerly known as the Dow Jones STOXX(R) 600 Index.1721Risk/Return Detail Data (USD $)NoRoundingUnKnownUnKnownUnKnowntruetrue