Best SIE Test Prep Providers 2024

Compare the top-rated SIE exam prep courses. Our comprehensive reviews help you choose the right provider to pass the Securities Industry Essentials exam and start your securities career.

88%

Pass Rate

88%

Average pass rate achieved by students using our top-recommended SIE test prep providers compared to national averages of 65-70%.

2-4

Weeks Study

2-4

Typical study duration recommended by top prep providers for SIE exam preparation, the shortest of all securities exams due to foundational content.

24/7

Support

24/7

Round-the-clock student support available from our top-rated SIE prep providers through phone, chat, and email channels for all questions.

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SIE Exam Overview

Questions

75

Multiple choice questions

Time Limit

105

Minutes to complete

Pass Score

70%

Minimum passing score

Cost

$80

FINRA exam fee

SIE Packages

Securities Institute of America

STC SIE

Best Additional Product

Video Class Demo

Securities Institute of America

STC Series 65

Training Consultants

Online Account Access

180 days instant access

180 days instant access

180 days instant access

Physical Textbook

Physical & Digital

Physical & Digital

Physical & Digital

eBook

eBook included

eBook included

eBook included

Video Training Class

Video lessons

Video lessons

Video lessons

Practice Questions

1,000+ questions

800+ questions

500+ questions

Pass Guarantee Program

Study Calendar

Mobile App

X

X

Live Instructor Support

X

Greenlight Simulated Exam

X

Self-Paced Learning

Money-Back Guarantee

$249
$179
$129

Why SIE is Your Gateway to Securities

The Securities Industry Essentials (SIE) exam is FINRA’s foundational securities exam. Unlike other securities exams, you don’t need firm sponsorship to take the SIE, making it perfect for students and career changers who want to enter the financial services industry.

Key Benefits:
• No sponsorship required – take it anytime
• Prerequisite for most FINRA exams
• 18-month validity period
• Entry-level content perfect for beginners
• Foundation for Series 7, 63, 66 and more
• Boost your resume before job interviews

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SIE Prep FAQ

No! The SIE is unique among FINRA exams because it requires no firm sponsorship. Anyone 18 or older can register and take the exam. This makes it perfect for students, career changers, or anyone looking to enter the securities industry. Your SIE score remains valid for 18 months, giving you time to find employment and take a qualifying exam like Series 7.

Most candidates need 2-4 weeks of consistent study. The SIE covers foundational securities concepts, making it more accessible than advanced exams. Plan for 50-75 hours of total study time. Those with business or finance backgrounds often need less time, while complete beginners should plan for the full 4 weeks to ensure thorough understanding of basic concepts.

Passing the SIE allows you to take qualifying exams like Series 7, Series 63, or Series 66 once you’re sponsored by a FINRA member firm. Your SIE score is valid for 18 months from the test date. During this time, you can use your SIE pass to demonstrate securities knowledge to potential employers and qualify for entry-level positions in the industry.

The SIE has a pass rate of approximately 65-70%, making it moderately challenging but very achievable with proper preparation. The exam tests foundational knowledge rather than advanced concepts. Most candidates find it easier than Series 7 or Series 66, but it still requires dedicated study to understand securities basics, regulatory frameworks, and market fundamentals.

For complete beginners, we recommend courses with strong foundational content and beginner-friendly explanations. Kaplan offers the most comprehensive content with excellent support, STC provides interactive features that help with understanding, and ExamFX specializes in simplified explanations perfect for newcomers. All three have proven track records with first-time test takers.

Quality SIE prep courses range from $129-$249. Basic online courses start around $129, comprehensive packages with live support cost $179-$249. Given the SIE exam fee is only $80 and the 18-month time limit, investing in quality preparation is essential. Most successful candidates spend more on prep than the exam itself to ensure first-time success.

Start Your Securities Career Today

The SIE exam is your first step into the securities industry. No sponsorship required means you can start studying today and pass before you even find a job.

Affiliate Disclosure: Testopedia may earn a commission when you purchase through our links. This helps us provide free content and maintain our comprehensive reviews. Our recommendations are based on thorough research and student outcomes, not commission rates. See our full affiliate disclosure for details.

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