Best FINRA Series 65 Study Guides for Assured Success

Getting a Series 65 license is essential for those pursuing a career as a registered investment advisor. This license demonstrates your expertise and readiness to assist clients with financial planning. Like the Series 7 exam, the FINRA Series 65 exam is known for its difficulty, especially for beginners. However, with the right preparation, you can greatly increase your chances of passing on the first attempt.

Selecting the right study guide is crucial for your success. A carefully chosen prep course can provide the necessary materials and practice to help you approach the exam with confidence. In this guide, I’ll review the top Series 65 study courses available, highlighting those that offer the most comprehensive resources to support your exam preparation.

Key Takeaways

• The Series 65 license is essential for investment advisors.
• Top study guides can help you pass the Series 65 exam.
• This article compares the best Series 65 prep courses available.

Top 7 FINRA Series 65 Exam Prep Study Guides

1. Securities Institute of America: This platform offers a comprehensive Series 65 Exam prep course with extensive study material and actual test simulations.
2. Securities Training Corporation: Their strategic approach makes them a solid runner-up for the best Series 65 study material.
3. Achievable Test Prep: Known for affordability, this Series 65 study guide provides excellent value.
4. Kaplan Series 65 Prep Review: This training course offers thorough classes and multiple-choice questions to boost confidence.
5. ExamFX Series 65: Best for video content, this exam prep course offers on-demand video lectures.
6. Knopman Series 65 Study Guide: This is a top choice for its strategic study approach and detailed course material.

#1: Securities Institute of America FINRA Series 65 Exam Prep

The Securities Institute of America (SIA) Series 65 Exam Prep helps candidates prepare effectively for the Series 65 exam, essential for those pursuing licensure as investment advisor representatives. SIA’s prep stands out for its comprehensive approach and practical resources, offering a thorough understanding of the material to boost your exam readiness.

Course Overview

SIA’s FINRA Series 65 Exam Prep delivers an extensive review of the Series 65 exam content. The prep includes detailed study materials, practice questions, and exam strategies, all structured to facilitate a deep understanding of financial regulations, investment products, and ethical considerations. It is designed to support candidates at various levels of familiarity with the content.

Key Features

• Comprehensive Topic Coverage: Detailed review of Series 65 material.
• Diverse Practice Questions: A variety of practice questions with thorough explanations.
• Strategic Study Techniques: Effective methods for maximizing exam preparation.
• Online Study Tools: Access to interactive practice exams and study aids.
• Professional Tips: Guidance from experienced professionals in the field.

Pros and Cons of the SIA Series 65 Exam Prep

Pros

• Affordable Choices: Sometimes it’s hard to spend a lot just to prepare for an exam. If future income isn’t motivation enough, this course offers flexibility. You can save money by selecting specific materials at a lower cost, like SIA’s online platform or the standalone textbook.
• Comprehensive Textbook: The textbook provided by the Securities Institute of America is top-notch for studying key FINRA concepts. With over 500 pages of content, it’s a comprehensive resource for all things Series 65. Plus, you can get it in a digital format to read on various devices and apps.
• GreenLight Assurance: One standout feature is their GreenLight Exams. These are included with most of their FINRA courses and are designed to be taken toward the end of your study period. Based on student feedback and test organizer data, these exams closely mimic the real test. Securities Institute of America guarantees that if you pass their GreenLight Exam, you’ll pass the actual Series 65 exam. That’s the GreenLight Assurance!
• Practice Questions: There is a wide selection of practice questions that reflect the style and difficulty of the actual Series 65 exam. These questions are designed to help you familiarize yourself with the exam format and test your knowledge. Explanations for each question clarify key concepts and enhance your comprehension.
• Exam Strategies: This course offers practical exam strategies and tips to help you navigate the test effectively. This includes advice on time management, tackling different question types, and managing test anxiety. These strategies are intended to improve your performance and boost your confidence during the exam.
• Interactive Resources: You will find several engaging online tools, such as practice exams and study aids, that make studying more interactive and effective. These resources simulate the test environment, helping you practice under realistic conditions and reinforcing your understanding of the material.

Cons

• No Extra Add-Ons: When you sign up for the Series 65 Complete Self-Study Solution, you get access to all SIA materials. This is great, but it’s a bit disappointing that they don’t provide any additional resources. If you need flashcards or personalized tutoring, you won’t find those options here.
• Higher Cost: The price of the SIA Best Series 65 Exam Prep might be higher compared to other study materials. While the depth and quality of the content can justify the cost, it may be a consideration for candidates with limited budgets.
• Time Commitment: Preparing with this prep requires a substantial time investment due to the comprehensive nature of the material. Managing this alongside other responsibilities can be challenging, making effective time management crucial to ensure complete coverage of all topics.
• Information Overload: The detailed and extensive content may feel overwhelming, particularly if you have other commitments. This requires careful planning and pacing to avoid becoming bogged down by the sheer volume of information.
• Requires Self-Discipline: Success with the SIA prep depends on your ability to stay motivated and disciplined. Without a structured classroom environment or regular instructor interactions, maintaining a consistent study routine and staying focused can be difficult.

#2: Securities Training Corporation: Top Series 65 Exam Prep Course

Navigating the complexities of the FINRA Series 65 exam requires thorough preparation and reliable resources. The Securities Training Corporation (STC) Series 65 Exam Prep Course offers a comprehensive and structured approach to mastering the knowledge needed to pass the exam. This course is for those individuals seeking a robust and efficient study plan to excel in their Series 65 qualification.

Course Overview

The STC Series 65 Exam Prep Course provides an in-depth review of the key concepts and regulations required for the Series 65 exam. With a focus on both theoretical knowledge and practical application, this course ensures that candidates are well-prepared for the exam. The program includes a range of study materials, including detailed content outlines, practice questions, and interactive learning tools.

Key Features

• Comprehensive Study Materials: Detailed textbooks and study guides covering all exam topics
• Practice Exams and Quizzes: Interactive practice tools to simulate real exam conditions
• Webinars: Live and recorded sessions for additional instruction and insights
• Mobile Access: Study materials accessible on various devices for flexible learning
• Progress Analytics: Tools to track study progress and identify areas for improvement
• Instructor Support: Access to experienced instructors for personalized assistance

Pros and Cons of the STC Series 65 Exam Prep Course

Pros

• In-Depth Content: The course offers a thorough exploration of all essential Series 65 topics, including securities regulations, economic factors, and investment strategies. The detailed study guides and textbooks ensure that candidates gain a comprehensive understanding of the material, which is crucial for both passing the exam and applying the knowledge in real-world scenarios.
• Realistic Practice: There is a wide range of practice exams and quizzes that closely mirror the actual test format. These tools help candidates familiarize themselves with question styles and time constraints, which can reduce test anxiety and improve performance.
• 24/7 Help from Instructors: One of the standout features of Securities Training Corporation (STC) is the round-the-clock access to instructor support. Anytime confusion arises, you can reach out for help without any added costs. This constant availability ensures that you are never left puzzled about any topic.
• Buy Courses Individually: STC offers the flexibility to purchase courses individually. This allows you to customize the study plan by buying only what you need. This feature is appreciable for not requiring to pay for extras like flashcards or manuals if they aren’t necessary for your preparation.
• Detailed Study Manuals: STC provides comprehensive study manuals with all their courses. These manuals are perfect for deepening any learner’s understanding of each subject and offer valuable context to the lessons. They are also excellent for quick reviews, eliminating the need to re-watch videos or redo tests whenever you need a refresher.

Cons

• Basic Package Limitations: The Standard version of the review course from STC is somewhat limited. Much of the useful content, such as live courses and flashcards, is reserved for the Premier and Premier Plus packages. This makes the basic package less valuable compared to the more advanced options available.
• Higher Cost: The STC Series 65 Exam Prep Course may be more expensive than some other prep options available in the market. The higher cost might be a consideration for those on a tighter budget, though the comprehensive nature of the course can justify the investment for many.
• Complexity: Some users may find the extensive volume of material overwhelming. The depth and breadth of content covered can require significant time and effort to master, potentially necessitating a longer study period and additional effort to digest the material thoroughly.
• Limited Free Content: The initial access to course materials might be limited, with some features and resources available only upon purchase. This limitation could make it challenging to evaluate the full scope of the course before committing to it financially.

#3: Achievable Test Prep: Series 65 Exam Review Course

Success on the Series 65 exam requires diligent study and effective preparation tools. The Achievable Test Prep Series 65 Exam Review Course aims to provide candidates with a clear, structured, and engaging approach to mastering the exam content. Focusing on ease of understanding and practical application, this course aims to streamline your preparation and boost your confidence.

Course Overview

The Achievable Test Prep Series 65 Exam Review Course provides a thorough review that simplifies complex concepts. It includes detailed study materials, interactive practice questions, and innovative learning tools. These resources help students understand key topics and excel in the Series 65 exam. The user-friendly design ensures an efficient and focused study experience.

Key Features

• Structured Study Guides: Concise and organized materials covering all exam topics
• Interactive Practice Questions: Realistic practice questions with detailed explanations
• Visual Learning Aids: Infographics and charts to simplify complex concepts
• Adaptive Learning Technology: Personalized study plans based on progress
• Mobile Access: Study resources available on various devices for convenience
• Expert Support: Access to knowledgeable instructors for questions and guidance

Pros and Cons of the Achievable Series 65 Course

Pros

• Clear and Structured Content: The course is known for its well-organized study materials that break down complex topics into manageable sections. This clarity helps students understand and retain information more effectively, reducing the time needed to prepare.
• Interactive Practice Questions: Achievable Test Prep includes a wide range of practice questions that simulate the actual exam. Each question comes with detailed explanations, allowing students to understand their mistakes and learn from them, which enhances exam readiness.
• Visual Learning Aids: Infographics and charts illustrate difficult concepts, making them easier to grasp. These visual aids cater to visual learners and can improve retention and comprehension.
• Adaptive Learning Technology: The course employs adaptive learning technology to create personalized study plans based on each student’s progress and performance. This feature ensures that study time is spent efficiently, focusing on areas that need the most attention.
• Mobile Access: With mobile-friendly resources, students can access study materials on the go, making it easier to fit studying into a busy schedule. This flexibility supports consistent study habits and helps maintain progress.
• Expert Support: Students have access to knowledgeable instructors who provide answers to questions and offer guidance throughout the preparation process. This support can be crucial for clarifying doubts and providing additional insights.

Cons

• Moderate Cost: While generally more affordable than some premium courses, the Achievable Test Prep course may still be considered a significant investment for some students. The cost reflects the quality of resources and support provided.
• Limited Depth: Although the course offers clear and concise materials, some students may find that it lacks the depth of coverage found in more comprehensive programs. Those needing a more detailed exploration of specific topics might require additional resources.
• Potential Overreliance on Technology: The heavy reliance on adaptive learning technology may not suit every learner’s preferences. Some students might prefer traditional study methods or more interactive, hands-on approaches.
• Smaller Resource Library: Compared to larger prep courses, Achievable Test Prep might have a smaller library of practice questions and study materials. This could limit the variety of practice opportunities available to students.
• Less Frequent Updates: While the course provides solid foundational material, updates to content might not be as frequent as in other courses, potentially affecting the relevance of information in response to recent changes in regulations.

#4: Kaplan Education: Series 65 Study Guide Materials

The FINRA Series 65 exam requires a study approach that is both thorough and engaging. Kaplan Education’s Series 65 Study Guide Materials offer a dynamic and resource-rich experience designed to equip candidates with the knowledge and skills necessary for success. By combining detailed content with interactive learning tools, Kaplan aims to provide a robust and comprehensive preparation solution for the Series 65 exam.

Course Overview

Kaplan Education’s FINRA Series 65 Study Guide Materials present an integrated learning experience, including detailed textbooks, practice tests, and a range of supplementary resources. This course covers every facet of the Series 65 exam, from foundational concepts to advanced regulatory knowledge. Kaplan’s approach emphasizes a structured study plan with a variety of tools to enhance understanding and retention.

Key Features

• In-Depth Textbooks: Extensive guides covering all Series 65 exam topics, broken down into clear, manageable sections
• Practice Tests: A series of full-length practice exams that simulate the real test experience
• Supplementary Study Aids: Includes flashcards, concept summaries, and quick-reference sheets
• Interactive Online Platform: Access to a range of online tools, including practice questions, video explanations, and interactive quizzes
• Performance Analytics: Detailed tracking of study progress and performance to identify strengths and areas for improvement
• Expert Instruction: Direct access to experienced instructors for additional support and clarification

Pros and Cons of the Kaplan FINRA Series 65 Study Guide

Pros

• Thorough and Detailed Content: Kaplan’s materials provide an exhaustive review of the Series 65 exam topics, including advanced financial concepts and intricate regulatory details. This thorough coverage ensures that all critical areas are addressed, providing a deep understanding necessary for passing the exam.
• Realistic Exam Simulation: The practice exams included are designed to closely replicate the format and difficulty of the actual Series 65 test. This simulation helps candidates acclimate to the exam environment, improving their ability to manage time and handle exam pressure effectively.
• Diverse Study Tools: Kaplan offers a range of study aids, including flashcards and summaries, which cater to different learning preferences. These tools facilitate a more customized study approach and help reinforce key concepts efficiently.
• Robust Online Resources: The online platform offers interactive quizzes and video explanations, enhancing the learning experience through multimedia. This flexibility allows candidates to study on their own schedule and revisit challenging topics with visual and interactive aids.
• Advanced Performance Tracking: The course provides sophisticated analytics to track progress and identify specific areas that need additional focus. This data-driven approach helps students tailor their study efforts more effectively and improve their overall performance.
• Expert Access: The availability of knowledgeable instructors for support offers additional guidance and clarification. This direct access ensures that students have expert assistance to resolve doubts and enhance their understanding of complex topics.

Cons

• Premium Pricing: Kaplan’s Series 65 Study Guide Materials come with a higher price tag, which might be a concern for students with limited budgets. The cost reflects the extensive resources and support provided, but it may be a barrier for some.
• Information Density: The volume and density of the material can be overwhelming for some students. The extensive content requires a significant time investment, which might be challenging for those with other commitments.
• Content Redundancy: Some users may experience redundancy in the practice questions and study materials. This repetition can sometimes lead to diminishing returns in terms of new learning, potentially reducing the variety of practice scenarios.
• Less Interactive Feedback: While online resources are available, the interactive feedback may not be as immediate or personalized as some students might prefer. This could limit the effectiveness of addressing specific learning gaps.
• Potential Lag in Updates: The frequency of updates to the study materials may not be as rapid as in other programs. This lag could impact the relevance of content if there have been recent changes to the exam format or regulatory requirements.

#5: ExamFX: FINRA Series 65 Exam Prep Course

ExamFX offers a comprehensive Series 65 Exam Prep course designed for both individual learners and organizations. This course includes a variety of study materials and resources aimed at equipping candidates with the knowledge and skills necessary to pass the Series 65 exam, which qualifies individuals to act as Investment Adviser Representatives (IARs). The course caters to various learning styles and preferences, making it an excellent choice for prospective financial advisors.

Course Overview

The ExamFX Series 65 Exam Prep course features high-quality video content, interactive flashcards, custom practice exams, and instructor support. The program comes with a pass guarantee, ensuring that candidates can prepare with confidence. With three months of access to all materials, students have ample time to study and review, allowing for a thorough understanding of the material before taking the exam.

Key Features

• Quality Video Content: Engaging video lectures covering all essential topics of the Series 65 exam.
• Flashcards: Interactive flashcards to reinforce key concepts and terminology.
• Custom Practice Exams: Tailored practice exams that simulate the actual test experience, helping students become familiar with the exam format.
• Instructor Support: Access to experienced instructors for additional guidance and clarification of complex topics.
• Pass Guarantee: A promise that if you do not pass the exam after using their materials, you will receive compensation.
• Three-Month Access: Ample time to study and review all materials thoroughly.

Pros and Cons of the ExamFX Series 65 Exam Prep Course

Pros

• Comprehensive Content: ExamFX provides an extensive review of all Series 65 exam topics, ensuring candidates are well-prepared. The course covers foundational concepts, advanced financial strategies, and regulatory guidelines, giving students a thorough understanding of what to expect on the exam.
• Realistic Exam Simulation: The practice exams closely replicate the actual Series 65 test, helping candidates manage time and pressure effectively. This realistic simulation not only boosts confidence but also helps students develop effective test-taking strategies.
• Flexible Learning Options: The online platform allows students to study at their own pace, making it convenient for those with busy schedules. The ability to access materials anytime and anywhere is a significant advantage for learners who may be balancing work or personal commitments.
• Group Discounts: Organizations training multiple employees can benefit from discounts, making it a cost-effective option for teams. This feature is particularly useful for companies looking to ensure that their financial advisors are well-prepared for the Series 65 exam.
• Detailed Performance Tracking: ExamFX’s course provides detailed analytics and performance tracking, allowing students to identify their strengths and weaknesses. This data-driven approach helps candidates focus their study efforts on areas that need improvement, optimizing their preparation.
• Multimedia Learning Resources: In addition to video lectures, ExamFX offers a variety of multimedia learning resources, such as audio files and interactive simulations. These diverse materials cater to different learning preferences and help reinforce key concepts through multiple modalities.

Cons

• Limited Live Instruction: While ExamFX offers valuable video content, live instruction is limited to a few sessions each month, which may not meet the needs of all learners. Some students may prefer more interactive, real-time learning environments to clarify doubts.
• Higher Price Point: The cost of the course may be a concern for some students, especially those on a tight budget. While the extensive resources and support provided justify the price, it may still be a barrier for some potential candidates.
• Information Density: The extensive material may be overwhelming for some students, requiring significant time investment. Candidates should be prepared to dedicate ample time to study and review, which may be challenging for those with other commitments.
• Potential for Technical Issues: As an online platform, ExamFX may be susceptible to occasional technical issues or server downtime. While the company aims to minimize disruptions, students should be aware of the possibility of technical difficulties that could impact their study sessions.
• Limited Personalized Feedback: While ExamFX provides instructor support, the level of personalized feedback may be limited due to the scalability of the program. Students who require more individualized attention may find this aspect of the course less satisfactory.
• Potential for Outdated Content: As financial regulations and industry practices evolve, there is a risk that course content may become outdated over time. ExamFX strives to keep materials current, but students should be aware of the importance of staying informed about any changes in the industry.

#6: KnopmanMarks: FINRA Series 65 Exam Prep Review

Securing a passing score on the Series 65 exam requires a well-rounded and effective preparation strategy. The Knopman Marks Series 65 Exam Prep Review offers a comprehensive and focused approach to mastering the exam content. Known for its detailed study materials and interactive learning methods, Knopman Marks aims to equip candidates with the necessary tools and strategies to achieve success.

Course Overview

The Knopman Marks FINRA Series 65 Exam Prep course is designed to provide an in-depth understanding of all exam topics through a combination of structured study guides, practice questions, and interactive tools. The course emphasizes clarity and efficiency, focusing on delivering essential knowledge and practical exam strategies to help candidates perform confidently on test day.

Key Features

• Large Video Library: Over 19 hours of video content covering all key Series 65 topics, including investment strategies, regulatory requirements, and ethical considerations.
• Digital Flashcards: Interactive flashcards to reinforce learning and improve retention.
• Physical Textbook: A comprehensive textbook that integrates seamlessly with the video curriculum.
• Digital Study Hub: An online platform providing access to practice questions, video explanations, and additional resources.
• Customizable Study Plans: Personalized study plans tailored to individual progress and performance.
• Expert Support: Access to experienced instructors for guidance and clarification.

Pros and Cons of the KnopmanMarks Series 65 Exam Prep Materials

Pros

• Thorough Content Coverage: Knopman Marks offers detailed study guides that cover all essential aspects of the Series 65 exam. The materials address a wide range of topics, including complex financial products and regulations, ensuring a deep and comprehensive understanding.
• Effective Practice Questions: The course includes a diverse set of practice questions that closely align with the actual exam format. Detailed explanations accompany each question, helping students understand their mistakes and learn from them, which enhances their preparation.
• Flexible Learning Options: With both live and recorded webinars, students can benefit from real-time instruction or revisit recorded sessions as needed. This flexibility supports various learning preferences and schedules.
• Mobile Compatibility: The availability of mobile-compatible resources allows students to study on-the-go, making it easier to integrate study sessions into a busy lifestyle and maintain consistent progress.
• Personalized Study Plans: The course offers customizable study plans that adapt to individual progress and performance. This feature helps students focus on areas where they need the most improvement, optimizing their study efforts.
• Expert Guidance: Access to knowledgeable instructors provides valuable support and clarification on challenging topics. This expert assistance can be crucial for addressing specific questions and gaining a deeper understanding of the material.

Cons

• Higher Cost: The Knopman Marks Series 65 Exam Prep Review is priced at a premium, which may be a consideration for students on a tight budget. The cost reflects the extensive resources and support provided but might be a barrier for some.
• Volume of Material: The extensive content and practice questions can be overwhelming for some students. The depth of coverage requires a significant time commitment, which may be challenging for those balancing other responsibilities.
• Potential Redundancy: Some students might find that the practice questions and study materials cover similar content repeatedly. This redundancy could potentially limit the variety of practice scenarios and reduce the effectiveness of preparation.
• Less Emphasis on Simulation: While the course offers interactive questions and practice materials, some students may find that it lacks the full simulation of the exam experience. This might affect their ability to adapt to the actual test environment.
• Update Frequency: The timeliness of content updates may vary, which could impact the relevance of the study materials if there are recent changes to the exam format or regulatory requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which study materials are highly rated for the FINRA Series 65 exam?

According to various reviews, several study materials are often recommended for the Series 65 exam. The Series 65 Complete Self-Study Solution from Investopedia offers a comprehensive package with a 516-page textbook and test bank with 1,900 questions. SecuritiesCE offers a guide with high pass rates and a combination of textbooks, test questions, and video classes for thorough preparation.

Are there any free study guides available for the Series 65 exam?

Free study guides can sometimes be found through resources like online forums or educational websites. While they might not be as comprehensive as paid guides, they can provide useful insights and practice questions for those on a budget.

How much time should be spent preparing for Series 65 to ensure a passing score?

Most people spend around 2 to 4 weeks preparing for the Series 65 exam. This involves studying for a few hours a day, several days a week, which should be enough to cover the material thoroughly. It’s important to create a study schedule and stick to it.

What are some effective strategies for studying for a Series 65 license?

Effective strategies for studying include creating a study schedule, using multiple types of study materials (textbooks, practice questions, video lectures), and regularly testing yourself with practice exams. This helps reinforce the material and identify any weak areas that need more focus.

Is the Kaplan study guide for Series 65 considered among the best for exam preparation?

The Kaplan Series 65 study guide is highly regarded in the industry. Kaplan is known for its detailed explanations and structured approach, making it a favorite among many exam-preparers.

How difficult is the FINRA Series 65 exam compared to other financial exams?

While the Series 65 exam is not as demanding as the CFP exam, it still requires a solid understanding of various financial concepts. Typically, the exam can be prepared for in a short period, such as 2 to 4 weeks, with consistent and focused study. The exam covers topics like economic factors, investment vehicles, and client investment recommendations, which can be challenging but manageable with the right preparation.