Best Series 26 Study Guide

Passing the Series 26 exam from the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) is important for those who want to work at an investment company, but it can be difficult because of its detailed rules and legal aspects. Success requires solid preparation, and thankfully, there are many study guides and prep courses available to help.

Whether you prefer the ease and affordability of online resources or the personalized support of in-person classes, there’s a study guide that fits your needs. Options range from detailed textbooks and interactive video lessons to practice exams and customizable study plans for different learning styles. Some courses even offer pass guarantees, giving you extra confidence.

Key Takeaways

• The Series 26 exam is essential for roles in investment companies and focuses on supervisory responsibilities.
• There are various study guides and courses available to suit different learning preferences.
• Proper preparation is crucial to passing this challenging exam.

In this guide, I will share top recommendations for preparing effectively for the Series 26 exam. I will cover all the features, advantages, and disadvantages of leading study programs. Proper preparation is essential for overcoming the exam’s challenges and achieving success in the investment industry. Stay tuned for a detailed review of the best resources to help you reach your goals.

#1 Securities Institute of America Series 26 Exam Prep

Course Information

The Securities Institute of America (SIA) offers a detailed and affordable Series 26 exam prep course. This program is supported by John Wiley & Sons and includes a textbook, online exams, video lessons, and an ebook. The materials come with six months of free online access. For those on a budget, there’s an option to purchase just the book and test questions at a lower price.

Key Features of the Securities Institute of America Series 26 Exam Prep

• Comprehensive Textbook: In-depth coverage of all essential topics for the Series 26 exam.
• Online Exams: Practice exams that simulate the actual test environment to assess readiness.
• Video Lessons: Engaging instructional videos that break down complex topics into manageable segments.
• Ebook Access: Digital version of the textbook for convenient studying on various devices.
• Six Months of Free Online Access: Ample time to review materials, take practice exams, and revisit lessons.
• Budget-Friendly Options: Option to purchase just the textbook and test questions at a lower price.
• Support and Resources: Additional study guides and tips to enhance exam preparation.
• User-Friendly Interface: Intuitive online platform for easy navigation and progress tracking.

Pros:

• Extensive Study Guide – This course will cover various study materials. You will have many resources to learn that will involve everything from online manuals to practice exams, and even the facility to obtain on-demand lectures. This course makes sure that candidates will receive all sorts of learning tools that they may require to pass the exam.
• Well-Structured Learning Approach – The Series 26 exam requires the understanding of a wide range of crucial topics that are necessary to pass the exam. Hence curriculum of this course is focused on various topics on management responsibilities, compliance, and ethical standards, which are essential for supervising sales teams in the financial sector
• Flexible Study Plans – The course offers to customize the study plan according to one’s needs. There will be options available for both self-study and instructor-led classes. Therefore candidates can choose a learning approach that will best fit their schedule and learning style. All the plans are available with online access so it will allow candidates to study at their own pace.
• Availability of Practice Exams: This course also involves practice exams that allow candidates to better prepare before attempting the real exam. This feature allows realistic practice and mastery of the elements of exams which helps candidates gauge their readiness and identify areas needing improvement, which is crucial for effective preparation.

Cons:

• Rigorous Requirements—Any candidate willing to attempt this exam must first meet a few requirements to be eligible, such as sponsorship by a FINRA member firm and passing Series 6 or Series 7 exams. This can be a significant barrier for aspiring professionals who are still struggling with these requirements.
• Time Constraints – This is one of the most challenging exams to participate in as it consists of a total of 110 questions, and the duration to attempt them will be only 2 hours and 45 minutes. This turns out to be a big challenge for many candidates as they will also have to focus on effective time management during the test.
• Cost Considerations – This course is a significant aid in exam preparation and results are always significant. Nevertheless, the overall cost of the comprehensive package can also be worth considering if you are on a tight budget. If budget is not a constraint, candidates will certainly find this course to be a good value for the investment.
• Potential Overwhelm—The course involves all the essential topics that address all the areas required to pass the exam adequately. However, this can also be overwhelming for candidates who are constrained by time and cannot manage a well-structured study plan.
• Limited Access Period – The course comes with a standard access period of 5 months typically. Though there is a wide range of topics that need to be covered, this period might not be sufficient for some learners. In that case, you may be required to purchase an extension to the course by paying a sum of the additional fee.

#2 Securities Training Corporation Series 26 Study Guides

Course Information

The Securities Training Corporation (STC) has been a leader in financial education since 1969. They have developed high-quality courses that help employees apply compliance and business processes at major banks. Their Series 26 study packages come with essential materials like study guides, mock exams, and progress-tracking calendars. The Standard package costs $150, while the Premier version is $300, including additional exam questions, on-demand lectures, and nearly 1,000 flashcards. Their programs boast a 95% success rate and some packages even come with a money-back guarantee.

Key Features of the Securities Training Corporation Series 26 Exam Prep Course

• Extensive Textbook: Detailed coverage of all essential Series 26 exam topics.
• Online Practice Exams: Realistic practice exams that simulate the actual test format.
• Video Lessons: Engaging instructional videos that simplify complex topics.
• Ebook Access: Digital version of the textbook for convenient studying on various devices.
• Instructor Support: Access to experienced instructors for additional guidance and clarification.
• Customizable Study Plans: Flexible study schedules tailored to individual learning styles and time availability.
• Guaranteed Pass: Pass guarantee with additional support if the candidate does not pass on the first attempt.

Pros:

• Comprehensive Study Materials – The Series 26 courses offered by Securities Training Corporation (STC) are known to be all-inclusive in their study plans. This course offers candidates a a variety of resources to prepare for the exam such as printed study manuals, online lectures, flashcards, and practice exams. All of it aids in ensuring a well-rounded preparation experience for learners and enhances their chances of clearing the exam.
• High Pass Rates – This course is listed among those programs in Series 26 courses that have proved their success with the highest pass rates. The reports indicate that the pass rate of this exam is around 95% among the candidates who acquired it. This shows that the study materials involved in this course have the potential to help learners pass the exam.
• Flexible Learning Program – There are different formats available to learn with this course. Candidates may choose from their online self-study programs or on-demand lectures that cater to various learning preferences. This flexibility is mot resourceful for those students who wish to study at their own pace.
• Instructor Support – Under this program, candidates will also be provided with access to an instructor hotline for additional help. This accommodation can be beneficial for clarifying complex topics or questions that arise during study.
• Extensive Practice Material – This course also offers several practice questionnaires with details explanations of their answers for better learning. These practice materials can help Series 26  candidates understand their fallbacks and mistakes more effectively and reinforce their learning practices.
• Money-Back Guarantee—Some of the premium packages also come with a money-back guarantee, which shows their confidence in their high pass rate and reassures students about the effectiveness of the course materials.

Cons:

• High Cost—The Premier package, though it comes with many valuable advantages, is priced at around $300. This price may be considered costlier when compared to other alternatives available in the market. While the STCs Standard package is cheaper, it also lacks some of the additional resources found in the Premier version that guarantee success with exam preparation.
• Limited Live Instruction—While STC has made sure to provide all the necessary study resources, some students may still find the lack of live classroom instruction less appealing. In this course, most of the learning is conducted through self-study materials and pre-recorded lectures, which may not interest those who prefer live classes.
• Pass Guarantee Limitations – While the money-back guarantee offers reassurance to the candidates, this feature is only provided with the Premier package, which means students opting for the Standard package will not have this safety net.
• Overwhelming Content – Some learners might find the amount of study material and the depth of content covered to be a little overwhelming. Especially for those learners who prefer a more structured or guided approach to studying, this course might not be the best choice.

Course Information

Kaplan offers a variety of study materials to match different learning styles. The SecuritiesPro QBank has hundreds of questions to pinpoint areas where you might need extra help. You can choose practice exams based on your needs, and offline study is possible. The QBank can be bought separately or bundled with other packages. There’s no money-back guarantee, but the resources provided are ample to help you pass.

Key Features of the Kaplan Series 26 Review Course

• Comprehensive License Exam Manual: Detailed textbook covering all essential exam topics in manageable units.
• Checkpoint Exams: Practice questions at the end of each unit to assess comprehension.
• Midterm Exam: Cumulative exam to simulate the actual exam experience and test overall knowledge.
• Streaming Video Lessons: Short, focused videos that reinforce core topics and clarify challenging concepts.
• Instructor Support: Access to experienced instructors for real-time guidance and clarification.
• Progress Tracking Tools: Reporting tools to monitor study progress and identify strengths and weaknesses.
• Flexible Study Options: Multiple formats are available, including online, print, and PDF.
• Access Period: Online course access for 5 months, with an option for a 5-month extension.

Pros:

• Extensive Study Materials – Kaplan’s Series 26 course includes an extensive range of study packages that come with several features such as online access, printed materials, and even detailed practice exams. All these features ensure that students will have access to multiple resources to prepare for the exam effectively.
• Structured Learning—The Kaplan Series 26 course has a clear structure that features checkpoint exams, midterm exams, and a mastery exam to assess the effectiveness of the study materials and overall course performance. This approach helps students track their progress and understanding of the material.
• Instructor Support – The course comes with the InstructorLink™ which is created to allow students to connect with instructors for personalized assistance. So in case learners are having difficulties at any point, this feature can be beneficial for clarifying complex topics.
• Flexible Learning Options—For candidates looking for a flexible learning program, this course might just be the right fit. The Kaplan course offers both online and printed materials. Therefore, it is easier for students to choose the format that best suits their learning abilities, whether they wish to learn using digital content or physical books.
• Video-based Content –  The course makes video-based content available to the students with detailed explanations on multiple topics related to the exam. This feature reinforces the learning of key concepts and provides additional explanations, which can be particularly helpful for visual learners.

Cons:

• High Cost—Some learners may find Kaplan’s courses relatively expensive compared to other options available in the market, which may discourage budget-conscious students. Nevertheless, this course also proves to be value for money, so opting for it might still be a good decision.
• Limited Access Period—If you choose the standard course, the online access period is only five months. Extending this period will incur additional fees, which may not be ideal for all students.
• Mixed Reviews on Course Quality—Some past course participants have reported that certain study materials were outdated or not entirely aligned with the current exam format. This drawback is considerable and may also impact the preparation quality.
• Self-Discipline Required—This course’s success Is largely dependent on the self-study method. Its success depends on the student’s motivation and discipline to follow through with the study plan and complete all practice exams. If students lack the commitment to time management, this course might not help them with preparation as much.
• Technical Issues – There have also been reports of technical issues with this course in the past. Some users have expressed concerns about the online platform’s usability. The most common concerns may include issues with the interface and the clarity of online questions.

#4 ExamFX Series 26 Study Guide

Course Information

ExamFX’s Series 26 study guide offers a robust course package designed to boost your chances of passing. With a 92% passing rate, it ensures that you’re well-prepared for the exam. This course costs $199.95 and offers a money-back guarantee if you pass their Guarantee Exam three days before taking the Series 26 Exam. The ExamFX course lasts 90 days and features an online instructor in each class. This allows you to get additional support quickly if needed. The inclusion of simulated exams helps highlight the most important information based on your responses.

This functionality is extremely helpful for those looking to deepen their understanding of FINRA licensing. The ExamFX app is another useful tool, providing insights into whether you’re truly ready for the test. It also helps refresh your memory on specific questions and topics if you need some quick last-minute study sessions.

Key Features of the ExamFX Series 26 Study Guide

• Comprehensive Content: Detailed study materials that cover all necessary topics for the Series 26 exam.
• Performance-Based Learning: Adaptive learning technology that focuses on individual strengths and weaknesses.
• Flexible Study Plans: Customizable study schedules to accommodate different learning styles and time commitments.
• Assessment Tools: Includes various assessments to monitor progress and understanding, such as chapter exams and final exams.
• Extensive Question Bank: A diverse range of practice questions to prepare candidates for the actual exam format.
• User-Friendly LMS: An intuitive platform for easy navigation and progress tracking.
• Expertly Developed Content: Course materials created by industry experts to ensure relevance and accuracy.
• Support Resources: Additional resources and updates to keep candidates informed about regulatory changes and exam strategies.

Pros:

• High Passing Rate – The ExamFX course has a 92% passing rate which is pretty impressive. This success rate indicates that many students find this course to be an effective source for exam preparation. For a course that comes with only 90 days of learning duration, this program might be the key to success for those students with limited preparation time.
• Comprehensive Course Package—If you are looking for a course that will offer you endless opportunities to practice for the final exam, this is the one for you. It includes unlimited practice exams, an interactive learning portal, and access to online instructors, providing a well-rounded educational experience.
• Money-Back Guarantee—ExamFX offers a money-back guarantee if students pass their Guarantee Exam within three days before taking the Series 26 exam. These features can boost candidates’ confidence as they receive a certain assurance in their investment.
• Affordable Pricing—The course starts at $199.95. This makes it competitively priced compared to other alternatives, making it accessible for many students even with a low budget.
• Mobile App—This course also comes with a mobile app for students who love the flexibility of learning from a comfortable place. The app helps considerably with on-the-go study and helps students track their progress, making it convenient to prepare anytime.
• Instant Feedback—Students also receive immediate feedback from instructors on the areas they need to improve in their preparation. This allows students to focus on areas needing improvement quickly.

Cons:

• Limited Access Duration – The course gives you access only for 90 days which is quite short compared to many other courses. This duration may not be sufficient for all students, especially those needing more time to prepare.
• Accelerated Study Requirement – Given the 90-day access durations, students are required to plan for an accelerated study schedule and enhanced time management. This might not be a suitable option for everyone’s learning pace.
• Online-Only Format – While the online study approach brings a great deal of flexibility and convenience, the lack of in-person classes may be a con for those who prefer face-to-face instruction and interaction for understanding intricate topics.
• Potentially Overwhelming for Beginners – The short course duration and the very comprehensive nature of the study material might prove to be overwhelming for those new to the subject matter, requiring a solid foundation before diving into the course.

Honorable Mentions

For those looking for other solid choices, especially on a budget or with fewer requirements, the following resources stand out:

1. Comprehensive Texts: Some guides offer detailed explanations, covering key topics in depth, including the Investment Company Act of 1940.
2. Practice Exercises: These include a mix of exercises, from basic questions to more complex scenarios, honing your skills effectively.
3. Discussion Questions: Engaging discussion prompts help you interact with the material, aiding retention and understanding of core concepts.
4. In-Depth Rationales: Detailed explanations back up the right and wrong answers, providing clarity and reinforcing learning.
5. Money-Back Guarantee: Some guides offer a money-back guarantee if you don’t pass the exam, providing added peace of mind.

These guides might not top my main recommendations, but they still offer valuable tools for exam preparation.

#5 PassPerfect 26 Study Materials

Course Information

The PassPerfect study package costs $225 and includes both a physical and digital textbook. With this, you also get access to a comprehensive databank filled with practice exams, video lectures, and other materials. This setup works well for self-motivated learners who don’t need extra instructor support. Unfortunately, there is no money-back guarantee with this package, so it’s essential to know what you’re getting before purchasing.

Key Features of the ExamFX Series 26 Study Guide

• Comprehensive Study Material: Detailed content covering all essential topics for the Series 26 exam.
• Performance-Based Learning: Adaptive learning technology that focuses on individual strengths and weaknesses.
• Interactive QBank: Unlimited access to a question bank for practice and exam preparation.
• Practice Exams: Realistic practice exams that simulate the actual test experience.
• Performance Tracking Tools: Reporting tools to monitor progress and identify areas for improvement.
• Customizable Study Plans: Flexible study schedules tailored to individual learning styles and time commitments.
• User-Friendly Learning Management System: An intuitive platform for easy navigation and engagement with the material.
• Extended Access: 7 months of online access to study materials, allowing for thorough preparation.

Pros:

• Comprehensive Course Material – PassPerfect delivers an in-depth curriculum covering all critical topics for the Series 26 exam. This ensures a complete and thorough understanding of the material necessary for success.
• Adaptive Learning – The program features an adaptive learning system that tailors the study experience to individual performance. It focuses attention on areas needing improvement while allowing students to progress more swiftly through concepts they’ve already mastered.
• Flexible Study Options – Students can select from various study formats, including self-paced study, live virtual classrooms, and traditional printed materials. This flexibility accommodates diverse learning styles and schedules.
• Extensive Question Bank – PassPerfect offers a broad array of practice questions with varying difficulty levels. This diverse question pool prepares students comprehensively for the types of questions they will encounter on the exam.
• User-Friendly Interface – The Learning Management System (LMS) is designed with an intuitive interface, making it easy for students to monitor their progress and interact with the study materials effectively.
• Pass Guarantee – The program includes a “Pass Guarantee,” which guarantees that students who complete the course will pass their exams. This assurance provides an added level of confidence for users.

Cons:

• Quality of Video Content—Some users have found the video lectures monotonous and lacking engaging explanations, which may impact the overall learning experience.
• Limited Explanatory Material – There are occasional criticisms regarding insufficient context or explanations for practice questions, which can lead to frustration during study sessions.
• Potentially Overwhelming – The vast amount of content and questions may be overwhelming for some students, particularly those who prefer a more streamlined approach to studying.
• Cost Considerations – Although the program is comprehensive, its cost might be higher compared to other study materials, potentially posing a barrier for some candidates.
• Mixed User Experiences – Feedback suggests a range of outcomes; while some students achieve success with PassPerfect, others report difficulties in passing their exams despite using the materials, indicating variability in effectiveness.

Series 26 FAQs

Steps to Register for the Exam

To sign up for the Series 26 exam, you first need a FINRA member firm to submit a Form U4 application through FINRA’s Central Registration Depository. Additionally, you must have passed the Securities Industry Essentials (SIE) exam and either the Series 6 or Series 7 exams. Fingerprints and a detailed background check are also required.

Recommended Study Time

I recommend dedicating around 80 hours over four weeks to study for the FINRA Series 26 exam. This study plan can help you cover all the necessary topics without feeling rushed.

Exam Length

The Series 26 exam consists of 120 questions, 10 of which are unscored. You will have 2 hours and 45 minutes to finish the test. Although you can take restroom breaks, the timer will keep running.

Minimum Passing Score

To pass the Series 26 exam, you need a score of 70% or higher. Scores are rounded down to the nearest whole number, so a score of 69.9% will be considered 69% and won’t be sufficient.

For more detailed guides and questions, you can explore different Series 26 exam prep resources.

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Study Materials for the Series 26 Exam

The Series 26 exam requires a good understanding of investment company products and variable contracts. I recommend using study guides, practice tests, and a licensing exam manual. These can offer comprehensive coverage of the exam topics. Resources like Securities CE provide extensive materials, including practice questions and sample final exams.

Effective Strategies for Preparing for the Series 26 Exam

Consistent study schedules, practice tests, and review sessions are essential to effectively preparing for the Series 26 exam. Breaking down the content into manageable sections and using online classes for structured learning can be beneficial. Test banks can also help you understand how the questions are formatted and what is expected.

Availability of Free Resources for Series 26 Exam Prep

There are several free resources available for preparing for the Series 26 exam. Websites like Quizlet offer flashcards and games to help reinforce learning. These tools can make studying more interactive and engaging.

Comparing the Difficulty of the Series 26 Exam to Other FINRA Exams

The Series 26 exam is known to be challenging, primarily due to the complex rules and statutory provisions involved. Compared to other FINRA series exams, it requires a deep understanding of specific investment companies and variable contract topics. For detailed outlines, FINRA’s official guide provides comprehensive information.

Effectiveness of Kaplan Materials for Series 26 Exam Preparation

Kaplan is a well-known name in exam preparation, and its materials are quite useful for the Series 26 exam. Its study guides, practice tests, and review classes are designed to cover all critical aspects of the exam content. It offers both physical and online materials, which can be very effective in preparing you to pass.

Finding Reliable Series 26 Study Guides for Download

Several educational websites offer reliable study guides for the Series 26 exam. Securities CE’s study guide and FINRA’s official outline PDF provide trustworthy and comprehensive resources. Be sure to download materials from reputable sources to ensure accuracy and thorough coverage of the exam topics.