Best Series 66 Study Guides: Top Resources for Exam Success

The Series 66 exam is a pivotal milestone for financial professionals aiming to enhance their careers. As a challenging assessment administered by FINRA, it is comparable to the Series 7 and Series 65 exams. Successfully passing the Series 66 is essential for those seeking to become state-registered investment advisors (RIAs) or securities agents. Given its complexity, finding an effective study course promptly is crucial to ensure a passing score on this licensing exam.

To assist candidates in their preparation, I have researched and identified the five best Series 66 study guides available. Each of these courses offers unique features tailored to various learning styles, providing candidates with the flexibility to choose the option that best suits their needs. Selecting the right course can significantly influence your exam preparation and increase your chances of success.

Key Takeaways

• Identifying effective study courses is key to passing the Series 66 exam.
• Different courses offer unique features suited for various study needs.
• Choosing the right course can significantly impact your exam success.

5 Best Series 66 Exam Prep Courses in 2024

1. Securities Institute of America – This is my top pick for the best Series 66 exam prep course. It offers a comprehensive range of study materials. With a price of $124, it includes textbooks, eBooks, and a video library. Practice exams are available, and there’s a pass guarantee. For support, you can reach out via phone or email.

2. Securities Training Corporation – As the runner-up, this course provides solid study guides. Priced at $222, it includes a study manual and flashcards. You can also take advantage of live content and support via phone and email.

3. Kaplan Series 66 Online Courses – Recognized for top course materials, Kaplan offers a self-study package at $269. The bonus materials feature study sheets, class notes, and a video library. They also offer a pass guarantee and practice exams.

4. ExamFX Series 66 Study Guide – Known for excellent exam support, this course costs $225 and includes flashcards and a video library. They offer a 20% discount and provide support through phone, email, and chat.

5. Knopman Series 66 Exam Prep – This course is best for practice exams, it is priced at $395. The package includes textbooks, flashcards, and review charts, though it doesn’t offer a pass guarantee. Support is available via phone and email.

#1. Securities Institute of America Series 66 Course

The Securities Institute of America offers a comprehensive Series 66 exam prep course tailored to equip candidates with the knowledge and skills necessary to pass the exam confidently. This course is designed for both novice and experienced candidates, providing a flexible and affordable self-study solution that accommodates various learning styles and schedules.

Course Overview

The Series 66 Course features a robust 500+ page study textbook, over 1,900 practice questions, and 13 hours of video content. The curriculum covers essential topics such as state laws, regulations, investment strategies, and ethical considerations. With an easy-to-navigate online platform, candidates can study at their own pace, revisit materials as needed, and utilize various resources to enhance their understanding. The course also includes a Greenlight Guarantee, ensuring candidates feel confident in their preparation.

Key Features

• Comprehensive Textbook: A thorough study guide that addresses all exam topics in-depth, providing clear explanations and practical examples.
• Extensive Practice Questions: Over 1,900 practice questions to reinforce understanding and identify areas for improvement, with varying difficulty levels to simulate the actual exam.
• Video Lectures: 13 hours of instructional videos presented by industry experts to enhance learning through visual engagement and expert insights.
• Greenlight Exams: Simulated exams designed to closely mirror the actual Series 66 test experience, helping candidates build confidence and test-taking skills.
• Pass Guarantee: The Greenlight Guarantee ensures that candidates are fully prepared for the exam or receive their money back, providing peace of mind.
• Affordable Pricing: One of the most cost-effective Series 66 prep courses available, making it accessible for candidates on a budget.

Pros and Cons of SIA’s Series 66 Course

Pros

• Flexible Learning Options: Candidates can access materials anytime, anywhere, making it easy to fit studying into busy schedules. The online platform is available 24/7, allowing candidates to review content and take practice exams at their convenience. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for working professionals or those with family commitments.
• Comprehensive Content: The course offers extensive coverage of all exam topics, ensuring candidates have a deep understanding of the material. The 500+ page textbook delves into each subject area in detail, providing a solid foundation for success. This thorough approach helps candidates feel well-prepared and confident on exam day.
• Effective Practice Questions: The large question bank helps identify strengths and weaknesses, allowing candidates to focus their study efforts. With over 1,900 practice questions, candidates can thoroughly test their knowledge and identify areas needing more attention. This extensive practice helps reinforce learning and improve retention.
• Greenlight Guarantee: This unique feature provides peace of mind, ensuring that candidates are fully prepared for the exam or receive their money back. The guarantee demonstrates the course’s confidence in its ability to help candidates pass the Series 66 exam, making it a compelling option for those concerned about exam success.
• Affordable Price Point: The course is competitively priced, making it accessible for candidates who may be on a tight budget. Compared to other Series 66 prep courses, this offering provides excellent value for the comprehensive materials and resources included, making it a smart investment for aspiring financial professionals.
• User-Friendly Platform: The online platform is intuitive, allowing for easy navigation and access to all materials. The clean interface and logical organization make it simple for candidates to find what they need and stay organized throughout their studies, reducing frustration and enhancing the learning experience.

Cons

• Self-Study Focus: The course may not suit those who prefer structured classroom environments or live instruction. Candidates who thrive on in-person interaction or need regular guidance from instructors may find the self-study format challenging, potentially leading to feelings of isolation.
• Overwhelming Content Volume: The extensive textbook and practice questions can be daunting for some students, requiring strong time management skills. Candidates must be self-motivated and disciplined to work through the large volume of material effectively, which can be a challenge for some learners.
• Limited Instructor Support: As a self-study course, direct access to instructors is not available, which may hinder some candidates’ understanding of complex topics. Candidates who struggle with specific concepts may not have the opportunity to receive immediate clarification or guidance from subject matter experts, which can be frustrating.
• No Live Instruction: The absence of real-time interaction may leave some candidates feeling isolated in their study efforts. Candidates who prefer a more interactive learning experience or thrive on the energy of a live classroom setting may find the lack of live instruction demotivating and less engaging.
• Potential for Burnout: The volume of material may lead to fatigue, especially for candidates who are also preparing for other exams. Candidates must pace themselves and take breaks to avoid burnout, which can be detrimental to their overall study effectiveness and retention of information.

#2. Securities Training Corporation Series 66 Exam Prep

Securities Training Corporation (STC) provides a thorough Series 66 Exam Prep course that emphasizes a structured learning approach. This program is designed to equip candidates with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in the exam through a combination of interactive content and expert instruction.

Course Overview

STC’s Series 66 Exam Prep includes approximately 6 hours of on-demand video lectures, over 1,000 interactive flashcards, and chapter quizzes that cover all critical areas of the exam. The course is structured to facilitate effective learning through a mix of visual and interactive content, with access to the materials for 6 months. This allows candidates ample time to absorb the information and revisit challenging topics as needed.

Key Features

• On-Demand Video Lectures: Approximately 6 hours of video content available for 6 months, presented by industry experts who break down complex concepts into digestible segments.
• Interactive Flashcards: Over 1,000 flashcards for efficient review of key concepts and terminology, enabling quick and effective study sessions.
• Chapter Quizzes: Assess understanding with quizzes after each chapter to identify areas for further study, reinforcing knowledge retention.
• Virtual Class Options: Access to both live and recorded classes for additional support and instruction, allowing candidates to interact with instructors and peers.
• Performance Tracking: Tools to monitor progress and identify strengths and weaknesses, helping candidates focus their study efforts effectively.
• Textbook and eBook: A comprehensive study manual and digital version for flexible learning, ensuring candidates have access to materials in multiple formats.

Pros and Cons of STC’s Series 66 Exam Prep

Pros

• Structured Learning Approach: The course is designed to guide candidates through the material in a logical sequence, making it easier to follow. This structured format helps candidates stay on track and ensures they cover all essential topics in a systematic manner, reducing the risk of missing important information.
• Interactive Study Tools: Flashcards and quizzes help reinforce learning and improve retention, catering to different learning styles. The interactive nature of these tools makes studying more engaging and effective, helping candidates retain information better and apply it in real-world scenarios.
• Expert Instruction: Knowledgeable industry professionals present video lectures and virtual classes, providing valuable insights. Candidates benefit from the instructors’ real-world experience and expertise, gaining a deeper understanding of the material and its practical applications in the finance industry.
• Flexible Access: Materials are available for 6 months, allowing candidates to revisit content as needed without feeling rushed. The extended access period gives candidates ample time to work through the course at their own pace and review materials as necessary, accommodating various learning speeds.
• Comprehensive Materials: The study manual and eBook provide thorough coverage of all exam topics, ensuring candidates are well-prepared. The textbook serves as a valuable reference guide that candidates can continue to use even after passing the exam, reinforcing their knowledge and skills.
• Community Support: Access to forums or discussion groups can enhance learning through peer interaction and shared experiences. Engaging with other candidates and instructors can provide additional insights, support, and motivation throughout the study process, fostering a sense of community.

Cons

• Limited Time Access: Materials are only available for 6 months, which may not be sufficient for all candidates, especially those with busy schedules. Candidates who need more time to work through the material or who face unexpected delays may find the 6-month access period restrictive, potentially impacting their preparedness.
• Cost Considerations: The course is priced higher than some competitors, which may be a barrier for budget-conscious students. Candidates must weigh the benefits of the course against their financial constraints to determine if it fits within their budget, which can be a significant consideration.
• Lack of Pass Guarantee: STC does not offer a pass guarantee, which may make some candidates hesitant to invest in the course. The absence of a pass guarantee could lead to uncertainty about the course’s effectiveness and may not provide the same level of assurance as courses that offer a money-back promise if candidates don’t pass the exam.
• Potential for Information Overload: The volume of content may overwhelm some students, particularly those new to the material. Candidates must be prepared to dedicate significant time and effort to working through the course materials to avoid feeling overwhelmed by the amount of information presented.
• Less Personalization: While the course provides a structured approach, it may not cater to individual learning paces as effectively as some other programs. Candidates who require more flexibility or a more personalized learning experience may find the structured format limiting, which could affect their overall satisfaction with the course.

#3 Kaplan Series 66 Exam Prep Course Review

Kaplan’s Series 66 Exam Prep Course is known for its comprehensive study materials and innovative learning tools. This program is designed to help candidates prepare efficiently and effectively for the Series 66 exam through a combination of live instruction, on-demand resources, and extensive practice questions.

Course Overview

Kaplan’s course offers a variety of study options, including live classes, on-demand videos, and a large bank of practice questions. The materials are tailored to address all key areas of the Series 66 exam, ensuring candidates are well-prepared. The course is delivered through an intuitive online platform, allowing for a seamless learning experience. Kaplan also provides a wealth of supplemental resources to enhance the learning journey.

Key Features

• Live and On-Demand Classes: Flexibility to choose between real-time instruction or recorded sessions to accommodate different learning preferences and schedules.
• Extensive Practice Questions: A wide range of exam-style questions to test knowledge and identify areas for improvement, with detailed explanations for each answer.
• License Exam Manual: A comprehensive guide that covers all exam topics in depth, serving as a valuable reference throughout the study process.
• Flashcards and Quizzes are interactive study aids that reinforce learning and assess understanding, allowing candidates to engage with the material actively.
• Progress Tracking: Tools to monitor study progress and performance, allowing candidates to focus on areas that need more attention and adjust their study strategies accordingly.
• Mobile Access: Study materials are available on mobile devices for convenient learning on the go, ensuring candidates can study whenever and wherever they choose.

Pros and Cons of the Kaplan’s Series 66 Exam Prep Course

Pros

• Diverse Learning Formats: Options to suit different learning preferences, including live classes, on-demand videos, and self-study materials. This variety allows candidates to choose the approach that works best for their individual learning styles and schedules, enhancing their overall study experience.
• Comprehensive Resources: Extensive materials covering all necessary topics, with a focus on exam-relevant content. Kaplan’s course materials are designed specifically to address the knowledge and skills required for the Series 66 exam, ensuring candidates are well-prepared and confident.
• Effective Practice Questions: A large question bank helps candidates identify strengths and weaknesses, enhancing their preparation. With a vast collection of practice questions, candidates can thoroughly test their understanding and identify areas needing more attention, improving their overall performance.
• Intuitive Online Platform: User-friendly interface for seamless access to all course materials and tools. The platform is designed for ease of use, making it simple for candidates to navigate and access the resources they need, reducing frustration and enhancing the learning experience.
• Expert Instruction: Live classes are taught by knowledgeable instructors who provide valuable insights and guidance, enhancing understanding of complex topics. Candidates benefit from the instructors’ expertise and real-world experience, gaining a deeper understanding of the material and its practical applications.
• Community Interaction: Opportunities to engage with peers and instructors can foster a supportive learning environment. Interacting with other candidates and instructors can provide additional support, motivation, and insights throughout the study process, helping candidates stay engaged and focused.

Cons

• Higher Cost: Kaplan’s Series 66 Exam Prep Course is priced at a premium compared to some competitors, which may be a concern for budget-conscious students. Candidates must carefully consider whether the course’s comprehensive resources and features justify the higher cost, especially if they are on a tight budget.
• Overwhelming Volume of Material: The extensive content and practice questions can be daunting for some candidates, requiring strong time management and study skills. Candidates must be prepared to dedicate significant time and effort to working through the course materials to avoid feeling overwhelmed and to ensure thorough preparation.
• Limited Personalization: While the course offers a variety of learning formats, the materials are not as customizable as some other providers. Candidates who prefer a more personalized learning experience or who require additional flexibility in terms of content delivery may find the course’s structure limiting, which could affect their overall satisfaction.
• Potential for Burnout: The intensity and volume of the material may lead to fatigue, especially for candidates who are also preparing for other exams. Candidates must be mindful of their study habits and take breaks to avoid burnout and maintain their focus throughout the preparation process.
• Less Immediate Feedback: While practice questions are available, some candidates may prefer more interactive and immediate feedback on their performance. The course’s reliance on practice questions and self-assessment may not provide the same level of real-time feedback as other interactive learning tools, which could hinder some candidates’ learning experiences.

4. ExamFX Series 66 Exam Prep Review Course

ExamFX offers a focused Series 66 Exam Prep Review Course that emphasizes a streamlined approach to studying. This program is designed to provide candidates with the essential knowledge needed to pass the exam through interactive learning tools and a structured study plan.

Course Overview

The ExamFX course features engaging learning aids, comprehensive practice exams, and a personalized study plan, ensuring candidates cover all necessary material efficiently. The course is delivered through an easy-to-use online platform, allowing for convenient access to all materials. ExamFX also emphasizes real-world applications of concepts to help candidates understand the relevance of what they are learning.

Key Features

• Interactive Learning Tools: Engaging resources such as flashcards, games, and bite-sized lessons to enhance understanding and retention, catering to different learning styles.
• Practice Exams: Timed practice tests that closely simulate the actual Series 66 exam environment, helping candidates build confidence and identify areas for improvement.
• Personalized Study Plan: A customized study schedule based on the candidate’s progress and performance to keep them on track and focused, ensuring efficient use of study time.
• Mobile Compatibility: Access study materials on mobile devices for flexible learning anytime, anywhere, allowing candidates to study on the go.
• Performance Analytics: Detailed tracking of progress and performance to identify strengths and weaknesses and measure improvement over time, enabling targeted study strategies.

Pros and Cons of the ExamFX Series 66 course

Pros

• Streamlined Approach: The focused curriculum covers essential topics in a concise and efficient manner, reducing the risk of information overload. By prioritizing the most critical areas of the exam, ExamFX’s course helps candidates maximize their study time and focus on the knowledge and skills needed for success.
• Engaging Learning Tools: Interactive flashcards, games, and bite-sized lessons make studying more enjoyable and effective, catering to different learning styles. The variety of interactive resources helps keep candidates engaged and motivated throughout their studies, enhancing their overall learning experience.
• Realistic Practice Exams: Timed practice tests provide a realistic testing experience and help build confidence in candidates. By simulating the actual exam environment, the practice exams allow candidates to become familiar with the format, timing, and question types, reducing stress and improving performance on test day.
• Personalized Study Plan: The customized study schedule keeps candidates motivated and on track, ensuring they cover all necessary material efficiently. The personalized plan takes into account each candidate’s progress and performance, helping them focus their efforts on areas needing more attention.
• Convenient Mobile Access: Studying on the go using mobile devices allows for more flexibility and consistent progress. Candidates can utilize downtime throughout the day to review materials and practice questions, making the most of their available study time and ensuring they remain engaged.
• Community Support: Access to forums or discussion groups can enhance learning through peer interaction and shared experiences. Engaging with other candidates and instructors can provide additional insights, support, and motivation throughout the study process, fostering a sense of community.

Cons

• Limited Depth of Content: While the course covers essential topics, it may not provide the same level of detail as some other providers, which could be a concern for candidates seeking a more comprehensive approach. Candidates who prefer a deeper dive into each subject area may find the course’s focus on efficiency limiting, potentially impacting their overall understanding.
• Less Instructor Interaction: As a primarily self-guided course, there is less direct interaction with instructors compared to courses that offer live classes or one-on-one tutoring. Candidates who thrive on regular guidance and feedback from subject matter experts may find the lack of instructor interaction challenging and less supportive.
• Lack of Pass Guarantee: ExamFX does not offer a pass guarantee, which may be a concern for some candidates who want the assurance of a money-back promise if they don’t pass the exam. The absence of a pass guarantee could lead to uncertainty about the course’s effectiveness and may not provide the same level of confidence as courses that offer a guarantee.
• Potential for Burnout: The streamlined approach may lead candidates to rush through materials, potentially missing key concepts. Candidates must be mindful of their study pace and take breaks to avoid burnout and ensure they thoroughly understand the material, which is crucial for long-term retention.
• Limited Supplemental Resources: The course may not offer as many additional resources, such as textbooks or in-depth manuals, compared to competitors. Candidates who prefer to have a physical textbook or more extensive reference materials may find the course’s reliance on digital resources limiting, which could affect their overall study experience.

#5 Knopman Marks Series 66 Practice Exams

Knopman Marks offers a series of practice exams specifically designed for the Series 66 exam. These practice tests are an essential resource for candidates looking to assess their readiness and familiarize themselves with the exam format.

Course Overview

The Knopman Marks Series 66 Practice Exams provide a realistic testing experience, helping candidates acclimate to the exam format and question types. The practice exams are designed to simulate the actual test environment, allowing candidates to practice under timed conditions. This focus on realistic practice helps candidates build confidence and identify areas needing improvement.

Key Features

• Realistic Practice Exams: Simulated exams that closely mirror the actual test format and difficulty level, providing an authentic exam experience.
• Detailed Explanations: In-depth rationales for each question to enhance understanding and learning from mistakes, helping candidates grasp complex concepts.
• Performance Tracking: Tools to monitor progress and identify strengths and weaknesses, helping candidates focus their study efforts effectively.
• Flexible Access: Available online for convenient study sessions, allowing candidates to practice anytime and anywhere, fitting into busy schedules.
• Comprehensive Coverage: Questions covering all key areas of the Series 66 exam, ensuring candidates are well-prepared for all topics.

Pros and Cons of the Knopman Marks Series 66 Course

Pros

• Focused Practice: Tailored specifically for the Series 66 exam, providing targeted preparation for candidates. The practice exams are designed to closely mirror the actual exam format, ensuring candidates are well-prepared for the specific challenges of the Series 66 test, which can enhance their confidence.
• Detailed Feedback: The in-depth rationales for each question help candidates learn from their mistakes and reinforce their understanding of key concepts. By explaining the reasoning behind correct and incorrect answers, the practice exams provide valuable insights that candidates can apply to their studies, helping them improve their overall performance.
• Convenient Online Access: The ability to practice anytime and anywhere makes it easy for candidates to fit exam preparation into their schedules. The online format allows for flexibility in terms of when and where candidates can access the practice exams, making it easier to maintain consistent study habits and reduce stress.
• Comprehensive Coverage: Questions span all key areas of the Series 66 exam, ensuring candidates are well-prepared for all topics. By covering the full breadth of the exam content, the practice exams help candidates identify and address any gaps in their knowledge, which is crucial for success.
• Performance Analytics: Tracking tools allow candidates to identify areas needing improvement and adjust their study strategies accordingly. The detailed performance reports provide valuable insights into each candidate’s strengths and weaknesses, enabling them to focus their efforts on the areas that need the most attention, which can lead to more effective studying.
• Community Interaction: Opportunities to engage with peers and instructors can foster a supportive learning environment. Interacting with other candidates and instructors can provide additional insights, support, and motivation throughout the study process, helping candidates stay engaged and focused.

Cons

• Limited Instruction: Primarily practice-focused, lacking comprehensive study materials or in-depth content coverage. While practice exams are an essential component of exam preparation, candidates may need to supplement their studies with additional resources to ensure a well-rounded understanding of the material.
• Cost Considerations: Pricing may be higher than some other practice exam providers, which could deter budget-conscious students. Candidates must weigh the benefits of the practice exams against their financial constraints to determine if they fit within their budget, which can be a significant consideration.
• Less Comprehensive Resources: Candidates may need to supplement their studies with additional resources to ensure a well-rounded understanding of the material. The practice exams alone may not provide the same level of content coverage as a full exam prep course, which could impact candidates’ overall preparedness.
• Potential for Burnout: The focus on practice exams may lead to fatigue if candidates do not balance practice with comprehensive study. Candidates must be mindful of their study habits and take breaks to avoid burnout and maintain their motivation throughout the preparation process.
• No Pass Guarantee: The lack of a pass guarantee may make some candidates hesitant to invest in the practice exams. While practice exams are an essential component of exam preparation, the absence of a pass guarantee could lead to uncertainty about their effectiveness in ensuring success on the actual exam.

Series 66 Exam Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Series 66 exam hard?

The Series 66 exam is challenging, requiring a passing score of 73 percent or higher. While specific pass rates for the exam aren’t publicly available, many test-takers find it difficult but manageable. To boost my chances, I can enroll in a structured Series 66 exam prep course.

How do I study for the Series 66 exam?

For effective preparation, I should consider enrolling in a prep course offered by organizations such as the Securities Institute of America, STCUSA, or Kaplan. If a prep course isn’t an option, I can use study materials that focus on key topics such as investment vehicle characteristics, economic factors, and relevant laws and regulations.

What is the pass rate for the Series 66 exam?

Specific pass rates for the Series 66 exam are not published. However, many prep courses boast high pass rates for their students, which suggests that enrolling in one might improve my performance. For example, Kaplan claims high success rates, making it a viable option for study.

Is Kaplan good for Series 66 exam prep?

Kaplan provides extensive materials for exam prep, including detailed notes and customizable quizzes. Despite this, the Securities Institute of America is frequently recommended as the best due to its comprehensive resources and the GreenLight Guarantee that assures me of sufficient preparation.

Key Topics Covered

The Series 66 exam covers a variety of crucial topics:

• Economic Factors and Business Information: Understanding market forces and economic principles.
• Investment Vehicle Characteristics: Knowing the features of various investments.
• Laws, Regulations, and Guidelines: Comprehending the legal framework governing securities.
• Client and Customer Investment Recommendations and Strategies: Making informed suggestions for clients.
• Ethical Business Practices: Adhering to ethical guidelines in professional conduct.

About Kenneth W. Boyd

Kenneth W. Boyd, a former CPA and author of the “For Dummies” books brings valuable business experience to his current role as an educator. His expertise in accounting and taxation is reflected in his teaching and writing, which are designed to help students succeed in their professional exams.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best-rated study guides for the Series 66 exam?

From my experience and research, the top study guides for the Series 66 exam include materials from the Securities Institute of America, Kaplan, and the Securities Training Corporation. Each of these provides comprehensive practice tests and study tools that can prepare you for the exam.

Where can I get high-quality Series 66 study materials for free?

You can find free Series 66 study materials on websites like Mometrix. They offer free practice tests and some study guidelines. Another option is signing up for free trials or demo versions from various exam prep providers where you can access limited content before committing to a purchase.

Is there a popular study guide recommended by recent Series 66 exam takers?

Based on feedback from recent examinees, the materials from the Securities Institute of America come highly recommended. They are often praised for their comprehensive approach and the money-back guarantee if you don’t pass the exam.

How do Kaplan’s Series 66 materials compare to other prep providers?

Kaplan’s Series 66 study materials are known for their detailed online courses and extensive practice questions. Compared to other providers, Kaplan offers a strong combination of guided study plans and flexible learning options, which many find helpful in gaining a deeper understanding of the exam contents.

How many hours should one typically dedicate to studying for Series 66?

Generally, it is recommended to study for at least 60 to 80 hours. This can vary depending on your background and familiarity with the exam topics. Regular, consistent studying over several weeks is often more effective than cramming at the last minute.

Are there any detailed PDF study guides available for Series 66?

Yes, comprehensive PDF study guides for Series 66 can be found through many reputable providers. Websites like Securities CE offer downloadable guides that cover the key concepts and practice questions you need to know to pass the exam.