The Securities Industry Essentials (SIE) exam is the first step toward a successful career in the financial services industry. Whether you’re aiming to become a registered representative or a financial advisor, passing the SIE exam is essential.
With dozens of prep options out there, we’ve rounded up the best SIE exam prep courses in 2025 to help you pass with confidence, backed by expert features, real student success, and smart learning technology.
What Is the SIE Exam?
The SIE (Securities Industry Essentials) exam, administered by FINRA, tests your foundational knowledge of the securities industry. It is a prerequisite to taking the Series 6, Series 7, or other FINRA qualification exams.
- Length: 75 multiple-choice questions
- Time: 1 hour and 45 minutes
- Passing Score: 70%
- Cost: $80 (as of 2025)
- Eligibility: No sponsorship required—open to students, career-changers, and aspiring finance pros
Top SIE Exam Prep Courses in 2025
Here are the best online SIE prep courses, evaluated for content quality, practice exams, usability, and pass guarantees:
1. Achievable SIE
Best For: Adaptive learning & mobile-first users
Price: $99 (lifetime access)
Highlights:
- Smart algorithm-based study plan
- Mobile-optimized digital textbook
- 2,000+ chapter quizzes & 35+ practice questions
- 36+ bonus videos
- 95%+ pass rate
- Amazing customer support
“Bite-sized content and intelligent repetition make it a top pick for independent learners.”
Visit: Achievable SIE Prep
2. Kaplan Financial SIE Prep
Best For: Traditional learners & live instruction
Price: From $199
Highlights:
- Study guide, video lectures, QBank (800+ questions)
- Live classes and on-demand video options
- Diagnostic exams and performance tracking
- Reputable provider with decades of FINRA prep experience
Visit Kaplan SIE Prep
3. The Securities Institute of America
Best For: Best In-Class Study Materials
Price: Starts at $85
Highlights:
- Comprehensive Question & Exam Reports
- 400 Pages – text Book
- 1000 Questions – Test Bank
- Unlimited Randomized Simulated Final Exams
- Unlimited Topic Focused Practice Exams
- 12 hours video Training Class
Visit: The Securities Institute of America SIE
4. Securities Training Corporation (STCUSA)
Best For: Exam simulation & deep question banks
Price: Starts at $105
Highlights:
- Pass guarantee with Premium package
- 1,000+ practice questions and exam simulators
- Detailed rationales and content updates
- Printable PDFs and e-books included
Visit: STCUSA SIE Prep
5. Knopman Marks SIE
Best For: High-touch support & elite exam pass rates
Price: From $260
Highlights:
- “Gold Standard” in financial exam prep
- Weekly study calendars, live support
- On-demand video library + practice exams
- 98%+ average pass rate across programs
Visit: Knopman SIE Prep
6. ExamFX SIE
Best For: Budget-friendly with solid tools
Price: $59.95+
Highlights:
- Guarantee Exam included
- Interactive online learning portal
- Video lectures, glossary tools, readiness tracking
- Printable outlines and online flashcards
Visit: ExamFX SIE Prep
How to Choose the Best SIE Prep Course
When selecting an SIE course, consider the following:
| Factor | Why It Matters |
| Content Coverage | Ensure all FINRA exam topics are thoroughly explained |
| Practice Exams | Mock exams help simulate real test conditions |
| Learning Format | Choose from text-based, video, or live classes |
| Mobile Access | Ideal for studying on the go |
| Price vs Value | Look for features like performance analytics, pass guarantees |
| Pass Guarantee | Some providers offer free retakes or refunds if you don’t pass |
Study Plan for the SIE Exam?
Most students spend 30–50 hours preparing for the SIE. Here’s a suggested plan:
| Week | Study Focus |
| Week 1 | Overview of Securities Industry + Definitions |
| Week 2 | Regulatory Framework & Market Types |
| Week 3 | Investment Products (stocks, bonds, funds) |
| Week 4 | Risk, Suitability & Practice Exams |
| Final Days | Take full-length mock exams, review weak areas |
SIE Exam Prep FAQs
1. What is the best SIE prep course in 2025?
Achievable is best for smart, adaptive learning; Kaplan for traditional study; and Knopman Marks for premium support.
2. Is the SIE exam hard?
It’s not extremely difficult but covers many concepts. With proper prep, most students pass on the first try.
3. How long should I study?
Plan for 30–50 hours, spread over 2–4 weeks for best retention.
4. Can I take the SIE without a sponsor?
Yes. The SIE is open to anyone; no employer sponsorship required.
5. What score do I need to pass?
You need a 70% or higher to pass.
6. Are there free SIE prep resources?
Yes, but limited. FINRA offers a free SIE content outline, and platforms like Reddit and YouTube provide tips. For serious study, a paid prep course is recommended.
Final Verdict: Which SIE Prep Is Right for You?
| You want… | Go with… |
| Smart adaptive review | Achievable |
| Instructor-led support | Kaplan or Knopman Marks |
| Realistic mock exams | STCUSA |
| Budget pricing | ExamFX |
| High-touch experience | Knopman Marks |
