I’m thrilled to share that I just passed my SIE exam this morning! I completed the entire exam in 65 minutes and used the remaining time to double-check my answers. I caught three questions I misread, so I’m really glad I took the time to review.
The questions were more complex than Achievable, but watching full practice exams from “Series 7 Guru” on YouTube really helped me think outside the box and apply the knowledge I gained from Achievable. I felt prepared for the wording of the questions, which didn’t catch me off guard. There was one question I was completely unsure about—likely one of the ten extra questions—but overall, I narrowed down my hesitations from 18 to 8 questions using process of elimination (leaving me with a 50% chance between answer choices). I was confident I’d pass since the number of possible wrong questions was under 22. The only math question was on forward pricing.
Having completed both the Series 63 and SIE exams, I completely agree with Achievable: while the concepts are there, it’s crucial to read the textbook and the explanations thoroughly. I found it helpful to reread the textbook in its entirety and to revisit the sections I struggled with just a few days before the exam.
Looking back, I think I may have overprepared, but I don’t regret it, as it’s given me a clearer idea of how to approach future exams.
Now that the 63 and SIE are complete, I’m wondering whether I should start preparing for the Series 65 or wait until I land a job to see if it’s required. I’d love to hear what Brenden or Justin think!
If you have the interest and time, getting a head start on your Series 65 is a great idea. Since the S65 doesn’t require sponsorship, you can even take it on your own, pass it, and then put that on your resume to boost your odds of landing the job.
Ultimately though, it depends on what type of career you want to pursue. If your goal is to be an investment adviser, absolutely, go for it. If you’re considering positions focused on wealth management, it might still be beneficial to demonstrate your interest in the space and ability to pass these exams, but not as high a priority since you’ll likely need to get the S7 or similar.
Thank you! I was thinking the same—it’s definitely beneficial to show my interest and commitment to the industry. As a new grad, the lack of experience makes it tough to secure a job, but I’ve been told that obtaining licenses can help make up for that. My goal is to become a wealth manager in the future.
On another note, is it true that the Series 65 is harder than the 66, or would having taken the 63 make the content of the 65 more familiar?
Lastly, similar to what you sent me for the SIE textbook, could you provide an estimate sheet of how long it typically takes to read the textbook for the 65? I’m trying to plan ahead and decide whether to start immediately or take a break this week. Also, are there any discounts available for the Achievable materials if I’ve already done the 63 and SIE through Achievable?
Personally, I feel the S63 is one of the hardest exams, and the S65 is easier. Some people agree, and some feel differently - it just comes down to study habits and your personal strengths/weaknesses.
On average, people pass their S65 with about 70-80 hours of study time with Achievable. About 1/3 of that is reading, and the other 2/3 are the quizzes and exams.