Series 65 Exam Information
Series 65 Exam Overview & FAQs
The Uniform Investment Adviser Law (Series 65) Exam
Created in 1989, the Series 65 exam was designed to ensure salespersons understand securities regulations, ethics, and investments. The Series 65 exam is administered by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) for the North American Securities Administrators Association (NASAA), and required by NASAA.
Topics include: investment vehicles, regulation, ethical practices, and economics.
Series 65 Exam Difficulty Level
For students who have recently completed the Series 7, this is a moderately difficult exam. The Series 65 is more challenging for students who have not completed the Series 7. It’s recommended that students learn through a variety of methods, such as reading, as well as continuous practice exams. But with Pass Perfect’s proven preparation methods, you’ll be guaranteed to pass the first time. Our comprehensive learning platform is designed to get you through the test on the first attempt since failure requires a 30-day wait period.
After the Series 65
For current and potential Investment Adviser Representatives, the Series 65 exam is a great way to further your career. Series 65 is not a prerequisite for any other securities test.
Series 65 FAQ
How long do I need to study for the Series 65 Exam?
When preparing to take the Series 65 exam, you should plan to study for 80-90 hours. Typically, candidates study over the course of 2 weeks. The time you need to spend preparing for the exam varies depending on your familiarity with the material. Our adaptive preparation provides extra help where needed to make sure you spend your study time wisely and take the test with confidence.
How much time do I have on the Series 65 exam?
You will have 3 Hours to complete the Series 65 exam.
How many Series 65 questions are on the exam?
The Series 65 exam consists of 130 multiple choice questions.
What is the passing score for the Series 65 exam?
The minimum passing score for the Series 65 exam is 72%.
What is the Series 65 pass rate?
The Series 65 exam has approximately a 65-70% pass rate.
Is the Series 65 harder than the SIE?
Yes. Due to writing style and content, Series 65 is more challenging than SIE.
How do I register for the Series 65 exam?
Visit Finra.org to enroll for the Series 65 exam. The exam fee is $175, and there is no firm sponsorship required.
What happens if I fail the Series 65?
After the first or second time a candidate fails the Series 65, there is a mandatory 30-day waiting period before they can take the exam again. After the third (and subsequent) fails, the waiting period increases to 180 days. The $175 exam fee applies each time they take the exam.
How many times can I take the Series 65 exam?
You may take the Series 65 exam as many times as it takes to pass. Note there is a 30-day waiting period after your first and second failed attempt, and a 180-day waiting period after the third failed attempt and beyond.
What do I bring to take the Series 65 exam?
You cannot bring in anything with you to take the Series 65 exam. No pen, pencil, calculator, cell phone, smart watch, or paper. Everything is prohibited.
Can I use a calculator on the Series 65 exam?
There are few calculation questions, so a calculator would not be useful, but will be provided by the testing center, if needed.
Are there prerequisites for the Series 65?
There are no prerequisites for Series 65.
Can I take the Series 65 before the SIE?
Yes.
Who can take the Series 65?
Anyone can take the Series 65 — no sponsorship from a NASAA member firm is required.
What can I do after passing the Series 65 exam?
After passing the Series 65 exam, you can pursue a career in the financial services industry and seek employment with a member firm.
How long is the Series 65 exam good for?
The Series 65 exam does not expire unless you leave the employ of the member firm. There is a 2-year grace period — after the 2-year employment lapse, retesting is required.