Series 9 Exam Information
Series 9 Exam Overview & FAQs
The General Securities
Sales Supervisor (Series 9)
Exam
Created in 1981, the Series 9 exam was designed to assess the competency of an entry-level principal to perform their job as a general securities sales supervisor. Series 9 differs from the Series 10 exam in that Series 9 focuses on options related to the content, where Series 10 is a more general exam covering broader content. The Series 9 exam is administered by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA).
Topics include: supervision of customer options accounts, options sales activities, options advertisements, and management of associated persons.
Series 9 Exam Difficulty Level
Typically regarded as a fairly challenging exam, many students who may be less familiar with options commonly feel the ‘time-pressure’ during this test. Many testers are well prepared to pass on their first attempt, but on average it takes up to two tries. It’s recommended that students learn through a variety of methods, such as taking a class, reading, as well as continuous practice exams with a focus on the associated answer rationales. But with Pass Perfect’s proven preparation methods, you’ll be guaranteed to pass the first time.
After the Series 9
For potential principals, branch office managers, and sales supervisors, the Series 9 exam is a great way to further your career. Series 9 and Series 10 are co-requisites for the limited principal registration.
Series 9 FAQ
How long do I need to study for the Series 9 Exam?
When preparing to take the Series 9 exam, you should plan to study for 25-35 hours. Typically, candidates study over the course of 2-3 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 9 exam?
You will have 1 Hour and 30 Minutes to complete the Series 9 exam.
How many Series 9 questions are on the exam?
The Series 9 exam consists of 55 graded multiple choice questions.
What is the passing score for the Series 9 exam?
The minimum passing score for the Series 9 exam is 70%.
What is the Series 9 pass rate?
The Series 9 exam has approximately a 70% pass rate.
Is the Series 9 harder than the SIE?
Yes. The Series 9 exam is harder due to more calculations, material that is more theoretical, and many students feel that the test is time-constrained.
How do I register for the Series 9 exam?
Visit Finra.org to enroll for the Series 9 exam. The exam fee is $80, and a sponsoring FINRA member firm will need to handle the paperwork.
Can I take the Series 9 and 10 together?
Though many students prefer to take the test separately, and there is no guarantee that the testing center will have available slots on the same day, you can sit for both tests at one time.
How many times can I take the Series 9 exam?
You may take the Series 9 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 6-month waiting period after the third failed attempt and beyond. The $80 exam fee applies each time you take the test.
What do I bring to take the Series 9 exam?
You cannot bring in anything with you to take the Series 9 exam. No pen, pencil, calculator, cell phone, smart watch, or paper. Everything is prohibited.
Can I use a calculator on the Series 9 exam?
Yes, the testing center will provide students with a calculator, if needed.
Are there prerequisites for the Series 9?
Yes, SIE and Series 7 are prerequisites for the Series 9 exam. Series 10 is a co-requisite of the Series 9 exam.
Who can take the Series 9?
Not everyone can take the Series 9 — sponsorship from a FINRA member firm is required, meaning a candidate must first be hired by a FINRA member firm
How long is the Series 9 exam good for?
The Series 9 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.
What can I do after passing the Series 9 exam?
After passing the Series 9 an individual may function as a General Securities Sales Supervisor provided they have also passed the co-requisite Series 10 Exam.