Securities Industry Essentials (SIE) Exam Details

The FINRA^® Securities Industry Essentials (SIE) Exam is a new FINRA exam for prospective securities industry professionals. This introductory-level exam assesses a candidate’s knowledge of basic securities industry information including concepts fundamental to working in the industry, such as types of products and their risks; the structure of the securities industry markets, regulatory agencies and their functions; and prohibited practices. The SIE exam is open to anyone aged 18 or older, including students and prospective candidates interested in demonstrating basic industry knowledge to potential employers. Association with a firm is not required, and individuals are permitted to take the exam before or after associating with a firm. SIE exam results are valid for four years.

Outline of Topics Covered

• Knowledge of Capital Markets
• Understanding Products and Their Risks
• Understanding Trading, Customer Accounts, and Prohibited Activities
• Overview of Regulatory Framework

Best Practices Guide

Kaplan has prepared a Best Practices Guide to help you pass the first time! This guide includes recommended study hours, how to use your study materials effectively, and test-taking tips. Access the guide and other free materials here.

Additional Details

For more exam details, including fees and passing score, please visit FINRA.

• You must be at least 18 years of age and have a basic understanding of the industry to attend our live classes.
• Review the enrollment and prerequisite requirements on www.finra.org for the series exam you plan to take. Note, the Securities Industry Essentials (SIE) exam does not require employer sponsorship.
• Enroll in a Kaplan Financial Education securities licensing course four to six weeks before the class date by calling Kaplan Financial Education customer service at 877.656.5550 or enrolling online at www.kaplanfinancial.com/securities.
• Schedule an appointment for the licensing exam with Prometric Testing Centers at www.prometric.com/finra three to four weeks before the class begins. You are able to schedule two or more different exams on the same day. However, you must make a separate appointment for each of the exams.
• For optimum results, plan to do some pre/post-study. Also, plan for homework questions each night and two to three days of review before taking your licensing exam.
• Take your test within five days of completing the class, and go into the exam with confidence!

Attention Colorado Students

Kaplan Financial Education is approved and regulated by the Colorado Department of Higher Education, Private Occupational School Board (DPOS). View the Colorado College Bulletin.