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Series 65 Exam Details

Step Into Investment Advisory: Everything You Need to Pass the Series 65

The NASAA Series 65, Investment Advisers Law Exam is designed to qualify candidates as investment advisor representatives. The exam covers topics that have been determined to be necessary to understand in order to provide investment advice to clients.

Series 65 Exam at a Glance

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  • 3 hours

    Time Limit

  • 130

    Multiple-choice questions

  • 92/130

    Passing score required to pass

More About the Series 65 Exam

Outline of Topics Covered

  • Economic Factors and Business Information

  • Investment Vehicle Characteristics

  • Client Investment Recommendations and Strategies

  • Laws, Regulations, and Guidelines, including Prohibition on Unethical Business Practices

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 Information

  • 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 800.427.4680 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!

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

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.

Series 65 Exam Essentials

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About the Exam

The NASAA Series 65 Exam

  • Designed to qualify candidates as investment adviser representatives
  • Covers the fundamental principles necessary for investment advisory services
  • Conducted as a closed book test
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What Changed

Exam Update

  • On June 12, 2023, NASAA updated the test specifications for the Series 65 exam
  • NASAA updated questions on the Series 65 exam to align with recent regulatory changes in the Secure Act 2.0.
  • Kaplan offers study materials for the Series 65 exam
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Next Steps

Get Started

We’ve outlined the steps you need to take to earn the Series 65 license. Follow the guidance to understand requirements, registration, and preparation.

Begin Preparing for the Series 65 Exam

Boost your exam readiness with Kaplan’s Series 65 study packages, featuring Premium, Essential, and Basic options. From live instruction to flexible self-study, we provide the study tools and additional materials you need to pass.