Skip to content

September 19, 2025

|

Last updated: September 19, 2025

SIE & Series 7 Exam – Getting Started

By: Securities Institute Staff

Test takers often feel overwhelmed when preparing to take exams. Being required to pass two or more exams may seem even more challenging.

Getting Started with the SIE & Series 7 exam. 

In this video and article we will provide you with the essential first steps to begin your preparation. Both exams require serious commitment to be successful. Understanding how to organize your efforts and using best study practices can make all the difference.   

A guide on your journey to passing the  SIE exam and the Series 7 Exam.

If you’re here it means you’re preparing to take a big step in building your career in the financial services industry. In our comprehensive lessons we’ll walk through the key topics, strategies and exam insights you’ll need to succeed.

Let’s start with the big picture.

The SIE and the series 7 are not just tests you need to check off your list. They are your entry ticket into the securities industry. Passing these exams demonstrates to employers and Regulators that you understand the core rules, products and responsibilities of working with investments and clients.

The SIE is the foundation. It covers the basics like:

  • General types of securities
  • How the markets work
  • What regulators oversee broker dealers and registered persons
  • General prohibited practices

The series 7 on the other hand goes much deeper. It’s about the application and how to

how to actually work as a general Securities representative. It covers

  • Detailed questions on recommended Investments
  • Challenging questions on how to comply with regulations while serving clients
  • Questions on complex options strategies

A quick refresher on the format

The SIE Exam is:

  • 75 questions
  • 105 minutes
  • A score of 70% is required to pass

it’s not overly long, but don’t let that fool you. It tests a wide range of topics.

The series 7 is much more rigorous. It is:

  • 125 questions
  • 225 minutes
  • A score of 72% is required to passe

When we look at the time to take SIE and Series 7, that’s nearly 4 hours of testing. Each requires not only knowledge but also endurance and test taking strategy. Our SIE & series 7 course has been created to get you passed both exams, fast. It is designed to do two things: first, simplify complex material so you actually understand it – not just memorize it, Second, give you the tools, examples and practice you’ll need to walk into test day with confidence. Each lecture is broken into manageable lessons with visuals, examples and review points to reinforce learning. Think of it as building a foundation. Brick by Brick. Getting you ready for exam day.

Now, a few study principles that will make the difference between passing and struggling.

  • Consistency beats cramming. Plan to study in short focused sessions several times a week rather than relying on last-minute marathons.
  • Active practice, don’t just read or listen, test yourself with questions, flash cards and examples.
  • Understand, don’t memorize especially for the series 7. You’ll need to apply knowledge to scenarios, not just recall definitions.
  • Simulate test conditions and take practice exams in timed settings to build your stamina. You cannot just take short practice exams and think you will be able to conquer either of these challenging exams.

Finally, an important note.

You will not be able to pass the SIE or series 7 exam without reading the books fully and completely. Just taking practice tests and not reading the textbook is the number one reason people fail exams. There are no shortcuts. To be successful on exam day you must put in the work. We recommend 50-70 hours of preparation for the SIE exam. For the series 7, plan on 70-100 hours preparing for the top off exam.

Be prepared to pass both exams with confidence and enroll in our comprehensive SIE & Series 7 Exam Prep Course

xref