Getting prepared to take the Securities Industry Essentials (SIE) exam? I’ve reviewed leading options, weighed their benefits/drawbacks, and narrowed them down to the best SIE prep courses.
My goal?
To help you find the perfect match, so you can study smarter, pass faster, and start your finance career confidently.
Best SIE Exam Prep Courses Ranked
- 🏆 Best Overall: Securities Institute of America (SIA)
- 🧑🏫 Best Live Classes: Securities Training Corporation (STC)
- 💰 Best Value: Achievable
- 🅰️ Best Reputation: Kaplan
- 📚 Best Bonus Tools: ExamFX
Best Online SIE Exam Prep
| Features |  |  |  |  |  |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ranking | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| Price | $85-$124.95 | $125-$284 | $99 | $99-$199 | $129-$149 |
| Discounts | No Discounts | Save 15% | Save 10% | No Discounts | Save 20% |
| Access Length | 6 Months | 6 Months | 12 Months | 5 Months | 3-6 Months |
| Guarantee | GreenLight Guarantee™ | STC Pass Guarantee |  | | |
| Practice Exams | Unlimited | Dozens | 35+ | Limited | Customizable Practice Question Sets |
| Live Instruction | | 20+ Hours | | 12 Hours | |
| Support | Phone, Email, Chat | Instructor Hotline, 24/7 Tech Support | Text, Phone, and Email | InstructorLink™, Phone, Email, Social Media | Phone and Chat Instructor Support |
| Get Started | Start Now | Start Now | Start Now | Start Now | Start Now |
1. Securities Institute of America: Best Overall
While reviewing Securities Institute of America, I was struck by how streamlined and intentional everything felt. I went through the self-paced package and found that the content was dense with value but never overwhelming. The 228-page textbook was surprisingly efficient—no filler, just well-organized information broken into 14 focused sections. I liked having both digital and physical versions on hand so I could switch between screens and paper depending on how I felt that day.
The unlimited practice exams were one of the most valuable parts of the course. I customized multiple mock tests using different question types and difficulty levels, making isolating my weaker areas easier.
The GreenLight Exam was tough, but that was the point—after passing it, I felt genuinely ready for the real SIE. And knowing that the GreenLight Guarantee™ backs you up financially if you don’t pass adds an extra layer of reassurance, especially for first-time test takers.
“Yes, I used SIA for my 7 & 66. I liked how the videos follow the books. I passed both. The 66 is tricky.”
Putrid_Green3581
Course Features
- GreenLight Guarantee™
- Checkpoint Exams & Green Light Exam
- Unlimited Practice Exams & Final Exam Simulations
- 900-Question Test Bank
- 14 Section Tests
- 15 Ways to Customize Exams
- 228-Page Textbook (Physical/Digital)
- 9 Hours of Video Content Across 14 Videos
- Detailed Question & Exam Reports
- Personalized Study Calendar
- Test Tips & Cheat Sheets
Pros
- Budget-Friendly Choice: SIA’s SIE prep course is easy on the wallet, with its lowest package priced at $124.
- Pass or Money-Back Guarantee: No need to stress about finances. SIA’s GreenLight Guarantee™ lets you focus on studying with confidence.
- Concise Learning Materials: SIA condenses everything you need to know into fewer pages and hours of content than its competitors.
- Unlimited Practice Exams: Few providers offer endless practice exams and unlimited mock tests—SIA does.
- Extra Study Tools: Personalized test tips, cheat sheets, and a study calendar help you master the exam format and key concepts.
Cons
- No Live Instruction: The course is entirely self-paced, so students who need real-time guidance or scheduled classes will need to look elsewhere.
- Basic Interface: While functional, the platform isn’t as sleek or modern as some newer competitors—it’s straightforward, but not fancy.
See if Securities Institute of America is right for you in this full review.
Bottom Line
Looking for an affordable, self-paced course with a pass guarantee? SIA offers outstanding study materials, unlimited practice exams, and a budget-friendly price, all backed by the GreenLight Guarantee™. This SIE exam prep course is perfect for independent learners who want the best value, but if live instruction is a must, check out my other picks.
Securities Institute of America
2. Securities Training Corporation: Best Live Classes
When I reviewed Securities Training Corporation, the live classes immediately stood out. Most providers lean heavily on self-paced video or text-based learning, so seeing live instruction built into the course felt like a real advantage. I sat in on a session and was impressed by how interactive it was—the instructor regularly checked in with students, answered questions throughout, and kept the material engaging without watering it down. For students who do better with real-time guidance and accountability, STC delivers where most fall short.
Beyond the live classes, the course offers a potent mix of study tools. The structure is tight—everything from the progress exams to the Green Light exams feels intentional and well-paced. The Crunch Time Facts sheet is a nice touch too: it condenses key info into a review-friendly format useful for focused refreshers.
STC’s Pass Guarantee also adds value, particularly if you invest in the Premier or Premier Plus packages. While the pricing is on the higher side, the built-in instructor support and structured learning path make it a worthwhile choice for those needing more than self-study materials.
“STC is phenomenal! Supplement with Capital Advantage or Series 7 Guru and you’ll be fine. Personally I think STC is better than Kaplan, the questions on the exam were close in nature to STC quizzes/Finals. Good luck, you got this!”
Redditor
Course Features
- STC Pass Guarantee
- ~12 Hours of Live Online Instruction
- 6 Hours of On-Demand Video Lessons
- Study Manual (Printed and/or Digital)
- 10 Progress Exams, 7 Final Exams, and 2 Green Light Exams
- 1,000+ Question Test Bank
- Crunch Time Facts
- Flashcards
- Instructor Hotline (A+ Feature)
- 24/7 Tech Support
Pros
- Live Instruction: Unlike many other providers, STC offers live online courses with the Premium Plus package, adding some much-needed real-time interaction to the learning experience.
- Crunch Time Facts and Flashcards: The Securities Training Corporation offers excellent bonuses, such as flashcards and written summary sheets, for last-minute reviewing.
- Strong Support System: If you need personalized content assistance or 24/7 tech support, STC makes sure help is always available when you need it.
- All-in-One Solution: Everything you need for success comes in one package—no extra supplements required. All you’re missing is the bow!
- Long-Winded: The explanations and course material were very detailed, which I personally appreciated. However, I could see this being overwhelming for some.
Cons
- Small Text: There have been reports of the practice exam text being hard to read. While I didn’t find it to be an issue, if you struggle with your sight, you might want to consider that.
- Higher Cost for Full Features: STC’s best tools—like live instruction and the Pass Guarantee—are only included in higher-tier packages, which might not be ideal for students trying to stick to a tighter budget.
Bottom Line
If you love a structured study plan and live instruction, STC might be the perfect match. Their live and on-demand courses and a pass guarantee provide strong support throughout your exam prep. While the price is on the higher side, the interactive learning experience and comprehensive resources deem it valuable in my book.
Securities Training Corporation
3. Achievable: Best Value
Achievable’s prep course is one of the most streamlined and efficient I’ve reviewed. The platform is clean and intuitive, and the text-based lessons are written in an approachable way—no academic fluff, just clear explanations. The adaptive learning engine working in the background stood out to me most.
It automatically retargets weak areas and gradually reintroduces them without making you feel stuck in a loop. It’s the kind of system that feels smart without trying too hard to show off.
While the course doesn’t include video content or live instruction, it really doesn’t need to—if you’re comfortable with self-paced, text-driven study, this format is incredibly effective. The short chapters, constant quiz reinforcement, and full-length practice exams make it feel like your time is constantly being used efficiently. And at this price point, it’s a steal. If you’re not looking for bells and whistles and just want a course that respects your time (and your budget), Achievable delivers.
“FOR the SIE Exam.. Achievable is the best by far.. they explain the stuff WAY better and simply stated. Kaplan questions are harder but its better to actually understand than have stuff be over complicated.”
CapAdvantagetutor
Course Features
- Smart Adaptive Review System
- Fully Text-Based Lessons
- 2,000+ Chapter Quizzes
- 35+ Full-Length Practice Exams
- 36+ Bonus Video Breakdowns
- Mobile-Friendly Learning Platform
- Progress Tracking Dashboard
- One Year of Access
Pros
- Budget-Friendly Pricing: Achievable is one of the most affordable SIE prep options, especially for what’s included.
- Smart Adaptive Review: The course subtly adjusts to your performance, reinforcing weak areas without repetition fatigue.
- Clean, Distraction-Free Layout: The platform is easy to use and keeps your focus on learning.
- Well-Written Text-Based Lessons: These are straightforward, digestible chapters that skip the jargon and get to the point.
Cons
- No Live Instruction or Video Content: Even with the bonus videos, this text-driven course may not suit visual or auditory learners.
- Less Depth Than Top-Tier Providers: It’s efficient, but might not be deep enough for students starting from zero.
Bottom Line
Achievable is a smart, budget-conscious choice for independent learners who want a modern platform that gets straight to the point. Its adaptive tech and clean interface make it easy to stick with. While it lacks video content or instructor support, it more than makes up for it in usability and focus. If you’re confident with self-guided learning, there’s no better value.
Achievable
4. Kaplan: Best Reputation
Kaplan is one of those names that instantly rings a bell—and after reviewing Kaplan’s SIE prep course, I can see why they’ve kept that reputation for so long. The structure is polished and deliberate, with a mix of videos, checkpoint quizzes, and clear milestones that make it easy to keep track of your progress. I especially liked the layout of the SecuritiesPro™ QBank—the questions were well-written and closely matched the style of the actual exam, giving students a realistic preview of test-day conditions.
While Kaplan doesn’t offer a pass guarantee, their materials are designed with long-term understanding in mind. Each section builds on the last; the platform gently guides you through the content without overwhelming you. It’s not flashy or overly techy, but if you want a course that’s been fine-tuned over decades and just works, Kaplan brings a level of consistency that many newer platforms don’t.
“Kaplan is worth it. I just used the text book and Qbank as mentioned above. As far as prep time, that depends on how much understanding you already have of the industry. I took the SIE with zero finance background and spent 3-4 weeks studying.”
RookieFinanceGuy
Course Features
- License Exam Manual and Class Notes
- 12 Hours of Live Classes
- On-Demand Video Lessons
- Unit Intro and Wrap-Up Videos
- SecuritiesPro™ QBank
- Study Plan
- Checkpoint Exams for Each License Exam Manual Section
- 1 Practice Exam, 1 Midterm Exam, and 1 Mastery Exam
- Exam Tips
- Performance Tracker
Pros
- Reliable Support: Feeling stuck? Kaplan’s instructors are ready to help, and their customer service won’t leave you hanging.
- Innovative Study Tools: Kaplan’s analytics pinpoint weak areas so you can focus on what needs improvement instead of reviewing what you’ve already learned.
- Unbeatable Reputation: Very few test prep providers are as well-known as Kaplan. With decades of experience and a strong track record, they’re a long-trusted choice for students tackling tough exams.
- Student-Recommended: 97% of students recommend studying with Kaplan.
Cons
- No Money-Back Guarantee: I’m bummed that Kaplan doesn’t include a pass guarantee, but maybe it’s because they’re using the fact that they’re reliable to their advantage.
- Higher Price for Fewer Features: Compared to other top providers, Kaplan’s course can feel limited—fewer practice exams and no pass guarantee—despite a relatively premium price tag.
Bottom Line
If an established brand and leading course are up your alley, you can’t go wrong with Kaplan. Despite not having a pass guarantee or live instruction, their rigorous practice exams and performance-tracking tools make up for it.
Kaplan
5. ExamFX: Best Bonus Tools
While reviewing ExamFX’s SIE course, I was struck by the number of study extras packed into the platform. The flashcards, acronym lists, and pop-up glossary features are surprisingly helpful for quick recall, especially during final review sessions. I also tried out the custom exam generator, which let me create quizzes based on specific topics I wanted to focus on. It was ideal for isolating weak spots without having to dig through full-length exams.
The overall layout of the course feels geared toward students who learn best by doing. The SpotCheck quizzes and four final exams offer solid repetition, and the personalized study plan keeps your pace on track. ExamFX doesn’t include live instruction or in-depth support like some other providers, but if you’re already good at self-guided study and just want bonus tools to sharpen your prep, it does a lot of things right.
“I passed my SIE, 6, 63 and 65 using Exam FX and utilized S7 guru and Cap advantage videos on YouTube to cement it all.”
Frequent-Cow-682
Course Features
- 9 Hours of On-Demand Lectures
- 111-Page Textbook (Physical and/or Digital)
- SpotCheck Quizzes and Practice Question Sets
- Best Practices, Glossary and Acronyms, Flashcards, TC Critical Facts
- Custom Exam Generator
- 4 Standard Final Exams
- Personalized Study Plan
Save Up to 20% on ExamFX Securities Review Courses
Pros
- Build Your Own Exam: Focus on specific topics using ExamFX’s custom exam generator to target areas that need improvement.
- Variety of Practice Exams: Test your knowledge with SpotCheck quizzes and four full-length practice finals.
- Awesome Bonus Resources: ExamFX’s SIE packages offer personalized study plans and a best practices guide that are both effective and enjoyable.
Cons
- Limited Interactivity: ExamFX lacks live instruction or real-time Q&A features, which could be a drawback for students who like direct interaction and personalized guidance.
- On-Demand Access: ExamFX allows you to study at your own pace, which can be difficult for those who prefer structured guidance.
Bottom Line
Love extra study aids like flashcards? ExamFX is probably the best choice for you. It’s a solid course with plenty of bonus tools, but it falls short regarding live instruction and interactive features. Further, the lack of a pass guarantee and a limited question bank might leave some students wanting more.
ExamFX
⚔️ Head-to-Head: SIE Prep Course Face-Offs
SIA vs STC
💥 Unlimited practice meets live instruction
SIA is all about repetition and strategy, with customizable exams and the GreenLight Guarantee™ as your safety net. STC, on the other hand, offers structure, live classes, and an instructor hotline—perfect for learners who want real-time support.
Winner: SIA for independent grinders, STC for hands-on learners.
Achievable vs Kaplan
📱 Modern minimalism vs. trusted tradition
Achievable’s clean interface and adaptive learning tech make it ideal for fast, focused prep. Kaplan leans on its long-standing reputation and comprehensive tools—but without a pass guarantee, it may feel outdated for tech-savvy users.
Winner: Achievable for efficiency, Kaplan for legacy learners who want structure.
ExamFX vs Everyone
🧩 Bonus tools overload vs. streamlined systems.
Flashcards, glossaries, acronyms—ExamFX is the king of add-ons. But if you want more depth, live instruction, or a pass guarantee, you might feel limited.
Winner: ExamFX for review-obsessed students; otherwise, consider pairing it with a more robust course.
Honorable Mentions
To narrow the list down to my top five, I went over several prep courses. Here’s the list of the entries that didn’t make the cut:
Final Verdict
Everyone studies differently, so the best choice depends on what works for you. That said, every course on this list offers something valuable.
Securities Institute of America takes the top spot with its budget-friendly pricing, pass guarantee, and well-structured materials. Securities Training Corporation follows with live instruction and a strong pass guarantee for students who prefer guided learning. Achievable comes in third, offering adaptive tech, a clean interface, and excellent value for independent learners. Kaplan follows with decades of expertise, challenging practice exams, and modern tracking tools. ExamFX rounds out the list, offering bonus resources like glossaries, flashcards, and personalized study plans.
Whatever you choose, I know you’ve got this. Go crush that exam!
FAQs
The Securities Industry Essentials Exam is a foundational test for individuals looking to enter the securities industry. It covers key concepts such as investment products, regulatory agencies, and industry rules. Anyone can take the exam, but passing it alone does not qualify someone to work in securities—registration with FINRA and additional licensing exams are required for most roles.
The exam includes 85 multiple-choice questions, with 75 scored and 10 unscored experimental questions. Test-takers have 105 minutes to complete it. The passing score is 70%.
A study plan that includes practice exams, reading materials, and question banks is essential. Many students also benefit from video lessons and study guides that focus on key concepts. Reviewing official FINRA content outlines can help identify the most relevant topics.
Yes, but FINRA enforces waiting periods. After a first failed attempt, you must wait 30 days before retaking it. If you fail three times, a 180-day waiting period applies before the next attempt.
A passing score remains valid for four years. If you don’t register with a FINRA-member firm within that time, you may need to retake the exam before pursuing a securities industry position.
Yes. The SIE exam is a co-requisite for the Series 79 (see my top Series 79 course picks here). You can take them in any order, but you must pass both exams before registering as an investment banking representative. Many candidates take the SIE first since it covers broad securities industry basics.
