Series 6 Difficulty Level: High, Low, or Just About Right? (2024)

FINRA’s Series 6 Exam difficulty level needs some explaining. It is among the shortest of FINRA’s myriad licensing exams, but packs a punch. In the post below, we unpack some of the main components that present challenges to our students. If you need to take the Series 6 Exam for your job, a quick glance below might be just what you need.

Annuities vs. Life Insurance

A big focus for the Series 6 Exam is on retirement plans, and other products used to plan for retirement or protect against mortality risk. In other words, annuities, variable life insurance, 401(k)s, IRAs, among others, are all covered. While each of them on their own are fairly straightforward to remember, trying to remember them all at once tends to trip people up. The best way to approach these is to make flash cards, or a study sheet. As a Series 6 tutor, we highly recommend that you write out their definitions and two or three key points for each. You don’t need to write down everything. As long as you know a few points about each, then you can eliminate enough in a multiple choice question to effectively answer a question. For instance, know the difference between a qualified vs. non-qualified retirement account. Also, know the difference between variable annuities vs variable life insurance. Once you have the basics, go a little deeper and it will start to come together.

Suitability

We also see another area that trips people up quite frequently. Suitability.

Series 6 Suitability questions are not too different from Series 7 suitability questions. The overall goal is to identify the most appropriate investment for an investor after being given the situation, goals, or temperament, of the investor. This section also inadvertently tests your knowledge on products. For example, you need to know that someone hoping for “growth” may prefer variable annuities to fixed annuities. Variable annuities have exposure to stocks through the separate account, for instance. In other questions, you may need to know whether it’s more suitable to hold a short term, or long term bond when interest rates are falling – Hint: long term bond. This requires knowledge of whether long term bond prices move more than short term bond prices when rates change.

All in all, the suitability section adds another layer of complexity to the Series 6 difficulty level. To determine suitability focus on a few main areas:

  1. Investor’s age
  2. Goals
  3. Emotional language (e.g., concerns, worries, etc.)
  4. Situation (e.g., retired, single mother, wealthy saver, etc.)

Run down this list for every question, and it should help steer you to your answer.

Rules, Rules, Rules

Lastly, like most other FINRA exams, there is no shortage of rules to know. Fortunately, many will overlap with some of the ones you learned from the SIE Exam. For example, Rule 147, Rule 144, SEC Act of 1933, SEC Act of 1934, Investment Company Act of 1940, among many others are included. Your best bet for learning the rules is to make yourself a study sheet. The most effective study sheet only includes terms, definitions, and dates that you continue to forget.

Important: Don’t include terms and definitions that you already know.

The reason for this is that your study sheet (or flash cards) will get too large and daunting. Most people don’t even want to look at a study sheet that is 90 pages long. You might as well read the textbook at that point. Stick to what you know you don’t know! Aim to memorize about 10 words a day, and increase that number if you believe you can get through more. However, we don’t recommend that you try to jam in too many. It’s better to know 20 or 30 cold, than it is to roughly know 40 or 50. The former ensures that you will be able to confidently identify, or eliminate, certain options from multiple choice questions.

Overall, the Series 6 difficulty level is somewhat comparable to the SIE exam difficulty. Both tests are certainly digestible, but require enough memory work to weed out anyone not willing to put in sufficient effort. It takes most of our students about 1 to 1.5 months to study for the exam. Put in the required work, and you’ll be on to your next exam in no time. If you need some help to get there, book a tutor. Either way, good luck!

Series 6 Difficulty Level: High, Low, or Just About Right? (2024)

FAQs

Is Series 6 hard to pass? ›

The Series 6 exam is considered to be moderately difficult. Many testers are well prepared to pass on their first attempt, but on average it takes up to two tries.

How many questions can I miss on Series 6 to pass? ›

On the Series 6 securities exam, you need to correctly answer at least 70% of the questions to pass. Since the actual exam consists of 50 scored questions, that means you need to get 35 or more questions right.

What is the fail rate for Series 6? ›

So, how hard is the Series 6 Exam? The Series 6 exam could be considered difficult since it only has a pass rate of 59%. If you give yourself an appropriate amount of time to prepare, and follow a solid study plan, you'll likely pass the Series 6 on your first try.

Is the Series 6 exam curved? ›

The Series 6 exam, like other FINRA exams, is presented in a bell curve. Exams presented in this manner should start with easier questions, move to more challenging questions, and end with easier ones.

What is the success rate for the Series 6 exam? ›

The Series 6 exam is considered to be moderately difficult, with FINRA reporting a pass rate of 60%.

Which is harder Series 6 or 7? ›

The Series 7 is the tougher but more comprehensive exam of the two. It allows you to deal with almost any type of security, from stocks to bonds to investment trusts and funds, that a professional or retail investor would want.

What is the hardest FINRA test? ›

The Series 7 exam is often considered the most difficult securities licensing exam. But, the answer is up to you.

What is the hardest series exam to pass? ›

Clocking in at 125 questions to be answered in three hours and 45 minutes, the Series 7 exam is considered the most difficult of all the securities licensing exams.

Are FINRA exams curved? ›

The SIE exam, like other FINRA exams, is presented in a bell curve. Exams presented in this manner should start with easier questions, move to more challenging questions, and end with easier ones.

How long should I study for Series 6? ›

Most candidates spend 40 to 60 hours studying for the FINRA Series 6 exam.

Is the Series 6 harder than the 65? ›

Is It Harder to Pass the Series 65 or Series 66 Exams? While the pass/fail rate for these exams is not publicly available, many consider the Series 66 exam less difficult than the Series 65 because the latter is longer.

Is Series 7 worth upgrade from 6? ›

The Apple Watch Series 7's larger display, sturdier design and fresh color options make it a modest but appreciated upgrade from the Series 6. The Series 7's bigger screen is undoubtedly the most dramatic update. Other improvements, including faster charging, feel minor by comparison.

How long is Series 6 good for? ›

How Long Is a Series 6 Good for? The FINRA Series 6 license is valid for the duration of your employment with a FINRA member firm, as long as you remain registered and in good standing with FINRA. If you leave the firm or your registration lapses, your Series 6 license will no longer be valid.

How much can you make with a Series 6 license? ›

Series 6 Salary
Annual SalaryMonthly Pay
Top Earners$87,500$7,291
75th Percentile$65,500$5,458
Average$54,885$4,573
25th Percentile$38,500$3,208

How do I study for my Series 6 license? ›

How To Prepare For The Series 6 Exam. It is recommended that the individual spend at least from 35 to 40 hours preparing for the exam by reading the textbook, underlining key points, watching the Series 6 video and by taking as many practice questions as possible.

How hard is Series 6 and 63? ›

The Series 63 can be challenging because of the short amount of time available to complete it. Testing time is 75 minutes, leaving you only over a minute to answer each of the exam's 60 questions. Those who are underprepared may find the exam too difficult to pass the first time.

How to get sponsored for Series 6 exam? ›

To take the Series 6 exam, you must be sponsored by a FINRA member firm or a self-regulatory organization (SRO). Firms apply for candidates to take the exam by filing a Uniform Application for Security Industry Registration or Transfer (Form U4).

What to expect on Series 6 exam? ›

The Series 6 exam focuses a great amount on open-ended investment companies, which are commonly known as mutual funds. Test takers will be expected to understand their structure, sales charges, fees, investment objectives, risks, rewards, how to purchase and redeem them, and any prohibited activities.

Is 6 series worth it? ›

It's a proper gaming TV

The 6-Series is about as good as a gaming TV can be in this price range. You're not getting four high-bandwidth HDMI 2.1 ports for maximum gaming potential, but its gaming features are generous and well-thought-out.

Can I get my Series 6 without a sponsor? ›

Eligibility. Candidates must be associated with and sponsored by a FINRA member firm or other applicable self-regulatory organization (SRO) member firm to be eligible to take FINRA representative-level qualification exams.

Is Series 7 better than Series 6? ›

Overall, the Apple Watch Series 7 is a minor upgrade over the Apple Watch Series 6, offering larger displays and casing sizes, new color options, improved durability, the S7 chip, and faster charging.

Is the Series 6 harder than the SIE? ›

Overall, the Series 6 difficulty level is somewhat comparable to the SIE exam difficulty. Both tests are certainly digestible, but require enough memory work to weed out anyone not willing to put in sufficient effort. It takes most of our students about 1 to 1.5 months to study for the exam.

What are the most useful FINRA exams? ›

Here's what you need to know!
  • #1 Series 6 License.
  • #2 Series 7 License.
  • #3 Series 65 License.
  • #4 Series 57 License.
  • #5 Series 24 License.
  • Honorable Mention: Security Industry Essentials (SIE License)
  • Recommended Prep Courses for FINRA Securities Exams.

Is Series 7 harder than CPA? ›

Having taken and passed both, I can say that without a doubt the CPA exam is more difficult, and for one primary reason… breadth of subject matter. The Series 7 is 3 hours and 45 minutes, is comprised of 125 questions, and has a pass rate of approximately 70%.

What is the hardest exam to write? ›

Top 10 Toughest Exams in World To Crack in 2023
  • IIT-JEE. ...
  • Mensa. ...
  • GRE (Graduate Record Examination) ...
  • CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) ...
  • CCIE (Cisco Certified Internetworking Expert) ...
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  • Exam for the Master Sommelier Diploma.
May 19, 2023

Why is Series 7 called top off exam? ›

Series 7 Exam Overview & FAQs

Created in 1974, the Series 7 exam assesses the knowledge needed to perform functions of an entry level registered representative. It is often referred to as Series 7 top off since it “tops off” a candidate's registration when paired with the SIE exam (i.e. they are co-requisites).

What is America's toughest exam? ›

15 Hardest Exams In The US | Top Toughest Exams In The World.
  • MCAT.
  • Cisco Certified Internetworking Expert.
  • California Bar Exam.
  • SAT.
  • Chartered Financial Analyst Exams.
  • Certified Financial Planner (CFP) Designation.
  • Graduate Record Examination (GRE)
  • IELTS.

How hard is it to pass FINRA exam? ›

The passing SIE exam score is 70, and the results are valid for four years. With an average pass rate of 74%, the SIE exam difficulty is very challenging. For a passing pass rate score, candidates must answer 53 out of the 75 questions correctly. Individuals 18 or older are eligible to take the SIE FINRA exam.

What is the Series 6 top off? ›

The Series 6 exam focuses on the day-to-day activities of a professional who deals with mutual funds, unit investment trusts, variable annuities, and variable life products. The functions and descriptions, along with the number and percentage of exam questions related to each are shown in the table below.

When should you curve an exam? ›

If a professor notices that the average score was significantly lower — for example, the average grade failed to pass — they can grade on a curve. That means modifying each student's grade to raise the average. In rarer cases, professors might adjust the curve down to lower the average.

Do I take my Series 6 or Series 63 test first? ›

In order to use your Series 6 license in your state, you must pass the state's version of the Series 63 license exam. If you move from one state to another, you must take your new state's Series 63 exam to begin working in the securities or insurance industries in that state.

How to study for Series 6 and 63? ›

We highly recommend that you take a live study course when attempting the Series 6 and 63 exams. This gives you an opportunity to ask questions to an expert while studying. This could mean the difference between passing or taking the exam again.

How to pass the Series 6 reddit? ›

In order to pass this exam, you REALLY need to have a deep understanding on Mutual Funds, Life Insurance/Annuities, Suitability and Communications. On top of that, I would recommend practicing good test-taking methods, such as utilizing the process of elimination and to remember to read the full question.

What percentage of people pass the Series 65 the first time? ›

The North American Securities Administrators Association is lowering the passing score for the Series 65 exam to 70% from 72% and has updated the content of the Series 63, Series 65 and Series 66 exams.

What percentage of people pass the Series 65? ›

The Series 65 exam has approximately a 65-70% pass rate.

How many people fail Series 66? ›

The Series 66 is difficult since it covers a wide breadth of detailed material. The official pass rates for the Series 66 exam are not officially published; however, test prep programs estimate the pass rate to be around 65% to 70% of test takers.

Is it worth upgrading from Series 6 to Series 8? ›

The health sensors are the biggest reason to upgrade to the Series 8, but you'll also get other perks like a larger screen with a QWERTY keyboard, faster charging and most importantly, a display that can still show the time and other information even when it's idle.

How do Apple Series 6 and 7 compare? ›

The Series 7 features a thicker front crystal display that makes it stronger and more scratch- and crack-resistant than the Series 6. The Series 7 is also certified at IP6X dust-tight resistance, while the Series 6 doesn't have such a certification. Both watches have a water-resistance rating of 50 meters.

Is Apple Watch Series 6 better than SE? ›

If you believe that ECG and blood oxygen monitoring will be important to you, you should consider the Apple Watch Series 6. If these advanced health features are less of a priority for you, the ‌Apple Watch SE‌ still has some insightful health monitoring capabilities.

Is Apple Watch Series 6 outdated? ›

Apple Watch Series 6 is being discontinued even as the recently launched Apple Watch Series 7 has gone on sale today. The new Watch Series 7 was launched at the special Apple event that rolled out the iPhone 13, iPhone Mini, iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max.

Is it OK to shower with Apple Watch Series 6? ›

Is my Apple Watch waterproof? Your Apple Watch is water-resistant, but not waterproof. For example, you can wear and use your Apple Watch during activities such as exercise (exposure to sweat is OK), walking in rain and washing your hands.

Can I shower with my Series 6? ›

Apple Watch is not waterproof. It is water resistant. You can swim with it on, afterward you should clean it afterward. And you shouldn't shower with Apple Watch since soap can ruin the seals.

What can I sell with a Series 6 license? ›

Series 6 - Investment Company Products/Variable Contracts Limited Representative
  • mutual funds (closed-end funds on the initial offering only),
  • variable annuities,
  • variable life insurance,
  • unit investment trusts (UITs) and.
  • municipal fund securities [e.g., 529 savings plans, local government investment pools (LGIPs)].

Why get a Series 6 license? ›

The Series 6 license, also known as an Investment Company and Variable Contracts Products registration, allows a securities professional to sell the following investment products: open-end mutual funds, variable annuities, variable life insurance, unit investment trusts, and specific municipal fund securities.

What can I sell with a Series 6 and 63? ›

Often paired together, the Series 6 and 63 licenses will allow you to sell securities such as mutual funds, variable annuities, and investment trusts in all states.

How difficult is the Series 6 exam? ›

The Series 6 exam is considered to be moderately difficult. Many testers are well prepared to pass on their first attempt, but on average it takes up to two tries.

Is Pass Perfect worth it? ›

The Passperfect is a great training program, it has flexible training hours, full package of textbook, video, practice, quiz, final exam and the details explanation. I highly recommend Pass Perfect for the self paced learner. The videos were highly focused and gave a good general overview of the lesson being taught.

Can you take Series 63 before Series 6? ›

Successfully completing the Securities Industry Essentials Exam (SIE) is required to be eligible to take the Series 7 and Series 6 license exams, but not the 63. To sell securities, broker-dealers must obtain the Series 63 license as well as the Series 7 or Series 6.

Is the Series 6 or 65 harder? ›

Is It Harder to Pass the Series 65 or Series 66 Exams? While the pass/fail rate for these exams is not publicly available, many consider the Series 66 exam less difficult than the Series 65 because the latter is longer.

Is the 66 harder than the 7? ›

Many people find the Series 66 exam easier, as they've already taken the Series 7 exam by the time they take the Series 66 exam. You can prepare for both exams by using online resources and study materials.

What products can a Series 6 not sell? ›

Such advisors may only need a Series 6 license if they just sell insurance, annuities, and certain types of mutual funds, not individual stocks. Series 6 holders, however, are not authorized to sell stocks, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), or bonds.

How long should you study for the Series 6? ›

Most candidates spend 40 to 60 hours studying for the FINRA Series 6 exam.

Should I take Series 6 or 63 first? ›

In order to use your Series 6 license in your state, you must pass the state's version of the Series 63 license exam. If you move from one state to another, you must take your new state's Series 63 exam to begin working in the securities or insurance industries in that state.

What percentage of people fail the SIE? ›

The passing SIE exam score is 70, and the results are valid for four years. With an average pass rate of 74%, the SIE exam difficulty is very challenging. For a passing pass rate score, candidates must answer 53 out of the 75 questions correctly. Individuals 18 or older are eligible to take the SIE FINRA exam.

Is the Series 6 worth it? ›

All that said, at its core, the Apple Watch Series 6 is as powerful as the Series 8, which means it will serve you well for many more years to come. If you want to save a few bucks, you can just look for a deal on a Series 6 and shop confidently.

How does Series 6 compare to SIE? ›

With the SIE exam being structured to assess general securities industry knowledge, the restructured Series 6 representative-level exam will have fewer questions and a more in-depth focus on the four main job functions as an investment company and variable contract products representative.

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