Exam comparison
SIE vs Series 7
They're not either/or — they're a sequence. The SIE comes first, then the Series 7. Here's how they differ and why.
| SIE | Series 7 | |
|---|---|---|
| Who can take it | Anyone 18+ — no sponsor | Requires FINRA member firm sponsorship |
| Prerequisite | None | SIE is a corequisite |
| Questions | 75 scored | 125 scored |
| Time | 1 hour 45 minutes | 3 hours 45 minutes |
| Passing score | ~70% | 72% |
| What it covers | Industry fundamentals | Selling most securities products |
The bottom line
Take the SIE first — anyone 18 or older can sit for it, and passing shows employers you're serious. Once you're sponsored by a firm, tackle the Series 7, which licenses you to sell most securities. Wondering how hard the bigger exam is? Here's what to expect. Still mapping your path? See the full license guide.
Prep for both in one place.
Finance Exam Pro covers the SIE, Series 7, and every other securities and insurance license — guided lessons, original questions, and mock exams. Start free.
Finance Exam Pro is not affiliated with FINRA. Practice questions are original and are not actual exam questions. Exam specs can change — confirm current details with FINRA.