How hard is the FINRA series 63?

Asked by: Fletcher Ebert  |  Last update: January 21, 2026
Score: 4.1/5 (28 votes)

Moderate Pass Rate: With an estimated pass rate of 80-85%, the Series 63 exam is challenging but achievable for well-prepared candidates.

Is the series 63 hard to pass?

The Bottom Line. The Series 63 can be a difficult exam, but if you wish to be a securities agent, you will need to pass it. The information covered focuses on the principles of state securities regulation as detailed in the Uniform Securities Act.

How long does it take to complete series 63?

Candidates have 75 minutes to complete the exam. In order for a candidate to pass the Series 63 exam, they must correctly answer at least 43 of the 60 scored questions. For additional information about this exam, including the content outline, please visit the exams page on the NASAA website.

What is the hardest FINRA series exam?

Known as one of the toughest FINRA licensing exams, Series 7 has a pass rate of less than 72%. You need a prep course that ensures one of those passers will be you.

How long should you study for the 63?

While we have seen many of these students pass, another large group fails. Such a short time frame adds pressure and stress. The Series 63 Exam tends to be easier than the Series 66 exam, or the Series 65 exam. But, it still requires at least a few weeks of preparation for the average person.

How to Pass the Series 63 Exam by Knowing the Series 63 Exam. Test Specifications.

18 related questions found

How many times can you fail the Series 63?

Retake Policy

A minimum of 30 days must pass after failing the second attempt before the third can be scheduled. A minimum of 180 days must pass after failing the third attempt before the fourth (and each subsequent) attempt can be scheduled.

Is the series 63 easier than the 66?

If you want to sell securities that require a Series 7 license AND charge a fee to give securities advice, you can skip taking both the Series 63 and Series 65 and instead take the combination Series 66 exam. It is a shorter (and rumored to be easier) exam.

What is the easiest FINRA series exam?

As a result, the Series 66 exam is considered by most to be an easier test. Like the Series 65 exam, it qualifies the individual to act as an IAR and fulfills the requirements for state registration. There are exam fees for these exams that must be paid before taking them.

What is the Series 63 exam like?

The Uniform Securities Agent Law Examination consists of 65 multiple-choice questions covering the topics listed in the study guide. Of the 65 questions on the exam, 60 will count toward the final score. The remaining 5 questions are being pre-tested for possible inclusion in the operational question bank.

Is the Series 7 harder than the bar?

Is the Series 7 exam harder than the bar exam? The Series 7 and the bar exam are both known for their difficulty. You can't really compare the two because of the differences in content and purpose. Both exams require dedicated study and preparation.

Can I take series 63 on my own?

Do I need to have a sponsor before I take the Series 63, 65, or 66? No. Unsponsored candidates who are not Form U4 registered or currently affiliated with a firm through FINRA's Web CRD system can open an exam enrollment window via FINRA.org request and pay for the S63, S65, or S66 exam.

How much money can you make with a series 63 license?

Series 63 License Salary FAQ

On average, annual salaries can range from $69,000 to $149,000.

Does series 63 expire?

The Series 63 license is good for the entire period that you work for a FINRA-member firm or self-regulatory organization (SRO). It only expires if you are terminated or leave a firm and do not find employment within two years at another FINRA-member firm or SRO.

Which is harder, Series 7 or 63?

Series 7: The Series 7 is longer, broader, and more complex, covering various securities laws and financial products, making it harder than the Series 63. Series 66: Combining content from Series 63 and Series 65, Series 66 includes both state and federal securities laws, making it more extensive.

Is the series 63 curved?

You will have 1 hour and 15 minutes (75 minutes) to complete the exam and must correctly answer 43 of the 60 scorable questions to achieve a passing score of 72%. The Series 63 exam is presented in a bell curve.

Does series 63 have math?

There are no math questions to mix things up.

With all the lengthy scenarios you'll address in Series 63 questions, some of you would welcome the objectivity of a math question. But there's no math on the S63, just lots of wordy and seemingly subjective questions.

What happens if you fail series 63?

After the first or second time a candidate fails the Series 63, there is a mandatory 30-day waiting period before they can take the exam again. After the third (and subsequent) fails, the waiting period increases to 6 months. The $135 exam fee applies each time they take the exam.

What is the best way to study for the series 63?

Reading the Series 63 textbook is absolutely essential to passing the exam. You must read the book completely and fully. Read the book, take notes and highlight the key points. Once you have completed the textbook, take as many Series 63 practice questions as you can.

How long does it take to study for series 63?

The Series 63 is a relatively short exam, requiring considerably less study time than other licensing tests. In fact, the study manual can be read cover to cover in just one to two days. Many candidates find they can complete all study tasks and be prepared to test in an average of 20–30 hours.

How hard is FINRA Series 63?

Generally, it is considered a moderately challenging test, especially for those who are already familiar with financial regulations and practices. Individuals who have a good grasp of the subject matter or who invest time in thorough preparation can improve their chances of success.

Does series 63 require sponsorship?

You don't need a sponsor to take Series 63, but you'll need to fill out the required application. You'll then receive notice from FINRA with your 120 windows in which you must take the exam. If you work for a firm, it can sponsor you to take Series 63.

What is the hardest FINRA exam?

The Series 7 exam is often considered the most difficult securities licensing exam. But, the answer is up to you. If you prepare properly and utilize an online learning tool like ExamFX's Series 7 course, you can approach the test with confidence and earn your Series 7 registration.

What can you do with series 63?

Top 6 Jobs You Can Land After Passing the Series 63 Exam
  • Securities Agent. Securities agents work with clients to buy and sell securities. ...
  • Investment Advisor Representative. ...
  • Broker-Dealer Agent. ...
  • Mutual Fund Sales Representative. ...
  • Compliance Officer. ...
  • State Securities Administrator.

What does a Series 7 license allow you to do?

A candidate who passes the Series 7 exam is qualified for the solicitation, purchase and/or sale of all securities products, including corporate securities, municipal fund securities, options, direct participation programs, investment company products and variable contracts.