The post Free SIE Exam Guide appeared first on Securities Training Corporation.

For aspiring professionals, the Securities Industry Essentials (SIE) Exam is a crucial gateway, often serving as the first step in this journey. But why is SIE Exam prep so crucial? Preparation for this exam is not just important – it’s essential for success. 

Why SIE Exam Prep is Crucial for Your Career 

The SIE Exam is designed to assess your foundational knowledge of the securities industry. It’s the first step towards obtaining a license to practice in various securities fields. Proper preparation can make a significant difference in your exam performance and, ultimately, your career trajectory. 

Without adequate preparation, even the most dedicated students and professionals may find themselves struggling to pass. Investing time and effort into thorough SIE Exam prep can set you apart from your peers and pave the way for a successful career in finance. 

Understanding the SIE Exam Structure 

Before you begin your study regimen, it’s important to understand the structure of the SIE Exam. The exam consists of 75 multiple-choice questions, and you have 105 minutes to complete it. The topics covered include knowledge of capital markets, understanding products and their risks, trading, customer accounts, and regulatory requirements. 

Familiarizing yourself with this structure helps you know what to expect and allows you to tailor your study plan accordingly. Knowing the exam format can reduce anxiety and improve your confidence as you prepare. 

Want to know even more about the SIE Exam? Check out our articles: 

• All You Need to Know About the SIE Exam 
• Common Mistakes to Avoid When Studying for the SIE Exam 

Benefits of Effective SIE Exam Prep 

Effective SIE Exam prep offers numerous benefits. The SIE Exam covers a broad range of topics, including basic securities concepts, regulatory agencies and their functions, product knowledge, and the fundamentals of market structures. 

A strong grasp of these areas is essential, not just for passing the exam but for your entire career. Thorough preparation ensures that you understand these foundational elements, which will be built upon in later qualifications and real-world experiences. 

Here are even more benefits of proper SIE Exam prep: 

1. Confidence: Good preparation boosts your confidence. When you know you’ve studied diligently and comprehensively, you’ll feel more assured during the exam. Confidence can significantly impact your performance, helping you to think clearly and answer questions accurately.
2. Pass on Your First Try: Thorough preparation increases your chances of passing the exam on the first try. This is particularly important for career changers and students who want to quickly transition into the securities industry. Passing the SIE Exam promptly can accelerate your career progress and open up new opportunities.
3. Regulatory Compliance: The financial industry is highly regulated, and professionals must adhere to strict guidelines to protect investors and maintain market integrity. The SIE Exam tests your knowledge of regulatory agencies like the SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission) and FINRA (Financial Industry Regulatory Authority), along with rules and regulations that govern the industry. Preparing for the exam means you’ll not only pass the test but also be better equipped to navigate the regulatory landscape in your professional life.
4. Competitive Edge: The financial services sector is competitive, with numerous candidates vying for the same roles. Successfully passing the SIE Exam, especially with a high score, sets you apart from the competition. It demonstrates your commitment to the profession and your willingness to go the extra mile to master the essentials. Recruiters and employers often view a strong SIE Exam score as an indicator of a candidate’s potential for success in more advanced exams and roles.
5. Career Progression: Passing the SIE exam is often a prerequisite for taking more specialized qualification exams, such as the Series 6, 7, 63, or 79. Without passing the SIE, your path to these critical licenses is blocked. Solid exam preparation ensures you clear this first hurdle, opening the door to further certifications and career advancement opportunities.
6. Real-World Application: The knowledge you gain from preparing for the SIE Exam isn’t just for the test—it’s knowledge you’ll use daily in the securities industry. Understanding securities products, markets, and regulations will help you make informed decisions, advise clients effectively, and stay compliant with industry standards. Your preparation lays the groundwork for applying these concepts in real-world scenarios.
7. Personal and Professional Discipline: Effective SIE exam preparation requires a disciplined approach, including time management, study planning, and self-motivation. These are not just study skills; they are professional habits that will serve you throughout your career. The discipline you develop during your exam prep will translate into your work ethic and your ability to handle the pressures of the financial industry. 

 Comparing STC’s SIE Exam Prep Packages: Which One is Right for You? 

Knowing that SIE Exam prep is crucial for both passing the test and setting your career up for success means you should look for the best training partner. Securities Training Corporation (STC) has the experience and expertise to help you pass the exam the first time. 

STC offers three distinct pre-licensing packages designed to cater to different learning preferences and needs. Here’s a detailed comparison of our Standard, Premier, and Premier Plus packages to help you choose the best option for your study plan. No matter which package you choose, we GUARANTEE that you will pass if you follow our instructional design. Check out the STC Pass Guarantee, included on all SIE exam prep packages. 

Standard Package 

The Standard Package is ideal for modern learners who prefer a digital, self-paced approach. It offers immediate access to a variety of training resources, allowing you to customize your study plan to fit your needs. The paperless format provides the flexibility to study at your own pace, making it a great option for those who prefer to manage their own schedule. 

Key Standard Package Features: 

• Access to Instructor Hotline: Get your questions answered by experts. 
• Crunch Time Facts: Focus on essential exam content. 
• 24/7 Tech Support: Assistance whenever you need it. 
• Online Study Manual: Digital access to comprehensive study material. 
• Final, Progress, and Green Light Exams: Evaluate your readiness with various exam types. 
• On-Demand Lectures & Flashcards: Flexible learning tools. 

Premier Package 

The Premier Package is designed for learners who benefit from both digital and physical resources. It includes everything in the Standard Package, plus a printed study manual for those who prefer to highlight and make notes. This package provides targeted resources to help you understand complex topics and includes On-Demand Lectures and Flashcards to reinforce learning. 

Key Premier Package Features: 

• Printed Study Manual: Ideal for note-taking and in-depth study. 
• Targeted Training Resources: Focus on challenging areas. 

Premier Plus Package 

The Premier Plus Package is our most comprehensive option, offering a blend of live and recorded instruction. It includes Instructor-led Live Virtual or In-Person Classes for in-depth understanding and flexibility with Recorded Live Virtual Classes. This package is perfect for those who seek a more interactive learning experience and personalized support.  

Key Premier Plus Package Features: 

• Live Virtual Class & SIE Q & A Sessions: Interactive sessions for detailed instruction. 
• Recorded Live Virtual Classes: Review at your convenience. 
• Most Comprehensive Study Package: Extensive resources and support. 

Choosing the Right Package 

Selecting the right SIE Exam prep package depends on your learning style and needs. Whether you prefer a flexible, digital approach with the Standard Package, a combination of print and digital resources with the Premier Package, or an in-depth, interactive experience with the Premier Plus Package, STC has the tools and support to help you succeed. 

Getting SIE Exam Prep Right 

The importance of SIE Exam prep cannot be overstated. It’s the foundation of your future career in the securities industry. 

Proper preparation not only ensures you pass the exam but also equips you with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to succeed in the industry. By dedicating time and effort to your SIE Exam prep, you are investing in your future and laying a strong foundation for a successful and rewarding career in securities. 

Don’t just aim to pass – aim to excel. Explore STC’s SIE Exam prep training packages and choose the one that best fits your study needs. Or contact us today to learn more about how STC can support your journey to becoming a successful securities professional!  

Explore Packages | Contact Us for More Information 

The post The Importance of SIE Exam Prep: Your Gateway to a Securities Industry Career appeared first on Securities Training Corporation.

Are you considering a career in the securities industry? 

The Securities Industry Essentials (SIE) Exam is your gateway to a rewarding career in finance. 

This helpful infographic provides several key facts and figures to help you understand what the exam entails and how you can prepare for it effectively. 

You’ll learn: 

• What the exam entails 
• How to register
• Exam format
• Content breakdown
• Study tips 
• Resources to help you pass 

Explore SIE Exam Prep Packages  

The post SIE Exam: Key Facts and Figures  appeared first on Securities Training Corporation.

1. Relying Solely on Memorization 

One of the most common mistakes students make is focusing too heavily on memorizing facts and figures rather than understanding the underlying concepts. While memorization can help with some of the exam’s specific questions, it’s essential to grasp the broader principles that govern the securities industry. 

• Mistake: Relying on flashcards or rote memorization without understanding the “why” behind the concepts. 

• Solution: Focus on understanding key concepts such as market structures, investment products, and regulatory requirements. Use study materials that explain the reasoning behind each topic and try to apply these concepts to real-world scenarios. 

2. Neglecting to Review all Exam Topics  

Another pitfall is failing to review all the topics covered on the SIE Exam. Some students may spend excessive time on areas they are already familiar with while neglecting less familiar or more challenging topics. 

• Mistake: Spending too much time on one section and ignoring others. 

• Solution: Create a study plan that allocates time to all sections of the exam. Use supplimental exams and quizzes to identify areas where you need more review. Ensure you cover each topic sufficiently to avoid surprises on exam day.   

3. Overloading Your Study Sessions 

Studying for long, uninterrupted periods without breaks can lead to burnout and diminished retention. It’s essential to balance your study sessions to maintain focus and effectiveness. 

• Mistake: Cramming for long hours without adequate breaks. 

• Solution: Implement the Pomodoro Technique or similar time-management strategies. Study in focused blocks of 25-50 minutes with short breaks in between. This helps maintain concentration and prevents fatigue. 

4. Ignoring Practice Exams 

Practice exams are a crucial component of your study strategy. Some students may skip practice tests, thinking they’ll be able to perform well without them, or they may not use them effectively. 

• Mistake: Not taking enough practice exams or not analyzing the results. 

• Solution: Regularly take full-length practice exams under timed conditions to simulate the test environment. Review your answers, especially the incorrect ones, to understand where you need improvement. This will help you become familiar with the exam format and question types. 

5. Lack of a Structured Study Plan 

Without a clear study plan, it’s easy to become disorganized and overwhelmed. A structured approach helps you stay on track and ensures you cover all necessary material. 

• Mistake: Studying sporadically without a set plan. 

• Solution: Develop a detailed study schedule that outlines what you will study each day leading up to the exam. Include time for review and practice tests, and adjust the plan as needed based on your progress and performance. 

6. Not Utilizing Available Resources 

Many students miss out on valuable study tools that can significantly boost their preparation. STC offers a comprehensive range of resources, including detailed study tools, interactive online courses, and extensive practice exams. 

• Mistake: Overlooking essential study aids and resources. 

• Solution: Maximize your study efforts by using STC’s expertly designed study tools such as flashcards and supplemental exams, engaging online courses, and SIE practice exams. By utilizing STC’s SIE Exam prep, you’ll benefit from expert content and guidance from industry-leading instructors. This support ensures you receive comprehensive insights and effective strategies, helping you reinforce your knowledge and excel in your preparation. 

7. Underestimating the Importance of Rest and Health 

Lastly, neglecting your physical and mental health can significantly impact your study effectiveness. It’s crucial to maintain a balanced lifestyle during your preparation period. 

• Mistake: Ignoring rest, exercise, and nutrition. 

• Solution: Ensure you get adequate sleep, eat a balanced diet, and engage in regular physical activity. Incorporating relaxation techniques or mindfulness practices can also help manage stress and improve focus. 

Ace the SIE Exam 

Preparing for the SIE Exam requires a well-rounded approach that goes beyond simple memorization. By avoiding common mistakes, creating a balanced study routine, and focusing on understanding key concepts, you can enhance your chances of success. Remember to use all available resources, maintain your well-being, and practice regularly to ensure you are fully prepared for exam day.  

Ready to ace the SIE Exam? Explore our comprehensive study materials and practice exams to set yourself up for success. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your exam preparation journey! 

Explore SIE Exam Prep Packages  

The post Common Mistakes to Avoid When Studying for the SIE Exam appeared first on Securities Training Corporation.

The Securities Industry Essentials (SIE) Exam is a gateway for anyone interested in entering the world of finance. Acing the SIE exam in college can help you set yourself apart in the job market and unlock career opportunities early. In this article, we’ll cover SIE exam benefits for college students and how you can set yourself up for success with a career in the financial industry.

What is the SIE Exam?

The SIE exam is a co-requisite for taking any of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA)qualification (Series) exams. Whether you’re a finance major or someone who is considering or pursuing a career in finance or securities, excelling on the SIE exam expands your job possibilities. It demonstrates your expertise in the field and boosts your attractiveness as a prospective hire.

Advantages of Taking the SIE in College

Hiring for the Class of 2024 is projected to be slightly lower than last year, but the job market will still be strong for college graduates this year, according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers. Still, many recent graduates are finding it difficult to get a job in their chosen field. And, though the financial services industry has been dealing with a workforce shortage, finance has become the top career choice for Gen Zers because it offers relatively stable employment and high compensation.

It’s going to be a competitive job market in finance, so it’s important to develop a competitive edge while you’re still in college. Passing the SIE exam can help you do that! Here are five SIE exam benefits:

1. Gain a competitive edge with recruiters
2. Show employers you’re serious about a financial services career
3. Demonstrate your potential to pass a FINRA Series Exam
4. Build knowledge that helps you perform in job interviews and make informed decisions about your career path
5. Have confidence about making this investment of time when you prepare for the SIE exam with Securities Training Corporation, which offers the STC Pass Guarantee.

How the SIE Exam Prepares You for a Career in Finance

When you study for the SIE exam you learn fundamental knowledge about securities industry essentials, including key concepts such as types of securities products, regulatory agencies, industry regulations, and market structure. You’ll develop a solid understanding of cornerstone financial principles, and establish a strong foundation for further specialized qualifications.

The SIE exam is designated as a co-requisite by FINRA. In other words, you’re required to pass the SIE exam before pursuing other FINRA exams to help ensure you have a solid understanding of the industry’s basics before delving into more specialized areas. To sum it up, SIE exam benefits include helping you establish a standardized baseline of knowledge, preparing you to navigate finance job requirements, and paving the way to take additional FINRA Series exams.

Combining College Education with SIE Preparation

By blending your college education with SIE exam preparation, you can build a strong foundation for a successful career in the securities industry. This dual approach ensures that you meet academic requirements and acquire practical knowledge and skills that are highly valued in the financial sector.

Here are some tips to effectively integrate SIE exam preparation into your college experience:

• Incorporate relevant courses — Choose elective courses related to finance, investments, or securities regulation to align with SIE exam Look for courses that cover foundational concepts such as securities products, market structures, and regulatory frameworks.
• Use college resources — Leverage your college’s library and online resources to access additional materials related to SIE exam Seek guidance from professors or industry professionals associated with your college for insights and advice.
• Join finance-related clubs or organizations — Become a member to engage in discussions, workshops, and events related to the securities industry. Networking with peers who share similar career aspirations can provide valuable insights and support.
• Internships and work experience — Gain practical experience and apply theoretical knowledge in finance roles. Real-world exposure can reinforce concepts covered in SIE exam preparation and enhance your understanding.
• Stay informed about industry developments — Subscribe to financial news sources and publications. Understanding real-world applications of financial concepts can enhance your comprehension and critical thinking skills.

Challenges with SIE Exam Preparation and Tips to Overcome Them

Preparing for the SIE exam is not without its challenges! But, with strategic planning and effective study techniques, these aspects of SIE exam preparation won’t become roadblocks for you. Here are some common challenges and ways to address them:

Vast content coverage: The SIE exam covers a wide range of topics, from securities products to regulatory frameworks, making it challenging to absorb all the information. Overcome this by breaking down the content into manageable sections and creating a study schedule. Prioritize topics based on their weight in the exam, and focus on mastering one section at a time.

Complex regulatory language: This exam involves understanding complex terms and concepts. You can use supplementary materials, such as study guides and online resources, to simplify and understand them. Create flashcards to reinforce definitions and regulations, and practice applying concepts in practical scenarios.

Information Overload: You may experience difficulty retaining key concepts because of the sheer volume of information. The solution is to focus on understanding core principles rather than memorizing every detail. Use active learning methods such as summarizing information and engaging in practice questions to reinforce learning.

Test Anxiety: As you probably know, anxiety can affect your concentration and recall. Try practicing relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, to manage anxiety. Simulate exam conditions by taking timed practice tests. Familiarity with the exam format and time constraints can boost your confidence.

Networking and Professional Growth

Making the leap from student to finance industry professional may seem scary, but your college’s career services team can probably help. Connect with them to explore internship opportunities, career fairs, and networking events within the finance industry. Ask for their advice on crafting a resume and preparing for interviews related to finance positions. When you attend networking events, ask industry professionals for their advice about starting out in finance.

You can also ask if they would be available for an informational interview with you. The purpose of an informational interview is to gather insights, advice, and information about finance job requirements to help you make informed decisions about your career path. To maximize the value of this type of interview, approach it with genuine curiosity, thoughtful questions, and a willingness to learn. Building and maintaining a network through these interviews can be beneficial not only for current career exploration but also for your long-term professional development.

Future Opportunities with an SIE Certification

While earning the SIE certification itself doesn’t qualify you for a specific role, it does serve as a foundational credential that opens the door to more specialized licenses and positions — that is a key SIE exam benefit. Some of these roles include financial advisor or planner, securities analyst, investment banker, and compliance officer. It also can pave the way for roles in risk management, corporate finance and brokerage operations.

Preparing for the SIE: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you approach SIE exam preparation systematically, you can increase your chances of success on exam day. Remember to adapt the plan based on your individual learning style and pace.

Here’s a step-by-step SIE exam guide to help you navigate the preparation process:

1. Understand the exam structure — Familiarize yourself with the exam’s outline, including the number of questions, time limits, and the format. Knowing what to expect will ease anxiety on exam day.
2. Gather study materials — Invest in quality study materials, including SIE exam prep books, online courses, and practice exams. Look for reputable providers like Securities Training Corporation, and explore the different study programs they have available.
3. Create a study schedule — Allocate dedicated time for SIE preparation each day or week to maintain consistency and avoid procrastination!
4. Take practice exams — Timed mock exams help simulate real exam conditions, improve time management, and identify areas that need further review. Be sure to analyze mistakes made in practice exams. Focus on understanding the rationale behind correct answers and learn from any errors to strengthen your knowledge.
5. Simulate SIE exam day — Practice proper time management, follow exam protocols, and ensure you are comfortable with the testing environment. Also make sure you are familiar with exam-day logistics, such as what to bring and what not to bring. Ensure you have a clear understanding of the testing center’s rules and regulations.
6. Stay confident — Believe in your preparation. Maintain a positive mindset, stay confident, and approach the exam with the knowledge that you’ve thoroughly prepared.

Conclusion

It’s not always easy to balance your college commitments with preparing for and passing your SIE exam as a student. The time and effort you invest is well worth it to give your future career an early boost!  For information on online SIE exam preparation courses, visit STC.com.

The post Unlocking Success: Why Obtaining Your SIE in College Matters appeared first on Securities Training Corporation.

The first step on your list is the SIE exam, a test you must take in the early stages of your career journey.  

What is the SIE Exam? 

The Securities Industry Essentials (SIE) exam is a FINRA exam that everyone starting a career in the financial services industry must take and pass to continue toward licensing. This exam assesses your knowledge of introductory topics related to the industry, and you need to be at least 18 years old to test.  

Many FINRA exams require sponsorship before taking the exam, but the SIE exam does not hold that requirement. This means students just finishing college can sit for the exam. 

This exam also opens the door to taking other exams, like the Series 6 and Series 7 exams. You must pass both the SIE and Series 6 and 7 exams to become a registered representative. 

How Do You Prepare for the SIE Exam? 

To properly prepare for the SIE exam, invest in a reputable training partner who provides all the materials and education you need to learn the necessary information to both succeed in the industry and pass your exam on the first try. Look for a partner that even offers an SIE practice exam to help you thoroughly prepare. 

STC offers top-of-the-line training packages that do just that. With our help and resources, you will be able to learn the information, appropriately and effectively study and prepare for the exam, and increase your chances of passing on the first attempt. 

In addition to partnering with a reputable training provider, you should also:  

• Give yourself the right amount of study time leading up to your testing date (if you don’t know the industry basics, it’s best to study for at least two months). 
• Make sure you study the right material, which is why partnering with a professional is a smart move. 
• Utilize practice tests. 
• Take appropriate study breaks, and don’t overload yourself. 
• Work on fully understanding the material rather than just memorizing it. 

 SIE Exam Details 

The SIE exam is a multiple-choice test that has 75 questions. To pass the exam, you need a score of 70 or higher. 

The registration fee for the exam is $80, and you will be allotted one hour and 45 minutes to finish your exam. The SIE exam dates are available year-round, and you can take it remotely or onsite at a FINRA testing center. 

What Happens After You Take the SIE Exam?  

After taking the SIE exam and receiving a passing score, there are several more steps toward becoming a registered representative. You must then take and pass either the Series 6 or Series 7 qualification exams. To take these exams, you must be sponsored by a broker-dealer.  

If you fail the SIE exam, you can take the test again. However, after the second failed attempt, you must wait 30 days to take it again. After the third failing, you must wait 180 days.  

To learn more about the SIE exam or to start your study journey on the right track, explore Securities Training Corporation’s SIE training packages! 

The post All You Need to Know About the SIE Exam appeared first on Securities Training Corporation.

Recently, there have been a few regulatory and tax law updates which could have a minor impact on several different qualification exams. Some of these updates are changes to the current law, while others are additions.

STC has either already made the necessary updates to its courses or is in the process of doing so. From our experience, there can be a delay between the date of the announcement of a change and the date on which changes are made to the questions on a qualification exam.

Annual Gift Tax Exclusion and the Impact on 529 College Savings Plan Contributions

The annual gift tax exclusion has been increased from $15,000 to $16,000.

This change also influences the contribution limits to a 529 College Savings Plan since this limit is tied to the maximum gift tax limit.

Beginning in 2022, the maximum contribution that an individual can make to a 529 plan and avoid gift tax is $16,000 ($32,000 for a married couple). In addition, due to the five-year front-end loading option, an individual can contribute $80,000 to a plan and avoid gift tax ($160,000 for a married couple).

FINRA Rule 2165 (Financial Exploitation of Specified Adults)

FINRA has made the following two changes to this rule:

1) Previously, the rule permitted a firm to place a temporary hold on the disbursement of a specified adult’s funds or securities, but not to their transactions in securities.
The updated new rule now permits a firm to also place a temporary hold on securities transactions.

2) The second change is an extension to the rule. Currently, a temporary hold will expire by no later than 15 business days after the date that it was first placed on the account, unless it was otherwise terminated or extended by another authorized regulatory entity. If a member firm’s internal review of the facts and circumstances supports its reasonable belief that the financial exploitation of the specified adult has occurred, is occurring, has been attempted or will be attempted, the firm may extend the temporary hold for an additional 10 business days, unless otherwise terminated or extended by another authorized regulatory entity.

The extension of the rule allows for an additional 30-business day hold period, which is in addition to the previous 15-business day hold and the 10-business day hold (for a total of 55 business days).

Expanded Definition of an Accredited Investor

The SEC expanded the Accredited Investor definition to include:

Any investment adviser that’s registered with the SEC or a state

Any individual who has a current Series 7, Series 65, or Series 82 registration which is in good standing

Regarding the $300,000 annual gross income requirement in each of the last two years, the term spousal equivalent was added, which is defined as a cohabitant who occupies a relationship that’s similar to a spouse.

Note: For questions based on changes to previous regulations, please answer the question by selecting the BEST response (i.e., if $16,000 is not an available answer, choose $15,000).

The post STC Exam Update – Spring 2022 appeared first on Securities Training Corporation.

By understanding these aspects, you’ll be well-prepared for the journey ahead as you embark on your path to future success.

What the SIE Exam Can Do for Your Career

The SIE Exam serves as a crucial stepping stone in your financial services career, since it’s a prerequisite for taking any FINRA qualification (Series) exams. While passing the SIE Exam alone does not qualify you to register with a FINRA member firm or engage in securities business, it evaluates your understanding of fundamental securities terminology and concepts essential to the industry. This includes various product types and their associated risks, the structure of securities industry markets, regulatory agencies and their roles, and prohibited practices.

Proactively completing the SIE Exam can significantly enhance your appeal to potential employers. When they see that you have already passed the SIE exam, it signals your commitment to a career in financial services. Employers value this achievement as it saves them the resources to train you for the exam.

If you have already passed the SIE Exam, employers recognize your potential to succeed in a Series Exam and will likely start preparing you for it immediately. Successfully passing the SIE Exam demonstrates that you have a solid grasp of the foundational knowledge required for the more advanced qualification exams, increasing your likelihood of success.

Jobs Within Reach After Passing the SIE Exam

Remember, the SIE Exam can be taken without any affiliation with a brokerage firm. However, passing the exam alone does not qualify you for a specific job.

In contrast, qualification exams, which require sponsorship from a member firm, are specialized and more rigorous. These exams evaluate your ability to perform particular tasks, respond to typical scenarios, understand investment products and their suitability for clients, and grasp field-specific terminology.

Passing the SIE Exam is the first step toward advancing your career and becoming eligible for qualification exams. Therefore, it’s crucial to choose a reliable preparation resource.

If you’ve already passed the SIE Exam, you’ll want to refine your interview skills to confidently present your qualifications and secure your desired position in the financial industry.

The STC College Program

Securities Training Corporation is dedicated to helping you achieve your dreams of a career in financial services. That’s why we offer the STC General Securities College Program, which can be seamlessly integrated into various college curriculums.

The STC college program is hands-on and will provide you with numerous benefits. By completing the program, you will:

• Acquire foundational knowledge of the securities industry to make more informed career choices in financial services.
• Prepare effectively for your qualification (Series) exam with essential knowledge.
• Gain a competitive edge with corporate recruiters.
• Enhance your interview performance by demonstrating industry proficiency to potential employers.
• Access direct pathways to top insurance and securities firms for both internships and full-time job opportunities.
• Stay informed with accurate articles on current industry issues.
• Take advantage of numerous practice exams to prepare for your SIE and Series Exams.
• Access on-demand videos and virtual class lectures for flexible learning.
• Receive guidance from instructors at every step of your journey.
• Earn a certificate of completion and a digital badge upon finishing the course, along with one-year access to all STC classes and materials.

Many individuals start studying for their financial industry exams only after finishing school or well into their careers. But with STC’s program, you can gain the necessary education to jump-start your career ahead of the curve.

If you need assistance in preparing for the SIE or qualification exams, or if you’re interested in joining the STC college program to begin your career in the financial services industry, contact Securities Training Corporation today.

Let STC’s experts guide you in selecting the best program tailored to your specific needs, helping you confidently achieve your career goals.

The post Get Started with the SIE Exam appeared first on Securities Training Corporation.

The SIE Is the Door to the Securities Industry

The SIE Exam can be taken by any person who’s age 18 or older. The exam consists of 75 multiple-choice questions, and the minimum required passing score is 70%. It’s actually perfect for students and career-changers who want to demonstrate their basic securities industry knowledge to prospective employers. Also, there’s no need for sponsorship or firm association to take the exam. By proactively taking and passing the SIE Exam, you indicate how serious you are about entering the industry and starting your career.

The SIE Exam Ensures a Base of Knowledge

A person’s ability to pass the SIE Exam is based on a solid understanding of basic regulations and concepts of the financial services industry. When you take the SIE Exam, you’re tested on your general knowledge of capital markets, products and their risks, trading, customer accounts, prohibited activities, and the industry’s regulatory framework. Essentially, a person who passes the SIE Exam is assuring clients that they have a foundation of knowledge that will continue to grow stronger.

After passing the SIE Exam, you’ll need to take and pass a qualification (Series) exam, which permits you to sell certain securities or to work in specialized areas of a firm. However, to take a qualification exam, you must be sponsored by or have an association with a member firm.

Qualification (Series) Exams Allow You to Specialize

Once you’ve passed the SIE Exam and established sponsorship, your firm may offer you many different opportunities. Some of the areas in which you may choose to focus include investment banking, equity or debt trading, compliance, research, retirement planning, and financial planning. Of course, regardless of the path you take, it all starts with passing the SIE Exam.

Qualification (series) exams are required to become registered and to offer any of these specialized services. Your firm will direct you to one of the following options so that you can acquire the required credentials to provide a diverse range of services to clients:

• Series 6: Investment Company Representative
• Series 7: General Securities Representative
• Series 22: Direct Participation Program Representative
• Series 57: Securities Trader
• Series 79: Investment Banking Representative
• Series 82: Private Securities Offerings Representative
• Series 86 and 87: Research Analyst
• Series 99: Operations Professional

The SIE Makes You Stand Out to Employers

When employers are choosing from a sea of applications, they typically look for something that makes an applicant stand out. One thing that certainly helps is having already passed the SIE Exam.

Success on the SIE Exam increases your chances of passing your qualification exam and demonstrates that you’re committed to and serious about a career in the securities industry. Employers also view this accomplishment as an indication of your dedication to gaining the training and general knowledge you need to start working, which reduces the time and money it will take for them to train you.

Completing Qualification Exams Allows You to Deal With Clients

Although each of the qualification exams is beneficial, having the Series 7 or Series 99 designation allows you to offer more products/services than the other exams.

By passing the Series 7 Exam, you become a General Securities Representative who can sell corporate securities, municipal securities, government securities, options, direct participation programs, investment company securities, variable annuities, and more.

By passing the Series 99 Exam, you become an Operations Professional who facilitates customer onboarding, receipt and delivery of funds and securities, account transfers, financial control, and the maintenance, reinvestment, collection, and dispersal of funds.

Here’s a rundown of the beneficial credentials that the other qualification exams offer:

• Series 6 allows you to sell mutual fund shares and variable contracts/annuities.
• Series 22 allows you to solicit, purchase, and sell limited partnerships and other products.
• Series 57 allows you to execute transactions in NASDAQ equity trading, OTC equity trading, and proprietary trading.
• Series 79 allows you to advise on facilitating debt or equity securities offerings.
• Series 82 allows you to solicit and sell private placement securities products.
• Series 86 and 87 allow you to prepare electronic or written communication that analyzes companies and industry sectors, as well as equity securities.

To learn more about these important exams as well as how to study for and pass them, contact Securities Training Corporation (STC) today. STC’s experts specialize in helping students pass their securities exams on their first attempt. With more than 50 years of experience, STC can offer a variety of course and combination packages to meet your individual study needs.

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