Careers & Education

Thinking about taking the Series 63 exam? You’re in the right place. Not all prep courses teach the same way or fit every learning style, but finding one that fits can make all the difference, especially with a 72% passing score. As someone who reviews these programs firsthand, I’ve tried and compared the top Series […]

With pass rates hovering near 45% across all three levels, the CFA® exam is far from easy. Choosing the right CFA® prep course is more important than many candidates realize. Not every course works for every study style, and picking the wrong fit can make exam prep feel harder than it needs to be. As […]

Jump to your exam → CPA CMA CFA SAT ACT UWorld helps students get access to premium exam prep at a more affordable price across exams like CPA, CMA, CFA®, SAT, and ACT. UWorld courses are known for detailed answer explanations, realistic mock exams, and well-organized study guides that help students build real understanding before […]

If you walk into the CFP® exam expecting flashcards and formulas, you’ll be caught off guard.This exam tests how you think, not just what you can memorize, making it harder than the average test. In fact, as of July 2025, only 64% passed. And it’s long: 170 multiple-choice questions split into two subsections, with one […]

In the article ahead, I’ll take you through everything you need to know about the exam. I’ve also included 20 Series 7 practice questions, with 5 for each section or function (answer explanations included). We’ll also cover exam format, content, passing scores, and top prep tips. Let’s get started. Key Takeaways Understanding The Series 7 Exam […]

With about 24,100 personal financial advisor openings projected each year, the industry needs professionals who can guide clients responsibly. Walk into the Series 66 assuming it’s a quick-and-easy quiz; however, it will humble you fast. This exam doesn’t measure how many definitions you can memorize. It evaluates whether you can think like an investment adviser […]

Walk into the Series 63 thinking it’s just another securities test, and you’re not going to pass. Why? Simply put: this exam isn’t about memorizing products; it tests how you think. You’re judged on state administrator authority, registration rules, broker-dealer conduct, investment advisers, and the Uniform Securities Act. And the bar is high: you must […]

If your goal is to become an Investment Advisor Representative, passing the Series 65 exam is necessary in several states. But what does it truly take to pass, and how many test takers succeed? With a passing score requiring 92 out of 130 questions to be answered correctly, you’re looking at a C-, but that […]

The world of financial advising is filled with hurdles, starting with your licensing exams. And if your goal is to become an Investment Adviser Representative, you’ve probably heard whispers about how hard the Series 66 exam is. It combines two other exams into one, making it a crucial step for many financial professionals. You’ll need […]

CFP® professionals earn an average of $101,940 as of this year, but that number only tells part of the story. In financial planning, income depends on experience, clients, certification, and whether you work for a firm or build your own practice with bonuses, profit sharing, or assets under management. But what separates a financial planner […]

Most people think the Series 7 is a golden ticket to Wall Street money. But here’s the reality: some advisors never break $45,000, while others use the same license to earn six figures working with high-net-worth clients: same exam, completely different paychecks. In this guide, I’ll walk you through what Series 7 professionals actually earn, […]

You’ve probably seen it happen: two people pass the Series 65 exam, but one is stuck making entry-level pay while the other is pulling in six figures. Same license, totally different results. As of October 2025, the average Series 65 salary is $78,695 a year. Some advisors make around that, some barely scrape by, and […]

Kaplan’s updated prep programs support multiple FINRA and NASAA licensing exams, giving students clear instruction, flexible study formats, and reliable materials for the SIE and advanced Series tests. You can choose self-study, OnDemand, or Live Online formats, each aligned to the official exam outline so you can follow a structured plan with confidence. These discounts […]

If you’re gearing up for the CFA® exam, Kaplan Schweser’s deals make prep way easier on your wallet. These verified discount codes cut prices on the most popular study tools: SchweserNotes, the QBank, lesson videos, and full-length mock exams. Whether you’re tackling Level I, II, or III, this is your chance to grab Kaplan’s trusted […]

Starting a career in finance? You’ll need the right license to match your goals, whether you’re selling securities or providing investment advice. As someone who reviews exam prep materials, I’ve seen many candidates struggle to choose the right license. Plus, it doesn’t help that with so many exams listed on FINRA, it’s easy to get […]

This November, Kaplan is offering exclusive Black Friday discounts across its most popular prep programs, from LSAT and Bar to CFA, CFP®, and CAIA. Whether you prefer live online classes or a self-paced format, Kaplan’s expert instruction, analytics tools, and full-length mock exams help students strengthen skills and perform their best on test day. Kaplan […]

Interest in the finance industry is growing fast. In fact, in 2024 alone, the number of financial advisers rose to 15,870, with more young adults trying to join the field. When I started looking into how people become registered representatives, I kept seeing the same two exams: the SIE and Series 7. They sound similar, […]

5 out of 6 CFP® professionals say they’re happy with their career, and I get why. It’s a strong path if you enjoy helping people plan for the future. This guide walks you through every official requirement: education, exam, experience, and ethics, so you can move forward with confidence on your path to certification success. […]

Confused about whether you need the Series 63 or Series 7 license to start your financial career? You’re not alone. As someone who helps candidates prepare for these exams, I’ve seen firsthand how overwhelming it can be to navigate FINRA’s licensing maze, including the different exams, sponsorship requirements, and state regulations. It’s easy to get […]

Looking to start a career in the financial services industry? Smart move. The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects a faster-than-average growth in business and finance careers, with close to a million job openings each year. That means now’s a good time to earn your Series 6 license if you want solid pay and long-term stability. […]

If you’ve heard that the Series 7 exam is one of the toughest in finance, you’re not wrong. This isn’t a test you can wing the night before—it takes time, structure, and focus to pass. The exam is broad, detailed, and designed to test how well you can apply what you’ve learned, not just memorize […]

Planning to take the Series 63 exam? You’re in good company. This isn’t the toughest securities exam out there, but it’s definitely not one to wing. The tricky part isn’t the math; it’s the wording, legal terms, and state securities laws that test your focus more than your memory. Whether you’re a new rep or […]

Ever wonder what happens if you don’t pass the CFP® exam on your first try or your second? Good news, you actually get five chances, but that’s not all you need to know. The CFP® Board puts this five-lifetime-attempt limit in place to keep the certification challenging, fair, and respected among financial professionals. Many first-timers […]

Wondering what the pass rate for the CFP® exam pass rate sits currently? According to the CFP Board, the most recent pass rate was 64%, meaning that for every 10 candidates who sit down, three or more walk away with a fail. As bad as this seems, historically these rates have been even lower. As […]

Thinking about taking the Series 65 exam? You’re in the right place. The Series 65 is long, technical, and far heavier on laws and ethics than most people expect. With a pass rate around 65–70%, it’s not something you want to wing. With years of test prep experience, I’ve seen how the Series 65 can […]

Getting ready to start your career in finance? You’re in good hands. If you’re planning to sell securities or give investment advice, you’ll likely need the Series 63 or Series 66, both created by NASAA and administered by FINRA. They may look similar, but they lead to different roles. The Series 63 qualifies you for […]

The Series 66 isn’t just another test; it’s your path to dual registration as both a securities agent and investment adviser representative. One license, two career paths. And here’s an interesting stat: 70% of workers say learning something new makes them feel more connected to their workplace. That’s great if you love where you are—but […]

Which CFP® program will actually help you pass? Picking the right training option can make or break your CFP® certification journey. With the latest CFP Board data showing a 64% pass rate, finding a course that fits your learning style is more important than ever. In online CFP® prep, two heavy hitters stand out near […]

With a pass rate hovering around 65%, the CFP® exam isn’t something most candidates can afford to wing. The right review course can make a huge difference, which is why I tested the top CFP® prep programs to see which ones are actually worth your money. Whether you’re just beginning your study journey or gearing […]

Are you curious about the Series 3 Exam but not sure what it is? You’re in the right place. FINRA’s 2024 Industry Snapshot shows over 53,000 professionals registered to trade or advise on futures; proof that the Series 3 Exam isn’t niche, it’s a major license powering the U.S. commodities market. The Series 3 exam […]

Have you read that when taking the Series 65, you need to answer 140 total questions in 180 minutes? Maybe that’s why you’re concerned with the Series 65 passing score? Whatever the reason, if you want to build a career offering financial advice, passing the exam is the only way to become an Investment Adviser […]

Only 54% of candidates passed the CFA® Level II exam recently, and my hot take? I think most of them simply chose the wrong prep strategy. CFA® Level II is where many candidates hit a wall. After reviewing the top prep platforms, I ranked the best courses based on content quality, practice tools, and overall […]

You’ve probably heard about the Series 7 exam, but what exactly is it, and is it the right next step for you? According to FINRA’s 2024 Industry Snapshot, more than 628,000 individuals are registered to work in a broker-dealer role, a clear sign that passing the Series 7 exam remains one of the most important […]

Thinking about a career in finance? Becoming a CFP® could be one of your smartest moves. A 2023 survey by the CFP® Board found that nearly 9 in 10 CFP® professionals are satisfied with their career decision, but is it the right path for you? A Certified Financial Planner is more than just a title. […]

Each year, thousands of aspiring financial professionals register for the Series 63 exam because most states require it to legally sell securities. According to the latest FINRA data, there are 612,457 registered representatives in the U.S., a clear sign of how widespread (and necessary) this license really is. The Series 63 exam may only last […]

Research shows that students who use multiple active study strategies, like practice questions, quizzes, and problem-solving, perform better on exams. Since the CFP® exam requires applying knowledge across financial planning topics, using at least four active strategies can significantly boost your chances of passing. That’s where the right CFP® exam prep course matters. It should […]

Curious about becoming a CFP®? According to the CFP Board, around 3 in 4 CFP® professionals say the certification gives them a competitive edge, and 7 in 10 credit it with boosting their career success. That’s why the CFP® certification is widely seen as the gold standard in financial planning. What makes the process unique […]

Thinking about going for the CFP® exam? Here’s the reality: in July 2025, only 64% of candidates passed. That means more than a third of test takers walked away without a passing score. And it’s not because they weren’t smart, it’s because this exam demands more than memorization. The CFP® exam demands critical thinking, focus, […]

If you’ve ever thought about working in finance, you’ve probably seen the term Series 6 license pop up. Over 634,000 people are currently registered representatives, and Series 6 holders are part of that group. With about 40 Series exams floating around, most professionals only ever need a few, and Series 6 is often the first. […]

Ever looked at the CFP® exam and thought, “Where do I even start?” You’re not alone. Studies show that having the right strategy and a solid study plan makes a bigger difference in whether candidates succeed. It isn’t about cranking through as many practice questions as possible. The test can feel like a huge climb, […]

The Series 65 is one of at least four key licenses in U.S. finance, but it’s specifically for providing investment advice, not for selling investment products. What sets it apart from other licenses in the financial services industry? It’s about understanding investment strategies, laws, and how to act ethically in a complex financial world. So […]

Did you know that to pass the Series 65, you need to answer 92 of the 130 questions correctly? That’s about 71% and should give you an idea of how challenging Series 65 questions can be for test takers. The Series 65 exam covers a range of topics, including economic factors and investment vehicle characteristics […]

Earning your CFP® is more than just an academic step; it’s a career investment. The Boston Institute of Finance is a provider of CFP Board-approved education and one of the best CFP® study materials. Every course, review session, and practice exam brings you closer to advancing in financial planning and building long-term success in areas […]

With pass rates hovering around 49%, the CFA® Level III exam challenges candidates in ways Levels I and II don’t. I tested the top prep courses to find which ones do the best job preparing students for essay questions, portfolio management concepts, and exam day. Below are my top picks based on question quality, study […]

The CFA® Level I exam is widely regarded as one of the most challenging entry points in the finance certification process. Recently, the pass rate was just 45%, a reminder of how rigorous the exam can be, even for well-prepared candidates. The exam is tough, but the right prep course can give you a significant […]

With these Kaplan Schweser promo codes, you can unlock significant savings on some of the most trusted professional exam prep courses. Whether you’re preparing for the CFA®, CAIA, or FRM® exams, these exclusive coupon codes help you access expert instructors, premium study materials, and proven success strategies—at a fraction of the cost. Kaplan Schweser Promo […]

The CFP designation is an excellent credential that can boost your income, credibility, and confidence with clients. In fact, nearly 9 in 10 CFP® professionals say the certification has had a positive impact on their career satisfaction. To earn it, candidates must complete the “Four E’s”: education, experience, ethics, and a 170-question exam. The process […]

Passing the FRM® exam is no small feat. Historical Part I pass rates generally hover between 50% and 58%, so choosing the right prep provider can make a big difference. To help you decide, I tested the top FRM® review courses and researched the companies behind them. In this guide, I’ll compare their key features, […]

If you’re studying for the FRM® exam, you probably feel a little overwhelmed—and that’s totally normal. With the volume of content and the complexity of topics resulting in a 50-55% pass rate, it’s easy to wonder where to even start. That’s where practice questions come in. Getting hands-on with real exam-style scenarios is one of […]

The CFA Institute recommends candidates study for 300 hours per exam level, or 900 total. When you’re spending that much time with a prep course, picking the right one counts. So, today, I’m going to show you two of the most popular CFA® prep courses out there to answer this question: AnalystPrep vs. Kaplan CFA®: […]

For thousands of future investment advisors, passing the Series 65 exam is the first step toward a high-earning career on their terms. What makes it even more appealing? You don’t need to be sponsored by a FINRA member firm to take it. That means you can start building your credentials before even landing a job. […]

According to the Global Association of Risk Professionals, the average FRM® candidate spends 240 hours studying for the exam (with some studying up to 400 hours). So, you’d better love the prep course you choose, because from that day on, you’ll be best friends. Kaplan FRM® is one of the most popular review courses on […]

There are over 190,000 active CFA® charterholders and 155+ chapters across the globe, but if you want to get into this popular worldwide club, you’ll have to earn your way in by passing all three parts of the CFA® exam. Kaplan CFA® Review is one of the most popular exam preparation choices on the market, […]

The CFA Institute recommends studying for 300 hours per exam level. That’s a total of 900 hours, underscoring the importance of choosing the right prep course. Imagine spending nearly 1,000 hours using a product you can’t stand, but it’s too late to switch—you’re probably out thousands of dollars. Simply put? Make the wrong choice, and […]

With pass rates ranging between 50% and 55% in recent years, aspiring financial risk managers need a streamlined study schedule for conquering complex concepts to pass. AnalystPrep FRM® Review is one option of many that pledges to be your ideal study buddy, but looking at features on a sales page can be wildly different from […]

According to the CFA Institute, there are over 190,000 CFA® charterholders across the globe, making them the “biggest network of investment professionals in the world.” However, if you want to join this elite group, you’ll have to pass three of the most challenging exams in the world. Naturally, the more you know, the better you’ll […]

Whether you’re building a foundation in financial modeling or targeting roles in capital markets, investment banking, or business intelligence, the Corporate Finance Institute offers practical, flexible learning paths for finance professionals. Through its certifications and career-focused course tracks, CFI makes it easy to build job-ready skills on your own schedule. With a verified Corporate Finance […]

90% of hiring managers prefer hiring CFA® charterholders over charter-less candidates for top-level positions like C-suite roles. You don’t need to be a math whiz to know that’s an overwhelming majority. I just wanted to remind you that if you passed Level I, and now Level II feels a little intimidating, these exams are a […]

The CFA® Level 3 exam represents the final step in the journey to earning the prestigious CFA® charter, joining the ranks of over 200,000+ chartered financial analysts worldwide. This milestone is where candidates demonstrate their ability to apply advanced investment analysis and portfolio management skills, integrating everything learned throughout the program. But here’s the catch: […]

Preparing for the CFA® exams is no small feat, but it’s made a lot worse when you don’t have a solid plan. Whether you’re registering for the Level 1 CFA® exam or gearing up for Levels II or III, this guide covers everything you need to know about the CFA® exam dates. I’ll guide you […]