{"id":6351,"date":"2025-10-12T19:53:46","date_gmt":"2025-10-13T01:53:46","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/?p=6351"},"modified":"2025-10-12T19:53:48","modified_gmt":"2025-10-13T01:53:48","slug":"series-3-exam","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/series-3-exam\/","title":{"rendered":"All About the Series 3 Exam: What You Need to Know"},"content":{"rendered":" <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Are you curious about the Series 3 Exam but not sure what it is? You\u2019re in the right place.<\/p> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">FINRA\u2019s 2024 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.finra.org\/sites\/default\/files\/2024-07\/2024-Industry-Snapshot.pdf\">Industry Snapshot<\/a> shows over 53,000 professionals registered to trade or advise on futures; proof that the Series 3 Exam isn\u2019t niche, it\u2019s a major license powering the U.S. commodities market. <\/p> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Series 3 exam isn\u2019t just another financial industry hurdle. It\u2019s your ticket to becoming licensed to sell commodity futures contracts or advise clients on trading futures. <\/p> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I\u2019ve reviewed every detail of the National Commodities Futures Examinations <a href=\"https:\/\/www.finra.org\/registration-exams-ce\/qualification-exams\/series3\">Series 3<\/a>, from its structure to how candidates actually pass it, and I\u2019ll break it down for you in plain English.<\/p> <p class=\"custom_key wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Key Takeaways<\/strong><\/p> <ul class=\"wp-block-list custom_underline\"> <li><strong>Gateway to the Futures Industry:<\/strong> The Series 3 is your required first step to becoming a licensed futures professional in the U.S.<\/li> <li><strong>Dual Focus:<\/strong> It tests both trading knowledge and regulatory understanding, expecting to be challenged on theory and ethics.<\/li> <li><strong>No Sponsorship Needed:<\/strong> You can take the exam independently, even if you\u2019re not currently affiliated with a firm.<\/li> <li><strong>Year-Round Availability:<\/strong> Schedule it on your terms; it&#8217;s offered year-round through FINRA&#8217;s testing network.<\/li> <li><strong>Career Versatility:<\/strong> Passing qualifies you for multiple roles, including Associated Person, CTA, CPO, or Introducing Broker.<\/li> <\/ul> <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-series-3-exam-basics-what-you-need-to-know\"><strong>Series 3 Exam Basics: What You Need to Know<\/strong><\/h2> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Series 3 exam is required for anyone who wants to trade or advise on commodity futures.<\/p> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It\u2019s administered year-round by FINRA for the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.cftc.gov\/\">CFTC<\/a>), so you can schedule it anytime you\u2019re ready.<\/p> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Passing meets the NFA\u2019s proficiency requirements to become an Associated Person, Commodity Trading Advisor, or Introducing Broker.<\/p> <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-s-on-the-series-3-exam\"><strong>What\u2019s on the Series 3 Exam?<\/strong><\/h2> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Series 3 tests your knowledge of futures trading theory, market practices, and regulatory rules that protect investors.<\/p> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here\u2019s what to expect:<\/p> <ol class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><strong>Market Knowledge (85 questions):<\/strong> Covers futures contracts, price limits, margin requirements, options premiums, basis calculations, and futures settlements. This part checks your understanding of trading theory, risk management, and the structure of the futures markets.<\/li> <li><strong>Regulations (35 questions):<\/strong> Focuses on NFA rules, CFTC regulations, registration requirements, customer accounts, and ethical practices in the industry.<\/li> <\/ol> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The exam is multiple choice, with complex topics. Many questions use short scenarios to test decision-making skills.<\/p> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>\ud83d\udca1<\/em><strong><em>Pro tip:<\/em><\/strong><em> Start with Market Knowledge while studying its content-heavy material, and once you master it, the Regulation section feels easier.<\/em><\/p> <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-series-3-exam-format\"><strong>Series 3 Exam Format<\/strong><\/h2> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u2022 <strong>Questions:<\/strong> 120 multiple-choice<br>\u2022 <strong>Sections:<\/strong> Market Knowledge and Regulations<br>\u2022 <strong>Passing Score:<\/strong> 70% on each section<br>\u2022 <strong>Duration:<\/strong> Two hours and 30 minutes<br>\u2022 <strong>Format:<\/strong> Computer-based at an approved test center (online options vary)<\/p> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To register and choose your exam date, visit FINRA\u2019s official test portal and create an account to schedule directly.<\/p> <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-who-should-take-the-series-3-exam\"><strong>Who Should Take the Series 3 Exam?<\/strong><\/h2> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Series 3 is for anyone entering the futures industry who plans to trade, manage accounts, or give advice on commodity futures.<\/p> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Common candidates include:<br>\u2022 <strong>Associated Persons (APs)<\/strong> at futures commission merchants or introducing brokers<br>\u2022 <strong>Commodity Trading Advisors (CTAs)<\/strong> and <strong>Commodity Pool Operators (CPOs)<\/strong><strong><br><\/strong>\u2022 <strong>Retail Foreign Exchange Dealers<\/strong> and <strong>Floor Brokers<\/strong><\/p> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You don\u2019t need a sponsoring firm to take the exam, but if you plan to work for an NFA member firm, passing is required for registration.<\/p> <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-are-the-benefits\"><strong>What Are the Benefits?<\/strong><\/h2> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Passing the Series 3 opens the door to a range of professional paths in futures trading and advising.<\/p> <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><strong>Expanded Market Access:<\/strong> Trade futures contracts, manage client accounts, or provide investment advice.<\/li> <li><strong>Professional Credibility:<\/strong> You\u2019ll meet the NFA and CFTC requirements that prove your market and regulatory knowledge.<\/li> <li><strong>Career Flexibility:<\/strong> Work for a FINRA firm or operate independently as an Introducing Broker or CTA.<\/li> <li><strong>Long-Term Value:<\/strong> Build toward senior roles or eventually run your own futures-focused firm.<\/li> <\/ul> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It\u2019s challenging, but it\u2019s one of the fastest ways to establish real credibility in the futures markets.<\/p> <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-to-study-to-pass-the-series-3-exam\"><strong>How to Study to Pass the Series 3 Exam<\/strong><\/h2> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As someone who\u2019s helped dozens of professionals prep for the Series 3, I\u2019ve seen what works and what doesn\u2019t. Try using these study methods to prepare:<\/p> <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><strong>Practice Questions = Progress:<\/strong> Simulate the actual test with timed tests to build accuracy and pacing.<\/li> <li><strong>Review Your Misses:<\/strong> Focus on what you got wrong, especially margin, basis, and settlement questions.<\/li> <li><strong>Study Smarter:<\/strong> Prep 4\u20136 weeks in short, focused blocks. Rotate topics to stay sharp.<\/li> <li><strong>Use a Series 3 Prep Course:<\/strong> A good one gives you structure, realistic practice, and expert feedback.<\/li> <\/ul> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>\ud83d\udca1 <\/em><strong><em>Pro tip:<\/em><\/strong><em> If you&#8217;re stuck on basis questions, try using real-world commodity charts to visualize the concept, which helps the logic click faster for most learners.<\/em><\/p> <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-if-you-don-t-pass-the-series-3\"><strong>What If You Don\u2019t Pass the Series 3?<\/strong><\/h2> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you don\u2019t pass on your first try, don\u2019t stress; many candidates need a second shot. You can retake the Series 3 after just 30 days. If you\u2019ve taken it three times without passing, there\u2019s a longer wait of 180 days before your next attempt. <\/p> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Just reapply through FINRA\u2019s testing system and pay the usual exam fee each time. Also, if it\u2019s been over two years since your registration expired, check with the NFA to make sure you\u2019re still eligible and avoid any gaps in your licensing path.<\/p> <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-my-final-verdict\"><strong>My Final Verdict<\/strong><\/h2> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Series 3 exam is a must for anyone serious about futures trading. It tests real market knowledge, regulatory understanding, and professional integrity.<\/p> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">From what I\u2019ve seen, those who treat it as a career milestone, not just a requirement, build stronger, more respected careers. It\u2019s tough, but once you pass, you\u2019ll have the credentials and confidence to move forward in the futures industry.<\/p> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Prep smart, get certified, and start your path toward becoming a licensed professional in commodity futures trading.<\/p> <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-faqs\"><strong>FAQs<\/strong><\/h2> <div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1760077471442\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>What is the Series 3 exam?<\/strong><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">The Series 3 Exam, officially called the National Commodities Futures Examination, is the license required by the National Futures Association (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nfa.futures.org\/\">NFA<\/a>) for anyone who wants to work with or advise clients on futures and options on futures. It\u2019s the first step toward becoming a registered commodities professional.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1760077476479\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>Who administers the Series 3 Exam?<\/strong><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">While the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) handles the testing process, the exam itself falls under the Commodity Futures Trading Commission.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1760077482964\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>How long is the Series 3 Exam?<\/strong><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">About two hours and 30 minutes, with 120 multiple-choice questions.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1760077491339\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>What&#8217;s the passing score for the Series 3 Exam?<\/strong><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">You must score 70% or higher on both Market Knowledge and Regulations sections.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1760077499342\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>How should I prepare for the Series 3?<\/strong><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Use trusted study materials, take multiple practice tests, and review key topics like margin requirements, basis calculations, and regulatory rules.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div> ","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Are you curious about the Series 3 Exam but not sure what it is? You\u2019re in the right place. FINRA\u2019s 2024 Industry Snapshot shows over 53,000 professionals registered to trade or advise on futures; proof that the Series 3 Exam isn\u2019t niche, it\u2019s a major license powering the U.S. commodities market. The Series 3 exam [&hellip;]<\/p> ","protected":false},"author":11,"featured_media":6354,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[3,244],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-6351","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-careers-education","category-finance"],"acf":{"external_author":[129],"external_editor":"","select_template":"default","not_show_feature_image":false,"hide_toc":false},"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/10\/What-Is-the-Series-3-Exam-feature-img-768x426.png","author_info":{"display_name":"","author_link":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/author\/"},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.7 (Yoast SEO v27.7) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>All About the Series 3 Exam: What You Need to Know<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Learn what the Series 3 Exam is, who it\u2019s for, and how to pass on your first try. Understand key topics, benefits, and smart prep tips.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/series-3-exam\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"All About the Series 3 Exam: What You Need to Know\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Learn what the Series 3 Exam is, who it\u2019s for, and how to pass on your first try. Understand key topics, benefits, and smart prep tips.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/series-3-exam\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Kansas City Star - Careers &amp; Education\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2025-10-13T01:53:46+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2025-10-13T01:53:48+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/10\/What-Is-the-Series-3-Exam-feature-img.png\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1024\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"568\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/png\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"5 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.kansascity.com\\\/careers-education\\\/series-3-exam\\\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.kansascity.com\\\/careers-education\\\/series-3-exam\\\/\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"image\":false,\"name\":null,\"jobTitle\":\"Writer\",\"url\":false,\"description\":\"\"},\"headline\":\"All About the Series 3 Exam: What You Need to Know\",\"datePublished\":\"2025-10-13T01:53:46+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2025-10-13T01:53:48+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.kansascity.com\\\/careers-education\\\/series-3-exam\\\/\"},\"wordCount\":1080,\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.kansascity.com\\\/careers-education\\\/series-3-exam\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.kansascity.com\\\/careers-education\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/sites\\\/7\\\/2025\\\/10\\\/What-Is-the-Series-3-Exam-feature-img.png\",\"articleSection\":[\"Careers &amp; Education\",\"Finance\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":[\"WebPage\",\"FAQPage\"],\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.kansascity.com\\\/careers-education\\\/series-3-exam\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.kansascity.com\\\/careers-education\\\/series-3-exam\\\/\",\"name\":\"All About the Series 3 Exam: What You Need to Know\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.kansascity.com\\\/careers-education\\\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.kansascity.com\\\/careers-education\\\/series-3-exam\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.kansascity.com\\\/careers-education\\\/series-3-exam\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.kansascity.com\\\/careers-education\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/sites\\\/7\\\/2025\\\/10\\\/What-Is-the-Series-3-Exam-feature-img.png\",\"datePublished\":\"2025-10-13T01:53:46+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2025-10-13T01:53:48+00:00\",\"author\":{\"@id\":\"\"},\"description\":\"Learn what the Series 3 Exam is, who it\u2019s for, and how to pass on your first try. Understand key topics, benefits, and smart prep tips.\",\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.kansascity.com\\\/careers-education\\\/series-3-exam\\\/#breadcrumb\"},\"mainEntity\":[{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.kansascity.com\\\/careers-education\\\/series-3-exam\\\/#faq-question-1760077471442\"},{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.kansascity.com\\\/careers-education\\\/series-3-exam\\\/#faq-question-1760077476479\"},{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.kansascity.com\\\/careers-education\\\/series-3-exam\\\/#faq-question-1760077482964\"},{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.kansascity.com\\\/careers-education\\\/series-3-exam\\\/#faq-question-1760077491339\"},{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.kansascity.com\\\/careers-education\\\/series-3-exam\\\/#faq-question-1760077499342\"}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/www.kansascity.com\\\/careers-education\\\/series-3-exam\\\/\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.kansascity.com\\\/careers-education\\\/series-3-exam\\\/#primaryimage\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.kansascity.com\\\/careers-education\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/sites\\\/7\\\/2025\\\/10\\\/What-Is-the-Series-3-Exam-feature-img.png\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.kansascity.com\\\/careers-education\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/sites\\\/7\\\/2025\\\/10\\\/What-Is-the-Series-3-Exam-feature-img.png\",\"width\":1024,\"height\":568,\"caption\":\"What Is the Series 3 Exam\"},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.kansascity.com\\\/careers-education\\\/series-3-exam\\\/#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Home\",\"item\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.kansascity.com\\\/careers-education\\\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"All About the Series 3 Exam: What You Need to Know\"}]},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.kansascity.com\\\/careers-education\\\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.kansascity.com\\\/careers-education\\\/\",\"name\":\"Kansas City Star - Careers &amp; Education\",\"description\":\"\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.kansascity.com\\\/careers-education\\\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":{\"@type\":\"PropertyValueSpecification\",\"valueRequired\":true,\"valueName\":\"search_term_string\"}}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"@id\":\"\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.kansascity.com\\\/careers-education\\\/series-3-exam\\\/#faq-question-1760077471442\",\"position\":1,\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.kansascity.com\\\/careers-education\\\/series-3-exam\\\/#faq-question-1760077471442\",\"name\":\"What is the Series 3 exam?\",\"answerCount\":1,\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"The Series 3 Exam, officially called the National Commodities Futures Examination, is the license required by the National Futures Association (<a href=\\\"https:\\\/\\\/www.nfa.futures.org\\\/\\\">NFA<\\\/a>) for anyone who wants to work with or advise clients on futures and options on futures. It\u2019s the first step toward becoming a registered commodities professional.\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.kansascity.com\\\/careers-education\\\/series-3-exam\\\/#faq-question-1760077476479\",\"position\":2,\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.kansascity.com\\\/careers-education\\\/series-3-exam\\\/#faq-question-1760077476479\",\"name\":\"Who administers the Series 3 Exam?\",\"answerCount\":1,\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"While the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) handles the testing process, the exam itself falls under the Commodity Futures Trading Commission.\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.kansascity.com\\\/careers-education\\\/series-3-exam\\\/#faq-question-1760077482964\",\"position\":3,\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.kansascity.com\\\/careers-education\\\/series-3-exam\\\/#faq-question-1760077482964\",\"name\":\"How long is the Series 3 Exam?\",\"answerCount\":1,\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"About two hours and 30 minutes, with 120 multiple-choice questions.\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.kansascity.com\\\/careers-education\\\/series-3-exam\\\/#faq-question-1760077491339\",\"position\":4,\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.kansascity.com\\\/careers-education\\\/series-3-exam\\\/#faq-question-1760077491339\",\"name\":\"What's the passing score for the Series 3 Exam?\",\"answerCount\":1,\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"You must score 70% or higher on both Market Knowledge and Regulations sections.\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.kansascity.com\\\/careers-education\\\/series-3-exam\\\/#faq-question-1760077499342\",\"position\":5,\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.kansascity.com\\\/careers-education\\\/series-3-exam\\\/#faq-question-1760077499342\",\"name\":\"How should I prepare for the Series 3?\",\"answerCount\":1,\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Use trusted study materials, take multiple practice tests, and review key topics like margin requirements, basis calculations, and regulatory rules.\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO Premium plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"All About the Series 3 Exam: What You Need to Know","description":"Learn what the Series 3 Exam is, who it\u2019s for, and how to pass on your first try. Understand key topics, benefits, and smart prep tips.","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/series-3-exam\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"All About the Series 3 Exam: What You Need to Know","og_description":"Learn what the Series 3 Exam is, who it\u2019s for, and how to pass on your first try. Understand key topics, benefits, and smart prep tips.","og_url":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/series-3-exam\/","og_site_name":"Kansas City Star - Careers &amp; Education","article_published_time":"2025-10-13T01:53:46+00:00","article_modified_time":"2025-10-13T01:53:48+00:00","og_image":[{"width":1024,"height":568,"url":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/10\/What-Is-the-Series-3-Exam-feature-img.png","type":"image\/png"}],"twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"","Est. reading time":"5 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Article","@id":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/series-3-exam\/#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/series-3-exam\/"},"author":{"@type":"Person","image":false,"name":null,"jobTitle":"Writer","url":false,"description":""},"headline":"All About the Series 3 Exam: What You Need to Know","datePublished":"2025-10-13T01:53:46+00:00","dateModified":"2025-10-13T01:53:48+00:00","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/series-3-exam\/"},"wordCount":1080,"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/series-3-exam\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/10\/What-Is-the-Series-3-Exam-feature-img.png","articleSection":["Careers &amp; Education","Finance"],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":["WebPage","FAQPage"],"@id":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/series-3-exam\/","url":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/series-3-exam\/","name":"All About the Series 3 Exam: What You Need to Know","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/series-3-exam\/#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/series-3-exam\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/10\/What-Is-the-Series-3-Exam-feature-img.png","datePublished":"2025-10-13T01:53:46+00:00","dateModified":"2025-10-13T01:53:48+00:00","author":{"@id":""},"description":"Learn what the Series 3 Exam is, who it\u2019s for, and how to pass on your first try. Understand key topics, benefits, and smart prep tips.","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/series-3-exam\/#breadcrumb"},"mainEntity":[{"@id":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/series-3-exam\/#faq-question-1760077471442"},{"@id":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/series-3-exam\/#faq-question-1760077476479"},{"@id":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/series-3-exam\/#faq-question-1760077482964"},{"@id":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/series-3-exam\/#faq-question-1760077491339"},{"@id":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/series-3-exam\/#faq-question-1760077499342"}],"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/series-3-exam\/"]}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/series-3-exam\/#primaryimage","url":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/10\/What-Is-the-Series-3-Exam-feature-img.png","contentUrl":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2025\/10\/What-Is-the-Series-3-Exam-feature-img.png","width":1024,"height":568,"caption":"What Is the Series 3 Exam"},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/series-3-exam\/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"All About the Series 3 Exam: What You Need to Know"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/#website","url":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/","name":"Kansas City Star - Careers &amp; Education","description":"","potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":{"@type":"PropertyValueSpecification","valueRequired":true,"valueName":"search_term_string"}}],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Person","@id":""},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/series-3-exam\/#faq-question-1760077471442","position":1,"url":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/series-3-exam\/#faq-question-1760077471442","name":"What is the Series 3 exam?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"The Series 3 Exam, officially called the National Commodities Futures Examination, is the license required by the National Futures Association (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nfa.futures.org\/\">NFA<\/a>) for anyone who wants to work with or advise clients on futures and options on futures. It\u2019s the first step toward becoming a registered commodities professional.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/series-3-exam\/#faq-question-1760077476479","position":2,"url":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/series-3-exam\/#faq-question-1760077476479","name":"Who administers the Series 3 Exam?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"While the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) handles the testing process, the exam itself falls under the Commodity Futures Trading Commission.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/series-3-exam\/#faq-question-1760077482964","position":3,"url":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/series-3-exam\/#faq-question-1760077482964","name":"How long is the Series 3 Exam?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"About two hours and 30 minutes, with 120 multiple-choice questions.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/series-3-exam\/#faq-question-1760077491339","position":4,"url":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/series-3-exam\/#faq-question-1760077491339","name":"What's the passing score for the Series 3 Exam?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"You must score 70% or higher on both Market Knowledge and Regulations sections.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/series-3-exam\/#faq-question-1760077499342","position":5,"url":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/series-3-exam\/#faq-question-1760077499342","name":"How should I prepare for the Series 3?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Use trusted study materials, take multiple practice tests, and review key topics like margin requirements, basis calculations, and regulatory rules.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"}]}},"first_category":{"name":"Finance","url":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/finance\/"},"_links":{"self":[{"attributes":[],"href":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6351"}],"collection":[{"attributes":[],"href":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"attributes":[],"href":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"attributes":{"embeddable":true},"href":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/11"}],"replies":[{"attributes":{"embeddable":true},"href":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=6351"}],"version-history":[{"attributes":{"count":0},"href":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6351\/revisions"}],"acf:post":[{"attributes":{"embeddable":true},"href":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/external-author\/129"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"attributes":{"embeddable":true},"href":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/6354"}],"wp:attachment":[{"attributes":[],"href":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=6351"}],"wp:term":[{"attributes":{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true},"href":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=6351"},{"attributes":{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true},"href":"https:\/\/www.kansascity.com\/careers-education\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=6351"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}