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FINRA Series 7
Best courses

Explore and compare top-rated Series 7 prep providers and find the right option for you

If you're planning on working in finance at a broker or dealer in the U.S., you'll almost certainly need to earn your General Securities Representative (Series 7) license through the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA). For many candidates, balancing studying for the Series 7 exam with work and other commitments can be a challenge; thankfully, an engaging, resource-rich Series 7 course can help you get exam-ready in no time. After reviewing the top test prep providers on the market today, our key takeaway is that Achievable is the most effective online course for the Series 7 because it consistently delivers the highest pass rates and the most personalized learning experience.

An effective study plan for the Series 7 includes mastering key financial concepts, completing numerous practice questions, and taking practice tests until they become second nature. All of these elements are built into Achievable's all-inclusive program, designed for busy self-studiers who need a high-impact learning solution. To help you assess your options, we've compiled a list of competing vendors, including Kaplan, Knopman Marks, Securities Trading Corporation, and ExamFX, using each provider's own marketing language to highlight their features. Compare their Series 7 study materials side by side, along with reviews by real Series 7 candidates, to discover which option is best for you.

Some user reviews have been slightly edited for length and clarity.

How we evaluated these resources

Our list of top Series 7 courses emphasizes variety, ensuring that we include options for every kind of learner. From classroom-based instruction to interactive online platforms, we highlight the strengths and potential limitations of each provider's approach and study plan. We selected these resources based on:

Cost
Are the materials fairly and competitively priced? What do costlier options offer that inexpensive alternatives do not, and are they worth it?
Variety
What extra features does the program come with: study calendars, performance tracking, flashcards or other aids, etc.?
Coverage
How well does the material cover all topics on the exam, from investment vehicles to suitability? Which resources are best used for quick reviews, and which courses will fully prepare you for the test?
Accessibility
Are complex subjects presented in a way that's easy to understand for maximum retention? Does this product suit a specific learning style better than others?
Community feedback
What do learners like about this vendor's instructional materials, practice tests, and other resources? Are they highly recommended for Series 7 preparation?
Score boosters
Is the program rigorous enough to help you pass the Series 7 exam on your first try? Does it come with a pass guarantee?

For each vendor, we outline the key features, advantages, and drawbacks of their study tools, emphasizing both strengths and potential limitations. We also provide information on prices and package tiers to help you easily find a solution that fits your budget. Use this guide to make an informed decision about how to best prepare for your exam and get one step closer to earning your license. At the top of the list is Achievable, which stands out for its expertly written Series 7 content, tech-driven platform, and innovative use of memory science embedded throughout the program.

Best overall: Achievable Series 7

  • Achievable Series 7 provides everything you need to pass the exam in a single, high-quality course offered at a flat rate.
  • The adaptive platform continuously tracks your performance and fine-tunes quizzes, allowing you to concentrate your efforts where they matter most.
Achievable white logo on blue background
Achievable Series 7 logo
Best overall
A+
Pros
  • Accessible materials built for self-studiers
  • Content is approachable and engaging without sacrificing quality
  • Innovative study tools and progress analytics are built into the platform
  • Smooth interface on both desktop and mobile
  • Hours of instructional video content
  • Unlimited access for a year
  • Generous pass guarantee
Cons
  • The course does not offer live instruction
  • No physical textbook, though there are plenty of printable dump sheets and other materials
Key features
  • 3,700+ review questions
  • 35+ full-length, realistic Series 7 practice exams
  • 39+ bonus videos
  • Interactive study planner
  • Dynamic AI tutor
  • Active online learning community
Pricing
$199 / 1 year

Achievable Series 7 prep is designed to help you ace the Series 7 exam through its high-engagement and efficient study program. Their effective method and memory-based learning techniques make studying more enjoyable and less stressful than other options. By constantly analyzing your performance on practice quizzes and assessments, Achievable essentially builds a map of your brain to create a customized study path targeting your toughest spots. This adaptive approach streamlines your preparation and prioritizes memory retention, not passive content consumption, as you progress through the course. Financial concepts are explained in plain language and illustrated with real-world examples, and technical jargon is broken down in a step-by-step manner. Understanding the complexities of the U.S. bond market or SEC guidelines becomes a breeze when learning with Achievable.

The main benefit of Achievable Series 7 over traditional courses is that its proven study methods lead to higher retention and less study time. Like a dedicated tutor or personal trainer, Achievable's performance trackers actively guide you through the material and regularly reassess your review strategy. This advanced personalization is the key to studying smarter and learning faster, enabling you to conquer even the most intricate financial topics. Furthermore, Achievable's Series 7 package comes complete with everything you need: you'll gain access to an easy-to-read, highly engaging online textbook, over 3,700 review questions, more than 35 full-length Series 7 practice exams, a built-in study planner, a responsive AI tutor, and engaging video lessons on crucial topics. Additionally, the course comes with unlimited access for a full year for under $200 and includes a money-back guarantee if you don't pass, which is an exceptional deal compared to other providers.

For me, having effectively no background in finance, Achievable's prep course was truly a godsend. Achievable breaks financial industry jargon down so simply that even someone like me can digest it pretty easily.

Passed Series 7 within 2 weeks using Achievable. It's the best.

Bottom line: When it comes to Series 7 preparation, Achievable offers the strongest adaptive learning engine. Skip generic chapter-based progress with overly dense textbooks and study using a program full of advanced tools that will teach you more in less time.

Achievable white logo on blue background
Achievable Series 7 - $199
Pass the FINRA Series 7 on your first try with Achievable's interactive online exam preparation course. Includes everything you need: easy-to-understand online textbook, 3,700+ review quizzes, and 35+ full-length practice exams.
Easy-to-understand online textbook
3.7k+ chapter quizzes
35+ practice exams
39+ bonus videos
A textbook page from Achievable's FINRA exam prep course

Most recognizable brand: Kaplan Financial Education Series 7

  • Kaplan's licensing courses are well-known for their comprehensive study tools, especially the SecuritiesPro™ question bank and textbook.
  • They offer a wide spectrum of Series 7 study solutions, all built for test-takers with varying learning styles and schedules.
Kaplan Financial Education Series 7 logo
Most recognizable brand
B+
Pros
  • QBank allows you to make custom quizzes and even full-length assessments
  • Performance Tracker and personalized Study Plans are included in all packages
  • Regular content updates and exam tips are also included
  • The rigor of their materials may make the exam feel easy by comparison
Cons
  • Basic tier includes a single full-length Practice Exam
  • Short access window (5 months)
  • No pass guarantee
  • The difficulty of practice exams is not always reflective of the actual exam, which may underestimate actual readiness
Key features
  • Print and digital License Exam Manual (LEM)
  • Personalized Study Plan
  • Checkpoint and Midterm Exams (not included in Basic tier)
  • Mastery Exam (Premium only)
  • Instructor Link™ personal support (Premium only)
  • Options for on-demand video lessons and instructor-led live classes
Pricing
$139 - $309 / 5 months
Tiers
  • Basic
  • Essential
  • Premium OnDemand
  • Premium Live

Kaplan Series 7 exam prep packages offer a range of study options designed to suit different schedules and learning preferences. With Kaplan's Series 7 courses, learners can create a customizable study calendar to organize and schedule daily assignments that align with their planned exam date. There are three main Kaplan Series 7 prep packages to choose from: Basic, Essential, and Premium. Kaplan's Premium Instruction Package is divided into two versions (OnDemand and Live), each offering complete access to all Series 7 study resources, including Instructor Link, class notes, mastery and checkpoint exams, and an extensive video library. The on-demand class provides access to instructional videos, ideal for flexible learning, while the Live Online Class allows students to join a scheduled session with live instruction.

All Kaplan Series 7 packages offer tools such as content tips and updates, at least one practice exam, the SecuritiesPro QBank for robust practice questions, and a comprehensive license exam manual. The integrated performance tracker monitors your progress and identifies areas of the Series 7 exam that require additional focus.

Despite their guided instruction packages, many test-takers insist that all you really need is the Basic, self-study tier since Kaplan's textbook and QBank are their most valuable study tools. However, some people found their QBank to be more difficult than the actual test, which can be helpful for those who want to delve deeper into the test topics, but can also cause some test-takers to feel underprepared. While the Basic tier seems like a good deal, remember that, unlike Achievable, access to Kaplan Series 7 online study materials lasts only five months, and you'll need to pay $49 for an extension.

I used Kaplan and the Qbank. The questions were both harder and more specific than the actual test, but were good preparation for the actual exam in terms of learning the content and ensuring that you have the right pace during the exam.

All you really need is a textbook and a Qbank, which can be found in the Basic package. If you go directly to Kaplan's website, it looks like there are only Essential and Premium, but there is also a Basic version. If you like to watch videos, you can always get free videos online.

Bottom line: Kaplan's Series 7 packages provide varying levels of study tools, with many learners finding the Basic tier sufficient thanks to its strong textbook and QBank. Learners should be aware that their practice questions and tests are more challenging than the actual exam, which may cause some frustration in the studying process.

Best for live instruction: Knopman Marks Series 7

  • Knopman, a long-established provider of financial licensing exam preparation with relationships to some of the largest firms in the U.S., is well-known for its detailed study materials and faculty-led live classes.
  • Knopman's Series 7 programs are high-support learning experiences that mix traditional learning methods with dynamic online tools, combining lectures, preset exams, flexible question banks, and more.
Knopman Marks Series 7 logo
Best for live instruction
A-
Pros
  • In-depth Series 7 program designed and led by industry professionals
  • All packages include pre-exam guidance and at least one faculty strategy call
  • Live review sessions and interactive blended classes available
  • Adaptable practice questions
Cons
  • No lower-cost options or pass guarantee
  • All exams are preset, rather than customizable
  • Not well-suited for those with limited study time
Key features
  • 1-year access period
  • Physical and digital textbooks
  • Client Experience and faculty team support
  • Automated performance monitoring
Pricing
$450 - $1,075 / 1 year
Tiers
  • Series 7 Gold
  • Platinum
  • Diamond

Knopman Marks Series 7 Top-Off exam prep is a recognized Series 7 prep course option for aspiring securities professionals. Knopman Marks offers flexible study solutions, including a comprehensive self-study course for $450, as well as the option to add in-person or live online training for an additional $225. If you reside in or near New York, you can conveniently attend their in-person Series 7 prep classes, while those outside the area can participate in scheduled remote live classes from anywhere.

For added value, Knopman Marks allows you to bundle their course plans for several exams, starting at $615 for combined SIE and Series 7 preparation. Additionally, two add-ons are available for the Series 7 course: access to a premium video vault for $49 and strategic advising for $500. Students, in particular, praise their practice exams, which help them stay on course and identify areas of focus as they study.

In terms of the quality of their study program, students who will have the best experience with Knopman are those who can dedicate significant time to their studies, rather than busy professionals with limited timelines. Their practice tests and other materials have been described as challenging and dense, making it hard to complete their study plan independently. Unless your employer is providing you with institutional access, Knopman's high pricing may be a barrier, with their live course exceeding $1,000 to register.

From my experience, the Knopman practice exams were a bit more challenging than the actual exam. I felt like the Benchmark exam was the most valuable, as it seemed to have questions similar to the actual exam. Especially the number of questions for each topic.

I'm about more than halfway through the Knopman textbook, and I'm really not retaining any info. I really am banking on the online lectures.

Bottom line: Knopman Marks offers a Series 7 program well-suited for students who thrive in traditional classroom settings or want a lecture-guided course. As the most expensive of the top FINRA prep options, Knopman's programs may be out of reach for students paying for their own prep.

Best for traditional learners: Securities Training Corporation Series 7

  • As one of the oldest licensing prep providers, STC has earned a strong reputation and the trust of leading financial institutions.
  • STC's Series 7 course options include "Crunch Time Facts," ample chapter quizzes, and multiple full-length exams. Upgraded packages include on-demand lectures or live virtual classes.
Securities Training Corporation Series 7 logo
Best for traditional learners
A-
Pros
  • Includes a diverse range of training resources built for self-guided learning and lecture-based instruction
  • Flashcards, extra exams, lectures, and virtual classes can be purchased separately, allowing candidates to modify their study program
  • Instructor Hotline and 24/7 tech support available for all tiers
  • Premier and Premier Plus packages come with a pass guarantee
Cons
  • The Standard package does not include Progress Exams, Green Light Exams, flashcards, or pass assurance
  • Limited analytics, adaptive tools, and progress tracking
  • Static study calendars
  • Learners report that STC Series 7 practice materials can feel dry and overly academic
Key features
  • 6-month access window
  • Online and printed study manual
  • Series 7 Q&A sessions (Premier Plus tier only)
Pricing
$265 - $559 / 6 months
Tiers
  • Series 7 Standard
  • Series 7 Premier
  • Series 7 Premier Plus

Securities Training Corporation (STC) offers comprehensive Series 7 study materials through a range of test prep packages starting at $265. Their Premier Plus package, priced at $559, provides the STC Pass Guarantee and includes extensive Securities Training Corporation resources such as on-demand lectures, interactive flashcards, access to the instructor hotline, regular course updates, online and printed study manuals, live virtual or in-person classes, and a series of progress exams. Students benefit from full access to these Series 7 study materials for a six-month period.

Securities Training Corporation also allows Series 7 candidates the flexibility to purchase individual study resources. This means that students can choose specific Series 7 study materials from Securities Training Corporation, such as flashcards or on-demand lectures, without committing to an entire package. Like Knopman, students can choose to bundle their Series 7 course with other financial licensing exams. Additionally, test-takers may opt to join a scheduled virtual class, which provides a printed study manual and access to a Series 7 Final Exam. Individual Securities Training Corporation prep courses are available at prices ranging from $76 to $411 (plus additional fees). While the printed textbook (written by industry experts), course benchmarks and milestones, and options for live instructors are great for more traditional learners, their videos and other study tools have been described as dry and overly long.

I used STC and passed the first time. For me, the videos put some of the textbook material in easier terms and applied graphics to better comprehend. I also took all final exams and Greenlights. Personally, I felt very well prepared and confident sitting in the exam.

I'm currently studying for my Series 7 using STC. The lecture videos have been very long and a drag.

Bottom line: STC is a good option for Series 7 candidates seeking an immersive study experience with a conventional approach and proven study tools. While their practice exams and constant assessments are useful, their videos, textbooks, and other materials lack engaging content.

Most customizable: Securities Institute of America Series 7

  • SIA offers Series 7 study materials both individually and in bundled packages, giving candidates the flexibility to purchase only the resources they need, exactly when they need them.
  • The distinctive "GreenLight Guarantee" promises test-takers a full refund if they pass a GreenLight exam at the end of their program but do not pass the actual Series 7 exam.
Securities Institute of America Series 7 logo
Most customizable
B+
Pros
  • Exam prep software comes complete with a question bank and simulated practice exams
  • Complete Self Study Solution bundle combines exam software, textbook, video training classes, text bank, unlimited practice exams, personal study calendar, and cheat sheets in one package
  • TotalGenius! AI instructor (included in self-study package or can be purchased as an add-on) provides instant answers and clarifications
  • Textbook available in both eBook and print formats
  • Pass guarantee based on practice exam performance
Cons
  • No live instruction, only on-demand video lectures
  • AI tutor not included in all bundles
  • The personal calendar is only included in the Self-Study Solution bundle
  • Some reviewers felt that SIA's materials did not always align with the actual Series 7
Key features
  • Video class demo and training for recorded lectures
  • 180-day access period
  • 15 ways to customize exams
  • Unlimited randomized and topic-focused practice exams
  • Test Tips video (select packages only)
  • Tutoring available
Pricing
$99+ / 180 days
Tiers
  • Individual resources
  • Bundled packages

SIA's Series 7 course is a modular program that delivers a full suite of study materials, including a textbook (and e-book), video lecture classes (approximately twenty hours), and an extensive question bank with thousands of practice questions. Test-takers can either select individual products or opt for a bundled course, like their popular Complete Self-Study Solution (priced at $289). This flexible format supports self-paced study, allowing students to review material online or offline and revisit lectures as needed.

The curriculum aligns closely with the official exam outline used by FINRA, covering core topics such as corporate and municipal securities, government securities, and the regulatory, taxation, and suitability rules that underlie securities sales. Through repeated practice exams and customizable test banks, the course helps you build familiarity with the exam format and sharpen your ability to select suitable investments, process transactions, and advise clients, all skills central to the role of a general securities representative. However, unlike other online courses, SIA's format of pre-recorded lectures can feel static rather than adaptive. Their bundles provide convenient options, though their Complete bundle is nearly twice the price of options with a similar variety of tools. Furthermore, their practice tests may not always match the rigor of the actual exam, so you are likely to score lower on their "readiness" tests than you will on the official test.

The Securities Institute of America to pass my Series 7 and my Series 66. They had a convenient combo package for this pair of exams. I picked them because of that, the materials included, and their pass rate and guarantee.

Securities Institute of America was my main go-to. Their QBank was tough but forced me to think through the why behind answers instead of just memorizing, and that clicked better for me. Don't stress if practice scores are in the 70s; consistency matters more than perfection.

Bottom line: SIA's piecemeal Series 7 materials and study tools enable learners to purchase only what they need to build their own customized course. While their resources are likely to help you pass, their overly rigorous question banks and practice exams may leave you feeling less prepared than you actually are.

Why Achievable is the top choice for Series 7 preparation

Achievable's Series 7 program makes studying more engaging and less stressful than other options, combining a comprehensive course with trusted study tools at a competitive price. The interactive platform serves as both an expert instructor and a supportive tutor, guiding you step-by-step through complex Series 7 topics while pinpointing areas for improvement. With its high-quality materials, data-driven progress tracking, and personalized online support, Achievable offers an ideal formula to help you pass the Series 7 exam on your first try.

Wrapping up

There are many Series 7 exam prep providers available, each offering a variety of Series 7 study materials and support to help you succeed on one of FINRA's most challenging licensing exams. Selecting the best Series 7 prep course is critical to advancing your financial career. You may find yourself weighing top options all while trying to balance the best combination of price, content quality, and overall effectiveness. Remember: passing your exam can make a significant difference in your career trajectory and future employment prospects.

After carefully considering all options, we've found that Achievable is the best overall Series 7 exam prep, offering a personalized, convenient, and effective approach that delivers superior value. With Achievable, you'll benefit from efficiently designed study materials, spend less time preparing, and maximize your chances of passing the Series 7 exam and getting your license on your first attempt.

Achievable FINRA Series 7 dashboard
Pass the FINRA Series 7. Guaranteed.
Achievable is the best Series 7 exam prep course: effective, personalized, and convenient. With Achievable, you'll spend less time studying and pass your exam the first time, or your money back.