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Is passing the Series 7 hard?

Discover the FINRA Series 7 pass rate and key study tips to increase your chances of success. Learn effective strategies for exam preparation.
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Lily Chen
15 Sept 2025, 4 min read
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Looking to earn your Series 7 license and launch a career that blends client interaction, sales, and investment advising? The FINRA Series 7 exam is the essential first step toward becoming a registered representative in the securities industry. Achieving your Series 7 license not only opens doors to a rewarding career but also demonstrates your expertise in making investment recommendations and handling client accounts.

The Series 7 exam features 125 multiple-choice questions and requires a minimum score of 72% (at least 90 correct answers) to succeed. This challenging exam tests your comprehensive knowledge of financial markets, securities products, industry regulations, and effective client communication. Candidates must also complete the FINRA SIE exam as a prerequisite before taking the Series 7 exam.

To maximize your chances of passing, consider using a Series 7 practice exam to familiarize yourself with question formats and key topics. Earning your Series 7 license is the gateway to advancing your career in the financial services sector.

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What is the pass rate?

The pass rate usually averages around 60%-70%, meaning around 2 out of 3 people pass their test on their first try. It is definitely recommended that you put in the work for this exam, as it is fairly difficult and requires a lot of studying to pass.

And since each attempt costs $300, it’s in your best interest to study smart the first time around.


So, how do you study for this exam?

Use practice exams

You should definitely make use of Series 7 study materials, especially Series 7 practice exams, as an effective way to prepare. Taking realistic practice tests not only familiarizes you with the actual exam format but also helps pinpoint which areas of the Series 7 study materials you need to focus on for improvement. By regularly working through a Series 7 practice exam, you can strengthen your test-taking strategies and ensure that you’re thoroughly prepared for exam day.

Focus on the most important topics

Around 73% of the exam covers making suitable recommendations. So you should prioritize studying topics like investment strategies, securities products, and regulatory requirements.

Break your studying down into “units.”

Divide the material into manageable units or chapters instead of trying to cram everything into your brain in a short period of time.

Use your online resources

Achievable offers excellent Series 7 study materials, including a comprehensive FINRA Series 7 study guide packed with valuable information to help you succeed on the exam. These series 7 study materials are designed to simplify complex concepts and provide clear explanations, making your preparation more effective and efficient. By utilizing high-quality Series 7 study materials like these, you’ll be better equipped to master the content and boost your confidence for test day.


What if you fail?

If you don’t achieve a passing score on your first attempt at the Series 7 exam, that’s completely understandable. The Series 7 exam is known for its difficulty, and the Series 7 pass rate reflects just how challenging it can be for many candidates. Don’t let a setback discourage you: use the mandatory 30-day waiting period before you can retake the Series 7 exam as an opportunity to review your study strategies and focus on areas where you can improve your chances of raising your personal Series 7 pass rate.

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Conclusion and final thoughts

If you’re serious about a career in finance, earning your Series 7 license is essential. The Series 7 exam is certainly challenging, but with focused preparation, it is entirely achievable.

Preparing for the Series 7 license will help you develop the skills needed to analyze customer financial profiles, understand sophisticated investment strategies, and make compliant, suitable recommendations in real-world scenarios.

Yes, passing the Series 7 exam can be tough.

However, with a comprehensive study plan, consistent practice, and reliable Series 7 exam prep tools, you can successfully pass the Series 7 exam and take the next step toward a rewarding career in the financial industry.


Ready to get started?

Create your Series 7 license study schedule, choose from top-rated Series 7 study materials, and take a Series 7 practice exam to prepare with confidence. For comprehensive guidance, explore Achievable’s Series 7 guide and set yourself up for success in finance. Your journey toward earning your Series 7 license and launching your financial career starts here!

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Lily Chen
15 Sept 2025, 4 min read
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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