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FINRA SIE
Best courses

Explore and compare top-rated SIE prep providers to find the best course for your exam success

Securing a lucrative role in finance requires time, effort, and, for many positions, the completion of advanced financial licenses. The first step in the certification process is passing the Securities Industry Essentials (SIE) exam, an introductory-level assessment that covers financial products, markets, and regulatory agencies. Achievable, by far, is the most effective preparation solution for the SIE, thanks to its high-impact learning methods, advanced personalization, and expertly written and engaging course materials.

Achievable's adaptive platform is designed to make studying more impactful and efficient for all test-takers, regardless of their starting point. Many professionals early in their finance careers spend weeks or even months preparing for this test, as the exam serves as a "golden ticket" into the finance industry for both new professionals and career-switchers alike. Unlike more advanced certifications, the SIE does not require sponsorship from a Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) member firm, making it a valuable career booster for recent graduates and job seekers. If you're looking to get your foot in the door of the financial industry, taking and passing the SIE exam is a must: this entry-level FINRA exam demonstrates your understanding of fundamental securities concepts and can give your job applications a significant advantage. Additionally, foundational certification exams such as the Series 6 or 7 often require the SIE as a co-requisite.

To maximize your chances of success, it's crucial to choose the best SIE prep course tailored to your needs. Achievable's SIE course has been ranked #1 by independent sources, including Reddit, but we encourage you to compare leading options to get the full scope of available study plans. That's why we've compiled a list of competing vendors, including Kaplan, Knopman Marks, Securities Trading Corporation, and ExamFX, to help assess your options using each provider's own marketing language to highlight their features. Compare their SIE study materials and reviews from real candidates side by side 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 SIE courses prioritizes variety, offering options suited to every type of learner. Whether you prefer a traditional classroom setting or an interactive online platform, we break down the strengths and potential limitations of each provider's teaching style and study plan. We selected these resources based on:

Cost
Are the materials priced fairly and competitively? What do higher-cost options provide that budget-friendly alternatives don't, and are those upgrades worth the investment?
Variety
What additional features does the program include: study calendars, performance tracking, flashcards, or other study aids?
Coverage
How thoroughly does the material address every exam topic, from different investment vehicles to SEC regulations? Which resources work best for quick review, and which offer comprehensive preparation for the test?
Accessibility
Are complex concepts explained clearly for better comprehension and retention? Does the product effectively support certain learning styles more than others?
Community feedback
What do students appreciate about the provider's instructional materials, practice exams, and other resources? Are they widely recommended for SIE prep?
Score boosters
Is the program rigorous enough to help you pass the SIE on your first attempt? Does it include a pass guarantee?

For each vendor, we break down the key features, advantages, and drawbacks of their study tools, highlighting both strengths and potential limitations. We also provide pricing details and package options so you can easily find a solution that fits your budget. Use this guide to make an informed decision about how to prepare for your exam and move one step closer to earning your license. Leading the list is Achievable, recognized for its expertly crafted SIE content, tech-driven platform, and innovative use of memory science woven throughout the program.

Best overall: Achievable SIE

  • Achievable SIE provides everything you need to pass the exam in a single course, with no hidden fees or complicated packages.
  • The adaptive platform employs advanced memory science learning techniques, continually tracking your performance and adjusting your study plan for maximum effectiveness.
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Achievable SIE 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
  • Intuitive desktop and mobile interface
  • Perfect for studying at home or on the go
  • Unlimited access for a year
  • Generous pass guarantee
Cons
  • The course does not offer live instruction
  • No physical textbook is included (though the program offers plenty of printables)
Key features
  • 2,000+ review questions
  • 35+ full-length, realistic SIE practice exams
  • 32+ bonus videos for hours of review
  • Interactive study planner
  • Dynamic AI tutor
  • Active online learning community
Pricing
$99 / 1 year

Achievable SIE is your ideal partner for SIE exam preparation. Unlike other providers such as Securities Training Corporation and ExamFX SIE, Achievable SIE leverages advanced memory science technology to personalize your study experience and help you master the material you need most. By continuously analyzing your performance on practice quizzes and assessments, Achievable builds a detailed profile of your learning patterns and creates a customized study path that targets your toughest areas. This adaptive approach streamlines your preparation and prioritizes true memory retention over passive content consumption. Financial concepts are explained in clear, accessible language, supported by real-world examples that illustrate their application. Technical jargon, such as "common stock," is broken down in a step-by-step manner.

In addition to Achievable SIE's easy-to-read online textbook, the course includes more than 2,000 targeted review questions and over 20 full-length practice exams, along with a plethora of supplemental resources, all for just $99. One of its greatest advantages over traditional courses is its proven study methodology, which promotes higher retention while reducing overall study time. The platform's advanced customization helps you study smarter and learn faster, making even complex financial topics more manageable. Achievable doesn't just make studying more fun and engaging: it makes it significantly more effective, helping you prepare for the exam and launch your career with greater confidence and in less time.

Passed using Achievable only and felt super prepared. Even with the experimental questions, I felt like I was 100% on well over 90% of the questions. I loved the way it taught things and the question wording taught me to slow down and read every word.

Achievable is a very modern platform. No other studying platform offers as much as Achievable. I definitely recommend this course. I passed my SIE on the first try.

Bottom line: The results are in: Achievable is the best for SIE preparation, with consistently high pass rates and learner satisfaction. Instead of generic chapter-by-chapter progress and dense textbooks, you'll study with a platform built around advanced tools and materials written in plain English, all designed to help you learn more in less time.

Achievable white logo on blue background
Achievable SIE - $99
Pass the FINRA SIE on your first try with Achievable's interactive online exam preparation course. Includes everything you need: easy-to-understand online textbook, 2,000+ review quizzes, and 35+ full-length practice exams.
Easy-to-understand online textbook
2k+ chapter quizzes
35+ practice exams
32+ bonus videos
A textbook page from Achievable's FINRA exam prep course

Most recognizable brand: Kaplan Financial Education SIE

  • Kaplan's licensing courses are known for their comprehensive study tools, particularly the SecuritiesPro™ question bank and detailed textbook.
  • They offer a wide range of SIE prep options designed to accommodate different learning styles, schedules, and levels of experience.
Kaplan Financial Education SIE logo
Most recognizable brand
B+
Pros
  • QBank lets you create custom quizzes as well as full-length practice exams
  • Every package includes a Performance Tracker and a personalized Study Plan
  • Regular content updates and exam tips are provided to keep your prep current
  • The rigor of Kaplan's materials can make the actual exam feel easier by comparison
Cons
  • Short access window (5 months)
  • Basic tier includes only one full-length Practice Exam
  • No pass guarantee
  • The difficulty of the practice exams can underestimate true readiness
  • The exam study guide cannot be purchased separately
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™ (Premium only)
  • Higher-priced tiers include on-demand video lessons and instructor-led online classes
Pricing
$99 - $229 / 5 months
Tiers
  • Basic
  • Essential
  • Premium OnDemand
  • Premium Live

Kaplan's SIE prep study packages include a variety of instruction methods and flexible study tools, catering to your preferred learning style and accommodating any schedule. You can take advantage of a customizable study calendar, which efficiently breaks down daily prep tasks and helps ensure you're ready by your exam date. Kaplan SIE offers three main SIE prep course packages, starting at $99. Both the Basic and Essential Study Packages function as self-study programs, providing access to numerous study tools in addition to their SIE license exam manual. These include regular content updates, exam day success tips, detailed practice exams, and robust QBank resources. To further support the journey through the SIE curriculum, the integrated performance tracker highlights your progress and pinpoints key topics for improvement.

For those seeking advanced instruction, Kaplan's Premium SIE Study Package delivers comprehensive support. This premium offering is available in two formats, both of which grant access to all available study tools, including interactive class notes, challenging Checkpoint and Mastery exams, detailed instructor links, and an extensive video library. Depending on your study preference, you can choose the On-Demand Class for 24/7 instructional videos or participate in scheduled premium live online classes. Pricing for the Premium SIE prep package begins at $199.

One of Kaplan's main drawbacks, besides its higher price point, is that each package only comes with five months of full course access (extensions must be purchased for $49). Another common piece of feedback that Kaplan receives is that their tests and practice materials do not always accurately reflect the difficulty level of the SIE, making the test seem more daunting than it actually is. For the SIE in particular, many learners reported that the wording of Kaplan's practice questions did not match what they saw on the real test, and that prep should be supplemented with official FINRA resources. For students who want an extra challenge, Kaplan is a fine solution, but be aware that results on the readiness exams may not be the most accurate.

I was scoring between 80 and 85, and I passed. Material-wise, questions were good practice, but the format of the questions was different.

[Kaplan's questions were] harder, more complicated to read, and also would ask for more...When I got to the SIE, I thought they were trying to trick me; it was so straightforward.

Bottom line: Kaplan's SIE packages offer different levels of study tools. Kaplan's practice questions and exams tend to be more challenging than the real test, so many students pair more accessible materials with Kaplan's QBank for extra preparation.

Best for live instruction: Knopman Marks SIE

  • Knopman, a long-established provider of financial licensing exam prep and a training partner to many major U.S. firms, is well-recognized for its detailed study materials and faculty-led live instruction.
  • Its SIE programs offer a high-support learning experience that blends traditional teaching with modern online tools, incorporating lectures, preset exams, flexible question banks, and more.
Knopman Marks SIE logo
Best for live instruction
A-
Pros
  • Adaptable practice questions
  • All packages, including the self-study Gold package, come with at least one faculty strategy call
  • In-depth SIE instruction designed and led by industry professionals
  • Live review sessions and interactive blended classes are accessible from anywhere
Cons
  • No lower-cost options or pass guarantee
  • Full-length exams are preset, rather than customizable
  • Demands of class are not well-suited for learners with limited study time
Key features
  • 1-year access period
  • Physical and digital textbooks
  • Client Experience and faculty team support
  • Automated performance monitoring
Pricing
$260 - $885 / 1 year
Tiers
  • SIE Gold
  • Platinum
  • Diamond

One of the more expensive SIE test prep options available, Knopman Marks offers both self-study courses at over $200 and in-person or live training at $485 and above. If you're living in New York, you can attend an in-person class; otherwise, you can join a scheduled online class. For all bundles, you'll have access to all their diagnostic and assessment exams, video lectures, a mobile app, digital flashcards, a textbook, personal instructor access, class supplements, and more. Knopman Marks is particularly common in the investment banking sector, and many firms have established relationships with this provider, allowing their employees to access significant discounts.

Additional add-ons, such as strategic advising and live review sessions, are also available for purchase. When it comes to their study programs overall, Knopman tends to be the best fit for students who can devote substantial time to preparation, which may be a hurdle for busy professionals working within tight schedules. Their practice exams and study materials are often considered challenging and dense, making it difficult for learners to work through the program independently. And unless your employer provides institutional access, Knopman's pricing places it firmly in the premium tier of SIE prep options, with the live course alone costing more than $800 to enroll.

I was scoring in the 50s-60s in my 2nd to last week using Knopman, and only started pulling 70s on the practice exams in the last week. I ended up passing on the first attempt.

[Knopman courses] are fine, although pricey. If you are paying, there are slightly better options that are cheaper, but if that's what your firm is paying for, you should be good.

Bottom line: Knopman Marks offers an SIE program well-suited for students who prefer a traditional classroom environment or want a course anchored by structured video lectures. As the priciest option among the leading FINRA prep providers, Knopman's courses are best suited for learners who can fully commit to an intensive study course and schedule.

Best for traditional learners: Securities Training Corporation SIE

  • As one of the longest-standing licensing prep providers, STC has built a strong reputation and earned the confidence of many leading financial institutions.
  • Their SIE course options include both printed and digital study materials, extensive chapter quizzes, and multiple full-length practice exams. Higher-tier packages add even more practice tests, study tools, and access to either on-demand video lectures or live virtual classes.
Securities Training Corporation SIE 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
  • All packages come with Progress Exams, Green Light Exams, and a pass guarantee
Cons
  • The standard package does not include a printed study manual
  • Limited analytics, adaptive tools, and progress tracking
  • Static study calendars
  • Learners report that STC SIE practice questions are not always consistent with the actual exam
Key features
  • 6-month access window
  • Online and printed study manual (for most packages)
  • Crunch Time Facts resource
  • SIE live Q&A sessions (Premier Plus tier only)
Pricing
$129 - $293 / 6 months
Tiers
  • SIE Digital E-Course
  • SIE Premier
  • SIE Premier Plus

Offering a wide range of SIE prep course options, Securities Training Corporation (STC) provides flexible SIE study solutions starting at $129. The STC SIE Premier Plus packages feature on-demand lectures, interactive flashcards, access to the instructor hotline, regular course updates, comprehensive online and printed study manuals, progress exams, and the exclusive STC Pass Guarantee. Students benefit from six months of access to all SIE study guide materials.

Securities Training Corporation also allows candidates to purchase individual SIE exam prep components. This means that SIE prep students can choose just the flashcards or opt for on-demand lectures for $76 and $171, respectively. Additionally, STC offers scheduled virtual classes for $234, which include a printed SIE study manual and access to the SIE Final Exam.

For those who prefer in-person instruction, STC SIE in-person classes are available starting at around $290. This classroom-based option includes six months of access to the full suite of SIE study prep resources, making Securities Training Corporation a versatile choice for a variety of learning preferences. STC's materials are definitely written in a more traditional, academic tone, making their SIE course best designed for students who don't mind reading through dense texts, watching hour-long lectures, or following along a set study path. For students seeking a more adaptable, personalized, and targeted approach, however, STC is likely to fall short.

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.

The material on STC is much harder than the actual exam. If you're scoring that high, then you will do great.

Bottom line: STC is a good choice for SIE candidates seeking an immersive, traditional study experience. Although their frequent assessments and practice exams are valuable, some learners find the videos, textbooks, and other materials harder to digest than those of other providers.

Most flexible study tools: ExamFX SIE

  • ExamFX SIE offers a wide selection of study tools, including video lectures, quizzes, customizable exams, and performance tracking across multiple package tiers (Textbook, Online, and Live Online).
  • Learners appreciate the adaptable and interactive aids, though some note the course is pricier and less thorough than competitors, with exam language and materials sometimes described as unnecessarily wordy.
ExamFX SIE logo
Most flexible study tools
B+
Pros
  • Solid range of digital and printed materials
  • Features such as SpotCheck quizzes, custom exam generator, and performance tracking help reinforce learning
  • Study on your own schedule with help from a Personalized Study Plan
  • Direct instructor support (via phone or online) for structured prep
  • Live instruction and newly added live-focused webinars promise to cut study time by several hours
Cons
  • Limited access period, especially for the Textbook-based option
  • Online instructor support is available only for higher-tier packages
  • SpotCheck Quizzes, online flashcards, and the eBook are not available in the standard package
  • Test-takers have described ExamFX's course wording as hard to follow
  • Some learners report experiencing tech challenges when using ExamFX's platform
  • No pass guarantee
Key features
  • Best practice guide
  • Phone instructor support
  • Custom, Standard, and Benchmark Final exams
  • Glossary and acronyms resource
Pricing
$129 - $249 / 6 months
Tiers
  • Textbook
  • Online
  • Live Online

ExamFX SIE is a self-paced online course designed to help candidates efficiently prepare for the SIE exam. The platform offers a mix of interactive study tools, featuring key resources such as on-demand video lectures, SpotCheck quizzes, custom and benchmark exams, "cheat sheets," and performance tracking, all of which vary by package. Learners can select from several tiers to match their study preferences.

ExamFX offers three types of study packages for the SIE: Self-Study, Video Study, and Live Online. Fees for the packages range from $129 to about $249. The Self-Study package includes access to their interactive learning portal, instructor support, a readiness assessment, the guarantee exam, and more. The Video Study package features online flashcards and on-demand video lectures. The Live Online package includes everything from the previous packages, with the addition of live online training.

Something to look out for: ExamFX includes a generous pass guarantee for its insurance prelicensing courses, but this benefit does not extend to its financial licensing programs. Although ExamFX offers a more modern approach than many legacy providers, its user experience and study materials have received mixed reviews. Some learners find the content difficult to parse and the platform's navigation unintuitive. Even so, many students report that ExamFX leaves them feeling well-prepared for their exams thanks to the breadth of practice materials available.

ExamFX provides explanations on incorrect answers, and the flashcards are good for intellectual inventory. I used memorization and tried to understand the concepts as best as I could based on the ExamFX answer explanations and flashcards.

When I encountered difficulties or had questions, their customer support was unhelpful.

Bottom line: ExamFX's SIE preparation solution emphasizes constant quizzing and assessment to help you keep track of your progress. Despite its more modern approach, the materials and course navigation could be better designed, and its tech support could be improved.

Why Achievable is the top choice for SIE preparation

Achievable's SIE program delivers a more accurate, engaging, and less stressful study experience than many alternatives, offering a comprehensive course paired with reliable study tools at a competitive price. Its interactive platform acts as both an expert instructor and a supportive tutor, guiding you through complex SIE concepts while identifying where you need additional practice. With its high-quality materials, data-driven progress tracking, and personalized online support, Achievable offers an ideal formula to help you pass the SIE exam on your first try.

Wrapping up

When selecting the best prep course or SIE study guide, you may find yourself weighing top options all while trying to balance the best combination of price, content quality, and overall effectiveness. The exam itself is already a tough bridge to cross, so you want to find a prep program that will support your learning, not overcomplicate things. Achievable SIE offers the best value-for-your-money SIE exam prep course, combining personalized learning with convenience and proven effectiveness. With Achievable SIE, you can streamline your SIE study process and confidently pass the SIE exam on your first attempt: guaranteed. If you're comparing providers, you'll find that Achievable delivers a superior and affordable test prep solution tailored to your needs, allowing you to spend less time studying and more time building your career.

Achievable FINRA SIE dashboard
Pass the FINRA SIE. Guaranteed.
Achievable is the best SIE 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.