In order to
be eligible to take the Series 6 Exam, you must be employed/sponsored by a firm
that is a FINRA member. In addition to taking the Series 6 Exam, you must
successfully complete the Securities Industry Essentials Exam, before you
become a registered representative.
This computer-based
exam consists of 55 multiple-choice questions, of which, 50 will be scored. You
will have 90 minutes to complete the exam.
Conditions
covered under the Americans with Disabilities Act that require special testing
accommodations and have been proven in writing, may be eligible for such
accommodations.
Some of
these accommodations include extra time, breaks that do not lessen your testing
time, a reader, paper and pencil exams, a separate room for testing, anti-glare
screen, screen magnifier, Braille, large-print test book, and large-print
answer sheet.
What functions and topics are covered on this exam?
- Function 1: Sourcing business from customers and possible customers – 12 questions
- Function 2: Determining customers’ investment objectives, then opening accounts – 8 questions
- Function 3: Providing information and investment recommendations that meet the customers’, then transferring assets and keeping proper records of these accounts– 25 questions
- Function 4: Staying on top of customers’ purchase and sales directives, and processing these transactions – 5 questions
Function 1
Some of the topics that will be focused on include standards associated with public communication, communication types, advertisements and disclosures, requirements for the prospectus, official statements, Regulation D, and intrastate transactions.
Function 2
Some of the topics that will be focused on include screening customers, different types of accounts and plans, account registration, what is required for opening accounts customer relationships, customers’ profiles, investment objectives and strategies, tax considerations, privacy and security, retirement plans, and refusing and restricting activity.
Function 3
Some of the topics that will be focused on include factors that affect investment selection, portfolio analysis, account analysis, portfolio theory, underlying securities, taxes, investment companies, life insurance, annuities, municipal fund securities, investment risk, investment returns, customer statements, and closing accounts.
Function 4
Some of the topics that will focused on include trade activities, settlement of transactions, order ticket information, automated execution systems, reports with errors, dealing with customer complaints, and Form U4.
How do I register for this exam?
The firm that sponsors the examinee must register for the individual to take this exam.
What is the cost of taking this exam?
The cost of taking the Series 6 Exam is $40.
What are the testing dates and locations?
Once you are enrolled for taking the Series 6 Exam, a 120-day testing window will be opened to you. You must contact the test center to inquire about its available testing hours and days.
There are various testing sites throughout the world, at which you can take the exam.
What should I do the day of the exam?
Report to the testing center at least 30 minutes early. You may not be admitted to the assessment if you arrive late.
Bring a form of identification that includes your name, signature, and photo.
The test center will provide a calculator and white board/dry erase marker to be used during the test. You must return these items at the completion of your test. You are not allowed to bring your own.
You cannot bring reference materials or personal items such as a cell phone or jacket into the testing area.
There is no penalty for getting answers incorrect, so even if you are not 100% sure, make an educated guess.
Can I take a break during the exam?
There is no break scheduled into this exam, but if you require one, you may do so. Keep in mind, if you do take a break, the exam clock will not stop. When you come back from your break, you must sit at the desk at which you were originally sitting.
What happens after I take the exam?
Immediately after completing your exam, the computer screen will flash whether you have passed or failed the exam. In addition, before leaving the testing center, you will receive a print-out of your result. If you pass, that is the only data that will be listed on your score report. If you fail, details on your performance will be included.
What is the minimum passing score on this exam?
70%
What happens if I don’t pass the exam?
After waiting a 30-day waiting period, you may re-take the exam. If you fail the exam three times in a row, you will be required to wait 180 days from the date of your last attempt, before attempting the exam again.
How Can I Prepare for the Series 6 Test?
That’s a great question. We’ve broken down the answer into three parts.
- Do yourself a favor and study. Do not walk in unprepared. We have recommended prep materials below, but that only helps if you actually try. Plus, studying is actually proven to be the best antidote to test anxiety.
- Take care of yourself. Make sure you’re eating well, exercising, and sleeping. All of these things are scientifically linked to brain performance. If you take care of your body, you’ll be helping your grades.
- Get a study guide or set of flashcards. Some people study better a certain way. Find your study strengths and make the most of them. We’ve tried to make it easy for you by tracking down the best study guide and flashcard set for your exam. Below you’ll see links to both!