How to Pass the Series 65 in 2024

Are you stressed about taking your Series 65 Exam? This is a tough exam, and many candidates who easily pass other exams often struggle with this one. The most effective way to build confidence before an exam is to feel prepared. Here’s all you need to know about the S65 exam and how to pass in 2024.

What is the S65?

The S65 is an exam you would take to obtain a license needed to be registered as an investment advisor representative (IAR). Candidates are then licensed to charge a fee for assets under management (AUM) or for planning services, but cannot receive commissions without further licensing.

Things to remember about the S65 and S66:

How do I pass the S65?

Now for the part you’re here for: how to pass your S65 exam on your first try! Let’s dive into some topics you’ll need to know in order to ace your S65 exam:

8 tips to pass your S65 exam:

1. Expect detailed questions. Overall, Series 65 has a heavier tilt toward products, so be ready to compare and contrast product features.
2. Prepare for content creep. There’s significant “content creep” on the S65 exam involving “hot products” and unethical sales practices. If you’ve taken other securities like SIE, S6, or S7, you’ll see some familiar concepts.
3. Be ready for some math on Series 65. The Series 65 includes math-based questions which many candidates find especially difficult so give those some extra practice. Prepare to understand mathematical concepts, not necessarily calculations.
4. Focus on concepts over calculations. It’s more important to understand how to do the math than to complete the calculations. Recognizing the right equation or formula that applies to a situation is often as far as the questions go.
5. Manage test anxiety. Series 65 can be a beast, especially if you haven’t taken an exam recently. Consider what tools can be offered to help you feel prepared and recognize that you are likely to feel intimidated and overwhelmed.
6. Build stamina. The sheer length of this exam adds to difficulty. Make sure to take a minimum of three timed full-length exams to build stamina and practice focus. Even better, add on an extra 10 to 15 questions to full exams for a cushion.
7. Sleep. Breaks. Physical movement. Focus. Adopt and prioritize these 4 learning and retention strategies to ensure you pass your exam on the first try. Check out our article about heathy learning habits here!
8. Mindset. Maintaining a positive mindset will ultimately make a difference when it comes to your test’s outcome. Believing in your positive outcome will make you much more likely to achieve success. Confidence makes a difference!

Looking for More Series 65 Exam Resources?

Download Knopman Marks’ At-a-Glance Guide. This guide will give you an up-to-date content breakdown, recommended time commitments, important things to keep in mind, and more.