If you're ready to invest in a formal Series 65 prep course, Varsity Tutors can place you in a private Series 65 class to help you reach for your professional ambitions. Series 65 (known as the Uniform Investment Adviser Law Examination) is a high-stakes exam required for investment professionals to earn a license to act as an Investment Adviser Representative in most states. Some of the broad topics covered include fiduciary duties, portfolio management, retirement planning, ethics, and legal regulations associated with the financial industry. If your test prep could use a boost, consider taking a Series 65 course today!
Many Series 65 prep courses begin by reviewing the structure of the exam. The chart provided below reveals the most important points about the test:
Series 65 Exam Format
Question Format | # Questions | Time Allowed | Passing Score |
Multiple-Choice | 130 | 180 Minutes | 72.3% |
A three-hour exam can feel pretty grueling, so you might want to take a few practice exams during a Series 65 prep class to help build up your mental stamina. Taking practice tests may also help you understand exactly what the test is asking you, as FINRA (Financial Industry Regulatory Authority) exams are known to write questions to intentionally mislead financial professionals.
Taking practice exams can also be a good way to identify your academic strengths as well as any areas of opportunity where you could improve. The list below includes some of the topics you may want to review in a Series 65 class:
Series 65 Topics (Non-Comprehensive)
- Business cycles
- Monetary and fiscal policies
- Income statements and balance sheets
- Time value of money concepts
- Valuation ratios
- Systematic risks
- Liquidation priorities
- Insured and demand deposits
- Asset-backed securities and corporate bonds
- Fixed income securities and their characteristics
- Nonqualified employee stock options
- Shareholder rights
- Technical analysis
- Mutual funds
- Sole proprietorships
If that seems like an intimidating list, know that private Series 65 prep classes can help you break it down into more digestible chunks. All of our Series 65 courses involve one-on-one test preparation with a private tutor, allowing you to study exactly what you need to. For instance, if you're confident with fixed income securities but have a harder time with non-qualified employee stock options, your sessions can concentrate on the stock options to help improve your study efficiency.
Likewise, working in a one-on-one environment ensures that any questions you have are addressed in a timely fashion. Many students also find it easier to ask for help in a private Series 65 course than a crowded classroom full of students.
Perhaps most importantly, Series 65 courses may be adapted to your unique needs. For example, visual learners may want to work with flashcards to remember all of the laws and regulations covered on the Series 65 exam, while an auditory learner might prefer to listen to a recording detailing the same information. Similarly, your instructor can take the time to really get to know you, potentially incorporating your outside interests into your study sessions to make them more engaging.
Varsity Tutors also works hard to make Series 65 classes as accessible as possible. All instruction takes place on our innovative Live Learning Platform, providing all of the benefits of face-to-face instruction without the logistical drawbacks of trying to meet up in person. We also try to match every student we work with to an expert instructor who can accommodate their scheduling needs for added flexibility.
If you would like to learn more about our Series 65 classes or are ready to enroll today, give us a call! Educational Directors are standing by to help you with any questions you may have.

Peter: Pittsburgh Series 65 course instructor
...the licenses I obtained, view me at Broker Check: https://brokercheck.finra.org/individual/summary/1313689 and see that I had all the licenses. I also was the prime lead instructor for a Series 7 school years ago before publishing training manuals that became the big business we see today. My peers, other broker-dealers, had enough confidence in me to elect me to two different FINRA offices. One was regional office and the other a national position. I sat in on...
Education & Certification
- Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute - Bachelor of Science, Materials Engineering
- California University of Pennsylvania - Master of Science, Mathematics and Statistics
Subject Expertise
- Series 65
- Series 6
- Series 7 - General Securities Representative Exam (Stockbroker)
- Series 23
- +42 subjects

Blake: Pittsburgh Series 65 course instructor
...most: someone coming alongside me and helping me with things I didn't even know I didn't know. I strive to teach and help in a relevant, understandable, and helpful way. I attended Oakland University on a full-tuition academic scholarship and majored in finance and minored in accounting. After working in the financial planning industry for 4 years, I became one of the youngest CFP Professionals in the country in 2019. My best areas to teach...
Education & Certification
- Oakland University - Bachelor in Arts, Finance
Subject Expertise
- Series 65
- CFP
- SIE
- SAT Verbal
- +71 subjects

Dana: Pittsburgh Series 65 course instructor
Dana Johnson is a Business Instructor, Bitcoin enthusiast, Motivator, and a Financial Consultant who started his career in the music business after graduating from the American College of Switzerland. He also worked as a Financial Advisor for JP Morgan Chase, Merrill Lynch, and Santander Bank before starting his own firm Johnson Capital Global Advisory.
Education & Certification
- American College of Switzerland - Bachelor in Arts, Economics
- New York University - Master of Arts, Music Management and Merchandising
Subject Expertise
- Series 65
- Series 63
- Insurance License
- Series 31
- +27 subjects

Ben: Pittsburgh Series 65 course instructor
Experienced portfolio manager, strategist and published author with a demonstrated history of working in the financial services industry. Skilled in Asset Management, Equities, Bonds, Investment Strategies, and Capital Markets. Strong finance professional with a MBA focused in Finance, General from University of Southern California - Marshall School of Business. Series 65, 7, 63, 24, CFA, FRM
Education & Certification
- University of Amsterdam - Bachelor of Economics, Economics
- University of Southern California - Masters in Business Administration, Economics
Subject Expertise
- Series 65
- Series 63
- FRM
- Series 3
- +39 subjects

Sebastian: Pittsburgh Series 65 course instructor
I'm here to help you pass in a fun way. I have over 20 years of Wall Street experience. I have worked as a trader, analyst, investment product specialist, portfolio manager and investment strategist.
Education & Certification
- University of Essex - Bachelor in Arts, Economics
Subject Expertise
- Series 65
- Series 7
- CAIA
- FRM
- +14 subjects

Aleta: Pittsburgh Series 65 course instructor
...more than 37 years experience in the financial services industry, I have passionately seen my primary role as an educator. This is equally important to me as a tutor. During my career, I obtained the Certified Series 7, 6, 63, and 65 and the Life, Health, Annuities and Variable Contracts Producer License within various states. I also hold an MBA in finance. I own a financial consulting firm providing financial coaching, financial educational presentations/events, academic...
Education & Certification
- University of Miami - Bachelor in Arts, Public Relations
- Hampton University - Masters in Business Administration, Finance
Subject Expertise
- Series 65
- Insurance License
- Series 66
- Series 24
- +27 subjects

Jarrett: Pittsburgh Series 65 course instructor
...have been a financial advisor, licensed stock broker, and a district executive for a regional bank. Currently I am working as an analyst for a digital marketing firm. I love statistics and how businesses and leaders can gain better understanding and make more informed decisions with the use of analytics. I am also passionate about the power of education because I have seen firsthand in my own life how transformative education can be. In my...
Education & Certification
- University of Phoenix-Philadelphia Campus - Bachelor of Science, Management Science
- University of Phoenix-Philadelphia Campus - Masters in Business Administration, Business Administration and Management
Subject Expertise
- Series 65
- Series 63
- Series 7
- Series 6
- +20 subjects

Sarah: Pittsburgh Series 65 course instructor
...from years of close collaboration with students across various categories. I am dedicated to being available for my students, offering the flexibility to learn at their own pace, whether that means intensive preparation in a month or a more gradual, step-by-step approach. My goal is to provide unwavering support and assistance, helping you conquer your test and advance in your career and achievements. Let's work together to turn your goals into reality!
Education & Certification
- University of upper Iowa - Bachelor in Business Administration, Business Administration and Management
- University of Wisconsin-Madison - Masters in Business Administration, Accounting and Business Management
Subject Expertise
- Series 65
- SIE
- Series 6
- Series 63
- +36 subjects

Christopher: Pittsburgh Series 65 course instructor
...subjects including Spanish and College English, I have found working with professionals seeking designations or motivated college business students looking to get ahead to be a great fit for me. I now work in business development for a venture capital firm whose operators have created over $3.0B in exit value. I help make sure capital flows to the best and brightest entrepreneurs, and that risk-seeking investors are properly rewarded for their bets. I look forward...
Education & Certification
- Middle Tennessee State University - Bachelor of Science, Finance
Subject Expertise
- Series 65
- CFA
- CPA
- UK A Level Accounting
- +144 subjects

Myles: Pittsburgh Series 65 course instructor
...Retirement Planning Counselor and Certified Financial Planner. Because of the study habits I was taught, I was able to pass all exams on my first attempt and in a relatively short time frame. I hope to pass on to more students the study habits that I was blessed to be taught from some of the best in the industry. I have taught on a one-on-one basis, in virtual classes of about 12-15 students, and have...
Education & Certification
- Lamar University - Bachelor in Arts, Communication, General
Subject Expertise
- Series 65
- Series 63
- Series 66
- SIE
- +4 subjects
Education & Certification
- Tulane University of Louisiana - Bachelor of Science, Biology, General
Subject Expertise
- Series 65
- Series 7
- Series 9
- Series 52
- +23 subjects

Harvey: Pittsburgh Series 65 course instructor
...computer consulting company (40 plus years). I have worked for many years as a computer consultant including managing large networks, doing cybersecurity and various types of programming especially iPhone and iPad development using Swift and Xcode. I also have a horticulture degree and have taught organic gardening at the middle school and high school levels. I am currently tutoring students in AP Physics (AP 1, AP 2 and AP C Physics are my specialties).
Education & Certification
- University of California-Berkeley - Bachelor of Science, Physics
- Santa Clara University - Masters in Business Administration, Marketing
Subject Expertise
- Series 65
- Series 63
- FINRA - Financial Industry Regulatory Authority
- Human Geography
- +107 subjects

Edward: Pittsburgh Series 65 course instructor
...25 plus year veteran of the Financial Services industry. I have been involved with advising and counseling both clients and advisors, and am passionate about helping others learn how financial markets work. I have passed the Series 6, 7, 24, 26, and 66 exams, and held the Massachusetts Life and Health insurance licenses. I coached basketball and football both at the youth and high school levels. I love music and am an active member of...
Education & Certification
- Western New England University - Bachelor of Science, Finance
Subject Expertise
- Series 65
- Insurance License
- Series 79
- Series 24
- +26 subjects

Karen: Pittsburgh Series 65 course instructor
...business administration. In addition, I hold an English teaching certificate. Since I graduated, I've taught or coached in several areas. However, my primary focus has been on Series licensing. I help students with all licenses such as SIE, 6, 63, 7 65.66, 24 and many more. Many students struggle with the concepts of the SIE exam. I can break it down for you and relate it to something that makes sense for you.
Education & Certification
- Ashwood University - Masters in Business Administration, Business Administration and Management
Subject Expertise
- Series 65
- Series 99
- Series 63
- SIE
- +24 subjects
Education & Certification
- University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth - Bachelor in Arts, Political Economy
Subject Expertise
- Series 65
- Series 6
- Series 24
- Series 66
- +16 subjects

John: Pittsburgh Series 65 course instructor
...accounting, and corporate finance. My teaching philosophy is centered on making complex topics accessible through real-world applications and tailored lesson plans that accommodate individual learning styles. I believe in fostering a supportive environment that builds confidence, using practical examples and interactive exercises to ensure my students grasp foundational concepts. My background includes hands-on experience at PwC and J.P. Morgan, which enriches my tutoring sessions with insights from the industry. I am passionate about helping students...
Education & Certification
- Pace University-New York - Bachelor in Business Administration, Accounting and Finance
Subject Expertise
- Series 65
- CFA
- AACN - American Association of Colleges of Nursing
- SIE
- +17 subjects

Raymond: Pittsburgh Series 65 course instructor
I am committed to developing the talent I possess and sharing my life with others. I always enjoyed teaching but more importantly human development. As Socrates said so long ago, the unexamined life is not worth living. Sometimes, the gravity of questions outweigh all in life.
Education & Certification
- Fordham University - Bachelor of Science, Classics
Subject Expertise
- Series 65
- Series 7
- Series 86
- Series 22
- +7 subjects
Education & Certification
- University of Missouri-St Louis - Bachelor in Business Administration, Business Administration and Management
Subject Expertise
- Series 65
- Series 57
- Series 66
- CFP
- +24 subjects

James: Pittsburgh Series 65 course instructor
...to make better business decisions. As a result, I believe Algebra is essential to long-term mathematics learning, knowledge, and personal success. Therefore, while I am available to assist in many subject areas, my tutoring focus is on helping any age student excel at Algebra and the fundamentals of mathematics. I like to think of myself as a golfer even though I don't get to play very often. I am an avid sports fan, particularly for...
Education & Certification
- Cornell University - Bachelor of Science, Operations Research
- Cornell University - Masters in Business Administration, Accounting and Finance
Subject Expertise
- Series 65
- Personal Finance
- College Business
- Intermediate Algebra
- +28 subjects

Jorge: Pittsburgh Series 65 course instructor
...the world of Finance and have enjoyed a rewarding career of over 20 years. Along the way, I have earned my Certificate in Financial Planning from Bryant University. Preparing for a certification exam can be a daunting and stressful experience. I strive to help my students isolate their strengths and weaknesses, then help them construct a plan to approach the material in a disciplined and structured manner. By doing so, they gain confidence and focus...
Education & Certification
- Long Island University-C W Post Campus - Bachelor in Arts, English
Subject Expertise
- Series 65
- Insurance License
- Series 7
- Series 31
- +38 subjects