Varsity Tutors can help you prepare for the SIE Exam with an in-depth SIE course. Signing up for an SIE class could help you improve the quality of your test preparation process. You can easily sign up for SIE courses by getting in touch with us today. Or, continue reading to get more information on how private SIE classes can help you get more out of your study sessions.
At Varsity Tutors, we have established ourselves as a market leader by referring students to SIE prep courses that may be adapted to their needs. Other providers might offer SIE classes, but you are stuck with a set curriculum and zero flexibility to concentrate on your unique needs. We earnestly believe that you won't regret booking an SIE course through us!
Can An SIE Prep Course Near Me Help Me Understand The Purpose Of The Test?
The Securities Industry Essentials Examination, or SIE Exam, is a test administered by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) that is typically taken by individuals who are interested in working in the securities industry. It is an entry-level exam, and the only requirement to sit for it is that you must be at least 18 years of age.
However, passing the SIE Exam alone will not qualify you for any financial position. For that, you need to pass an additional FINRA qualification exam centered around the unique responsibilities of the position you are seeking, such as the Series 7 (General Securities Representative Qualification Exam). The SIE Exam is a prerequisite for the Series 7 though, so prospective financial professionals may want to invest in an SIE Exam prep course and try to accelerate their career trajectory. In fact, many students take the SIE Exam to demonstrate their commitment to potential employers.
To perform well on this test, you'll need to understand the fundamental aspects of the job of a securities professional. Some of the things you'll need to know include regulatory agencies and their functions, types of securities and their risks, and prohibited practices, among other things. An SIE prep course can help you gain a better understanding of these topics and more.
Can I Review The Formatting Of The Test During SIE Exam Prep Courses Near Me?
One of the first topics discussed in most SIE Exam prep classes is the structure of the test. Below, you'll find more information on the format of the SIE Exam:
Question Format |
# Questions |
Time Allowed |
Passing Score |
Multiple-Choice |
75 |
1 Hour and 45 Minutes |
70% |
Note that the SIE Exam actually contains 85 multiple-choice questions, 10 of which are unscored. The unscored items are not labelled in any way, so you should treat the exam as if you need to answer 85 questions within the time allotted. There is no penalty for guessing on the SIE Exam, so you should try to answer every question.
If you're concerned about your ability to complete the test on time, you can go over time management strategies during your SIE Exam course. For example, many students take practice exams during SIE Exam classes to gain firsthand knowledge of how much time they will have on test day. Likewise, completing practice tests can help you learn what the directions are so you don't actually need to read them on test day. Hey, every little bit counts!
Some test-takers also fall into the trap of using the resources available to them too often. You will be provided with a basic four-function calculator and a dry-erase board to help you work out math problems, but you'll probably find that you don't have enough time to double-check every answer. Your tutor can demonstrate when and how to make the most of these resources during your SIE Exam class to help you manage your time effectively.
Likewise, taking practice exams can help you get more comfortable working with the testing environment. If you haven't taken a computer-based exam before, gaining some experience can only help. Chances are you haven't taken a digital test in a testing lab before either. You aren't allowed to take any reference materials with you into the testing center, so you can't count on any last-minute prep time they way you may have in high school or college. Instead, all of your test prep has to happen prior to your testing date.
Similarly, you may review test-taking strategies during your SIE Exam class to prevent yourself from wasting too much time on a particular question. Every question on the exam is multiple-choice, so you might be able to eliminate some of the incorrect responses even if you don't know the right answer. After that, you should probably take a guess and move on to make sure that you have an opportunity to answer every question. Who knows - another question on the exam might contain information that helps you with the item that stumped you!
How Can SIE Exam Courses Near Me Improve My Study Efficiency?
When you sign up to take an SIE prep class, you'll start working with an expert on the material you need to study for your upcoming test. SIE prep courses take place in a one-on-one learning environment where your needs always remain the top priority. Your instructor can set you up with a customized learning plan that is based specifically on your unique academic strengths and areas of opportunity. This can save you the hassle of having to spend time on material that you already understand. In this way, SIE prep classes are one of the most efficient test preparation supplements that you'll find.
Here's some more detailed information on the content of the SIE Exam:
SIE Section |
# Questions |
Percentage of Exam |
Knowledge of Capital Markets |
12 |
16 |
Understanding Products and Their Risks |
33 |
44 |
Understanding Trading, Customer Accounts and Prohibited Activities |
23 |
31 |
Overview of Regulatory Framework |
7 |
9 |
Your SIE Exam prep course can spend as much or as little time on each of these sections as you want it to. For instance, the first section above covers topics such as SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission) regulations, the role of Self-Regulatory Organizations (SROs), and the role of various market participants. Most of these topics require rote memorization, so your instructor may help you come up with a mnemonic device during your SIE Exam class to remember anything you are having a hard time with.
Alternatively, your instructor could give you a chart that allows you to study all of the pertinent SEC regulations at a glance, or make you flashcards highlighting the role played by different market participants. The important thing is that you study the material you need to study in a manner that works for you.
Similarly, the SIE Exam's second section demands a strong knowledge of how common investment products work. Some of the topics you might review include equity securities, debt instruments, options, annuities, and bonds. You are expected to be able to quantify how these investment types work, so there could be a little bit of math involved. You can review the requisite quantitative skills during your SIE Exam course if you feel that you could benefit from a refresher.
This section also requires you to understand how circumstances can affect an investment product. For example, 529 Plans and ABLE accounts both qualify as "mutual funds," but they do not operate in the same manner. If you grasp the basics but have a harder time with the nuances of the financial sector, you can spend some of your SIE Exam class time to develop a deeper understanding of the difference.
The third section of the SIE Exam is a grab bag of topics ranging from FINRA regulations and the consequences of insider trading to different investment strategies and the type of returns provided by different asset classes. The hardest part about it is probably that you have little if any prior experience working with this type of material, making it feel as though you're studying a foreign language. It's generally not taught at the undergraduate level, and high schools rarely delve into anything financial in nature. The best way to combat this is to be willing to ask questions during your SIE Exam prep class, as nothing good will come of waiting until a minor misunderstanding spirals out of control.
The test's third section also deals with how financial professionals are expected to deal with customers and potential customers. For example, your investment recommendations need to make sense for the client, not you. If you cannot explain why a given product works for a particular customer, you may need to select a more suitable option to meet their needs.
Finally, the fourth section of the SIE Exam covers additional FINRA regulations, limitations on non-cash compensation earned by financial professionals, and how a personal bankruptcy could affect the professional life of somebody in the finance industry. If you have a problem with any of the questions in this section, you can review them during your SIE Exam class even though it isn't as heavily weighted as the others.
Paperwork is also a topic on the final section of the SIE. If you don't know the difference between Form U4 and Form U5, you can talk over it during an SIE class. In fact, your tutor may be able to provide samples of each so that you can compare them directly!
Another advantage of studying in an SIE Exam prep class is the ability to receive individualized attention. Any questions you have can be answered promptly, as you are the only pupil your tutor is responsible for during your study sessions. In fact, many past students say that they found it easier to ask their tutor for help thanks to the personal rapport established over multiple SIE Exam courses!
All of your work can also receive immediate feedback, allowing you to go back and correct any errors before you forget what you were thinking at the time.
Your SIE course can also help you develop your general test-taking skills. For instance, if you've previously dealt with test anxiety, your instructor can show you techniques you can use to promote relaxation while taking important exams like the SIE.
Your tutor may even be able to take the time to get to know you as a person. Your SIE Exam course can be adapted to whether you are a visual or auditory learner. Likewise, your tutor may look for ways to incorporate your outside interests into your test prep to make your SIE prep classes more engaging. After all, students get more out of test prep when they are actively engaged in what they are doing!
Why Should I Choose Varsity Tutors For My SIE Class Near Me
We offer a proprietary Live Learning Platform that allows all of our SIE prep courses to take place online, delivering the benefits of face-to-face instruction without the annoying logistics of trying to arrange an in-person study session. It includes powerful features such as video chat functionality and a virtual whiteboard to make it seem as though you are in the same room as your tutor even if you are miles apart!
We also try to match every student who chooses us with an expert instructor who can best accommodate your scheduling needs. At Varsity Tutors, we believe that no student should need to give up their job, hobbies, or other activities just for SIE test prep!
If you'd like to become a professional in the securities industry, then taking and passing the SIE is one of the first things you should do. Doing well on this exam can signify to employers and clients how qualified you are to help them make investment decisions. Of course, passing the SIE Exam may be easier said than done. That's why a strong test preparation process is vital if you've decided to take this test. Varsity Tutors can help you build a better study plan with an in-depth SIE course. If you think you would benefit from this style of test preparation assistance, then get in touch with us today! We can get you started quickly with a learning option that fits your specific set of needs.

John: Bridgeport SIE course instructor
...Information Systems Auditor (CISA), and New York Broker Dealer Certifications (Series 7 and Series 63), I bring a wealth of expertise and experience to the table. My journey in the corporate sector has equipped me with invaluable insights into the intricacies of finance and business management. However, it's my passion for education and mentorship that truly drives me. With four years of dedicated teaching experience, I have honed my ability to effectively convey complex concepts...
Education & Certification
- Cornell University - Master of Science, Finance
- CFA Institute - Associate in Science, Finance
Subject Expertise
- SIE
- CPC - Certified Professional Coder (medical billing)
- Series 51
- ARDMS - RDMS - Fetal Echocardiography (FE)
- +620 subjects

John: Bridgeport SIE course instructor
...have a BS in Computer Science and Economics from Yale and an MBA from NYU. I have my Series 7 and 57 and work as a proprietary trader on Wall Street. I'm passionate about financial markets, technology and economics. My philosophy towards education is one of efficiency. I believe that time management is the key to accomplishing your academic and professional goals. I'm here to help you not only learn but absorb the material into...
Education & Certification
- Yale University - Bachelor of Science, Computer Science
- New York University - Masters in Business Administration, Finance
Subject Expertise
- SIE
- Series 7 - General Securities Representative Exam (Stockbroker)
- Series 9
- Series 4
- +38 subjects

Michael: Bridgeport SIE course instructor
...commodities especially energy both paper and physical usage, pricing and use in a strategy either for profit or hedging. Also, technical and quantitative analysis such as understanding graphing and more advanced tools such as moving averages, stochastic and market profile. Also, I can impart a trader's mentality outlook, having been a trader in several asset classes. My areas of expertise are the energy complex, crude and heating oil, RBOB gasoline, natural gas in both physical...
Education & Certification
- Long Island University-C W Post Campus - Bachelor of Science, Finance
- CUNY Bernard M Baruch College - Master of Science, Finance
Subject Expertise
- SIE
- Series 7
- Series 44 - NYSE Arca Options Market Maker Exam
- Series 3
- +14 subjects

Eunpa: Bridgeport SIE course instructor
Business analyst with five years of tutoring and significant corporate strategy experience. Applied BA in math at top ten research university to financial modeling, ROI analyses, marketing, academic research, technology, and higher education.
Education & Certification
- University of Chicago - Bachelor in Arts, Mathematics
Subject Expertise
- SIE
- Series 7 - General Securities Representative Exam (Stockbroker)
- Series 7
- Calculus
- +43 subjects
Education & Certification
- University of Essex - Bachelor in Arts, Economics
Subject Expertise
- SIE
- Series 66
- Series 7 - General Securities Representative Exam (Stockbroker)
- Series 65
- +14 subjects

Ross: Bridgeport SIE course instructor
...love for finance. I have studied for the SIE and passed it and helped other people pass the SIE. I am most passionate about History. In my experience helping struggling students prepare for Standardized Tests, we always seem to have the most fun. I am a firm proponent of education, believing it to be absolutely necessary for an improved quality of life, and I try to impart this appreciation to all of my students. In...
Education & Certification
- University of New Haven - Bachelor in Arts, Political Science and Government
- Mercy College - Masters in Business Administration, Business Administration and Management
Subject Expertise
- SIE
- Series 79
- FINRA - Financial Industry Regulatory Authority
- Series 7
- +22 subjects

John: Bridgeport SIE course instructor
...a 26-year-old professional in the securities industry, I bring a fresh perspective along with a deep understanding of the SIE and Series 7 exams. Having recently earned my own licenses, I developed a proven strategy that helped me succeed, and I am now offering tutoring services to help others do the same. With a tailored approach that simplifies complex concepts and focuses on key areas of the exam, I am committed to guiding aspiring professionals...
Education & Certification
- Northeastern Illinois University - Bachelor of Science, Marketing
Subject Expertise
- SIE
- FINRA - Financial Industry Regulatory Authority
- Series 7 - General Securities Representative Exam (Stockbroker)
- Series 7
- +1 subjects

Joshuah: Bridgeport SIE course instructor
...hold a Bachelors of Science in Biology and Political Sciences; passed the SIE, Series 63, 65, and 7 on the first attempts, and have passed the Level I CFA exam. All of which are completely unimportant because it's not about me, it's about how I can help you (and I can)! Whether you know what you need to know, or are completely lost, I will make sure that we progress with content at a speed...
Education & Certification
- Excelsior College - Bachelor of Science, Biology, General
Subject Expertise
- SIE
- Series 86
- Series 66
- CFA
- +14 subjects

Ryan: Bridgeport SIE course instructor
...a CFA charterholder with extensive experience in trading, I specialize in helping students understand complex financial concepts and apply them in real-world scenarios. With a background in execution trading at top financial institutions, I bring a practical, hands-on approach to CFA and Series 7 tutoring. My teaching is rooted in my own academic success, having graduated Magna Cum Laude with a BBA in Corporate Finance & Alternative Investments from University of Massachusetts-Amherst. I'm passionate about...
Education & Certification
- University of Massachusetts Amherst - Bachelor of Science, Finance
Subject Expertise
- SIE
- CFA
- Series 3
- Series 7
- +6 subjects

Danny: Bridgeport SIE course instructor
...office. I am happy to share my knowledge and experiences with you and help you achieve your goals. I have been a sales leader in the financial services industry for over 25 years and I retired a senior NCO in the Army Reserve serving for 23 years. I've had the pleasure of mentoring training and leading sales people and soldiers most of my adult life and coaching and developing has been my passion. I have...
Education & Certification
- Pace University-New York - Bachelor of Science, Marketing
Subject Expertise
- SIE
- Series 65
- Series 9
- Series 66
- +11 subjects

Heath: Bridgeport SIE course instructor
...A&M Writing team, to coaching associates at my day job through Series 7, 63 and SIE exams. I have obtained a Bachelor of Science Degree from Texas A&M University, majoring in Economics. After graduation I complete my FINRA Series 7,63, 9, 10 and SIE certifications. I have also completed the Certified Financial Planner coursework. I tutor the FINRA Series exams mentioned above, personal finance and writing. My teaching philosophy is that anyone can achieve great...
Education & Certification
- Texas A & M University-College Station - Bachelor of Science, Economics
Subject Expertise
- SIE
- Series 7
- Series 9
- Series 10
- +22 subjects

Victoria: Bridgeport SIE course instructor
...financial literacy and have previously taught financial literacy classes to high school students. While I tutor a broad range of subjects, I am most passionate about business, economics, leadership, personal finance, and securities licensing. In my experience helping students prepare for complex exams, we always seem to have the most success when we have discovered the student's learning style and thought-process. I believe learning should be an engaging, inspiring activity where the student can envision...
Education & Certification
- University of South Alabama - Bachelor of Science, Biology, General
- Florida Atlantic University - Masters in Business Administration, Business Administration and Management
Subject Expertise
- SIE
- Series 7 - General Securities Representative Exam (Stockbroker)
- Series 26
- Series 66
- +35 subjects

Ryan : Bridgeport SIE course instructor
Hi, I am a writer of fiction and non-fiction. I worked as an award-winning journalist in Montana and Wisconsin and have been writing in some form for about 20 years. I am currently studying for FINRA's Series 7 exam.
Education & Certification
- The University of Montana - Bachelor in Arts, Journalism
Subject Expertise
- SIE
- FINRA - Financial Industry Regulatory Authority
- Elementary School Writing
- Essay Editing
- +12 subjects

John: Bridgeport SIE course instructor
...experience, I specialize in Series 65, SIE, 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...
Education & Certification
- Pace University-New York - Bachelor in Business Administration, Accounting and Finance
Subject Expertise
- SIE
- Series 65
- CFA
- AACN - American Association of Colleges of Nursing
- +17 subjects

Angelo: Bridgeport SIE course instructor
I love helping students in topics related to math, to finance (public and private equity) and to engineering. I believe that if I can't explain concept, then I don't understand it. By that same token, if a student can't explain a concept back to me, then they don't understand it even if they say they do. I believe in getting to know all students, as their background is intricately connected with how they learn.
Education & Certification
- University of Florida - Master of Science, Electrical Engineering
- University of Pennsylvania - Masters in Business Administration, Business Administration and Management
- university of chicago - Master's/Graduate, ma
Subject Expertise
- SIE
- MPJE - Louisiana
- CDR - Commission on Dietetic Registration
- Series 6
- +325 subjects

Scot: Bridgeport SIE course instructor
...am a graduate of Penn State University. I received my degree in Marketing in 2010 and became a licensed financial advisor in June of 2011. In February of 2017, I co-founded my financial planning firm, Providers & Families Wealth Management, with my wife, Lindsey; and in December of that year, I became a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER. The most influential teachers in my life provided an engaging and entertaining learning experience, and I strongly believe that...
Education & Certification
- Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus - Bachelor of Science, Marketing
Subject Expertise
- SIE
- Series 9
- Series 6
- CFP
- +12 subjects

Hal: Bridgeport SIE course instructor
...person and each person, who has the interest, will benefit from the best possible learning situation that can be provided and consequently contribute to the whole of society. No one method applies to all. It is my goal to focus on the individual, adapt my methods to their needs, and inspire them to succeed. I enjoyed a nearly thirty-year career in financial services where I worked as a financial planner, wire-house broker (stockbroker), trust advisor,...
Education & Certification
- Frostburg State University - Bachelor of Science, Accounting and Business Management
- Frostburg State University - Master of Science, Management Science
Subject Expertise
- SIE
- Series 7 - General Securities Representative Exam (Stockbroker)
- Series 24
- Insurance License
- +171 subjects

Daniel: Bridgeport SIE course instructor
I am a CPA with a background in teaching and tutoring. I can work with you on most finance, business, and accounting subjects. I help simplify the material and highlight the core lessons. I've been told it's very effective and helpful!
Education & Certification
- Malone University - Bachelor in Arts, Organizational Leadership
- Baldwin-Wallace College - Masters in Business Administration, Accounting
Subject Expertise
- SIE
- Series 7
- CMA - Certified Management Accountant
- Series 6
- +25 subjects

Sang-Hoon: Bridgeport SIE course instructor
I graduated from Columbia College in Columbia University in 1996 with a degree in Economics. I look forward to teaching students and learners and have a positive influence in your education and experience. I have a track record of increasing scores in SSAT to SAT and also achieve passing grades in college courses. I am copyrighting my tutoring method that prepares students that are cramming for standardized exams.
Education & Certification
- Columbia University in the City of New York - Bachelor of Science, Economics
Subject Expertise
- SIE
- PRAXIS
- Exam FM - Financial Mathematics
- Series 5 - Interest Rate Options Exams
- +103 subjects
Education & Certification
- University of Missouri-St Louis - Bachelor in Business Administration, Business Administration and Management
Subject Expertise
- SIE
- Series 79
- CPA
- Series 7
- +24 subjects