What is the Series 7 exam?

The Series 7 qualifies entry-level representatives to perform core securities activities and covers a broad range of products and regulations. Official overview: https://www.finra.org/registration-exams-ce/qualification-exams/series7

Note: To be registered, candidates must pass both the SIE and the Series 7. https://www.finra.org/registration-exams-ce/qualification-exams/series7

Series 7 exam format (questions, time, passing score, cost)

According to FINRA’s Series 7 “at a glance” section:

• Questions: 125 multiple-choice

• Time limit: 3 hours 45 minutes

• Passing score: 72

• Exam fee: $395

Source: https://www.finra.org/registration-exams-ce/qualification-exams/series7

What’s on the Series 7?

FINRA organizes the exam into four job functions. The full official outline is here:
https://www.finra.org/sites/default/files/Series_7_Content_Outline.pdf

Using the outline as your checklist helps you avoid “random studying” and keeps your prep aligned with what FINRA tests.

How to study for the Series 7 (a practical 4-week plan)

This plan works best if you’re consistent—daily practice beats occasional marathon sessions.

Week 1: Build your base

• Read through the FINRA content outline once (quickly) to see the scope.

• Start learning fundamentals (products, accounts, customer rules, basic math concepts).

• Do short quizzes after each topic to lock in retention.

Week 2: Increase question volume

• Begin mixed-topic sets so you learn to switch gears like the real exam.

• Keep a “miss log” with:

  • what the question asked

  • why the wrong answer looked tempting

  • the rule/concept that makes the right answer correct

Week 3: Timed practice + weak-area fixes

• Add timed sets several days per week.

• Re-teach yourself the topics you miss most (don’t just re-take questions).

Week 4: Full simulations + polish

• Take full-length practice exams under realistic conditions.

• Review every miss and map it back to the FINRA outline topic.

• Focus on test-day execution: pacing, avoiding careless errors, and reading carefully.

Common mistakes that lower scores

• Memorizing without understanding: the Series 7 rewards applying concepts to scenarios.

• Avoiding weak areas: your score improves fastest where you’re currently missing points.

• Not practicing timed: timing pressure changes how you read and choose answers.

Official FINRA resources (start here)

• Series 7 exam overview: https://www.finra.org/registration-exams-ce/qualification-exams/series7

• Series 7 Content Outline (PDF): https://www.finra.org/sites/default/files/Series_7_Content_Outline.pdf

Series 7 course and tutoring

If you want a structured plan and faster improvement, we offer:

• Series 7 Course: https://exambootcamp.com/courses/

• 1 on 1 Tutoring: https://exambootcamp.com/private-session/

Our approach focuses on:

• covering the tested topics systematically

• high-quality practice questions and review routines

• targeted coaching to fix recurring misses (especially in math-heavy and scenario-based questions)

Series 7 FAQs

Do you need sponsorship to take the Series 7?

Yes—FINRA indicates candidates must be associated with and sponsored by a FINRA member firm or other applicable SRO member firm.
https://www.finra.org/registration-exams-ce/qualification-exams/series7

How long is the Series 7 exam?

FINRA lists the time limit as 3 hours 45 minutes.
https://www.finra.org/registration-exams-ce/qualification-exams/series7

What score do you need to pass the Series 7?

FINRA lists the passing score as 72.
https://www.finra.org/registration-exams-ce/qualification-exams/series7

How many questions are on the Series 7?

FINRA lists 125 multiple-choice questions.
https://www.finra.org/registration-exams-ce/qualification-exams/series7