In the world of finance, achieving professional qualifications is a significant step toward advancing your career. One such milestone is the Series 7 exam—a vital credential for aspiring General Securities Representatives. Whether you're new to the securities industry or looking to expand your expertise, understanding the Series 7 is crucial.
What Is the Series 7 Exam?
The Series 7, officially known as the General Securities Representative Qualification Examination (GS), evaluates the competency of entry-level professionals in the securities industry. Administered by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA), this exam ensures candidates possess the knowledge to sell and advise on a wide range of securities, including:
- Corporate securities
- Municipal securities
- Investment company products
- Variable annuities
- Options
- Government securities
- Direct participation programs
Candidates must pass the Securities Industry Essentials (SIE) exam alongside the Series 7 to earn the General Securities Representative registration.
Exam Format and Content
The Series 7 is rigorous, and designed to assess a broad skill set. Here's what to expect:
- Questions: 125 scored multiple-choice questions
- Duration: 3 hours and 45 minutes
- Coverage Areas:some text
- Solicitation and sale of securities
- Customer account management
- Understanding investment products and their risks
To prepare, refer to FINRA's comprehensive Series 7 Content Outline, which categorizes the exam into four major job functions.
.png)
Eligibility and Requirements
To sit for the Series 7 exam, candidates must meet specific requirements:
- Sponsorship: You need to be associated with a FINRA member firm or an applicable self-regulatory organization.
- SIE Exam: Passing the SIE is a prerequisite for the Series 7.
- FINRA Rules: Compliance with FINRA Rule 1210 and Rule 1220(b)(2) is mandatory.
Unlocking Your Career Potential
Passing the Series 7 opens doors to diverse financial activities, such as:
- Public offerings and private placements
- Selling rights, warrants, and hedge funds
- Managing REITs, ETFs, and UITs
- Participating in venture capital and municipal securities transactions
For investment banking and placement agent professionals, the Series 7 can provide a foundational step in establishing credibility and expertise in the securities field.
Why Choose Finalis for Exam Sponsorship?
At Finalis, we understand the challenges of pursuing licensure in the securities industry. As a FINRA-regulated broker-dealer, Finalis offers exam sponsorship to help you achieve your career goals. Here's how we support you:
- Cost Coverage: Our sponsorship covers the cost of your testing fees and submits your personal information to FINRA's Central Registration Depository (CRD), giving you a 120-day window to take your exam(s) without incurring additional fees.
- Ongoing Support: Once you're licensed, Finalis provides comprehensive supervision and resources to excel in your role.
It can be challenging to determine which exams are appropriate for your specific line of business. To help, we've provided a list of the most common FINRA qualification exams for those looking to establish and grow a career in M&A, investment banking, or becoming a placement agent.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Whether you’re uncertain about which FINRA exams to pursue or feel ready to start, Finalis is here to guide you. Contact us today to schedule a consultation. Let’s chart your path to becoming a securities professional.
Achieving the Series 7 is more than passing an exam—it's about unlocking opportunities in a dynamic and rewarding industry. Let Finalis be your partner in this journey, ensuring every step aligns with your career aspirations.
.jpg)
.png)
