Should I take the SIE Exam?

If you’re interested in a career as a financial advisor, investment banker or any other professional placement that involves selling securities, passing the Securities Industry Essentials (SIE) Exam isn’t simply  a great career move — it’s often a requirement. 

The SIE is the first of two exams required for many positions in the investment industry. As the only exam you may not take without sponsorship, it’s also a critical first step that can put you ahead of the competition in a crowded job market.

What can I do after the SIE Exam?

Once you’ve passed your SIE Exam, you’ll be able to take additional courses uniquely designed for specific tracks.

Common job titles include:

  • Stockbroker
  • Financial advisor
  • Investment analyst
  • Mutual fund manager
  • Investment banker

Salary of an SIE

By passing the SIE Exam, you’ve taken the first step on a lucrative career path. Many who have passed their securities exams hold jobs that pay well into six figures. Read more about SIE salary opportunities in our SIE salary guide.

Typical SIE career path

For many, the typical SIE career path will follow these steps:

  1. Find an SIE review course that fits with your personal learning style. This is crucial to ensuring your study sessions are efficient.
  2. Register for the SIE exam.
  3. Sit for — and pass — the SIE exam.
  4. Join a FINRA member firm, company or organization
  5. Register for a FINRA license exam
  6. Study for the FINRA license exam
  7. Pass the FINRA license exam

Ready to begin?

Surgent gives individuals studying for the SIE an upper hand in their preparation. Learn more about Surgent’s adaptive A.S.A.P.® Technology that measures what you know and what you need to know. Track your growth using our one-of-a-kind ReadySCORE™ Technology to know exactly when you are ready to sit for — and pass — the exam.