How do you pass one of the most challenging licensing exams in finance, the Series 10, on your first attempt? That’s the question I set out to answer by personally testing and reviewing the top Series 10 test prep courses on the market.
This isn’t a basic test. The Series 10 is a high-stakes licensing exam required for supervisors at FINRA member firms, focusing on securities, principal rules, mutual funds, variable annuities, and firm compliance. Only about 70% of students pass on their first attempt.
I evaluated each Series 10 training resource for content quality, practice questions, exam readiness, and instructor support. I found: what works, what’s fluff, and which prep course fits your study style best.
Which Series 10 Course Is Right for You?
Pick SIA if you want a streamlined dashboard, unlimited quizzes, and strong tools for self-paced learners.
Choose STC for structured study plans, instructor access, and live support.
Kaplan is your choice for comprehensive materials and live class options.
| Series 10 Prep Course Comparison | ||
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Securities Institute of America — Best Overall
Securities Institute of America’s Series 10 course is designed for flexible, focused self-study. I really like how the program guides you step by step through each exam topic, starting with a clear textbook and paired with newsroom-quality video lectures for every chapter. The built-in ExamPlan calendar helps you set your schedule and track assignments so you stay on pace.
Available packages include the Complete Self-Study Solution, the Video Class Package, and the Textbook + Test Bank option. If you want structure and independence, SIA is a top choice.
What’s Included?
- On-demand video lessons
- Unlimited practice questions
- Physical & digital books
- Greenlight money-back guarantee
- Adaptive study plan/calendar
- Chapter Exams & Final Review
- Mobile Access
Courses Offered
Series 10 All-Inclusive Study Suite ($$$): Combines the textbook and full video library, plus perks like SIA’s AI-powered review assistant to sharpen your prep.
Series 10 Text & Practice Bundle ($$): Skip the extras and focus on the essentials — the study text and interactive exam prep tools — at a lower cost.
Series 10 Video-Only Plan ($): Designed for visual learners, this package delivers the entire video course without the added reading materials.
Course Discount
No Discounts on SIA when you enroll through the partner link. This offer applies to all Series 10 packages, including the Complete Self-Study Solution.
Pros
- Customizable Quizzes: I liked being able to build unlimited sets that targeted weak areas or mimicked complete exams
- Video Lectures: Studio-quality videos for each chapter made the material easier to absorb during my review
- Textbook Access: You get both a physical book and instant online access, which gives students more flexibility
- Greenlight Guarantee: There’s a pass guarantee if you clear the Greenlight Exam but still fail the real thing
- Study Calendar: The adaptive planner sends daily reminders and helps with the schedule’s structure without feeling rigid
Cons
- No live instructor office hours: There is no way to connect with an instructor for real-time support
Bottom Line
SIA is ideal for independent, self-motivated Series 10 candidates who want flexible tools, unlimited quizzes, and a comprehensive study dashboard. In my review, I found the ability to build custom quizzes and follow a structured plan at my own pace made it easy to stay focused. However, the lack of live instructor access could be limiting if you need hands-on support or frequent clarification. SIA excels for students who prefer to manage their own preparation and drill practice questions, but it may not be suitable for those who require interactive guidance.
1. Securities Institute of America
Securities Training Corporation — Best for Instructor Support
Securities Training Corporation (STC) offers a Series 10 prep program that stands out for its instructor support and responsive help. When I submitted a question, I received a detailed reply from an expert within hours, making it ideal if you want guidance as you study.
The platform combines digital study manuals, on-demand and live video classes, and a well-structured study calendar to keep you organized. STC’s support options and structured approach help you feel prepared and never alone in your prep. They currently offer packages that include Standard, Premier, and Premier Plus.
What You’ll Get
- Instructor hotline
- Live/on-demand classes
- Crunch Time guide
- Printed/digital manual
- Diagnostic & Greenlight exams
- Structured calendar
Courses Offered
Series 10 Premier Plus Bundle ($$$): Everything in Premier and Standard, with the addition of live-streamed classes and on-demand class recordings.
Series 10 Premier Plan ($$): Upgrades the Standard package by adding advanced features like green light exams, on-demand lessons, and digital flashcards, all under the STC Pass Guarantee.
Series 10 Standard Plan ($): A straightforward option with core resources — manuals, practice tests, and hotline access to instructors.
Student Review: What real people think
“I’m thrilled to say that I passed the Series 10 on the first try!
Reddit User.
I used STC (what my firm bought. I’d rather the instructor lead videos, but I always feel their questions are too broad and don’t properly prepare you. I went back and watched the videos on my weak areas, and they really are helpful.”
Course Discount
Save 15% on STC for their Premier and Premier Plus Series 10 packages. A great value if you’re looking for live instruction and instructor support.
Pros
- Fast instructor support: Get detailed answers from experts within hours, which helped me when I needed extra support
- Live & recorded class options: You can join real-time classes or catch up with on-demand recordings
- Diagnostic and readiness tools: Crunch Time, diagnostics, and Greenlight exams that all benchmark your progress
- Study calendar: STCs’ study calendar helped keep my studies organized and manageable
Cons
- Overwhelming depth: If you want something light and simple, STC is a mismatch
- Pricier than others: Costs more than some competitors’ complete courses
Bottom Line
STC is a strong choice for Series 10 candidates who want hands-on support and structured lesson plans. As a reviewer, I appreciated how quickly instructors responded to questions, which is crucial when working through tough exam topics. However, students who want total flexibility or to drill custom quizzes may find STC’s tools somewhat limited compared to SIA.
2. Securities Training Corporation
Kaplan — Best for Premium Resources
Kaplan’s Series 10 prep stood out to me for its thorough mix of printed materials, structured pacing, and live class access. I liked how organized the dashboard felt and found the checkpoint quizzes especially useful for breaking up the heavier topics. The physical textbook paired well with the video content, and the study calendar helped me stick to a clear plan without getting overwhelmed.
They offer packages such as Basic, Essentials, and Premium, each adding more practice tools and instructor access as you move up.
What You’ll Get
- Live/on-demand classes
- Printed & digital books
- Greenlight & checkpoint exams
- Custom quizzes
- Study plan/calendar
- Structured study calendar and pacing tools
- Mobile app with offline access to quizzes and videos
Courses Offered
Series 10 Premium Program – Live or On-Demand ($$$): The most complete option, featuring live online instruction, detailed class notes, and the InstructorLink™ support system.
Series 10 Essential Program ($$): Builds on the Basic plan with additional video lessons and practice exams at the start and end of each chapter.
Series 10 Basic Program ($): Stripped down to the necessities — question bank, License Exam Manual, structured study plan, and progress tracking tools.
Course Discount
on Kaplan when signing up for the Series 10 Essentials or Premium packages. Ideal if you want access to printed materials and live classes.
Real People: Real Reviews
One reviewer said, “I passed the series 10 today with Kaplan, and it was the most difficult test I’ve taken. I would recommend.d Kaplan.“
Reddit User
Another Reddit User stated, “Yes, I passed with Kaplan. Follow the study schedule and read the book.”
Pros
- Printed and Digital Materials: You get a comprehensive printed textbook and a matching ebook, which covers every Series 10 topic, which I feel makes review easier
- Live and Recorded Classes: Kaplan’s live class calendar is packed with options, while recordings help you catch up if you miss a session
- Robust Study Planner: The dashboard and daily calendar helped keep me accountable, even during a packed workweek, and it was easy to see what to focus on each day
Cons
- Most Expensive Option: Kaplan’s packages cost more than others, so it’s not the best fit for tight budgets
- Not Very Tech-Adaptive: The dashboard is solid, but lacks some adaptive tools or custom quiz options
- Can be More Overwhelming for Digital-Only Learners: With so many resources and options, it’s easy to get lost if you just want a simple online-only study path
Bottom Line
Kaplan is the best fit for learners who want a full range of resources, including live classes, print and digital study materials, and a detailed prep calendar. The structure is excellent, and the content is reliable, but it comes at a premium price. In my experience, Kaplan is good for those who value traditional classroom-style learning, but those comfortable with digital-first tools might find SIA more user-friendly and streamlined.
3. Kaplan
ExamFX – Best for Bonus Tools
If you want more tools than you need to mix things up during your study sessions, ExamFX is the solution. With a wide number of practice options, key topic summaries, digital flashcards, and a glossary with acronyms, there are plenty of ways to re-engage your focus.
In particular, I really enjoyed having so many options for exams, like quizzes, customizable question sets, a custom exam generator, a benchmark final, and four full-length finals. However, I didn’t love the price, which was a little higher than I expected. Nevertheless, ExamFX is a safe option for most students to pass the Series 10 Exam.
What You’ll Get:
- Study calendar
- On-demand video content
- Digital and physical textbooks
- Exams by section and chapter
- Four final mock exams
- Unlimited custom exams
- Digital flashcards
- Phone and online support
Courses Offered
Comprehensive Online Course ($$): Includes everything from the Textbook Package, plus video lessons, a digital textbook, flashcards, expanded practice tests, and extra support options.
Textbook-Only Package ($): Tailored for those who prefer to study from a physical book, this option also includes custom exams, phone-based assistance, and several bonus study aids.
Course Discount
Save 20% on ExamFX’s variety of study tools, catering to a diverse number of learning styles and study strategies.
Save Up to 20% on ExamFX Securities Review Courses
Pros
- Unlimited custom exams: ExamFX’s custom exam generator means nonstop practice
- Digital and physical: Get your reference guides in your preferred format
- Bonus tools: Grab extra resources to further boost your prep
Cons
- High price: It is on the higher end of the pricing spectrum
- No pass guarantee: Even with the higher price tag, ExamFX doesn’t include a guarantee
- No live instruction: The Series 10 prep course is on-demand only
What Real People Think
One Trustpilot reviewer said, “I passed my Series 66 in 4 weeks with this material. I also passed my state insurance exams. It was easy to navigate and the information was current.”
Bottom Line
ExamFX is a good fit for students who struggle to pay attention during class, IRL, or otherwise. With so many bonus tools and custom exam options to choose from, if you get bored using one resource, you can easily move to the next. While the price is a little higher than I’d like to see, they still are more affordable than some of STC’s and Kaplan’s courses, and ExamFX has a lot of value for the right student.
4. ExamFX
Knopman Marks – Best for Personalized Group Learning
Knopman Marks is best for candidates seeking a group or instructor-led Series 10 experience. As I reviewed the course, it felt more like a virtual classroom than a pure self-study option. You’ll start with an onboarding call and get a personalized study plan.
Printed and digital books, a video lecture library, and a mobile app with offline access provide numerous ways to learn. Regular faculty check-ins help you stay motivated, and benchmark diagnostic exams track your readiness along the way.
📌 What You’ll Get:
- Onboarding call
- Printed & digital books
- Video library
- Mobile app
- Strategy check-ins
- Benchmark exam
Courses Offered
Series 10 Complete Exam Prep ($$$): Knopman Marks keeps it simple with a single, top-tier package that delivers video lectures, a robust practice question set, and personal guidance from expert faculty.
Pros
- Regular faculty check-ins: I really like the ongoing instructor support, which helped keep me accountable
- Printed and digital materials: Access to both print and online resources for flexible study
- Comprehensive onboarding: Personalized study plan sets a clear path from day one
Cons
- Highest price among providers: Significantly more expensive than most Series 10 prep programs
- No money-back guarantee: No refund if you don’t pass after completing the course
- Fewer custom quizzes than SIA: Not as flexible for self-guided, targeted review
- Less intuitive for solo learners: The group format felt more structured, which could be a drawback if you prefer independence and flexibility in your study routine
What do real students think of Knopman Marks?
Many students appreciate the structure and support Knopman Marks offers, especially compared to more practice-heavy platforms.
One Reddit User stated, “Knopman marks are solid and better than PP for the SIE. Just make sure you UNDERSTAND everything.”
Bottom Line
Knopman Marks stands out if you want ongoing expert instructors’ feedback, a classroom feel, and accountability through regular check-ins. I also liked the onboarding call; it gave the course a personalized, guided start that set the tone for the rest of the prep. However, the high cost, lack of custom quiz tools, and no pass guarantee may be dealbreakers for some. In my hands-on review, SIA is stronger for those who want a flexible, modern, self-paced prep.
5. Knopman Marks
Pass Perfect – Best for Heavy Question Practice
Pass Perfect’s Series 10 course is built for candidates who learn best by doing. The platform focuses on drilling exam-style questions and simulating real test conditions. Pass Perfect offers packages with a digital eBook, test bank, and optional live virtual review sessions.
I found the practice tests challenging but helpful for improving how I interpreted complex formats. Most of the prep is digital and repetition-heavy, with the option to add a live virtual review if you want extra structure.
What You’ll Get
- Digital eBook study manual
- Large test bank with hundreds of Series 10-style questions
- Simulated final exams and timed chapter quizzes
- Live virtual review sessions (available in premium package)
- Score tracking and detailed performance review tools
- Realistic practice aligned with FINRA’s 145-question, 4-hour exam format
Pros
- Extensive Practice Bank: Various realistic questions that build exam endurance and sharpen interpretation
- Live Virtual Review Available: Helpful if you need extra guidance before test day
Cons
- No Print Textbook: All materials are digital-only
- Limited Customization: Can’t create targeted quizzes for specific weak areas
- No Instructor Access (Unless Upgraded): One-on-one help is locked behind the premium tier
- No Money-Back Guarantee: No refund or pass assurance if you fail
- Higher Cost: Less budget-friendly compared to other digital-first programs
Bottom Line
Pass Perfect is ideal for independent learners who want rigorous, exam-like practice and a focused test simulation experience. It’s a strong pick for second-time test takers or those who already understand the content and need to sharpen their performance. But for first-time candidates, SIA or Kaplan may offer a more complete prep system with better flexibility and support.
6. Pass Perfect
Supportive Add-Ons
These didn’t quite make the top-tier list, but they’re still worth considering for the right type of learner or as supplemental study options.
- Mometrix
- Varsity tutors (does not offer series 10 test prep, but great for tutoring)
How the Courses Were Ranked
These rankings reflect my hands-on testing with each Series 10 prep provider. I focused on practical study tools, ease of use, and overall prep experience.
- Course Content Quality:
I looked for material that directly aligns with the Series 10 exam. SIA’s printed and digital books were well-structured, while Kaplan’s detailed explanations covered harder topics effectively. - Effectiveness:
Features like diagnostic tests and Greenlight Exams helped show when I was ready. STC stood out with clear progress markers, and SIA’s adaptive planner helped me stay focused. - User Experience:
A simple dashboard makes a big difference. SIA was clean and easy to navigate. Kaplan felt heavier but thorough, while STC offered a more structured interface. - Practice Questions & Exams:
SIA’s unlimited custom quizzes helped me target weak areas quickly. PassPerfect had the most realistic full-length exams for building test stamina. - Instructor Engagement:
STC was the best here. Their hotline gave me fast help when I needed it. Kaplan includes instructor support, but only in the Premium tier. - Value for Money:
SIA is strong if you want quality study tools without paying extra for live classes. STC gives you support and structure that’s worth the price. Kaplan includes more content, but it costs more. - Flexibility:
SIA and Kaplan offer more freedom for self-paced learners. STC is better if you want set schedules. Knopman Marks feels more hands-on, but it isn’t ideal for students who want to move at their own pace.
How to Choose the Best Series 10 Prep Course for You
- Learning Style:
SIA is ideal if you prefer independent study with full control over pacing. STC works better for students who want structure and support. Kaplan offers both live and self-paced options for more flexibility. - Course Format:
SIA delivers on-demand video content with a simple dashboard. STC includes both live and recorded classes. Kaplan combines printed textbooks, on-demand lessons, and scheduled class formats. - Practice Tools:
SIA’s unlimited custom quizzes let you target weak areas quickly. Pass Perfect gives you tough exam simulations to sharpen timing and accuracy before test day. - Instructor Support:
STC is the strongest here with fast access to real instructors. Kaplan includes support in its higher tiers. SIA is best if you’re comfortable studying without live guidance. - Budget and Value:
SIA gives you strong tools at a lower price if you don’t need live classes. Kaplan includes more materials but costs more. STC balances support and content, if you’re willing to pay for it. - Scheduling and Access:
SIA’s adaptive calendar helped me stay consistent without stress. Kaplan’s planner is more detailed and structured. STC’s schedule follows its class pacing for a more guided experience.
Series 10 Head-to-Head Comparisons
SIA vs STC
SIA is best if you want a self-paced program with unlimited custom quizzes, a clean dashboard, and an adaptive study calendar that adjusts to your schedule. I found the Greenlight Exam particularly helpful for knowing when I was actually ready to move forward.
STC, on the other hand, is the better choice if you want structured guidance. The live and recorded classes, instructor hotline, and Crunch Time guide make it easier to stay on track and get support when you need it. It’s a more hands-on approach with a classroom feel.
Bottom line: SIA is the best match for independent learners. STC is ideal if you want structure, support, and live access to instructors.
SIA vs Knopman Marks
SIA offers a flexible, no-frills dashboard that lets you build your own quizzes and follow a personalized study calendar. I liked how easy it was to track progress and drill weak areas without waiting for instructor feedback. It’s a great fit for students who are self-motivated and want to prep on their own terms.
Knopman Marks is a better fit if you want structure and accountability. The onboarding call, weekly faculty check-ins, and benchmark testing give it a mentorship feel. I found the overall experience to be polished and supportive, though not as customizable.
Bottom line: SIA is best for self-paced learners. Knopman Marks is for those who want coaching and check-ins along the way.
STC vs Kaplan
STC stands out for its instructor access and live class calendar. I appreciated the personal support and how structured the entire program felt, especially during the final review using the Crunch Time guide. It’s a steady and supportive option for guided learners.
Kaplan gives you more flexibility and control. You can customize quizzes, attend live or on-demand classes, and use printed books alongside a structured calendar. I liked the checkpoint exams and Greenlight Exam for tracking progress across longer study timelines.
Bottom line: STC is better for structured, support-driven prep. Kaplan is a great option if you want traditional materials and more learning format choices.
SIA vs Kaplan
SIA offers a clear, distraction-free study experience with unlimited quizzes, printed and digital materials, and an adaptive calendar. I liked how efficient the dashboard felt and how easy it was to stay focused using the Greenlight Exam as a confidence check.
Kaplan is more feature-rich, with live classes, a customizable QBank, and a deep resource library. I found their study planner and print materials especially useful when managing long study sessions or reviewing complex topics.
Bottom line: SIA is ideal for efficient, independent prep. Kaplan is better for students who want a full classroom-style experience with all the extras.
Kaplan vs ExamFX
Kaplan goes hard, featuring study resources such as live virtual classes, a knee-deep question bank, and plenty of organizational materials to help students get on track and stay there. If surface-level study isn’t your thing, Kaplan’s the pick.
Meanwhile, ExamFX is no slouch, offering a plethora of unique practice question sets for specific purposes, unlimited customized exams, and unique offerings like a glossary and digital flashcards set. ExamFX is great if you don’t only want to read or watch videos; you like a good switch-up in your sessions.
Bottom line: Kaplan is better for deep, comprehensive coverage. However, ExamFX is the smarter choice if you struggle to stay focused.
Knopman Marks vs Pass Perfect
Knopman Marks excels in mentorship and guided structure. The onboarding call and regular check-ins created a sense of accountability, and the materials, both printed and digital, were well-organized and easy to follow.
Pass Perfect is for learners who want to prep through volume and practice. I found the exam simulations tough but useful, and the score tracking tools gave me a solid read on my readiness. There’s less support, but the question bank is decent.
Bottom line: Choose Knopman Marks for structure and check-ins. Pick Pass Perfect if you want a practice-heavy, exam-simulation approach.
Final Verdict: What’s the Best Series 10 Course?
After reviewing each course, I’d say Securities Institute of America is the best pick if you want full control over your study schedule, custom quizzes, and a clean, focused dashboard. Securities Training Corporation is a better fit if you need structured pacing, live support, and quick access to instructors. Kaplan is ideal for learners who prefer printed materials and a classroom-style setup with flexible class options. Finally, ExamFX is for my learners who can’t study one thing for too long.
The best Series 10 exam prep really comes down to your learning style, so start with the course that matches your needs and stick with your study plan.
You are closer to passing than you think.
FAQs
Most students spend 60–100 hours focusing on practice questions and daily review.
Yes. You must pass the SIE exam and be sponsored by a FINRA member firm.
Absolutely. Passing rates are about 70%. Quality courses offer key concepts, readiness tools, and instructor support.
Yes. You must pass the SIE, hold the Series 9, and be sponsored by a FINRA-member firm.
You can retake after a waiting period. Prep courses help you focus on areas that need improvement for a successful second attempt.
