Struggling to pick the right Series 9 prep course?
Hey, I get it—choosing the wrong one can cost you time and, potentially, your passing score. The required passing score for the Series 9 exam is 70%, and most first-time passers utilize a structured exam preparation program.
After testing each provider firsthand and reviewing their dashboards, study plans, and simulated exams, I ranked the best Series 9 prep programs based on structure, pass rates, and support tools.
Whether you want adaptive quizzes, live classes, or just a streamlined way to pass on your first attempt, here are the top Series 9 courses.
Series 9 Course Comparison
| Provider |  |  |  |  |  |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price Range | $124.99–$189 | $248–$412 | $249 | $169–$339 | $160-$350 |
| Access Duration | 6 Months | 6 Months | 6 Months | 6 Months | 6 Months |
| Practice Tools | 750+ Questions, GreenLight Exams, Checkpoint Exams | Flashcards, Final Exams, Drills | Adaptive, AI-Driven Tools, Exam Reports | QBank, Readiness Indicator, Custom Quizzes | SpotCheck Quizzes, Practice Sets, Final Exams |
| Guarantee |  | | |  | |
| Live Classes | | | | | |
| Mobile-Friendly | | Desktop Best | | | |
| Discount Code | No Discounts | Save 15% | Save 10% | No Discounts | Save 20% |
| Get Started | Start Now | Start Now | Start Now | Start Now | Start Now |
Which Series 9 Prep Course Is Right for You?
- Want the most comprehensive, practice-driven prep with a pass guarantee?
→ Choose Securities Institute of America - Do you prefer live classes and direct instructor support?
→ Go with Securities Training Corporation - Want something affordable and adaptive?
→ Pick Achievable - Looking for customizable progress-tracking tools?
→ Pick Kaplan - Need a solid prep course on a budget?
→ Try ExamFX
Securities Institute of America – Best Overall Series 9 Prep
SIA’s interface stood out immediately for its no-fluff structure. It leads you from a comprehensive study manual to targeted quizzes and culminates in the GreenLight Exam, a smart, go/no-go checkpoint that simulates exam readiness.
The study manual is both detailed and digestible, and the digital version complements checkpoint quizzes and unlimited practice exams well. After reviewing the test bank, I noticed that the questions felt closer to actual Series 9 questions than those in any other course, especially in the options and supervisory modules.
Prep Packages
- Complete Self-Study Solution: Study guide (print & eBook), 4+ hours of video classes, test bank (750 questions), unlimited access for 6 months, Greenlight Guarantee
- Textbook and Exam Prep Software: Study guide (print), test bank (750 questions), unlimited access for 6 months, Greenlight Guarantee
- Complete Video Package: 4 hours of video instruction, test bank (750 questions), unlimited access for 6 months, Greenlight Guarantee
Course Features
- 750+ practice questions
- Full-length simulated exams
- GreenLight Exam (go/no-go readiness)
- 218+ page digital license exam manual
- Downloadable supplements & exam tips
- 6-month access
- Exam reports & structured study plan
Course Discount
No Discounts on SIA when you sign up for the Series 9 prep course and get access to focused exam materials, the GreenLight exam, and a refund policy if you don’t pass.
Pros
- Pass Guarantee: Study more confidently knowing you’re eligible for a 100% refund if you don’t pass the Series 9 exam.
- Exam-Aligned Questions: Practice exams and checkpoint quizzes closely follow the actual test structure, ensuring you review the right material.
- Efficient Layout: The dashboard makes it easy to view reports, identify areas for improvement, and track your progress without unnecessary clutter.
- Mobile-Friendly: You can study on the go using any mobile device, with fully accessible eBooks and quizzes that don’t require a desktop.
- Custom Quizzes: Quickly build focused practice sets based on specific Series 9 topics, like supervisory responsibilities and sales activities.
Cons
- No Live Classroom Sessions: The Securities Institute of America doesn’t include live classes, making them a poor fit for students who value that style of learning.
What Real People Have to Say
“I can’t say enough good things about the Securities Institute of America. Their study plan was incredibly well-structured, easy to follow, and packed with everything I needed to succeed… From the detailed explanations to the realistic practice questions, every part of the program felt purpose-built for success. The material didn’t just help me memorize, it helped me truly understand the concepts…”
Reddit User
Bottom Line
After spending time in SIA’s Series 9 dashboard, I noticed how logical and easy it is to move from reading the digital license exam manual to taking checkpoint exams or custom quizzes. The GreenLight Exam provides a confident checkpoint before your actual exam date and serves as a solid gauge of readiness. While it’s a self-paced program without live instruction, the layout is practical and the tools are efficient, ideal for learners who prefer to move independently through clearly structured, exam-focused material.
Securities Institute of America
Securities Training Corporation – Best for Live Class Support
STC’s Series 9 prep course is built around structure and accountability. From the moment I entered the dashboard, it was clear that the layout was designed for students who want a guided experience. Everything is organized by day, so there’s no second-guessing what to do next. The built-in calendar and progress tracking make it easy to stay on schedule.
The Crunch Time Facts feature was also worth noting. It’s a fast, focused review tool that pulls out the most testable concepts and presents them in a format that’s easy to scan and retain. Whether you prefer studying at your own pace with printed materials, reinforcing concepts through on-demand lectures, or engaging in a live classroom environment, STC offers a flexible, in-depth solution.
Prep Packages
- Standard: Instructor hotline, tech support, study manual (online and printed), chapter quizzes, Crunch Time Facts sheets, five full-length final exams
- Premier: Everything in Standard, four progress exams, two Green Light exams, over 6 hours of video lessons, customizable digital flashcard decks, STC Pass Guarantee
- Premier Plus: Everything in Premier and Standard, nearly 8 hours of live online classes, virtual class recordings
Course Features
- Live instructor hotline
- Interactive webinars
- Chat support
- Online manual
- Checkpoint exams & progress exams
- Crunch Time Facts sheets & exam tips
- Structured study plan and calendar
- 24/7 technical support
- Custom final exams
Course Discount
Save 15% is available for STC’s Series 9 course, including packages with live instructor hotline access, structured calendars, and final exam tools.
Pros
- Structured Schedule: Includes weekly progress exams and clear exam reports to help you stay on track and monitor your improvement.
- Robust Exam Content: Comprehensive coverage of supervisory topics, including options trading, communications, and associated person management.
- STC’s Pass Guarantee: Offers a money-back guarantee if you meet the requirements and don’t pass on your first attempt.
- Live Classes & Hotline: Access live instructor-led classes and a real-time support hotline when you need clarification or assistance.
- Multiple Learning Formats: Study with a mix of on-demand videos, a license exam manual, and quizzes designed to reinforce key concepts.
Cons
- Desktop-Driven: The experience works best when used on a desktop. If you prefer studying on your phone, this is probably a mismatch for your preferences.
- Higher Price Point: Costs more than other options due to live classes and instructor access.
Bottom Line
STC’s Series 9 course was built for learners who want guidance from start to finish. The structured calendar kept things moving at a steady pace, and I rarely had to think twice about what to do next. Everything inside the dashboard is neatly organized and flows well, though it works best on a desktop setup. The mobile experience isn’t quite as fluid, so it’s not ideal if you’re trying to study on the go. Although STC does come in at a higher price point than courses like SIA or Achievable, you’re getting built-in structure and instructor support that those platforms don’t offer.
Securities Training Corporation
Achievable – Best Adaptive Learning
Achievable’s Series 9 course is centered around a clean, online textbook and over 2,000 adaptive quizzes that continually reshape themselves based on how you perform. From my walkthrough, the dashboard stood out for how it cut down distractions and kept the study flow moving. The quizzes do not repeat; they subtly increase difficulty or change focus depending on what you missed, which makes the review feel purposeful.
I especially liked the 18+ full-length practice exams. They’re built to simulate the tone and pacing of the actual Series 9, so it never felt like I was just guessing if I was ready. The adaptive dashboard was another strong point. It kept track of what I’d covered, flagged weaker areas, and adjusted the review plan in real time without me having to manage it manually.
Course Features
- Digital, interactive textbook
- 2,000+ adaptive quizzes
- 18+ full-length practice exams
- Smart dashboard with personalized progress tracking
- One year of access
- Support via call, text, or email
Course Discount
Save 10% applies to Achievable’s Series 9 program. This includes adaptive quizzes, analytics tracking, and a refund guarantee if you don’t pass.
Pros
- Adaptive Review: Practice questions automatically adjust to your performance results and learning pace.
- Clean Dashboard: Simple, efficient interface helps track weak areas and maintain your study plan.
- Exam-Aligned: Fully covers Series 9 content outline, key concepts, and FINRA’s testing logic to improve your score on exam day.
- Mobile Access: Full access across mobile, tablet, and desktop devices with no app required.
- Refund: Money-back guarantee if you complete the course but still don’t pass the Series 9 exam (read the T&C for details).
Cons
- No Live Classes or Instructor Hotline: Lacks any direct, real-time support from instructors or tutors.
- Fewer Supplemental Reading Options: Limited extra reading material beyond the main online textbook.
Bottom Line
I feel that with Achievable, it’s easy to review weak areas because the system nudges you to revisit challenging topics. I liked seeing the performance analytics update in real time and found the overall experience efficient for a targeted, self-driven study. It does lack live instruction, so it’s best suited for independent learners. But I felt that every tool and quiz on the platform was designed to maximize review time. Compared to something like SIA, which offers a more traditional structure and checkpoint quizzes, Achievable is a smarter fit for those who prefer a modern, minimalist approach that adapts as they go.
Achievable
Kaplan – Best for Customization and Tracking
Knopman Marks stood out to me for its focused, all-in-one approach to Series 9 prep. Instead of layered packages or upsells, you get one complete Exam Prep bundle that includes the digital and physical textbooks, video lectures, and readiness exams. It’s straightforward and eliminates any confusion about missing resources.
When I explored the dashboard, I appreciated how the Study Essentials Course was prominently featured. It gave clear direction on what to start with and made it easier to follow a structured path. The layout made it simple to move between reading, videos, and practice without losing your spot.
Prep Packages
- Basic: LEM (print/digital), SecuritiesPro QBank, practice exam, performance tracker, customizable study plan, content updates
- Essential: Everything in Basic, plus unit intro and wrap-up videos, checkpoint exams, and midterm exam
- Premium: Everything in Essential, plus class notes, mastery exam, InstructorLink™, live online or on-demand instructor-led class
Course Features
- QBank with thousands of practice questions
- Readiness Indicator & performance dashboards
- Digital/print license exam manual
- Custom quizzes, simulated exams, and progress exams
- Live classes and instructor access
Pros
- Custom Quizzes: Focus on weak areas and key areas, and easily build personalized quizzes to target specific topics or skills.
- Readiness Indicator: Know if you’re prepared for exam day and track your exam readiness with an up-to-date progress score.
- Content Alignment: All materials match the exam content outline. Study guides and quizzes follow the official Series 9 blueprint.
- Flexible Learning Style: Choose between self-study and live classes by switching between on-demand materials and scheduled instructor-led sessions.
- Trusted Provider: Well-known brand with consistent success in FINRA exam prep.
Cons
- Premium Features Require a Higher-tier Package: Advanced tools are only available with upgrades.
- No Live Instructor Hotline: Direct real-time support is not included.
Bottom Line
While reviewing Kaplan’s Series 9 course, I found the custom quiz tools in the QBank invaluable for targeting weaker topics. The Readiness Indicator made it easy to see how prepared I was at each stage, and switching between study guides, checkpoint exams, and full-length tests felt seamless. The platform isn’t the most modern and doesn’t include live instructor access like STC, but it’s a solid choice if you want control over your prep and detailed tracking without distractions.
Kaplan
ExamFX – Best for Simplicity and Essential Tools
When I checked out ExamFX’s Series 9 course, what stood out most was how straightforward and easy it was to start studying. The layout is simple but efficient, making it easy to move from video lectures to quizzes without distractions. The platform’s real strength is in how it helps reinforce key concepts through repeated practice and a clean structure.
The SpotCheck quizzes and checkpoint exams are designed to keep you engaged without overwhelming you. I liked how the exam builder let me target specific topics, which made it easier to focus on weak areas.
Prep Packages
- Textbook Package: 202-page physical textbook, custom study schedule, Training Consultants Best Practices Guide, exam generator with personalization filters, four final practice exams, benchmark final exams, practice question sets and chapter quizzes, phone support from instructors, acronym + terminology glossary, frequent content updates, report center,
- Online Course Package: Everything in the Textbook Package, physical and digital textbook, 12+ hours of on-demand lectures, spotcheck quizzes and checkpoint exams, instructor support through online messaging, digital flashcards
Course Features
- Online Course or Textbook Package options
- On-demand video lectures
- Personalized study plan and best practice guide
- SpotCheck quizzes, checkpoint exams, and benchmark finals
- Custom exam generator
- Online and phone instructor support
Course Discount
Save 20% applies to ExamFX’s Series 9 packages. This includes custom exams, video lessons, instructor support, and a choice between digital or print materials.
Save Up to 20% on ExamFX Securities Review Courses
Pros
- Modular Testing Format: Includes SpotCheck quizzes, benchmark exams, and custom generators.
- Flexible Package Options: Choose a textbook or a full online experience.
- Support Access: Includes both online and phone-based instructor help.
Cons
- No Real-Time Instruction: Doesn’t include live classes or instructor-led group sessions.
- No Refund Safety Net: Unlike some other providers, there’s no pass guarantee or retake policy.
- Limited Customization: The platform isn’t adaptive and doesn’t offer personalized quiz tools.
Bottom Line
If you want a budget-friendly Series 9 prep course with the key study tools in one place, ExamFX makes a solid case. It’s ideal for learners who prefer a direct, independent approach and don’t need live support or complex analytics. Compared to providers like Kaplan or STC, it’s a more barebones option, but everything you need to prep is included and well-organized.
ExamFX
Knopman Marks – Highly Structured, Traditional Format
Knopman Marks takes a focused, streamlined approach to Series 9 prep by offering one complete Exam Prep package. You get a physical and digital textbook, video lectures led by faculty, the Study Essentials Course, and a large set of customizable practice questions. The dashboard also includes readiness exams to check your progress as you go.
What stood out during my review was the level of support. You can get fast responses from the Client Experience team by phone or email, and follow up with faculty directly if you need deeper clarification. With a full year of access, the structure gives you flexibility without losing momentum.
Course Features
- Study Essentials Course
- Physical and digital textbook
- Video lectures from expert faculty
- Customizable practice questions
- Pre-set readiness exams
- Support from the team (calls & emails)
- Faculty team Q&A (email)
- One year of access
Pros
- Comprehensive Study Materials: Has both physical and digital resources so that you can switch between formats depending on your preferences.
- Onboarding and Faculty Q&A: Get personalized guidance from instructors and quickly receive responses via email when you’re stuck.
- Progress Dashboard: Lets you visually track performance across sections and gauge overall readiness with ease.
Cons
- Higher Cost: priced above many competitors, which may be a factor if you’re on a tight budget.
- No Pass Guarantee: does not include a refund or free retake if you don’t pass the exam.
- Desktop-Focused Interface: works best on desktop, with limited mobile optimization for on-the-go study.
What Real People Have to Say
“I found the Knopman diagnostic comparable, if not slightly easier, than the real exam. I think the hard questions on the real SIE were harder than the hard questions on the Knopman. Would recommend taking the practice FINRA SIE to get used to the wording because that’s what threw me off.”
Reddit User.
Bottom Line
Knopman Marks is a solid choice if you want strong core materials, an organized structure, and instructor access when you need it. I liked how the course brings everything into one clean package, and the one-year access makes it easy to study on your own schedule. That said, it’s more expensive than other options, and there’s no pass guarantee if things don’t go as planned. Unlike STC, you won’t get live class support, and the desktop-focused platform can feel limiting if you’re studying on the go. It’s best suited for independent learners who want reliable content.
Knopman Marks
Pass Perfect – Exam Prep Simplified
Pass Perfect’s Series 9 course stood out for how thorough the content is. From the start, the dashboard is loaded with study tools that prioritize content depth, especially the massive question bank and detailed explanations behind each answer. When I explored the platform, I found that even the harder topics were broken down in a step-by-step way that clarified the reasoning, which made it easier to internalize tough concepts.
Course Features
- Live online classes with instructor-led webinars.
- Series 9 QBank: over 2,000 practice questions & custom exam builder
- Complete Series 9 textbook and license exam manual
- 12+ hours of on-demand video lessons
- Unlimited full-length practice and checkpoint exams
- Personalized study calendar and cheat-sheet resources
- Chat and phone instructor support
Pros
- Extensive Practice Exams: Plenty of full-length tests for realistic exam-day prep and pacing.
- Video Classes Available: Option to add extra instruction with guided walkthroughs of tough topics.
- Detailed Coverage of Exam Content: Covers all essential Series 9 concepts with in-depth explanations.
Cons
- Higher Cost and Limited Access: Pricey package with shorter access window than other providers.
- Outdated Dashboard: The Interface feels clunky and isn’t as smooth or intuitive as modern platforms.
- Overly Complex for Some Test Takers: Dense lessons and terminology may frustrate first-time learners.
Bottom Line
On Pass Perfect’s Series 9 dashboard, I noticed the density of the content, which features an extensive question bank and in-depth explanations. That said, the dashboard is a bit dated. It takes a few extra clicks to get where you need to go, and the layout isn’t as clean or modern as something like Achievable or SIA, but if you’re someone who learns best by grinding through detailed questions and prefers explanations over video lectures, this course delivers exactly that.
Pass Perfect
Worth a Look: Other Series 9 Prep Resources
While these providers didn’t make my final rankings, I still reviewed their offerings. They may be useful as supplemental resources or for specific needs.
- Bank Training Center
- Varsity Tutors (Tutoring)
Head to Head: Which Series 9 Course Should You Choose?
Securities Institute of America vs. Kaplan
SIA’s Series 9 prep is all about a straightforward journey, a logical dashboard, a clear study plan, and the GreenLight Exam that lets you know when you’re ready. Kaplan, by contrast, leans into customization. You can create your quizzes, use the Readiness Indicator, and switch between live and self-study. SIA is for those who want a proven, no-fuss study path. Kaplan is the go-to if you want to shape every detail of your prep and track your progress with data.
Choose SIA for simple structure; pick Kaplan for custom control.
STC vs. Achievable
STC brings the classroom to your home: live instructor support, a structured calendar, and easy access to help when you need it. Achievable is more about letting the software guide your progress, analytics, and adaptive quizzes that adjust as you study. If you thrive with real people and regular check-ins, STC will fit best. For those who want efficient, tech-driven sessions that respond to their strengths and weaknesses, Achievable stands out.
STC works for classic classroom learners; Achievable fits the tech-forward, independent crowd.
ExamFX vs. Pass Perfect
ExamFX offers a simple dashboard and practical essentials. It’s easy to hop into practice exams and quickly gauge your progress, but don’t expect a lot of extras. Pass Perfect, on the other hand, throws you into the deep end with dense content, detailed explanations, and a traditional interface. If you want a quick, no-nonsense review, ExamFX is a match. For those craving exhaustive content and who aren’t intimidated by a heavier load, Pass Perfect delivers.
ExamFX is for straightforward review; Pass Perfect is for those who want to dig deep into the material.
Knopman Marks vs. Study.com
Knopman Marks focuses on classic structure: printed manuals, scheduled support, and traditional study tools. Study.com is modern, flexible, and subscription-based, letting you study anywhere but with less exam-specific focus. Knopman Marks will appeal to those who want a regimented schedule and instructor check-ins. Study.com is ideal for independent learners who desire mobile access and quick video refreshers.
Knopman Marks is for schedule-driven structure; Study.com caters to on-the-go, self-paced learners.
How I Chose These Series 9 Exam Prep Courses
To evaluate the best Series 9 prep courses, I focused on a handful of factors that made a real difference when I tested each one. Here’s what I prioritized—and which courses stood out the most.
- Course Content Quality – I looked at how deep and accurate each course’s materials were. For example, SIA’s study manual was packed with testable content but still easy to digest, especially in the options and supervisory sections. It clearly stood above the rest in terms of alignment with the actual Series 9 exam.
- Effectiveness – I paid attention to what actually helps students pass. Courses with a pass guarantee, like SIA and STC, earned extra points. Achievable impressed me with how its quizzes adapted to my weak areas—something that made review sessions feel purposeful, not repetitive.
- User Experience – I noted how easy each dashboard was to navigate. Achievable had the cleanest interface by far. Everything was where I expected it, and I never felt lost while moving between lessons and quizzes. In contrast, Pass Perfect had a cluttered layout that slowed things down.
- Practice Questions & Exams – I compared the size and quality of test banks. SIA’s 750+ questions felt the most realistic and well-targeted to the actual exam content. Pass Perfect had a huge QBank too, but its questions were dense and time-consuming, which could be a strength or drawback depending on your style.
- Instructor Engagement – I valued courses that offered instructor access or support. STC stood out here with its live classes, hotline, and webinars. Kaplan also presented live and on-demand options, but lacked the direct instructor support STC provides between sessions.
- Value for Money – I weighed features against cost. STC is priced higher, but it’s packed with structured tools and live support. On the other hand, ExamFX is a solid budget pick, offering all the essentials in one place, even if it lacks some bells and whistles.
- Flexibility – I considered how well each course adapts to different learning preferences. Achievable is perfect for self-starters who want to study at their own pace, while STC’s structured calendar and instructor access are ideal for students who prefer a more guided path.
How to Choose the Best Series 9 Prep Course for You
Learning Style: If you need structure and accountability, a provider like STC with a daily calendar and live instructor hotline is ideal. If you prefer to move at your own pace, Achievable offers an adaptive system that tailors your study plan automatically.
Course Format: Some courses focus heavily on video lectures (like Knopman Academy and Pass Perfect), while others, like SIA, offer a more text-and-quiz-based dashboard. Choose a format that keeps you engaged.
Practice Questions & Exams: A large, well-designed question bank is essential. Achievable stands out with over 2,000 adaptive quizzes and 18+ practice exams, while SIA includes realistic checkpoints and a final GreenLight exam.
Adaptive Learning: Achievable’s platform is built around adaptive learning, helping you spend time where it counts. SIA is more linear and structured, which some learners may prefer.
Instructor Support: If you value live help, STC offers hotline access to licensed instructors. Knopman Marks also provides instructor Q&A via email. Others, like Achievable, are entirely self-directed.
Budget: SIA and ExamFX tend to be more affordable. Courses like STC and Kaplan offer more features but at higher prices.
Pass Guarantee: SIA, Achievable, and STC offer pass guarantees under certain conditions, adding extra peace of mind if you’re worried about failing.
Course Access Length: Knopman Marks and Achievable both give you a full year to access materials, which is helpful if you’re balancing a job or other commitments.
Final Verdict After Reviewing Every Course
My conclusion? Securities Institute of America has the best overall Series 9 prep course. Its practice-heavy format, checkpoint exams, and pass guarantee offer a well-rounded, confidence-boosting study experience.
If you prefer live support or in-depth performance tracking, STC and Kaplan are strong choices. Both provide instructor access, structured study tools, and reliable student support. Looking for a more modern approach? Achievable stands out with its adaptive learning system and user-friendly design, perfect for self-paced, tech-savvy learners. Finally, ExamFX is a good choice if you want something simple, streamlined, and straightforward.
Your ideal course depends on how you learn best and how much support you want. Use the comparison chart and head-to-head breakdown to find the course that fits your style, budget, and exam timeline.
FAQs
You need 70% to pass.
No, it must be taken in person.
Most prep courses offer 6 months of access.
Practice exams, study materials, and a question bank.
