Series 6 Exam Guide: Format, Passing Score, Cost & Content
What the Series 6 covers, how it differs from the Series 7, and the question count, passing score, fee, and corequisite you need to know before you enroll.
The FINRA Series 6 exam has 50 multiple-choice questions, a 90-minute time limit, and a passing score of 70. The fee is $100, the SIE is a corequisite, and a FINRA member firm must sponsor you. It qualifies you to sell mutual funds and variable annuities.
Series 6 exam facts at a glance
| Questions | 50 — multiple choice |
|---|---|
| Time limit | 90 min — 1 hour 30 minutes |
| Passing score | 70 — on FINRA's scale |
| Exam fee | $100 — per FINRA; can change |
| Sponsorship | Required — a FINRA member firm must sponsor you |
| Corequisite | SIE — pass both to register |
What is on the Series 6: the four job functions
| Content area | Weight | Scored questions |
|---|---|---|
| Function 1: Seeks Business for the Broker-Dealer from Customers and Potential Customers | 24% | 12 |
| Function 2: Opens Accounts After Obtaining and Evaluating Customers' Financial Profile and Investment Objectives | 16% | 8 |
| Function 3: Provides Customers with Information About Investments, Makes Recommendations, Transfers Assets and Maintains Appropriate Records | 50% | 25 |
| Function 4: Obtains and Verifies Customers' Purchase and Sales Instructions; Processes, Completes and Confirms Transactions | 10% | 5 |
Series 6 passing score and pass rate
The Series 6 passing score is 70. OpenExamHub does not publish an official Series 6 pass rate, and third-party figures vary by source and year.
If you do not pass, FINRA's waiting period is 30 days after the first and second failed attempts and 180 days after the third (and after each later attempt).
How much does the Series 6 cost?
FINRA lists the Series 6 fee at $100. A sponsoring firm usually enrolls you and often pays it; confirm with your firm. Fees can change.
Series 6 vs Series 7: which do you need?
The Series 6 is narrower than the Series 7. It covers investment company and variable contracts products such as mutual funds and variable annuities. The Series 7 qualifies you to sell all securities products, including individual stocks, bonds, and options.
Ask your sponsoring firm which registration your role requires. Half of the Series 6 is Function 3 (products and recommendations), so spend most of your time there.
Series 6 exam FAQ
How many questions are on the Series 6?
FINRA lists 50 multiple-choice items and a 90-minute (1 hour 30 minute) time limit.
What is the Series 6 passing score?
The passing score is 70.
How much does the Series 6 cost?
FINRA lists the Series 6 fee at $100. FINRA sets the fee and can change it.
Do I need the SIE for the Series 6?
Yes. The SIE is a corequisite: you must pass both the SIE and the Series 6 to obtain the Investment Company and Variable Contracts Products Representative registration. A FINRA member firm must also sponsor you for the Series 6.
What is the difference between the Series 6 and the Series 7?
The Series 6 covers mutual funds and variable annuities; the Series 7 qualifies you to solicit, purchase, and sell all securities products.
How long do I wait if I fail the Series 6?
FINRA applies the same waiting periods across its exams: 30 days after the first and second failed attempts and 180 days after the third.
Start preparing for the Series 6
A practice simulation built from the Series 6 question bank.
Series 6 study guideLessons for the investment company and variable contracts exam.
Series 6 cheat sheetQuick-reference tables for exam day.
Series 6 study planA structured schedule to prepare.
Series 7 exam guideThe broader general securities representative exam.
Key terms for this exam
Net asset value · Open-end vs closed-end funds · Regulation Best Interest · Full glossary
OpenExamHub is not affiliated with FINRA. Exam formats, fees, and passing scores are set by FINRA and can change; confirm them on FINRA's current candidate materials before you register.