How Many Questions Are on the Series 7 Exam?

If you’re thinking about starting a career in finance, passing the Series 7 exam is one of the first major steps. This exam is run by FINRA (Financial Industry Regulatory Authority) and is a must if you want to work as a licensed stockbroker. But before you even begin studying, there’s always that burning question: how many questions are on the Series 7 exam? Let’s go through the details in simple terms.

Why the Series 7 Exam Matters

The Series 7 license, often called the General Securities Representative license, is what allows you to sell a wide range of investment products such as:

• Stocks
• Bonds
• Mutual funds
• Options
• Municipal securities

Without this license, you can’t work as a full-service broker. Passing the exam shows you have solid knowledge of investment basics, industry rules, and professional ethics.

Breakdown of Series 7 Exam Questions

The exam is carefully organized. Instead of random questions, it’s split into four main job functions, each covering a part of a broker’s role.

Function 1: Finding Business for the Broker-Dealer

• Around 7% of the exam (9 questions)
• Focuses on opening accounts, collecting client details, and identifying prospects.

Function 2: Opening Accounts and Giving Information

• About 9% of the exam (11 questions)
• Covers account rules, disclosures, and communication practices.

Function 3: Providing Customers With Investment Info

• Around 73% of the exam (91 questions)
• The largest section. Includes investment products, strategies, risks, and recommendations.

Function 4: Handling and Verifying Transactions

• Around 11% of the exam (14 questions)
• Focuses on trade confirmations, settlement, and compliance.

How Hard Is the Series 7 Exam?

Most candidates agree that the Series 7 exam is challenging. The questions don’t just test definitions. Many are based on scenarios, asking you to apply your knowledge to real-world situations.

For example, you might be asked how to guide a client’s portfolio based on their goals or tolerance for risk. That’s why practice exams are so valuable—they help you get used to the style and difficulty of the questions.

Best Ways to Prepare for the Series 7 Exam

Here are some study tips to make the process easier:

Use Quality Study Materials

You won’t get official prep books from FINRA, but providers like Kaplan, STC, and Pass Perfect have reliable resources.

Take Practice Exams

Mock tests give you a feel for the format and improve time management.

Stick to a Study Plan

On average, candidates need 80–100 hours of prep time. Break your study into daily goals and keep at it.

Work on Weak Spots

Don’t just revise the topics you know well. Spend extra time on areas that confuse you, such as options strategies or municipal securities.

The Value of FINRA Certification

The Series 7 is one of the most recognized FINRA certifications. FINRA regulates brokers across the U.S., and passing this exam shows you have the skills and integrity to handle client investments.

Other FINRA certifications include:

• Series 63 (Uniform Securities Agent license)
• Series 65 (Investment Advisor license)
• Series 66 (a combination of Series 63 and 65)

Still, the Series 7 license remains the standard requirement for registered representatives.

FAQs

How long is the exam?
You’ll have 225 minutes, or 3 hours and 45 minutes.

How many questions are on the Series 7 exam?
There are 125 scored questions plus 10 unscored, so 135 in total.

What score do I need to pass?
You need at least 72%.

Can I retake the exam if I fail?
Yes. You must wait 30 days after your first and second attempts. After a third failure, the wait is 180 days.

Final Thoughts

The Series 7 exam is a serious challenge, but it’s also the doorway to a rewarding career in finance. With 125 scored questions and a required passing score of 72%, it demands thorough preparation.

Focus on practice tests, follow a consistent study schedule, and make use of trusted study materials. Once you pass, you’ll hold a respected FINRA certification and be ready to serve clients as a licensed broker.