The cheapest SIE and Series 7 prep: from free to under $300
Last checked October 16, 2026 · Sources: FINRA’s SIE page, SIE content outline and exam table; Achievable; Kaplan’s SIE and Series 7 pages
The cheapest SIE and Series 7 prep starts free: FINRA’s content outlines show exactly what each exam covers, and FINRA offers a free SIE practice test. For a full course, the lowest list prices are $99 for the SIE (Achievable’s full course or Kaplan’s Basic tier) and $139 for the Series 7 (Kaplan Basic), with Achievable’s full Series 7 course at $199.
Cheapest SIE and Series 7 prep, lowest price first
| Option | SIE | Series 7 | Access | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FINRA outlines and SIE practice test | Free | Outline free | Ongoing | Official, but not a full course |
| Kaplan Basic Self-Study | $99 | $139 | 5 months | Core study tools; fewest features |
| Achievable | $99 | $199 | 12 months for the SIE, per Achievable | Full course at one price; pass guarantee advertised |
| Kaplan Premium | $199 to $229 | $279 to $309 | 5 months | Adds OnDemand or Live Online classes |
List prices from each provider’s own pages, October 2026. During Kaplan’s 15% ‘ADVANCE’ promotion, which ended October 16, 2026, its SIE packages started at $84.15.
Cheapest isn’t always lowest total cost
The lowest sticker price can cost more in the end. Kaplan’s courses give five months of access, and an extension costs $49, so a $139 Series 7 package becomes $188 if you need more time. Achievable’s $199 Series 7 course comes with a full practice bank. And failing an exam means paying the exam fee again ($100 for the SIE, $395 for the Series 7) and waiting at least 30 days to retest under FINRA’s current rules, so prep that gets you through first time is the real saving.
Remember the state law exam too. FINRA’s table lists the Series 63 at $147, the Series 65 at $187 and the Series 66 at $177, and Achievable’s Series 63 course is $79. See our securities licensing cost guide for full totals.
Ways to pay less
- Let your firm pay: sponsoring firms often provide Series 7 prep and pay the exam fee.
- Use free official material first: FINRA’s outlines and SIE practice test before buying anything.
- Buy only what you’ll use: Kaplan also sells single study tools, such as its SIE License Exam Manual ($45) and QBank ($49).
- Watch for sales: Kaplan runs periodic promotions; check its site before paying list price.
- Finish within your access window to avoid paying for an extension.
Common questions about cheap SIE and Series 7 prep
What is the cheapest way to study for the SIE?
FINRA’s free SIE practice test and content outline. For a full course, Achievable’s $99 SIE course or Kaplan’s $99 Basic package.
What is the cheapest Series 7 prep?
Kaplan’s Basic Self-Study package at $139 list. Achievable’s full course is $199.
Can I pass with free resources only?
For many people, the official outlines and practice test plus careful study are enough for the SIE. The Series 7 is longer and harder, so most candidates use a course.
Will my employer pay for prep?
Often, yes. Ask your sponsoring firm whether it provides prep before buying your own.
We first checked these prices on October 12, 2026 and rechecked them on October 16, 2026. MockTestPrep is independent and is not affiliated with FINRA, Achievable or Kaplan.