Can High School Students Take the SIE Exam?

The Securities Industry Essentials (SIE) Exam is an entry-level exam that tests basic knowledge of the securities industry, including types of products, market structure, regulatory agencies, and prohibited practices. It is the first step for anyone considering a career in financial services.

Is the SIE Available to High School Students?

Yes, high school students can take the SIE exam. FINRA does not set a minimum age requirement for the exam. The key eligibility criteria are:

• You must be 18 years old to register and take the SIE exam.
• You do not need sponsorship from a firm to sit for the exam.
• You can take the exam before being hired by a broker-dealer or financial firm.

This means that while the exam is open to anyone, most high school students are not yet eligible unless they are at least 18 years old.

Why Would a High School Graduate Take the SIE?

Taking the SIE early—right after turning 18—can give you a competitive edge when applying for internships, entry-level jobs, or college finance programs. It shows:

• Initiative and commitment to a finance career
• Basic understanding of securities and compliance rules
• Readiness to move forward with advanced licenses (Series 6, Series 7, etc.)

Key Facts to Know

• The SIE exam is valid for four years from the date you pass.
• It is a prerequisite for other FINRA licensing exams.
• If you’re under 18, you will need to wait until you reach the required age to register.

Prepare with Confidence

At Finra Exam Mastery, we offer digital courses designed to help students—whether in college or just starting out—pass the SIE exam confidently. Our step-by-step materials include:

✔ Easy-to-understand lessons
✔ Realistic practice questions
✔ Lifetime access to updated content

👉 Get started with SIE prep today at finra-exam-mastery.com