How to Get Sponsored for a FINRA Exam

📘 How to Get Sponsored for a FINRA Exam

In order to take many FINRA exams, such as the Series 6, Series 7, Series 65, and Series 66, you generally need to be sponsored by a FINRA-member firm. Sponsorship is required for most qualification exams as it verifies that you are employed with a firm that will allow you to engage in securities activities. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the sponsorship process.

🏢 1. Secure Employment with a FINRA-Member Firm

Before you can take a FINRA exam that requires sponsorship, you must first be employed by a FINRA-member firm. These firms are regulated by FINRA and typically include:

• Broker-dealers (firms that buy and sell securities)
• Investment advisory firms
• Banks or insurance companies offering securities services

To get sponsored, you need to be hired by one of these firms in a role that requires FINRA qualification. Common roles that require sponsorship include financial advisors, stockbrokers, and registered representatives.

💼 2. Apply for a Job that Requires a FINRA License

Here’s how you can approach the job search and application process:

• Research FINRA-member firms: Look for broker-dealers or financial institutions that offer positions that require securities licenses, such as sales positions or client advisor roles.
• Network: Use platforms like LinkedIn or attend industry conferences to network with professionals at FINRA-member firms.
• Job Boards: Many job boards (e.g., Indeed, Glassdoor, or industry-specific sites) list positions that provide sponsorship for FINRA exams. Be sure to search for jobs like financial representative, investment advisor, or broker.

Once you secure a job offer from a FINRA-member firm, they will begin the process of sponsoring you for the necessary exams.

📝 3. Complete the Required Forms for Sponsorship

Once employed, your sponsoring firm will file the necessary paperwork to sponsor you for your FINRA exam. This typically involves:

• Filing Form U4: Your employer will file a Form U4 (Uniform Application for Securities Industry Registration or Transfer) with FINRA. This form provides personal and professional information and serves as the official registration for your exam.
  • The Form U4 will include:
    • Personal details (e.g., name, address, background)
    • Employment history (to confirm your sponsorship with a FINRA-member firm)
    • Acknowledgement of regulatory requirements and disclosures
• Paying the Exam Fees: Your employer may cover the cost of the exam or require you to pay it yourself. The fee typically varies by exam type (e.g., Series 6, Series 7, Series 65).

📅 4. Schedule Your FINRA Exam

Once your sponsorship is confirmed, and your Form U4 is submitted to FINRA, you’ll receive an eligibility notice. From there, you can schedule your exam through the Prometric testing center (or take it online if available).

• Register through FINRA’s system: Once sponsored, you will receive a Notice of Exam (often called an eligibility notification) from FINRA, which confirms that you are authorized to schedule and take the exam.
• Schedule through Prometric: After receiving your eligibility notice, schedule your exam on Prometric’s website or by calling their customer service.

🧑‍🏫 5. Study and Prepare for the Exam

After receiving your sponsorship and scheduling your exam, the next step is to focus on studying:

• Use study materials provided by your employer, or access online resources for FINRA exam preparation.
• Take practice exams and use study plans tailored to the specific exam you’re taking (e.g., Series 6, Series 7, etc.).
• Consider study groups or tutoring if you need extra help.

🎯 6. Take the FINRA Exam

On exam day, ensure that you bring the necessary documentation (usually a valid photo ID) and arrive at the testing center early. After completing the exam, you’ll receive your score, and your sponsoring firm will be notified of your results.

• Pass: If you pass the exam, you’re officially qualified to start working in the securities industry under the supervision of your firm.
• Fail: If you fail, you can retake the exam after the required waiting period (usually 30 days for most exams).

📌 7. What to Do If You’re Unemployed or Changing Jobs

If you’re unemployed or looking to switch jobs, you may lose your sponsorship, as you need to be employed by a FINRA-member firm to be eligible for the exam. In this case, follow these steps:

1. Find a New Sponsoring Firm: Secure a new position with a FINRA-member firm that is willing to sponsor you for your exam.
2. Submit New Form U4: If switching firms, your new employer will need to file a new Form U4 with FINRA for sponsorship.

🔑 Summary of Steps to Get Sponsored for a FINRA Exam

🚀 Ready to Get Started?

If you’re ready to take the next step in your career and get sponsored for a FINRA exam, start by finding the right FINRA-member firm that fits your career goals.
👉 https://finra-exam-mastery.com/
Get expert guidance and study materials to help you pass your exam and launch your securities career!