Kaplan vs STC: Which FINRA Prep Is Better?
- April 1, 2025
- Posted by: 'FINRA Exam Mastery'
- Category: Finance
🎓 Kaplan vs STC: Which FINRA Prep Is Better?
Choosing the right exam prep provider can make all the difference when preparing for your FINRA licensing exams like Series 6, Series 7, Series 63, Series 65, or Series 66. Two of the most trusted names in the industry are Kaplan Financial Education and Securities Training Corporation (STC). Both offer strong programs—but they have distinct strengths depending on your learning style, budget, and goals. Here’s a full comparison to help you decide.
📚 Course Content and Structure
| Feature | Kaplan | STC |
|---|---|---|
| Study Manuals | Comprehensive but dense | Streamlined, easier to digest |
| Video Lectures | Highly detailed, longer modules | Shorter, focused videos |
| Practice Questions | Very large question banks (2,000+ for many exams) | Moderate question banks with focused explanations |
| Exam Simulations | Included and realistic | Included and highly exam-focused |
| Mobile App | Yes, good for flashcards and quizzes | Yes, optimized for practice tests and review |
🧠 Learning Experience
Kaplan is ideal for:
- Students who prefer deep dives into content
- Those comfortable with heavier textbooks
- Learners who want a high volume of practice questions
STC is ideal for:
- Students who prefer succinct summaries and quick reference guides
- Visual learners who like faster-paced videos
- Candidates who want “just enough” without feeling overwhelmed
💵 Pricing
| Course Type | Kaplan (Typical) | STC (Typical) |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Self-Study | $149–$349 | $150–$350 |
| Premium Packages | $400–$600 | $400–$600 |
Both offer premium packages that include live online classes, printed materials, and extra practice exams. Pricing is generally comparable across providers.
🛠️ Unique Features
| Kaplan Features | STC Features |
|---|---|
| “Checkpoint Exams” to reinforce learning | “Greenlight Exams” that predict readiness |
| Performance tracking dashboard | Adaptive learning technology |
| Personalized study calendar | Condensed “Crunch Time Facts” summaries |
🎯 Pass Guarantee
- Kaplan: Offers a “PassProtection” guarantee—if you complete all course requirements and fail, you get a free course extension or retake.
- STC: Offers a “Pass Guarantee”—similar free access extension if requirements are met.
Both guarantees require proof of effort, like completing practice tests and study hours.
📈 Final Verdict: Which Is Better?
| If you want… | Choose… |
|---|---|
| Deep, detailed understanding | Kaplan |
| Fast, efficient review and real exam focus | STC |
| Tons of practice questions and full-length exams | Kaplan |
| Streamlined videos and quick-study guides | STC |
✅ Prepare the Smart Way
No matter which provider you choose, consistent daily practice, scenario-based learning, and full-length timed exams are the keys to FINRA exam success.
Learn how to supercharge your prep and access structured study plans at finra-exam-mastery.com