Series 6 Exam Calculator Rules
- April 1, 2025
- Posted by: 'FINRA Exam Mastery'
- Category: Finance
🧾 Series 6 Exam Calculator Rules
📘 What You Can and Can’t Use on Exam Day
The Series 6 exam, also known as the Investment Company and Variable Contracts Products Representative Exam, is administered by FINRA and tests candidates on mutual funds, variable annuities, and other packaged securities. While it is not math-heavy, you will need to perform basic calculations, and FINRA has specific rules regarding calculator usage.
🎯 1. Are You Allowed to Bring a Calculator?
No. You are not allowed to bring your own calculator to the Series 6 exam.
FINRA provides an on-screen calculator as part of the exam interface. It is a basic calculator designed to help with simple math operations.
🎯 2. What About Scratch Paper or Notes?
No physical scratch paper is allowed either. Instead:
- You’ll be provided with a digital notepad or dry-erase board (depending on testing center).
- In online exams, the testing software typically includes a digital scratch pad for calculations and notes.
🎯 3. What Math Is On the Series 6 Exam?
While the Series 6 is concept-heavy, expect some basic math:
- Percentage changes (e.g., NAV changes in mutual funds)
- Breakpoint calculations for mutual fund sales charges
- Yield and return estimates
- Sales charge computations
📌 Tip: You’ll only need basic arithmetic (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division), so the on-screen calculator is sufficient.
🚫 Not Allowed at the Exam
- Personal calculator
- Smartphone or smartwatch
- Paper, pen, or pencil
- Reference materials or formula sheets
🧠Pro Tip: Practice with a Basic On-Screen Calculator
Before test day, get used to doing mutual fund and annuity problems using a basic calculator interface. Practicing this way will build speed and comfort.
🎓 Need Series 6 study tools or practice exams?
Get exam-focused prep and tools at:
👉 https://finra-exam-mastery.com
Stay sharp, practice clean, and pass your Series 6 with confidence!