🌍 Series 65 Licensing for International Students

The Series 65 license is a gateway to becoming an Investment Adviser Representative (IAR) in the United States. While it’s commonly pursued by U.S. citizens, international students and professionals can also take the Series 65 exam under specific conditions. Whether you’re building a global career in finance or planning to advise U.S. clients, this guide explains what you need to know.

🎯 What Is the Series 65?

The Series 65 exam, officially called the Uniform Investment Adviser Law Examination, is administered by NASAA and qualifies individuals to provide investment advice and receive compensation for it. Unlike other exams, the Series 65 does not require sponsorship by a broker-dealer or firm, making it accessible to independent candidates—including those from abroad.

🌐 Can International Students Take the Series 65?

Yes—non-U.S. citizens can take the Series 65 exam if they meet certain eligibility criteria:

✔️ Requirements Include:

• A valid international passport or government-issued photo ID
• Registration through the FINRA Test Enrollment Services System (TESS)
• Selecting a U.S.-based test center (no international testing locations available)
• Legal eligibility to travel to and sit for the exam in the United States

The exam must be taken in person at a U.S. Prometric or Pearson VUE testing center.

📋 What the Exam Covers

The exam includes 130 multiple-choice questions and is 180 minutes long. It covers:

• Economic factors and business information
• Types of investment vehicles and their risks
• Client investment recommendations and portfolio strategies
• Ethical practices, laws, and regulations

The passing score is 72%, and the exam fee is typically $187.

🏢 Can You Use the License Outside the U.S.?

The Series 65 license is recognized only by U.S. state securities regulators. It authorizes the holder to act as an Investment Adviser Representative for U.S.-based clients or firms registered in the U.S.

While holding the license can boost credibility internationally, it does not automatically grant registration or practice rights in other countries.

However, it may be useful if you:

• Advise U.S. clients from abroad (subject to SEC/state registration rules)
• Work for a U.S.-registered investment firm with international operations
• Plan to relocate or work remotely as a U.S.-based adviser

🛠️ Tips for International Candidates

• Start early with U.S. visa/travel planning if needed
• Study regulatory content carefully—laws and compliance differ from most non-U.S. frameworks
• Take multiple practice exams to adapt to the format and pacing
• Confirm with individual state regulators before registering as an IAR

✅ Begin Your Global Adviser Journey

Our complete Series 65 course is designed to support international students with step-by-step instruction, legal context, and real exam simulations. Whether you’re in London, Mumbai, Tel Aviv, or São Paulo, we’ll help you prepare with confidence.

Enroll now at finra-exam-mastery.com