Varsity Tutors can assist you during your San Diego SIE preparation in two different ways. First, we can enroll you in a comprehensive San Diego SIE prep class that covers everything you need to know heading into the exam. If you would prefer individualized attention, we can also refer you to an expert San Diego SIE tutor to help you pursue academic success. Some students even choose to take advantage of both services to help them feel as prepared as possible when they sit down for the test.
The SIE (Securities Industry Essentials) Exam is a high-stakes test that serves as an introduction to the financial industry for students interested in trading securities for a living. It covers basic topics in the space, such as prohibited practices, types of financial products and their risks, and regulatory agencies. The exam is offered by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, or FINRA, as an individual's first step toward obtaining a financial license. However, you will also need to take a qualification test such as the Series 7 or Series 3 in addition to the SIE before you can actually start trading. Keep reading to learn more about how we may be able to help you prepare for the SIE.
What can I review during San Diego SIE prep?
The SIE consists of 75 multiple-choice questions administered over a testing session lasting one hour and 45 minutes. You need to earn a score of at least 70 percent in order to pass the exam, so your instructor might review concepts such as monetary policy, fiscal policy, and equity securities with you to help you prepare.
Since there is a strict time limit in place, your instructor may also teach you time management strategies to help you answer all of the questions within the time available to you. For instance, FINRA is notorious for intentionally writing questions in a deceptive manner. You may be better off skipping a challenging item and coming back to it as opposed to spending a ton of time trying to figure it out. You might also want to consider taking practice exams to get a realistic sense of what the time available to you will feel like, helping you to pace yourself accordingly.
What are the advantages of the San Diego SIE prep options?
Varsity Tutors can place you in a San Diego SIE prep course or find you a private instructor to help you study for the test. If you choose to take a course, you'll meet with a knowledgeable instructor alongside other students at a set time using our proprietary Live Learning Platform. Each instructor is thoroughly interviewed to make sure that their SIE knowledge is up to date, so you don't need to doubt the applicability of anything they say.
Our Live Learning Platform enables you to interact with your classmates in real time, allowing you to work together to create a collaborative learning environment where everyone can work toward their academic goals. If one of your classmates is having a hard time with mutual funds, you can explain it to them while reinforcing your own knowledge of the subject. Studying in a group also gives you great value for your money, as you are sharing the cost of instruction.
If you would prefer to receive individualized attention, we can help you find a private SIE instructor. You'll be able to meet using the Live Learning Platform so that you can take commute time out of the equation. Powerful features such as video chat functionality and a virtual whiteboard ensure that you still get a premium face-to-face study experience.
A private instructor can design study sessions around your preferred learning style to help improve your experience. For instance, a visual learner might want to study an infographic detailing the differences between monetary and fiscal policy, while an auditory learner might get more out of a discussion format. Working with a private instructor also allows you to study at your own pace, as you never need to leave a topic behind until you feel comfortable doing so.
Can I sign up for San Diego SIE prep today?
Absolutely! Please reach out to Varsity Tutors to learn more about each of our San Diego SIE prep options and to get started with whichever method interests you most. If you can't make up your mind, educational consultants are standing by to help you make the best possible decision for your needs. Call today to get started on the path toward understanding the concepts you'll need to know for the SIE.

Evan: San Diego SIE test prep instructor
...Northwestern University with a degree in economics. I subsequently passed all 3 levels of the CFA examination process. I have worked in Investment Banking (Barclays Investment Bank) where I performed complex financial analyses before subsequently working in Private Equity. Most recently, I served as a Director of Finance for a Private Equity owned enterprise. I have helped many students in statistics, economics, managerial accounting, financial accounting and finance. I enjoy tutoring and it gives me...
Education & Certification
- Northwestern University - Bachelor in Arts, Economics
Subject Expertise
- SIE
- Series 65
- CFA
- FINRA - Financial Industry Regulatory Authority
- +27 subjects

Sean: San Diego SIE test prep instructor
...and have been working as a Financial Advisor since 2019 obtaining multiple industry awards as well as managing my own book of business. I believe my firsthand experience gives me a particular insight that helps me be a great tutor on these subject matters. Outside of my professional life I enjoy golfing as much as possible in my free time. You can also catch me watching Football every chance I get with friends and family.
Education & Certification
- Arizona State University - Bachelor of Science, Business Administration and Management
Subject Expertise
- SIE
- Insurance License
- Series 7
- Series 6
- +2 subjects

John: San Diego SIE test prep instructor
...a BS in Computer Science and Economics from Yale and an MBA from NYU. I have my Series 7 and 57 and work as a proprietary trader on Wall Street. I'm passionate about financial markets, technology and economics. My philosophy towards education is one of efficiency. I believe that time management is the key to accomplishing your academic and professional goals. I'm here to help you not only learn but absorb the material into your...
Education & Certification
- Yale University - Bachelor of Science, Computer Science
- New York University - Masters in Business Administration, Finance
Subject Expertise
- SIE
- Series 9
- Series 10
- Series 3
- +38 subjects

Eunpa: San Diego SIE test prep instructor
Business analyst with five years of tutoring and significant corporate strategy experience. Applied BA in math at top ten research university to financial modeling, ROI analyses, marketing, academic research, technology, and higher education.
Education & Certification
- University of Chicago - Bachelor in Arts, Mathematics
Subject Expertise
- SIE
- Series 7
- Series 7 - General Securities Representative Exam (Stockbroker)
- Pascal
- +43 subjects

Mark: San Diego SIE test prep instructor
...Life, Health and P&C Insurance test The Real Estate Agent and the Real Estate Broker test TEST TAKING SKILLS are a vital part of passing any test I will demonstrate how. PRACTICE QUESTIONS - The more the better. As you are taking the test... I will show you how to build a POSITIVE ATTITUDE. The key is: HOW TO READ THE QUESTIONS and HOW TO STUDY FROM THE QUESTIONS. Bilingual in SPANISH P.S. I have multiple...
Education & Certification
- University of Houston-Downtown - Associate in Science, Business Administration and Management
Subject Expertise
- SIE
- Series 65
- Series 66
- Series 9
- +73 subjects
Education & Certification
- Purdue University - Bachelor in Arts, Education
- Indiana University - Master of Science, Public Finance
Subject Expertise
- SIE
- Series 24
- Real Estate License
- Series 7
- +20 subjects

DeSean: San Diego SIE test prep instructor
...because I was a student once. During undergraduate, I tutored students in Statistics and College Algebra. I completed my undergraduate with a B.S.B.A. in Personal Financial Planning, a B.S.B.A. in Finance, and a B.A. in Communication Studies. I do not like micromanagement, although I do believe a tutor and student should have a vested interest to benefit the student. In my free time, I enjoy long walks with my wife and playing the alto. saxophone.
Education & Certification
- Kutztown University of Pennsylvania - Bachelor of Science, Finance
- Kutztown University of Pennsylvania - Bachelor of Science, Financial Planning
- Kutztown University of Pennsylvania - Bachelor in Arts, Communication, General
Subject Expertise
- SIE
- Series 63
- Series 6
- Series 7
- +14 subjects

Scot: San Diego SIE test prep instructor
...my degree in Marketing in 2010 and became a licensed financial advisor in June of 2011. In February of 2017, I co-founded my financial planning firm, Providers & Families Wealth Management, with my wife, Lindsey; and in December of that year, I became a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER. The most influential teachers in my life provided an engaging and entertaining learning experience, and I strongly believe that these are very important characteristics of an impactful education!...
Education & Certification
- Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus - Bachelor of Science, Marketing
Subject Expertise
- SIE
- Series 79
- Series 22
- Series 4
- +12 subjects

Krista: San Diego SIE test prep instructor
...BS (Penn State University) & MBA (Capella University). I currently licensed with the state of NJ for Life/Health Insurance. I am registered with FINRA (Series 7 & 66). I also hold a Certified Financial Planner designation. I help candidates studying for their Life/Health, SIE, Series 7, Series 6, Series 66 (63/65), and CFP designations. I am eager to pass on various tips and tricks I have learned for the various exams. I have various study...
Education & Certification
- Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus - Bachelor of Science, Business Administration and Management
- Capella University - Masters in Business Administration, Project Management
Subject Expertise
- SIE
- Insurance License
- Series 7
- Series 6
- +18 subjects

Ben: San Diego SIE test prep instructor
...extensively and was involved in several social service clubs, campus choir, and I also volunteered my time at the local Boys and Girls club to assist the kiddos with their homework assignments. Upon graduation, I began a career as a financial professional, where I advised families, individuals, and businesses by taking complex (and often confusing) financial subject matter and breaking them down into simple steps. I've always been passionate about learning, and I believe any...
Education & Certification
- Lee University - Bachelor of Science, Health Services Administration
Subject Expertise
- SIE
- Series 63
- Series 6
- Middle School Writing
- +45 subjects

Daniel: San Diego SIE test prep instructor
...a diplomatic mission, supporting senior civil servants in developing and implementing policies and programs that boost trade and investment. As the Founder of Envoy West, I specialize in U.S market entry strategies, go-to-market planning, and business development for technology companies. I have successfully completed over 40 market entry projects, helping clients navigate the complexities of the U.S. market. My expertise lies in identifying prospective clients and partnerships, and providing strategic leadership and direction. I also...
Education & Certification
- Nottingham Trent University - Bachelor of Science, International Relations
Subject Expertise
- SIE
- Series 82
- Series 63
- FINRA - Financial Industry Regulatory Authority
- +1 subjects

Brian: San Diego SIE test prep instructor
...5 US Defense contractor before moving back into independent consulting in 2016. I have traveled, worked, and lived across the US, Europe, Central and South America, and some of the Middle East (while in the military). Either professionally or as a personal interest I have tutored, mentored, and coached young and experienced adults in select academic topics, select professional exam pre test materials, soft skills, technical skill building, performance improvement, decision making, financial literacy, and...
Education & Certification
- Portland State University - Bachelor of Science, Finance
Subject Expertise
- SIE
- Series 65
- Series 7 - General Securities Representative Exam (Stockbroker)
- Series 9
- +22 subjects

Godswill: San Diego SIE test prep instructor
...teaching and research assistant, tutoring freshmen and sophomores in core subjects such as Algebra, Calculus, Statistics, and Physics. My teaching philosophy is rooted in Educational Essentialism, a structured, progressive approach that equips students to master increasingly difficult concepts while preparing them for higher academic and intellectual challenges. Recognized for academic excellence, including receiving the CITGO Graduate Student Award, I emphasize critical thinking and problem-solving skills that extend beyond the classroom. In addition to academic tutoring,...
Education & Certification
- Rivers State University - Bachelor of Engineering, Mechanical Engineering
- Texas Southern University - Master of Science, Computer Science
Subject Expertise
- SIE
- Series 79
- PRAXIS
- Series 7
- +155 subjects

Braden: San Diego SIE test prep instructor
...in economics from the University of Oklahoma living in Overland Park, Kansas. I have a passion for teaching college, high school, and middle schoolers math from Algebra to College Calculus, chemistry, and physics. In high school I took a variety of AP Tests: AP Chemistry-5, AP Physics 1-4, AP Calculus AB-5 AP US History-4, AP English Composition-4. I hope we are a great fit, and I can't wait for the opportunity to help you!
Education & Certification
- University of Oklahoma Norman Campus - Chemical Engineer, Chemical Engineering
Subject Expertise
- SIE
- Series 7 - General Securities Representative Exam (Stockbroker)
- Series 66
- CLEP College Mathematics
- +64 subjects

Kristin: San Diego SIE test prep instructor
I just obtained my licenses within the last year: 6, 63, 66, 7. While my employer provided me with the books, I was not given study support which I think would have been incredibly helpful to me. I look forward to helping you pass on your first try!
Education & Certification
- Eastern Illinois University - Bachelor of Science, Special Products Marketing Operations
- Lewis University - Masters in Business Administration, Agricultural Business
Subject Expertise
- SIE
- Series 63
- Series 7
- Series 66
- +1 subjects

LaKeisha: San Diego SIE test prep instructor
...Services with a Specialization in Management of Nonprofit Agencies from Capella University. The teaching and tutoring experience that I have consists of working with elementary, middle, high school, college, and graduate students in subject areas pertaining to English, Writing, Pre-Algebra, Algebra 1, American Government, and Investments. I believe that learning should be a memorable and relatable experience for students to enjoy and to apply in their life. My desire is for students to be able...
Education & Certification
- Wesleyan University - Bachelor in Arts, English
- Augusta State University - Master of Public Policy, Public Administration
- Capella University - Doctor of Philosophy, Human Services
Subject Expertise
- SIE
- Series 24
- Series 7 - General Securities Representative Exam (Stockbroker)
- Series 7
- +27 subjects

Brendan Daniel : San Diego SIE test prep instructor
...hedge fund. I focus on the fund's DeFi investment strategy, blockchain research, and protocol risk management. For students, (and interns), I have taught solidity, python, CFA level 1 and 2 material, Series 7, 63, and 65. I have also taught financial modeling, smart contract development, data analysis, and machine learning model development in python. (CFA material includes micro/macro economics, financial statement analysis, equity/fixed income valuation, derivatives, portfolio management and theory, alternative investments, and quantitative methods).
Subject Expertise
- SIE
- Series 22
- CFA
- Series 79
- +62 subjects

Daniel: San Diego SIE test prep instructor
I am a CPA with a background in teaching and tutoring. I can work with you on most finance, business, and accounting subjects. I help simplify the material and highlight the core lessons. I've been told it's very effective and helpful!
Education & Certification
- Malone University - Bachelor in Arts, Organizational Leadership
- Baldwin-Wallace College - Masters in Business Administration, Accounting
Subject Expertise
- SIE
- CLU - Chartered Life Underwriter
- Series 6
- CMA - Certified Management Accountant
- +25 subjects
Subject Expertise
- SIE
- Firefighter Exam
- Series 7
- EMT - Emergency Medical Technicians
- +6 subjects

John: San Diego SIE test prep instructor
...over 2 years of tutoring experience, I specialize in Series 65, SIE, accounting, and corporate finance. My teaching philosophy is centered on making complex topics accessible through real-world applications and tailored lesson plans that accommodate individual learning styles. I believe in fostering a supportive environment that builds confidence, using practical examples and interactive exercises to ensure my students grasp foundational concepts. My background includes hands-on experience at PwC and J.P. Morgan, which enriches my tutoring...
Education & Certification
- Pace University-New York - Bachelor in Business Administration, Accounting and Finance
Subject Expertise
- SIE
- AACN - American Association of Colleges of Nursing
- CFA
- Series 65
- +17 subjects