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STC vs Kaplan
See which securities exam prep course is best for you between Kaplan and STC
When preparing for securities licensing exams such as the SIE or Series 6, 7, 63, 65, or 66 exams, choosing the right study program is crucial for success. Kaplan and Securities Training Corporation (STC) are two of the most popular and reputable providers in the industry, each offering comprehensive materials and support. This article will compare their course offerings, teaching methods, and key features to help you decide which best fits your study needs.
To kick this comparison off, let’s discuss the strengths of the securities exam prep courses from Kaplan. That way, hopefully you have a better understanding of whether their study materials and features are a good fit to help you study for the SIE, or Series 6, 7, 63, 65 or 66 exams.
Tailored Study Plan
Kaplan’s tailored study schedule for securities licensing exams strategically organizes weekly tasks within their learning management system based on factors like exam date, personal progress, and performance on diagnostic tests.
Example study plan from Kaplan
The system assigns tasks such as reading assignments, practice quizzes, and review sessions, ensuring a balanced and structured approach to studying.
By continuously adjusting the schedule, Kaplan ensures that students stay on track, focusing on areas that need improvement while managing their time effectively. This dynamic approach offers more flexibility and personalization than STC’s, helping students optimize their preparation based on their evolving needs.
Helpful Performance Tracker
Kaplan’s performance tracker for securities licensing exams allows students to monitor their progress in real-time by tracking quiz scores, practice exam results, and task completion. It provides detailed insights into areas of strength and weakness, helping students identify where to focus their efforts.
This continuous feedback loop keeps students accountable and motivated, ensuring they stay on track toward passing their exam.
More Affordable Than STC
Kaplan’s prep courses for securities licensing exams are generally more affordable than those offered by STC, providing a cost-effective option for students without sacrificing quality.
For example, Kaplan offers three different course options for the Series 7 exam ranging from $139 (Basic) to $279 (Premium). STC also offers three different course options for the Series 7, however, their courses cost between $257 (Standard) to $542 (Premier Plus).
Therefore, you can expect to save around $100 to $250 by opting to go with Kaplan for exam prep needs. Plus, Kaplan regularly offers sales and discounts as well.
Despite the lower price point, Kaplan includes a range of valuable features like personalized study plans, on-demand videos, and robust practice tools, offering strong value for the investment. This makes Kaplan an attractive choice for budget-conscious students seeking comprehensive exam preparation at a lower cost compared to STC.
Engaging Video Lectures
Kaplan’s on-demand video lessons are designed to be engaging with concise, focused content that breaks down complex topics into easily digestible segments. The instructors are experts in their fields, known for their clear explanations and ability to make the material more relatable and easier to understand.
Example video lesson from Kaplan
Unlike STC’s (and ExamFX) longer and often monotonous video lectures, Kaplan’s videos keep students’ attention with a more dynamic and interactive format. This ensures that students not only retain more information but also stay motivated throughout their study sessions.
Custom QBank
Kaplan’s SecuritiesPro QBank offers a vast pool of practice questions designed to mimic the actual securities licensing exam, providing students with realistic testing scenarios.
Custom quiz tool from Kaplan
It allows students to customize quizzes based on specific topics, difficulty levels, and question types, enabling them to target their weak areas for focused improvement.
With detailed explanations for each question, the QBank helps students understand concepts thoroughly and track their progress. This comprehensive and flexible tool ensures that students are well-prepared for exam day, giving them a competitive edge over more generic practice exams.
Live Classes
Kaplan’s live classes for securities licensing exams offer expert instruction with real-time interaction, allowing students to ask questions and receive immediate feedback.
These classes provide structure and guidance, helping students stay on track while reinforcing key concepts through engaging, instructor-led sessions. With experienced instructors and comprehensive coverage of exam topics, Kaplan’s live classes are an excellent value (much cheaper than STC).
Now that you are aware of what Kaplan brings to the table, it’s only fair we switch gears and discuss the strengths of the study materials and features from Securities Training Corporation.
Instructor Hotline
STC’s instructor hotline provides students with direct access to expert instructors who can clarify complex concepts and answer specific questions as they study for their securities licensing exam.
A look inside the STC course
This personalized support helps students address problem areas in real-time, ensuring they stay on track with their preparation. The hotline is especially beneficial for those needing additional guidance beyond self-study, offering peace of mind and boosting confidence before the exam.
Detailed Study Manuals
STC’s study manuals are comprehensive resources designed to break down complex securities topics into easily digestible sections, making them great for mastering the material. Their structured format and detailed explanations help students grasp key concepts, reinforcing what they’ve learned through practice questions and examples.
Detailed study manuals
For more traditional learners who prefer physical study materials, these manuals offer a reliable, hands-on approach to exam preparation, allowing for active reading, note-taking, and review at your own pace.
Realistic Practice Questions
STC’s practice questions are known for their realism, with many past students noting that the wording, format, and difficulty closely resemble what they encountered on the actual securities licensing exam. This level of accuracy helps students feel more prepared and confident when taking the real exam (similar to Pass Perfect).
Example practice question from STC
Similarly, Kaplan is also recognized for offering high-quality practice questions and exams that mirror the structure and challenges of the various securities exams.
Pass Guarantee
STC’s pass guarantee offers students peace of mind by allowing them to repeat the course for free or get a refund if they don’t pass their securities licensing exam on the first attempt, provided they meet certain study requirements.
This guarantee motivates students to stay committed to their preparation, knowing they have a safety net if needed. In contrast, Kaplan does not offer any pass guarantee, making STC’s offer a valuable added benefit for test-takers seeking extra reassurance.
In conclusion, while both Kaplan and STC offer strong securities licensing exam prep courses, our team ultimately prefers Kaplan for its tailored approach and comprehensive suite of study materials. STC stands out with its pass guarantee and realistic practice questions, making it a solid choice for students seeking added reassurance.
However, Kaplan’s comprehensive curriculum, high-quality practice questions, and diverse study tools provide a more robust learning experience. For students looking for a well-rounded and flexible prep program, Kaplan’s resources, even without a pass guarantee, offer a greater level of support and preparation for the exam.
Plus, it’s important to remember that the Kaplan courses are considerably more affordable than those from STC as well.
Which is better for securities licensing exam prep, Kaplan or STC?
Both Kaplan and STC offer excellent securities licensing exam prep, but our team prefers Kaplan for its comprehensive curriculum, engaging video lessons, and flexible study tools. However, STC’s pass guarantee and realistic practice questions make it a strong option for students seeking added exam-day confidence.
Is Securities Training Corporation (STC) worth it?
Yes, Securities Training Corporation (STC) offers effective prep courses with solid study materials and support. However, our team feels that other providers, like Kaplan, offer better overall value for students preparing for securities licensing exams.
