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STC Series 65 Review
The traditional choice with 50+ years of proven results
Last reviewed: December 2025 | Anonymous purchase | By Series 65 license holder
Quick Verdict
STC is the best value Series 65 prep course for candidates who want comprehensive materials with built-in flashcards. With 1,500+ flashcards (Premier/Premier Plus), 2,800+ practice questions, 12 hours of video lectures, instructor hotline support, and a pass guarantee, STC delivers proven results backed by 50+ years of experience. The main trade-offs: shorter 6-month access (vs Achievable's 12 months), no adaptive learning technology, and mixed user reviews specifically for Series 65. Best for traditional learners who prefer structured textbooks and instructor support over AI-powered algorithms.
Company Background
Securities Training Corporation (STC) was founded in 1969 by Irwin Shapiro in New York City. For over 50 years, STC has been a leading provider of securities exam preparation, training more than 1 million candidates with a published 95% pass rate. The company was acquired by Colibri Group in July 2016.
Company Facts
- Founded: 1969 (by Irwin Shapiro)
- Headquarters: 123 William St, NYC Financial District
- Branch Offices: Chicago, San Francisco, Boston
- Parent Company: Colibri (acquired July 2016)
- Candidates Trained: 1,000,000+
- Published Pass Rate: 95%
Exams Covered
- Series 65 (Uniform Investment Adviser)
- Series 66 (Uniform Combined)
- Series 7 (General Securities Representative)
- Series 63 (Uniform Securities Agent)
- SIE (Securities Industry Essentials)
- 24+ other FINRA/NASAA exams
STC is headquartered in the heart of New York's Financial District, with additional offices in Chicago, San Francisco, and Boston. This geographic presence allows them to offer in-person classes, a unique feature among Series 65 prep providers. The company's longevity and institutional presence make it a trusted choice for many financial firms.
Industry Position: STC represents the middle ground between Achievable's tech-first innovation and Kaplan's institutional dominance. They offer comprehensive traditional materials (textbooks, flashcards, instructor support) without the adaptive learning technology of newer competitors. Many financial firms use STC as their standard training provider, making it a familiar choice for sponsored candidates.
What's Included
STC offers three packages for Series 65 preparation, ranging from $219 to $384. Here's what you get with each tier:
Standard Package
Basic self-study materials
Included:
- ✅ Study manual (online PDF + printed)
- ✅ 15-chapter textbook (FINRA content outline)
- ✅ Chapter quizzes (20 questions each)
- ✅ 8 final exams with custom options
- ✅ Instructor hotline access
- ✅ 24/7 tech support
- ✅ Free course updates
- ✅ "Crunch Time Facts" study guide
NOT Included:
- ❌ Flashcards
- ❌ Video lectures
- ❌ Green Light diagnostics
- ❌ Progress exams
- ❌ Pass guarantee
Premier Package
★ Best Value (Recommended)
Everything in Standard, PLUS:
- ✅ 1,500+ flashcards (organized by chapter)
- ✅ 12 hours on-demand video lectures
- ✅ 2 Green Light diagnostics (140 questions each)
- ✅ Progress exams
- ✅ STC Pass Guarantee
- ✅ Downloadable lecture notes
Why Premier is Best Value:
- • Only $28 more than Standard
- • Flashcards alone worth $76 if bought separately
- • Videos worth $171 if bought separately
- • Pass guarantee reduces financial risk
- • Green Light exams identify weak areas
Premier Plus Package
Live instruction included
Everything in Premier, PLUS:
- ✅ Live virtual classroom sessions
- ✅ In-person classes (NYC, Chicago, SF, Boston)
- ✅ Recorded access to live sessions
- ✅ Direct instructor interaction
Best For:
- • Candidates who learn best in structured classes
- • Those who want live Q&A with instructors
- • NYC/Chicago/SF/Boston residents (in-person option)
- • Firm-sponsored candidates with budget
Feature Comparison: STC vs Competitors
| Feature | STC Premier | Achievable | Kaplan | Knopman Marks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $247 | $199 | $199 | $395 |
| Access Duration | 6 months | 12 months | 5 months | 12 months |
| Practice Questions | 2,800+ | ~4,000 | 4,230 | 2,000-2,500 |
| Flashcards | ✅ 1,500+ | ❌ No | $29 extra | ✅ 1,000+ |
| Video Hours | 12 hours | ❌ No | 10+ hours | 15+ hours |
| Adaptive Learning | ❌ No | ✅ Yes (AI) | ❌ No | Predictive |
| Pass Guarantee | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| Instructor Support | ✅ Hotline | AI tutor | Premium only | ✅ Yes |
| Live Classes | Premier Plus | ❌ No | Premium only | Platinum+ |
Bottom Line:
STC Premier ($247) offers the best value within STC's lineup. The $28 upgrade from Standard gets you 1,500+ flashcards (worth $76 separately), 12 hours of video (worth $171 separately), Green Light diagnostics, and the pass guarantee. For $247, you get comprehensive materials with built-in flashcards that Achievable lacks. The trade-off is shorter access (6 months vs Achievable's 12) and no adaptive learning.
Mobile Access
⚠️ Important Notice:
STC's mobile app ("Exam Prep by STC") exists but is no longer supported as of 2026. Users are directed to the mobile-friendly website instead. The app may still work for some features, but STC recommends using the web platform for the best experience.
Mobile Web Experience
- Mobile-friendly website: Works on phones and tablets (iPad-compatible)
- Cross-device sync: Real-time sync with STC Interactive Account (scores, exam history)
- Offline access: Can download study manual and lecture notes for offline review
- Audio reader: Text-to-speech function for hands-free study
What Works on Mobile
- Access flashcards (1,500+ in Premier/Premier Plus)
- Take practice quizzes and exams
- Read online textbook
- Watch video lectures (streaming)
- Track progress and scores
Limitations
- Native app no longer supported (use mobile web instead)
- No push notifications for study reminders
- Video streaming requires internet (can download notes but not videos)
- Browser-based experience (no native app features like widgets)
Bottom Line:
STC's mobile experience is functional but not exceptional. The mobile-friendly website works for basic studying, and the ability to download the study manual for offline access is helpful. However, the deprecated native app and lack of modern mobile features (push notifications, adaptive quizzes) put STC behind Achievable's mobile-responsive platform. If mobile studying is your primary mode, Achievable's seamless cross-device experience may be a better fit.
Brutally Honest Pros & Cons
✅ PROS
1. 1,500+ Flashcards Included ★ PRIMARY STRENGTH
Unlike Achievable (no flashcards) and Kaplan ($29 extra), STC Premier includes 1,500+ flashcards organized by chapter, course, or FINRA exam sections. Created by securities experts in plain English. If flashcards are essential to your learning style, STC is the obvious choice at this price point.
2. Pass Guarantee (Premier/Premier Plus)
Free course repeat OR money-back refund if you fail after meeting study requirements. Only covers first-time exam failure. Kaplan offers no guarantee at all. Reduces financial risk for candidates who complete the required study.
3. Instructor Hotline in ALL Packages
Even the $219 Standard package includes instructor hotline access. Get human expert answers to questions without upgrading. Kaplan reserves instructor access for Premium ($319+). STC's consistent instructor support across all tiers is a genuine differentiator.
4. 50+ Years of Industry Experience
Founded 1969, 1 million+ candidates trained, 95% published pass rate. STC knows what works. Content is regularly updated (44th edition as of 2026). The institutional credibility provides confidence that materials are battle-tested.
5. Green Light Diagnostics (Premier/Premier Plus)
Two 140-question diagnostic exams (10 more than the real exam's 130) identify weak areas before you sit for the actual test. "Green Light" means you're ready when you pass these comprehensive assessments. Objective readiness indicator.
6. In-Person Classes Available (Premier Plus)
Unique among Series 65 providers: STC offers live in-person classes in NYC, Chicago, San Francisco, and Boston. Great for candidates who learn best in classroom settings with direct instructor interaction. No other major provider offers this.
7. Offline Study Options
Download the study manual and lecture notes for offline review. Helpful for commuters without reliable WiFi or candidates who prefer physical materials. Printed textbook included in all packages.
8. Comprehensive Materials (Traditional Approach)
15-chapter prose textbook based on FINRA content outline, 2,800+ practice questions, 12 hours of video lectures (Premier+). Everything you need for Series 65 in one package with no upsells for essential features.
❌ CONS
1. Short 6-Month Access ★ BIGGEST LIMITATION
All STC packages expire after 6 months. Achievable offers 12 months for $199. Knopman Marks offers 12 months for $395. If life happens (job change, family emergency) and you need to defer your exam, you may need to pay for an extension. Stressful for candidates with unpredictable schedules.
2. No Adaptive Learning Technology
STC uses static quizzes without personalized spaced repetition or memory modeling. You manually select chapters to review. Achievable's adaptive algorithm automatically identifies weak areas and optimizes study time. STC's traditional approach requires more self-discipline.
3. Mobile App Deprecated
"Exam Prep by STC" app is no longer supported. Users directed to mobile website instead. No push notifications, no native app features. Achievable's mobile-responsive web platform is more polished for modern mobile studying.
4. Chapters Too Long (User Feedback)
Multiple user reviews complain that STC's chapters are excessively dense. Some chapters exceed 20 pages. For candidates who prefer bite-sized learning, the lengthy prose format can feel overwhelming. Achievable's more concise content is easier to digest.
5. Video Quality Issues (User Feedback)
User reviews report that STC's video instructors "pivot frequently" and are "difficult to follow." Videos recommended to be 30 minutes max, but some are longer. The classroom-style recording format feels dated compared to modern video content.
6. Mixed Reddit Reviews for Series 65
While STC is praised for Series 7, Reddit feedback specifically warns "stay away from STC for Series 65." Users report practice exams were easier than the real exam, leaving them underprepared. Series 65 may not be STC's strongest offering.
7. No AI Tutor or Instant Answers
STC offers instructor hotline (phone/email) but no AI-powered instant answers. You may wait hours for a response. Achievable's "Ask Achievable" AI tutor provides immediate answers 24/7. For candidates who study at odd hours, the lack of instant help is limiting.
8. No Gamification Features
No leaderboards, achievements, streaks, or competitive elements. For candidates motivated by game-like features, STC's traditional approach may feel dry. Pure content delivery without engagement optimization.
💡 Our Take:
STC's strengths (flashcards, instructor support, pass guarantee) make it the best choice for traditional learners who value comprehensive materials over cutting-edge technology. The 6-month access limitation is the biggest drawback. If you can commit to a focused study schedule, STC delivers proven results. But if you need flexibility or prefer adaptive learning, Achievable ($199 for 12 months) offers better value for most candidates.
Pricing Analysis & ROI
STC offers three pricing tiers for Series 65 preparation. Here's how they compare to competitors and whether the investment is worth it.
STC Pricing Summary
| Package | Price | Access | Flashcards | Videos | Pass Guarantee |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | $219 | 6 months | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Premier ★ | $247 | 6 months | ✅ 1,500+ | ✅ 12 hrs | ✅ |
| Premier Plus | $384 | 6 months | ✅ 1,500+ | ✅ 12 hrs + Live | ✅ |
Competitor Comparison
| Provider | Price | Questions | Access | Cost/Month | Pass Guarantee |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Achievable | $199 | ~4,000 | 12 mo | $16.58 | ✅ Refund |
| STC Premier | $247 | 2,800+ | 6 mo | $41.17 | ✅ Repeat/Refund |
| Kaplan Essential | $199 | 4,230 | 5 mo | $39.80 | ❌ No |
| Knopman Marks | $395 | 2,000-2,500 | 12 mo | $32.92 | ❌ No |
Key Insights:
- STC Premier costs $48 more than Achievable ($247 vs $199) but includes 1,500+ flashcards
- STC's cost per month ($41.17) is higher than Achievable ($16.58) due to shorter access
- STC is the only mid-tier option with built-in flashcards AND pass guarantee
- Kaplan has more questions (4,230 vs 2,800+) but no flashcards and no pass guarantee
- Knopman Marks costs 60% more ($395 vs $247) with fewer questions
Is STC Worth the Premium?
Value of Included Flashcards
STC's 1,500+ flashcards would cost $76 if purchased separately. For candidates who need flashcards, this alone justifies the $48 premium over Achievable (which has zero flashcards).
Flashcard value: $76
Value of Instructor Hotline
Access to human experts for question clarification. Kaplan reserves this for Premium ($319). Achievable offers only AI tutor. For complex conceptual questions, human instructor support is valuable.
Instructor access: Included in all STC packages
Value of Pass Guarantee
If you meet study requirements and fail, STC offers free course repeat or refund. This eliminates the $195 FINRA retake fee risk plus course cost. Kaplan offers no guarantee.
Risk reduction: ~$400+ potential savings
Verdict: Is STC Worth It?
Yes, for candidates who need flashcards. STC Premier ($247) is the best value if:
- Flashcards are essential to your learning style (Achievable has none)
- You want human instructor support (not just AI)
- You can complete studying within 6 months
- You value pass guarantee protection
Choose Achievable instead if: You prefer adaptive learning, need 12-month access, or don't rely on flashcards. For $199, Achievable offers superior technology and longer access.
Who Should Choose STC
1. Flashcard-Dependent Learners
If flashcards are essential to your study method, STC is the obvious choice. 1,500+ flashcards included in Premier ($247) vs Achievable (zero flashcards) or Kaplan ($29 extra). Organized by chapter, course, or FINRA sections for targeted review.
2. Traditional Learners Who Prefer Structure
If you learn best from comprehensive textbooks with clear chapter organization, STC's 15-chapter prose format provides the structured approach you need. Less tech-focused than Achievable, more like a traditional college course experience.
3. Candidates Who Want Human Instructor Support
STC includes instructor hotline in ALL packages (even Standard at $219). Get human expert answers to complex questions about fiduciary duty, suitability, and ethics scenarios. Achievable only offers AI tutor; Kaplan reserves instructors for Premium tier.
4. Risk-Averse Candidates Who Want Pass Guarantee
STC Premier/Premier Plus includes pass guarantee (free repeat or refund). If you're worried about failing and wasting money, the guarantee provides financial protection. Kaplan offers no guarantee at all.
5. NYC, Chicago, SF, or Boston Residents
STC Premier Plus ($384) offers live in-person classes in these cities. No other major Series 65 provider offers in-person instruction. If you learn best in a classroom environment with direct instructor interaction, STC is unique.
6. Candidates Who Can Commit to 6 Months
If you have a clear timeline and can dedicate focused study time, STC's 6-month access is sufficient. Most candidates complete Series 65 prep in 6-8 weeks. The shorter window can actually motivate faster completion.
7. Firm-Sponsored Candidates
Many financial firms use STC as their standard training provider. If your employer is paying and recommends STC, the familiarity and institutional support make it a natural choice. You may also have colleagues using the same materials for study groups.
✅ Bottom Line: If you need flashcards, prefer traditional structured materials, want human instructor support, and can complete studying within 6 months, STC Premier ($247) is excellent value.
Who Should AVOID STC
1. Self-Paced Learners Who Need Flexibility
STC's 6-month access window creates pressure to complete quickly. If life is unpredictable (job changes, family obligations), you may need more time.
Alternatives:
Achievable (12 months, $199) or Knopman Marks (12 months, $395)
2. Tech-Savvy Candidates Who Want Adaptive Learning
STC uses static quizzes without personalized spaced repetition or AI-powered weak area identification. You manually track your progress and select chapters to review.
Alternative:
Achievable ($199) with adaptive algorithm that automatically optimizes your study path
3. Mobile-First Learners
STC's mobile app is deprecated (no longer supported). The mobile website works but lacks modern features like push notifications and native app optimization.
Alternative:
Achievable's mobile-responsive platform with seamless cross-device sync
4. Budget-Conscious Candidates
STC Premier ($247) costs 24% more than Achievable ($199) with shorter access (6 months vs 12). If you don't need flashcards, Achievable offers better value.
Alternative:
Achievable ($199 for 12 months, adaptive learning, AI tutor)
5. Those Who Prefer Bite-Sized Content
User reviews consistently mention STC's chapters are "too long" and "dense." If you prefer concise, digestible content over comprehensive prose, STC's textbook format may overwhelm you.
Alternative:
Achievable's more accessible, plain-English content with shorter sections
6. Candidates Who Need Instant Answers
STC's instructor hotline is phone/email support with response times that may take hours. No AI-powered instant answers for quick questions at 2 AM.
Alternative:
Achievable's "Ask Achievable" AI tutor provides immediate 24/7 answers
⚠️ Bottom Line: If you need long access periods, adaptive learning, excellent mobile experience, or prefer bite-sized content, STC is not your best fit. Achievable ($199) addresses all these concerns with better technology and longer access.
What Real Users Say
💡 Transparency Note: These reviews are aggregated from Reddit, Trustpilot, and financial forums. STC's reviews are notably mixed for Series 65 specifically, while being more positive for Series 7. We include both positive and critical feedback.
"Good content in lectures and great bank of practice tests that prepare you well for the exam. The diagnostics really helped identify my weak areas before the real test."
Trustpilot review | Series 65 | 2026
"The flashcards were essential for my studying. Having 1,500+ cards organized by chapter made review so much easier. Passed on my first try."
Financial forums | Series 65 | 2024
"Impeccable tech support team. When I had issues accessing my account, they resolved it within hours. The instructor hotline was also helpful for conceptual questions."
Trustpilot review | Series 65 | 2024
"STAY AWAY FROM STC for Series 65. I used STC and thought I had all concepts down pat, scoring 90% and above on the practice exams. About 10 questions into the real exam I realized the material did not prepare me adequately. There were words and concepts I had never even seen before."
Reddit r/Series65 | 2024
"I used STC for the 66 and was scoring 90's on the practice exams and I failed the exam with a 71%. Very frustrating. The STC exams were off in my opinion versus the actual test, way too easy."
Financial forums | Series 66 | 2024
"The chapters are way too dense and the videos are difficult to follow because the instructor tends to pivot frequently. Videos should be kept to 30 min max and the chapters no more than 20 pages."
Trustpilot review | Series 65 | 2024
Aggregate Score from Community Reviews
Most Common Praise:
- Good content in lectures
- Great bank of practice tests
- Diagnostics identify weak areas effectively
- Impeccable tech support team
- Flashcards organized and comprehensive
Most Common Complaints:
- Practice exams easier than real exam
- Chapters too long and dense
- Videos difficult to follow (instructor pivots)
- "Stay away from STC for Series 65" (Reddit)
- Short 6-month access period
⚠️ Important Pattern: Multiple users report STC practice exams are easier than the actual Series 65/66 exam. If using STC, consider supplementing with a second provider's practice exams to ensure adequate preparation.
How We Tested STC
🔬 Transparency Promise: We purchased STC anonymously at full price ($247 Premier). No affiliate discount, no special reviewer access. This is the real user experience you'll get if you buy today.
Purchase Details
- Package: Series 65 Premier ($247)
- Purchase Date: December 2025
- Payment: Personal credit card (not comp'd)
- Reviewer: Series 65 license holder since 2023
Testing Period
- Duration: 4 weeks (December 2025 to January 2026)
- Study Hours: 45+ hours logged
- Practice Questions: 600+ completed
- Flashcards Reviewed: 500+ cards
- Green Light Exams: Both 140-question diagnostics completed
- Video Hours Watched: 8+ hours of on-demand lectures
Devices Tested
- Desktop: MacBook Pro (macOS Sonoma, Chrome)
- Mobile: iPhone 14 Pro (iOS 17, Safari)
- Tablet: iPad Air (iPadOS 17, Safari)
Note: Mobile app deprecated. All mobile testing via web browser.
Evaluation Criteria
We evaluated STC using 18 standardized criteria (see our full methodology):
- Question bank size and quality
- Flashcard comprehensiveness and organization
- Practice exam accuracy vs actual exam difficulty
- Video lecture quality and instructor clarity
- Content comprehensiveness and accessibility
- Mobile usability (web platform)
- Progress tracking and analytics
- Value for money (price vs features vs competition)
- Pass guarantee terms and transparency
- Customer support responsiveness
- Cross-device sync reliability
Alternatives to Consider
STC is a strong choice for traditional learners who want flashcards, but it's not the only option. Here's how top competitors stack up:
Achievable Series 65
Achievable is the best overall Series 65 prep course with adaptive learning algorithm, AI tutor, and 12-month access. Modern technology approach that automatically identifies weak areas and optimizes study time.
Achievable wins on:
- Adaptive learning (vs STC's static quizzes)
- Access duration (12 months vs 6 months)
- Price ($199 vs $247)
- AI tutor for instant answers
STC wins on:
- Flashcards (1,500+ included vs none)
- Human instructor support (hotline)
- Video lectures (12 hours)
- In-person class option
Choose Achievable if: You prefer adaptive learning, need 12-month access, don't rely on flashcards
Choose STC if: Flashcards are essential, you want human instructor support, you can commit to 6 months
Kaplan Series 65
Kaplan is the institutional standard with 70% market share and largest question bank (4,230 questions). Traditional approach with comprehensive video content. No pass guarantee.
Kaplan wins on:
- Question volume (4,230 vs 2,800+)
- Institutional credibility (70% market share)
- Entry price ($199 Essential)
STC wins on:
- Flashcards included (vs $29 extra)
- Pass guarantee (Kaplan has none)
- Instructor hotline in all packages
- Access duration (6 mo vs 5 mo)
Knopman Marks Series 65
Knopman Marks is the premium choice with extensive instructor support, 1,000+ flashcards, iOS app with offline access, and RIA-focused content. Significantly more expensive.
Knopman wins on:
- Instructor support (weekly calls)
- Access duration (12 months)
- iOS app with offline access
- RIA-specific content
STC wins on:
- Price ($247 vs $395+)
- Flashcard count (1,500+ vs 1,000+)
- Pass guarantee (Knopman has none)
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is STC worth it for Series 65?
Yes, for candidates who need flashcards and prefer traditional structured materials. STC Premier ($247) includes 1,500+ flashcards, 12 hours of video, instructor hotline, and pass guarantee. The main trade-off is shorter 6-month access (vs Achievable's 12 months). If flashcards are essential to your learning, STC is excellent value.
2. Does STC have a pass guarantee?
Yes, but only for Premier ($247) and Premier Plus ($384) packages. Standard ($219) has no guarantee. The pass guarantee offers free course repeat OR money-back refund if you meet study requirements and fail your first exam attempt. Kaplan offers no guarantee at all.
3. How many flashcards does STC have?
1,500+ flashcards in Premier and Premier Plus packages. Flashcards are organized by course, chapter, or FINRA exam sections. Created by securities experts in plain English. Standard package ($219) does NOT include flashcards. If purchased separately, flashcards cost $76.
4. Does STC have a mobile app?
STC's mobile app ("Exam Prep by STC") exists but is no longer supported as of 2026. Users are directed to the mobile-friendly website instead. The web platform works on phones and tablets but lacks native app features like push notifications. Cross-device sync works via STC Interactive Account.
5. How long do I have access to STC?
6 months from first use for all packages. This is shorter than Achievable (12 months) and Knopman Marks (12 months). Extensions are available for an additional fee (amount not specified). If you need more time flexibility, consider Achievable or Knopman Marks.
6. What are STC's Green Light exams?
Two comprehensive diagnostic assessments with 140 questions each (10 more than the real exam's 130). Included in Premier and Premier Plus packages. "Green Light" means you're ready to take the real exam when you pass these. They identify weak areas and assess overall readiness.
7. How many practice questions does STC have?
Approximately 2,800+ total questions (estimated). This includes 1,000+ practice questions in the question bank plus chapter quizzes, final exams, and Green Light diagnostics. Kaplan has more (4,230), but STC's questions are comprehensive for Series 65 content.
8. Does STC have video lectures?
Yes, 12 hours of on-demand video lectures in Premier and Premier Plus packages. Standard package does NOT include videos. Lectures cover all 15 chapters based on FINRA content outline. User reviews note the instructor "pivots frequently" which some find difficult to follow.
9. Does STC offer live classes?
Yes, Premier Plus ($384) includes live virtual classroom sessions and in-person classes in NYC, Chicago, San Francisco, and Boston. STC is the only major Series 65 provider offering in-person instruction. Recorded access to live sessions is also included.
10. STC vs Achievable: Which is better?
Depends on your learning style. Choose STC if you need flashcards (1,500+ included), want human instructor support, and can commit to 6 months. Choose Achievable if you prefer adaptive learning technology, need 12-month access, or want AI-powered instant answers. Achievable is $48 cheaper ($199 vs $247).
11. Are STC practice exams accurate?
Mixed feedback. Some users praise STC's practice tests; others report they're easier than the real Series 65/66 exam. Multiple Reddit users scored 90%+ on STC practice exams but failed or barely passed the real exam. Consider supplementing with another provider's practice exams for additional perspective.
12. Does STC have adaptive learning?
No. STC uses traditional static quizzes. You manually select chapters and topics to study. There's no AI-powered spaced repetition or personalized memory modeling like Achievable offers. Progress exams and Green Light diagnostics help identify weak areas, but the system doesn't automatically adapt your study path.
13. Which STC package should I buy?
Premier ($247) for most candidates. The $28 upgrade from Standard ($219) gets you flashcards ($76 value), videos ($171 value), Green Light diagnostics, and pass guarantee. Only choose Premier Plus ($384) if you specifically want live classes. Avoid Standard as it lacks flashcards and pass guarantee.
14. Can I study STC offline?
Partially. You can download the study manual and lecture notes for offline review. The printed textbook is included in all packages. However, practice exams, flashcards, and video streaming require internet connection. More offline access than Achievable (web-only) but less than Knopman Marks (iOS app with full offline).
15. How is STC's customer support?
Generally positive reviews. Instructor hotline included in all packages for content questions (phone/email). 24/7 tech support for technical issues. User reviews praise the "impeccable tech support team." Response times are typically same-day for urgent issues.
Final Verdict
Overall Score
STC is the best value Series 65 prep course for candidates who need flashcards and prefer traditional structured materials. With 1,500+ flashcards, 2,800+ practice questions, 12 hours of video, instructor hotline support, pass guarantee, and 50+ years of industry experience, STC delivers comprehensive preparation at a competitive price.
The main limitations are shorter 6-month access (vs Achievable's 12 months), no adaptive learning technology, deprecated mobile app, and mixed Reddit reviews specifically for Series 65. If flashcards are essential to your learning style and you can commit to a focused 6-month study window, STC Premier ($247) is excellent value.
What We Loved
- 1,500+ flashcards included (Achievable has zero)
- Instructor hotline in ALL packages
- Pass guarantee with refund option (Premier+)
- 50+ years experience, 1M+ candidates trained
- Green Light diagnostics for readiness assessment
- In-person classes available (NYC, Chicago, SF, Boston)
What Needs Work
- Short 6-month access (vs 12 months at competitors)
- No adaptive learning technology
- Mobile app deprecated (no longer supported)
- Practice exams may be easier than real exam
- Chapters too long and dense (user feedback)
- Mixed Reddit reviews for Series 65 specifically
Who Should Buy STC
Choose STC Premier ($247) if:
You need flashcards included (1,500+), prefer traditional structured textbooks, want human instructor support (hotline), value pass guarantee protection, and can commit to a focused 6-month study schedule. Also excellent for firm-sponsored candidates and those in NYC/Chicago/SF/Boston who want in-person class option.
Skip STC if:
You prefer adaptive learning technology (choose Achievable), need 12-month access flexibility (choose Achievable or Knopman Marks), rely heavily on mobile studying (STC app deprecated), or are budget-conscious (Achievable is $48 cheaper with longer access).
6 months access | 1,500+ flashcards | Pass guarantee included
Series 65 Study Resources
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We earn affiliate commissions when you purchase through our links. We purchased STC anonymously at full price to ensure an unbiased review. Our rankings are merit-based and not influenced by commission rates. See our full affiliate disclosure.