Terminated After Failing Series 63 by 3 Questions — Retaking Soon. Will Being Fully Licensed Help in Job Search?
Hi everyone,
I wanted to share my recent experience and hear from others who might have gone through something similar.
Earlier this year, I went through a difficult breakup on March 1st. Two weeks later, I received two job offers and chose one I was very excited about — an internal wholesaler role (U.S. Offshore) at a major asset management firm.
The role required me to pass the SIE, Series 7, and Series 63 within a set timeframe. I passed the SIE and Series 7, but unfortunately fell short on the Series 63 by just 3 questions. Because I missed the deadline to pass all required exams, my employment was terminated last week after only four months.
I’m retaking the Series 63 on September 6th, and if I pass, I’ll be fully licensed.
A few questions for the community:
-Has anyone else gone through something similar? How did you bounce back?
-In your experience, does being fully licensed make it significantly easier to land a new role?
-For those in internal wholesaling, institutional sales, or related paths — what’s the best approach to finding new opportunities in the current job market?
-Any tips for navigating the emotional side of this and keeping momentum?
Appreciate any insights you can share.
Failing the Series 63 by such a narrow margin and facing termination is undoubtedly tough, but there’s a clear path forward. Here’s what you need to know:
Bouncing Back After Termination:
Based on the most helpful WSO content, many professionals have faced setbacks like this and successfully rebounded. The key is to focus on what you’ve already achieved — passing the SIE and Series 7 is no small feat. When networking or interviewing, frame the experience as a learning opportunity and emphasize your determination to retake and pass the Series 63.
Impact of Being Fully Licensed:
Being fully licensed (SIE, Series 7, and Series 63) will absolutely make you more marketable. Many firms prefer candidates who are already licensed because it reduces their onboarding costs and time. Highlighting your readiness to hit the ground running can give you an edge in the job market.
Finding New Opportunities:
Navigating the Emotional Side:
Additional Tips for Internal Wholesaling:
Passing the Series 63 on September 6th will be a significant milestone. Use this time to prepare thoroughly and approach the exam with confidence. Once licensed, you’ll be in a strong position to re-enter the job market and continue building your career. Keep pushing forward — you’ve got this!
Sources: Licensing For Dummies, Laid off, Depressed and Giving up..., Securities Industry Essentials (SIE) Exam Overview, Looking for Perspectives on Unemployment, Just graduated and don’t have a job?
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