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.


 

2 Comments
 

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:

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. Finding New Opportunities:

    • Networking: Leverage your existing connections in the industry. Reach out to former colleagues, mentors, or anyone in your network who might have leads on internal wholesaling or sales roles.
    • Targeted Applications: Focus on firms that value licensed professionals. Asset management firms, broker-dealers, and financial advisory firms are good starting points.
    • Recruiters: Specialized recruiters in the financial services industry can be invaluable in connecting you with roles that match your skill set.
  4. Navigating the Emotional Side:

    • Routine: Establish a daily routine to maintain structure and productivity. Dedicate specific hours to studying for the Series 63 and job applications.
    • Perspective: Remember, setbacks are temporary. Many successful professionals have faced similar challenges and emerged stronger.
    • Support: Don’t hesitate to lean on friends, family, or even professional counselors to process the emotional toll.
  5. Additional Tips for Internal Wholesaling:

    • Stay informed about market trends and products in the asset management space.
    • Practice your pitch and communication skills, as these are critical in sales roles.
    • Consider obtaining additional certifications like the CFA or CFP down the line to further bolster your credentials.

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?

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

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