If you’ve spent any time researching financial qualifications, you’ve probably come across the term ‘Series 7’. Though it originates in the United States, the Series 7 exam is increasingly relevant for Australian finance professionals as global standards evolve. But what exactly is Series 7, and how does it intersect with Australia’s own regulatory environment in 2025?
The Series 7, officially known as the General Securities Representative Qualification Examination, is a U.S.-based licensing test administered by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA). It’s a rigorous exam designed to ensure that financial professionals have the knowledge to advise clients on a broad range of securities—including stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and options. Passing the Series 7 is a key requirement to act as a registered representative (or stockbroker) in the U.S.
While the Series 7 is not an Australian qualification, the globalisation of finance means cross-border standards are more relevant than ever. In 2025, Australia’s financial advice sector continues to reform in the wake of the Royal Commission and the Quality of Advice Review, with an ongoing focus on raising professionalism and consumer protection.
Some key trends making Series 7 more relevant for Australians include:
In Australia, the main pathway for becoming a licensed financial adviser is through ASIC-approved qualifications, such as the Financial Adviser Standards and Ethics Authority (FASEA) exam (now managed by Treasury), and an approved degree or graduate diploma. Here’s how the Series 7 stacks up:
| Series 7 | Australian Pathways |
|---|---|
| U.S. FINRA-administered | ASIC/Treasury regulated |
| Focuses on securities and investment products | Focus on holistic advice, including superannuation, insurance, and retirement planning |
| Globally recognised for investment banking roles | Essential for providing personal financial advice in Australia |
In 2025, Australia’s Treasury is reviewing the adviser education framework, with potential for more international recognition of qualifications on the horizon. However, Series 7 alone does not entitle a professional to provide advice in Australia—local licensing is still required.
For Australians seeking to broaden their career prospects, preparing for Series 7 involves:
As global investment firms expand their Australian presence, candidates with both local and international credentials are increasingly in demand. For example, Macquarie Group and other major players have been recruiting advisers with Series 7 for their investment banking arms, especially in Sydney and Melbourne.
This year, the Australian government is consulting on changes to adviser qualification recognition, aiming to facilitate cross-border mobility without compromising consumer protection. While Series 7 is not yet an official pathway to Australian licensing, policy momentum suggests a future where international exams could help fast-track local qualifications, particularly in specialist fields like portfolio management and derivatives trading.
Keep an eye on ASIC and Treasury announcements as the regulatory landscape evolves. The next 12 months may see new guidelines for recognising international qualifications, including the Series 7, especially for roles with a global investment focus.
The Series 7 is more than just a U.S. exam—it’s a signal of international expertise that’s increasingly valued in Australia’s evolving finance sector. While it doesn’t replace local licensing, it can open doors to global careers, especially as regulatory standards continue to converge in 2025. For ambitious Australian advisers, investing in both local and international qualifications is a smart move in a changing world.