Monthly Cost Calculator
A $159 course is not always cheaper than a $199 course. Calculate the true monthly cost based on your study timeline.
Last updated: February 2, 2026
Why Monthly Cost Matters
- Kaplan Basic ($159, 5-month access) = $32/month
- Achievable ($199, 12-month access) = $17/month
- If you need 6 months to study, Kaplan becomes $208 (with extension), or $35/month
The "cheapest" option is not always the best value. This calculator helps you compare true costs.
Calculate Your Cost
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Select a provider and tier to see your cost breakdown
Monthly Cost
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Note: Your study timeline exceeds the access period.
Quick Comparison: Monthly Costs by Study Timeline
This table shows the monthly cost for the most popular tier of each provider. Costs include extensions when study timeline exceeds access period.
| Provider (Popular Tier) | Base Price | Access | 3-Month Study | 6-Month Study |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Achievable | $199 | 12 mo | $66/mo | $33/mo |
| Pass Perfect (Pass Plus) | $199 | 12 mo | $66/mo | $33/mo |
| STC (Standard) | $219 | 6 mo | $73/mo | $37/mo |
| Kaplan (Basic Self-Study) | $159 | 5 mo | $53/mo | $35/mo* |
| Training Consultants (Online) | $375 | 6 mo | $125/mo | $63/mo |
| Knopman Marks (Gold) | $395 | 12 mo | $132/mo | $66/mo |
* Includes $49 extension fee (5-month access extended to 6 months). Total cost: $208.
How to Choose Your Study Timeline
Most candidates need 2 to 4 months to prepare for the Series 65 exam, depending on their background and available study time.
- 2 to 3 months: Full-time study or strong finance background
- 3 to 4 months: Part-time study while working (most common)
- 4 to 6 months: Busy schedule or learning from scratch
- 6+ months: Very limited study time or prefer slower pace
Tip: Add 1 to 2 months buffer to your estimate. It is better to have extra access time than to need an extension.
Ready to Compare Providers?
Now that you understand the true costs, explore our detailed comparisons to find the best provider for your needs.