In order for students to be competitive applicants when applying for positions and successful actuaries once hired, they should take and pass at least 1 of the 5 preliminary exams. However, taking more is highly recommended. Exam topics range from probability and financial math to life contingencies. These exams do not need to be taken in any particular order, but most of the latter exams rely heavily on material covered in both Exams P/1 and FM/2. For more information on becoming an actuary, registering for preliminary exams, exam study materials, and more, please visit any of the following websites:
- Be An Actuary -- find details about what an actuary is, what they do on the job, how to get started down this career path, requirements/listings for actuary positions and internships, etc.
- Society of Actuaries -- find details about exam testing dates and study materials, the levels of progression through the actuarial career ladder, continuing professional development requirements/offerings, VEE credit requirements, etc.
- Casualty Actuarial Society -- find details about exam testing dates and study materials, seminars and online education opportunities, view publications and research in the actuary field, etc. Also, see the Student CAS Central for the student portal.
- Canadian Institute of Actuaries -- find information about the actuarial profession, review publications and research, take part in seminars/education opportunities, etc.