Actuarial Study Groups: Running One That Works

Forming Your Group

The ideal study group has three to five members preparing for the same exam on a similar timeline. Look for members through your employer, local actuarial clubs, or online forums. Set expectations upfront: meeting frequency, preparation requirements, and participation standards. Virtual meetings via video call work well and remove geographic constraints.

Running Effective Sessions

Structure each session with a clear agenda. Rotate the role of discussion leader who prepares problems and topics for the week. Spend time teaching each other concepts rather than just working problems silently together. When someone explains a topic, everyone benefits including the explainer. Set a regular weekly meeting time and protect it. Address non-participation early. A study group works only when all members contribute. The social accountability of a group meeting can be the difference between a productive week and a skipped one.