Starting Actuarial Exams in College: A Timeline

Freshman and Sophomore Years

Take prerequisite math courses: calculus (single and multi-variable), linear algebra, and probability. Begin studying for Exam P during your sophomore year, ideally during a semester when you are taking probability or mathematical statistics. Pass Exam P by the end of sophomore year if possible. Start attending actuarial club meetings and career events to learn about the profession. Build Excel skills through coursework or self-study. Research VEE-approved courses and incorporate them into your course plan.

Junior and Senior Years

Study for and pass Exam FM during junior year. Apply for internships in the fall of your junior year with at least one, preferably two, exams passed. Use your internship to gain practical experience and network. During senior year, consider starting Exam FAM or SRM if your coursework supports it. Complete as many VEE requirements as possible through your regular coursework. By graduation, having two to three exams passed and an internship on your resume positions you competitively for entry-level actuarial analyst positions.