FAQs about the Actuarial Profession

Are you a recent graduate of actuarial science, mathematics, statistics or any other strong numerate course? Are you also interested in pursuing a career in actuarial field?

Below are frequently asked questions on the actuarial profession as compiled by the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries, UK (under "The Actuarial Profession"). Enjoy it.

Where can I get work experience?

Work experience can prove to be a real asset when job hunting and indeed is now often used as part of the recruitment process. However, work experience can be really hard to find as places are limited and you need to apply early. Companies which offer work experience placements are listed on the Actuarial Profession’s website and via our work experience section.
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Where can I get sponsorship for studying?

Employers will usually sponsor you through the whole of your qualification route, however, The Worshipful Company of Actuaries do offer funding through a charitable trust. Also, the Staple Inn Actuarial Society (SIAS) offers funding at university level.

What recommendations do you give mature entrants?

There is no age limit for joining the profession, but securing employment and sponsorship for the professional examinations may prove difficult for mature entrants as they will be competing against recent graduates. We recommend that you study for one or two examinations independently in order to improve you chances of employment and to show that you are committed.

What is the different between working for a consultancy and an insurance company?

Although there are many opportunities available for actuaries, generally actuarial trainees start working for either an insurance company office or a consultancy firm. These opportunities offer different lifestyles and challenges.
Working in an insurance company environment means that there is usually only one client; your employer. A variety of work is available, but tends to come more slowly – often you’ll be asked to work in one area for a period of about one year before moving on to the next challenge, taking the experience you have gained with you.
The day to day work within consultancy firms tends to be more varied, as in any year you are likely to work for a number of different clients (and partners) solving different types of problems. This can become particularly challenging if you have a number of projects running in parallel and you need to ensure that you meet and manage each of your clients’ expectations and deadlines. Some consultancy projects can involve working at the client’s premises, which may not be in the same town as your own office. This can give you an excellent opportunity to work with other people and see the running of an organisation other than your own consultancy.
However, you would need to consider the impact of being away from home. You may also find yourself working on just part of a project rather than seeing it all the way through from start to finish.

How many years does it take to qualify?

In order to become a Fellow of the Profession, students must pass examinations, demonstrate satisfactory completion of modules and acquire a satisfactory level of work-based skills. Average qualification time is currently three to six years.

What exemptions from the professional examinations will I obtain?

This will depend on the scope and standard of the subjects covered by the university examinations you have taken and on the performance you have achieved.
It is possible to gain exemptions from all eight of the core technical subjects on some undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. Some postgraduate degrees offer the opportunity for exemptions from core applications and specialist technical subjects.
Details of the universities and courses we have agreements with are available on the Actuarial Profession website, along with information on how to apply. If you have taken a different university course, you may still be eligible for exemption from some of our exams, but will need to apply to us for confirmation. You must be a member of the Profession before you can gain any of the exemptions.

Where are actuaries based in the UK?

Actuaries work in cities throughout the UK and not just London. Full listings of actuarial employers by location are indicated in the List of Actuarial Employers found at The Actuarial Profession and our Employer Directory.

How do I obtain a work permit to work in the UK?

Work permits are issued by the Borders and Immigration Agency, which are part of the Home Office. Work permit applications can only be made by employers based in the UK who wish to employ people from outside the European economic area. Individuals are not allowed to make applications on their own behalf. To find out more information about the UK Border Agency visit their website.

Do I have to work as an actuary to qualify?

Yes – as well as passing the examinations, Fellowship requires the satisfactory completion of a work-based learning log.

Will I need to continue training once I have qualified?

Members are required to maintain their competence once qualified through continuing professional development. This is mandatory for regulated roles.

I sincerely hope the above will answer some of the questions bothering you especially those wishing to stage a come-back to the actuarial field. In case you still have unanswered questions, feel free to contact me either directly on this blog or via zilmerkarup@gmail.com .