Preparing for a Career as an Actuary

Many surveys rank actuarial careers near the top in job satisfaction. A person considering this career need not be a math major but should be comfortable with math.

What Courses to Take

The very minimum mathematics requirements are a year of calculus and a calculus-based probability course (e.g. MATH 471, BTRY 408); more mathematics is desirable.

The Actuarial Exam

When, Where and Who to Contact

While still an undergraduate, one should pass at least the first Actuarial Society exam, which covers calculus and basic probability. The first and second exams are given in November and May at Cornell.

Further Information

• Copies of previous years' exams (with answers) can be downloaded from The Society of Actuaries.

• A lot of information can be found at an advertiser-supported site: www.actuary.com

• The University of Illinois has a "handbook" at www2.uiuc.edu/ro/actuary

• DW Simpson Actuary jobs: www.actuaryjobs.com

Last modified: September 22, 2005