FAQ’s

Who is an Actuary?

An actuary is a professional who uses mathematics, statistics, and financial theory to assess risk and uncertainty in areas like insurance, pensions, finance, and investments. Actuaries play a vital role in helping businesses and governments make data-driven decisions about the future.

How do I become an Actuary in India?

To become an actuary in India, you must register with the Institute of Actuaries of India (IAI) and clear the ACET (Actuarial Common Entrance Test). After passing ACET, you can begin your professional exams (Core Principles, Core Practices, and Specialist modules) while pursuing graduation.

Why Actuarial Science?

Actuarial Science combines logic, analytics, and finance—ideal for students who enjoy mathematics and problem-solving. It offers a prestigious, globally recognized career with high earning potential and opportunities in insurance, consulting, data science, and risk management.

How long does it take to become an actuary?

It generally takes 5 to 8 years to qualify as a Fellow, depending on how many exams you pass each year and your study consistency. Many students start during college to shorten the timeline.

Is there any exemption in Actuarial Science?

Yes. Students with relevant degrees like B.Sc. (Hons.) Mathematics, Statistics, Economics, or Engineering may receive exemptions for certain subjects if they pursue accredited programs or hold equivalent professional certifications.

Is internship compulsory for actuarial science?

While not compulsory, internships are highly recommended. They provide practical exposure, improve your resume, and often lead to pre-placement offers in insurance, reinsurance, and consulting firms.

What do I need to start studying Actuarial Science?

You need strong mathematical aptitude, logical reasoning, and good command of English. The minimum eligibility is 10+2 with Mathematics. You’ll start with the ACET exam conducted by IAI.

What are the roles of an actuary?

Actuaries work as risk analysts, pricing experts, pension consultants, data modelers, and investment analysts in sectors like life insurance, health insurance, general insurance, banking, and finance.

What is an actuarial exam?

Actuarial exams are professional certification tests conducted by bodies such as IAI (India) or IFoA (UK). These exams test mathematical modeling, probability, finance, and data interpretation skills.

What are the requirements for actuarial science?

  • 10+2 or higher with Mathematics as a core subject

  • Clear ACET or equivalent entry qualification

  • Regular self-study and passing professional exams

  • Basic computer literacy (Excel, R, Python preferred)

Can I change my degree if I don’t like Actuarial Science?

Yes. Since actuarial exams are independent of your college degree, you can switch to another course anytime. However, the analytical foundation you gain will remain valuable for finance or data careers.

Will I easily get a job with this degree?

Actuarial Science graduates are in high demand, especially those who clear multiple exams and gain internship experience. Leading firms like EY, Deloitte, PwC, Swiss Re, and ICICI Prudential hire actuarial students regularly.

What exemptions from professional exams will I obtain?

Exemptions depend on your academic background and institute’s accreditation. IFoA grants exemptions for accredited university modules, while IAI currently offers limited exemptions.

What is the difference between consultancy and non-consultancy actuarial roles?

  • Consultancy: Work with multiple clients, project-based, high exposure, dynamic learning.

  • Non-consultancy (corporate): In-house actuarial work—focus on pricing, product design, reserving, and risk control.

Do I have to work as an actuary to qualify?

Work experience is not mandatory to clear exams, but practical experience is essential to apply for Associateship (AIAI) or Fellowship (FIAI).

Will I need to continue training once qualified?

Yes. Continuous professional development (CPD) is required to maintain membership and stay updated with global actuarial standards.

Is actuarial science tougher than CA?

Both are rigorous, but actuarial science involves deeper mathematics and statistics, while CA focuses on accounting and auditing. Actuarial exams are highly analytical but manageable with the right guidance.

Will I get a degree after completing exams?

IAI or IFoA awards professional designations (AIAI/FIAI or AIFoA/FIFoA), not academic degrees. You can pursue B.Sc. or M.Sc. in Actuarial Science alongside for a recognized university qualification.

Can I pursue graduation and post-graduation during my exams?

Absolutely. Most actuarial aspirants pursue B.Sc. (Actuarial Science / Statistics / Mathematics / Economics) while giving exams.

How different is work in pensions vs. general insurance?

  • Pensions: Focuses on long-term retirement planning and employee benefits.

  • General Insurance: Deals with short-term risks like motor, health, or property insurance.
    Many professionals move between the two with experience.

Which companies employ actuaries?

Top recruiters include Deloitte, EY, PwC, KPMG, Swiss Re, ICICI Lombard, HDFC Life, Aon, Mercer, and Milliman.

Can I get a job without prior experience?

Yes. Many actuarial firms hire freshers with 3–5 cleared papers and good Excel, R, or data analytics skills.

How many exams do I need to qualify for an actuarial job?

You can start applying after clearing 3–5 Core Principle exams. Full qualification (Fellowship) requires around 13 exams in total.

What is the starting salary of an actuary in India?

  • Fresher (3–5 exams): ₹6–10 LPA

  • Associate level: ₹12–20 LPA

  • Fellow actuary: ₹25 LPA and above
    Salaries grow exponentially with expertise.

What is ACET?

ACET (Actuarial Common Entrance Test) is the first step to enter IAI. It assesses your mathematical and analytical skills at a 10+2 level.

What’s next after qualifying ACET?

After passing ACET, register as a student member of IAI, and start preparing for Core Principles (CM1, CS1, etc.).

Is there negative marking in ACET?

Yes. Each wrong answer deducts 0.5 marks, so accuracy is crucial.

How are home-based online exams conducted?

IAI conducts secure remote proctored exams via webcam and microphone. Candidates must ensure stable internet and ID verification.

Can I use actuarial tables during exams?

Yes, specific formula sheets or statistical tables are allowed, depending on the paper.

Is there a fixed order for attempting the 13 exams?

While there’s no strict order, it’s recommended to complete Core Principles before moving to Core Practices, then Specialist Principles (SP) and Specialist Advanced (SA).

Can I attempt CP1 as my first exam?

Technically yes, but it’s not advisable. CP1 requires a strong foundation in Core Principles (CS, CM subjects).

What are CS and CM subjects?

  • CS (Core Statistics): Focus on statistical methods and data analytics.

  • CM (Core Mathematics): Focus on actuarial modeling, financial mathematics, and risk theory.

Each has two components—a theory paper and a practical (Excel/R coding-based) assessment.

Do I need prior knowledge of R coding?

Basic R and Excel skills are recommended, especially for CS1 and CS2 exams.

Is there scope for Actuarial Science in India?

Yes! The demand for actuaries is rising rapidly in insurance, fintech, data science, and investment analytics due to increased financial literacy and risk-based decision-making.

Is there any age limit?

No. Anyone above 18 years can register for ACET and pursue actuarial exams.

If I fail an exam, can I reappear?

Yes, there’s no limit to reattempting actuarial exams. Many candidates retake challenging subjects.

How many exams can I attempt in one cycle?

You can attempt up to 3 exams in a single session, depending on your preparation.

Can I skip an exam session?

Yes, you can skip or defer attempts. The actuarial path is flexible.

Can I attempt SP or SA before Core Principles?

You must complete Core Principles and Core Practices before attempting SP/SA modules.

Are exams home-based or centre-based?

IAI currently offers both formats depending on the paper type and schedule.

When are actuarial exams conducted?

Exams are held twice a year — in April–May and September–October sessions.

Will I be able to login after the exam time?

No. The login window closes once the exam starts. Late entry is not permitted.

What is the exam fee for IAI?

Each subject costs between ₹3,000 and ₹10,000, depending on the level and paper type.

Will AI replace actuaries?

No. While AI assists with data processing, actuaries bring human judgment, ethics, and strategic decision-making that AI cannot replicate.

Which is better – CA or Actuary?

CA focuses on auditing and taxation, while actuarial science focuses on risk and finance. If you love maths, data, and probability, actuarial science offers broader global opportunities.

Can an Indian actuary work abroad?

Yes. Indian actuaries (IAI or IFoA qualified) are recognized internationally in the UK, Canada, Singapore, and Australia with certain equivalence arrangements.

Why Choose Alpha Plus Institute for Actuarial Science?

  • Expert Faculty from IFoA & IAI background

  • Hybrid Learning: Online + Classroom

  • Real-world Projects and Internship Guidance

  • 100% Mentorship till Job Placement

  • ACET to Fellowship Roadmap Support