So, you're thinking about becoming an actuary? Smart move. It’s one of the top-rated jobs out there for job satisfaction, salary, and career stability. But let’s be real—it’s not a cakewalk. Between exams, education, and work experience, the process can feel overwhelming.
But don’t sweat it. I’m going to break it all down into actionable steps, so by the end of this article, you’ll know exactly how to become an actuary—and you’ll be set up to crush it.
Before we dive into the "how," let’s make sure you’ve got the "why" nailed down. Actuaries analyze risk. Whether it’s predicting the likelihood of an event (like an accident or natural disaster) or crunching numbers for insurance companies, these folks thrive on math, stats, and problem-solving.
Think of an actuary as the ultimate decision-maker behind big financial risks. They work in industries like:
Basically, if numbers are involved and the stakes are high, actuaries are on it.
To become an actuary, start with the right education. While you don’t need a degree in actuarial science, it helps. Other strong options include:
The goal here is to build a solid foundation in analytical thinking, problem-solving, and quantitative skills. Your coursework should cover things like probability, calculus, linear algebra, and statistics.
Pro tip: Some colleges even offer actuarial science programs that prep you for your first couple of exams, so keep an eye out for those.
Here’s the truth: the exams are the toughest part of becoming an actuary. They’re rigorous, time-consuming, and designed to separate the serious contenders from the rest.
Good news: Passing your first couple of exams will make you stand out when you’re job hunting, even if you haven’t completed the full credentialing process yet.
You’re going to need hands-on experience to complement your exams. This is where internships come in.
How to land one:
Being great at math isn’t enough. Modern actuaries are expected to be tech-savvy, so focus on learning:
Employers love candidates who can wrangle data and communicate insights clearly. If you can turn complex analyses into simple recommendations, you’re gold.
Once you’ve passed a couple of exams and stacked up an internship or two, you’re ready to land your first job. This might be an entry-level actuarial analyst position, but don’t underestimate how competitive the market is.
Even after you’ve landed a job, the learning doesn’t stop. You’ll need to continue passing exams to become fully credentialed.
Here’s the breakdown:
Your employer will often sponsor your exams, cover study materials, and even give you paid study time. Take full advantage of that support—it’s a game-changer.
It depends. Most people take 6-10 years to pass all the exams and become fully credentialed, but you can start working as an entry-level actuary after passing just a couple of exams.
Yes—but it’s doable. The exams are tough, and balancing work, study, and life can be a grind. But if you’re disciplined and love solving problems, it’s worth it.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for actuaries in 2023 was over $120,000 per year. Entry-level salaries typically start around $60,000-$70,000.
Solid. Actuaries are in demand, especially as companies rely more on data-driven decision-making. Platforms like Acturhire can help you find job openings and opportunities.
Becoming an actuary isn’t easy, but it’s one of the most rewarding career paths out there. With solid planning, dedication, and the right resources, you can absolutely crush it.
Start by focusing on education, tackling those exams, and building your experience. And when it’s time to land that first job, check out Acturhire.
Whether you’re just starting out or you’re deep into your actuarial journey, remember: every step brings you closer to a career where your skills truly make an impact.
