The SOA exams from the Society of Actuaries are the path to becoming an actuary in life, health, retirement and investment. Most candidates start with Exam P (Probability) and Exam FM (Financial Mathematics), often while still in college.
Practice core concepts with our free SOA practice test.
Key takeaways
- Exam P: 30 multiple-choice questions in 3 hours.
- Exam FM: multiple-choice, 2.5 hours, on interest theory and cash flows.
- Most preliminary exams are computer-based at Prometric, several times a year.
- The SOA publishes the exam schedule and registration deadlines on its website.
USA SOA Actuarial Exams: Quick Facts
- Offered by
- Society of Actuaries (SOA)
- First exams
- Exam P, Exam FM
- Delivery
- Computer-based (Prometric)
- Credentials
- ASA, then FSA
SOA Exam Schedule
Exams P and FM are offered in multiple windows each year (typically every other month), while advanced exams run in fewer windows. Always confirm on the SOA’s official exam schedule page: dates, registration deadlines and fees change every year.
Pro tip
Register early. Popular Prometric seats fill up well before the registration deadline.
SOA Exam Path to ASA and FSA
- Exam P (Probability) and Exam FM (Financial Mathematics)
- Advanced Long-Term Actuarial Mathematics and Short-Term Actuarial Mathematics
- Statistics for Risk Modeling (SRM) and Predictive Analytics (PA)
- VEE credits (economics, accounting and finance, mathematical statistics) plus e-learning modules
- ASA, then fellowship (FSA) exams and modules in your specialty track
Risk and finance candidates may also consider the FRM exam or CFA exam.
More on SOA Exam Path to ASA and FSA →Free practice test
Ready to test yourself?
Choose your test length, practice with instant feedback or take it exam-style, and get your score with an explanation for every answer.
Go to the USA SOA Actuarial Exams practice test →USA SOA Actuarial Exams FAQs
How many questions are on SOA Exam P?
30 multiple-choice questions in 3 hours, computer-based.
Full answer →When is the next SOA exam?
Exam P and FM run several times a year. See the official SOA exam schedule for current dates and deadlines.
Full answer →What is a passing score on SOA exams?
Results are reported on a 0–10 scale, and 6 or higher is a pass.
Full answer →How long does it take to become an actuary?
Reaching ASA typically takes 4–7 years, and FSA takes a few more years.
Full answer →Official sources
Disclaimer: This guide is for general information and is not financial, tax, insurance or investment advice. Exam details, fees, blueprints and product terms change. Confirm with the official organization or a licensed professional. Read our editorial policy.