Career roadmap
How to Become an Actuary
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as an actuary, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become an actuary: (1) earn a math-heavy bachelor’s, (2) pass early exams, (3) land an internship, (4) join as an analyst, (5) earn associate and fellow credentials. Most people need about Several years of exams while working. BLS lists “bachelor's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become an actuary
Earn a math-heavy bachelor’s
Actuarial science or math.
Pass early exams
P and FM.
Land an internship
Insurer or consultant.
Join as an analyst
Study program.
Earn associate and fellow credentials
Advance.
Education and training requirements
A bachelor’s degree in math, statistics, actuarial science or a related field, plus professional exams.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Bachelor's degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | Long-term on-the-job training |
| Typical training time | Several years of exams while working |
Certifications and licenses
- ASA or FSA: Society of Actuaries.
- ACAS or FCAS: Casualty Actuarial Society.
- Enrolled Actuary: Pension credential.
- Preliminary exams: Probability and financial math.
Skills to build now
Start with probability and statistics, financial math, and modeling, and practice persistence and communication. Learning the actuary vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Actuarial Analyst: Entry.
- Associate (ASA/ACAS): Credentialed.
- Fellow (FSA/FCAS): Full credential.
- Chief Actuary: Lead actuarial work.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Actuary training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
How long does it take to become a fellow?
Often 7 to 10 years of exams while working.
Do I need an actuarial degree?
No, math or statistics degrees work too.
How long does it take to become an actuary?
Most people need about Several years of exams while working of training. A bachelor’s degree in math, statistics, actuarial science or a related field, plus professional exams.
Do you need a degree to be an actuary?
Usually, yes. BLS lists a bachelor's degree as the typical entry-level education, although skills, certifications and experience can sometimes substitute.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 15-2011 (Actuaries).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Actuaries (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.