We recommend planning on 100 hours of study time per exam hour. But it's not just about logging hours—it's about intentional, effective preparation that targets both strengths and weaknesses.
Preparing for SOA exams might feel challenging without a clear road map. We know how important it is to have the correct plan from the start. With our years of expertise, we have mentored thousands of students, and one of the most frequently asked questions is about the required study hours needed for each exam. Apart from practical actuary exam study tips, success also depends on a clear awareness of the time commitment.
How Many Hours Is Enough?
We recommend planning about 100 hours of study time per exam hour. For example, a 3-hour SOA test requires 300–400 hours of focused study. But it's not just about logging hours; it's about intentional, effective preparation that targets both strengths and weaknesses.
Recommended Study Hours by SOA Exam
When planning your study schedule, using the right actuary exam study tips can help you allocate your time more effectively across each exam.
- Exam P (Probability): For Exam P, we recommend around 300 hours of preparation. Studying consistently over 3–4 months will help you build a strong understanding of probability basics.
- Exam FM (Financial Mathematics): Our advice is to target 250–300 hours. Practicing a wide range of financial math problems is essential to mastering this exam.
- Exam SRM (Statistics for Risk Modeling): Generally speaking, SRM takes about 300 hours. To help you enhance your knowledge, we recommend combining study sessions with practical applications using statistical tools.
- FSA Exams (Fellowship-Level Exams): Fellowship exams require advanced knowledge. Depending on the specific exam track, you should plan to invest 400–600 hours.
Make Your Study Time Work for You
The best ways to stay focused are to create a daily study schedule and regularly monitor your progress. Using the correct actuary exam study tips will significantly improve your preparation. Our tools and resources help you to study smarter, strengthen your skills, and feel confident when exam day arrives.
Visit Coaching Actuaries to access everything you need for exam success.