Yes, you can join the program even if your exam is before May.  It’s extremely important that you’re spending your time wisely during the last 1-2 months before your exam.  So, join as soon as possible to ensure we have the maximum amount of time together.

Note that the $225 Pass Guarantee Bonus only applies to anyone taking the exam in May or later.  You do not have to register for the exam before joining the Study Strategy Program (actually I advise that you don’t).

Yes, it is OK to join now even if your exam is planned for after May and you will qualify for the $225 Pass Guarantee Bonus.

If you would like to take your exam in June or July then joining now would be perfect because you’ll be able to take studying at a slower pace.  You’ll have lots of time to review concepts you have difficulty with and to reach the recommended performance targets before your exam.

If you are planning to take your exam in August or later, you don’t need to start your studying yet.  (But why are you waiting?  The sooner you can pass your exam, the sooner you’ll be able to start working in an actuarial position).

If you’re planning to take your exam in May, it only takes about 3 hours daily for most members to be fully prepared.  Throughout the last month before your exam, you may need to dedicate more time to studying depending on how you’re performing.

If you’re planning to take your exam in June or July, then dedicating about 2 hours daily to studying should be sufficient for most people.  Study time requirements may increase as exam day gets closer depending on how you’re performing.

Study materials teach you the concepts on the exam, but they don’t provide any guidance in terms of how to use the materials properly to give yourself the best chance of passing.

The Study Strategy Program bridges the gap.  You’ll learn how to make the best use of your study materials (and other free resources) so that you’re fully prepared by exam day.

So, study materials aren’t included but I have listed all my study material recommendations in the members’ area.  The best study materials for you depend on your preferred learning style, prior knowledge and budget.  Study materials can range from about $100 to $400 depending on your budget, which exam you’re taking and whether or not you’re a student.

Most entry-level actuarial positions pay at least $50,000 per year.  That’s $4,167 per month.  But nearly all those positions will require that you have at least one exam passed.

That means that for every month you delay getting your first exam passed, you’re losing out on $4,167! So, why wouldn’t you do everything in your power to give yourself the best possible chance of passing as soon as you can?

Think about it; if you fail just once, you’re potentially losing over $8,000 because you have to wait at least 2 months to take it again.

Imagine finding the perfect actuarial full-time position or internship opportunity in your city, but not being able to meet their passed exam expectations.  Your chances of getting the job decrease significantly and you have to wait weeks, months, or maybe years until another similar opportunity arises.

That’s why you should invest in yourself now; not only because you’ll be able to 10x your investment when you pass your exam and start earning an actuarial salary, but also because you’ll be better qualified for the best job opportunities that come your way.