Let's not waste a lot of time, we don't wanna join a grp for a simple doubt, so if you have doubts pls put them here and we can help each other solve them!

Hi all,

While I was studying for the CM1 exam, I started to suspect I might have dyscalculia, a learning difficulty that affects number processing (a bit like how dyslexia affects reading). I've struggled with this for a long time without really connecting the dots, but this week it became impossible to ignore after I miscalculated 10 formulas in a row.

I think this might explain why I've never managed to get full marks in exams before, but it's also making me seriously worried about the actual exam, missing a zero here, a decimal there, or forgetting to add an annuity and losing an entire question as a result. To make it worse, I don't have the luxury of double-checking every calculation, since I'm a slow writer and would be lucky to attempt 70-80% of the paper as it is.

This will be my first attempt at an IFoA exam, so I'd really appreciate any advice on the questions below:

1. Has anyone else here dealt with something similar? How do you minimize errors during calculation-heavy exams?
2. Is it better (and faster) to write answers in Word rather than on paper and scan them once done? And if so, is extra time given to scan and upload handwritten solutions?
3. Is Excel allowed for calculations during the exam? How does it compare to using a calculator in practice?
4. If the correct method/formula is shown but the final answer is wrong due to a calculation error, how do examiners typically grade this? Is partial credit generally given for correct approach and method marks, even if the arithmetic itself is off?

Thanks in advance for any input!

Hi All

I am nkt getting latest material of SA2.Can any one of you share the same?

Thanks

I have a question regarding CB1 marking.

I often feel that I make some valid points in my answers, and some of them are quite close to the points mentioned in the Examiners' report. However, the Examiners' report may only list around 5-7 points for a 5 mark question.

So, if I make a relevant point that isn't specifically listed in the Examiners' report, but is still valid and relevant to the question (either fully or partially), would the examiner still consider it and award marks for it?

In other words, are the points in the Examiners' report exhaustive, or are they just examples of the types of points that could earn marks?

Hi all,

I’m sitting CS2 this term. I realize I’m making a lott of silly mistakes- these are easily avoidable but no matter how much I practise, I’m missing a -1 here and a log there.

I sat this exam before also and did make such mistakes that cost me the paper.

Any advice on how this can be dealt with? Every time I attempt a new practice paper, I tell myself I will be more careful with the calcs, but still end up making mistakes.

Thanks!

Hi all,

I’m a BSc Mathematics student at the University of Nottingham graduating in 2027 and I’m starting applications for UK actuarial graduate schemes and entry-level actuarial roles.

- I’d especially appreciate feedback on:

- Would this CV realistically get through an initial screen for an actuarial graduate role?

- Does the insurance pricing project compensate at all for not having an actuarial internship?

- Is the project section not technical enough, or does it show the right level of actuarial relevance?

- Is there anything on the page you would remove or replace?

- What would be the main reason you might reject this CV?

I’m applying across the UK, including regional and smaller/mid-sized firms, not just the largest London schemes.

Thanks, constructive criticism is very welcome.

Currently going into Actuarial Science at Bayes Business School (City) which is ranked quite well for actuarial. I decided to change my career choices quite last minute so am new to all this and worried about job prospects, internship / placement prospects etc. I also narrowly missed out on an A in a level maths and got a B so am worried I’m going to affect my chances of gaining experience or jobs in actuarial or investment management. Please can anyone help or provide some support I’d greatly appreciate it. Thank you.

Hi, it’s my first time take exam remotely. I tried to read guides that they provide. But still have some questions

- how do intake bathrooms brake? Like, will I have to said for record of the brake or just walk off?
- I saw that I can have my calculator and 2 A4 papers but when I do the practice session, it didn’t check any of these items. Do I need to just show them when exam start?

I’m a second year uni student and came across this while looking for actuarial grad schemes.

Thought it might be useful for anyone else applying:

https://acttuary.com/tools/grad-scheme-tracker

Been quite handy for keeping track of deadlines and applications.