Learn about actuarial exams and University of Iowa coursework

“In the forefront of actuarial folklore stands the belief that the actuarial examinations constitute a mystery impenetrable by mortal man.”
Charles A. Spoerl, Transactions of the Society of Actuaries, Volume 1 (1949)

“The primary unifying force of the actuarial profession in North America is the shared experience of the actuarial exams.  These difficult and competitive exams . . . yield a bond among actuaries that is stronger and longer lasting than that produced by the entry trials of other professions and careers.  Actuaries are unique in the extent to which they remember and discuss their qualifying process, contribute their time to the education and examinations of prospective actuaries, and share a sense of community with those who have traveled the same road.  The exams are sufficiently difficult to produce a sense of accomplishment best appreciated by other successful candidates.”
Society of Actuaries Task Force on the Actuary of the Future (1988).

Validation by Educational Experience (VEE) credit

Visit the SOA Validation by Educational Experience requirement homepage.

The VEE topics are not prerequisites for the preliminary exams (Exams P, FM, FAM, SRM, ALTAM, and ASTAM) and may be fulfilled independently of the exam process. However, you must pass two SOA or CAS actuarial exams before applying to have your VEE credit added to your record.

The VEE Candidate Credit application process is now online. Please use the links below to complete your order. Only paper applications for check orders will still be accepted.

VEE credit

VEE Approved Courses/Experiences

Requesting VEE Course/Option Evaluation

Applying for VEE Credit

Eligibility Requirements

VEE Candidate Credit applications for partial credit will not be accepted. Applications for VEE candidate credit can only be submitted after all requirements for that topic are completed.

Three subjects require Validation by Educational Experience (VEE). Validation of these subjects is required in addition to the Preliminary Education examinations. The SOA has implemented VEE requirements for the following subjects:

  • Economics
  • Accounting and Finance
  • Mathematical Statistics

Transferred courses may be used for VEE credit if the accepting university has applied for and received VEE approval for the equivalent course(s).

A candidate must show a grade of a B- or better on a transcript from the original school (which can be a community college) as well as a transcript from the accepting university showing credit for the equivalent course. If the transcript only lists a total number of transfer hours, it must be accompanied by a degree evaluation or similar document that details specific course equivalency.