Finding the right actuarial internship can feel overwhelming, especially with so many options and the pressure to make choices that align with both your SOA exam progress and your long-term career aspirations. The internship you pick in 2026 could shape your early career trajectory, influence your exam strategy, and even determine the kind of mentor relationships you build. This guide is designed to help you cut through the noise, offering practical advice, real-world examples, and personal insights to ensure you choose an internship that’s not just a line on your resume, but a meaningful step toward becoming a successful actuary.
Let’s start by acknowledging that not all internships are created equal. Some are deeply technical, others focus on business acumen, and a few offer a blend of both. Your SOA exam progress—whether you’ve passed zero, one, or several exams—will influence which opportunities are realistic and most beneficial. At the same time, your career goals—do you want to work in life insurance, health, pensions, or consulting?—should steer your search. Balancing these factors is key, and the best choice is rarely the most obvious one.
Understanding Your Starting Point: SOA Exam Progress #
Your SOA exam progress is one of the first filters you should apply. If you haven’t passed any exams yet, don’t worry—many programs, like CNO’s, welcome students who are committed to the actuarial path, even if they’re just getting started[2]. These internships often provide foundational training and may even help you prepare for your first exam. On the other hand, if you’ve already passed one or more exams, you’ll have access to more competitive programs. For example, Allianz specifically looks for candidates who have completed at least one SOA exam[3], and MetLife notes that passing an exam is preferred[5].
Here’s a practical way to think about it: if you’re exam-ready but haven’t taken one, focus on internships that offer exam support, study materials, or even reimbursement for exam fees. If you’ve passed an exam or two, target programs that will challenge you with more advanced work, since you’ve already proven your technical chops. And if you’re further along, with multiple exams under your belt, look for internships that offer exposure to specialized areas like pricing, reserving, or predictive modeling—these roles often come with greater responsibility and more direct mentorship from senior actuaries.
Aligning Internships with Career Goals #
Your career goals should be the compass for your internship search. Do you see yourself in a traditional insurance company, a consulting firm, or perhaps a non-traditional setting like healthcare analytics or fintech? Each path offers different experiences and skill sets.
For example, if you’re drawn to life insurance, companies like New York Life and MetLife offer internships where you’ll work on pricing, product development, and financial analysis[5][9]. These roles are great if you want to understand the core of actuarial work in a large, established company. If health insurance excites you, Highmark’s program exposes interns to both traditional actuarial tasks and newer areas like value-based reimbursement and provider analytics[7]. This is ideal if you’re curious about the intersection of healthcare and data science. Consulting internships, though less common, can be a fit if you enjoy variety, client interaction, and fast-paced environments.
Don’t overlook non-traditional paths, either. More companies are hiring actuaries for roles in data science, risk management, and even tech startups. These opportunities might not have “actuarial” in the title, but they can offer unique experiences that set you apart later in your career.
Researching and Comparing Internship Programs #
Once you know your exam status and career interests, it’s time to research specific programs. Look beyond the big names—while companies like Fidelity and MetLife are well-known, smaller insurers and regional firms often provide more hands-on experience and closer mentorship[1][5].
Pay attention to program structure. Does the internship offer a mix of technical work, professional development, and networking? CNO’s program, for instance, includes leader talks, career counseling, and even a volunteering event, giving you a well-rounded experience beyond daily tasks[2]. MetLife’s program highlights mentorship, networking events, and the chance to present your work to company leaders[5]. These elements can be just as valuable as the technical skills you’ll gain.
Check for specifics about the work you’ll be doing. Some internships are project-based, allowing you to own a piece of work from start to finish. Others rotate you through different departments, giving you a broad view of the company. Think about which style suits your learning preferences and career goals.
Application Strategies and Timeline #
The actuarial internship application cycle starts early—often a full year in advance. For summer 2026 internships, applications typically open in late 2025. Mark your calendar and set reminders to avoid missing deadlines.
Tailor your resume and cover letter for each application. Highlight your exam progress, relevant coursework, and any technical skills (Excel, Python, SQL, R)[2][5]. If you’ve worked on group projects, led a club, or volunteered, mention those too—actuaries need more than math skills; communication and leadership matter.
Prepare for interviews by reviewing common actuarial interview questions and practicing your problem-solving skills. Be ready to discuss your exam progress, career goals, and why you’re interested in that specific company. Personalize your answers—interviewers can tell when you’ve done your homework.
Maximizing Your Internship Experience #
Once you land an internship, make the most of it. Set clear goals at the start: pass an exam, build a network, or master a new technical skill. Take initiative—ask questions, seek feedback, and volunteer for extra projects. The best interns are curious and proactive.
Take advantage of every learning opportunity, whether it’s a lunch-and-learn with a senior actuary or a workshop on the latest modeling techniques. These experiences can shape your career more than you might expect.
Network intentionally. Connect with your peers, your manager, and other professionals in the company. These relationships can lead to mentorship, job offers, or valuable advice as you navigate your early career.
Evaluating Full-Time Opportunities #
Many companies use internships as a pipeline for full-time hires. If you’re interested in returning after graduation, express that interest early and often. Seek feedback on your performance and ask what it would take to earn a full-time offer. MetLife, for example, explicitly mentions the possibility of full-time employment after graduation[5].
Even if you’re not sure about returning, treat every interaction as a chance to build your professional reputation. The actuarial community is smaller than you think, and your internship could open doors you haven’t even considered yet.
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them #
It’s easy to get caught up in brand names or prestige, but the best internship for you is the one that aligns with your goals and growth stage. Don’t overlook smaller companies or less flashy roles—they might offer the mentorship and hands-on experience you need.
Avoid spreading yourself too thin. Applying to dozens of programs can lead to generic applications and burnout. Focus on a targeted list where you have a genuine interest and a realistic shot.
Don’t neglect your exams during the internship. Balancing work and study is tough, but passing another exam during or right after your internship can significantly boost your career prospects.
Personal Insights and Final Thoughts #
Choosing an actuarial internship is a blend of strategy and self-awareness. It’s about knowing where you are, where you want to go, and what kind of environment will help you get there. I’ve seen students thrive in small companies where they got to work directly with chief actuaries, and others who blossomed in large firms with structured training programs. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer.
Remember, this is just the beginning. Your first internship is a learning experience—a chance to explore, make mistakes, and discover what kind of actuary you want to be. Stay curious, stay humble, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. The actuarial profession is built on collaboration and continuous learning, and your internship is the perfect place to start building those habits.
In the end, the best actuarial internship for you in 2026 is the one that challenges you, supports your exam progress, and aligns with your career vision. Take the time to reflect, research, and reach out. Your future self will thank you.