Starting your actuarial internship armed with specific SOA (Society of Actuaries) exams under your belt can be a game changer—not just for what you learn on the job, but also for boosting your chances of getting a full-time offer. Internships are a unique opportunity to bridge theory and real-world application, and when you align your exam progress with your internship goals, you maximize both your learning and career prospects.
The first thing to understand is that employers often look for candidates who have passed at least one or two SOA preliminary exams before or during their internships. These exams demonstrate your commitment to the profession and a foundational understanding of actuarial concepts, which makes you more valuable to the team and better equipped to tackle actual projects[1][3][5]. For example, passing Exam P (Probability) and Exam FM (Financial Mathematics) early on shows you have the quantitative skills to handle risk modeling and financial calculations that many internships require.
But how do you leverage these exams to truly maximize your internship experience? It starts with connecting the exam material to your daily tasks. If you’ve recently passed Exam P, take the initiative to apply probability concepts in analyzing insurance claims or risk scenarios at work. When you’re working on financial projections, bring in knowledge from Exam FM to understand interest theory or annuities, rather than just following instructions blindly. This active engagement not only deepens your learning but also signals to supervisors that you’re proactive and eager to contribute.
Another practical tip is to use your exam preparation as a way to build a skill set that aligns with your internship role. Many SOA exams, especially at the Associateship level, cover advanced actuarial mathematics and modeling techniques relevant to long-term or short-term insurance products[4][6]. If you know your internship involves health insurance modeling, for instance, focus on the Advanced Long-Term Actuarial Mathematics (ALTAM) exam content, and ask to shadow actuaries working in that area. This targeted approach helps you gain specialized knowledge that can set you apart when the company considers you for a full-time position.
In addition to technical knowledge, don’t overlook the professionalism course that’s part of the ASA (Associate of the Society of Actuaries) pathway. This course covers ethics, communication, and industry standards, which are just as important on the job. Use your internship to practice these soft skills: volunteer for presentations, collaborate on team projects, and demonstrate your understanding of ethical responsibilities. Employers highly value these traits when deciding whom to hire[4][6].
Networking during your internship is another critical factor, and your exam progress can be a great conversation starter. When you pass key exams, it often grants you access to SOA sections and events where you can meet seasoned professionals and fellow interns. For example, involvement in the SOA Actuary of the Future Section can enhance your resume and provide leadership experience, all while expanding your network[2]. Share your exam journey with colleagues and mentors—they often appreciate the dedication and may provide guidance or future opportunities.
Balancing exam study with internship responsibilities can be challenging, so effective time management is essential. Many successful interns allocate specific hours each week to exam prep, often using evening or weekend time, while still maintaining high performance at work[5]. You might also find it helpful to discuss your exam schedule with your manager upfront. Transparency helps set expectations and can sometimes lead to support, such as flexible hours during intense study periods.
Practical examples illustrate these points well. Imagine an intern who has passed Exam P and FM joining a life insurance company. They notice their team uses probability models to price policies. By proactively suggesting improvements or asking insightful questions based on their exam knowledge, they demonstrate value beyond routine tasks. Alternatively, an intern preparing for the ASA professionalism seminar might volunteer to draft internal communications, honing both technical writing and professional etiquette simultaneously.
Statistically, actuarial internships with exam progress are highly correlated with landing full-time roles. According to SOA data, candidates who have passed two or more preliminary exams by internship time have a significantly higher chance of receiving job offers than those with no exams completed[1][3]. This is because exam success signals strong analytical skills and discipline, qualities employers prize.
Lastly, treat your internship as a two-way street: while the company benefits from your growing exam-based skills, you should also extract as much knowledge and mentorship as possible. Ask for feedback on how your exam knowledge translates to the workplace and seek opportunities to work on projects that stretch your abilities. This mindset not only accelerates learning but also leaves a lasting impression that can lead to job offers.
In summary, leveraging specific SOA exams during your actuarial internship means more than just listing passed exams on your resume. It’s about actively applying the concepts, aligning your exam studies with your internship tasks, developing professional skills, networking strategically, managing your time well, and seeking continuous growth. By doing so, you position yourself as a standout candidate for future employment and build a solid foundation for a successful actuarial career.