The exact steps you can take to qualify as an actuary, whether you come from a traditional actuarial science degree or a non-traditional degree like physics.
Most students enter via accredited actuarial degrees (UCT, UP, NWU, Wits, SU), which grant exemptions for A-series exams. Non-traditional students (math/physics/stats) can enter too, but may need strong marks and a recommendation from their university to join ASSA directly.
Apply to ASSA as a student member. If you studied an accredited degree, apply for exemptions. You’ll also begin mapping out A1, A2, and the Normative Skills pathway, which includes professionalism and communication training.
Write the A-series exams (A111–A214), A311, and complete Normative Skills assignments. Secure an actuarial trainee or analyst role to begin Work-Based Learning (WBL) — mandatory real-world experience signed off by a supervisor.
Choose one Fellowship Principles subject (F101–F108) and then one Fellowship Applications subject (F201–F207 or B200). These define your practice area (life, general insurance, pensions, health, banking, investments, ERM).
Complete your WBL, professionalism courses, ethics modules, and final checks for FASSA. After qualification, maintain annual CPD and continue developing within your chosen specialty.
You can start with an actuarial degree or almost any strong quantitative degree (math, stats, physics, computer science, engineering, finance). IFoA is very accessible for non-traditional students with a technical background.
Register with the IFoA. Apply for university exemptions if your degree is accredited. Plan your exam progression through Core Principles (CS, CM, CB) — typically the mathematical foundation.
Write the Core Principles followed by the Core Practice exams (CP1, CP2, CP3). During this stage, you must also start accumulating PPD (Personal and Professional Development) through work experience.
Select two Specialist Principles (SP) subjects and one Specialist Advanced (SA) subject. These define your chosen actuarial pathway, such as Life, GI, Pensions, Health, Risk Management, Investments, or Banking.
Complete all PPD, professionalism courses, and the online ethics requirements to achieve Fellowship (FIA). Maintain ongoing CPD to retain your professional status and stay up-to-date in your field.