In addition they sold sets of study notes with copies of the exams and worked out solutions. Now the old exams and solutions are available from these websites. In addition canditates are encouraged to join e-mail study groups . The common experience is that entry level positions require having passed 1-2 exams although it is often possible to be hired without any exams. The employer will then expect regular progress in passing exams.
Employers routinely provide some form of assistance in preparing for exams.
There are some opportunities for summer or intern positions. These provide the student with an opportunity to see what the work is really like and to make contacts with prospective employers. Some employers rely heavily on intern positions as a way to identify future hires. The SOA maintains a list of Actuarial Training Programs . Note that not all of these may offer positions every year.