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. Even though candidates will commonly take most of the exams after beginning employment, course work while still a student is very important. Students interested in becoming an Actuary may prepare for a number of the Actuarial exams by choosing appropriate courses irrespective of their major at the University of Arizona. Although the University of Arizona does not offer a degree specifically denoted Actuarial Science, students may prepare themselves by following the Probability and Statistics option with a major in Mathematics.