Qualification pathway
You can start your qualification journey with an accredited actuarial university degree, with IFoA exams or via another route. Here’s your most direct pathway to qualification.
Steps to becoming a qualified actuary
Step one: From high school, build your foundation at the best universities in Australia and New Zealand
At high school? Start your journey by enrolling in an actuarial degree at an accredited university. You should have taken specialist or extension maths in high school, as some universities require these subjects for admission. Communication in business is vital, so invest time in your English studies. At university, you’ll study all the subjects that make up the Foundation Program, and two subjects from the Actuary Program. This will take you 3-5 years of full-time study.
Steps to becoming a qualified actuary
Step two: Complete Foundation and Actuary Programs
During university
As part of your accredited degree, complete the Institute’s Foundation Program and two Actuary Program subjects. Kick-start your career with our free university membership — your first step into the actuarial world. Start to complete internships and apply for grad roles.
Become a University Subscriber
Straight after your degree
Apply for ‘exemptions’ through your university to show you’ve already completed the Foundation Program and half of the Actuary Program.
About exemptions
After graduating university
Become a General Member and enrol in the second half of the Actuary Program. You’ll study this remotely while working (as part of your practical experience requirement). When you pass, you’ll be a qualified actuary with the Associate (AIAA) designation.
Become a General Member
Steps to becoming a qualified actuary
Step three: Add specialisation to your practice with the Fellowship Program
After passing both the Foundation and Actuary programs, you can enrol in the specialist Fellowship Program. This covers two Principles subjects and one Applications subject. Once you complete a further year of work experience and pass this program, you’ll achieve the internationally recognised Fellow (FIAA) designation.
Alternative ways to qualify: forge your own path
Not studying an accredited degree? Whether you have a similar academic background, you're pursuing a career shift, or if university study isn’t for you, the Actuaries Institute offers many alternative pathways to become an actuary.
Explore our qualification programs
We are professional education providers of actuarial qualification programs in Australia. Supported by 200+ Fellows, we provide you with the necessary education, skills and professional opportunities to become an actuary.
