STAM is challenging—it requires deep understanding of complex mathematical concepts and strong problem-solving skills under time pressure. Most candidates improve their practice test scores by 10-20 points with focused, strategic preparation. The key is identifying your weak areas early, practicing with actual exam-style questions, and building confidence through targeted review of difficult topics.

Expert tutors can identify which specific topics are holding you back—whether it's life contingencies, derivatives pricing, or managing time on complex calculations. With personalized 1-on-1 instruction, you'll get a customized study plan that focuses on your weak areas, learn test-taking strategies tailored to your strengths, and have someone to clarify confusing concepts in real time. This targeted approach helps you study more efficiently and build genuine mastery rather than just memorizing formulas.

Most candidates spend 150-200 hours preparing for STAM, typically over 3-6 months depending on their math background and how much time they can dedicate weekly. If you're working full-time or juggling other responsibilities, spreading your prep over 4-6 months with consistent weekly study sessions tends to work better than cramming. A tutor can help you build a realistic timeline based on your current knowledge and target exam date.

Students typically struggle with three areas: (1) managing time on lengthy, multi-step problems, (2) understanding the conceptual foundations behind formulas rather than just applying them, and (3) navigating the variety of question formats and trick questions designed to test deep understanding. Many candidates also find that life contingencies and derivative calculations require more practice than they initially expect. Working through practice exams under timed conditions and reviewing mistakes thoroughly helps overcome these obstacles.

Practice tests are essential—they're the best way to identify weak topics, get comfortable with exam timing, and build test-day confidence. Ideally, you should take full-length practice exams every 2-3 weeks during your prep period, then review every single mistake to understand why you got it wrong. Many students make the mistake of just checking answers; instead, spend time understanding the underlying concepts and noting patterns in the types of questions you miss.

Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors who specialize in actuarial exam prep and understand STAM's specific content and challenges. When you get matched with a tutor, you'll work with someone who has deep knowledge of the exam format, common pitfalls, and effective strategies—and who can tailor their teaching to your learning style and goals. You can discuss your timeline, current practice test scores, and weak areas to ensure you're set up for success.

Test anxiety often stems from feeling unprepared or uncertain about specific topics. The best antidote is thorough, targeted preparation—knowing you've mastered the material builds genuine confidence. Taking regular practice exams under timed conditions also desensitizes you to exam pressure. A tutor can help you develop a pre-exam routine, teach stress-management techniques, and review your practice test performance to reinforce what you're doing well.