Exam STAM is considered moderately challenging, with a typical pass rate around 40-45%. The difficulty lies in the breadth of topics covered—from probability and calculus to financial mathematics and annuities—rather than extreme depth in any single area. Many candidates find the time pressure and the need to apply multiple concepts within single problems to be the biggest challenge. Focused preparation and practice with realistic exam-style questions are key to success.

Most candidates benefit from 3-6 months of dedicated study, dedicating 10-15 hours per week, though this varies based on your math background and experience. If you have a strong foundation in calculus and probability, you may need less time; if these areas are rusty, you might need longer to build confidence. Personalized tutoring can help you identify knowledge gaps early and create an efficient study schedule tailored to your pace and learning style.

Students often struggle with time management during the exam—there are 35 multiple-choice questions in 3 hours, leaving limited time per question. Many also find the transition from pure probability theory to applied financial mathematics concepts challenging, and weak calculus skills can slow down problem-solving. Additionally, understanding when to apply different formulas and recognizing question patterns under time pressure are skills that require targeted practice and strategic review.

A tutor can help you identify weak areas in probability, financial mathematics, and life contingencies, then create a personalized study plan to address them efficiently. Tutors can also teach you test-taking strategies specific to STAM—like pacing techniques, how to recognize problem types quickly, and when to skip difficult questions strategically. Regular practice sessions with feedback help build confidence and ensure you're not just memorizing formulas, but truly understanding the concepts you'll need on exam day.

Chicago has a strong actuarial community with several universities offering actuarial science programs and professional networking through the Society of Actuaries. Many candidates in the Chicago area benefit from connecting with peers preparing for the same exam, though finding the right study partner or group takes time. Varsity Tutors connects students with expert tutors who can provide personalized 1-on-1 instruction tailored to your schedule and learning needs, ensuring consistent, focused preparation without the logistics of coordinating group study.

Your first session typically includes an assessment of your current knowledge in probability, calculus, and financial mathematics to identify your strongest and weakest areas. The tutor will discuss your study timeline, goals, and learning preferences, then outline a customized preparation plan. You'll likely work through a sample problem together to establish your baseline and help the tutor understand your problem-solving approach, so future sessions can be as targeted and effective as possible.

Practice tests are critical—they help you get comfortable with the exam format, improve your pacing, and identify specific topics that need more review. Taking full-length, timed practice exams under realistic conditions is essential for building the stamina and speed you'll need on test day. A tutor can help you analyze your practice test results to pinpoint patterns in your mistakes, whether they're conceptual gaps or timing issues, and adjust your study strategy accordingly.