Most candidates spend 200-300 hours preparing for STAM, typically over 3-6 months depending on their background in mathematics and insurance. If you have a strong foundation in calculus and probability, you may need less time; if you're newer to actuarial concepts, more time is beneficial. A structured study schedule with personalized tutoring can help you identify knowledge gaps early and use your study time more efficiently.

Students typically struggle most with survival analysis, present value calculations, and understanding the relationships between different contingent payment models. The exam also tests rapid problem-solving under time pressure—many candidates find that managing pacing and selecting the right approach quickly is as challenging as the mathematics itself. Working through practice problems and learning to recognize question patterns helps build both speed and accuracy.

Personalized 1-on-1 instruction allows a tutor to identify your specific weak areas, clarify concepts you find confusing, and teach you efficient problem-solving strategies tailored to your learning style. Tutors can also help you develop a realistic study schedule, work through practice exams under timed conditions, and build confidence in your ability to handle the exam's pace and difficulty. This targeted approach often leads to faster improvement than studying alone.

Practice exams are essential—they help you understand the question format, identify timing issues, and reveal which topics need more review before test day. Taking full-length, timed practice exams under realistic conditions is particularly valuable because STAM's 3.5-hour window and rapid-fire questions make pacing a critical skill. A tutor can review your practice exam results with you to pinpoint patterns in your mistakes and adjust your study strategy accordingly.

Your first session typically involves assessing your current knowledge, understanding your timeline and goals, and identifying which topics are causing the most difficulty. The tutor will likely review a few sample problems to gauge your problem-solving approach and comfort level, then work with you to create a personalized study plan. This foundation helps ensure that every session afterward is focused on the areas where you'll see the most improvement.

Building confidence through repeated practice with timed exams is one of the most effective ways to reduce anxiety—familiarity with the format and your own problem-solving process makes the actual test feel less overwhelming. A tutor can also teach you test-taking strategies like skipping difficult problems initially and returning to them later, which helps you manage stress and maximize your score. Additionally, practicing relaxation techniques and positive self-talk during study sessions prepares you mentally for exam day.

Look for tutors who have passed STAM themselves and ideally hold actuarial credentials like ASA (Associate of the Society of Actuaries) or FSA (Fellow of the Society of Actuaries). They should have experience teaching the specific topics covered on the exam and be familiar with the current exam format and question types. Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors who understand both the technical content and the best strategies for helping students succeed on this challenging exam.