STAM is generally considered more challenging than the first actuarial exam (Exam P) because it requires deeper mathematical understanding and the ability to apply concepts to real-world scenarios. The exam tests not just calculation skills but also conceptual mastery of life contingencies and financial mathematics. Many test-takers find the transition from Exam P to STAM requires a shift in study approach—moving from pure probability to applied problem-solving.

Most actuarial candidates spend 200–300 hours preparing for STAM, though this varies based on your background in mathematics and finance. If you have strong calculus and probability foundations, you may need less time; if these areas are weaker, you might benefit from more focused preparation. Working with a tutor can help you identify gaps quickly and create a personalized study schedule that fits your timeline and learning pace.

Students often struggle with life contingencies concepts (like mortality rates and annuities), managing time during the exam, and distinguishing between similar problem types. Many also find the transition from theoretical material to applied exam questions disorienting. Personalized tutoring helps you tackle these specific pain points—whether that's building intuition around contingencies, practicing timed problem sets, or developing strategies to recognize question patterns quickly.

Your first session typically involves assessing your current knowledge, identifying weak areas, and understanding your study goals and timeline. A tutor will review your background in calculus and probability, discuss which STAM topics feel most challenging, and outline a personalized study plan. This foundation helps ensure that every subsequent session builds on your strengths and directly addresses the concepts holding you back.

Practice tests are critical—they help you build familiarity with exam format, develop pacing strategies, and identify knowledge gaps under timed conditions. The Society of Actuaries provides official practice exams, and working through these repeatedly is essential for success. A tutor can help you analyze your practice test performance, pinpoint which question types trip you up, and develop targeted strategies to improve your score.

Look for tutors who have passed STAM themselves and ideally hold actuarial credentials (ASA or FSA). They should have teaching experience explaining complex concepts like life contingencies and the ability to work through problems at your pace. Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors who understand the exam inside and out and can translate that expertise into personalized instruction tailored to your learning style.

Score improvement depends on your starting point and how actively you engage with tutoring and practice. Students who work consistently with a tutor and complete regular practice problems often see significant gains—typically moving from struggling with specific topics to mastering them within weeks. Rather than focusing on a specific score guarantee, the goal is to build genuine understanding of STAM material so you can solve problems confidently on exam day.