STAM is challenging—it requires deep understanding of complex mathematical concepts and the ability to apply them under time pressure. Most candidates need 100-150 hours of focused study to pass. With personalized tutoring, you can identify weak areas quickly and develop targeted strategies, which typically accelerates your progress and improves your confidence on exam day.

Students often struggle with the transition from pure probability to applied financial mathematics, managing time across diverse problem types, and mastering the calculation-heavy sections on annuities and insurance products. Many also find it difficult to distinguish between similar concepts and apply the right formula under exam conditions. A tutor can help you organize these concepts logically and build speed through targeted practice.

Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors who specialize in actuarial exams and understand the STAM curriculum inside and out. Your tutor will assess your current knowledge, create a personalized study plan aligned with your timeline, focus on your weakest areas, and use practice problems and full-length exams to build both competence and test-taking confidence.

Practice tests are critical—they help you identify knowledge gaps, build stamina for the full exam, and get comfortable with the question formats and pacing you'll face on test day. Most successful candidates take multiple full-length practice exams in the weeks leading up to their test date. Your tutor can review your practice test performance with you, pinpoint patterns in your mistakes, and adjust your study focus accordingly.

STAM has 35 multiple-choice questions in 3.5 hours, giving you roughly 6 minutes per question. Effective strategies include tackling easier problems first to build momentum, flagging difficult questions to return to later, and practicing with a timer to develop your personal pacing rhythm. A tutor can help you refine these strategies through timed practice sessions and teach you to recognize which problem types typically take longer for you.

Most candidates benefit from 3-4 months of consistent study, dedicating 10-12 hours per week. A solid structure includes foundational learning (4-6 weeks), focused practice on weak areas (4-6 weeks), and full-length practice exams with review (final 2-3 weeks). Your tutor can help you create a customized timeline based on your starting knowledge level and target exam date, keeping you accountable and adjusting your plan as needed.

Varsity Tutors connects students in Allentown with tutors who have deep expertise in actuarial exams and the STAM curriculum. You can get matched with a tutor who fits your learning style and schedule, and begin your personalized preparation right away. Whether you're just starting your study plan or fine-tuning your approach a few weeks before test day, expert tutors are ready to help you succeed.