STAM is considered moderately challenging, covering a broad range of topics including probability distributions, survival analysis, and risk management. While it's more accessible than later exams like LTAM or CERA, it requires solid foundational math skills and consistent practice with complex problem-solving. Many test-takers find the breadth of content and time pressure to be the biggest challenges rather than individual topics.

Most candidates benefit from 3-6 months of dedicated study, depending on their background in probability and calculus. If you're coming from a strong math background, you might need closer to 3-4 months; if you're refreshing your skills, 5-6 months is more realistic. Working with a tutor can help you identify gaps quickly and create an efficient study schedule that fits your timeline.

Students typically struggle with three main areas: mastering probability distributions and their applications, managing time during the exam (which has 35 questions in 3.5 hours), and connecting theoretical concepts to practical insurance scenarios. Many also find it difficult to identify which formula or approach to use when facing unfamiliar problem types—this is where targeted practice and expert guidance make the biggest difference.

A tutor can identify your specific weak areas through diagnostic practice tests, explain complex concepts like survival models and credibility theory in ways that click for you, and teach you efficient problem-solving strategies that save time during the exam. They can also help you build confidence by working through past exam questions and simulating test conditions, which reduces anxiety on exam day.

Practice tests are essential—they help you understand the exam format, identify weak topics, and build stamina for the full 3.5-hour exam. Most successful candidates take multiple full-length practice exams under timed conditions to get comfortable with pacing and question types. A tutor can help you review your practice test results strategically, focusing on the concepts and question patterns that are costing you the most points.

Your first session typically involves assessing your current knowledge of probability, calculus, and financial math concepts, understanding your study timeline and goals, and identifying your biggest challenge areas. From there, your tutor will create a personalized study plan that targets your weak spots while reinforcing your strengths, and you'll likely work through a few practice problems together to establish your baseline and learning style.

Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors who specialize in actuarial exam preparation and understand the STAM curriculum inside and out. You can share your study timeline, current skill level, and specific topics you want to focus on, and we'll match you with a tutor who fits your needs. Most students see their first tutor within days and can begin working through a customized study plan right away.