STAM is generally considered more challenging than Exam P because it introduces survival analysis, loss models, and practical insurance applications—not just pure probability. Many test-takers find the material more conceptually demanding and the exam requires stronger problem-solving skills under time pressure. Success typically requires 150-200 hours of focused study, with personalized tutoring helping you identify weak areas early and build confidence in complex topics.

Expert tutors can break down complex survival models and loss distributions into understandable concepts, identify exactly where you're struggling, and create a customized study plan based on your pace and learning style. They also help you develop efficient problem-solving strategies, practice time management under exam conditions, and build confidence through targeted practice on your weakest topics—all proven to accelerate exam readiness.

Most students struggle with survival analysis concepts (force of mortality, survival functions), applying loss models to real-world scenarios, and managing the exam's computational complexity within strict time limits. Many also find the transition from pure probability (Exam P) to applied insurance mathematics conceptually difficult. Personalized instruction helps you work through these specific pain points systematically rather than getting stuck on your own.

A typical STAM study plan spans 4-6 months with 150-200 total hours, broken into phases: foundational concepts (4-6 weeks), survival models and loss distributions (6-8 weeks), practice problems and full exams (4-6 weeks), and final review and weak-area focus (2-3 weeks). Tutors can help you create a realistic timeline based on your current knowledge, work schedule, and exam date—and adjust the plan as you progress through practice tests.

STAM practice tests reveal exactly which topics you've mastered and where you need more work, plus they train you to pace yourself and manage exam anxiety under real time constraints. The exam is timed at 3 hours for 35 multiple-choice questions, so practicing full exams helps you develop speed without sacrificing accuracy. Tutors use your practice test results to focus your remaining study time on high-impact topics and refine your test-taking strategy.

Your first session typically includes an assessment of your current knowledge, a discussion of your exam timeline and goals, and identification of your strongest and weakest areas. The tutor will also explain their teaching approach, answer your questions about the exam and study process, and create an initial study plan tailored to your needs. This foundation ensures your tutoring is focused and efficient from day one.

Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors for students in Salt Lake City who have deep knowledge of actuarial mathematics and proven success helping students pass the STAM exam. You can specify your exam date, preferred tutoring format, and learning style to get matched with the right tutor. Many tutors offer flexible scheduling to fit your work and study commitments.