RET 101 Retirement Plan Design
The Retirement Plan Design course is the first part of the two-course sequence in the Retirement Benefits practice area.
Course Learning Objectives
Upon successful completion of RET 101 Retirement Plan Design, you will understand the following learning objectives:
- How to analyze different types of designs for retirement plans and retirement plan investments;
- How to analyze the risks faced by retirees and the participants of retirement plans;
- How to analyze the risks faced by sponsors of retirement plans; and
- How to evaluate sponsors’ goals for the retirement plan, evaluate alternative plan types and features, and recommend a plan design appropriate to address those goals.
How Should I Study?
As part of the evolution of the FSA pathway, the SOA is committed to improving your learning experience through better source materials. To study for RET 101 Retirement Plan Design, start with the syllabus and continue with the other materials, including the course strategy guide.
Syllabus Materials
- Syllabus with Learning Objectives/Outcomes and Readings – Nov 2025/Mar 2026/Jul 2026
- Course Strategy Guide – Nov 2025/Mar 2026/Jul 2026
- Introductory Study Note – Nov 2025
- Case Study - this course has no case study
Syllabus Updates
- Any updates to the current syllabus will be posted here
Books and Study Notes
Supplemental Study Materials
- RET 101 Relevant Past Exam Questions and Solutions (Available July 2025)
- RET 101 Guided Examples with Solutions (Available July 2025)
- Past Exam Questions and Solutions
- Study Methods