SOA Announces On-Campus Testing Program

Chicago, IL, November 12, 2025—The Society of Actuaries (SOA) today introduces the On-Campus Testing Program, a new initiative that expands access to actuarial education and assessment by bringing actuarial exams directly to students at university campuses worldwide, starting with the Financial Mathematics (FM) exam. The program is anticipated to begin in spring 2027 at U.S and international institutions that are members of the Universities and Colleges with Actuarial Programs (UCAP).  Successful students will be eligible for FM exam credit toward the Associate of the SOA (ASA) designation.

Through this program, eligible universities will have the option of offering students the opportunity to take an SOA-developed FM exam on their home campus, either as the final exam of their FM course or as a separate exam following an FM course. Students will pay a reduced fee to take the SOA exam. Those who pass and wish to apply for credit with the SOA will then pay the remaining exam fee at the student rate.

“The On-Campus Testing Program expands access to actuarial exams for students from diverse backgrounds, locations, and universities,” said Greg Heidrich, SOA CEO.  “Developed with input from educators, it allows students to begin their SOA exam journey at their own universities at a reduced cost, while helping universities support students’ progress—no matter which program their university chooses. It’s another way we’re enhancing the student experience and supporting their success as future actuaries.”

The program will be available to higher education institutions designated by the SOA as UCAP or Centers of Actuarial Excellence (CAE). Participating universities must offer an SOA-approved FM course with appropriate syllabi and course materials. The SOA will be conducting a special survey of university faculty to seek feedback on this new program in January 2026. The survey results will help shape the program details as they are refined before the program launch in 2027.  In the meantime, please email feedback@soa.org with any feedback or questions.

“The SOA is committed to improving access to actuarial education while ensuring that our designations remain rigorous and valued by employers,” said Ken Guthrie, Managing Director, Education, SOA. “This program gives students a new option to earn ASA credit with lower up-front cost and without leaving their campus, helping to encourage and support the next generation of actuaries.”

The University-Earned Credit (UEC) program will continue, and UEC universities may switch to offer On-Campus Testing for the FM exam if they choose.

About the Society of Actuaries

With roots dating back to 1889, the Society of Actuaries (SOA) is the world’s largest actuarial professional organization, with more than 34,000 actuaries as members in over 100 countries worldwide. The SOA’s purpose is to empower its members to drive solutions to life’s financial risks. To learn more, visit soa.org.