Actuarial exams are challenging for everyone, but outside of learning the content and doing practice exams, you may still worry about additional barriers or challenges on exam-day. However, there are options to remove some of these barriers.
Exam accommodations can be requested for a variety of reasons, examples include if you:
- have a disability, special needs, or a medical condition,
- are pregnant or nursing, or
- follow religious observances.
If your specific circumstance is not listed above, you may still be eligible for accommodation. In the case of medical conditions or disabilities, if you aren’t sure what accommodation you need, consult with your doctor before you register for an exam.
First, check your testing center’s website for a list of items you can bring to your exam without needing advanced approval. Some medicines and medical devices, mobility devices, ear plugs, and religious items or clothing may already be on these lists. Test center staff may conduct a visual examination of the items when you arrive for your exam.
Next, follow the steps outlined by either the Society of Actuaries or Casualty Actuarial Society to request any other accommodation you need, like extended exam time, additional or longer breaks, food or drink items, special writing implements and many others. You may need to bring documentation for your approved accommodations with you on exam day.
Remember to start this process as early as possible to ensure that your accommodation request is approved in time for exam day. Don’t assume the process or accommodations will be the same for every exam sitting or every exam center. Depending on the situation, you may need to re-apply for accommodations before each exam you take. Reach out to the staff of these organizations if you are unsure of what you need, how to apply, or have any other questions.