What is the CTA exam
CTA exam refers to the Certified Actuarial Analyst examination, provided by the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries (IFoA) in the UK. It is an entry-level professional certification in the actuarial field, designed for actuarial science graduates or junior actuaries to demonstrate foundational actuarial analysis skills.
Key features of the CTA exam:
Issuing body: Institute and Faculty of Actuaries (IFoA)
Exam content: Includes mathematical and statistical foundations, financial mathematics, principles of actuarial science, data analysis and applications
Difficulty level: Relatively lower than ASA (Society of Actuaries), suitable for beginners
Professional value: After passing, certificate holders can work in entry-level actuarial roles (e.g., data analysts, junior actuaries), serving as a "stepping stone" to the actuarial profession
Certification level: Entry-level certification in the IFoA pathway, with progression to higher qualifications like FIA (Fellow of the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries)
Difference from ASA: CTA is the UK-based entry-level certification, while ASA is the US-based entry-level certification. They are separate systems but both serve as starting points for actuarial careers.

