If you can't do well in further maths, don't think of actuarial studies.

Except for the mechanics parts, the rest of the A-Levels further maths syllabus coves part the basic maths you'll need to do actuarial maths. But seriously, if one can't grasp the mechanics part easily, he will have a hard time with whatever maths, more-so since the mechanics part is applied rather than theoretical. Maths may not determine whether you become a successful actuary or not, but to even get past the first few papers you will need to have superb maths. Without the maths, the rest doesn't matter.

And as tanjinjack suggested do look up on the many threads about AS here. Also do buy at least 1 complete calculus book and one probability book. Those will cover the foundation of actuarial math. If you find it hard, don't do AS.

This post has been edited by mumeichan: Dec 11 2009, 08:14 AM

MPH, Borders and Kino all carry those books. It would be under the math and science section. Just ask the counter.

Normally only those who have passed all the actuarial papers are called an actuary. Those people earn hundreds of thousands a month and typically become C?O ie chief something officer. However companies have a whole financial team and employ many people who have just passed a few actuarial papers. They are called acturial trainees, clerks, etc. A friend of mine was employed by Great Eastern right after graduation to be an actuarial trainee. Job is to do calculations (using special programs of course, not like in college) and various paperwork. No not excel or spreadsheets, you don't use that stuff. More to special actuarial programs, stats programs then reporting using word and powerpoint. She says her job is relatively easy and relaxed. Starting pay was 3000 pounds. And there were more than 20 actuary trainees working with her.