Entry Requirements

Applicants to the Benefits Group (Actuarial Consulting) must be able to demonstrate a high level of numerical ability combined with a strong academic record.

This having been said, we do recognise that sometimes people achieve anomalous results so, instead of having a number of hard cut offs in terms of UCAS points and degree results,* we will look at the whole picture.

The profile we aim for is as follows:

300+ UCAS points, A at Maths A-Level and a 2:1 degree in a numerical subject

But we will also happily consider the following:

300+ UCAS points, A at Maths A-Level, 2:1 degree in a non-numerical subject (with an explanation for why you chose a non-numerical subject but now wish to train as an actuary)

300+ UCAS points, B at Maths A-Level, 2:1 degree in a numerical subject (with an explanation for your Maths A-Level result)

300+ UCAS points, A at Maths A-Level, 2:2 degree in a numerical/non-numerical subject (with an explanation for your degree result)

280+ UCAS points, A or B at Maths A-Level, 2:1 degree (with an explanation for your A-Level results)

There is an area for explanations on the application form and explanations do not need to amount to extenuating circumstances. They simply help our interviewers understand the context of your results/choices.

If you have not achieved comparable results but still feel that you have the numerical and academic skills required to complete the Institute of Actuaries exams, please feel free to call or email us to discuss your situation prior to applying.

* or equivalent. Watson Wyatt is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from people who have been through other schooling systems. Comparison databases will be used to assess whether achievements meet our benchmark.

At full pelt, water gushes out of a tap at 7.5 litres a minute. If the overflow is blocked and it takes 90 seconds for a 6-litre sink full to go down the plughole, how long to the nearest second until the sink starts to overflow?

Every minute 7.5 litres are entering the sink, while 4 litres are draining. Therefore the sink is filling by 3.5 litres each minute. If the sink has a 6 litre capacity, then it will become full and start to overflow after 103 seconds.


Click here for a more detailed explanation