ACIA modules and Capstone Exam
The ACIA modules and the ACIA Capstone Exam are integral components of the educational pathway toward achieving the Associate of the Canadian Institute of Actuaries (ACIA) designation. They bridge the gap between a university education and the professional work environment, enhancing the knowledge and skills necessary for a successful actuarial career.
The modules and Capstone Exam are administered online via the CIA learning management system. Learning objectives are available in the ACIA syllabus.
To register for any CIA education product, you must be enrolled as a Student or Candidate member of the CIA.
ACIA Module 1
ACIA Module 1 is designed for students enrolled in an accredited university program and for certain participants in Pathway 2 pursuing the ACIA through an actuarial organization education system not recognized by the CIA.
Key learning objectives include:
- Introduction and actuarial communications
- The actuarial environment
- Actuarial work
There are no formal prerequisites for Module 1, though students in accredited university programs should have completed some actuarial courses. Students are encouraged to take the ACIA Module 1 after year 1 or 2 of their program, but it can also be taken after graduation.
The module is assessed using tests, quizzes and assignments and must be completed within six months of registration.
ACIA Module 2
ACIA Module 2 applies theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios through graded assignments, a case study and quizzes, all of which must be successfully completed to achieve credit for the module. It is required for all ACIA participants, unless exempt.
Key topics include:
- Traditional actuarial solutions
- Advanced actuarial models
- Predictive analytics applications
Participants have up to three attempts for each quiz and six months from the date of registration to complete the module. Students are recommended to take Module 2 before their final year, but it can also be completed after graduation.
ACIA Capstone Exam
The ACIA Capstone Exam is an open book exam administered over two days. It assesses the integration of actuarial concepts and communication skills, and consists of:
- The common section on the first day (four hours)
- The specialized section on the second day (two hours, with the option to complete either its long- or short-term sections)
Refer to the ACIA syllabus for additional exam information, including learning objectives and reading references. The exam assumes knowledge from a CIA-accredited actuarial science degree or education obtained from another actuarial organization, as well as the ACIA modules. It is delivered online with secure proctoring, and participants require access to Microsoft Excel and RStudio. See ACIA Capstone Exam – Participant Guidelines for more information.
The ACIA Capstone Exam is open book yet rigorous, assessing both technical knowledge and the ability to apply actuarial concepts and communicate them effectively – skills essential for professional practice. Thorough preparation is essential for success.
Results are typically released within 12 weeks of the exam.
View previously administered ACIA Capstone Exams, sample solutions and results.
Requirements
The requirements for achieving the ACIA designation depend on your pathway to Associateship. For an overview of the CIA qualification pathways, visit our simplified guide.
Important dates
Fall ACIA Capstone Exam dates:
ACIA Capstone Exam – General FAQs
If you are using CIA Pathway 1 and have an accredited degree including all mandatory courses, you are eligible to register for the exam. Alternatively, if you hold an actuarial designation from an International Actuarial Association member organization that is not directly recognized by the CIA, you are eligible to take the ACIA Capstone Exam through Pathway 2.
Participants may be asked to submit their answers using the following submission types:
• The text box provided within the Brightspace platform.
• Uploading an R file.
• Uploading an Excel file.
In addition to Microsoft Excel, participants will also require RStudio software to complete the exam. RStudio is free and open-source and can be downloaded at RStudio Desktop.
Wearable devices (headphones, headsets, earbuds, earplugs, etc.) are not permitted during the exam.
The use of a standard calculator is permitted; however, the use of a calculator function from a smart device is NOT permitted, nor are smart devices.
Yes, the use of multiple screens is allowed. However, accessing or using communication devices – including cell phones, tablets, other computers, smart watches, wearable devices (headphones, earbuds, headsets), etc. – is strictly prohibited during the exam.
The Brightspace platform offers a virtual assistant tool that provides real-time technical support via a chat feature. Support information will be emailed to you one week prior to the exam and will be posted in the exam instructions.
If you are unable to reach support during the exam, contact [email protected] as quickly as possible. The CIA Head Office will not be able to provide support to participants after the posted end time of the exam.
CIA exams are open book and administered online. Please refer to the ACIA syllabus as well as previous exams and practice questions to plan your study.
You won’t be able to access the exam on Brightspace until 10:15 ET the day of the exam (in the “Examinations” tab) .
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