Core Technical subjects

When attempting the Core Technical subjects it should be borne in mind that some subjects build upon others. There are therefore some logical routes through the subjects. The particular route chosen may depend on the area in which a student is working or on any exemptions the student has been awarded. The order in which the Core Technical subjects CT1-CT8 build on each other follows the numerical sequence of the subjects.

Thus:

The numbering of the Core Technical subjects represents an ordering that would be appropriate for anyone working in life insurance or pensions.

A student working in general insurance may prefer to take CT6 at any stage after studying CT1.

A student working in investment may prefer to take CT7 and CT8 before CT4, CT5 and CT6.

Although numerical order is the order recommended by the Profession it is not compulsory. Students should decide on their own route through the Core Technical subjects based on their previous experience.

Specialist Applications subjects

The Specialist Applications subjects require the student to have both knowledge of UK practice and a good understanding of practical issues. Students with little practical experience may find these subjects difficult if they attempt one early on in their career.

A practical approach will be expected from candidates in all subjects. While evidence of practical experience may help the candidate it will not be demanded, but breadth of knowledge and evidence of judgement are to be expected of candidates taking the Specialist Applications subjects.

We have found from previous analysis of examination results of equivalent subjects that students who attempt a Specialist Technical and the linked Specialist Applications subject together have less good pass rates. This suggests to us that the amount of work required to take a subject at the Specialist Techncial and Specialist Appllications stages together is high. It also emphasises the need for students to develop maturity of thought and understanding before attempting the Specialist Applications papers. If these subjects are to be taken together we recommend that this is done towards the end of a student's attempts at the Specialist Technical series rather than at the start.