Model documentation, analysis and reporting (Subject CA2)

This practical exam aims to ensure you understand how to model data, document the work, including maintaining an audit trail, analyse the methods used and results generated, and communicate these along with your conclusions to an actuarial audience. You'll need a working knowledge of spreadsheets and word processing - the test centres use Word and Excel.

All the application forms and other information that you will need are available via the links on the right.
Application forms are only available during the set booking periods (follow this link for more information about our booking periods).

You can get further information on all the practical exams by emailing practicalexams@actuaries.org.uk.

Past papers and sample projects
Further past papers have now been added to this page for practice.

Guidance on how CA2 is marked
This new guide shows you the general format of the marking schedule which is used by markers in assessing your exam submission.

The format of CA2

The face-to-face practical exam is comprised of two days. The first day is to help you revise for the exam on the second day. Guidance on knowledge you will be assumed to have is available via the link on the right.

Eight weeks before the exam date you will receive a workbook via email. You are required to work thoroughly through this in preparation for the exam. We also strongly recommend working through the past papers below.

Day One

The purpose of Day One is to ensure that you understand the nature of the assessment and are familiar with the software provided. You'll get advice on planning and checking a model. You'll also work on good spreadsheet design and audit trails, and cover good summaries and how our marking schedule works.

Day Two

You work on an individually assessed assignment. We will ask you to build a model with an audit trail, plus a summary outlining: description, approach, results and conclusions. This will not be presented to an audience. You can ask the assessor for help to progress your model, and we will note this and take it into account in the assessment.

Your instructions will indicate which core reading is relevant, and include appropriate extracts, and you can bring in reference books. Copies of core reading for subjects CT1-8 and Formulae and Tables will be available in electronic format. You will get refreshment breaks and a compulsory lunch break. You are not allowed to speak to other students about the assignment.

Applying for CA2

Please read the policies and instructions before you apply. The application form will also give you full details of the entry criteria for the exam. An online version of CA2 is available, principally for overseas students where there are no local arrangements available. A retaker exam can be taken either face-to-face or as an online exam.

From 1 October 2013 all students now have the option to enter for the online exam.

There are various ways that you can enter:

• Enter online by logging into your personal account if you are paying by card. This will give you greater access to the current dates and locations
• Download and complete an application form from the right of this page, and return it to us.

At the moment we cannot take bookings via the website for the online exam version, and you will need to complete and return the application form.

You will receive joining instructions six weeks before the exam date, which will include venue details, attendance instructions and exam regulations.

To take this exam you must have passed or been exempted by the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries from all the CT subjects or their earlier equivalents. You may also wish to tackle CA3 or CA1 before this exam, for the experience of communicating technical material to peer and senior colleagues. More details on these requirements are available here.

There have been instances of unprofessional behaviour from students at this practical exam. Poor conduct may result in dismissal from Day One and the practical exam, which we will treat as a disciplinary offence.

Where will the CA2 exams take place?

Practical exams are being scheduled to be held at the following venues:

For those unable to attend a face-to-face exam the online version of CA2 is available.

Email communications

We correspond with students via email, and all pre-exam work will be emailed to your preferred email address.

We have experienced an increased volume of reports of the non-receipt of emails sent to Hotmail accounts. It is your responsibility to check your inbox regularly (including the 'Junk email') and inform us if you have not received the necessary information or material. Alternatively, please login to your membership account and provide an alternative preferred email address.

Results

Pass lists are published on the website, and we will notify you by letter, according to a fixed schedule of dates. If you need to retake, you can attend a further two-day practical exam, an 'exam only' day, or take the online exam if there are spaces available.