Subject CT9 frequently asked questions
Here you will find answers to some of the questions that have been asked about CT9 Business awareness.
Why is the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries offering the exam?
We identified the importance of teaching students business awareness soon after they join. In discussion with employers it was felt that there are many advantages in getting students to start networking from an early stage and also to appreciate that different companies may have different approaches.
What happens if there is no internet access, or sound on PCs? What happens if your internet connection is slow?
We expect students to find ways of getting suitable internet access while engaged in the course.
How will the online exam be monitored for security i.e., student has no help or it is not the student taking the course? What happens if the internet goes down during the exam?
We hope that the employer will help ensure that the exam is taken under reasonable conditions and that students do not resort to inappropriate means in taking the exam. We will talk to our supplier about any issues with the internet going down while a student takes the exam.
Will there be a pass list issued?
Yes, on the 1st of every month.
Will the students get feedback from the exam?
Yes there is on-line feedback.
What happens if a student misses one day of the two day course?
This has to be discussed with the Registrar and an appropriate decision will be made.
Will it matter if a student delays this practical exam until nearer qualification? Will employers be told if the student has not registered after 18 months?
It is possible for a student to defer if they wish. However no qualification will be given until this is passed. We will not be able to inform employers if a student has not been after 18 months but we hope that the employer will be monitoring this through work-based skills.
Are more advanced students going to miss out on something e.g., ideas on professionalism?
We believe that acquisition of professionalism skills is best done through discussion with others. Points can be raised at all stages of someone’s career and it is unlikely that key issues will be overlooked.
Is there still a need for the professionalism course on qualification?
We recognise that an actuary should start professionalism when they first start as a student, and address it again at regular intervals.
Can Business awareness count for work-based skills or is this double counting?
Yes, the two-day course can be recorded as part of the activities undertaken in work-based skills.