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Route to Becoming an Actuary in Malaysia through the Society of Actuaries (SOA) Professional Exams

All you need to know about becoming an Actuary through an Actuarial Science degree and then taking the professional papers from the Society of Actuaries (SOA) USA in Malaysia

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The most common route to become an Actuary in Malaysia is taking the Professional Papers from the Society of Actuaries (SOA) – USA. Malaysian insurance regulator, Bank Negara Malaysia and the Actuarial Society of Malaysia (ASM) recognize Fellows from the Society of Actuaries (U.S.) as qualified actuaries in Malaysia.

After SPM or O-Levels, students can go for the Foundation in Business Administration or Foundation in Arts and then enter into a degree programme in Actuarial Science with VEE exemptions from the Society of Actuaries (SOA). At most universities in Malaysia, students will also receive credits for all the 3 Validated by Educational Experience (VEE) papers from SOA as long as they receive a minimum mark of 70% in the equivalent papers.

Upon completing the Actuarial Science degree, students can then begin to take the professional exams. During their undergraduate studies, students can attempt the examinations conducted by the Society of Actuaries (SOA).

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Best Education Pathway to Study Actuarial Science and Become a Professional Actuary in Malaysia

I was confused what to study & which university. My cousin introduced me to EduSpiral who helped me to make the right choice. Ye Lun, Actuarial Science at Asia Pacific University
I was confused what to study & which university. My cousin introduced me to EduSpiral who helped me to make the right choice.
Ye Lun, Actuarial Science at Asia Pacific University

Actuarial science is a discipline that assesses financial risks in the insurance and finance fields, using mathematical and statistical methods.

Actuarial science applies the mathematics of probability and statistics to define, analyze and solve the financial implications of uncertain future events. Traditional actuarial science largely revolves around the analysis of mortality and the production of life tables, and the application of compound interest.

Students after SPM, IGSE or O-Levels, can go for the Foundation in Business and subsequently the Actuarial Science degree programme with exemptions from the professional papers. Students may attempt part of the Society of Actuaries (SOA) professional papers during their degree programme or upon completing the degree.

There are not many universities in Malaysia that offer the degree in Actuarial Science. To study Actuarial Science in Malaysia, students should choose a university that best equips them with the knowledge and skills to succeed in actuaries.

During their undergraduate studies, students can attempt the examinations conducted by professional bodies such as Society of Actuaries (SOA). The SOA is the world’s largest actuarial professional organisation and one that constantly highlights the importance of education, credentialing and professional development. Although based in the USA, the society has a global footprint.

Through research and education, the SOA’s mission is to advance actuarial knowledge and to enhance the ability of actuaries to provide expert advice and relevant solutions for financial, business and societal challenges.

Most people will take around six to eight years to complete the requirements to become an Associate, and another two or three years to become a Fellow, by which time one will usually be in one’s thirties.

The current structure for the respective exam series is briefly described below:

Society of Actuaries (U.S.)

  • 5 Preliminary Exams
  • Validation by Educational Experience (VEE) – 3 subjects
  • Fundamental Actuarial Practices (FAP) – 8 modules + 2 assessments
  • Associateship Professionalism Course
  • FSA Module – 2 Modules
  • FSA Exams – 2 Exams
  • Strategic Business Management Module
  • Fellowship Admissions Course

Top Private Universities Offering the Actuarial Science Degree Programme in Malaysia

My father wanted me to study at the best university for actuarial science & I wasn't sure about my results. EduSpiral met up with us, explained about the course and university.
My father wanted me to study at the best university for actuarial science & I wasn’t sure about my results. EduSpiral met up with us, explained about the course and university.
Min En, Actuarial Science, Heriot-Watt University Malaysia

Outstanding private universities in Malaysia for Actuarial Science or Actuarial Maths degree with VEE exemptions from the Society of Actuaries (SOA) are Asia Pacific University (APU), Heriot-Watt University Malaysia, UCSI University and  Taylor’s University.

At Asia Pacific University, Bachelor of Science (Hons) Actuarial Studies students will also receive credits for all the 3 Validated by Educational Experience (VEE) papers from SOA as long as they receive a minimum mark of 70% in the APU equivalent papers.

In addition, the Actuarial Science degree at Asia Pacific University (APU)  has been awarded full accreditation from the IFoA (UK). APU is among the 7 universities in Asia to receive such worldwide recognition.

APU graduates who perform to the required standard can be eligible for exemption from CS1, CS2, CM1, CM2, CB1 and CB2. This is a 6-paper exemption out of 7 papers of the Core Principles Professional Papers for the new IFoA Curriculum 2019, which is the maximum paper exemptions.

In addition, the university has competent teaching staff with professional or specialized academic qualification, possessing working experience from actuarial industries/academia.

APU’s Actuarial Science course syllabus is comprehensively structured in tandem and compliance with the 2 biggest actuarial bodies, the IFoA (UK) and the SOA (US).

Heriot-Watt University Malaysia’s team of leading academics is internationally recognised for research, scholarship and teaching in mathematical and actuarial sciences. The Actuarial Science degree at Heriot-Watt University Malaysia receives the same exemptions from the VEE papers from SOA.

HWUM Bachelor’s degree mirrors the highly successful BSc Actuarial Science degree offered in the UK, which is accredited by the UK Actuarial Profession. This can significantly reduce the time taken to qualify as a Fellow of the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries.

Good performance in examinations means exemptions from all Core Technical subjects, CT1 to CT8, of the UK Institute and Faculty of Actuaries (IFoA) which can be converted to CS1 and 2, CM1 and 2 and CB1 and 2 under the new system of examinations, giving prospective actuaries an advantage over those in other mathematics programmes.

The degree is accredited by the Royal Statistical Society.

Students will receive a dual award University of the West of England, UK degree at Taylor’s University for the BSc. (Hons) Actuarial Studies. Taylor’s University offers a 3-year and a 4-year Actuarial Studies degree programme.

The 1-year internship is offered in the third year of the 4-year programme, students have the opportunity to broaden their knowledge and gain industry exposure that will help them excel in their final year of studies.

Furthermore, students can consider studying the BSc (Hons) Actuarial Science at affordable and top ranked UCSI University. Many of UCSI’s students have completed 3 to 5 professional papers of the SOA during Year 2 and 3 of the Actuarial Science degree which reflects on the strength of their lecturers and curriculum.

Qualifying to become a professional Actuary in Malaysia through taking the Society of Actuaries (SOA) Professional Papers

I was confused which university to choose for my studies and contacted EduSpiral. He provided facts & evidence to help me make the right choice. Vivian Chua, Actuarial Science at UCSI University
I was confused which university to choose for my studies and contacted EduSpiral. He provided facts & evidence to help me make the right choice.
Vivian Chua, Actuarial Science at UCSI University

No specific degree is mandatory, but like most good jobs, graduating from university will give one a certain edge and credibility. Most practising actuaries today have a degree in mathematics, actuarial science, statistics or computer science. Similar to accountants, graduates must also pass professional exams, before they become recognised as an actuary.

In Malaysia, to be recognised as an actuary, one will have to be a registered member with the Actuarial Society of Malaysia (ASM).

What kind of support do local and foreign companies provide?

Most, if not all local and foreign companies support their actuarial students by having actuarial development programs with the following incentives:

  • Study and exam leave
  • Full/partial reimbursement on costs of study material
  • Salary increment and/or bonus upon passing of exams

Which actuarial professional bodies are recognized in Malaysia?

Malaysian insurance regulator, Bank Negara Malaysia and the Actuarial Society of Malaysia (ASM) recognize Fellows of the following organizations as qualified actuaries:

Currently, the ASM does not conduct any of its own exams, but aspiring actuaries in Malaysia can choose to take the exams conducted by one of the above professional bodies.

What are the passing rates like for the Actuarial Science Professional Papers?

Passing rates are generally low compared with other professions.
For the Institute, Society or Faculty professional exams, passing rates as low as 15% – 25% per subject are not uncommon. 

What about exams and qualifications for Actuary?

The current structure for the respective exam series is briefly described below:

  • Society of Actuaries (U.S.)
    • 5 Preliminary Exams
    • Validation by Educational Experience (VEE) – 3 subjects
    • Fundamental Actuarial Practices (FAP) – 8 modules + 2 assessments
    • Associateship Professionalism Course
    • FSA Module – 2 Modules
    • FSA Exams – 2 Exams
    • Strategic Business Management Module
    • Fellowship Admissions Course

Society of Actuaries (SOA) – USA

After chatting with EduSpiral on WhatsApp, he met me & my family to take us around the campus & provide further advise on the course. Zijun, Actuarial Science at Asia Pacific University (APU)
After chatting with EduSpiral on WhatsApp, he met me & my family to take us around the campus & provide further advise on the course.
Zijun, Actuarial Science at Asia Pacific University (APU)

The journey to become a qualified actuary as outlined by the Society of Actuaries (SOA) – one of the most prominent professional organisation for actuaries in the world – is divided into four stages.

  • The first is the Validated by Educational Experience (VEE) stage where students who receive grades of 70% and above for subjects in economics, corporate finance and applied statistics – will receive credit for these professional papers.
  • The second stage involves five preliminary exams that candidates must pass before proceeding to the penultimate stage, namely, the Fundamentals of Actuarial Practices course and the Associateship Professionalism Course (APC). This will qualify them as an Associate of the Society of Actuaries (ASA).
  • The final hurdle would be to qualify as a Fellow of the Society of Actuaries (FSA).

Route to Becoming an Actuary throught the Society of Actuaries professional exams – SOA

To attain the Associate of the Society of Actuaries (ASA) designation a candidate must successfully complete the requirements shown below, and have the Application for Admission as an Associate approved by the SOA Board of Directors. Requirements include examinations, an e-Learning course, a proctored project assessment, validation of educational experiences outside the SOA Education system (VEE), and a professionalism seminar.

Route to Becoming an Actuary throught the Society of Actuaries professional exams – SOA
Route to Becoming an Actuary throught the Society of Actuaries professional exams – SOA

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1. Preliminary Education Component

Consists of five papers:

  • Exam P Probability
  • Exam FM Financial Mathematics
  • Exam LTAM (Long-Term Actuarial Mathematics)
  • Exam IFM (Investments & Financial Markets)
  • Exam STAM (Short-Term Actuarial Mathematics)

2. Validation by Educational Experience (VEE)

There are three required VEE topics as of July 1, 2018:

  • Economics
  • Accounting and Finance
  • Mathematical Statistics

NOTE: Some candidates may be eligible to obtain VEE transition credit for the previously required topics of Corporate Finance and Applied Statistics.

The VEE topics are not formal prerequisites for the preliminary exams and may be fulfilled independently of the exam process. However, you must pass two SOA, CAS or CIA actuarial exams before applying to have your VEE credit added to your record.

NOTE: VEE topics are not prerequisites for the preliminary examinations. They need not be completed prior to writing any of the preliminary exams and may be fulfilled independently of the preliminary exam process.

Credit for VEE can be obtained through various courses completed from colleges or other education programs. Within Malaysia, candidates can gain credit via the following Private Universities:

3. Fundamentals of Actuarial practice (FAP)

A series of online learning modules, called the Fundamentals of Actuarial Practice (FAP), are intended to be taken after the preliminary exams. They cover real-world topics such as insurance and professionalism with readings, case studies and projects. The preliminary exams and FAP modules comprise the majority of the education requirement for the ASA designation.

Web-based course comprising eight modules and two assessments:

Modules:

  • Module 1 – Introduction / The Role of the Professional Actuary
  • Module 2 – Core External Forces
  • Module 3 – Risk in Actuarial Problems
  • Module 4 – Actuarial Solutions
  • Module 5 – Actuarial Models
  • Module 6 – Model Selection and Solution Design
  • Module 7 – Selection of Initial Assumptions
  • Module 8 – Monitoring Results and Completing the Control Cycle

Assessments:

  • First Assessment upon completion of Modules 1 to 5
  • Final Assessment upon completion of Modules 6 to 8

4. Associate Professionalism Course (ACP)

Half day course covering professionalism, ethics and legal liabilities.

Upon completion of the Preliminary Education Component, VEE, FAP and ACP, the candidate will obtain the title of Associate of the SOA (ASA).

5. Specialty Tracks for Fellowship Courses 

Upper-level exam topics for the FSA designation include plan design, risk classification, enterprise risk management, ratemaking and valuation. Three fellowship exams are taken in one of six specialization tracks chosen by the candidate – Finance & Enterprise Risk Management, Investments, Individual Life Insurance & Annuities, Retirement Benefits, Group & Health Insurance, or General Insurance.

To proceed from Associate to Fellow in the SOA, specific exams and modules have to be completed from one of the following specialty tracks:

  • Corporate Finance and ERM (CFE)
  • Quantitative Finance and Investment (QFI)
  • Individual Life and Annuities
  • Retirement Benefits
  • Group and Health
  • General Insurance

6. Decision Making and Communication (DMAC) Module

E-learning module on written and oral communication skills and decision making skills, applied in solving business problems.

7. Fellowship Admissions Course (FAC)

Final fellowship course consisting of lectures, case studies and presentations to increase awareness in professional ethical and malpractice issues, encourage problem-solving from different perspectives and facilitate coaching in oral communications.

Upon completion of all of the above, the candidate will obtain the title of Fellow of the SOA (FSA).

Route to Becoming an Fellow through the Society of Actuaries professional exams – SOA
Route to Becoming an Fellow through the Society of Actuaries professional exams – SOA

Membership Classes (To become a member of Actuarial Society of Malaysia)

There are four membership classes under the ASM:

  1. Fellow
  2. Associate
  3. Ordinary
  4. Student

The requirements for each class are as follows:

Fellow

To join, professionals must be a Fellow of one of the following bodies:

  • Society of Actuaries (USA)
  • Casualty Actuarial Society (USA)
  • Faculty and Institute of Actuaries (UK)
  • Institute of Actuaries of Australia (Australia)
  • Canadian Institute of Actuaries (Canada)
    • Recommended by 2 Fellow members of the Society
    • Resident in Malaysia or deemed to be familiar with Malaysian conditions
    • At least 1 year’s experience in the Malaysian actuarial industry

Associate

To join, professionals must be an Associate of one of the following bodies:

  • Society of Actuaries (USA)
  • Casualty Actuarial Society (USA)
  • Faculty and Institute of Actuaries (UK)
  • Institute of Actuaries of Australia (Australia)
  • Canadian Institute of Actuaries (Canada)

OR

– Passed examinations of any professional actuarial bodies to be recognized as Fellow, which is
deemed to be at least equivalent to the examination requirements to become an Associate of the
above actuarial bodies.

Ordinary

– Satisfies one of the following:

  • Ordinary member of a professional actuarial body; OR
  • Passed at least 1 part/subject of the examinations of a professional actuarial body which has no class of Ordinary membership and is continuing to study for other examinations of the actuarial body; OR
  • Completed an actuarial course or other related statistical course in a university, college  or other academic institute and has achieved a qualification thereof; OR
  • Carrying out actuarial or other related work in a life or non-life insurance company, government office or actuarial consulting office.

– Nominated by 2 members of the Society

Student

  • Nominated by 2 persons delegated by the Vice Chancellor of the university
  • Does not meet the requirements for admission as Fellow, Associate or Ordinary member; OR meets       the requirements but is not gainfully employed and chooses to seek Student membership
  • Has a declared interest in actuarial matters
  • Undergraduate/postgraduate student in an actuarial-related program

 

 

Study the Best University in Malaysia for Actuarial Science Degree at UCSI University with Exemptions from the Society of Actuaries (SOA) Papers

 Top Private University in Malaysia for the Bachelor of Science (Hons) Actuarial Science at UCSI University with Exemptions from the Society of Actuaries (SOA) USA

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Students after SPM, O-Levels, UEC, STPM, Foundation or Pre-University wanting to pursue the Actuarial Science degree course in a university with full campus facilities in Kuala Lumpur can consider the top ranked UCSI University. With more than 28 years of education experience, UCSI University provides an affordable actuarial science programme supported by excellent facilities. Students will enjoy the wide range of sports facilities as well as interact with students from more than 80 countries.

Students after SPM or O-Levels interested to register at UCSI University for Foundation in Arts may go to this link for the online application. Students after STPM, UEC, A-Levels, Foundation or Pre-University may enter directly into the Bachelor of Science (Hons) Actuarial Science at UCSI University with the relevant results.

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Pathway to Becme a Professional Actuaries in Malaysia

The journey to become a qualified actuary as outlined by the Society of Actuaries (SOA) – one of the most prominent

Dr Toh Kian Kok, Actuarial Science professor at UCSI University
Dr Toh Kian Kok, Actuarial Science professor at UCSI University

professional organisation for actuaries in the world – is divided into four stages.

The first is the Validated by Educational Experience (VEE) stage where students who receive grades of 70% and above for subjects in economics, corporate finance and applied statistics – will receive credit for these professional papers.

The second stage involves five preliminary exams that candidates must pass before proceeding to the penultimate stage, namely, the Fundamentals of Actuarial Practices course and the Associateship Professionalism Course (APC). This will qualify them as an Associate of the Society of Actuaries (ASA).

The final hurdle would be to qualify as a Fellow of the Society of Actuaries (FSA).

 

While UCSI University’s Actuarial Science related programmes follow SOA guidelines, Dr Toh points out that the University has a trump card that separates it from the competition.

“Our focus on preparing the students for the professional examinations has helped them to familiarise themselves with the examinations and enabled them to perform well.”

“As testament to our efforts, we have students who passed three out of five preliminary exams when they were still in their second year. This is a remarkable feat which we are proud of.

Chong Kim Sin, a UCSI Actuarial Science student has completed 5 Society of Actuaries (SOA) Professional Papers before entering into the 3rd Year of his degree studies.
Chong Kim Sin, a UCSI Actuarial Science student has completed 5 Society of Actuaries (SOA) Professional Papers before entering into the 3rd Year of his degree studies.

Chong Kim Sin, a UCSI Actuarial Science student has completed 5 Society of Actuaries (SOA) Professional Papers before entering into the 3rd Year of his degree studies.

There are very few students in the whole of Asia who have passed five SoA examinations before the third year. This makes Chong Kim Sin among Asia’s crème de la crème for actuarial science.

Currently, Chong Kim Sin has passed the Probability (P), Financial Mathematics (FM), Actuarial Models: Financial Economics (MFE), Actuarial Models: Life Contingencies (MLC), as well as the Construction and Evaluation of Actuarial Models (C) examinations.

He now has only two components left before qualifying as an Associate of the Society of Actuaries (ASA); the Fundamentals of Actuarial Practice (FAP) and Associateship Professionalism Course (APC).

The Best Actuarial Science Degree Programme at UCSI University

Associate Professor Dr. Ngerng Miang Hong Ph.D, Head of Department, Actuarial Science & Applied Statistics at UCSI University
Associate Professor Dr. Ngerng Miang Hong
Ph.D, Head of Department, Actuarial Science & Applied Statistics at UCSI University

Actuaries in Malaysia are professionals dealing with the financial impact of risk and uncertainty.

Actuaries use their skills in mathematics, economic, computer science, finance, probability and statistics, and business to assess the likelihood of occurrence of certain risky events formulate policies that minimize the cost of these risks.

As such, actuaries are essential to the insurance and reinsurance industry in Malaysia. In addition, they can be consultants to other businesses, including sponsors of pension plans; and to government agencies such as Bank Negara Malaysia.

The 3-year BSc (Hons) Actuarial Science programme at UCSI University provides a solid grounding in mathematics, accounting, finance and statistic to integrate theories with actual experience and build a foundation for students to pursuit professional career in the financial risk management industry.

Students at UCSI University will be furnished with the essential leadership qualities, communication skills, problem-solving abilities, critical thinking, as well as entrepreneurial and managerial skills that will enable them to face the challenging yet exciting world, where risks can be turned into opportunities.

Assessments of the Bachelor of Science (Hons) Actuarial Science at UCSI University

The assessment includes a combination of examinations, projects and assignments, and finally a requirement to complete a dissertation in Independent Project in the final year. Students will acquire up-to-date vocational skills that are relevant and competitive. This reflects the complex and challenging nature of the accounting, finance and business realms.

Year 1 Subjects for the Bachelor of Science (Hons) Actuarial Science Degree at UCSI University

UCSI University students Chew Pei Xin (second from left), Jasmine Lum (third from let), Lim Wai Hing (fifth from left), and Faculty of Business & Information Science lecturer Ms. Eva Lim (sixth from left) posing for a group photo after bagging the first runner-up prize at the MSC Malaysia- IHL Business Plan Competition (MIBPC).
UCSI University students Chew Pei Xin (second from left), Jasmine Lum (third from let), Lim Wai Hing (fifth from left), and Faculty of Business & Information Science lecturer Ms. Eva Lim (sixth from left) posing for a group photo after bagging the first runner-up prize at the MSC Malaysia- IHL Business Plan Competition (MIBPC).
  • Mathematics 1
  • Statistics
  • Elective 1
  • Managerial Accounting
  • Mathematics 2
  • Applied Probability
  • Mathematics of Interest Rates
  • Mathematics of Financial Derivatives
  • Business Accounting
  • Elective 2
  • Elective 3
  • University Life (MPU-U2)
  • Extracurricular Learning Experience 1 (MPU-U4)
  • Co-operative Placement 1

Year 2 Subjects for the Bachelor of Science (Hons) Actuarial Science Degree at UCSI University

Students learn from qualified & experienced lecturers at UCSI University
Students learn from qualified & experienced lecturers at UCSI University
  • Applied Statistical Models
  • Life Contingencies 1
  • Financial Management 1
  • Intro to Stochastic Process
  • Life Contingencies 2
  • Loss Models
  • Stat. Simulation for Fin. Modelling
  • Macroeconomics
  • Elective 4
  • Microeconomics
  • Elective 5
  • Business Law- Malaysian Perspective (MPU-U3)
  • Extracurricular Learning Experience 2 (MPU-U4)
  • Co-operative Placement 2

Year 3 Subjects for the Bachelor of Science (Hons) Actuarial Science Degree at UCSI University

  • EduSpiral helped me to find the right college for A-Levels, & now they have helped me to choose what to study after my A-Levels. Chee Kin, Actuarial & Finance degree at UCSI University
    EduSpiral helped me to find the right college for A-Levels, & now they have helped me to choose what to study after my A-Levels.
    Chee Kin, Actuarial & Finance degree at UCSI University

    Independent Project 1

  • Stochastic Calculus for Ins. & Fin.
  • Stat. Methods for Insurance
  • Credibility Theory
  • Actuarial Practices
  • Elective 6
  • Independent Project 2
  • Extracurricular Learning Experience 3 (MPU-U4)
  • Co-operative Placement 3

List of Electives (choose up to 6)

  • Fundamental of Marketing
  • Fundamentals of Management
  • Introduction to Internet Technologies
  • Accounting Information System
  • Business Modelling with Spreadsheet
  • Business Information System
  • Java Programming 1
  • Business Law
  • Business Communications
  • Corporate Finance
  • Visual Basic .Net
  • Numerical & Computing Method

Top Actuarial Science Degree Programme at UCSI University

As testament to UCSI University’s efforts, they have students who passed three to five preliminary exams when they were still in their second year. This is a remarkable feat.

To obtain the best people for the job, the actuary profession is one of the most

Chan Min Zhuo, Actuarial Science degree student at UCSI University
Chan Min Zhuo, Actuarial Science degree student at UCSI University, is one of the few local students who passed three of the five preliminary exams required in 2 years

Chan Min Zhuo, Actuarial Science degree student at UCSI University, is one of the few local students who passed three of the five preliminary exams required in 2 years regulated. Chan has now passed all 5 preliminary papers.

One must pass professional examinations and various on-the-job assessments, in addition to obtaining a degree. There are not many universities in Malaysia that offer the degree in Actuarial Science.

Teoh Wei Jing, a UCSI Actuarial Science student from SMJK Jit Sin has completed 5 Society of Actuaries (SOA) Professional Papers before entering into the 3rd Year of his degree studies.

Chong Kim Sin, a UCSI Actuarial Science student has completed 5 Society of Actuaries (SOA) Professional Papers before entering into the 3rd Year of his degree studies.
Chong Kim Sin, a UCSI Actuarial Science student has completed 5 Society of Actuaries (SOA) Professional Papers before entering into the 3rd Year of his degree studies.

Another student, Chong Kim Sin, a UCSI Actuarial Science student has completed 5 Society of Actuaries (SOA) Professional Papers before entering into the 3rd Year of his degree studies.

There are very few students in the whole of Asia who have passed five SoA examinations before the third year. This makes Chong Kim Sin among Asia’s crème de la crème for actuarial science.

Currently, Chong Kim Sin has passed the Probability (P), Financial Mathematics (FM), Actuarial Models: Financial Economics (MFE), Actuarial Models: Life Contingencies (MLC), as well as the Construction and Evaluation of Actuarial Models (C) examinations.

He now has only two components left before qualifying as an Associate of the Society of Actuaries (ASA); the Fundamentals of Actuarial Practice (FAP) and Associateship Professionalism Course (APC).

Other top UCSI students Xie Chun Xiao, Angie Ng Mei Sean, Christopher Low Jia Iuan, Callie Loh, Hon Li Yen, Ham Khai Chung, Ngew Chee Hong Anthony, Tan Khe Han and Wong Mei Chin have completed 4 preliminary SoA examinations before the third year.

Understanding the profession’s stringent requirements, UCSI University sought the knowledge and experiences of Dr Ngerng Miang Hong and Dr Toh Kian Kok to manage and design its BSc (Hons) Actuarial Science.To study Actuarial Science in Malaysia, students should choose a university that best equips them with the knowledge and skills to succeed in actuaries.

Assoc Prof Dr Toh Kian Kok is also the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Quality Assurance and Enhancement at UCSI University with a B.Sc. (Actuarial Science), M.Sc. (Applied Mathematical Science), and Ph.D (Statistics)

The library & computer labs are located inside the Learning Resource Centre at UCSI University
The library & computer labs are located inside the Learning Resource Centre at UCSI University

The result: A course that provides students with a world-class degree in line with the requirements of the Society of Actuaries (SOA) – the largest professional organisation for actuaries in the world. On top of that, the course also grooms students to have the rigorous capacity to ace the professional examinations they are required to sit for.

“Students require only three years of full-time study to prepare them for the professional examinations and on-the-job assessments during the span of their careers,” says Dr Toh, who is the Dean of UCSI University’s Faculty of Business and Information Science.

“It is a heavy responsibility for us as we want to ensure that within their three years with us, we prepare them for the next 30-years or more of their career.”

Award-Winning Business Students at UCSI University

2015 – Wong Hao Yi & Kok Yat Sing, Bachelor of Science (Hons) Actuarial Science students at UCSI University, became National Champions for CIMB ASEAN Stock Challenge 2015, organised by CIMB Group Holdings Bhd, Malaysia’s second-largest bank by assets.

2015 – Kong Kah Weng, Eric, Bachelor of Arts (Hons) Marketing student at UCSI University, is the First Prize Winner for the “Think New” Essay Writing Competition, Eric Kong won himself a one month internship at Novo Education New Zealand. The competition was organized by South and South East Asia (SSEA), Education New Zealand.

2015 – Yeah Nyoke Kim, Bachelor of Arts (Hons) Logistics Management student at UCSI University, won the Best Student Award at the Chartered Institute of Logistic and Transport (CILT) Convocation 2015, Malaysia

2015 – Lim Czi Xian, Bachelor of Science (Hons) Finance and Investment at UCSI University, was chosen as the Seminar Leader for Obuse, Negano Prefecture to teach 8 seminars on philosophy in Japan, a project fully sponsored by Reischauer Institute of Japanese studies at H-LAB, Harvard College Japan Initiative.

UCSI University students Chew Pei Xin (second from left), Jasmine Lum (third from let), Lim Wai Hing (fifth from left), and Faculty of Business & Information Science lecturer Ms. Eva Lim (sixth from left) posing for a group photo after bagging the first runner-up prize at the MSC Malaysia- IHL Business Plan Competition (MIBPC).
UCSI University students Chew Pei Xin (second from left), Jasmine Lum (third from let), Lim Wai Hing (fifth from left), and Faculty of Business & Information Science lecturer Ms. Eva Lim (sixth from left) posing for a group photo after bagging the first runner-up prize at the MSC Malaysia- IHL Business Plan Competition (MIBPC).

2015 – Fatin Aveena Binti Azlan, Bachelor of Business Administration (Hons) Oil and Gas Management student at UCSI University, participated in the 2015 Yong Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative* (Yseali) Institute on Environmental issues in the United States, fully funded by the Department of United States and will be hosted by the University of Montana, Montana from 25 August -30 September 2015. * Initiative by U.S. President Barack Obama, international Council of Malaysian Scholars and Associates, Hosted by Mckensey & Co.

2014/2015 – Yong Kok Seong (Diploma in Management), Loh Peng An (Bachelor of Arts (Hons) Logistics Management) & Lo Shai Man (Bachelor of Arts (Hons) Accounting) won Merit Prize in the Malaysia Startup Challenge (MSC) Malaysia – Institution of Higher Learning (IHL)

2014 – Eric Kong Kah Weng (Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Marketing), Kelvin Choo Chiang Tung (Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Finance and Investment), and Vivian Ng Mun Yee (Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Accounting) emerged Champion for the event “World Islamic Economic Forum (WIEF) Business Plan Challenge 2014” for Social Entrepreneurial Project — “Bangi Soap”, Kampung Kalangkaman, Sabah, Malaysia

2013 – Lim Wai Hing & Chew Pei Xin (Bachelor of Arts (Hons)Business Administration students at UCSI University) won First runner-up placing at the Malaysia Startup Challenge (MSC) – Institution of Higher Learning (IHL) Business Plan Competition (MIBPC), 2012/2013, an annual competition that seeks to nurture a new generation of technology entrepreneurs.

2013 – Vanessa Meghann @ Ang Man Xuan, Liew Wye Yaw, Jason Yao Ching Huat & Vijayalecchumy who are Diploma In Management students at UCSI University emerged Champion for the Entrepreneurial Building Project 2014 competition, Malaysia

2011 – Foo Dun Fei & Ng Shing Leng (Bachelor of Arts (Hons)Business Administration students at UCSI University)won the first runner up during the national Malaysia Startup Challenge (MSC)–Institution for higher Learning (IHL) Business Plan Competition

Excellent job prospects for finance graduates in Malaysia

Computer lab at UCSI University
Computer lab at UCSI University

All this is done to help students secure their career prospects in a time when both the economic and job markets are uncertain.

Dr Toh sums it up, “The global economy is changing. The field of finance has never been more important and our new offerings were designed to provide students with a professional and personal edge to help them excel.”

Where can Actuarial Science and Finance graduates work in Malaysia?

Positions – Actuarial Executive, Portfolio Management Manager, Sales Planning and Analytics Officer, Campaign Management Analyst, Data Analyst, Pricing Analyst, Manager, Independent Compliance Review, Risk Management Executive, Marketing Development Fund Analyst, Trade & Promotion Analyst, Incentive Management Analyst, etc

Insurance – Prudential Assurance Malaysia, Sun Life Assurance, Hong Leong Assurance, Prudential BSN Takaful, Zurich Insurance Malaysia, AIA, Etiqa, ING, MCIS Zurich, AXA AFFIN Life, Manulife, Tokio Marine Life, Uni.Asia Life Assurance, Great Eastern, AM Life, AIG, Berjaya Sompo, MSIG, Kurnia, Lonpac, Danajamin, Pacific Insurance, Pacific & Orient Assurance, RHB

Bank Negara Malaysia
Bank Negara Malaysia

Insurance, Tune Insurance, UniAsia General, Overseas Assurance Corporation, Progressive, QBE, MAA, etc

Financial & Investment Institutions – Bank Negara, Bursa Malaysia, Securities Commission Malaysia, AFFIN Investment, ECM Libra, HwangDBS, Hong Leong Investment, Kenanga Investment Bank, KAF Investment Bank, CIMB Investment

Bank, AMInvestment Bank, Alliance Investment Bank, OSK Investment, MIDF Amanah Investment, Public Investment Bank, RHB Investment Bank, CIMB Investment, etc

Banks – Public, AmBank, Citibank, Hong Leong, HSBC, Maybank, RHB, CIMB, AFFIN, Alliance, Deutsche Bank, J.P. Morgan Chase Bank Berhad, Mizuho Bank (Malaysia), OCBC, Standard Chartered, UOB, The Royal Bank of Scotland, The Bank of Nova Scotia, etc.

Islamic Banks -Al Rajhi Banking & Investment Corporation, Alkhair International Islamic Bank, Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft, Affin Islamic Bank, Al Rajhi Banking & Investment Corporation, Alliance Islamic Bank, AmIslamic Bank, Bank Islam Malaysia, Bank Muamalat Malaysia, CIMB Islamic Bank, HSBC

PwC-Pricewaterhouse
PwC-Pricewaterhouse

Amanah Malaysia, Hong Leong Islamic Bank, Kuwait Finance House, Maybank Islamic, OCBC Al-Amin Bank, Public Islamic Bank, RHB Islamic Bank, Standard Chartered Saadiq, etc

Accounting & Auditing firms – Ernst & Young, PricewaterhouseCoopers, Deloitte, KPMG, Baker Tilly Monteiro Heng, Moore Stephens AC, Steven Chin & Co, BDO, Grant Thornton, RSM, Mazars, Crowe Horwarth International, DFK International, Halim & Lee, Begbies Traynor, etc

Study at the Top Ranked UCSI University in Malaysia

UCSI University is a vibrant community of learning and scholarship. With more than 10,000 students from 80 different

UCSI University is ranked Tier 5 or Excellent in the SETARA 2013 offers state-of-the-art facilities at their strategically located campus in Cheras, KL
UCSI University is ranked Tier 5 or Excellent in the SETARA 2013 offers state-of-the-art facilities at their strategically located campus in Cheras, KL

countries, the University stands out as a melting pot of diversity and learners will supplement their pursuit of knowledge with a keen sense of cultural appreciation – a vital trait in today’s borderless world.

As one of Malaysia’s first private universities,UCSI University has long impacted the national higher education landscape and the University continues to do so with its wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.

UCSI University is ranked in the Top 300 Universities in Asia in 2015 by the renown QS University Rankings.

UCSI University is ranked as Excellent or Tier 5 in the SETARA 2013 rating system by MQA.

The University’s academic staff are at the forefront of their disciplines and their views are highly sought after on major issues; from business to political science.

Many of their academics have extensive experience working overseas and some play advisory roles in public bodies and various committees. By bringing their experiences into the classroom, UCSI’s academics cater to an exhilarating learning environment and learners will thrive as they balance academic mastery with industrial application.

Since its inception in 1986, UCSI University has been committed to further the discovery and celebration of knowledge.

A winning combination UCSI University’s Faculty of Business & Information Science (FOBIS) has carefully designed a range of programmes combining finance with traditional in demand degree offerings.

Unique among private universities, its programmes are the:

Co-Operative Education Training Programme for Every Year of Degree Studies at UCSI University

I am glad that EduSpiral recommended me to UCSI University as I gained so much real work experiences during all my Co-Op (Internship). Paul Kong, graduated in Business Administration from UCSI University
I am glad that EduSpiral recommended me to UCSI University as I gained so much real work experiences during all my Co-Op (Internship).
Paul Kong, graduated in Business Administration from UCSI University

With its innovative academic curriculum, UCSI University students also enjoy the unique benefits of its Co-Operative Education Training Programme (Co-Op) that enhances their employability by integrating classroom learning with workplace training in Co-Op employer organisations.

Completing two months’ work experience for every study year, a UCSI University student would have six to eight months’ work experience to stand ready for full-time employment upon their graduation.

The Co-Operative Placement Programme at UCSI University formally integrates classroom learning with workplace training in co-operative employer organisations.

As part of their degree requirements, students enrolled in UCSI University programmes are required to complete a co-operative module comprising two months’ work experience for each year of their degree programme. Today, the University have over 3500 industry partners supporting the Co-Op Placement Programme.

With the number rising annually, these partnerships create job opportunities for students to be job-ready upon their graduation.

State-of-the-Art Facilities at UCSI University

Computer lab at UCSI University
Computer lab at UCSI University

Situated on a 19-acre piece of land, the Campus is located in Cheras, Kuala Lumpur with convenient access to numerous facilities including banks, restaurants, transportation services, entertainment, and accommodation. Fully wireless, it is equipped with the latest cutting-edge technology to access the world of e-learning and e-resources.

Housing 7 different blocks, the Campus includes the Student Centre (Menara Gading), the Resource Centre, the Academic Blocks and Residential Halls to comfortably accommodate a student population of more than 15000.

Sporting facilities in this Campus include: basketball, badminton and squash courts, as well as a gymnasium, a football field, and a swimming pool.

Other facilities include the four-level library, an auditorium, a recital hall, a multi-purpose hall, computer laboratories, residential halls, bookstores and cafeterias. Also available on Campus is an Apple Experience Centre.

The Campus faculty-centric facilities include: the Anatomy & Pathology Museum, Clinical Skills Laboratories, Petrochemical

Students at UCSI University have access to excellent sports facilities for healthy lifestyle
Students at UCSI University have access to excellent sports facilities for healthy lifestyle

Laboratory, Physiology & Pharmacology Laboratory, Molecular Biology Laboratory, and Microbiology Laboratory, fashion design workshops, Psychology Laboratory, as well as drafting and design studios.

The University is also constantly working with the industry to set up specialised labs which ensure students are updated with the latest industrial practices. Currently, the University has established laboratories jointly with National Instruments and RICOH under the School of Engineering and the School of Information Technology, respectively.

Due to its rapid expansion, an additional 48-storey building will be built on the existing Campus that will include a 5-Star hotel, twelve floors of parking bays and hostel accommodations for UCSI University students, administrative offices, restaurants, a ballroom and also a clubhouse.

Professional Recording Studio at UCSI University

The recording studio located in the Recital Hall is a professional 24-track digital recording and editing studio with an attached

UCSI University's Professional Recording Studio is a professional 24-track digital recording and editing studio with an attached control room.
UCSI University’s Professional Recording Studio is a professional 24-track digital recording and editing studio with an attached control room.

control room that is connected to the Recital Hall for live recording purposes. Equipped to handle small to integrated productions, advanced editing and CD-R burning, it is available for stereo recording, multi-track recording, fully automated mix-down, CD writing or audio/CD-R production and audio postproduction for vision.

Recording applications available include instrument, choir, ensemble, jazz and pop bands, drums, voice-overs, musicals, vocals, backing tapes, background music, minus ones for lip-syncing, minus ones for vocal performances and video soundtracks. A valuable teaching facility, the studio is also used for many of our audio engineering courses to enable students to work in a setting that closely parallels the professional music world.

The recording studio is also used by the Mass Communication and Branding & Advertising students at UCSI University.

Dewan Tan Sri Ahmad Razali (DETSAR)

Fully equipped with air-conditioning and a sound system, the Hall can accommodate up to 660 pax for examinations and 1,000 pax for dinner functions.

Multipurpose Hall (MPH)

Students get value for money at UCSI University with access to excellent sports facilities
Students get value for money at UCSI University with access to excellent sports facilities

The Multipurpose Hall can accommodate up to 420 pax for examinations.

Recital Hall

The Recital Hall and the Auditorium are two identical theatres, which are well-designed for professional performances and functions and furnished with theatre-style seating for 450 people. Both are also well-equipped with their own sound systems, audio/visuals, and recording facilities.

Library & Resource Centre

The five-storey UCSI University Library offers a comprehensive collection of all the latest texts and references, both in hardcopy and online. The e-Library provides access to a wide array of references, from academic peer-reviewed international journals to music scores and audio-visual items. Also available are discussion rooms and workstations, as well as supplementary audio references.

EduSpiral Consultant Services- Your Personal Online Education Advisor

Established since 2009, EduSpiral Consultant Services helps provide information and counselling on courses and universities in Malaysia & Singapore.

EduSpiral Consultant Services represents the best colleges and universities in Malaysia offering a wide range of

EduSpiral took us around to tour the campus and talk to the Head of Actuarial Science Department to help us make a better decision. Edward Loh (L) Partial Scholarship and Chee Wei (R) Full Scholarship for Actuarial Science at UCSI University
EduSpiral took us around to tour the campus and talk to the Head of Actuarial Science Department to help us make a better decision. Edward Loh (L) Partial Scholarship and Chee Wei (R) Full Scholarship for Actuarial Science at UCSI University

choices for students to choose from. These colleges and universities offer value for money in the quality of education and excellent facilities that you get.These universities and colleges are chosen by EduSpiral because they represent the best in their fields in Malaysia and affordable.

EduSpiral provides in-depth information and counseling on their courses so that students are able to make the right choice.If you are still not sure what to study, please contact us and we will send you a free EduSpiral Career Assessment Form.Please contact us for more details.

Please fill up the form for more information. If you do not give your mobile number or full name as in IC, your query will not be answered. Please make sure you give a correct email address and check your email including the SPAM or JUNK email folder within 48 hours as we will email you the information.