Frequently Asked Questions

Below are some frequently asked regarding the Global Access Pricing Pilot Program.

1. Why wasn’t my country chosen to be a part of phase 1 of the pilot program?
   The Society of Actuaries (SOA) launched “Global Access”, a regional pricing, for qualified candidates interested in pursuing the Associate level pathway. The first phase of Global Access is a pilot focusing on qualified candidates currently residing in India or Pakistan. This program is part of our strategic plan to accelerate the growth of the actuarial profession on an international level.
   
   This pilot program is only a temporary investigative initiative, and it does not reflect any preference or bias towards any other country or region. 
   
   
2. What is the pilot phase of the Global Access Initiative?
   As an international organization, the SOA recognizes all candidates and members around the world. The SOA offers support designed to provide market pricing to eligible candidates of qualified countries for examination fees. Countries are determined to be qualified for Global Access based on World Bank income data. Beginning in October 2023, the existing International Discount is being applied to all ASA components at a consistent 20% off. An additional discount is being piloted for India and Pakistan, starting in October 2023. This discount will be 50% off all ASA components in the first two Micro-credentials and 30% off the final Micro-credential. Discounts are not available for VEEs. 
   
   
3. How does the pilot program work?
   For candidates and members currently residing in India or Pakistan, ASA exam and module registrations will be priced at the additional discount level beginning in October 2023. Candidates will need to visit www.soa.org/globalaccess to view available exams and register at discounted pricing. The pilot pricing will not be available during checkout for products made on the general SOA exam registration page. Audits will be completed to verify residency status in the countries selected for the pilot.
   
   
4. Why is there a need for changes in the discount pricing program for SOA exams?
   The need for changes in pricing arises from the SOA’s dedication to advancing the actuarial profession on an international scale while recognizing that many of our candidates reside in countries with differing economic ranges. By offering international discounts, and piloting additional discounts, we are providing an opportunity to make the SOA credentials even more accessible.
   
   
5. When will the new pricing come into effect?
   The pilot program is scheduled to run from Fall 2023 to the end of 2024 in India and Pakistan.
   
   
6. When can I register for exams with the new pricing?
   Beginning in October 2023, candidates currently residing in India or Pakistan will be able to visit a special web page to register for the exam or module they wish to enroll in at the new discount pilot program pricing.
   
   
7. How will the pilot program be evaluated?
   We will utilize registration patterns, data metrics, and candidate feedback to evaluate the pilot program’s success.
   
   
8. When will the evaluation of the pilot program take place?
   Throughout 2024, the SOA will conduct an evaluation of the results of the program by taking into consideration a combination of both candidate feedback and data metrics to determine next steps and how the program may be implemented on a permanent basis.
   
   
9. What happens if the pilot program is successful?
   In the event of increased exam registrations and positive candidate feedback, the SOA aims to extend this discount to more regions.
   
   
10. Can I provide feedback or suggestions regarding the pilot program?
    Candidates can share their feedback and suggestions by contacting customerservice@soa.org.
    
    
11. Will the pricing change affect the exam content or format in any way?
    The discount pilot program has no effect or impact on the content and format of the exams.