VEE requirements, fully explained

Every ASA candidate eventually googles “what is VEE” in a mild panic. Here is the calm version.

What VEE actually is

Validation by Educational Experience is the SOA and CAS acknowledging that some foundations are better learned in a classroom than tested in an exam center. Instead of three more exams, you earn credit through approved coursework in three topics: Economics (micro + macro), Accounting & Finance, and Mathematical Statistics.

You need grades of B- or better in courses that appear on the official approved list, and the credit only gets applied after you’ve passed two actuarial exams.

The move most students miss

Check the approved course directory before registration each semester, not after graduation. Most actuarial science and many math/econ majors satisfy all three VEEs automatically, but only if you pick the approved section of the course. Two students take “Intro to Econometrics”; one section is on the list, one isn’t. Same tuition, very different paperwork later.

If your degree didn’t cover it

You have cheap paths: approved online providers run self-paced VEE courses far below university tuition, and some community college courses qualify. International students: your university may already be in the directory under its official name. Search variations before assuming you need new courses.

The order of operations

1. Pass two exams (P and FM for most people).
2. Gather transcripts.
3. Apply for VEE credit through the SOA’s portal (small fee per topic).
4. Watch three requirements disappear from your ASA checklist in one afternoon.

VEE is the rare part of this journey that rewards administration over intellect. Do the administration early.