Communications Practice (CP3) is one of the three papers in the Core Practices segment of the IFoA. Clearing all three Core Practice Papers is an important part of being an Associate with the Institute. If you’re working through the IFoA actuarial exams, you’ll eventually come across CP3 – Communications Practice within the Actuarial Exams syllabus. This is the exam that tests your ability to explain technical actuarial ideas to non-technical people – a crucial skill for any actuary.
Here’s everything you need to know about CP3, including what’s assessed, how the exam works, and what you can do to prepare.
What is CP3 Actuarial Exam?
CP3 Actuarial Exam is all about effective written communication. The core aim is simple:
Can you take a technical actuarial scenario and clearly explain it to someone who isn’t an actuary?
You’ll need to strip away jargon, focus on what matters, and make sure your message is clear, relevant, and easy to understand. This isn’t just an exam skill – it’s something you’ll use throughout your actuarial career, whether you’re writing reports, emails, or board papers.
When Should You Take CP3 Actuarial Exam from IAI or IFoA?
You can take CP3 at any stage, but most students find it easier after completing the core principles subjects. That said, it’s not a strict requirement – you can sit CP3 whenever you feel ready.
What Does the CP3 Actuarial Exam Involve?
The CP3 exam is a single, online written paper with two main parts:
The Communication Task (80 marks)
This is the heart of the exam. You’ll be given a technical actuarial scenario and asked to produce a written communication for a specific non-technical audience.
- You might be writing a letter, a report, or an email.
- The scenario will be based on real-world actuarial problems.
- Your job: Identify what’s important, explain it clearly, and use the right tone and structure for your audience.
Reflective Questions (20 marks)
After your main communication, you’ll answer 3–6 short reflective questions.
- These might ask you to justify your choices, reflect on your structure, or explain why you used certain language or tools.
- This section checks that you understand the “why” behind your communication choices.
Exam Duration: 3 hours and 5 minutes (including reading time).
Format: Timed, online, and written.
What Skills Does CP3 Test?
The CP3 syllabus is all about practical communication, broken down into five main areas:
Identify Relevant Information and Content
- Pick out the key facts your audience needs.
- Explain any implications or uncertainties.
- Avoid unnecessary detail that could confuse your reader.
- Use numbers appropriately (percentages, ratios, etc.) and explain them in a way your audience will understand.
Use an Effective Structure
- Organize your communication logically.
- Make sure it’s easy to follow.
- Be able to justify why you structured it that way.
Adopt Appropriate Language
- Avoid jargon and technical terms (or explain them simply).
- Use language your audience will understand.
- Think carefully about tone and terminology.
Include Appropriate Explanation
- Make sure your explanation is complete, accurate, and not misleading.
- Give enough detail for your reader to understand, but not so much that they get lost.
Incorporate Effective Communication Tools
- Use visuals (charts, tables, bullet points, diagrams) where appropriate to make your message clearer.
- Be able to explain why you chose each tool.
How is CP3 Marked?
- Application (about 85% of marks): Can you apply your communication skills to a real scenario?
- Higher Order Skills (about 15%): Can you reflect on your choices, draw conclusions, and explain your reasoning?
Every exam is different – the scenarios and reflective questions can cover any part of the syllabus. Don’t rely on past papers alone; make sure you’re comfortable with all the skills above.
What’s Different in 2026?
The syllabus and assessment format remains the same for 2025 and 2026. The only changes are minor wording tweaks and updated guidance, but the exam structure, skills tested, and marking approach are unchanged.
How to Prepare for CP3
- Practice writing: Take technical topics and try explaining them to friends or family who aren’t actuaries.
- Review sample scenarios: Use IFoA resources and past papers, but don’t just memorize – focus on the skills.
- Get feedback: If possible, ask colleagues or mentors to review your writing.
- Stay up to date: Read the latest Assessment Regulations and Qualifications Handbook.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, CP3 is a 3-hour single-day computer-based exam to be taken from your home or workplace.
It tests your ability to effectively communicate to a non-actuarial/non-technical audience through writing.
No, reading time isn’t provided in CP3. It is a 3-hour computer-based exam.
Three days prior to your exam, advance material will be issued to you. It is also called the Exam Scenario paper. These three days will give you the opportunity to review the material and familiarise yourself with the scenario and subject area before sitting for the exam.
On the day of the exam, you will see the exam questions will be set around the scenario in which the advance material is provided.
No, exam submission can only be in the form of a Word document. Joining exam instructions will be available to you two weeks before the exam session.
Recommended hours is 60 hours for CP3 by IFoA.
The CP3 study material (Course notes) provided by IFoA is for enhancing your critical thinking skills and your written communication skills. It teaches you techniques of how to connect with a non-technical audience using simplicity but in a complete manner.
Your answer script will be marked by two markers (one actuary and one non-actuary).
Yes, you can practice specimen exam papers released by IFoA or past exam papers to improve your writing skills. Always note that your final communication should be technically correct, and complete but also very easy to read. Don’t overcomplicate the language or your content. Don’t add unnecessary things/ideas in your answers that are not provided in your advanced material.
Final Thoughts
CP3 Actuarial Exam is all about bridging the gap between actuarial science and the real world. If you can explain complex ideas simply, you’ll be a stronger actuary – and CP3 is your chance to prove it.
Good luck – and remember, clear communication is just as important as technical skills!