HCM CITY — Actuarial science, a key field in data analysis for managing financial risk in industries like insurance, retirement, and healthcare, is gaining popularity among Vietnamese youth, according to a survey by the Society of Actuaries (SOA).

With Vietnamese students’ growing interest in finding careers that align with their financial and academic aspirations, the actuarial profession is becoming increasingly appealing, offering a unique combination of intellectual challenge, financial rewards, and societal impact, SOA said. 

As Việt Nam’s insurance, finance and technology sectors continue to grow, demand for skilled actuaries is on the rise, creating abundant opportunities for career growth and stability.

The actuarial profession offers several attractive benefits, including high earning potential and opportunities for advancement, while the rigorous nature of actuarial examinations attracts high-achieving individuals seeking stimulating challenges.

“Students in Việt Nam are driven by career aspirations but also seek job and financial security, alongside the desire to take care of and honour their family, as well as achieve a strong work-life balance – all of which the actuarial profession offers,” said Andy Peterson, managing director, International, Society of Actuaries. 

Over the past five years, there has been a growing interest in the actuarial profession in Việt Nam, with a nearly 90 per cent increase in first-time candidates from 2019-2024. In 2024, over 400 candidates took SOA exams in Việt Nam.

"Vietnamese students aspiring to become actuaries can access a wealth of resources and support through the Society of Actuaries,” said Jessie Li, Regional Director, Asia, Society of Actuaries.

The survey also showed 35 per cent of Vietnamese students cite opportunities for advancement as a top desire when choosing a career, followed by plentiful job opportunities at 27 per cent and being intellectually challenging at 26 per cent.

When asked about their top life goals overall, the most important factors among Vietnamese students are achieving their dream career, being one of the best in their profession and financial stability tied with maintaining a healthy work-life balance. 

Additionally, 68 per cent of Vietnamese students expressed interest in a career that contributes positively to society and 65 per cent want a career that only a select few are capable of achieving. — VNS