INS, CPCU, etc, general insurance examinations.

[Hon]

so I currently work at farmers insurance. was a casualty adj for 8 months, and now moving to arbitration. currently also starting on INS 21.

Anybody taken this exam? how is it?

more importantly, how are those certifications in terms of value? do major insurance company really look at these certificates for promotions and hires?

Also, from all the different types of exams(INS, CPCU, aic, etc etc)? which one should I take first? whiche one is more valuable?

[EmptyNester]

My employer encourages the INS and CPCU exams as "something to study between actuarial exams". In general, the exams require much less study and attention to detail than an actuarial exams and are a great way to get a feel for insurance company operations.

The INS exams will give you "letters" after your name sooner than the CPCU's. You can get an INS designation after about 4 to 6 short multiple choice exams, depending on the program. The CPCU program is much longer, and the exams are essay. For this reason, I think the CPCU designation is more highly regarded than the INS exams.

If you're pursuing a CAS designation, Parts 5 and 6 both include parts of the INS or CPCU texts in the syllabus, so getting the designations in the "off season" helps when it comes to studying for the exams. There may be some overlap in the higher exams as well, but I haven't made it to that point yet....

As far as what big insurers value the most- I have no idea. However, if you find out, let me know!

[Hon]

thanks for your answer
actually, I"m not pursuing any acturial type of career. I'm actually happy currently right now working in the claims department. As my mathematical skills are not the best, I Just want to develop myself more in the business area(underwriter, field adjuster, Branch manager etc etc), that's why I want to make myself as appealing as possible.

[joeorez]

If you are working in the claims department and want to learn more about claims, why not study the series of courses most specifically related to claims, namely AIC?

If you want to learn more about the insurance business in general, and you don't want to become an actuary, study CPCU.

However, if you have chosen a career in claims, perhaps you should be seeking the guidance of people in the claims department, rather than the guidance of actuaries.

[EmptyNester]

By all means, ask your boss' opinion, but in the end pick something that interests you or will help you do your job better. The INS tests are very fair, and generally don't have a lot of math on them. If you read the text and work the problems in the study guide, you should have no trouble passing them. If you like writing, go for the CPCU's.

[Maine-iac]

What jobs at your company are you interested in moving up to next? Check out what credentials the incumbents have. Get those.