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IFoA launches eighth edition of Formulae and Tables book ahead of 2026 exams

29 July 2025

The Ƶ (IFoA) has officially launched the latest edition of the Formulae and Tables book, marking a significant milestone in the profession’s educational journey. Commonly referred to as the ‘red book’ due to its bold new cover, the eighth edition is set to be used in IFoA exams from 2026 onwards.

This is the first major update to the publication since 2002, reflecting how actuarial education has evolved alongside industry needs and technological advancements. While many core sections remain unchanged, key updates have been introduced – including the removal of outdated content and a refresh of decrement tables – ensuring the book stays relevant for today’s students.

Paul Sweeting, IFoA President, welcomed the publication: 

“The new edition of the Formulae and Tables book demonstrates our profession’s commitment to equipping future actuaries with the tools they need to succeed. It connects generations of actuarial students, reflecting both the continuity and the progress of our shared learning.”

Mike McDougall, IFoA Director of Learning, commented on the legacy and continued relevance of the publication:

“While few will find this book exciting bedside reading, it fulfils an essential function in the development of the next generation of actuaries. By providing both useful formulae and important tables, it enables students to develop the problem solving and statistical reasoning skills that are essential in the development of actuarial skills.”

He added: “Most actuaries will recall the edition of the Formulae and Tables that they relied so heavily on during their studies... From 2026, students will engross themselves in this new red edition.”

This latest version continues the proud tradition of serving as a foundational reference for aspiring actuaries worldwide. The new edition not only aligns with the updated curriculum but also symbolises the shared experience across generations of actuaries – connecting past, present, and future through a single, essential volume.

Visit the book’s webpage for more details on how to access it through the official IFoA channels: 

Formulae and Tables 2025 Edition