How long does the tests after getting a degree in Actuarial science take?

As Lisa said above, it really does vary from person to person. Majoring in actuarial science can certainly help move the process along, as you're more likely to take and pass exams while you're still in school. Personally, I passed 3 exams while in college, and took (and passed) one more shortly after graduation. I passed my final exam for my FSA 4 years after graduation. I was lucky that I only failed once, and I was at a point in my life where I could focus on studying and passing quickly. Others may not have the same job support, or other life obligations that make passing more difficult, so it's not unreasonable for the process to take 7-8 years if you graduate with 0-1 exams.

While it's nice to pass quickly and get them finished so you can progress in your career, the more important thing is to make consistent progress. It's okay to fail once in a while but you want to pass the next time so you aren't stuck taking the same exam over and over again. The early exams are offered frequently, as often as every 2 months, but the later ones are only twice per year. So there is down time in between to regroup, relax, and use a different study approach for a redo if necessary. There is also a 6-8 week grading time frame after the written exams where you won't know if you passed, so you can relax and focus on your work for awhile, or study for something else. At my workplace, we require actuarial students to attempt 2 exams per year; if they are offered more often, students are welcome to take them but it is not expected at all (and they will not get additional paid study time beyond that for the 2 "regular" attempts).

The length of time varies by actuarial student. Some complete all the exams and computer based modules in about 5 years and some take longer. It took me 9 years after I completed my undergraduate degree - A Bachelor of Arts in mathematics and Economics because I did not take any exams during college.

For most students you get the first few exams before you are hired. However, once you get a job then part of your job is to study and pass exams. It is similar to an apprenticeship.

You should know that the exams are generally difficult and in the US and Canada each one has about a 40% pass ratio. That means 60% of the people taking the exam do not get a passing mark. This means that many students - including me - take an exam more than once before passing it. You will need to be a motivated self starter. For most actuarial students you need to spend several times the amount of time given to you by your employer to study outside of working hours to successfully master the material on an exam or complete the computer based modules and projects. But when you pass, you get an exam bonus and often a raise!

I copied the information below from the website http://beanactuary.org. There is a lot more information there.

1. What is the best way to prepare for taking your first exam? To prepare for your first exam, first review the syllabus to get an understanding of what is covered on the exam and what you need to learn to be able to pass the exam. It is also important that you download and practice taking some past exam questions and solutions. As the examinations are timed, it is critical that you practice as many sample exam questions as possible and work to build your speed.
2. When is the best time to start taking your first exam? It is ideal if you can begin taking the exams during your undergraduate work. After you have thoroughly read and studied the syllabus materials and spent considerable time doing practice questions, register and take your first exam. The exams are offered on a regular basis throughout the year. Actuarial employers usually require that candidates have passed at least two exams. If you have passed an exam, you have demonstrated that you have the aptitude, interest, and commitment to be an actuary.
3. How do companies support employees who are taking the actuarial exams? Most insurance companies and consulting firms that employ actuaries have established programs that pay the exam fees for their employees and provide some time during the workday to study for exams. In addition, raises are often tied to exam progress.
4. Do you have to take preliminary exams in a particular order? Or can you take the preliminary exams in any order? The exams can be taken in any order you wish. However, all of other preliminary exams rely heavily on the first two preliminary exams.
5. Are there any third-party organizations that offer examination study guides or review seminars? What other resources are available to help those preparing for the actuarial examinations? Information on exam preparation courses and study guides is available on both the SOA and CAS websites.

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