Just registered for the CALA and trying to map out a realistic study plan. I've got about 10 weeks before my test date and I'm working full-time as an adjuster already, so I'm thinking 1.5 hours a night on weekdays and a longer session on Sundays. Is that enough or am I underestimating this thing?
My background is mostly property claims — I've handled thousands of homeowner files but my casualty exposure is limited and I've almost never touched workers' comp or commercial auto. From what I've read the exam covers all lines equally, which means about 40% of the material is stuff I haven't dealt with day-to-day in years.
The pass rate I've heard referenced is somewhere around 65–70%, which doesn't sound terrible, but I also know people who studied what they thought was plenty and still didn't make it. I'd rather go in over-prepared than repeat this process.
Specifically worried about the liability lines and the medical payments coverage distinctions. Anyone have experience with how heavily those are weighted on the actual exam?
Workers' comp was my weakest area going in and sure enough it was the section I nearly failed. I'd budget extra time there if you're not handling those claims regularly. I passed with a 74% overall but the comp section felt like a different exam.
The medical payments vs. bodily injury liability distinction shows up a lot. Make sure you know exactly when each applies and which one is primary in different scenarios. That's probably 8–10 questions right there.
Passed CALA last November after 11 weeks of prep. Your casualty gap is real and worth addressing early. I made flashcards for every coverage type I wasn't handling at work and reviewed them daily for the last month. It's tedious but it works.
Your study schedule sounds reasonable for someone with your background. I did 8 weeks at about 2 hours a day and passed on my first attempt. The commercial auto questions were harder than I expected — especially the liability limits and stacking questions. Don't neglect that.