CAMS Certification

Money laundering is one of the most serious financial crimes aimed at legitimising income obtained through illegal means. Specialists who protect companies from risks associated with financial misconduct play a crucial role in combating this crime.

The CAMS certification is one of the most globally recognised credentials in the field of anti-money laundering. For professionals seeking to enhance their knowledge and career prospects in this area, obtaining this certification can be a significant step. However, for specialists looking to acquire knowledge and skills tailored to specific market demands or local requirements, alternative approaches are now available.

CAMS Overview

CAMS is an internationally recognised certification that validates qualifications in investigating and preventing money laundering cases. It was developed by the ACAMS®, the largest international organisation dedicated to advancing professionals in the field of financial crime prevention. The certification is regarded as the “gold standard” for specialists working in this domain.

Key Course Information:

Founded: 2001
Requirement: ACAMS membership is mandatory for training and taking the exam
Duration of Training: 4–6 months
Cost: rdaddphp,995 for the exam + 5 for annual ACAMS membership
Exam Retake Fee: 9 per attempt
Method of Study: Online, with materials provided in PDF format
Language: Available in English and other major languages
Exam Questions: 120
Access to Materials: Limited; access closes after passing the exam

In contrast to CAMS, we offer an internationally recognised and accredited certification at a more affordable price of €695 with no hidden costs. The course includes a convenient Learning Management System (LMS), videos with subtitles and animations, and industry-specific modules tailored to your sector and jurisdiction. Video content lasts only 6 hours, enabling you to complete the course in 4–5 weeks. The final exam consists of 60 questions. A key feature is lifetime access to materials. Practical tasks and interactive tests help consolidate knowledge and prepare for real-world applications.

Who is the CAMS course suitable for?

The CAMS course will be useful for professionals seeking to advance their careers in compliance and financial crime prevention, including money laundering and terrorism financing. The CAMS certification is internationally recognised and opens up numerous career opportunities in various sectors such as financial institutions, insurance companies, regulatory bodies, and law enforcement agencies.

To obtain the CAMS certification, a higher education degree is required, along with professional experience or training related to financial crimes. Therefore, this course will be particularly beneficial for those already working in the financial, legal, or real estate sectors, as well as professionals involved in cash transactions. It is suitable for individuals looking to transition into the compliance field or expand their knowledge in AML/CFT (Anti-Money Laundering/Countering the Financing of Terrorism). CAMS will help professionals enhance their qualifications and prepare for work in international environments, including countries such as the US, the UK, Australia, as well as Singapore and Hong Kong.

The certification is also in demand by both public and private organisations involved in ensuring compliance with financial and legal regulations, including central banks, regulatory authorities, and companies operating in the field of money exchange and remittance.

In contrast to CAMS, our course will be useful not only for professionals but also for newcomers looking to enter the AML industry. The basic modules make it suitable for beginners, while advanced topics and practical exercises ensure that even experienced professionals will gain new insights. Whether you are an AML employee, a compliance manager, or considering a career change, our programme will be tailored to meet your needs.

Jobs to pursue with a CAMS certification

The course opens up wide career prospects for professionals seeking to develop their knowledge and skills in combating money laundering and financial crimes. The certification is in demand across various industries, including banking, law, insurance, and real estate. The list of professions available after completing the CAMS course includes:

Money Laundering Analyst
Analysts investigate suspicious financial transactions, assess money laundering schemes, and ensure security measures are in place within organisations. They work with banks, insurance companies, and other financial institutions to help prevent illegal activities.

Auditor
Auditors review financial documentation for violations, compliance with tax legislation, and other regulatory requirements.

Compliance Officer
These professionals monitor compliance with internal and external regulatory requirements in companies. They develop strategies and procedures to minimise risks associated with financial crimes.

Banker
Bankers assist clients with managing finances, including opening accounts, granting loans, and making investments. CAMS certification allows them to better identify suspicious transactions and prevent financial fraud.

Accountant
Certified accountants analyse and manage financial documents, provide tax advice, and ensure compliance with laws and standards.

Lawyer
Lawyers with CAMS certification specialise in protecting clients from risks associated with financial violations and provide advice on compliance with anti-monopoly and anti-corruption laws.

Fraud Investigator
Investigators uncover financial crimes, analyse suspicious transactions, and collaborate with law enforcement to hold wrongdoers accountable.

Risk Management Specialist
These professionals assess potential threats to businesses and develop strategies to prevent them, focusing on financial crimes and money laundering.

IT Security Specialist
Working to protect companies’ confidential data, they prevent cyberattacks and information leaks, including those related to illegal financial activities.

Chief Anti-Money Laundering Officer (CAMLCO)
A department head responsible for strategic management and oversight of financial crime prevention processes.

Deputy Chief Anti-Money Laundering Officer (DCAMLCO)
A specialist supporting department leadership in developing and implementing anti-money laundering measures.

Consultant
Provides advice on regulatory compliance and the development of risk management strategies.

Insurance Company Employee or Agent
Works on identifying and preventing insurance fraud and ensuring the company’s compliance with regulatory requirements.

Real Estate Agents and Employees
Certified specialists help prevent the use of real estate for money laundering or financing illegal activities.

CAMS certification not only opens access to these professions but also enhances specialists’ qualifications, making them highly sought after in the international job market.

Our certification offers similar career growth opportunities for professionals in the financial, legal, insurance, and other sectors. With its practical focus, our programme not only opens up a wide range of career opportunities but also significantly increases the chances of successful employment. In contrast to ACAMS, we also offer other top-tier certification programmes (CAPS) with industry and jurisdiction-specific features. For crypto companies in Lithuania, the Czech Republic, Poland, Estonia, and other EU countries, we have developed programmes tailored to the MiCA regulation, considering the European context. Training that is focused on jurisdiction-specific requirements helps professionals stand out in a competitive job market and stay compliant with the regulatory expectations, providing them with a significant advantage.

Benefits of CAMS certification

The benefits of completing the CAMS course cover a wide range of aspects, helping to not only strengthen your knowledge in AML and KYC but also increase your demand in the professional market.

Here’s what makes this certification particularly valuable:

In-depth knowledge and experience

The CAMS certification allows for a deeper understanding of the mechanisms for combating financial crimes. The programme covers modern methods for fighting money laundering, international standards, and legal regulations. During your preparation, you will study key aspects of the industry, such as detecting suspicious transactions and risk management. The programme also offers a unique context for working in the AML field, providing tools, templates, and examples of successful initiatives in the fight against financial crimes. This knowledge will help you apply proven approaches in real-world practice. The study materials, including the free guide and paid online courses from ACAMS, provide comprehensive support on the path to certification.

Our programme takes it a step further by including industry modules, practical examples, and interactive learning.

Continuous knowledge updating

To maintain the CAMS certification, it is required to complete 60 hours of continuing education every three years. This ensures that certified professionals stay one step ahead of criminals, learn new approaches, and remain informed about the latest fraud schemes. Courses, seminars, and research provide access to the most up-to-date information.

In contrast to CAMS, we regularly update our training materials, and you will have lifelong access to them once you complete the course.

Career opportunities and competitive advantages

CAMS opens doors to prestigious positions in the financial sector, such as AML analyst, compliance specialist, fraud investigator, or KYC consultant. Many companies consider this certification a mandatory requirement for candidates. CAMS helps you stand out in the job market and significantly increases your chances of successful employment.

In addition to the certification, our programme offers personal consultations, mock interviews, and specialised courses on current topics such as cryptocurrencies and fintech.

International recognition

The CAMS certification is recognised by global financial institutions and government agencies, enabling you to work in different jurisdictions and international markets. This makes the certification a valuable asset for professionals aiming to work on a global scale.

Our certification is also internationally recognised by Financial Supervisors, FIUs, prosecutors and Financial Institutions globally, and accredited by the CPD Standards.

Earning potential

The CAMS certification can lead to a higher salary, as employers value the qualifications and experience gained through this course. According to industry research, professionals with the CAMS certification often earn more than their colleagues without it.

Our course also helps increase earnings, as AML specialists with in-depth knowledge, which you will acquire, are highly valued.

Thus, our certification offers significant advantages for both professionals and beginners. We provide a unique programme designed by experts with a strong practical focus, including interactive materials, industry-specific modules, and support from experienced professionals. With access to regularly updated learning materials, you can gain current knowledge at any time. We also offer additional specialised courses on relevant topics. Students receive personal consultations and interview preparation assistance, significantly enhancing their competitiveness in the job market and promoting career growth.

Preparation for CAMS courses

To begin the CAMS course, candidates must meet certain requirements.

First and foremost, they need to accumulate 40 credits within the ACAMS system. These credits can be earned through education, work experience, or participation in webinars. For example:

A candidate with an associate degree earns 10 credits;
with a bachelor’s degree — 20 credits;
with a master’s or doctoral degree — 30 credits.

If a candidate has at least three years of experience in the AML field, they can earn an additional 10 credits for each year of work. Candidates can also accumulate credits by participating in ACAMS webinars, which provide one credit per hour of the event.

Additionally, to apply for the CAMS certification, candidates must provide three professional recommendations. These recommendations should come from former supervisors, colleagues, or other professionals who can verify the candidate’s work ethic and experience. The recommendations help ACAMS confirm the candidate’s qualifications and serious commitment to the AML field.

To successfully complete the CAMS course, candidates need to have a range of key skills. It is essential to be able to analyse large amounts of data to identify suspicious transactions and signs of fraud. Critical thinking is necessary for quickly assessing information and making decisions during AML investigations. Written communication skills are crucial for creating reports, recommendations, and developing effective policies and guidelines. Additionally, time management and organisational skills play a significant role in managing the learning process.

To effectively prepare for the exam, it is important to follow these recommendations:

Time Management and Consistency

Start by setting an exam date (you can mark it in your calendar). This will help structure your study plan and prepare you mentally. It’s best to allocate 1-2 hours per day for studying to gradually go through the material and reinforce your knowledge. Try to study every day, taking breaks for better retention.

Identifying Your Learning Style

Everyone has their own approach to learning. If you prefer to absorb information through text, use the PDF guides provided by ACAMS. For visual learners, CAMS does not provide too many tables and charts, which could make the learning process more challenging.

Reading and Repetition Process

Read each chapter of the course several times, carefully reviewing examples since exam questions are often based on real-life scenarios. The better you understand the examples and practical situations, the easier it will be to answer exam questions.

Practice and Mock Exams

Take practice tests regularly to get used to the exam format. This will help you identify topics that need further attention and prepare for typical questions.

Seek Advice from Colleagues

If you know someone who has already passed the exam, don’t hesitate to reach out to them for advice. Find out which materials and study methods they used to avoid common mistakes and speed up the preparation process.

Join a Study Group

Preparing for the CAMS exam can be overwhelming, so it’s important to stay motivated. Studying with colleagues or other course participants can be helpful. This allows you to exchange experiences, ask questions, and receive support, which enhances your understanding of the material.

Documents and Resources

Ensure that all your documents for certification (educational and professional) are in order. This will prevent last-minute confusion and help you focus on your studies.

By applying these tips and using the available study materials, you’ll be well-prepared for the CAMS course and increase your chances of passing the exam with top results.

Our certification programme differs from CAMS in that it does not require prior experience, making it accessible to anyone interested in the subject. To successfully complete the course, you only need basic computer and internet skills, a proficiency in English (at least at a B2 level), and a desire to understand the key principles of anti-money laundering, counter-terrorism financing, and other financial crimes. Our Learning Management System (LMS) provides interactive materials, practical tests, and personalized mentorship, enabling beginners to master fundamental concepts and experienced professionals to deepen their knowledge of advanced AML topics. Moreover, our programme’s design caters to 9 different learning styles, making it more convenient for people with different learning approaches.

Stages of CAMS certification

The CAMS certification process involves several sequential stages:

Eligibility Check

The first step towards CAMS certification is the eligibility assessment for taking the exam. As mentioned earlier, ACAMS uses a credit system based on educational and professional experience. The candidate must accumulate at least 40 credits to proceed with the certification process.

Registration and ACAMS Membership

To participate in the programme, it is necessary to become an ACAMS member by registering on their website and passing a background check. The registration includes payment of the membership fee, submission of personal details, and confirmation of qualifications. Membership grants access to educational resources, a professional network, and a participant number required for certification.

Submitting the Application

After registering and obtaining membership, the candidate must submit an exam application via the ACAMS website. The application is accompanied by the necessary documents confirming identity and qualifications. Once the application is verified and approved, the candidate can proceed to the next stage.

Preparing for the Exam

Preparation includes studying the materials provided by ACAMS:

Candidate handbook
Study guide
Practice exams

These resources cover the key topics of the exam, including money laundering methods, AML/CFT compliance standards, and sanctions programmes. To succeed in the training, it is recommended to create a study schedule and actively use practice tests.

Exam Scheduling

Once the application is approved, the candidate can choose a date and location for the exam. The CAMS exam is held at certified testing centres worldwide. The exam must be taken within 6 months of purchasing the package.

Taking the Exam

The exam consists of 120 multiple-choice questions. To pass, a candidate must answer at least 75 questions correctly. The allotted time for the exam is 3.5 hours. The topics cover money laundering methods, AML/CFT standards, sanctions, and investigative processes.

Receiving the Certificate and Recertification

After successfully passing the exam, the candidate will receive the CAMS certificate. To maintain it, recertification is required every three years, which includes accumulating 60 credits and maintaining ACAMS membership.

Following these steps ensures success and professional development in the field of financial crime prevention.

Our Certification Process

Our certification process is distinguished by its simplicity and accessibility. It begins with registration through a convenient online platform. Then, the training is conducted using an intuitive platform that includes video lessons, case studies, and tests, allowing the study process to be structured and the material to be absorbed gradually. To reinforce the material, practical assignments are provided. The process concludes with the final 60-questions exam, which can be taken at any time and from any location, testing both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.

CAMS course structure

The course provides comprehensive knowledge of the principles, laws, and best practices in the field of anti-money laundering (AML) and combating the financing of terrorism (CFT). Participants gain a deep understanding of how the financial system operates, its vulnerabilities, and methods for combating illicit financial activities. Special emphasis is placed on the development and implementation of effective AML compliance programmes.

Typically, the course programme is divided into modules, covering a wide range of topics from the fundamentals of financial crimes to modern methods of detection and prevention.

Sample CAMS Course Outline:

Module 1: Introduction to Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing.

The programme includes:

The history and evolution of financial crimes.
The role of financial institutions in combating money laundering.
The global threat of money laundering.
Money laundering methods and their concealment.
Analysis of methods used in various financial and non-financial institutions.
Study of risks related to new payment technologies and corporate tools.
Examination of real-world examples and case studies.

Module 2: International AML Standards.

The programme includes:

An introduction to the work of organisations such as FATF and the Basel Committee.
Analysis of European Union directives and US legislative initiatives.
An overview of key international standards and regulations.
Practical examples and case studies.

Module 3: AML Programmes.

The programme includes:

Development of a risk assessment system.
Creation of an effective AML programme and a culture of compliance within an organisation.
KYC (Know Your Customer) and KYT (Know Your Team) processes.
Monitoring suspicious transactions using automated solutions.
Examples of advanced analysis and enhanced due diligence.

Module 4: Investigations and Collaboration.

The programme includes:

Organisation of internal and external investigations.
Collaboration with law enforcement and legal support.
Preparation for potential regulatory reviews and public relations management.
Examples of international cooperation in AML efforts.

Module 5: CAMS Final Exam.

At this stage, the candidate’s knowledge is tested, including the analysis of real-life situations.

The full programme may vary depending on the educational institution and the chosen learning format.

Unlike CAMS, our course offers a broader range of specialised modules tailored to industries such as virtual assets, gaming, and banking, as well as live case studies and role-playing simulations to apply knowledge in real-world situations. The course is structured in modules, with each module containing thematic lessons, knowledge tests with question explanations and answer breakdowns after completion, and concludes with an exam. The programme includes 11 sections, covering money laundering methods, the development of AML/CTF programmes, risk management, monitoring, international collaboration, and modern technologies.

Resources for training: what is included in the course

The CAMS course offers participants not only access to core study materials but also a wide range of additional resources. These include books, charts, PDF files with reading recommendations and thematic materials, flashcards, as well as an audio version of the official guide, allowing for effective learning in a convenient format. For a deeper dive into topics, interactive programmes summarising key course aspects are provided, along with additional paid courses and in-person seminars. These resources help students not only master the theory but also prepare for the practical application of their knowledge.

Special attention is given to building a community for students. Course participants can join study groups where they work on common goals, exchange experiences, and support one another. Forums and special communication groups provide opportunities to ask questions, discuss complex topics, and receive recommendations from peers and experts. This approach helps students cope with the lengthy learning process while maintaining motivation and focusing on the result.

In comparison, our certification offers a modern learning management system with access to downloadable resources, real-world cases, practical materials, and expert recommendations. Live webinars, interviews with professionals, and personalised mentorship ensure a deep dive into the material, while practical role-playing exercises help apply knowledge in practice, making the learning process flexible and oriented towards real-world challenges.

Everything you need to know about the CAMS exam

The CAMS exam is the final stage of training and confirmation that you have mastered all key aspects of anti-money laundering (AML) and countering the financing of terrorism (CFT). It is a rigorous test that evaluates not only theoretical knowledge but also the ability to apply it in real-world situations. This internationally recognised exam covers a wide range of topics. To pass successfully, it is important not only to memorise core concepts but also to learn to identify hidden risks in complex scenarios. This requires a deep understanding of the material, attention to detail, and critical thinking skills.

The exam is conducted in a computer-based format. The questions cover various aspects of AML, including theoretical concepts, international standards, and practical tasks. Most questions are scenario-based, requiring analysis and application of knowledge. The test can be taken online or at a testing centre, depending on the candidate’s choice. The exam is proctored, ensuring strict monitoring of the process and adherence to rules, including a ban on breaks or the use of external materials.

After passing the exam, the CAMS certification is typically sent by an ACAMS representative within a week. Upon receiving the official certificate, you can add your details to the ACAMS alumni directory, become part of the professional community, and participate in specialised events, expanding your career opportunities.

Our course also concludes with an exam, which is mandatory to receive the certificate. It is conducted in an online testing format. The questions cover the same key aspects of anti-money laundering, including theory, international standards, and practical tasks. A successful exam pass confirms your high level of competence and grants you the accredited and internationally recognised CPD certificate.

Process of registering for the exam

Registration for the CAMS exam begins with submitting an application through the official ACAMS website. To register, candidates must provide information about their professional experience and education, as well as documents confirming their qualifications. The candidate should prepare several key documents, including:

A form confirming the completion of 40 credits
Copies of diplomas and certificates
University transcripts
A description of work experience in the field of anti-money laundering (AML)

The application also requires the names of three professional references who will verify your qualifications and commitment to the field.

After submitting the documents to ACAMS and receiving approval, the candidate will receive instructions for payment, exam registration, and preparation. You can then choose a convenient date and format for the exam — online or at a testing centre. It is important to note that there may be limited availability at testing centres, so it is recommended to plan registration in advance.

Regarding our course, you can take the final exam online at any convenient time after studying the provided materials and completing the practice assignments.

Requirements for registering for the exam

As we mentioned earlier, to register for the CAMS exam, candidates must meet certain requirements. Firstly, a background in finance, compliance, risk management, or related fields is necessary, along with professional experience in these areas. Additionally, candidates must complete the recommended training course provided by ACAMS. Failure to meet the minimum requirements, such as lacking relevant experience or incomplete training, may result in being denied entry to the exam.

Our course offers a more accessible approach to certification, as it does not require prior experience, allowing anyone interested in the field of financial crime prevention to pursue training.

CAMS exam format: number of questions, topics and structure

The CAMS exam consists of 120 questions covering key topics related to anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing. The passing score is 80% or higher (at least 75 correct answers). Candidates have 210 minutes (3.5 hours) to complete the exam, which requires effective time management. Given that the exam is scored solely based on the number of correct answers, it is advisable to answer all questions, even if uncertain about the answer. Failing to answer a question automatically results in the loss of potential points.

Topics covered include:

Stages of money laundering
Economic consequences
FATF standards
EU directives
KYC programs
Sanctions management and compliance culture

Special attention is given to scenario-based questions that require analytical thinking. These tasks assess how candidates apply their knowledge to real-world situations, analyzing risks and making well-informed decisions.

Our certification exam differs from CAMS in its more compact structure and practical focus. It consists of 60 questions, based on scenarios and real case studies drawn from the course content. The passing score is also 80% (at least 48 correct answers). The exam covers key course topics, with a particular emphasis on applying theoretical knowledge in practical situations, making it relevant and effective for professionals.

Preparation strategies and helpful tips for success on the CAMS exam

To successfully prepare for the exam, it is essential to thoroughly review the provided materials, including PDF and audio versions of the guides, and take interactive courses that summarize the main topics. Practical tests are an integral part of preparation, as they help consolidate knowledge and develop time management skills. Experts recommend carefully reading the questions and answers, avoiding hasty decisions, and analyzing scenarios with a focus on key risks. Using the process of elimination can help narrow down possible answers. Participating in study groups and forums is also beneficial for exchanging experiences and discussing complex topics.

When taking the CAMS exam, there are several important protocols to follow:

For in-person testing at a certification center, candidates must present two official identification documents with photographs and signatures, with the information on the documents matching exactly what was provided during registration. Upon arrival at the testing center, all personal items, including bags, mobile phones, and other devices, must be left in a designated area. Typically, the center provides all necessary equipment, including the computer for the exam.

If the exam is taken online, a laptop or desktop computer must be used, as tablets and mobile devices are not allowed. A working camera and microphone are required to ensure proctoring. The exam should be taken in a private location, where no one is visible in the camera’s field of view, to avoid rule violations. It is also advisable to check the equipment and internet connection in advance to avoid technical issues during the test. The verification and setup process typically takes around 30 minutes, which should be factored into the time planning.

Our course is accessible and does not require prior experience in the field of anti-money laundering. However, for a more comfortable course experience, it is recommended to have a basic understanding, which we also offer for different industries. To take the exam, you will need to study the theoretical foundations, international standards, and practical case studies provided in the course, as well as have basic computer skills.

What happens if I fail the CAMS exam?

In case of failure, candidates are allowed to retake the exam, but each retake requires a new payment and re-registration process. Typically, three attempts are provided to successfully pass the test, and candidates can register for a new date 30 days after the first unsuccessful attempt. The retake fee for the exam is 9 per attempt. The number of retakes is limited, so it’s important to approach preparation responsibly.

Before retaking the exam, it’s essential to analyze your mistakes, focus on the challenging topics, and, if necessary, undergo additional training or seek help from mentors. ACAMS offers support to improve results, including recommendations for reviewing study materials.

In contrast, if our exam is not passed on the first attempt, a retake can be done for free after a few days.

CAMS Certification Costs

The cost of CAMS certification consists of several key components that are important to consider when planning your budget.

First, the annual membership fee for ACAMS is 5. Membership provides access to valuable resources, including discounts on the exam and study materials, and is a prerequisite for taking the exam.

The main expense is the exam fee. For government sector candidates, the fee is 95, while for private sector representatives, it is 95.

Additionally, candidates often invest in study materials, which can vary significantly in price depending on the format and provider. These extra costs should be factored in for comprehensive exam preparation.

In contrast, our course offers a more affordable price structure with no additional fees. The cost is 695 euros plus applicable local taxes, and it includes all the necessary study materials. There are no extra charges for the exam or other resources, making it a cost-effective solution for preparation and certification.

Bottom line: is it worth choosing a CAMS course

The CAMS certification is globally recognized and provides key knowledge in anti-money laundering and regulatory compliance. This course covers aspects such as risk management, the implementation of control systems, and adherence to international standards. CAMS certifies a high level of qualification for specialists and opens career advancement opportunities in the compliance field.

Our certification course offers an equally reliable, internationally recognized accreditation as CAMS, but provides deeper training with a focus on the specifics of different jurisdictions. The program is designed for practical application, including the study of local legislation, enabling graduates to effectively work in any country. We emphasize training that helps address real-world tasks, enhancing the value of specialists for employers.

Furthermore, our course offers additional educational modules covering related areas in compliance. This provides the opportunity to acquire broader and more specialized knowledge, which gives graduates a competitive edge in the job market. Practical case studies, in-depth exploration of relevant topics, and comprehensive support from instructors help shape experts who are not only able to meet high standards but exceed them.