What’s new in the CAMS program?

The enhanced CAMS Certification builds on its global legacy with a modernized, modular format and greater flexibility. Key updates include:

• Elective courses tailored to specific industries and jurisdictions
• A modular learning structure with four self-paced courses combining core AML knowledge with practical, hands-on application
• Updated content reflecting the latest in AML-CFT risks and typologies, technology, and global best practices
• Modernized delivery for a more engaging and accessible learning experience

While the format has evolved, CAMS remains the globally respected gold standard in AML certification.

What does the new CAMS program include?

As part of the enhanced CAMS program, these four online certificate courses provide the foundational training for certification – and reflect the content you’ll encounter on the exam:

1. Understanding Risks and Methods of Financial Crime
2. Global AFC Frameworks, Governance, and Regulations
3. Building an AFC Compliance Program
4. Tools and Technologies to Fight Financial Crime

To earn the CAMS Certification, candidates are encouraged to complete all four certificates before sitting for the proctored exam.

In addition, the program offers elective courses focused on specific sectors and jurisdictions. While not required and not included on the exam, candidates may choose one sector-specific AML case study course, and one local AML regulatory framework course to personalize their training.

When will the enhanced CAMS program be available?

Pre-sale, with special pricing for the enhanced CAMS program (English version), runs from June 11 through July 14. During pre-sale, candidates can take advantage of a discount and select their electives during checkout.

Core courses, electives, study materials, and the exam will be accessible in the LMS starting July 15, 2025. Additional elective courses, and language options will continue to launch throughout 2025 and 2026.

Which languages is the CAMS program offered in?

The CAMS program is currently available in the following languages:

• Arabic
• Bahasa Indonesian
• Chinese – simplified
• Chinese – traditional
• English
• French
• German
• Japanese
• Korean
• Polish
• Portuguese (Brazilian)
• Russian
• Spanish

The enhanced CAMS program is currently available in English only. More language options will be added throughout 2026. Until then, you can still access the existing CAMS program in all currently supported languages – both versions lead to the same globally recognized certification.

Are electives available in other languages?

Electives are currently offered in English only. However, you can purchase the CAMS Certification package in any available language and choose to add English language electives. More sector-specific case study and local AML regulatory framework electives, as well as other language versions, will be launched throughout 2026.

How does CAMS support individual career growth?

CAMS delivers practical AML training that equips professionals with skills they can apply in their day-to-day work – helping them navigate complex regulations and evolving risks. It offers global knowledge, enriched with localized, industry-specific content, and covers essential topics, including the use of technology in modern compliance.

How does CAMS benefit organizations?

CAMS-certified teams develop a stronger understanding of AML frameworks and emerging risks, leading to increased efficiency and effectiveness. The modular program helps compliance leaders build tailored training paths, while maintaining consistent standards across teams and business lines.

What makes CAMS scalable and reputable?

CAMS is scalable thanks to its standardized, globally recognized curriculum that can be deployed consistently across regions and business units – ensuring alignment and efficiency at scale. Its reputation stems from decades of industry trust, development by leading AML experts, and recognition from regulators and institutions worldwide.

Who is CAMS designed for?

Designed to certify the competencies of AFC professionals with 18 to 24 months of experience in anti-financial crime (AFC), the CAMS Certification is designed for AML and financial crime prevention professionals working in the 2LOD and 3LOD. It suits those in banking, FinTech, consulting, and regulatory roles – providing the knowledge and credibility needed to manage AML risks and comply with global standards.

What job titles are commonly suited for CAMS?

Roles such as Compliance Officer, MLRO/BSA Officer, KYC Analyst, Risk Manager, Internal Auditor, and Head of Compliance can benefit from the CAMS Certification.

Which industries is CAMS relevant to?

The CAMS Certification applies across banking, FinTech, consulting, insurance, crypto, legal and accounting firms, regulators, and high-value goods sectors.

Am I eligible to take the CAMS Exam?

The full list of requirements is listed in the CAMS Candidate Handbook. However, at minimum, you will need to demonstrate you have 40 eligibility credits (check our eligibility calculator) and be an ACAMS member.

Do CAMS courses count toward eligibility?

Yes. The CAMS program components and the Virtual Classroom Series contribute toward the 40-credit eligibility requirement. Specifically:

• The four core certificates provide a total of 18 ACAMS credits.
• Each additional elective course completed earns 1 credit.
• Participation in a Virtual Classroom Series provides 12 credits.

Do I earn any credits for being an ACAMS member?

We certify the achievements of our members. Being a member is a requirement for the CAMS Certification, but it doesn’t count toward your 40-eligibility credit total.

Do you accept training credits from other organizations?

Yes, we do! Contact us for specifics.

Am I eligible to take the CAMS exam if I don’t hold a higher education degree?

Absolutely. There are a number of ways to accrue eligibility credits. You can even earn eligibility credits through the CAMS Virtual Classroom or CAMS Live Prep courses. Contact us to talk through your specific circumstances.

Does the higher education degree need to be financial crime related in order to qualify for eligibility credits?

Not at all. As long as your degree is issued by an accredited college or university, it can be in any field of study.

Is internship experience eligible for professional credits toward the 40-eligibility credit requirement?

Yes - if your internship is in the field of AFC.

How do I apply?

Apply online — just fill out the form here. If you have any problems while completing the form, please contact us.

To apply, you must meet ACAMS’ 40-credit eligibility requirement that is based on your education, experience, certifications, and training. If you’re still earning credits, you can save your application and return to it at a later date. You may also request special accommodations during the application process.

Once your application is approved (typically within 5 business days), you’ll receive an email with instructions to schedule your exam.

Do I need to login to apply?

Yes. If you already have an ACAMS account (this is free to create – it’s not the same as membership), just log in with your registered email and password. If you’re new to ACAMS, create a new account here. Once it’s created, you’ll be able to access the application form.

Do I pay and apply at the same time, or do I do these separately?

You can pay either before or after your application has been accepted by ACAMS. Note that we check to see if you’re eligible after you apply.

What documents do I need to provide as evidence of my educational qualifications?

Please provide us with official transcripts or a copy of your diploma.

Can I submit a digital version of my supporting documents?

Absolutely. You will upload supporting documents as part of the online CAMS application process.

Can I check the status of my CAMS application after I’ve submitted it?

Yes! Log in to see how your application is progressing.

Is the CAMS application transferable?

No – every individual who applies to become a Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist is assessed against the eligibility criteria. So, everyone must submit their own application. However, the exam fee may be transferable to someone else if you no longer wish to sit for CAMS. Please contact us to discuss this.

How is the CAMS exam structured?

The CAMS exam consists of 120 multiple-choice questions covering both theoretical knowledge and practical scenario-based problems. It is a timed, computer-based test lasting 3.5 hours, designed to evaluate your understanding and application of anti-financial crime principles.

How do I schedule the CAMS exam?

You must purchase the CAMS Certification package and then apply for the CAMS exam. Once your application is approved, you’ll be emailed with instructions on how to schedule your exam at your nearest Pearson VUE testing center.

Where are the Pearson VUE testing centers located?

Find a testing center near you.

Is it possible to take the exam during a conference?

It’s not possible to take the exam onsite at an ACAMS Conference. The CAMS exam is only available at Pearson VUE testing centers – they offer a global network of 5,000+ locations. Find a testing center near you.

How long do I have to take the CAMS exam?

You have six months from the day your application is approved. Once you receive the email with the authorization to test, you can schedule your test by logging on to the Pearson VUE exam scheduling system directly from the email. You can also go to the ACAMS website and access the Pearson Vue exam scheduling platform from your user account.

What if I need an extension to take the exam?

If you require more time to schedule or take your exam, you can request an exam extension for a fee of US$100.00. Be sure to submit your request before your exam eligibility expires.

What happens if I fail the exam?

If you don’t pass the exam on your first attempt, you can retake it by paying a retake fee of US$299.00. You can schedule the retake through your ACAMS account.

How do I access the CAMS study materials?

CAMS Certification study materials are accessible via our learning management system (LMS). When you purchase the CAMS package, you will receive a confirmation email with information and links to the online CAMS study materials.

Is the study guide included in all CAMS packages?

Yes! In each CAMS package you will receive the study guide and access to the exam, among other study materials. If you’d like a more structured learning experience, you can choose to upgrade to a Virtual Classroom Package or enroll in a CAMS Live Prep course. No matter how you choose to prepare, everyone studies from exactly the same study guide.

Can I view the study guide on a Kindle?

Yes, the CAMS study guide PDF is viewable on most e-readers.

Can I access the study materials after the course is completed?

You may download the study guide, which is available in PDF format, to refer to after you have completed the CAMS Certification. Please note that once you have completed the CAMS exam, the study materials will no longer be available for you to access via the LMS.

What is the CAMS Exam Simulator?

The CAMS Exam Simulator is an enhanced practice tool designed to help you prepare for the certification exam. It offers over 1,000 practice questions and includes performance tracking features so you can monitor your progress and identify areas for improvement. This platform simulates the exam environment, helping you build confidence before taking the actual test.

Is the content in the exam simulator the same as the real exam?

The exam simulator includes questions similar in style and difficulty to those on the certification exam, but does not contain actual exam questions. It is intended to give representative practice experience, not the exact exam content.

Where can I access the exam simulator?

The exam simulator is available through the ACAMS learning management system (LMS) once you register for the CAMS program.

Note that the simulator is only available in English. Other languages include a 100-question practice exam, accessible within the learning path.

All examinations and exam materials are the copyright of ACAMS and may not be published, shared, reproduced, or otherwise distributed or disseminated without the express written consent of ACAMS.  Please read carefully our copyright policy in the candidate handbook to learn more.

For Singapore citizens or permanent residents, the CAMS + Singapore AML Regime Exam package is eligible for funding under the IBF Standards Training Scheme (IBF-STS). This requires taking 2 proctored exams, CAMS and the Singapore AML Regime Exam. Visit IBF-STS & IBF Level 2 Certification Requirement to find out more.