CFCS Certification Process & Eligibility

Earning your certification is a major step toward advancing your career—but knowing where to start can be overwhelming. Whether you're just beginning your journey or preparing to apply, you’ll find the information you need to move ahead with clarity and confidence.

Choose your path to certification

Choose Self-Study to learn at your own pace, or Accelerator to move through the material faster with live instruction and structure built in. Either path leads to the same certification and the same expertise, so pick what fits your life and start working toward your goals today.

CFCS Self-Study Program

Self-Paced Learning

Prepare for the CFCS exam on your schedule with a flexible, self-paced learning format. Study independently with comprehensive materials, instructional videos, practice questions, flashcards, and a video and podcast library, all designed to help you build knowledge and prepare with confidence.

✓ Start any time
✓ 12 months to certification
✓ Payment plans available
✓ Enrollment from $1215-$1625

Program and Pricing Options


Non-Members

Sold out

(Includes 1 Year of ACFCS Membership)

Video and Podcast Library

The videos dive into complex topics and bring them to life through real-world scenarios and dynamic visuals. Each video offers an easy-to-follow review of essential content.

The podcast provide an in-depth review of key content, making it easy to learn anytime, anywhere.

Duration: 18 hours

Digital Study Manual (PDF)

Prepare for the examination with the study manual that covers the 12 key content areas. The study manual is your primary preparation resource.

Practice Question Bank

Identify topics and areas that may require further study. There is no limit to the number of times you can go through the questions.

Expert-Led Training Videos

Review key concepts with our expert-led training videos. From practical examples to expert insight on the 12 key content areas covered on the exam.

Duration: 9 hours

Online Test Center Options

Conveniently test online or at one of the 900 Kryterion test centers worldwide.

Structured Study Plan

Designed to guide candidates through their learning journey with clarity and focus on the end goal of passing the exam.

9-Week Virtual Class with Recordings

Immersive virtual classes, where industry experts skillfully navigate candidates through exam content offering practical examples, real-life case studies, answering questions and testing their knowledge along the way.

The recordings are a convenient way to review and revisit lessons for continued preparation.

Office Hours

Homework is designed to challenge candidates through real-world scenarios, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Receive valuable tips and strategies for success in preparing for the exam.

Complimentary Exam Retake

Enjoy the confidence of a complimentary exam retake, our assurance of your path to success.

Homework and Exam Tips

Current Members

Sold out

(Requires an Active ACFCS Membership)

Video and Podcast Library

The videos dive into complex topics and bring them to life through real-world scenarios and dynamic visuals. Each video offers an easy-to-follow review of essential content.

The podcast provide an in-depth review of key content, making it easy to learn anytime, anywhere.

Duration: 18 hours

Digital Study Manual (PDF)

Prepare for the examination with the study manual that covers the 12 key content areas. The study manual is your primary preparation resource.

Practice Question Bank

Identify topics and areas that may require further study. There is no limit to the number of times you can go through the questions.

Expert-Led Training Videos

Review key concepts with our expert-led training videos. From practical examples to expert insight on the 12 key content areas covered on the exam.

Duration: 9 hours

Online Test Center Options

Conveniently test online or at one of the 900 Kryterion test centers worldwide.

Structured Study Plan

Designed to guide candidates through their learning journey with clarity and focus on the end goal of passing the exam.

9-Week Virtual Class with Recordings

Immersive virtual classes, where industry experts skillfully navigate candidates through exam content offering practical examples, real-life case studies, answering questions and testing their knowledge along the way.

The recordings are a convenient way to review and revisit lessons for continued preparation.

Office Hours

Homework is designed to challenge candidates through real-world scenarios, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Receive valuable tips and strategies for success in preparing for the exam.

Complimentary Exam Retake

Enjoy the confidence of a complimentary exam retake, our assurance of your path to success.

Homework and Exam Tips

Non-Members Government

Sold out

(Includes 1 Year of ACFCS Membership)

Video and Podcast Library

The videos dive into complex topics and bring them to life through real-world scenarios and dynamic visuals. Each video offers an easy-to-follow review of essential content.

The podcast provide an in-depth review of key content, making it easy to learn anytime, anywhere.

Duration: 18 hours

Digital Study Manual (PDF)

Prepare for the examination with the study manual that covers the 12 key content areas. The study manual is your primary preparation resource.

Practice Question Bank

Identify topics and areas that may require further study. There is no limit to the number of times you can go through the questions.

Expert-Led Training Videos

Review key concepts with our expert-led training videos. From practical examples to expert insight on the 12 key content areas covered on the exam.

Duration: 9 hours

Online Test Center Options

Conveniently test online or at one of the 900 Kryterion test centers worldwide.

Structured Study Plan

Designed to guide candidates through their learning journey with clarity and focus on the end goal of passing the exam.

9-Week Virtual Class with Recordings

Immersive virtual classes, where industry experts skillfully navigate candidates through exam content offering practical examples, real-life case studies, answering questions and testing their knowledge along the way.

The recordings are a convenient way to review and revisit lessons for continued preparation.

Office Hours

Homework is designed to challenge candidates through real-world scenarios, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Receive valuable tips and strategies for success in preparing for the exam.

Complimentary Exam Retake

Enjoy the confidence of a complimentary exam retake, our assurance of your path to success.

Homework and Exam Tips

Current Members Government

Sold out

(Requires an Active ACFCS Membership)

Video and Podcast Library

The videos dive into complex topics and bring them to life through real-world scenarios and dynamic visuals. Each video offers an easy-to-follow review of essential content.

The podcast provide an in-depth review of key content, making it easy to learn anytime, anywhere.

Duration: 18 hours

Digital Study Manual (PDF)

Prepare for the examination with the study manual that covers the 12 key content areas. The study manual is your primary preparation resource.

Practice Question Bank

Identify topics and areas that may require further study. There is no limit to the number of times you can go through the questions.

Expert-Led Training Videos

Review key concepts with our expert-led training videos. From practical examples to expert insight on the 12 key content areas covered on the exam.

Duration: 9 hours

Online Test Center Options

Conveniently test online or at one of the 900 Kryterion test centers worldwide.

Structured Study Plan

Designed to guide candidates through their learning journey with clarity and focus on the end goal of passing the exam.

9-Week Virtual Class with Recordings

Immersive virtual classes, where industry experts skillfully navigate candidates through exam content offering practical examples, real-life case studies, answering questions and testing their knowledge along the way.

The recordings are a convenient way to review and revisit lessons for continued preparation.

Office Hours

Homework is designed to challenge candidates through real-world scenarios, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Receive valuable tips and strategies for success in preparing for the exam.

Complimentary Exam Retake

Enjoy the confidence of a complimentary exam retake, our assurance of your path to success.

Homework and Exam Tips

Non-Members

Sold out

(Includes 1 Year of ACFCS Membership)

Video and Podcast Library

The videos dive into complex topics and bring them to life through real-world scenarios and dynamic visuals. Each video offers an easy-to-follow review of essential content.

The podcast provide an in-depth review of key content, making it easy to learn anytime, anywhere.

Duration: 18 hours

Digital Study Manual (PDF)

Prepare for the examination with the study manual that covers the 12 key content areas. The study manual is your primary preparation resource.

Practice Question Bank

Identify topics and areas that may require further study. There is no limit to the number of times you can go through the questions.

Expert-Led Training Videos

Review key concepts with our expert-led training videos. From practical examples to expert insight on the 12 key content areas covered on the exam.

Duration: 9 hours

Online Test Center Options

Conveniently test online or at one of the 900 Kryterion test centers worldwide.

Structured Study Plan

Designed to guide candidates through their learning journey with clarity and focus on the end goal of passing the exam.

9-Week Virtual Class with Recordings

Immersive virtual classes, where industry experts skillfully navigate candidates through exam content offering practical examples, real-life case studies, answering questions and testing their knowledge along the way.

The recordings are a convenient way to review and revisit lessons for continued preparation.

Office Hours

Two live instructor-led sessions after the virtual classroom series concludes to answer questions on course content and the certification process. Sessions are recorded for on-demand viewing.

Homework and Exam Tips

Homework is designed to challenge candidates through real-world scenarios, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Receive valuable tips and strategies for success in preparing for the exam.

Complimentary Exam Retake

Enjoy the confidence of a complimentary exam retake, our assurance of your path to success.

Current Members

Sold out

(Requires an Active ACFCS Membership)

Video and Podcast Library

The videos dive into complex topics and bring them to life through real-world scenarios and dynamic visuals. Each video offers an easy-to-follow review of essential content.

The podcast provide an in-depth review of key content, making it easy to learn anytime, anywhere.

Duration: 18 hours

Digital Study Manual (PDF)

Prepare for the examination with the study manual that covers the 12 key content areas. The study manual is your primary preparation resource.

Practice Question Bank

Identify topics and areas that may require further study. There is no limit to the number of times you can go through the questions.

Expert-Led Training Videos

Review key concepts with our expert-led training videos. From practical examples to expert insight on the 12 key content areas covered on the exam.

Duration: 9 hours

Online Test Center Options

Conveniently test online or at one of the 900 Kryterion test centers worldwide.

Structured Study Plan

Designed to guide candidates through their learning journey with clarity and focus on the end goal of passing the exam.

9-Week Virtual Class with Recordings

Immersive virtual classes, where industry experts skillfully navigate candidates through exam content offering practical examples, real-life case studies, answering questions and testing their knowledge along the way.

The recordings are a convenient way to review and revisit lessons for continued preparation.

Office Hours

Two live instructor-led sessions after the virtual classroom series concludes to answer questions on course content and the certification process. Sessions are recorded for on-demand viewing.

Homework and Exam Tips

Homework is designed to challenge candidates through real-world scenarios, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Receive valuable tips and strategies for success in preparing for the exam.

Complimentary Exam Retake

Enjoy the confidence of a complimentary exam retake, our assurance of your path to success.

Non-Members Government

Sold out

(Includes 1 Year of ACFCS Membership)

Video and Podcast Library

The videos dive into complex topics and bring them to life through real-world scenarios and dynamic visuals. Each video offers an easy-to-follow review of essential content.

The podcast provide an in-depth review of key content, making it easy to learn anytime, anywhere.

Duration: 18 hours

Digital Study Manual (PDF)

Prepare for the examination with the study manual that covers the 12 key content areas. The study manual is your primary preparation resource.

Practice Question Bank

Identify topics and areas that may require further study. There is no limit to the number of times you can go through the questions.

Expert-Led Training Videos

Review key concepts with our expert-led training videos. From practical examples to expert insight on the 12 key content areas covered on the exam.

Duration: 9 hours

Online Test Center Options

Conveniently test online or at one of the 900 Kryterion test centers worldwide.

Structured Study Plan

Designed to guide candidates through their learning journey with clarity and focus on the end goal of passing the exam.

9-Week Virtual Class with Recordings

Immersive virtual classes, where industry experts skillfully navigate candidates through exam content offering practical examples, real-life case studies, answering questions and testing their knowledge along the way.

The recordings are a convenient way to review and revisit lessons for continued preparation.

Office Hours

Two live instructor-led sessions after the virtual classroom series concludes to answer questions on course content and the certification process. Sessions are recorded for on-demand viewing.

Homework and Exam Tips

Homework is designed to challenge candidates through real-world scenarios, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Receive valuable tips and strategies for success in preparing for the exam.

Complimentary Exam Retake

Enjoy the confidence of a complimentary exam retake, our assurance of your path to success.

Current Members Government

Sold out

(Requires an Active ACFCS Membership)

Video and Podcast Library

The videos dive into complex topics and bring them to life through real-world scenarios and dynamic visuals. Each video offers an easy-to-follow review of essential content.

The podcast provide an in-depth review of key content, making it easy to learn anytime, anywhere.

Duration: 18 hours

Digital Study Manual (PDF)

Prepare for the examination with the study manual that covers the 12 key content areas. The study manual is your primary preparation resource.

Practice Question Bank

Identify topics and areas that may require further study. There is no limit to the number of times you can go through the questions.

Expert-Led Training Videos

Review key concepts with our expert-led training videos. From practical examples to expert insight on the 12 key content areas covered on the exam.

Duration: 9 hours

Online Test Center Options

Conveniently test online or at one of the 900 Kryterion test centers worldwide.

Structured Study Plan

Designed to guide candidates through their learning journey with clarity and focus on the end goal of passing the exam.

9-Week Virtual Class with Recordings

Immersive virtual classes, where industry experts skillfully navigate candidates through exam content offering practical examples, real-life case studies, answering questions and testing their knowledge along the way.

The recordings are a convenient way to review and revisit lessons for continued preparation.

Office Hours

Two live instructor-led sessions after the virtual classroom series concludes to answer questions on course content and the certification process. Sessions are recorded for on-demand viewing.

Homework and Exam Tips

Homework is designed to challenge candidates through real-world scenarios, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Receive valuable tips and strategies for success in preparing for the exam.

Complimentary Exam Retake

Enjoy the confidence of a complimentary exam retake, our assurance of your path to success.

Non-Members

Sold out

(Includes 1 Year of ACFCS Membership)

Video and Podcast Library

The videos dive into complex topics and bring them to life through real-world scenarios and dynamic visuals. Each video offers an easy-to-follow review of essential content.

The podcast provide an in-depth review of key content, making it easy to learn anytime, anywhere.

Duration: 18 hours

Digital Study Manual (PDF)

Prepare for the examination with the study manual that covers the 12 key content areas. The study manual is your primary preparation resource.

Practice Question Bank

Identify topics and areas that may require further study. There is no limit to the number of times you can go through the questions.

Expert-Led Training Videos

Review key concepts with our expert-led training videos. From practical examples to expert insight on the 12 key content areas covered on the exam.

Duration: 9 hours

Online Test Center Options

Conveniently test online or at one of the 900 Kryterion test centers worldwide.

Structured Study Plan

Designed to guide candidates through their learning journey with clarity and focus on the end goal of passing the exam.

9-Week Virtual Class with Recordings

Immersive virtual classes, where industry experts skillfully navigate candidates through exam content offering practical examples, real-life case studies, answering questions and testing their knowledge along the way.

The recordings are a convenient way to review and revisit lessons for continued preparation.

Office Hours

Two live instructor-led sessions after the virtual classroom series concludes to answer questions on course content and the certification process. Sessions are recorded for on-demand viewing.

Homework and Exam Tips

Homework is designed to challenge candidates through real-world scenarios, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Receive valuable tips and strategies for success in preparing for the exam.

Complimentary Exam Retake

Enjoy the confidence of a complimentary exam retake, our assurance of your path to success.

Current Members

Sold out

(Requires an Active ACFCS Membership)

Video and Podcast Library

The videos dive into complex topics and bring them to life through real-world scenarios and dynamic visuals. Each video offers an easy-to-follow review of essential content.

The podcast provide an in-depth review of key content, making it easy to learn anytime, anywhere.

Duration: 18 hours

Digital Study Manual (PDF)

Prepare for the examination with the study manual that covers the 12 key content areas. The study manual is your primary preparation resource.

Practice Question Bank

Identify topics and areas that may require further study. There is no limit to the number of times you can go through the questions.

Expert-Led Training Videos

Review key concepts with our expert-led training videos. From practical examples to expert insight on the 12 key content areas covered on the exam.

Duration: 9 hours

Online Test Center Options

Conveniently test online or at one of the 900 Kryterion test centers worldwide.

Structured Study Plan

Designed to guide candidates through their learning journey with clarity and focus on the end goal of passing the exam.

9-Week Virtual Class with Recordings

Immersive virtual classes, where industry experts skillfully navigate candidates through exam content offering practical examples, real-life case studies, answering questions and testing their knowledge along the way.

The recordings are a convenient way to review and revisit lessons for continued preparation.

Office Hours

Two live instructor-led sessions after the virtual classroom series concludes to answer questions on course content and the certification process. Sessions are recorded for on-demand viewing.

Homework and Exam Tips

Homework is designed to challenge candidates through real-world scenarios, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Receive valuable tips and strategies for success in preparing for the exam.

Complimentary Exam Retake

Enjoy the confidence of a complimentary exam retake, our assurance of your path to success.

Non-Members Government

Sold out

(Includes 1 Year of ACFCS Membership)

Video and Podcast Library

The videos dive into complex topics and bring them to life through real-world scenarios and dynamic visuals. Each video offers an easy-to-follow review of essential content.

The podcast provide an in-depth review of key content, making it easy to learn anytime, anywhere.

Duration: 18 hours

Digital Study Manual (PDF)

Prepare for the examination with the study manual that covers the 12 key content areas. The study manual is your primary preparation resource.

Practice Question Bank

Identify topics and areas that may require further study. There is no limit to the number of times you can go through the questions.

Expert-Led Training Videos

Review key concepts with our expert-led training videos. From practical examples to expert insight on the 12 key content areas covered on the exam.

Duration: 9 hours

Online Test Center Options

Conveniently test online or at one of the 900 Kryterion test centers worldwide.

Structured Study Plan

Designed to guide candidates through their learning journey with clarity and focus on the end goal of passing the exam.

9-Week Virtual Class with Recordings

Immersive virtual classes, where industry experts skillfully navigate candidates through exam content offering practical examples, real-life case studies, answering questions and testing their knowledge along the way.

The recordings are a convenient way to review and revisit lessons for continued preparation.

Office Hours

Two live instructor-led sessions after the virtual classroom series concludes to answer questions on course content and the certification process. Sessions are recorded for on-demand viewing.

Homework and Exam Tips

Homework is designed to challenge candidates through real-world scenarios, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Receive valuable tips and strategies for success in preparing for the exam.

Complimentary Exam Retake

Enjoy the confidence of a complimentary exam retake, our assurance of your path to success.

Current Members Government

Sold out

(Requires an Active ACFCS Membership)

Video and Podcast Library

The videos dive into complex topics and bring them to life through real-world scenarios and dynamic visuals. Each video offers an easy-to-follow review of essential content.

The podcast provide an in-depth review of key content, making it easy to learn anytime, anywhere.

Duration: 18 hours

Digital Study Manual (PDF)

Prepare for the examination with the study manual that covers the 12 key content areas. The study manual is your primary preparation resource.

Practice Question Bank

Identify topics and areas that may require further study. There is no limit to the number of times you can go through the questions.

Expert-Led Training Videos

Review key concepts with our expert-led training videos. From practical examples to expert insight on the 12 key content areas covered on the exam.

Duration: 9 hours

Online Test Center Options

Conveniently test online or at one of the 900 Kryterion test centers worldwide.

Structured Study Plan

Designed to guide candidates through their learning journey with clarity and focus on the end goal of passing the exam.

9-Week Virtual Class with Recordings

Immersive virtual classes, where industry experts skillfully navigate candidates through exam content offering practical examples, real-life case studies, answering questions and testing their knowledge along the way.

The recordings are a convenient way to review and revisit lessons for continued preparation.

Office Hours

Two live instructor-led sessions after the virtual classroom series concludes to answer questions on course content and the certification process. Sessions are recorded for on-demand viewing.

Homework and Exam Tips

Homework is designed to challenge candidates through real-world scenarios, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Receive valuable tips and strategies for success in preparing for the exam.

Complimentary Exam Retake

Enjoy the confidence of a complimentary exam retake, our assurance of your path to success.

4Accelerator Program Start Dates

Accelerator combines self-paced study with live, instructor-led sessions to provide structure, support, and accountability. With program start dates throughout the year, you can choose the timing that works best for you and complete the program in approximately six months.

Ready to begin your journey towards 
CFCS certification?

Start building your expertise and credibility in financial crime prevention today.

What everyone is saying...

The CFCS tests the skills necessary to fight financial crime. It's comprehensive. Passing it should be considered a mark of high achievement, distinguishing qualified experts in this growing specialty area.

KENNETH E. BARDEN 

CFCS, Washington, DC

The exam tests one's ability to apply concepts in practical scenarios. Passing it can be a great asset for professionals in the converging disciplines of financial crime.

DANIEL DWAIN

CFCS, Chief Compliance Officer, Cidel Bank & Trust Inc. New York, NY

The Exam is far-reaching. I love that the questions are scenario based. I recommend it to anyone in the financial crime detection and prevention profession.

BECKI LAPORTE
CFCS, Principal - AML Strategy and Innovation, FinScan, Atlanta, GA

This certification comes at a very ripe time. Professionals can no longer get away with having siloed knowledge. Compliance is all-encompassing and enterprise-driven.

KATYA GOZIAS
CFCS, Los Angeles, CA