My ACAMS Study Experience

Since passing the ACAMS exam and achieving the CAMS designation I have been asked both in person and on Linkedin for input and tips on how to study and details of the exam. Because of this I decided to include some highlights of my study regime so that I can be of benefit to others as others were to me.

I started by completing all of the online modules first. This is before even looking at the handbook. The online modules give good top level insights into what each section is about and what to expect.

After completing the online modules I noted down sections that I felt would need more of my attention than others. For example sections on CDD were not focused on as its a large part of my background. Parts that were related to the interaction with FIUs and law enforcement I focused on more. This will depend on your own background and experience.

Some questions are related directly to the case studies in the handbook and so enough attention should be given to them.

I found myself not studying sufficiently after three weeks. Truthfully there were two months where I didn’t study much. I tried to listen to the audiobook tracks provided but for me, being a visual learner, they didn’t help much.

My remedy for this slump was to actually set my examination date. Doing this forced me to set up a schedule. I basically created a college scenario! I had to be ready by the exam date.

When it comes to the exam time allotted I felt that it was more than sufficient. I did not feel rushed.

The exam is multiple choice. this is well known. However not all questions were the same to my mind anyways. In some instances there is only one correct answer. For these questions I was usually left with 2 answers that were so comparable that the nuance between the two required careful re-reading.

In some cases there are more than one correct answer and in these situations it is again worth to re-read the question to make sure you answer correctly.

Aside from this the best way to go about studying for the ACAMS exam is the same as studying for a university exam. Set a plan, stick to it, and revise.