- Exam Breakdown
- Domain Breakdown
- Access Breakdown
Exam Format
- Exam Code: CGSS
- Certification Level: Specialist
- Exam Duration: 175 minutes
- Passing Score: Minimum of 62.5% of scored questions
- Unscored Content: The exam may include unscored/experimental items that do not affect your score.
Exam Details
- Question Types: Multiple-choice and multiple-response questions
- Number of Questions: Approximately 100 questions
- Hands-On Questions: Not applicable for this specialist exam.
Exam Policies
- Exam Scheduling: You must schedule and take the exam within 6 months of your application approval.
- Proctoring Options: Online proctoring (where available) or in-person at authorized Pearson VUE test centers.
- Retake Policy: If you do not pass, you must wait as specified in ACAMS policies to retake and pay the exam fee again (refer to the ACAMS Candidate Handbook for retake intervals).
Certification Validity and Renewal
- Validity: 3 years (specialist level)
- Renewal Options: Maintain active ACAMS membership, earn continuing education credits, and submit a recertification application with applicable fees.
Exam Fee
- CGSS Standard Package – Private Sector: US $1,995
- CGSS Standard Package – Public Sector: US $1,495
- CGSS Virtual Classroom Bundle – Private Sector: US $2,395
- CGSS Virtual Classroom Bundle – Public Sector: US $1,995
- Taxes: Local taxes/VAT may apply depending on your country.
Prerequisites
There are no strict formal educational prerequisites; however, you must meet ACAMS eligibility requirements including:- Active ACAMS membership
- 40 eligibility credits based on education, work experience, and related training
- Having CAMS certification automatically fulfills eligibility requirements.
Exam Topics
The CGSS exam covers key areas of global sanctions compliance, including:- Governance & Enforcement – Understanding sanctions regimes, issuing bodies, and compliance frameworks.
- Sanctions Evasion Techniques – Identifying and analyzing evasion methods.
- Sanctions Due Diligence – Risk-based due diligence practices.
- Sanctions Screening – Screening technology, target identification, and false-positive management.
- Sanctions Investigations and Asset Freezing – Investigating breaches and implementing asset blocks or freezes.
Intended Audience
The CGSS certification is particularly valuable for professionals in:- Sanctions Compliance Officers
- AML/CFT Compliance Specialists
- Screening & Monitoring Analysts
- Risk & Regulatory Compliance Professionals
- Legal and Audit Teams focused on sanctions compliance
Career Impact
Jobs You Can Get:- Sanctions Compliance Officer, AML Analyst, Risk & Compliance Manager, Sanctions Risk Specialist.
- Varies globally based on role, experience, and region (not officially published by ACAMS).
- Globally recognized credential for sanctions compliance expertise – increasingly required in financial services and regulated industries.
Exam Mode
- The CGSS exam is proctored and available as:
- Online Proctored Exam (OnVUE or local approved formats)
- In-Person at Pearson VUE Test Centers (where available)
Exam Booking Link
- ACAMS Certification Page: https://www.acams.org/en/certifications/certified-global-sanctions-specialist-cgss
Once you pass the exam:
- Your CGSS certificate will be available through your ACAMS account.
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Top Reasons to Choose
Certified Global Sanctions Specialist
Global Expertise in Sanctions Compliance
The Certified Global Sanctions Specialist (CGSS) certification validates specialized knowledge in international sanctions regulations, compliance frameworks, and enforcement practices. It equips professionals to manage global sanctions risks and ensure organizations comply with regulatory requirements across multiple jurisdictions.
Strong Focus on Regulatory Compliance and Risk Mitigation
The certification emphasizes real-world sanctions programs, trade restrictions, screening processes, risk assessment, and enforcement measures. It prepares professionals to identify sanctions risks, implement compliance controls, and prevent violations that could result in significant financial and reputational damage.
Career Growth and International Recognition
Offered by the Association of Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialists (ACAMS), the CGSS certification is recognized globally by financial institutions, multinational organizations, and regulatory bodies. It supports career advancement in compliance, financial crime prevention, trade compliance, and regulatory risk management roles.
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Excellent service and great support for the Certification. The whole process was handled professionally from start to finish.
I highly recommend their support for anyone preparing for the Certified Global Sanctions Specialist exam. Their guidance made the preparation much easier.
The team was very professional and cooperative during my certification exam preparation. Their support gave me a lot of confidence.
My exam preparation was smooth and well organized. I truly appreciated the clear guidance and timely help.
I had a very good experience preparing for the Certified Global Sanctions Specialist exam. The support and guidance were excellent throughout the journey.
My exam preparation was smooth and well organized. I truly appreciated the clear guidance and timely help.
FAQ
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Who should take the Certified Global Sanctions Specialist (CGSS) exam?
The CGSS certification is designed for professionals responsible for sanctions compliance and financial crime prevention. This includes compliance officers, sanctions analysts, risk managers, AML professionals, auditors, legal professionals, and individuals working in banking, financial services, or international trade who manage sanctions screening and regulatory compliance. Candidates typically have experience in compliance, AML, or financial risk management roles.
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How difficult is the CGSS exam?
The CGSS exam is considered moderately challenging and focuses on global sanctions regulations, compliance frameworks, and risk management practices. It tests knowledge of sanctions programs, screening procedures, regulatory requirements, and enforcement actions. Candidates with experience in compliance or financial crime prevention generally find the exam manageable with proper preparation.
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Why does ACAMS offer the Certified Global Sanctions Specialist certification?
ACAMS offers the CGSS certification to validate professional expertise in global sanctions compliance and regulatory risk management. The certification helps organizations identify professionals who can effectively manage sanctions programs, ensure compliance with international regulations, and reduce financial crime risks.
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What tools and resources can be used to prepare for the CGSS exam?
Candidates can prepare for the CGSS exam using official ACAMS resources, including: • ACAMS official study guide and learning system • ACAMS training programs and virtual learning courses • Regulatory guidance and sanctions compliance materials • Practice questions and exam preparation resources from ACAMS • Real-world experience in sanctions compliance and risk management Using official ACAMS learning materials is strongly recommended.
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Is the Certified Global Sanctions Specialist (CGSS) certification still valuable in 2026?
Yes, the CGSS certification remains highly valuable in 2026. As global sanctions regulations continue to expand and enforcement becomes stricter, organizations require skilled professionals to manage sanctions compliance and mitigate regulatory risks. The certification enhances credibility and supports career opportunities in financial services, compliance, and international trade environments.
