Advanced Diploma in Documentary Credits (ADDC): NAAC-Aligned, Project-Based Training for BBA/MBA Foreign Trade & International Business Students
In international trade, several payment methods are used to settle cross-border transactions—such as advance payment, open account, documentary collections, and documentary credits (commonly known as Letters of Credit). Among these, Documentary Credits are considered the most dependable and balanced mechanism for both exporters and importers. For the seller, an LC provides assurance of payment from the buyer’s bank, provided the required documents are presented in full compliance with the credit terms. For the buyer, the LC ensures that payment will be made only against documents that strictly evidence fulfilment of the agreed conditions. Because it protects the interests of both parties, the Documentary Credit continues to be a preferred method of settlement in international trade.
Students pursuing BBA/MBA in Foreign Trade, International Business, or related specializations are generally introduced to payment methods only in a broad theoretical sense as part of their academic curriculum. However, the practical application of a Letter of Credit, which is issued subject to the Uniform Customs and Practice for Documentary Credits (UCP 600), requires far deeper understanding. Students must know how documents are examined under these rules, how to correctly interpret requirements in line with the International Standard Banking Practice (ISBP), how compliance checks are performed by banks, and how internal risk management considerations influence LC operations. These practical elements go far beyond textbook theory and demand applied, hands-on learning.
This is where the Advanced Diploma in Documentary Credits (ADDC) becomes particularly relevant. ADDC strengthens a student’s understanding of ICC rules and develops the operational competence required for roles across trade operations, including export–import documentation, shipping and logistics processes, and trade finance operations in banks.
Students who choose LC-related topics for their project work often find that ADDC significantly enhances their clarity on LC operations, as the programme covers not only the rules and processes but also provides simulations aligned with practical workflows in banking operations. This deeper understanding enables them to prepare stronger and more accurate academic project reports, while simultaneously earning an advanced diploma that adds substantial value to their academic profile.
NAAC Alignment and Academic Support
The Advanced Diploma in Documentary Credits (ADDC) aligns naturally with NAAC-recommended learning approaches, including:
- Experiential learning
- Practical exposure to industry processes
- Project-based evaluation
- Skill development in trade operations and documentation
What You Will Learn
- The complete LC lifecycle — issuance, advising, confirmation, amendments, document checking, and reimbursements
- Application of ICC rules — UCP 600, ISBP 821, URR 725, eUCP, and Incoterms® 2020
- Trade compliance and risk-management practices relevant to LC operations
- Simulation-based learning, including LC issuance, advising, confirmation, and detailed document examination covering all issues addressed in ISBP 821
Who Should Take This Course
The ADDC programme is ideal for:
- Trade finance professionals seeking expert-level capability in LC issuance, advising, confirmation, and document examination
- Export–import documentation and logistics executives who require a clear understanding of ICC rules to prepare compliant documents and ensure smooth payment realisation
- BBA/MBA (Foreign Trade) and International Business students who must understand the operational role of LCs and ICC rules to manage payment risks, coordinate with logistics teams, and interpret trade documentation accurately
- Graduates from any discipline aspiring to build job-ready skills for high-demand trade finance operations roles in multinational banks
Program Highlights
- Structured Learning Path: Progress from foundational concepts to advanced operational practices
- Glass-Board Video Lessons: Studio-recorded, instructor-led lessons designed for clarity and ease of understanding
- Flexible E-Learning: Access recorded classes anytime through a user-friendly online platform
- Study Materials & Assessments: Each lecture is supported with study material and structured assessments to reinforce learning
- Practical Simulation-Based Training: Hands-on exercises covering LC issuance, advising, amendments, and document examination with integrated operational controls, ISBP 821 principles, and AML/CTF considerations
- Academic Support: Dedicated doubt-clarification sessions for personalized learning
Conclusion
Students pursuing BBA/MBA with a specialization in Foreign Trade or International Business may take up ADDC to earn an industry-relevant qualification that also supports the requirements of mandatory project work in alignment with NAAC guidelines. The programme strengthens conceptual understanding and prepares students for careers in banking operations, export–import operations, logistics, and related trade functions.
Note
- Many top-rated multinational banks—such as Bank of America, Wells Fargo, J.P. Morgan, Citi, Standard Chartered, Deutsche Bank, and others—have centralized their trade finance and back-office operations in India. As a result, students with ADDC certification are highly sought after for these specialised roles.
- This study covers all major concepts included in CDCS by the London Institute of Banking and Finance (LIBF) and CDCE by ICC Academy, supported by instructor-led guidance, easy-to-understand study material, practical simulations, and structured assessments.
Useful links
https://academy.iccwbo.org/trade-finance/certifications/certified-documentary-credits-expert-cdce