CDCS New Exam Pattern – Effective September, 2025

This information provides a summary of the revised CDCS examination pattern, applicable from September 2025 onwards. The contents have been compiled based on the latest official CDCS Qualification Specification published by LIBF.

1. Structure of the Qualification

The CDCS qualification consists of two separate mandatory units. Both must be passed in order to obtain the certification:

📘 Unit 1: Foundations of Documentary Credits (FODC)

Assessment Format:

• 90-minute exam
• 50 multiple-choice questions
• Pass requirement: 70% (35/50)

Syllabus Overview:

• Purpose and operation of documentary credits
• Roles of parties (issuing bank, advising bank, applicant, etc.)
• Key concepts under UCP 600
• Other settlement methods (advance payment, open account, collections)
• Sale contract components and Incoterms® 2020
• Pre-issuance considerations, issuing and advising credits
• Handling amendments and confirmations

📘 Unit 2: Management of Documentary Credits (MGDC)

Assessment Format:

• 105-minute exam, consisting of:
  • Part A: 20 multiple-choice questions (20 marks)
  • Part B: 3 document-checking simulations (30 marks)
• Pass requirement: 70% (35/50)

Syllabus Overview:

• Document characteristics and presentation requirements
• Checking criteria under UCP 600, ISBP
• Identifying discrepancies and handling notices of refusal
• Settlement under honour, negotiation, reimbursement
• Transferable credits and assignment of proceeds
• Standby credits under ISP98
• Reimbursement practices under URR 725
• Electronic presentations under eUCP
• AML, sanctions and dispute handling (including DOCDEX)

2. Exam Delivery & Format

• Exams are delivered online through LIBF’s Brightspace platform
• No pre-set dates – exams are on-demand within 12 months of registration
• Candidates may take each unit separately, as per their readiness
• 360-degree room scan required to start the remote-proctored exam

3. Registration and Resits

• Registration is valid for 12 months, during which candidates may take one attempt per unit (FODC and MGDC).
• Resits are permitted, subject to resit fees.

4. Study Time

Unit	Study Time
Foundations of Documentary Credits (FODC)	100 hours
Management of Documentary Credits (MGDC)	200 hours
Total Qualification Time (TQT)	300 hours

5. Grading

• Minimum score of 70% per unit to pass
• Final grade classification:
  • Pass: 70–94%
  • Distinction: 95–100%

This information is intended for the benefit of CDCS aspirants. For detailed information, please refer to the official CDCS Qualification Specification or contact LIBF directly.