CAMS exam format
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Questions | 120, multiple choice and multiple select |
| Time | 3.5 hours (210 minutes), no scheduled breaks |
| Passing score | Scaled score of 75 |
| Delivery | Pearson VUE test center or online proctored |
| Guessing penalty | None |
| Results | Shown when you finish |
| Retake fee | US$299 (private sector) |
What 'scaled score of 75' means
ACAMS reports results on a scale, so 75 isn't 75% of 120 questions. Different versions of the exam vary slightly in difficulty, and scaling makes the pass standard the same for everyone. ACAMS doesn't publish the raw number of correct answers needed.
Some questions may be unscored pilot questions. You can't tell which, so treat every question as if it counts.
The four domains
The program also includes two electives (a sector case-study course and a jurisdiction framework course). They support your learning and count toward eligibility credits.
- Understanding financial crime risks and methods
- Global AFC frameworks, governance and regulations
- Building an AFC compliance program
- Tools and technologies to fight financial crime
See where you stand in 10 minutes
Take the free CAMS practice test. 15 questions, every answer explained.
Question types to expect
- Knowledge questions: definitions, standards and who does what (for example, which body publishes the 40 Recommendations).
- Scenario questions: a short case with a customer, transaction or program problem, asking for the red flag, the risk or the best next step.
- Multiple-select questions: choose all correct answers from a longer list. You only get the mark if your selection is exactly right.
Test-day strategy
- Budget about 1 minute 45 seconds per question, and check you're past question 60 by about the 1 hour 45 minute mark.
- Read the last sentence of each scenario first so you know what you're looking for.
- On 'best next step' questions, choose the answer that follows the process: gather facts, document, escalate, report. Avoid answers that skip steps or tip off the customer.
- Flag long questions and come back. Never leave a question blank.
- On multiple-select questions, judge each option on its own as true or false for the scenario.
If you don't pass
Your score report shows your results by section, which tells you where to focus. ACAMS charges a retake fee (US$299 for the private sector) and sets a waiting period between attempts, so check your candidate handbook before you rebook.
Frequently asked questions
How many questions are on the CAMS exam?
120 multiple-choice and multiple-select questions.
How long is the CAMS exam?
3.5 hours (210 minutes), with no scheduled breaks.
What score do you need to pass CAMS?
A scaled score of 75.
Can you take the CAMS exam online?
Yes. Pearson VUE offers online proctoring as well as test centers.
Is there negative marking on CAMS?
No. Wrong answers and blanks both score zero, so always guess.
Official sources
Practice tests for these certifications
This guide is general information, checked October 2026, not legal advice. Certification rules change; confirm with ACAMS before you apply.
