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Exam Information
Official specifications published by ACAMS
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CGSS Exam Topics and Domains
CGSS is organized into 5 weighted domains.
Governance and Enforcement
Fundamentals of Sanctions
- Explain what sanctions are and the reasons they are imposed
- Describe how sanctions programs are created, modified, and enforced
Key Concepts of Sanctions
- Differentiate between the various types of sanctions
- Apply the 50 Percent Rule and beneficial ownership concepts
Active Sanctions Regimes and Jurisdictional Reach
- Navigate the landscape of active sanctions regimes
- Understand the jurisdictional reach of sanctions across borders
Licensing and Permitted Activities
Identify licence types and the scope of permitted activities
Consequences of Non-Compliance
- Recognise the consequences of sanctions non-compliance
- Apply principles of governance and risk-based approach to sanctions screening
Sanctions Evasion Techniques
Evasion via Payments and Transactions
- Identify common payment-based evasion techniques
- Understand how payment channels can be exploited to bypass restrictions
Trade-Related Evasion Techniques
Recognise common ownership and trade schemes used for sanctions evasion
Identity Concealment Methods
- Identify methods used by sanctioned targets to conceal their identities
- Recognise red flags indicating identity concealment
Sanctions Due Diligence
Sanctions Due Diligence Key Concepts
Apply sanctions due diligence key concepts to effectively mitigate sanctions risks
Sanctions Due Diligence Across Lines of Business
Apply sanctions due diligence to different lines of business
Beneficial Ownership Calculation
Perform beneficial ownership calculations for sanctions compliance
Key Sanctions Risk Areas
- Identify key sanctions risk areas including customers, business nature, products, and jurisdictions
- Understand financial services and products as they relate to sanctions risks
Sanctions Screening
Screening Key Concepts and Technology
Understand screening key concepts including Automated Screening Tools, interdiction systems, algorithms, and regulatory expectations
Customer and Third-Party Screening
Perform customer and third-party name screening effectively
Payment Screening Process
Understand the payment screening process including timing, methods, and controls
Sanctions Technology and Data Management
- Understand sanctions technology, software features, and data management requirements
- Apply sanctions monitoring procedures and important controls
Sanctions Investigations and Asset Freezing
Conducting Sanctions Investigations
- Conduct effective investigations into suspected sanctions breaches
- Identify and utilize appropriate sources of information in investigations
Asset Freezing and Reporting
- Apply appropriate controls and manage frozen assets confidently
- Implement asset freeze procedures and fulfill reporting obligations
Sanctions Compliance Case Studies
- Apply sanctions knowledge to practical case-based scenarios
- Conduct sanctions risk assessments and develop compliance programs using case study methodology
- Lead complex sanctions investigations in realistic settings
How do I earn this certification?
Passing CGSS earns the Certified Global Sanctions Specialist (CGSS) certification. It sits in the Sanctions Compliance track.
Practice with Precision
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How to study for this exam?
The most effective way to prepare for CGSS is by using the PlanetCert Simulator to practice questions and review detailed explanations.
What's changed on this exam?
- ACTIVE
- Last content update: 2025-11-01
- Virtual Assets and Cryptocurrency Sanctions Compliance Virtual assets increasingly tested in evasion techniques and screening domains
- AI-Powered Sanctions Screening Tools Candidates should understand the role of AI and machine learning in modern screening systems
Who should take this exam?
This exam is typically taken by Mid- to senior-level sanctions compliance professionals and AFC, AML/CTF, legal, and regulatory specialists overseeing compliance, risk management, or advisory functions.
- 18-24 months of experience in sanctions or anti-financial crime compliance
- Background in law, finance, or international relations
- Familiarity with AML/CTF concepts