BERKELEY SCHOOL OF BUSINESS, ARTS & SCIENCES

Certificate in Know Your Customer (KYC) and Customer Due Diligence (CDD)

The Certificate in KYC and CDD (Know Your Customer and Customer Due Diligence) is a globally recognized qualification designed for individuals working in, or aspiring to work in, anti-money laundering (AML), compliance, risk management, and financial crime prevention roles.

Overview

The Certificate in KYC and CDD (Know Your Customer and Customer Due Diligence) is a globally recognized qualification designed for individuals working in, or aspiring to work in, anti-money laundering (AML), compliance, risk management, and financial crime prevention roles.

Offered by

International Compliance Association (ICA)

Head office

United Kingdom

Members

Total Members 20,000+ in 160+ countries

Vision & Mission

Vision: The vision of the ICA Certificate in KYC and CDD is to cultivate a global standard of excellence in customer due diligence by empowering professionals with the essential knowledge and practical skills needed to prevent financial crime. The program aspires to build a community of ethical, well-informed individuals who can protect the integrity of the financial system through effective KYC and CDD practices.

Mission: The mission of this certificate is to deliver a foundational, yet comprehensive, qualification that enhances professionals’ understanding of key KYC and CDD concepts and their importance in regulatory compliance. It aims to equip learners with the tools to identify, assess, and manage customer-related risks while supporting international efforts to combat money laundering and terrorist financing. By combining practical insights with global best practices, the course fosters a culture of compliance and ethical responsibility, encouraging continuous professional development and contributing to the wider goal of financial crime prevention.

What is the Eligibility?

 The eligibility criteria are intentionally broad to encourage participation from both newcomers and those already working in financial crime compliance roles.

Who can do?
anyone who is interested to learn about following concepts can pursue Certificate in Know Your Customer (KYC) and Customer Due Diligence (CDD):
Introduction to KYC and CDD, Understanding the Customer, Customer Identification and Verification, Customer Due Diligence, High-Risk Customers and PEPs, Suspicious Activity and Reporting.
individuals with the following designations:
Beginners and Career Starters, Banking and Financial Services Staff, AML/Compliance Professionals, Fintech and Payment Services Employees, Risk, Audit, and Legal Teams, Insurance, Legal, and Consultancy Professionals, Small Business Owners and Entrepreneurs in Regulated Sectors, New entrants in AML/KYC roles, Compliance support officers, Frontline staff responsible for customer onboarding.

Course structure

The certificate focuses on foundational knowledge of KYC and CDD processes.

Day 1:

Introduces the fundamentals of KYC, CDD, and their role in preventing financial crime. It covers the global regulatory landscape, highlighting key compliance standards and frameworks. The day also focuses on understanding different types of customers and how to apply a risk-based approach to due diligence, forming the foundation for effective compliance practices.

Day 2

Focuses on key practical elements of customer due diligence. It begins with Customer Identification and Verification (ID&V), outlining the methods and documentation required to verify customer identities. The session then explores the types of due diligence: Simplified (SDD), Standard (CDD), and Enhanced (EDD), and when each should be applied. The day concludes with a detailed look at Politically Exposed Persons (PEPs) and other high-risk clients, emphasizing the heightened scrutiny and additional checks required for these customer categories.

Day 3

Covers essential post-onboarding compliance activities. It begins with ongoing monitoring and customer reviews, highlighting the importance of regularly updating customer information and tracking transactional behavior. The session then addresses how to identify suspicious activity and outlines the procedures for reporting obligations, including internal escalation and filing suspicious activity reports (SARs). Finally, it covers record keeping and documentation standards, emphasizing regulatory requirements for maintaining accurate and accessible records to support audit trails and compliance reviews.

Day 4

Concludes with engaging case studies and practical scenarios designed to reinforce learning through real-world examples. Participants analyze typical KYC and CDD challenges faced by financial institutions, applying concepts such as risk assessment, customer verification, and suspicious activity identification. These hands-on exercises help bridge theory with practice, enhancing the learner’s ability to apply compliance principles in everyday professional situations.

Lecture plan

Session 1 (4 Hours)

Introduction to KYC, CDD & Financial Crime

Regulatory Landscape and Global Compliance Standards

Understanding the Customer and Risk-Based Approach

Session 2: (4 Hours)

Customer Identification & Verification (ID&V)

Types of Due Diligence (SDD, CDD, EDD)

Politically Exposed Persons (PEPs) & High-Risk Clients

Session 3: (4 Hours)

Ongoing Monitoring and Customer Reviews

Suspicious Activity & Reporting Obligations

Record Keeping and Documentation Standards

Session 4: (3 Hours)

Case Studies

Practical Scenarios

Learning Methodology

Berkeley offers expertly developed learning materials tailored to meet participants' needs, ensuring comprehensive coverage of the syllabus and optimal exam preparation.

‣ Tailored Material: Guides are designed to cover the entire syllabus, offering full preparation and deep understanding.

‣ In-Depth Content: Unlike superficial outlines, our materials provide fully developed theories and concepts, equipping participants with complete knowledge.

‣ Strategic Study: We help participants prioritize study time by indicating the weight of each topic, allowing efficient focus on crucial areas.

‣ Difficulty Levels: Topics are labeled as "Awareness" or "Proficiency," guiding participants to allocate time based on the required depth of knowledge.

‣ Comprehensive Coverage: Our materials include detailed theory and a glossary of technical terms to clarify complex concepts.

‣ Effective Learning Techniques: Visual aids and memorization techniques ensure long-lasting retention, helping candidates succeed.

Berkeley’s methodologies equip participants with the essential knowledge and tools for both exams and future success.

Lecture Image
Lectures

Our lecture plan integrates structured learning with interactive teaching methods, promoting engagement and collaboration. This approach ensures a comprehensive understanding of concepts, fostering critical thinking and practical application in real-world scenarios.

Lecture Image
Practice Session

Practice sessions offer hands-on experience through guided exercises, enhancing skills and reinforcing knowledge. This practical approach ensures mastery of concepts, promoting confidence and competence in real-world applications.

Lecture Image
Mock Examination

Mock examinations simulate real test conditions, providing valuable practice and assessment. This helps identify strengths and weaknesses, ensuring thorough preparation and boosting confidence for actual exams.

Berkeley's performance standards

Evaluates and ensure the quality of the training program and all its deliverables. This is measured through the following indicators:
‣ Instructors' experience and style in presenting and explaining topics.
‣ Variety and balance of teaching methods (such as discussions, case studies, mock exams and videos) used in the course to ensure retention and to match the learning objectives.
‣ Level of interactivity.
‣ Feedback from program participants
‣ Full compliance with Institute standards and guidelines for preparation and study requirements and methodology.
‣ Progress reports from the training program provider.

Fee Structure

Self-Study Program

AED 5500.00

Ideal for disciplined learners who prefer flexibility

  • Access to Berkeley Study Materials (eBook)
  • Lecture Recording

Live Online Classes

AED 9000.00

Learn from expert instructors in real-time

  • Interactive live sessions
  • Full syllabus coverage and doubt solving
  • Study materials

One-to-One Face-to-Face Coaching

AED 18300.00

Personalized, intensive learning experience

  • Individual attention and customized pace
  • Direct mentorship with an expert trainer
  • Complete study package included
Success Stories

“As a strong advocate for education and human development, I commend Berkeley for its exceptional commitment to empowering future leaders. The institution stands as a symbol of excellence, innovation, and opportunity. Students who walk its halls are nurtured with knowledge, values, and vision—qualities that contribute to building a stronger and more prosperous future for our nation.”- H.H. Shaikh Khalifa Al Hamid

Visit our Alumni

Alumni Benefits

‣ Exclusive Networking Events: Access invitations to industry-leading events and thought-leadership gatherings featuring renowned speakers.


‣ Monthly Updates: Stay informed with a newsletter highlighting the latest research, events, and activities from the school.


‣ LinkedIn Community Access: Join the Executive Education LinkedIn group for networking and professional development opportunities.


‣ Educational Discounts: Enjoy a 20% discount on open-enrollment programs and access to workshops focused on emerging trends.


‣ Global Alumni Network: Connect with a diverse alumni community through the Berkeley School’s online network and engage in country and interest groups.

Is It Worth the Investment?

While the Certificate in KYC and CDD is an entry-level qualification, it opens the door to well-paying roles in compliance, financial crime prevention, and customer due diligence, especially within banks, fintech companies, and regulatory environments.

Salaries vary depending on experience, job role, location, and company size. Below is a general guide:

Region   Entry-Level Salary   Senior Roles (6+ Years)
UAE / GCC   AED 6,000–12,000/month   AED 20,000–35,000+/month
UK   £22,000–30,000/year   £50,000–70,000+/year
India   ₹3–6 LPA   ₹12–20+ LPA
Singapore   SGD 3,000–5,000/month   SGD 8,000–12,000+/month
USA   $45,000–60,000/year   $90,000–130,000+/year

What you earn

You will get a certificate of completion, which is highly reputed and accepted by employers.

Foundation in KYC and AML Knowledge

You develop a solid understanding of essential Know Your Customer (KYC) and Customer Due Diligence (CDD) processes, which are critical to preventing financial crime in banks, fintech, and other regulated sectors.

Enhanced Career Opportunities

The certificate qualifies you for a range of entry-level compliance and AML roles such as KYC Analyst, Compliance Assistant, or Customer Onboarding Officer, improving your employability in a competitive job market.

Global Recognition

As the certificate is awarded by the International Compliance Association (ICA), a globally respected body, it carries weight with employers worldwide, demonstrating your commitment and expertise.

Regulatory Compliance Competence

You gain practical knowledge to help organizations comply with anti-money laundering (AML), counter-terrorist financing (CTF), and sanctions regulations, reducing legal and reputational risks.

Career Progression Pathway

This qualification serves as a stepping stone to more advanced ICA certifications, such as the Advanced Certificate in AML or the Diploma in Financial Crime Prevention, enabling continuous professional growth.

Related courses

Trade Facilitation Training - United Arab Emirates

The Trade Facilitation Training course focuses on simplifying international trade processes to enhance efficiency and reduce barriers. It covers key topics such as customs procedures, technology integration, and compliance with international trade agreements. Participants will learn best practices in logistics and documentation, equipping them to streamline trade operations and support the smooth flow of goods across borders, ultimately contributing to more efficient global trade.

Read More
Trade Facilitation for Practitioners & Policy Makers

The "Trade Facilitation Masterclass for Practitioners & Policy Makers" is an intensive program designed to equip participants with practical knowledge and strategic insights into modern trade facilitation practices. It focuses on streamlining trade processes, enhancing compliance, and fostering economic growth through improved policy-making and implementation strategies. Ideal for professionals involved in trade regulation, customs, and international trade policy, the masterclass combines expert-led sessions, case studies, and interactive discussions to empower attendees with the tools needed to drive efficiency and innovation in trade operations.

Read More
Certificate in International Trade and Export Management

Certificate In International Trade & Export Management provides students with the skills required to effectively manage and/or work in businesses or organizations involved in cross-border trading of goods in a global economy. This Certificate reflects the importance of understanding global trade and supply chain/logistics management and is built on foundational knowledge in international trade, global supply chain and logistics, and cross-cultural management skills. 

Read More
Certificate in Compliance

The Certificate in Compliance is an internationally recognized qualification designed to equip individuals with a foundational understanding of regulatory compliance and risk management in financial services. This course provides essential knowledge of compliance frameworks, regulatory environments, and the role of compliance in maintaining ethical standards and preventing financial crime.

Read More
Islamic Studies

The Islamic Studies syllabus helps learners understand Islamic religious writings, history, and current affairs, fostering intelligent discussion. It covers Islam's origins, beliefs, practices, and Islamic law, reflecting on its role today.

Read More

FAQ: Certificate in Know Your Customer (KYC) and Customer Due Diligence (CDD)

contact us for more information or to apply for admission. Seats fill up quickly, so we encourage early registration!

Cart

Cart (0)