CDCS (Certified Documentary Credit Specialist) in Kenya
Handling letters of credit without deep UCP 600 and ISBP mastery can be risky; this live online CDCS course in Kenya builds practical LC expertise and exam readiness for trade finance professionals.
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Course Overview
What is the CDCS Course in Kenya and Why is it Essential?
The CDCS (Certified Documentary Credit Specialist) course in Kenya is built for trade finance and corporate professionals who handle letters of credit and need both practical LC skills and strong exam performance on the LIBF CDCS qualification.
By the end of this course, you will be able to
- Explain and apply UCP 600, ISBP, Incoterms and related ICC rules across the full LC lifecycle.
- Prepare confidently for and clear the FODC and MGDC CDCS exams with structured practice and strategy.
- Handle real LC cases at work, from document checking to discrepancy handling and settlements.
Course Snapshot
- Mode: Live Online (Kenya time) with recordings
- Level: Intermediate to Advanced
- Ideal for: Trade finance, corporate banking, import/export and compliance professionals
- Certification Body: LIBF – CDCS qualification
Upcoming Batches
Why take this course
How CDCS (Certified Documentary Credit Specialist) Accelerates Your Career
This Kenya-focused CDCS course turns day-to-day LC exposure into deep documentary credit expertise while preparing you to clear the LIBF CDCS exams.
Career impact
Move into high-growth trade finance roles
Position yourself for specialist LC and trade roles in Kenyan and regional banks, corporates and trade houses.
- Stand out for roles like Trade Finance Officer, Documentary Credit Specialist and Relationship Manager – Trade.
- Improve promotion and internal transfer prospects into trade finance units.
Practical learning
Master real LC workflows and documents
Go beyond theory with LC lifecycle practice, document-checking drills and discrepancy handling aligned to UCP 600 and ISBP.
- Work through realistic LC scenarios and document sets.
- Attempt module-wise quizzes, full-length mocks and MGDC-style simulations.
Support
Guidance from registration to exam day
Get help with LIBF registration, study planning and doubt-clearing so you can balance CDCS prep with a full-time job.
- Structured study plans tailored for Kenya-based working professionals.
- Ongoing trainer access for doubts plus access to class recordings for revision.
Key frameworks
Rules, Standards & Frameworks You Will Work With
Build confidence by working directly with the core ICC rules and trade frameworks that govern letters of credit and documentary credits globally.
You will learn how to apply these rules and frameworks to real LC structures, document presentations and CDCS exam questions.
Is this for you?
Is the CDCS Certification Right for You?
This programme is ideal if you are working with letters of credit today or want to build a specialist trade finance career in Kenya or the wider region.
- Trade finance and documentary credits staff involved in LC issuance, advising, confirmations, document checking or settlements in banks and financial institutions.
- Relationship Managers and Corporate Bankers who structure LC solutions, discuss risk with clients and coordinate documentation.
- Import/Export and logistics professionals managing invoices, transport documents, shipping records and LC presentation packs for Kenyan or regional trade.
- Compliance, risk and internal audit professionals reviewing trade finance operations, sanctions exposure, AML controls and LC-related disputes.
- Career switchers from operations, customer service, corporate banking or finance seeking a structured, globally recognised entry into trade finance.
- Existing CDCS holders needing a refresher or preparing for recertification on the latest exam pattern and ICC guidance.
Eligibility & prerequisites
The CDCS course is accessible to most banking and trade professionals, with recommended but not mandatory entry criteria.
- Educational background: Diploma or bachelor’s degree in business, finance, banking, accounting, logistics or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.
- Work experience: Ideally 6–12 months of exposure to trade finance, LC operations or import/export documentation; motivated beginners can also join.
- Exam body rules: Ability to study in English and meet LIBF’s CDCS registration requirements for online, remote-proctored exams.
If you are unsure about your fit, request a free profile assessment and we will guide you on whether to start CDCS now or build some pre-foundation first.
Career outcomes
What Job Roles and Salaries Can You Expect After CDCS in Kenya?
Gain a globally respected LC specialisation that Kenyan and regional employers actively look for in their trade finance and transaction banking teams.
Typical job roles
- Trade Finance Officer / Trade Finance Analyst
- Documentary Credit Specialist / LC Officer
- Import/Export Documentation Specialist
- Trade Operations Manager / Supervisor
- Relationship Manager – Trade & Working Capital
- Transaction Banking Product Specialist
- Trade Compliance / Sanctions Analyst
- Internal Auditor – Trade Finance Processes
Industries hiring our learners
- Banking, Financial Services & Trade Finance
- Import/Export Trading & Manufacturing
- Logistics, Shipping & Freight Forwarding
- Commodity Trading & Agribusiness
- Corporate Treasury & Transaction Banking
Salary snapshot
Professionals with CDCS (Certified Documentary Credit Specialist) in Kenya typically start from:
KES 120,000 – 200,000 per month
Higher with 2–5 years experience+ performance bonuses
Indicatively, mid-level LC specialists and RMs can earn around KES 200,000 – 350,000+ per month, with senior managers and heads of trade often crossing KES 350,000 – 600,000+ depending on institution and scope.
Curriculum
What Topics are Covered in the CDCS Syllabus?
Comprehensive coverage of CDCS (Certified Documentary Credit Specialist) topics and exam domains.
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- Purpose and operation of documentary credits
- Roles of parties (issuing bank, advising bank, applicant, beneficiary, 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 documentary credits
- Handling amendments and confirmations
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- Document characteristics and presentation requirements
- Checking criteria under UCP 600 and ISBP
- Identifying discrepancies and handling notices of refusal
- Settlement under honour, negotiation, and 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)
Throughout the course you will solve exam-style questions, mini-cases and full simulations so that exam performance and real-world confidence grow together.
Learning outcomes by module
- Module 1 builds a strong foundation in LC purpose, parties, lifecycle, UCP 600 and Incoterms 2020.
- Module 2 develops advanced document-checking judgement, discrepancy handling and familiarity with URR 725, ISP98, eUCP and DOCDEX.
- Both modules are aligned to FODC and MGDC exam blueprints, with emphasis on high-weightage topics and simulation practice.
Download full syllabus
Get the complete, updated CDCS course syllabus for Saudi Arabia with module-wise topics, exam weightage and a recommended 3–6 month study plan.
Hands-on learning
Real LC Case Studies, Simulations & Assessments
This CDCS course blends theory with realistic LC documentation, Kenyan trade scenarios and exam-style simulations so you become both job-ready and exam-ready.
Project 1
End-to-end LC lifecycle case
Work through a complete LC from issuance to settlement for a Kenya-based import/export transaction, mapping each step to UCP 600 and CDCS concepts.
- Understand how contract terms flow into LC wording and documentation.
- Identify operational and risk checkpoints for banks and corporates.
Project 2
MGDC-style document-checking simulations
Analyse LC document packs similar to MGDC Part B and prepare structured discrepancy notes aligned with UCP 600 and ISBP.
- Practise reading LCs, invoices, transport and insurance documents under time pressure.
- Improve accuracy and reasoning in discrepancy identification and communication.
Assessments
Quizzes, mocks & progress reviews
Use chapter-wise quizzes and full-length mock exams to track your readiness for both FODC and MGDC.
- Gauge your strengths and weak areas early through analytics.
- Receive targeted revision guidance from trainers before booking your exam.
Free info session
Join Our Next Live Info Session on CDCS (Certified Documentary Credit Specialist)
Meet our CDCS trainers, understand the Kenya-focused course roadmap, see the LMS in action and get your questions on exams, fees and careers answered live.
What you’ll learn in the session
- Is CDCS (Certified Documentary Credit Specialist) right for your profile and goals in Kenya?
- How the live online classes, LMS, recordings and simulations work.
- Exam structure, preparation approach and typical career outcomes after CDCS.
Learning experience
Flexible Learning Options Built for Working Professionals
This CDCS course is delivered live online for Kenya time, with recordings and flexible batch options so you can study alongside a full-time role.
Mode of training
Live Online with Recordings
- Interactive instructor-led classes scheduled for evenings or weekends in Kenya.
- Join remotely from anywhere in Kenya and revisit concepts using session recordings.
Course duration
Around 60+ hours over multiple weeks
- Designed so working professionals can progress steadily without overload.
- Additional doubt-clearing sessions and revision support close to your exam window.
- Access to LMS and recordings for extended revision during the course period.
Upcoming batches
Choose the schedule that suits you
- Weekend batch: Ideal for busy trade and corporate banking professionals.
- Weekday evening batch: Optimised for Nairobi, Mombasa and other city schedules.
- Fast-track or revision bootcamp in the run-up to your chosen exam attempt.
Your certification path
How You’ll Become a Certified Documentary Credit Specialist
Follow a clear, structured journey from eligibility check to LIBF CDCS exam success and on-the-job application of LC skills.
Discuss your background with our team, confirm CDCS eligibility with LIBF if needed and select a Kenya-friendly batch that fits your work schedule.
Attend interactive sessions, follow the study plan, practise LC scenarios and access recordings, quizzes and notes through the LMS.
Attempt FODC and MGDC-style quizzes, mocks and document-checking simulations; refine your strategy with trainer feedback.
Register with LIBF, schedule your online remote-proctored exams, clear both units and apply your enhanced LC expertise at work.
Prefer to learn at your own pace?
Self-Paced Video Course Option
If your schedule is unpredictable, you can leverage recordings and LMS access with support to prepare for CDCS more flexibly.
Self-paced plan typically includes:
- Topic-wise recorded sessions covering FODC and MGDC domains.
- Access to international study materials and exam-style practice kits.
- Extensive practice questions and mock tests with guided solutions.
- 24×7 access to the Delphi Learning Management System (LMS) during your enrolment.
- Scheduled doubt-clearing clinics or Q&A slots with faculty.
Who this plan is ideal for
- Working professionals in Kenya whose hours vary week to week.
- Learners who may relocate or travel frequently but still want to complete CDCS.
- Self-motivated candidates who like to revisit complex LC topics multiple times at their own pace.
You can also combine self-paced content with a shorter live exam bootcamp batch for last-mile CDCS preparation.
Why Edudelphi
Why Professionals Choose Delphi for CDCS (Certified Documentary Credit Specialist)
EduDelphi, headquartered in Dubai & India, blends strong exam orientation with real-world LC expertise, making it a trusted partner for CDCS training in Kenya and beyond.
Expert trainers
Certified & industry-experienced faculty
Learn from CDCS-certified and trade finance practitioners who work with letters of credit daily and bring practical case studies from African, Middle Eastern and global markets.
Live & interactive
Instructor-led classes with doubt support
Sessions focus on UCP 600, ISBP and MGDC-style simulations with plenty of time for questions, clarifications and discussion of real LC challenges.
Smart LMS
Cloud-based e-learning portal
Access recordings, handouts, practice questions and mock exams anytime so you can revise critical topics like document checking whenever needed.
Flexible schedules
Weekend & weekday batches
Batches are scheduled around Kenya working hours with options for weekend or evening study to minimise disruption to your job.
Exam & career support
Guidance beyond the classroom
Get help with LIBF CDCS registration, exam scheduling and last-mile revision, along with career discussions for trade finance and LC-focused roles.
Recognised quality
ISO 9001:2015 Certified & globally connected
Training quality backed by ISO 9001:2015, strong presence in Dubai and India, and a growing alumni base across Africa, GCC and global markets.
Meet your mentors
Learn from Certified, Practicing Professionals
CDCS classes are led by seasoned trade finance specialists who combine years of LC operations experience with a strong track record of coaching learners for the FODC and MGDC exams.
Senior Trade Finance Expert
CDCS, CSDG, ex-Bank Trade Finance Head
A veteran LC practitioner with extensive experience leading trade finance teams in regional and international banks, specialising in UCP 600, ISBP and complex LC structures, and mentoring hundreds of professionals for CDCS.
Documentary Credit Specialist Trainer
CDCS, CITF, Trade Operations Specialist
Brings hands-on experience in LC issuance, confirmations and document checking for cross-border trade, with a strong focus on simulation-based teaching and exam strategy for FODC and MGDC.
Faculty advantage
Certified & Professional Trainers
Every instructor goes through a rigorous screening process and teaches with one clear goal: helping you clear CDCS and handle real LC responsibilities with confidence.
- Global trade certifications plus deep industry experience in banks and corporates.
- Exam-oriented teaching with practical LC and discrepancy examples.
- Experience training candidates across Africa, the Middle East and global markets.
Learner stories
What Our Learners Say
Hear from professionals who upskilled with us.
“The CDCS training gave me a clear structure for understanding letters of credit. The simulations were very close to real exam style, and I now feel confident handling LC documents at work.”
“I came from an import/export background, not banking. This course finally explained what banks look for in LC documents and why they raise discrepancies. It has already reduced delays with our shipments.”
“The trainer’s depth of knowledge on UCP 600 and ISBP was impressive. The Kenya-friendly timing and recordings made it easy to manage along with my job.”
Exam & certification
How the CDCS (Certified Documentary Credit Specialist) Exam Works
Understand the official LIBF CDCS exam structure so you can plan your preparation and attempt strategy effectively.
Exam pattern
- Exam type: Online, computer-based exam delivered via LIBF’s Brightspace platform with remote proctoring.
- Duration: Unit 1 (FODC) – 90 minutes; Unit 2 (MGDC) – 105 minutes.
- Number of questions / case studies: FODC – 50 multiple-choice questions; MGDC – 20 MCQs plus 3 document-checking simulations.
- Passing score: 70% in each unit (35/50 marks for FODC and 35/50 marks for MGDC).
Exam windows & attempts
- Exam availability: On-demand within your registration period, with no fixed global exam dates.
- Mode: Remote-proctored with ID verification and a 360-degree room scan before the exam starts.
- Units may be taken separately, allowing you to complete FODC first and attempt MGDC when you are ready.
Certification & recognition
Upon successfully clearing both units, you will be awarded the CDCS (Certified Documentary Credit Specialist) certification from the London Institute of Banking & Finance (LIBF).
- Issued by: LIBF, in association with ICC and BAFT for global recognition in trade finance.
- Recognised in: Banks and corporates worldwide as a specialist qualification for documentary credits and trade finance.
- Validity: Certification is typically maintained through periodic recertification and continuing professional development as per LIBF rules.
Please refer to the official LIBF website for the latest CDCS exam dates, fees and regulations. Our team will guide you through registration and scheduling from Kenya.
Fees & inclusions
CDCS (Certified Documentary Credit Specialist) Fees in Kenya
Transparent pricing for CDCS (Certified Documentary Credit Specialist) in Kenya.
What your fee includes
- Complete CDCS training for Kenya-based learners through live online classes.
- 60+ hours of instructor-led sessions plus full access to class recordings during the course period.
- Exam-oriented workbooks, handouts, practice questions and LC document packs.
- Mock exams and MGDC-style document-checking simulations to mirror the real exam.
- Ongoing doubt support, LIBF registration guidance and a course completion certificate from EduDelphi.
EMI & instalment options may be available in KES
For corporate and group enrolments in Kenya or East Africa, custom pricing and in-house CDCS training options are available.
Get a personalised fee breakup
Share your details and our team will send you the latest fee structure, any current offers and a clear cost breakdown (including separate LIBF exam fees if applicable) in KES.
We will also help you plan your exam timeline and suggest the most cost-effective route to complete your CDCS certification from Kenya.
Compare your options
CDCS (Certified Documentary Credit Specialist) vs Other Trade Finance Certifications
Many learners compare CDCS with generic trade finance courses or internal bank training. Use this overview to understand how CDCS positions you as a specialist in letters of credit.
| Criteria | This Course CDCS (Certified Documentary Credit Specialist) |
Alternative 1 Generic Trade Finance Course |
Alternative 2 Internal Bank Training Only |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary focus | Deep specialisation in documentary credits (LCs), UCP 600, ISBP, URR, ISP98 and eUCP. | Broad overview of trade finance products with limited LC depth. | Bank-specific procedures and systems with limited ICC rules focus. |
| Best suited for | Professionals handling LCs, document checking and LC-related risk in banks and corporates. | Beginners seeking high-level trade finance awareness. | Staff who only need to understand internal workflows at one institution. |
| Exam structure | Two units (FODC and MGDC) including document-checking simulations. | Usually one basic test or internal assessment. | Often no formal external exam or globally recognised assessment. |
| Time to complete | Typically several weeks to a few months while working full time. | Varies from a few days to weeks depending on provider. | Linked to internal training cycles and role changes. |
| Career outcomes | Strong fit for LC-focused roles in trade finance, transaction banking and corporate trade departments. | Good foundation but less powerful as a standalone credential. | Useful internally but not portable as a recognised external qualification. |
For professionals whose roles centre on letters of credit, CDCS remains the gold-standard global certification for documentary credits.
Not sure if this is the right course for you?
Speak to a Delphi counsellor for a personalised profile evaluation, eligibility check and CDCS course roadmap for your career in trade finance.
We’ll contact you within 24 hours via call / WhatsApp / email. No obligations.
Get course details
Get CDCS (Certified Documentary Credit Specialist) Syllabus, Fees & Upcoming Batches
Share your details below to receive a personalised call from our course advisor. They will help you with eligibility, fees in KES, Kenya-friendly batches and the best CDCS path based on your profile.
What you’ll receive
- Full CDCS course syllabus with unit-wise topic breakdown.
- Detailed fee breakup in KES with any ongoing offers or instalment plans.
- Batch options (weekend / weekday / fast-track) that match your work schedule.
- Guidance on LIBF registration, exam booking and eligibility questions.
Preferred mode of training
Submit your enquiry
Our team will contact you within 24 hours with complete information – no obligation to enrol.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about CDCS (Certified Documentary Credit Specialist) eligibility and details.
What is the CDCS certification and what does it prove?
CDCS proves that you can handle documentary credits (letters of credit) professionally by interpreting LC terms, applying UCP 600 and ISBP, examining documents accurately, identifying discrepancies and managing LC settlements and refusals correctly. It is one of the most respected trade finance qualifications worldwide.
Can I take the CDCS course from Kenya without travelling?
Yes. Our CDCS course in Kenya is fully live online and designed for Kenya time zones, so you can attend all sessions, interact with the trainer and access recordings from anywhere in Kenya without travelling.
Is this CDCS training suitable for professionals in Nairobi and other Kenyan cities?
Yes. We welcome learners from Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu and other locations across Kenya. Timings are scheduled for Kenya time, and recordings ensure you can catch up if you miss a live session.
Do I need prior trade finance experience to join the CDCS course?
Prior trade finance experience is helpful but not mandatory. We recommend at least basic exposure to banking, finance or import/export documentation. If you are completely new, we can suggest a brief pre-foundation path before or alongside CDCS.
How long does it take to prepare for CDCS while working full time in Kenya?
Most working professionals in Kenya take several weeks to a few months to prepare depending on prior exposure. Many complete FODC first and then spend extra time on MGDC’s document-checking simulations using our structured study plan.
Are the CDCS exams available online for Kenyan candidates?
Yes. CDCS exams are delivered online via LIBF’s Brightspace platform and are remote-proctored, so you can sit them from Kenya as long as you meet the technical requirements and proctoring rules.
What are the two CDCS units and which should I attempt first?
The two units are FODC – Foundations of Documentary Credits and MGDC – Management of Documentary Credits. We usually recommend attempting FODC first to build rule understanding, then progressing to MGDC, which includes advanced document-checking simulations.
How does your CDCS course in Kenya help with document checking?
We run structured document-checking drills where you practise reading the LC and identifying critical terms, reviewing invoices, transport and insurance documents, spotting mismatches across the document set and drafting discrepancy notes in line with UCP 600 and ISBP. These exercises mirror MGDC Part B simulations and improve your speed and accuracy at work.
Does the syllabus include standby letters of credit and electronic presentations?
Yes. The CDCS syllabus and our training cover standby LCs under ISP98, their structure and usage, as well as electronic presentations under eUCP including hybrid and fully electronic document sets.
Will I learn about AML and sanctions risks in trade finance?
Yes. We include relevant topics on AML, sanctions, red flags in trade transactions and trade-based money laundering so you understand the compliance dimension of letters of credit.
What support do you provide for LIBF CDCS registration?
We guide you through choosing the right registration window, understanding LIBF fees and validity periods, setting an effective study and exam timetable and booking and preparing for your online exams.
What if I cannot attend a live class due to my work schedule?
All live sessions are recorded and shared with enrolled learners. If you miss a class, you can watch the recording and then clarify your doubts in the next session or via our support channels.
Do you offer corporate CDCS training for Kenyan banks and companies?
Yes. We deliver corporate CDCS training for banks, corporates, logistics firms and trade houses in Kenya and East Africa, including customised case studies, your document formats and focused sessions for specific teams.
How is this CDCS course different from generic trade finance training?
Generic trade finance courses provide a broad overview of products, while our CDCS programme is deeply focused on documentary credits, follows the official CDCS syllabus and is specifically structured to help you pass FODC and MGDC and handle real LC cases confidently.
What kind of study materials will I receive?
You receive instructor slide decks and handouts, topic-wise practice questions and quizzes, mock exams for both units and LC document packs for checking practice. We also guide you on making the most of the official learning resources provided by LIBF.
How are the classes delivered for Kenya-based learners?
Classes are delivered live online via video conferencing, scheduled for evenings or weekends (Kenya time) to suit working professionals. You can interact with the trainer, ask questions and participate in group discussions.
Can CDCS help me get a promotion or move into a trade finance role?
While promotions depend on your organisation, CDCS is highly regarded and often used as evidence of specialist competence in LC and trade finance roles. Many professionals use it to transition into trade finance departments, strengthen their case for career progression and enhance their profile for regional or international roles.
How do I know if CDCS is better for me than another certification?
If your current or desired role heavily involves letters of credit, document checking or trade operations, CDCS is usually the most relevant and specialised choice. If you want a broader view of trade finance products, we can advise on complementary or alternative courses during your counselling call.
Ready to Start Your CDCS (Certified Documentary Credit Specialist) Journey?
Take the first step towards a globally recognised LC credential and a stronger career in trade finance and documentary credits.
We’ll send you syllabus, fees in KES, batch schedules and answer any questions you have.





















