Credential
The ICA AML qualification ladder
The International Compliance Association (ICA) offers anti-money-laundering qualifications as a graduated ladder, from an entry Certificate up to a Managing-level Diploma, which is why CAMS-versus-ICA is a genuine decision rather than a like-for-like comparison.
Last reviewed 2026-07-28 by Urban Algorithm LLC
The International Compliance Association (ICA) is a United Kingdom origin body whose anti-money-laundering (AML) qualifications are awarded in association with a university partner. Unlike the Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist (CAMS), which is one credential, the ICA offers a graduated LADDER, so “should I get CAMS or the ICA diploma?” is a real region-shaped and level-shaped decision, not a straight swap.
The four ICA AML learning levels
Confirmed live on 2026-07-23 from the ICA subject-area page. The ladder runs from an entry, understanding-level certificate to a managing-level diploma:
- Certificate (Understanding level): ICA Certificate in Anti Money Laundering, the entry rung. Open entry.
- Specialist Certificate (Enhancing level): topic-specific certificates, for example correspondent banking, trade-based money laundering, and combating the financing of terrorism.
- Advanced Certificate (Applying level): ICA Advanced Certificate in Anti Money Laundering.
- Diploma (Managing level): ICA Diploma in Anti Money Laundering, the top rung.
Fees, duration, and assessment, per level
Directly confirmed against each course’s own int-comp.org page on 2026-07-28. Every level adds a GBP195 ICA membership fee at checkout if you are not already a member (12 months of membership).
| Level | Course fee (GBP) | Duration | Assessment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Certificate (Understanding) | GBP765 | Up to 2 months | One-hour online multiple-choice exam, any time during the course |
| Advanced Certificate (Applying) | GBP2,250 | 6 months | One timed scenario-based assessment plus one research assignment |
| Diploma (Managing) | GBP4,500 | 9 months | Three timed module assessments plus two written assignments |
None of the three carries a recurring recertification cycle: each is a one-time qualification per level, not a renewing credential like CAMS or CFE.
Entry requirements rise by level: the Certificate is open entry, the Advanced Certificate expects candidates already working in AML-adjacent roles, and the Diploma requires solid English proficiency plus either a relevant degree or professional qualification, an ICA Advanced Certificate, or three years of relevant work experience.
Use the neutral comparison to weigh the ICA ladder against CAMS, CGSS, CFCS, and CFE, and the recommender to see which rung fits your role, region, and budget.
Not sure whether your degree, work experience, or an ICA Advanced Certificate clears the Diploma’s entry route? The eligibility edge cases guide covers the ICA ladder’s entry requirements alongside the other four credentials, including foreign degree equivalency and combined work experience.
Compare this credential against the others in the comparison matrix, or use the recommender.