Contents page

Certified Documentary
Credit Specialist
(CDCS)
Study Guide

Institute of Financial Services

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United Kingdom

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 CDCS study guide

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The Chartered Institute of Bankers believes that the sources of information upon
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School of Finance

2
 September 2004

Dear CDCS Candidate

Welcome. You made a significant commitment to your career when you registered
for the CDCS examination. This Self-Study Guide has been prepared with your success
in mind. It will help you make the transition from the CDCS Content Outline and
the Study Text; in addition, it will outline a variety of study techniques for your
consideration.

The text for the CDCS examination has been updated and revised and published as
The Guide to Documentary Credits: second edition. There are changes to the Content
Outline, including the rules, as well as updating to the general text. It is important
that you study the second edition as you prepare for the examination. The text and
Content Outline contain two new regulations that are covered in the Signpost article
reproduced at the end of Section 2 in this guide.
If it has been a few years since you last studied for an examination, a review of this
publication will help you identify the areas you will find helpful as you develop your
individual study plan. Experiment to find out what suits you best.
The CDCS examination is based on a Job Analysis Study that identified the knowledge
and skills required for competent practice in the field of Documentary Credits. The
Content Outline details the results of the survey and the Study Text is based on the
Content Outline. You can build on the information and experience you have, as you
are involved with Documentary Credit practice.
As you can see from the Table of Contents there are many different areas that will
be of assistance to you as you prepare to study for the CDCS examination; not all
may apply to you. Your first step will be to identify those sections that you want to
include in your study plan.
Sections 2 and 3 contain the CDCS Content Outline and Examination Specifications.
These two documents are the basis for the CDCS examination and should be reviewed
in depth.
The CDCS examination is an opportunity for you to demonstrate what you know
and your skills as a Documentary Credit Specialist. We wish you success in your
preparation for the examination.
There are several products that will assist you as you prepare for the CDCS
examination:
X the Study Text is the basic reference for the examination; all multiple-choice
questions are documented to this text;

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 CDCS study guide

X CDCS calculator: in the US a CDCS calculator will be mailed with your admission
ticket. It will be provided on the examination day at CIB centers. Become
familiar with the CDCS calculator, as it is the only calculator allowed at the
examination centers;

X CDCS website (www.cdcs.org): information will be posted on the website as it

becomes available. This will be a source of continuing help to you as you prepare
for the examination.

Gavin Shreeve Dan Taylor

Chief Executive President
Institute of Financial Services International Financial Services Association

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 Contents page of The Guide to Documentary Credits

Table of Contents

◆ Introduction
◆ Section l: CDCS Study Text
◆ Section 2: CDCS Content Outline
CDCS Signpost Article
◆ Section 3: CDCS Examination Specifications
◆ Section 4: Self-assessment Tool
◆ Section 5: Key Terms
◆ Section 6: Planning Your Study
Study Plan
◆ Section 7: Keys to Studying for Success
◆ Section 8: CDCS Study Groups
◆ Section 9: Multiple-choice Question Formats
◆ Section 10: Simulation Exercises
◆ Section 11: Tips for Answering Multiple-choice Questions
◆ Section 12: Pre-examination Check List
◆ Section 13: Sample Answer Sheet
◆ Section 14: Sample Test
◆ Section 15: Scoring the Examination
◆ Section 16: Answers to Sample Test
◆ Section 17: CDCS Website
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Introduction

Volunteers Associated with the CDCS Project

The Certified Documentary Credit Specialist (CDCS) credential is a peer-review
project that includes volunteers in each segment of its development. It is a joint
project of the Chartered Institute of Bankers (CIB) in the UK, and the International
Financial Services Association (IFSA) in the US and is endorsed by the International
Chamber of Commerce (ICC). There are several volunteer-intensive phases of the
project and they include:
X Job Analysis Study: volunteers identified the major responsibilities of a
Documentary Credit Specialist. They also detailed the knowledge and experience
required to meet these responsibilities competently. The Job Analysis Study
serves as the basis of the CDCS Content Outline and the Examination
Specifications;
X Study Text: The Guide to Documentary Credits: second edition is the reference
text for the CDCS examination. It is based on the Content Outline and was
reviewed by volunteers who served as topic experts;
X Test Development: volunteers who write, review and revise the questions
develop the CDCS examination. This is a very intensive responsibility and the
committee meets annually to prepare for each examination administration.

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CDCS Program Volunteers

Maria Adamczyk, CDCS — Chase Manhattan Bank
Lowell Campbell, CDCS — Chase Bank
Steve Cooke, CDCS — Standard Chartered Bank
Barbara Lotrionte, CDCS — Fleet Bank of Massachusetts
David Morrish, CDCS – Lloyds TSB Bank plc
Rita Nielsen, CDCS -Wells Fargo HSBC Trade Bank
Tineke Overvliet, CDCS – DHB Bank
Victor Pena, CDCS – Citicorp
Steve Thompson, CDCS - Standard Chartered Bank
Gareth Watts, CDCS – JP Morgan Chase Bank
Charnell Patrick Williams, CDCS — Citicorp
Paul Williamson, CDCS – JP Morgan Chase Bank

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Section 1

CDCS Study Text

The Study Text for the CDCS examination is The Guide to Documentary Credits:
second edition by Steve Berrisford, CDCS.
The text was reviewed by ifs and IFSA volunteers and produced by the CIB and IFSA.
The Study Text is intended to assist CDCS candidates prepare for the examination.
The text is based on the CDCS Content Outline (see Section 2); the Content Outline
details the knowledge and skills identified in a Job Analysis Study as necessary to fulfill
the major responsibilities of a Documentary Credit practitioner. A thorough
understanding of the topics covered in the CDCS Content Outline should result in
success on the CDCS examination.
Examination questions in the first section of the examination are referenced to the
Study Text. Questions in the Simulation portion of the examination are based on the
analysis and application of the information in the Study Text to actual situations.

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Section 2

CDCS Content Outline – Summary

A. Documentary Credit Groups

1 Types and Uses of Documentary Credits
2 Parties to the Credit: Roles, Responsibilities and Risks
3 Types of Payment
B. Characteristics of Documentary Credits
1 Primary Characteristics
2 Specialty Characteristics
C. Operations
1 Processes
2 Related Products/Terms
D. Financial and Commercial Documents
E. Rules

CDCS Content Outline

A. Documentary Credit Groups
1 Types and Uses of Documentary Credits
a Commercial
b Standby
2 Parties to the Credit: Roles, Responsibilities and Risks
a Required Parties
(1) Issuing Bank
(2) Beneficiary
b Applicant

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c Banks’ Roles and Obligations

(1) Issuing Bank
(2) Confirming Bank
(3) Advising Bank
(4) Negotiating Bank
(5) Paying Bank
(6) Accepting Bank
(7) Reimbursing Bank
d Types of Risk
(1) Operational/UCP500
(2) Credit
(3) Foreign Exchange
(4) Fraud
(5) Legal
(6) Political
3 Types of Payment
a Sight
b Deferred
c Negotiation
d Acceptance
B. Characteristics of Documentary Credits
1 Primary Characteristics
a Revocable
b Irrevocable
2 Specialty Characteristics
a Revolving Credits
(1) Cumulative vs Non-cumulative
(2) Automatic vs Controlled
b Instalment
c. Advance Payments
d Transferable
e Evergreen
f. Clean
g. Direct pay
C. Operations
1 Processes
a Issue
b Pre-advise
c Advise
d Confirm
e Amend
f Transfer
g Present

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h Examine
i Pay/Reject
j Claim
k Reimburse Funds
l Cancel
2 Related Products/Terms
a Letter of Indemnity
b Air Way Release
c Steamship Guarantee
d Assignment of Proceeds
e Participation and Syndication
f Trade-related Incoterms
D. Financial and Commercial Documents
1 Draft/Bill of Exchange
2 Commercial Invoice
3 Ocean/Marine Port-to-port Bill of Lading
4 Non-negotiable Seaway Bill
5 Charter Party Bill of Lading
6 Multimodal Transport Document
7 Air Transport Document
8 Road, Rail or Inland Waterway Transport Document
9 Forwarder’s Cargo Receipt, Mate’s Receipt and Consolidator’s Receipt
10 Post Receipt or Certificate of Posting
11 Courier or Expedited Delivery Service Document
12 Insurance Document
13 Weight Certificate
14 Certificate of Origin
15 Packing Lists
16 Inspection Certificate
17 Other Documents
E. Rules
1 UCP 500 – Uniform Customs and Practice for Documentary Credits
2 ISP98 – International Standby Practices
3 URR 525 – Uniform Rules for Bank-to-Bank Reimbursements under
Documentary Credits
4 UCP500 subarticle 20(b) – Decision on Original Documents
5 ICC Position Papers 1 – 4
6 ISBP - International Standard Banking Practice for the Examination of
Documents under Documentary Credits
7 eUCP – Supplement to UCP500 for Electronic Presentations

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CDCS Signpost Article

The following article has been prepared by Steve Berrisford CDCS, the author of The
Guide to Documentary Credits: second edition, and explains the significance of the
changes made to the CDCS Content Outline in 2005.
April 2004 saw the culmination of another successful year’s study with the numbers
in the ranks of Certified Documentary Credit Specialists rising to almost 2,500,
geographically spread across more than 60 countries.
Since its inauguration in May 1999 as the first internationally recognized standard for
Documentary Credits the CDCS examination has gone some way towards achieving
its two main aims of:
X providing an internationally recognized benchmark qualification for
competence in handling documentary credits;
X promoting uniformity in the interpretation and usage of Documentary Credits.
To ensure that these aims remain current the CDCS Board regularly reviews the
Documentary Credits job description by way of a job analysis survey. This survey is
used to gather information from a representative sample of active Documentary
Credit practitioners working in a number of different locations, and from its results
the examination content outline (syllabus) is reviewed and revised as necessary. As a
result of the latest survey candidates preparing for the 2004 examination should note
that the following topics will be included in the revised Content Outline from which
questions may be drawn.
1.International Standard Banking Practice for the Examination of Documents under
Documentary Credits (ISBP).
2.The Supplement to the Uniform Customs and Practice for Documentary Credits
for Electronic Presentations (eUCP).

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The purpose of this article is to raise the awareness of the need for students to
include these topics in their study and revision schedules, and to set out some of the
key points relating to this new subject matter.

ISBP
Candidates studying for the examination will be familiar with the following extract
from UCP 500 article 13a:
Compliance of the stipulated documents on their face with the terms
and conditions of the Credit shall be determined by international
standard banking practice as reflected in these Articles.

In order to provide amplification and improve consistency in application of international

standard banking practice in 2004 the ICC Banking Commission published the
‘International Standard Banking Practice for the Examination of Documents under
Documentary Credits (ISBP)’. This document explains how practices articulated in
UCP500 are to be applied by Documentary Credit practitioners, and is consistent
with the Opinions and Decisions of the Banking Commission.
CDCS candidates will need to study the content of the 200 numbered paragraphs
that make up ISBP. These are structured as follows:
X preliminary considerations that relate to the application and issuance of credits
(paragraphs 1 to 5);
X general principles that are not specific to any one article of UCP 500 or any one
document (paragraphs 6 to 44);
X practices that are clearly linked to a named type of document –
– drafts (paragraphs 45 to 58);
– invoices (paragraphs 59 to 72);
– transport documents (paragraphs 73 to 182);
– insurance documents (paragraphs 183 to 195);
– certificates of origin (paragraphs 196 to 200).

eUCP
As we reached the end of the 20th century it was recognized by the ICC Banking
Commission that the global trading community using Documentary Credits were
being presented with an increasing range of potential electronic solutions for the
preparation and transmission of documentation. As a consequence of this it followed
that there was a need to expand the reach of UCP 500 to provide it with the
flexibility not only to cater for traditional paper documentation transactions but also
for dematerialized documentation transactions transmitted electronically. At midnight

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on the 31st March 2002 the Supplement to the Uniform Customs and Practice for
Documentary Credits for Electronic Presentations, thankfully shortened to eUCP,
was born as the first step in responding to this need.
At the date of this article it is likely that the majority of students will have limited, if
any, ‘hands on’ experience of processing Documentary Credits subject to eUCP.
Regardless of current levels of involvement, the advent of electronic presentations
will undoubtedly change the roles of practitioners and banks involved in the traditional
Documentary Credit transactional flow.
Will beneficiaries need to receive credits in their favour via an Advising Bank or present
documents to a Nominated Bank?
Will a Confirming Bank need to receive Documentary presentations?
These are questions that are already being answered as trade chains are established
to pioneer the evolution from a paper to an electronic medium.
For this reason Documentary Credit Specialists will need to familiarize themselves
with the content and structure of the 12 articles of eUCP together with the
relationship between eUCP and UCP500.
In this respect the following points may be helpful to prospective CDCS candidates.
X eUCP is a supplement to, and must be used in conjunction with, UCP 500.
X It is flexible and may be used to facilitate mixed presentations made up of part
paper-based and part electronic presentations, or fully electronic presentations.
X It is intended to be dynamic. The current version 1.0 represents a starting point
for future revisions that will be needed to keep pace with changes to technology
and practice.
X It is structured to align with UCP 500 and its rules follow a logical sequence of
activities undertaken in an electronic presentation.
X It provides definitions of terminology used within its text.
X The provisions of its articles in relation to UCP 500 may be categorized into
four groupings. These are:
– provisions of UCP500 that have no parallel in the eUCP and are applicable to
an eUCP Credit (UCP 500 articles 2 to 10 for example);
– provisions of the eUCP that add to but do not contradict UCP 500 rules with
respect to an electronic record and which do not impact the UCP 500
provisions with respect to paper documents (eUCP article e3(a) for example);
– provisions of the eUCP that differ from the treatment of paper documents
under UCP 500 but only relate to an electronic record so that there is no
change to the provisions of UCP 500 as to paper documents under an eUCP
Credit (eUCP articles 11 and 12 for example);
– provisions of the eUCP that change the UCP 500 rule where the Credit is
subject to eUCP and that are applicable whether or not they apply to an
electronic record or a paper document presented under an eUCP Credit
(eUCP articles e2(a), e5(c) and (e), e7(a) and (b), and e8 for example).

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X Credits issued subject to eUCP are automatically subject to UCP 500 without
specific reference.
X Under a Credit issued subject to eUCP its provisions prevail over those of UCP
500 in the event of their application providing different results.
To further assist in the study of eUCP rules the ‘Guide to understanding the electronic
supplement to the UCP 500’, ICC publication no. 639 is recommended reading.

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Section 3

CDCS Examination Specifications

Multiple-choice Questions
The CDCS examination has a total of 120 questions and is in two parts:
X Part A contains 85 multiple-choice knowledge (KN) and application (AP) questions
based on the Study Text – approximately 1.5 hours of the examination.
X Part B contains 35 questions: 5 are multiple-choice analysis (AN) questions and
30 are included in the simulation exercises — approximately 1.5 hours of the
examination.
Content Outline Total KN AP AN
Part A
A. Documentary Credit Groups
1. Types and Uses of Documentary
Credits 4 4
2. Parties to the Credit: Roles,
Responsibilities and Risks 10 5 5
3. Types of Payment 4 2 2
Subtotal 18 11 7 0
B. Characteristics
1. Primary Characteristics 3 3
2. Specialty Characteristics 13 8 4 1
Subtotal 16 11 4 1

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Content Outline Total KN AP AN

C. Operations
1. Processes 21 8 10 3
2. Related Products/Terms 4 3 1
Subtotal 25 11 11 3
D. Financial and Commercial Documents 21 11 9 1
E. Rules 10 7 3
Part B
Simulation Questions 30
TOTALS 120 51 34 35

Candidates must pass the entire examination while achieving a

minimum passing score on Part B of the examination
X Candidates will have THREE hours to complete the examination.
X Candidates are responsible for timing themselves to ensure there is sufficient
time to complete both sections of the examination in three hours.
X The multiple-choice questions test your knowledge and how to apply that
knowledge to specific situations outlined in the simulation exercises.
X Each question qualifies for one point/mark; incorrect answers/points are not
deducted from the number of correct answers.
X The matrix on this page identifies the number of questions by cognitive
level. See Section 9 for additional explanations on the three cognitive levels
for multiple-choice questions.
X Types of questions – there are three basic levels of multiple-choice questions:
– knowledge questions are recall questions;
– application questions apply knowledge;
– analysis questions require both knowledge and application skills.

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Section 4

Self-assessment Tool

1. This simple self-assessment tool will assist you in identifying the areas of the
Content Outline that will require more study.
2. Plan to set aside adequate time to review each item on the Content Outline
and determine if the topic will require Review or Study.
X Review indicates familiarity with the topic. You feel you understand and
can explain the concepts and ideas in the section.
X Study indicates you will require a more thorough study of the topic in
order to understand and explain the concepts and ideas in the section.

Review Study
Section A Documentary Credit Groups
1. Types and Uses of Documentary Credits
a. Commercial
b. Standby
2. Parties to the Credit: Roles, Responsibilities and Risks
a. Required Parties
(1) Issuing Bank
(2) Beneficiary
b. Applicant
c. Banks’ Roles and Obligations
(1) Issuing Bank

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 CDCS study guide

Review Study
(2) Confirming Bank
(3) Advising Bank
(4) Negotiating Bank
(5) Paying Bank
(6) Accepting Bank
(7) Reimbursing Bank
a. Types of Risk
(1) Operational/UCP 500
(2) Credit
(3) Foreign Exchange
(4) Fraud
(5) Legal
(6) Political
2. Types of Payment
a. Sight
b. Deferred
c. Negotiation
d. Acceptance
Section B Characteristics of Documentary Credits
1. Primary Characteristics
a. Revocable
b. Irrevocable
2. Specialty Characteristics
a. Revolving
(1) Cumulative vs Non-cumulative
(2) Automatic vs Controlled
b. Instalment
c. Advance Payments
d. Transferable

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 Self-assessment tool

Review Study
e. Evergreen
f. Clean
g. Direct Pay
Section C Operations
1. Processes
(1) Issue
(2) Pre-advise
(3) Advise
(4) Confirm
(5) Amend
(6) Transfer
(7) Present
(8) Examine
(9) Pay/Reject
(10) Claim
(11) Reimburse Funds
(12) Cancel
2. Related Products/Terms
(1) Letter of Indemnity
(2) Air Way Release
(3) Steamship Guarantee
(4) Assignment of Proceeds
(5) Participation and Syndication
(6) Trade-related Incoterms
Section D Financial and Commercial Documents
1. Draft/Bill of Exchange
2. Commercial Invoice
3. Ocean/Marine/Port-to-port Bill of Lading
4. Non-negotiable Sea Waybill

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Review Study
5. Charter Party Bill of Lading
6. Multi-modal Transport Document
7. Air Transport Document
8. Road, Rail or Inland Waterway Transport Document
7. Forwarder’s Cargo Receipt, Mate’s Receipt and
Consolidator’s Receipt
8. Post Receipt or Certificate of Posting
9. Courier or Expedited Delivery Service Document
10. Insurance Document
11. Weight Certificate
12. Certificate of Origin
13. Packing Lists
14. Inspection Certificate
15. Other Documents
Section E Rules
1. UCP 500 – Uniform Customs and Practices for
Documentary Credits
2. ISP98 – International Standby Practices
3. URR 525 – Uniform Rules for Bank-to-bank
Reimbursements under Documentary Credits
4. UCP500 sub article 20(b) – Decision on Original
Documents
5. ICC Position Papers 1 – 4
6. ISBP – International Standard Banking Practice
for the Examination of Documents under
Documentary Credits
7. eUCP – Supplement to UCP500 for Electronic
Presentations

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Section 5

Key Terms

Key terms have been identified to assist you as you review the text. They are a
starting point and you may find it helpful to develop your own glossary of terms.

Chapter 1
X Acceptance
X Advising Bank
X Applicant
X Beneficiary
X Complied with
X Confirming Bank
X Counters
X Drafts
X Irrevocable undertaking
X Issuing Bank
X Negotiation
X Nominated Bank
X Payment
X Stipulated documents

Chapter 2
X Arbitrator
X Deferred payment
X Delivery obligation
X Good faith
X Legally enforceable
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 CDCS study guide

X Method of payment
X Performance
X Trade terms

Chapter 3
X Amendment
X Authenticate
X Discrepancies
X Freely negotiable
X Middleman
X Partialdrawings
X Partialshipment
X Reimburse
X Reinstated
X Revocable
X Substitution
X Transferable
X Transferring Bank

Chapter 4
X Compliance
X Correspondent Bank
X Disclaimer
X Expiry date
X Facility
X Presentation of documents
X Respond
X Without recourse

Chapter 5
X Down loaded
X Operational guidelines
X Workability

Chapter 6
X Agent
X Carrier
X Charter party
X Clean transport document
X Consignee
X Consignor

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 Key terms

X Date of shipment
X Documents of title
X Endorsed
X Freight forwarder
X Freight payable
X Freight prepaid
X Full set
X Indemnity
X Intended vessel
X Loading on Board
X Marked as Original
X Master
X Multimodal
X Negotiability
X Non-documentary conditions
X Non-negotiable
X Notation
X On Deck
X On its Face
X Place of delivery
X Port of discharge
X Port of loading
X Received for shipment
X Roll on Roll off
X Shipper load and count
X Taking in charge
X Transhipment

Chapter 7
X All risks
X Assigned by transfer or endorsement
X Certificates
X Date of issuance of insurance document
X Description of goods
X Fixed and determinable future time
X License
X Minimum cover
X Unconditional order in writing

Chapter 8
X Assignment of proceeds
X Common sense

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X Confirmation instructions
X Credit risk
X Discrepant documents
X Force majeure
X Freely negotiable
X Good judgment
X Honoring obligations
X Inconsistent with one another
X Notice of refusal
X Period for presentation
X Reasonable care
X Reasonable time
X Reimbursing Bank
X Role of the checker

Chapter 9
X Bankto Bank Reimbursements
X Reimbursement amendments
X Reimbursement authorization
X Reimbursement claim
X Reimbursement instructions
X Reimbursement undertakings

Chapter 10
X Conversion
X Counter indemnities
X Delivery orders
X Guarantee
X Letter of Indemnity
X Syndication

Chapter 11
X Fraud risk
X Legal risks
X Risks for the applicant
X Risks to the beneficiary
X Risks to the Advising Bank
X Risks to the Issuing Bank
X Risks to the Nominated Bank
X Sovereign and regulatory risks

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Section 6

Planning Your Study

Tips from successful certification examination candidates

X Your objective should be to arrive at the examination secure in the knowledge
that, through a well planned course of study and your practical experience, you
are in as strong a position as possible to be successful.
X Draft a study schedule/timeframe based on your objectives and a realistic view
of your time available for study and preparation.
X Review the CDCS Content Outline and Examination Specifications (Sections 2
and 3) and identify the areas with which you are familiar and require review and
the areas that are new and will require in-depth study.
X Discuss your objectives and study plan with a colleague or mentor who is willing
to discuss the examination materials with you and assist you during your study
phase.

Study Techniques
Using your experience, think about study techniques that have helped you in the
past and any others you may have come across. How do you learn something new on
the job?
Some ideas you may want to consider include:
X summarize the main ideas in the text;
X write study questions for self-testing based on materials in the text;
X use the key terms to identify not only definitions but use them for review;
X identify/flag key words, terms and concepts you do not understand or that are
new to you;
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X prepare ‘flash cards’ to capture key terms, definitions, exhibits and other material
that you have identified for additional study;
X work with a partner or study group to teach and test each other;
X test yourself frequently. What do I know? Do not spend time studying what you
know. Use what you know for review at the end of the study process;
X what is troublesome? Identify someone to help you understand sections you do
not know and find difficult;
X use the resources available through CIB and IFSA: check the website
(www.cdcs.org) for the CDCS Forum, a listing of review/revision courses and
other examination-related information;
X note questions to ask others with more experience or members of your study
group.

Develop a Study Plan

Once you have considered the different study options available to you, it is still
important to draft a study schedule/timeframe based on your objectives and a realistic
view of your time for study and preparation. Your study plan should reflect your
individual preferences and methods of working. It is important to remember that a
study plan is a flexible document and is both an indicator of where you are and where
you want to be.
The first step you should take is to determine your personal study objectives based
on the Content Outline and Study Text.
X You may find it helpful to write out your objectives and post them in a visible
location.
X Advance planning will provide multiple benefits as you prepare for the CDCS
examination. It will not require much time to develop a study plan, but doing so
will establish your priorities. The most important part of a study plan is to identify
how, when and where you want to study.
X By reviewing the CDCS Content Outline and Examination Specifications (Sections
2 and 3), you will be able to identify the areas with which you are familiar; those
you wish to review in detail, and those that are new to you and need in-depth
study.
X You will now be in a position to develop an overall study plan with specific
timelines. In drawing up your plan, you may find the following useful:
– prepare a study schedule – be realistic. Space your studying and allow ample
time for review;
– keep a copy of the CDCS Content Outline in a prominent place as you will
refer to it often;
– make the best of your environment. Some individuals prefer to study in a
quiet place, while others prefer working with the radio or television on in the
background. Whatever your preference, you can usually create the
environment you want for your study session;
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– be prepared to study in free moments, whenever you can. This means

identifying times that are available to you for study, such as travel time, standing
in lines and queues, waiting for a meeting to start, etc.

Summary
Relax while studying. The CDCS examination is an opportunity for you to learn and
to demonstrate your knowledge and ability. Maintain a positive attitude that you will
be successful on the examination and will allocate the resources required to ensure
success.
Do not worry about how much time is left before the examination. You have planned
adequately to allow for the maximum use of your time.
Take breaks, exercise. Keep your body and mind relaxed.
A sample Study Plan is shown on the next page – you may wish to reproduce it to
assist you in your preparation for the examination.

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Study plan
Content Outline Topic Page Reference Completed

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Section 7

Keys to Studying for Success

As adults we know that we learn in a variety of ways that differ significantly from the
ways we learned as children. As you read the Study Text you will be able to compare
the information with your own experience and knowledge. You can use the information
you are studying in several ways:
X if this is information you already know, the materials will reinforce your
knowledge;
X if the information is new to you, you can relate it to your own experience and
consider how the information can be used in your job;
X each chapter has objectives and study questions that will assist you as you focus
on the key elements within a chapter;
X use your memory effectively:

– frequent recall and use: build regular reviews into your study sessions. Be
selective about what you need to recall — use key terms and facts;
– indicate significance: make the information you need to recall stand out by
emphasizing it; link the information to your experience; use mnemonics;
– link to other items: link information to your own experience; look for patterns
and relationships among the items; compare and contrast information;
– regular review: plan regular review of key points; end a session by summarizing
what you have studied;
X getting started can be difficult: starting a session with a brief review of the
previous session may be helpful;
X if you are not feeling motivated, consider why you started this study in the first
place and think about what the CDCS credential will enable you to do;
X build in rewards — at the end of study sessions; at the completion of a
predetermined number of study sessions; and when you have completed your
study;
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 CDCS study guide

X itis important to think positively during your preparation period. If you do not
feel comfortable about your memory, monitor your progress. You will be pleased
at how much you can recall;
X there are no trick questions. As you take and study the sample test, you will see
how straightforward the questions are;
X the answers to all multiple-choice questions have been documented to the Study
Text.

Successful students offer the following advice on planning

your study and preparation for the CDCS examination
◆ To develop my study plan, I reviewed the syllabus and study materials. Then
I divided the Study Text and the study topics into the number of weeks
before the exam, allowing time for review.
◆ Design your plan with short study sessions (about 45 minutes) on a regular
basis. This builds a study habit and makes it easier to stick to your plan.
◆ When planning your schedule or timetable of study, always build in extra
time for contingencies, time off and relaxation and fun. There is nothing
worse than feeling like a prisoner of the examination preparation process.
If you build in extra study sessions, you can afford to be flexible and remain
in control of your time.
◆ Plan to revise your study schedule as you go along.
◆ Tell your family, friends and colleagues what you are doing. They will then
know what to expect of your schedule and be more supportive.
◆ Take charge of your own studies. Spend time getting to know the structure
and layout of the materials. Monitor your study progress against your plan
and make adjustments as needed. Expect success — if you put the effort
in, you will pass.

At the Examination Site

1.Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes early, as identification will be checked prior to
your being allowed into the examination room.
2.The examination will start promptly.
3.You will be allowed a full three hours to take the examination.
4.Read all instructions carefully.
5.Pace yourself: the examination has been written to allow approximately 1 ½
hours for each part of the CDCS examination.

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Section 8

CDCS Study Groups

There is a great deal of benefit to studying with others. Conference calls, email and
the internet provide access to your colleagues preparing for the CDCS examination.
Usually two types of information are shared in study groups:
X topic information from the Study Text;
X informal study tips, support and general assistance.

There are several ways to form study groups; most candidates preparing for other
certification examinations prefer the following two:
X Local Study Group: if there are others in your bank or city preparing for the
examination that is your first and probably best option;
X Electronic Study Group: identify others preparing for the examination who are
willing to share ideas, information and provide support by phone, fax and/or
email.
All questions on the examination are referenced to the Study Text; it is very important
to use the Study Text as the sole reference. It should be supplemented by the Rules
outlined in Section E of the Content Outline.

Study Groups Tips

1. Select the format that meets the schedules within your group:
Weekly usually meets for 1 – 1 ½ hours per session
Semi-monthly usually meets twice a month for 3-hour sessions
Monthly usually meets for 3 or 4 hours per session
Two days often 4 – 6 hours per day
Three days often 4 – 6 hours per day

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2. Determine the number and length of sessions.

3. Determine the topic schedule: number of sessions on topic material and
number of sessions focused on study tips etc.
4. Determine how presentations will be made to the group:
X will leadership rotate and each individual assume responsibility for certain
sections of the Study Text, which they will prepare for the rest of the
group?
X will you have experienced managers, supervisors or CDCSs from the
banks discuss the chapters in the Study Text?
5. Supplement the sessions with review of the Self-Study Guide.
6. After individual or group review of a chapter, answer the questions at the
end of each chapter. They are not in the examination format but highlight
the important information in each chapter.
7. Prepare test questions for other members of the group.
8. Prepare glossary cards based on the terms in the Study Guide and other key
terms identified from the Study Text.

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Section 9

Multiple-choice Question Formats

Levels of multiple-choice questions

Section A of the CDCS examination is entirely multiple-choice questions. There are
three levels of questions based on the cognitive or thinking levels required to correctly
answer a question.
X Knowledge (KN) questions are recall questions.
X Application (AP) questions apply knowledge.
X Analysis (AN), also called higher level thinking, questions require both knowledge
and application skills.
There are several standard formats for multiple-choice questions. Becoming familiar
with the various types will assist candidates as they prepare for the examination.

Sample Generic Questions

Correct answers are noted by an *

Recall/Knowledge: recall or knowledge questions recognize specific information

and facts that do not vary by situation. Such questions are predominantly an effort of
memory and include the recall of specific facts, generalizations, concepts, theories,
formulae and procedures. There will be 51 knowledge or recall questions on the
examination.

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X Which of the following is a primary color?

A. purple
B. green
* C. red
D. orange

Application: application questions require comprehension, interpretation, or

manipulation of concepts or data. They primarily test simple interpretations or
applications of limited data. Questions may require recognition of more than one
element or concept and the ability to apply knowledge to a specific situation. There
will be a total of 34 application questions on the examination.
X If the time in London, using Greenwich Mean Time, is 7.30 pm, what time
will it be in New York, using Eastern Standard Time (EST)?
A. 12:30 am
B. 1:30 am
C. 1:30 pm
* D. 2:30 pm

Analysis: analysis questions require the integration or synthesis of a variety of concepts

and/or elements to solve a specific problem situation. Questions test the ability to
gather information, evaluate data and make decisions. Analysis questions often require
value judgments concerning the effectiveness, appropriateness or best course of action
in a given situation. There will be five analysis questions on the examination.
X If a flight taking off from London at 12:35 pm takes 6.5 hours to reach New
York, what time will it land, using Eastern Standard Time (EST)?
A. 1:05 pm
* B. 2:05 pm
C. 12:35 am
D. 1:05 am

Direct or Closed Question: a complete question followed by four options; there is

only one correct answer to direct or closed questions.
X Who was the King of England in 1484?
A. George I
* B. Richard III
C. Edward IV
D. Henry V

Open Question or Incomplete Sentence: an incomplete sentence with four

options; there is only one correct answer to incomplete sentence questions.

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 Multiple-choice question formats

X Confederate Commander General Robert E. Lee’s horse was named

A. Trigger
B. Silver
* C. Traveler
D. Champion

Complete Question that includes the phrase ‘which of the following’: used
when there is more than one correct answer to a question, but ONLY one of the
correct answers is offered in the options.
X Which of the following is a prime number?
* A. 7
B. 10
C. 12
D. 15

Complex Multiple-choice: there may be more than one correct answer. The
response will include options.
X Which of the following cities are capitals of their respective countries?
1. Paris
2. Washington DC
3. Chicago
4. Sydney
A. 4 only
* B. l and 2 only
C. l, 3 and 4 only
D. 2, 3 and 4 only

Negatively Worded or EXCEPT questions: three of the four options are correct
and only one option is incorrect. There is only one answer for EXCEPT questions.
X All of the following are primary colors EXCEPT
* A. orange
B. red
C. blue
D. green

Key Words — LEAST, BEST, MOST: the question requires evaluation and the
selection of the appropriate option.
X Most color blind males inherit the gene from their
A. father
* B. mother
C. maternal grandmother
D. paternal grandfather

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Situational Set: there is one answer to each question in situational sets. There may
be more than one question for each information set.
X Michael has $100 to purchase clothes. Costs are: shirts, $20 each; sweaters
$30 each; slacks $40 per pair; and socks $5 per pair.
1. If Michael purchased 1 pair of slacks and 1 sweater, how many shirts can he
buy with his remaining money?
* A. 1
B. 2
C. 3
D. 4
2. If Michael spent 40% of his money on socks, how many pairs did he purchase?
A. 4
B. 5
* C. 8
D. l0

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Section 10

Simulation Exercises

Section B of the examination consists of FIVE analysis questions and SIX simulation
exercises. The simulations test the information gathering and decision-making skills
of the candidate by requiring them to analyze the information provided and identify
the irregularities/discrepancies in the documents for each simulation.
X Each simulation exercise has five responses that equate to FIVE questions per
simulation.
X Each simulation will include samples of documents to review.
X The content of each simulation is designed to reflect real work situations and to
be relevant to the responsibilities of Documentary Credit Specialists.
X There will be a series of documents that the candidate must review prior to
answering the questions for each simulation.
Candidates are required to identify the FIVE correct discrepancies or irregularities
from a checklist of a possible 15.

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Section 11

Tips for Answering Multiple-choice

Questions

X In multiple-choice questions the answer follows the question. There are four
options and only one is correct. Your task is to identify the correct answer from
the plausible, but incorrect, distracter answers. The correct answer is called the
key and the other options are called distracters.
X Remember that all multiple-choice questions have the same format — four
options but only one correct answer.
X The correct answer is the best answer for each question.
X Only correct answers are scored, so it is to your advantage to answer every
question.
X Analyze what the question is asking.
X Try to answer the question before looking at the options. Then decide which
option is closest to your answer and is the best option.
X It is best to answer questions as you proceed through the test booklet.
X Place question marks in the margin of your test booklet to indicate questions
that require more time or you cannot answer. You can return to these questions
when you have completed the other questions.
X As you cannot bring extra paper into the examination room, it is helpful to write
directly in your test booklet.
X Be careful of making pencil marks on the answer sheet. An Optical Mark Reader
machine scores the answer sheet. It is very important to completely erase pencil
markings if you change your mind. Do not make notes on the answer sheet.
X You can waste valuable time and increase the opportunity for error if you mark
your answers on the answer sheet individually. A preferred method is to circle
your answer in the test booklet and transfer your answers in blocks to the
answer sheet. Test experts recommend transferring answers after completing
each page of questions.
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X The more questions you answer, the better your chances of achieving a passing
score. For best results pace yourself, periodically checking your progress.
X If you are near the end of the examination period, make your best guess at the
unanswered questions by eliminating the incorrect/wrong options. You could get
the answer correct.
X Read all instructions carefully.

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Section 12

Pre-examination Checklist

❒ The admission ticket or attendance notice will be received two weeks

prior to examination.

❒ Select the best route to the test center and identify parking options.

❒ Plan to arrive at the test center 30 minutes prior to the examination

start.

❒ Plan on three full hours to complete the examination after instructions

by the test center supervisor.

❒ Bring your admission ticket and two forms of identification; one must be
a picture ID.

❒ Bring several HB/ #2 sharpened pencils; most test centers will not have
pencil sharpeners.

❒ Bring an eraser and watch as the test center may not have a clock.

❒ Do not bring food, beverages, extra paper, books, supplies, etc into the
examination room.

❒ Do not bring electronic devices into the examination room. You will be
disqualified if a pager or phone rings.

❒ Become familiar with the answer sheet on pages 48-49.

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Recertification guidelines

Section 13

Sample Answer Sheet

X The sample answer sheet on the next pages is for illustrative purposes only: the
spatial layout for the CDCS examination will be slightly different, eg to allow for
the incorporation of the ifs/International Financial Services Association logos.
X The instructions to candidates will be as follows:
– use only HB/#2 pencil to complete this form;
– make sure that you mark your choice with a straight line;
– to amend an answer, THOROUGHLY erase and mark the appropriate box;
– mark ONE box only for each question;
– answer all 120 questions;
X Registration No. – your candidate number as advised to you on your attendance
letter/notice.
X Session No. – as advised on your attendance letter/notice.

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Sample answer sheet

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Section 14

Sample Test

Answers to the Sample Test are in Section 16 page 65

Part A – Multiple-choice Questions

1. Which of the following clauses or notations appearing on the face of the

Transport Document would preclude it from being accepted?
A. Oil drums are leaking.
B. Highly flammable material.
C. Potentially explosive material.
D. Refrigerated seafood, may spoil during voyage.

2. An Issuing Bank becomes bound by the terms of an amendment to a

Documentary Credit at the time at which the:
A. Beneficiary accepts the amendment whether expressly or by implication.
B. Reimbursing Bank agrees to the Applicant’s request for an amendment.
C. Advising Bank advises the amendment to the Beneficiary.
D. Issuing Bank issues the amendment to the Advising Bank.

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3. When an Advising Bank adds its confirmation to a Documentary Credit,

which of the following risks has the Beneficiary mitigated?
1. Issuing Bank.
2. Foreign Exchange.
3. Political.
4. Fraud.
A. 1 and 3 only.
B. 1 and 4 only.
C. 2 and 3 only.
D. 2 and 4 only.

4. A Beneficiary receives an Irrevocable Documentary Credit for which USD

22,500 may be drawn during each month of the Documentary Credit’s one-
year validity. The Documentary Credit also indicates that reinstatement is
on a cumulative basis. Full monthly drawings were made during the first,
second, fourth, fifth and seventh months and there have been no other
drawings. In the last month of the Documentary Credit’s validity, the
Beneficiary expects to make a final shipment. What is the maximum value
available for this final drawing?
A. USD 112,500
B. USD 135,000
C. USD 157,500
D. USD 180,000

5. Which of the following Incoterms is correctly described?

Incoterm Insurance Doc. Transport Doc.
A. DDP Required marked Freight Paid.
B. CFR Required marked Freight Collect.
C. FOB Not required marked Freight Paid.
D. FCA Not required marked Freight Collect.

6. Prior to advising a Documentary Credit to the Beneficiary, the Advising Bank

is responsible for:
A. effecting payment against conforming documents.
B. checking the apparent authenticity of the Documentary Credit.
C. notifying the Issuing Bank that the Documentary Credit is being advised.
D. checking that the reimbursement method is effective?

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 Sample test

7. A Documentary Credit states that shipment must be made on or about 27

June. Which of the following shipment dates would be acceptable?
1. 20 June
2. 27 June
3. 02 July
4. 03 July
A. 1 and 2 only.
B. 1 and 4 only.
C. 2 and 3 only.
D. 3 and 4 only.
8. If an Exporter is willing to release the shipping documents directly to the
Buyer, but wishes to retain some guarantee of payment should the Buyer fail
to pay on the due date, which of the following Documentary Credits BEST
suits the Exporter’s needs?
A. Transferable.
B. Revolving.
C. Standby.
D. Evergreen.
9. Where a Documentary Credit includes a shipping schedule and an instalment
is NOT shipped within the stipulated period, which of the following
statements concerning the Documentary Credit is correct?
A. It continues to be available for that instalment only.
B. It continues to be available for that and other instalments.
C. It ceases to be available for that instalment only.
D. It ceases to be available for that and other instalments.
10. A Marine Bill of Lading acts as:
1. an acknowledgement of receipt of the goods by the carrier.
2. evidence of a contract of carriage.
3. a document of title for the goods.
4. evidence of the contract between the seller and the forwarding agent?
A. 1 and 3 only.
B. 2 and 4 only.
C. 1, 2 and 3 only.
D. 2, 3 and 4 only.
11. Which Documentary Credit enables a Beneficiary to obtain pre-shipment
financing without impacting his facility?
A. Transferable.
B. Red Clause.
C. Irrevocable, payable at sight.
D. Confirmed Irrevocable, payable at maturity.
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12. Which of the following percentages represents the minimum insured value
of goods on the insurance document unless otherwise stated in the
Documentary Credit where the CIF/CIP value can be determined?
A. 100%.
B. 105%.
C. 110%.
D. 115%.
13. Documents are presented in accordance with the terms of an Unconfirmed
Documentary Credit payable at sight and the Nominated Bank chooses to
negotiate them. Which of the following statements best describes the
Nominated Bank’s actions?
1. Make immediate payment to the Beneficiary.
2. Effect payment on receipt of covering funds.
3. Present documents to the Issuing Bank.
4. Confirm sight to the Reimbursing Bank.
A. 1 and 3 only.
B. 1 and 4 only.
C. 2 and 3 only.
D. 2 and 4 only.
14. A Documentary Credit is received without a stipulation of whether partial
shipments are allowed. Which of the following statements is applicable?
A. They are allowed.
B. Refer to the Issuing Bank.
C. Refer to the Beneficiary.
D. They are prohibited.
15. When a bank confirms an Irrevocable Transferable Documentary Credit it
assumes the credit risk of which party?
A. The Applicant.
B. The Issuing Bank.
C. The First Beneficiary.
D. The Second Beneficiary
16. When an Advising Bank has accepted a Time/Usance Draft under an Advised
Documentary Credit, they are responsible for effecting payment at maturity
when:
A. they have received funds from the Issuing Bank.
B. they have received funds from the Reimbursing Bank.
C. the draft is verified by the Applicant.
D. the draft is presented by the Beneficiary.

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17. Delivery of goods has been made to the buyer on 08 October. The relevant
documents were presented in order, including a CMR dated 15 days prior to
delivery. The Documentary Credit terms state that payment is to be effected
30 days after shipment. On which date will payment be made? (There are
NO bank holidays and Saturdays and Sundays are NOT banking days.)
A. Friday 22 October.
B. Monday 25 October.
C. Friday 05 November.
D. Monday 08 November.
18. The Confirming Bank receives documents on Friday 02 April and finds them
to be in order on 05 April. Tenor is 30 days after the Bill of Lading date. The
Bill of Lading is dated 01 April, and the Confirming Bank agrees to pay the
Beneficiary immediately. On what date would the Confirming Bank expect
to receive funds from the Issuing Bank? (There are NO bank holidays and
Saturdays and Sundays are NOT banking days.)
A. 05 April.
B. 12 April.
C. 30 April.
D. 03 May.
19. If an Applicant requests that the Documentary Credit expires for presentation
at the Issuing Bank with drafts drawn on the Issuing Bank 90 days after
sight, how should the Documentary Credit be made available?
A. By sight payment.
B. By deferred payment.
C. By acceptance.
D. By negotiation.
20. A Documentary Credit that will become available for presentation of shipping
documents to the Issuing Bank only after it has received and approved a
performance guarantee is usually described as:
A. Standby.
B. Revocable.
C. Inoperative.
D. Advance Payment.
21. In accordance with UCP, what is the maximum number of banking days
(inclusive of presentation date) that a Confirming Bank is allowed to refuse
the documents?
A. One.
B. Three.
C. Seven.
D. Eight.
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22. What should an Advising Bank do if it receives a Documentary Credit from

the Issuing Bank which includes the term ‘Transmissible’?
A. Disregard the term.
B. Seek clarification.
C. Advise the Documentary Credit as transferable.
D. Refuse to advise the Documentary Credit.

23. A Documentary Credit calls for presentation of an Insurance Certificate.

Which of the following insurance documents would be acceptable for CIF
shipment where the invoice value is USD 75,000?
1. Insurance Certificate for USD 82,500.
2. Insurance Policy for USD 85,000.
3. Insurance Declaration under Open Cover for USD 75,000.
4. Insurance Certificate for USD 75,000.
A. 1 and 2 only.
B. 1 and 4 only.
C. 2 and 3 only.
D. 3 and 4 only.

24. In accordance with UCP all the following statements relating to commercial
invoices under a non-transferable Documentary Credit are correct EXCEPT
the commercial invoices must:
A. be manually signed by the Beneficiary.
B. be made out in the name of the Applicant.
C. appear to have been issued by the named Beneficiary.
D. indicate the description of goods corresponding with the Documentary
Credit.

25. An Issuing Bank has issued a sight Documentary Credit to a Beneficiary

authorizing a Nominated Bank to pay the Beneficiary for all documents
presented in accordance with the Documentary Credit terms and conditions.
Upon receipt of complying documents drawn under the Documentary Credit
direct from the Beneficiary, the Issuing Bank should:
A. examine the documents and pay the Beneficiary.
B. verify the documents and pay the Nominated Bank.
C. return the documents to the Beneficiary for presentation to the
Nominated Bank.
D. remit the documents to the Nominated Bank for examination.

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26. Which party has the MOST responsibility to examine the terms and conditions
of a Documentary Credit against the sales agreement?
A. Applicant.
B. Beneficiary.
C. Issuing Bank.
D. Confirming Bank.
27. Which of the following classification types BEST describes a Standby Credit
that is intended to be the primary means of payment?
A. Bid bond.
B. Direct pay.
C. Performance.
D. Advance payment.
28. In the case of a Non-cumulative Revolving Documentary Credit available for
USD 10,000 per month and valid for six months, which of the following
statements is correct?
1. The face value of the credit is USD 10,000.
2. The face value of the credit is USD 60,000.
3. The amount(s) not utilized in one month may be carried over to the
next.
4. The total undertaking of the Issuing Bank is USD 60,000.
A. 1 and 3 only.
B. 1 and 4 only.
C. 2 and 3 only.
D. 2 and 4 only.
29. A Confirming Bank examines documents under a Documentary Credit, which
requires presentation of an Invoice, Certificate of Origin and an Ocean Bill
of Lading. The Documentary Credit also includes the following clause:
‘Special condition – all packages must be clearly marked with the country
of origin.’
Where the documents do NOT show that the packages have been marked
in this way and are otherwise in order, the Confirming Bank should:
A. reject the documents and suggest to the Beneficiary that he present a
certificate evidencing that this condition has been complied with.
B. reject the documents and suggest to the Beneficiary that the Certificate
of Origin be amended to include the special condition.
C. contact the Issuing Bank and withhold payment until clarification is
received.
D. ignore the special condition and honour the Beneficiary’s presentation of
documents.

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30. Documents under a Documentary Credit are tendered at the counters of

the Confirming Bank and are mistakenly found to comply with its terms and
conditions. The Confirming Bank pays the Beneficiary and forwards the
documents to the Issuing Bank. Upon receipt by the Issuing Bank, the
documents are checked and found to be discrepant. The Issuing Bank notifies
the Confirming Bank of all discrepancies ten banking days after receipt and
refuses to reimburse. In considering whether the Confirming Bank can recover
funds paid, which of the following statements are correct? It:
1. can recover from the Beneficiary.
2. cannot recover from the Beneficiary.
3. can recover from the Issuing Bank.
4. cannot recover from the Issuing Bank.
A. 1 and 3 only.
B. 1 and 4 only.
C. 2 and 3 only.
D. 2 and 4 only.

31. An Exporter based in New York has agreed to sell goods to a company in
London. The Importer is responsible for arranging freight and insurance.
Which of the following shipping terms is correct?
A. CIF London.
B. FAS London.
C. CIF New York.
D. FAS New York.

32. What is the applicable Incoterm for an Airway Bill marked ‘Freight Prepaid’?
A. FCA.
B. CFR.
C. CPT.
D. DAF.

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 Sample test

Part B – Simulation
INSTRUCTIONS
You are the Letter of Credit issuer at ABC Bank plc and are requested to identify
five irregularities in the application form attached.

INFORMATION
Application for Documentary Letter of Credit

Applicant: Savage Steel plc

Issuing Bank: ABC Bank Plc
Amount: USD 120,00.00
Savage Steel Facilities with ABC Bank plc
USD 1,600,000
Current Exposure
USD 1,104,000

SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION
1) Irregularity checklist.
2) Irrevocable Documentary Credit Application Form.

INSTRUCTIONS TO STUDENTS
Identify the five irregularities on the attached irregularity checklist (document 1)
then transfer your answer to the main answer sheet.

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Irrevocable Documentary Credit Application Form

Applicant: Issuing Bank:
Savage Steel plc ABC Bank plc
Tilton Road London
Birmingham England
England

Date of Application: 1 March XX Expiry Date and Place for Presentation of

documents
† Issue by (air) Mail Expiry Date: 31.5.XX
† with brief advice by teletransmission Place for Presentation: Pittsburgh
(see UCP 500 Article 11)
; Issue by teletransmission (see UCP Beneficiary:
500 Article 11) Kirovski Steel Supplies
† Transferable Credit – As per UCP 500 Pittsburgh
Article 48 Pennsylvania USA

Confirmation of the Credit: Amount in figures and words (Please use

; not requested † requested ISO Currency Codes):
† authorized if requested by Beneficiary USD 120,000
Dollars one hundred and twenty
thousand

Partial shipments Credit available with Nominated Bank:

† allowed ; not allowed
Transhipments
† allowed ; not allowed
Please refer to UCP 500 transport Articles
for exceptions to this condition
Second Pennsylvannia Bank,
Pittsburgh
; by payment at sight
† by deferred payment at:
† by acceptance of drafts at:
† by negotiation

; Insurance will be covered by us Against the documents detailed herein:

; and Beneficiary’s drafts(s) drawn on:
Shipment as defined in UCP 500 Article ABC Bank, London
46
From: Newark, New Jersey

For transportation to: Southampton,

England
Not later than: 15 May XX

Goods (Brief description without ¦ Terms:

excessive details – See UCP 500 ¦ † FAS ; CIF
Article 5): ¦ † FOB † Other terms:
Flat rolled steel as per ¦ † CFR † as per INCOTERMS
previous
Letter of Credit ref DC 731264
Dated 10 January XX

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Irrevocable Documentary Credit Application Form (continued)

Commercial 1 signed, original 4 copies
Invoice and

Transport Document:
; Multimodal Transport Documents, covering at least two different modes of
transport (full set)
† Marine/Ocean Bill of Lading covering a port-to-port shipment
† Non-negotiable Sea Waybill covering a port-to-port shipment
† Air Waybill, original for the consignor
† Other transport document
; to the order of: Kirovski Steel Supplies, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania,
USA
; endorsed in blank
; marked freight ; prepaid † payable at destination
; notify: Savage Steel plc, Tilton Road, Birmingham, England

Insurance Document:
† Policy † Certificate ; Declaration under an open cover.
Covering the following risks:
All Risks excluding surface
rust

Certificates:
; Origin USA
; Inspection Issued and signed by qualified official
† Health
† Other
Other Documents:
; Packing List Goods description must exactly match Letters of Credit
terms
; Weight List Two copies
Documents 2 days after the date but within the validity of the Credit.
presented within 1 of shipment

Additional Instructions: We request you to issue on our behalf and

One original transport document for our account your Irrevocable Credit in
to be sent direct to: accordance with the above instructions
Savage Steel plc (marked (x) where appropriate). This
Tilton Road Credit will be subject to the Uniform
Birmingham Customs and Practice for Documentary
England Credits (1993) Revision Publication No.
500 of the International Chamber of
Commerce, Paris, France), Insofar as they
are applicable.

R SAVAGE
Name and signature of the Applicant

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Irregularity Checklist

1. Applicant’s facilities with Issuing Bank would be exceeded if

Documentary Credit issued. ❒
2. Description of goods unacceptable. ❒
3. Inappropriate insurance specification. ❒
4. Latest shipment date/expiry date incompatible with
presentation period. ❒
5. Pricing of goods does not match value of the credit. ❒
6. Request for validation of document(s) unacceptable. ❒
7. Incorrect type of transport document requested ❒
8. Additional instructions incompatible. ❒
9. Shipping terms incompatible with transport document. ❒
10. Issuer of some document(s) is ambiguous. ❒
11. Draft drawee unacceptable. ❒
12. Non-documentary condition(s) stipulated. ❒
13. Inconsistent insurance requirement. ❒
14. Country of origin not specified. ❒
15. Confirmation instructions ambiguous ❒

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Sample test

Section 15

Scoring the Examination

The decision to use the objective testing methodology of a multiple-choice examination

as the assessment instrument for the Certified Documentary Credit Specialist (CDCS)
credential allows a range of established statistical methods to be employed to support
the testing and grading processes.
An objective test such as the CDCS examination can be defined as a ‘test constructed
in such a way that every question has a single unique correct answer’. Multiple-
choice tests are one form of an objective test and the opportunity to easily collect
performance data for multiple-choice examinations has led to the development of
numerous techniques for test evaluation and monitoring.
A variety of tried and tested techniques will be applied to the CDCS examination.
X All questions are reviewed extensively through a peer review process.
X All questions are analyzed prior to use by an established panel of international
experts.
X Post examination analysis of individual question performance through the analysis
of parameters, such as facility indices (which measure the difficulty of each
question) and discrimination indices (which measure the ability of the question
to distinguish between strong and weak candidates). This feedback provides
information for use in the development of future examination questions and will
also be useful in identifying possible areas for increased learning support.
X In addition, each test as a whole will also be reviewed in terms of reliability
measures, etc, to ensure that the examination is consistent and valid over time.

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Answers
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Previous section
Recertification guidelines

Section 16

Answers to Sample Test

Multiple-choice
Question Number Correct Answer
1 A
2 D
3 A
4 C
5 D
6 B
7 C
8 C
9 D
10 C
11 B
12 C
13 A
14 A
15 B
16 D
17 B
18 D
19 C
20 C
21 D
22 A

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Question Number Correct Answer

23 A
24 A
25 A
26 B
27 B
28 B
29 D
30 C
31 D
32 C
26 B
27 B
28 B
29 C
30 D
31 C
32 D
33 C
34 D

Simulation Irregularities
2 4 8 10 13

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Section 17

CDCS Website

X The CDCS website is available for your use and is a helpful tool as you prepare
for the CDCS examination – www.cdcs.org.
X For additional information or if you do not receive your materials, visit either
the ifs or IFSA website or contact ifs or IFSA directly:

Institute of Financial Services

IFS House, 4-9 Burgate Lane
Canterbury, Kent, CT1 2XJ, United Kingdom
http://www.ifslearning.com

The International Financial Services Association

9 Sylvan Way, First Floor
Parsippany NJ 07054 USA
http://www.intbanking.org

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