CITF (Certificate in International Trade and Finance) is assessed through two one-hour online exams, one for each unit. Each exam has 40 questions and is marked out of 40, and you need 70% in each unit to pass, which is 28 marks. You take both exams from home with remote invigilation and you do not need to book in advance.
CITF exam pattern and format at a glance
| Unit | Exam | Marks | Pass mark |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unit 1: International Trade Parties and Settlement Methods (ITPS) | 1 hour: 30 multiple-choice questions, plus 2 case studies with 5 linked multiple-choice questions each | 40 | 28 (70%) |
| Unit 2: International Trade Financing and Documentation (ITFD) | 1 hour: 30 multiple-choice questions, plus 2 case studies with 5 linked multiple-choice questions each | 40 | 28 (70%) |
In each exam, the 30 standalone questions are worth 30 marks and the two case studies are worth 10 marks. Each unit is worth ten credits, and CITF is a Level 3 qualification regulated by Ofqual and endorsed by the International Chamber of Commerce.
What does the CITF syllabus cover?
Across the two units, you study:
- The international trade environment
- The parties involved in trade finance and their roles
- Trade documents and Incoterms 2020
- Contracts
- Trade-based financial crime compliance
- Methods of settlement
- Documentary collections
- Documentary credits
- Guarantees and standby letters of credit
- Principles of supply chain finance
- Other forms of finance
- Export credit insurance
- Foreign exchange risk management
- Digital disruption and innovation
How is the CITF exam taken?
- Online: the exams are taken on the Brightspace platform from your own computer.
- Remote invigilation: before you start, you do a 360-degree scan of your surroundings with your laptop or webcam.
- No booking: you do not need to book an exam slot in advance.
- Quick results: results are available the same day.
- Time limit: you have 12 months from registration to complete both units.
- No recertification: CITF does not expire, so you do not need to renew it every three years.
What is the CITF pass mark?
You need at least 70% in each unit. That means 28 out of 40 marks in Unit 1 and 28 out of 40 in Unit 2. If you pass one unit and not the other, you only resit the unit you did not pass.
Resits
The published resit fee is £175 per unit, or £350 for both CITF units. Resits are arranged and charged by the awarding body in London, and LIBF India helps you with the process. See CITF fees in India for the full fee table.
Frequently asked questions about the CITF exam
What is the CITF exam pattern?
Two online exams, one per unit. Each lasts one hour and has 40 questions: 30 multiple-choice questions and two case studies with five linked questions each.
What is the CITF pass mark?
70% in each unit, which is 28 out of 40 marks.
Can I take the CITF exam from home?
Yes. The exam is taken online with remote invigilation. You will need a laptop or webcam for the 360-degree room scan.
Do I need to book the CITF exam?
No. You do not need to book in advance.
How long does the CITF exam take?
Each exam takes one hour, so the two exams take two hours in total.
How much does the CITF exam cost?
Your first attempt for both units is included in the registration fee. See CITF fees in India for the full breakdown.
Who is CITF for?
CITF is for professionals who want to build their knowledge of trade finance, including trade professionals and relationship managers. If you are comparing it with CDCS, read CDCS vs CITF, or see our guide to trade finance courses in India.
For a step-by-step explanation of the qualification, read the complete CITF guide for beginners.
Exam details were last checked on 26 October 2026 and may change. Sources: Walbrook Institute London CITF page.