ICF Core Competencies: The Next Evolution

September 8, 2025 — The world doesn’t stand still, and neither should the coaching profession.

The ICF Core Competencies aren’t just standards; they’re the foundation that elevates coaching everywhere. These frameworks set the global standard for professional coaching, defining essential knowledge, skills, and behaviors that professional coaches need to deliver meaningful, results-driven coaching.

Excellence demands evolution. In a rapidly shifting world, thinking ahead is essential for anyone who understands the transformative power of coaching to create change. Every five to seven years, ICF relies on an evidence-based approach to update the Core Competencies, using comprehensive analysis, extensive global research, and most importantly, direct input and feedback from coaches.

The latest revisions build strategically on the 2019 foundation and ensure ICF credentials remain the gold standard, relevant, rigorous, and ready to meet the demands of an increasingly dynamic world. The revisions feature refined language, enhanced clarity, and targeted improvements to prepare coaches for the evolving demands of the profession.

While revising the Core Competencies, we also refined the Minimum Skills Requirements to enhance clarity and consistency. While these updates do not represent substantive changes to expectations, they ensure ease of use and clarity. Explore the latest updates to the Minimum Skills Requirements.

Learn more about the updated Core Competencies and download your copy.