Become an Associate Certified Coach (ACC) With ICF

The ACC credential is designed for coaches who are passionate about building a strong foundation in their practice. Whether you're early in your coaching career or are looking to integrate professional coaching into your existing career, the ACC demonstrates that you have the knowledge, skills, and competence to make a difference.

Program providers working on ICF-approved coach education curriculum.

The ACC: A Credential that Empowers You

With an ACC credential, you are not just a coach — you are a coach committed to excellence, ethical practice, and lifelong learning. You’re showing the world that you understand the fundamentals of coaching, including the ICF Core Competencies and the ICF Code of Ethics. This credential indicates your readiness to inspire change, empower coaching clients, and grow as a professional.

The Path to Becoming an ACC

Your journey to becoming an ACC starts with completing 60 hours of coaching education and 100 hours of coaching experience (think: time spent actually coaching clients). You’ll also need 10 hours of mentor coaching, where you’ll be guided and supported by an experienced coach. This journey ensures you’re equipped with the right tools to inspire and lead your clients.

 

ACC Eligibility Requirements

  • 60 hours of coaching education.
  • 100 hours of coaching experience (including at least 75 paid hours).
  • 10 hours of mentor coaching over three months.
  • Successful completion of a performance evaluation. 
  • Passing score on the ICF ACC Exam.
Dig In Deeper with the ACC Candidate Guide
Coach educators aligning their program with ICF accreditation standards.

ACC Application Paths: Finding Your Route

There are a few application paths to apply for the ACC, each tailored to your education journey. Whether you've graduated from a Level 1 or 2 program, or followed a unique educational path, ICF provides a clear route to credentialing success. Not sure about the differences between each application path? Check out the comparison chart for ACC application paths.

Choose Your Path

1. Level 1/Level 2 Path

For those who have completed ICF-accredited programs.

  • Member price: $175 USD.
  • Non-member price: $325 USD.
  • Estimated time to review: 4 weeks.

2. Portfolio Path

For those whose coaching education includes Continuing Coach Education (CCE) courses or non-ICF-accredited education.

  • Member price: $475 USD.
  • Non-member price: $625 USD.
  • Estimated time to review: 14 weeks.

Did you complete an ACTP or ACSTH program? If so, get more information relevant to your education.

Coach educators developing an ICF-accredited training program.

Begin Your ACC Journey

Ready to demonstrate your coaching excellence? Start your ACC application today and step into a world where your skills and passion meet global standards. Need extra guidance on how to get started? Check out the video series we’ve created specifically to help you get started on your ACC journey.

Begin Your ACC Application

Need More Info Before You Get Started?

Dive deeper into the requirements you’ll need to meet, and explore resources to help you succeed in your application journey.

Prepare Your Application

Find everything you need to know about education requirements, experience requirements, performance evaluations, and more.

Get Ready for the Exam

Be prepared for the final step in your journey to earning the ACC: the ACC Exam.

Access More Resources

Want even more? We’ve got you covered. Browse our credentialing-related resources, including the ACC Candidate Guide, sample applications, and more.