Understanding ICF Credentialing and Certification
Coaching is about witnessing growth, celebrating aha moments, and empowering others to reach their fullest potential. An ICF credential equips you to guide clients toward greater transformation while opening new doors for your career and life.
It’s also what clients expect. An ICF credential helps you build credibility and trust by aligning your practice with globally recognized standards. In fact, the 2022 ICF Global Consumer Awareness Study found that 85% of coaching clients believe it’s important for their coach to have a credential or certification.
Whether you’re new to coaching or a seasoned pro, an ICF credential validates your expertise, accelerates your career, and expands your impact.
Find the Right Credential or Certification for You
No matter your experience level or career goals, there’s an ICF certification to match your journey. ICF offers a range of credentials and certification designed to enhance your skills and expertise. Here’s a quick overview of your options.
Associate Certified Coach (ACC)
Ideal for those new to coaching or looking to integrate coaching into their practice. This credential helps you build foundational skills and deepen your understanding of the ICF Core Competencies.
Professional Certified Coach (PCC)
Designed for more experienced coaches, the PCC demonstrates your ongoing effectiveness and proficiency in applying the ICF Core Competencies and Code of Ethics as a coaching professional.
Master Certified Coach (MCC)
For seasoned, expert coaches with a PCC wanting to take their expertise to the next level. The MCC credential showcases your mastery of the ICF Core Competencies and Code of Ethics in full partnership and service with clients.
Advanced Certification in Team Coaching (ACTC)
For ICF-credentialed coaches (ACC, PCC, or MCC) looking to specialize in team coaching, this certification helps you promote team autonomy and sustainability and enhance the value teams bring to their organizations.
Prepare for Your ICF Credential Application
The journey to earning an ICF credential isn’t easy. It takes dedication to meet the rigorous requirements, but that’s intentional — it sets you apart as a coach committed to excellence.
The application process is well worth it. Along the way, you’ll not only gain the skills and knowledge to advance professionally, but you’ll also embark on a personal journey of growth and self-discovery. Each step helps you connect more deeply to your purpose, enhance your impact, and find greater fulfillment in your work.
With an ICF credential, you’re not just elevating your practice — you’re stepping into a more rewarding and impactful future. Your future self will thank you.
Step 1: Identify Your Application Path
Wondering which credential or certification fits you best? Take a moment to think about your education, coaching experience, and career goals. Each credential level has its own application paths tailored to match your unique background. Let’s help you find the perfect fit!
If you’re aiming for the ACTC, you’ll need an ICF credential (ACC, PCC, or MCC) first. Once that’s checked off, you can find the find the right application path for you with the ACTC Survey.
If the ACC, PCC, or MCC is your target, start with the Credential Path Survey. This handy tool identifies which credential(s) you qualify for and guides you to the best application path based on your education and coaching experience.
Step 2: Complete Requirements and Gather Materials to Apply
Now’s the time to put in the work! This step is all about rolling up your sleeves and meeting the requirements that will bring you one step closer to your ICF credential. Depending on your chosen credential and application path, the specific requirements may vary. But don’t worry — we’ve got everything broken down so you can accomplish each requirement with confidence.
Education and Training
Your journey to becoming a skilled, ethical, and impactful coach starts with coach-specific education — it’s the foundation for everything else in the credentialing process. Whether you're pursuing an ACC, PCC, MCC, or ACTC, your training sets you up for success and ensures you’re ready to make a real difference.
Wondering how much education you’ll need? Here’s a quick breakdown of the hours required for each level:
| Credential/Certification | Hours of Coach-Specific Education Required |
|---|---|
| ACC | 60+ hours |
| PCC | 125+ hours |
| MCC | 200+ hours |
| ACTC | 60+ hours in team coaching |
Be sure to save all your program certificates — they’re a key part of your application. You’ll upload them in PDF, JPEG, or PNG format. If your program has issued a digital badge for the completion of your program, you can also provide the link. If your education isn’t accredited by ICF, you’ll also want to save additional documentation to show what you learned.
Coaching Experience
Coaching isn’t just about what you know — it’s about how you use that knowledge to partner with your clients in a meaningful way. The more coaching experience you have, the better you’ll get at applying your skills in real-life situations. Every coaching hour adds to your ability to adapt to different clients and challenges, sharpening your expertise along the way.
Here's what you’ll need to meet this requirement:
| Credential/Certification | Required Coaching Experience |
|---|---|
| ACC | 100+ hours |
| PCC | 500+ hours |
| MCC | 2,500+ hours |
| ACTC | 5+ team coaching engagements in the last 5 years |
Pro tip: Track your coaching hours as you go. Using a client coaching log can make it super easy to stay organized and on top of your progress.
Mentor Coaching and Coaching Supervision
Mentor coaching and coaching supervision are key to your growth as a coach. Think of them as your personal support system — offering tailored feedback and guidance to help you sharpen your skills, stay aligned with ICF standards, and keep evolving professionally.
Depending on your credential level, here’s what you’ll need:
| Credential/Certification | Mentor Coaching Hours | Coaching Supervision Hours |
|---|---|---|
| ACC | 10+ hours | Not Applicable |
| PCC | 10+ hours | Not Applicable |
| MCC | 10+ hours | Not Applicable |
| ACTC | Not Applicable | 5+ hours |
If you attended a Level 1, 2, or 3, education program accredited by ICF, you’re in luck — you may not need to submit anything extra for this part of the application. But if it’s not included, make sure you carefully document your sessions. You’ll want to note the mentor or supervisor’s name and contact info, session dates, hours, and whether the sessions were one-on-one or in a group.
Performance Evaluation
This is your time to shine and show what you can do! The performance evaluation is your chance to demonstrate your coaching skills in action. This process rigorously assesses your ability to deliver meaningful, ethical, and effective coaching.
For most ICF credentials, this means submitting recorded coaching sessions, along with written transcripts. ICF-accredited Level 1 and Level 2 programs include this as part of the training, so you may not need to submit anything extra. For other education that does not include an approved performance evaluation here’s what you’ll need to provide:
| Credential/Certification | Performance Evaluation Requirements |
|---|---|
| ACC | 1 recording + transcript |
| PCC | 2 recordings + transcripts |
| MCC | 2 recordings + transcripts |
| ACTC | Not applicable |
Step 3: Create and Submit Your Application
You’ve done the hard work, and now it’s time to show it off! Step 3 is all about submitting proof of your dedication and expertise. Let’s get your application ready to go.
Applying for Your ACC, PCC, or MCC Credential
To start your application for an ACC, PCC, or MCC credential, the first step is to complete the Credential Path Survey. At the end of the survey, you’ll see a link to create your application based on the credential and application path you’re eligible for.
As you work through the application, you will be asked to provide supporting documents or confirm details from Step 2. It’s all about making sure your hard work is backed up.
Applying for Your ACTC Certification
To start your application for the ACTC, you'll first complete the ACTC Survey. At the end of the survey, you’ll see a link to create your application based on the application path you’re eligible for. During the process, you will need to submit some supporting documents or may be asked to verify information from Step 2.
Finalizing and Submitting Your Application
If you ever need to return to your application, you can access it anytime by logging into your ICF profile. Once you’re logged in, scroll to the bottom of your profile page and click on “Continue Application.”
Just so you’re aware, your application isn’t fully submitted until you’ve completed your payment. If you choose to pay in installments, the review process won’t begin until the final payment is made. Once you’ve submitted everything and made your payment in full, you’ll get a confirmation email, and your application will officially be under review with ICF.
Step 4: Track Your Application
You’ve submitted and paid for your application — now it’s time to let ICF review it. While your application may take some time to review, you can easily keep tabs on the progress.
To track your application’s review, just log into your ICF profile and click on “Continue Application.” You’ll be taken to your application dashboard, where you can see the status of each part of your application in real time.
If anything needs clarification, we will contact you via email with instructions on what to do next. You’ll also see a note in your application saying “Additional Information Needed” for the section that needs attention. Just pop back into that section, make the update, and you’re good to go.
Step 5: Take Your Exam
You’re almost there! Once your application has been reviewed and approved, you’ll get an email saying you’re ready to schedule your ICF written exam. This is the final step in earning your credential or certification — and it’s your chance to show off everything you’ve learned.
The exam will test your knowledge and skills in key areas like the ICF definition of coaching, the ICF Core Competencies, and the ICF Code of Ethics. Think of it as the final checkpoint on your journey to becoming a certified coach.
Keep in mind that there are different exams depending on the credential or certification you’re pursuing, so you’ll want to make sure you're preparing for the right one:
| Credential/Certification | Exam |
|---|---|
| ACC | ACC Exam |
| PCC | ICF Credentialing Exam |
| MCC | ICF Credentialing Exam |
| ACTC | ICF Team Coaching Certification Exam |
Step 6: Celebrate Your Success
Congratulations; you did it! After passing the ICF exam, you’ll officially earn your ICF credential or certification. With this achievement comes a digital badge. This badge is a symbol of all your hard work and dedication, and you can proudly share it on your website, social media, or email signature. Let the world see your success and celebrate the amazing progress you’ve made on your coaching journey!
✔ Step 1: Identify Your Application Path
Start your adventure by completing the Credential Path Survey. This will help you discover which credential level and application path suits you best. If you're aiming for the ACTC, complete the ACTC Survey. Once you've chosen your path, dive into the specific requirements.
✔ Step 2: Complete Requirements & Gather Materials to Apply
Here’s where the magic happens! Tackle each requirement with focus and determination:
- Education and Training.
- Coaching Experience.
- Mentor Coaching and Coaching Supervision.
- Performance Evaluation.
Don’t forget to gather all the documentation you’ll need. Be sure to check ICF guidelines for format details to ensure everything is in tip-top shape.
✔ Step 3: Create and Submit Your Application
The moment has arrived: Time to submit your application! If you’re coming from the Credential Path Survey, you’ll find a link to start there. If you’re going for the ACTC, you'll be able to start your application after completing the ACTC Survey. Upload all your required documents — proof of education, coaching hours, and anything else your application needs to be completed.
✔ Step 4: Track Your Application
You’re in the home stretch now. After submitting and paying, keep tabs on your application status through your dashboard. If any additional information or clarification is requested, take action quickly to keep things moving smoothly.
✔ Step 5: Take Your Exam
It’s time for the grand finale: the exam. Prepare for and complete the ICF written exam based on the credential or certification you’re after.
✔ Step 6: Celebrate Your Success
Congratulations! Once you’ve passed your exam and received your credential or certification, it’s time to celebrate. Whether it’s a quiet moment of pride or a big celebration with loved ones, take a moment to savor your achievement.
Tips for a Successful Application
Just a few more steps, and you’ll be well on your way to achieving your coaching career goals. Submitting a successful ICF credential application is all about preparation and attention to detail. So, check out these tips to make sure you’re fully ready to shine on your application.
- Stay Organized: Keep everything you need — like education documents, coaching hours, and mentor coaching records — nice and tidy in one place.
- Review Application Requirements: Have you completed all requirements in Step 2? Do you have the documentation to prove it? It’s easy to miss something, so take the time to double-check everything.
- Get Feedback: It’s always a good idea to have a trusted colleague, mentor, or fellow coach take a look at your application materials. Fresh eyes can spot gaps or areas for improvement you might have missed.
- Be Thorough, Accurate, and Honest: Make sure all the details in your application are spot-on and consistent. And remember: Honesty is key! Any discrepancies could lead to delays in the review process, so keep everything accurate and true to your experience.
Additional Resources to Assist You
As you tackle the requirements and work through your application, remember: You’ve got a whole toolkit of resources at your fingertips! Take full advantage of everything we have to offer, from handy tools and templates to step-by-step guidelines.
PCC Portfolio Path Application: Sample
Download the PCC Portfolio sample application to assist with your ICF credentialing journey.
ACC Portfolio Path Application: Sample
Access the ACC Portfolio sample application to confidently complete your ICF credentialing process.
Performance Evaluation Coaching Session Transcript: Sample
The Sample Transcript template helps coaches document session dialogues for ICF credential applications, simplifying the submission process.
Credentialing Updates: Stay in the Know
We’re always evolving our credential and certification options to keep up with the ever-changing world of coaching. That means the requirements and offerings are constantly being fine-tuned to be as relevant and useful as possible for today’s coaching professionals. It’s important to know how these updates might impact you.
Candidate Guides: Your Roadmap to Success
The candidate guide is your ultimate go-to resource for everything you need to know about the credential or certification you’re working toward. It’s packed with all the info you’ll need to navigate the process with confidence!
ACC Candidate Guide
The ACC Candidate Guide is a detailed roadmap for those pursuing the ICF ACC credential. It covers eligibility requirements, application steps, performance evaluations, exam prep, and post-exam next steps.
PCC Candidate Guide
Discover the step-by-step process for obtaining the ICF PCC credential. This guide outlines eligibility, application, exam preparation, and what happens after the exam.
MCC Candidate Guide
Learn how to achieve the ICF MCC credential with this guide. It outlines eligibility, application submission, exam preparation, and post-exam next steps.
ACTC Candidate Guide
The ACTC Candidate Guide outlines the steps for obtaining the ICF ACTC credential. It includes details on eligibility, application, performance evaluation, and preparing for the team coaching exam.
Webinar Opportunities: Get the Answers You Need
Got questions? Curious about the details of the credentialing process or need a deeper dive into the requirements? Check out our webinars. They’re perfect for getting the insights you need in a fun, interactive way.
2024 Credentialing Webinar Series
The credentialing webinar series is designed to support chapters in promoting the value of ICF credentials and providing information on the ICF credentialing process. Chapters advertising this series will fulfill the credential awareness campaign requirement in their annual activity reports.