Differentiate Yourself
Earning an ICF credential is a pledge to uphold the highest level of professionalism, ethical standards, and continuous development. It’s recognized and respected by coaching clients worldwide.
Expand Your Network
With an ICF credential, you open doors to new professional opportunities and meaningful connections with peers who share your commitment to coaching excellence.
Meet Client Expectations
85% of clients value coaches with credentials, according to the 2022 ICF Global Consumer Awareness Study. Clients whose coaches held a credential were also more satisfied (by 28%) with their coaching experience. Clients expect the best. Be the coach they need.
Be Fulfilled
Don’t forget about yourself. Coaches report increased confidence, reduced imposter syndrome, and greater professional fulfillment after earning an ICF credential. It is a validation of your skills, your commitment to the profession, and your dedication to your clients. Why settle for less?
ICF Credentials = Legitimacy as a
Professional Coach
This journey isn't easy, but it is for people like you: someone who is passionate about and committed to transforming lives. There are three levels of ICF credentials, designed to support and recognize you based on your education and experience.
Achieve Your ACC | Associate Certified Coach
Requires 60+ hours of education and 100+ hours of coaching experience.
Get to PCC | Professional Certified Coach
Requires 125+ hours of education and 500+ hours of coaching experience.
Advance to MCC | Master Certified Coach
Requires a PCC credential, 200+ hours of education, and 2,500+ hours of coaching experience.
Expand With the ACTC | Advanced Certification in Team Coaching
Requires 60+ hours of team coaching education, 5+ team coaching engagements, and 5+ hours of coaching supervision.
Preparing Your Application
No matter which credential level you are pursuing, they all have the same key components (although numbers of hours and other specifics may differ for each component per credential).
Education
Begin your journey with coaching education aligned with the ICF definition of coaching, Competencies, and Code of Ethics. This foundation ensures you’re equipped to make a meaningful impact.
Experience
Once you’ve begun your education, you start counting your hands-on experience. Every session helps you grow your skills and confidence as you work toward becoming a credentialed coach.
Mentor Coaching and Coaching Supervision
Enhance your abilities and deepen your impact through mentor coaching (for ACC, PCC, and MCC) or coaching supervision (for ACTC).
Performance Evaluation
Demonstrate your practice through a performance evaluation that measures your coaching skills against ICF’s rigorous standards. (Note: This is not required for the ACTC.)
ICF Exams
ICF Exams measure a coach's knowledge and competence.
The Coaching Standards
Behind Your Credential
Professional coaching doesn't happen by chance. We define the standards that shape the profession, and we support you in mastering them.
ICF Core Competencies
Excellence in coaching starts with clarity. The ICF Core Competencies define the skills and behaviors required for an ICF credential.
ICF Code of Ethics
Trust isn't assumed; it's earned. The ICF Code of Ethics sets the benchmark for integrity across our global profession.
ICF COACHBOCK™
Knowledge strengthens practice. COACHBOCK is the authoritative guide to professional coaching, capturing the collective wisdom of our global community.
Be the Reason Someone Thrives: Get Credentialed
Ready to transform lives and elevate your coaching career? Advance your coaching journey with an ICF credential and become a force for positive change.