Overview of the ACC Credential
The Associate Certified Coach (ACC) credential is your first step toward establishing yourself as a credible, professional coach. It validates your foundational understanding of the ICF Core Competencies, Code of Ethics, and definition of coaching. Whether you’re early in your coaching journey, practicing part time, or integrating coaching into another professional discipline, the ACC signals your commitment to core coaching principles and best practices.
The ACC Exam is the final step in earning your credential. Before you can take the exam, you’ll need to submit your credential application for review. Once your application has been reviewed, you’ll be notified if you qualify for the written exam.
Development of the ACC Exam
Designed to be a precise and reliable measure of coaching knowledge for those early in their career, the ACC Exam reflects the skills and principles essential for an Associate Certified Coach. It was developed through a thorough and thoughtful process aligned with best practices for certification and high-stakes testing.
What makes the ACC Exam unique? It was created by coaches, for coaches. Your credentialed peers played a key role at every stage — drafting and reviewing questions, determining correct answers, and setting the exam's passing standard. Each question underwent multiple rounds of review and testing by experienced coaching subject matter experts to ensure the exam is fair, accurate, and valid. This collaborative approach ensures the ACC Exam truly reflects the standards and knowledge expected of professional coaches like you.
Structure of the ACC Exam
The ICF ACC Exam consists of 60 multiple-choice questions designed to test your knowledge of coaching essentials. Each question offers four possible answers, with one correct response for each item. Your score is determined by the correct answers you choose, with no penalty for wrong answers. Similar to other standardized testing, scores are reported as scaled scores ranging from 200 to 600. A score of 460 is required to pass.
Exam Format
The ACC Exam is a proctored, computer-based written exam that you can take in person at a Pearson VUE testing center or online through Pearson’s OnVUE remote testing platform. The exam is divided into two sections, with an optional 10-minute break midway through the exam.
- Total Exam Time: 90 minutes, including an optional 10-minute break.
- Exam Format: 60 multiple-choice questions divided into two sections.
- Exam Breakdown:
- Exam Instructions: 2 minutes.
- Section 1 (30 questions): 39 minutes.
- Scheduled Break: 10 minutes.
- Section 2 (30 questions): 39 minutes.
Exam Content
Exam Language Information
Sample Exam Questions and Tutorial
Put your coaching knowledge to the test with our sample questions and online tutorial. With these examples, familiarize yourself with the question format and content that assess your ability to recall key concepts, apply theory, and analyze real-world scenarios. Take advantage of these opportunities to test your knowledge and walk into the exam feeling prepared and confident.
Exam Registration Process
Whether you're just starting the application process or have already submitted your credential application, here’s what you need to know about the next steps toward taking the ACC Exam.
Haven’t Yet Submitted Your ACC Credential Application?
To take the ACC Exam, you first need to submit your credential application along with all required documentation. Once submitted, your application will be reviewed, and you'll be notified of your eligibility to take the exam.
Have You Already Submitted Your Credential Application?
Great news! If your application has been reviewed and approved, you’ll soon receive an email with next steps. This email will include an invitation to schedule your exam appointment. Once you receive the invitation, you’ll have 60 days to schedule and complete the exam.
Next Steps After the Exam
Once you complete the exam, you’ll receive instant preliminary results, giving you immediate insight into your performance. Within one week, ICF will update your individual record with official results. You will also receive an email either celebrating your credential or guiding you through the steps to retake the exam if needed.
Related Resources
Looking for more ways to support your journey to becoming an Associate Certified Coach? We’ve gathered key resources to help you stay on track and boost your exam preparation.
A go-to resource for everything you need to know about applying for the ICF Associate Certified Coach (ACC) credential. Use it as your roadmap through the credentialing process to stay on track and make sure you're fully prepared every step of the way.
Whether you're brushing up on key concepts or seeking extra information, this list of core resources and additional references will help you sharpen your knowledge and get ready for the ACC Exam.