Find the Right Application Path
Whether you're exploring which credential fits best with your goals or you’re ready to take the next step, the ICF Credential Path Survey provides personalized guidance to set you on the right path.
Do you already have a credential and are interested in the Advanced Certification in Team Coaching (ACTC), Mentor Coaching Specialization (MCS), or Coach Supervisor Specialization (CSS)? If so, discover the right path for you(opens in new tab).
Learn
Take the survey to discover which ICF credential aligns with your education and experience. Answer a few questions to see which credential could be your next step.
Apply
Ready to apply? The Credential Path Survey is the first step in any credential application, so dive in and get started today!
Understanding the Pathways to Earn a Credential
We understand that coaching education comes in all shapes and sizes, which is why we offer multiple application paths for each ICF credential. Check out these comparison tables to find the path that best matches your education to move forward in your credentialing journey.
ACC Credential
The ACC credential is perfect for coaches early in their careers or professionals looking to incorporate coaching into their work. It is the first step in establishing credibility, building confidence, and showcasing your coaching skills in alignment with ICF's high standards for coaching excellence.
ACC Application Paths
| Requirements | Level 1 / Level 2 Path | Portfolio Path |
|---|---|---|
| Estimated Time for Review by ICF | 4 weeks | 14 weeks |
| Performance Evaluation | Completed as part of your Level 1 or 2 program. | Submit 1 recorded coaching session with transcript. |
| Exam | Passing score on the ICF ACC Exam. | Passing score on the ICF ACC Exam. |
| Application Fee: ICF Member | $175 USD | $475 USD |
| Application Fee: Non-Member | $325 USD | $625 USD |
| Coaching Education | Submission of your program certificate as proof that you successfully completed a Level 1 or Level 2 program in its entirety. | Proof of 60+ hours of coaching education from an ICF-accredited or non-ICF-accredited programs. For non-ICF-accredited education, you must submit the program curriculum to demonstrate that it meets ICF standards. |
| Coaching Experience | 100+ hours (75 paid) with 8+ clients. At least 25 hours must occur within 18 months of submitting your credential application. | 100+ hours (75 paid) with 8+ clients. At least 25 hours must occur within 18 months of submitting your credential application. |
| Mentor Coaching | Completed as part of your Level 1 or 2 program. | 10 hours with a PCC or MCC credentialed coach, or an ACC coach who has renewed their credential at least once. Hours must be completed over 3+ months and include 3 hours from one-on-one sessions. |
Did you take an ACTP or ACSTH program or attend only part of a Level 1 or Level 2 program? If so, find out how to apply for a credential with your education.
PCC Credential
Ideal for coaches seeking to deepen their practice and gain greater recognition, the Professional Certified Coach (PCC) credential highlights your ability to confidently apply coaching skills, knowledge, and ethical standards. With verified coaching proficiency and substantial client experience, the PCC sets you apart as a skilled professional whose primary focus is delivering impactful coaching services.
PCC Application Paths
| Requirements | Level 2 Path | Portfolio Path |
|---|---|---|
| Coaching Education | Submission of your program certificate as proof that you successfully completed a Level 2 program. | Proof of 125+ hours of coaching education from an ICF-accredited or non-ICF-accredited program. For non-ICF-accredited education, you must submit the program curriculum to demonstrate that it meets ICF standards. |
| Coaching Experience | 500+ hours (450 paid) with 25+ clients. At least 50 hours must be within 18 months of applying. | 500+ hours (450 paid) with 25+ clients. At least 50 hours must be within 18 months of applying. |
| Mentor Coaching | Completed as part of your Level 2 program. | 10 hours with a PCC or MCC credentialed coach. Hours must be completed over 3+ months and include 3 hours from one-on-one sessions. |
| Performance Evaluation | Completed as part of your Level 2 program. | Submit 2 recorded coaching sessions with transcripts. |
| Exam | Passing score on the ICF Credentialing Exam. | Passing score on the ICF Credentialing Exam. |
| Application Fee: ICF Member | $375 USD | $750 USD |
| Application Fee: Non-Member | $525 USD | $900 USD |
| Estimated Time for Review by ICF | 4 weeks | 18 weeks |
Did you take an ACTP or ACSTH program or attend only part of a Level 1 or Level 2 program? If so, find out how to apply for a credential with your education.
MCC Credential
The ICF Master Certified Coach (MCC) credential is the highest level credential offered by ICF. Reserved for seasoned coaches, it recognizes your exceptional skills, expertise, and unwavering dedication to professional standards. Earning the MCC sets you apart as a leader in the field, showcasing your mastery and commitment to ethical, impactful coaching.
MCC Application Paths
| Requirements | Level 3 Path | Portfolio Path |
|---|---|---|
| Credential Prerequisite | Must currently hold (or have previously held) a PCC credential. | Must currently hold (or have previously held) a PCC credential. |
| Coaching Education | Submission of your program certificate as proof that you successfully completed a Level 3 program. | Proof of 200+ hours of coaching education. |
| Coaching Experience | 2,500+ hours (2,250 paid) with 35+ clients. | 2,500+ hours (2,250 paid) with 35+ clients. |
| Mentor Coaching | Completed as part of your Level 3 program. | 10 hours with an MCC credentialed coach. Hours must be completed over 3+ months and include 3 hours from one-on-one sessions. |
| Performance Evaluation | Submit 2 recorded coaching sessions with transcripts. | Submit 2 recorded coaching sessions with transcripts. |
| Exam | Passing score on the ICF Credentialing Exam. | Passing score on the ICF Credentialing Exam. |
| Application Fee: ICF Member | $675 USD | $675 USD |
| Application Fee: Non-Member | $825 USD | $825 USD |
| Estimated Time for Review by ICF | 18 weeks | 18 weeks |
Understanding Pathways to Earning a Specialization
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Advanced Certification in Team Coaching (ACTC)
The ICF Advanced Certification in Team Coaching (ACTC) is perfect for experienced coaches ready to elevate their impact with teams. This certification showcases your expertise in fostering collaboration, trust, and growth within team dynamics. If you're passionate about guiding teams to thrive, the ACTC is your next step to deepen the value you bring to teams and organizations.
ACTC Application Paths
| Requirements | Option 1 Path: 60 hours of Team Coaching Education | Option 2 Path: Completion of an Advanced Accreditation in Team Coaching (AATC) Program | Option 3 Path: Credit for Prior Learning |
|---|---|---|---|
| Credential Prerequisite | Must hold an active ICF credential (ACC, PCC, or MCC). | Must hold an active ICF credential (ACC, PCC, or MCC). | Must hold an active ICF credential (ACC, PCC, or MCC). |
| Team Coaching Education | Proof of 60+ hours of team coaching education from an ICF-accredited or non-ICF-accredited program. | Submission of your program certificate as proof that you successfully completed a program with ICF Advanced Accreditation in Team Coaching. | Proof of 30+ hours of team coaching education from an ICF-accredited or non-ICF-accredited program. For non-ICF-accredited education, you must submit the program curriculum to demonstrate that it meets ICF standards. |
| Team Coaching Experience | 5 engagements | 5 engagements | 10 engagements |
| Coaching Supervision | 5 hours of coaching supervision | Completed as part of your AATC program | 10 hours of coaching supervision |
| Performance Evaluation | Not applicable | Not applicable | Not applicable |
| Exam | Passing score on the ICF Team Coaching Certification Exam | Passing score on the ICF Team Coaching Certification Exam | Passing score on the ICF Team Coaching Certification Exam |
| Application Fee: ICF Member | $250 USD | $200 USD | $250 USD |
| Application Fee: Non-Member | $350 USD | $300 USD | $350 USD |
| Estimated Time for Review by ICF | 4-6 weeks | 2-4 weeks | 4-6 weeks |
Coaching Supervisor Specialization (CSS)
The ICF Specialization for Coaching Supervision is designed for experienced coaches who want to support fellow practitioners as they navigate complexity, deepen reflective practice, and sustain professional and personal growth. Through coaching supervision, you can help create space for insight, learning, and continued development across the coaching profession.
CSS Application Path
| Requirements | Standard Path |
|---|---|
| Credential Prerequisite | Must hold an active PCC or MCC credential.* |
| Coaching Supervision Education | 41 hours of coaching supervision training that aligns with the ICF Coaching Supervision Competencies, with at least 50% through synchronous learning. |
| Introductory Application Pricing through March 2027 | ICF Member: $50 USD Non-Member: $125 USD |
| Pricing beginning April 2027 | ICF Member: $125 USD Non-Member: $200 USD |
| Estimated Time for Review by ICF | 4-8 weeks. |
*Note: If you hold a coaching credential or accreditation from a globally recognized coaching professional body at an advanced (professional or master) level, you may be eligible to apply. Please contact support@coachingfederation.org for guidance.
Mentor Coach Specialization (MCS)
The ICF Specialization for Mentor Coaching is perfect for advanced coaching professionals who are passionate about helping others strengthen their understanding and application of the ICF Core Competencies. If you enjoy guiding fellow coaches in their development of coaching skills and supporting growth through feedback and reflection, the Mentor Coach Specialization may be the next step in your journey.
MCS Application Path
| Requirements | Standard Path | Credit for Prior Learning Path |
|---|---|---|
| Credential Prerequisite | Must hold an active PCC, MCC, or renewed ACC. | Must hold an active PCC, MCC, or renewed ACC. |
| Mentor Coaching Education |
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| Mentor Coaching Experience | Not applicable. | Verification that you have provided mentor coaching to 5+ individuals, which may include:
|
| Exam | Not applicable. | Not applicable. |
| Introductory Application Pricing through March 2027 | ICF Member: $50 USD Non-Member: $125 USD | ICF Member: $50 USD Non-Member: $125 USD |
| Pricing beginning April 2027 | ICF Member: $125 USD Non-Member: $200 USD | ICF Member: $125 USD Non-Member: $200 USD |
| Estimated Time for Review by ICF | 4-8 weeks | 4-8 weeks |
Preparing Your Application
The process of applying for an ICF credential may seem complex, but breaking it down into clear steps makes it achievable. Follow these six steps to stay on track and set yourself up for success as you move forward with your application.
Bonus Tip: If you're an ICF member, you’ll receive a discount on your credentialing application fee — another great reason to join the ICF community if you haven't already.
Step 1 - Evaluate Your Education and Experience: Review your coaching education and track your coaching experience hours.
Step 2 - Identify Your Application Path: Complete the Credential Path Survey (for ACC, PCC, or MCC)(opens in new tab) to find out which credential and application path you qualify for. If you're applying for the ACTC, you will use the ACTC survey(opens in new tab) to find the path best for you. If you are applying for MCS, use the MCS survey(opens in new tab) to identify the pathway that’s best for you. If you're applying for the Coaching Supervisor Specialization (CSS), there is a single pathway(opens in new tab), so you can proceed directly to the application.
Step 3 - Prepare Your Materials: Gather your program certificates, document any non-ICF-accredited education, and make sure your coaching hours, mentor coaching or coaching supervision details, and performance recordings (if needed) are ready for submission. As part of your preparation, review Credential Updates and Specialization Updates for the latest announcements, important dates, and upcoming changes that may affect your application.
Step 4 - Create and Submit Your Application: For ICF credentials (ACC, PCC, or MCC), start your application using the link after completing the Credential Path Survey. If applying for the ACTC, start your application after using the link to complete the ACTC survey. If you are applying for MCS, you will first complete the MCS survey to access the right application for you. And for the CSS, you can progress directly to the single application. Upload required documents like education proof and coaching hours.
Step 5 - Track Your Application: After you’ve submitted and paid for your application, you can track your application status through the application dashboard. Respond quickly to any requests for clarification from ICF to avoid delays.
Step 6 - Take an ICF Exam: Once your application is approved, you can prepare for and complete the required ICF written exam. Remember, the MCS and CSS do not require an exam.
Tackling Your Application? Let’s Make It Easy
We know the application itself has many parts to it, but don’t worry — you’ve got this! Our step-by-step sample applications are here to guide you through the application with confidence and ease.
ACC Sample Applications
Level 1 / Level 2 Path
Portfolio Path
PCC Sample Applications
Level 1 Path
Level 2 Path
Portfolio Path
MCC Sample Applications
ACTC Sample Applications
Option 1 Path
Option 2 Path
Option 3 Path