ACC Exam Resource Reference List

ACC Exam Reference List
The ACC Exam Reference List offers ACC candidates a list of core resources and additional references that can be useful in the journey to earn the ICF Associate Certified Coach (ACC) credential, including preparing for the ACC Exam. This list will be reviewed and updated regularly to reflect current resources to support coaches and credential candidates.

The resources included in this reference list are not required reading and do not reflect an exhaustive listing of helpful reading resources. Rather, they are provided as a starting place for candidates in their pursuit of the ACC. Each candidate is encouraged to develop their own personal reading list and study plan based on individual needs, knowledge, and resource base, including materials and textbooks from their coaching education program and coursework.

ICF Resources

Please note that current exam content is based on the 2020 version of the ICF Code of Ethics. Please review the 2020 ICF Code of Ethics and related resources when preparing for the ACC Exam.

ICF Core Competencies. | Read Now 

ICF Core Competency Video Series. | Watch Now 

Development of a Coaching Competency Framework, Joel A DiGirolamo, J. Thomas Tkach, George Rogers, Carrie Abner, Andrea Sinclair, PhD, Patrick Gavan O’Shea,
PhD, ACC, 2024 | Read Now 

ICF Code of Ethics, 2020. | Learn More

ICF Insights & Considerations for Ethics, 2020. | Read More

ICF Code of Ethics Video Series, 2020. | Watch Now

ICF White Paper on Referring a Client to Therapy: A Set of Guidelines, Alicia M. Hullinger, PhD, Joel A. DiGirolamo, 2018. | Read Now

Additional Resources
Becoming a Coach: The Essential ICF Guide, Jonathan Passmore, PCC, and Tracy Sinclair, MCC, 2020.

Coaching for Performance: The Principles and Practice of Coaching and Leadership, 5th edition, Sir John Whitmore, John McFarlane, 2017.

Foundations of Professional Coaching: Models, Methods, and Core Competencies, James Gavin, MCC, 2021.

Professional Coaching Competencies: The Complete Guide, Damian Goldvarg, MCC, Patricia Mathews, MCC, and Norma Perel, MCC, 2018.

Professional Coaching for Life and Work: Competency-Based Skills Training and Development Guide, Carole N. Bennett, PhD, MCC, and Michelle Payne, MCC.