Credentialing FAQ’s
Many questions can be answered by downloading and reviewing the ACC/PCC/MCC Candidate Guides, which can be found in the ‘Credentialing’ tab on the ICF Global website - ICF Coaching Credentials: Your Guide to the ACC, PCC & MCC
What is the difference between Level 1, 2 and 3 coach training programs?
- ICF Level 1 Coach Training Program provides the education, mentoring, and performance evaluation to prepare you to apply for your ACC credentialing. Upon completion, you will still need to complete 100 required coaching hours and then pass the ACC 60 question knowledge-based exam.
- ICF Level 2 Coach Training Program provides the education, mentoring, and performance evaluation to prepare you to apply for your PCC credentialing. Upon completion, you will still need to complete 500 required coaching hours and then pass the PCC/MCC 78 question situation-based exam.
- ICF Level 3 Coach Training Program is only for those coaches who have obtained their PCC and are seeking MCC level accreditation. These programs provide the education and mentoring needed to prepare you to apply for your MCC credentialing. Upon completion, you will still need to complete 2500 required coaching hours, submit and receive ICF approval for 2 recordings demonstrating MCC level coaching, and then pass the PCC/MCC 78 question scenario-based exam.
What is the portfolio path?
This is an alternative route to obtaining an ICF credential for coaches who haven't graduated from an ICF-accredited coach training program. You will need to provide specific documentation that including proof of required coaching hours, proof of 125+ hours of coaching education from Continuing Coach Education (CCE) programs or non-ICF-accredited programs. For non-ICF-accredited education, you must submit the program curriculum to demonstrate that it meets ICF standards. In addition, you will need to obtain 10 mentor coaching hours and submit your required recordings directly to the ICF for approval.
How long does the credentialing process take? What if I am up for a renewal?
For graduates from a Level 1 and 2 ICF aligned program applicants, applying for an ACC or PCC credential, the turnaround is generally 4 weeks. For MCC applicants, and those submitting through the portfolio route, the time frame is closer to 14 weeks.
You have 60 days from notification that you are approved to take the exam.
There is a 60-day grace period for renewals. If you apply for an advanced certification before that lapses, your previous credential is automatically renewed for one year to allow time for the application process.
Do CCE’s ever expire?
Not for your initial application. For renewals, or for advancing to the next credentialing level, CCE’s are counted only from the time of your previous date of approval/renewal.
How do I find a mentor coach? Who can mentor?
Anyone who holds a higher-level credential then you have currently obtained can serve as a mentor coach, so a PCC for ACC candidates, or an MCC for PCC or also MCC candidates. If someone holds an ACC and has been through at least one renewal period can also serve as a mentor coach. Although many coaches who mentor also go through additional training to understand the specific competency markers and requirements for passing the recording and exam required for credentialing.
You can find a list of ICF Heartland mentors in our credentialing tab or visit the ICF website for additional members who mentor coaches.
What’s the difference between ACC/PCC/MCC test?
The exam for ACC candidates is a 60-question multiple choice knowledge-based exam, focused on your understanding of the ICF Competencies and Code of Ethics.
The exam for PCC/MCC candidates is a 78-question multiple choice scenario-based exam, in which you are given coaching scenarios and asked to identify the best and worst answer, based on your understanding of the ICF Competencies and Code of Ethics.
What counts as experience hours?
You can begin counting coaching hours immediately after starting your first coaching education class, which is defined as a minimum of 30 hours with 34 hours of focus on ICF Competencies. However, only coaching hours obtained outside of the classroom are eligible. A certain number of these hours can be pro-bono, but the majority of hours need to be paid hours. Reciprocal coaching or bartered hours are considered paid.
A percentage of these hours must occur within 18 months of your application. Check the appropriate accreditation guide for level specific requirements.
What is the difference between Core CCE’s and Resource CCE’s?
Core Competency hours directly relate to enhancing your knowledge and understanding of the ICF Competencies. Resource hours can be any other hours that support your coaching practice. All your required CCE hours may be Core hours, but 20% can be Resource hours. (See accreditation guide for level specifics.)
If any Core Competency hours are not already ICF approved, you will need to submit a course curriculum and demonstrate alignment. This is not necessary with Resource Hours.
What is required for a recording submission?
If you are applying through the portfolio route, applying for your MCC, or have attended a Level 1 or 2 program prior to 2024, you will need to submit your recording(s) directly to the ICF for evaluation. These must be unedited sessions with an actual coaching client, 20-45 minutes long, and have an accompanying transcript in a Word Doc with time stamps. This transcript must be word for word and contain no pictures or last names.
Some popular transcription services include Transcribe Me, Scribe Me, and Otter. MS Teams also has the capability of giving you a transcription of your meeting. Be sure to carefully edit any transcription program you use.
Can I retake the exam or resubmit recordings if I don’t pass the first time?
Yes. If you do not pass, you will be notified by ICF regarding any specifics for retaking the exam, or time frame resubmissions are allowed.