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ACC Paths

There are three application paths to choose from for the Associate Certified Coach. Review the requirements to determine which path best fits your training and lifestyle.

  • ACC ACTP Path

    Requirements:

    • Completion of an entire ICF Accredited Coach Training Program (ACTP). Check for your program’s approval below.
    • A minimum of 100 hours (75 paid) of coaching experience with at least eight clients following the start of your coach-specific training. At least 25 of these hours must occur within the 18 months prior to submitting the application for the credential.
    • Completion of the Coach Knowledge Assessment (CKA).

    Pricing:

    • ICF Members: $100 USD
    • Non-members: $300 USD

    Estimated Timeline for Review: 4 weeks

    Verify Training Sample Application (PDF)
  • ACC ACSTH Path

    Requirements:

    • At least 60 hours of coach-specific training through an ACTP or ACSTH program. Check for your program’s approval below.
    • 10 hours of Mentor Coaching over a minimum of three months to be documented on your online application. Your Mentor Coach must be an ACC who has completed a full cycle of the credential through renewal, PCC or MCC in good standing.
    • A minimum of 100 hours (75 paid) of coaching experience with at least eight clients following the start of your coach-specific training. At least 25 of these hours must occur within the 18 months prior to submitting the application for the credential.
    • Performance evaluation (audio recording and written transcript of a coach session to be uploaded with your application).
    • Completion of the Coach Knowledge Assessment (CKA).

    Pricing:

    • ICF Members: $300 USD
    • Non-members: $500 USD

    Estimated Timeline for Review: 14 Weeks

    Verify Training Sample Application (PDF)
  • ACC Portfolio Path

    If you are counting Continuing Coach Education (CCE) units and/or non-approved training toward your training requirements, you are required to follow the ACC Portfolio path.

    Requirements:

    • At least 60 hours of coach-specific training with robust documentation. You will be required to demonstrate that you have completed a comprehensive training program that includes the ICF definition of Coaching, Code of Ethics and Core Competencies, and is organized in a scope and sequence that encourages your growth as a coach.
    • 10 hours of Mentor Coaching over a minimum of three months to be documented on your online application. Your Mentor Coach must be an ACC who has completed a full cycle of their credential (through renewal), PCC or MCC in good standing.
    • A minimum of 100 hours (75 paid) of coaching experience with at least eight clients following the start of your coach-specific training. At least 25 of these hours must occur within the 18 months prior to submitting the application for the credential.
    • Performance evaluation (audio recording and written transcript of a coaching session to be uploaded with your application).
    • Completion of the Coach Knowledge Assessment (CKA).

    Pricing:

    • ICF Members: $400 USD
    • Non-members: $600 USD

    Estimated Timeline for Review: 14 weeks

    Sample Application (PDF) Performance Evaluation

  • Training (Portfolio Path Only)

    Candidates on the ACC Portfolio Path must complete at least 60 hours of coach-specific training with robust documentation.

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  • Mentor Coaching (ACSTH and Portfolio Only)

    Candidates on the ACC ACSTH and Portfolio paths must document at least 10 hours of Mentor Coaching on their online application.

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  • Experience Requirements

    Applicants for ICF Credentials are required to demonstrate a set number of hours of coaching experience. Coaches must complete an attestation of this experience as part of the application.

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  • Coach Knowledge Assessment

    The Coach Knowledge Assessment (CKA) is a tool that can be used to measure coaches’ understanding of the knowledge and skills important in the practice of coaching. The CKA tests coaches on their understanding of the body of knowledge that includes the ICF definition of coaching, Core Competencies and Code of Ethics.

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  • Performance Evaluation and Transcript ( ACSTH and Portfolio Paths Only)

    The ACC ACSTH and Portfolio processes include a performance evaluation where ICF Assessors will review one recorded coaching session with transcript. You are required to pass this performance evaluation at the ACC level in order to be awarded the ACC credential.

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  • Submission

    Do not send documentation to ICF Headquarters by mail or email. Only documentation that has been included with your online application will be accepted.

  • Support

    If you have questions or need support regarding the Associate Certified Coach Credential, please email support@coachfederation.org.

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