Earn ICF Credentials-International Coaching Federation
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The ICF Credentials & Paths Explained

ICF offers three Credentials, corresponding with the quantity of education and experience required to earn it, in addition to the applicant’s ability to meet the requirements of each Credential. 

To learn more about each Credential’s requirements and the application path that best fits your education and experience, select the Credential you’d like to explore below.

NOTE: Updates to the Credential application process became effective August 2 at 12 Noon EDT (New York). Learn more about these changes.

  • Associate Certified Coach (ACC)

    Basic Requirements:

    60+ hours of education and 100+ hours of coaching experience

  • Professional Certified Coach (PCC)

    Basic Requirements:

    125+ hours of education and 500+ hours of coaching experience

  • Master Certified Coach (MCC)

    Basic Requirements:

    200+ hours of education and 2,500+ hours of coaching experience


Comparing the Credential Application Paths

Compare the various paths to apply for each Credential – ACC, PCC and MCC. Each Credential application path has the same basic requirements, but the specifics of each will vary depending on the type of education you have received.

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