ICF ACC
ICF ACC Certification: Complete Guide
The Associate Certified Coach (ACC) credential is the first level of ICF certification. It demonstrates that you have met the foundational requirements for coaching education, experience, and competency. Here's everything you need to know to earn your ACC.
ACC Requirements
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Coach Training Hours: At least 60 hours of coach-specific education
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Coaching Experience: Minimum 100 hours of coaching experience (75 paid)
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Mentor Coaching: 10 hours of mentor coaching
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Performance Evaluation: Pass the ICF Credentialing Exam OR submit a recorded session for assessment
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Code of Ethics: Agreement to adhere to the ICF Code of Ethics
Estimated Cost
Application fee: $100-$300 depending on ICF membership status. Plus training program costs ($3,000-$15,000).
Timeframe
Typically 6-12 months from starting training to earning the credential.
What the Exam Covers
- ICF Core Competencies (all 8 competencies)
- ICF Code of Ethics
- Coaching vs. consulting, therapy, and mentoring
- Establishing coaching agreements
- Active listening and powerful questioning
- Creating awareness and designing actions
How to Prepare for ACC
- Complete an ICF-accredited coach training program (ACTP or ACSTH)
- Log at least 100 coaching hours with diverse clients
- Work with a mentor coach for 10 hours over 3+ months
- Study all 8 ICF Core Competencies and their behavioral markers
- Practice coaching sessions regularly — AI practice tools can help you get daily reps
- Take practice exams and review case studies
- Record yourself coaching and review against ICF competency markers
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