Professional Certified

Coach (PCC) Candidate

Guide

rev. 2025.4.7
Professional Certified Coach (PCC) Candidate Guide 2025.4.7

Table of Contents
Welcome and Introduction .............................................................................................................. 4
Introduction .............................................................................................................................................. 4
How to Use the ICF Candidate Guide for PCC Candidates ........................................................................ 4
Purpose of the ICF Credentials ................................................................................................................. 4
Value of the ICF Credentials ..................................................................................................................... 5
The Professional Certified Coach (PCC) .................................................................................................... 5
Statement of Non-Discrimination............................................................................................................. 5
General Qualifications and Requirements for PCC Applicants ................................................................. 6
PCC Application Options................................................................................................................... 7
PCC Application Paths ............................................................................................................................... 7
PCC—Level 1 / ACSTH Path ....................................................................................................................... 7
PCC—Level 2 / ACTP Path ......................................................................................................................... 7
PCC—Portfolio Path .................................................................................................................................. 7
Application Option Table .......................................................................................................................... 8
Completing the Application ............................................................................................................ 9
Completing the Online Application........................................................................................................... 9
Application Audit .................................................................................................................................... 10
ICF Credential Refund Policy ................................................................................................................... 10
ICF Member Pricing*............................................................................................................................... 11
ICF Non-Member Pricing......................................................................................................................... 11
The ICF Assessment Process ......................................................................................................... 12
The ICF PCC Performance Evaluation ..................................................................................................... 12
Performance Evaluation Format and Requirements .............................................................................. 12
Assessment of the Performance Evaluation ........................................................................................... 13
The ICF Credentialing Exam .......................................................................................................... 14
About the ICF Credentialing Exam .......................................................................................................... 14
Exam Format and Delivery ...................................................................................................................... 14
Candidate Non-Disclosure Agreement ................................................................................................... 15
ICF Credentialing Exam for Returning Candidates .................................................................................. 16
Exam Scoring........................................................................................................................................... 16
Sample Exam Questions ......................................................................................................................... 16

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Exam Scheduling ................................................................................................................................ 17

Scheduling an Exam Appointment.......................................................................................................... 17
Pearson Online Exam Platform ............................................................................................................... 17
Rescheduling Policy ................................................................................................................................ 18
Cancellation Policy .................................................................................................................................. 18
Exam “No-Shows” ................................................................................................................................... 19
Exam “No Shows” for Remote Testing ................................................................................................... 19
Legal Restrictions .................................................................................................................................... 19
Prepare for an Exam Appointment ......................................................................................................... 20
Systems Test ........................................................................................................................................... 20
What to Expect at a Pearson VUE Testing Center............................................................... 21
Exam Identification Requirements ......................................................................................................... 22
Prohibited Items When Testing .............................................................................................................. 22
What to Expect During a Remote Testing Appointment ................................................. 24
Prior to The Exam ................................................................................................................................... 24
On The Day of The Exam ......................................................................................................................... 24
Exam Identification Requirements ......................................................................................................... 25
ONVUE Testing Security .......................................................................................................................... 26
Clothing and Accessories ........................................................................................................................ 26
Testing Space and Prohibited Items ....................................................................................................... 26
OnVUE Candidate Technical Requirements............................................................................................ 28
Languages ............................................................................................................................................. 30
Language Aids ......................................................................................................................................... 30
Exam Language Support ......................................................................................................................... 30
Requests for Bilingual Translation Dictionary......................................................................................... 30
Requests for Translation Support ........................................................................................................... 31
Exam Accommodations .................................................................................................................. 31
Reasonable Exam Accommodations for Candidates with Disabilities .................................................... 31
Requesting an Exam Accommodation .................................................................................................... 33
Supporting Documentation for Exam Accommodation Requests .......................................................... 34
After the Examination ...................................................................................................................... 35
Exam Scoring........................................................................................................................................... 35

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Recognition ............................................................................................................................................. 35
Use of Designation .................................................................................................................................. 36
Retake Policy ........................................................................................................................................... 36
Release of Info / Privacy Policy ............................................................................................................... 36
Maintaining Your Credential ......................................................................................................... 37
Renewal Requirements and Application ................................................................................................ 37
Timelines for Credential Renewal ........................................................................................................... 37
Continuing Coach Education ................................................................................................................... 38
Appeals ................................................................................................................................................... 39
Purpose of the Appeals Process ............................................................................................................. 39
Appeal Submissions ................................................................................................................................ 39
Reasons for Appeals................................................................................................................................ 39
Review of Appeal Requests .................................................................................................................... 41
Appeals Process Timelines ...................................................................................................................... 42
Documentation and Reporting ............................................................................................................... 42
Other Policy Information for PCC Candidates ....................................................................... 43
The ICF Definition of Coaching................................................................................................................ 43
The ICF Core Competencies .................................................................................................................... 43
The ICF Code of Ethics............................................................................................................................. 44
The PCC Markers ..................................................................................................................................... 44
ICF Credentials and Standards Policies and Procedures ......................................................................... 44
Scope of the ICF Credentials ................................................................................................................... 44
Secure Storage of Confidential Information ........................................................................................... 44
Rationale for Eligibility Requirements .................................................................................................... 45
ICF Membership Not Required ............................................................................................................... 45
Prohibition of Grandfathering ................................................................................................................ 45
Reciprocity .............................................................................................................................................. 45
Verification of Credential Status ............................................................................................................. 46
Use of Credential Mark/Logo/Badge ...................................................................................................... 46
Changes to the ICF Credentialing Program ............................................................................................. 47
Appendix A: Links to Useful Information ................................................................................. 48
Appendix B: ICF Code of Ethics (2025) ...................................................................................... 49

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Welcome and Introduction

Introduction
We applaud your decision to pursue the ICF Professional Certified Coach (PCC)
credential and look forward to supporting you along the way! By embarking on this
journey, you are demonstrating your commitment to meeting the highest
standards for professional and ethical practice in coaching.

How to Use the ICF Candidate Guide for PCC Candidates

The PCC Candidate Guide is intended for those pursuing the ICF PCC credential.
Please refer to other ICF Candidate Guides if interested in other ICF credential
offerings.

This Candidate Guide contains information about:

• Eligibility requirements.
• How to submit the application.
• The performance evaluation process.
• The exam processes.
• What to expect at the testing center or online testing.
• What to expect after the exam.

All applicants for the PCC should read this guide before beginning their application.
Applicants should use this resource as a source of guidance and direction in
navigating the certification process.

PCC applicants must adhere to all policies, procedures, and deadlines outlined in
this guide. ICF Credentials and Standards policies and procedures are designed to
protect exam content, maintain integrity of the certification process, and ensure
exam fairness and validity for all candidates and credential-holders.

Much of the information included in this guide is also available on the ICF website.
Purpose of the ICF Credentials
All ICF credentials are designed with a twofold purpose:
1. ICF credentials protect and serve consumers by requiring coaches to
undertake rigorous preparation and education to learn the qualities of
effective coaching, which serve as the foundation for coaching practice and
the high standards of ethical and professional established by ICF.

2. ICF credentials measure, recognize, and certify individual coaches for their
achievements in meeting the high standards of professional practice,
including the ICF Core Competencies.

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Value of the ICF Credentials

Anyone can call themselves a coach. But ICF certified coaches are professionals who
have met stringent education and experience requirements and have
demonstrated a thorough understanding of the coaching competencies that set the
standard in the profession. Additionally, they adhere to strict ethical guidelines as
part of ICF’s mission to protect and serve coaching consumers.

Professional Certified Coach (PCC) holders are educated, with at least 125+ hours of
qualified training; have 500+ hours of coaching experience; and have demonstrated
knowledge and proficient application of the ICF Core Competencies, Code of Ethics,
and definition of coaching. PCC holders show a commitment to high ethical
standards and have demonstrated, through rigorous assessment, competence in
using a variety of behaviors, and skills in their work with clients.

The Professional Certified Coach (PCC)

General Definition of Coaching
ICF defines coaching as partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative
process that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential.

Professional Certified Coach Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for the Professional Certified Coach, coaches must have at least 125
hours of coaching education, and 500 hours of client-coaching experience.

Professional Certified Coach (PCC)

For the experienced Coach looking to evidence their proficiency in coaching skills,
knowledge, and competence.
Coaches who have earned the Professional Certified Coach credential have achieved
proficiency in their knowledge of and ability to apply the ICF Core Competencies
and the ICF Code of Ethics as a coaching professional.
The PCC distinguishes coaches with the verified skills required for effective coaching
practice and substantial experience partnering with clients. The PCC is designed for
established coaches who provide coaching services as a primary focus of their
professional practice.
PCC coaches are required to demonstrate their continued professional development
to maintain their PCC status.

Statement of Non-Discrimination
The ICF endorses the principles of equal opportunity. Eligibility criteria for ICF
credentials are applied equally to all individuals regardless of age, race, religion,
gender, national origin, veteran status, or disability as defined by and in compliance
with the laws of the United States of America.

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Eligibility for the PCC

General Qualifications and Requirements for PCC Applicants
Applicants for ICF credentials must meet all the following minimum qualifications
and requirements:
• Completion of at least 125 hours of coach-specific education*.
More information about the educational requirements is available on the PCC
Credential page.
• Completion of at least 500 client coaching experience hours following the
start of coach-specific education, with:
•At least 450 paid coaching hours.
o At least 50 hours of client coaching experience within the 18 months
prior to submitting the PCC application.
o At least 25 clients**.
More information about the experience requirements is available on the Credential
Experience Requirements page.

•Completion of 10 hours of mentor coaching over a three-month period or

longer with an eligible mentor coach, including at least three (3) hours of
individual mentor coaching with a mentor coach.
More information about the mentor coaching requirement is available on the ICF
Mentor Coaching page.

• Successful completion of two (2) Performance Evaluations.

• Pass the ICF Credentialing Exam.
• Payment of required fees (see Application Fees Table).
• Not currently under or subject to investigation, sanctions, or remedial action
by ICF for a violation of the ICF Code of Ethics.

* At the PCC level, 125 hours of coach-specific education are required. This education may be earned through one or
more ICF-accredited or non-accredited programs. Your credential application path is determined by the type of
education you received.
**For this purpose, ICF defines the start of coach-specific education or training as any ICF-accredited program with at
least 30 hours, any CCE program with at least 30 hours (at least 80% of which are in Core Competencies), or a non-
accredited program with at least 30 hours (at least 80% of which are in Core Competencies). Please note that all non-
accredited programs are subject to review by ICF as part of the credential application process on the PCC Portfolio
path.

Please refer to the specific requirements listed in the PCC Application Options section below to review your application
requirements, based on the application path that is most appropriate.

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PCC Application Options

PCC Application Paths
There are three application paths for those seeking the PCC. All paths contain the
same requirements and lead to the same credential. However, the most appropriate
path for an individual applicant is determined by the source of the coach-specific
education completed. Review the requirements below when determining which
path best fits your coaching education.

PCC—Level 1 / ACSTH Path

This path supports PCC applicants who have completed at least 125 hours of
coaching education through Level 1 or Approved Coach Specific Training Hours
(ACSTH) accredited courses and/or a portion of an ACTP program or Level 2
program.

PCC—Level 2 / ACTP Path

This path supports PCC applicants who have completed an entire ICF-accredited
Level 2 program or Accredited Coach Training Program (ACTP).

PCC—Portfolio Path
This path supports PCC applicants whose coaching education includes Continuing
Coach Education (CCE) programs or coaching education courses that are not
accredited by ICF.

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Application Option Table

Level 1 / ACSTH Path Level 2 / ACTP Path Portfolio Path
Coach At least 125 hours of Completion of an At least 125 hours of coach-
Specific coach-specific entire ICF Level 2 or specific education. Education
Education education through one ICF Accredited hours may include ICF-
or more ICF-accredited Coach Training accredited, CCE, and/or non-ICF
Level 1 program(s), Program (ACTP). accredited courses. Non-ICF
ACSTH program(s) accredited programs must be
(ACSTH), or a portion of submitted with robust
an ICF ACTP or Level 2 documentation, demonstrating a
program. comprehensive coaching
education aligned with the ICF
definition of coaching, Code of
Ethics, and Core Competencies.

Client PCC candidates are required to document at least 500 hours (450 paid) of coaching
Coaching experience with at least 25 clients following the start of their coach-specific
Experience education or training*. At least 50 of these hours (paid or unpaid) must occur within
the 18 months prior to submitting the application for the credential.

*For this purpose, ICF defines the start of coach-specific education or training as any
ICF accredited program with at least 30 hours, any CCE program with at least 24
hours (at least 80 percent of which are in Core Competencies), or a non-approved
program with at least 24hours (at least 80 percent of which are in Core
Competencies). Please note that all non-accredited programs are subject to review
by ICF as part of the credential application process on the PCC Portfolio path.

Mentor Completion of at least Completed in Level 2 Completion of at least 10 hours of

Coaching 10 hours of mentor or ACTP program. mentor coaching over a period of
coaching over a period three months or longer with an
of three months or eligible mentor coach. A
longer with an eligible minimum of three (3) hours of the
mentor coach. A mentor coaching must be
minimum of three (3) delivered one-to-one with the
hours of the mentor mentor coach. The remaining
coaching must be hours may be completed one-to-
delivered one-to-one one or in groups of 10 or fewer
with the mentor coach. participants.
The remaining hours
may be completed one-
to-one or in groups of
10 or fewer participants.
Performance Two audio recordings Completed in Level 2 Two audio recordings with
Evaluation with written transcripts or ACTP program. written transcripts of coaching
of coaching sessions to sessions to be uploaded to the
be uploaded to the PCC PCC application. To earn the PCC
application. To earn the credential, applicants must
PCC credential achieve a passing score on the
applicants must Performance Evaluation.
achieve a passing score
on the Performance
Evaluation.
Written Completion of the ICF Credentialing Exam with a passing score.
Exam
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Completing the Application

Completing the Online Application
Applicants must apply using the PCC application forms available on the ICF website.
The online application is designed to guide you through each step in the application
process, keep personal information secure, and allow you to monitor the status of
your application following submission.

You are strongly encouraged to review the sample applications prior to starting the
application process.

To begin the credential application process, follow these steps:

• Go to the ICF website at https://coachingfederation.org/.

• From the menu at the top of the ICF homepage, hover over “Credentialing for
a dropdown navigation menu.

Select the Apply for Credential button from the menu.

Clicking on the Apply for Credential button will take you to a brief survey designed
to identify the credential levels and application path for which you are eligible based
on your coach-specific education and experience.

To start your application, click on the option that is best for you. You may be asked to
log in to your ICF account or create a new account. ICF members should use their
member login to receive a discount on their credential application. Non-members
will be asked to create a new account (creating a new account does not require you
to purchase an ICF membership).

Once logged in to your account, you will be directed to the application dashboard.
Prior to starting your application, please review the sample application for the path
you are using to apply. Sample applications with helpful notes can be accessed on
the ICF website.

You are not required to complete the application requirements in any specific order,
but you will need to complete all requirements to submit your application. ICF staff
will not begin the review of your application or schedule exams until all parts of your
application have been completed and submitted.

As part of the application process, you are required to attest that all information
provided in the online application is complete and accurate. If you provide false,

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misleading, or inaccurate information in your application, you are subject to denial

and/or revocation of an ICF credential and may be prohibited from reapplying for up
to five (5) years.

Application Audit
ICF staff will review all applications and will directly contact you to provide any
missing or incomplete information in the application. All applications are subject to
audit and verification. If selected for audit, an application cannot be approved until
the audit is satisfactorily concluded.

Coaches selected for audit will be required to access the contact information for
their clients or, for confidential internal or third-party coaching, an individual within
the organization who is authorized to verify their coaching hours. Coaches should
obtain and document clients’ consent to store their information, have a policy on
how that information will be protected and maintained, and have a system in place
for tracking relevant data. However, applicants selected for audit will not submit
client logs directly to ICF.

ICF Credential Refund Policy

Application fees are nonrefundable once an application is submitted. In the event of
a medical or personal emergency, ICF will consider a refund minus a $50
administrative fee within 15 business days of the date of submission. Requests must
include supporting documentation regarding the nature of the medical or personal
emergency and will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

ICF retains sole and reasonable discretion in the granting of a refund under the
Credential Refund Policy and may require the applicant to provide additional
documentation to support their request.

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Application Fees
ICF Member Pricing*
Application Application Performance ICF Re-
Path Review Evaluation Re- Credentialing certification
and Exams take Exam Re-take (every three
(if required) (if required) years)
PCC Level 2 / $375 USD n/a $105 USD $175 USD
ACTP
PCC Level 1 / $650 USD $150 USD per $105 USD $175 USD
ACSTH recording
PCC Portfolio $750 USD $150 USD per $105 USD $175 USD
recording

ICF Non-Member Pricing

Application Application Performance ICF Re-
Path Review Evaluation Re- Credentialing certification
and Exams take Exam Re-take (every three
(if required) (if required) years)
PCC Level 2 / $525 USD n/a $105 USD $275 USD
ACTP
PCC Level 1 / $800 USD $150 USD per $105 USD $275 USD
ACSTH recording
PCC Portfolio $900 USD $150 USD per $105 USD $275 USD
recording

*Note that members of ICF Professional Coaches and ICF Coaching in Organizations
receive a discount on their credential application fees. However, applicants are NOT
required to be members of any association or organization, including ICF, to be
eligible for application. To receive member pricing, an applicant must be an active
member of ICF Professional Coaches or ICF Coaching in Organizations at the time of
application submission.

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The ICF Assessment Process

The ICF PCC Performance Evaluation
Those applying through the PCC Level 1 / ACSTH and PCC Portfolio application paths
must pass the ICF PCC Performance Evaluation. (PCC Level 2 / ACTP path applicants
complete the performance evaluation process as a part of their Level 2 or ACTP
educational program.)

Performance Evaluation Format and Requirements

As part of PCC Level 1 / ACSTH and PCC Portfolio application paths, applicants are
required to submit two recordings with transcripts of coaching sessions for review
by trained ICF assessors.

Recording Requirements
• The recordings must be of a complete coaching session (not edited) lasting
between 20 and 60 minutes. Coaching will not be scored beyond the 60-
minute mark.
• The recordings must be from an actual coaching session between the
applicant and a paid or pro bono client (not part of a coaching education
program). The client for the session may not be a coach unless they are a
regular client. A regular client is an individual who has come to the applicant
for coaching and for no other reason.
• The recording must be an audio only file (no video/pictures). The following file
types are acceptable: MP3, WMA, MP4, or M4A (audio) format. Other formats
will not be accepted.
• The audio file must be in one part. Multiple files for one coaching session will
not be reviewed.
• The audio file must be 95 megabytes (MB) or less. Use a lower bit rate to
decrease file size, if needed.
• Applicants must upload the actual audio file to the application. Providing a
URL to download or stream audio recordings will not be accepted.
• File names must use only letters and numbers. In order to avoid issue when
uploading the files, do not include special characters in the file name (? / | \ ! @
# = $ % +).

Transcript Requirements
• The transcript must be a word-for-word (verbatim) record of the coaching
session(s), submitted in the language in which the session is held. NOTE: If ICF
does not offer a performance evaluation in your language, you will need to
submit a transcript in the language spoken AND an English translation of the
transcript. Available languages for assessment are found on the Performance
Evaluation page.
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• The transcript must indicate who is speaking — the coach or the client — at
any time in the conversation.
• List the coach’s statements and the client’s statements on separate lines of
the transcript.
• The transcript must include timestamps at every change in speaker (coach
and client).
• Transcripts must be submitted as a Word document (e.g., .doc, .docx). No
other file formats will be accepted.
• When naming file(s), applicants must ensure that only letters and numbers
are used in file names. In order to avoid issues when uploading the file, do
not include special characters in the document name (i.e., ? / | \ ! @ # = $ % +).

Assessment of the Performance Evaluation

Trained ICF assessors conduct comprehensive reviews of the two recorded coaching
sessions with transcripts submitted with the application. During the review,
assessors listen to the recordings and collect evidence of the applicant's use of the
ICF Core Competencies using the PCC Markers as their assessment criteria.
Assessors submit their markings to ICF Credentials and Standards, where results
(“Pass” or “Below Passing Standard”) are determined.

Passing the Performance Evaluation requires that a majority of assessors find that
the candidate demonstrated effective use of the ICF Core Competencies at the PCC
level and in alignment with the ICF Code of Ethics in the two coaching recordings
provided.

NOTE: The longest part of the application review process is the performance
evaluation section. Candidates may monitor the status of their application from the
application’s dashboard. Once a recording(s) has been assigned to an assessor,
candidates will receive a notice via email. Please allow 4 – 6 weeks for the
assessment to be completed, the results to be received and processed.

Candidates will receive an email notifying them when results have been received
from the assessor. The email will also include directions on how to access feedback
on the performance evaluation from the assessors.

Candidates who pass the Performance Evaluation will be sent a message with
instructions for scheduling completion of the ICF Credentialing Exam.

Candidates who are below the passing standard for the Performance Evaluation will
receive a message with instructions regarding the re-take process.

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The ICF Credentialing Exam

Following the staff review and verification that all qualifications have been met (e.g.,
education, experience, mentor coaching, performance evaluation), applicants are
authorized to complete the ICF Credentialing Exam as a final step in the
credentialing process.

About the ICF Credentialing Exam

The ICF Credentialing Exam content covers four broad domains: Foundation, Co-
Creating the Relationship, Communicating Effectively, and Cultivating Learning and
Growth. Exam questions cover the four domains accordingly as outlined below.

Domain: Foundation
• 13% - Competency: Demonstrates Ethical Practice
• 12% - Competency: Embodies a Coaching Mindset
Domain: Co-Creating the Relationship
• 12% - Competency: Establishes and Maintains Agreements
• 13% - Competency: Cultivates Trust and Safety
• 13% - Competency: Maintains Presence
Domain: Communicating Effectively
• 12% - Competency: Listens Actively
• 13% - Competency: Evokes Awareness
Domain: Cultivating Learning and Growth
• 12% Facilitates Client Growth

Exam Format and Delivery

Computer-Based Testing Delivery
The ICF Credentialing Exam is computer based. Testing takes place at testing
centers selected and confirmed by the testing vendor (Pearson VUE) or through
Pearson’s OnVUE remote proctored testing service.

Exam Format
The ICF Credentialing Exam is delivered in two sections with an optional scheduled
break midway through the exam. Exams are scheduled for three hours.

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The ICF Credentialing Exam is structured as follows:

I. Exam Instructions: 4 minutes

II. Section 1 (39 items): 83 minutes
III. Scheduled Break: 10 minutes
IV. Section 2 (39 items): 83 minutes

The ICF Credentialing Exam contains situational judgement items. Each exam item
contains a realistic scenario describing a coaching situation, followed by four
response options. For each scenario, candidates are asked to select the best
response and the worst response among the options provided for that scenario.
Each item is presented in a drag-and-drop item format.

There is only one correct best response and one correct worst response for each
coaching scenario. Although more than one response may represent a reasonable
response to the scenario presented, candidates will receive credit only for selecting
the best possible response or the worst possible response.

Candidates can “flag” items. Flagging items allows candidates to revisit those items
again before exiting the exam section if the section time has not elapsed.

Candidates can also review unanswered items before exiting a section of the exam.

Candidate Non-Disclosure Agreement

Before beginning the exam, all candidates will be required to complete the
following Candidate Non-Disclosure Agreement. Candidates must agree to the
statement before they will be allowed to access the exam items.

ICF Candidate Non-Disclosure Agreement and Statement of Understanding

The International Coaching Federation is committed to providing a secure, fair testing
experience for candidates. Conduct that jeopardizes the security of test content or is
disruptive to the testing environment is strictly prohibited and may result in
termination of the exam, dismissal from the testing center, invalidation of the exam
results or other penalties.

To protect the integrity of the exam and to ensure validity in testing results,
candidates must adhere to the following rules for testing.

• All test content is the property of the ICF and is confidential. Examination
questions or content may not be copied, shared, or disclosed in any form.
Candidates must keep all exam content confidential, both during and following
the exam.
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• The test is to be completed by the candidate without assistance from others.

Giving or receiving information about exam content, failing to follow testing
rules during the exam, creating a disturbance for other testing candidates, or
attempting to take the exam for someone else is strictly prohibited.

By clicking on “YES, I AGREE” you are consenting to be bound by the terms and
conditions of this agreement and state that you have read this agreement carefully
and you understand and accept the obligations which it imposes without reservation.
o YES, I AGREE
o NO, I DO NOT AGREE

ICF Credentialing Exam for Returning Candidates

Candidates who have previously passed the ICF Credentialing Exam when
completing their ACC credential, and who apply for the PCC within 12-months of
passing the exam, will have the requirement to re-sit for the ICF Credentialing Exam
waived. All other candidates will be required to sit the ICF Credentialing exam to
complete the PCC certification process.

Exam Scoring
The passing score and all exam results on the ICF Credentialing Exam are reported
as scaled scores. The range of possible scores is 200 to 600, with a passing score of
460.

Sample Exam Questions

ICF Credentials and Standards provides sample questions for the ICF Credentialing
Exam to support candidates in preparing for the exam. These questions are
designed to help candidates become familiar with the format of the exam questions
and how they will be presented on the exam. Performance on sample questions is
not indicative of performance on the ICF Credentialing Exam.

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Exam Scheduling
Scheduling an Exam Appointment
Once an applicant’s PCC application has been reviewed and approved, ICF
Credentials and Standards will notify the applicant via email that they have been
approved as a candidate to complete the ICF Credentialing Exam and provide
detailed instructions for scheduling an exam appointment with Pearson VUE, ICF’s
testing partner. Upon receipt of this notification, applicants have 60 days to
schedule and complete the exam.

Applicants may choose to complete the exam at one of Pearson VUE’s 5,000 test
centers worldwide, or through Pearson OnVUE, a live, remote proctored testing
service that allows candidates to test from the convenience of their home or office
while being monitored by an online proctor.

Candidates are strongly encouraged to review guidance from Pearson VUE to

support them in selecting the best test delivery option for them.

Pearson Online Exam Platform

To select the test delivery format (in person at a Pearson VUE testing center or
online through Pearson's OnVUE remote proctoring service) and schedule an
appointment to complete the exam, approved candidates must follow the steps
listed below:

1. Access your ICF profile.

2. Once in your profile, scroll down to locate My Applications found towards
the bottom of your ICF profile page.
3. Click on the Exam Info link listed by your ICF PCC application.

Upon clicking the Exam Info link, you will automatically be signed into the Pearson
VUE platform to access the exam information, where you will first select the delivery
method to take the exam and then schedule a time for the exam.

To Select OnVUE Remote Proctoring Service – Schedule appointment to take the

exam remotely with Pearson’s OnVUE system:
a) Select the OnVUE option to “take my exam from home or work” during
registration.
b) Use the scheduling calendar to select your preferred date and time for your
exam appointment.
NOTE: Remote proctors will communicate with candidates in English only. For
more information about the requirements for testing via the Pearson OnVUE
remote proctoring service, please review the Pearson OnVUE Testing guide.

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To Select Pearson VUE Testing Center - Schedule an appointment to take the

exam in person at a Pearson VUE testing center:
a) Select At a test center during registration.
b) Enter your address to search for and select a Pearson VUE Test Center near
you. Once selected, click "Next."
c) Schedule your exam appointment by selecting a day and time using the
scheduling calendar.
d) Confirm your scheduled exam appointment.

Additional information on testing at a Pearson VUE test center, including a video on

the testing experience and candidate FAQs, is available on the Pearson VUE
website.

Once an exam appointment is scheduled, candidates will receive an email from

Pearson VUE confirming their exam appointment date and time, a confirmation
number, and registration ID number. This email will also include important
information and instructions to prepare for the exam appointment, including
acceptable forms of ID needed for the exam check-in process, when to arrive or
login for their exam, and exam rules during testing. Candidates must carefully read
this information prior to the exam appointment.

For more information and instruction on how to schedule/reschedule an

appointment, please see the Pearson VUE Test Registration guides:
• Mobile Guide
• Desktop Guide

Rescheduling Policy
To reschedule an exam appointment, candidates must contact Pearson VUE or
access their online Pearson VUE account* at least 48 hours prior to the exam
appointment. Failure to reschedule in time or failure to appear for an exam
appointment will result in the forfeiture of exam fees, and candidates will be
required to pay an exam retake fee of $105 USD to reschedule their exam.
*See Pearson Online Exam Platform section above for instructions on how to access your online Pearson
account.

Cancellation Policy
To cancel an exam appointment, candidates must contact Pearson VUE or access
their online Pearson VUE account* at least 48 hours prior to the exam appointment.
Failure to cancel in time or failure to appear for an appointment will result in the
forfeiture of exam fees, and candidates will be required to pay an exam retake fee of
$105 USD to reschedule their exam.
*See Pearson Online Exam Platform section above for instructions to access your online Pearson account.

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Exam “No-Shows”
Exam “no shows” are candidates who fail to cancel or reschedule their exam
appointment at least 48 hours prior to their exam time, who do not appear for the
exam on the scheduled appointment date, or who arrive at the testing center for
their remote-proctored testing session more than 15 minutes after their
appointment time. No-show candidates forfeit all exam fees and are required to pay
an exam retake fee of $105 USD to reschedule their exam.

Exam “No Shows” for Remote Testing

Candidates who are unable to connect to their remote-proctored exam
appointment due to technical difficulties are considered “No Shows.” For these
remote-proctored candidates, the No Show status will be canceled for the first two
attempts to test. Within two business days of a No Show OnVUE exam appointment,
the candidate will receive an email notification that their previous exam
appointment has been cancelled. Upon receiving this notification, the candidate’s
exam authorization will be restored, and the candidate may schedule a new
appointment to complete the exam through remote proctored testing or through a
Pearson VUE testing center. Candidates whose authorization has expired since their
last appointment will be required to contact ICF to request a new authorization.

If a candidate has a third No Show attempt through remote-proctored testing, the

No Show status will not be canceled, and the candidate will be subject to the ICF
Retake Fee of $105 USD to reschedule their exam.

Legal Restrictions
As U.S.-based organizations, ICF Credentials and Standards and Pearson VUE are
subject to and must comply with international trade sanctions laws and regulations
imposed by the U.S. government (Office of Foreign Assets Control). These sanctions
regulations prohibit ICF Credentials and Standards from providing certain products
and services — including exam administration — to individuals or organizations in
designated countries subject to comprehensive U.S. sanctions, or to individuals
identified on the U.S. Treasury Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) List of
Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons.

As such, ICF Credentials and Standards is currently prohibited by law to administer

the ICF Credentialing Exam in the following countries and regions subject to
comprehensive U.S. sanctions: Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Russia, Sudan, Syria, and the
Crimea, Donetsk, and Luhansk regions of Ukraine.
Additionally, Pearson VUE has suspended delivery of all testing services throughout
Belarus, including in-person exam at test centers and online testing via OnVUE.
Remote test delivery is also unavailable in China due to limited internet and
connectivity issues. NOTE: The list of countries may change based on OFAC
requirements.
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Prepare for an Exam Appointment

To provide a fair and consistent testing experience for all ICF credential candidates,
the ICF Credentialing Exam is administered in secure testing centers or remotely
through Pearson OnVUE, a remote proctored test delivery service, in alignment with
global standards for certification exam delivery.

Resources are available to help prepare for the exam process and for what to expect
on exam day for candidates completing the exam at a Pearson VUE testing center
or through Pearson VUE’s OnVUE remote proctoring system are available.

• What to Expect When Testing with Pearson VUE: Pearson Testing Centers
(video)
• What to Expect When Testing with Pearson VUE: OnVUE Online
Proctoring (video)
• Guide: Traveling the Online Testing Route – An all-inclusive guide to
taking your exam online (PDF)

Systems Test
For Remote Testing Only – Candidates are required to complete a systems test on
the device you plan to use to take the exam prior to the exam appointment. The
system test offers a dry run of the software used during the exam-day experience, to
help ensure candidates have technology that will work on exam day. Candidates
who have not completed the system test before their appointment will be required
to complete it before connecting with a greeter. Any candidate who fails the system
test at that time can contact customer service for next steps. Access the system
test

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What to Expect at a Pearson VUE Testing

Center
On the day of the exam, candidates are asked to arrive at the designated Pearson
VUE testing center at least 30 minutes prior to the scheduled appointment.
Candidates who arrive late for an exam appointment will not be permitted to test
and will forfeit exam fees.

Arriving 30 minutes early allows the candidate to sign in, present required
identification, take a required check-in photo, and safely store any personal items in
a locker before the designated start time of the exam.

Upon arrival, candidates will be asked to sign in at the testing center and provide
two forms of identification. Candidates may also be asked to provide their exam
confirmation. The test center administrator will provide candidates with a locker and
key and request that any personal items are stored in the locker during the exam.

Before entering the testing room, candidates will be asked to empty and turn out
their pockets, roll up their sleeves and remove eyeglasses for inspection. This is a
requirement for all candidates testing at the test center and is designed to ensure
the security of all exams being administered at the test center.

A palm vein scan may be taken when you leave, and again when you re-enter the
testing room. If this is requested, you must comply with the request.

Candidates may adjust the text size of the exam questions at any time by selecting
CTRL+ to zoom in and CTRL- to zoom out. Any other special accommodation,
however, must be requested and approved by ICF Credentials and Standards prior
to the exam appointment.

To leave the testing room during the scheduled break, or to take an unscheduled
break during the exam, candidates should raise their hand and wait for the proctor
to escort them out of the testing room. Candidates will be asked to complete
security checks when returning to the testing room.

Upon completion of the exam, candidates may raise their hand to let the proctor
know they are finished. Candidates will receive preliminary score reports prior to
leaving the test center.

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Exam Identification Requirements

Upon arrival at the exam appointment, all candidates must provide proof of
identification with one form of original, valid identification. The primary identification
should be an unexpired, original government-issued photo ID with a signature. The
first and last name used to register for the exam must match exactly the first and
last name on the ID that is presented on test day.

The following are acceptable forms of government-issued identification:

• Valid driver’s license
• Valid military ID
• Valid passport
• Valid national identification card

Candidates may wish to bring a secondary form of identification to the exam

appointment, in case there is an issue or concern with the primary identification.

All IDs should be issued by the country in which the candidate is testing.
Alternatively, an International Travel Passport from the candidate’s country of
citizenship, along with a secondary ID may be used. To review Pearson VUE’s full
Identification Policy, please visit http://www.pearsonvue.com/policies/1.pdf.

Prohibited Items When Testing

Candidates are not allowed to bring any restricted items to the testing area. This
includes, but is not limited to:
• Food / snacks / candy
• Beverages
• Coats
• Calculators
• Papers / books
• Cell phones or other smart devices
• Eyeglass cases
• Tape recorders
• Wallets
• Purse
• Jewelry other than wedding and engagements rings
• Coats or sweaters
• Any other personal items

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Candidates taking an exam at a Pearson VUE testing center will be provided access
to a locker where they may safely store any personal items during the exam.

Candidates requiring personal items in the testing room due to a medical condition,
such as food, beverages, medication, or a monitoring device, must receive approval
from ICF prior to scheduling the exam appointment. Please review the Exam
Accommodations section in this guide for additional information on requesting and
obtaining an Exam Accommodation approval.

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What to Expect During a Remote Testing

Appointment
Prior to The Exam
Candidates are required to complete a systems test on the device you plan to use to
take the exam prior to the exam appointment. Candidates who have not completed
the system test before their appointment will be required to complete it before
connecting with a greeter. Any candidate who fails the system test at that time can
contact customer service for next steps.

Access the system test

On The Day of The Exam

On the day of the exam, it is important for remote testing candidates to find a quiet,
private space with a strong, reliable internet connection to complete the exam. No
other individuals may pass through the candidate’s testing space once the exam
has begun.
One display screen is allowed when you take an exam. You must remove or
disconnect all others. If you use a laptop with a second display screen, close your
laptop so that only one screen is active. Use a hardwired connection to your router
and disconnect from any VPNs. Where Wi-Fi is your only option, sit as close to your
router as possible. Remind others not to download large files or stream video,
because it can cause connection issues that prevent you from testing. If you use a
laptop, plug it in to a power source. You will not be able to leave the webcam view to
plug your laptop in when you start your exam.

Candidates should log in to the Pearson VUE platform 30 minutes prior to the exam
appointment and click the Begin Exam button to start the check-in process.
Candidates will be asked to run a final system check and shut down all other
applications that may be running on the computer.

On Microsoft Windows, press Ctrl+Alt+Del to access the Task Manager and shut
down running applications.

On a Mac, press Command+Option+Esc to access Force Quit.

Once all applications have been shut down, candidates will be able to run the
OnVUE program manually either from the screen or the download folder.

Please note that OnVUE proctors will communicate with candidates in English
only.

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Exam Identification Requirements

Prior to beginning the exam, candidates will be asked to take a photo of themselves,
their ID, and the testing space. The testing space must be clear and free of any
materials.

Make sure that the only items on your desk and at arm's reach are:
• The computer you will take your exam on.
• Items that have been pre-approved by your exam sponsor.
• Remove all other items from your desk and at arm's reach, such as:
• Books and notes.
• Paper and pens.
• Food and smoking products.
• All other electronics. Disconnect them if you cannot remove them.
• Clear all note boards and whiteboards in your room.
• Let others know that you must remain alone, quiet, and free from distraction.
• Make sure no one else can see what is on your screen, even at a distance.

Before testing online, you’ll need to provide identification (ID) that meets the
requirements outlined on this page.
• All IDs must be valid, government-issued originals (i.e., not a photocopy).
• ID must include the test-taker’s name and a recent, recognizable photo.
• The first and last name on the ID must match the first and last name used to
register for the exam.

The following are acceptable forms of government-issued identification:

• Valid driver’s license
• Valid passport
• Valid national identification card

The following are unacceptable forms of identification:

• Restricted IDs, such as U.S. Department of Defense (DOD), Common Access
Card (CAC), or certain secure access IDs
• Government-issued identification from countries where OnVUE is restricted,
including: Belarus, Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Russia, Sudan, Syria, and the
Sevastopol/Crimea regions of Ukraine.

All IDs should be issued by the country in which the candidate is testing.
Alternatively, an International Travel Passport from the candidate’s country of
citizenship, along with a secondary ID may be used. To review Pearson VUE’s full
Identification Policy, please visit http://www.pearsonvue.com/policies/1.pdf.

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A mobile phone can be used to take the required photos, however once the exam
has begun, any mobile phones must be placed out of reach. Mobile phones should
be placed on “silent” during the exam.

As a final step in the check-in process, candidates will be asked to agree to terms
and conditions and verify the exam for which they are registered.

ONVUE Testing Security

Once the exam has started, the candidate must adhere to the following testing
requirements. Failure to do so may result in the cancellation of the exam and
forfeiture of the candidate’s exam fees.
• Candidates must remain within the designated testing space and in view
of the webcam at all times during the exam, with the exception of the
scheduled break. Candidates may not cover or move the webcam at any
time during the exam.
• Candidates may not communicate with anyone other than the exam proctor
once the exam has begun. No one may enter or pass through the testing
space during the exam.
• Candidates may not read the exam questions aloud, speak, cover their mouth,
or hide their face during the exam.
• Candidates may adjust the text size of the exam questions at any time by
selecting CTRL+ to zoom in and CTRL- to zoom out. Any other special
accommodation, however, must be requested and approved by ICF
Credentials and Standards prior to the exam appointment.

Clothing and Accessories

You must be fully clothed throughout your exam. You may not wear the following
during your exam: coats or jackets, or barrettes or hair clips larger than ¼ inch (½
centimeter) wide. While taking your exam, you may wear head scarves, hair wraps,
billed caps (e.g., baseball caps), brimmed hats (e.g., fedoras), and religious apparel.
Generally, all head coverings and hat types are allowed as long as your eyes remain
visible to the proctor throughout the exam.

Testing Space and Prohibited Items

Choose and prepare your testing space. The place where you’ll take your exam is one
of your most crucial decisions. First and foremost, you must take your exam in an
enclosed, private space that allows you to maintain a strong and stable internet
connection.

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An ideal testing space will allow you to close all doors to avoid interruptions, since no
one else — including children, roommates, colleagues, etc. — may enter or pass
through your testing space once you’ve started your exam.

We do not recommend testing in the following environments:

• Public places like libraries or coffee shops, where other people could easily
enter your space and where you would use a shared Wi-Fi connection.
• Hotels, where Wi-Fi connections may be insufficient and don’t allow for basic
troubleshooting.
• Corporate offices, where firewalls, VPNs, or other security measures may block
video streaming.
Within your testing space, your computer screen must be positioned to face you
directly, and your background environment cannot jeopardize the integrity of the
exam content. For example, your testing space must not allow anyone else to view
your screen, so avoid testing near windows or glass partitions. Important: If your
testing space allows any other people into the camera’s view, you risk exam
revocation.

Candidates completing an exam via Pearson’s OnVUE system will be required to

show that no prohibited materials are accessible within their testing space.

The following items are not allowed in your testing space:

• Mobile phones*, hand-held computers/personal digital assistants (PDAs) or
other electronic devices, pagers, and watches
• Books or notes (unless specifically authorized by your exam program)
• Writing instruments, paper, notepads
• Wallets or purses/handbags
• Eyeglass cases
• Firearms or other weapons
• Headphones/headsets

Candidates may have a beverage during the exam. Eating, chewing gum, smoking,
or using other tobacco products is prohibited during the exam.

*Candidates may use a cell/mobile phone while checking in for an exam and/or in
case of a technical issue. Any other use, including but not limited to taking a call and
having a conversation with anyone other than a Pearson VUE proctor, texting,
accessing apps, etc., may result in your exam being revoked/terminated.

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OnVUE Candidate Technical Requirements

Pearson strongly recommends using equipment that meets or exceeds the
following recommended specifications. The minimum requirements will change
periodically based on the needs of our exam sponsors.

Please Note: An Internet connection disruption can suspend the test session,
resulting in a failed exam. By registering for a remote proctored exam, candidates
assume all risk associated with their internet connectivity.

Operating System
Windows 11 & 10 (64-bit) – (excluding ‘S Mode’) macOS 10.15 and above – (excluding
beta versions) Note: macOS, starting with Mojave, now requires permission from the
user to allow any hardware access to an application, which includes OnVUE
(proctorapp). Candidates should be prompted to allow this application.

Note: Windows Operating Systems must pass Genuine Windows Validation. •

Windows 8/8.1, Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP are not supported for
exam delivery • Linux/Unix and Chrome based Operating Systems are not supported.

Firewall
Corporate firewalls (including VPNs) or proxies often cause this delivery method to
fail. We recommend testing on a personal computer. Work computers generally
have more restrictions that may prevent successful delivery. Please take your exam
in a setting without a corporate firewall.

RAM
Minimum - OS specified Minimum RAM, Recommended - 4 GB RAM or more

Display
If using an external monitor, you must close your laptop and use an external
keyboard, mouse, and webcam. Multiple monitors are forbidden. Touch screens are
strictly forbidden.

Supported Internet Browsers

The newest versions of Microsoft Edge, Safari, Chrome, and Firefox, for web
registrations or downloading the secure browser.

Internet Connection
For optimal performance, a reliable and stable connection speed of 6 Mbps down
and 3 Mbps up is required. We recommend testing on a wired network as opposed
to a wireless network. If testing from home, ask others within the household to avoid
internet use during your exam session.

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Webcam
The webcam may be internal or external. The webcam must be forward-facing and
at eye level to ensure your head and shoulders are visible within the webcam. The
webcam must remain in front of you and cannot be placed at an angle.

Webcam must have a minimum resolution of 640x480 @ 10 fps. Note: Mobile

phones are strictly prohibited as a webcam for exam delivery. Note: Mac OS users
may need to allow OnVUE within their System Preferences: Security & Privacy:
Privacy settings for camera.

Sound & Microphone

Verify the audio and microphone are not muted. Note: Mac OS users may need to
allow OnVUE within their System Preferences: Security & Privacy: Privacy settings for
microphone.

Browser Settings
Internet Cookies must be enabled.

Device
All tablets are strictly prohibited, unless they have a physical keyboard and meet the
operating system requirements mentioned earlier.

Power
Make sure you are connected to a power source before starting your exam to avoid
draining your battery during the exam.

Mobile Phone
You may have the option to use your mobile phone to complete the check-in
process. The mobile must meet the following requirements:
• Android (7+, Chrome) or IOS (12+, Safari) operating systems
• A functioning camera with a stable internet connection (mobile phone is only
used for completing admission steps, and must not be used during the exam)

Once you have completed the check-in steps, please place your mobile phone out of
your arms reach where it is not accessible to you during the exam. As a reminder,
phones are a prohibited item and should not be within your reach or visible to you
while sitting in front of your computer.

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Languages
Language Aids
The ICF Credentialing Exam is available in English. In addition, language aids are
offered in select languages. An exam with language aids features both the original
exam item (English) as well as the same item in the language of translation.

Candidates completing the ICF Credentialing Exam with language aids will see the
exam instructions and all navigation buttons of the exam are in the language of
translation. Each item is presented in the language of translation, along with a
Translation button that allows the candidate to view the same item and response
options in the original English version. Candidates completing the ICF Credentialing
Exam with a language aid will automatically receive 30 minutes of additional exam
time. The 30-minute extension is designed to allow sufficient time for candidates to
view the translated items in the exam.

A list of available ICF Credentialing Exam language aids is available here.

Exam Language Support

Candidates completing the ICF Credentialing Exam in English as a secondary
language will receive an automatic time extension of 60 minutes if exam language
aids are not offered in their primary language AND the candidate resides in a non-
English speaking country.

Requests for Bilingual Translation Dictionary

Candidates whose primary language is not English and for which an ICF
Credentialing Exam language aid is not available may request to use a hard-copy
bilingual translation dictionary to support them in taking the exam. Web-based
translation dictionaries, software, and smart device applications are not permitted.

The candidate must provide a bilingual translation dictionary that consists only of
translations (no definitions may be included) and that is free of any markings or
handwritten notes. For exam security purposes, the dictionary provided will be
subject to visual inspection by a Pearson VUE proctor during the candidate’s exam
appointment at a testing center or via remote proctor service. Candidates approved
to use a bilingual translation dictionary will also be eligible for extended exam time,
not to exceed one hour. This service is provided at no additional charge to the
candidate.

To request the use of a bilingual translation dictionary, candidates should complete

the ICF Exam Language Support Request form and submit it to
support@coachingfederation.org (including “ICF Exam Language Support Request
Form” in the subject line) prior to scheduling an exam appointment. ICF is not able
to add a language support service to an existing exam appointment.
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Requests for Translation Support

Candidates may also submit an ICF Exam Language Support Request form to
request the Pearson Translation Support Service to complete the ICF Credentialing
Exam. This service, provided by Pearson VUE, allows a candidate to complete the
exam with translation assistance from a Pearson-approved translator. Candidates
requesting this service will be charged a fee by Pearson VUE of up to $1,500 USD to
support the translator’s services and related expenses.

To request the use of a translator, candidates should complete the ICF Exam
Language Support Request form and submit it to
support@coachingfederation.org (including “ICF Exam Language Support Request
Form” in the subject line) prior to scheduling an exam appointment. ICF is not able
to add a language support service to an existing exam appointment.

Exam Accommodations
Reasonable Exam Accommodations for Candidates with Disabilities

The mission of ICF Credentials and Standards is to provide credentialing and

certification services that recognize the professional competence of qualified
coaches to promote the delivery of safe, ethical, and quality coaching services to the
public. As part of this mission, we are committed to ensuring ICF exams are
accessible for all qualified candidates. At the same time, ICF is committed to
ensuring that the security, integrity and validity of its exams are not compromised.

A disability is defined as any impairment that, in interaction with a barrier, hinders a

person’s full and equal participation. The purpose of exam accommodations is to
remove barriers so that the individual with a disability may participate equally.

Individuals with a documented disability or other qualifying condition that impairs

their ability to access an ICF exam may request reasonable accommodation.
Candidates may also be approved for exam accommodations for documented,
qualifying medical or physical conditions that may be temporary, such as injury,
impairment following surgery, or pregnancy.

Exam accommodations are adaptations that help ensure an exam measures what it
is intended to assess. The purpose of exam accommodations is to provide
candidates with full access to the exam, not to ensure completion of the exam or
improve candidate performance. Accommodations cannot be made to the actual
content of the exam.

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Exam accommodations are individualized, considered and approved on a case-by-

case basis, and dependent on the nature of the disability or medical condition and
the documentation provided. To be considered a qualifying disability, the limitations
of the impairment must significantly restrict the individual’s major life activities as
compared to the abilities of the average person. Non-specific diagnoses such as an
individual learning style, learning difference, computer phobias, and test difficulty or
test anxiety by themselves do not constitute a disability.

ICF does not require a diagnosis. It does, however, require evidence that a
candidate’s disability has a significant impact on their ability to access the exam.

Items listed on the Pearson VUE Approved Comfort Aids list are pre-approved for
exam candidates and do not require submission of the ICF Exam Accommodations
Request Form. These items are allowed during testing, however Pearson VUE test
center staff or online proctors will ask to visually inspect approved comfort aid items
on exam day.

All other testing accommodations should be requested at the time of application

submission. During the application process, you’ll have the option to indicate
whether you intend to request exam accommodations. Candidates who indicate a
need for special arrangements to take the exam will receive detailed instructions on
how to submit the ICF Exam Accommodations Request Form, along with the
required supporting documentation.

All requests for exam accommodations are strictly confidential. ICF and an
independent exam accommodations expert will review exam accommodation
requests and supporting documentation. Only information pertaining to the
candidate’s approved accommodation will be shared with testing delivery partners
for the purpose of preparing for the candidate’s exam appointment.

Common exam accommodations include, but are not limited to:

• Extended time for testing (1 hour, 1.5 time or double time)
• Frequent or unscheduled breaks
• Access to auxiliary items (food, medication, medical devices)
• Adjustable workstation (available at testing centers only)
• Sit/stand workstation (available at testing centers only)
• Zoom text
• Separate testing room (available at testing centers only)
• Provision of a reader and/or scribe
• Special arrangements for nursing mothers

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Approved accommodations for candidates with disabilities or qualifying medical

conditions are provided at no cost to the candidate.

Certain exam accommodations may only be available in a Pearson VUE testing

center. Accommodation requests may require up to 30 days to process, although
many requests will be processed within 10 days.

Requesting an Exam Accommodation

As a part of the PCC online application, individuals will indicate if they need to
request accommodations. Once the application is submitted, the applicant will
receive an email with information and directions to upload the required
documentation.

Next, you’ll complete the exam accommodations request form and submit the
necessary documentation. While a diagnosis is not required, you must provide
evidence of your disability and how it affects your access to the exam. This could
include examples from daily life activities like work or school where
accommodations are already in place.

Upon submission, ICF Credentials and Standards and an independent exam

accommodations expert will review the requested accommodation and required
supplementary documentation. ICF Credentials and Standards will notify the
candidate of the decision regarding the requested accommodation(s), including
specific accommodations approved (e.g., additional exam time, use of a reader, etc.)
and information for next steps.

Confirmation of an accommodation request decision must be received before a

candidate schedules their exam appointment. ICF Credentials and Standards is
not able to add accommodations to an existing exam appointment.

If an exam accommodation request is not approved in full, candidates may appeal

the decision one time per year. Appeals must include the specific reason for the
appeal and additional documentation beyond what was included in the original
exam accommodation request.

ICF Credentials and Standards and its testing partner, Pearson VUE, will make
reasonable efforts to provide the requested accommodations to candidates who
demonstrate a documented disability, provided the accommodations do not alter or
jeopardize exam integrity and security. If the need for an accommodation arises
after the submission of the application, the applicant should contact
examaccommodations@coachingfederation.org and request the ICF exam accommodations
form.

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Supporting Documentation for Exam Accommodation Requests

A formal diagnosis is not required, however we do need evidence that shows how your
disability or condition significantly affects your ability to access the exam under
standard conditions. Providing documentation helps us ensure that the
accommodations we approve are appropriate.
Instead of emphasizing your diagnosis or symptoms, the documentation should
clearly address:
• Your current functional limitations in daily activities or major life activities
(beyond just test-taking).
• How these limitations interact with specific barriers in the testing
environment.
• The types of accommodations that have effectively improved access and
reduced these barriers in other settings.
We don’t require extensive medical or psychological reports, but if you choose to
submit such materials, they must meet our guidelines.

While not required, a personal statement from you can provide valuable insight. You
might explain how your disability affects your functioning in major life activities or
activities of daily living (work, home, school, etc.), and how you expect these
limitations might impact your ability to take an ICF exam under standard conditions.

Depending on your needs, you can choose from two streamlined documentation
processes. Both processes include avenues for providing documentation that can
usually be obtained at no cost to you.

Short Request Process: For Minimal Accommodation Needs

If your accommodation needs are more minimal, the Short Request Process might
be right for you. Simply provide documentation from professionals who know you
well or organizations familiar with your needs.

Using this process, you can request:

• Up to an extra 45 minutes of testing time
• Use of diabetes testing and management supplies
• Other accommodations that do not involve timing modification, a separate
testing room, or use of electronic devices or software.

Standard Request Process: For More Extensive Accommodation Needs

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For complex or specialized accommodation requests, the Standard Request Process

asks you to provide additional documentation so that we fully understand your
access needs.

Through this process, you can request any combination of the following:
• More than 45 minutes of testing time
• A separate testing room
• Other unique accommodations, such as additional timing modifications,
adaptive devices, or assistive technology.

For more information about the Short and Standard Request Processes and
required documentation for each, please review the ICF Exam Accommodations
Documentation Guide.

After the Examination

Exam Scoring
The passing score and all exam results on the ICF Credentialing Exam are reported
as scaled scores. The range of possible scores is 200 to 600, with a passing score of
460. Candidates receive preliminary results immediately after the exam is
completed; confirmation of the results is sent within seven (7) business days.

Candidates receive preliminary results following their exam delivery and can access
their score report through their Pearson VUE profile.

Individual score reports indicate the overall result of the exam administration (“pass”
or “fail”), based on the passing standard set for the exam. Each candidate also
receives their scaled score.

Candidates who are not successful in passing the exam receive feedback on their
relative performance across each exam domain, designed to guide additional study
and preparation before retaking the exam, along with instructions for interpreting
the results.

Recognition
A directory of all active ICF PCC credential-holders is available online at Verify a
Coach. PCC credential-holders are listed upon award of their PCC. Any candidate
who does not wish to be included in the ICF Verify a Coach directory should contact
ICF Credentials and Standards at support@coachingfederation.org.

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Use of Designation
After passing the ICF Credentialing Exam and earning the Professional Certificate
Coach credential, candidates may use the PCC designation as a professional
credential after their names, on resumes, curriculum vitae, employment and other
professional records, and on websites and social media platforms. Only current and
valid ICF PCC credential-holders may use the PCC logo on materials for or
promoting the credential-holder. The PCC credential may not be used by individuals
who do not renew their credential after the credential expiration date.

Retake Policy
Candidates who do not achieve a passing score for the ICF Credentialing Exam may
retake the exam. Each exam retake is subject to the ICF exam retake fee of $105
USD.

Candidates must wait 14 days following their first attempt to retake the exam. For
any subsequent attempts, candidates must wait 30 days to retake the exam
following their most recent attempt.

Candidates may take an ICF exam up to six times within a 12-month (365 day) period
following the date of their first attempt.

Candidates who do not achieve a passing score within the first 12-month period are
eligible to retake the exam up to six times during each subsequent 12-month (365
day) period that begins on the anniversary of the candidate’s initial exam attempt.

Release of Info / Privacy Policy

ICF Credentials and Standards treats candidate exam results as confidential. Exam
results are provided directly to candidates and will not be disclosed to anyone other
than the candidate without written permission from the candidate, unless required
by law enforcement.

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Professional Certified Coach (PCC) Candidate Guide 2025.4.7

Maintaining Your Credential

Renewal Requirements and Application
The Professional Certified Coach (PCC) credential expires on the last day of the
month three years from the month of issue and may be renewed by meeting all the
following renewal requirements:
• Renewal applications must be submitted using the online application
available on the ICF website. The online application is designed to guide
individuals through each step in the renewal process, keep information
secure, and provide applicants a way to monitor the status of their renewal
application.
• Credential-holders can access the renewal application by logging into their
online profile, clicking Access Profile, and viewing their credential renewal
application under “My Credentials” at the bottom of the page,
• Renewal of the PCC credential requires completion of at least 40 hours of CCE
in the three years after the initial award of the credential or since the last
credential renewal.
• At least 24 hours of the 40 hours must be in the ICF Core Competencies. At
least three (3) of the hours in Core Competencies must be in coaching ethics.
(Coaches can obtain coaching ethics hours by completing ICF’s free online
course.) The remaining hours may be in Core Competencies or Resource
Development education.

Applicants are strongly encouraged to review the sample renewal application prior
to starting the renewal application process.

Timelines for Credential Renewal

To maintain a PCC in good standing, PCC holders must submit the renewal
application and required documentation of CCE units by the expiration date. ICF
Credentials and Standards provides all PCC credential-holders with a 60-day grace
period following the credential expiration date, allowing the PCC-holder to maintain
their status while their renewal application is under review.

Failure to submit a renewal application and required documentation of CCE units

will result in a lapse of PCC status following the 60-day grace period. Once lapsed,
the PCC credential is no longer active, and the coach must discontinue the use of
PCC logos and marks.

A coach can renew a lapsed PCC credential for up to one year following the
expiration date by submitting a renewal application and an additional 1.2 CCE units
for each month the PCC credential is lapsed. Detailed guidance on renewing a
lapsed PCC credential is available on the ICF Renew Credential page.

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Once a full year has passed from the PCC expiration date, it is considered fully
expired and cannot be renewed. To reinstate an expired PCC credential, a coach
must submit a new PCC application.

Continuing Coach Education

Continuing Coach Education credits may be earned through a variety of learning
modalities, all designed to expose the coach to new content in order to benefit their
overall knowledge base and coaching clients. It focuses on the development of the
coach’s competence with a wide range of opportunities for the support and growth
of a coach’s skill set.
Core Competencies CCEs can be gained through learning opportunities that offer
real-time interactive settings, such as education programs, learning courses and
other activities that correlate to the ICF Core Competencies and have been
approved by ICF for Core Competencies CCEs.
Resource Development is any learning that falls outside of the ICF Core
Competencies, but still contributes to a coach’s professional development (e.g.,
personal development, coaching tools or personality and productivity assessments,
business building, etc.).

Visit the Professional Development page of the website for accepted sources of
CCEs and how to document them in the Renewal Application.

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Appeals
Purpose of the Appeals Process
The ICF Credentials and Standards appeals process provides a way for credential
applicants, candidates, and credential-holders to formally request reconsideration of
an adverse decision made by the organization regarding the individual’s eligibility to
earn or hold an ICF credential. Typically, appeals would result from an individual
being deemed ineligible for a credential or credential renewal, disputes regarding
policies and procedures, or where ICF may not have followed documented policies.

Appeal Submissions
Appeal requests are submitted by credential applicants, candidates, or credential-
holders using the Credential Appeal Submission Form within 30 calendar days of
receiving an adverse determination. Appeals may only be submitted by the
individual who received the adverse determination. Appeals will not be accepted via
email or postal mail. Appellants should review all sections of the form, determine the
reason(s) for their appeal request, and complete the most relevant section(s) of the
form. Appellants must provide evidence supporting the reason for the appeal and
the nature of request, including all reasons why the action or decision should be
changed.

By submitting the appeal form, the appellant is authorizing ICF Credentials and
Standards to conduct an investigation, gather information, and make a
determination regarding the appeal request.

Reasons for Appeals

There are six categories of appeals included on the appeal form.
An appeal based on:
1. Eligibility requirements.
2. Performance Evaluation procedures*.
3. ICF Credentialing Exam results**.
4. ICF Credentialing Exam procedures**.
5. Credential renewal requirements.
6. Reasons not included in other form sections.

*Disputes regarding Performance Evaluation results or feedback will not be

considered in the appeals process. In these cases, credential candidates should not
file an appeal but may request the following options:

Request A Rescore of The Recording(s)

Within six months of receiving a results letter, candidates may contact ICF

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Credentials and Standards staff to request that the recording(s) submitted with their
application be rescored. Candidates must pay a fee of $150 USD per recording before
a rescore is conducted. In cases where the rescore reverses a failed performance
evaluation resulting in a pass, the candidate will receive a refund of the rescore fee.

Request A Retake
Within six months of receiving a results letter, candidates may request a retake,
allowing them to submit new recordings for evaluation without submitting a new
credential application. Candidates must pay a fee of $150 USD per recording for the
scoring of their new recordings, which covers the cost of administering the
performance evaluation review with a trained assessor. Regardless of the result,
retake fees are not refunded.

Appeals regarding Performance Evaluation procedures undergo review by

designated ICF staff and may be directed to the Appeals Committee for their
consideration.

**Credential candidates must read and follow policies and procedures for the ICF
exams as included on the ICF website. Appeals based on the following reasons are
not considered grounds for appeal and will not be considered by the Appeals
Committee:
• The examinee’s lack of knowledge or understanding of the test
administration policies or procedures.
• The examinee’s failure to follow examination administration instructions and
procedures.
• The examinee’s mental state during the exam, including nervousness or
anxiety.
• Personal circumstances of the examinee that may have affected the
examinee’s completion of the exam.
• Examinee errors or omissions related to understanding exam items, or
understanding or recording answers, except those caused by circumstances
outside the examinee’s control.
• Computer-related or technical problems.
• Reasonable and commonly occurring sounds and noises in the testing center
or room.
• Late arrival for the test administration appointment or not showing up for the
exam administration appointment.
• The validity of the content of the exam.
• The passing score of the exam established by ICF and the process used to
determine the passing score.

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Review of Appeal Requests

Upon submission of an appeal request, the appellant will receive an automated
confirmation that their appeal submission has been received by ICF.

Within 15 business days, designated ICF staff will review the appeal submission and
notify the appellant if additional information is needed.

Designated ICF Credentials and Standards staff will review the appeal request and
determine the appeal type. There are two types of appeals that may be submitted:
1. Procedural appeals - are cases where a clear policy, rule, or standard exists.
Procedural appeals allow applicants to contest an adverse decision made in
conflict or misalignment with an existing policy, rule, or standard. Appeals
contesting the content of existing policies, rules or standards, and resulting
adverse decision for the applicant, will not be considered.

Examples of Procedural type appeals may include disputes regarding:

• Pre-requisite credentials.
• Required number of hours of education, experience, or mentor coaching.
• Exam administration procedures.

Designated ICF staff will respond to procedural appeals by conveying the relevant
policy/rule to the appellant and will communicate the status of the appeal (denied
or accepted) and any next steps available to the appellant.

2. Judgement appeals - are cases where a decision may be subject to

interpretation and will require consideration by the Appeals Committee.

Examples of Judgment type appeals may include disputes regarding:

• Instances where an appellant believes that certification policies and
procedures were not followed.
• Appellant concerns that a conflict of interest or bias influenced a certification
decision.
• Unique instances where a certification policy or procedure is unclear or does
not exist.

The Appeals Committee will be presented with all Judgement type appeals and will:
• Meet to consider information presented.
• Gather and request additional information as needed.
• Make a determination.
• Prepare a written report that is forwarded to the vice president of ICF
Credentials and Standards.
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The vice president of ICF Credentials and Standards (or staff designee) will notify the
appellant the decision of the committee and any next steps available to the
appellant.

While Procedural appeals will be decided by designated CS staff, the Appeals

committee will receive a report of all appeals submissions and the resulting
determination. Information from this report may be used by the Appeals committee
to inform changes to the appeals process and workflow.

Appeals Process Timelines

Within 24 hours of submitting the appeal form, appellants will receive an automated
message acknowledging that the form has been received.

Within 15 business days following submission, the appeal request will undergo a
preliminary review by staff, and appellants will receive an update and information
regarding the next steps in the process. Appellants may be asked to provide
additional information regarding the appeal request.

Following the preliminary review period, review may take up to 45 business days for
staff or the Appeals Committee to thoroughly review, consider, and make a
determination regarding the appeal.

Within 15 business days of a determination, the appellant will receive information

regarding the outcome of the appeal and information regarding any next steps that
the appellant may wish to take.

Documentation and Reporting

Written records will be created and securely maintained for all Appeals Committee
activities. These records include:
• Appeal submissions.
• Notices to appellants.
• Decisions of the designated ICF Credentials and Standards staff.
• Decisions of the Appeals Committee.

There shall be no discriminatory action against the appellant.

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Other Policy Information for PCC

Candidates
The ICF Definition of Coaching
ICF defines coaching as partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative
process that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential.
The process of coaching often unlocks previously untapped sources of imagination,
productivity, and leadership.

Having a clear understanding of the ICF definition of coaching and how it guides the
work of professional coaches is critical for individuals who are pursuing an ICF
credential. It serves as a guide in differentiating coaching from other modalities and
professions.

The ICF Core Competencies

The ICF Core Competencies were developed to support a greater understanding of
the skills and approaches used within today’s coaching profession as defined by ICF.
These competencies and the ICF definition of coaching form the foundation for
coaching practice and are used as the basis for all assessments used in the ICF
credentialing process.

In 2019, following a rigorous, 24-month coaching practice analysis, ICF published an

updated version of the ICF Coaching Core Competency Model. This competency
model is based on evidence collected from more than 1,300 coaches across the
world, including both ICF members and non-members, and representing a diverse
range of coaching disciplines, training backgrounds, coaching styles, and experience
levels. This large-scale research initiative validated that much of the existing ICF
Core Competency Model, developed nearly 25 years ago, remains critically important
to the practice of coaching today.

Some new elements and themes that emerged from the data were integrated into
the updated model introduced in 2019. These include a paramount emphasis on
ethical behavior and confidentiality; the importance of a coaching mindset and
ongoing reflective practice; the critical distinctions between various levels of
coaching agreements; the criticality of partnership between coach and client; and
the importance of cultural, systemic, and contextual awareness. These foundational
components, combined with emerging themes, reflect the key elements of
coaching practice today and will serve as stronger, more comprehensive coaching
standards for the future.

Please visit ICF Core Competencies for more information.

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The ICF Code of Ethics

The ICF Code of Ethics describes the ICF core values, ethical principles, and ethical
standards of behavior for all ICF professionals. Candidates for ICF credentials must
have a clear understanding of coaching ethics and how they are applied in any
coaching related interactions.

Please review the Code of Ethics in Appendix B.

The PCC Markers

The PCC Markers are a set of behavioral indicators that are used in the assessment
of PCC credential candidates. Trained assessors use these markers as a tool to listen
for and determine which ICF Core Competencies are in evidence in a recorded
coaching conversation and to what extent. The PCC Markers are the behaviors that
should be exhibited in a coaching conversation at the PCC level. These markers
support a performance evaluation process that is fair, consistent, valid, reliable,
repeatable, and defensible. While useful to developing coaches, these markers are
not a tool for coaching and should not be used as a checklist or formula for passing
the performance evaluation.

ICF Credentials and Standards Policies and Procedures

All policies and procedures have been adopted by the ICF Credentials and Standards
Global Board of Directors for the operation of the ICF credentialing program. The
policies listed below are included as a reference. For assistance or questions, please
contact the ICF Credentials and Standards staff team at
support@coachingfederation.org.

Scope of the ICF Credentials

ICF credentials are intended for individuals who provide coaching services to their
clients in alignment with the ICF definition of coaching, ICF Core Competencies, and
ICF Code of Ethics. The purpose of all ICF credentials is to assure that those holding
the credential have the skills, knowledge, and professional capability needed to
serve their clients.

Secure Storage of Confidential Information

All confidential application materials will be retained in a secure manner as required
by the ICF security and record retention policies. CS staff and examination assessors
keep confidential and secure all submitted application materials. ICF Credential
application materials, including performance evaluation recordings and
transcripts, are maintained in a secure database and are securely destroyed six
months after an application has been processed, unless the applicant provides
explicit permission for ICF to retain materials for research and training purposes.

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Rationale for Eligibility Requirements

Eligibility requirements for ICF credentials are derived from a variety of sources,
including job analysis, subject matter expert (SME) input, exam results, market
research, and demographic data.

Information gained from SMEs, supported by data from the ICF Coaching Job
Analysis (2019), showed that knowledge of coaching ethics is a critical element of
coaching practice.

Input from SMEs and analysis of assessment and performance exam results has
shown that hours of education specific to the ICF Core Competencies, ICF definition
of coaching, and ICF Code of Ethics is necessary to ensure that coaches have the
knowledge and skills required to work with their clients effectively.

Input from SMEs suggests that hours of experience working with clients is critical in
the development of coaching skills and that skills diminish when coaches are not
actively working with clients.

Market research and input from SMEs support the use of knowledge and
performance exams as a way for a candidate to objectively demonstrate their
knowledge of coaching and skills as a coach.

ICF Membership Not Required

Applicants are not required to be members of ICF Professional Coaches or ICF
Coaching in Organizations or any other organization. Applicants who are members
of ICF Professional Coaches or ICF Coaching in Organizations shall not be granted
an advantage or be subject to additional requirements when applying for or holding
an ICF credential.

Prohibition of Grandfathering
No candidate may be awarded PCC status unless they have met all eligibility and
assessment criteria, as adopted by the ICF Credentials and Standards Global Board
of Directors, and in effect at the time of the candidate’s application.

Reciprocity
ICF does not accept as equivalent credentials/certifications awarded by other
organizations or entities. No candidate may be awarded an ICF credential unless
they have met all eligibility and assessment criteria currently in place, as adopted by
the ICF Credentials and Standards Global Board of Directors, and in effect at the
time of the candidate’s application.

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Verification of Credential Status

The ICF website will, upon inquiry by anyone, provide information to verify whether a
specific person is currently credentialed or not. The names of ICF credential-holders
and their credential status are not considered confidential and will be published by
ICF.

Information relating to an individual’s application status, whether an individual has

taken the exam, and score information is confidential and will not be released.

Use of Credential Mark/Logo/Badge

The credential name, designation, acronym, logo, badge, or mark may only be used
by individuals who hold the credential, who remain in good standing with ICF, and
who strictly adhere to and maintain published standards and requirements. No
credential-holder may use, sell, license, transfer, or otherwise authorize any third
party to use the credential name, designation, acronym, logo, badge, or mark
without the prior written authorization from ICF.

Acceptable Usage
The credential name, designation, acronym, mark, badge, or logo shall be used only
in connection with the credential held by the individual and shall not be used in
conjunction with any other coaches or coach programs. The designation and logos
must be used in such a way that they indicate approval of only the individual
credential-holder and not an organization or business as a whole. For example, on a
website, the designation and logo may be used only where the approved credential-
holder is described, not where the organization as a whole is described.

The credential name, logos, badges, or marks may not be revised, altered, or
amended in any manner by the credential-holder or any third party. This prohibition
against alternation or misuse includes, but is not limited to, cropping of the name,
logo, badge, or mark; bleeding off a page; screening behind text; and tilting or
skewing of the marks/logos in any way. In every case, the names, acronyms,
designations, marks, badges, and logos must be printed in full strength, with no
screens or “watermark” effects. Logos, badges, and marks shall at all times be used
intact, with no alteration, substitution, isolation, or highlighting of any particular
feature.

The credential designation shall at all times be displayed against a neutral

background only so that it does not conflict graphically or interfere with readability
or recognition of the designation, logo, badge, or mark. Nor shall the name,
acronym, designation, logo, badge, or mark be displayed on patterned backgrounds
incorporating dots, wavy lines, or other designs, etc.

The credential name, acronym, designation, logo, badge, and mark incorporate
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specific coded colors within the Pantone Matching System. The ICF selected and
designated color scheme is mandatory and shall not be altered or substituted in any
way. No other colors may be used, substituted, or incorporated into the logo, badge,
or mark.

Use of the credential name, designation, acronym, logo, badge, or mark is exclusively
limited to professional use on materials promoting the approved credential-holder,
including:
• Promotional and marketing literature, brochures, pamphlets, business cards
or folders.
• Advertisements of any type or nature.
• Websites.
• Print, digital, or photographic media.

Use in connection with any other form of publication or documentation shall be

permitted only upon written authorization and approval by ICF.

Any ICF credential-holder who loses or has their ICF status suspended for any
reason, including, but not limited to, failure to adhere to these usage standards or
the applicable ICF credential-holder requirements, shall immediately discontinue all
use of the credential name, designation, acronym, logo, badge, or mark, and shall
not renew use of the same until their status has been restored in full.

Violations of Usage
Any unauthorized or unapproved use or alteration of the credential name, acronym,
designation, logo, badge, or mark shall result in termination and loss of the
individual’s ICF credential.

Changes to the ICF Credentialing Program

ICF Credentials and Standards reserves the right to change the standards, policies,
procedures, application, fees, and/or eligibility requirements for the ICF
credentialing process at any time. Any changes will be posted to the ICF website
and shared through direct email communications in compliance with the ICF
Privacy Policy. This guide will be updated periodically to reflect changes. Please
check the ICF website to be sure you are using the most recent version of the guide.

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Appendix A: Links to Useful Information

Client Coaching Experience page
Ethical Standards and the Code of Ethics
International Coaching Federation (ICF) home page
ICF Credentialing
ICF Core Competencies
ICF Credentialing Exam page
Mentor Coaching
Education Requirements
Performance Evaluation page
PCC Information page
Criteria for Assessing Coaching at the PCC Credential Level
PCC Level 1 and ACSTH Path Application: Sample
PCC Level 2 and ACTP Path Application: Sample
PCC Portfolio Path Application: Sample
Credential Renewal Application: Sample
What to Expect When Testing with Pearson VUE: Pearson Testing Centers (video)
What to Expect When Testing with Pearson VUE: OnVUE Online Proctoring (video)

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Appendix B: ICF Code of Ethics (2025)

The International Coaching Federation (ICF) Code of Ethics is composed of five main
parts and an appendix:

PURPOSE
ICF CORE VALUES AND ETHICAL PRINCIPLES
COMMITMENTS FOR ALL WITHIN THE ICF ECOSYSTEM
ETHICAL STANDARDS FOR ICF PROFESSIONALS
THE PLEDGE OF ETHICS

PURPOSE
The International Coaching Federation (ICF) is the world’s leading coaching
association.

The ICF is made up of six family organizations (FOs). Together, they form the ICF
Ecosystem. The FOs are: ICF Professional Coaches, ICF Credentials and Standards, ICF
Coaching Education, ICF Foundation, ICF Coaching in Organizations, and the ICF
Thought Leadership Institute. The ICF Global Board provides strategic direction for
and coordination of the complete ICF ecosystem.

Based on its mission and responsibility, ICF provides a code of ethics setting out
ethical standards of professional conduct required to be adhered to by all within the
ICF Ecosystem, whether acting as ICF professionals (see definition) or in any other
capacity. The roles and responsibilities governed by the ICF Code of Ethics include
ICF professionals, ICF staff (see definition), volunteers, members of ICF boards,
leaders of ICF Communities of Practice, and members of ICF global committees, task
forces, and core teams (whether they are ICF professionals or not).

The ICF Code of Ethics incorporates the core values of the International Coaching
Federation (ICF Core Values) as a foundation to understanding the ICF Code of Ethics,
ethical principles, and ethical standards of conduct.

The ICF Code of Ethics serves to uphold the integrity of ICF and the global coaching
profession by:
• Setting standards of conduct consistent with ICF core values and ethical
principles.
• Guiding ethical reflection, education, and decision-making.
• Adjudicating and preserving ICF ethical standards through the ICF Ethical
Conduct Review (ECR) process.
• Providing the basis for ICF ethics training in ICF accredited programs.

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This Code of Ethics is intended to assist those persons subject to the Code by
directing them to the ethical factors, values, and principles that need to be taken into
consideration whenever they need to engage in ethical reasoning and ethical
decision-making.

The ICF Code of Ethics applies when people represent themselves as belonging
within the ICF ecosystem and/or ICF professionals in their professional interactions.
The challenge of working ethically means that those within the ICF ecosystem will
inevitably encounter situations that require responses to unexpected issues,
resolution of dilemmas, and solutions to problems.

People within the ICF ecosystem strive to be ethical, even when doing so involves
acting courageously and making difficult decisions that uphold the “DO GOOD”
principle when it comes to their stakeholders.

Part 4 of the Code articulates the ethical obligations of ICF professionals who are
acting in their different roles as coach, coach supervisor, mentor coach, trainer, and
student coach-in- training.

The ICF Independent Review Board serves to uphold this Code of Ethics through the
Ethical Conduct Review (ECR) process, which is applicable to all ICF professionals.
ICF mandates that all credentialed ICF professionals have continuous ethical
education and training. Furthermore, ICF accredited coaching education programs
are required to provide ethics training as ICF considers ethics to be the foundational
element of the coaching profession.

The ICF Code applies to all individuals or entities falling within the ICF
ecosystem. No individual or entity falling within the ICF ecosystem may opt out
of any section or part of the Code, nor are they permitted to delete, modify, or
amend any provisions within the Code.

ICF CORE VALUES AND ETHICAL PRINCIPLES

The Code of Ethics provides guidelines for implementing the core values and ethical
principles and shows how they are put into practice. All values and principles are
equally important, support one another, and are aspirational. All within the ICF
ecosystem are expected to honor the core values and align with the principles in all
their professional interactions.

The core values and the related ethical principles are listed on the ICF website and
are reiterated below. (See https://coachingfederation.org/about/values/)

Professionalism: A commitment to a coaching mindset and professional quality that

encompasses responsibility, respect, integrity, competence, and excellence.
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I demonstrate professionalism by:

• Ensuring my professional conduct is consistently aligned with the value of
humanity and the coaching mindset competency in all my professional
interactions.
• Being true and accurate in my statements.
• Committing to my life-long professional learning and personal development.
• Supporting the ongoing personal and professional development of my clients,
students, and ICF professionals.
• Delivering on my commitments.
• Being aware of ethical dilemmas and issues and responding with adherence
to the ICF Code of Ethics.
• Adding to the knowledge base and sharing expertise and skills as described in
the ICF Core Competencies.
• Being resilient and confident when faced with challenges.
• Behaving with respect and transparency in all business dealings related to
coaching.
• Making clear and accurate representations in all my professional interactions
in relation to coaching.
• Committing to honesty, courage, consistency of action, ethical practice, and
the highest standards for ICF and the coaching profession.

Collaboration: A commitment to developing social connection and community

building.

I work collaboratively by:

• Making commitments and progress towards promoting professional
coaching through fostering joint creativity and resourcefulness.
• Partnering with others, both within and across multiple social-identity groups.
• Being mindful and intentional in my own participation while working in any
collective effort.
• Cooperating with other ICF professionals working with client(s) and sponsor(s).
• Partnering and communicating with related professions, associations, and
people in other coaching organizations and professions.

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Humanity: A commitment to being humane, kind, compassionate, and respectful

towards others.

I demonstrate humanity by:

• Accepting that, as humans, I am not meant to be perfect, and with a coaching
mindset, expressing imperfections is an opportunity for me to spread a
culture of openness and self-acceptance.
• Knowing I always have more to learn and being open to other points of view.
• Creating authentic relationships that support honesty, transparency, and
clarity.
• Continuously seeking and developing self-awareness.
• Being willing to acknowledge and own my mistakes.
• Accepting responsibility for my actions and learning from them.
• Being modest about my achievements.
• Avoiding any behaviors or communication that suggest superiority in any way.
• Committing to inclusivity, dignity, self-worth, and human rights.

Equity: A commitment to using a coaching mindset to explore and understand the

needs of others so I can practice equitable processes at all times that create equality
for all.

I am equitable by:
• Recognizing and respecting all identity groups and their contributions.
• Treating everyone with the same dignity and sense of fairness.
• Bringing awareness to systemic patterns of conscious and unconscious biases
in myself and in others.
• Exploring to understand and bring awareness to social diversity, systemic
equality, and systemic oppression, and how they show up in the coaching
profession.
• Maintaining equality and partnership in all my coach-client, trainer-student,
mentor- coach, and supervisor-coach relationships.

COMMITMENTS FOR ALL WITHIN THE ICF ECOSYSTEM

The values are aspirational and a robust guide for ethical reasoning and decision-
making. All within the ICF ecosystem are expected to honor and uphold these
values in all their professional interactions.

We:
• Mindfully perform our duties with integrity and accountability by thinking
globally, being courageous in our thoughts, actions, and speech, being aware
of our impact, and bearing the responsibility of any consequences.
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• Commit to excellence through continued personal, professional, and ethical

development.
• Remain alert to cultural filters and demonstrate respect for cultures different
from our own through open conversations about cross-cultural and
multicultural differences.
• Maintain awareness of relationships and how they are influenced by factors
including biases, power dynamics, and forms of systemic oppression, and
actively address these factors through continuing education and open
conversations.
• Cultivate our ethical growth and maturity through continuous self-reflection
and increased self-awareness. If an ethical dilemma arises, we will pursue
assistance where needed to resolve the matter.
• Respectfully attempt to communicate our concerns with others if we become
aware of unethical conduct by them, and if necessary, seek ethical guidance
for next steps.
• Communicate with those who need to be informed of the ethical
responsibilities established by this Code by providing access to this Code of
Ethics.
• Accept that behaving ethically means going beyond what is written in the Code
of Ethics.

ETHICAL STANDARDS FOR ICF PROFESSIONALS

Meeting these ICF ethical standards of conduct is the first of the ICF core coaching
competencies (ICF Core Competencies): “Demonstrates Ethical Practice: understands
and consistently applies coaching ethics and standards.”

The following ethical standards are applied to the professional activities of ICF
Professionals – regardless of an existing formal coaching relationship (see definitions)
or not. These ethical standards are divided into five sections:

1) Agreements for Client and/or Sponsor Engagement.

2) Confidentiality and Legal Compliance.
3) Professional Conduct and Conflicts of Interest.
4) Commitment to Delivering Consistent Value.
5) Professional Integrity and Accountability.

Section 1:
Agreements for Client and/or Sponsor Engagement
As an ICF Professional, I:
1.1 Communicate (before coaching begins) with coaching client(s), sponsor(s), and/or
other involved parties that the coach is in a direct relationship with to explain the
nature of coaching and to co-create a coaching agreement regarding roles,

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responsibilities, confidentiality, financial arrangements, and other aspects of the

coaching engagement.
1.2 Respect all parties’ right to terminate the coaching relationship at any point for
any reason during the coaching engagement, subject to the provisions of the
agreement.

Section 2:
Confidentiality and Legal Compliance
As an ICF Professional, I:
2.1 Maintain the strictest level of confidentiality with all parties involved, regardless of
the role I am fulfilling.
2.2 Have a clear agreement about what information is exchanged and how it is
exchanged among all parties involved during all coaching engagements.
2.3 Have a clear agreement with client(s), sponsor(s), and other involved parties about
what confidential information may need to be disclosed to the appropriate
authorities, e.g., illegal activity, required by law, valid court order or subpoena; or
imminent/likely risk of danger to self or to others.
2.4 Maintain, store, and dispose of any records, including electronic files and
communications, in a manner that promotes confidentiality, security, and privacy, and
complies with applicable laws and agreements.
2.5 Fulfill my ethical and legal obligations to my coaching client(s), sponsor(s),
colleagues, and to the public at large directly and through any technology systems I
may utilize (i.e. technology-assisted coaching tools, databases, platforms, software,
and artificial intelligence).
2.6 Am responsible for my support personnel’s adherence to the relevant standards of
the Code of Ethics.
2.7 Maintain the privacy of ICF professionals and use of their contact information
(email addresses, telephone numbers, and so on) only as authorized by ICF or the ICF
professional.
2.8 Comply with copyright laws and recognize and honor the contributions and
intellectual property of others, only claiming ownership of my own material.

Section 3:
Professional Conduct and Conflicts of Interest
As an ICF Professional, I:
3.1 Am aware of and discuss with all involved parties the implications of having
multiple agreements and relationships, and the potential for conflicts of interest.
3.2 Manage conflicts of interest and potential conflicts of interest with coaching
client(s) and sponsor(s) through self-reflection, coaching agreement(s), and ongoing
dialogue. This includes addressing organizational roles, responsibilities, relationships,
records, confidentiality, and other reporting requirements.
3.3 Resolve any conflict of interest or potential conflict of interest by working through

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the issue with relevant parties, seeking professional assistance, or suspending or

ending the professional relationship.
3.4 Hold responsibility for being aware of and setting clear, appropriate, and culturally
sensitive boundaries that govern professional interactions, physical or otherwise.
3.5 Maintain fairness by being aware of my biases and addressing them so that I do
not discriminate toward others based on race, color, gender identity, sexual
orientation, socio-economic status, age, spiritual practice, ability, and other groups,
classes, and categories of human differences.
3.6 Am mindful of the level of intimacy in the coaching relationship. I do not
participate in any sexual or romantic relationship with client(s) or sponsor(s). If I detect
a shift in the relationship, I take appropriate action to address the issue or cancel the
coaching engagement.
3.7 Understand that ICF professionals often serve in multiple professional roles
based on prior training and/or experience (i.e. mentor, therapist, HR specialist,
assessor), and it is my responsibility to disclose to the client when I am acting in a
capacity other than the role of an ICF professional.
3.8 Disclose to Client(s) the information of compensation and benefits that have been
paid/received or will be paid/received for referrals.

Section 4:
Commitment to Delivering Consistent Value
As an ICF Professional, I:
4.1 Am aware of and, in partnership with my client, actively manage any power or
status differential between us that may be caused by cultural, relational,
psychological, or contextual issues.
4.2 Recognize my personal limitations or circumstances that may impair my
coaching performance or professional commitments. I will seek support if necessary,
including relevant professional guidance. This may require suspending or
terminating my coaching relationship(s).
4.3 Remain alert to indications that there might be a shift in the value received from
the coaching relationship and discuss this with the client. If appropriate, explore
changes in the coaching relationship and/or the potential for a different coach,
professional, or resource.

Section 5:
Professional Integrity and Accountability
As an ICF Professional, I:
5.1 Accurately identify my coaching qualifications and work within the boundaries of
my level of coaching competency, expertise, experience, training, certifications, and
my ICF credential.
5.2 Make verbal and written statements that are true and accurate about what I offer as
an ICF professional, what is offered by ICF, the coaching profession, and the potential
value of coaching.
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5.3 Adhere to the philosophy of “doing good” versus “avoiding bad,” recognizing the
impact of my professional conduct on my clients, stakeholders, the coaching
profession, and society.

I understand that ICF may, at its discretion and according to the ECR
process, hold me accountable for violations of the ICF Code of Ethics. I
further agree that my accountability to ICF may include sanctions for
any violation, such as mandatory additional coach education,
mentoring, supervision, or loss of my ICF membership and/ or ICF
credentials.

THE PLEDGE OF ETHICS:

While fulfilling any role within the ICF ecosystem, I promise to uphold my ethical
obligations by adhering to the ICF Code of Ethics in all my professional interactions. I
commit to doing my best to represent the integrity and professional reputation of
coaching and the ICF.

KEY DEFINITIONS OF TERMS USED IN THE CODE

• “Artificial Intelligence” – any algorithm or machine-based technology that
enables computers and other digital devices to simulate human intelligence
and problem- solving skills. (See Standard 2.5)
• “Client” – the individual, team, or group member being coached, the coach
being coached, mentored, or supervised, or the coach in training. (See Standards 1.1,
2.3, 2.5, 3.2, 3.6, 3.7, 3.8, 4.1, 4.3)
• “Coaching” – partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative
process that inspires them to recognize and maximize their personal and
professional potential. (See Part 4)
• “Coaching Agreement” – a formal document established between an ICF
professional and the client(s)/sponsor(s) that outlines the terms, expectations,
and conditions of their coaching relationship. It typically includes details such
as the goals of the coaching, the duration and frequency of sessions,
confidentiality policies, payment terms, cancellation policies, and the
responsibilities of both the coach and the client. (See Standards 1.1, 1.2, 2.2, 2.3, 3.1,
3.2)
• “Coaching Engagement” – the structured interaction between an ICF
professional and the client(s)/sponsor(s). This engagement encompasses the
entire coaching process, including the initial assessment, goal setting, regular
coaching sessions, progress tracking, and evaluation of outcomes. (See
Standards 1.1, 2.2, 3.6)
• “Coaching Relationship” – a relationship that is established by the ICF
professional and the client(s)/sponsor(s) under an agreement that defines the
responsibilities and expectations of each party. (See Standards 1.2, 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, 3.6, 4.2,
4.3)

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• “Coach Supervisor” – an experienced coach who engages in reflective dialogue

and a collaborative process with a coach (or group of coaches) for personal,
professional, and ethical development and learning. (See Parts 1 & 2)
• “Code” – ICF Code of Ethics; this document, which includes the purpose, core
values & ethical principles, commitments, standards, key definitions, glossary,
and pledge.
• “Confidentiality” – the protection of any information obtained in or around the
coaching relationship unless there is a legal reason or requirement, a threat of
harm, or written consent to release is given by the client. (See Standards 1.1, 2.1, 2.3,
2.4, 3.2)
• “Conflict of Interest” – a situation in which an ICF professional is involved in
multiple interests where serving one interest could work against or conflict
with another. This could be financial, personal, intrinsic, professional, or a
perceived conflict with a client, prospective client, or sponsor. (See Standards 3.1,
3.2, 3.3)
• “Core Competencies” – specific skills of professional coaches. (See Parts 1 & 2)
• “Equality” – a situation in which all people experience inclusion and access to
resources and opportunity, regardless of their race, ethnicity, national origin,
color, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, religion, immigration
status, mental or physical disability, and other areas of human difference. (See
Part 2 and Standard 3.5)
• “ICF Accredited Coaching Education” – a program offered by an educational
institution that has gone through a rigorous review process by the ICF and
demonstrates that its curriculum aligns with the ICF definition of coaching, ICF
Core Competencies, and ICF Code of Ethics. (See Part 1 and Standard 5.1)
• “ICF Credential” – a professional certification indicating a person has met
specific standards and requirements designed to develop and refine their
coaching skills. ICF credential designations include Associate Certified Coach
(ACC), Professional Certified Coach (PCC), and Master Certified Coach (MCC).
(See Part 1 and Standard 5.1)
• “ICF Ecosystem” – ICF is made up of six family organizations (FOs). Together they
form the ICF ecosystem. The FOs are: ICF Professional Coaches, ICF Credentials
and Standards, ICF Coaching Education, ICF Foundation, ICF Coaching in
Organizations, and the ICF Thought Leadership Institute, all under the
umbrella of the ICF Global Board of Directors. (See Part 1)
• “ICF Professional” – individuals who represent themselves as an ICF member
and/or ICF credential-holder, in roles including, but not limited to, coach, coach
supervisor, mentor coach, coach trainer, coach in training, board member,
volunteer, or leader. (See Parts 1, 2, & 4 and Standards 2.7, 5.2)
• “ICF Staff” – any person who is employed or contracted by ICF, or any
management company contracted by ICF, to provide management and
administrative services for ICF. (See Part 1)
• “Intellectual Property” – creations of the mind that are legally recognized as
the property of their creator or owner. Intellectual property rights grant the
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creator or owner exclusive rights to use, produce, and distribute their

creations, which are protected under laws against unauthorized use or
infringement. (See Standard 2.6)
• “Legal” – Compliance with the law(s) of the country where the Coach practices.
(See Part 4 and Standards 2.2, 2.5)
• “Mentor Coach” – an experienced coach who provides a collaborative learning
process (mentor coaching) through which feedback is provided to another
coach based on observed or recorded coaching sessions, to further develop
their unique coaching style and skills in alignment with the ICF Core
Competencies. (See Parts 1 & 2 and Standard 3.7)
• “Sponsor” – the entity (including its representatives) or individual paying for
and/or arranging or defining the coaching services to be provided. This
includes those having parental responsibility for minors. (See Part 2 and Standards
1.1, 2.3, 2.5, 3.2, 3.6)
• “Support Personnel” – the people who work for ICF professionals and who have
access to information about clients and/or coaches. (e.g. administrative
assistants, marketing, accounting, etc.) (See Standard 2.6)
• “Systemic Equality” – gender equality, race equality, and other forms of equality
that are institutionalized in the norms, language, images, beliefs, ethics, core
values, policies, structures, laws, practices, and cultures of communities,
organizations, professional associations, nations, and society. (See Part 2 and
Standard 3.5)
• “Systemic Oppression” – Systemic racism, colorism, sexism, and other forms of
systemic inequality that are embedded in the norms, beliefs, language,
images, ethics, core values, policies, structures, laws, practices, and cultures of
communities, organizations, professional associations, nations, and society and
that perpetuate widespread prejudicial and harmful treatment of people with
marginalized identities and reward and benefit people with privileged
identities. (See Parts 2 & 3)

GLOSSARY OF OTHER TERMS

• “Coaching Platform” – a coaching platform uses digital technology to enable
an integrated and seamless coaching journey between coaches and clients at
a large scale.
• “Coaching Platform Provider” – an organization utilizing a coaching platform
developed on their own or by a platform developer and branded as their own
coaching technology platform.
• “Coaching Provider” – a for-profit or nonprofit organization providing
professional coaching services including but not limited to a corporation,
limited liability company (LLC), nonprofit, or partnership.
• “Coaching Supervision” – a dynamic and reflective process of collaboration,
guidance, and support through which coaches develop their personal,
professional, and ethical capacity and maturity.

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• “DEIB” – Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Belonging: the combination of key

concepts that support a range of similarities and differences, fair access and
treatment, being welcoming, feeling a part of a group, and fairness.
• “Diversity” – race, color, caste, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation,
rank, socio-economic status, age, spiritual practice, national origin, ability, and
other groups, classes, and categories of human differences, such as personality
characteristics, appearance, communication styles, and leadership styles.
• “Equity” – actions that provide access to resources and opportunities and
establish norms, actions, policies, infrastructure, and culture so that everyone
can realize their full potential.
• “Inclusion” – action that includes and fully supports people from marginalized
as well as privileged groups; by creating and maintaining processes,
infrastructure, and culture; so their inclusion goes beyond assimilation and
differentiation to integrating them in the life and work of the organization in a
way that they participate in decision-making about what the organization’s
work is, and how the work gets done.
• “Belonging” – sustained sense of connectedness and involvement with the
organization and its work by marginalized and privileged members of an
organization, based on their experience that their presence, contributions, and
inherent worth are truly valued and affirmed as demonstrated by the ongoing
actions of the organization.
• “External Coach” – a coach, hired from outside of an organization who is
neither a part time nor full time employee of an organization, to coach
employees of the organization.
• “Group Coaching” – coaching a group of individuals who have similar goals or
interests, serving each to move forward in their progress, where the coach and
other group members offer support and inspiration on individual abilities and
potential.
• “ICF Assessor” – a credentialed coach that has successfully completed ICF
assessor training; ICF assessors review and assess the recorded coaching
sessions for ACC, PCC, or MCC candidates.
• “ICF Certified” - indicates ICF credentialed and applies only to those with an
ICF credential such as ACC, PCC, or MCC.
• “Internal Coach” - an individual who is employed within an organization and
coaches either part-time or full-time the employees of that organization.
• “Team Coaching” – partnering in a co-creative and reflective process with a
team and its dynamics and relationships in a way that inspires them to
maximize their abilities and potential in order to reach their common purpose
and shared goals.

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