Last Thursday, ICF Credentials and Standards announced some important updates to the credential application and renewal processes. These updates are also outlined in today's ICF Chapter Leader Update Email.
ICF is Simplifying the Process to Earn and Maintain ICF Credentials
Your journey to earn and maintain an ICF credential involves rigorous standards in education, experience, mentor coaching, and assessment. Your credential is a meaningful recognition of your growth and expertise, not something to avoid because it seems too complex.
Based on feedback from ICF credential-holders and candidates,
we have made changes to simplify these processes. Our goal is to make applying for a credential easier, allowing you and your fellow coaches to focus on what matters most — advancing your skills and providing high-quality services to clients.
Streamlining ACC and PCC Application Paths
Beginning November 3, ICF Credentials and Standards will offer two application pathways for both the ACC and PCC credentials. This change simplifies the process by removing one pathway, offering a clearer route for applicants while accommodating coaches from diverse educational backgrounds.
With this change, the following application paths will be available to support ACC and PCC candidates:
For ACC applicants:
- Level 1 / Level 2 Path: For applicants who have completed a full ICF-accredited Level 1 program or a full ICF-accredited Level 2 program (or former ACTP program).
- Portfolio Path: For applicants with 60+ hours of coaching education. The current ACSTH pathway will combine with this pathway.
For PCC applicants:
- Level 2 Path: For applicants who have completed an ICF-accredited Level 2 program (or former ACTP program) in its entirety.
- Portfolio Path: For applicants with 125+ hours of coaching education. The current Level 1/ACSTH pathway will combine with this pathway.
Simplifying Credential Renewal
The ICF Credentials and Standards Board has also approved enhancements to simplify the credential renewal process.
Routine Application Audits: Beginning November 3, as part of our commitment to maintaining high standards, a percentage of renewal applications will be randomly selected for additional review through an audit check. This routine process helps ensure consistency and fairness for all applicants. To support this, all renewal candidates will have the option to upload documentation — such as certificates of completion — for their Continuing Coach Education (CCE) credits. If your application is selected for audit, providing these documents will be required.
Lapsed Credentials: Beginning November 3, lapsed credential-holders will no longer need to calculate and submit additional CCE credits following their renewal grace period. Instead, a $100 USD late fee will be assessed for a lapsed credential renewal application that is submitted up to one year after the expiration date. The late fee is in addition to the standard renewal fee and supports the administrative processes required for late renewals.
These improvements will make applying for and renewing your ICF credential easier than ever before, while maintaining the high standards you expect.
Learn More About the Improvements
https://coachingfederation.org/credentialing/credential-updates/...
If you have any questions about these changes, please reach out to
support@coachingfederation.org.