This page includes information on what the ICF assessors evaluate in relation to each ICF Core Competency when reviewing a recorded coaching session. 

Below are the updated Minimum Skills Requirements which are based on the updated 8 ICF Core Competencies. These competencies are what assessors will use when reviewing a recorded coaching session for applications submitted on or after August 2, 2022.  

Minimum Skills Requirements for an ACC Credential

ICF believes that it has an obligation to support its member coaches in the growth of their skill set. Every Master Certified Coach (MCC) started as a beginner. They progressed through an intermediate level of skill, and became masterful, where the hallmark is deep evidence of the coach’s role as learner about the client. ICF’s three levels of Credentials reflect the continuum of growth and learning along the coaching journey. 

This document has been created to support coaches as they prepare for the Associate Certified Coach (ACC) credential performance evaluation. We also hope that this document will assist mentor coaches and supervisors in supporting these coaches; and coaching education and training providers in undertaking accreditation of their programs. The aim is to support coaches in successfully completing the ACC performance evaluation and in continuing to develop their skill set as coaches, in alignment with the updated ICF Core Competencies (2019). 

For those seeking a credential, this document will provide an understanding of what assessors evaluate in relation to each ICF Core Competency. It will offer the minimum level of skill necessary to successfully demonstrate an ACC level of competency, and also help you understand what non-coaching behaviors might prevent successful completion of the ACC performance evaluation. This document can help each individual coach answer the following queries:  

1. What does it mean to be an ACC coach?  
2. What do ICF assessors listen for when they are evaluating an ACC coach?  
3. As I progress on my coaching journey, what are my strengths and what are the skill set areas that I need to grow to pass the ACC performance evaluation? 

Finally, ICF strongly believes that clients receive real and substantive value from ACC coaches. That value rests always in the coach’s attention to the client and what the client wishes to accomplish, as well as the coach’s complete support of the client’s agenda. We honor each and every coach on their journey and look forward to supporting your path of growth as a coach and your credentialing path within ICF.