Types of ICF Coaching Levels
Welcome! If you want to become a certified coach or want to take your coaching career to the next level, you are in the right place. This guide is designed to be simple, practical and easy to follow. We will drive you through different ICF coaching levels, what is the meaning of each individual, and how to choose the best way for you.
Introduction: Why You Should Care About ICF Coaching Levels
Coaching is growing fast. More people want guidance. More companies want certified professionals. That’s where the International Coaching Federation (ICF) comes in.
ICF determines the global standard for coaching. If you look seriously at coaching, you give ICF certified credibility, structure and confidence.
But there's a catch. There are three levels: ACC, PCC, and MCC. Each has different requirements. Which one should you choose?
In this blog, you'll learn:
What ACC, PCC, and MCC actually mean
How the ICF certification process works
How to choose the right level for you
What makes a coaching program trustworthy
Why Abhyudaya Global Coach Academy is a great place to start
Let’s break it down together. No jargon. No fluff. Just what you need to know.
What is ICF?
International Coaching Federation (ICF) is the world's largest and most recognized body for professional coaching.
When you are certified through ICF, you prove that:
You’ve been trained properly
You know how to coach effectively
You follow high ethical standards
In short, it helps clients trust you.
The 3 ICF Coaching Certification Levels (Made Simple)
1. ACC (Associate Certified Coach)
Best for: New coaches who are just starting out.
You need:
60+ hours of training
100+ hours of coaching practice
10 hours of mentor coaching
To pass the ICF Credentialing Exam
What it tells others: You’re a trained coach with real experience. You’re serious about helping people grow.
2. PCC (Professional Certified Coach)
Best for: Coaches who already have experience and want to go deeper.
You need:
125+ hours of training
500+ hours of coaching practice
10 hours of mentor coaching
To pass the exam again (yes, it’s required)
What it tells others: You’re a skilled, professional coach who knows how to handle a wide range of clients.
3. MCC (Master Certified Coach)
Best for: Coaches who live and breathe coaching. This is the top level.
You need:
200+ hours of training
2,500+ hours of coaching practice
10 hours of mentor coaching (with an MCC mentor)
A performance evaluation (recorded session)
To pass the exam (yes, again)
What it tells others: You’re a master. You bring transformation, not just conversation.
ICF Certification Process: Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s what the journey looks like, no matter your level:
Step 1: Pick Your Level
New coach? Start with ACC
Have experience? Go for PCC
Aiming for mastery? Choose MCC
Step 2: Join an ICF-Accredited Program
Find a program that is officially approved by ICF. It should cover coaching skills, ethics, and real practice.
Abhyudaya Global Coach Academy offers trusted programs at all levels.
Step 3: Complete Your Training Hours
Every level has a different training requirement. Make sure you attend live sessions, join peer coaching, and complete assignments.
Step 4: Log Your Coaching Hours
Start coaching real people. They can be paid or unpaid clients. Track it all in a simple log sheet.
Step 5: Get Mentor Coaching
You need at least 10 hours with an experienced ICF coach who gives you feedback and helps improve your skills.
Step 6: Pass the ICF Exam
The exam tests your knowledge of coaching ethics and core competencies. It’s online and multiple-choice.
ACC vs PCC vs MCC: What's the Real Difference?
Let’s make it really easy to compare:
Still unsure? Think of it like this:
ACC: Learn the foundations and start coaching
PCC: Grow deeper and coach professionals
MCC: Coach at the highest global standard
How to Choose the Right ICF Coaching Level
Ask yourself these simple questions:
Am I just starting out?
Do I already coach and want to get certified?
Do I want to be a top-level coach?
Start with ACC if:
You're new to coaching
You want a strong, credible start
Go for PCC if:
You have coaching experience
You want to work with organizations or executives
Aim for MCC if:
You coach full-time
You want global recognition
Best ICF Accredited Coaching Programs in the World
There are many coaching schools out there. But the best ones:
Have real, qualified mentor coaches
Offer peer practice and feedback
Help with the ICF application process
Why Coaches Choose Abhyudaya Global Coach Academy
Certified programs for ACC, PCC, and MCC
Personalized mentor coaching
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