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Writer's pictureAnthony Lopez

The New ICF ACC Credential Exam & Study Guide

Updated: 8 hours ago


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The new ICF ACC Credential Exam is here, and it's an important milestone for aspiring coaches. This updated credentialing process is designed to assess the foundational coaching skills necessary for the Associate Certified Coach (ACC) level. With a clear focus on the ICF Core Competencies, Code of Ethics, and the definition of coaching, the exam emphasizes the importance of supporting clients in their own growth and understanding, rather than providing direct answers.


Join CLCI Live for a discussion on the ACC Exam as Jen Long (ACC), Jerome LeDuff (MCPC), Lisa Finck (MCC), Anthony Lopez (MCPC), Misha Safran (PCC) and Brooke Adair Walters (ACC) break down the new exam.


In this updated guide, we'll take a closer look at the new ACC Credential Exam and how it differs from the older credentialing exam, as its still in use for PCC and MCC candidates. We’ll also share insights and preparation tips to help you feel confident and prepared as you take the next steps in your coaching career.


What Is the ACC Credential Exam?

Recently, ICF introduced a new credentialing exam specific to Associate Certified Coach (ACC) candidates. This updated ACC Credential Exam was designed specifically for coaches in the early stages of their coaching careers, with a strong focus on the ICF Core Competencies, Code of Ethics, and definition of coaching. The ACC is often the first credential coaches aim for, as it validates their foundational knowledge and skills.


This shift to a dedicated ACC exam marks a departure from the old format, where ACC, PCC, and MCC candidates all took the same ICF Credentialing Exam. Now, ACC candidates have a targeted exam that aligns with their developmental level, while PCC and MCC candidates continue to use the original credentialing exam.


The new ACC Exam is designed with simplicity in mind. Unlike the previous version, which required participants to select both the best and worst options for each scenario, the ACC Exam now involves identifying only the best course of action for each question. This change makes the exam less daunting and more approachable, while still ensuring that candidates demonstrate a deep understanding of coaching practices.


Key Features of the ACC Exam

The ACC Exam consists of 60 multiple-choice questions, each with only one correct answer. Candidates have 90 minutes to complete the exam, which includes a scheduled 10-minute break. The exam is divided into two sections:


  1. Section 1 (30 items): You will have 39 minutes to complete the first half.

  2. Section 2 (30 items): After a break, you will have another 39 minutes to complete the rest of the exam.


The exam format emphasizes real-life scenarios, asking candidates to apply the ICF Core Competencies, Code of Ethics, and coaching definitions in practical contexts. Questions are presented in a way that challenges candidates to think critically about how to best support their clients within the ethical boundaries and core principles of coaching.


The ACC exam is delivered either online or in-person through Pearson VUE’s proctored testing services, offering flexibility for candidates around the world.


Preparing for the ACC Credential Exam

To prepare effectively for the ACC Exam, it is important to build a solid foundation in the ICF Core Competencies and Code of Ethics. Here are some recommended steps:


  • Revisit materials from Coaching 101 & 102. Refresh your understanding of the key concepts, definitions, and skills taught during your coach training.

  • Review the ICF Core Competencies and Code of Ethics. Make sure you know the competencies by heart, as questions will test your ability to apply them in real-world scenarios.

  • Reflect on typical coaching situations. Consider how you would apply coaching competencies in different client contexts, and practice thinking through what the “best course of action” might be.

  • Practice with our Study Guide (Found Below!). ICF has provided sample questions that are a good representation of what you can expect on the exam. Practicing with these will help you get a feel for the types of scenarios that will be presented.

Differences From the Old ICF Credentialing Exam

For those who might have been preparing for the previous version of the exam, it's important to understand the key differences with the new ACC exam:


  • One Answer vs. Two: The older ICF Credentialing Exam, taken by candidates pursuing ACC, PCC, or MCC, involved selecting both the best and worst options for each scenario. This required a deeper level of nuance, as candidates needed to understand not only the optimal response but also what actions would be the least effective or even harmful. The ACC exam now focuses solely on selecting the best response, making it more straightforward.

  • Targeted Level: The ACC Exam is designed specifically for coaches at the Associate level, making the questions more relevant and appropriately challenging for those early in their coaching careers. PCC and MCC candidates, however, must still tackle the more comprehensive original exam.


This shift to a dedicated ACC exam means that ACC candidates can focus their studies on the specific areas that matter most to their level of development, without needing to wade through questions designed for more advanced levels of coaching.


Why the ACC Exam May Be Easier for Some

The move to a simplified exam format for ACC candidates makes the process feel more manageable for those just beginning their coaching careers. With the focus now solely on choosing the best course of action, rather than assessing both the best and worst options, candidates can concentrate on demonstrating their understanding of foundational coaching principles without the added layer of complexity.


However, this doesn’t mean that the exam should be taken lightly. It still requires thorough preparation and a deep understanding of how to apply coaching principles in practice. The key to success lies in familiarity with the ICF Core Competencies, practice in real-world coaching scenarios, and confidence in your own coaching knowledge.


ACC Exam Study Guide

A person holding and studying a textbook

The ICF has provided sample questions to help ACC candidates prepare. Let's explore each of these and break down why the correct answer is considered the best course of action. This exercise can offer valuable insight into the reasoning process expected during the exam.


Be sure to think of what your answer would be, and then open the dropdown to see what the correct answer is and why its correct


Question 1: Which of the following actions is considered a violation of the ICF Code of Ethics? A) Maintaining confidentiality of client information B) Engaging in a romantic relationship with a client C) Continuing professional development D) Setting clear agreements with clients

Question 2: How MUST a coach maintain records pertaining to a client’s coaching session? A) In a folder that is easy to access for reference B) In digital and hardcopy formats C) In a secure format that promotes client confidentiality D) With the other records for the client

Question 3: After two months of a six-month coaching engagement, a client begins missing appointments and not following through on agreed-upon actions. What is the BEST approach for the coach to take? A) Terminate the coaching agreement immediately B) Ignore the issue for now and hope the client gets back on track C) Refer the client to a colleague who may be a better fit D) Explore with the client whether or not to continue with the coaching

Question 4: A client asks a coach for advice about how to carry out a new, challenging assignment. What is the best action for the coach to take? A) Give the client the requested advice B) Suggest that the client ask their supervisor for advice C) Send the client an email after the coaching session with several strategies the client could consider D) Explain the distinction between coaching and consulting and invite the client to identify strategies they could explore together

Question 5: A coach accepts a new client who values the coach’s industry work experience. Which is the best action for the coach to take? A) Offer the coach’s advice based on their industry work experience B) Clarify the distinction between coaching and consulting C) Provide the coach’s credentials in the industry D) Suggest engagement goals for the client, based on the coach’s industry experience

Question 6: What is a key difference between coaching and facilitation? A) Coaching involves giving direct advice, while facilitation focuses on asking questions. B) Coaching is primarily for personal development, while facilitation is only for professional settings C) Coaching is a thought-provoking and creative process to support a client to meet their full potential, while facilitation is about guiding group discussions D) Coaching requires a license to practice, while facilitation does not

Question 7: Which of the following represents the most important purpose of silence in coaching? A) To allow a client to process their thoughts B) To enable the coach and client to hear one another C) To provide the coach time to think of their next question D) To provide the client time to think of the right response to the coach’s question

Question 8: Respecting a client’s perceptions is a critical element of which coaching competency? A) Cultivates trust and safety B) Listens Actively C) Facilitates Client Growth D) Establishes and Maintains Agreements

Question 9: A coach asks the client permission to coach in a new and sensitive area. What is the purpose of this request? A) To allow the client to think through their potential solutions B) To make the client feel anxious to speed results C) To create a space where the coach is able to accept negative feedback D) To create a safe space where the client has a choice

Question 10: Using metaphors as a coaching tool is most useful in which of the following situations? A) The coach is teaching a concept B) The coach wants to nuance a message C) The client is seeking clarity or meaning D) The client does not see the coach’s perspective


Final Thoughts: Growth Through Training

While the process of earning an ACC credential requires time and effort, it ultimately serves as a powerful milestone in your coaching journey. As a life coach, your role is not to provide answers or prescriptive advice—rather, it is to create a space where clients can explore, grow, and discover their own insights. The new ACC Credential Exam is designed with this philosophy in mind, ensuring that coaches entering the field are well-prepared to serve their clients with competence and integrity.


As you prepare for your exam, remember that coaching is about guiding clients toward their own answers, not giving them yours. Lean into your training, trust your intuition, and continue honing the skills that make you an effective partner in your clients’ journeys. Good luck!

 

Thank you,


Jen Long (ACC), Jerome LeDuff (MCPC), Lisa Finck (MCC), Anthony Lopez (MCPC), Misha Safran (PCC) and Brooke Adair Walters (ACC)!


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