Accredited Coaching Programs: How do I Become an ICF Accredited Coach Training Provider?

There are several accredited coaching programs out there today. However, as an ICF Credentialed Coach, looking to establish your own coach training program, you will prefer to be accredited through the International Coach Federation. If you are unsure how to get started, my hope is this article will help guide you in the right direction.

International Coach Federation

The International Coach Federation is a reputable and well-known coaching organization that accredits coach training programs worldwide. The ICF accreditation provides coach-training programs with a competitive edge both in their content and stature. Coaches worldwide recognize ICF as an industry leader and turn to them for information about training and continuing education.

Importance of an ICF Accredited Program

The purpose of holding an ICF accreditation is to demonstrate high ethical and professional standards in the industry. The ICF strives to set itself apart from others as a result of its rigorous standards, popularity around the world, and credibility. The organization boasts about their coaches and programs continuously maintaining an exceptional standard of integrity in the industry.

ICF Accredited Coaching Programs

To become an ICF accredited coach training provider, you must first of all, decide which coach programs you are ready and willing to offer your students. It is essential to recognize the type of accreditation that the ICF offers. Currently, there are three accreditations, and they are:

1. Accredited Coaching Training Program (ACTP)
This accreditation is intended for third-party training providers who are interested in having their training program approved by the International Coach Federation (ICF). ACTP programs are considered “all-inclusive” training, which offers start to finish coach training. A minimum of 125 student contact hours, Mentor Coaching, and a performance evaluation process are required for ACTP approval. Graduates of the training program may apply for an individual ICF Credential via the ACTP credential application path.

2. Approved Coaching Specific Training Hours (ACSTH)
This accreditation is intended for third-party training providers who are interested in having their training program accredited by the International Coach Federation (ICF). ACSTH accredited programs are typically referred to as “al la carte” training programs, which may or may not offer start to finish coach training. A minimum of 30 student contact hours is required for ACSTH program accreditation. Graduates from the program may apply for the Associate Certified Coach (ACC) Credential or the Professional Certified Coach (PCC) Credential using the ACSTH application path.

3. Continuing Coach Education (CCE)
The CCE is considered supplemental and advanced education for those wishing to acquire new learning and those who are renewing their ICF Credential. Continuing Coach Education units are earned upon completing Continuing Coach Education.

The ICF in two categories awards CCE units:

Core Competencies: Advanced coach training that directly relates to or expands upon the ICF Core Competencies
Resource Development: Training in skills that contribute to a coach’s professional development (e.g., personal development, coaching tools or assessments, business building, or other material that falls outside the ICF Core Competencies)

According to the ICF, applications for accreditation are carefully reviewed by their staff and specially trained teams of reviewers. The timeline for accreditation will vary based on the complexity of the program, the availability of reviewers, and the comprehensiveness of the documentation and audit materials provided by the applicant.

The industry needs more qualified ICF providers and so if you are ready to move forward with the application process, I will encourage you to seriously consider working towards it.

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