FAQ
Frequently asked questions
What is ICF accreditation and why does it matter?
The International Coaching Federation is the leading global organization for professional coaches, with over 60,000 members worldwide. ICF accreditation means our program meets rigorous standards for coaching education, including curriculum design, faculty qualifications, and student outcomes. Graduating from an ICF-accredited program provides a streamlined pathway to earning a credential recognized as the gold standard in professional coaching.
What credential will I be eligible for after completing this program?
Graduates are eligible to apply for the ICF Associate Certified Coach (ACC) credential. In addition to completing our program, you will need to log 100+ hours of coaching experience and pass the ICF Credentialing Exam.
Do I need prior coaching experience to enroll?
No prior coaching experience is required. Our program is designed for both new coaches and experienced leaders who want to formalize their coaching skills. The curriculum builds progressively from foundational concepts to advanced practice.
How is the program delivered?
The program is delivered virtually or in-person across multiple sessions, each spanning 2–3 days. Training days run from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. with breaks and lunch. The format combines instruction, demonstration, paired and triad coaching practice, observed coaching with mentor feedback, and mentor coaching learning circles.
What is the Declaration?
The Declaration is a central element of the G.R.A.C.E. experience — your authentic statement of identity, purpose, and commitment as a coach and leader. It’s your True North. The Declaration module helps you explore your Champion and Critic stories, discover when you are at your best, and craft a Declaration that guides your coaching and your life.
What is observed coaching?
In every session, each student coaches a peer for 30 minutes while observed by a PCC or MCC-level, ICF marker-trained coach who provides 20 minutes of detailed feedback based on ICF competencies. This is one of the most powerful developmental experiences in the program.
What is mentor coaching?
Mentor coaching is professional guidance by an ICF-credentialed coach focused specifically on developing your coaching skills. ICF requires a minimum of 10 hours for the ACC credential. Our program builds mentor coaching into every session through facilitated learning circles.
Are elective courses required?
Electives are optional and provide additional training hours and specialized skills. They are not required for the certificate of completion or ACC credential eligibility, but they significantly enrich your coaching toolkit.
What is the G.R.A.C.E. framework?
G.R.A.C.E. stands for Goodwill, Results, Authenticity, Connectivity, and Empowerment. It is a proprietary coaching framework developed through over 30 years of coaching experience. G.R.A.C.E. provides coaches with a structured yet flexible approach to facilitating transformational conversations, mapped directly to the ICF Core Competencies.