How does the ICF Credential differ from other coaching credentials and certifications?

ICF offers the only globally recognized, independent professional coaching credential. 

ICF Credentials are awarded to professional coaches who have met stringent education and experience requirements and have demonstrated a thorough understanding of the coaching competencies that set the standard in the profession. Achieving credentials through ICF signifies a coach’s commitment to integrity, understanding and mastery of coaching skills, and dedication to clients.

ICF ensures that our credentialing process is aligned with best practices for credentialing in general and that our review process is fair, valid, reliable, repeatable and defensible.

Increasingly, organizational buyers of coaching are looking for ICF Credentials when they hire external and internal coaches. Many organizations have made ICF Credentialing a requirement for their coaches, and the ICF Credential is one of just three coaching certifications recognized by the European Union (the other two are both regionally specific).