As published on April 13, 2026, ICF credentialing requirements are evolving— with three exciting updates set to take effect in 2027. These changes are designed to strengthen and enhance your credentialing experience.
Below is a quick overview of what’s changing and the areas that may be impacted. Click the links to dive deeper and see how these updates apply to you.
Mentor Coach Eligibility
Beginning January 1, 2027, any new mentor coaching received must be completed by a mentor coach who holds an ICF Mentor Coach Specialization (MCS) at the level to which you wish to be mentored.
Who this affects: Initial applicants and renewal applicants for the ACC, PCC and MCC.
Coach Supervisor Eligibility
Beginning January 1, 2027, any coaching supervision received must be completed by a supervisor who holds either and ICF Coach Supervisor Specialization (CSS), or a supervision credential or accreditation from another professional organization.
In addition, in order to provide supervision to team coaches, the supervisor must hold either the ICF Advanced Certification in Team Coaching (ACTC) or a team coaching credential or accreditation from another professional coaching body.
Who this affects: Applicants for the ACTC and renewal applicants for the ACC, PCC, MCC and ACTC.
ACC and PCC Performance Evaluations
The introduction of the Mentor Coach Specialization (MCS) impacts the performance evaluation requirement for ACC and PCC credentials. Instead of submitting performance evaluation recording(s), you will have the opportunity to work with a Specialized Mentor Coach on your coaching skill development over time.
You will partner with an MCS at your desired credential level to complete a Competency Review form based on their observation of your coaching skills over the course of the engagement. You will submit the form as part of your ACC or PCC application.
Beginning January 1, 2027, you may submit either a recorded session(s) for assessment by an ICF trained assessor or a Competency Review Form completed by a Specialized Mentor Coach.
Beginning April 1, 2027, all ACC and PCC applicants must submit a Competency Review Form completed by a Specialized Mentor Coach. The performance evaluation will no longer be available.
Who this affects: Applicants for the ACC and PCC.
Learn more about how these changes affect you by clicking on the scenario(s) below that fit your situation.
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| Applying for ACC or PCC through the Portfolio application | Applying for MCC through the Portfolio application | Renewing ACC, PCC, or MCC | Applying or renewing ACTC |
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