ICF PCC Credentialing Exam: how to prepare and pass
The ICF PCC Credentialing Exam is the new official test that replaces the former Coach Knowledge Assessment (CKA). It’s a key step for coaches aiming to earn their PCC (Professional Certified Coach) or MCC (Master Certified Coach) credential.
In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know to prepare and succeed: how the new exam works, what’s changed from the old version, and the best strategies and resources to study effectively.
Whether you’re about to apply or simply want to understand what to expect, this guide will help you approach the exam with confidence and clarity.
Table of Contents
- What is the ICF Credentialing Exam
- Differences between the new ICF Exam and the old CKA
- ICF Exam Requirements and Application Process
- Exam Content, Structure and Scoring
- How to Prepare for the ICF Exam
- Study Materials and Free Practice Tests
- Tips to Pass the ICF Exam
- Sample Questions
- FAQ
What is the IFC credentialing exam
If you are aiming for the ICF Professional Certified Coach (PCC) or Master Certified Coach (MCC) credential, you are required to pass the ICF Credentialing Exam, a computer-based written test that evaluates your knowledge of the ICF Core Competencies, the ICF Code of Ethics, and the ICF Definition of Coaching.
If you’re applying for the Associate Certified Coach (ACC) credential, you’ll take the dedicated ICF ACC Exam. Currently, some candidates may still have the option to complete the ICF Credentialing Exam instead, depending on their application path and training program.
The new ICF Credentialing Exam replaces the former Coach Knowledge Assessment (CKA), which was phased out in 2023. This transition followed the introduction of the updated ICF credential levels (Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3), aligning the exam structure with modern standards of certification. Developed in collaboration with ICF-credentialed coaches worldwide, the new exam offers a more rigorous and realistic evaluation of a coach’s professional judgment and ethical mindset.
It remains a key milestone for anyone pursuing ICF certification, demonstrating your readiness to uphold the highest standards of coaching excellence. You can take the exam online or in person, ensuring accessibility for coaches across the globe.
ICF credentialing exam: eligibility and requirements
Understanding the ICF exam requirements is the first step toward earning your professional coaching credential. To be eligible for the ICF Credentialing Exam, candidates must complete a specific combination of training hours and mentor coaching, designed to ensure readiness for the ethical and practical challenges of professional coaching.
Here’s what’s required based on your chosen credential level:
- Associate Certified Coach (ACC): at least 60 hours of coach-specific training.
- Professional Certified Coach (PCC): at least 125 hours of training – learn more about our PCC Pathway with Coaching Outside The Box.
- Master Certified Coach (MCC): more than 200 hours of advanced coach training.
All candidates must also complete 10 hours of ICF mentor coaching, combining both group and individual sessions to refine their competencies and align with ICF’s professional standards.
Important note: if you are advancing to the ICF MCC Coach (Level 3) credential and have not previously taken the ICF Credentialing Exam, you will be required to pass it as part of your Level 3 (pilot) application process.
Meeting these PCC exam eligibility requirements not only prepares you for the exam but also strengthens your confidence and skill as a coach ready to make a meaningful impact.
How to apply to take the ICF exam
- After completing your training, gather your coaching experience and apply for the exam.
- Pay the required fee. Once your application is approved, you’ll receive an invitation to schedule your exam with Pearson VUE.
- Book your exam within 60 days of receiving the invitation – you can choose the most convenient date and time.
- On exam day, allow for a 30-minute preparation period dedicated to:
- System checks
- Environmental scans
- ID verification
These steps ensure full compliance with exam protocols.
To ensure a smooth experience, choose a quiet and private space, and maintain silence for the entire duration of the exam.
For complete details on scheduling and preparing for your exam, visit the ICF official guidelines on exam procedures.
ICF exam content and format
The ICF Credentialing Exam is meticulously designed to assess a coach’s proficiency, ethical reasoning, and decision-making skills. It evaluates how effectively you can apply the ICF Definition of Coaching, the Core Competencies, and the Code of Ethics in real-world coaching situations.
How does it work?
The exam consists of 78 situational judgment items, each describing a realistic coaching scenario. For every question, you’ll need to:
- Choose the most appropriate (best) action a coach should take.
- Identify the least appropriate (worst) action.
There is only one correct best action and one correct worst action per scenario. Although several responses may seem reasonable, your task is to identify the choices that most closely align (or conflict) with ICF standards. Credit is given only for correctly identifying both the best and worst actions.
Structure and timing
The exam is divided into two main sections, with a total duration of 180 minutes (3 hours):
- Exam Instructions: 3 minutes
- Section 1 (41 items): 87 minutes
- Scheduled Break: 5 minutes
- Section 2 (40 items): 85 minutes
The ICF Credentialing Exam is available in English, with language aids in several other languages, making it accessible to candidates worldwide.
Delivery options
The exam is administered in partnership between ICF Credentials and Standards and Pearson VUE, a global leader in computer-based testing. Candidates can choose to:
- Take the exam in person at a Pearson VUE testing center, or
- Sit the exam online from home or office via OnVUE, Pearson’s remote testing platform, under live supervision by a remote proctor.
This flexible structure ensures a secure, standardized, and accessible experience for all candidates pursuing ICF certification.
What is the passing score for the icf exam?
Each question within the exam holds equal weight, and the scoring system uses a scaled score ranging from 200 to 600, with a passing mark set at 460, equivalent to correctly answering about 76% of the questions. This scoring model includes identifying both the Best Action and Worst Action in response to the scenarios presented.
This rigorous exam process ensures that coaches meet ICF’s high standards in coaching skills and ethics.
What happens if you don’t pass the icf credentialing exam?
If you don’t pass the ICF exam on your first try, don’t worry! You can retake it after 14 days for a fee of $105 USD. If you need more attempts, you’ll need to wait 30 days between each one.
You can take up to six tries per year, starting from your first exam date. If you still haven’t passed after a year, you may continue attempting up to six times each year thereafter.
What do the exam questions cover?
The ICF exam’s content spans across four domains that encapsulate the core competencies of a proficient coach:
- Foundation
- Co-Creating the Relationship
- Communicating Effectively
- Cultivating Learning and Growth
The questions are distributed to reflect these domains, with varying percentages assigned to each competency – such as Demonstrates Ethical Practice and Embodies a Coaching Mindset under Foundation, or Establishes and Maintains Agreements under Co-Creating the Relationship.
Scoring is based on the accurate identification of both the Best Action and Worst Action for each scenario. The approach encourages candidates not only to recognize effective coaching strategies but also to be aware of actions that could undermine the coaching process.
Importantly, there is no penalty for incorrect responses, which means candidates can answer without fear of negative scoring. This method ensures a fair assessment of a coach’s ability to navigate complex coaching situations effectively.
How to prepare for the ICF credentialing exam
Preparing for the ICF Credentialing Exam may seem challenging at first, but it’s also one of the best opportunities to consolidate your skills and elevate your confidence as a coach.
Here are the key steps and strategies to guide your preparation:
Start with the fundamentals
Focus on the ICF Core Competencies and the ICF Code of Ethics, as these are the foundation of every question in the exam. Review the ICF PCC Markers to understand the behavioral indicators expected at each credential level.
Deepen your understanding through study
Complement your training with recommended coaching books, articles, and online resources. Consider joining a group mentorship program to receive structured learning and personalized feedback from experienced coaches.
Join an ICF-accredited training program
Enrolling in an accredited program ensures you get the right balance of theory and practice, helping you internalize the competencies that the exam will assess.
Practice real coaching scenarios
Engage in mock coaching sessions to simulate the exam’s situational questions and practice your decision-making. These sessions act as a “trial run” of your coaching performance, helping you translate theoretical knowledge into applied skill.
- You can organize practice sessions within your coaching network or study groups.
- Participate in online communities where certified coaches provide feedback or guidance on your sessions.
- Use these opportunities to identify blind spots, strengthen your coaching mindset, and refine your communication style.
Test yourself with mock exams
Practice exams are an excellent way to familiarize yourself with the ICF exam format, identify areas for improvement, and build confidence in managing time and stress during the test.
Adapt your learning style
Choose study methods that work best for you, whether it’s reading, discussing concepts in groups, watching ICF educational videos, or using multimedia materials to reinforce key ideas.
Remember the bigger goal
Preparing for the ICF exam isn’t just about passing a test: it’s about becoming a more effective, ethical, and self-aware coach. The skills you develop through this process will benefit you and your clients long after certification.
ICF exam study materials and resources
When you’re aiming for coaching excellence, choosing the right study materials is key. The ICF offers several essential resources for your study plan.
Start with the ICF Code of Ethics, which lays out the ethical rules for our profession, and complement this with the ICF Interpretative Statements to get a clearer picture of these ethics in action.
The ICF Core Competencies define the essential skills and approaches that distinguish proficient coaching. The ICF YouTube channel has videos explaining each competency clearly.
Beyond ICF’s own materials, expand your knowledge with reputable coaching books that explore diverse perspectives and methodologies within the field. A curated list of influential titles can be found on our blog The 12 best coaching books to read in 2024, offering you a rich tapestry of wisdom to weave into your exam preparation.
Also, consider online courses and webinars that focus on specific coaching areas. These interactive sessions add more depth to your learning. Study groups or a study buddy can also be really helpful. Talking about tough topics and sharing ideas can make things clearer and build a supportive learning community.
As you use these resources, see them as building blocks for mastering the ICF exam content. They’re not just for passing a test, but for guiding you throughout your coaching career.
ICF practice test and exam simulator
Practicing with mock exams is a great way to prepare for the ICF Credentialing Exam. Testing yourself with an ICF practice exam will help you see what you’re good at and what you need to work on.
As you might already know, the test is relatively new, and there aren’t many practice exams available. While you can still find some ICF exam sample questions on the ICF website, which will give you an idea of what the exam is like, we want to offer you something more.
At Coaching Outside The Box, we offer exclusive free access to our ICF Credentialing Exam Simulator – a realistic, online tool designed to mirror the actual exam environment and provide a set of sample questions that cover key areas of the test.
Using this online mock exam allows you to identify your strengths and areas for improvement in a risk-free setting. The best part? It’s completely free for our clients!
By practicing with our simulator, you can gain confidence and sharpen your coaching skills, ensuring you’re well-prepared not just to pass the exam, but to excel in your coaching career.
And if you’re looking for even deeper preparation, you can join a live simulation session or book a personalized ICF exam preparation session with our experienced ICF-credentialed coaches to take your readiness to the next level.
How to pass the icf credentialing exam: tips and recommendations
Preparing for the ICF Credentialing Exam can be daunting, but with the right approach and mindset, success is within reach. From my own experience, I can assure you that there might be questions that could stump even the most seasoned coaches.
The key to acing the exam is not just about knowing – it’s about understanding the essence of coaching and being able to think like a coach in different scenarios. Keep this in mind during your preparation!
Practical tips to help you pass your exam
Focus on application, not memorization: Although more than one answer may seem reasonable, you’ll receive credit only for selecting the best and worst possible actions. It’s not about recalling theory, but about applying it effectively to real coaching situations.
Use the elimination method: Read each question carefully and systematically eliminate the answers that don’t align with the ICF Core Competencies. This helps narrow your choices and increases your likelihood of identifying the most accurate response.
Keep competencies and mindset front and center: Evaluate every scenario through the lens of the ICF Core Competencies and a coaching mindset. The question isn’t just what you would do, but why you would do it – your reasoning should always reflect the principles of ethical, client-centered coaching.
What to expect on exam day
When it’s time to take the actual ICF Credentialing Exam, knowing what to expect makes all the difference.
Familiarize yourself with the exam platform: ICF offers a free online tutorial that simulates the Pearson VUE testing environment. Use it to explore the interface, navigate practice questions, and feel comfortable before the real exam.
→ Check out the official ICF Candidate Guide for full instructions.
Follow the exam-day rules: Whether you take the exam in person at a Pearson VUE testing center or online through OnVUE, certain items (like food, phones, coats, or notes) are not permitted.
- At a testing center, you’ll have access to a locker for your belongings.
- For the online version, you’ll need your phone only for check-in and must show a 360° view of your room before starting.
- Once a section of the exam is completed, you can’t go back to it, so focus and pace yourself.
Manage your time wisely: You’ll have 3 hours total, split between two sections. Start with the questions you know, and flag only a few for review to avoid losing focus. A calm, methodical approach will help you perform your best under pressure.
Final advice
By “thinking as a coach,” you’ll be well-prepared to choose responses that uphold the highest professional standards. Take a deep breath, trust your preparation, and step confidently into your exam – you’ve got this.
ICF exam sample questions (and answers)
Many candidates look for ICF exam sample questions to practice before the exam and to familiarise themselves with the format and structure.
Here are some ICF exam practice questions (from the ICF website) to give you a taste of what to expect and how to approach them:
Question 1: A coach is meeting with a prospective client who is growing a new business. The coach is an investor in a competitor business. What should the coach do?
- BEST action: Share their role as an investor in a competing business and acknowledge the possibility of a conflict of interest with the client.
- WORST action: Not say anything and try to keep their role as an investor separate from their role as a coach.
Question 2: A client struggles with delegating tasks and ends up completing all the tasks themselves. The coach feels disappointment. What should the coach do?
- BEST action: Take a breath and acknowledge that the client is responsible for their own choice.
- WORST action: Praise the client for meeting deadlines but ask why they failed to support team members’ development.
Question 3: A client comes to a session appearing stressed, listing multiple challenges. What should the coach do?
- BEST action: Acknowledge the significant challenges and ask which one they would like to explore first.
- WORST action: Ask the client to begin with the major event they are planning at work since it was mentioned first.
Question 4: A client shares journal entries showing deep reflections on social anxiety but speaks little during sessions. What should the coach do?
- BEST action: Acknowledge the reflection work done and explore some of the emotions described in their journal.
- WORST action: Ask the client to summarise their journal entries for the coach.
Question 5: A client preparing for retirement suddenly becomes emotional about leaving their job. What should the coach do?
- BEST action: Acknowledge the emotional impacts of the transition and ask if they would like to spend time with those feelings.
- WORST action: Pause, then ask the client to identify remaining plans they would like to focus on today.
As you practice these scenarios, remember that identifying both the best and worst actions requires a deep understanding of coaching ethics and competencies. Approach each question with a coach’s mindset, considering what aligns best with ICF standards and what could potentially harm the coaching relationship.
Conclusion
As we wrap up this guide, I want to leave you with one last piece of advice. The ICF Credentialing Exam is a big step towards becoming a certified coach. Although it’s challenging, the exam questions are complex, so it’s important to stay calm and focused.
Your mindset is just as important as your knowledge. Take a moment to relax, breathe, and trust in all the hard work you’ve put into preparing. When it’s time for the exam, let go of any worries and show what you know about coaching.
We at Coaching Outside The Box are here to support you through every step. If you need more help or resources, feel free to reach out and contact us. Our courses and mentoring programs are designed to help you pass the exam and thrive in your coaching career.
Let’s work together to elevate the coaching world – one certification at a time.
FAQ
How much does the ICF exam cost?
The cost of the ICF Credentialing Exam varies depending on your ICF membership status. For ICF members, the fee is $175 USD. For non-members, it’s $325 USD.
Why has ICF changed the CKA exam?
The ICF continually improves its certification process to maintain global excellence. The new exam ensures fairness, security, and alignment with international standards, in partnership with Pearson VUE for both in-person and online testing.
If I studied for the ICF CKA, can I still pass the new exam?
Absolutely. The foundational knowledge remains the same. Your preparation for the ICF CKA still applies to the new ICF Credentialing Exam, as it builds on the same competencies, principles, and ethical standards.
Who has to take the new ICF Credentialing Exam?
Anyone submitting a new or upgraded credential application after August 1, 2022, must complete the new exam. Coaches renewing their existing credential (without upgrading) do not need to retake it. Read more.
How do I take the exam online?
You can take the ICF Credentialing Exam either at a Pearson VUE testing center or online through OnVUE, Pearson’s remote-proctored platform. Check the ICF OnVUE webpage for official guidelines and a video overview of the testing process.
Is the ICF exam difficult?
The ICF exam can be challenging. Only around 75% of candidates pass on their first attempt, but thorough preparation, practice, and confidence can significantly increase your chances of success.
About the Author
