What is the new ICF ACC Credential Exam and How to Prepare and Pass (with Free Practice Exam and Sample Questions)
By Lucia Baldelli
The ICF has recently announced the introduction of a new ICF ACC Credential exam, an online test that any coach going for the ICF ACC credential will soon be required to pass. This exam will become a mandatory step for the ICF ACC application process, after a transitional period. In this article, you will find out what to know about this new exam and what changes for ACC and PCC candidates. But that’s not all! You will be able to practice with our sample questions and take our free ICF ACC practice exam for free!
Introduction to the ICF ACC Credential Exam
The ICF has recently announced the introduction of a new ICF ACC Credential exam that will replace the ICF Credentialing Exam in the ACC credentialing process.
This new multiple-choice exam assesses candidate’s knowledge of the ICF Core Competencies, Code of Ethics and the ICF Definition of Coaching and it is shorter in length than the current exam.
The ACC Exam is designed to be a more accurate reflection of a coach’s understanding and expertise. It was developed through a comprehensive process aligned with best practices for certification exams, with the goal of ensuring relevance and precision.
Here are some dates that highlight key transitional moments:
- November 18, 2024 – the new ICF ACC Credential exam is launched and ACC candidates can choose between the ICF Credentialing Exam and the new exam
- March 14, 2025 – the new ICF ACC Credential exam becomes a mandatory step of the process.
Similarly to the current exam, ICF has partnered with Pearson VUE, for an in person or virtual experience, as described in our article on how to prepare for the ICF Credentialing Exam.
Overview of the ACC Credential
The ACC credential recognizes a coach’s foundational understanding of the ICF Core Competencies, Code of Ethics, and the definition of coaching. It reflects a coach’s grasp of essential coaching principles and is ideal for those early in their coaching journey, professionals practicing coaching part-time, or individuals from other fields who incorporate a coaching mindset into their work.
To earn the ACC credential, candidates must meet specific requirements, including completing coach-specific education, logging client coaching experience, participating in mentor coaching with a qualified mentor, and showcasing their proficiency in the ICF Core Competencies through a performance evaluation.
The final step involves passing the written exam to demonstrate their knowledge and readiness.
Ready to take the first step? Discover the requirements for this ICF credential and prepare to take the exam!
What we know about the new ICF ACC Exam
After some clarifications with the ICF support team, we have put together a snapshot that highlights the changes in this new ICF ACC Credential exam, compared to the ICF Credentialing Exam.
What stays the same
- The foundation of all questions is solidly built on the ICF Core Competencies, ICF Code of Ethics, and ICF’s Definition of Coaching.
- Questions continue to vary in difficulty to comprehensively assess a coach’s understanding.
- Scoring ranges from 200 to 600, with a passing mark set at 460, equivalent to correctly answering 76% of the questions
- Each question has one “correct” answer.
- A candidate’s score is based on successfully identifying each correct response. Candidates are not penalised for incorrect responses.
- ICF PCC candidates will have to take the ICF Credential exam anyway, as the new exam is not sufficient for the ICF PCC credential.
What changes
- This new exam is for ACC candidates only.
- The test duration is 90 minutes.
- A total of 60 questions, all multiple choice.
- It assesses knowledge of the ICF Core Competencies, Code of Ethics and the ICF Definition of Coaching.
How difficult is the new ACC exam?
The shorter duration of the ACC exam is certainly a relief. The PCC exam demands considerable focus and mental energy to comprehend the scenarios presented. In contrast, the new ACC exam is knowledge-based: if you have embraced a coaching mindset and thoroughly understand the body of knowledge, it should not be overly challenging, and the pass rate is likely to be higher.
The ACC exam focuses on ICF Core Competencies, the Code of Ethics, and the Definition of Coaching. This structured format allows candidates to demonstrate their understanding without the added pressure of complex scenarios.
While the ACC exam may seem less difficult than the PCC exam, however, it’s essential to prepare adequately. Candidates who have engaged deeply with the material and the sample questions, who have taken multiple ACC practice exams, and practiced their skills in real-world coaching situations, will find themselves better equipped to succeed.
ICF ACC exam questions
The ICF ACC credentialing exam questions are designed to evaluate a coach’s understanding of coaching principles. There are 60 questions, which require a coach to select the one correct answer from four possible alternatives.
There is only one correct answer, and credit is awarded solely for these selections.
There is no penalty for incorrect responses, which means candidates can answer without fear of negative scoring.
What is the ICF ACC Exam structure?
The ICF ACC exam is structures as follows:
- Exam Time: 90 minutes, including a 10-minute break. The available time is allocated as follows:
- Exam Instructions: 2 minutes
- Section 1 (30 items): 39 minutes
- Scheduled Break: 10 minutes
- Section 2 (30 items): 39 minutes
- Exam Length: 60 multiple-choice questions.
ACC Exam content
The ICF exam content spans across three domains that encapsulate the core competencies of a proficient coach.
These include:
- Coaching Competencies, Strategies, and Techniques – 40%
- Knowledge of how to contract with clients (e.g., key elements of a coaching agreement).
- Knowledge of ICF Core Competencies.
- Knowledge of goal setting and motivation.
- Knowledge of a variety of coaching techniques, tools, and resources.
- Coaching Competencies, Strategies, and Techniques – 40%
- Coaching Ethics – 30%
- Knowledge of professional ethics codes.
- Knowledge of what constitutes a conflict of interest.
- Knowledge of relevant laws, regulations, and organizational policies and procedures around confidentiality (e.g., what factors would necessitate breaking confidentiality).
- Definition and Boundaries of Coaching – 30%
- Knowledge of the definition of coaching.
- Knowledge of the coaching process and how it differs from other related professions (therapy, counseling, mentoring and consulting).
- Knowledge of when, and how to make appropriate referrals for mental health professionals.
- Knowledge of signs of mental health conditions that may block progress in coaching.
- Coaching Ethics – 30%
ACC Exam format
The ACC exam is a computer-based written exam, to be taken in Pearson VUE testing centres or online.
You can explore exam accommodations directly on the ICF website.
Exam language
The ICF ACC Credential exam is available in several languages.
ICF ACC Exam requirements
To be eligible for the ICF ACC exam, you must complete 60 training hours, 10 hours of mentor coaching and log 100 hours of coaching practice.
ACC Credential Exam registration
What is the pass score for the ICF ACC Exam?
Each question within the ACC 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 76% of the questions.
If you don’t pass the 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, just wait 30 days after each try. You get up to six tries in a year, starting from your first exam date, similarly to the ICF Credentialing exam.
ICF ACC Exam Fee
The cost of the new ACC exam will be included in the ICF ACC application fee:
- $175 for ICF members
- $375 for non members
If you do not pass the exam, the retake fee is $105 USD.
Preparing for the ICF ACC Exam
Now that you know everything about the structure, content and cost of the ACC Credential exam, it’s time to get ready to take it!
Preparing for the ACC Exam can feel like a big step, but remember that your experience as a coach is one of your greatest assets. To approach the exam with confidence, consider these tips:
- Revisit the resources and materials from your coaching education program.
- Deepen your understanding of the ICF Core Competencies and how they apply in practice.
- Familiarize yourself with the ICF ACC Minimum Skills Requirements.
- Study the ICF Code of Ethics, including key definitions and interpretive statements.
- Reflect on common coaching scenarios and identify effective ways to respond.
- Review best practices for referring clients to therapy or other professional services when appropriate.
To help you get comfortable with the exam format, ICF offers a free online tutorial. This interactive tool simulates the Pearson VUE testing platform, allowing you to practice navigating the interface, review some ACC exam sample questions, and get familiar with the exam environment—all at your own pace.
If you’re struggling with the few resources and materials available to prepare for the new ICF ACC Credential exam, we have something for you: continue reading to explore some sample questions and discover our free ICF ACC exam practice test. Get ready to ace your test with us!
ICF ACC Exam Sample Questions
To help you prepare, here are some ICF ACC exam practice questions, just to give you an idea of the complexity of the new format:
- Question 1: What do you do if a client asks you to consult, or offer other professional services?
- Introduce the client to a consultant.
- Discuss what a coaching role is and is not.
- Change the contract with the client and keep the client.
- Tell the client you will offer advice at the end of the coaching conversation.
- Question 2: What is the value of a coach knowing the client’s communication style?
- The coach knows how best to grow the client by using the coach’s communication style.
- You are able to communicate with them easier.
- It’s a great way to practice mirroring.
- The coach can direct his/her style toward the client’s in order to develop the coaching relationship.
- Question 3: Helping a client see the end result is an example of what?
- Backwards planning.
- A visualisation.
- A discovery exercise.
- An envisioning technique.
ICF ACC Exam (free!) practice test
If you’ve already explored the free ICF tutorial but want to take your preparation to the next level, we’ve got an invaluable resource for you. Our free ICF ACC Credential Exam simulator is designed to help you practice and test your knowledge with realistic exam practice questions.
This comprehensive ICF ACC practice exam includes a variety of scenarios and topics to mirror the actual test format, offering an engaging and effective way to prepare. Whether you’re looking for a mock test to identify areas of improvement or a tool to build your confidence, our ACC exam simulator is the perfect way to get ready for success.
How to pass the ICF ACC Exam: tips and advice
The ICF Core Competencies and the ICF Code of Ethics are the crucial body of knowledge and the foundation of your coaching practice. Make time to fully understand them and incorporate them in your practice. Our recommended coaching books are also a great resource.
ICF ACC exam practice sessions
Engaging in our ICF Credentialing exam practice session is a very effective way to prepare for any of the ICF exams.
By offering several mock tests, we are aiming to ensure that all your questions are answered and you have everything you need achieve your ICF ACC or PCC credential.
Our goal, however, is not just to help you ace the ACC Credential exam with practice questions and tests, but to fully embrace a coaching mindset. Join us to start your journey towards your ICF Certification!
What happens after the ACC exam?
You will not see the results immediately – no panic. A few minutes after the exam you will receive an email with your score. If you passed, your credential will be issued within a day or two.
ICF ACC exam retakes
If you don’t pass the 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, just wait 30 days after each try. You get up to six tries in a year, starting from your first exam date.
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