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| The ICF Master Certified Coach (MCC) credential is for the expert coach. It requires completion of a set amount of coach-specific training, a minimum of 2,500 coaching experience hours and at least 35 clients, among other requirements. There is an expectation that all ICF Credentialed coaches will continue their education and build on their level of experience in order to earn the MCC. | Quick Links |
MCC Application
In an effort to make the ICF Credential application process more streamlined, the ICF has replaced the downloadable paper application with an easy-to-use online application. This change will further enable ICF staff to provide better service to applicants, while at the same time, saving the world's limited resources. For questions, please contact the ICF staff at icfcredentialing@coachfederation.org.
The MCC credential has one application type. The ICF accepts MCC applications year-round. Please refer to the MCC application and documents listed below for more information on requirements.
Guide to MCC Online Application Process (PDF)
MCC Frequently Asked Questions/Documents
- MCC General Requirements (PDF)
- MCC FAQ (Word)
- The 2007 MCC Exam implementation
- Minimum Skill Requirements for MCC (PDF) - Please refer to this document to learn more about the proficiencies needed to earn the MCC credential. Spanish Version (PDF)
- ICF Core Competencies summary (PDF) - Core Competencies compared by credential
Definitions and Terms:
- Coach Specific Training: Coach Specific Training is training that is predominantly marketed as teaching coaching skills and not something else and where the major emphasis is on coaching skills or applying technical skills as a coach and in a manner consistent with the ICF core competencies.
- Client Coaching Hours: For purposes of individual credentialing for ACC, PCC and MCC, a client coaching hour is 60 minutes coaching time with a person who has hired you as a coach, with whom you have a formal coaching agreement, and who you coach rather than providing any other service such as consulting or therapy. If you perform coaching and other services for a client, you may only count the actual time spent coaching toward certification. You may not count time providing other services.
More Information/Questions
If you have questions or need assistance with your application, contact ICF Headquarters at icfcredentialing@coachfederation.org.
 | "I chose to renew my PCC for several reasons: renewing keeps me growing as a coach; it shows my clients that I take my profession seriously; and it supports professionalism in coaching." |
 | "It's a way of distinguishing myself by committing to continuing education and mastery in coaching." |
 | "To me, the ICF Credential says that I am a well-trained professional who meets or exceeds the high standards of the governing body of the coaching industry. The PCC designation that I have means I have the experience, the training, the hours and the skills to call myself a credentialed coach. It also speaks to my commitment to both myself and the profession of coaching." |