ICF PCC eligibility and application paths

Which coaching hours count toward PCC?

Of the 500 hours, at least 450 must be paid. At least 50 hours, paid or unpaid, must fall within the 18 months before you submit. The same session can contribute toward both the paid and recent totals. Count at least 25 distinct clients across the qualifying hours.

ICF counts qualifying client coaching done after you started qualifying coach education. Count actual live coaching time, including partial hours. ICF lists mentor coaching, supervision and training separately from client coaching. Before submitting, compare your log with ICF’s rules for paid, pro bono, internal and group coaching. Check the recent hours again if your submission date moves.

• ICF credentialing experience requirements

Should you apply through Level 2 or Portfolio?

ICF folded its former Level 1 and ACSTH route into Portfolio. If you have a partial program or a combination of certificates, check the current ICF comparison and ask ICF how your training fits before submitting.

• ICF’s consolidated Level 2 and Portfolio paths
• ICF credential application and path comparison
• ICF coaching education and training requirements

How should you organise mixed training records?

List each program, completion date and number of qualifying hours. Keep its certificate next to the entry. For training that ICF has not accredited, collect the program curriculum so you can show how it addresses ICF’s education requirements. If a program included several modules, compare your completion record with the full program before counting its hours or selecting the Level 2 path.

• ICF coaching education and training requirements
• ICF credential application and path comparison

What changes for Portfolio applicants in 2027?

For new Portfolio mentor coaching hours from January 1, 2027, work with a mentor who holds ICF’s Mentor Coach Specialization. If your mentor coaching spans the change, ask ICF how to document the hours you already completed. The existing Portfolio path calls for 10 hours over at least three months, including at least three individual hours.

For Portfolio applications before April 1, ICF’s application comparison calls for two recorded sessions and transcripts. New Portfolio submissions on or after April 1 use a Competency Review Form completed by the qualified mentor. The updated process requires at least three observed and reviewed sessions and at least three individual mentor coaching hours. Keep each Session Observation Form in case ICF audits your submission.

If you use the Level 2 path, submit your qualifying program certificate. ICF says it continues to accept eligible Level 2 certificates from programs completed before April 1.

• ICF changes to the PCC Portfolio application
• ICF credential application and path comparison

What should you check before submitting?

• Match your education records to the path you selected and confirm that your qualifying training is complete.
• Check the 500-hour total, the paid hours, the number of clients and the 18-month window against your planned submission date.
• Use the application comparison and transition guidance to confirm which mentor records and evidence to submit.
• After ICF reviews your application, use your invitation to see which written exam you are authorised to schedule.

• ICF credential application and path comparison
• See PCC booking steps, fees and retakes