What is the New ICF ACC Credential Exam and How to Pass (with Free Practice Test)
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 ICF ACC credential will soon be required to pass. This exam will become a mandatory step for ICF ACC application process, after a transitional period. In this article, you will find out what we know about this new exam and what changes for ACC and PCC candidates.
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.
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.
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 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 new 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 exam may seem less difficult than the PCC exam, it’s essential to prepare adequately. Candidates who have engaged deeply with the material and practiced their skills in real-world coaching situations will find themselves better equipped to succeed.
Getting ready to ace your ICF ACC Credential Exam?
Take our FREE ICF ACC mock test and contact us if you have any questions!
What is the ICF ACC Exam structure?
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.
Exam Content: It spans across three domains that encapsulate the core competencies of a proficient coach. These include:
- Coaching Competencies, Strategies, and Techniques – 40%
- Coaching Ethics – 30%
- Definition and Boundaries of Coaching – 30%
Exam Format: Computer-based written exam in Pearson VUE testing centres or online.
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.
Exam Language: The ICF ACC Credential exam is available in several languages.
ICF ACC Exam pass rate
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 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.
Want help to ace your exam? Our session ‘Get Ready for the ICF Credentialing Exam’ is for you! You will learn everything you need to know pass this new new online test: requirements, resources, tips & tricks and more. You will also try our ICF practice test and get ready to go!
ICF ACC Exam questions
The ICF credentialing exam questions are designed to evaluate a coach’s understanding of coaching principles. These 60 questions 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 Fee?
The cost of the new exam will be included in the ICF ACC application fee: $175 for ICF members and $375 for non members.
If you do not pass the exam, the retake fee is $105 USD.
ICF ACC Exam Sample Questions
Here are some sample questions, just to give you an idea of the complexity of the new exam.
- 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.
How to pass the ICF ACC Exam
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.
Lastly, practicing through coaching sessions and receiving feedback are essential. We offer structured learning and valuable feedback on your skills in our FREE Coaching Dojo, where you can embed what you’ve learned in your practice and receive feedback from our mentors.
You are invited to join our FREE ‘Coaching Dojo’ to practice in a safe space and get feedback on your skills from an ICF MCC certified mentor coach.
ICF ACC Practice Test and Exam Simulator
Practising with mock exams is a great way to prepare for the ICF ACC Credential exam. Testing yourself with an ICF practice exam will help you see what you’re good at and what you need to work on.
The test is new and no one has taken it yet. In order to support you, we have put together a mock test to assess your knowledge of the core principles of coaching and we will improve it as the new exam goes live. By practising with our free ICF ACC Credential exam simulator, you can gain confidence and prepare to pass the exam.
You can also find some sample questions in the ICF ACC Credential exam page.
Getting ready to ace your ICF ACC Credential exam?
Take our FREE ICF mock test and contact us if you have any questions!
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.
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.
Our goal is not just to help you ace the exam but to fully embrace a coaching mindset. 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.
Related articles
- ICF Credentialing Exam: How to Prepare and Pass
- ICF Credentials and Certification Programs: Understanding the Paths for ACC, PCC, MCC
- ICF ACC Credential exam page
About Author
