ICF Credential Exam (ACC only)

Welcome to this jigsaw.coach programme focusing on practice for the ICF ACC Credential Examination (ACE).  This is designed primarily for coaches who are preparing to take the examination, but it will also be beneficial for any coaches who wish to further develop their competencies. 

The ICF ACC Credential Exam (ACE) is a requirement for any coach who wishes to go through the credentialing process to apply for an ICF Accredited Certified Coach (ACC) credential. 

Coaches who are just renewing their ACC credential at the same level (not upgrading) will not be required to complete the exam and any coach who is upgrading to Professional Certified Coach (PCC) will need to sit the ICF Credential Exam (ICE) for PCC and MCC coaches.  More information about preparation materials for the ICE exam is here.  

What does the test include and how is it designed? 

• The test consists of 60 questions and lasts for 90 minutes (including a 10 minute break).
• Each multiple-choice question has four possible answers and you need to choose only the correct answer. 
• Coaches need to score at least 76% to receive a pass grade.

This examination is designed around, and tests your knowledge about, three specific domains:

1. 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).

2. 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.

3. 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.

What resources are available for preparation?

Detailed information is available on the ICF website by clicking here.

You will be provided with three decks of questions:

Deck 1: Questions with accompanying answers provided directly by ICF.

Deck 2: A variety of questions with details analysis of which was the best and worst response; these are all linked to the ICF Core Competencies, Code of Ethics and Core Values.   This deck also includes a variety of useful links to external revision resources.

Deck 3:  A full set of 60 questions with answers which you can choose to do as a timed mock exam or gradually.

Unlike other sample test questions, jigsaw.coach ensures that answers in deck two are mapped to the ICF Core Competencies, Code of Ethics and Core Values so that there is a clear, logical justification for the choice of correct answer as well as links to additional revision materials.  It is good practice to time yourself when completing these questions so that you get an idea about how long you need.  Please take a few moments to watch this 7 minute informal introductory video by Caroline which explains more about the exam and the jigsaw.coach resources.

*Delivery: These materials will be sent to the email address used in your order as a PDF document.*

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