ACC Credential: What and When (for Wayfinder-Trained Coaches)
Introduction
If you’ve completed your Wayfinder Coach Training and earned your MBI-ICF certification. congratulations! Becoming a certified Wayfinder Life Coach is a huge milestone, and it deserves to be celebrated. The training and certification have both given you a solid foundation as a coach. Some coaches consider the ICF-accredited Wayfinder Life Coach certification complete on its own, but others prefer to add to their coaching credentials, to increase opportunities for coaching. If you fall into the latter category, your next step is to get the Associate Certified Coach credential, commonly referred to as the ACC.
You may be wondering, “what is the heck is ACC and why does it even matter?” This blog helps you understand what the ACC credential is, why it matters, and the process of getting credentialed.
What Is the ACC credential anyway?
The Associate Certified Coach (ACC) is the entry-level credential offered by the International Coaching Federation (ICF), a globally recognized body that sets the gold standard for professional coaching. This credential certifies that you’ve built a strong foundation in coaching skills, operate with ethical integrity in line with the ICF standards, and are committed to continuous professional growth and development.
Here’s the good news for Wayfinders: the MBI is a Level 2 ICF-accredited program, which means that by becoming a certified Wayfinder Life Coach, you’ve already completed most of the requirements needed to apply for the ACC.
I’m already MBI certified. Why should I get the ACC?
Because the ACC is a globally recognized credential, earning this credential adds a level of credibility that can elevate your coaching practice. It demonstrates to potential clients and organizations that you’ve met rigorous professional standards. This can open doors to new opportunities such as coaching in corporate settings, joining coaching platforms like BetterUp, receiving referrals from other professionals, and even charging higher rates.
Beyond external benefits, pursuing the ACC offers an internal structure. It provides a clear framework for continued development and can give you greater confidence in your coaching. It also connects you to a global network of coaches who uphold the same standards of excellence and ethics.
ACC Credential Requirements: What You Need By When
There are five core components to the ACC credentialing process: Education, Experience, Mentor Coaching, Performance Evaluation, and Exam. Wayfinder-certified coaches already fulfill three of those:
· Education (60+ hours of coach-specific training),
· Mentor Coaching (10 hours over a minimum of three months), and
· Performance Evaluation (submission of a recorded coaching session and transcript).
That leaves two remaining components for your ACC application:
1. Coaching Experience – You’ll need to log 100 hours of coaching with a minimum of 8 different clients. At least 75 of those hours must be paid, and 25 hours can be unpaid. Additionally, 25 or more hours must be completed within the last 18 months. You can count your already-logged Wayfinder hours in the correct category—paid or unpaid.
2. Exam – The ACC Exam is a proctored, computer-based written test administered by Pearson VUE. You have the option to take it in person at a testing center or online through Pearson's OnVUE remote testing platform. The exam includes 60 multiple-choice questions, designed to assess your understanding of the ICF Core Competencies and Code of Ethics. The questions are divided into two sections, and you’ll have the option to take a 10-minute break midway through the exam.
Cost:
The application fee for the ACC Credential depends on whether you’re an ICF member. If you’re a current ICF member, the cost is $175. If you’re not a member, the fee is $325. ICF membership itself costs $245 per year, so if you plan to stay engaged with the ICF community and pursue additional credentials down the line, becoming a member could be a worthwhile investment.
Final Tips for Success:
As you prepare for your ACC application, a few small steps can make a big difference. Start by reviewing the ICF Core Competencies and Code of Ethics. They are the heart of what the exam (and great coaching) is all about.
When it comes to preparing for the exam, don’t go in cold. There are a few ways you could prepare for it, such as enrolling in an ACC-specific practice course, which can help you get familiar with the format and types of questions. You can also use tools like ChatGPT's ICF Tutor, which allows you to practice with mock questions and review key concepts. You could also consider joining a peer accountability group to stay motivated and on track.
To help you understand everything you need to get your ACC credential, we’ve created a handy infographic that you can refer to (below).
And if you want tailored support along the way, What by When offers coaching to help you navigate decisions, organize your study schedule, and move through the process with clarity and confidence. Reach out to us to book a complimentary discovery session!
