About ICF

The International Coach Federation (ICF) is a largest global coaching organization committed to setting the standards for coach training, providing independent credentials and building a universal network of trained coaching professionals.

As the world’s leading organization of professionally trained coaches, ICF confers immediate credibility upon its members. ICF is the main accrediting and credentialing body connecting both training programs and coaches.

ICF offers the only globally recognized, independent credentialing program which stands for knowledge, accountability and a strong ethical code when it comes to professional coaching.

ICF Credentials are awarded to professional coaches who have met the required rigorous education and have completed the stipulated hours of coaching.  Achieving credentials through ICF signifies a coach’s commitment to integrity, understanding and mastery of coaching skills, and dedication to clients.

ICF also accredits programs that deliver coach-specific training. The ICF prides itself in the promotion of high ethical professional standards in coaching.  All ICF coaches sign up to adhere to the ICF Code of Ethics and do so annually on the renewal of their ICF membership.

Today, ICF is a highly in-demand coaching certification and accreditation because:

  • Imparting core coaching competencies
  • Developing a professional code of ethics and coaching standards
  • Designing a globally renowned credentialing program
  • Framing guidelines through accreditation and credentialing
  • Providing continuous, life- long learning and education
  • Reinforces the honor of the coaching profession nationally and internationally.

ICF Definition of Coaching

ICF defines coaching as partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential.

Credential Paths

ICF offers three credentials: Associate, Professional and Master Certified Coach.

ICF Definition of Coaching

ICF describes coaching as partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that transforms them and inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential.

Credential Paths

ICF offers three main credentials: Associate, Professional and Master Certified Coach.

Coach Transformation Academy