Your Guide to the ICF Credentialing Exam
We want you to pass as smoothly as possible, so here’s everything you need to know about the exam!
Author:
Ridhima Dosani
Read Time: 5 mins
Table of Contents
Your ICF Credentialing Exam
After completing your coach training and coach experience hours, the ICF exam is the final hurdle to becoming a fully certified executive coach, holding a globally recognised and sought after credential. We want you to pass as smoothly as possible, so here’s everything you need to know about the exam!
So, how does the examination process work?
Once you have completed your training requirements for either ACC or PCC level, you have to submit your application to the ICF to be put through to the exam. Once this has been reviewed and accepted, you have 60 days to book and complete your examination. This is all done remotely, using Pearson OnVUE proctoring service to ensure the highest level of security. In the exam, you will be assessed on ICF’s 8 core competencies.
What are the 8 ICF core competencies?
The 8 core competencies are split into four key areas - Foundation, Co-Creating the Relationship, Communicating Effectively, Cultivating Learning and Growth. Here’s a more detailed breakdown below:
Foundation
Demonstrates Ethical Practice - you understand and are consistently applying coaching ethics and standards of coaching
Embodies a Coaching Mindset - you are developing and maintaining a mindset that is open, curious, flexible and client-oriented
Co-creating the Relationship
Establishes and Maintains Agreements - you are partnering with the client and relevant stakeholders to create clear agreements about the coaching relationship, process, plans and goals. You are establishing agreements for the overall coaching engagement as well as those for each coaching session.
Cultivates Trust and Safety - you are partnering with the client to create a safe, supportive environment that allows the client to share freely. You are maintaining a relationship of mutual respect and trust.
Maintains Presence - you are fully conscious and present with the client, employing a style that is open, flexible, grounded and confident
Communicating Effectively
Listens actively - you are focusing on what the client is and is not saying to fully understand what is being communicated in the context of the client systems and to support client self-expression
Evokes Awareness - you are facilitating client insight and learning by using tools and techniques such as powerful questioning, silence, metaphor or analogy
Cultivating Learning and Growth
Facilitates Client Growth - you are partnering with the client to transform learning and insight into action.You are promoting client autonomy in the coaching process.
More on core competencies and breakdowns on each section can be found on the ICF website
How is the ICF exam assessed?
The ICF exam is multiple choice with a range of questions of varying difficulty. For each situation, you will be asked to select the best and worst course of action. You will receive credit for each correctly identified action, but you will not be penalised for selecting the wrong choice. Your score can land anywhere between 200 and 600 points, however, you do need to hit a score of 460 in order to pass. If you do not pass the exam, you can retake it for an additional admin fee. But don’t worry - our students typically pass with no problems, due to the high quality material and resources they have available in our student portal.
Is there an ICF mock exam available?
Not to our current knowledge, but there is a range of questions that you can see on the ICF website. Click the link here to see sample questions and how these will be structured in the exam.
ICF Examination: FAQs
To leave you completely certain that you will pass with flying colours, I have compiled some FAQs we receive from our students in strategy sessions. Below, you will find everything you need to know, or you can speak to our team for more information.
How does the application process work?
Once you have completed your training and coach experience hours, you have to apply for the exam via the ICF website. You will receive your invitation via email once the application has been approved, and be given all the instructions on booking your exam within 60 days of application approval. If you miss this window or fail to notify the ICF within 48 hours before your scheduled exam that you need to move it, you’ll have to apply again, which will be subject to additional charges.
How long is the exam?
3 hours
How soon will I get my results?
You’ll receive your score immediately after completing the exam.
Will I get any feedback on my answers?
You’ll receive a score, but feedback won’t be provided for specific questions.
Can I take the ICF exam in another language?
The ICF exam is currently offered with language aids in the following languages: Chinese (Simplified), French, Italian, Japanese, Russian, Spanish, Swedish, Turkish and Arabic. Other language aids are in development and you can even request translation support if your language is not listed. Check for current language provisions here.
What materials will help me prepare for the ICF exam?
Completing an ICF accredited programme will provide all the training you need for the exam and we have specific content covering the core competencies, so you’ll be in great hands. Plus, with on-going mentor support, you can reach out to us at any time to discuss any concerns you may have regarding the exam.
What happens if I don’t pass the exam?
If you don’t pass the exam or can’t attend for any reason outside of the rescheduling period, don’t worry - you can retake the exam for an additional fee. Your results will be displayed on the screen immediately after, so you’ll know straightaway if you have passed.
How often do I have to renew my ICF credential?
Every 3 years, but you will not have to retake the exam to renew your credential. Instead, continuous learning is encouraged, which you can easily complete thanks to on-going access to our student portal. For full renewal requirements and detailed process, click here.
So, are you ready to take the next step? Book your free strategy call and speak to a member of our team!
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