ICF Credentialing Update
What the 2027 ICF Mentor Coaching Changes Mean for You
ICF is moving ACC and PCC Portfolio skills documentation toward specialized mentor coaching and formative evaluation. Current rules remain in force until the announced effective dates. Here is the dated, path-specific version.
The Timeline
Dec. 31, 2026
Current mentor-qualification and performance-evaluation rules apply. Eligible hours completed under those rules remain valid.
2027
All new mentor-coaching hours for credential candidates must be completed with an MCS holder. ACC renewal candidates must also use an MCS-qualified mentor.
2027
Skills validation from mentor coaches replaces the performance evaluation recordings and transcripts for ACC and PCC Portfolio candidates.
Requirements reviewed July 21, 2026. Always confirm the rules in effect when you apply.
Pathway Matrix
| Path | Through 2026 | Jan.–Mar. 2027 | Apr. 1, 2027 onward |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACC Level 1/2 or PCC Level 2 | Your program includes mentor coaching and performance evaluation. | No separate applicant step. Your provider incorporates the new requirements; ICF says pre-April 2027 Level certificates remain accepted. | |
| ACC/PCC Portfolio | 10 hours over a minimum period of three months, including at least three individual mentor-coaching hours, plus the current recording and transcript. | Any new hours require an MCS holder; the current performance evaluation remains until April 1. | MCS-led enhanced mentor coaching with at least three observed sessions. Submit the Competency Review Form and retain Session Observation Forms for audit; no separate recording or transcript. |
| ACC renewal | 10 hours over a minimum period of three months with an eligible mentor coach. | Use an ACC- or PCC-level MCS holder. The observation and competency-review forms are not required for renewal. | |
What Is the Mentor Coach Specialization?
A Credential for Mentor Coaches
The Mentor Coach Specialization (MCS) is ICF's designation for mentor coaches trained in observation, competency-based feedback, and formative skill development. It is distinct from the mentor coach's ACC, PCC, or MCC credential.
From January 1, 2027, ACC candidates and renewal applicants may use an ACC- or PCC-level MCS mentor; PCC candidates need a PCC-level MCS mentor. Hours completed before that date remain valid under the rules that applied when completed. Only ICF determines whether a candidate's hours and application evidence qualify.
From One Recording to Formative Evaluation
For ACC and PCC Portfolio applications beginning April 1, 2027, the enhanced model replaces the separate performance-evaluation recording and transcript. An MCS mentor observes at least three coaching sessions, provides feedback over time, and documents the evidence using two standardized forms.
Session Observation Form
Per Session
- Level of mentor coaching provided
- Performance against credential-level minimum skill requirements
- Mentor coach feedback
- Prompts for your reflection
Competency Review Form
Cumulative
- Proficiency — skills demonstrated with competence
- Remaining skill gaps and ethics verification
- Mentor coach feedback
- Prompts for your reflection
What You Submit—and What You Keep
Submit the Competency Review Form with an ACC or PCC Portfolio application on or after April 1, 2027. Keep each Session Observation Form and provide it only if ICF selects the application for audit.
These forms record observed competence and growth gaps. They are not a standalone exam, do not replace the ICF credentialing exam, and do not guarantee that ICF will accept or approve an application. For applications before April 1, 2027, the current performance-evaluation rules remain in effect.