In the expanding world of professional coaching, taking a structured first step is essential. Level One ICF Coach Training is designed precisely for aspiring coaches who want a credible, sustainable foundation for their practice. It aligns with the ICF’s Level 1 accreditation standards, ensuring that your training meets global expectations for quality, rigor, and ethical practice.
What is Level One ICF Training?
Level One (previously comparable to ICF’s ACSTH pathway) refers to an entry-level coach training program that meets ICF’s requirements for coach-specific education, mentor coaching, and a performance evaluation. Successful completion of a full Level One program positions you to apply for the Associate Certified Coach (ACC) credential via the Level 1 pathway.
Key components usually include:
60+ contact hours of coach-specific training (live sessions, assignments, practice)
10 hours of mentor coaching (often separated into group and individual coaching)
A performance evaluation (assessment of coaching ability) to verify you can coach at the ACC level
Why Choose Level One Training?
Streamlined path to ACC credentialing
Completing a full ICF-accredited Level One program means that your education requirement is satisfied when applying for ACC via the Level 1 route. This simplifies the credentialing process.
Strong foundational skill development
Level One training emphasizes the essential ICF Core Competencies—active listening, powerful questioning, establishing trust, presence, and facilitating client growth.
Mentor support and feedback
The mentor coaching component gives you feedback from experienced coaches, helping you refine your style and meet ICF expectations before applying for credentialing.
Confident application to ICF
The built-in performance evaluation and aligned curriculum help you approach your ACC application with assurance.
What to Expect During Training
Throughout the Level One program, you’ll engage in live classes (either virtual or face-to-face), peer coaching, individual assignments, and reflective practice. Many courses balance synchronous learning (real-time sessions) and asynchronous work (self-study, reading, recorded practice).
You’ll also participate in mentor coaching sessions—both group and one-on-one—to receive feedback on your coaching presence, alignment with competencies, and style. This helps you sharpen your skills before the performance evaluation stage.
Once you complete the curriculum and evaluation, you can begin accruing your 100+ hours of coaching experience (if not already started) and submit your ACC application to ICF.
Considerations When Choosing a Level 1 Program
Accreditation status: Ensure the program is officially ICF Level 1 accredited.
Mentor coach quality: Look for mentors who hold current ICF credentials (PCC or MCC).
Support & community: Programs with peer support, discussion groups, and ongoing coaching labs tend to help students succeed.
Flexibility & pacing: A structure that balances live sessions and self study helps learners manage work or personal commitments.
As you stand at the crossroads of beginning your coaching journey or formalizing your practice, a well-designed Level One program can set the tone for your growth and success. If you’re ready for a structured, transformative experience, consider exploring the 24-Week Success Program from The Coach Training Academy at thecoachtrainingacademy.com. This immersive program is tailored to support you in fulfilling Level One requirements while giving you a clear roadmap to build a coaching practice with confidence and credibility.
