The International Coaching Federation (ICF) is the global gold standard for professional coaching credentials. In India, demand for ICF-certified coaches continues to rise among corporate leaders, HR professionals, entrepreneurs, and independent coaches who want internationally recognized credibility.

Indian Leadership Academy (ILA) offers ICF-accredited coach training programs designed for the Indian market while meeting global standards. This guide covers everything you need to know about ICF Level 1 certification, ICF Level 2 certification, ICF certification cost in India, and the difference between older ACSTH and ACTP programs versus the current Level 1 and Level 2 pathways.

Understanding ICF Credentials: ACC, PCC & the Education Pathways

ICF credentials are awarded based on education hours, coaching experience, mentor coaching, performance evaluation, and the ICF Credentialing Exam.

• ACC (Associate Certified Coach) — Entry-level credential
• PCC (Professional Certified Coach) — Mid-level, most sought-after credential
• MCC (Master Certified Coach) — Highest level

Current ICF Education Pathways (Post-2023):

Pathway Previous Name Minimum Hours Best For Credential Path Level 1 ACSTH / Partial60+ hoursBeginners ACC Level 2 ACTP125+ hours Aspiring PCC coaches ACC or PCC Level 3New75+ hours (after PCC)Experienced coachesMCC

Note: ACSTH and ACTP designations were retired by ICF in 2023. Existing certificates are still recognized, but new programs are accredited as Level 1 or Level 2.

ICF Level 1 Certification (ACC Pathway)

ICF Level 1 programs provide a minimum of 60 coach-specific training hours and typically include mentor coaching and performance evaluation. This is the most common starting point for new coaches in India.

Key Requirements for ACC:

• 60+ hours of ICF-accredited education (Level 1)
• 100+ coaching hours (at least 75 paid)
• 10 hours of mentor coaching
• Performance evaluation
• Pass the ICF Credentialing Exam

At Indian Leadership Academy, the Level 1 program is delivered virtually over approximately 3 months with live practice, mentor coaching (including 1:1 sessions), and performance evaluation support.

ICF Level 2 Certification (PCC Pathway)

ICF Level 2 programs require at least 125 hours of coach-specific education and prepare participants for the Professional Certified Coach (PCC) credential.

Key Requirements for PCC:

• 125+ hours of ICF-accredited education (Level 2)
• 500+ coaching hours (450 paid)
• 10 hours of mentor coaching
• Performance evaluation
• Pass the ICF Credentialing Exam

Level 2 is ideal if you already plan to pursue PCC or want deeper skill development from the beginning.

ICF Certification Cost in India (2025–2026)

Costs vary by provider, inclusions (mentor coaching, performance evaluation, community support), and delivery format.

Typical Ranges in India:

Component Level 1 (ACC)Level 2 (PCC)Training Program₹70,000 — ₹1,50,000₹1,50,000 — ₹3,50,000+Mentor Coaching (if not included)₹30,000 — ₹70,000Often included ICF Application Fee (Member)~$175 USD~$375 USDICF Application Fee (Non-Member)~$325 USD~$525 USD Estimated Total Journey₹1–2.5 lakhs₹2.5–4+ lakhs

Important: Always check what is included. Quality Level 1 and Level 2 programs that bundle mentor coaching and performance evaluation usually offer better overall value than cheaper options that leave these costs separate.

ACSTH vs ACTP Programs — What Changed?

• ACSTH (Approved Coach Specific Training Hours) — Focused mainly on education hours. Mentor coaching and performance evaluation were often arranged separately. Higher application fees and more documentation.
• ACTP (Accredited Coach Training Program) — Comprehensive programs that included education, mentor coaching, and performance evaluation in one package. Faster and simpler path to credentials.

ICF replaced these with the clearer Level 1 and Level 2 framework. Level 1 corresponds roughly to the old ACSTH pathway for ACC, while Level 2 aligns with the old ACTP pathway for PCC.

Why Choose Indian Leadership Academy for ICF Certification?

Indian Leadership Academy offers ICF-aligned Level 1 (ACC) and Level 2 (PCC) programs with:

• Experienced PCC and MCC facilitators
• 100% virtual live learning
• Structured mentor coaching and practice labs
• Performance evaluation support
• Strong focus on leadership, corporate, and executive coaching contexts relevant to Indian professionals
• Active post-program community

Programs are designed for working professionals — leaders, HR managers, trainers, consultants, and aspiring coaches — who want practical skills along with global credentials.

How to Get Started

1. Decide whether you want to begin with Level 1 (ACC) or go directly for Level 2 (PCC).
2. Compare total investment (training + mentoring + ICF fees).
3. Choose an accredited provider that includes mentor coaching and performance evaluation.
4. Complete the required coaching hours and apply for your ICF credential.

Ready to begin your ICF journey?
Explore Indian Leadership Academy’s ICF Coach Training Programs and book a discovery call to understand the best pathway for your goals.