Everything you need to know about AC Provider Accreditation
Accreditation is an external credentialing process by a professional body, recognising your experience, ethical practice, and ongoing development. It builds trust and credibility with clients and organisations by confirming you meet clear ethical standards.
The Global Code of Ethics is a shared set of guidelines supporting ethical, professional coaching practice across signatory bodies. Coaches commit to working in alignment with these principles, and the AC's Accreditation schemes are underpinned by this Code.
The AC Coaching Competency Framework underpins Accreditation, with 12 competencies describing effective, ethical coaching.
See the full framework here: https://www.associationforcoaching.com/page/coaching-competency-framework
You can download all application forms and supporting guides from the AC website, including:
Yes. You can prepare your documents at your own pace and submit them when ready.
Typically 6–9 weeks, though some applications are completed sooner.
If Accreditation is not awarded on first review, this is treated as part of a developmental process. You will receive guidance on where additional evidence or clarity is needed and can resubmit.
You will receive advance notice before renewal. At renewal, confirm you still meet your Accreditation level and the Global Code of Ethics — no full application is needed. We also require:
You can renew, and your new period will be backdated to the expiry date. A short grace period applies. If too much time has passed, a new application may be required. Please contact the Provider team at provider@associationforcoaching.com to discuss your options.
This depends on who you are offering your training to and how many hours your course covers. Please see the Accreditation scheme overviews for details:
Accreditation is a personal and professional choice. If your practice meets the criteria for a level and pathway, and you value recognition, you may be ready.
Yes. You can change your pathway or level during your three-year Accreditation period or at renewal. Contact the Provider team at provider@associationforcoaching.com to discuss your options.
The accelerated route offers a simplified, streamlined process for learners seeking Individual Coach Accreditation. See the full Coach Training Accreditation options here: https://www.associationforcoaching.com/page/coach-training-accreditation
Accreditation is valid for three years and can be renewed for further three-year periods.
Please contact the Provider team at provider@associationforcoaching.com.
Accreditation assures participants and clients that a course meets professional standards, supports AC Coaching Competencies, and aligns with the Global Code of Ethics.
AC accredits Coach Training Programmes to ensure they meet AC standards and offer a blend of practical and theoretical learning. Levels include:
This recognition is for trainings that equip leaders, managers, and supervisors with coaching skills to support a coaching culture within their organisation.
No. You can apply for the CPD Hours Scheme without accreditation. Courses may be fully accredited or have individual modules recognised via CPD.
It depends on what your learners plan to do next. Their intended membership or accreditation route may influence which accreditation is most beneficial for them.
Yes, provided the course content remains unchanged.
You will need confirmation from the primary contact that you have permission to complete the renewal.
If applying for multiple schemes at the same time, discounts are available. Please contact the Provider team at provider@associationforcoaching.com to find out more.
No. Accredited training confirms the course meets AC standards, but you must apply separately for Individual Coach Accreditation.
Supervision is required, but not necessarily by a qualified supervisor — you must state who provides supervision. For individual accreditation, supervisors must meet specific criteria.