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Required January 1, 2027

ICF Mentor Coach Specialization: the 2027 guide for credentialed coaches

If you hold an ACC, PCC, or MCC and you mentor - or want to mentor - credentialing candidates, this page walks through what the new ICF Mentor Coach Specialization (MCS, formerly Mentor Coach Qualification or MCQ) requires, how the Standard Path and Credit for Prior Learning compare, and how to earn your MCS before the deadline. Built from ICF's April 2026 announcement and the Mentor Coach Specialization Handbook.

See the live cohort - $1,997 Get the MCS 2027 Decision Guide

Founding cohort · first 6 seats · led by Cherie Silas, MCC. Compare all our programs →

2 MCC Mentor Coaches on Faculty
6 ICF Mentor Coaching Competencies Covered
200+ Credential Candidates Personally Mentored
The short version

What the ICF Mentor Coach Specialization is

The Mentor Coach Specialization (MCS) is a new individual specialization from the International Coaching Federation (ICF), announced in April 2026 and effective January 1, 2027. It formally recognizes coaches who are qualified to provide mentor coaching to ICF credential candidates at a specific level - ACC, PCC, or MCC.

Before the MCS, mentor coaches were required to meet minimum credential requirements at each level of service (for example, an active PCC or MCC to mentor PCC candidates) - but there was no formal training specialization. The MCS replaces that informality with a recognized standard: a defined competency framework published in September 2024, a structured evaluation methodology, and two application pathways for experienced coaches to qualify.

Mentor coaching isn't simply an extension of great coaching. It's a discipline of its own. It requires skilled observation, thoughtful feedback, and a deep understanding of how coaching competence develops over time. - International Coaching Federation, Mentor Coach Specialization launch announcement, April 2026

ICF's working definition of mentor coaching

The 2024 Mentor Coaching Competencies document defines mentor coaching as a collaborative learning process through which coaches receive feedback based on observed or recorded sessions to support them in further developing their unique coaching style and coaching skills in alignment with the ICF Core Competencies.

The Mentor Coach Specialization Handbook adds a sharper boundary: mentor coaching supports the mentor coaching client to develop specifically in their coaching skills, rather than on practice building, life balance, or other topics beyond the development of coaching skills. That distinction matters for every downstream question on this page.

Who this page is written for

Primary

Credentialed coaches pursuing MCS

Renewed ACC, PCC, or MCC coaches who need to qualify by January 1, 2027 via the Standard Path or Credit for Prior Learning.

Primary

Coach educators and program directors

Leaders of ICF-accredited Level 1, Level 2, or Level 3 programs planning for the enhanced mentor coaching rollout and the new formative evaluation model.

Not the focus

ICF credential candidates

If you are a candidate looking to receive 10 hours of mentor coaching as part of your ACC, PCC, or MCC application, this page is not the fit. Start with our candidate mentor coaching service.

What changes and when

The 2027 deadline and the transition timeline

Two dates matter - and they do different things. The January 1, 2027 date is about who can mentor credential candidates. The April 1, 2027 date is about how credential candidates are evaluated.

September 2024

ICF Mentor Coaching Competencies published

Six competencies across four domains - Foundation, Process Management, Client Development, and Group Mentor Coaching - establish the framework the MCS evaluates against.

April 2026

MCS announced; 2026 Handbook published

ICF publishes the Mentor Coach Specialization Handbook with two application pathways, confirms the January 1, 2027 compliance date, and previews the Session Observation and Competency Review forms used for formative evaluation.

Coming months

Advanced accreditations open

Applications are expected to open for the Advanced Accreditation in Mentor Coaching and the Advanced Accreditation in Coaching Supervision - separate from the individual MCS and from standard program accreditation. ICF has not yet announced a specific date.

January 1, 2027

MCS required for all mentor coaches of credential candidates

Beginning January 1, 2027, all ICF credential candidates must work with a mentor coach who has earned the MCS designation at the appropriate level. The MCS must be at the credential level matching the candidate's target.

April 1, 2027

Performance Evaluation (SPE) replaced by formative evaluation

By April 1, 2027, skills validation from qualified mentor coaches replaces the ICF Performance Evaluation recording and transcript previously required for ACC and PCC Portfolio candidates. The shift is implemented through enhanced mentor coaching - a Session Observation Form per 1:1 session where a coaching recording is reviewed, plus a cumulative Competency Review Form at the end of the engagement.

Transition rule - which pathway a candidate uses

  • Candidates completing before April 1, 2027 may still use the Performance Evaluation pathway (SPE recording and transcript).
  • Candidates completing on or after April 1, 2027 must use the new formative evaluation pathway through enhanced mentor coaching.

Sources: ICF Mentor Coach Specialization Handbook (2026) and ICF Mentor Coach Specialization launch announcement (April 13, 2026).

Three Specialization Levels

MCS-ACC, MCS-PCC, MCS-MCC - which level do you need?

The MCS is issued at three levels, matched to the ICF credential level of the candidate being mentored. You can hold one level, two, or all three. One application fee covers multiple levels, but evaluation training is required separately for each level.

MCS - ACC

Qualifies you to mentor

Coaches pursuing or renewing the Associate Certified Coach credential.

Evaluation training required

ICF ACC BARS (Behaviorally Anchored Rating Scales) course.

Safe harbor: ACC candidates may be mentored by either an MCS-ACC or an MCS-PCC holder to fulfill the mentor coaching requirement.
MCS - PCC

Qualifies you to mentor

Coaches pursuing or renewing the Professional Certified Coach credential - and coaches pursuing ACC.

Evaluation training required

ICF PCC Markers training (typically 40 hours, taken separately through ICF).

Level 2 (PCC) programs: every 1:1 mentor coach on your staff must hold MCS-PCC by January 1, 2027. If your Level 1 MCs held only MCS-ACC, Level 2 students need new 1:1 sessions with an MCS-PCC holder.
MCS - MCC

Qualifies you to mentor

Coaches pursuing or renewing the Master Certified Coach credential.

Evaluation training required

ICF MCC BARS course.

MCC-level mentor coaching is typically the smallest tier by volume and the highest bar on the rubric - reflecting the mastery standard ICF holds MCC candidates to.
$

One application fee covers multiple levels

Through March 2027, the MCS application fee is $50 USD for ICF members and $125 USD for non-members - and one fee covers all levels you apply for simultaneously (ACC, PCC, MCC). Evaluation training (BARS or Markers) is still completed separately for each level.

The Decision That Matters Most

Two paths to MCS - Standard Path versus Credit for Prior Learning

ICF offers two application paths. Both lead to the same MCS designation with the same standing. The difference is how you demonstrate readiness - through coursework (Standard Path) or through a combination of shorter coursework plus evidence of prior mentor coaching practice (Credit for Prior Learning, or CPL).

RequirementStandard PathCredit for Prior Learning
Credential prerequisiteActive PCC, MCC, or renewed ACCActive PCC, MCC, or renewed ACC
Mentor coaching education hoursMinimum 41 hours aligned to the ICF Mentor Coaching CompetenciesMinimum 10 hours aligned to the ICF Mentor Coaching Competencies
Synchronous requirementAt least 50% should be synchronous learningNo synchronous minimum (may be 100% asynchronous)
Evaluation training (BARS / Markers)May be embedded within the 41 hoursSeparate and additional - does not count toward the 10 hours
Evidence of prior practiceNot required - education plus credential is sufficientFive mentor coaching clients who earned credentials in past 3 years OR a letter from an ICF accredited provider verifying ≥5 mentored students in past 3 years
Best fitCoaches building a mentor coaching practice from scratch - or preferring structured, synchronous trainingExperienced mentor coaches who can document practice - or coaches short on time who need the fastest route

Which path fits your situation?

1
Do you hold an active PCC, MCC, or renewed ACC?
No: You are not yet eligible for either pathway. Your first step is credentialing or renewal.
Yes: Continue to step 2.
2
Have you personally mentored five or more coaches in the past three years - or could you obtain an attestation letter from an accredited program?
Yes: Credit for Prior Learning is likely the faster path. Continue to step 3.
No: The Standard Path fits your situation. Plan for 41+ hours of mentor coaching education plus separate BARS / Markers training.
3
For CPL: can you complete 10 hours of MC-aligned education plus the separate BARS or Markers course for each level you want by January 1, 2027?
Yes: CPL is your path. See our 10-hour CPL program.
No: Your timeline is tight. Start the education now - the 10 hours can be completed in as few as two focused weeks at an async pace.

About the attestation letter

Per ICF, the attestation letter is written by an ICF-accredited coaching education provider and verifies that you have provided mentor coaching to at least five students in the past three years - ICF's stated requirement for this path.

If you have mentored five or more coaches through a Tandem Coaching Academy program in the past three years, we provide the attestation letter on request once your MCS application is submitted.

Application fees

Fee windowICF memberNon-memberApplies to
Through March 31, 2027 (introductory)$50 USD$125 USDBoth pathways - one fee covers all levels applied for simultaneously
From April 1, 2027 onward$125 USD$200 USDBoth pathways - same rule
MCS renewal (every 3 years)$100 USD$200 USDPlus 10 hours of MC-aligned continuing education

One application fee covers all levels applied for simultaneously (ACC, PCC, MCC). Evaluation training (BARS / Markers) is completed separately for each level. Source: ICF Mentor Coach Specialization launch announcement, April 2026.

The September 2024 Framework

The six ICF Mentor Coaching Competencies

The MCS evaluates mentor coaches against six competencies published by ICF in September 2024. ICF organizes them into four domains - Foundation, Process Management, Client Development, and Group Mentor Coaching. Together they define what skilled mentor coaching looks like in practice.

Domain A - Foundation

The ethical and contractual groundwork every mentor coaching engagement rests on.

Domain B - Process Management

How the mentor coach creates the learning environment and manages the engagement over time.

Domain C - Client Development

The evaluation and feedback work that distinguishes mentor coaching from coaching.

Domain D - Group Mentor Coaching

The specific skills required for mentor coaching in group settings.

  1. 01 Models and Promotes Ethical Practice Domain A - Foundation

    Models ethical standards and encourages the mentor coaching client to do the same.

    1. 1.1 Abides by current ICF Code of Ethics, ICF Core Competencies and ICF performance standards.
    2. 1.2 Is sensitive to the mentor coaching client's identity, experiences, context, culture, values and beliefs.
    3. 1.3 Upholds and clarifies the distinctions and similarities of coaching, mentor coaching, coaching supervision, coaching performance assessment, therapy and other roles.
    4. 1.4 Refers the mentor coaching client to other support professionals, as needed, including support to resolve ethical issues that are observed in the mentor coaching client's coaching.
    5. 1.5 Encourages the mentor coaching client to understand and uphold the legal and professional requirements for their practice.
    6. 1.6 Ensures mentor coaching recordings and sensitive coaching client data are securely stored in compliance with the ICF Code of Ethics and local data protection regulations.
    7. 1.7 Engages in ongoing learning and development, including maintaining an ongoing reflective practice to enhance one's coaching and mentor coaching.
    8. 1.8 Seeks guidance, support and development from other sources when necessary to support the mentor coaching client.
  2. 02 Establishes and Maintains Mentor Coaching Agreements Domain A - Foundation

    Partners with the mentor coaching client to create clear agreements about the mentor coaching relationship, process, plans and goals. Establishes agreements for the overall mentor coaching engagement as well as those for each mentor coaching session.

    1. 2.1 Reaches agreement on the guidelines and specific parameters of the mentor coaching relationship such as logistics, fees, scheduling, duration, termination and confidentiality.
    2. 2.2 Clarifies expectations regarding achievement of a particular credential level, the mentor coaching relationship, including what is and is not appropriate, and the responsibilities of both parties.
    3. 2.3 Partners with the mentor coaching client to develop an overall plan for the mentor coaching engagement that explores developmental needs, goals, and measures of success for coaching skill development, including how to meet the desired ICF credentialing standards.
    4. 2.4 Partners with the mentor coaching client to identify the goals and focus of the mentor coaching session.
  3. 03 Manages the Mentor Coaching Process Domain B - Process Management

    Co-creates the learning environment, process and development plans to facilitate the mentor coaching process.

    1. 3.1 Partners with the mentor coaching client to create a respectful, supportive and inclusive learning environment.
    2. 3.2 Allows space for the mentor coaching client to reflect.
    3. 3.3 Co-creates a development plan tailored to the mentor coaching client's needs, learning style and aspirations.
    4. 3.4 Checks in periodically to reconfirm the mentor coaching process is meeting the client's needs.
    5. 3.5 Partners with the mentor coaching client to ensure they have enough time for practice and skill integration between mentor coaching sessions.
  4. 04 Conducts Formative Appraisals Domain C - Client Development

    Evaluates the degree to which the mentor coaching client's coaching aligns with ICF Core Competencies or the skill level required for a specific credential level.

    1. 4.1 Clarifies the specific skill level required for each credential level using relevant ICF resources.
    2. 4.2 Employs critical listening skills to identify coaching skill demonstration in live or recorded coaching sessions.
    3. 4.3 Identifies where specific competencies are reflected in the mentor coaching client's recorded or live sessions.
    4. 4.4 Partners with the mentor coaching client to reflect on their strengths and identify growth opportunities in the coaching session being evaluated.
    5. 4.5 Identifies trends in the mentor coaching client's behaviors and competence across sessions to determine skill development.
  5. 05 Facilitates Client's Skill Development Domain C - Client Development

    Supports the mentor coaching client's development of coaching skills and unique coaching style.

    1. 5.1 Partners to uncover the mentor coaching client's values and preferred styles of coaching.
    2. 5.2 Models ICF Core Competencies to help the mentor coaching client better understand the required skill level for a specific credential level.
    3. 5.3 Offers feedback and observations to help the mentor coaching client identify coaching strengths and areas for development.
    4. 5.4 Acknowledges the mentor coaching client's strengths, insights and work in the mentor coaching process to foster confidence and growth.
    5. 5.5 Shares observations with the mentor coaching client in a non-judgmental style to foster learning and growth.
    6. 5.6 Offers guidance on how the mentor coaching client can improve on their demonstrated coaching skills.
    7. 5.7 Supports the mentor coaching client to integrate new learning with their unique coaching style.
    8. 5.8 Partners with the mentor coaching client to explore resources, opportunities and peer networks that may enhance the mentor coaching client's coaching skills.
  6. 06 Manages Group Mentor Coaching Domain D - Group Mentor Coaching

    Effectively manages the group mentor coaching process. Note: Relevant for mentor coaches who offer group mentor coaching services.

    1. 6.1 Creates a respectful, collaborative and inclusive group learning experience.
    2. 6.2 Facilitates live group sessions where mentor coaching clients can practice and demonstrate their skills.
    3. 6.3 Manages group dynamics that are impacting the effectiveness of the mentor coaching process.
    4. 6.4 Encourages all group members to participate in the mentor coaching process.

Verbatim from the ICF Mentor Coaching Competencies document, September 2024, and the Mentor Coach Specialization Handbook 2026. Expand any competency above to read the full sub-competency list.

The evaluation shift

Enhanced mentor coaching and formative evaluation

The MCS replaces a one-moment snapshot - the ICF Performance Evaluation recording and transcript - with a pattern of observations and feedback over time. ICF describes this as a shift to formative evaluation through "enhanced mentor coaching." Two standardized forms structure the process.

The specialization centers on formative evaluation - multiple observations with feedback over time - increasing fairness, equity, rigor, and transparency in how coaching skills are assessed. This method provides a more accurate and equitable validation of competence than any single recording, as with the current Performance Evaluation requirement. - International Coaching Federation, Mentor Coach Specialization launch announcement, April 2026
Tool 1

Session Observation Form

Used after each 1:1 mentor coaching session where a coaching recording is reviewed.

The form captures, per session:

  • Level of mentor coaching provided.
  • Observed performance against the credential-level minimum skill requirements.
  • Mentor coach feedback.
  • Prompts for the mentor coaching client's reflections.

Each 1:1 mentor coaching session where a coaching recording is reviewed is documented with this form. Group mentor coaching sessions do not require Session Observation Forms.

Tool 2

Competency Review Form

Used once, at the end of the mentor coaching engagement, as a cumulative review.

The form captures, across sessions:

  • Proficiency - skills demonstrated with competence, remaining skills gaps, and ethics verification.
  • Mentor coach feedback.
  • Prompts for the mentor coaching client's reflections.

The Competency Review Form is what validates the credential candidate's readiness for the credential-level competence standard. Submitting this form, together with the Session Observation Forms from the engagement, replaces the previously required Performance Evaluation recording and transcript for ACC and PCC Portfolio candidates.

What this changes for accredited programs

  • Document the formative process: accredited programs need to document their formative evaluation process before April 1, 2027. ICF will release the final Session Observation and Competency Review Forms through ICF Engage, the Global Knowledge Community.
  • Assessor role retired: With the transition away from the Performance Evaluation requirement for the ACC and PCC, the ICF assessor role for those levels will be retired. Credential-readiness validation moves to the qualified mentor coach.
  • Forms apply only to 1:1: Session Observation and Competency Review Forms cover 1:1 mentor coaching only. Group mentor coaching requirements are unchanged.
  • Still developmental, not pass / fail: ICF emphasizes that the model is formative - increasing fairness, equity, rigor, and transparency in how coaching skills are assessed - and that proficiency is built session over session, not awarded in a single recorded moment.
The engagement rules unchanged

Mentor coaching engagement requirements

The 10-hour / 3-month / level-matching rules that govern a mentor coaching engagement for ICF credentialing have not changed under the MCS. What has changed is who can provide that mentor coaching - a qualified mentor coach holding MCS at the matching level.

10
Total hours required per candidate
3
Months minimum from first to final session
12
Full weeks that must pass, start to end
3
Hours minimum must be 1:1
7
Hours maximum may be in group
10:1
Max ratio of mentor coaching clients to mentor coach in a group

What counts toward the 10 hours

  • Interactive dialogue + feedback delivery with the mentor coach counts.
  • Intake and closing sessions count.
  • Group sessions up to 7 hours count (as long as 1:1 minimum is also met).
  • Mentor coach preparation time - time spent reviewing recordings and preparing feedback - does not count toward the candidate's 10 hours.
  • Mentor coaching sessions must focus on developing the mentor coaching client's coaching skills in alignment with the ICF Core Competencies, not practice building, life balance, or other topics beyond the development of coaching skills.

Session spacing - the Kolb reasoning behind the rule

ICF requires the 10 hours to span at least 3 months (12 weeks first to last session) because mentor coaching is a learning cycle, not a volume transfer. The mentor coaching client needs time between sessions to practice new approaches with real coaching clients, reflect on what happened, and integrate the learning before the next feedback cycle. ICF cites best practice as separating sessions by at least two weeks.

Level-matching rule - which level MCS can mentor which candidate

Credential candidateMCS level requiredSafe harbor
ACC candidate (new or renewing)MCS-ACCYes: MCS-PCC mentor coach may also provide mentor coaching to an ACC candidate.
PCC candidateMCS-PCCMCS-PCC only. MCS-ACC is insufficient.
MCC candidateMCS-MCCMCS-MCC only.
Important for Level 2 programs: Per ICF's level-matching requirements, if a student completed their Level 1 mentor coaching with an MCS-ACC holder (or an ACC-level mentor coach pre-MCS), and is now pursuing PCC, they need a new 1:1 mentor coaching engagement with an MCS-PCC holder to satisfy PCC credentialing requirements. Level 1 mentor coaching does not carry forward to Level 2 at a lower level.

Source: ICF Mentor Coach Specialization Handbook (2026), sections on engagement requirements and level-matching. For full detail on running a compliant engagement as a mentor coach - intake, development planning, session structure, closing - see our ICF mentor coaching guide.

BARS and Markers

Evaluation training - how it fits each MCS level

Every MCS level requires ICF evaluation training for the credential level involved. ICF uses Behaviorally Anchored Rating Scales (BARS) for ACC and MCC, and Markers for PCC. The rules differ between the Standard Path and Credit for Prior Learning.

MCS LevelRequired evaluation trainingProvided byStandard PathCredit for Prior Learning
MCS-ACCACC BARSICFMay be embedded within the 41 hours
The 41-hour education requirement can include your BARS or Markers training time.		Always separate and additional
Evaluation training does not count toward the 10 hours. You complete the 10 hours of MC-aligned education and the BARS / Markers course for each level you seek to qualify for.
MCS-PCCPCC MarkersICF
MCS-MCCMCC BARSICF

What this means in practice

  • PCC Markers is the largest standalone requirement. If you are pursuing MCS-PCC, plan for this course early; it cannot be compressed.
  • CPL candidates pursuing multiple levels need the evaluation training for each level (ACC BARS + PCC Markers + MCC BARS if pursuing all three).
  • Education hours can count across levels - a single 10-hour or 41-hour MC education program satisfies all three MCS levels you apply for simultaneously. Evaluation training does not.
Tandem BARS and Markers training

Tandem offers independent video courses on the ICF evaluation instruments, taught by two MCCs, with worked scoring examples and practice exercises. These are professional development - not ICF-approved and not a substitute for the evaluation training ICF requires for the MCS.

See the courses →

Source: ICF Mentor Coach Specialization Handbook (2026) and ICF Mentor Coach Specialization launch announcement, April 2026. Our 10-hour Mentor Coaching Foundations program aligns with the 6 Mentor Coaching Competencies and is designed to serve the Credit for Prior Learning path. Tandem also offers independent BARS and Markers professional development - see our BARS and Markers courses.

Year Three

MCS renewal - what happens every three years

The MCS is valid for three years. Renewal is lighter than the initial specialization - but it is not automatic, and it requires continuing education aligned with the Mentor Coaching Competencies, not just your regular ICF credential continuing education.

1

Maintain an active ICF credential

ACC, PCC, or MCC - whichever you originally qualified at or higher. A lapsed credential means the MCS cannot be renewed at that level.

2

Complete 10 hours of MC-aligned continuing education

The 10 hours must be aligned with the ICF Mentor Coaching Competencies - not general coach continuing education. Completed within the three-year window since your MCS was last awarded or renewed.

3

Coaching supervision hours count

Coaching supervision hours dedicated to your mentor coaching practice can be used to fulfill the 10-hour continuing education requirement for MCS renewal.

4

Submit the renewal application and fee

$100 USD for ICF members, $200 USD for non-members. If you hold the MCS at multiple levels (ACC, PCC, MCC), all levels renew automatically when you meet the renewal requirements above.

Mentor Coaching Foundations counts for renewal. Our 10-hour program is built against the 2024 ICF Mentor Coaching Competencies framework. A graduate can use it once for the initial MCS application via Credit for Prior Learning, then re-take an updated version three years later for renewal - or combine it with supervision hours to meet the 10-hour renewal requirement.

Tandem Coaching Academy

Three programs - complete MCS preparation

A live cohort for the Standard Path, an asynchronous self-study course for Credit for Prior Learning, and BARS and Markers courses for every level. Created by two MCC mentor coaches, Cherie Silas and Alex Kudinov.

Founding cohort · Standard Path

Mentor Coach Training

The 68-hour live cohort built for the ICF Mentor Coach Specialization Standard Path. Foundations + Practicum + evaluation training in a single 10-12 week cohort.

$2,497 $1,997 USD
Founding cohort price for the first 6 seats. List price $2,497 thereafter.
  • 68 CCE hours - 34 synchronous (10 cohort sessions + 14 hours peer mentor coaching) and 34 asynchronous, meeting the ICF Standard Path 41-hour and 50% sync floors
  • Mentor Coaching Foundations included as just-in-time pre-work - no separate purchase
  • ACC BARS and PCC Markers training included as part of the cohort. MCC BARS available as an optional add-on
  • Formative evaluation using the Session Observation and Competency Review Forms across multiple live sessions
  • Group mentor coaching practicum facilitated three times across the cohort - the requirement most independent paths skip
  • Led by Cherie Silas, MCC - sole instructor across all 10 sessions
CCE accreditation pending · Cohort dates: Q3 2026
See the cohort - $1,997 Founding pricing locks at enrollment for the first 6 seats.
Live now · Credit for Prior Learning

Mentor Coaching Foundations

The 10-hour asynchronous program built for the Credit for Prior Learning path. Standalone enrollment available through September 30, 2026.

$397 $299 USD
Launch pricing through September 30, 2026.
  • 10 hours of asynchronous, self-paced education aligned with the 2024 ICF Mentor Coaching Competencies
  • 15 units, 22 video lessons created by Cherie Silas, MCC and Alex Kudinov, MCC
  • 15 downloadable working tools - templates, worksheets, decision frameworks you keep and reuse
  • 3 auto-scored quizzes plus 6 written submissions personally reviewed by an MCC instructor
  • Certificate of Completion - 10 asynchronous CCE hours, Core Competency, aligned with the 2024 MC Competencies
  • Attestation letter available on request for qualifying graduates who have mentored 5+ coaches through Tandem
ICF CCE Accreditation: Submitted & Pending Review
Enroll - $299
Live now · BARS & Markers

BARS & Markers Training

Independent video courses on the ICF BARS and Markers evaluation instruments - worked examples and practice exercises. Professional development from Tandem Coaching, not ICF-approved.

$49 - $149 USD
Individual courses or all three bundled.
  • ACC BARS ($49) - 5 units, 10 video lessons, Cherie Silas MCC
  • PCC Markers ($99) - 5 units, 12 video lessons, Cherie Silas MCC
  • MCC BARS ($49) - 5 units, 10 video lessons, Cherie Silas MCC
  • Complete Bundle ($149) - all three courses, save $48
  • Quizzes, written assignments, downloadable scoring tools, and completion certificates
Independent professional development - not ICF-approved or a substitute for ICF's required training
See courses
Standard Path students: Mentor Coach Training is the single SKU - you do not need to purchase Mentor Coaching Foundations separately. Foundations is built into the cohort as just-in-time pre-work for the live sessions.
Free
MCS 2027
Decision Guide
Tandem Coaching Academy
Free resource

The MCS 2027 Decision Guide

A working document for every credentialed coach asking the same question this year - Standard Path or Credit for Prior Learning, and what to actually do between now and January 2027.

  • Timeline visual - what ICF requires, month by month, between now and April 2027
  • CPL vs Standard Path decision flowchart - which path fits, given your credential, mentoring history, and timeline
  • The attestation letter explainer plus a sample request template you can send your training provider
  • Self-assessment checklist - 8 questions that tell you whether you are eligible for CPL and how much work stands between you and application
  • 90-day action plan - month-by-month steps for either path, calibrated to the January 2027 deadline
Read the guide Opens the interactive flipbook - no sign-up required.
Common questions

MCS frequently asked questions

Twelve questions that come up most often from credentialed coaches, coach educators, and program directors navigating the MCS transition.

What is the ICF Mentor Coach Specialization (MCS)?

The MCS is an individual specialization from the International Coaching Federation announced in April 2026 and effective January 1, 2027. It formally recognizes coaches who are qualified to provide mentor coaching to ICF credential candidates at a specific level - ACC, PCC, or MCC. The MCS is evaluated against the 2024 ICF Mentor Coaching Competencies framework and is separate from a coach's own ACC, PCC, or MCC credential.

When does the MCS requirement take effect?

Two dates matter. On January 1, 2027, every mentor coach serving ICF credential candidates must hold the MCS at the matching credential level. On April 1, 2027, the ICF Performance Evaluation (SPE) recording-and-transcript requirement for ACC and PCC Portfolio candidates is replaced by formative evaluation through enhanced mentor coaching - using the new Session Observation and Competency Review forms.

Do I need MCS if I already mentor coaches informally?

If your mentoring does not count toward an ICF credential application - for example, peer coaching, collegial feedback, or mentoring inside a non-credentialing context - MCS is not required. If you currently sign off on any 10 hours of mentor coaching that goes into a credential application, or plan to after January 1, 2027, you need the MCS at the candidate's credential level.

What's the difference between the Standard Path and Credit for Prior Learning?

Both paths lead to the same MCS designation with the same standing. The Standard Path specifies 41+ hours of MC-aligned education with at least 50% synchronous learning. The Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) path specifies 10 hours of MC-aligned education (synchronous or asynchronous) plus evidence of prior mentor coaching practice - either five mentor coaching clients who earned credentials in the past three years, or a letter from an ICF accredited coaching education provider verifying mentor coaching to at least five students in the past three years.

Does my ACC BARS or PCC Markers training count toward the 41 or 10 hours?

It depends on the path. For the Standard Path, BARS and Markers training may be embedded within the 41 hours. For Credit for Prior Learning, evaluation training is always separate and additional - it does not count toward the 10 hours. Either way, you complete the evaluation training for each level you want MCS at (ACC BARS, PCC Markers, MCC BARS) through ICF directly.

What is the attestation letter, and who can write one for me?

The attestation letter is accepted as evidence of prior mentor coaching practice under the CPL path - in lieu of documenting five specific candidates who earned credentials. Per ICF, any ICF accredited coaching education provider can write it, verifying that you have provided mentor coaching to at least five students in the past three years. Graduates of Tandem Coaching Academy who meet the threshold can request the attestation letter on submission of their MCS application.

Do I need MCS at the same level as the candidate I mentor?

Generally yes. A PCC candidate must be mentored by an MCS-PCC holder; an MCC candidate must be mentored by an MCS-MCC holder. One safe harbor applies: ACC candidates may be mentored by either an MCS-ACC or an MCS-PCC holder. This means Level 2 (PCC) program students cannot use leftover Level 1 mentor coaching hours that were provided by an ACC-level mentor - they need new 1:1 sessions with an MCS-PCC holder.

How does the MCS replace the Performance Evaluation (SPE)?

Starting April 1, 2027, the single-recording, single-moment SPE is replaced by formative evaluation over time. Instead of submitting one recording with a transcript, ACC and PCC Portfolio candidates submit documentation from their qualified mentor coach - Session Observation Forms (one per 1:1 session where a coaching recording is reviewed) plus a final Competency Review Form summarizing readiness across sessions. The ICF assessor role for ACC and PCC will be retired.

What are Session Observation and Competency Review forms?

Two standardized ICF forms used by qualified mentor coaches to document formative evaluation. The Session Observation Form captures level of mentor coaching, observed performance against the credential-level minimum skill requirements, mentor coach feedback, and reflection prompts - completed per 1:1 session where a coaching recording is reviewed. The Competency Review Form is a cumulative summary at the end of the engagement covering proficiency (skills demonstrated, remaining gaps, ethics verification), mentor coach feedback, and client reflection. Per ICF's published description, both forms apply to 1:1 mentor coaching.

How much does the MCS application cost?

Through March 31, 2027, the introductory application fee is $50 USD for ICF members and $125 USD for non-members. One fee covers all MCS levels you apply for simultaneously (ACC, PCC, MCC). From April 1, 2027, the fee rises to $125 for members and $200 for non-members. Evaluation training (BARS or Markers) is still completed separately for each level and is a separate cost.

How long is the MCS valid, and what's required to renew?

The MCS is valid for three years. Renewal requires: (1) maintaining an active ICF credential at the appropriate level, (2) completing 10 hours of MC-aligned continuing education within the three-year window, and (3) paying the renewal fee ($100 USD for members, $200 USD for non-members). Coaching supervision hours dedicated to your mentor coaching practice can count toward the 10-hour CE requirement. If you hold the MCS at multiple levels, all levels renew automatically when you meet the requirements.

Where do the Session Observation forms apply - 1:1, group, or both?

1:1 sessions only. In a qualifying engagement, each 1:1 session where a coaching recording is reviewed is documented with the Session Observation Form. Group mentor coaching sessions (up to 7 of the 10 hours in a credentialing engagement) are not covered by the new documentation model per ICF's published description of the forms. Group dynamics still count under Competency 6 of the MC framework, but without the new paperwork.

Go deeper

Primary sources and further reading

Everything on this page is built from ICF's own published materials - the Mentor Coach Specialization Handbook, the April 2026 announcement blog, and the 2024 Mentor Coaching Competencies document. Go to the sources directly if you need primary-source language for a program document, accreditation submission, or chapter presentation.

ICF primary sources

  • ICF Mentor Coach Specialization launch announcement (April 2026) The foundational blog announcing the MCS, the two application pathways, and the compliance dates.
  • ICF Mentor Coaching page ICF's evergreen reference on mentor coaching requirements, including the 10-hour / 3-month / level-matching rules.
  • ICF Code of Ethics The ethical framework every MCS holder agrees to uphold under Competency 1.
  • ICF Engage - Global Knowledge Community Member-only community where the Session Observation Form samples, Competency Review Form samples, attestation letter template, and updated ICF brand guidelines live. Log in required.
  • Mentor Coach Registry (launching July 2026) Public searchable directory of MCS holders, planned for launch July 2026.

Related reading from Tandem

Still have questions?

Talk to an MCC - not a sales rep

Every MCS conversation is different. If the pathway math or the 2027 timeline still feels unclear for your situation, reach out to the Tandem Coaching Academy team. Cherie Silas, MCC and Alex Kudinov, MCC personally answer MCS questions - and neither of us works on commission.

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