MCC
Master Certified Coach
The Highest Level of ICF Coaching Certification
The MCC credential is the highest coaching achievement recognized by the International Coaching Federation. It requires mastery of the coaching craft and years of sustained, high-quality practice.
Requirements
- Complete a minimum of 200 hours of coach-specific training
- Log 2,500 hours of coaching experience with at least 35 clients (2,250 hours must be paid)
- Receive 10 hours of mentor coaching over at least 3 months (MCC mentor coach required for MCC Portfolio)
- Submit two performance evaluation recordings and pass the ICF Credentialing Exam
- Demonstrate mastery of all ICF Core Competencies
Your Journey to MCC
Master Your Craft
VariesContinue deepening your expertise through advanced training and practice
Tips for Success
- →Pursue advanced certifications in specialized coaching domains
- →Study coaching at the intersection of psychology, neuroscience, and organizational development
- →Develop your unique coaching methodology and philosophy
- →Engage in formal research or contribute to coaching literature
- →Mentor other coaches and contribute to the profession
Build Exceptional Experience
VariesAccumulate 2,500 total coaching hours demonstrating consistent excellence
Tips for Success
- →Work with complex, high-stakes coaching situations
- →Develop mastery in multiple coaching contexts and cultures
- →Track not just hours but depth and quality of coaching relationships
- →Use Mentor Coaching AI to ensure every session reflects MCC-level competency
- →Build a portfolio of transformational coaching outcomes
- →Establish yourself as a thought leader in your coaching niche
Refine to Artistry
VariesWork with MCC-level mentor coaches to polish your mastery
Tips for Success
- →Select mentor coaches who are themselves MCCs
- →Focus on the subtle nuances that distinguish mastery from competence
- →Develop your unique coaching presence and style
- →Deepen your self-awareness and how you live coaching principles day to day
- →Practice until excellence becomes effortless and natural
Demonstrate Mastery
VariesSubmit exceptional recordings and excel in the rigorous MCC assessment
Tips for Success
- →Record numerous sessions and be highly selective in choosing submissions
- →Study MCC performance evaluation criteria in depth
- →Understand the subtle differences between PCC and MCC markers
- →Seek feedback from multiple MCC coaches on your selected sessions
- →Use Mentor Coaching AI's MCC-level analysis to verify mastery markers
- →Prepare mentally for the high standards of MCC assessment
Benefits of MCC
Expert Tips
The MCC journey is about depth and artistry, not just accumulating hours
Develop a coaching philosophy grounded in research and experience
Use Mentor Coaching AI to maintain consistent excellence across all sessions
Study with master coaches across different traditions and approaches
Work on your presence and ability to coach responsively in the moment
Document your journey and unique contributions to coaching
Build a reputation for transformational coaching outcomes
Give back to the coaching community through mentorship and leadership
Prepare for the emotional and professional significance of achieving MCC
MCC is not an endpoint. Mastery requires ongoing dedication and learning.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to achieve MCC after PCC?
Timelines vary widely based on your training schedule and how quickly you accrue coaching hours.
What makes MCC-level coaching different from PCC?
MCC-level coaching goes beyond competence into true mastery. MCCs demonstrate a strong coaching presence, rely on intuition built from experience, and integrate all competencies fluidly. They handle complex coaching situations naturally. The distinction is qualitative, not just quantitative.
Can anyone eventually achieve MCC with enough hours?
While hours are necessary, they're not sufficient. MCC requires genuine mastery of the coaching craft, exceptional presence, deep self-awareness, and ability to demonstrate coaching artistry. Some experienced coaches don't pursue MCC, and that's perfectly valid—it's a personal choice about professional goals.
What does MCC assessment involve?
MCC assessment includes two recorded sessions evaluated against MCC-level markers and the ICF Credentialing Exam.
How can Mentor Coaching AI support MCC aspirations?
Mentor Coaching AI provides MCC-level analysis that helps you understand the subtle distinctions between competent, proficient, and masterful coaching. By getting detailed feedback on every session, you can accelerate your development and ensure you're building MCC-level habits over time.
Sources
Aspiring to MCC-Level Mastery?
Mentor Coaching AI's sophisticated analysis helps you develop the nuanced skills and consistent excellence required for MCC certification.
Begin Your MCC Journey