ICF Mentor Coach Specialization (MCS): what changes for mentor coaching in 2027

From 1 January 2027, mentor coaching for an ICF credential counts only if your mentor holds the ICF Mentor Coach Specialization (MCS) at the right level. The rule applies to ACC, PCC and MCC applications and to ACC renewal. Mentor coaching that you complete on or before 31 December 2026 under the current rules still counts.

What the MCS is

The MCS is a specialisation that ICF gives to credentialed coaches who mentor other coaches. ICF's MCS overview sets out who can apply. There are three levels: MCS-ACC, MCS-PCC and MCS-MCC. Each level names the credential the mentor can mentor you towards.

Which level your mentor needs

ICF's 2027 ACC and PCC changes say: "Individuals must mentor with an individual who holds an ICF Mentor Coach Specialization (MCS) at the level to which they wish to receive mentor coaching."

For ACC, the Mentor Coach Registry says: "Mentor coaching services provided at the PCC level by a MCS-PCC may be used to apply for or renew an ACC credential." For MCC, the MCC changes say that applicants "must receive mentor coaching by an MCS-MCC."

ACC renewal needs mentor coaching. For PCC and MCC renewal, ICF accepts mentor coaching but does not require it. In both cases the same MCS rule applies from 1 January 2027 (2027 renewal changes).

What happens to your 2026 hours

• Hours with a currently eligible mentor that you complete on or before 31 December 2026 still count, even if you apply in 2027 or later (PCC guidance).
• Hours from 1 January 2027 count only with an MCS holder at the right level.
• If your mentor does not hold the MCS and your hours continue into 2027, only the 2026 hours count.

The ACC guidance says that earlier mentor coaching "will continue to be accepted, regardless of when it was done." For renewal, the 2027 renewal changes say: "Any mentor coaching that meets the current requirements (see chart towards top of page) can be used towards the renewal of your ACC, PCC, or MCC renewal."

Under the current rules, an eligible mentor holds an ICF credential at or above the level you apply for (2027 renewal changes). For an ACC applicant, that includes an ACC who has renewed at least once (ACC guidance). The total stays the same: ten hours over at least three months, with at least three individual hours (2027 renewal changes). If you plan to change mentor at the new year, ask ICF how the two parts combine before you start.

How to check a mentor

ICF's Mentor Coach Registry is free to search and needs no login. You can filter by MCS level, or look up a named mentor with "Verify a Mentor Coach". ICF says that "Individuals who hold an MCS will automatically be included on the Mentor Coach Registry" (registry FAQ). A mentor can opt out, so a missing name does not prove that a mentor lacks the MCS. If you cannot find them, ask them.

Before you agree to work together, ask the mentor which MCS level they hold. Then check the answer on the registry. A mentor's own website or profile does not prove that they hold the MCS.

What changes for Portfolio applicants in April 2027

From 1 April 2027, ACC and PCC Portfolio applicants no longer send a performance evaluation. Instead, an MCS mentor observes your coaching and completes a Competency Review Form (2027 ACC and PCC changes). From 1 January to 31 March 2027, you can use either route. Performance evaluations continue until 1 August 2027 for candidates in transition. MCC applicants still upload two recorded sessions for a performance evaluation (MCC guidance).

The ICF application guide has the full transition table and what to keep for an audit.

Related guides: Choosing ACC, PCC or MCC · First 100 ACC hours · Coaching accreditation explained.