This 90-question mock exam is designed as a structured learning tool to help coaches prepare for the ICF PCC Credentialing Exam. It reflects the updated ICF Core Competency framework and challenges you to differentiate between stronger and weaker coaching choices. Each question presents a realistic coaching scenario with four response options, including both the BEST and the WORST approaches. The full practice experience, including reflection and review, typically takes 2 hours or more. The real exam time is 180 minutes, including an optional 10-minute break.

Coaches who complete the simulation and score over 70% will receive a certificate of completion from UpThink Coaching. This tool is ideal for those preparing for the credentialing process, mentors guiding candidates, and training programs supporting exam readiness.

Important Context About This Tool

While this mock exam is carefully designed to mirror the spirit of the ICF exam, it is not the official ICF Credentialing Exam, nor is it endorsed by the ICF. We do not have access to the actual PCC/MCC Credentialing Exam or its specific scenarios. Our simulator is built using ICF’s published exam framework, including the ICF Core Competency Model (2021), Code of Ethics, and public guidance provided at coachingfederation.org.

If you want to preview the eight sample questions shared by the ICF directly, go to https://coachingfederation.org/resource/icf-credentialing-exam-sample-questions/

According to ICF, the real PCC Credentialing Exam:

  • Presents 78 scenario-based questions drawn from diverse and realistic coaching contexts.

  • Requires candidates to identify the best and worst response from a set of four.

  • Scores are reported as scaled scores ranging from 200 to 600. A score of 460 is required to pass (76%). 

  • Measures understanding and application of the ICF Core Competencies and the Code of Ethics in real-time coaching moments, not coaching theory or terminology.

  • Must be completed in a proctored environment (either in-person at a Pearson VUE test center or via secure online proctoring).

  • Includes longer and more layered scenarios than many mock tests.

This mock exam is designed for practice, without the added pressure of live supervision or strict time constraints. While the scenarios here may feel more straightforward than the official exam, they aim to cultivate the same essential skill: professional discernment under complexity.

A big difference is that in our quiz you will see immediately whether you answered correctly or incorrectly.

Using This Mock Exam Effectively

We encourage you to treat this not as a memory test, but as a mirror of your coaching mindset. Take time to reflect on why you chose specific responses and revisit the ICF Competencies as needed. We also recommend reviewing:

  • The ICF PCC Markers to understand how assessors evaluate skill demonstration.

  • The ICF Code of Ethics to anchor your responses in integrity and professionalism.

If you pass the mock exam easily — wonderful! It suggests you're thinking like a professional coach and may be quite prepared to book your real ICF Credentialing Exam. If you struggle, that is good too! Use that struggle to deepen your learning, seek supervision, or join a peer review group to identify and address blind spots in presence, partnership, or ethical awareness.

If you need some coach training hours and a direct path to PCC, take a look at our ICF Level 2 program - Beyond the Tools: Advanced Coaching in Emotional, Intercultural & Relational Spaces.
New cohorts start once a year.