ICF Credentialing Exam, 2026 – Core Competencies and Ethics Study Material

ICF Credentialing Exam, 2026 – Core Competencies and
Ethics Study Material

ICF 4 Core Competency Pillars - correct answer ✔✔ Foundation

Co-Creating the Relationship

Communicating Effectively

Cultivating Learning & Growth



Core Competency: Foundation - correct answer ✔✔ Foundation:

Demonstrates Ethical Practice

Embodies a Coaching Mindset



Core Competency: Co-Creating the Relationship - correct answer ✔✔ Co-Creating the
Relationship:

Establishes and maintains agreements

Cultivates trust and safety

Maintains Presence



Core Competency: Communicating Effectively - correct answer ✔✔ Communicating Effectively:

Listens Actively

Evokes Awareness



Core Competency: Cultivating Learning & Growth - correct answer ✔✔ Cultivating Learning &
Growth: Facilitates Client Growth



ACCAT - correct answer ✔✔ Asking

, Client-centered

Curiosity

Awareness of Judgements & biases

Transparency



TRAPS - correct answer ✔✔ Telling/Teaching

Reminding/Recommending

Advising/Lead

Praise/Judge

Secrets



PET - correct answer ✔✔ Present - Equality - Timing



Foundation: Demonstrates Ethical Practice - correct answer ✔✔ Definition: Understands and
consistently applies coaching ethics and standards of coaching.



Demonstrates personal integrity and honesty in interactions with clients, sponsors and relevant
stakeholders



Is sensitive to clients' identity, environment, experiences, values and beliefs



Uses language appropriate and respectful to clients, sponsors and relevant stakeholders



Abides by the ICF Code of Ethics and upholds the Core Values



Maintains confidentiality with client information per stakeholder agreements and pertinent laws