International Coach Academy Review

Last updated on February 24, 2024

Are you on the lookout for reputable coach training schools with exceptional training? With so many options to choose from, it can be challenging to find the perfect fit. We understand the importance of a quality coaching certification program, which is why we are reviewing the best life coaching certifications.

In this post, we go above and beyond to uncover everything about International Coach Academy. We’ll provide an in-depth review of their curriculum, the program time commitment and costs, and we’ll share various International Coach Academy reviews to help you determine if becoming an International Coach Academy-certified professional aligns with your goals. So, let’s get started!

About International Coach Academy 

The International Coach Academy (ICA) has delivered coach training since 2001. They were pioneers in online learning in the coaching industry. Thousands of students from over 126 countries have undergone their training.

The International Coach Academy Coaching Philosophy

ICA’s coaching approach acknowledges that each client is unique, and therefore, there is no single coaching model that can provide all the answers. That’s why they use various tools and models to support the coaching process, but they avoid imposing them in a way that would overshadow the client’s own journey toward self-discovery and growth.

They also believe that “coaching is from the heart,” so they support practicing self-care and self-love, and focusing on the strengths and values that each coach carries within. 

International Coach Academy Coaching and Accreditation

How can you know if ICA is truly legit? Accreditation from a leading entity in the coaching industry can ease your worries. ICA obtained accreditation from the International Coaching Federation (ICF) back in 2004. In case you don’t already know this, ICF is the most well-known organization for coach training accreditation. 

Their curriculum has a strong focus on getting you prepared for ICF credentialing, which explains why over 50% of their coaching graduates have obtained their ICF-accredited coach certification.

(If you want more variety in terms of ICF-accredited programs, you can’t go wrong with Coach Training Alliance. We have explained all of its advantages in our review)

Pros and Cons of an International Coach Academy Coaching Certification

Several factors have an immense influence on your training decision—your budget, your availability, your preferred format of learning, what the program has to offer, and more. We have compiled all the key information about ICA so you can determine whether this training meets your needs.

3 Levels of Professional Coach Certifications

ICA doesn’t provide specialized training, but they direct their attention to giving you all the proven coaching tools and knowledge so you can develop your unique form of coaching and discover your niche along the way. If you want to become a certified professional coach, ICA offers three certification programs:

1. Certified Professional Coach (Vocational) – The focus is on core skills, knowledge, and practice. Ideal for those who want to introduce coaching skills to their current career.
2. Certified Professional Coach (CPC) – The focus is on establishing a coaching business with your own niche and creating your own unique coaching model. Ideal for those who want to pursue a career as a coach. 
3. Certified Professional Coach (Advanced) & Certified Group Coach – The focus is on building your business and delivering coaching in both individual and group settings. Ideal for those who wish to study coaching at an advanced level.

There’s also a Workplace Coach course, but this one is more for managers, HR professionals, and business owners who want to improve their workplace culture and efficiency by applying coaching skills. 

The curriculum includes four programs, and how many you’ll take depends on the certification of your choice. Here’s the summary of the programs that each certification level demands:

Authentic FlipIt Framework 

You might have noticed the term FlipIt in the curriculum overview, so let’s clarify what it is. FlipIt Framework was developed by ICA, and the fundamental idea behind this concept is that the way we perceive the world is a matter of personal choice. With the Advanced Certification program, you’ll get the FlipIt Facilitator License.

This simple tool can be used in a coaching session with your client, in group coaching sessions, or in workshops. The purpose is to increase self-awareness and learn how to shift a perspective.

You can get a free FlipIt sample here. 

Online and Flexible Learning Experience

ICA offers remarkable flexibility to match students’ different schedules and paces. It works pretty much like this: you get a structured learning model to follow, but you choose the pace that suits you.

The classes take place mornings, afternoons, evenings, and weekends, so you can pick the time and date that works best for you. It’s up to you how many classes you want to take. You can also choose whether to fast-track the program or take your time.

If you have holiday plans, an urgent conference, or other time-consuming obligations, you can take advantage of their deferral system which gives you 6 months of deferral at any time.

Classes are delivered via live teleclasses, self-study, and forum discussion. You can access the learning materials whenever suits you on whichever device. 

(Note: If you’re more of a self-directed study type of learner, Transformation Academy is completely self-paced and super affordable, so you may want to check it out. You can also read our in-depth TA review.)

Global Peer Coaching Platform

The connections you make through ICA can be valuable to growing your coaching business. The Peer Coaching platform will connect you with other coaches to expand your network. Since you’ll be connected with coaches from all over the world, you’ll encounter diversity in coaching styles that can inspire your unique model of coaching. 

The learning format includes collaborating with your peers through coaching labs, observed coaching, and mentor coaching. This is how you’ll gain hands-on coaching experience and learn from others.

How Long is the International Coach Academy Program?

The number of hours depends on the program you choose. Once you enroll in a program, you’ll receive all the learning materials, and the pace of learning and the order of courses depends entirely on your preference. 

When it comes to time requirements for each certification, here’s what you can expect: 

• Vocational certification program – 76 program hours; 9-12 months of access
• Professional certification program – 125 program hours; 12-18 months of access
• Advanced certification program – 150 program hours; 12-24 months of access

How Much Does International Coach Academy Coaching Training Cost?

ICA is definitely on the pricier side compared to other life coaching programs, but for a good reason. They aren’t solely focused on transferring knowledge about coaching, but on providing you with everything you need to become a professional certified coach and set up a powerful coaching business.

The expense varies, depending on the certification program. Here’s the info on prices:

• Vocational certification program – $4,980 (or 12 payments of $415)
• Professional certification program – $7,315 (or 12 payments of $610)
• Advanced certification program – $9,870 (or 12 payments of $822)

International Coach Academy Coaching Reviews

Are you curious about the reviews from students and graduates who have already tested the waters? We have compiled a list of helpful reviews to satiate your hunger for insider knowledge.

Reviews From Graduates

The reviews on ICA’s website are all positive, and they give useful insight into what students and graduates emphasize as the strongest points of the program:

Reviews on Indeed.com average an impressive 4.9 stars. Students have praised the interactive community, detailed lesson plans, and practical tips. Here are a few samples:

Is International Coach Academy the Life Coach Training Program For You?

If you want freedom and flexibility combined with structured learning, the International Coach Academy can be the right training program for you. They understand that coaching is not a one-size-fits-all type of work, so you’ll receive guidance and knowledge to discover your own coaching path. ICA may not be for those who want to get highly specialized training in a specific niche. 

Are you still unsure if you should go with ICA or not? The following steps can help you make a decision:

• Review ICA’s Coach School Selection Criteria checklist. It was created by asking their community what criteria they used when choosing a coaching school. 
• Use their Program Selection Tool to find the certification option that best suits your goals, timeframe, and budget
• Take our quiz to find the best coach certification program for you
• Review our list of the best life coaching certifications

If you’d like to compare ICA with other options or you want something more affordable, we suggest that you check out our best budget option, Transformation Academy, and our top selection for comprehensive coaching training, Coach Training Alliance.

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