IAC IBC Exam study guide
IAC IBC Exam · Work through your exam, one topic at a time.
The International Board Certification (IBC) credential, offered through the International Association of Coaching (IAC), is a professional certification for practicing coaches who want independent validation of their coaching mastery. It is aimed at coaches with real client experience who can demonstrate the IAC's coaching competencies in practice, not just recall theory. The IAC IBC Exam study guide has 8 sections and about 2,286 words.
01Professional Coaching Ethics, Standards, and Core Competencies
This domain tests ethical judgment and the competency framework behind professional coaching: the IAC Code of Ethics and the nine Coaching Masteries, which describe observable coaching behaviors rather than personality traits. Confidentiality with limits disclosed in advance: risk of serious harm, illegal activity, legal compulsion, and supervision or mentoring where agreed.
314 words, about 2 min02Coaching Agreements, Contracting, and Scope of Practice
This domain tests whether you can set up an engagement that protects both parties: a clear written agreement, explicit roles, and a scope the coach can actually deliver. Roles and responsibilities of coach, client, and any sponsor.
280 words, about 1 min03Building the Coaching Relationship and Establishing Trust
This domain tests your ability to create the conditions for trust: reliability, presence, respect for the client's agenda, and the honest handling of ruptures. Do what you say: start and end on time, follow up, keep records secure.
286 words, about 1 min04Communication and Active Listening Skills
This domain tests engaged listening: hearing content, emotion, values, and what is not said, then responding so the client hears themselves more clearly. Track the client's words, metaphors, energy shifts, and omissions.
281 words, about 1 min05Facilitating Learning, Awareness, and Goal Setting
This domain tests how you help clients convert vague dissatisfaction into owned, meaningful goals and the awareness needed to pursue them. Use specific observations, feedback, reframing, and carefully chosen questions.
278 words, about 1 min06Behavior Change, Action Planning, and Accountability
This domain tests how you turn insight into action that survives contact with a real week: planning, accountability, and adjustment without nagging. Agree actions the client chooses, not assignments you impose.
275 words, about 1 min07Assessment, Feedback, and Reflective Practice
This domain tests the ethical and skillful use of assessments, the quality of feedback you give, and your own reflective practice as a coach. Use only tools you are trained and licensed to administer.
291 words, about 1 min08Professional Practice Management and Continuing Development
This domain tests the business side of coaching: the systems, safeguards, and development habits that keep a practice professional and sustainable. Insurance, clear fees, contracts, invoicing, and cancellation policies.
281 words, about 1 min