Are you passionate about coaching and committed to making a social impact? The International Coaching Federation (ICF) Foundation is offering an incredible opportunity for aspiring professional coaches through the 2026 ICF Foundation Scholarship.
This scholarship is designed to increase access to quality coaching education for individuals from underrepresented backgrounds around the world.
In partnership with ICF Coaching Education, ICF Professional Coaches, and accredited educational providers, the foundation is committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in coaching.
If you’re looking to become a certified coach and contribute positively to your community, this fully virtual scholarship program is your chance to make a difference.
Scholarship Summary
| Feature | Details |
| Scholarship Name | 2026 ICF Foundation Scholarship |
| Host Organization | International Coaching Federation (ICF) Foundation |
| Eligible Applicants | International Students |
| Application Deadline | June 30, 2025 (5:00 PM, New York time) |
| Scholarship Type | In-kind tuition scholarship |
| Program Type | Virtual coaching education (Level 1, 60+ hours) |
| Education Period | January 2026 – December 2026 |
| Language Requirement | English |
| Application Fee for ACC | Waived |
| Membership | One-year complimentary ICF membership |
Scholarship Benefits
Recipients of the 2026 ICF Foundation Scholarship will receive:
- Tuition Scholarship: Full in-kind tuition to a designated ICF-accredited Level 1 Coaching Education Program (minimum 60 hours), delivered virtually.
- Free ICF Membership: Complimentary one-year membership to the International Coaching Federation.
- Waived ACC Application Fee: The application fee for the Associate Certified Coach (ACC) credential will be waived.
- Mentoring Support: Access to a mentoring coach throughout the Level 1 training program.
Note: The scholarship is in-kind and cannot be converted to cash or used to reimburse previous coaching education expenses.
About the ICF Foundation
The ICF Foundation is a global leader in empowering individuals and communities through coaching.
Through its scholarships and social impact projects, the foundation aims to ensure equitable access to coaching and strengthen leadership and development in underserved populations.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the 2026 ICF Foundation Scholarship, applicants must:
- Show a strong interest in becoming a professional coach.
- Commit to volunteering as a coach in an Ignite Project (an ICF social impact initiative) within one year after earning the ACC credential.
- Be able to complete the coaching education in English.
- Have a reliable computer and internet connection (training is fully online).
- Be available to complete the program between January 2026 and December 2026.
- Apply for the ACC credential no later than December 2027.
Application Requirements
- Complete the official ICF Foundation Scholarship Application Form (must be submitted in English).
- Apply before June 30, 2025, at 5:00 PM (New York time).
- Finalists may be required to submit a 2–5 minute video answering additional questions.
- Applicants cannot choose their coaching program—the scholarship will assign one based on availability.
How to Apply
- Visit the official application portal via the ICF Foundation website.
- Scroll down and click on Apply Now! Button.
- Create an account you don’t have, but if you log in to your account.
- Complete the online application form thoroughly in English.
- Submit all required information before the deadline: June 30, 2025.
- If shortlisted, be ready to provide a short video interview.
For more details, visit the official website here.
FAQs
Can I choose my preferred coaching education program?
No, scholarship recipients will be assigned to a coaching education provider selected by the ICF Foundation. This ensures consistency in program quality and aligns with the Foundation’s partnership agreements.
Is the scholarship monetary or cash-based?
No, the ICF Foundation Scholarship is not a financial grant. It is an in-kind tuition scholarship, which means it covers the full cost of an assigned coaching education program but does not provide cash or direct funding.
Is the program offered in-person or online?
The entire coaching education program is delivered virtually. This means you can participate from anywhere in the world, as long as you have access to a stable internet connection and a reliable computer.
The online format provides flexibility, but it also requires strong self-discipline, time management, and comfort with digital learning environments.
Can I apply if English is not my first language?
Yes, you can apply regardless of your native language. However, fluency in English is essential, as both the application and the coaching education program are conducted entirely in English.
You’ll need to read, write, speak, and understand English well enough to actively participate in training sessions and complete assignments.
- Do I need prior coaching experience to apply?
No prior professional coaching experience is required to apply for this scholarship. What’s more important is that you show a genuine interest in becoming a professional coach and a strong desire to use coaching to create positive change in your community.
Your motivation, clarity of purpose, and readiness to commit to the full program are key factors in the selection process.
6. What is the Ignite Project, and why is it important?
The Ignite Project is an ICF Foundation initiative that brings coaching to social impact organisations and underserved populations around the world.
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