How do I pass the ICF CKA exam?

 Is your ICF CKA (Coach Knowledge Assessment) exam knocking on the door, and you are thinking about how to ace the exam? Well, then you have come to the right place, as we plan to make this write up all about that. But before delving deep, let’s start with the basics of CKA.


The ICF CKA test or the Coach Knowledge Assessment is a tool to measure a coach’s understanding and skills required to practice coaching. CKA is a crucial component of your ICF Credential application. At present, ICF conducts this assessment in the form of Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQ).

 

What is included in the CKA test?
Your ICF application comprises of:
• Coach Specific Training
• Coach Knowledge Assessment – CKA
• Mentor Coaching
• Recorded Sessions
• Coaching Hours

When you submit your application to ICF, the ICF will review your application and contact you via email. This email will contain a status update containing the next step in the review process. The process for a credential application review varies depending on the application pathway you choose for the credential.

How to Prepare for the ICF CKA Test?
Taking the right course for preparation for the coach knowledge assessment can get you good marks and one step closer to getting a coaching credential by the ICF. Here’s what you can do:

  1. Go back to the basics
    The website for the International Coach Federation is a goldmine of information for people preparing for the CKA. Make sure to refresh your memories on:
    • ICF’s mission, values, and its definition of coaching
    • Core competencies of coaching stated by the ICF
    • ICF standards and code of ethics

It’s good to have them nearby as you may need to refer them every now and then while practicing coaching. Many of us have already experienced coaching and have enough experience to coach. Go with your instincts. You’ve done this. Don’t hurry just because you covered enough experience hours. It’s good to have them nearby as you may need to refer them every now and then while practicing coaching.

  1. Your Coach Training Materials helps you a long way
    Review your coach training materials and keep them handy while giving the test. In addition to these materials, these links will help you to prepare well before the exam:
    • ICF Code of Ethics
    • PCC Markers
    • ICF Vision, Mission, and Definition of Coaching
    • ICF Core Competencies
    You can print out these resources and have them handy while taking the exam.
  2. Categorize your time. Take the benefit of the format.
    ICF gives you 60 days to take the exam! This means you have enough time to refresh your memory and schedule your exam well ahead of time. So, why not choose a time that you find most comforting. Some people are early birds; some are night owls. Decide a time to take the test when you feel the best in your energy and spirit.
    Don’t put your whole focus on merely completing the test within 3 hours. Relax and pace yourself.
  3. Get rid of distractions. Adjust yourself to a calm place.
    Choose a calm and isolated place to take the CKA test. You can spare at least three hours without your phone and social media. Double-check the system’s power connection and make sure you have the internet up and running smoothly.
    Keeping yourself in a quiet place can help you stay concentrated for a longer time. A cup of coffee may aid you to stay alert and fresh.
  4. Language matters
    We may not think and communicate in the same language. Sometimes, our brain works faster in our native language than in any foreign language. ICF offers more than 10 languages in the CKA test. So, choose the language you’re most comfortable with interpreting.
    This way, you’ll save time otherwise spent in rereading the questions.
  5. Lastly, think deliberately.
    You have a total of 180 minutes to answer 155 questions. This leaves you with almost 1 minute and 15 seconds to answer each question. Two options will have no relevance, and the other two will be very close to the correct answer. There will be questions of the same nature and different options. Go with your instinct. You know it.
    Some questions are short and have to-the-point answers. While some will require you to read thrice or maybe even more. So, don’t rush.

    Conclusion
    Hopefully, the tips mentioned above will help you prepare well for your ICF CKA test and ace it as well.
    On an ending note, it seems essential to mention that the course and the institute that you choose to get a coaching certification plays a great role in the credentialing part. So, choose your training program wisely, and make sure to go for a well-reputed institute. Click here to know more about our ICF-accredited coach training courses.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Coaching is Not Counselling or Consulting

Image
The  business coaching industry globally surpassed $15 billion in 2019  and has been growing exponentially since. It has shown exemplary prowess across the US, Australia, UAE, Africa, Asian countries, and notably the island country of New Zealand.  In an ICF led survey, a set of enlightening data come to light regarding business coaching in New Zealand; a summarized highlight has been shared below: 99.9% of the business/executive coaches have a professional background. Coaches in New Zealand have more acquired experience than other countries.  More than 75% of the coaches in New Zealand are female compared to the global average of 65%. More than 70% of the practicing coaches identify under business coaching in New Zealand.   The survey also revealed the roadblocks that are affecting the growth of the coaching industry in the region: A prevalent confusion regarding the role and responsibility of a coach.  Tendency to confuse coaching with counselin...
Read more

Career Coaching Certification in Italy: The Key Skills You Acquire

Image
Career Coaching In Italy, 45.1% of workforce needs couldn’t be met owing to the lack of appropriate skills in 2023.  The statistics clearly show the growing demand for upskilling. Besides upskilling, career advancement has also become a top priority among modern organizations. That is where career  coaching certification programs in Italy  come into the big picture. Career coaching is a process in which a dedicated coach guides employees in making informed career choices and enables them to overcome workplace challenges. The core aim is to provide team members with the necessary support they require for personal and professional development. This blog will walk you through the skills you will develop through a  career coaching certification in Italy . Let’s dive in! Empathy Empathy is indeed a crucial component of effective communication. Career coaching in Italy can enable you to develop this skill that makes your team feel understood, safe, and accepted. As a resul...
Read more

Mastering the Art of Training: A Guide to Online ‘Train the Trainer’ Certifications

Image
The Train the Trainer program offered by Coach Transformation allows you to become a certified trainer in coaching skills, empowering you to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Whether your goal is to establish a coaching business or lead training sessions within a company, this thorough program will provide you with the crucial skills and expertise needed to train coaches effectively. What is Train the Trainer? Our Train the Trainer program is a comprehensive certification course for aspiring trainers to conduct effective coaching skills training. You’ll learn the latest coaching techniques, mentoring skills, and business setup strategies to empower your clients to achieve their goals. Why Become a Trainer? Our Train the Trainer program is designed to equip individuals with the specialized skills to train others to become effective coaches. In addition to mastering coaching techniques, successful trainers must possess exceptional pedagogical skills, expertise in curri...
Read more