Thinking of getting a life coaching certification online, but you just don’t know if it’s worth it?
No worries. You’re in the right place.
Chances are you’re here because you want to take your life coaching business to the next level, or you’re new to it and you’re not sure where or how to start.
Below, we’ve ranked the 7 best online life coaching certifications you can find! Read on to find out which one fits you and your coaching style.
In Brief: The 7 Best Online Coaching Certifications Compared
- 🥇iPEC Coaching: Best for energy-focused, holistic learners.
- 🥈Health Coach Institute: Best for health and life dual-focus.
- 🥉Institute for Life Coach Training: Best for learnt, advanced coaches.
- Life Purpose Institute: Best for comprehensive, versatile coaching.
- iNLP Center: Best for NLP enthusiasts and professionals.
- Certified Life Coach Institute: Best for quick-start, aspiring coaches.
- Life Coach Certification Institute (LCCI): Best for budget-friendly, fast certification.
The 7 Best Online Coaching Certification Programs Ranked
Whether you’re thinking about starting a career in coaching or want to improve your skills, picking the right online coaching certification program is crucial. There are many options out there, and it can be tough to know which one is best for you.
We’ve done the hard work for you by researching and ranking the top seven life coach certifications online.
Our rankings are based on a clear methodology that evaluates each program’s course quality, accreditation, and practical training.
Here are our top 7 picks, detailed:
🥇#1 iPEC Coaching: Best for Energy-focused, holistic learners
iPEC offers an immersive program that includes three certifications and focuses on creating sustainable change through energy leadership and core energy coaching.
It’s designed to empower coaches to drive transformation effectively in their clients’ lives.
Program Details
- Program Costs: One-time payment of $13,395, $4,665 payable over three months or $1,083 payable over 12 months
- Program Length: 7-9 months, including three live modules and additional self-study.
- Accreditation and Credibility: ICF-accredited
- Mode of Learning: Offers both online and in-person training options.
Pros and Cons
- Mentor feedback provided.
- Personalized training sessions.
- Includes a resource library.
- Extensive time commitment.
- Comparatively costlier
Specialty
- It focuses on Core Energy Coaching™ and Energy Leadership, which distinguishes it from traditional life coaching programs.
- Ideal for coaches seeking a transformational life coach certification with a focus on energy leadership and personalized development.
🥈#2 Health Coach Institute: Best For Health and life dual-focus
The Health Coach Institute offers a dual-certified Health and Life Coach certification program that spans six months and is entirely online. It’s taught by experienced coaches and provides practical skills for starting a successful coaching career.
This life coach certification emphasizes holistic development across various life areas and includes extensive mentorship and community support.
Program Details
- Program Costs: The program costs $5,950 USD if paid in full, with options for payment plans such as 7 payments of $921.43 USD or 12 payments of $537.50 USD.
- Program Length: 6 months.
- Accreditation and Credibility: Accredited by the ICF and the Canadian Health Coach Alliance.
- Mode of Learning: Entirely online, with video lessons, mentorship, and partner skills labs.
Pros and Cons
- Dual certification in health and life coaching.
- Comprehensive curriculum covering multiple aspects of wellness and business skills.
- Supportive community and mentorship.
- Extensive time commitment.
- Relatively high cost.
Specialty
- Offers a dual certification and a holistic approach covering five key areas of life that include behavioral psychology, neuroscience, and habit change.
- It is tailored to those new to health and wellness or looking to expand their professional services.
🥉#3 Institute for Life Coach Training: Best for Learnt, Advanced Coaches
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This advanced training program prepares coaches for the ICF’s PCC credential through a detailed curriculum covering 130 hours.
It includes required courses and electives, culminating in graduation exercises.
This life coach certification is for those who wish for higher credentialing in professional coaching.
Program Details
- Program Costs: Approximately $7,700.
- Program Length: Typically 1.5 to 2 years to complete.
- Accreditation and Credibility: Accredited by the ICF.
- Mode of Learning: Online; includes both core courses and electives.
Pros and Cons
- Deep focus on core competencies.
- Customizable electives.
- Relatively high cost.
- Require a significant time commitment.
Specialty
Focuses deeply on enhancing core coaching competencies and offers a wide variety of electives for customization.
#4 Life Purpose Institute: Best for Comprehensive, versatile coaching
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The Life Purpose Institute offers a Life Coach Certification program that focuses on practical coaching tools, comprehensive training, and personalized support.
The institute also supports graduates with marketing resources and a community for continued professional growth.
Program Details
- Program Costs: Specific cost details are not listed; you would need to contact the institute directly for them.
- Program Length: Available as a 3- or 6-month program, or as a 5-day intensive with follow-up classes.
- Accreditation and Credibility: Accredited by the ICF.
- Mode of Learning: Entirely online; flexible with day, evening, and intensive course options available.
Pros and Cons
- Focused on practical coaching skills.
- Significant practice with feedback.
- Marketing support post-certification.
- Details on costs are not transparent.
- Intensive programs require a significant time commitment.
Specialty
- It emphasizes the use of over 100 coaching techniques to assist clients in various areas such as relationship, health, and career development.
- Provides extensive support for starting a coaching business.
#5 iNLP Center: Best for NLP enthusiasts and professionals
![The 7 Best Online Coaching Certifications Compared [2024 Edition] online coaching certification](https://coachfoundation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/INLP-CENTER-NLP-LIFE-COACH-Certification.png.webp "The 7 Best Online Coaching Certifications Compared [2024 Edition] online coaching certification")
The iNLP Center provides a detailed and flexible online coaching certification that combines traditional coaching methodologies with advanced NLP techniques.
This program is designed to equip coaches with a unique skill set that enhances both personal and professional growth.
Program Details
- Program Costs: $4,095 USD, payable in 8 monthly installments of $512 USD each.
- Program Length: 3 months; self-paced.
- Accreditation and Credibility: Accredited by the International Coach Federation (ICF) and the Center for Credentialing & Education (CCE), providing both Level 1 and Level 2 accredited training.
- Mode of Learning: Entirely online with a self-paced format, supplemented by live Zoom sessions and unlimited peer coaching.
Pros and Cons
- Flexible scheduling.
- Comprehensive NLP training included.
- Lifetime access to materials and sessions.
- Relatively expensive.
- Heavy focus on NLP may not suit everyone’s coaching style or career goals.
Specialty
- Offers an integration of NLP with traditional life coaching techniques, providing a robust framework for understanding and facilitating client transformations.
- Lifetime access to study material and recorded sessions.
#6 Certified Life Coach Institute: Best for Quick-start, aspiring coaches
![The 7 Best Online Coaching Certifications Compared [2024 Edition] online coaching certification](https://coachfoundation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/blob-1.webp "The 7 Best Online Coaching Certifications Compared [2024 Edition] online coaching certification")
This life coach certification provides intensive, immediate training designed to equip participants with the necessary skills and credentials to begin their coaching careers
It emphasizes practical skills and professional preparation. It is ideal for individuals seeking a foundational introduction to life coaching, aiming to start a professional coaching career quickly.
Program Details
- Program Costs: $1,295 USD, offer a “Register Now, Pay Later” financing option, which requires a non-refundable deposit of $395, with the remainder due three weeks before the class begins.
- Program Length: 3 consecutive days.
- Accreditation and Credibility: Accredited by the International Coach Federation (ICF)
- Mode of Learning: Entirely online.
Pros and Cons
- Quick and accessible.
- Offers ICF Contact Learning Hours (which are necessary for those pursuing further credentials with the ICF).
- Dedicating 33 hours over the course of three days could be difficult for some.
- Start times for the courses are fixed in each time zone.
Specialty
The quick turnaround from training to certification is a significant draw. It allows new coaches to start practicing and charging for their services shortly after completion.
#7 Life Coach Certification Institute (LCCI): Best for Budget-friendly, fast certification
![The 7 Best Online Coaching Certifications Compared [2024 Edition] online coaching certification](https://coachfoundation.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/image.png.webp "The 7 Best Online Coaching Certifications Compared [2024 Edition] online coaching certification")
LCCI provides a simple, accessible online life coach certification. It is geared towards immediate application and convenience, with unlimited access to training and exam materials.
It’s fit for those looking for a quick, life coach certification online, including professionals seeking a career transition or addition to their current skills.
Program Details
- Program Costs: $275 USD; cheapest in our list.
- Program Length: Self-paced.
- Accreditation and Credibility: Self-accredited.
- Mode of Learning: Entirely online with a self-paced format.
Pros and Cons
- Affordable, flexible, and fast.
- Unlimited exam retakes and instant certification.
- No prior experience is necessary.
- Lacks accreditation from any reputed institute.
- Less comprehensive training
Specialty
Offers a straightforward and rapid online certification process.
How to Find the Right Certification
Choosing the right life coaching certification online or otherwise can be a pivotal step in your career.
Here are some key points to consider when deciding on the best certification program for you:
- Accreditation and Credibility: Look for programs that are accredited by well-recognized organizations. These include the International Coaching Federation (ICF), the European Mentoring and Coaching Council (EMCC), or the Center for Credentialing & Education (CCE). Accreditation ensures the program meets certain professional and ethical standards.
- Program Content: Analyze the curriculum to ensure it covers the essential topics you are interested in. Such as coaching techniques, ethics, business development, and specific areas like career coaching, wellness coaching, or life balance. Check if the program provides a comprehensive approach to coaching.
- Training and Methodology: Consider the training methods used. Does the program offer hands-on experience through workshops, live sessions, and peer coaching? Practical experience is crucial in developing effective coaching skills.
- Faculty and Support: Look into the qualifications of the instructors and what kind of support is available during and after the certification process. Good programs often provide mentorship and opportunities for ongoing education.
- Certification Requirements: Understand what you need to do to obtain and maintain certification. This includes the number of training hours, the need for practice coaching hours, exams, and any continuing education requirements.
- Time and Financial Investment: Evaluate the duration of the program and the total cost, including any hidden expenses like books, materials, or membership fees. Consider whether the program offers flexible learning options that fit your schedule.
- Reputation and Reviews: Research testimonials and reviews from past participants to gauge their satisfaction and the effectiveness of the program in helping them achieve their coaching goals.
- Networking Opportunities: Check if the program offers a strong alumni network or professional associations that can help in building your career and finding potential clients.
- Alignment with Your Goals: Finally, ensure that the program aligns with your career goals and values. Some programs might focus more on corporate coaching, others may emphasize personal life coaching.
Just a heads up—getting certified isn’t a must to start life coaching. But it can definitely boost your reputation in the industry if you do. And getting a life coaching certification online is the easiest way to go about it.
However, certified or not, we’ve got your back every step of the way to make sure your life coaching gig is a success. You’ve got this!
Conclusion
Selecting the right life coach certification can significantly impact your career.
We’ve ranked seven top online coaching certifications to guide your decision based on their features, credibility, and affordability. Consider which program aligns best with your goals and budget as you move forward.
Do you agree with our list? What’s your pick from these options?
Do you think there should be any additions or deletions to this list?
Let us know in the comments below!
Methodology
To evaluate the seven life coach certifications online, we used a straightforward method that looked at several important factors outlined in the “How to Find the Right Certification” section.
In order to find the best life coaching certification programs for 2024, we prioritized these factors based on how much they affect a program’s quality and its fit for potential coaches.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is life coach certification worth it?
Yes, it can be worth it if you’re serious about establishing credibility and building a professional coaching business. It helps you gain skills, trust from clients, and access to professional networks.
How quickly can you become a life coach?
You can become a life coach in a few months to a year, depending on the training program’s length and your pace of learning.
What credentials do you need to be a life coach?
Technically, you don’t need any specific credentials to start as a life coach. However, certifications from recognized coaching organizations like the International Coach Federation (ICF) can enhance your professionalism.
Which coaching certification is best?
The International Coach Federation (ICF) certification is widely respected and considered one of the best due to its rigorous standards and worldwide recognition.
Can you be an online coach without certification?
Yes, you can be an online coach without certification. However, having certification can increase your credibility and potentially attract more clients
How much does it cost to get ICF certification?
The cost for ICF certification can range from $1,000 to over $10,000, depending on the training provider and the level of certification you’re seeking.
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