Professional Mentoring Accreditations
IPMA Accreditations
IPMA, a global body for professional mentoring.
International Professional Mentor Association (IPMA) is a professional not-for-profit organization that provides mentorship programs and accreditations to both individuals and organizations in various industries.
The accreditations offered by IPMA are designed to recognize and validate the skills, knowledge, and experience of professionals who have achieved a certain level of expertise in their field.
IPMA sets global standards for mentoring practices across various industries, aiming to enhance personal and professional growth and contribute positively to society.
With no geographical limitations, IPMA is active in over 51 countries, making its impact felt worldwide.
How to get accredited from IPMA?
Follow a structured path to earn your accreditation as a professional mentor by fulfilling the requirements set by IPMAglobal, including education, experience, ethical standards, and a formal application process.
Mentoring Education & Exam
Gain comprehensive knowledge and skills through our specialized mentoring education programs in 8 essentials courses and pass the exams to demonstrate your expertise in the field.
Working Experience
Accumulate relevant work experience in your professional domain, with different certification levels requiring varying years of experience, to enhance your practical understanding and credibility as a mentor.
Mentoring Experience
Develop and refine your mentoring skills by actively engaging in mentoring relationships, providing guidance and support to those seeking professional growth.
Abide by Code of Ethics and Conducts
Commit to adhering to the highest standards of ethical behavior and professional conduct outlined in our Code of Ethics, ensuring the integrity and trustworthiness of your mentoring practice.
Application
Submit your application to become an accredited mentor through IPMA, showcasing your qualifications, experience, and commitment to the mentoring profession.
Accreditation Types
1. Individuals
IPMA provides accreditation for individual mentors, recognizing their skills and expertise in mentoring practices. This helps enhance their credibility and effectiveness in guiding others adhering to a shared Global Code of Ethics for Mentoring.
2. Organizations
IPMA also offers accreditation for organizations that implement mentoring programs, ensuring that these programs meet high standards of quality and effectiveness in supporting professional growth. It's also an ESG recognition in mentoring.
Professional Mentoring Accreditations
for Individuals
Individual Accreditation Overview
IPMA membership is a prestigious badge of honor, indicating that you're part of a select group of professionals committed to upholding the highest standards of expertise and integrity. As a member, you'll be part of a global community that drives excellence in the mentoring industry, shaping curricula, advocating for industry standards, and contributing to research that benefits society as a whole.
Who should get accredited?
- Executives
- Educators and Teachers
- HR Professionals
- Consultants and Advisors
- Coaches
- New Mentors
- Career Transitioner
- Various Industries and Professions
Why do individuals need the accreditation?
At least 5 reasons for you to get the accreditation.
Enhanced Credibility
Accreditation adds credibility to an individual or organization's claims of expertise in mentoring. It demonstrates that they have met certain standards or criteria set by an accrediting body.
Distinguished Recognition
Accreditation serves as a form of recognition for the efforts and achievements in mentoring. It can help distinguish the accredited entity from others in the field.
Competitive Advantage
Accreditation can provide a competitive advantage by demonstrating a commitment to quality and continual improvement in mentoring. Employers value certified mentors for their high-quality training and guidance.
Networking Opportunities
Accreditation may open up networking opportunities with other accredited individuals or organizations in the field of mentoring, facilitating experience sharing and collaboration.
Professional Development
The accreditation process itself can be a valuable learning experience, requiring the individual or organization to reflect on their practices and make improvements where necessary.
Accreditation based on the 9 Core Competencies for Professional Mentors
As a leading professional association, IPMA recognizes the importance of empowering mentors with the 9 Core Competencies for Professional Mentors to effectively guide and support their mentees.
Individual Accreditation Types
Discover IPMA's 4 certification levels, tailored to recognize and elevate your professional mentoring skills. From beginner to expert, each level marks your growth and dedication. Join our global network, enhance your credentials, and empower career development worldwide.
Choose your accreditation type
Upgrade your membership to a permanent status for just an additional USD 100 after 5 years of membership! *The validity period of the certificate is 5 years.*
Level 1: Associate Mentor (AM)
1. Mentoring service hours: 40 hours
2. Complete online 32 hours training and obtain passing score
3. Adopt IPMA code of conducts and ethics
Level 2: Professional Mentor (PM)
1. Education: minimum bachelor degree or equivalent
2. Mentoring service hours: 100 hours
3. Length of mentoring experiences: 1 year
4. Complete PM training and obtain passing score
5. Adopt IPMA code of conducts and ethics
Level 3: Senior Mentor (SM)
1. Must hold Professional Mentor or equivalent training
2. Mentoring service hours: 300 hours
3. Length of mentoring experiences: 3 years
4. Complete SM training and obtain passing score
5. Adopt IPMA code of conducts and ethics
Level 4: Master Mentor (MM)
1. Must hold Senior Mentor or equivalent training
2. Mentoring service hours: 500 hours
3. Length of mentoring experiences: 5 years
4. Complete MM training and obtain passing score
5. Significant Contribution to the profession of mentoring
6. Adopt IPMA code of conducts and ethics
Curriculum
Welcome to our innovative curriculum, where we redefine the standards of contemporary mentoring practices. We understand the dynamic nature of the mentoring landscape and strive to stay ahead by continuously refining and updating our content.
The IPMA mentoring accreditation program integrates eight essential courses listed below. Exam weighting strategically evolves across certification levels, reflecting role complexity.
- Coaching skills
- Mentoring skills
- Supervision skills
- Knowledge Management
- Tacit Knowledge Management
- Business skills in mentoring
- Tools, methodologies & technologies
- Code of Ethics & Conducts
Curriculum Levels, Topics and Weighs
Explore our curriculum's structured framework, featuring clearly defined levels, topics, and their weighted importance. Each level progressively builds on the last, covering essential mentoring skills like communication, leadership, and emotional intelligence. We've carefully balanced topic weights to reflect their current relevance, guiding you to focus on what's most critical. This roadmap ensures a clear, purposeful learning journey, preparing you to excel as a mentor in diverse contexts.
|
Topic
|
Exam Weight
|
|---|---|
|
Coaching skills
|
30%
|
|
Mentoring skills
|
35%
|
|
Supervision skills
|
5%
|
|
Knowledge management
|
5%
|
|
Tacit knowledge management
|
5%
|
|
Business skills in mentoring
|
5%
|
|
Tools, methodologies & technologies (Incorporate neuroscience, psychologies...into mentoring)
|
5%
|
|
Code of ethics & conducts
|
10%
|
|
Topic
|
Exam Weight
|
|---|---|
|
Coaching skills
|
30%
|
|
Mentoring skills
|
35%
|
|
Supervision skills
|
5%
|
|
Knowledge management
|
5%
|
|
Tacit knowledge management
|
5%
|
|
Business skills in mentoring
|
5%
|
|
Tools, methodologies & technologies (Incorporate neuroscience, psychologies...into mentoring)
|
5%
|
|
Code of ethics & conducts
|
10%
|
|
Topic
|
Exam Weight
|
|---|---|
|
Coaching skills
|
20%
|
|
Mentoring skills
|
25%
|
|
Supervision skills
|
10%
|
|
Knowledge management
|
5%
|
|
Tacit knowledge management
|
10%
|
|
Business skills in mentoring
|
10%
|
|
Tools, methodologies & technologies (Incorporate neuroscience, psychologies...into mentoring)
|
10%
|
|
Code of ethics & conducts
|
10%
|
|
Topic
|
Exam Weight
|
|---|---|
|
Coaching skills
|
10%
|
|
Mentoring skills
|
20%
|
|
Supervision skills
|
10%
|
|
Knowledge management
|
5%
|
|
Tacit knowledge management
|
15%
|
|
Business skills in mentoring
|
15%
|
|
Tools, methodologies & technologies (Incorporate neuroscience, psychologies...into mentoring)
|
15%
|
|
Code of ethics & conducts
|
10%
|
In this topic, you’ll be introduced to exam weights under different levels.
| Level1 | Level2 | Level3 | Level4 |
| 30% | 30% | 20% | 10% |
In this topic, you’ll be introduced to exam weights under different levels.
| Level1 | Level2 | Level3 | Level4 |
| 35% | 35% | 25% | 20% |
In this topic, you’ll be introduced to exam weights under different levels.
| Level1 | Level2 | Level3 | Level4 |
| 5% | 5% | 10% | 10% |
In this topic, you’ll be introduced to exam weights under different levels.
| Level1 | Level2 | Level3 | Level4 |
| 5% | 5% | 5% | 5% |
In this topic, you’ll be introduced to exam weights under different levels.
| Level1 | Level2 | Level3 | Level4 |
| 5% | 5% | 10% | 15% |
In this topic, you’ll be introduced to exam weights under different levels.
| Level1 | Level2 | Level3 | Level4 |
| 5% | 5% | 10% | 15% |
In this topic, you’ll be introduced to exam weights under different levels.
| Level1 | Level2 | Level3 | Level4 |
| 5% | 5% | 10% | 15% |
In this topic, you’ll be introduced to exam weights under different levels.
| Level1 | Level2 | Level3 | Level4 |
| 10% | 10% | 10% | 10% |
Fees & Calendar
For different certification levels, we provide detailed fee descriptions and schedules. Please continue browsing the following content to explore the unique value of each certification level, the corresponding fee structure, and the carefully planned schedules. We look forward to embarking on this professional growth journey with you!
Exam Calendar
The IPMA conducts accreditation exams on a quarterly basis, with numerous testing centers worldwide in major cities. Please check your schedule and book the right appointment for your exam. Good luck with your exam！
Exam & Accreditation Fees
Level 1
-
Accreditaion Fee:
IPMA Membership: ＄99
Non IPMA Membership: ＄299
-
Examination Fee:
＄31
Level 2
-
Accreditaion Fee:
IPMA Membership: ＄139
Non IPMA Membership: ＄399
-
Examination Fee:
＄31
Level 3
-
Accreditaion Fee:
IPMA Membership: ＄299
Non IPMA Membership: ＄599
-
Examination Fee:
＄131
Level 4
-
Accreditaion Fee:
IPMA Membership: ＄499
Non IPMA Membership: ＄799
-
Examination Fee:
＄331
Senior Mentor Accreditation: Elite Fast Track
A Global Mentor Accreditation Express Lane Tailored for Seasoned Leaders Bypass the 3-Year Experience Requirement and Jump Straight to an Internationally Recognized Credential.
For applying for the Elite Fast Track, please email your latest resume and relevant proofs to:
sm-fasttrack@ipmaglobal.org;
Fast Track Core Philosophy
For verified leaders with proven expertise, we shorten the timeline to prioritize skill enhancement over mere time accumulation.
—IPMA Accreditation Committee
Program Overview
Seasoned industry leaders, are you frustrated by the lengthy process for professional mentor accreditation? As a veteran executive with decades of experience, why be held back by rigid “300 hours of service time” and “3-year experience threshold” requirements? The IPMA (International Professional Mentors Association) Elite Fast Track is a customized, efficient pathway designed specifically for you!
Key Benefits: Skip the standard accumulation period and earn a globally recognized IPMA Senior Mentor Accreditation in as little as 3 months.
Why Choose the Fast Track?
At least 5 reasons for you to get the fast track.
Save Over 50% Time with Streamlined Accreditation
①Traditional path: Requires 3+ years of experience accumulation. ②Accelerated path: Just 5 days of in-person training + 40 hours of focused online learning + a rigorous exam—bypassing 300 service hours. ③Key benefit: Validate your leadership competencies instantly, no lengthy waiting.
Local Training Partners (IPMA Does Not Offer Direct Training)
①Decentralized delivery: All training is provided by IPMA-accredited local providers; contact yours for schedules, pricing, and syllabi. ②Note: IPMA itself does not conduct training for end-users.
Global Framework, Localized Application
①Core curriculum: Master IPMA’s 9 mentoring competencies, ethics code, behavioral standards, and cross-cultural strategies. ②Real-world ROI: Apply skills to business scenarios, then access IPMA’s global mentor network and exclusive resource discounts post-certification.
Enterprise Solutions: Build Internal Mentor Leaders
①Talent pipeline: Develop high-potential internal mentors to strengthen succession planning and reduce HR costs. ②Performance multiplier: Ideal for leadership transitions or scaling corporate mentorship programs.
Globally Recognized Credential + Ongoing Support
①Career capital: Earn IPMA’s industry-respected certification to elevate your professional profile. ②Lifelong access: Stay updated via global networks, tools, and case libraries for continuous growth.
Fast Track Key Benefits and Target Audience
This exclusive fast track is reserved for industry leaders who meet rigorous standards—only those with exceptional qualifications need apply.
To apply, please email your latest resume and relevant supporting documents to: sm-fasttrack@ipmaglobal.org
Next Steps:
Upon receiving your materials, our team will immediately assign a local service provider nearest to your location to contact you directly. This ensures personalized support tailored to your regional context.
- Hard Requirements (Must Meet All)
- Master’s degree or higher
- Commitment to uphold IPMA’s global Code of Ethics & Conduct
2. Experience Requirements (Must Meet at Least 1)
- 10+ years of senior management experience (executive level) in enterprises or public institutions
- Head, principal, dean, or president of large/medium-sized educational institutions, schools, or universities (or institutions with 1,000+ people)
3. Professional Requirements (Must Meet at Least 1)
- Relevant accreditation from international bodies like IPMA, EMCC, ICF, etc.
- Mentoring/coaching credentials from other domestic or international organizations (proof required)
- 3+ years of proven mentoring/coaching service (case records required)
FAQs
1. What are IPMA accreditations?
IPMA accreditations are globally recognized certifications that validate your skills and expertise in professional mentoring. They demonstrate your commitment to excellence and adherence to international mentoring standards.
2. Why choose an IPMA certification?
Choosing an IPMA certification means aligning yourself with the highest standards in mentoring. It enhances your credibility, expands your professional network, and opens up new career opportunities by showcasing your dedication to continuous professional development.
3. Which certification is right for you?
If you already hold an IPMA certification, you can explore opportunities for renewal or advancement. Stay updated with the latest mentoring practices and maintain your competitive edge by engaging in our continuous learning programs.
he right certification depends on your experience level and career goals. Whether you are just starting or are an experienced mentor, IPMA offers various levels of accreditation to match your needs. Explore our certification paths to find the best fit for your professional journey.
4. Already have an IPMA certification?
Contact us to learn more about the Continuing Certification Requirements (CCR) program, specific PDUs requirements, how to earn and claim them, as well as step-by-step instructions on how to renew your certification.
Qualified Training Service Provider(QTSP)
To become our Qualified Training Service Provider (QTSP) with IPMA, you will gain access to exclusive resources and support, empowering you to deliver top-tier mentoring programs that meet global standards and enhance professional development in your field.
Credibility and Trust
Partnering with IPMA boosts your reputation. Our brand recognition and the prestigious 9 Core Competencies for Professional Mentors give your business an edge in the market.
Revenue Growth
Leverage our brand and resources to attract more clients and increase your revenue. Our partnership programs are designed to help your business thrive.
Exclusive Resources:
Gain access to our exclusive tools, training, and networks. These resources are designed to help you grow your business and provide top-notch mentoring services.
Competitive Advantage
Stand out from the competition by offering IPMA-certified mentoring services. Our certification is a recognized mark of quality, giving you a leg up on the competitors.
Increased Visibility
Becoming a partner increases your visibility within our professional community. This exposure can lead to new clients, collaborations, and business opportunities.
Ongoing Support
As a partner, you'll receive continuous support and guidance from IPMA. We're committed to your success and will be there to help you navigate any challenges that arise.
