Frequently Asked Questions
Training of Trainers FAQ
What is IBCT?
IBCT (International Board of Certified Trainers) is a certification provider in training & HRD that works to improve the training/talent development profession and its public perception by setting standards, running train-the-trainer programs, and offering certification services. IBCT was founded in 1988, and its headquarters are in the Netherlands under Dutch/European law.
What is a Certified Trainer?
A Certified Trainer is a professional who has been formally assessed and recognized by the International Board of Certified Trainers (IBCT) as competent to design, deliver, and evaluate training according to defined professional standards. Certified Trainers typically demonstrate verified skills in training delivery, facilitation, learning design, assessment, and ethical practice, and they maintain their credentials through ongoing professional development where required.
What is Training of Trainers (TOT) Course or Program?
A Training of Trainers (TOT) course/program is a structured program designed to prepare, qualify, and standardize trainers’ ability to plan, deliver, and evaluate training effectively.
In the IBCT context, TOT is delivered as a multi-level, state-of-the-industry Train-the-Trainer pathway with three subsequent levels (AT, CPT, CT/HRDC).
IBCT also describes its TOT approach as highly participatory, focused on practice through individual/pair/group activities, with instant, constructive feedback and performance standardization against international standards.
(IBCT explicitly references TOT alongside TTT as the same category of Train-the-Trainer programs.)
In the IBCT context, TOT is delivered as a multi-level, state-of-the-industry Train-the-Trainer pathway with three subsequent levels (AT, CPT, CT/HRDC).
IBCT also describes its TOT approach as highly participatory, focused on practice through individual/pair/group activities, with instant, constructive feedback and performance standardization against international standards.
(IBCT explicitly references TOT alongside TTT as the same category of Train-the-Trainer programs.)
What is Train The Trainer (TTT) Course or Program?
A Train The Trainer (TTT) course/program is a professional program that equips participants with the competencies needed to facilitate learning, manage the training environment, and deliver training with measurable outcomes—i.e., it prepares people to be effective trainers.
On IBCT’s websites, TTT is presented as part of its multi-level Train-The-Trainer program, which is designed around practice-based learning, real-life training activities, and constructive feedback, and it progresses through three certification levels (AT, CPT, CT/HRDC).
IBCT also uses the combined wording TTT/TOT when referring to Train-the-Trainer programs, indicating the terms are used interchangeably in its framework.
On IBCT’s websites, TTT is presented as part of its multi-level Train-The-Trainer program, which is designed around practice-based learning, real-life training activities, and constructive feedback, and it progresses through three certification levels (AT, CPT, CT/HRDC).
IBCT also uses the combined wording TTT/TOT when referring to Train-the-Trainer programs, indicating the terms are used interchangeably in its framework.
What is a Certified Professional Trainer (CPT)?
The Certified Professional Trainer (CPT) certification is an IBCT credential that recognizes a trainer’s competence to plan, deliver, and evaluate professional training in line with defined standards. It reflects verified capability in facilitation, learning design, assessment, and ethical practice, and it is typically maintained through ongoing professional development where required.
What are TOT Programs provided by IBCT?
IBCT Â provides a multi-level international TOT Program, these levels as follows:
- Associate Trainer (AT)
- Certified Professional Trainer (CPT)
- Internationally Certified Trainer & HRD Consultant (CT/HRDC)
Where can I find the content, objectives and other details of each TOT level?
You can check all details of each level of the IBCT training-of-trainers program via the dedicated webpage for each level. Here are the links:
Are there any rules I should know about before applying to a TOT program?
To get acquainted with admission requirements, conduction rules & achievement policy for IBCT TOT programs, please visit this page.
Where the TOT training sessions are held?
Our TOT programs are mainly held in the IBCT Certified Training Centers, IBCT MENA focal points, and also it could be held on the client site after the IBCT approval for the training room facilities.
What are the TOT selection criteria?
We usually test the motivation, teamwork skills, coping abilities, positive attitude and the personality traits of each applicant. Applicants should pass the admission interview.
Also, see the answer to this question:
What kind of questions do I expect in the TOT admission interview?
What kind of questions do i expect in the TOT admission interview?
IBCT experts usually ask various questions to assess the candidates’ readiness to join the TOT training under the following sections:
- Motivation
- Teamwork Skills
- Coping Abilities
- Positive Attitudes
- Personal Traits
What are the requirements of joining The CT/HRDC Program?
- Achieving the AT and CPT levels of the IBCT TOT/TTT multi-level Program.
- Good command in written and spoken English
- Being physically and mentally fit-for-the-job.
- Fulfill the IBCT Intake Portfolio document.
- Passing the selection interview that includes delivering a presentation that will be assessed by one of the IBCT board of directors.
How can I join the IBCT TOT Program / Where can i apply?
IBCT offers the best-in-the-world TOT program. It’s a multi-level program that comprises 3 levels. As a beginner, you should apply first to the Associate Trainer level.
- Click to Apply for the Associate Trainer Level (AT),
- Click to Apply for the Certified Professional Trainer Level (CPT),
- Click to Apply for the Internationally Certified Trainer Level (CT/CHRD)
What about international memberships in the higher education accreditation field?
IBCT is a full member of INQAAHE (The International Network for Quality Assurance Agencies in Higher Education), a worldwide association of nearly 200 organizations. IBCT is found to meet the INQAAHE’s Criteria for full membership.
Check the INQAAHE’s website.
Check the INQAAHE’s website.
Is it permissible for a trainer who holds IBCT certification to conduct TOT programs?
Trainers who hold IBCT certification at any level, AT, CPT or CT/HRDC are prohibited from serving as TOT trainers. Although they are encouraged to conduct training sessions for any program other than TOT/TTT programs, they are not permitted to train in TOT programs. They must do so exclusively under the IBCT’s auspices. If they fail to comply with this requirement, their IBCT certification will be nullified.
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