Canada Soccer is proud to announce the official process and timelines for upgrading its Advanced Coach Education Program licenses to align with the newly adopted standards of the Concacaf Coaching Convention.
In December 2024, Canada Soccer was recognized as one of the two founding members of the Concacaf Coaching Convention at the A, B, and C Diploma levels—an important milestone that reflects Canada’s leadership and commitment to coaching excellence. In accordance with this recognition, all Canada Soccer coaching licenses issued prior to 2024 will require an upgrade as part of the ongoing maintenance and renewal process.
What is the Concacaf Coaching Convention?
The Concacaf Coaching Convention is a regional agreement and regulatory framework established by Concacaf, the governing body for soccer in North America, Central America, and the Caribbean. The Convention is designed to:
- Establish minimum standards for coach education programs across all Member Associations;
- Promote coaching excellence and professional development;
- Enable mutual recognition of qualifications across Concacaf nations, thereby increasing mobility and career opportunities for coaches.
Canada Soccer License Upgrades
Starting in 2025 and continuing through 2030, Canada Soccer will begin the process of upgrading all non-Concacaf compliant certifications, including the C Diploma, B Diploma, Youth Licence, and A Diploma.
Timeline and Application Process
Applications for the first cohort of upgraded licenses will open in May 2025. Click HERE to apply.
Due to high demand, each cohort will have limited capacity. Key dates include:
- A Diploma: Launches August 2025
- Applications open in May
- Invitations confirmed by July 1
- B Diploma: Launches July 2025
- Applications open in May
- Invitations confirmed by June 8
- C Diploma: Launches October 2025
- Applications open in May
- Invitations confirmed by September 1
From 2026 onward, rolling intakes will be offered:
- A Diploma: Twice annually
- B Diploma: Three times annually
- C Diploma: Four times annually
More Information
For full details on eligibility, learning pathways, and application procedures, please visit the Canada Soccer Learning Hub and consult the Frequently Asked Questions section. This resource is designed to support coaches through every step of the transition.
Canada Soccer is committed to fostering excellence at every level of the game. These upgrades ensure our coaches are equipped to meet the highest international standards and help drive the continued growth of soccer in Canada and across the Concacaf region.