National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters—NAATI
Appearing for NAATI is a crucial step in your journey if you are aspiring to work as a translator or an interpreter in Australia. It helps you secure not only the right job but also the points needed to get an Australian visa (as per the points-based immigration system). That is why people from across the world consider NAATI as the ideal gateway to their life abroad.
To pass a NAATI test, one must have the right understanding and preparation, which you will find in this blog post. First things first.
Understanding NAATI:
NAATI is the only body in Australia that accredits and certifies translators and interpreters. Its certification is often mandatory to work in government agencies, legal institutions, and medical facilities. Depending on the level of expertise and the field a candidate wishes to enter, NAATI offers various certifications.
The main ones include the following:
- Certified Provisional Interpreter
- Certified Conference Interpreter
- Certified Translator
- Certified Specialist Interpreter
With a NAATI certification, you are someone who has met the rigorous standards of competency and ethical practice in the language services industry. You will also have a vast number of opportunities lined up in front of you.
However, passing NAATI requires an in-depth understanding, consistent preparation, and accurate execution. Consider this guide your orientation for your NAATI test and get started.
Prerequisites for NAATI:
The candidate, as in you, must meet four prerequisites before sitting for NAATI.
- Complete formal training in interpretation or translation
- Demonstrate adequate language proficiency
- Display ethical competency
- Show intercultural competency
Each criterion can be met in different pathways depending on the credential you are aiming for. For example, if you have completed formal training in a recognised institute, you may have already satisfied several prerequisite requirements; if you have professional experience but not formal training, you may need to demonstrate language proficiency and ethical competency separately.
NAATI Exam Overview:
The NAATI exam format varies with the certification level. Typically, most include a combination of written, oral, and practical tasks. Similarly, the duration of the exam also varies, ranging from a few hours to a full day. Thus, it is crucial to understand your target certification and prepare accordingly.
Some key aspects:
- If the applicant is a translator, they must prepare with written texts in focus; but if they are an interpreter, they must prepare from a spoken or signed language point of view.
- The candidate must exhibit a high level of fluency in both English and their chosen language—commonly called ‘Language Other Than English (LOTE).’
- The aspirant must adhere to professional ethical standards, such as confidentiality and conflict of interest.
- Sometimes, the candidate may be presented with scenario-based assessments related to their work. In this case, you must demonstrate not only language proficiency but also the ability to make sound judgments in a professional context.
Check NAATI’s guidelines for more information.
NAATI Exam Results:
After completing your exam, the NAATI examiners will assess your performance over the next few days. The major points that will reduce your points are major omissions, meaning distortions, grammatical errors, and the addition of unwanted information. Your pronunciation and fluency will have a significant impact, but that doesn’t mean you need a specific accent. Just clarity is all that’s needed.
The result will be reported in a pass/fail format after a few weeks from the exam. If you pass, you will be awarded a NAATI certification; otherwise, you will receive constructive feedback on your performance and an opportunity to retake the exam.
NAATI Certificate Renewal:
Your NAATI certificate needs to be renewed every three years if you wish to hold the credential. It signifies that you are actively maintaining your skills and knowledge in your domain, assuring your clients and employers.
The recertification process is also simple. Visit your myNAATI account, demonstrate that you have met the minimum work practice and professional development requirements set by NAATI, and pay the assessment fee. Your certificate will be renewed soon.
NAATI Fees in Australia:
The NAATI certification test and practice test have different fees. For the year 2024-25, it’s stipulated as follows:
| Certified Translator (each direction) | $605 |
| Certified Provisional Interpreter | $660 |
| Certified Interpreter (spoken languages) | $440 |
| Certified Interpreter (Auslan) | $990 |
| Certified Specialist Interpreter – Knowledge Test | $198 |
| Certified Specialist Interpreter – Interpreting Test | $220 |
| Certified Conference Interpreter (each direction) | $913 |
| Practice tests without the examiner marking | $0 |
| Certified Translator (marked by an examiner) | $165 |
Final Word:
Are you appearing for a NAATI test for the first time? Consider getting professional guidance from English Wise, and clear the exam on your first attempt. Our instructors are well-versed in various competitive exams, including NAATI, so you can be sure of quality support in your journey. Get in touch with our team today and sign up for the classes.
Good luck!
