Step 1 B: English Proficiency

Language competency is key to being able to successfully work as a translator or interpreter. NAATI uses English language proficiency as a screening mechanism to ensure you already have the necessary language competency to cope in real-life practice.

If you have completed an Endorsed Qualification within the last three years, you have already satisfied the English proficiency requirement.

What Evidence Do I Need To Apply?

For individuals needing to satisfy English language proficiency to lodge their application, NAATI will consider evidence of:

1. Completion of a formal English proficiency test. This could include:

• International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Test – General
• Occupational English Test (OET)
• Test of English as a Foreign Language – Internet-based test (TOEFL iBT)
• Pearson Test of English (PTE) – Academic
• Cambridge English Advanced (CAE) Test
• Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE)
• International Second Language Proficiency Ratings (ISLPR) English Test

2. Completion of a tertiary qualification (degree level or higher) where:

• The language of instruction was English; and
• English proficiency, comparable or greater than NAATI’s requirements, is an entry requirement for this qualification.

Please note that NAATI needs to be able to verify the English proficiency requirement for this qualification on the institution’s website.

What Level/Score Would I Need?

Scores on any English proficiency tests listed above must be at least comparable to the following:

What is CEFR?

The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is a guideline used to describe achievements of learners of languages. The CEFR divides learners into three broad divisions and six levels; for each level, it describes what a learner is supposed to be able to do across the skills of reading, listening, speaking and writing.

Descriptors specify progressive mastery of each skill, which are graded on a six-level scale (A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2). NAATI has identified it as an important reference point for NAATI assessment of the comparability of scores across a range of English proficiency tests.

If you have any questions about whether your English proficiency test score is comparable please email info@naati.com.au and include a high-quality scan or electronic original of your test results.

What If I Am A Native English Speaker?

NAATI considers a native English speaker to be someone who has been educated (in English) in a country where English is an official language.

If you are a native English speaker, you will need to provide evidence of either:

• Completing your primary and secondary education (equivalent to Australian secondary education year 12) at an institution/s where English was the primary language of instruction; or
• Completing your secondary (equivalent to Australian secondary education year 12) and tertiary education at an institution/s where English was the primary language of instruction.

Any evidence provided must show the number of years completed (i.e. 2013-2017).