Top 11 Linguist Certifications

Certifications are important for linguists in the job market because they demonstrate a level of mastery and expertise in their areas of specialization. They can show potential employers that a linguist is qualified to work in the field, has the necessary skills, and is knowledgeable about current standards and techniques. Certifications also provide evidence that a linguist is up-to-date on new developments in the industry, which can be an invaluable asset when applying for positions. Additionally, having certifications may also increase credibility with clients and colleagues, as well as give linguists more confidence in their abilities. In short, certifications are essential for linguists who want to be competitive in the job market.

This article reviews some of the most beneficial certifications for linguists, and explains how they can help enhance a linguist's career.

What are Linguist Certifications?

Linguist certification is a type of professional certification that is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated mastery in the study, research, and application of language. It is typically granted by an accreditation board or governing body after a rigorous assessment process. Having a linguist certification can help individuals gain recognition for their knowledge and skills in the field of linguistics, and can also be used as evidence of proficiency in the subject matter. It may also help open doors to career opportunities in academia, government, industry, or other fields where language-related knowledge and expertise are valued. In addition, it can provide a sense of accomplishment and boost confidence when applying for jobs or advancing one's career in the field.

Pro Tip: When considering a linguist certification, make sure to research the requirements for the specific language you are studying and ensure that the certifying organization is accredited. Additionally, look into what kind of job opportunities exist for those with this certification in your area to ensure it will be beneficial to you and your career.

Related: What does a Linguist do?

Top 11 Linguist Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Linguists today.

1. American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) Oral Proficiency Interview (OPI) Certification

The American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) Oral Proficiency Interview (OPI) Certification is an internationally recognized assessment of a person’s oral proficiency in a foreign language. It is used to evaluate a person’s ability to communicate in a language, rather than their knowledge of grammar and vocabulary. The ACTFL OPI assesses speaking skills at five levels: Novice, Intermediate, Advanced, Superior and Distinguished.

The ACTFL OPI Certification typically takes between two and three hours to complete. During the interview, the interviewer will ask questions that are tailored to the candidate's language level and background. The candidate will be asked to answer questions in both English and the target language, as well as engage in conversations with the interviewer. After the interview is completed, it will be scored by an ACTFL-certified rater who will assign a score based on how well the candidate spoke during the interview.

To get certified for an ACTFL OPI, candidates must register for an appointment with an approved testing center or organization that offers this type of certification. Candidates should also prepare for their interview by studying grammar rules and practicing speaking with native speakers or through online resources such as Duolingo or Rosetta Stone.

The cost of getting certified for an ACTFL OPI varies depending on where you take your test and which level you are testing for. Generally, certification costs range from $150-$400 USD per test session.

2. American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) Writing Proficiency Test (WPT) Certification

The American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) Writing Proficiency Test (WPT) Certification is a standardized test designed to assess an individual's writing proficiency in a foreign language. The WPT measures an individual’s ability to write in a foreign language by assessing their grammar, syntax, vocabulary, and overall writing proficiency.

The WPT consists of two parts: a written essay and multiple-choice questions. The written essay requires the examinee to compose a coherent piece of writing in the foreign language while the multiple-choice section evaluates an individual’s knowledge of grammar and syntax.

The WPT takes approximately three hours to complete and can be taken either online or in person at an ACTFL-approved testing center. To get certified, individuals must score at least 500 points out of 800 on the test; scores are reported on a scale from 0-800 with 500 being considered “proficient”.

The cost for taking the WPT varies depending on whether it is taken online or in person; online registration costs $125 while in-person registration costs $150.

3. National Association for Bilingual Education (NABE) Certified Bilingual Educator Certification

The National Association for Bilingual Education (NABE) Certified Bilingual Educator Certification is a certification program for educators who are interested in teaching bilingual students. This certification is designed to help educators gain the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively teach bilingual students. The NABE Certified Bilingual Educator Certification is offered at three levels: Level I, Level II, and Level III.

Level I: The Level I certification requires applicants to have a valid teaching license or certificate in their state of residence, as well as two years of experience teaching bilingual students. Applicants must also complete 15 hours of coursework related to bilingual education and pass an exam with a score of 80% or higher.

Level II: The Level II certification requires applicants to have a valid teaching license or certificate in their state of residence, as well as five years of experience teaching bilingual students. Applicants must also complete 30 hours of coursework related to bilingual education and pass an exam with a score of 80% or higher.

Level III: The Level III certification requires applicants to have a valid teaching license or certificate in their state of residence, as well as ten years of experience teaching bilingual students. Applicants must also complete 45 hours of coursework related to bilingual education and pass an exam with a score of 80% or higher.

The NABE Certified Bilingual Educator Certification can take anywhere from 1-3 months to complete depending on the level you are applying for and your availability for completing the required coursework and exams. To get certified, applicants must first apply online through the NABE website by submitting all required documents such as transcripts, proof of licensure/certification, proof of experience, etc., along with payment for the application fee ($50). Once approved by NABE staff members, applicants will be provided access to the online courses they need to complete in order to become certified. After successfully completing all required coursework and exams, applicants will receive their official NABE Certified Bilingual Educator Certification within 2-4 weeks after passing the final exam.

The cost for the NABE Certified Bilingual Educator Certification varies depending on which level you are applying for; however, it typically ranges from $150-$450 USD per level including application fees ($50).

4. International Association of Conference Interpreters (AIIC) Conference Interpreter Certification

The International Association of Conference Interpreters (AIIC) is a professional association that promotes and certifies conference interpreters. AIIC’s certification program is a rigorous process that tests the knowledge, skills, and abilities of interpreters in order to ensure quality standards for conference interpreting.

In order to become certified by AIIC, an interpreter must demonstrate mastery in both simultaneous and consecutive interpretation as well as have a working knowledge of at least two languages other than their native language. The certification process can take up to two years to complete and consists of several steps:

1. Application: All applicants must submit an application form with proof of language proficiency, a resume, and references.

2. Language Exam: Applicants must pass a written exam in the target language(s). This exam tests grammar, syntax, vocabulary, and comprehension skills.

3. Practical Exam: After passing the written exam, applicants must pass an oral exam in which they interpret from one source language into another target language. This exam is conducted by a panel of experienced interpreters who assess the accuracy and fluency of the candidate’s interpretation.

4. Professional Experience: Applicants must provide evidence of at least three years of professional experience as an interpreter before they can be certified by AIIC.

5. Certification Fee: The cost for AIIC certification is €400 ($450 USD). This fee covers the cost of processing applications and administering exams.

Once an applicant has successfully completed all requirements for certification, they will receive an official certificate from AIIC that confirms their status as a certified conference interpreter.

5. International Association of Professional Translators and Interpreters (IAPTI) Certified Translator and Interpreter Certification

The International Association of Professional Translators and Interpreters (IAPTI) Certified Translator and Interpreter Certification is a globally recognized certification program that recognizes the highest standards of professional translation and interpreting. It is designed to provide translators and interpreters with an internationally accepted standard of excellence in their field.

To obtain IAPTI Certified Translator and Interpreter Certification, applicants must demonstrate a high level of proficiency in both translation and interpretation. This includes passing a series of tests that assess the candidate's language skills, knowledge of translation techniques, cultural understanding, and ability to accurately interpret spoken languages. The certification process typically takes between 6-12 months to complete.

In order to become certified, applicants must first register on the IAPTI website. Once registered, they will be required to submit an application form along with documentation such as proof of language proficiency or other relevant qualifications. After submitting the application form, applicants will be asked to take part in an online assessment which consists of multiple choice questions related to translation and interpretation theory and practice. Following successful completion of this assessment, applicants will receive an official IAPTI certificate confirming their certification status.

The cost for obtaining IAPTI Certified Translator and Interpreter Certification varies depending on the country where you are applying from; however it typically ranges from $100-$500 USD.

6. Society for Technical Communication (STC) Certified Professional Technical Communicator Certification

The Society for Technical Communication (STC) Certified Professional Technical Communicator (CPTC) Certification is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who demonstrate excellence in the field of technical communication. The CPTC certification is designed to help employers identify and hire qualified technical communicators, as well as provide a way for practitioners to validate their skills and knowledge.

To be eligible for the CPTC certification, individuals must have at least three years of experience in the field of technical communication or related disciplines, such as engineering, computer science, information technology, or management. Candidates must also pass an exam that covers topics such as writing style and conventions; document design; usability testing; user interface design; project management; and other related topics.

The CPTC certification process typically takes between four to six months to complete. During this time, candidates must complete an application form and submit it with relevant documents such as transcripts and letters of recommendation. Once the application has been reviewed and accepted by STC, candidates will receive an invitation to take the CPTC exam.

The cost of taking the CPTC exam varies depending on whether you are a member of STC or not. For non-members, the cost is $350 USD while members pay $250 USD. The fee includes access to study materials and a practice test before taking the actual exam.

Once you have successfully passed the exam, you will receive your official CPTC certificate from STC along with a digital badge which can be displayed on your website or social media profiles to showcase your achievement.

7. American Translators Association (ATA) Certified Translation Professional Certification

The American Translators Association (ATA) Certified Translation Professional Certification is a professional credential that recognizes translators who have achieved a high level of proficiency in their language pair(s). This certification is designed to demonstrate the translator’s ability to accurately and effectively translate documents, websites, and other written materials. It is the only certification program of its kind in the United States.

In order to become certified, applicants must pass an ATA-administered translation exam as well as meet certain educational and experience requirements. The exam consists of two parts: a written portion and an oral portion. The written portion tests knowledge of grammar, syntax, terminology, and other aspects of translation; while the oral portion tests fluency in both languages.

To be eligible for the ATA Certified Translation Professional Certification, applicants must have at least three years of full-time professional experience or equivalent part-time experience translating from one language into another. They must also have completed at least 40 hours of continuing education related to translation over the past five years.

The cost for taking the ATA Certified Translation Professional Certification exam varies depending on where it is taken and when it is taken. Typically, it costs between $200-$400 USD per person for the written portion and $100-$250 USD per person for the oral portion.

Overall, obtaining this certification can take anywhere from 6 months to 1 year depending on how quickly you can complete all necessary requirements and pass both portions of the exam.

8. Institute of Linguists Educational Trust (IoLET) Diploma in Translation

The Institute of Linguists Educational Trust (IoLET) Diploma in Translation is a professional qualification for translators, designed to provide recognition of their skills and expertise. The diploma is awarded by the IoLET after successful completion of a series of tests and assessments.

The Diploma in Translation consists of two parts: the Core Exam and the Specialised Exam. The Core Exam covers topics such as translation theory, practice, terminology and research methods. It also includes an assessment of a candidate’s ability to translate from one language into another. The Specialised Exam focuses on a specific language pair, such as Spanish-English or French-German. It requires candidates to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of both languages, as well as their ability to accurately translate between them.

The IoLET Diploma in Translation usually takes around 12 months to complete, depending on the individual’s level of experience and commitment. To get the diploma, candidates must first register with IoLET and submit an application form with supporting documents. They then need to pass both parts of the exam within three years of registering with IoLET.

The cost for taking the IoLET Diploma in Translation varies depending on which language pair you are taking it for, but typically ranges from £500 - £1,000 (GBP). This fee covers registration costs, examination fees and any additional resources required for study purposes.

9. Chartered Institute of Linguists Diploma in Public Service Interpreting

The Chartered Institute of Linguists Diploma in Public Service Interpreting (DPSI) is a professional qualification that provides recognition of the skills and knowledge required to work as an interpreter in public service settings. It is accredited by Ofqual, the UK government's qualifications regulator.

The DPSI is designed for interpreters who wish to work in public services such as courts, hospitals, police stations and social services. The course covers a range of topics including ethics, language awareness, interpreting techniques and legal terminology. It also includes an assessed practical component which tests the interpreter’s ability to interpret accurately and fluently in a variety of settings.

The course takes around 12 months to complete and consists of three modules: Language Awareness; Interpreting Techniques; and Legal Terminology. Successful completion of all three modules leads to the award of the DPSI qualification.

To get the DPSI you must be over 18 years old and have a good level of English (minimum B2 on the CEFR). You will also need to have passed an initial assessment or interview with your chosen training provider before being accepted onto the course.

The cost of the DPSI varies depending on your chosen training provider but typically ranges from £1,000 - £2,500 for all three modules combined.

10. British Sign Language Qualifications Level 6 Certificate

The British Sign Language (BSL) Qualifications Level 6 Certificate is a qualification that demonstrates a high level of knowledge and understanding of the language. It is awarded to those who have achieved a high level of proficiency in BSL and can demonstrate their ability to use it effectively in a variety of contexts.

To get the Level 6 Certificate, you must complete an approved course of study. This usually takes around two years, depending on the course provider. Courses are available at various levels, from introductory courses to advanced ones. The cost of these courses varies, but typically range from £500-£2000.

In order to receive the certificate, you will need to pass an assessment which includes written tests as well as practical demonstrations of your skills in BSL. Once you have passed the assessment, you will be awarded with your Level 6 Certificate in BSL.

11. International Phonetic Alphabet Accreditation

The International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) Accreditation is a certification program that provides recognition for individuals who have demonstrated a high level of proficiency in the use of the IPA. It is designed to promote and support the use of the IPA in language teaching, research and other fields.

To obtain IPA accreditation, applicants must demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of the IPA through a written test, oral exam and practical demonstration. The written test consists of multiple-choice questions on topics such as phonetics, phonology, morphology, syntax and semantics. The oral exam requires applicants to accurately pronounce words and sentences using the IPA symbols. Finally, applicants must demonstrate their ability to transcribe words into IPA symbols during a practical demonstration.

The entire process typically takes around three months from initial application to final certification. Applicants are encouraged to study for the tests prior to taking them in order to maximize their chances of success.

The cost of obtaining IPA accreditation varies depending on the country or region in which it is taken but generally ranges from $100-$400 USD.

Do You Really Need a Linguist Certificate?

In some cases, a linguist certificate may be necessary for employment in certain fields. Those who work in language-related fields, such as translation and interpretation, may need to have a linguist certificate in order to demonstrate their proficiency in the languages they use. A linguist certificate can also be useful for those who are interested in teaching English as a second language or working with people from different cultural backgrounds.

However, whether or not an individual needs a linguist certificate depends on the specific job they’re applying for. Some employers may not require it, while others might mandate it before hiring. Additionally, many organizations prefer applicants with experience rather than certificates, so even if you do have a certificate, your experience and skills could be more important than your certification when it comes to getting hired.

Ultimately, it’s important to research the qualifications required by the employer before deciding whether or not you need a linguist certificate. If you feel that your experience is sufficient enough to qualify for the job without one, then you should focus on highlighting those skills and experiences during the application process rather than obtaining a certification that may not be necessary.

Related: Linguist Resume Examples

FAQs About Linguist Certifications

1. What is a Linguist Certification?

Answer: A Linguist Certification is an official recognition that demonstrates a high level of skill and knowledge in language studies, linguistics, and translation. It is typically awarded by professional organizations and universities to individuals who have met certain educational, experience or testing requirements.

2. How do I obtain a Linguist Certification?

Answer: To obtain a Linguist Certification, you must typically complete an accredited program in linguistics or translation, pass an exam administered by the certifying organization, and meet any other requirements such as experience or additional coursework.

3. What are the benefits of having a Linguist Certification?

Answer: Having a Linguist Certification can open doors to career opportunities in language services such as translation and interpretation, as well as increase your earning potential in the field. Additionally, it can demonstrate your commitment to professional development and expertise in the field of linguistics.

4. Are there any prerequisites for obtaining a Linguist Certification?

Answer: Typically yes; depending on the certifying organization you will likely need to have completed an accredited program in linguistics or translation, pass an exam administered by the certifying organization, and/or meet any other requirements such as experience or additional coursework before being eligible for certification.

5. Does having a Linguist Certification guarantee job placement?

Answer: No; while having a Linguist Certification may improve your chances of finding employment in language services such as translation and interpretation, there is no guarantee that you will find employment after obtaining certification.