CIOL Qualifications Level 7 Diploma in Translation (DipTrans)

About the exam

Is it right for me?

The Diploma in Translation (DipTrans) is the gold standard for anyone wanting a career as a freelance translator or to work as a translator for international corporations worldwide and meets the need for a high-level professional translating qualification.

Level: postgraduate-level qualification.

What are the benefits?

• Ofqual-regulated, internationally recognised qualification
• Improved career prospects
•  You will be entitled to:
  
  • Use the title DipTrans after your name
  • CIOL membership at the grade of IoLET Affiliate

What format does the exam take?

The qualification is composed of three units:

Unit 01 - Written translation of a general text
 

Unit 02 - Written translation of a semi-specialised text in one of the following:

• Technology
• Business
• Literature
   

Unit 03 - Written translation of a semi-specialised text in one of the following:

• Science
• Social science
• Law
   

Entry Criteria

The CIOL Qualifications Level 7 Diploma in Translation tests professional translating skills at a postgraduate level of competence. The examination is open to all. However, candidates are advised to ensure prior to registering, that their level of linguistic attainment in the source language is at least equivalent to a good Honours degree, and that they are familiar with the relevant cultural background. In line with the Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation (Ofqual) requirements, as a guideline candidates should be 19yrs+.

Preparation

The CIOL Qualifications Level 7 Diploma in Translation is a professional qualification, set at postgraduate level. It is the responsibility of each Candidate to ascertain that they are sufficiently prepared for the examination, and competent in both the source and target languages, have good writing skills and the ability to translate at a professional level.

How can I prepare for the exam?

It is essential that you read the Qualification Specification and our Candidate Regulations to find out detailed information about the exam format, criteria and regulations.

We also offer preparatory notes on translation:

• Preparing for the Diploma in Translation and Importance of translation theory
• Translation techniques
• Hints and pitfalls

It is good practice to prepare for a professional qualification by following a course of study. Courses are available in different regions of the UK and at international centres. Please refer to the list of centres and contact course providers directly. Please note that as the Awarding Organisation for the DipTrans, we are unable to endorse or recommend any particular course.

A selection of free sample exam papers can be accessed by prospective candidates.

Non-members and Student Affiliates can purchase past DipTrans papers and Examiner Reports using these forms: Examiner Report Order Form and  Past Paper Order Form.

Remember however that you can access these resources as a membership benefit through:

IoLET Affiliate membership

*Higher grades of membership (Career Affiliate, Associate, Member and Fellow) are also eligible to enter for exams and access the same exam preparation resources

Preparing to take the DipTrans online

An online demo test is available if you are preparing to take the DipTrans online. This recommended to familiarise yourself with the exam software in advance:

• DT Unit 1 (applicable to all languages)

• DT Unit 2 (applicable to all languages)

• DT Unit 3 (applicable to all languages)

Dates and registration

When can I take the exam?

The January exams take place on 18, 19 and 20 January 2022.

18 January 2022: Unit 01 & Unit 02 English into Other Language only

19 January 2022: Unit 01 & Unit 02 Other Language into English only

20 January 2022: Unit 03 English into Other Language & Unit 03 Other Language into English

Fees

How much does it cost?

Candidates must pay exam fees and a centre fee. Fees are reviewed annually.

Exam fees 2021 

Centre Enrolment Fees

To take the exam online via the CIOLQ Virtual Centre, the following fees apply:

• Unit 01:  £55
• Unit 02:  £55
• Unit 03:  £55
• All 3 units:  £165

For more information, please check our Exam Fees, Invoicing and Billing Policy.

Venues

Where can I take the exam?

The next session of the DipTrans is available via the CIOLQ Virtual Centre only.