The exam consists of three passages of 225 to 275 words each. Two of these passages must be translated. Passages are typically written at a university reading level but avoid highly specialized terminology requiring research. While they include terminology challenges, these can be met with a good general dictionary.

In addition to the text to be translated, each exam passage includes Translation Instructions (TIs), specifying the context within which the translation is to be performed (text source and translation purpose, audience, and medium). TIs can be thought of as reflecting the client's expectations, as if the exam was a real-life translation assignment.

The exam is not returned to you, and no feedback is provided. ATA exam results are pass or fail only. This is the prevailing practice of many high-stakes credentialing exams.

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The current pass rate is less than 20%.

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Fewer than 2,000 ATA members are certified.

Language Combinations Available

Translators are certified by ATA in a specific language pair and direction (from or into English). Certification is currently available in the following language combinations:

English into Arabic
English into Chinese
English into Croatian
English into Dutch
English into Finnish
English into French
English into German
English into Hungarian
English into Italian
English into Japanese
English into Korean
English into Polish
English into Portuguese
English into Romanian
English into Russian
English into Spanish
English into Swedish
English into Ukrainian

Arabic into English
Chinese into English
Croatian into English
Danish into English
Dutch into English
French into English
German into English
Italian into English
Japanese into English
Korean into English
Polish into English
Portuguese into English
Russian into English
Spanish into English
Swedish into English
Ukrainian into English

Don't see your language?

Learn how to establish a new language combination.

What skills does the exam test for?

The exam tests for professional translation skills. It is designed to determine whether a candidate is able to produce a translation that is professionally usable within the framework provided by the Translation Instructions (TIs).

The skills in question are defined by the positive answers to these four questions:

Certification Exam FAQs

Can I use reference books during the exam?

Yes. All printed resources are allowed, but only specific online resources are permitted. See the full list of permitted online resources.

While exams avoid highly specialized terminology, they do include terminology challenges that can be met with a good general dictionary.

Do I need a computer?

Yes. For the in-person exam, you must bring your laptop. For the online exam, you must have a computer with internet access and a webcam. See all software and hardware requirements.

Can I use a tablet or smartphone?

For the in-person exam, no. Exceptions may be made for individuals with disabilities. Contact ATA for pre-approval. For the online exam, you must have a tablet or smartphone with a camera for exam security. See all software and hardware requirements.

Can I use the internet?

Yes. For the in-person exam, ATA provides internet access. For the online exam, you must have your own internet access.  See all software and hardware requirements.

Do I need to use a calculator to convert measures, distances, currencies, etc.?

No. You are not expected to make mathematical conversions. You will not be penalized if you choose to do the conversions, but incorrect conversions will be marked as errors and result in a lower score.

What else?

Because exam passages may be used again, candidates are bound by a confidentiality agreement not to discuss or reveal the contents of the examination. Violation of this agreement may be grounds for loss of certification.

How to Prepare

Exam-taking strategies, articles, checklists, and advice have been gathered from successful candidates and exam graders.

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Take a Practice Test

The practice test is an excellent way to measure your readiness for the exam. It  provides a practical introduction to the the exam.

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How is the Exam Graded?

ATA exam results are pass or fail only. There is no score or grade. This is the prevailing practice of many high-stakes credentialing exams.

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Restrictions and Requirements

See which resources are permitted and what software and hardware is required.

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Register for an Exam

See the schedule of upcoming exams and learn how to register.