If you’re an Interpreter or Translator and want to build your skills before you commit to a qualification, we have two free Masterclasses and a few resources you can use straight away.
Which free courses do we offer?
Our NoteTaking Symbols Masterclass teaches you a set of symbols for taking interpreting notes, and counts for 4 hours of CPD (Continuing Professional Development). Use code notetakingsymbols100 at checkout and it’s free.
Our Linguist CV Masterclass shows you how to write a CV for translation and interpreting work, and counts for 2 hours of CPD. Use code cvmasterclass100 at checkout and it’s free.
What free resources can you use?
Not sure which course is right for you? Our free quiz asks about your language level and what you want to do, then suggests a course. If you don’t know your language level, it links to free language-level (CEFR) tests.
If you’re thinking about the DPSI, read our DPSI exam-day checklist and What actually happens in the DPSI exam? to see how the exam works.
Choosing between translation qualifications? We compare the CertTrans and DipTrans here.
Is there a free DPSI or translation qualification course?
No. The DPSI and CertTrans are Degree-level recognised qualifications, and the DipTrans is Master’s Degree-level. Preparing for any of them takes structured study and marked practice, so be wary of ‘free’ courses that say they cover them. A Degree usually takes 3 or 4 years of study, and a free course is unlikely to reach the standard or depth you’ll need for the exam. You can pay for our DPSI Law, DPSI Health, CertTrans and DipTrans courses in full, or spread the cost with a payment plan.
Where do you start if you’re new?
Start with the FDTI, our entry-level Diploma in translation and interpreting. It’s also the course to take if you’ve been told you need ‘a Diploma’ to work for a UK public sector organisation.
