Translator exams

[ Staatlich geprüfter Übersetzer – the seal of quality for your profession. ]

Whether you want to be sworn in or authorised as a translator at a regional court, or work as a self-employed translator – the state exam is the seal of quality that gives you an easy start in the profession.

The preparation course

To the state exam in three phases

The job-friendly Eloquia preparation course for the state translator exam is divided into three phases. In it we train your language skills and your specialist terminology and prepare you intensively for the written and oral exams.

After passing the IHK exam as a recognised translator, the course lasts one year on average. If you have not yet sat that exam, the preparation course lasts about three years. You can start at any time.

  • Alongside your job, start at any time
  • approx. 1 year after passing the IHK exam, otherwise approx. 3 years
  • Training of language skills and specialist terminology
  • In person in Frankfurt or online
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At a glance

  • QualificationStaatlich geprüfter Übersetzer
  • Durationapprox. 1 year (with IHK exam) or approx. 3 years
  • Structurethree phases, alongside your job
  • Startpossible at any time
  • Suitable forsworn status, authorisation, self-employed work
Exam structure

The structure of the state translator exam

[ 01 ]

Part 1: Coursework

Two translations of general texts plus two translations of specialist texts, each from the native and foreign language respectively. Processing time: 14 days.

[ 02 ]

Part 2: Written examination

An essay on regional studies plus two translations of general and two translations of specialist texts, each from the native and foreign language respectively. Duration: 2 days.

[ 03 ]

Part 3: Oral exam

Discussion on regional studies, sight translations, a specialist discussion in the foreign language, questions on resources, and interpreting a bilingual negotiation. Duration: 2 days.

Plan your path to the state exam

We advise you on requirements, the phase structure and the right learning format – and assess your level with no obligation.

Contact

Getting started

Not yet sat the IHK exam? The Geprüfter Übersetzer (IHK) qualification is a sensible first step.

Geprüfter Übersetzer (IHK)
Emma Lomax
Your contact

Emma Lomax

Director of Studies & Business Development

elomax@eloquia.com · +49 (0)69 23 85 93 16