How to become
Explore the different ways to get into this role.
How to become a translator
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- applying directly
- a qualification with a professional body
University
You'll usually need a degree or postgraduate qualification in translation.
Relevant degrees include:
- languages - courses which specialise in linguistics or translation may give you an advantage but are not essential
- combined degrees which include a subject like law or science with languages
You could also do a postgraduate course like an master's in translation or translation studies.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
- a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study
More Information
Other Routes
You can take a diploma in translation through the Chartered Institute of Linguists, which is a postgraduate level qualification.
The Institute of Translation and Interpreting also has details of organisations offering training in translation.
More Information
Career tips
Language translation skills in demand include:
- French
- German
- English
- Russian
- Chinese
- Arabic
- Spanish
Further information
You'll find more details about becoming a translator from the Institute of Translation and Interpreting.
What it takes
Find out what skills you’ll use in this role.
What it takes
Skills and knowledge
You'll need:
- foreign language skills
- knowledge of English language
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- customer service skills
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
- the ability to work on your own
- to be flexible and open to change
- concentration skills
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
Restrictions and Requirements
You must be fluent in one or more languages as well as English, and have knowledge of the culture in the relevant country, usually gained from living and working there.
You may have to pass enhanced background checks if your work is related to national security.
What you’ll do
Discover the day to day tasks you’ll do in this role.
What you'll do
Day-to-day tasks
In your day-to-day duties you could:
- reproduce text clearly, accurately and in the style intended by the author
- use specialist translation software
- use specialist knowledge, like technical terminology
- research legal, technical or scientific terms
- consult with experts to make sure the translation is accurate
- keep your language skills up to date and current
Working environment
You could work in an office, from home or at a client's business.
Career path and progression
Look at progression in this role and similar opportunities.
Career path and progression
Most translators work freelance or through translation agencies. With experience you could start your own translation agency, or move into teaching.
You could specialise in a particular subject area like law, medicine or finance.
Current opportunities
Find apprenticeships, courses and jobs available near you.
Current opportunities
Apprenticeships In England
We can't find any apprenticeship vacancies in England for a translator right now.
The Find an apprenticeship service can help you with your search, send alerts when new apprenticeships become available and has advice on how to apply.
Courses In England
French into English translation in practice
- Provider: THE CITY LITERARY INSTITUTE
- Start date: 29 January 2024
- Location: Not known
Virgil's Aeneid reading group (in translation)
- Provider: THE CITY LITERARY INSTITUTE
- Start date: 18 October 2023
- Location: Not known
Jobs In the United Kingdom
The Find a job service can help you with your search for jobs and send alerts when new jobs become available.