INTERPRETER TRAINING FAQ'S

CCIS has partnered with ALTA to offer our candidates a convenient online training program. The online, 40-hour program is accredited by the IMIA (International Medical Interpreters Association). Please review the FAQ's below for additional information about the training course as well as the prerequisite language proficiency exams

ABOUT THE LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY EXAMS

How much do the examS cost?

The non-refundable cost of the exams are $100, this includes 2 exams (one in English, and one in your Target language). The total registration fee is $690 (includes 2 proficiency exams, course tuition, and digital textbook)

What is the format of the exam?

The language assessment is an oral exam that will take place over the phone with a Tester. 

HOW IS THE EXAM SCORED?​​

The exam is scored between 1-12+ using the ALTA scale.

WHEN WILL I RECEIVE MY RESULTS?

You will receive your results approximately one week after you complete the exam.

WHO SHOULD TAKE THE EXAM?

Any individual that would like proof of their bilingual proficiency. Individuals who are interested in our Medical Interpreter Training course must pass the exams before being eligible to register, in addition to having a high school diploma/GED and being at least 18 years old.

ABOUT THE ONLINE TRAINING COURSE

WHAT ARE THE PREREQUISITES FOR THE COURSE?

•Must be 18 years of age
•High school diploma or GED
•Passing of language proficiency exams

HOW MUCH DOES THE COURSE COST?

The total registration fee is $690- this includes course tuition, two proficiency exams, and a digital textbook.

WHAT IS THE COURSE FORMAT?

 This is an online course in which you will watch videos and presentations, complete assignments and quizzes, and participate in practice sessions. At the end of the course you will have a comprehensive final exam (oral and written)

What is the course curriculum?

In this course, bilingual individuals gain knowledge of medical terminology, body systems, health disparities, interpreter Code of Ethics, modes and roles of the interpreter, and cultural competency. The course includes access to an e-book, e-workbook, animated slides, recorded lectures, bilingual medical glossaries, interactive quizzes, 3 live video sessions per week. This course equips interpreters with the tools they need to facilitate high quality, accurate communication. The course materials are available for sixteen weeks after a student begins the course. This course is available to speakers of 42 languages.

HOW LONG DOES THE COURSE TAKE TO COMPLETE?

The course is self-paced, but you will be provided with a suggested schedule. You MUST complete the course within 16 weeks. You are responsible for completing all of the lessons and final exam within this time frame. If you do not complete the course within the 16 weeks, the course will expire and it will cost $100 to reactivate it for another 16 weeks. 

What is required to pass the course?

Students must pass the comprehensive oral and written final exam in order to pass the course and be awarded a certificate. Students must complete the course within the 16 weeks. 

Is the course accredited?

Yes, this course is accredited by the IMIA (International Medical Interpreters Association).

When will i receive my certificate?

Upon completion of the course, you will receive your certificate within 14 business days.

How can i work with your agency?

Once you receive your certificate, we encourage you to apply to work as a freelance interpreter with us. Although we cannot guarantee the position, if we have a need for your language in our interpreter pool, we will consider your application. You can apply here.

What TEchnology do i need?

You will need a device (computer, laptop, etc) in order to access the courses and an internet connection. The courses are compatible with PC, Mac, Linux, Unix, and Solaris systems. You can use a desktop, laptop, tablet, or phone.