Get to know: Credentialed Community Language (CCL) Test
The Credentialed Community Language (CCL) Test is designed for people who want to apply for a points-based skilled migration visa in Australia. If you pass the test, the Department of Home Affairs will award you an extra five points, which can boost your visa application.
The test is managed by NAATI (National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters), the only organization in Australia that sets standards and provides credentials for translators and interpreters. NAATI is a government-owned, not-for-profit body responsible for maintaining the quality of translation and interpreting services across the country.
The CCL test measures your ability to communicate in real-life situations between English and another language (known as a Language Other Than English, or LOTE). It is not a professional certification—passing the CCL test does not qualify you to work as a translator or interpreter. Instead, it simply confirms your ability to interpret everyday conversations at a community level.
The test is conducted online and takes less than 20 minutes, with an extra 15 minutes for preparation. Candidates must interpret two recorded dialogues, an English speaker and s LOTE speaker. Each dialogue is around 300 words and covers practical topics such as health, education, or housing. The dialogues are divided into short segments, and after each segment, you interpret what was said into the other language.
Assessment is done by NAATI examiners using a mark deduction system. Each dialogue starts with 45 marks, giving a total of 90. Marks are taken off for mistakes, depending on how much they affect communication. To pass, you need at least 63 marks overall, and a minimum of 29 marks per dialogue. Results remain valid for five years.
There are no training requirements, but NAATI provides practice materials, including sample dialogues in PDF and MP3 formats, plus an extra practice test when you book. These resources help candidates become familiar with the test platform and format.
To apply, you need to create a myNAATI account at https://my.naati.com.au/, submit your application, select a test date, and pay the fee.
Source: NAATI, Fact Sheet – Credentialed Community Language (CCL) Candidates, October 2022 . https://www.naati.com.au/
