Building a CV for translation work

Keep it to two pages: language pairs, specialisms, qualifications, tools and examples of work. Agencies read hundreds of CVs, so be clear and specific.

What agencies look for

Your language pairs at the top, then specialisms, qualifications, tools, and your rates or availability if asked.

Common mistakes

Listing every subject you've ever touched, spelling mistakes, and sending the same CV to every agency.

Good to know

• Our student ambassadors run events at universities across the UK.
• You can join networks for your languages as a student.
• Ask your course leader whether your university has a group membership arrangement with SFTI.

Downloads

• CV example for new translators (Word, 40 KB)
• Student membership application (PDF, 85 KB)

Page last reviewed 8 March 2026