How to become an interpreter

Interpreters need excellent listening and speaking skills in both languages. Public service interpreters usually take the Diploma in Public Service Interpreting.

Getting experience

Practise with a partner using recorded speeches, and join our interpreters' practice workshops.

Qualifications

The Diploma in Public Service Interpreting is the standard for public-sector work. Conference interpreting usually needs a postgraduate qualification.

Good to know

• The members' forum has a student board where you can ask questions without feeling judged.
• Our student ambassadors run events at universities across the UK.
• Ask your course leader whether your university has a group membership arrangement with SFTI.

Downloads

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

Page last reviewed 27 May 2026