CPS Human Resource Services
Take a Test
Take a Test
Profile of a Model Interpreter
Exam Home
Candidate Information
Interpreter Test Preparation Materials
Purchase Interpreter Test Preparation Materials and CD
Interpreter Oral Evaluation Guide
Test Dates, Locations & Registration
FAQ
Privacy Policy
Yearly Recertification
Contact Information
An interpreter must operate at many different registers (levels and styles) and have a broad range of vocabulary in both languages. Along with technique and technical vocabulary, an interpreter must know proper grammar (syntax, agreement, etc.) in both languages. This generally requires a strong academic background in both languages. Most people acquire this academic background through formal education. A few acquire it through extensive reading and experience.
A team of certified language experts prepared the following characteristics of successful interpreters:
  1. Above average analytical/reasoning abilities; ability to comprehend and analyze meaning quickly; good memory, concentration, and organization.
  2. Creativity with and about language; knowledge of etymologies and forms; grasps the impact of choosing one word over another; in short, possesses "semantic intuition."
  3. Ability to work with others; open-mindedness toward people of all backgrounds, socioeconomic levels, and language abilities.
  4. An interest in labor and medical issues and a willingness to develop expertise in those areas, including technical, medical and legal concepts, and vocabulary.
  5. A solid proficiency in formal and informal styles in both languages; innate or formal understanding of styles.
  6. Spanish at a Heritage language background level, with formal high school and university level language training in Spanish. (Typically obtained by taking four to six 300 and/or 400 level Spanish courses.)
  7. Completion of a university degree program (recommended, although not required). Academic degree at a B.A., B.S., M.D., J.D., or Ph.D. level in native country (which implies having passed the English proficiency exam) and residence in the U.S. sufficient to have mastered the language.
  8. Spanish at a Native language background level, equivalent to at least 9-12 years of elementary/secondary education in country of origin and some university training (at least an AA) in the United States.  
  9. Maturity, discretion, and good judgment.
  10. High levels of curiosity, commitment to lifelong learning, motivation for constant improvement.
Following is information to help you study and prepare for the State Personnel Board Administrative Hearing Interpreter or Medical Interpreter written and oral examinations in Spanish.
Interpreter Test Preparation Materials Introduction | Next Page