About NAATI CCL

Everything you need to know about the Credentialed Community Language test

1 What is the NAATI CCL Exam?

The Credentialed Community Language (CCL) test is conducted by NAATI (National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters) in Australia. It's used to assess a candidate's ability to interpret a conversation between a native English speaker and a speaker of another language.

Passing the NAATI CCL test earns you 5 bonus points towards your Australian permanent residency application.

2 Exam Format

  • The test is conducted online via Microsoft Teams
  • Duration: ~20 minutes
  • You will listen to 2 dialogue scenarios, each around 300 words
  • Each scenario includes multiple segments (a few sentences), alternating between English and LOTE (Language Other Than English)
  • After hearing each segment, you must translate it into the opposite language

3 Test Day Requirements & Policies

Equipment & Environment
  • Computer, laptop, or tablet with working camera and microphone
  • Headphones are REQUIRED — Built-in speakers are not allowed (causes echo issues)
  • Quiet location free of distractions, background noise, and other people
  • All other devices (phones, tablets, smartwatches) must be turned OFF
  • Only analog wrist watches allowed for time tracking (no smartwatches)
Test Day Policies
If you are late, you will NOT be tested — Be online and logged in at your scheduled time
  • Photo ID verification required (passport or driver's license shown to camera)
  • Room check conducted by test invigilator before test starts
  • Your test is video recorded and reviewed before assessment
  • Non-compliance may result in test invalidation
During the Test
Repeats Policy
  • First repeat per dialogue: FREE (no penalty)
  • Additional repeats: May be penalized
  • Entire segment is repeated (not just part)
Response Timing
  • 5-second delay allowed without penalty
  • Lengthy pauses may distract from task
  • Maximum test duration: 20 minutes
  • Self-corrections allowed if prefaced: "Sorry, I'll just say that part again"
  • You may take written notes during the test (but no materials allowed beforehand)
  • Test invigilator cannot discuss test content or comment on your performance

4 Scoring System

Total Score

Each dialogue is marked out of 45, for a total of 90 marks

Passing Requirements
  • • At least 29/45 per dialogue
  • • At least 63/90 overall
A score below 23 in any one dialogue results in automatic fail
Marks are deducted for:
  • Accuracy errors
  • Grammatical mistakes
  • Fluency and hesitation
  • Omissions or additions

5 Eligibility & Booking

  • You don't need formal interpreting qualifications to take the test
  • Test is available to candidates applying for a Skilled Migration visa (e.g., Subclass 189, 190, or 491)
  • Registration is done via NAATI's official website
  • Exam Fee: AUD $800 (subject to change)

6 Test Topic Domains

NAATI CCL dialogues are based on real-life situations from Australian society. The test covers 12 official topic domains:

Health
Legal
Community
Immigration/Settlement
Education
Social Services
Financial
Housing
Business
Employment
Insurance
Consumer Affairs

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Covers all 12 official NAATI CCL topic domains from real Australian situations

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