Delivery mode
Online
Test fee
$440
Prerequisites
No
Languages
59+
Overview
NAATI’s CLA test enables people to demonstrate their basic oral communication skills in a language other than English, and their ability to support clients, students or stakeholders in a two-way conversation.
The CLA test assesses a candidate’s ability to communicate in a simple and direct exchange of information on familiar and routine matters.
The whole test is conducted in the language other than English (LOTE), using pre-recorded materials and is conducted online.
The CLA test has been delivered in 59 languages to date, however we are able to add more languages on demand. Please get in touch at CLAinfo@naati.com.au to discuss your options.
An individual who has passed a CLA test is not qualified to work as an interpreter or translator.
Video about NAATI’s Community Language Aide test
What is the difference between a community language aide and an interpreter?
A community language aide, or bilingual worker, is someone who uses their LOTE in the course of their work to assist customers or clients.
However, being bilingual does not make someone an interpreter. Interpreters have a specific skill set learnt through formal training and experience which enables them to accurately convey oral messages from one language to another.
Community language aides should only provide language assistance when the outcome of the situation has no risk of adverse effects for either the client or the organisation. This might include basic customer service, such as providing directions, making appointments or supporting to fill out a form. They should not convey information that is legally binding or puts either the client or the organisation at risk.
For example, asking a client to sign a consent form may be simple, but the consequences of poor communication are potentially serious, so a professional (NAATI-certified) interpreter should be engaged instead.
Information for applicants
About the test
The CLA test assesses your ability to:
- convey information accurately and clarify routine points if needed
- adhere to the procedural norms expected in English language interactions (such as politeness and time-efficiency)
- follow and understand speech from a native-speaker of a LOTE
- pronounce language accurately enough that speech is generally intelligible
- produce language accurately enough that errors do not impede or impair communication.
You need to have a vocabulary range that allows you to explain organisational procedures and related matters with some precision and clarity.
Equipment & system requirements
Please read the specifications carefully below.
If you have booked your test and are concerned about your computer equipment or internet access, please email us at info@naati.com.au as soon as possible.
Equipment and system requirements
You will need the following to sit this test:
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Laptop or computer with the following: |
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Internet connection: |
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It is your responsibility to make sure your equipment is suitable and will function for the entire test. Failure to do so may result in your test being invalidated or cancelled with no refund. Small screens (such as laptop screens) may make it harder for you to see everything clearly. We recommend that your electronic devices be connected to a power source for the duration of your test.
Test assessment & results
NAATI assesses each test against a marking rubric for competency across four areas: task achievement, coherence and fluency, grammar and vocabulary, and pronunciation. Candidates will be given a band level for each of the four areas, with 1 representing the highest level of performance and level 4 representing the lowest.
Test results are emailed to the person sitting the test within four weeks.
Results are valid for five years from the date of issue.
Do I have to be sponsored?
No. Individuals can apply to sit the test without being sponsored by their employer.
Some organisations pay a language allowance to employees who use their language other than English to provide customer service (e.g. some public service departments and agencies), if those employees can demonstrate they have the required language skills. Those organisations may pay for their employees to be tested.
Some other organisations that don’t pay an allowance still pay for their employees to be tested.
Apply
Any questions? Please email CLAinfo@naati.com.au
CLA Overview & practice materials
Below is a NAATI guide which provides an overview of the CLA test structure and some practice materials.
CLA Knowledge Competency Course
We also have a CLA Knowledge Competency Course available through our NAATI Learn platform. This course is designed to increase your understanding of the role played by bilingual workers in the delivery of language services, and to prepare you to sit the CLA test.
NAATI has developed CLA Knowledge Competency Course, designed to increase your understanding of the role played by bilingual workers in the delivery of language services, and to prepare you to sit the CLA test. The course is available through NAATI Learn and anyone can access it for free.
To access the course, click here. You don’t need to create an account. Just select the Community Language Aide (CLA) Knowledge Competency Course from the dashboard.
Useful resources
Frequent questions
Download the handy CLA test factsheet as a PDF or view the answers to some of our frequently asked questions (FAQs).
Guides
Need help with your application? View our handy guides below to help navigate the application process.
