You might or might not already be familiar with these acronyms (or even have passed the examination!), but just to make sure, let’s say a few things about the Chartered Institute of Linguists and then move on to the DPSI.

The IoL was founded in 1910 and, with about 6,300 members, is an accredited organisation that delivers language qualifications which will help committed linguists to stand out from the crowd. Its website is a very useful source of information for linguists who are interested in factual information about the dates and venues of exams, as well as for people who are interested in language and want to read the IoL’s official magazine The Linguist.

But now, let’s come back to the focus of this article: the DPSI. The DPSI is aimed at linguists who want to work with UK-based community languages and in the context of Public Services, such as Courts, Hospitals, Prisons and so on. Those who pass the exam are then able to work as interpreters in those places.

The DPSI consists of 3 modules:
- consecutive and whispered interpreting,
- sight translation into and out of English,
- written translation into and out of English.
Definitely a tough exam, I would say, although some university degrees offer some modules that prepare you specifically for this exam. There are also 3 specialist options: health, law (English or Scottish law), and local government.

And you, have you ever tried the DPSI? Are you currently studying from it? We’d love to hear your thoughts on it!