Career Affiliate membership is open to anyone using their language skills extensively in a professional context, or language practitioners who do not yet meet the entry criteria to be admitted as an Associate.
You can also apply as a Career Affiliate if your languages are of the standard to be a valuable professional tool, but are not the main focus of your work.
Who can join?
We normally expect Career Affiliates to be able to evidence spoken language skills of at least B2 in the CEFR in line with our CIOL Language Level Frameworks.
You can apply to become a Career Affiliate if you meet one of the following criteria:
- Hold a language qualification (including a Level 3 Community Interpreting) demonstrating at least B2 level in spoken skills in the CEFR.
- Do not hold a degree or post-graduate qualification in a language but have least one year’s work experience (an average of 120 days professional practice per year) using your non-native language(s) in work.
As a Career Affiliate applicant you will need to provide a CV or LinkedIn profile that demonstrates that you match the above criteria.
Why join?
- Demonstrates your professional commitment as a linguist to clients and employers
- Builds your professional network and, if freelance, builds your profile and brand
- Training opportunities through CIOL's workshops and webinars, and access to the CIOL webinar library
- Take advantage of a wide range of membership benefits including the CIOL Advantage package and discounts on training workshops
- Free download of The Linguist, CIOL's professional journal
- Monthly members' update including CIOL enews, events and updates
Continuing Professional Development: Career Affiliates can participate in a range of sector specific CPD events offered by CIOL and its professional divisions.
Career Affiliates can join one or more of CIOL's professional divisions – Translating, Interpreting or BPG (Business, Professions and Government) which provide unique online networking events and online forums.
What does it cost?
There is a one-off non-refundable £30 assessment fee which must be paid as part of your application. The annual membership fee, payable once your membership has been confirmed is £100.
When can I join?
You can apply to join at any time of year. CIOL operates a rolling membership and your membership will begin on the day your application is successful and will be valid for a full calendar year.
What do I need?
Check the full admissions criteria to make sure this is the grade of membership which is the most suitable for you. Then gather the evidence.
You will need:
- Your CV or your LinkedIn listing
- Any relevant language qualification certificates you have
- A brief written summary of your work experience to date using your languages professionally
Join online today
For further information on how to apply and/or admissions criteria, please contact the membership team. Once your application has been received, you will receive an automatic acknowledgement. CIOL will then assess the evidence provided and will confirm the progress of your application once it has been reviewed.
What next?
