How to prepare for the NAATI test? 

NAATI test preparation

If you are planning to sit a NAATI test (especially CCL for migration points), the quickest way to improve is to practise in the same format you will be tested on, then review your mistakes like a coach. Here is a practical, step-by-step approach plus free resources you can start using today. 

1) Start with the right NAATI test and the right goal 

NAATI has different credentials and tests. Many visa applicants are aiming for CCL, which is a language test for migration points where you interpret two recorded dialogues between an English speaker and a language other than English speaker.  

Before you start studying, do these two things: 

• Read the official CCL candidate instructions so you understand timing, rules, and what is assessed.
• Do the free CCL practice test once so you can see how the platform feels.   

That first attempt sets your baseline and shows what you need most: vocabulary, memory, note-taking, or delivery. 

2) Know what markers are listening for 

• Accuracy: the meaning stays the same (no extra info, no missing info). 
• Completeness: key details like dates, numbers, names, dosages, addresses are included.
• Clear delivery: natural pace, confident tone, minimal self-correction. 

A simple mindset shift: you are not “translating words”. You are transferring meaning, clearly. 

3) Use the most effective practice loop (45 minutes) 

Do this 4 to 5 times a week. 

Step A: Practise with real CCL-style materials (15 min) 
Use the free downloadable dialogues by language from NAATI.  
Play a segment once, interpret out loud, keep going. 

Step B: Record yourself (10 min) 
Use your phone voice recorder. Listening back is uncomfortable but powerful. 

Step C: Self-review like an examiner (15 min) 
Create three columns: 

1. Meaning errors (changed meaning) 
2. Omissions (missed details) 
3. Delivery issues (hesitation, unclear numbers) 

Step D: Fix one weakness (5 min) 
Pick the biggest pattern and drill it. This loop beats “studying vocab” for hours with no speaking practice. 

4) Build a smart glossary  

Start with high-frequency topics that show up in community settings: 

• health, symptoms, appointments, referrals 
• renting and housing: bond, lease, inspection 
• work and HR: contract, roster, pay slip 
• banking: transfer, balance, fees 
• education: enrolment, attendance, fees 
• government services: forms, eligibility, evidence 
• Keep it practical: 
• Write full phrases, not just single words. 

5) Train your “numbers muscle” every day 

Most candidates drop marks on: 

• phone numbers 
• addresses 
• dates and times 
• amounts and percentages 

Do 5 minutes daily: 

• Say numbers clearly, once, then move on. 
• Practise “chunking”: 0481 234 567, $1,250, 14 February 2026. 

6) Add ethics and professionalism (this matters beyond the test) 

If you are preparing for interpreting or translating certification (not just CCL), you should also understand professional expectations and ethics. 

NAATI emphasises ethical competency for certified practitioners.  
A widely used professional reference point is the AUSIT Code of Ethics and Code of Conduct.  

Even for CCL candidates, learning basic ethics helps you keep the right register and stay impartial. 

7) Do a weekly “mock under pressure” 

Once a week, simulate exam conditions: 

• no pausing, no rewinding 
• quiet room, proper mic 
• treat it like the real thing 

Then review it with the same three-column method. 

Free resources 

Here are reliable free resources you can use to practise for the NAATI test : 

• NAATI CCL practice test (platform familiarisation). 
• NAATI downloadable CCL practice materials by language (PDF + MP3 dialogues).
• NAATI CCL candidate instructions (rules, timing, what to do on test day).    
• NAATI Learn preparation modules (free access, includes practice materials for some certification pathways).  
•  NAATI info page on ethical competency (good foundation). 
• European Commission interpretation training toolbox (free skills practice resources).
• CATIE Center interactive interpreting practice library (free video-based practice).     

Contact us 

If you are taking NAATI test for migration points, consider a strategy call so your test plan matches your visa timeline and points pathway with Department of Home Affairs requirements. Contact us on 0415419414 or book a consultation through our website.