General FAQs

The Institute of Translation and Interpreting is the only UK-based independent professional membership association for practising translators, interpreters and language service providers.

Founded in 1986, we now have over 3,000 members, and with over 20% of our membership based overseas, we are a globally respected body.

ITI seeks to promote the highest standards in the profession, supporting our members and representing our industry at the very top level.

We provide a range of products and services, both to our membership and to those requiring the professional services of our members.

ITI acts as an interface between government, industry and commerce, the media and the general public.

Changes in regulations, ever-advancing global communication and increasingly competitive market conditions mean that the requirement for effective and accurate professional communication across languages has never been greater.

We have gained a trusted reputation within the industry. As such, all our members are required to adhere to and uphold the ITI Code of Professional Conduct. 

We continue our commitment to the representation and development of the translating and interpreting profession, recognising its ever-increasing importance, both in business and the wider community.

No. ITI is a professional membership association and does not offer degrees or post-graduate qualifications in translation and interpreting. However, many universities in the UK are Corporate Education members of ITI and offer a wide range of degrees and post-graduate qualifications. A full listing is available here.

ITI runs a programme of Professional Development events throughout the year, to meet specific training needs. Further information can be found here.

ITI does not provide work for translators and/or interpreters, nor is it a translation/interpreting agency. There are jobs for translators at translation agencies (Language Service Providers, or LSPs) or major institutions, such as the EU and UN. Click here to view a list of our Language Service Providers.

The translation and interpreting industry is not regulated and a qualification is therefore not necessary. However, many translators and interpreters enter the profession after having gained a formal qualification, and we would recommend to potential new entrants that they follow this route.

For more information about starting a career in translation and/or interpreting, please refer to How to become a translator or How to become an interpreter.