1What it is
The route to permanent translation posts at the United Nations: a competitive exam held for each official language roughly once every two or three years. Those who pass are placed on a roster used to fill vacancies in New York, Geneva, Vienna, Nairobi and the regional commissions, including ESCWA in Beirut. Interpreters have a separate exam.
2Who it suits
Translators whose main language is Arabic and who command English and at least one other official language (French, Spanish, Russian or Chinese).
3What it requires
Perfect command of Arabic as the main language, excellent knowledge of English and another official language, and a first-level degree in languages, translation or a relevant field such as law, economics or science; experience is desirable, not required. Details change from one exam to the next and are set in each exam notice.
4How it is earned
The exam is announced on the careers portal months ahead and runs online in three stages: translation exercises, then a proctored test where dictionaries may be barred, then a competency-based interview.
When a centre or body posts a course that prepares for it, we send you one email about it.