The NAATI CCL test is one way to claim points for a credentialed community language in Australia's points-tested skilled migration. This post summarises the format and rules as NAATI publishes them. NAATI can change its arrangements, so always check its current pages before you book or sit the test.
Exam Format Overview
The CCL (Credentialed Community Language) test assesses your ability to communicate at a community level between English and another language. You interpret two pre-recorded dialogues between an English speaker and a speaker of your other language. Each dialogue is about 300 words, split into segments of 35 words or fewer. Each dialogue is worth 45 marks, for a total of 90.
Key Requirements
- Passing score: at least 63 out of 90 overall, and at least 29 out of 45 in each dialogue
- Dialogue settings: everyday community situations such as health, legal, social services, housing and education
- Timing: start interpreting within 5 seconds of the chime; NAATI states your test performance must be under 20 minutes
- Format: recorded segments, with a chime after each one
Checking for Changes
We have not been able to confirm specific 2025 changes to the CCL test from NAATI's published pages, so this post does not list any. At the time of writing, NAATI's pages say:
- The test is delivered online
- Headphones, headsets and earphones are not allowed; you use a computer with speakers and a microphone
- You may take notes with a pen and loose sheets of paper, but you cannot bring existing notes or type notes
- Results are sent by email, usually within a few weeks
For the current rules, fees and available languages, read NAATI's CCL test page, candidate instructions and CCL language policy. For how points are awarded, check the current Department of Home Affairs rules.
What Is Assessed
NAATI describes the assessment in terms of accuracy, language quality and delivery. Marks are deducted according to the effect errors have on communication.
1. Accuracy
Convey the meaning of each segment without leaving out, adding or changing information.
2. Language Quality
Use appropriate vocabulary, grammar and register in both languages, matching the tone of the speakers. Commonly understood English words are not automatically errors when speaking your other language; NAATI's language policy explains this, along with language-specific rules.
3. Delivery
Speak in the first person (direct speech). NAATI allows one segment repeat per dialogue without penalty; further repeats can lose marks. You may correct yourself with a brief explanation, but repeated corrections and long pauses can also lose marks.
Preparation Tips
- Build your vocabulary: practise terms for health, legal, social services and other community settings, in context
- Practise regularly: steady practice is easier to sustain than cramming
- Practise under test-like conditions: use speakers rather than headphones, start within 5 seconds of the chime, and take notes on paper
- Get feedback: use a tutor, a practice partner or AI feedback to find patterns in your errors
- Review your mistakes: work on the specific errors you find rather than just practising more
Ready to Start Preparing?
PassNaati offers practice dialogues with AI feedback on your transcribed interpretation. Practice scores are a learning aid and do not predict your official result. You can start on the free plan; see pricing for what each plan includes.