The Center for the Assessment of Sign Language Interpretation (CASLI) is a specialized organization responsible for administering certification assessments for American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters. CASLI plays a pivotal role in evaluating the competencies of individuals seeking to work professionally in the interpreting field, particularly within the standards set by the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID). Founded to serve as an independent, centralized entity for testing, CASLI ensures the integrity, consistency, and validity of interpreter assessments. It is not a membership-based organization like RID but rather focuses solely on the design, administration, and scoring of certification exams for sign language interpreters.
As communication access remains essential for the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing communities, CASLI’s work is foundational in maintaining high standards across the interpreting profession.
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Key Takeaways
The Center for the Assessment of Sign Language Interpretation (CASLI) is responsible for developing and administering certification exams for ASL interpreters.
CASLI works closely with RID to ensure that certified interpreters meet national standards in ethics, language competency, and professionalism.
Certification involves passing both a knowledge-based and performance-based exam.
CASLI-certified interpreters earn competitive wages and are qualified to work in high-demand sectors like education, healthcare, and legal services.
Exam fees vary, but the investment leads to enhanced credibility, job opportunities, and professional growth.
Overview of the Center for the Assessment of Sign Language Interpretation
The Center for the Assessment of Sign Language Interpretation was established to manage and evolve the interpreter testing process independently from RID while still working in close partnership. CASLI administers nationally recognized performance and knowledge-based exams required for certification under RID.
CASLI’s primary functions include:
Developing and maintaining secure, valid certification exams
Evaluating candidates on their ability to interpret between spoken English and ASL
Collaborating with the interpreting and Deaf communities for testing feedback and inclusivity
Ensuring the ongoing refinement of assessment tools that reflect real-world interpreting demands
CASLI supports the broader goal of improving language access and cultural competence among interpreters. Its evaluations are built on rigorous, research-backed methodologies that reflect the linguistic and ethical standards of the profession.
How to Become a CASLI-Certified Interpreter
To become certified through the Center for the Assessment of Sign Language Interpretation, candidates must follow a structured process that evaluates both their theoretical knowledge and practical skills in American Sign Language and English interpretation.
Steps to CASLI certification include:
Meet RID eligibility requirements: Most candidates must have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent education, along with proof of completed interpreter training. RID sets these prerequisites to ensure academic and ethical readiness.
Pass the CASLI Generalist Knowledge Exam (GKE): This multiple-choice exam evaluates a candidate’s understanding of interpreting theory, ethics, linguistics, and Deaf culture.
Pass the CASLI Performance Exam: This practical assessment measures a candidate’s interpreting ability in various scenarios. It tests expressive and receptive skills in real-time, involving both ASL and English.
Submit documentation and application through RID: Although CASLI administers the exams, RID issues the final certification upon successful completion of both components.
Participate in the Certification Maintenance Program (CMP): Certified interpreters are required to complete continuing education credits to keep their certification current.
Responsibilities of a CASLI-Certified Interpreter
A CASLI-certified sign language interpreter is held to high standards of linguistic accuracy, cultural sensitivity, and professional ethics. These professionals serve as crucial communication bridges between Deaf and hearing individuals in diverse settings.
Key job responsibilities include:
Interpreting spoken English to ASL and vice versa in real-time
Maintaining neutrality and confidentiality in all assignments
Understanding cultural contexts of both Deaf and hearing participants
Working in various settings such as medical facilities, educational institutions, legal proceedings, or government agencies
Applying the RID Code of Professional Conduct during interpreting tasks
Participating in professional development to keep interpreting skills sharp and culturally relevant
Interpreters may work as freelancers, agency contractors, or full-time employees, depending on the region and demand.
Salary Expectations for CASLI-Certified Interpreters
The salary of a CASLI-certified interpreter depends on experience, geographic location, specialization (e.g., legal, medical), and type of employment (freelance vs. staff). Generally, certified interpreters earn higher wages than non-certified peers due to the professional standards CASLI assessments validate.
Typical salary ranges:
Entry-level interpreters: $40,000 – $55,000 annually
Experienced interpreters: $60,000 – $80,000 annually
Freelancers or contract interpreters: $30 – $75 per hour depending on region and assignment type
Specialized interpreters (e.g., legal or medical): $80,000+ annually
Interpreters with CASLI certification are often in high demand within public schools, courts, universities, healthcare systems, and government agencies.
Exam Fees and Associated Costs
The cost of CASLI certification varies depending on the specific exam and number of attempts. Fees cover the development, administration, and scoring of the exams. Additional costs may apply for study materials, test preparation courses, and RID processing fees.
Estimated costs include:
CASLI Generalist Knowledge Exam: $225 – $250 per attempt
CASLI Performance Exam: $350 – $410 per attempt
RID application and membership fees: $135+ annually
Continuing education and recertification: Varies based on program
While the total investment may range from $700 to $1,000 or more, CASLI certification provides long-term career benefits in a growing and meaningful profession.
Conclusion
The Center for the Assessment of Sign Language Interpretation is a cornerstone of quality assurance in the interpreting field. CASLI ensures that interpreters meet rigorous standards to provide effective and ethical communication between the Deaf and hearing communities.
By becoming CASLI-certified, interpreters not only validate their skills but also contribute to accessibility, equity, and inclusion in every setting they serve. As society’s understanding of communication rights continues to grow, so too does the importance of CASLI’s mission and the professionals it certifies.
FAQs
Is CASLI the same as RID?
No. CASLI is responsible for exam administration, while RID manages membership and awards certifications based on CASLI results.
Can I take CASLI exams online?
Currently, most CASLI exams are administered in-person at approved testing centers to maintain exam security and validity.
How long is the CASLI certification valid?
Once certified through RID, interpreters must engage in continuing education and meet recertification requirements every four years.
Do I need to know both ASL and English fluently to take the CASLI exams?
Yes. Both the knowledge and performance exams require high proficiency in English and American Sign Language.