By Noor Alawawda, Senior Program Manager for Language Access, Access to Justice Division, AOIC

The Administrative Office of the Illinois Courts (AOIC) is pleased to announce a new scholarship for those interested in becoming certified court interpreters in Illinois. The AOIC recognizes the importance that skilled court interpreters play in the justice system and the courts very high need for qualified interpreters. This scholarship presents a wonderful opportunity to expand the number of certified court interpreters working throughout the state. This scholarship will be available as of January 1, 2023, and will be posted on the Language Access Program Page.

This scholarship would cover the cost of the three-step certification process through the Illinois Language Access Program. This includes a two-day orientation ($200), a written exam ($50), and an oral exam ($225) or an oral proficiency interview (OPI)($130) for languages where an oral exam is not available. Additionally, this scholarship will cover 50% of the costs for retakes for both the written and/or oral exam or OPI. This scholarship will be offered to 5 individuals per year. To qualify for this scholarship, individuals must be at least 18 years or older, reside in Illinois and make less than $50,000 a year. Proof of income is required.

Individuals who have already began the Language Access Certification Program are eligible to apply for this scholarship. Previous costs paid will not be reimbursable, but exams moving forward will be covered by the AOIC if selected.

For those interested in applying for this scholarship, an application must be completed, along with supplemental materials attached. Please reach out to Noor Alawawda, nalawawda@illinoiscourts.gov, with any questions.