At a glance
24 mo
Duration
6.5
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
nl
Language
Master's
Level
- 24Months Duration
- Optional International ExchangeInternational Exposure
- Specialized Post-graduate OptionsFurther Specialization
- Modern Study FacilitiesState-of-the-art Campus
- Certificates in Social or Judicial InterpretingPractical Certifications
The Master of Interpreting program equips you to become a professional interpreter, facilitating communication across language barriers in various settings. This program is designed for those who want to bridge linguistic divides and ensure everyone is heard and understood. You will gain a practice-oriented approach combined with a strong academic foundation and critical reflection skills. Graduates are prepared for roles in international businesses, government agencies, supranational institutions, the judicial system, media, healthcare, and social services.
Curriculum
The program is structured around four key pillars: Interpreting Science, Interpreting Practice, Translation and Interpreting Technology, and Specialization. You will also develop essential skills such as public speaking and inter-cultural communication. The curriculum allows for a choice between Dutch with one or two foreign languages.
- Year 1
- Year 2
Careers
Graduates are well-prepared for a variety of career paths. You can work as a freelance interpreter, or be employed by local, regional, or national government bodies, media organizations, or businesses. Your strong communication and multilingual skills will also be valuable in related roles.
- Interpreter (General/Conversational)
- Judicial Interpreter
- Conference Interpreter
- Translator
- Communication Specialist
- Management Roles requiring multilingualism
Frequently asked questions
- What are the admission requirements for the Master of Interpreting program?
- You need a Bachelor's degree in Applied Linguistics for direct admission. Other bachelor's degrees may make you eligible for a bridging or preparatory program. English proficiency is required, demonstrated through tests like TOEFL iBT (79 overall) or IELTS Academic (6.5 overall), unless your previous diploma was taught in English in specific countries.
- How much are the tuition fees for this Master's program?
- Tuition fees vary by program type and number of study points. You should use the official tuition fee tool on the KU Leuven website for an exact amount.
- What is the duration of the Master of Interpreting program?
- The program is 24 months long.
- What are the application deadlines for the Master of Interpreting program?
- The application period opens on October 16, 2025. The deadline for non-EEA citizens is March 1, 2026, and for EEA citizens and non-EEA citizens residing in Belgium, it is June 1, 2026.
- What career opportunities are available after graduating from this program?
- Graduates can work as freelance interpreters or be employed by government bodies, media organizations, or businesses. Potential roles include Judicial Interpreter, Conference Interpreter, Translator, and Communication Specialist.
- Does the program offer opportunities for international experience?
- Yes, the program offers an optional international exchange for students seeking international exposure.
Entry requirements
Bachelor of Applied LinguisticsDirect admission
Other Bachelor's DegreesMay be eligible for a bridging or preparatory program
TOEFL iBT79 (overall)
IELTS Academic6.5 (overall)
Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) (C1)
Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE) (C2)
ITACE C1 or C2
English proficiency tests are required for applicants who have not obtained a previous diploma taught in English in Australia, English-speaking Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, the UK, or the USA. Specific programs may require higher scores or subscores. MyBest scores (TOEFL) and IELTS One Skill Retake scores are not accepted. ITACE tests can only be taken in Belgium.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition fees vary by program type and number of study points. Please use the official tuition fee tool for an exact amount.
Tuition (home)Tuition fees vary by program type and number of study points. Please use the official tuition fee tool for an exact amount.
LivingInformation on study and living costs is available, but specific estimates are not provided for this program.
Payment is due within two weeks of invoicing. Cash and credit card payments are not accepted. Financial consequences may apply if you terminate or change your studies.
How to apply
1. Check Admission RequirementsEnsure you meet the academic and language proficiency requirements for the Master of Interpreting program. Consult the official admission requirements for detailed information.
2. Prepare Required DocumentsGather all necessary documents, including academic transcripts, diplomas, and English proficiency test results. Ensure your test results are available for online verification.
3. Submit ApplicationSubmit your application through the KU Leuven application portal. The application period opens on October 16, 2025.
4. Await Admission DecisionThe admissions office will review your application. Contact Ingrid Wouters, Admissions Officer, if you have specific questions regarding applications.
5. Register and Pay Tuition FeesUpon admission, you will receive an invoice for your tuition fees, which is due within two weeks. Registration must be completed promptly.
Frequently asked questions
What are the admission requirements for the Master of Interpreting program?
+
You need a Bachelor's degree in Applied Linguistics for direct admission. Other bachelor's degrees may make you eligible for a bridging or preparatory program. English proficiency is required, demonstrated through tests like TOEFL iBT (79 overall) or IELTS Academic (6.5 overall), unless your previous diploma was taught in English in specific countries.
How much are the tuition fees for this Master's program?
+
Tuition fees vary by program type and number of study points. You should use the official tuition fee tool on the KU Leuven website for an exact amount.
What is the duration of the Master of Interpreting program?
+
The program is 24 months long.
What are the application deadlines for the Master of Interpreting program?
+
The application period opens on October 16, 2025. The deadline for non-EEA citizens is March 1, 2026, and for EEA citizens and non-EEA citizens residing in Belgium, it is June 1, 2026.
What career opportunities are available after graduating from this program?
+
Graduates can work as freelance interpreters or be employed by government bodies, media organizations, or businesses. Potential roles include Judicial Interpreter, Conference Interpreter, Translator, and Communication Specialist.
Does the program offer opportunities for international experience?
+
Yes, the program offers an optional international exchange for students seeking international exposure.