How to become a bilingual secretary
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- applying directly
University
It could help you if you have a degree in modern languages or languages combined with business studies, although this is not essential.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
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College
Completing a recognised qualification in administration or office skills may help you to get a job. Colleges offer a wide range of full-time and part-time courses.
Relevant subjects include:
- business administration
- computer skills
- digital skills
- shorthand
- word processing
- T Level in Management and Administration
Entry requirements
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T level
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Apprenticeship
You can get into this job through a business administrator advanced apprenticeship and combine it with your language skills to find work.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
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Direct Application
You can apply to companies directly if you have some of the relevant skills and knowledge required for this role.
You'll need at least one A level or equivalent in your second language unless it's your native tongue, or you became fluent by living abroad.
Employers may also expect you to have GCSEs or relevant office skills and experience.
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Career tips
Most businesses look for bilingual secretaries who can speak a European language like French, German, Spanish or Italian.
Other languages like Russian, Chinese, Japanese and Arabic are also growing in demand.
You can develop your IT and administration skills by doing a free online course through The Skills Toolkit.
Professional and industry bodies
You could join the Chartered Institute of Linguists for professional recognition, training opportunities and to make industry contacts.
Further information
You can get more advice about working and training in languages through the Chartered Institute of Linguists.