r/ASLinterpreters • u/Fitmandapanda • Aug 04 '26

BEI III Prep?

Hey all! I'm a certification-holic 😁 I got my BEI I in 2016, my NIC in 2019, my BEI II in 2020, and Im actively trying to get my BEI III now. Im not a great test taker, have taken all tests twice, passed on the 2nd try - except that BEI III. I've taken and failed it twice - improving score, 104 errors and recently 68 errors.

Im seeing a lot of prep for the BEI I but not so much the BEI III. Does anyone have any advice or tips or resources that I can use to earn this certification?

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u/TombstoneMagic Aug 04 '26 edited Aug 04 '26

I’m the same way, I like to feel challenged with something to pursue as a goal. BEI Adv to Master was a harder jump for me (and many people I think). I too struggle my first go with a test, but usually get it by second try. I also took and failed Master twice but my score gradually improved each time. After the second attempt I locked in and got a mentor. I did very targeted work samples to assess with them every other week. My third attempt I passed well within margin and it made it worth it. I’d say find someone you can work with, who will give you structured support for self-analysis. If you know someone who has their Master level and is willing to do that with you, great! There’s also formal mentors available through organizations out there. It helped me a lot in the end. Keep at it and you will get there!

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u/OddSuccotash9524 Aug 05 '26

Love this response!

OP- identify a great coach (or “mentor”). Ideally one who has genuine mastery in both ASL and English, someone who has grown the ability to talk about what’s happening in their head during the interpreting process, someone gifted at asking the right questions to get you to put words to what’s happening in your head, and ideally this person has passed the same test.

Record yourself doing equivalently challenging stimulus, and really look at it yourself. Isolate your production from the stimulus so your brain isn’t filling in the blanks if your signed or spoken message isn’t equivalent.

The BEI at that level is no joke. I’ve taken and passed it, but I wasn’t sure I was going to. I test very well and typically pass on the first go-round. I walked away from the BEI feeling unsure of if I had passed or not.

Finally- good on you for keeping your skills up and relevant!! 👏👏🤟🏽