The seal of biliteracy is an award many states place on a high school diploma or transcript to show a graduate is proficient in English and at least one other language. Most states now offer one, and each sets its own rules, usually a mix of English coursework and a test or course in the second language. It can strengthen a college application and a resume, and some colleges award credit or placement.
What a seal of biliteracy is
The seal recognizes students who can read, write, listen and speak in two or more languages. It is usually noted on the diploma, the transcript or both. It is offered through the state or, in some places, a district.
- It counts English as one of the languages, so English learners who become proficient often qualify. See English learners in high school.
- The second language can be one learned at home, in class, or both. Many states accept a wide range of languages, including American Sign Language in some states.
- It sits alongside other diploma recognitions. See diploma types and endorsements.
How students usually qualify
Requirements differ by state and sometimes by district, so check with your school counselor or state education department. Common elements:
- English proficiency. Completing required English courses with a minimum grade, and sometimes a passing score on a state English assessment.
- Second language proficiency. Shown through one or more of these: a passing score on an AP or IB language exam, an approved proficiency test, completing a sequence of language courses with a minimum GPA, or a district assessment for languages without a standard test.
- English learners. Students classified as English learners may also need to meet the state’s English proficiency standard.
- Paperwork. Many schools ask students to apply or sign up, often during senior year. Ask about the deadline.
For more on these exams, see AP classes explained and the IB program explained.
Planning across high school
- Ninth or tenth grade: ask the counselor whether your state or district offers the seal and what it requires. Map language courses in your four-year high school plan.
- Heritage speakers: ask whether there is a test for your home language, since some students qualify without taking classes in it.
- Junior year: plan the language exam or proficiency test. See junior year of high school.
- Senior year: confirm you are on the list, meet any application deadline and check that the seal appears on the final transcript.
Our guide to choosing high school courses and working with the school counselor can help with the planning.
How the seal can help in college and work
- College applications. It documents a real skill on the transcript and can be listed as an honor. See extracurriculars for college for how activities and honors fit together.
- College credit or placement. Some colleges grant credit or let students skip introductory language courses; policies vary, so check each college.
- Jobs. Bilingual skills are valued in many fields, including health care, education, social services, customer service and public safety. The seal gives employers documented proof.
- Confidence and identity. For students who grew up speaking another language at home, it recognizes a skill they may have been asked to set aside.
For newcomer and English learner families
Families new to US schools sometimes do not hear about the seal until senior year, when it is late to plan. Ask early and in writing, and ask whether information is available in your home language. See newcomer families and US high school and the education by state hub for how state rules work.
Where a mentor helps
A mentor does not teach languages or decide eligibility. A mentor helps a student turn the seal into a plan: finding out the rules, mapping the courses and tests, meeting deadlines and keeping the rest of the schedule on track. Parents stay informed with regular updates. See mentoring for high school students.
Related
- Diploma types and endorsements
- High school graduation requirements
- English learners in high school
- High school transcript explained
- Regional Tuition Discount Programs for Out-of-State Students
- Using Employer Tuition Assistance to Go Back to School
Common questions
Is the seal of biliteracy available in every state?
Most states offer one, but the rules and how it is awarded vary. Ask your school counselor or check your state education department.
Can a native speaker earn the seal without language classes?
In many places, yes, by passing an approved proficiency test. Ask whether a test is available in your language.
Do colleges give credit for the seal?
Some grant credit or placement, while others treat it as an honor only. Check each college’s policy.
When should students start planning?
Ideally in ninth or tenth grade, so language courses and tests fit into the four-year plan.
Get started
Want help turning a two-language skill into a plan for high school? Call (888) 305 5422, email contact@blackburnmentoring.com or start with a short assessment. A member of our team reviews every assessment personally and sets up a free intro call.