The State Seal of Biliteracy recognizes high school graduates who have mastered speaking, reading, and writing in two or more languages. It’s an impressive achievement to show off on your diploma and transcript, helping you stand out to colleges and employers! This pathway is optional, but students who complete it will not only earn the prestigious State Seal of Biliteracy but also receive a special cord to wear at graduation, showcasing their bilingual achievement!
To earn the State Seal of Biliteracy, you must meet all of these requirements:
- Complete all graduation requirements for a high school diploma.
- Demonstrate English proficiency by:
- Earning a 2.0 GPA or higher in all English Language Arts (ELA) classes in grades 9–12, and
- Meeting or exceeding the English proficiency standard on the state’s CAASPP ELA test (or another state-approved assessment).
- Show proficiency in another language by meeting one of the following:
- Score 3 or higher on a Language AP Exam.
- Score 4 or higher on an IB Language Exam.
- Complete four years of a high school world language with a 3.0 GPA or higher.
- Pass a state-approved proficiency exam or a district-approved language test (for languages without an AP or IB exam).
If you’re classified as an English Learner, you’ll also need to demonstrate English proficiency by meeting these requirements and show proficiency in your primary language.
Ready to earn this prestigious seal? Talk to your counselor to learn how to qualify and celebrate your bilingual skills!
