What is the Seal of Biliteracy?
The Seal of Biliteracy (SoBL) is an official recognition on a student’s high school diploma and/or transcript that certifies proficiency in English and at least one additional language. It’s awarded by states or districts and signals to colleges and employers that a graduate can communicate across languages.
Nationwide status (2025)
As of 2024, all 50 states and Washington, D.C. have established a state Seal of Biliteracy program—a milestone that makes biliteracy a recognized credential across the country.
Awards are rising: In the 2022–23 school year, states reported 158,384 seals (up from 147,937 in 2021–22). California, Florida, and New Jersey led in total award counts.
Why the Seal matters
- College admissions & placement: The Seal is a clear, verified credential of language proficiency—often used for placement/credit and valued in admissions.
- Employability: Employers increasingly seek bilingual talent in customer-facing fields, health care, social services, and global roles; the Seal helps students show verified skills.
- Equity & recognition: The Seal recognizes heritage, immigrant, and multilingual students whose skills have historically been under-credited—boosting pride, visibility, and opportunity.
What proficiency level is required?
Each state sets its own bar, but most align to ACTFL proficiency guidelines; common thresholds range from Intermediate Mid to Intermediate High, with some states using multiple levels. Evidence typically includes approved assessments (e.g., AAPPL, STAMP, AP, IB), course performance, and English language arts benchmarks.
Tip: If your graduates don’t fit a state program (e.g., adult learners, private or international schools), the Global Seal of Biliteracy offers a portable, serial-numbered credential with tiered levels (Functional/Working/Professional) mapped to ACTFL.
How students typically qualify (overview)
- English: Meet the state’s English proficiency criteria (often a GPA or state ELA benchmark/AP/IB score).
- Partner language: Demonstrate proficiency via a state-approved test or portfolio (AAPPL, STAMP, AP/IB, state exam).
- Program completion: Some states recognize successful completion of advanced coursework alongside proficiency evidence.
Growth areas & current conversations
- Access & participation: Advocacy continues to ensure current and former English Learners benefit equitably from Seal opportunities as programs expand. Education Week
- Data consistency: Not all states publish complete breakdowns (by language, student group); national reports are improving but still rely on state submissions.
- Beyond K–12: With DoDEA adding a Seal beginning in 2025–26, recognition is expanding to federal school systems serving military-connected students.
How cultural & language schools can help students earn the Seal
- Map your curriculum to proficiency: Align units with ACTFL can-do statements (aim for Intermediate Mid/High outcomes by graduation).
- Build assessment pathways: Offer or coordinate approved tests (AAPPL, STAMP, AP/IB) and practice cycles each spring/fall.
- Support heritage learners: Provide diagnostic placement, targeted literacy development, and test prep tailored to heritage speakers.
- Track progress early: Start in middle grades with growth checkpoints; use mock assessments to reduce test-day surprises.
- Celebrate and communicate: Publish Seal requirements, deadlines, and success stories to boost participation and community pride.
How Anirona supports your Seal of Biliteracy journey
- Placement & progress tracking: Create proficiency-aligned rosters and milestones (reading, writing, listening, speaking).
- Assessment logistics: Schedule testing windows, track results (AAPPL/STAMP/AP/IB), and flag who meets state criteria.
- Family portals (bilingual): Share requirements, deadlines, and results; automate reminders.
- Documentation & reporting: Export Seal eligibility lists, exam evidence, and transcripts for districts or states.
- Volunteer coordination: Manage community proctors and event helpers for Seal ceremonies and practice sessions.
Quick FAQ
Is the Seal the same in every state?
No. The concept is national, but criteria vary by state (proficiency level, accepted tests, GPA/ELA benchmarks). Check your state’s rules.
Which languages qualify?
Any language with an approved assessment pathway—including American Sign Language—can qualify; some states use portfolios for less-commonly-tested languages.
How big is the program?
In 2022–23, states reported 158,384 Seal earners nationwide—part of a multiyear growth trend.
Ready to help your students earn the Seal?
We can set up Anirona to track proficiency milestones, exam results, and state eligibility—plus parent comms and awards day logistics.
