Program Overview
A Seal of Biliteracy is an award that is given by an educational or state government organization to recognize and honor language learners who demonstrate intermediate level proficiency in English AND one or more other world languages.
What are the benefits for my student acquiring a Seal of Biliteracy?
Students gain recognition for additional language proficiencies gained outside of the classroom.
A Seal of Biliteracy can be used for college credits, work requirements, and other situations where your student may be asked to provide proof for their language proficiency.
How can my student take advantage of this opportunity?
According to the Alabama Seal of Biliteracy Proficiency Criteria, all students must meet proficiency criteria in both English and at least one world language through school-based or community-based programs, or life experiences to earn the Seal of Biliteracy.
Specifically, a high school student must:
Complete the high school graduation requirements.
Demonstrate proficiency in one or more World languages other than English through one of the World Language Proficiency Criteria options below. The first 2 options are most highly recommended.
Option 1: American Council of Teachers of Foreign Language Assessment of Performance toward Proficiency in Languages - An Intermediate Mid-3 or higher score in all four components.
Option 2: Standards-based Measurement of Proficiency - A score of intermediate-mid level or higher.
Option 3: Common European Framework of Reference - A score of level B1 or higher.
Option 4: The Advanced Placement Language Examination - A score of three (3) or higher.
Demonstrate intermediate or higher proficiency in the English language.
Who should I talk with in my school about the SEAL of Biliteracy?
Starting in 7th and 8th grades, students may ask their guidance counselor or school principal about the requirements for the SEAL of Biliteracy. During high school, students should meet regularly with their high school counselor or advisor to track their progress towards biliteracy.
For more answers and information, email SEAL@akeep.org.
Page last updated: June 15, 2023
Disclaimer: This brief is produced by AKEEP/AIEEP and does not include complete guidelines from the State Department of Education or your specific school's advice.
