Seal of Biliteracy
"To have another language is to possess a second soul." - Charlemagne
What is the Seal of Biliteracy?
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?
Students gain recognition for additional language proficiency.
Opportunity to gain college credits, fulfill work requirements, or achieve higher salaries.
What should interested students know?
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.
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 do I talk to for more information?
Teaching certificates in Alabama are valid for five years before renewal is required.