main content starts hereSeal of Biliteracy

The Seal of Biliteracy is an award given in recognition of students who have studied and attained proficiency in two or more languages (English and one World Language). It is an official notation that appears on the transcript or diploma of the graduating senior and is a statement of accomplishment for future employers and for college admissions.

What are the benefits for students?

  • Students will receive an endorsement from the NYS Education Department on their diploma and their transcript;
  • Certifies students’ attainment of biliteracy and 21st-century skills;
  • Provides students with a credential that gives their future employers a method of identifying them as biliterate and skilled in language and culture;
  • Provides universities with a method to recognize and give credit to applicants for the attainment of high-level skills in multiple languages and cultures; and
  • Honors the multiple cultures and languages in our community and shows that students recognize the value of diversity.

Earning the New York state Seal of Biliteracy

Students wishing to receive the NYS Seal of Biliteracy must complete all requirements for graduating with a NYS Regents diploma and must earn three points in the areas listed below in English and a World Language. Learn more about the program here.

Criteria for Demonstrating Proficiency in English

  • Two points: Present a culminating project, scholarly essay or portfolio that meets the criteria for speaking, listening, reading and writing established by the district’s NYS Seal of Biliteracy Committee to a panel of reviewers with proficiency in English.
  • One point: Score 80 or higher on the NYS Regents Examination in English Language Arts or English Language Learners may score 75 or above on two Regents exams other than English without translation.
  • One point: Complete Grade 11 and Grade 12 ELA courses with an average of 85 or higher.
  • One point: English Language Learners score at the Commanding Level on two modalities of the NYSELAT.
  • One point: Achieve a 3 or higher on the AP English Literature Exam or an 80 or higher on the TOEFL.

Criteria for Demonstrating Proficiency in a World Language

  • Two points: Present a culminating project, scholarly essay, or portfolio that meets the criteria for speaking, listening, reading and writing established by the district’s Seal of Biliteracy Committee that is aligned to the NYS Checkpoint C Standards to a panel of reviewers with proficiency in the target language.
  • One point: Complete a Level 5 World Language with a grade of 85 or higher for both coursework and the final examination.