What is the Seal of Biliteracy? The Seal of Biliteracy is an award given for attainment of proficiency in English and one other language that will give students a seal on their high school diplomas. If students speak any other language other than English, then they are eligible to apply for the Seal of Biliteracy.

Students should apply because it shows their proficiency in multiple languages and it also offers a personal benefit to students who can speak more than one language because this seal can open more doors in an individual’s life.  It can be a powerful tool to earn college credits, apply to scholarships, study abroad programs, access greater career opportunities and qualify for pay differentials.

There are a few ways to earn this seal. First students need to be in the eleventh or twelfth grade to apply. They need three years of English with a 2.0 or above and also need to have three years of course study of a language with 3.0 gpa or above.  Students then need to complete an essay in the language and a three to five minute interview in their world language. 

The Seal of Biliteracy award ceremony takes place at the Merced Fair ground.  If you have questions or are interested in the Seal of Biliteracy, contact Mrs. Leyva and be prepared for next year.