What it is
The Seal of Biliteracy is a recognition (on the diploma or transcript) awarded by most states to students who demonstrate proficiency in English and at least one other language. To earn it — or to place into or get credit for a language — students take a world-language proficiency test. The most common are STAMP and AAPPL, alongside options like AP language exams.
Format & structure
- STAMP (Avant Assessment)An online proficiency test covering Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking in many languages — widely used for the Seal of Biliteracy and world-language credit.
- AAPPL (ACTFL)The ACTFL Assessment of Performance toward Proficiency in Languages — measures interpersonal, presentational, and interpretive skills across the modes of communication.
- Other accepted measuresAP world-language exams, IB language courses, and other approved tests can also count toward the Seal — each state sets its list.
How it's scored
These report ACTFL proficiency levels (Novice, Intermediate, Advanced, and sublevels) rather than pass/fail. To earn the Seal of Biliteracy, a student must reach a state-set proficiency level in the world language and demonstrate English proficiency (often via state assessments or coursework). The exact bar varies by state.
Registration & cost
Schools administer these tests, usually through the world-language or ML department; families don't register directly. Ask your school which tests it offers and the requirements for your state's Seal of Biliteracy.
Test dates & timing
Testing is typically scheduled by the school (often in the spring of the qualifying year). Ask about deadlines if your student is aiming for the Seal before graduation.
How to prepare
- Build real proficiencyThese measure genuine communication — sustained language study and use is the preparation
- Use the language in all four skillsReading, writing, listening, and speaking are all assessed
- Heritage speakers can qualifyStudents who speak a home language may already reach the level — ask about testing
- Know your state's Seal requirementsWhich tests and levels count varies
Strategies & tips
- Aim for the state's proficiency thresholdUsually Intermediate-Mid or higher, depending on the state
- Pick the accepted test for your languageSTAMP and AAPPL cover many languages; some languages use specific measures
- Combine with English evidenceThe Seal requires English proficiency too
- Start earlyPlan testing before senior-year deadlines
How scores are used
Results earn the Seal of Biliteracy (a diploma/transcript recognition valued by colleges and employers), and can grant world-language course credit or placement at many colleges. They celebrate and certify bilingual skills — they're not admissions tests, and (unlike WIDA/ELPAC) not the annual English-learner test.
Accommodations & support
Accommodations for documented disabilities are arranged through the school and the testing provider.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the Seal of Biliteracy?A state recognition on the diploma for proficiency in English plus another language.
- STAMP or AAPPL?Both are widely accepted proficiency tests; your school/state determines which to use.
- Can heritage speakers earn it?Yes — students who speak a home language often already meet the proficiency level.
- Does it give college credit?Often yes — many colleges grant world-language credit or placement for high proficiency.
- Is this the same as WIDA/ELPAC?No — those are the annual English-learner tests; this certifies proficiency in another language for the Seal.
Key facts
- RecognitionState Seal of Biliteracy (English + another language)
- TestsSTAMP · AAPPL (+ AP language, others)
- DomainsReading, Writing, Listening, Speaking
- ScaleACTFL proficiency levels
- Used forSeal of Biliteracy, credit, placement
Where to learn more
Learn more and ask your school about your state's Seal: