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Massachusetts Seal of Biliteracy Program

An image of text that says "Massachusetts State Seal of Biliteracy"What is the Seal of Biliteracy?

The Massachusetts Seal of Biliteracy recognizes high school graduates who attain high-functional and academic levels of proficiency in English and another languages by high school graduation.

Our vision is to help students recognize the value of their academic success and see the tangible benefits of being bilingual.

The Seal of Biliteracy appears on the transcript or diploma of the graduating senior. This recognition may be presented to colleges and future employers.

Multilingual seniors who will graduate in June 2024 are eligible to obtain the Seal of Biliteracy. Read a letter with more details or continue reading below.

You can apply to participate in the Seal of Biliteracy program online.


In this video, students from Claremont Academy who earned the Seal of Biliteracy during the 2022-23 school year speak about the importance of multilingualism.

How to earn the Seal of Biliteracy

3 students showing certificatesStudents must:

  • Be in acceptable academic standing for graduation
  • Achieve proficient or advanced in ELA MCAS. ACCESS scores may be used to satisfy the English language criteria for English Learners if students fulfill the requirements of an Educational Proficiency Plan (for a score between 220 and 238 on the MCAS). These students must demonstrate English proficiency on ACCESS with an overall score of at least level 4.2 and a composite literacy scores of at least level 3.9
  • Achieve a 4 or 5 on AP language exam or intermediate high on state approved language proficiency exam or portfolio if language exam is not available

Testing Dates:

December, February, and April.

Partner Colleges & Universities

These Massachusetts colleges and universities award credits for earning the Seal:
  • Bridgewater State University

  • Bunker Hill Community College

  • Cape Cod Community College

  • Massachusetts Bay Community College

  • Middlesex Community College

  • Mount Wachusett Community College

  • North Shore Community College

  • Northern Essex Community College

  • Quinsigamond Community College

  • Salem State University

  • Worcester State University

Contacts

This is a collaboration between the World Language Department, the Office of Multilingual Education, and the Office of Curriculum and Professional Learning.

For more information, you may:

Students may also speak with their school’s guidance counselors for more information.

Resources