Seal of Biliteracy

In the State of Washington, students qualify for the Seal of Biliteracy by demonstrating proficiency in English and another world language. Students must demonstrate proficiency on a nationally normed language test.  Below are requirements for earning a seal, and a list of qualifying proficiency tests, along with their qualifying scores, to receive the Seal.

The Seal of Biliteracy appears on a student's official high school transcript to show employers and universities that they have achieved a functional level of language proficiency. Some universities may award college credit for the tests that qualify for the Seal of Biliteracy. Students will receive a certificate upon graduation. 

Requirements for Earning a Seal of Biliteracy

1. English Proficiency: meet all ELA requirements for any Graduation Pathway and earn 4 ELA credits.
    
2. World Language Proficiency:

• Intermediate Seal – Show proficiency in one language other than English by taking an OSPI approved assessment and earning one of the following options:
   
  • 4 competency-based credits in one language
     
  • Minimum intermediate level passing score

• Advanced Seal – There are 3 options to meet the advanced level
   
  • Option 1: Show advanced proficiency in one language other than English by earning the minimum advanced level passing score.
     
  • Option 2: Show intermediate level proficiency in two or more languages other than English.
     
  • Option 3: Earn 4 credits in a Dual Language course.

3. Graduate and earn high school diploma.

Student Transcripts

The seal of biliteracy is automatically added to a student's transcript based on the results from testing data. A student does not need to request the Seal if they took a qualifying test while enrolled in the Issaquah School District.  If you took a qualifying test outside of the Issaquah School District, please work with your building’s registrar to ensure we have that information.

Graduating students will receive an email from your building’s registrar informing them where to pick up their official certificate or recognition. The Seal is only marked on their transcript as "earn" upon graduation. 

Learn more about World Language Testing here.