Calling all bilingual 11th and 12th grade students: If you’re fluent in two or more languages, you can apply to have an official Seal of Biliteracy added to your high school transcripts.
The Seal of Biliteracy is placed on a high school graduate’s transcript by the state of Utah to certify for employers and universities that the student has demonstrated proficiency in English and at least one world language. It is evidence of a student’s readiness for a career, college and for engagement as a global citizen.
Last year, 102 Canyons District graduates received Seals of Biliteracy on their diplomas. Currently enrolled high school juniors and seniors are eligible to apply for the seal starting Monday, Dec. 2. The application window closes on Jan. 24, 2020.
New this year: Students can complete the application online from the comfort of their homes at https://sealofbiliteracy.canyonsdistrict.org/. As part of the application process, students may be required to take a language proficiency exam at their high school sometime between March 3-14. Individual schools will determine the date, time and location of testing. Students may also demonstrate their proficiency by achieving a score of 3 or higher on the Advanced Placement exam in their world language.
There are no fees associated with the first application. But if a student chooses to demonstrate fluency in more than one world language, a $20 testing fee may apply.
Additional guidelines and information about the requirements can be found on the Utah State Board of Education’s website.