Every year, hundreds of students across California earn the State Seal of Biliteracy, a gold emblem on their diploma that recognizes fluency in two or more languages. At Aliso Niguel High School, the process to receive this honor begins long before graduation, and students who plan ahead are setting themselves up for long-term success in college, careers and beyond.
Established in 2011, the California State Seal of Biliteracy (SSB) was designed to promote language learning and cultural diversity across the state.
“For the seal of Biliteracy students need to make sure they’re maintaining a 3.0 average across four years of English, so a ‘B’ average and also make sure they’re completing four years worth of a foreign language. So whether that’s taking AP Spanish IV at the high school level or taking an AP Spanish class or taking it at a community college they need to make sure that they understand the requirements.”, says Ms. Nguyen.
To be eligible, students must demonstrate proficiency in English and at least one other language through specific academic and testing criteria. While the final seal is awarded in the spring of senior year, preparation for it can start as early as freshman year.
“The rubric is proficiency based so it’s public and you can go onto the website to check and the students need to be proficient at an intermediate-mid level.”, says Mrs. McClellan.
To receive the seal, students must meet three main requirements: pass the California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP) English Language Arts test with a score of “standard met” or above, earn a GPA of 2.0 or higher in all English classes taken in high school and demonstrate proficiency in another language through one of several approved methods.
These requirements also include passing an AP world language exam with a score of 3 or higher, completing a four-year course of study in the language with a GPA of 3.0 or higher or passing a district-approved assessment.
Preparing for the seal means keeping an eye on grades and thinking strategically about language course selection. Students who know they want to apply should talk to their counselor early and map out a suitable plan for themselves. At Aliso Niguel, courses like Spanish 4, AP Language, French 4 and AP French or Spanish Literature all fulfill the language requirement if passed with a strong GPA.
Mrs. McClellan says, “I tell my students that they need to study their vocabulary, practice speaking because fluency is a big deal on the rubric because it’s proficiency based.”
The benefits of earning the seal go beyond high school recognition. According to the California Department of Education, the Seal of Biliteracy helps students stand out on college applications and resumes.
As the world becomes more interconnected, language skills are more valuable than ever. The State Seal of Biliteracy not only rewards students for their hard work but also highlights the importance of multilingualism in a diverse state like California. Whether students grow up speaking another language or learn one in the classroom, the opportunity to earn the seal is open to all, and the rewards can last a lifetime.
In addition to helping students stand out in their academic and professional pursuits, the Seal of Biliteracy fosters a deeper appreciation for the cultures and communities that contribute to California’s rich linguistic landscape. Students who earn the seal demonstrate not just language ability but also the perseverance and global mindset that colleges and employers seek. For many students, the seal represents a culmination of years spent studying and practicing a language, whether through formal classes or at home with family.
Ms. Nguyen says, “From a personal perspective it’s really nice for students to know another language. I think it can only make your world bigger and better to open up your eyes and open up your eyes to another culture and another language. I think it’s very valuable because it exposes students to new things which we should always try to do.”
At Aliso Niguel High School the culture of academic excellence and diversity supports students on this path. Teachers and counselors play a key role in guiding students toward achieving the seal, offering advice on course planning, testing options and maintaining academic standards. As more students become aware of the opportunity and its long-term benefits, participation continues to grow in the movement towards achieving a State Seal of Biliteracy.
