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Illinois Seal of Biliteracy at CHS

Central Community School District 301 is proud to announce that it will award the Illinois Seal of Biliteracy and Commendation of Biliteracy to students who have attained a high level of proficiency in one or more languages in addition to English.  The Seal of Biliteracy also carries national recognition. The Seal and Commendation may carry college credit for students planning on attending post high school education options. 

Where will this recognition be placed?

Students meeting the requirements for the Seal of Biliteracy will receive this recognition on their transcripts as well as receive an official seal that can be placed on their diplomas. 

What qualifies to receive the Seal of Biliteracy? 

In order to obtain the Seal of Biliteracy, a student must show proficiency in both English and a second language.  The Seal of Biliteracy is awarded to those who demonstrate proficiency in English and whose second language proficiency level is equivalent to Intermediate High, as determined by the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL).

What are the specific requirements that must be met to demonstrate proficiency in English?

Earn a minimum composite score of 21 on the ACT test, a score of 480 or higher on the Evidence-Based Reading and Writing section on the SAT.

What are the specific requirements that must be met to show second language proficiency?

Earn a 4 or 5 on the Advanced Placement Language and Culture exam (The Advanced Placement exam is the only qualifier for the following languages: German and Spanish) or a minimum score of I-5 for Intermediate High on the ACTFL Assessment of Performance toward Proficiency in Languages (AAPPL). Please see the following link for additional language testing options. 

The Seal of Biliteracy AAPPL exam will take place at Central High School during the regular school day each second semester.  All students are eligible to demonstrate higher understanding in a language other than English. We encourage students who may have learned another language at home to study their home language so that they can be recognized for their skill set.  

Who Can I contact for more information about the Seal of Biliteracy?

Contact Central High School’s Student Services Department.


Learn more about the steps that students need to make to earn this designation by clicking the link below.

Central 301 – Seal of Biliteracy