Selam! Hola! Xin Chao! If you’re familiar with one of these greetings or a language, then you may be on the path to taking the Seal of Biliteracy exam offered by the state of Maryland. Those are just three out of the 52 languages offered for the Seal of Biliteracy exam.
On November 11, 39 juniors and seniors at Paint Branch had their first opportunity of the school year to take the Seal of Biliteracy exam. For those who missed it or weren’t quite ready, another testing session will be held on January 13th, 2026.
The Seal of Biliteracy is an award given by the state of Maryland to students who demonstrate high proficiency in a language other than English. Whether someone learned a second language through school, family, or personal experience, the Seal offers a way to officially validate that skill.
The exam tests students in four major areas: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Depending on the language, some students use specialized keyboards or tools to complete their responses. While the test can be challenging, many see it as a meaningful opportunity. Vivian Nguyen, a senior who took the recent exam, states, “Taking the Vietnamese exam for the Seal of Biliteracy was a great opportunity for me to show my proficiency in another language since the exam tested us on a variety of different things.”
The Maryland State Department of Education states, “The Maryland Seal of Biliteracy is an official recognition awarded by participating public school systems upon students who have demonstrated a high level of proficiency in listening, speaking, reading, and writing in one or more languages other than English.”
After completing the exam, students typically wait around a month to receive their scores. Those who pass earn the official Seal of Biliteracy certificate, which is also present on their transcript and embossed onto their diploma. Seniors who earn it also receive a medal that they can proudly wear at graduation.
Apart from the recognition, the Seal offers practical advantages. Students can qualify for college credit, gain more scholarship opportunities, and stand out to future employers who value multilingual skills.
For juniors, seniors, and future students who speak another language or have dedicated time to learning one, the Seal of Biliteracy is a chance to proudly show what they can do.
