The State Seal of Biliteracy

  • Zion-Benton Twp. High School District 126 is proud to offer the Illinois State Seal of Biliteracy to qualifying District 126 seniors who demonstrate a high level of proficiency in English and one or more additional languages.

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ Answer
What is the Illinois State Seal of Biliteracy? The seal is a recognition given to graduating high school students who have demonstrated a high level of proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking in English and in another language. This proficiency will be noted on each awarded student’s diploma and transcript.
What’s the benefit of earning the Illinois State Seal of Biliteracy? The seal allows students to showcase a marketable skill for colleges and potential employers. It may also be an asset for potential scholarship opportunities. As of January 2017, all public universities in Illinois must accept the seal as equivalent to two years of foreign language coursework taken in high school.
Who qualifies for the seal? Seniors who meet the criteria outlined in the table below will be awarded the seal on their ZBTHS or NT at Zion-Benton East diploma.

Criteria for receiving the certification

English Proficiency Criteria Other Language Proficiency Criteria
SAT ERW score of 480 OR ACT scores of an 18 in English or a 21 composite score OR ACCESS composite score of 4.8 AP foreign language test score of 4 or 5 OR Rating of at least “Intermediate High” in all 4 skill areas on the respective AAPPL test

Proficiency Test Information

FAQ Answer
When will students take the SAT and ACCESS Test? SAT and ACCESS: These two state administered assessments were or are provided by the state to qualifying students.
When will students take the AAPPL test? AAPPL: District 126 will offer students their respective AAPPL test (if available) on a date each spring. Interested students should register, take a sample test, and report on the date provided by the district.