Global Seal of Biliteracy

We Certify with the Global Seal of Biliteracy badgeCertified Language Proficiency

The Global Seal of Biliteracy is an internationally recognized credential that certifies your language skills in both English and at least one other language. 

Available in more than 120 languages, it offers a valuable way to demonstrate your fluency to employers, graduate schools, and scholarship programs.

For Modern Languages Majors For Non-Majors

Three Levels of Certification

  • Functional Fluency (Intermediate Mid / CEFR B1)

  • Working Fluency (Advanced Low / CEFR B2)

  • Professional Fluency (Advanced High / CEFR C1)

Why It Matters

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Stand Out for Global Opportunities

Strengthen your candidacy for international programs, fellowships, and study or work abroad.

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Boost Your Career Readiness

Showcase your language skills to employers seeking globally minded talent.

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Earn a Competitive Credential

Add a recognized distinction to your resume or academic portfolio that shows you’re prepared for a multilingual world.

For Modern Languages Majors and Graduate Students

Majors in ALIS, IAML, or GEML will complete the Oral Proficiency Interview – Computer (OPI-C) and Writing Proficiency Test (WPT) during their capstone seminar. These nationally recognized ACTFL exams assess speaking and writing proficiency in the target language. The same opportunity is available to graduate students in M.S. ALIS and M.S. GMC.

Here’s how it works:

  • Students take two ACTFL proficiency exams:
    • Oral Proficiency Interview – Computer (OPI-C)
    • Writing Proficiency Test (WPT)
  • The School of Modern Languages covers the exam cost for all eligible majors and graduate students.
  • Exam scores are submitted by the School to the Global Seal of Biliteracy organization.
  • You’ll graduate with two certifications:
    • ACTFL proficiency scores for professional and academic use
    • The Global Seal, an employer-friendly credential that highlights your fluency

For Non-Modern Languages Majors and Graduate Students

Students outside the School of Modern Languages can still earn the Global Seal through Georgia Tech.

To apply:

  1. Register for the OPI-C and WPT exams through ACTFL.
  2. Send your results to Tia Williams in the School of Modern Languages.
  3. Include the email address where you’d like your certificate sent.
  4. Complete testing at least six weeks before graduation to ensure timely processing.

Note: Non-Modern Languages majors are responsible for covering the exam costs.

FAQs

FAQs

Who is eligible for the Global Seal?

Anyone with a completed bachelor’s degree and valid ACTFL scores can apply, including students, staff, faculty, and community members.

Do I need a language major?

No. The Global Seal is open to all majors who meet the testing requirements.

Do I have to take language courses at Georgia Tech?

No. Language courses aren’t required, but they can help improve your performance on the exams.

  • If you’re stronger in speaking, consider advanced grammar or writing courses.
  • If you’re stronger in writing, consider conversation or upper-level language electives.

Is the certification free?

The Seal itself is free.

  • The School of Modern Languages covers the cost of exams for ALIS, IAML, GEML, M.S. ALIS, and M.S. GMC students.
  • All other students are required to pay the exam fees.

Can I earn the Seal in multiple languages?

You can apply for certification in more than one language, however, the School will only cover exam costs in one language.

What languages are eligible?

Over 120 languages are recognized, including those taught at Georgia Tech and beyond.

Can I earn academic credit with the Seal?

No. The Seal does not award course credit or fulfill degree requirements. It serves only as a professional certification of language ability.

Who should I contact with questions?

Contact the Global Seal Coordinator and School Chair, John Lyon.