Speaking more than one language is its own reward. But what if it could also earn you a distinction on your high school diploma — and help you stand out to colleges and future employers?
Canyons District juniors and seniors who are proficient in English and at least one other language are invited to put their skills to the test by applying for Utah’s Seal of Biliteracy, a special designation by the Utah State Office of Education.
This year, the application window opens Monday, Nov. 2, 2026 and closes Saturday, Jan. 16, 2027.
“Whether you’ve spent years mastering French in a dual language immersion classroom, learned Spanish from your grandparents, or grew up speaking another language at home, your multilingual skills are something to celebrate — and something that could give you an edge after graduation,” said Amy Gutiérrez, a specialist in CSD’s Instructional Supports Department.
The Seal of Biliteracy, in addition to being something more colleges and employers pay attention to, is something more students are taking advantage of. The number of students earning the Seal has more than tripled from 90 recipients in 2017–2018 to more than 330.
And earning the distinction is easier than one might think. Juniors and seniors in high school can apply for the seal online from the comfort of their homes. Schools encourage students to start applying in their junior year, because it gives them more time to take advantage of the different tests that can be used to determine eligibility.
Often students have already completed a qualifying exam and no further testing is necessary. Testing is administered, however, at the high schools each year.
Questions? Reach out to your school’s Counseling Center.
