The North Dakota Department of Public Instruction (NDDPI) is proud to offer the North Dakota Seal of Biliteracy (NDSB) award program. The NDSB is an award presented in the form of a gold or silver seal to graduating students who have demonstrated proficiency in English and another language. Consider students studying a world language as well as current and former English learners.
The NDSB was established to recognize multilingual students and provide an identifier of this accomplishment for post-secondary institutions and employers. The NDSB strives to inspire the implementation of biliteracy programs and pathways of language development in districts across the state and help districts demonstrate value in diversity/culture.
The NDSB is awarded by the NDDPI according to the specific criteria. Each qualifying student will receive a physical foil seal to affix to their high school diploma, a letter and certificate from the State Superintendent of Public Instruction, and an identifier on their eTranscript. School district participation in the program is voluntary.
NEW AND EXCITING:
As of the 2026-27 school year, all 11 North Dakota University Systems (NDUS) institutions now have the authority to honor the ND Seal of Biliteracy for college credit. FLAND, the Foreign Language Association of North Dakota, reports all NDUS institutions, as well as Jamestown University, offering up to 12 college credits. Please check with your college or university of choice for specific information.
The NDDPI is working with a select group of language professionals representing several stakeholder organizations across the state to review and potentially revise requirements for the NDSB. We intend to have updated guidance, requirements, and the NDSB application for 2027 graduates posted here by the end of the calendar year.
If you have students interested in the ND Seal of Biliteracy who are graduating prior to the end of the school year, please contact the EL Programs Office for guidance.
- 2026 Electronic NDSB Application
- NDSB Student Tracking Checklist (for district use to track student progress toward earning the Seal of Biliteracy)
If you have additional questions, please contact the EL Programs Office.
- The Seal of Biliteracy - national organization providing information regarding the Seal of Biliteracy in all U.S. states.
- Global Seal of Biliteracy - national organization providing the opportunity for all to earn a seal of biliteracy without restrictions in age or school district involvement.