Certificate of Biliteracy in Spanish and Latin American Studies Program
The Certificate of Biliteracy is available from the Department of World Languages and Cultures recognition of students who have studied and attained proficiency in Spanish and English.
Proficiency in multiple languages has tremendous value in today's global economy. According to Ipsos Public Affairs, over 90% of surveyed employers cite a strong and growing demand for foreign language skills, particularly Spanish. Whether you learned Spanish in a classroom, at home, or through other experiences, a Seal of Biliteracy celebrates your accomplishment and certifies your language proficiency in two or more languages.
The certificate honors the skills our students attain, and can be evidence of skills that are attractive to future employers and other organizations. The Certificate of Biliteracy enables recipients to showcase their Spanish language skills and cultural knowledge to any organization or employer across state lines and national borders.
Students who meet the criteria are awarded a Certificate of Biliteracy, a medal, and mention of the Certificate on their transcripts.
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Q&A About the Program
Students who:
- learn Spanish in classroom settings, at home or through other experiences,
- want to showcase their language skills for future employment
- want to pursue opportunities like internships, scholarships, and study abroad,
- are interested in a Spanish and Latin American Studies major or minor
- are in graduate programs and want official certification of their bilingual skills in Spanish and English
It's an easy 2 step process that asks students to:
1. Fulfill the certificate requirements
2. Take Avant Proficiency Exam administered by the placement and proficiency coordinator of the WLC. Qualifying test scores are valid for 12 months of the test date.
*A candidate who passes with intermediate-mid level proficiency (ACTFL, standards) in all 4 modalities (reading, writing, speaking, and listening) will receive a "FUNCTIONAL FLUENCY AWARD".
*A candidate who passes the Avant exam with advanced-low level proficiency in all 4 modalities (reading, writing, speaking and listening) will receive a "WORKING FLUENCY AWARD".
For further information, please contact the Chair of the Department of Word Languages and Cultures, David Bird david.bird1@stmarys-ca.edu