As part of our Associates in Action series, we’re pleased to spotlight the work of the Global Seal of Biliteracy, an Eaquals Associate Member since 2022. Their commitment to inclusive, accessible, and internationally consistent language certification aligns closely with Eaquals’ mission to promote excellence in language education.

What Is the Global Seal of Biliteracy?

The Global Seal of Biliteracy is an internationally recognized credential that certifies an individual’s bilingual or multilingual proficiency. Available in over 150 languages, the credential is free of charge and open to learners of any age or educational background.

Its aim is to validate language skills in a way that opens doors to academic and professional opportunities while promoting lifelong learning and global engagement.

Why Join Eaquals?

The decision to become an Eaquals Associate Member was grounded in a shared dedication to quality standards and multilingualism. For the Global Seal, joining Eaquals meant aligning its flexible, test-agnostic certification framework with internationally recognized benchmarks and connecting with institutions equally committed to linguistic excellence.

Supporting Language Educators and Institutions

The Global Seal offers a stackable certification model, meaning learners can progress through levels of proficiency. For educators and schools, this translates into:

• Greater student engagement and motivation

• Recognition of program effectiveness

• Tangible proof of language skills for employers or academic bodies

• Support for screening and certifying staff proficiency

Moreover, institutions can earn a digital badge – “We Certify with the Global Seal of Biliteracy” – to publicly showcase their commitment to language achievement.

Unique Contributions to the Language Field

What sets the Global Seal apart is its universal flexibility and inclusive approach. Specifically, it:

• Accepts multiple language proficiency tests

• Is recognized internationally and not tied to any one country’s standards

• Focuses on demonstrated proficiency rather than coursework completion

• Offers free and digitally shareable certification

Additionally, the Digital Language Profile enables recipients to compile and share multiple certifications in one streamlined tool — a valuable asset in a digital-first world where verified credentials are increasingly important.

Milestones and Global Reach

Since its launch in 2019, more than 50,000 Global Seals have been awarded across 64 countries, covering 97 languages. The initiative has gained recognition from various U.S. education authorities and was cited in a U.S. Department of Education study for its positive impact on student retention and performance.

Further underscoring its impact, the Global Seal of Biliteracy has been named a finalist for the 2025 PIEoneer of the Year Award.

Benefits for Eaquals Members

The Global Seal provides a range of benefits to Eaquals members, including:

• Free certification (test costs not included)

• Access to a user-friendly submission and tracking dashboard

• A Classroom Pair-Share programme that encourages global classroom collaborations

• Sponsorship opportunities for increased visibility in newsletters and on websites

These offerings support institutions in gaining international exposure and in recognising language achievement within their communities.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next?

The Global Seal continues to invest in its platform, adding features to document program outcomes and measure individual language growth. These enhancements are expected to further support institutions in tracking, validating, and celebrating multilingual proficiency.

A Final Word to Language Educators

There is growing evidence that language certification not only validates skills but also plays a pivotal role in driving learner motivation, engagement, and retention. Outcome-based certification serves as a form of gamification, encouraging students to “level up” their skills.

Furthermore, using benchmark-aligned assessments as formative tools provides actionable feedback to students and parents alike. This insight informs instruction, allowing educators to personalize teaching strategies and improve curriculum design. Certification also celebrates the success of a language programme, enhances visibility, and fosters community excitement around language learning.