Earn College Credit with the NJ State Seal of Biliteracy at Kean University
High School Students, Counselors, and Parents: Help students turn language skills into college credit!
Current and Prospective Kean Students: Save time and accelerate your degree progress.
Kean University proudly recognizes the New Jersey State Seal of Biliteracy as prior learning. Eligible students can earn up to 9 college credits for demonstrated language proficiency.
What is the NJ State Seal of Biliteracy?
An NJDOE award for students who demonstrate proficiency in English and another language through approved assessments. Students typically earn the Seal by taking a language proficiency test during high school. To learn more, visit NJDOE.
Credit Eligibility
• 6 credits for Intermediate Mid proficiency
• 9 credits for Advanced Low or higher proficiency
Credits apply to existing Kean language courses or Foreign Language Electives equivalents and are recorded as Pass (P)—not affecting GPA or residency requirements.
How to Apply
1. Email: Send a request to ugprocessing@kean.edu with your NJ State Seal of Biliteracy credential.
2. Official Submission: Ask your high school to email the original credential directly to Kean Admissions at ugprocessing@kean.edu.
Credits will be posted after verification by Admissions. Students are responsible for ensuring credentials are sent.
Required Documentation
• Official NJDOE-issued Seal of Biliteracy certificate and associated documents Optional: Supporting assessment scores (AAPPL, ALTA, IB, STAMP, AP, SIELE).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the NJ State Seal of Biliteracy?
It’s a certificate issued by the NJ Department of Education to students who demonstrate proficiency in English and at least one additional language through approved assessments. Students may have taken or have the option to take the test through their high school to obtain this certificate. Learn more here
How many credits can I earn?
Up to 6 credits for Intermediate Mid proficiency or 9 credits for Advanced Low or higher proficiency.
What documentation is required?
Official NJDOE-issued Seal of Biliteracy certificate and associated documents.
What if I lost my certificate?
Request a replacement from your high school or district. Kean requires the official certificate.
Who can I contact?
Office of Admissions: (908) 737-7100 Email: transfer@kean.edu Website: https://www.kean.edu/offices/admissions