The New York State Seal of Biliteracy (NYSSB) is an award given to students who have demonstrated a high level of proficiency in English and one or more other world languages by high school graduation.  The NYSSB is award by the Commissioner of the New York State Education Department to students who meet the criteria established by the Board of Regents and who attend schools that voluntarily agree to participate in the program.  The NYSSB is affixed to the student's high school diploma and noted on the transcript and must be made available to students at no cost.  
The intent of the NYSSB is: to affirm the value of diversity in a multilingual society; to encourage the study of languages; to identify high school graduates with multilingual and multiliterate skills for employers; to provide universities with additional information about applicants seeking admission; to prepare students with 21st century skills; and to recognize the value of world and home language instruction.