World Language

News & Announcements

2026 Governor’s World Language Academies (GWLA)

The application period for the summer 2026 Academies will be open from October 9, 2026 through January 31, 2026.  Visit the GWLA page for applications and information.

FY2025 and FY2026 NSLI Grants

The application period for the current award cycle of the Critical National Security Language Grant is now closed.  See the NSLI Grant page for more information.

World Language Standards of Learning

The Virginia Board of Education adopted revised World Language Standards of Learning on March 18, 2021.  The current world language standards are available on the World Language SOL Page.

Introduction

World language instruction is an important part of Virginia’s efforts to provide challenging educational programs in its public schools and to prepare students to compete in global society. Knowledge and skills that students acquire in foreign language classes reinforce and expand learning in other subject areas.

School divisions are encouraged to offer world language instruction beginning in the elementary grades. At the middle and secondary levels, the World Language Standards of Learning set reasonable targets and expectations for what students should know and be able to do by the end of each course offered for a standard unit of credit. Schools are encouraged to provide instruction that exceeds prescribed standards in order to meet the needs of all students.

Resources

Seal of Biliteracy

The Virginia Seal of Biliteracy certifies attainment of a high level of proficiency by a graduating high school student in one or more languages in addition to English. See  Seal of Biliteracy for award criteria and additional information.