Faculty of Arts

The University of Waterloo believes that students must have a basic competency in written English in order to prosper in their university studies.

Students entering the Faculty of Arts in September 2004 or thereafter must:

1. Write the English Language Proficiency Examination by the end of their 1A term
2. Pass the English Language Proficiency requirement by the end of their 2B term. This requirement may be fulfilled in one of the following ways:
   • a grade of 65 or higher on the English Language Proficiency Examination; or
   • a grade of 65 or higher in ARTS 101; or
   • successful completion of the work assigned by the UW Writing Centre.

The English Language Proficiency Examination (ELPE) is a diagnostic exam intended to determine the level of a student's ability in written English. Students who do not pass ELPE should consult the Writing Centre for advice on the appropriate method of fulfilling the proficiency requirement.

Distance education students are required to write ELPE on the completion of five courses. Using Quest, distance students must add ELPE 100 for a term in which they are already registered in a distance course. Examinations are held on the regularly scheduled distance education examination dates and follow the same criteria regarding exam centres and proctors.

Notes

1. Students entering the Faculty of Arts prior to September 2004 should consult the ELPE Requirement as laid out in the Calendar of their year of entry.
2. Students who have written and failed the ELPE should enrol in ARTS 101 or the Writing Centre rather than attempt the ELPE again.
3. Students who have not completed the English Language Proficiency Requirement by the end of second year will have their future registrations cancelled and will be allowed to proceed only after successful completion of this requirement.
4. Students can arrange a special sitting of the ELPE outside of the scheduled dates. An administrative fee will be charged. Contact the Writing Centre directly.
5. A completed English Proficiency milestone on a student's academic record will indicate successful completion of this requirement.
6. Transfer credits cannot be used to satisfy the English Language Proficiency Requirement.