Proficiency Test Procedures for English 101

The Communication Skills Department offers a proficiency test for English 101.

This proficiency test requires the student to set aside a 3-hour block of time between 8:00am and 7:30pm, Monday through Friday. The student must have completed the prerequisite: testing into English 101 on the COMPASS test or completing DEV 041 with a “C” and successful exit test or passing DEV 042 with a “C.” Prior to the exam, the student must pay the proficiency exam fee of $50 at the Cashier’s Office in the basement of Madison Hall and bring the receipt to the Communication Skills secretary in Nestor Hall 420 at the time of the exam.

Several days prior to taking the test, the student should pick up a reading selection (attached) to be used for the exam and bring that reading to the exam. He or she is permitted to bring a dictionary, thesaurus, and writing handbook to the English 101 exam. Essays written for the exam must meet the standards described on the attached grading criteria page. No other materials are permitted in the exam. All paper or exam booklets will be provided by the department.

The exam has 4 sections:

• Editing and Correction
• Evaluating Thesis Statements
• Responding to Reading
• Writing the Expository Essay

No exam may be taken if the student has already registered for and completed the course. No exam may be retaken if it is failed. Not more than one exam may be taken per day.

Once the exam begins, the student may not leave the exam area until it is completed. Leaving the area invalidates the test, and it may not be retaken.

At least two Communication Skills faculty members independently grade each exam. Evaluators must agree on the pass/fail status of the exam. If necessary, the exam is referred to a third evaluator who makes a final determination. Exam results are normally available within one week after the exam is completed. The student will be notified of the results by phone or mail. Results of the exam are not subject to appeal.

For additional information or to schedule an appointment, call 287-2531 or 287-3630.

If you have any questions about this site, please contact Dr. Douglas Gray, Department Web Site Administrator.