Writing Competence Exam: Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to take the Writing Competence Exam (WCE)?

Albion College believes that continuous development as a writer is a central part of a liberal arts education. In order to graduate from Albion, ALL students must pass the Writing Competence Examination unless they received a 4 or 5 on the CEEB Advanced Placement test in English (see Registrar's page for details). Do not confuse the Writing Competence Exam with the SOAR English Placement Test: these are separate tests, and your results on one have no bearing on the other.

When should I take the WCE?

The Academic Catalog states that the exam must be taken before the middle of the sophomore year. Students who do not pass on their first attempt must try the examination a second time before the end of their sophomore year. In addition, students planning to study off campus must pass the WCE by the time they participate in their program.

What happens if I have not passed by the end of my sophomore year?

Students with 14.00+ units who have not taken and passed the Writing Competence Exam will be required to register for subsequent semesters with the sophomore class until they have passed the examination. The only exception to this rule is for those students who have made specific arrangements with the Writing Center to improve their writing skills, as outlined in the Academic Catalog.

Where do I go to sign up and is there a deadline?

Students must sign up using the online form. Sign-up deadline is 5 days prior the scheduled exam.

Is there a review session before each test?

Review Sessions are offered two days before each exam in Mudd 210 @ 6:30 PM—see schedule.

Where do I go to take the WCE?

See the schedule for specific locations and dates.

What do I bring with me to the WCE?

Your I.D. Card IS REQUIRED. Be sure to bring it with you. Please bring ball-point or fountain pens. PENCIL IS NOT ACCEPTABLE. You may bring your own dictionary, but no other books or papers.

When are students notified of their test results?

Students are usually sent their test results within three weeks. This time frame could change if a larger or smaller group of students takes the WCE on a given date.

Where do I get more information?

For more information, review the English Department web page and the Academic Catalog. If you still have questions AFTER reviewing all of this information, contact the English Dept. (x0232) or the Writing Center (x0828).

What are the WCE dates for the academic year?

The Writing Competence Exam is offered three times each semester—see schedule.