Placement and Credit-By-Exam Options
Placement options
We have different placement mechanisms in place to help students enroll in the course that best serves their needs. Please note that most sections of English 102 are offered in spring semester — if you have already completed English 101 or have otherwise placed into English 102 before the fall semester, you will likely need to wait until the spring semester to complete English 102.
Traditional test-score placement
If you took the ACT or SAT or have Advanced Placement credit from taking the English AP Exam, then you can choose to place into the core writing courses via these scores. If you have test scores and they place you in the course you think is most appropriate for you, then this is an easy option. Note: you need to submit your official test scores to the University of Nevada, Reno in order for them to be used for placement.
| Course | ACT English | SAT ERW | AP English and Composition |
|---|---|---|---|
| ENG 100I | Less than 18 | Less than 480 | N/A |
| ENG 101/113 | 18-29 | 480-659 | Less than 3 |
| ENG 102/114 | 30 or higher | 660 or higher | 3 or higher |
Directed self-placement
If you do not have ACT or SAT scores or feel your test scores don’t adequately reflect your abilities as a writer (learn how scores are used for placement), then complete directed self-placement. This involves taking a short survey that helps you decide which writing class is best for you. Note: there are no additional fees required for the survey. Directed self-placement (DSP) will allow you to choose between ENG 100I, 101 and 113 (102 has a separate placement process). If you already have a NSHE ID# and are interested in this option, complete the DSP Survey.
Portfolio placement for 102
If you feel that you are ready to go straight into ENG 102, the second writing course in our two-course sequence, then you may choose to submit a portfolio of writing samples accompanied by a cover letter that demonstrates and explains how you have met the student learning outcomes for ENG 101. Note: this option requires payment of a $40 fee; placing into 102 is not guaranteed. Learn more about this option for the portfolio placement for 102.
Credit-by-exam for 102
If you are confident that you are ready for college-level writing and do not need to complete a Core Writing course, then you may choose to submit a portfolio of writing samples accompanied by a cover letter that demonstrates and explains how you have met the student learning outcomes for ENG 102. Note: this option requires approval from Admissions and Records and payment of a $25 fee; the threshold for passing is high and is not guaranteed. Learn more about credit-by-exam for 102.