The English Department at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas

Writing Programs

English Composition Placement

Initial Placement: Initial placement in English Composition courses is determined by a student's test scores as follows:

English 098: ACT English score of 20 - 0 OR SAT Verbal or Critical Reading score of 500 - 0

English 101E: ACT English score of 17 - 20 OR SAT Verbal or Critical Reading score of 400 - 500
English 101: ACT English score of 21 - 29 OR SAT Verbal or Critical Reading score of 510 - 670

English 102: ACT English score of 30 - 36 OR SAT Verbal/Critical Reading score of 680 - 800

Students who score sufficiently well on the ACT or SAT to waive ENG 101 need take only ENG 102.

ACT Residual Test Option:
Students who have not taken the ACT or the SAT, or who wish to try to improve their score, can take the ACT English Residual Exam at the University College on scheduled dates each semester for placement in UNLV English Composition courses. To register, go to University College, FDH 452. A registration fee of $50 is due at the time of registration. The scores are available within two working days. For additional information and to check their current exam schedule, call the University College at 895-3177 or their testing information line at 895-3800.

Writing Samples and Placement Portfolios: Students who feel that their standardized test scores do not accurately reflect their writing ability may submit a portfolio which contains:

A cover letter from the student describing the essays in the portfolio and explaining what they show about her or his ability as a writer.
Two or three typed, revised essays of at least 500 words each. Essays should be clearly focused around a central idea, developed with specific examples, and observe the conventions of standard written English. Research is not required, but if sources are used, they must be acknowledged.
A timed essay administered by the UNLV Composition Department. Students will choose one of two short articles to read and respond to in a focused, developed essay. The timed essay should demonstrate an accurate understanding of the reading and the ability to respond to the topic with a clear thesis and specific supporting details from the student’s own experience. Students may bring dictionaries.

Call the Composition Office (895-3165) for additional information and a schedule of test dates.

A $20 fee is charged to cover the payment of instructors who proctor the timed writing and evaluate the portfolios and timed essays. Results are sent by email within a week after portfolio is submitted.

First Day Diagnostics: Students who enroll in ENG 101E will complete a diagnostic essay the first day of class. Students whose writing demonstrates weaknesses in basic language skills will be advised to switch to an ENG 98 class before the final add/drop date. ENG 98 will be offered by CSN during the Fall and Spring semesters.

Course Descriptions for Composition Courses