Welcome to the Writing Skills Program
The Writing Skills Program, a division of Academic Programs, oversees three separate programs: the English Placement Test (EPT), the Graduation Writing Requirement (GWR), and the University Writing Lab. The EPT and the GWR are CSU Trustee-mandated programs.
English Placement Test (EPT)
The CSU requires all first-time freshmen to take the EPT or show that they are exempt from it before they can enroll in classes. On the basis of their EPT scores, we place students in English courses that will help them begin college with a good background in reading and writing. If remedial work is necessary, students must fulfill all remedial requirements by the end of their first year or risk disqualification from the University.
Graduation Writing Requirement (GWR)
The GWR must be fulfilled by all Cal Poly students who are seeking a degree, including Masters degrees and teaching credentials. Undergraduate students must complete 90 units before they can fulfill the requirement. Visit the GWR page for more information on how to complete this requirement.
University Writing Lab
The University Writing Lab provides free, one-on-one writing tutoring to all Cal Poly students. The Lab services do not require appointments.
Contact Information
Administrative Coordinator: Marikay Pannone
Office: Erhart Agriculture Building (10), Room 130
Hours: Monday -Friday, 10am-12pm and 2pm-4pm
Phone: (805) 756-2067
Fax: (805) 756-7497
Email: writingskills@calpoly.edu