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Writing Requirement

All University of Oregon undergraduate students are required to pass two writing courses (WR 121z and WR 122z or WR 123) with the minimum grade of C- or P. Students are strongly advised to complete these courses by the end of their sophomore year.

Placement

Standardized test scores determine placement in the writing courses. Transfer students who have completed writing courses elsewhere should consult the Office of Admissions and Registrar for information about equivalency. In some cases, transfer courses are evaluated by the Director of Composition.

Exemptions

SAT and ACT scores can exempt a student from WR 121z or WR 122z. Advanced Placement Exams and International Baccalaureate exams can generate credit for composition courses. Students enrolled in the Honors College are exempt from the writing requirement. Students who drop the Honors College lose that exemption, but may satisfy the writing requirement with specific HC-prefixed courses with grades of mid-B or better in all courses. Honors College students should contact their advisor to find out more about which courses count toward the writing requirement.

Petitions

Petitions are for students who have transfer credit or courses in composition that may count for part of the writing requirement. Publications in academic journals or professional texts may also be considered as the basis for adjustments to the writing requirement. Petitions are designed to assist with students’ long-term planning rather than to resolve last-minute difficulties. Petition results are available 4-6 weeks after the petition is received.

Waivers

A no-credit waiver exam is offered during week one of fall, winter, and spring quarters at the UO Testing Center. Although open to any student, these exams are most appropriate for exceptionally proficient writers. The WR 122z waiver exam is available only to students who have completed or tested out of WR 121z. Students may not attempt both the WR 121z and the WR 122z exam during the same quarter. Students who do not pass their waiver exam may attempt the exam one additional time in a subsequent term. See the Testing Center website for further details and scheduling.