The CSU requires new students to be tested in English as soon as possible after they are admitted and before enrolling at a CSU campus. The test is used to determine whether students are prepared for college work; and if they are not, to place the students in appropriate remediation courses or activities. Students may be exempt from the test if they have scored well on other specified tests or have completed appropriate courses.

PURPOSE OF THE EPT

The EPT is designed to assess the level of reading and writing skills of entering undergraduate students so that they can be placed in appropriate baccalaureate courses. Those undergraduate students who do not demonstrate college-level skills will be enrolled in courses or programs designed to help them gain these skills. (The test is not part of the admission requirements to the CSU, but it is a condition of enrollment if the student is not exempt.) Students may take the EPT only once. It may not be repeated. There is an $18 charge to take the test.

WHO MUST TAKE THE EPT

The CSU English Placement Test (EPT) must be completed by all entering undergraduates, with the exception of those who present proof of one of the following:

• a score of 550 or above on the College Board SAT: Critical Reading section taken April 1995 or later
• a score of 24 or above on the enhanced ACT English Test taken October 1989 or later
• a score of 680 or above on the SAT Writing section
• a score of 3, 4, or 5 on either the Language and Composition or Literature and Composition examination of the College Board Advanced Placement Program Tests
• completion and transfer to the CSU of a college course that satisfies the General Education-Breadth requirement or the Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum requirement in English Composition, provided such a course was completed with a grade of C or better.

CSU ENGLISH SUCCESS WEBSITE

To support you in preparing to meet the EPT Requirement, the California State University has developed the English Success Website.

On this site you will find:

• Information about the CSU English Placement Test (EPT) Requirement
• A personalized roadmap with an interactive checklist to track your progress
• Information about the EPT test including practice problems and assessments
• Video testimonials of students