General FAQs

I am trying to register for the course into which I placed, but I am denied access. What should I do? It is possible that there is an error in your social security number or some other reason the system is not recognizing that you are eligible. See the English Placement Coordinator at your college to check your records. Contacts

Can't I use my ACT or SAT scores instead of writing a placement essay? No. ACT and SAT scores are used for college admission, but they are not used for English course placement.

I took AP English in high school. Do I still have to take the English Placement Assessment? Yes, unless you score 3 or higher on the AP English Test.

If I took the placement tests several years ago, do I have to take them again? Yes, if you have not taken them within the last 24 months.

What if I took English Placement tests at another college? If you completed English placement at any University of Cincinnati college within the last 24 months, your English placement will be in the system. If you took a placement test at another institution, you need to write the UC English Placement Essay.

What if I have taken developmental English at another college or university? If taken at UC, the courses count. We do not accept courses below English 101 from another institution.

If I place into a preparatory class, but I think I am ready for English Composition, can I take English Composition I and see how I do? No, we have to enforce mandatory placement for everyone if it is to be fair. If you strongly believe your placement essay did not reflect your ability, you may appeal English Placement. See How To Appeal English Placement.

What if the course I am supposed to take is full or not offered at a time I can take it? We offer as many sections as we think we can fill and staff, but unfortunately our scheduling does not work for everyone. Your advisor will try to help you with your schedule. If you cannot find a course this term, you will need to wait until next quarter. Be sure to register early.

Can I take a lower course than the one into which I placed? See the English Placement Coordinator at your college to discuss this request. You will not be able to register for a lower course without special permission.

If I am currently taking a preparatory English course, can I register for the next course during priority registration? Yes. If you are currently enrolled in a pre-requisite course, the system will allow you to register for the next course during priority registration. If you receive a C- or higher in your current course, you will be allowed to remain in the next course. If you receive an NP, UW, W, D, F, or I in your current course, you will be withdrawn from the next course and only be eligible to re-take the current course.