Frequently Asked Questions

• Do I have to take English 1 and 2? Most likely, yes. Two semesters of college writing are required for graduation in liberal arts. Engineering students must take one semester of college writing (either English 1 or English 3).
   
• Do I have to complete the writing requirement in my first year? Yes, except under extraordinary circumstances. Most students take English 1 (or English 3) in the fall semester and English 2 (or English 4) in the spring semester.
   
• Can I exempt out of the writing requirement? Yes, if you’ve met the following criteria:

  AP English Language & Composition and/or Literature
  Score of 4	Exemption from English 1 only
  Score of 5	Exemption from English 1 and 2
  SAT I Writing Section (new in 2005)
  Score of 760 or higher	Exemption from English 1 only
  SAT II Writing/English Composition (prior to 2005)
  Score of 760 or higher	Exemption from English 1 only
  British A-Level
  Grade of B	Exemption from English 1 only
  Grade of A	Exemption from English 1 and 2
  Higher Level International Baccalaureate
  Score of 5 or 6	Exemption from English 1 only
  Score of 7	Exemption from English 1 and 2
  Subsidiary Level International Baccalaureate
  Score of 6 or 7	Exemption from English 1 only
  NO OTHER EXEMPTIONS WILL BE GIVEN

   

• What are English 3 and 4? English 3 and English 4 also fulfill the writing requirement. They are designed for international students and those for whom English is an additional language.
   
• As an Engineering student who has fulfilled the writing requirement for the School of Engineering, may I take upper level English courses? Yes, you are able to register for classes for which "English 1 and 2" or "completion of the writing requirement" is a prerequisite.
   
• What courses are being offered this semester? Complete course descriptions and schedules can be found online (http://ase.tufts.edu/english/).
   
• Who do I contact with questions about the writing requirement? You can email, call, or stop by the English Department:

  210 East Hall
  Medford, MA 02155
  Office hours: Monday – Friday, 9-5.
  Email: firstyearwriting@tufts.edu
  Website: http://ase.tufts.edu/english

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