Placement FAQs
Common AEP Questions & Answers
Why am I required to take (an) AEP course(s)?
You haven't satisfied the UW English Language Proficiency Requirement (ELPR). (Learn more about the requirement for graduate students.) If you submitted results from one of the approved tests during application, the overall test score satisfied admission requirements but didn't satisfy the ELPR. You've already been placed into the AEP based on the test(s) subscores. To challenge your placement, you can take the same test again, or you can take one of the other approved tests.
Which test should I take?
The choice is yours. If you're not familiar with the approved English language proficiency exams, we suggest you take some time to review each: Duolingo English Test (DET), International English Language Testing System (IELTS), TOEFL iBT or TOEFL iBT Home Edition.
Can I take more than one of the approved tests?
Yes. For placement purposes, we'll use your best test scores (subscores).
Can I use subscores from two tests for different parts of AEP placement: Reading/Writing and Communication?
Yes. If one test provides a more advantageous placement in one area, we'll use scores from two different tests (e.g., IELTS scores for speaking and DET scores for reading/writing).
Is using these tests an accurate way of determining my placement into AEP courses?
Yes. We've been using most of these tests for placement for many years. We consider the results of the language tests to be secure, objective and reliable for AEP placement.
If I am enrolled in an AEP course, can I still submit new test scores to exempt out?
Yes, you can submit updated test scores at any time. If you are enrolled in an AEP course and receive an exempting score, you can withdraw from the course; however, University policies on course drop deadlines and refunds are still in effect. It’s always best to submit scores before the start of a new quarter.