English Proficiency Exam

What is the English Proficiency Examination?

The English Proficiency Examination (EPE) is a writing exercise designed to assess a student’s writing proficiency. The student selects a topic from the list of topics provided at the examination. On the selected topic, the student must write an essay which contains an introductory paragraph with a clearly stated and relevant thesis, two to four paragraphs of adequate support, and an appropriate and relevant concluding paragraph. The essay is evaluated in terms of development, unity, coherence, clarity/logic, correct grammar and usage, and proper mechanics..

Who must take the EPE?

All undergraduate students who have received a grade of "C" or better in ENGL 101 and ENGL 102 (or equivalent transferred course[s]) must take and pass the EPE in order to graduate from BSU.

When should students take the EPE?

Students must take the EPE upon completion of ENGL 102. Transfer students who completed their English composition requirements at another university must take the EPE during their first semester of enrollment at Bowie State University.

How do students register for the EPE?

Students entering the University for the first time Fall 2017 or after, are not required to complete the English Proficiency Exam (EPE) as a graduation requirement. Students entering the University Prior to Fall 2017 who are eligible to take the EPE (completion of ENGL 102 or transfer of equivalent course) must register via Bulldog Connection as you would normally for a course during the University’s scheduled registration period (beginning immediately after Academic Advising Week). Once registered, students must take the exam at the time for which they scheduled (your exam date and time will appear in the notes section).

What must students bring to the examination?

Each student must bring to the examination two No. 2 pencils and a form of identification with a photograph (BSU ID, Driver's License, etc.). Effective April, 2014, students will no longer have to purchase and bring 2 blue books; these will be provided by Testing Services. No dictionaries or thesauruses are permitted. Scratch paper will be provided. Electronic devices, books, pocketbooks, bags, etc. are not permitted in the testing area -- only your photo ID, UTS-supplied blue books, and pen/pencil are permitted in the testing area.

How much time do students have to complete the EPE?

Students have a maximum of two hours in which to complete the EPE. However, they must set aside three hours. During the first 45 minutes of the three hours, students are processed to take the exam. To ensure admission into the testing room, students must be at the testing site no later than the published starting time for check-in. The exam will begin promptly at its scheduled time. No student will be permitted to enter the testing room once the exam begins.

Is there a way to prepare for the EPE?

The Department of English and Modern Languages provides workshops on taking the EPE. The Workshops are conducted by the Writing Lab in the MLK building, room 204.  For additional information about attending the workshops or to schedule tutoring sessions, please contact the Writing Center staff at 301-860-3720.

2020 English Proficiency Exam (EPE) Spring Schedule

First Eight-Week Session

TBD
James E. Proctor, Jr. Building Room 104 

TBD
James E. Proctor, Jr. Building Room 104