Frequently Asked Questions

• Q: What if I have problems logging in, registering, or submitting my essays?
• A: First of all, double check that you have your NetID and password correct. If you still have problems, you will need to contact Rice Web Services (webserv@rice.edu).
  
  
  
• Q: What are the possible scores on the Composition Examination?
• A: There are three scores:
  • Pass. Your essay was judged satisfactory.
  • Low Pass. You should improve your writing by choosing a course or courses in which you will write frequently and receive substantial feedback on your writing.
  • Not Satisfactory. You must enroll in COMM 103, Introduction to Argument and Academic Writing.
  
  
  
• Q: What happens if I score 5 on the AP Test on Language and Composition (or a score of 5 on the AP Test on Literature and Composition), but I do not receive a score of Pass or Low Pass on the CE?
• A: You will have to take COMM 103 (formerly English 103). Your score on the AP test in no way influences your score on the CE.
  
  
  
• Q: Do you accept the IB (International Baccalaureate) Exam in place of the Composition Exam?
• A: No. No other exam replaces the CE.
  
  
  
• Q: Do you accept high scores on the SAT in place of the CE?
• A: No. No other exam replaces the CE.
  
  
  
• Q: I took a class for college credit during high school or at another school before transferring to Rice. Can that substitute for the CE?
• A: No. Although you may be able to arrange transfer credit at Rice, classes taken during high school or at any other university will not substitute for the CE.
  
  
  
• Q: Can I use a computer at my local library/internet cafe to take the online CE?
• A: YES! Where you choose to write the exam is completely up to you.
  
  
  
• Q: What can I do if I miss the deadline for submitting my essays?
• A: You will need to send an e-mail to compexam@rice.edu to offer an explanation and receive instructions on what to do.
  
  
  
• Q: What if I do not have a Rice e-mail account?
• A: All students admitted to Rice are assigned an e-mail account as soon as they tell the Admission Office that they are coming. You will need to go the Esther to activate it at apply.rice.edu.
  
  
  
• Q: What if I am going out of town for the summer and will not have access to a computer or e-mail?
• A: You should do your best to complete the exam before you go. In special cases, we can arrange to allow you to complete the exam earlier than the posted first round dates.
  
  
  
• Q: Isn't it true that all students pass this exam?
• A: No, it is not true. Some students do not receive a passing score. Some receive a non-satisfactory (NS) because their writing ability does not meet the high level of writing expected at Rice, but unfortunately, many receive an NS because of not taking the exam seriously, being careless, not allowing enough time, or not properly handling or documenting the readings. The CE is a demanding essay, and although most high school students have written argumentative essays and many have written a research paper of some sort, many may still not be comfortable weaving secondary sources into their own writing or working with sources and synthesizing complex ideas into one coherent discussion.  Therefore, you should take the exam seriously and allow adequate time to do your best.

• Q:  If I miss taking the Comp Exam during the summer, can’t I make it up during O-Week?

• A: We will not be administering an exam during O-Week this year; therefore, if you miss the summer exam, you will need to register for COMM 103, preferably during your first year at Rice.  COMM 103 is an advanced course in college writing that is highly recommended for all students.  Many students who pass the Comp Exam take the class; however, passing the Comp Exam provides you an opportunity to place out of it.