Why does the University of Waterloo require a demonstration of English proficiency?
Excellent writing skills are commensurate with the high standards of the University of Waterloo. There is no program which will not require students to demonstrate written communication skills; the ELPE can be considered a diagnostic tool to let students (and their Faculties) know whether students’ writing skills need to be improved. It is crucial that students be informed if their writing skills are not at the University’s academic standard. The examination also tests students’ ability to think reflectively and critically under a time constraint—which is another crucial academic skill.
