Exemption is uncommon.
Students with reported scores of 5 on the AP English examination will be automatically exempted from the General Education Composition requirement. Students who have equivalent high scores on the IB or the GCE A levels should consult with the head of the English Department about exemption. In all cases, students should make sure that their test scores or college transcripts are forwarded to Washington and Lee in advance of their arrival on campus. If the score or transcript has not arrived at the time of the placement exam, the student will be required to take the composition placement exam during freshman orientation, though their exemption may later be confirmed. Some students will be exempted from the composition requirement on the basis of their placement essay.