Writing and Learning Initiatives

Optimizing academic support and achievement

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Welcome to the Office of Writing and Learning Initiatives

Under the auspices of Academic Programs and Planning, the Office of Writing and Learning Initiatives supports student learning and achievement by coordinating a variety of programs and services.

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Experience a supportive learning environment

The center offers a unique opportunity for students across disciplines to share writing and learning strategies to meet the expectations of their course assignments.

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Fulfill the Graduation Writing Requirement

As a result of COVID-19 and the shift to virtual learning, the CSU Chancellor’s Office has issued a temporary suspension of in-person GWR testing. As such, Cal Poly's WPE has been replaced with a portfolio.

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Fall Quarter Updates


Writing and Learning Online Support 

September 14 - December 2

*Tutoring is virtual for fall quarter; for more information, click here.

Graduation Writing Requirement

*A GWR Portfolio has replaced the WPE; for more information, click here. 

Academic Preparation and Placement

Cal Poly adheres to the CSU's placement practice, which evaluates multiple measures of pre-college academic performance to determine placement in first-year English and math courses. Cal Poly also offers summer support courses in compliance with the CSU's Early Start Program to help incoming first-year students prepare for a successful college experience. For more information, click here.

Writing and Learning Center

The university's Writing and Learning Center intends to ensure optimal educational opportunities for diverse student populations through peer-to-peer support in reading comprehension, writing, test preparation, and various courses and subjects. Tutoring is free for all Cal Poly students and available online until further notice. For more information, click here.

Graduation Writing Requirement

All degree-seeking Cal Poly students, including a Master's degree or teaching credential, must fulfill the GWR.  Undergraduate students must complete 90 units before they can attempt to fulfill the requirement and should do so before the senior year. The two pathways to GWR completion are 1) in an approved upper-division course and 2) via the GWR Portfolio. For more information, click here.  

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