Test & GPA Requirements

Graduate Writing Assessment Requirement (GWAR)

All CSULB students must complete the Graduation Writing Assessment Requirement (GWAR) by taking the GWAR Proficiency Exam (GPE). Students coming in as freshmen must attempt the GPE before they earn 50 units. Transfer students must attempt the GPE in their first semester of attendance. You can sign up for the GPE through Testing and Evaluation Services.

If you do not take the GPE at the designated time in your academic career, a registration hold will be placed on your record. For further questions, please visit the GWAR website.

GPA Requirements

There are three GPAs that are used by CSULB to evaluate your academic progress:

  • Overall GPA – includes all coursework including transferable courses from other institutions (2.00 is required for graduation)
  • CSULB GPA – includes all coursework completed at CSULB, does not include transferable coursework from other institutions (2.00 is required for graduation)
  • Major Cumulative GPA – includes all coursework for the major including transferable coursework from other institutions (2.00 is required for graduation)

For a breakdown of how to calculate a GPA, visit Understanding Grades and Grading. If you still need help calculating your GPA, meet with an advisor.