I can't agree with you more. I still have the same question though; what can I do to help them? In my opinion, most all of these students have a real problem admitting that they have a problem; embarassment, or whatever. Of course, I have office hours and am available to them; but, I don't have the skillset to help someone become with basic reading a writing skills. Heck, I'd probably do more damage. There is always the option of a "verbal" test; but, as you pointed out, they've paid 40K for the education. And, whoever hires them expects them to be able to read, to comprehend, and to take action based upon the written instructions that they've received. I remember when I went to U of MD every student had to take and pass an english profeciency exam. Maybe, we should employ the same philosophy. As I remember, this wasn't a simple test - it was rather detailed. My thinking is that if the first attempt is failed, then we offer a remedial course to bring them up to speed and to ensure they truly get their 40K education. If we can't catch the issue prior to enrollment, then we can still ensure that we not only catch the problem during the course of instruction; but, that we provide a way to bring them up to the level that they need to be. I also think that if remedial education is required, then we should provide that course (and materials) for free. Include it in the overhead costs - I'm guessing the overall cost would be fairly minimal. Thoughts? As a note, I'm enjoying this discussion. Perhaps, we can come up with a solution... jay