TSI Passing Scores – Understanding the Scoring System of the Texas Success Initiative Assessment

What Is the TSI Exam?

What if you’re below the tsi score range, frequently asked questions, final thoughts, tsi passing scores – understanding the scoring system of the texas success initiative assessment.

Updated November 18, 2023

Nikki Dale

The Texas Success Initiative (TSI) Assessment was created by the Texas Success Initiative to give higher education institutions in Texas a way of determining whether a student is ready for college.

The assessment is an online, computer-adaptive test, which means that the difficulty of the questions adapts according to your performance.

If you answer questions correctly, the questions get harder, but if you struggle, the next question will be easier.

The TSI covers reading, writing, and mathematics skills.

Understanding what the scores in the TSI mean for you and for your college career is important so that you can decide on your next steps.

In this article, you will learn what you can expect from your score report, how to read it, and what it means.

If you do not have an exemption, you will be required to take the TSIA as part of your college application.

You need to take part in the Mandatory Pre-Assessment Activity, documented by the college you have applied for, to ensure that you are ready for the test.

During this you will:

  • Receive an explanation about the importance of the TSIA
  • Take some practice tests and receive feedback
  • Get an explanation of the options available to you if you don’t meet the minimum standards, as well as some information about campus or community resources that you can turn to for help.

The TSIA has three subtests. You will take them online, and the majority of the assessment consists of multiple-choice questions that are aligned with the Texas College and Career Readiness Standards.

You are not timed when completing the TSIA, and you can stop and start if needed as you take the test (apart from the essay writing portion).

TSI Practice with TestPrepOnline

TSI Assessment in Mathematics

In the test, there are 20 multiple choice questions.

These are computer-adaptive, and your performance will change the difficulty of the questions to suit your proficiency.

You will be evaluated on the following areas of math:

  • Elementary Algebra and Functions
  • Intermediate Algebra and Functions
  • Geometry and Measurements
  • Data Analysis, Statistics, and Probability

If your results from the main test do not meet the benchmark score as you are completing the test, you will be directed to complete a Diagnostic Test.

This is an additional 10 questions on each section of the assessment.

TSI Assessment in Reading

The placement test in reading has 24 multiple-choice questions that work in the same way as in the mathematics test.

You will be evaluated on the following:

  • Literary Analysis
  • Main idea and Supporting Details
  • Inferences in a Text
  • Author’s Use of Language

If your performance is below the benchmark for the assessment by the end of the test, you will need to take some additional Diagnostic questions, 12 in each section for a total of 48 more questions.

TSI Assessment in Writing

This assessment has two parts; the first is a multiple-choice test, like the others, in which you will be expected to answer 20 questions.

These cover the following areas:

  • Essay Revision
  • Sentence Structure
  • Sentence Logic

If your performance in the multiple-choice section of the assessment is not going to meet the benchmark set, then you will need to complete the Diagnostic test which consists of 12 more questions in each subject area, for a total of 48.

The second part of the Writing TSIA is the essay .

You will be asked to create a five-paragraph essay (about 300 to 600 words) on a contentious issue or something in the news.

You will have to present a main idea or an argument with supporting details and specific examples.

You are marked on your development of a point of view, avoiding errors in word choice and spelling, and how organized your writing is.

TSI Passing Scores

The scores from the TSIA are valid for five years, and the benchmarks for college admissions are below.

Tests Taken Before 01/11/2021

To be considered ready for college on the TSIA assessments taken before 01/11/2021, you need to have achieved the following scores:

  • Mathematics: Minimum score of 350
  • Reading: Minimum score of 351
  • Writing: Minimum score of 340 in the multiple-choice assessment and TSI essay score range of 4 to 8

You don’t need to achieve the highest TSI score possible to be considered college ready.

If you do not achieve these scores, the Diagnostic Test results can earn you admission – more on this later.

Tests Taken After 01/11/2021

The revised test (TSIA2) was first taken after January 11, 2021, and the benchmark scores for admission to college are as follows:

  • Mathematics: At least 950, or less than 950 and a Diagnostic Test level 6
  • English Language, Arts and Reading (ELAR): 945 in the multiple-choice section and an essay score of 5 to 8 or less than 945, a Diagnostic Test level 5 or 6, and an essay score of 5 to 8.

TSI Passing Scores – Understanding the Scoring System of the Texas Success Initiative Assessment

If you want 12-month access to all the practice resources for this test, our partner TestPrep-Online.com offers a Family Membership . Family Membership gives you access to all the TestPrep-Online resources for the next 12 months. You will also get two separate accounts, which can be very helpful if you have two children preparing for their tests.

Get a Family Membership with 12-Month Access.

Understanding the TSI Score Range

Tsi score range – pre-2021 tests, tsi math passing score.

In the pre-2021 assessment, you will be considered college ready if you score between 350 and 390 in the math assessment.

This can be considered a TSI Math passing score.

If your TSI math score is less than 349, you might be offered a development course or admitted to college with a developmental education course to take alongside your usual studies.

TSI Reading Passing Score

You will be considered college ready if you score between 351 and 390 in the Reading assessment.

This can be considered a TSI Reading passing score.

If you score less than 350, you might be offered a development course or admitted to college with a developmental education course to take alongside your usual studies.

TSIA Writing

You will be considered college ready if your TSI test scores are between 340 and 390 in the multiple-choice assessment, with an essay score of 5 or more, or a multiple-choice score of 363 to 390 and an essay score of 4 or more.

TSI Score Range – Post-2021 Tests

On the newer TSIA2 test, the scores are presented in a more in-depth report.

You will see College Readiness Classification (CRC) scores for Mathematics, ELAR and Essay, as well as Diagnostic Test scores, if taken.

TSIA2 Mathematics

If you score a CRC of 950 to 990, you are considered to be college ready.

This is considered a TSIA2 math passing score.

Another TSIA2 math passing score would be if you get a score below 950, but also get a Diagnostic Test score of 6. With this, you will also be considered college ready.

TSIA2 ELAR and Essay

If you score a CRC of 945 to 990 and an essay score of 5 to 8, you will be considered college ready.

If you score below 945 and get a Diagnostic Score of 5 to 6 and an essay score of 5 to 8, you will also be considered college ready.

The Score Report

Aside from the CRC and Diagnostic Test scores, the TSIA2 score report also provides a diagnostic profile based on performance descriptors, which puts you into a category of either basic, proficient, or advanced.

Each section will also have statements that describe your strengths and weaknesses in that particular category.

If your score report shows that you have scored beneath the benchmarks, you will also be provided with free, curated access to TSIA2 learning resources through a specific link.

About the Essay Scores

The essay sections on both the TSIA and the TSIA2 are scored in the same way – on a scale of 1 to 8.

Essays are automatically marked by comparing them to at least 500 other student essays that have been marked by two expert human reviewers.

This takes errors, awareness, and ideas into account to place the essay on this scale.

The basic score descriptors are as follows:

When it comes to your scores, here is a basic rundown of what some mean:

Essay Score 1 – No Mastery

  • Severely flawed
  • Lacks a viable point of view
  • No awareness of audience
  • No main idea
  • Disorganized and disjointed
  • Fundamental errors in things like word choice and sentence structure, as well as spelling and grammar

Essay Score 4 – Developing Mastery

  • Developing a viable point of view
  • May stray from audience or purpose
  • Although there is some critical thinking, evidence and examples are inconsistent and inadequate
  • There might be a lack of organizational control, and focus might lapse
  • Some errors in grammar and sentence construction

Essay Score 5 – Average Mastery

  • Demonstrates a viable point of view
  • Although straying from purpose, can demonstrate refocus
  • Competent critical thinking with good examples and other evidence
  • Organized and focused, but may lack coherence
  • Some variety in sentence structure
  • Minor spelling, grammar and punctuation errors

Essay Score 8 – Clear and Consistent Mastery

  • Point of view developed effectively
  • Demonstrates clear purpose and understanding of audience
  • Excellent critical thinking
  • Well-organized and clearly focused
  • Varied and skillful use of language
  • Free of major errors

If you are close to the benchmark scores in the TSI, you will be invited to complete the Diagnostic Exam (DE) as part of the assessment, which can boost your score and tip you over the edge.

The DE places your scores on the extra questions on a scale too. This can range from 1 to 15 and is shown as a color-coded result for each section.

The colors are as follows:

  • Red = Needs Improvement
  • Orange = Limited Proficiency
  • Green = Proficient

However, if you don’t make it through on the first attempt, you can retake the TSI assessments.

You need to make sure that you take advantage of the resources made available to you on your score report to improve your knowledge and skills before you take the test again.

Do I Have to Take the TSI Exam?

Not everyone needs to take the TSIA to be eligible for admission to college.

There are some exemptions that mean you are not required to take one or both of the tests.

The requirements are also valid for five years, and are described below.

  • ACT combined score of 40 in English and Reading (E + R) tests = exempt from ELAR
  • ACT score of 22 on Mathematics = exempt from Mathematics

Other Categories for Exemption

  • SAT administered March 2016 or later: 530 or more in Math = exempt from Mathematics
  • Served for at least three years before enrolment, a veteran, on active duty, or a member of the reserves
  • Transferred from another institution having completed college level coursework
  • Enrolled in a level one certificate program at a public institution

What is a normal TSI score?

TSI scores are used to evaluate college readiness, and that means that when you are looking for a ‘normal’ TSI score, you want to know the benchmark score that will make you eligible.

For TSIA passing scores, that is a score above 350 for math, 351 for reading, and 340 plus an essay score of 5 or more.

For the TSIA2, it’s a score of 950 on Math, a score of 945 on the ELAR, and an essay score of 5 or more that you should be aiming for.

What is a good TSI score?

A good TSI score is one that achieves or beats the benchmarks set for college readiness.

These TSI passing scores (or benchmark scores) need to be met or exceeded for you to be considered ready to start a college course:

  • TSIA: Math 350/Reading 351/Writing 340 and essay score 5+
  • TSIA2: Math 950/ELAR 945 and essay score 5+

Is the TSI a pass-or-fail test?

To pass the TSI test, you need to achieve or exceed the benchmark scores set by the Texas Success Initiative.

If you pass, you will be considered eligible for college. If you do not reach these scores, you may not be eligible for college.

Is a 930 a good TSI score?

A score of 930 on the CRC in either Math or ELAR is not considered to be a good score; you will need to get a DE score of 6 or more to be considered ready for college.

Is 950 a passing TSI score?

In both the TSI Math and ELAR, a score of 950 is considered to be a good score. This is the minimum score for Math and just above the minimum score for ELAR that you need to achieve to be considered ready for college.

Which SAT score exempts you from the TSI?

To be exempt from the Math section of the TSI, you need to have achieved a SAT score of 530 or more (in tests administered after March 2016).

What happens if you fail the TSI?

If you fail the TSI, you will have the opportunity to retake it; but make sure that you take advantage of all the resources you are provided with to help improve your score.

In some cases, your failing score can be improved if you score highly in the Diagnostic Evaluation portion of the assessment and can demonstrate particular skills.

The Texas Success Institute Assessment is a test that is used to ensure that students who are looking to start a course in higher education have the necessary skills and abilities to succeed in college – and to support those who might not quite qualify.

The test itself is relatively simple in both content and structure, but the way the scores are reported can be confusing, so you need to know what you are looking for when you are reading your personalized report.

You might also be interested in these other Psychometric Success articles:

How to Pass the ACCUPLACER Test in 2024: Study Guide

Or explore the Aptitude Tests / Test Types sections.

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  • Testing Center/Proctored Exams
  • Texas Success Initiative (TSI) Assessment

The TSI Assessments measure college readiness in reading, writing, and math. The scores are used for college placement purposes. Examinees take a placement test of 20-25 items per section. Those students who do not score at the college-ready level on the math or reading placement test will take the diagnostic test in order to gain detailed information regarding the academic strengths and weaknesses of the student in that subject area. You may be asked to submit an essay when their is a Writing multiple choice. The Writing multiple-choice test must always be administered in conjunction with the essay, except in re-test scenarios.

If you are an incoming college student in Texas, you are required to take the TSI Assessment, unless you are already exempt, in order to determine your readiness for college–level work. For more information about Texas A&M University-Central Texas enrollment requirements and to determine if you are exempt from taking the TSI Assessment, please visit the Undergraduate Admissions webpage.

Scores and Developmental Resources

Entering college students are required to take the TSI Mathematics, Reading, Writing, and WritePlacer® placement tests, and those who do not meet the approved college-readiness cut scores are required to take either the TSI DE diagnostic tests or the ABE diagnostic tests depending on their placement test score.

If you do not meet the cut scores mentioned above and do not meet any of the exemption requirements, you can do the following:

  • Re-take the test(s) until you reach the passing score(s).
  • Contact the Undergraduate Academic Advising to help you develop an academic plan. It may be necessary for you to take a lower-level course at a 2 year undergraduate college to meet TSI requirement(s).

Preparing for the TSI Assessment

The College Board offers several free and paid TSIA learning tools that are designed to help students focus in areas where their academic performance may need improvement. For more information about the TSI exam and to access study tools and a free Study App please visit their website.

To Schedule an Exam

Step 1 complete online request.

Fill out the online request form. All testing requests need to be submitted at least 3 business days before the day of the test. If submitted in less than 3 business days, the Testing Center cannot guarantee the administration of your exam.

Step 2 Complete Pre-Assessment Activity Form

Complete the Pre-Assessment Activity by clicking on the link below.

Step 3 Pay Administration Fee

There is a $25 administration fee for the TSI exam.

Please use following link for payment: https://commerce.cashnet.com/TAMUCTGRE

Step 4 Take the Exam

Arrive at the Testing Center at least 15 minutes prior to the scheduled start time with a photo ID (see below) and your receipt for payment.

Accepted Forms of Photo ID

  • Current Driver License
  • Current State Issued ID
  • Current Student ID
  • Current Passport
  • Current Military ID
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Phone: 254.501.5830
  • Fax: 254.501.5807

Hours and Location

By appointment only..

  • Monday - Friday: 9 am to 5 pm
  • Room: WH 212C
  • Testing Center Guidelines
  • Proctored Exams

Virtual Advisor

Special preparations for April 8

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A&M–Central Texas is making special preparations for April 8.

Students : Please note that the university is not holding any campus-wide events or on-campus classes on Monday, April 8, even though the campus will technically remain open for required services. Classes are not canceled, but they will be conducted as remote sessions unless otherwise stated by course faculty. Faculty will provide information on course requirements and assignments. Security/UPD and facilities services will be on campus that date.

All visitors : Most university employees will be working remotely with very limited on-campus availability. Please call ahead to confirm in-person campus appointments. The University Library and Archives will be closed, but reference librarians will be monitoring online chat requests.

Find more information on faculty, staff and class availability on Monday .

Updated: 7:35 am April 4

TSI Practice Test

TSI Essay Sample

Below is a high-scoring TSI sample essay for your review. This response is based on our TSI Practice Essay . We recommend that you type your own essay before you read this TSI essay example. Following the sample essay there is a commentary which explains why it would earn a high score.

TSI Sample Essay Commentary

This response would earn a score of 8. Even though the TSI essay is scored holistically (meaning as a whole, not by its parts), let’s look at a detailed explanation of how this essay scored well in each of the essay criteria:

Purpose and focus The writer begins their essay by introducing the problem, that schools are being forced to cut programs that they view as “non-essential.” This idea becomes the basis for the rest of the writer’s essay as they explore all the reasons why art classes should be considered “essential.” They address the problem head on, show that they understand the complexity of the issues, and take a stance. Throughout the essay, the writer uses effective examples to defend art classes, making sure to consistently refer back to the problem: people should value art classes. In the conclusion, the writer admits that core classes are also important (a point that would likely be argued by someone on the opposing side of this issue), but stresses the importance of art classes and even offers some potential solutions that would be acceptable by people on both sides of the argument.

Organization and structure The writer provides a traditional and extremely effective organization to their essay. Their introduction paints a portrait of the problem and offers a clear stance. The body paragraphs each provide a different reason that people should agree with the writer. The conclusion brings the argument to a nice finish with a concession and reaffirmation of the writer’s originally idea. Additionally, the writer uses effective transitions, like “as a matter of fact,” “not only do art classes…,” and “despite the benefits of…” to link their paragraphs together and make their writing fluid and convincing.

Development and support Each body paragraph contains a separate, but related, argument that effectively supports the writer’s main point. While the writer could have been more specific in their examples, they do a good enough job explaining each point that it is still very effective. The writer also varies their examples well, explaining how art classes can nurture innovative thinkers who improve society, how art classes help students with traditional critical thinking skills, and how art classes can help improve the morale and overall happiness of students. Varying their argument as such helps the writer convince even the harshest critics of art programs.

Sentence variety and style The writer uses varied sentence structure to craft a style that is engaging and convincing. The writer uses a very conversational tone to relate to the readers, but also makes sure to use elevated language to show readers that the writer’s opinion is valid and well thought-out.

Mechanical Conventions While this essay response may not be perfect, there are no noticeable mistakes in mechanics or conventions. The writer effectively displays their command of the rules of the English language.

Critical thinking This response displays a high level of critical thinking. The writer looks at several different angles when they approach the problem. For readers who may criticize art classes for being unimportant, the writer explains that independent and divergent thinking is what helps societies grow and develop. For readers who may laud core classes over all else, the writer discusses the critical thinking skills art students must develop and how these skills can be extremely helpful in core classes. The writer even discusses how art classes can help improve the mental health of students. By discussing the problem from many different perspectives, the writer is able to reach more readers and be far more persuasive.

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Texas Success Initiative (TSI)

All incoming students, unless exempt, take the Texas Success Initiatives Assessment (TSIA2) . This assessment evaluates your skill levels in mathematics, reading, and writing so we can set you up for academic success by placing you in the appropriate course program.

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Schedule Your TSIA2

The texas success initiative (tsi) became effective sept. 1, 2003. this initiative requires that incoming students, unless exempt, be assessed for college readiness in the areas of reading, mathematics, and writing. .

Students must demonstrate college readiness (area by area) before being allowed to enroll in college-level courses with a certain area skill requirement. College readiness is demonstrated by: 

  • Prior college-level coursework with a grade of D or higher
  • Passing an approved assessment test
  • Successful completion of college preparatory coursework with a grade of C or higher

Students that don't pass an area of the assessment are not allowed to enroll in college-level classes with certain skill requirements until those college readiness requirements are met. Students can meet the skills requirement by completing the sequence of college preparatory courses for that area or by passing a retest of the assessment . 

Incoming students who are not exempt, and who have not met TSI testing requirements, must meet with an educational planner/counselor, admission, or ACT advisor. This appointment will help determine if you must take an assessment test.

TSI Exemptions

If students have met one of the following conditions, they are exempt from the provisions of the Texas Success Initiative:

  • Have graduated with an associate degree or higher from a regionally accredited institution of higher education.
  • Are serving on active duty as a member of the Armed Forces of the United States, in the Texas National Guard, or as a member of a Reserves unit of the Armed Forces of the United States. Exemptions are also given for those who have been serving for at least three years preceding enrollment, or were honorably discharged, retired, or released on or after Aug. 1, 1990.
  • Have previously met TASP requirements or were exempt from the TASP.
  • ACT composite score of 23 or higher on the PLAN with an English score of 19 or higher, or an English score of 435 on the ACT-Aspire.  ACT composite score of 23 or higher on the PLAN with a 19 or higher in mathematics, or a mathematics score of 431 on the ACT-Aspire. (Scores are valid for five years from the date of testing. Scores on a residual ACT are not acceptable for TSI exemption.)
  • Students who took the SAT test prior to March 5, 2016 may use the following scores : Combined critical reading (formerly "verbal") and mathematics score of 1070 with a minimum of 500 on the critical reading test can be exempt for both reading and writing sections of the TSI Assessment, and/or 500 on the mathematics tests can be exempt for the mathematics section of the TSI Assessment.
  • Exit-level TAKS mathematics score of 2200 or higher and a language arts score of 2200 or higher with an essay score of 3 or higher. Scores are valid for five years from the date of testing .
  • Transfer from a regionally accredited institution of higher education and have satisfactorily (with a grade of D or higher) completed college-level coursework related to a skill area(s). Students who have not completed coursework related to all skill areas must be assessed in the unmet area(s) and must participate in college preparatory studies if the area(s) is not met on the test.
  • Have attended any regionally accredited institution of higher education and have been determined to have met readiness standards by that institution. This includes passing scores on an approved assessment, a previous determination of college readiness (exemption) under the TASP, or the completion (with grades of C or higher) of college preparatory studies at that institution.

Students who do not meet all-area exemption standards on one of the above tests are considered exempt in the individual areas where the composite and area standard is met. 

Here are the partial exemptions based on the SAT, ACT, or exit-level TAKS: 

Reading and Writing :

  • ACT Composite 23+ and
  • ACT English 19+
  • Prior to March 1, 2016 SAT Composite 1070+ and Verbal (Critical Reading) 500+
  • SAT after March 1, 2016 Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW) 480+
  • TAKS Language Arts 2200+ and Essay of 3+
  • STAAR EOC English III 4000+

Mathematics :

  • ACT Composite 23+ and ACT Mathematics 19+
  • Prior to March 1, 2016 SAT Composite 1070+ and Mathematics 500+
  • SAT After March March 1, 2016  530+
  • TAKS Mathematics 2200+
  • STAAR Algebra II, 4000

Important : Students who are partially exempt based on the ACT, SAT, or TAKS or STAAR must test for TSI purposes in the areas where they are not exempt prior to enrolling for any courses.

Students who are not seeking a degree or certificate may defer the required testing and college preparatory education provisions of the TSI. However, they may accumulate no more than 15 term hours of college-level credit while they delay. Once students have earned 15 college-level credit hours, they must meet all TSI requirements . 

To delay assessment and college preparatory studies, students must meet with an educational planner/ counselor to declare that they are not seeking a degree or certificate. Students with this status must meet all course skill prerequisites, so an assessment may be required. 

Note : Students in this status are not eligible for state or federal financial aid.

TSIA2 Background, Basics, and Prep

On January 11th, 2021, the Accuplacer Texas Success Initiative Assessment 2.0 (TSIA2) replaced the original TSIA test. Now that the TSIA2 is available, students will no longer have the option to take the original TSIA. Any students with ongoing TSIA tests will need to restart using TSIA2 . 

Existing TSIA scores from completed tests will remain valid for up to 5 years after the test date. However, depending on which TSIA sections you completed, you should speak to an advisor to see if any TSIA2 testing is appropriate for you.

The TSIA2 consists of two multiple-choice sections: Mathematics and ELAR (an integrated reading and writing section). The TSIA2 will also include a WritePlacer Essay section . 

Pre-Assessment Activity

Before you take the TSI Assessment (TSIA2), students must complete a pre-assessment activity (PAA) before their first attempt per  TAC Rule §4.55(a).

The PAA is not graded . Its purpose is to help students understand what to expect when taking the TSIA2 and how to prepare for the test. After you complete your PAA, take a look at the other TSIA2 requirements and schedule your test. 

Complete The PAA

Things To Know Before Scheduling Your TSIA2

Prepare for the test.

  • Your photo ID (driver's license, student ID, etc.)*
  • Your Testing Request Form 
  • Your PAA Completion Certificate
  • Payment for the retest proctoring fee or your receipt (if applicable)

Virtual Testing Must-Haves

  • Download and install Zoom on your device. 
  • Test your internet connection to make sure Zoom runs (use the join with video option). 
  • Confirm that your device can run Accuplacer .

Meet With an Advisor

After testing, you should meet with an advisor to discuss your scores and what they mean for class enrollment. To retrieve your unofficial score report, please visit the Accuplacer Student Portal . If your test scores require you to take developmental courses, meet with an advisor to help determine which courses you need to take. Advisors can also give your information on educational aids, including tutoring and retesting. Retests are available (discuss options with your advisor). You may need to pay a retest fee. You are able to test once per day . If you need to retest, speak with your advisor to learn how you can complete payment through your SOS Account .

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Take the Test for Another College

Students are eligible to retest on the Accuplacer TSIA2, but there is a $15 charge per section attempted (Mathematics, ELAR multiple-choice and/or Writeplacer Essay). This retest fee applies to all students who have previously taken the Accuplacer TSIA2 or any other TSI assessment (Accuplacer TSIA 1.0, TASP/THEA, Asset, Compass) and have scores on record with San Jacinto College. This includes:

  • Scores retrieved from another institution via cross-institution reporting or other transfer process, and
  • Scores that have expired and are no longer valid when assessing college readiness.

Some exceptions may apply for Dual Credit and Early College High School students per specific Memorandums of Understanding established with the appropriate Independent School District.

Misconduct and Infraction Guidelines

San Jac Testing Centers have a responsibility to faculty and students to respond to any infractions that may occur. We administer the TSIA2 under policy, rules and guidelines set forth by the College Board and Accuplacer platform.

Testing Center staff will stop testing for anyone who commits an alleged testing infraction while taking the TSIA2. After correcting the alleged infraction, staff will allow the exam to resume if the alleged infraction is minor.  However, staff will not allow the exam to resume if the alleged infraction is major. Many minor alleged infractions may also result in staff not allowing an exam to resume and dismissing the examinee from the Testing Center.

Currently defined major infractions include, but are not limited to: 

  • Cheating : Using unauthorized aids, conspiring with an individual and impersonating or having someone impersonate you during a test. 
  • Bribery : Offering or accepting money or other compensation in exchange for test help or other benefit. 
  • Theft : Removing or attempting to remove test material or other privileged material from the Testing Center. 
  • Disruption or violence : Acting in a manner that causes a disruption or threat to others.

Currently defined minor infractions include, but are not limited to: 

  • General non-compliance : Failing to follow staff instructions and/or testing guidelines about test materials, breaks, etc.

Other actions and behaviors not defined here may be regarded as a major or minor infraction at the Testing Center's discretion.

Staff will complete a Notice of Testing Infraction form detailing the incident and submit the form and all collected materials to their Testing Coordinator for review. This will be in collaboration with the Dean of Student Records & College Registrar as well as the Dean of Student Development and a leader from an appropriate advising office.

The appropriate Dean, or designee, will determine appropriate disciplinary action.

FIND A TESTING CENTER

At the time of your appointment, report to the Testing Center on the campus where you prefer to test. Contact the location if you have any questions.

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Your Launchpad to success

IMAGES

  1. How To Write An Essay For Tsi

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  2. TSI Assessment

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  3. Writing the TSI Essay: Strategies for Success

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  4. PPT

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  5. How To Write An Essay For Tsi

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  6. Tips and Tricks for Passing the TSIA2

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COMMENTS

  1. The TSIA (Texas Success Initiative Assessment)

    TSI Initial assessment benchmarks: Assessments taken before 1/11/21. Mathematics: a minimum score of 350; Reading: a minimum score of 351; Writing: a minimum score of 340 on the multiple-choice section with an essay score of 4-8 or a score less than 340 on the multiple-choice section, a diagnostic level of 4-6, and an essay score of 5-8

  2. TSI Passing Scores & Scoring System Explained (2024)

    To be considered ready for college on the TSIA assessments taken before 01/11/2021, you need to have achieved the following scores: Mathematics: Minimum score of 350. Reading: Minimum score of 351. Writing: Minimum score of 340 in the multiple-choice assessment and TSI essay score range of 4 to 8.

  3. PDF Texas Success Initiative Assessment 2

    The Texas Success Initiative Assessment 2.0 (TSIA2) assesses your readiness for college-level coursework in English language arts and reading and mathematics. The results of the assessment, in conjunction with your academic background, goals, and interests, are used by academic advisers to place you in the appropriate courses that match your ...

  4. TSI Assessment- Guide to Interpreting Your Score

    110 Inner Campus Drive, Main 202. Austin, Texas 78712. To contact the Dean's office, call 512-475-7000 or send us an email.

  5. TSI Essay: The Texas College and Career Readiness Writing standards ask

    TSI Essay: The Texas College and Career Readiness Writing standards ask students to write ... I. Overview: The essay gives you an opportunity to show how effectively you can develop and express your ideas in writing. You will first read a short passage and an assignment question that are focused on an important issue. You will then write an ...

  6. PDF Texas Success Initiative Assessment

    The TSI Assessment (TSIA) measures your strengths and weaknesses in mathematics and statistics, as well as reading and writing, and is an indicator of how ready you are to handle college-level courses. The results of the assessment, in conjunction with your academic background, goals, and interests, are used by academic advisers and counselors ...

  7. PDF Texas Success Initiative Assessment 2.0 Technical Manual

    The Texas Success Initiative Assessment 2.0 (TSIA2) is a series of placement and diagnostic tests for students enrolling in public colleges and universities in Texas. The tests help Texas schools determine whether students are ready for college-level courses in the areas of reading, writing, and mathematics.

  8. Evaluating Your Scores

    ELAR: 945-990 + Essay of at least 5 OR 910-944, diagnostic score of 5 or 6, and Essay of 5-8. Before January 11, 2021. Reading: 351. Mathematics: 350. Essay score of 4 and multiple choice of 340 or higher; OR multiple choice of less than 340, an ABE diagnostic level of at least 4, and essay of at least 5. Developmental Education (DE) Diagnostic ...

  9. PDF TSI Assessments Program Manual Combined

    The Texas Success Initiative (TSI) Assessment is a program designed to assess students' readiness for ... scale score ranging from 310 to 390. Those students who do not score at the college-ready level (see ... were split into separate groups from the beginning with Group 1 working on the Writing Essay, Writing Strand 1 and 2, while Group 2 ...

  10. TSI Essay Guide

    The TSI essay will be evaluated on your organization, focus, development and support, sentence structure, and mechanical conventions. Fortunately, your essay is only required to be 300-600 words in length. A simple 5 paragraph essay will be more than sufficient. Scores on the essay section range from 1 to 8, with 8 being the highest.

  11. PDF Texas Success Initiative (TSI) Assessment

    The TSI Assessment in Reading is a multiple-choice test that covers the four content areas listed below. There are approximately 20 items on the TSI Assessment Test and 10 to 12 items in each section of the TSI Diagnostic Test. Literary Analysis measures your skill in identifying and analyzing ideas in and elements of literary texts.

  12. How to Pass the TSI Essay With Ease: A Guide

    In order to pass this exam with a 5 or 6, you will need at least two, strong examples that back up your side of the debate. Fortunately, the examples can come from a variety of sources like ...

  13. PDF TSI Assessment Diagnostic Scoring Information

    Strand 4 Writing Essay Revision TSI.DW4 . ABE Stand 1 Writing Organization and Composition ABE.DW1 . ABE Strand 2 Writing Grammar and Structure ABE.DW2 -390 350 or higher Reading: ... ABE Grade Equivalency based upon National Reporting System for Adult Education (NRS) ABE 6 Grades 11 - 12 ABE 5 Grades 9 - 10.9

  14. PDF TEXAS SUCCESS INITIATIVE ASSESSMENT 2.0 Administrator s Manual

    Computer-Adaptive Testing. Computer-adaptive testing (CAT) is a mode of test administration that attempts to select test questions that better match a test taker's ability. All TSIA2 tests, except for the Essay Test, are computer adaptive. In adaptive testing, the CAT algorithm pulls from a pool of test questions.

  15. Texas Success Initiative (TSI) Assessment

    Texas Success Initiative (TSI) Assessment. The TSI Assessments measure college readiness in reading, writing, and math. The scores are used for college placement purposes. Examinees take a placement test of 20-25 items per section. Those students who do not score at the college-ready level on the math or reading placement test will take the ...

  16. PDF TSI ASSESSMENT 2.0 PLACEMENT CHART

    Essay 2 or below / Multiple Choice 330 or & ABE Levels 1-4 INRW 0302 + BIRW 0201 Essay 3 / Multiple Choice 331 or ABE Levels 5-6 ENGL 0300 + ENGL 1301 Essay 5/Multiple Choice 339 or below & ABE Levels 4-6 or Essay 4 & Multiple Choice 341 College-level ***All Preparatory coursework requires a minimum grade of C to advance.***

  17. Texas Success Initiative Assessment 2.0 (TSIA2) Information and

    Texas Success Initiative (TSI) (TEC, Chapter 51, Subchapter F-1) • All non-exempt, entering undergraduates must be tested for college readiness in reading, writing, and math using the TSI Assessment (TSIA) Rule §4.55. An institution may not use the TSI as a condition of admission to the institution or as a condition of admission to a ...

  18. WritePlacer Guide DRAFT v1

    Description of Score of 2. response in this category demonstrates very little mastery of on-demand essay writing; the response is flawed by many or most of the following weaknesses: Presents a vague or limited point of view on the issue. Demonstrates little awareness of audience. Presents an unclear main idea.

  19. TSI Essay Sample

    TSI Essay Sample. Below is a high-scoring TSI sample essay for your review. This response is based on our TSI Practice Essay. We recommend that you type your own essay before you read this TSI essay example. Following the sample essay there is a commentary which explains why it would earn a high score. Whenever schools have to cut their budgets ...

  20. PDF WritePlacer® Guide with Sample Essays

    Students taking WritePlacer are presented with a prompt and asked to write an essay of 300 to 600 words. A prompt consists of a short passage. Following the passage is an assignment that requires the student to focus on the issue addressed in the passage. WritePlacer prompts are carefully designed to allow the student to respond quickly and in ...

  21. San Jacinto College

    The Texas Success Initiative (TSI) became effective Sept. 1, 2003. This initiative requires that incoming students, unless exempt, be assessed for college readiness in the areas of reading, mathematics, and writing. Students must demonstrate college readiness (area by area) before being allowed to enroll in college-level courses with a certain ...

  22. Texas Success Initiative Overview

    Texas Success Initiative Assessment (TSIA) As of Fall 2013, the TSIA is the ONLY assessment instrument approved by the THECB for IHEs to assess students' readiness for freshman-level academic coursework. The TSIA has three subject areas: (Reading, Writing, and Math) Writing section has two components (Objective. (multiple choice) and an Essay.