Testing | TSIA2

What is the TSIA2?

The Texas Success Initiative Assessment 2.0 (TSIA2) previously known as the TSI is a series of placement tests for students enrolling in public colleges and universities in Texas. The purpose of the TSIA2 Assessment test is to help your college or university determine if you are ready for college-level course work in the areas of reading, writing, and mathematics. Based on how you perform on the TSIA2, you may either be enrolled in a college-level course and /or be placed in the appropriate developmental course to improve your skills and prepare you for success in college-level courses. You cannot “pass” or “fail” the placement test, but it is important that you do your very best on these tests so that you will have an accurate measure of your academic skills.

TSIA2 Breakdown

The TSIA2 is part of the Texas Success Inititatives designed to help determine if you are ready for college-level coursework in reading, writing and math. If you are an entry college student in Texas, you're required to take the TSIA2 unless you are already exempt.

Infographic of how the SAT is scored

TSIA2 Exceptions

Go to TSIA2's website for full details.

Met the minimum college readiness standard on the SAT, ACT, or the English III/Algebra II STAAR End-of-Course high school tests. SAT: Evidence-Based Reading and Writing: 480; Math: 580

Successfully completed a high school College Preparatory Course

Successfully completed the college-level course(s)

Enrolled in a Level-One certificate program (fewer than 43 semester credit hours)

Aren’t seeking a degree

Have been, or currently are, in the military.

FAQs

Where do I take the TSIA2?
Check if your campus has a test site and dates. If not, they're usually at local university or community colleges.
How much do I have to pay to take the TSIA2?
Local colleges are usually free and universities average about $50.00 for the TSIA2.
When do I take the TSIA2?
You can take the TSIA2 from the first day of senior year until August before freshman year of college.
What do I need to bring on Test Day?
For Test Day, you will need to bring:
  • Photo ID
  • Watch the pre-assessment activity (given by the college)
  • Receipt of payment (price ranges depending on college)

Remember to always arrive at least 15 minutes early to the testing location.

How do I study for the TSIA2?
Illustration of student studying at desk with headphones

TSIA2 Tips

#1

You may retest as many times as you'd like but will need a test referral form and there is a retest fee that will depend on the location you tested at.

#2

You can't pass or fail the TSIA2 Assessment, but it does help determine an accurate measurement of your academic skills, so you should do your very best.

#3

If you decide to take the test in one sitting, the average test time is about 3-5 hours to complete.

#4

The results of the TSIA2 Assessment are a key factor in determining the course(s) in which you can enroll.

#5

Use scratch paper to take notes, write down your thoughts and work through problems.

#6

Your scores are going to be generated immediately after it's been completed and an unoffical copy of the scores will be given via email.

#7

The test is not timed, but you have 14 days to complete the entire TSIA2. If you don't finish the test in 14 days, your test will be graded on what you completed.