The Texas Success Initiative (TSI) Assessment measures your abilities in math, reading, and writing courses and assesses whether or not you’ll be able to handle college level classes.
If you pass the test, you can register for the entry-level composition, reading, and math classes you want, while other students who failed one or more of the sections will find themselves spending money on developmental classes that cost money but don’t provide college credits toward a degree.
Did you know?
The TSI Test consists of three sections: (1) math, (2) reading, and (3) writing. Passing scores in the three sections range from 340-351, which will allow you to register for college-level classes. Successful candidates have a strong grasp of high school math and English materials. When you pass the test, you’ll graduate faster while spending less money on meaningless courses.
The TSI test contains three sections: reading, writing, and math. It is an untimed test that can be done all at once or spread out over time. Students can also stop in the middle of an assessment, save their progress, and return at a later time to finish the test. For students taking all sections at one time, they can expect it to take between 3-5 hours.
Students take the TSI test at their college or university. Prior to taking the test, students must first take a Pre-Assessment activity (PAA). After they complete the PAA, they receive a pass from their college admissions office to take the TSI test. Students who want to improve their scores may take the TSI test as often as needed. There are a number of exemptions for students, including high scores on ACT and SAT tests, but for those without exemptions, the test is mandatory for Texas college students.
Test Features
The TSI test is used by Texas higher educational institutions to determine a student’s correct academic level in math and English. The assessment is divided into three sections, which measures a student’s abilities in the following areas (for complete list, please see Technical Facts section):
- TSI Math Section – algebra, geometry, and statistics
- TSI Reading Section – literary analysis, main idea recognition, and language skills
- TSI Writing Section – grammar, sentence structure, and logic
In addition, the writing test requires students to write a 5-paragraph persuasive essay.
The test is untimed and taken on a computer. Calculators, dictionaries, mobile phones, or other study guides may not be brought into the test. Each test is different, as it is computer adaptive. Questions get either easier or more difficult based on correct and incorrect answers.
Did you know?
Each test is different, as it is computer adaptive. Questions get either easier or more difficult based on correct and incorrect answers.
Tests are typically administered at a university testing center. However, for out-of-state students or students who live far from their university, the test can often be taken at a local university or testing center.
The test includes a “save and finish later” option, which can be used during any section with the exception of the essay section. The test must be completed within 13 calendar days.
Technical Facts
Each section of the test contains approximately 20 multiple-choice questions, based on four different categories. In addition, test takers must write an essay.
While the TSI assessment is not timed, typically it requires an average of three to five hours to complete all three sections of the test.
TSI Test Fast Facts (tl;dr)
- 3 Test Sections
- Untimed
- 3-5 hours to complete
- A score of 340-351 to pass
- Calculators are not permitted
The three sections and their categories on the test are:
TSI Math Categories
- Elementary algebra and functions – students are tested on their knowledge of linear equations, inequalities, and systems. Additionally, questions cover algebraic expressions, equations, word problems, and applications.
- Intermediate algebra and functions – students must answer questions on quadratic and polynomial expressions, equations, and functions. The test also covers expressions, equations, and functions as they relate to powers, roots, and radicals. Finally, it challenges test takers with problems relating to rational and exponential expressions, equations, and functions.
- Geometry and measurement – students are faced with questions covering plane geometry, transformations, and symmetry, as well as linear, area, and 3D measurements.
- Data analysis, statistics, and probability – students must choose the correct answer in questions relating to interpreting categorical and quantitative data, statistical measures, and probabilistic reasoning.
TSI Reading Categories
- Literary analysis – students are asked to identify and analyze ideas in and elements of literary texts.
- Main ideas and supporting details – students must prove they can identify the main idea in a passage and comprehend explicit information.
- Inferences in a text or texts – students must show they can make a connection or comparison between two passages and make appropriate inferences about individual passages.
- Author’s use of language – students must choose the correct answer demonstrating their ability to identify the author’s tone, purpose, or rhetorical strategies, as well as use context to determine word definitions.
TSI Writing Categories
- Essay revision – students are asked to display coherence, organization, and good word choices.
- Agreement – students must prove they understand subject-verb agreement and pronoun agreement, and can show their ability to determine verb tenses.
- Sentence Structure – students must show their ability in areas like comma splicing, run-on sentences, punctuation, sentence fragments, and other grammatical issues.
- Sentence logic – students must be able to modify phrases and clauses, as well as use logical transitions.
The essay challenges test takers to write the following:
- 5 paragraphs (300-600 words)
- State main idea
- Support idea
- Use grammar correctly
The test is taken on a computer monitor in a university or other testing center. Scratch paper is available for students to use, but they are not permitted to have any additional resources.
TSI tests cost $10 per section. Students who are eligible for Pell Grants can request a waiver. Payment is valid for 6 months from the date of purchase. Students should only purchase the sections that they wish to take.
Did you know?
TSI tests cost $10 per section. Students who are eligible for Pell Grants can request a waiver. Students may retake the test as needed.
Students may retake the test as needed, but it is recommended that they take a course or make time for additional study.
Before students can take the TSI test, they need to participate in a Pre-Assessment Activity (PAA). Each school’s PAA is different, but they all include the following:
- An explanation of the importance of the TSI test results in a student’s academic career
- Practice questions and feedback
- Explanation of the consequences of doing poorly on the TSI test, and the options available to students who fail
- Resources students can use to help succeed in college
Student Exemptions
There are a number of reasons why a student would be exempt from taking the TSI test. These include:
- ACT score of 23 or higher with minimum of 19 on both Math and English
- SAT – Pre-March 2016 – combined score of 1070 with minimum score of 500 on both sections
- SAT – Post-March 2016 – Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score of 480 or higher and Math score of 530 or higher.
- TAKS scores of 2200 on Math and English, with at least a 3 on the Writing subsection.
- Active military personnel, veterans, or reservists
- Transferring from another school having satisfactorily completed college level coursework
- Enrolling in 1-year certificate programs at a public institution
Results Scale and Interpretations
Students receive results via email on the day they take the test.
Each test section is scored on a slightly different scale. Students are considered college-ready if they can achieve the following scores on the different sections:
Math – Score between 350-390
Reading – Score between 351-390
Writing – Score between 340-390 on multiple choice questions with a 4 or higher on the essay, OR score 310-339 in multiple choice questions, receive a 4, 5, or 6 on the ABE diagnostic section, and a 5 or higher on the essay.
| Score | Holistic Score Description |
|---|---|
| 8 | The essay demonstrates clear and consistent mastery of on-demand essay writing. |
| 7 | The essay demonstrates consistent mastery of on-demand essay writing. |
| 6 | The essay demonstrates reasonably consistent mastery of on-demand essay writing. |
| 5 | The essay demonstrates adequate mastery of on-demand essay writing. |
| 4 | The essay demonstrates developing mastery of on-demand essay writing. |
| 3 | The essay demonstrates little mastery of on-demand essay writing. |
| 2 | The essay demonstrates very little mastery of on-demand essay writing. |
| 1 | The essay demonstrates no mastery of on-demand essay writing. |
Students who are unable to achieve these scores are directed to taking either the DE or ABE diagnostic test. These tests point out the areas where the student struggles and is useful in determining which developmental courses the student should take.
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TSI FAQs
There is no time limit on the TSI test. The test takes an average of 3-5 hours to complete all three sections. However, with the exception of the essay section, students can save their progress and return to the test within 13 days if they are unable to complete the test.
Test takers must bring the following to their test:
– State- or government-issued photo ID
– Certificate of completion of the pre-assessment activity (PAA)
– Payment receipt or proof of fee waiver
According to Austin Community College, students who do well on the test and are college-ready can complete their degree in 2 years at a cost of $7,000.
Students who are not college-ready need to take two extra classes in math and a developmental writing in English. These extra classes and costs mean it will take a student three years to complete their degree and $8,050 dollars.
When faced with the extended timeline and extra costs, it’s clear why so many students in Texas schools are taking practice exams and courses through companies like iPrep.
Students who performed well on their ACT or SAT, have already completed college-level coursework at a different school, or have a military background are usually exempt from taking the TSI.
Taking practice tests and review courses, like those offered by iPrep, are the best ways to prepare for the TSI test. During the test, remember to read each question carefully, and understand what is being asked. Remember, there are no time limits, so be sure to take your time.
If you are unsure of an answer, read through the questions to eliminate answers that don’t make sense. Then, read through the remaining options and pick the best answer. If you are unsure of an answer, you should guess.
Before students can take the TSI test, they need to participate in a Pre-Assessment Activity (PAA), where they learn about the test and the consequences of failing the test.
The twenty multiple-choice questions measure a student’s abilities in the following areas:
– Elementary Algebra and Functions
– Intermediate Algebra and Functions
– Geometry and Measurement
– Data Analysis, Statistics, and Probability
The twenty multiple-choice questions measure a student’s abilities in the following areas:
– Essay Revision
– Agreement
– Sentence Structure
– Sentence Logic
In addition, students are required to write a 3-5 paragraph essay.
The twenty multiple-choice questions measure a student’s abilities in the following areas:
– Literary Analysis
– Main Idea and Supporting Details
– Inferences in a Text
– Author’s Use of Language
Test takers need a minimum score of 350 in math, 351 in reading, and 340 with an essay score of 4 or higher to pass the writing section. Students can also pass the writing section with a score of 310-339 in multiple choice questions, a 4, 5, or 6 on the ABE diagnostic section, and a 5 or higher on the essay.
Students can retake the TS as often as needed. However, students should take some type of prep course, like iPrep’s practice course, if they intend to improve their score.
The TSI costs $10 per test or $30 for all three tests. Students who are eligible for Pell Grants may get the fee waived.
TSI Test Tips
To do well on a test that covers reading, writing, and math, you need to have precision, plan, and practice. Although it may be difficult, the following tips will help:
1. Take your time
The TSI is non-timed, so do not rush through the questions. Take the time to verify that you completely understand the question and read it as many times as you need. After completing the question, take another minute to review your solution.
2. Learn your weaknesses and strengths
Some topics will be more difficult for you to grasp while others you will answer more intuitively. Identify these topics while practicing and spend more time on improving your skills and understanding in those you find difficult. However, if there is a minor topic that you do not understand, no worries – you do not have to get a perfect score as the next tip says.
3. Maintain your peace of mind
Stress might impair your decision-making and concentration. Being stress-free doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be worried about your score; however, remember that no one needs a perfect score on the TSI. You only need to get your target score to avoid unnecessary classes. This means that you can drop about 3 questions in each section without even thinking of it. You should still get a good score if you nail the rest of them.
4. Remember that the test is multiple-choice
This means that there are always clues within the answers that can help you solve the question correctly. You can also try to directly check the solution with any of the answers instead of trying to solve the question and only then check for the solution.
5. Guess if you have to
Even if there is a question that you do not know how to solve, take a guess. A guess has a 25% chance of being correct, while an unanswered question has no chance of being correct. In addition, increase your chances of guessing correctly; try to eliminate answers which are definitely wrong, and guess between the remaining options.
Administration
- Test Location: Typically administered at a university testing center.
- Test Schedule: Most students take the TSI test before registering for freshman classes.
- Test Format: Multiple-choice questions on a computer.
- Test Materials: Computer. Calculators, dictionaries, mobile phones or other materials are prohibited.
- Cost: $10 per test, $30 for all three tests
- Retake Policy: Students can retake as needed. However, most universities require students to take some type of prep course before scheduling a retake.
Test Provider
The TSI test was initiated by the Texas State Legislature and was first administered in 2003. The current test was created by the CollegeBoard ACCUPLACER platform. It is used to ensure that students are assigned to the correct level of class when they attend college.
Information Sources
Disclaimer – All the information and prep materials on iPrep are genuine and were created for tutoring purposes. iPrep is not affiliated with ACCUPLACER, which is the owner of the TSI test.
Free TSI practice test: Get a taste of the TSI Test by practicing with these sample questions:
Question 1 of 9
Evaluate the value of the unknown variable in the equation:
1/3*(y – 11) + 4 = 3
y = ?
- 2
- 4
- 8
- 16
The correct answer is C. (8).
Here’s a detailed video walk-through of the explanation:
| 1/3*(y – 11) + 4 = 3 | (Multiply both sides of the equation by 3) |
| 3 * 1/3* (y – 11) + 4 * 3 = 3 * 3 | Simplify. (3 * 1/3 = 1) |
| y – 11 + 12 = 9 | |
| y + 1 = 9 | (Subtract 1 from both sides of the equation). |
| y + 1 – 1 = 9 – 1 | |
| y = 8 |
Question 2 of 9
In this problem, the ratios are directly proportional. Find the missing variable.
If x1 = 13, x2 = 20, y2 = 25. What is the value of y1?
- $$$ 16\dfrac{1}{20} $$$
- $$$ 16\dfrac{1}{4} $$$
- $$$ 15\dfrac{4}{5} $$$
- $$$ 15\dfrac{3}{4} $$$
The correct answer is B. ($$$ 16\frac{1}{4} $$$).
Here’s a detailed video walk-through of the explanation:
| y1 ∶ x1 = y2 ∶ x2 | |
| (The above is one of the valid ways to write ratios. There are additional valid ways, e.g. x1 ∶ x2 = y1 ∶ y2). | |
| y1/x1 = y2/x2 | (Converting ratios into fractions and then cross multiply). |
| y1 = (x1 * y2)/x2 | (Substitute values of x1, x2 & y2 from the question). |
| y1 = (13 * 25)/20 | (Multiply both terms in the numerator). |
| y1 = 325/20 | (Converting Improper fraction to a mixed fraction). |
| y1 = 320/20 + 5/20 | |
| y1 = 16 + 1/4 | |
| y1 = 16 1/4 |
Question 3 of 9
Factor the polynomial:
x5y2z6 – x3y2z7
- x3yz6(x2y – z)
- x5y2z5(y – z2)
- x5y2z7(x-2 – z)
- x3y2z6(x2 – z)
The correct answer is x3y2z6(x2 – z).
Here’s a detailed video walk-through of the explanation:
We need to find the greatest common divisor of each of the terms (x,y,z) to factor the expression.
We should remember that if the bases of exponent numbers are the same, the multiplication of two terms is found by summing the powers and writing them on the same base.
Similarly; when dividing, the power of the divisor is subtracted from the power of the dividend.
Both x5y2z6 and x3y2z7 contain x3, y2 and ,z6. So;
x5y2z6 – x3y2z7 =
x3y2z6(x2*1*1) – x3y2z6(1*1*z1) =
x3y2z6(x2) – x3y2z6(z) =
We can carry x3y2z6 out as the factor:
= x3y2z6(x2 – z)
Question 4 of 9
Find the slope and y-intercept of the following function.
8y – 4x + 9 = 41
- m = 0.5, y-intercept is -4
- m = 0.5, y-intercept is 4
- m = -0.5, y-intercept is -4
- m = -0.5, y-intercept is 4
The correct answer is B. (m = 0.5 , y-intercept is 4).
| 8y – 4x + 9 = 41 | (Subtract 9 from both sides of the equation). |
| 8y – 4x + 9 – 9 = 41 – 9 | |
| 8y – 4x = 32 | (Shift 4x from left side of the equation to the right side).[See Question Tip] |
| 8y = 32 + 4x | |
| 8y = 4x + 32 | |
| 8y/8 = 4x/8 + 32/8 | (Solve fractions). |
| y = 0.5x + 4 | |
| By comparing the above equation with y = mx + c, we have | (y = mx + c is the general form of a linear equation) |
| m = 0.5 ; c = 4 | (m is the slope and c is the y-intercept) |
| m =0.5, y-intercept is 4 |
Question Tip:
- When you move a term from one side of the equation to the other side, the polarity of its operator gets reversed, i.e. addition is converted into subtraction, and multiplication is converted into division, and vice versa.
- y = mx + c is the general form of linear equations.
- m is the slope and c is the y-intercept.
Question 5 of 9
Parents of children studying at McArthur Primary School raised concerns regarding the nutrient level of the lunch menu served at school. What is the average of the total calories per meal served at McArthur School according to the table below?
| Meal | Portion Size | Vegetable Portion | Served on | Total Cals | % of Cals from Fats |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Turkey and Potatoes | 2 Pcs | 1.5 Cups | Mon, Thurs | 610 | 18.4% |
| Hamburger and Wedges | 1 Pcs | 2 Cups | Tues, Fri | 650 | 20.5% |
| Chicken and Beans | 3 Pcs | 1.5 Cups | Wed, Mon | 630 | 19.5% |
| Pizza and Salad | 4 Pcs | 3 Cups | Thurs, Tues | 530 | 26.2% |
| Spaghetti with Meat Sauce | 2 Cups | 2.5 Cups | Fri, Wed | 650 | 29.9% |
- 614
- 616
- 624
- 626
- 630
The correct answer is 614.
Explanation:
In order to get to the right solution, you should only consider the information of the “Total Cals” column. All other information is irrelevant for the solution. While the info might be somewhat interesting, you must focus only on the relevant aspects and should avoid delving into the information.
The fundamental way to calculate an average is [sum of all elements]/[number of elements]. For tests that allow no more than 20 seconds per question – that would probably be an approach that consumes too much time. As you can assume that the test does not require you to have a calculator in order to get to the correct answer, you should apply methods that reduce the time spent on the question to a minimum.
- In order to calculate the average, you do not have to sum up all elements. You can also get to the average by averaging the distance of all elements from a certain middle element. This method helps you in calculating an average from smaller values – something that you should be able to do with ease even without using a calculator.
- Choose the middle element – if you reorder the elements by their value, find the value among the elements that would be in the middle. In our case – it is 630 (Chicken and Beans). Consider the median value as the temporary average.
- Find additional elements whose values are found equally above and beneath the middle value. These elements “cancel” one another, and thus the median value remains the temporary average. In our case, 650 (Hamburger) is 20 above 630, and 610 (Turkey/Potatoes) is 20 beneath 610. If those were the only elements to consider, you could have approved the middle element as the genuine average.
- The rest of the elements that can’t be paired – create a balance of their differences from the middle value. In our case:
- 650 is 20 greater than the middle value (630). Therefore, the balance is +20
- 530 is 100 lower than the middle value. Therefore, the balance is 20-100 = -80.
- As a final step, you need to divide the balance by the number of elements. You would add the product of this division to the middle value in order to get the genuine average. In our case:
- (The balance)/(number of elements) = -80/5 = -16
- Adding the product to the middle value –> 630-16 –> the average
- The average = 614
While reading this explanation might seem long and tedious, putting this into practice will make your average questions much easier.
Question 6 of 9
In a packing house, there is a probability of 1 in 4 that fruit will be thrown away and won’t be packed. How many apples of the 240 apples that arrived at the packing house will not be packed?
- 36
- 40
- 48
- 60
- 72
The correct answer is 60.
Explanation: A probability of 1 in 4 means 1 out of 4 attempts. Other equivalent ways to describe such probabilities are “a chance of ¼” or “ a chance of 0.25”. In that case, the number of apples that would be thrown away equals:
240 apples * ¼ = 240/4 = 60 apples.
Tips for a quick solution:
Probability and odds are two basic statistical terms used to describe the likelihood that an event will occur. Although people often use them interchangeably, they are not mathematically equivalent.
Probability is the likeliness of an event to happen out of the total number of events (OCCURANCE/TOTAL).
- For example, a probability of ¼ of drawing a red marble out of a bag means that out of every 4 draws, 1 will probably be red.
- If the bag contains a total of 20 marbles, then it contains 5 red marbles out of 20 as 5/20 = ¼.
- Equivalent terms for probability are the probability of 1 in 4, 1 out of 4, ¼, or a 25% chance.
Odds (or ratio or odds-ratio) is the likelihood of an event to happen in comparison to the likelihood of the event not to happen (OCCURANCE : not-OCCURANCE).
- For example, if the odds of drawing a red marble out of the bag are 1:4, then there will be 4 events of not drawing a red marble, a total of 5 events.
- Since there is a total of 5 events, odds of 1:4 are actually equivalent to a probability of 1/5, or a 20% chance.
- So, if the bag contains a total of 20 marbles, then it contains 4 red marbles out of 20 as 1/5, or a 20% chance of 20 equals 4.
Question 7 of 9
Which word is most different in meaning than the other words?
- progress
- precede
- advance
- march
- forge
The correct answer is precede, which means to be earlier than, or to come ahead of.
All the other words mean to move from a specific area. Proceed is a homophone of precede, but means to move along a course, or to come forth from a source.
Question 8 of 9
Select the word that is spelled correctly.
- occurrence
- occurrence
- occurrence
- occurance
The correct answer is occurrence.
The word occur gains a second “r” before the suffix “-ence” to maintain the short sound.
Question 9 of 9
Over the past 20 years, worldwide illiteracy rates have consistently declined. The main reason for this decline is the sharp increase in the literacy rates of young women, which is the result of campaigns to increase educational opportunities for girls. For example, between 1970 and 1990, the literacy rate among women in the United Arab Emirates increased from 7% to 76%.
According to the passage, which of the following is directly responsible for the sharp increase in literacy rates for young women?
- the United Arab Emirates
- increased funding for education
- a drop in illiteracy rates worldwide
- campaigns to increase educational opportunities for girls
The correct answer is D.
The information can be drawn from this section in the passage:
“The main reason for this decline is the sharp increase in the literacy rates of young women, which is the result of campaigns to increase educational opportunities for girls.“
Well done!
You have completed the Sample Questions section.
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