what's a good tsi essay score

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

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.

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:

Or explore the Aptitude Tests / Test Types sections.

The Texas Success Initiative Assessment (TSIA2) is a standardized test that public Texas colleges use to determine whether you are college ready or not.

There is technically not a passing score, but there are some benchmark scores you will want to reach that will allow you to avoid developmental courses in college.

Summary: We outlined the scoring of the TSI exam. To prepare for the exam, take our free TSI practice exam .

How to Get Your TSI Scores

You receive your TSI scores immediately after the completion of the test. They will send you a score report via email within minutes of your test being complete.

What is a Passing TSI Score?

Technically, there is not a passing TSI score. However, there are cutoff scores that determine whether or not you are college ready.

The TSI has a benchmark called the “college-readiness benchmark” for each section. Here are the scores for each section that you must obtain to be considered college ready:

TSIA2 (After 1/11/21):

• Math: CRC score of 950+ or CRC score below 950 and a diagnostic level of 6.
• ELAR: CRC score of 945+ and an essay score of 5+ or CRC score below 945 and a diagnostic level of 5 and an essay score of 5+.

TSI (Before 1/11/21):

• Math: Score from 350 to 390.
• Reading: Score from 351 to 390.
• Writing: Score of 340+ and an essay score of 4+

If you receive a “college ready score,” you will be placed in a college-level course. If you do not receive a “college ready score,” you may be placed in a developmental course or something similar in nature (pre-requisite course, etc…). You can read more about this on the official PDF .

What If I Don’t Receive A College Ready Score?

You will take the CRC version of the math and ELAR sections first. If you do not receive college ready scores, you will be asked to take the diagnostic test.

The diagnostic tests are used to help place you in appropriate courses based on your academic level. If you are unhappy with your TSIA2 scores, you may retake the exam again. Review our TSI practice tests to prepare for your exam.

What is a Good TSI Score?

A good TSI score is a score of 950+ on the CRC math section and a score of 945+ with an essay score of 5+ on the CRC ELAR section.

If you receive those scores, that means you are college ready and can avoid taking the additional diagnostic exams.

It is important to remember that this exam is used primarily as a placement exam. Schools want to make sure they place you in the appropriate courses so that you are set up for success from the beginning.

TSI Score Exemptions

There are some other exams you can use in place of the TSI. If you received the following scores, you may be exempt from the TSI.

Importance of TSI Scores and How They Are Used

TSI scores are important because they help schools place students in the appropriate courses. This is not only helpful for schools, but also for students. If you are a student and not strong in math, imagine being thrown into an advanced math course and having no idea what you are doing.

The TSIA2 helps avoid this by giving students and schools an honest assessment of where a student stands. TSI scoring helps place students in courses that match their education abilities and sets them up for success.

How to Get a Top TSI Score

Scoring well on the TSIA2 can help you save some time and money by avoiding pre-requisite and developmental courses in college. Here are some tips to scoring well on the exam:

• Take a diagnostic TSI practice exam .
• Pinpoint which subjects give you the most trouble.
• Determine how much time you have to study and create a study plan.
• Dive into those specific subjects that gave you the most trouble.
• Once you feel more comfortable with the material, take another practice exam and see where you stand.

By taking a diagnostic practice exam, you will figure out which subjects gave you the most trouble and can pinpoint where you need to study. This will help make your study process more efficient and save you valuable time.

TSI Score FAQs

What elar score will allow me to take college level courses.

CRC score of 945+ and an essay score of 5+ or CRC score below 945 and a diagnostic level of 5 and an essay score of 5+.

What math score will allow me to take college level courses?

CRC score of 950+ or CRC score below 950 and a diagnostic level of 6.

How long are TSI scores valid for?

TSI scores are valid for 5 years from the day that you took your exam.

Can you retake the TSI if your scores are not “college-level ready”?

Yes, you can retake the TSI as many times as you would like.

How long does it take to get your TSI scores back?

You typically get your TSI scores back immediately.

• Authored By: Dave Evangelisti
• Last Updated August 2, 2023

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Frequently Asked Questions

C​an i study for the tsi assessment.

Yes, there are official study guide options available free of charge through the ACCUPLACER website .  The ACCUPLACER website features practice questions and other study tools to help you prepare for the TSI assessment. You can also login to take the Texas version of a web-based practice test to familiarize yourself with the tests three different content areas.

How long does the TSI assessment take?

The TSI assessment is not a timed test. The average time to complete all three sections of the test is three to five hours.

What do I need to bring with me to the test?

• Complete the Pre-Assessment Activity prior to requesting a testing referral.
• Complete the eConnect Dallas College Testing Referral Form online
• Whether testing in the testing centers or online, you will need to show your government-issued ID, such as a driver’s license, passport, military ID or high school ID to the test center. You must present the actual ID, not a copy or photo on a phone.

Can I bring a calculator to the test?

No. Calculators are not allowed. Additionally, no study materials or other reference materials may be used during the test. Cell phones and all other communication devices are strictly prohibited in the testing room.

When will I get my scores?

The TSI assessment is scored immediately upon completion. You'll be given an unofficial copy of scores via email.

How do I interpret my scores?

Your college advisor can assist you with interpreting your scores.

What’s a passing TSI score?

The format of your scores depends on when you took the TSI. Score reporting changed Jan. 11, 2021, with the new TSIA test.

Minimum Passing TSI Standards

The college will use the following minimum passing standards to determine a student's readiness to enroll in freshman-level academic coursework. Scores are valid for five years from the date of testing.

TSIA (Prior to Jan. 11, 2021)

State TSI Reading Standard 351 or above

State TSI Writing standard A placement score of at least 340, and an essay score of at least 4, or a placement score of less than 340, and an ABE Diagnostic level of at least a 4, and an essay score of at least 5

State TSI Math standard 350 or above

TSIA2 (After Jan. 10, 2021)

English Language Arts and Reading (ELAR) Standard

• ELAR Score of 945+ AND Essay Score of 5 – 8 OR
• ELAR Score under 945 AND ELAR Diagnostic Level of 5 - 6 AND Essay Score of 5 - 8

TSIA2 Math Standard

• Math Score Under 950 AND Math Diagnostic Level of 6

Can I take the TSI assessment again?

Yes, you may retest at any time upon availability. You will need to complete another test referral on eConnect and schedule your testing by appointment with the testing center . There is a retest fee of $10 per section.

Can I transfer my scores to another Texas college/university?

Yes. If you have taken a TSI assessment at Dallas College, other Texas public schools can access these scores if you provide the college name, your student ID and your date of birth. Private and out of state institutions would not have access to this database. Log into your Accuplacer/Student Portal and have the scores sent directly to those schools.

What happens if I do not pass the TSI?

You cannot pass or fail the TSI assessment. Based on how you perform, you may either enroll in:

• College-level courses that match your skill level, or
• College readiness courses or interventions to improve your skills and prepare you for success in college-level courses.

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 tips and tricks, planning ahead, to get the best score....

To prepare for the TSIA2 test, please plan to dedicate several hours over a couple of weeks to refresh the math, reading, and writing skills that will be covered on the TSI assessment. Since many of the tested topics are taught as early as middle school, it has  probably been several years since you worked on questions like  these. Setting aside time to refresh your skills and knowledge may  help you get a higher score and ensure you are ready to begin college-level coursework. There are several TSI Assessment preparation resources available to help you prepare below.

First Step!

We w ant you to be successful in your college courses so the TSI test is an i mportant first step. The TSI test will assess your current skill levels in reading, writing, and math. Your TSI test scores will determine which courses you may enroll in at Texas Tech University. If you took the TSI assessment at your high school o r another institution, share your scores with TT U. If you did n ot share your scores with TTU, go to the Accuplacer Student Portal and download a copy of the Individual Score Report (ISR). Once you have a copy of your scores, use your TTU email and email the complete ISR as an attachment to the:

TSI Compliance Office

registrar.t [email protected]

Phone: (806) 834-4150

If you are a new student, you need to complete TSIA2 test BEFORE attending Red Raider Orientation. If you are a returning or transfer student, check with your counselor or advisor about whether or not you need to take (or retake) one or more parts of the TSI test.

Students can retake any portion of the TSIA2 test at any time. The best option is to retest BEORE you attend Red Raider Orientation if you hope to raise your score and reduce the number of TSI support courses you are required to enroll in for the semester.

Second Step! Test Taking Tutorials!

Things you need to know:.

Before you take the placement test, take time to refresh your reading, writing, and math skills so that you can do your very best on your test. You will find lots of helpful information about the placement test on our TTU TSI website . The links below are a quick reference tool if you are short on time to prepare for the TSIA2 test.

Calculator Tips on the TSIA 2 Test - 1 minute video

Calculator Used for TSI2 Test

Highlighter Tips on TSIA 2 Test - 1 minute video

Accessibility Wizard on the TSIA 2 test - 1 minute video

What to Expect on the Math TSIA 2 Test - 4 minute video

Writing an Essay for the TSIA 2 - 15 minute video

Third Step! Take the Test!

Click here for Pre-Assessment Practice Resources

Click here to take the tsi pre-assessment activity - student login, tsia study resources, accuplacer student portal, how to prepare:.

Take advantage of free resources available to improve areas where your academic performance is not the strongest. Access free sample questions similar to those you'll see on the actual test.

Accuplacer Student Portal :

• TSIA2 Study App with practice resources and printable sample questions
• Tutorials showing you how to use the calculator and highlighter tools
• Test results and information about how to send test results to Texas public institutions of higher education
• Test Center Locator

TSIA2 Resource Library :

• Browse by subject area, level, and type of resource.
• On the right side of the page, there is a Welcome box.
• For students taking the assessment for the first time, please click the “Enter Student Site” blue button.
• Students who are retaking the assessment, please enter your Learning Locator Code (found on the diagnostic score report that you received upon completion of your test) for targeted resources based on your test performance.

Student Resources for TSI

Pearson math and elar resources and videos.

Resources to provide additional information for TSIA 2.0 Success

TSIA 2.0 Student Brochure

TSIA 2.0 English Language Arts & Reading Sample Questions

TSIA 2.0 Math Sample Questions

TSIA 2.0 Essay Test Guide

TSIA 2.0 Interpreting Your Score

TSI ELAR Crash Course - Day 1 Part 1 - TSI Reading Practice

TSI ELAR Crash Course - Day 1 Part 2 - TSI Reading Practice

TSI Writing Practice

TSI Essay Practice

TSIA 2 Math Hacks

Mometrix TSI Test Preparation Videos

TSIA 2.0 Test Blueprint and Linked Resources

Need to Schedule TSI exam? 

Texas tech academic testing services.

In order to streamline your appointment and provide a more relaxed testing experience, advanced registration is recommended. However, walk-ins are welcome.

TTU Testing Services

[email protected]

Phone: (806) 742-3671

Location: Room 214 West Hall

To take the TSI Assessment off-campus, go here for a voucher . Read the information provided and complete the Request for an Off-Campus TSI Testing Voucher.

NOTE: In order to avoid a delay in advising and class registration, it is recommended that you take the TSI assessment prior to your first day of orientation. The TSI exam is untimed and may take several hours to complete.

On the day of the exam bring these items with you to 214 West Hall:

• To schedule an appointment for the TSI exam, please contact us at 806-742-3671. You will make a $50.00 (non-refundable) payment to Texas Tech University with credit/debit card (NO CASH) through our online store. An email link will be sent to you. Payment must be made prior to your testing day.
• Appropriate photo ID is required at time of testing (driver's license, passport or other government ID with a current photo).
• Copy of your Pre-Assessment Activity Certificate of completion. Policies and Fees are subject to change.  

For more information regarding TSI Compliance, please visit the TSI Compliance Office website.

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Getting Started with TSI

The Texas Success Initiative (TSI) is a state-legislated program to improve student success in college.  Students admitted to Texas State, who have not satisfied their TSI requirements, will have a TSI hold on their student record. TSI holds will prevent you from registering for courses until it has been lifted. This page will assist you with navigating:

• How to lift your TSI hold
• How to determine if you are exempt from taking the TSI Assessment
• If you are not exempt, how you can satisfy the requirements of the TSI

Do I qualify for an exemption for one, some, or all parts of the TSI Assessment?

You can demonstrate college readiness through a list of approved exemptions. Students can qualify for an exemption by subject area in several ways. When you applied to Texas State University, the documents you submit are automatically evaluated to determine any possible exemptions.

If we find exemptions for one or two areas, they will be applied to your record. If we find exemptions for all areas, your record will be updated to TSI satisfied in all areas.  Please review our exemptions page carefully to review all possible exemptions you may be able to claim. On this Exemptions page, you will also learn how to submit supporting documentation.

What if I do not qualify for an exemption?

You will need to take the TSI Assessment 2.0 (TSIA2) if you do not qualify for a TSI exemption requirement for Math or ELAR (English Langauage Arts and Reading). 

Before you can complete the TSIA, you must complete the Pre-Assessment Activity. The Pre-Assessment Activity covers the following topics:

• Importance of assessment
• Assessment process and components (including sample questions)
• Developmental Education options
• Institutional and community resources

At the end of the assessment, you will receive a certificate stating that you completed the Pre-Assessment Activity. 

ELAR and MATH TEST PREPARATION

• Go to the TXST Study Modules

ADDITIONAL STUDY RESOURCES

• Go to the Extra Resources

Take the TSI Assessment 2.0

• Take the test

Submit your TSIA Scores to Texas State

• Submit Scores
• Submission Instructions

Passing Scores for the TSI Assessment 2.0

Interpreting Your Scores Brochure

Writing the TSI Essay: Strategies for Success

Writing a persuasive essay isn’t difficult, but writing an effective one does require thought and strategy. And when there’s some pressure to write that essay, like when students are writing a persuasive essay for the TSI, it can be even harder to think on the fly.

Many Texas high school students will take the Texas Success Initiative (TSI) test to evaluate their essential reading, writing, and math skills to ensure they’re prepared to succeed in freshman-level dual credit or college courses.

While writing a successful TSI essay or five-paragraph persuasive essay for English classes is much different than writing a successful personal statement, statement of purpose , or supplemental essay (the writing topics I normally cover), I thought this topic was worth discussing.

In this post, we’ll explore what the TSI persuasive essay is , how your essay is evaluated , and the strategies you can implement to achieve your desired score. I’ll also give you some links to sample TSI essays, responses, and other resources . 

About the TSI Essay

For the essay portion of the TSI, you’ll receive a random essay prompt, which consists of:

• A short passage to read that’s based on an important issue
• Instructions for picking a point of view to support and then writing a persuasive essay on that point of view

You’ll need to write a roughly 500- to 600-word persuasive essay with four to five paragraphs (an opening, a closing, and three body paragraphs). The TSI is an untimed test, so you have as much time as you need. Don’t rush. Take your time and be thoughtful about your answer, even if you’d rather be anywhere than taking the test.

The TSI doesn't expect you to have any particular knowledge to answer the prompt (e.g., the prompt won’t assume you’ve read a certain book or have detailed knowledge of an event). Instead, the topic will require you to pick a side of a debatable topic/current event and then defend that side. Keep in mind that the chosen issue doesn’t have a right or wrong answer, so you won’t be judged on the position you take. 

How You’ll Be Evaluated on the TSI Essay

Reviewers will evaluate your essay on these six factors, according to Mometrix Test Preparation :

• Purpose and focus. Is the information you're presenting unified, coherent, and cohesive? Do you address the issue and your position clearly? Do you keep with that position?
• Organization and structure. Are your ideas and paragraphs connected in an orderly, logical fashion? Does your organization result in a clear path from one point to another? 
• Development and support. Have you developed your Ideas? Do your statements support your thesis and build upon one another, leading to a clearly developed statement or call to action? Do you give examples, explanations, and definitions? Does this supporting text help convince the reader?
• Sentence variety and style. Are your sentences and paragraphs exhibiting control of vocabulary, voice, and structure? Do you use strong action verbs and a varied word choice? Are you using active voice and writing using the same person (I)?
• Mechanical conventions. Do the ideas you express show an understanding of standard English conventions (proper grammar, spelling, punctuation, and more – all the things you were tested on in the Writing Test section of the TSI).
• Critical thinking. Does your point of view demonstrate an understanding of the relationship that exists between ideas? Are you expressing thoughts that are well-reasoned and supported? Do you clearly identify and support your point of view? Are your arguments logical enough to convince the reader of your position?

Scoring the TSI Essay: What You're Aiming for

You’ll receive a score of 1-8 on each of the six sections (although you’ll see only one overall 1-8 score), and a “college ready” score is 5 or higher. Essays that are too short to be evaluated against these criteria, that miss addressing the prompt completely, or that aren’t written in English will automatically receive a 0. 

Keep in mind that a computer scores these essays, so you’re just trying to show the computer you can form a logical, well-developed argument – and use solid grammar and spelling and a decent writing style.

TSI Essay Examples

Check out these TSI essay samples from the College Board , which evaluate essays scored 1-8 and explain why these sample TSI essays received the score they did and how they could’ve been improved. 

Again, you won’t be scored on your actual opinion, so don’t be concerned you’ll “lose points” if you support the less popular perspective.

Steps to Writing Your TSI Essay

Writing an effective, high-scoring essay means taking your time going through each step and really planning out your essay. While the planning portion doesn’t need to take a lot of time, but it will help you in the end by making your essay flow better and being well-thought-out.

Four important steps go into writing a great TSI essay.

1. Understand the Assignment

• Read the passage and the prompt. Read it again!
• Make sure you understand the TSI essay prompt, the issue it’s presenting, and the sides to the issue you can write about. Remember: This essay doesn’t expect you to have any technical or specific knowledge to write an effective response. Instead, you’ll use your own experiences, examples, and knowledge to defend your position.
• Consider how you’ll address the issue the passage mentions. You’ll need to pick one side of the issue to write about in your essay – even if you feel your stance on the position falls somewhere in the middle. Your score doesn't depend on which side of the issue you take; rather, it’s about how well you can support it.

2.  Make a Plan

Two of the biggest factors in a high-scoring TSI essay grade are length and clarity. As a result, you’ll want to use the scratch paper you have available to decide the position you want to take and sketch out a rough outline.

On the scratch paper:

• Decide which position of the TSI essay prompt will be easiest to write about. Making this decision could involve making a two-column table and then writing down the evidence you can think of to support each position. Usually, it will become clear which one will be easier for you to write about (hint: the column with more writing/examples in it). Once you decide your position …
• List out supporting examples. Come up with four or five examples to support your position. Bring in your personal experience and knowledge to support your response to the TSI essay prompt. The more specific, the better. Names, dates, places, conversations – these specifics will help you defend your position and earn a higher score. And they can come from anywhere – history, the news, pop culture, social media, movies/TV shows, politics, sports, entertainment, family history, quotations, personal stories, etc.. 
• Identify the three (minimum of two) strongest examples. Those will become your body paragraphs. Finally, you'll …
• Draft your thesis statement. Based on your position and examples, what is the topic of your essay, what side of the argument will you be defending, and why have you chosen that side?

3. Start Writing

With the outlining work done, you’ve done the hard part. Congratulations. But you’re just getting started. Now it’s time to put it all together into a cohesive essay. Here’s how you’ll start writing each paragraph of your TSI essay.

Introduction

Spend no more than 3-4 sentences in your opening. Even 1-2 sentences are sufficient to state your position on the assigned topic. This will be quick and to the point, letting you spend more of your time defending your position.

In your introduction:

• Introduce the reader to the topic. This may include some sort of “hook” or attention-getting sentence that highlights the issue. This could be a quote, a personal anecdote, a historical reference, or a current piece of news.
• Admission of complexity. Acknowledge that there are many sides to the issue.
• State your thesis. Clearly and definitively state your position on the matter. This should be the last sentence of the paragraph and can include mentions of the two or three pieces of supporting evidence you’ll be presenting in the body paragraphs.

Body Paragraphs

Aim for writing three body paragraphs, but write a minimum of two. Each paragraph should have at least 4-6 sentences. Here are some other tips for writing your body paragraphs:

• Order your body paragraphs from the strongest to the weakest. Use your strongest example as your first body paragraph.
• Use transition words and phrases , like the ones below from Merriam-Webster, to signal to the reader that you're moving on to a new idea but this new paragraph is connected to the previous one. 
• Start with a topic sentence. Using a transition word or phrase, introduces your example and establish the point you’re going to make in this paragraph only.
• Next, fully describe that example. Be specific. Use the detailed examples you came up with in “Make a Plan” above. Use one example per paragraph. Be descriptive and thorough. 
• End by explaining how this example supports your thesis. This is where you’ll spend the majority of the paragraph. Use specifics and details to convince your reader how this example demonstrates the position you hold on the topic is the right one.

Much like the introduction, the conclusion will be a short (3-4 sentences, max) paragraph that sums up your position, addresses the opposing viewpoint, and leaves the reader with a closing thought.

As a result, the format might look a little like this:

• Acknowledge there’s another point of view by saying that while your position is obviously the correct one, other people believe [insert a brief summary of the opposing viewpoint].
• Briefly state why that opposing position/perspective is incorrect.
• Restate why your opinion is the right one, which may include a summary of the points you’ve made in your body paragraphs.

Note: While you are mentioning the opposing viewpoint in the closing, this is not the same as taking both sides, which I cautioned against earlier. This is mentioning the other perspective but then briefly and effectively criticizing it and showing why yours is better.

Here’s a sample conclusion from TSIPracticeTest.com that shows how you can fill in the blanks:

Although ________ is demonstrably correct, some have argued that _______, believing that ________. However, this viewpoint on the present issue is negated by ________. Rather, __________. Therefore, in the long run it is clear that _____________.

4. Proofread Your Essay

Once you think you’re done writing, you’re not. Now it’s time for editing and proofreading .

Read your essay slowly, from start to finish. Make sure your ideas make sense and support your thesis. Check that you transition from one paragraph to another. You should ensure your examples are detailed, descriptive, and support your argument. Sound good? Good. But you’re not done … yet.

Because part of your score is based on spelling, grammar, and punctuation, read the essay at least once after you think it’s done. Read it back slowly to yourself, and look for any mistakes you can correct. 

Remember: You have no time limit for writing the TSI essay, and taking your time now is better than having to take the test again because of errors you could’ve corrected.

Want More Help on the TSI Essay?

Hopefully these tips and tricks are enough to help you hit your targets when writing the TSI essay. But if you’re looking to read sample essays (and evaluations), practice with sample prompts, or learn more tips and tricks. You can find additional resources online, but some I found to be helpful are:

Sample TSI Essays and TSI Writing Resources

• Tips and Strategies for the TSI Essay
• College Board: WritePlacer Guide With Sample Essays
• Practice Test Essay
• TSI Essay Practice! – Michael Tooey (video, 01:20:36)

Support for the Full TSI

• TSI flash cards . These color-coded flash cards include study tips and cover mathematics, language arts, and reading. They also include practice questions.
• TSI Study Guide 2023-2024 (Jonathan Cox). This study guide includes 2 practice tests (one online, one in book), answers/explanations, access to online flash cards, and other study materials.
• TSI Study Guide 2023-2024 (Joshua Rueda). This study guide includes 3 practice tests, answers, and explanations; test-taking strategies; and a breakdown of each section.

Writing a college admission essay instead? The guidelines are much different. Learn how to get started with y our personal statement.

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