TSIA Frequently Asked Questions

The Texas Success Initiative (TSIA) is a program that requires all undergraduate students to demonstrate their readiness in three key areas: Reading, Writing, and Mathematics. Through this initiative, the testing center aims to identify student's strengths and areas of improvement in order for students to be successful in college-level coursework.

TSIA Assessment scores are not used to determine admissions status; however, entering students must show they are in compliant or take the TSIA Assessment before enrolling in college-level courses. 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 entry math and English courses. 

You are required to tak ethe TSIA exam as it is required. This is your firsttime taking the TSIA exam, you are required to take all subjects. However, you can verify if you are exempt from taking the TSIA or sections of TSIA. Please visit the TSIA Exemption section of our website to verify if you are eligible to be exempt.

YES.  Before registering for your TSIA exam, all students must take the pre-assessment activity (PAA). You will not be allowed to take the TSIA Assessment until you have completed this activity. 

After completing the PAA, print out the pre-assessment certificate and bring it with you to the Testing Center on the day of your exam.

The TSIA is an untimed exam. However be prepared to test up to 4-5 hours.

Listed belwo is the cost for the TSIA exam:

• On-Campus Full exam: $45
• On-Campus Single section exam: $25
• Virtual (single session): $25
• TSIA in person at another institution: $41

You can schedule ayour TSIA exam on our website

NO. Calculators are not allowed. A calculator is provided within the testing software.

Students that are TSIA incomplete will have a TSIA Hold on their account that prevents them from regsiterring for courses. Incoming undergraduate students should take the TSIA before their orientation date.

Test results are available upon completion of the TSIA exam.

Our website provides a listing of minimum scores required to be placed in college level courses. Please review the "Understanding your TSIA Score" section to view the minimum score requirement for each area of the TSIA exam.

No, however if your cut score fallas below the minimum requirement you have the option to retest.

Please click on the link below to provide your written consent for UNT Dallas to obtain your scores and submit to admissions on your behalf

You should bring a government issued un-expired ID or a valid school ID for current high school students before starting the test. 

• A valid photo ID (unexpired)
• No personal items are NOT permitted into the testing lab. All items will need to be placed in the locker you that will beprovided to you the day of testing.
• No Personal items are permitted including but not limited to: gum, candy, large jewelry, purses, book bags, large coats, calculators, cellphones, watches, wearable technology, any device that has the ability to connect to the Internet. 
• Scratch paper and pencils will be provided at the testing center as calculators are not permitted.