Texas Success Initiative Assessment (TSIA/TSIA2)
The Texas Success Initiative Assessment (TSIA2) is a state-required placement test. Texas public colleges use it to find out if students are ready for college-level classes. The test checks your skills in math, reading, and writing.
You cannot "pass" or "fail" this test. But it is important to do your best so you get an accurate picture of your skills. Your results — along with your goals and academic background — help your advisor place you in the right courses.
What's on the TSIA2?
The test consists of two sections:
- ELAR (English Language Arts and Reading) — multiple-choice questions and possibly an essay
- Math — multiple choice questions
Before You Test: Pre-Assessment Activity (PAA)
Before you take the TSIA2, you must complete the TSI Pre-Assessment Activity (PAA). It covers what the test is about, what to expect, sample questions, and where to get help. This is required by Texas state law.
After you finish, email your PAA completion certificate to testingservices@mclennan.edu or print it and bring it to your testing appointment.
Do You Have to Take It? (Exemptions)
Some students may not need to take the TSIA2. You might be exempt based on prior test scores, a previous degree, military service, public service, certain certificate programs, or other approved reasons. You will need to provide documents to prove your exemption. Visit the TSI Exemptions page for the full list.
Exam Fees
| What You're Testing | Fee |
|---|---|
| Full TSIA2 (both sections) | $21.00 + $3.50 service fee |
| ELAR Multiple Choice or Essay and Math | $17.50 + $3.50 service fee |
| ELAR only (Multiple Choice & Essay) | $17.00 + $3.50 service fee |
| Essay only or ELAR Multiple Choice only | $13.50 + $3.50 service fee |
| Math only | $14.00 + $3.50 service fee |
What to Bring on Test Day
You must bring a valid, unexpired photo ID. Accepted IDs include:
- Driver's license
- State ID card
- Passport
- Military ID
- National ID
- Tribal ID
- Naturalization card
- Certificate of citizenship
- Permanent resident card (Green Card)
Photos or photocopies of IDs are not accepted. Student IDs are accepted for ALEKS, MCC Course Exams, Correspondence Exams, and TSIA2.
If you don't have a valid photo ID, you may fill out the ACCUPLACER Student ID Form.
A calculator will be available on the computer during the exam — you do not need to bring one.
Your Scores
You will get a copy of your score report when you finish the exam. TSIA and TSIA2 scores are valid for five (5) years from the date you tested.
If you took the TSI at another school within the last 5 years and haven't sent those scores to MCC, use the link below to help us find them.
Retesting: You must wait at least 24 hours before testing again.
Score Requirements for College-Level Courses
TSIA2 (current exam)
| Section | Score Needed |
|---|---|
| English Language Arts & Reading (ELAR) | 945–990 with an Essay score of 5–8 or 910–944 with a Diagnostic Level of 5–6 and an Essay score of 5–8 |
| Math | 950–990 or 910–949 with a Diagnostic Level of 6 |
TSIA (taken before January 11, 2021)
| Section | Score Needed |
|---|---|
| Reading | 351 or above |
| Writing | Essay score of 5 or higher with any writing placement score or Essay score of 4 with a writing placement score of 340 or higher |
| Math | 350 or above |
Testing Accommodations
If you need special testing accommodations, you must first register with Disability Services (Accommodations). Do this early — it takes time to set everything up.
Once your accommodations are approved, contact Testing Services so your account can be set up before you schedule your exam. If you skip this step, your accommodations may not be ready in time.
Visit the Requesting Accommodations page for details.
Students from another college: Your school must send a Letter of Accommodation to Testing Services before accommodations can be provided. Email to testingservices@mclennan.edu or fax to 254-299-6200, Attn: Testing Services.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the TSIA2?
The TSIA2 (Texas Success Initiative Assessment) is a placement test required by the state of Texas. It measures your skills in math and English Language Arts and Reading (ELAR) to help determine which college courses are the right fit for you. It replaced the original TSIA test in January 2021.
What does TSIA stand for?
TSIA stands for Texas Success Initiative Assessment. The current version of the test is called the TSIA2.
How do I prepare for the TSIA2 test?
Before testing, Texas law requires you to complete the TSI Pre-Assessment Activity (PAA), which covers what to expect on the test, sample questions, and where to get help. After you finish, email your completion certificate to testingservices@mclennan.edu or bring a printed copy to your testing appointment.
How much does the TSIA2 cost?
The full TSIA2 (both sections) costs $21.00 plus a $3.50 service fee. Individual section pricing is available in the fee table above.
Do I have to take the TSIA2?
Some students are exempt based on prior test scores, a previous degree, military service, public service, or certain certificate programs. Visit the TSI Exemptions page for the full list of qualifying exemptions.
RESOURCES
TSIA2 PAA and Practice Resources