Overview
The Texas Success Initiative Assessment (TSIA2) is the placement assessment used by Texas public colleges and universities to check whether incoming students are ready for college-level coursework in English Language Arts and Reading (ELAR) and mathematics. It is administered under the Texas Success Initiative programme overseen by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB).
Who can take it
Non-exempt students entering Texas public colleges and universities take TSIA2. Students can be exempt from testing if they meet specific college-readiness benchmarks, such as qualifying SAT or ACT scores, successful completion of an approved college-preparatory course, or qualifying scores on STAAR English III or Algebra II.
Structure or exam pattern
| Section | Covers |
|---|---|
| English Language Arts and Reading (ELAR) | Reading and writing skills, including an optional WritePlacer essay |
| Mathematics | Quantitative reasoning and math skills needed for entry-level college coursework |
What it covers
The ELAR section covers reading and writing skills relevant to entry-level college work. The mathematics section covers the quantitative skills institutions consider necessary for college-level math and related coursework.
Scoring and results
Institutions use TSIA2 results to determine college readiness in each area. Students who do not meet the established benchmark on a section are placed into developmental education academic support in that area, as determined by their institution, before or alongside college-level coursework.
Recognition
TSIA2 results are used across Texas public colleges and universities as the common basis for determining college readiness and any required developmental support, under THECB's Texas Success Initiative.
How to register
Students take TSIA2 through their college or university's admissions office or testing centre, and must complete a required pre-assessment activity before their first attempt.
Preparation tips
Check whether you qualify for an exemption (through SAT/ACT scores, an approved prep course, or STAAR scores) before assuming you need to test.
Complete the required pre-assessment activity ahead of your testing appointment, since institutions require it before the first attempt.
Does every student entering a Texas public college have to take TSIA2?
No. Students who meet specific readiness benchmarks, such as qualifying SAT, ACT or STAAR scores, or an approved college-preparatory course, are exempt.
What happens if a student doesn't meet the benchmark on a section?
The institution places the student into developmental academic support in that area, as it determines, alongside or before college-level coursework.
What does TSIA2 test besides math?
An English Language Arts and Reading (ELAR) section, which includes an optional WritePlacer essay component.