The Texas Success Initiative (TSI) Assessment is a state mandated placement exam, used to assess a student's proficiency in Writing, Reading, and Mathematics. For more detailed information on the TSI, please refer to the Student Informational Brochure.
If you have previously taken the TSI and need to submit scores to NVC, CLICK HERE to submit a request. this allows NVC to pull your previous score report. Once we pull your scores we will follow up with you regarding your next enrollment steps.
You can also find your score report here.
TSI Fees
TSI at No Cost*
*The TSIA 2 is currently available at no cost for students that have a Northwest Vista College application, but only for the initial test administration. This does not apply to retest. Students needing TSIA 2 for Dual Credit or Early Admit are not eligible for no-cost option.
The following fees will apply for those not eligible for no cost TSI:
$32 for a full exam
$24 for English Language Arts and Reading only (may also include essay)
$12 for Math only
$12 for Essay Retest only
TSI Assessment Scores
The TSI Assessment 2 (TSIA 2) College Level Placement Scores:
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Pre-Assessment Activity
All students taking the TSI assessment need to complete the Test Prep module located under the Start Here tab in your ACES account.
Collectively called the Pre-Assessment Activity, this online module address:
- The importance of assessment in a student's academic career.
- Sample questions in all subject areas covered on the TSI.
- Information on developmental education options, including course pairing, non-course based, modular and other non-conventional interventions.
- Information on institutional and community resources available to assist students with college success.
The pre-assessment activity must be completed prior to testing, NO EXCEPTIONS.
TSI Exemptions & Waivers
You may be eligible for an exemption or waiver from the TSI based on your previous college coursework, military experience or previous test scores. Do not take the TSI if any of the following apply to you:
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Click here for additional exemption information.
Learn how to send your SAT scores by watching the video below.
TSIA 2 Testing Hours
The TSI Assessment is offered on both a walk in and appointment (limited opportunities) basis, Monday - Friday during our normal business hours. Saturday TSI Testing is by appointment only. You can schedule your appointment by clicking the link(s) below.
Schedule Monday-Friday Appointment
Schedule Saturday Appointment
What to Expect On Test Day
Please bring the following items with you:
- Photo ID
- Form of Payment (We accept cash or card only)
- A locker will be provided for other personal belongings
How long does it take to complete the TSI Assessment?
The TSI Assessment is not a timed test. The average time to complete all sections of the test is about 4 hours. All TSI sections must be completed within 14 days of starting your session.
How long does it take to receive my scores?
Students will receive a copy of their score report upon completion of their exam.
How long is my score valid?
TSI Assessment scores are valid for 5 years from the date of testing.
How can I prepare for the exam?
TSI practice questions provided by CollegeBoard
TSIA 2 ELAR Practice Questions
TSIA 2 Math Practice Questions
TSIA 2 Essay Practice Questions
Students who cannot complete TSI testing within our testing hours can submit a request to complete testing through Meazure Learning’s ProctorU. ProctorU is a third party proctoring service offered by request only.
CLICK Here for Information on Taking TSI From Home