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All TSI Practice Tests
We have listed all of our free TSI practice tests below. Pick which section you want to start with and begin your studies.
TSI Math
TSI ELAR
TSI Essay
TSI Test Prep
Our team reviewed various TSI study guides and found that MathHelp.com offered the best materials to study for the TSI.
Official TSI Resources
When preparing for your TSIA2 exam, you may find these official resources helpful:
| Resource | Notes | Provider |
| Student Brochure (PDF) | Official student brochure from CollegeBoard. Learn more about the exam and what to expect when you take the exam. | CollegeBoard |
| Sample ELAR Questions (PDF) | Additional practice questions for the ELAR section of the TSI. | CollegeBoard |
| Sample Math Questions (PDF) | Additional practice questions for the ELAR section of the TSI. | CollegeBoard |
| Sample Essay Questions (PDF) | Additional practice questions for the ELAR section of the TSI. | CollegeBoard |
TSI Exam Overview
The Texas Success Initiative (TSI) assessment is a program that measures a student’s readiness for college-level courses in math, reading, and writing. Colleges also use the TSI results to help place students in the right courses and determine if any interventions are necessary.
The table below breaks down the TSIA2 exam and how it is structured.
| Section | CRC # of Questions | Diagnostic # of Questions | Time Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| ELAR | 30 | 48 | Untimed |
| Math | 20 | 48 | Untimed |
| Essay | 1 | 1 | Untimed |
You will first be given the College Readiness Classification (CRC) version of the exam.
If you do not pass the CRC benchmarks, you will then taking the diagnostic version of the sections you did not pass.
The essay is given along with the ELAR section.
TSI English Language Arts Reading (ELAR) Section
The TSI English language arts reading (ELAR) section measures your ability to read and write.
The questions are broken up into 2 main categories:
- Reading-Focused
- Writing-Focused
You will take the CRC version of the exam first. If you do not pass, you will then take the diagnostic version. The exam is multiple-choice and untimed.
TSI Mathematics Section
The TSI math section measures your ability in mathematics.
The questions are broken up into 4 main categories:
- Quantitative Reasoning
- Algebraic Reasoning
- Geometric and Spatial Reasoning
- Probabilistic and Statistical Reasoning
You will take the CRC version of the exam first. If you do not pass, you will then take the diagnostic version. The exam is multiple-choice and untimed.
TSI Essay Section
The TSI essay section measures your ability to write. You will be given a prompt and asked to respond with a 300 to 600 word essay.
Your essay will be scored based on the following 6 characteristics:
- Purpose and Focus
- Organization and Structure
- Development and Support
- Sentence Variety and Style
- Mechanical Conventions
- Critical Thinking
The essay will appear on the CRC version of the ELAR test. You will not be allowed to use outside resources to help with the essay.
TSI Scores and Exemptions
All incoming college students in Texas are required to take the TSI exam. You will need the following minimum passing scores:
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+.
There are some exemptions to the TSI test based on how you scored on other standardized exams. To learn more about scores and exemptions, read our complete guide to TSI scores.
TSIA2 Practice Test Benefits
There are many benefits of preparing for your TSI exam with practice tests. Studying for your TSI test using sample questions is one of the most effective study practices you can use. The advantages of using sample TSI tests include:
- Improving Your Problem Solving Abilities: To do well on the TSI exam, especially the math section, you need to be able to solve problems. As you practice with our sample questions, and review the provided explanations, you will increase your ability to solve problems.
- Mastering the Test Format: Standardized exams, like the TSI, have their own particular test formats. The best way to become familiar with the test format is to take practice exams. By understanding the TSI test format you will have no surprises on test day!
- Concentrating Your Study: Many students waste a lot of valuable study time by reviewing material that they are good at. As you answer more TSI practice questions, you will get a feel for what you struggle with. The most effective way to study is to concentrate on the areas that you need help on.
TSI Exam FAQs
What is the TSI exam?
TSI stands for Texas Success Initiative. The TSI is an assessment exam that aims to gauge a student’s readiness for college-level courses in math, reading, and writing.
The test is also used as a way to place students in the appropriate classes in college.
What is on the TSI exam?
The TSIA2 exam consists of the following:
- English Language Arts and Reading
- Math
- Essay
The exam is multiple-choice and untimed. The essay is given at the end of the ELAR section.
How much does the TSIA2 exam cost?
The TSIA2 exam costs $29. If you only need to take the ELAR section it is $20. If you only need to take the math section it is $10.
Are calculators allowed on the TSIA2 exam?
You will not be allowed to bring a calculator when taking the exam. However, a calculator will appear on questions that allow the use of one on your screen.
Is the TSIA2 exam given on a computer?
Yes, the TSI exam is given on a computer. The exam is computer adaptive, which means that questions will get harder or easier based on how you answered the previous question.
What is the best way to study for the TSI?
One of the best ways to get ready for a standardized test is by taking practice tests.
Our free TSI practice tests will challenge you on all aspects of the TSI.
Our practice questions also include answer explanations to help you better understand the material and do better on the TSI.
