The Texas Success Initiative (TSI)
The Texas Success Initiative (TSI) is a state mandate that requires students to be assessed in reading, writing and math skills prior to enrolling in college, and to be advised based on the results of that assessment (See TSI Rules). For students enrolling without a TSI Exemption, UTD uses primarily the Texas Higher Education Assessment (THEA), formerly the TASP test, to measure student proficiency in the basic areas of study for fulfillment of the TSI requirement. Each Texas institution determines an individualized education plan to encourage academic success for those students who score below the deviation standard (or do not pass the THEA test). Students are required to retest if they do not pass the initial test.
UTD requires incoming students who are not TSI exempt to take the THEA test or other approved assessment instrument. The required passing standards on the THEA are:
- Reading – 230
- Math – 230
- Writing – 220
Note: If you are a student with a TSI Hold on your record, it must be removed prior to registering for courses. Contact an academic advisor in your program for more information.
Page last updated on November 9, 2009
