Is the TSI exam hard?
Emma Payne
Published Jan 10, 2026
The difficulty of the TSI math test questions depends on the test taker. Because the TSI is a computer-adaptive test, the next question will be more difficult if the test taker answers the question correctly. However, the more difficult questions are answered, the higher the possible score will be.
What kind of math is on the TSI?
The mathematics portion of the TSI test contains 20 questions. The test covers data analysis, geometry, and algebra on both intermediate and basic levels. Students are not allowed to use a calculator when taking a TSI assessment. A pop-up calculator is embedded in the test for some questions.
How long does it take to complete the TSI?
The TSI Assessment is not a timed test. The average time to complete all sections of the test is 3–5 hours.
What is a good score on the TSI?
You are considered college ready if your score falls within the range of 350 to 390. If your score is 349 or lower, you will be placed in a developmental course or Adult Basic Education course.
What is the lowest score for the math TSI?
Shown below are the college-readiness cut scores approved by the Texas Coordinating Board: Math: 350. Reading: 351. Placement score of at least 340 and an essay score of at least a 4; or, a placement score of less than 340, and an ABE Diagnostic level of at least 4, and an essay score of at least 5.
15 related questions foundHow do I pass the TSI test?
How to Pass TSI Test: Top Tips and Key Tactics
- Don't overshoot the essay writing test. ...
- Focus on making your essay as grammatically flawless as possible. ...
- Take full advantage of the fact that there is no time limit! ...
- Double-check the questions! ...
- Don't be afraid to use online practice tests!
What is a passing grade for the TSI?
Below are the passing cut scores for TSIA as set by the state: Mathematics: a minimum score of 350. Reading: a minimum score of 351. Writing: a score of 5 on the essay section or a score of 4 on the essay and a minimum score of 340 on the multiple-choice section.
What if I fail the TSI test?
If you do not pass one or all parts (reading, writing and math) of the TSI Assessment, you may be required to enroll in developmental education coursework or accelerated intervention before you can enroll in a college credit course for the subject in which you did not pass.
Is there an essay on the TSI?
One challenging component of the TSI test is the essay question. You will be asked to write a persuasive essay on a controversial issue or an issue of current interest. The TSI essay will be evaluated on your organization, focus, development and support, sentence structure, and mechanical conventions.
Is 935 a good TSI score?
You are considered college ready if your score falls within the range of 350–390. If your score is 349 or lower, you may be placed in a developmental course or intervention.
How do I prepare for the TSI test?
This content was developed by Houston Community College.
- Pre-Assessment Activity. Begin by taking the Pre-Assessment Activity to determine your testing needs.
- Practice and Review. Next it will be helpful for you to complete the practice quizzes in reading, writing or math. ...
- Take the Assessment Test. First Pay Testing Fees.
Can you use a calculator on the TSI math test?
Are calculators allowed for the TSI Assessment? No calculators are allowed to be brought in to the testing room. A calculator is provided within the testing program, as appropriate.
Is 950 a good TSI score?
Mathematics: College Readiness Score of at least 950 or CRC score below 950 and diagnostic level of 6 (Entry-level college Math or Statistics allowed). Obtaining a score of 950 or greater or a score below 950 and a diagnostic level of 6 enables students to register for MAT 1023,1033,1043 and MAT 1073 or STA 1043,1053.
What math questions are on the TSI?
What math is on the TSI? The TSI math exam is composed of 20 multiple-choice questions on the following topics: Algebra, Functions, Geometry, Measurement, Data Analysis, Statistics, and Probability.
How many questions can I miss on the TSI math?
You will need a score of 351 to pass, which, once again, means that you can safely miss between 1–3 questions. The TSI Math tests you on Algebra I and II, Geometry, and some Statistics, only probability and measures of central tendency.
How many questions are on the TSI math test?
There will be around 20 questions on the TSI placement test and 10 questions on the DE Diagnostic Test.
Is the TSI essay persuasive?
The TSI Essay question will require you to write a five-paragraph persuasive essay. Your essay should clearly state your argument (or your main idea) and should include specific examples that support this argument. Our free online writing guide will help you prepare for this part of the test.
How many times can u take the TSI?
There is no limit to the number of times the TSI Assessment may be taken. However, the TSI Assessment fee of $50 must be paid each time the TSI Assessment is taken at Texas Tech University.
Is TSI required for college?
If you are an incoming college student in Texas, you are required to take the TSI Assessment — unless you are already exempt (read below) — to determine your readiness for college-level work.
Is 945 a good TSI score?
If you score below 945 on the multiple-choice CRC Test, receive a diagnostic level of 5 or higher on the Diagnostic Test, and score of 5 or higher on the Essay Test. If your scores don't meet these criteria, you may be placed in a developmental course or provided an appropriate intervention.
How many questions are on the TSI English?
TSI Reading
Questions are multiple-choice and there are approximately 24 questions on the placement test and 10 to 12 on the diagnostic test. The topics covered in the reading test include: literary analysis, main ideas and supporting details, inferences in a text, and author's use of language.
How do I submit my TSI scores?
Students needing to provide a copy of their scores may bring their Individual TSI Score Report to the Testing Center located on the 2nd floor of the Student Service Center or send it by email to [email protected]
Can you fail the TSI?
You cannot pass or fail the TSI assessment. Based on how you perform, you may either enroll in: College-level courses that match your skill level, or. College readiness courses or interventions to improve your skills and prepare you for success in college-level courses.
Can I take the TSI online?
The TSI Assessment exam is available online through Examity, a remote proctoring service for students who may not be able to test on campus due to COVID-19, who live out of state, or reside in a different country. Please note there is a list of requirements that need to be completed before taking the TSI exam online.