Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Texas Success Initiative (TSI)?
TSI is a state requirement for all undergraduate students at public colleges and universities in Texas. TSI requires students to demonstrate readiness in reading, mathematics, and writing before enrolling in college-level coursework. This is called being “TSI Complete.”
How can I demonstrate readiness?
Most students demonstrate readiness through testing. If your ACT, SAT, or TAKS score is sufficient, you will be exempt from further college readiness testing. Follow the link to determine if you are exempt. If you are not exempt, then you must take an appropriate college readiness test for the TSI.
What is an appropriate college readiness test for the TSI?
The following tests are approved by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board for TSI:
ACCUPLACER, THEA, COMPASS, and ASSET
Can I enroll for a full semester load my first semester without having taken an appropriate TSI placement test?
No. Unless exempt, a TSI test must be taken prior to attending orientation. Transfer and transient students should check with Academic Readiness if they believe that they are TSI Complete.
What are the requirements to be TSI complete?
The Texas Success Initiative may be completed by:
1. Achieving the minimum standards on an approved instrument;
2. Passing the highest level of developmental course for the area(s) not completed through testing.
Do I have to reach the minimum standards on all sections of a TSI Test before I can enroll at UNT?
No, though a student may be required to register for developmental coursework as condition of their enrollment.
If I am not complete in all three sections of a TSI test, can I enroll and take regular coursework the next semester?
Yes, along with mandatory developmental coursework for each section in which the student has not met college readiness standards. An Academic Readiness Advisor will meet with you at orientation to determine which developmental course is right for you.
I am exempt at another Texas college, do I have to provide UNT with the exemption documentation?
Yes, TSI information is often not included on transcripts. Please bring or fax your transcript and/or test scores to Academic Readiness.
If I am not complete in all sections of the TSI the first time I test, do I have to retest in the sections I have not completed?
Students may complete the TSI by completing the highest level of developmental coursework in the section not met or by retesting in that area. Once a student has initially tested, they are not required to retest.
Will UNT accept Accuplacer, Asset, Compass or THEA test?
Yes. Please be sure to send a copy of your scores (or a transcript that lists your scores) to Academic Readiness.
You may send your transcripts or score reports to Academic Readiness by fax, regular mail or email. Please see the Contact Us page of this website for contact information.
Does Academic Readiness offer the Accuplacer, Asset, Compass, or THEA test?
Academic Readiness only directly offers the Accuplacer. Call Academic Readiness to register at 940.565.4403.
The Quick THEA is offered at UNT through the Counseling and Testing Office. Contact them at 940.565.2741 or visit their website at http://www.unt.edu/cat/testing/frt.html for test dates and times. The regular THEA test is periodically offered state-wide and students may register for the exam at http://www.thea.nesinc.com/.
UNT does not offer the Compass or Asset exams.
What is the difference between the THEA Test and the Quick THEA Test?
They are the same test and are accepted at any Texas state college/university. The Quick THEA Test is given on a more frequent basis and you register and pay the day of the test. Scores are received one to two weeks from NES after the test.
Does UNT use the THEA Test as an Admission requirement?
No, an institution may not use the assessment or the results of the assessment as a condition of admission to the institution.
I want to be a teacher in the State of Texas. Is there anything I need to know about the THEA?
Students seeking Texas Teacher Certification should discuss THEA requirements with the UNT College of Education Student Advising Office at (940) 565-2736.
College of Education Advising: http://www.coe.unt.edu/sao/
Teacher Education Admission requirements: http://www.coe.unt.edu/sao/TeacherCertification/TeacherCert_UG_Elem.html
Can I go to Academic Readiness for academic advising?
Academic Readiness discusses needed developmental coursework and general academic success issues. See your academic advisor for details of coursework needed to meet degree requirements.