TJC does not have an admissions test. However, all incoming students are required to take the TSI Assessment or an approved alternative test for all non-exempt students prior to enrolling in college-level courses at TJC.

Some students may be exempt from taking the TSI based on SAT or ACT exams, their major, as well as other factors such as military veterans or those with an associate degree or higher. A full list of exemptions can be found here.

What is the TSI test?

The TSI exam is also known as the Texas Success Initiative Assessment. The purpose of this exam is to decide the proper level of college coursework for an incoming student. (Sponsored by Mometrix)

Send Us Your Scores

Did you take the TSI at another institution? We need your results for your student records! Don’t worry, we’ll do the hard work. Just tell us where you took the test and we’ll go fetch your scores.

Score Report Form

Pricing if Not Taking TJC Courses

  • English, Language Arts, & Reading Exam – $15
  • Math Exam – $15

You can take the TSI Test….

… at your high school

Take the TSI test at your high school and the scores will be sent with your official transcript.

… online or at a remote testing center

Take the TSI test online at home by using our remote proctoring system.

… at TJC during normal business hours

Come to TJC during testing center hours and your scores will automatically be entered into our system.

… at TJC during a Reg Rally

Come to one of our Registration Rally events to take the TSI and be advised for classes. See dates and times.

Frequently Asked Questions

The TSI test is required for all incoming TJC students unless you are exempt.

Exempt List

TJC uses TSI scores to help find courses that are best for your academic success.

Use the student portal to locate your TSI scores.

Student Portal

If you plan to see an academic advisor on the same day after completing the TSI exam, plan on starting the exam no later than 10am if possible.

No appointment is required and walk-ins are welcome. However, if you would like to secure an appointment, you can do so by going to the TJC Testing Center.

TJC Testing Center

Any student is welcome to take the TSI at TJC. However, during periods of high volume, priority testing will be provided to TJC students and the pricing discount only applies to TJC students.

If you are exempt based on the criteria listed here, please notify our admissions office here:

Email: admissions@tjc.edu

Fax: 903-510-2161

Mail: TJC
Attention: Admissions
P.O. Box 9020
Tyler, TX 75711-9020

If you have taken the TSI at another school or institution, please let us know by filling out this form.

 

The TSI exam is composed of four subjects: English, Language Arts, Reading, and Math.

The TSI Assessment is not a timed test. The average time to complete all 3 sections of the test is 3–5 hours.

The TSI test is not a pass/fail test. The TSI test results are an indicator of the types of courses you can enroll in at TJC. If you place below the scores in the chart below you may need to enroll in non-credit developmental classes before taking college-level courses.

Subject Area College-Ready Score
Mathematics 950-990 OR 910-949 and Diagnostics Score of 6 or Higher
English, Language Arts, & Reading 945-990 AND an Essay Score of 5-8
OR 910-944, Diagnostics Score of 5 or 6 AND an Essay score of 5-8

Before you take the TSI, you must participate in the Pre-Assessment Activity (it’s the law!). You will not be allowed to take the TSI until you have completed this activity.

The Pre-Assessment includes the following:

  • Learn what’s on the TSI and why doing well matters
  • Try your hand on some sample test questions
  • Receive your certificate for completing this mandatory activity
  • Finish in 30 minutes or less
Pre-Assessement Activity

Yes. You may retest at any time.

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.

Studying for the TSI can help you place into higher-level courses – saving you money and helping you earn your degree faster.

Yes, studying is easy with the free study app, giving you access to practice anytime, anywhere.

Study App Link
  • Government or school-issued ID: TJC ID, drivers license, passport
  • Pre-assessment certificate
  • And anything else the Test-Day Checklist would indicate
Test-Day Checklist

It is highly recommended that you prepare for the TSI, so the exams accurately reflect your placement in reading, writing, English, and mathematics. Follow the sample questions and study guide below before you complete the TSI pre-assessment.

Tsi cover

Next Steps