Let’s Talk About the TSI
The TSI (Texas Success Initiative) evaluates a student’s readiness for college-level courses in the areas of reading, writing and mathematics. This program will also help determine what type of course or intervention will best meet the student's needs and will assist students in becoming better prepared for college-level coursework.
TSI Exemptions
There are exemptions to taking the TSI. You can find out more
about TSI exemptions and waivers in the DCCCD catalog. You must take the TSI (or be exempted) before you can register for classes. At some DCCCD colleges, the TSI must be completed before you can participate in orientation.
Step One: Prepare for the TSI
Consider preparing for the TSI. There are free practice resources available for the TSI assessment
through the ACCUPLACER website, including a web-based study app, practice questions and sample essays.
Step Two: Complete the Pre-Assessment Activity
All students must
complete the Pre-Assessment Activity (PAA) on eConnect before taking the TSI. To
take the PAA, you will need your DCCCD ID number and you must be able to log into your eConnect account.
When you finish the pre-assessment activity, click on "Credit Student Menu" in eConnect, then "My Personal Information" followed by "My Advising Report (GPA)". Make sure
PAA shows as "taken" with the date it was completed.
Step Three: Get a Testing Referral
Contact your college's Advising/Counseling Center or Admissions/Registrar's Office to obtain a testing referral. A testing referral is required to appear for the TSI assessment at a college's Assessment/Testing Center.
If you are not able to take an assessment test at one of the colleges of DCCCD but are still in the state of Texas, you may take an assessment test at a local community college or university in your area. Your assessment scores can then be faxed to your college's Advising/Counseling Center.
If you are an out-of-state student taking classes online, please contact your college's Advising/Counseling Center for a referral. Please keep in mind that we cannot guarantee free testing from an outside institution.
Download the Distance Learning TSI Individual Score Report Request Form (PDF - 145KB).
Step Four: Take the TSI Assessment
The TSI assessment is untimed but typically takes between three to five hours for completion. The assessment is scored immediately after completion. The TSI assessment has three sections. Your testing referral will explain if you must take one, two or three of the sections.