TSI Assessment for Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) and College Board Latest Update

TSI Assessment for Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) and College Board Latest Update

The Texas Success Initiative (TSI) is a state-legislated program designed to ensure that students enrolled in public colleges and universities in Texas possess the necessary academic skills for college-level coursework. Administered by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB), the TSI focuses on assessing and enhancing students' abilities in English Language Arts and Reading (ELAR) and mathematics.

TSI Assessment (TSIA2):

To determine college readiness, the TSI Assessment, Version 2.0 (TSIA2), is utilized. This assessment evaluates students' proficiency in ELAR and mathematics. Effective January 11, 2021, the TSIA2 replaced the original TSI Assessment. Scores from both TSIA and TSIA2 remain valid for five years from the testing date.

College Readiness Benchmarks:

The THECB has established specific benchmarks to determine college readiness:

• Mathematics: A minimum score of 950, or a score below 950 with a diagnostic level of 6.

• ELAR: A minimum score of 945 and an essay score of at least 5, or a score below 945 with a diagnostic level of 5 and an essay score of at least 5.

Students meeting or exceeding these scores are considered ready for college-level courses.

Exemptions from TSI:

Certain students may be exempt from taking the TSIA2 if they meet specific criteria, including:

• Standardized Test Scores: Achieving qualifying scores on assessments such as the SAT, ACT, or STAAR End-of-Course exams.

• College Preparatory Courses: Successful completion of designated high school college preparatory courses.

• Military Service: Veterans or active-duty personnel may qualify for exemptions.

A comprehensive list of exemptions is available through the THECB.

Developmental Education and Corequisite Models:

Students who do not meet the established benchmarks are required to participate in developmental education programs. One effective approach is the corequisite model, where students enroll simultaneously in developmental education and the corresponding entry-level college course within the same semester. This model provides targeted support aligned with the college course content, enhancing the likelihood of student success.

Professional Development Resources:

To support educators and advisors, the THECB, in partnership with Texas OnCourse, offers free training modules. These modules provide comprehensive training on college readiness, the TSI, and developmental education strategies, aiming to improve advising practices and student outcomes.

Recent Updates:

In response to legislative requirements and stakeholder feedback, the TSIA2 was introduced to replace the original assessment as of January 11, 2021. This update reflects ongoing efforts to improve the assessment process and ensure it accurately measures students' readiness for college-level work.

The TSI program, through assessments like the TSIA2 and support structures such as developmental education and corequisite models, plays a crucial role in preparing students for academic success in Texas higher education institutions.