The Texas Success Initiative (TSI) Assessment is a state mandated placement exam, used to assess a student's proficiency in Writing, Reading, and Mathematics. For more detailed information on the TSI, please refer to the Student Informational Brochure. 

If you have previously taken the TSI and need to submit scores to  NVC,  CLICK HERE to submit a request.  this allows NVC to pull your previous score report. Once we pull your scores we will follow up with you regarding your next enrollment steps. 

You can also find your score report here. 

TSI Fees

TSI at No Cost*

*The TSIA 2 is currently available at no cost for students that have a Northwest Vista College application, but only for the initial test administration.  This does not apply to retest. Students needing TSIA 2 for Dual Credit or Early Admit are not eligible for no-cost option.   

The following fees will apply for those not eligible for no cost TSI:

$32 for a full exam

$24 for English Language Arts and Reading only (may also include essay)

$12 for Math only

$12 for Essay Retest only

TSI Assessment Scores

The TSI Assessment 2 (TSIA 2) College Level Placement Scores:

Pre-Assessment Activity

All students taking the TSI assessment need to complete the Test Prep module located under the Start Here tab in your ACES account.

Collectively called the Pre-Assessment Activity, this online module address:

1. The importance of assessment in a student's academic career.
2. Sample questions in all subject areas covered on the TSI.
3. Information on developmental education options, including course pairing, non-course based, modular and other non-conventional interventions.
4. Information on institutional and community resources available to assist students with college success.

The pre-assessment activity must be completed prior to testing, NO EXCEPTIONS.

TSI Exemptions & Waivers 

You may be eligible for an exemption or waiver from the TSI based on your previous college coursework, military experience or previous test scores. Do not take the TSI if any of the following apply to you:

Click here for additional exemption information. 

Learn how to send your SAT scores by watching the video below.

TSIA 2 Testing Hours 

The TSI Assessment is offered on both a walk in and appointment (limited opportunities) basis, Monday - Friday during our normal business hours. Saturday TSI Testing is by appointment only. You can schedule your appointment by clicking the link(s) below.

Schedule Monday-Friday Appointment

Schedule Saturday Appointment

What to Expect On Test Day

Please bring the following items with you:

1. Photo ID
2. Form of Payment (We accept cash or card only)
3. A locker will be provided for other personal belongings

How long does it take to complete the TSI Assessment?

The TSI Assessment is not a timed test. The average time to complete all sections of the test is about 4 hours. All TSI sections must be completed within 14 days of starting your session. 

How long does it take to receive my scores?

Students will receive a copy of their score report upon completion of their exam. 

How long is my score valid?

TSI Assessment scores are valid for 5 years from the date of testing. 

How can I prepare for the exam?

TSI practice questions provided by CollegeBoard

TSIA 2 ELAR Practice Questions

TSIA 2 Math Practice Questions

TSIA 2 Essay Practice Questions

Students who cannot complete TSI testing within our testing hours can submit a request to complete testing through Meazure Learning’s ProctorU. ProctorU is a third party proctoring service offered by request only. 

CLICK Here for Information on Taking TSI From Home

First Time In College (FTiC) Students: FTiC students will register for classes at New Student Orientation (NSO).

Once all enrollment steps are completed, sign up for Wildcat Orientation.

Transfer Students: Transfer students will register for classes and sign up for Transfer and Former Student Orientation.

Once all enrollment steps are completed, sign up for Wildcat Orientation (Transfer).

Helpful Links:Campus Resources Student Advocacy & Resource Center Scholarships 

Course exam services will be unavailable during Spring Break 2025 (March 10th-14th) and will resume on Monday, March 17th.

Course Exam Services (CES) offers proctoring for students enrolled in Northwest Vista College courses with special circumstances, specifically:

• Exam accommodations (e.g. extended time) for students who have proper documentation
• Make-up exam for students who miss an exam date

All proctoring is available in person and by appointment only (Same-day appointments or drop-ins are no longer accepted)

A valid picture ID is required of all testers

Click here for more information on the process for requesting Course Exam Services

For special accommodations for instructor exams please contact NVC Student Accessibility Services (Disabilities Support) at 210-486-4466 or by email at NVC-SAS@ballballu.com.

Normal Office Hours:
Monday-Wednesday 8:00am - 6:00pm
Thursday: 8:00am - 7:00pm
Friday: 1:00pm - 5:00pm