Overview of the TSI Mathematics Test
The TSIA2 math section starts with a 20-question College Readiness Classification (CRC) test. A score of 950 or higher (on a 910 to 990 scale) means you are ready for college-level math; if you score below 950, you take a 48-question diagnostic test that pinpoints which skills to work on. Handheld calculators are not allowed, but some questions show an on-screen calculator.
The Texas Success Initiative Assessment, also known as the TSI, checks your readiness for college-level work before you enroll in your first courses. The current version, the TSI Assessment 2.0 (TSIA2), has been in use since January 11, 2021, and most students starting at a public college in Texas must take it unless they are exempt. It covers two areas: Mathematics, and English Language Arts and Reading (ELAR), which includes an essay. The TSI Assessment is untimed, although colleges typically schedule several hours for the full test.
The math section of the TSI test consists of multiple-choice questions. It is 20 questions in length and evaluates four specific math-related topics. If you score below 950 on those 20 questions, you then take a 48-question diagnostic test.
For the score you need and what happens if you miss it, see our TSI passing score for math (TSIA2).
The Absolute Best Book to Ace the TSI Math Test
What is on the TSIA2 Mathematics test?
The 20-question College Readiness Classification (CRC) test draws from four content strands. According to the official TSIA2 Mathematics test specifications, the questions are divided like this:
1- Quantitative Reasoning (6 questions):
These questions check your number sense: fractions, decimals, percents, ratios, rates, and proportions. Expect word problems such as finding a percent change or comparing unit prices.
2- Algebraic Reasoning (7 questions):
This is the largest strand. It covers linear equations and inequalities, systems of equations, quadratics, and functions. You need to solve equations, interpret lines and their slopes, and translate word problems into algebra.
3- Geometric and Spatial Reasoning (3 questions):
These questions cover area, volume, right triangles, and the coordinate plane. You may be given the details of a shape and asked to find a missing measurement, either with a formula you know or one the question provides.
4- Probabilistic and Statistical Reasoning (4 questions):
Here you work with mean, median, data displays such as tables and graphs, and basic probability. Reading the data carefully is just as important as the arithmetic.
If your CRC score is below 950, the Diagnostic test that follows has 48 questions, 12 from each of these four strands.
Is the TSI Mathematics test hard?
The difficulty of the TSI mathematics test questions depends on the test taker. Because the TSIA2 is computer-adaptive, the next question usually gets harder when you answer correctly and easier when you miss one. Harder questions count differently from easier ones, so working carefully on every question is the best way to reach a higher score.
Can I bring a calculator to the test?
No. You cannot bring a handheld calculator. Some questions open a built-in calculator on the screen. Also, no study material or other reference material may be used during the test. Mobile phones and all other communication devices are strictly forbidden in the test room.
How is the TSI Mathematics test scored?
The format of your scores depends on the time of participation in TSI. The score report changed with the new TSIA test on January 11, 2021.
TSIA Math standard (Before January 11, 2021):
- 350 or above (history only: TSI scores are valid for five years, so these results have now expired)
TSIA2 Math standard (On or after January 11, 2021):
- A College Readiness Classification (CRC) score of 950 or higher on the 910 to 990 scale, or a CRC score under 950 and a math Diagnostic Level of 6
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