The University of Texas at Arlington

Testing Questions

Q: What is the Texas Success Initiative (TSI)?
A: The TSI is a state-legislated program designed to improve student success in college. TSI-approved test are used to verify that students have the basic skills needed to succeed in entry-level college courses. Students are required by state law to fulfill the TSI requirement before enrolling in any Texas public college or university. There are three parts to TSI: Reading, Writing, & Mathematics. Students who fail to achieve the minimum required score on any part will be required to enroll in developmental coursework. Some students may be exempt from the TSI if the meet certain requirements.

Q: How do I satisfy the TSI requirement?
A: Many students have satisfied this requirement with scores on tests such as THEA, Accuplacer, SAT, or TAKS, which may have been submitted on your transcript. If you have questions about your TSI status please contact the Office of Undergraduate Admissions at 817-272-6287. For more information about TSI requirements and exemptions, see the Texas Success Initiative website.

Q: I took AP or IB exams in High School how do I get credit?
A: Make sure your scores were sent to UT Arlington (code 6013). Go to the Testing Services website and click on “Credit by Exam” and look up if your AP test score is accepted at UT Arlington. If so, then contact Testing Services to fill out a petition to have the course credit added to your transcript.

Q: I took AP exams in High School and received credit at my previous institution. Will these credits be accepted by UT Arlington?
A: If the class that you received credit for from your AP exams is transferable to UTA these credits will be applied during your transcript evaluation.

Q: Am I required to take a math placement test?
A: Your math placement is determined by a qualifying SAT or ACT Math score or accepted transfer credits. You must have taken the SAT or ACT within 5 years of your admission date and you must have passed the Texas Success Initiative (TSI) Math requirement. Please contact the Math Department for questions about the transferability of specific math courses.

Q: How do I take the Math Placement Test?
A: The Math Placement Test is available on the math department website and can be taken at anytime. Students have three (3) attempts to pass the test.