FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

    Testing Questions:

Q: What is the THEA (formerly TASP)?
A: The THEA(Texas Higher Education Assessment) is a test used to verify that students have the basic skills needed to succeed in college-level courses. Students are required by state law to take this test before enrolling in any Texas public college or university. There are three parts to THEA: 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 THEA if the meet certain requirments.

Q: Is my student required to take the THEA (formerly TASP)?
A: Effective Fall 1998 and thereafter, all students must report scores or prove exemption prior to enrolling in classes.
For more information about THEA, see Testing Services.

Q: Is my student required to take placement tests?
A: UT Arlington determines student's math placement based on SAT or ACT Math score. Student must have taken the SAT or ACT within 5 years of their admission date and must have passed the Texas Success Initiative (TSI) Math requirement. For more information, see Testing.

Q: Does my son/daughter need to take the placement test if he/she has taken the AP exam (but haven't received the scores yet)?
A: Students who have taken the AP exam but have not yet received scores will be required to either wait for their scores or take the placement exam before registering for any of these classes. If a student has received AP credit for a math class, he/she does not have to take the MPT in order to sign up for any other math courses.


Q: How does my son/daughter take the Math Placement Tests if he/she can't make it to orientation?
A: The Math Placement Test can be taken at any time, before or after orientation, through the Mathematics Department (no cost).