The Texas Success Initiative (TSI) is a state mandated placement program. Students must take either the Texas Higher Education Assessment (THEA) or a state approved alternative to determine whether or not they are ready for college credit course work. Student required to take one of the TSI approved tests may take either the THEA, THEA-QT, ACCUPLACER, ASSET, or COMPASS. The Career &Testing Center at Lamar University offers the THEA, THEA-QT, and ACCUPLACER for students who need one of these tests. Some students will be exempt based on SAT, ACT, or TAKS scores.

We strongly encourage all students to check their status through the Office of Admissions, 409-880-8888, or Developmental Studies, 409-880-8954, before they come to Orientation and, if needed, take one of the TSI approved tests then have their scores sent to the office of Admissions to ensure that they will be able to register for classes while they are here. For information about our test schedules, fees, registration, and appointments, please contact the Career & Testing Center at 409-880-8878.