An ACC student reviews a textbook during class

College Prep TSI Improvement Program

Improve TSI Scores and Become College-ready

ACC’s College Prep TSI Improvement Program offers free 8-week classes to help underprepared students strengthen their academic skills and prepare for the Texas Success Initiative (TSI) college readiness assessment.

College Prep classes focus on MATH and ELAR (English Language Arts & Reading) concepts that are directly assessed by the TSI college-readiness score minimums:

MATH: 950 or Diagnostic of 6

ELAR: 945 or Diagnostic of 5, and Essay 5

Expectations & Success Planning Guide for ALL Levels of Learners*: 

  • Students with TSI scores of 935 or more or ANY score with a Diagnostic of 4 or 5 usually reach TSI completion in one 8-week term.
  • Students with TSI scores between 910-934 with a Diagnostic of 2 or 3 may need additional terms to reach TSI completion.

Program Eligibility Requirements for Registration:

  • have an APPROVED ACC Traditional Application (for credit classes)
  • have TSI scores from the LAST 12 MONTHS in the subject requested
  • be a high school or GED graduate
  • live in the Austin Community College service area 
  • meet ESOL Level 4 assessment minimums, if applicable

3 STEPS for course registration:

  1. Meet the program eligibility REQUIREMENTS, REQUEST Registration, and SELECT classes (that’s all you have to do).
  2. College Prep coordinators will process Registration Requests within 14 days.
  3. You’ll receive a CONFIRMATION EMAIL once your registration is finalized.

Registration for Spring Semester 2025 Term 3 (January – March 2025) is now OPEN!


Need help applying to ACC? Contact the ACC Welcome Center for guided support with the Traditional ACC Application process.

Individuals with F1 or F2 (International Student), J1 or J2 (Exchange Visitor), or B1/B2 (business/tourism) visas are not eligible for this program. This includes expired, voided or canceled visas.


Frequently Asked Questions

How much do College Prep classes cost?


The classes and textbooks are free.  

What are the attendance requirements?


Students are required to attend 85% of the time to remain enrolled in the program.

Can College Prep classes be taken while a student is on academic suspension, probation, or warning?


Yes; College Prep classes can help a student develop their academic skills while working toward improving their academic status.

Will students in College Prep classes receive a grade that impacts their GPA?


The College Prep grade will not impact the GPA. The program is designed to help students improve their academic skills and become ‘college ready’.

Can students enroll in College Prep classes while taking ACC credit classes?


Yes; students are encouraged to continue their degree plan in content areas where they are TSI complete.

Can students participate in College Prep classes if they are already TSI complete in that subject area?


It depends. We ask that you speak directly with a College Prep Program coordinator to discuss the specific situation. 

What is the average age of the students? Is there a minimum age requirement?


Participants have ranged from 19 to 70 years old (any student preparing for credit classes is eligible). Students under 19 must provide additional documentation.

Are advisors available to assist with registration into credit classes? ?


Yes, Adult Education Advising specialists provide complete advising services to students for transition into college credit classes including degree planning and financial aid application assistance.

Additional questions? Email [email protected] or call 512.223.7477.

*Based on data from the two most recent terms (summer 2024 and fall (8A) term).

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