What is THEA and how does it apply to me?

The Texas Higher Education Assessment Program was developed to evaluate the competency of Texas higher education students to satisfactorily complete freshman level college classes in the areas of reading, writing and mathematics. Unless otherwise exempt, you must take the THEA test if you are:

• entering a Texas public institution of higher education
• transferring from out-of-state or from a private college or university
• a teacher education student in either a public or private institution in Texas

What is Quick THEA?

Quick THEA is offered at the discretion of the test site between the regular offerings of THEA state-wide.  Each test site/school determines the dates Quick THEA is offered at their location.  Students interested in taking the Quick THEA should contact the test location to receive information about when Quick THEA is offered.  Test results are available in about 14 work days.

Quick THEA is offered various times during the academic year.  Quick THEA may NOT to repeated within a 30-day period.

Is there a "B" or better rule with THEA?

There is no state-wide "B' or better rule with THEA.

TWU is recognizing certain classes as meeting the purpose and spirit of the THEA rules and has a university policy which can help a student meet the THEA requirements. A student may take one of several designated classes to meet the THEA requirement. The following must be completed for the class to count:

1. THEA or Alternative test must be taken 
2. A developmental class or other form of developmental work successfully completed  
3. THEA or Alternative test must be taken a second time
4. The designated class is taken and passed with a grade of "C" or better. Caution: Only certain classes are accepted for "C" or better. They are:
   • For THEA - Writing: ENG 1013 or 1023
   • For THEA - Math: MATH 1013 or 1023; MATH 1303 or 1313; MATH 1703
   • For THEA - Reading: ENG 2013, 2023, 2033, 2043, 2053; GOV 2013, 2023 or HIST 1013, 1023 or  PSY 1013; SOCI 1013

Are there alternative tests in place of the THEA test?

In addition to the exemptions allowed because of  TAAS, ACT or SAT scores, a student may take one of the alternative tests in place of the THEA test. These tests may be used only once and may not be repeated or used as a "second" test to meet a THEA deficiency. They are accepted when they appear on the student's transcript from another college or university or when delivered in a sealed envelope with the scores recorded on official letterhead of the school to the admissions department.

How many credit hours may be taken before completing the THEA?

All students attending public institutions of higher education in the state of Texas are required by the THEA legislation to have taken the THEA test prior to registration unless otherwise exempt.  If there are circumstances which will not allow a student to have completed the THEA test prior the beginning of classes, contact your advisor for information and alternatives.

What is a THEA passing score for state purposes?

Current passing scores for THEA are:

• 230 for reading
• 230 for math
• 220 for writing 

WHAT is a THEA passing score for teacher certification?

The scores needed for teacher certification are higher than scores needed to enter a public college or university. 

Is there a THEA practice test?

Yes, a practice test  for THEA is available at the THEA Web site.