Assessment Services Guide: Texas Higher Education Assessment (THEA)

The THEA is a computer-based exam that assesses the reading, mathematics and writing skills of entering freshman-level students. This assessment determines if you will perform effectively in undergraduate certificate or degree programs in Texas public colleges or universities.

THEA was developed by Evaluation Systems Pearson® through a rigorous review and approval process supported by skilled and experienced Texas educators.

If you are a student in an educator certification program at East Texas A&M but do not have SAT/ACT scores to exempt you from the THEA, you are only required to take the reading section of the THEA exam.
See the Teacher Education Checklist per the Department of Curriculum and Instruction.

Make an Appointment

  • Fees
    • The THEA costs $50 and is non-refundable, regardless of how many sections of the exam are needed. It is payable to East Texas A&M University through Marketplace.
  • Test Times
    • All testing appointments must be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance of your desired testing date and time. We cannot accommodate same-day testers or walk-ins.
    • Appointments may only be made during regular office hours.

Exam Day Breakdown

  • Valid Photo ID
    Bring any of the following:
    • Driver’s license
    • Passport
    • Other government-issued ID
  • Test Length
    • The test is four hours and has three sections
    • If you are only taking the reading section, the average completion time is one to two hours
  • Calculator
    • You may bring a basic, four-function non-programmable calculator only if you are taking the math section.
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