Top UK University and Oxbridge Admissions Tests

Update: The Engineering and Science Admissions Test (ESAT) has replaced the Physics Aptitude Test (PAT) for admissions to Oxford’s Physics and Engineering courses, and the Biomedical Sciences Admissions Test (BMSAT) for relevant biomedical courses.

The Engineering and Science Admissions Test (ESAT) is now used by both Oxford and Cambridge, as well as other top UK universities, to assess applicants for a range of science and engineering degrees, including Physics, Engineering, Natural Sciences, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, and related courses. The test evaluates problem-solving ability, mathematical reasoning and scientific thinking, with a strong emphasis on applying core principles in unfamiliar contexts rather than recalling advanced syllabus content.

ESAT draws on foundational knowledge of physics and mathematics and is designed to test how candidates reason under pressure, interpret technical information accurately, and approach unfamiliar problems logically. For Cambridge applicants, ESAT replaces elements of the former NSAA-style assessment, while for Oxford applicants it marks a shift away from the PAT and BMSAT.

U2 Tuition has extensive experience supporting students transitioning from PAT- and BMSAT-style preparation to ESAT, working with Oxbridge-educated tutors from Engineering, Physics and Materials Science backgrounds. Our preparation focuses on reasoning clarity, efficient problem-solving and exam technique aligned with the new test structure. As official ESAT resources continue to develop, tutors draw on a combination of released materials, carefully selected legacy resources (such as NSAA and PAT-style questions), and bespoke practice to ensure students are fully prepared.

Read our full guide to preparing for the ESAT.

Update: The Test of Academic Reasoning for Admissions (TARA) has replaced the Thinking Skills Assessment (TSA) for relevant courses at the University of Oxford.

The Test of Academic Reasoning for Admissions (TARA) is designed to assess applicants’ critical thinking, problem-solving and reasoning skills, particularly for courses such as PPE, Economics and Management, Experimental Psychology and related subjects. Unlike traditional subject-based exams, TARA focuses on how candidates analyse information, evaluate arguments and make logical decisions under time pressure.

The test consists of reasoning-based questions that assess analytical and critical thinking rather than learned subject content. While TARA has replaced the TSA, the overall style of questioning and core reasoning skills tested remain closely aligned, so prior TSA preparation can be effectively adapted for TARA.

U2 Tuition has extensive experience supporting students preparing for TARA, drawing on our long-standing expertise with TSA-style reasoning tests. We work with experienced tutors from Oxford PPE, E&M and Experimental Psychology backgrounds who provide bespoke guidance tailored to the new test structure. Preparation focuses on developing clear reasoning, accurate interpretation of questions and effective exam technique.

We also run small-group TARA courses, offering structured practice, expert feedback and exposure to high-quality reasoning questions in a collaborative setting.

Read more about TARA and how to prepare.  

Update: The TMUA has replaced the MAT (Mathematics Admissions Test) for Mathematics, Computer Science and related courses at Oxford.

The Test of Mathematics for University Admission (TMUA) plays a central role in admissions for Mathematics and related courses at leading UK universities, including the University of Cambridge, the University of Oxford, and the University of Warwick. The exam consists of two multiple-choice papers designed to assess mathematical reasoning, logic and problem-solving ability rather than rote application of syllabus content.

TMUA questions are intentionally unfamiliar in style, requiring candidates to interpret dense mathematical language, reason carefully, and make accurate decisions under time pressure. While the content is primarily based on AS-level Maths, success depends far more on clarity of thought and precision than on advanced techniques.

U2 Tuition specialises in TMUA preparation, connecting students with experienced Oxbridge mentors who understand the demands of the test and how universities use it. Our support focuses on developing TMUA-specific thinking, effective exam strategy and confident problem-solving skills that are valuable not only for the admissions test, but also for mathematics-based degree courses

Read our full guide to preparing for the TMUA.

The University Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT) serves as a pivotal assessment for aspiring medical students seeking admission to top-tier medical schools. Designed to evaluate candidates' cognitive abilities and aptitude for a career in medicine, the UCAT assesses key skills such as critical thinking, decision-making, and problem-solving.

Success in the UCAT requires thorough preparation and strategic approach. Our 1-1 UCAT tutoring and booster UCAT preparation course provide comprehensive support tailored to the specific needs of each student. With expert guidance from Oxbridge-educated Medicine tutors, extensive practice materials, and personalised instruction, we enable students to excel in the UCAT and secure admission to their desired medical schools.

Enrol in our UCAT preparation course or enquire about 1-1 UCAT tutoring to embark on your journey to medical school success.

The National Admissions Test for Law (LNAT) is a critical assessment used by several prominent UK universities for their undergraduate law programme admissions. Designed to evaluate essential skills such as critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and written communication, the LNAT comprises two main sections: Multiple-Choice Questions, where candidates assess complex information by answering questions grounded in law, politics, philosophy, and other disciplines; and Essay Writing, where candidates construct well-structured arguments within a time limit.

U2 Tuition specialises in LNAT preparation, connecting students with skilled Oxbridge-educated Law mentors (with a track record supporting students to both Oxbridge and Top Russell Group Universities), who offer personalised guidance. This ensures thorough comprehension of LNAT requirements, enhancing critical thinking, analytical skills, and essay-writing abilities, key assets for excelling in the test and embarking on a successful journey in legal studies.

At the University of Cambridge, some courses require written, analytical, or practical assessments, either across all colleges or at the individual college level, rather than through a single central admissions test. These assessments are typically used alongside interviews to evaluate applicants’ subject engagement, analytical thinking and ability to work with unfamiliar material under time pressure.

U2 Tuition has extensive experience supporting applicants with Cambridge-specific assessments, including those required for:

Courses where all colleges require an assessment

• English (CELAT)– close reading, textual analysis and written argument

• Architecture – Graphic and Spatial Ability

• Classics – Latin or Greek skills assessment

• Design – Graphic and Spatial Ability

• Linguistics – language analysis and problem-solving (most colleges set the same assessment)

Courses with college-specific assessments

• History

• Geography

• Mathematics

• Music

• Psychological and Behavioural Sciences (PBS)

• Human, Social and Political Sciences (HSPS)

Our tutors are Cambridge graduates from the relevant subject areas and are familiar with how both course-wide and college-specific assessments are used in admissions decisions. Preparation focuses on the transferable skills these assessments demand, including close analysis, structured thinking, clear written expression and confident engagement with unfamiliar material.

As formats and requirements can vary by course, college and year, we always tailor preparation to the specific course and college an applicant is applying to.

The Classics Admissions Test (CAT) employed by the University of Oxford comprises three distinct papers: the Latin Translation Test, the Greek Translation Test, and the Classics Language Aptitude Test (CLAT). Your paper selection hinges on your chosen course and your level of Latin/ Greek.

Each paper, lasting 1 hour, is taken under timed exam conditions. The Latin and Greek Translation Tests assess your translation proficiency in their respective texts, while the Classics Language Aptitude Test (CLAT) evaluates your language skills, encompassing grammar, syntax, and vocabulary. Registration for the CAT typically concludes around 29 September, followed by the test on 19 October.

U2 Tuition specialises in CAT preparation, connecting you with an Oxford Classicist who provides personalised guidance for each test component. Our approach encompasses comprehensive training for the test's demands, ensuring you're not only well-prepared for success but also nurturing qualities necessary for competitive Classics programmes at Oxford and beyond.

Read our blog on how to prepare for the CAT test here.

The Modern Languages Admissions Test (MLAT) plays a pivotal role in the University of Oxford's evaluation of candidates for its undergraduate Modern Languages programs. Tailored to assess language proficiency, literary analysis skills, and cultural awareness within the chosen language(s) of study, the MLAT comprises two key sections: a Written Component, which evaluates linguistic and literary abilities through tasks such as translation, textual analysis, and essay writing; and an Oral Component, which may entail spoken language assessment.

U2 Tuition has a fantastic team of MLAT preparation tutors, linking students with experienced mentors from Oxford and Cambridge who provide bespoke guidance. This ensures a comprehensive understanding of the MLAT's nuances, while fostering linguistic competence, literary interpretation, and cultural appreciation—essential attributes for excelling in the test and thriving in the realm of Modern Languages.

The Cambridge Modern and Medieval Languages (MML) test is a crucial step for students aspiring to study Languages at the University of Cambridge.

The test lasts an hour and has two parts:

Section A (40 mins): You read a text in the language you're studying and answer questions about the author's argument in that language.

Section B (20 mins): You write in English, explaining how the author persuades the reader in the text.

If you're applying for MML, you would use the language you're studying for Section A. If you're studying two languages, you choose one. Don't use a beginner's language for Section A.

Our experienced tutors, all of whom are Cambridge alumni (we pair you with specific Cambridge tutors from your target language, possess a strong understanding of the MML test's intricacies. With personalised guidance, specialised strategies, and a wealth of resources at your disposal, we are here to ensure you're well-equipped to excel in the MML test and secure your place at one of the world's leading language courses.

The Cambridge Philosophy Test is a crucial component of the admissions process for Philosophy courses at the University of Cambridge.

The Philosophy Admissions assessment takes 1 hour and consists of two parts. Part I lasts 20 minutes and contains 18 multiple-choice questions. Then comes Part II, lasting 40 minutes, with two essay questions; you choose one.

At U2 Tuition, our experienced tutors are well-versed in the demands of this test. Our Philosophy tutors specialise in guiding students through the intricacies of the test, ensuring they understand its format and requirements. We provide comprehensive support, from honing your philosophical reasoning skills to crafting thoughtful responses to the test's questions. Our goal is to equip you with the skills and confidence needed to excel in the Philosophy Test and gain admission to your desired course at Cambridge.

If you're applying for Philosophy and Theology at Oxford, you'll need to take the Philosophy Test. It's a 60-minute computer-based test, and you don't need to be a philosophy expert. The test checks your ability to reason well and answer questions thoughtfully. You might need to read something and write a short essay or respond to a structured question. Tutors look for clear and careful thinking in your answers.

Our experienced Philosophy tutors focus on honing your philosophical reasoning skills, ensuring you can navigate the test's challenges effectively. We provide comprehensive resources, practice materials, and personalised tutoring sessions to help you excel in this exam. Whether you're new to philosophy or well-versed in the subject, our tutors will empower you with the critical thinking and reasoning abilities essential for success in the Philosophy Test.