Complete Guide to University Admissions Tests

Some university courses ask for more than grades, qualifications and a strong UCAS application.

You may also need to take a university admissions test.

Admissions tests are particularly common for:

• Medicine

• Dentistry

• Law

• Mathematics

• Economics

• Computer Science

• Engineering

• Physical sciences

• Courses at Oxford or Cambridge

• Other highly competitive degrees

The result can influence whether you are invited to interview, receive an offer or meet the final conditions of your place.

The difficult part is that there is no single test used by every university. Different courses require different tests, registration systems and deadlines. Some tests must be taken before you submit your UCAS application, while others take place after you have received a conditional offer.

For 2027 entry, the main tests include:

• UCAT

• LNAT

• ESAT

• TMUA

• TARA

• STEP

• Cambridge College assessments

• Other university-specific assessments

This guide explains which tests are used, when you need to register and how to prepare without spending unnecessary money.

For a broader explanation of university grades, qualifications and additional selection conditions, read Understanding University Entry Requirements.

What Is a University Admissions Test?

A university admissions test is an assessment used as part of the selection process for a particular degree course.

Universities may use a test to assess:

• Mathematical reasoning

• Scientific knowledge

• Problem-solving

• Critical thinking

• Reading comprehension

• Written argument

• Decision-making

• Professional judgement

• Academic potential

• Suitability for a particular course

Admissions tests do not normally replace your school qualifications. They are considered alongside information such as your grades, subjects, UCAS application, academic reference, interview or portfolio. Cambridge, Oxford, UCAT universities and LNAT universities all state that test performance forms one part of a wider admissions decision.

Do All University Courses Require an Admissions Test?

No.

Most UK undergraduate courses do not require a separate admissions test.

You are more likely to need one if you are applying for:

• Medicine or Dentistry at a UCAT university

• Law at an LNAT university

• Mathematics, Economics or Computer Science at certain universities

• Engineering or science at certain selective universities

• A course at Oxford or Cambridge that lists a test

• A particularly competitive or specialised programme

You must check the entry requirements for the exact course and application year. A university may require a test for one degree but not another, and requirements can change between application cycles. UCAS advises applicants to check both its admissions-test guidance and the university’s official course page.

Why Do Universities Use Admissions Tests?

Universities can receive many applications from students with similar predicted grades.

A test may help an admissions team assess how applicants:

• Apply knowledge in unfamiliar situations

• Reason under time pressure

• Interpret evidence

• Solve complex problems

• Construct an argument

• Respond to professional scenarios

• Compare with other applicants taking different qualifications

Tests are particularly useful where a large proportion of applicants have top grades.

However, the test may be used differently by different universities.

One university might use it to decide who receives an interview. Another might combine it with GCSEs and predicted grades. A third might consider it during the final offer decision.

UCAT universities, for example, use scores in different ways and may apply different weightings or thresholds. UAT-UK similarly states that universities decide how ESAT, TARA and TMUA results are interpreted for individual courses.

University Admissions Tests at a Glance

Test	Commonly used for	When normally taken	Main skills assessed
UCAT	Medicine and Dentistry	Summer before UCAS deadline	Verbal reasoning, decision-making, quantitative reasoning and situational judgement
LNAT	Law	Autumn of application year	Reading comprehension, critical analysis and essay writing
ESAT	Engineering and science courses	October or January	Mathematics and science knowledge applied to unfamiliar problems
TMUA	Mathematics, Economics and Computer Science	October or January	Mathematical knowledge, reasoning and logic
TARA	Selected courses at Oxford and UCL	October or January	Critical thinking, problem-solving and written argument
STEP	Mathematics and mathematically demanding courses	Usually summer after an offer	Advanced mathematical problem-solving
College assessments	Selected Cambridge courses	Usually around interview	Course-specific academic skills

The exact test depends on your university and course. Do not choose a test based only on the subject name.

Important Changes for 2027 Entry

University admissions testing has changed significantly.

For 2027 entry, Oxford is using tests administered through UAT-UK for a number of courses. These are:

• ESAT

• TARA

• TMUA

Oxford continues to use UCAT for Medicine and LNAT for Law.

This means that older guidance referring to Oxford tests such as MAT, PAT or TSA may no longer describe the current process for 2027 applicants.

Always use the official 2027 course page rather than assuming that a test used in a previous year still applies.

Is the MAT Still Used for Oxford Mathematics?

For 2027 entry, Oxford Mathematics applicants take the TMUA rather than the previous MAT. Oxford’s Mathematics department now directs applicants to the TMUA and explains that it assesses mathematical understanding and the application of familiar mathematics in unfamiliar situations.

Older MAT papers may still contain useful mathematical problems, but they do not define the current registration process or official 2027 test format.

Is the BMAT Still Used?

The BMAT is no longer the main admissions test for UK medical applicants.

Medical schools that previously used BMAT have moved to other arrangements, with institutions including Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial College London and UCL now using the UCAT for Medicine. Applicants must check the current UCAT consortium list and each medical school’s official policy.

UCAT Explained

What Is the UCAT?

The University Clinical Aptitude Test is a computer-based admissions test used by participating medical and dental schools.

Applicants to relevant courses at UCAT Consortium universities must take the UCAT in the same admissions cycle as their application. For 2027 entry, applicants take UCAT 2026. The test can be taken only once during that cycle.

Who Needs to Take the UCAT?

You may need the UCAT if you are applying for:

• Standard-entry Medicine

• Graduate-entry Medicine

• Dentistry

• Certain international or partner-university medical programmes

Not every medical or dental course uses the result in the same way.

Before registering, check:

• The university

• Course code

• Application year

• Whether the course is undergraduate or graduate entry

• How the university uses the total score

• How it uses the Situational Judgement result

• Whether it applies a minimum score or ranking threshold

The UCAT Consortium publishes a current list of participating universities, but applicants must still check individual course policies.

What Is in the UCAT?

The current UCAT contains four sections:

UCAT section	What it assesses
Verbal Reasoning	Evaluating written information
Decision Making	Reaching decisions using complex information
Quantitative Reasoning	Interpreting and evaluating numerical information
Situational Judgement	Recognising appropriate behaviour in educational and clinical scenarios

The standard test takes just under two hours. The three cognitive sections produce a total scaled score between 900 and 2700, while Situational Judgement is reported using Bands 1 to 4. Abstract Reasoning was removed from the UCAT from the 2025 testing cycle.

UCAT Timing

Section	Questions	Test time
Verbal Reasoning	44	22 minutes
Decision Making	35	37 minutes
Quantitative Reasoning	36	26 minutes
Situational Judgement	69	26 minutes

Separate instruction time is added before each section.

UCAT Dates for 2027 Entry

For applicants seeking 2027 entry:

UCAT stage	Date
Registration opens	20 May 2026
Booking opens	23 June 2026
Testing begins	13 July 2026
Access-arrangement deadline	10 September 2026
Booking and registration deadline	16 September 2026
Final testing day	24 September 2026
Early UCAS deadline	15 October 2026

These dates apply to UCAT 2026, which is the test required for 2027 entry or deferred 2028 entry.

Book early. Waiting until September can leave you with fewer testing locations and times, while technical, health or travel problems become harder to resolve.

How Much Does the UCAT Cost?

For the 2026 test cycle:

• Tests taken in the UK cost £70.

• Tests taken outside the UK cost £115.

Eligible UK applicants can apply for a bursary that waives the test fee. Bursary and access-arrangement applications should be completed before booking.

How Is the UCAT Used?

Universities may use the UCAT to:

• Apply an initial score threshold

• Rank applicants

• Select candidates for interview

• Combine the score with GCSE results

• Combine it with predicted grades

• Review borderline applications

• Consider the Situational Judgement band separately

Most universities consider the combined cognitive score, but policies differ significantly. Applicants should compare medical schools only after understanding how each one uses the current year’s result.

There is no single score that guarantees admission to every medical school.

LNAT Explained

What Is the LNAT?

The Law National Aptitude Test is used by participating universities to assess skills needed for undergraduate law study.

It is not a test of legal knowledge.

Instead, it assesses whether you can:

• Read demanding argumentative material

• Identify assumptions

• Interpret evidence

• Distinguish strong and weak reasoning

• Analyse competing arguments

• Write a clear and persuasive essay

Universities use the LNAT score and essay according to their own admissions systems. It is considered alongside qualifications, the UCAS application and any other selection information.

Read our dedicated LNAT Guide for preparation advice.

Who Needs to Take the LNAT?

You need to take the LNAT only when applying to a participating law course.

Participating universities and course codes can change, so check:

1. The official LNAT list

2. The university’s law course page

3. The deadline for that particular institution

Oxford and Cambridge law applicants for 2027 entry must follow the earlier LNAT and UCAS timetable that applies to their applications.

What Is in the LNAT?

The LNAT has two sections.

Section A: Multiple Choice

You answer 42 multiple-choice questions based on 12 argumentative passages.

You have 95 minutes.

This section tests reading, interpretation, analysis and reasoning.

Section B: Essay

You select one essay question from a choice of topics.

You have 40 minutes to write your response. The LNAT recommends a maximum length of 750 words and suggests that approximately 500 to 600 words is usually appropriate.

The essay is not included in your multiple-choice score. It is sent to participating universities, which decide how much weight to give it.

LNAT Dates for 2027 Entry

Registration and booking for 2027 entry open on 1 August 2026, and testing begins on 1 September 2026.

Oxford and Cambridge applicants must:

• Register and book between 1 August and 15 September 2026

• Submit the UCAS application by 15 October 2026

• Sit the LNAT by 15 October 2026

Oxford Foundation Year in Law applicants have a later test deadline of 13 January 2027. Other participating universities set their own deadlines.

You can take the LNAT before or after submitting your UCAS application, provided you meet the university’s deadline.

How Often Can You Take the LNAT?

You can take the LNAT only once during an admissions cycle.

The result cannot be carried into a later application cycle. If you reapply the following year, you must take the test again.

LNAT Costs and Bursaries

The published LNAT fee is based on the location of the test centre rather than your nationality or home address. A bursary scheme is available for eligible applicants who would struggle to pay, but the bursary must be approved before the test is booked.

Check the official fee page before booking because charges may be updated for a new testing cycle.

ESAT Explained

What Is the ESAT?

The Engineering and Science Admissions Test assesses how well applicants can apply school-level mathematics and science knowledge to challenging problems.

For 2027 entry, it is used by universities including:

• University of Cambridge

• Imperial College London

• University of Oxford

• UCL

The exact courses and compulsory modules vary.

Read our dedicated ESAT Guide before selecting your modules.

Which Courses May Require the ESAT?

The ESAT can be used for courses in areas such as:

• Engineering

• Chemical Engineering

• Natural Sciences

• Physical sciences

• Biological sciences

• Veterinary Medicine

• Related science and technology subjects

Not every course at these universities uses ESAT.

Check the individual course page to confirm:

• Whether ESAT is required

• Which modules you must take

• Whether you can choose modules

• Whether different university choices require conflicting modules

What Is in the ESAT?

There are five ESAT modules:

• Mathematics 1

• Mathematics 2

• Biology

• Chemistry

• Physics

Mathematics 1 is compulsory for all candidates.

Most applicants take Mathematics 1 and two additional modules. Each module contains 27 multiple-choice questions and lasts 40 minutes, giving most candidates a total test time of 120 minutes.

A course may specify the exact modules required.

For example, an engineering course might require:

• Mathematics 1

• Mathematics 2

• Physics

A biological science course might require:

• Mathematics 1

• Biology

• Chemistry

Do not choose modules simply because they are your strongest subjects.

What If Your University Choices Require Different ESAT Modules?

You may need to request permission to take four modules when two courses impose conflicting compulsory combinations.

UAT-UK advises candidates to select all necessary modules during registration, which triggers a review of whether the four-module combination is justified.

Check all your possible university choices before booking the test.

How Is ESAT Scored?

Each module receives a separate scaled score from 1 to 9, reported to one decimal place.

Universities decide how to use the individual module scores alongside the rest of the application.

There is no universal ESAT pass mark.

TMUA Explained

What Is the TMUA?

The Test of Mathematics for University Admission assesses mathematical reasoning and the ability to apply familiar knowledge to unfamiliar problems.

It is used by selected universities for courses including:

• Mathematics

• Economics

• Computer Science

• Related quantitative degrees

For 2027 entry, Oxford uses TMUA for relevant courses that previously used different arrangements, including its Mathematics applications. Cambridge and several other universities also use the test.

Read our TMUA Guide for a detailed preparation strategy.

What Is in the TMUA?

TMUA lasts 2 hours and 30 minutes and consists of two papers.

TMUA paper	Content	Questions	Time
Paper 1	Applications of Mathematical Knowledge	20 multiple-choice questions	75 minutes
Paper 2	Mathematical Reasoning	20 multiple-choice questions	75 minutes

A calculator and dictionary are not permitted.

The test focuses on:

• Algebra

• Functions

• Sequences

• Coordinate geometry

• Trigonometry

• Calculus

• Probability

• Logic

• Proof

• Mathematical reasoning

Use the current official specification when preparing.

Do You Need Further Mathematics for TMUA?

The test is designed to be accessible using mathematics normally studied before the test date. Oxford states that TMUA is intended to be approachable for applicants who have not taken A-level Further Mathematics.

Further Mathematics can still be valuable preparation for mathematically demanding university courses, but it is not automatically a requirement for sitting TMUA.

How Is TMUA Scored?

Candidates receive one overall scaled score.

Universities normally consider it alongside the rest of the UCAS application. Participating UAT-UK universities on your application receive the result automatically where the chosen course requires TMUA.

Universities may use the score differently, so one institution’s competitive range may not match another’s.

TARA Explained

What Is TARA?

The Test of Academic Reasoning for Admissions is a non-subject-specific test used for selected courses.

For 2027 entry, applicants may need TARA for particular Oxford or UCL programmes. The exact list must be checked on the university’s course pages.

TARA replaced or absorbed the role of some earlier course-specific reasoning tests in the new 2027 Oxford arrangements.

What Is in TARA?

TARA contains three compulsory modules:

TARA module	Content	Time
Critical Thinking	22 multiple-choice questions	40 minutes
Problem Solving	22 multiple-choice questions	40 minutes
Writing Task	One essay chosen from three questions	40 minutes

The writing task has a maximum length of 750 words.

No specific school subject knowledge is required.

Instead, TARA assesses:

• Analysis of arguments

• Identification of assumptions

• Logical reasoning

• Numerical and spatial problem-solving

• Clear written communication

• Construction of a focused argument

How Is TARA Scored?

Critical Thinking and Problem Solving receive separate scores from 1 to 9.

The writing task is not scored by UAT-UK. A copy is sent to the universities requiring TARA, which assess it according to their own admissions policies.

UAT-UK Dates for 2027 Entry

ESAT, TMUA and TARA are administered through UAT-UK.

October 2026 Sitting

Stage	Date
Account creation and applications for support open	1 June 2026
Booking opens	20 July 2026
Access-arrangement application deadline	14 September 2026
Bursary application deadline	21 September 2026
Booking closes	28 September 2026
Test window	12 to 16 October 2026
Results released	16 November 2026

January 2027 Sitting

Stage	Date
Support applications reopen	5 October 2026
Booking opens	26 October 2026
Access-arrangement deadline	7 December 2026
Bursary deadline	14 December 2026
Booking closes	21 December 2026
Test window	4 to 8 January 2027
Results released	8 February 2027

UAT-UK states that Oxford and Cambridge applicants must normally take the October sitting because their courses use the 15 October UCAS deadline. The main exceptions are certain Cambridge mature applicants and Oxford Astrophoria Foundation Year applicants with January application deadlines.

You can take each UAT-UK test only once within the 2027 admissions cycle. Sitting in October and then retaking the same test in January is not permitted.

UAT-UK Test Fees

For 2027 entry:

• Each test costs £78 when taken in the UK or Republic of Ireland.

• Each test costs £133 when taken elsewhere.

The fee depends on the location of the test centre. Eligible UK candidates can apply for a bursary covering the full test cost.

STEP Explained

What Is STEP?

The Sixth Term Examination Paper in Mathematics is an advanced mathematics examination.

It is used by:

• University of Cambridge

• University of Warwick

• Imperial College London

• Occasionally other universities

STEP questions are designed to resemble the style of mathematical problem-solving encountered at university.

When Do You Take STEP?

Unlike tests taken before an offer, STEP is normally sat in the summer after you apply.

A university may include a STEP grade as a condition of your offer.

For example, an offer might require:

• A-level grades

• A particular STEP paper

• A specified STEP grade

STEP has two papers, STEP 2 and STEP 3. The university tells you which paper or papers you must take.

How Do You Register for STEP?

Candidates cannot normally register themselves directly.

You must be entered through an authorised centre, which may be your school, college or another approved test centre. If your school is not registered, speak to it early or use OCR’s centre guidance.

The exact 2027 dates and fees should be checked once OCR publishes the final schedule.

Is STEP the Same as TMUA?

No.

TMUA	STEP
Usually taken during the application period	Usually taken after receiving an offer
Multiple-choice format	Extended mathematical solutions
Tests reasoning with school mathematics	Tests advanced problem-solving in a university-style format
Used to support admissions decisions	Often included as a condition of an offer

Some applicants may need both.

Cambridge College Assessments

Some Cambridge courses use a pre-registration test such as UCAT, ESAT or TMUA.

Other courses may involve an assessment arranged by the College if you are invited to interview.

Cambridge explains that College assessments are organised by the interviewing College and can differ according to the course or College. Applicants should check both the central course information and the individual College requirements.

A course might have:

• No written assessment

• A pre-registration test

• An assessment at interview

• A College-specific additional test

• More than one assessment stage

For example, Cambridge Computer Science applicants take TMUA, while applicants to certain Colleges may also need a College-specific assessment.

Do not assume that booking the central test completes every assessment requirement.

Other University-Specific Admissions Assessments

Some universities operate their own:

• Online assessments

• Mathematics tests

• Written tasks

• Interviews

• Portfolio exercises

• Auditions

• Selection days

• Multiple mini interviews

• Situational judgement assessments

These may not have a widely recognised test name.

The requirement could appear under headings such as:

• Selection process

• Additional requirements

• How we assess your application

• Interview and assessment

• Applicant task

• Portfolio guidance

Always read the entire course page.

Do You Register Through UCAS?

Usually not.

UCAS does not automatically register you for most admissions tests.

You normally need to create a separate account with:

• UCAT

• LNAT

• UAT-UK

• An authorised STEP centre

• The individual university

UCAS warns that students are increasingly responsible for arranging their own test registration and booking. Missing a registration deadline can invalidate an otherwise strong application.

Do Universities Receive Results Automatically?

This depends on the test.

UCAT

UCAT results are normally matched and sent to participating university choices. You must ensure that your registration information matches your UCAS details.

LNAT

Participating universities receive your score and essay after your university choices have been linked correctly within the LNAT registration process.

UAT-UK

Participating UAT-UK universities listed on your UCAS application receive results automatically when the selected course requires that test. Other universities or courses do not receive the score.

STEP

Results are provided through the relevant examination and university process.

Follow the official instructions carefully rather than assuming that a score will be matched automatically.

When Should You Start Preparing?

Preparation should begin early enough to build familiarity without taking over your school studies.

A sensible general timeline is:

Six Months Before the Test

• Confirm which test you need.

• Read the official specification.

• Complete a short diagnostic activity.

• Identify weak areas.

• Check registration and support deadlines.

• Begin reviewing any required subject knowledge.

Three to Four Months Before

• Work through official question types.

• Practise untimed initially.

• Review mistakes carefully.

• Develop strategies for each section.

• Begin short timed sets.

Six to Eight Weeks Before

• Complete full sections under timed conditions.

• Track accuracy and timing.

• Practise using the official test interface.

• Revisit weak topics.

• Develop a clear guessing and time-management strategy.

Final Two to Three Weeks

• Complete realistic mock tests.

• Review error patterns.

• Confirm identification and travel.

• Avoid introducing large amounts of new material.

• Protect sleep and normal study routines.

Admissions tests reward familiarity and disciplined practice, not last-minute cramming.

How to Prepare for a University Admissions Test

Use the Official Specification

The specification tells you:

• What can be assessed

• The test structure

• Timing

• Permitted equipment

• Question types

• Scoring arrangements

This should define the boundaries of your preparation.

Begin With Official Materials

Official providers offer:

• Specifications

• Tutorials

• Question banks

• Specimen papers

• Practice tests

• Answer explanations

• Test-interface demonstrations

UCAT and UAT-UK both state that their free official materials provide the preparation candidates need, and neither requires paid coaching.

Paid courses can provide structure, but they are not compulsory.

Practise on a Computer

UCAT, LNAT and UAT-UK assessments are computer-based.

Practising only from printed worksheets can leave you unfamiliar with:

• On-screen navigation

• Flagging questions

• Scrolling through passages

• The digital calculator

• Moving between sections

• Typing an essay under time pressure

Use a desktop or laptop rather than a phone where possible. Official UCAT and UAT-UK materials are designed to reflect the live testing experience.

Review Mistakes

Do not measure preparation only by the number of questions completed.

For each mistake, ask:

• Did I misunderstand the content?

• Did I misread the question?

• Did I make a calculation error?

• Did I run out of time?

• Did I choose an attractive but unsupported option?

• Did I fail to identify the argument?

• Did I use an inefficient method?

Keep an error log and look for repeated patterns.

Practise Timing Gradually

Begin by understanding the questions.

Then introduce:

1. Generous timing

2. Section timing

3. Full official timing

4. Realistic test conditions

Trying to complete every question at full speed from the beginning can reinforce poor methods.

Learn When to Move On

Many admissions tests are intentionally demanding.

You may not be expected to answer every question correctly. Cambridge explicitly tells ESAT, TMUA and UCAT applicants that the university does not expect perfect performance.

A strong strategy includes knowing when to:

• Make an informed guess

• Flag a question

• Return later

• Protect time for easier questions

• Avoid spending several minutes on one problem

Keep Preparing for Your Main Qualifications

An admissions test is only one part of your application.

Do not damage your A-level, BTEC, T Level or IB performance by spending every available hour on test practice.

Universities can still reject an applicant with an excellent test score who does not meet essential academic requirements.

Do You Need Paid Admissions-Test Coaching?

No.

You can prepare using free official materials.

Paid services may provide:

• A timetable

• Additional questions

• Progress tracking

• Tutoring

• Feedback

• Mock tests

However, expensive coaching does not guarantee a high score.

Before paying, ask:

• Does the provider reflect the current test format?

• Are its questions accurate?

• Does it explain answers?

• Is the content based on the current specification?

• Does it make unrealistic promises?

• Are the same skills available through official resources?

Be especially cautious with providers using outdated test names or formats.

Access Arrangements

Applicants with a disability, learning difference or long-term condition may be eligible for access arrangements.

Possible arrangements include:

• Extra time

• Rest breaks

• A separate room

• A reader

• A recorder

• Adjustable equipment

• Modified materials

• Other approved support

You normally need to apply and provide evidence before booking the test.

UCAT states that access arrangements must be approved before an appointment is booked, as they cannot simply be added to an existing booking. UAT-UK also sets earlier support deadlines than its final booking deadline.

Do not wait until the week before the test.

What Evidence Might Be Needed?

Evidence could include:

• A diagnostic assessment

• A medical letter

• School or college confirmation

• An existing examination-adjustment record

• A report from an appropriate professional

Each provider publishes its own evidence rules.

Having extra time in school examinations does not always mean that the arrangement transfers automatically. You must complete the test provider’s process.

Bursaries and Financial Support

Do not decide against a course because you cannot afford the admissions-test fee.

Bursary schemes are available for:

• UCAT

• LNAT

• ESAT

• TMUA

• TARA

Eligibility normally depends on financial circumstances or receipt of specified benefits.

Apply before paying. Some schemes cannot refund a test booked before bursary approval.

Your school, college or university outreach programme may also provide:

• Fee support

• Travel costs

• Practice sessions

• Device access

• Preparation workshops

What Happens on Test Day?

The exact rules depend on the test centre and provider.

You will normally need:

• Approved photographic identification

• Booking confirmation

• Correct personal details

• To arrive before the appointment

• To store personal items securely

• To follow strict security rules

You may be prohibited from taking items such as:

• A mobile phone

• Smartwatch

• Notes

• Calculator

• Dictionary

• Recording equipment

• Personal stationery

Some tests provide an on-screen calculator or erasable noteboard.

Read the official candidate handbook before the test. UAT-UK, for example, operates strict security rules and prohibits sharing or discussing live test content.

Check Your Identification Early

The name on your identification should match the name used during registration.

Contact the provider before test day if:

• Your name has changed

• Your ID will expire

• You do not hold standard photographic ID

• Your registration contains an error

• Your UCAS and test accounts use different names

Do not assume that the test centre can solve an identification problem when you arrive.

How Are Admissions-Test Scores Used?

There is no single system.

A university may:

• Set a minimum threshold

• Rank every applicant

• Compare scores with the annual applicant cohort

• Combine the result with GCSE grades

• Use it to select candidates for interview

• Use it after interview

• Review the individual sections

• Assess an essay separately

• Use it only when applications are otherwise similar

• Consider it contextually

For UCAT, a university may value the total cognitive score, individual subtests or Situational Judgement Band differently.

For LNAT, one university may focus strongly on the multiple-choice score, while another may place greater emphasis on the essay.

For UAT-UK tests, individual institutions decide how results are incorporated into course selection.

Is There a Pass Mark?

Usually not.

Admissions tests commonly produce a score rather than a simple pass or fail.

Universities may decide:

• Their own threshold

• The score needed for interview

• How to rank applicants

• How to assess the score alongside contextual information

A score that is competitive for one course may be insufficient for another.

Can You Find Previous Cut-Off Scores?

Some universities publish:

• Previous interview thresholds

• Average scores

• Decile information

• Admissions statistics

• Selection policies

These can help with university choices, but they do not guarantee the next cycle’s threshold.

UCAT mean scores and deciles can change each year, and the Consortium advises applicants to consider current-cycle statistics rather than relying on older totals.

Can Contextual Information Affect Admissions-Test Use?

Sometimes.

A university may:

• Apply a lower score threshold

• Review the score within the applicant’s educational context

• Guarantee an interview to eligible applicants

• Provide free preparation

• Offer a bursary

• Place less weight on one part of the selection process

This varies by university and course.

A contextual offer does not automatically remove the admissions-test requirement.

Read Contextual Offers Explained and the course’s admissions policy.

Can International Applicants Take Admissions Tests?

Yes.

UCAT, LNAT and UAT-UK use international test-centre networks.

However, applicants should check:

• Local test-centre availability

• Different fees

• Identification requirements

• Time-zone information

• Payment methods

• Travel arrangements

• Regional test dates

• Visa or border restrictions

• Whether online testing is available in exceptional circumstances

UAT-UK operates more restricted test dates in China, Hong Kong and Macau for test-security reasons.

Book early because international appointments may be limited.

What If You Miss the Registration Deadline?

Contact the test provider immediately, but expect the deadline to be firm.

UCAT states that it does not make exceptions to its booking deadline. UAT-UK similarly warns that it cannot accept late bookings.

Missing the deadline may mean:

• Your application cannot be considered

• You need to change a university choice

• You need to choose a course that does not require the test

• You need to apply in the next cycle

Do not submit an application assuming the university will waive the test.

What If You Are Ill on Test Day?

Follow the provider’s official illness, cancellation or fitness-to-test policy.

Do not sit the test if you are seriously unwell and then assume the result can be removed.

Depending on the test and timing, you may be able to:

• Reschedule

• Cancel and rebook

• Submit an incident report

• Request special consideration

• Provide medical evidence

Options may be limited after the booking deadline or final test date.

Contact the provider before the test where possible.

Can You Retake an Admissions Test?

Rules differ.

• UCAT can be taken once per annual test cycle.

• LNAT can be taken once per annual test cycle.

• Each UAT-UK test can be taken once per admissions cycle.

• STEP papers are taken according to the university offer and examination entry.

If you reapply in a later year, you will normally need to take the relevant admissions test again.

Common University Admissions-Test Mistakes

Checking an Old Test List

Admissions-test arrangements change.

For 2027 entry, Oxford’s move to ESAT, TARA and TMUA makes older MAT, PAT and TSA guidance potentially misleading.

Assuming UCAS Registers You

Most tests require a separate account and booking.

Missing an Earlier Test Deadline

A test deadline may fall before the standard January UCAS deadline.

Booking the Wrong Test Cycle

You need the test linked to the year in which you apply.

Taking the Wrong ESAT Modules

Modules must match the course requirements.

Assuming All Universities Use a Score Identically

Every participating university can set its own selection policy.

Ignoring the Essay Section

LNAT and TARA writing tasks can be reviewed directly by universities.

Using Outdated Practice Materials

Check that resources reflect the current format, especially after test changes.

Applying for Access Arrangements Too Late

Support approval may be needed before booking.

Paying Before Receiving a Bursary

Some schemes do not refund fees paid before bursary approval.

Preparing Only Untimed

Understanding the content is essential, but full timed practice is also necessary.

Completing Questions Without Reviewing Errors

Improvement comes from understanding why answers were wrong.

Neglecting A Levels or Other Qualifications

The admissions test is only one part of the application.

University Admissions-Test Timeline for 2027 Entry

Spring 2026

• Research courses.

• Check whether a test is required.

• Read the official specification.

• Begin light preparation.

• Check access-arrangement evidence.

May and June 2026

• UCAT registration opens.

• UAT-UK accounts open.

• Apply for bursaries and access arrangements.

• Begin structured UCAT preparation if applying for Medicine or Dentistry.

July to September 2026

• Sit the UCAT.

• Book UAT-UK tests.

• Register and book the LNAT.

• Finalise Oxford, Cambridge, Medicine and Dentistry choices.

• Continue timed preparation.

October 2026

• Submit early-deadline UCAS applications by 15 October.

• Take required Oxford or Cambridge UAT-UK tests.

• Complete the LNAT by the relevant early deadline.

November 2026

• Receive October UAT-UK results.

• Prepare for interviews or College assessments where relevant.

January 2027

• Sit the January UAT-UK test if your course permits it.

• Complete LNAT requirements for universities with later deadlines.

• Submit applications by the relevant UCAS deadline.

Spring and Summer 2027

• Register for STEP through an authorised centre if it forms part of your offer.

• Continue STEP preparation.

• Sit STEP in the summer.

• Meet the remaining academic conditions of your offer.

UCAS has confirmed that the 2027 equal-consideration deadline for most undergraduate courses is 13 January 2027, while Oxford, Cambridge and most Medicine, Dentistry and Veterinary Medicine applications use the earlier 15 October 2026 deadline.

Admissions-Test Checklist

Before submitting your UCAS application, check:

•  I know whether every chosen course requires a test.

•  I am using information for 2027 entry.

•  I know the correct test name.

•  I have checked whether old test guidance is outdated.

•  I have registered through the correct provider.

•  I have booked a test-centre appointment.

•  I know the registration deadline.

•  I know the final testing deadline.

•  I have selected the correct ESAT modules where relevant.

•  I have applied for access arrangements.

•  I have applied for a bursary before paying.

•  My name matches my identification.

•  My test account details match my UCAS information.

•  I have read the official specification.

•  I am using current official practice materials.

•  I have completed timed practice.

•  I know how each university uses the score.

•  I understand that there may not be a fixed pass mark.

•  I have checked for additional interviews or College assessments.

•  I have protected enough time for my school qualifications.

Test-Day Checklist

•  Approved photographic identification

•  Correct date, time and test centre

•  Booking confirmation

•  Travel planned

•  Arrival time checked

•  Test-centre rules read

•  Access arrangements confirmed

•  Required food, medication or equipment approved

•  Phone and smartwatch ready to be stored

•  Familiarity with the test interface

•  A calm timing strategy

•  A plan for difficult questions

Frequently Asked Questions About University Admissions Tests

Which University Courses Require Admissions Tests?

Admissions tests are commonly used for Medicine, Dentistry, Law, Mathematics, Economics, Computer Science, Engineering and sciences at selected universities.

The requirement is course-specific.

Do You Need an Admissions Test for Every Russell Group University?

No.

Russell Group membership does not determine whether a course uses a test.

Do Oxford and Cambridge Use the Same Admissions Tests?

Sometimes.

Both use tests such as ESAT, TMUA, UCAT and LNAT for relevant courses, but the exact requirements differ. Cambridge may also use College assessments, while Oxford uses TARA for selected programmes.

What Admissions Tests Does Oxford Use for 2027 Entry?

Oxford uses:

• ESAT for selected engineering and science courses

• TARA for selected courses

• TMUA for selected mathematical courses

• UCAT for Medicine

• LNAT for Law

Not every Oxford course requires a test.

What Admissions Tests Does Cambridge Use?

Depending on the course, Cambridge may use:

• UCAT

• ESAT

• TMUA

• LNAT

• STEP after an offer

• A College assessment

Check the individual course and College pages.

Is MAT Still Used for Oxford?

Oxford Mathematics applicants for 2027 entry use TMUA. Students should not rely on older MAT registration guidance.

Is BMAT Still Used for Medicine?

No. Applicants must check the current UCAT requirements for their medical schools.

Is UCAT Only for Medicine?

It is used for Medicine and Dentistry at participating universities.

Do You Need LNAT for Every Law Degree?

No.

Only participating law schools require it.

Is ESAT Harder Than A Levels?

ESAT uses relevant school-level mathematics and science knowledge but requires applicants to apply it quickly to unfamiliar multiple-choice problems. It is designed to distinguish between academically strong applicants.

Do You Need Further Mathematics for TMUA?

Not automatically.

TMUA is designed to be accessible without A-level Further Mathematics, although individual university courses may separately require or prefer that subject.

Is TARA a Subject-Knowledge Test?

No.

It assesses critical thinking, problem-solving and written argument without requiring a particular school subject.

Is STEP Taken Before You Apply?

Usually not.

STEP is normally taken in the summer after application and may form part of a conditional offer.

Can You Take Two Different Admissions Tests?

Yes.

Your university choices may require different tests.

For example, an applicant considering Mathematics at several universities might need TMUA and later STEP.

Can You Take UCAT and LNAT in the Same Year?

Yes, although this would normally mean applying to both medical or dental and law courses.

Your UCAS application would need to explain a convincing academic focus across the selected courses.

Can You Take ESAT and TMUA?

Yes, when different choices require them.

Each test has a separate fee unless covered by a bursary.

Can You Retake UCAT in January?

No.

UCAT is taken once during its summer testing window for the relevant cycle.

Can You Retake TMUA in January After Sitting It in October?

No.

You can take each UAT-UK test only once during the admissions cycle.

Are Admissions-Test Scores Added to UCAS Points?

No.

Admissions tests are separate from UCAS Tariff qualifications.

Do Admissions Tests Replace Required A Levels?

No.

You must normally meet both the subject and grade requirements.

Can a High Test Score Make Up for Lower Grades?

Possibly to a limited extent, depending on the university’s selection method.

It does not normally replace compulsory subjects or firm minimum requirements.

Can a Low Score Automatically Reject You?

Sometimes, if the university applies a threshold.

Other universities consider the score alongside the complete application.

Can Universities See Which Other Tests You Took?

Participating UAT-UK universities receive the relevant score only when your chosen course officially requires the test.

Are Paid Preparation Courses Necessary?

No.

Official providers supply free specifications and practice materials.

Can You Get Extra Time?

Possibly.

You must apply through the test provider and submit acceptable evidence before the relevant deadline.

Are Admissions-Test Bursaries Available?

Yes, for several major tests, including UCAT, LNAT and the UAT-UK tests.

Apply before booking and paying.

What Happens If You Forget to Book?

The test provider may not accept a late booking.

This can make you ineligible for courses requiring that test.

What Happens If Your Test Centre Cancels?

Follow the provider’s instructions immediately. It may offer rescheduling or another approved arrangement, depending on availability and the stage of the testing cycle.

Can You Discuss Test Questions Afterwards?

No.

Test providers operate strict confidentiality and security rules. Sharing live test content can be treated as misconduct.

Final Thoughts on University Admissions Tests

University admissions tests can feel intimidating, but they become much more manageable when you understand the process early.

Start by identifying:

1. Which test your course requires

2. Which test cycle applies

3. When registration opens

4. When booking closes

5. Which modules or papers you need

6. How the university uses the score

7. Whether you qualify for access arrangements or a bursary

Use current official information.

This is particularly important for 2027 entry because Oxford has moved several courses to the UAT-UK system, using ESAT, TARA and TMUA instead of some previous Oxford tests.

Once you have confirmed the correct test, focus on regular, deliberate preparation.

Learn the format, use official materials, practise under timed conditions and review your

mistakes carefully.

The goal is not to know every possible trick. It is to show that you can think clearly, apply your knowledge and make good decisions under the conditions of the test.