Cambridge Announces the ESAT to Replace the NSAA and ENGAA

In 2023, Cambridge declared the discontinuation of several longstanding admissions tests after the 2023-2024 admissions cycle. Recently, in January 2024, they announced the new admissions test that will be utilised for courses such as Medicine, Natural Science, Economics, and Engineering: the Engineering and Science Admissions Test (ESAT).

Understanding the Changes

Cambridge has introduced the ESAT as the new requisite test for several of their science-based courses. The ESAT will replace the Natural Sciences Admissions Test (NSAA) and the Engineering Admissions Test (ENGAA). Additionally, the BioMedical Admissions Test (BMAT) will be replaced by the University Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT) for Medicine applicants.

The ESAT and the Test of Mathematics for University Admissions (TMUA), which will continue to be administered, will both be managed by Pearson Vue. The tests are slated for the 15th to 17th of October 2024, with a registration fee ranging from £75 to £130.

Imperial College London will also require the ESAT for their engineering and science-based courses and the TMUA for their economics and computer science courses, offering a second sitting in January 2025.

Preparation Advice

Applicants are advised to start preparing for the ESAT using existing NSAA and ENGAA materials until more specific resources are released. The format is expected to be similar, focusing on multiple-choice questions across various scientific disciplines.

Registration Details

The registration for these tests will open on August 1st, 2024, and close on September 16th, 2024. Applicants must register through Pearson Vue’s portal and select a testing centre from their global network.

Fee Structure

The fee for taking the ESAT is £75 for UK and Republic of Ireland applicants and £130 for international applicants. Bursaries may be available to cover these costs, so checking eligibility is recommended.

Imperial College London’s Requirements

Imperial College London applicants have similar requirements and can choose to sit their tests in October 2024 or January 2025. This flexibility is designed to accommodate a wide range of applicant schedules and preferences.

Key Takeaways

The introduction of the ESAT and changes to other admissions tests are significant updates that prospective Cambridge and Imperial College London students need to be aware of. At Dukes Plus, we specialise in providing comprehensive support for these tests, ensuring our students are well-prepared and confident. Explore our tailored preparation programs to enhance your readiness for these pivotal assessments.

Stay connected with Dukes Plus for the latest in university admissions news and expert guidance to navigate this complex landscape effectively. Your success is our priority, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.