Mock TSA - Part 1

WHAT IS THE TSA?

The TSA is a critical component of the Oxford University selection process for various degree programmes, designed to evaluate a candidate’s critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills—essential qualities for thriving in the rigorous academic environment of Oxford. Irrespective of the subject they are applying for, candidates taking the TSA need to demonstrate their ability to analyse complex information, formulate logical arguments, and make sound judgments.

HOW IS THE TSA STRUCTURED?

The TSA is not subject-specific, which makes sense given that it is used on a number of courses at Oxford so you will not be required to demonstrate any specific knowledge as such. Instead, the test is designed to measure, as the name suggests, your thinking abilities and reasoning skills. The TSA is made up of two sections. The test is 90-minutes long and is made up of 50 multiple choice questions in total. 25 of these are focused on problem solving, including spatial reasoning, numerical skills, and logical thinking, whilst the other 25 are critical thinking questions, including understanding an argument, reasoning and deduction, and use of language. The second section lasts 30 minutes and candidates are asked to answer one essay question from a choice of four non-subject specific questions. This section tests the student’s ability to organise their ideas in a clear and concise manner, and their ability to put this down clearly in writing.

CAN I CHOOSE WHICH QUESTIONS I ANSWER IN THE TSA?

In the second section of the exam, applicants are required to select one essay question from four options to respond to.

HOW IS MY SCORE IN THE TSA USED?

Oxford University uses the TSA as a standardised format for assessing and benchmarking their applicants. The exam rewards critical thinking and analysis skills, employing abilities learned elsewhere in your studies to new materials. It does not require specific content knowledge, meaning students taking different qualifications at school can access the syllabus.

Oxford uses students’ marks in the TSA to make decisions about which applicants they should invite to interview, giving them a further indicator in addition to predicted and achieved grades. Whilst the TSA is important in their selection processes, it is always used as part of a matrix and considered alongside other factors submitted with the application, such as predicted grades and personal statement.

WHAT IF I WANT FURTHER SUPPORT?

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