Guide

Cambridge University Admissions Tests Guide

Tue 5 Nov 2024 • 7 min read

Your guide to Cambridge Admissions Tests: find key info on requirements, deadlines, skills assessed, and preparation tips.

Contents

What are the Cambridge Admissions Tests?
Courses that Require an Admissions Test
Skills Assessed in Each Test
Purpose and Use of Each Test
Scoring and Criteria
Registration Process
Preparation Strategies
Speak to an Expert

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Cambridge Admissions Tests Guide

Cambridge’s admissions tests play a pivotal role in the selection process for a range of undergraduate courses. This guide provides detailed information about the tests required, their structure, scoring, registration processes, and tips on how to prepare effectively.

Discover how Dukes Plus can guide you through this crucial process. Check our Oxbridge Admissions Test Support page.

What are the Cambridge Admissions Tests?

Cambridge employs a range of admissions assessments to evaluate applicants’ suitability for specific courses. Cambridge employs these tests to assess skills like problem-solving, critical thinking, and subject-specific knowledge that cannot be easily captured by standard qualifications alone.

Test Name	Purpose	Skills Assessed
ESAT	Natural Sciences, Engineering and Veterinary Medicine	Science (biology, chemistry, physics), mathematics
LNAT	Law	Law, critical thinking
STEP	Mathematics	Mathematics
TMUA	Economics, Computer Science	Mathematics, logical thinking
UCAT	Medicine	Reasoning, logical thinking, critical thinking, situational judgement

Courses at Cambridge that Require an Admissions Test

Cambridge mandates admissions tests for certain courses, with each course linked to specific assessments to evaluate the applicant’s readiness.

Course	Required Admissions Test
Medicine	UCAT
Law	LNAT
Engineering	ESAT
Economics	TMUA
Natural Sciences	ESAT
Computer Science	TMUA
Mathematics	STEP (usually required as part of a conditional offer)

Refer to Cambridge’s official admissions page for any updates or additional requirements, as these may change annually.

Other Universities that Require the Cambridge Admissions Tests

Other UK universities may require or accept similar tests for admissions to comparable courses. For example, the UCAT is also used by Imperial College London and University College London for Medicine. It’s recommended to verify specific requirements directly with each university.

Skills and Knowledge Assessed in Each Cambridge Admissions Tests

The Cambridge admissions tests are designed to evaluate a spectrum of competencies essential for success in rigorous academic courses. Each test targets specific skills and areas of knowledge related to the field of study, ensuring that candidates possess both the foundational understanding and the cognitive abilities needed to excel. Below, we detail the skills and knowledge assessed in the most prominent Cambridge admissions tests.

UCAT (University Clinical Aptitude Test)

The UCAT is required for applicants to Medicine. This test assesses a combination of reasoning and critical thinking skills, alongside situational judgement. The UCAT is divided into five sections:

Verbal Reasoning evaluates your skill in critically analysing written information.
Decision Making examines your ability to make informed decisions and sound judgments based on complex data.
Quantitative Reasoning assesses your capability to critically interpret numerical data.
Abstract Reasoning tests your convergent and divergent thinking skills in identifying patterns and relationships within information.
Situational Judgement gauges your understanding of real-world scenarios, focusing on recognising key factors and choosing appropriate responses.

ESAT (Engineering and Science Admissions Test)

The ESAT is tailored for applicants to Engineering and Natural Sciences courses. It replaced the ENGAA and NSAA in 2024. This assessment tests core mathematical and physical principles, along with logical thinking and problem-solving abilities. The ESAT aims to evaluate candidates’ understanding of concepts relevant to engineering studies and their ability to apply theoretical knowledge to novel scenarios.

The ESAT is a computer-based assessment featuring individual multiple-choice modules, each lasting 40 minutes. These modules are taken consecutively on the day of the test.

Mathematics 1 is required for all candidates.

Additional modules vary based on the Cambridge course you’re applying for:

For Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Natural Sciences, or Veterinary Medicine, you’ll complete Mathematics 1 plus two additional multiple-choice modules chosen from:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Mathematics 2
- This results in a total test time of 120 minutes.
For Engineering, you’ll complete Mathematics 1 along with:
- Physics
- Mathematics 2

There is no pass or fail for the ESAT; aim to achieve your best possible score.

TMUA (Test of Mathematics for University Admission)

The Test of Mathematics for University Admission (TMUA) is a 2-hour, 30-minute assessment used by Cambridge University to evaluate applicants for Computer Science and Economics. It focuses on mathematical thinking and comprises two sections: Applications of Mathematical Knowledge and Mathematical Reasoning. No calculators or dictionaries are allowed. Scores are based on correct answers only, with no penalties for incorrect responses. Cambridge applicants must sit the test in October, with advance registration required. TMUA also supports applications to other universities that accept this test.

Purpose and Use of the Cambridge Admissions Tests

These Admissions Tests are designed to ensure a fair and effective admissions process. As Cambridge attracts a highly diverse pool of applicants from a wide range of educational systems and countries, these tests provide a common measure to evaluate both academic potential and readiness for rigorous study.

With Cambridge’s courses being among the most demanding globally, the admissions tests help assess applicants’ specific skills in critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and subject-specific knowledge—attributes that might not be fully reflected in their academic qualifications alone.

The tests also serve as an additional filter in this highly competitive selection process. While grades, personal statements, and teacher recommendations remain important, they do not always provide a complete picture of an applicant’s capabilities. The admissions tests, on the other hand, allow evaluators to make objective comparisons between candidates from different academic systems.

Plus, they offer insight into each applicant’s specific suitability for their chosen subject. Each test is designed to measure the skills and knowledge pertinent to a particular field (e.g. the UCAT for Medicine or the TMUA for Economics and Computer Science). By assessing skills directly relevant to the course, Cambridge can identify candidates who both academically strong and ready for their chosen subject’s challenges and depth.

Scoring and Criteria

Scoring differs across tests. Cambridge interprets these scores in conjunction with other parts of the application, providing a more holistic evaluation.

Test	Scoring Scale	Competitive Score Range
UCAT	300-900 per section (except situational judgement)	2700 is competitive, 2900 is exceptional
ESAT	Scale of 1.0-9.0	7.0 is competitive, 8.0+ is exceptional
TMUA	Scale of 1.0-9.0	7.0 is competitive, 8.0+ is exceptional

Ideal Scores for the Cambridge Admissions Tesst

Cambridge doesn’t officially publish minimum scores, but competitive ranges do exist based on past admissions data. In the UCAT, for example, scores above 2600 are generally viewed favourably, while the TMUA likely requires a performance in the top two deciles.

Test	Competitive Score Range	Notes
UCAT	2600-2700	Above 2900 is considered exceptional
ESAT	7.0+	8.0+ is considered exceptional
TMUA	7.0+	8.0+ is considered exceptional

Scores are evaluated within the context of each candidate’s complete application, so a high score does not guarantee admission, but rather enhances the applicant’s profile.

Registration Process

Registration for Cambridge admissions tests typically occurs through the applicant’s school or at designated testing centres. Schools often serve as the primary registration site for most applicants, handling logistics and ensuring that students are enrolled on time. For those whose schools are not registered as test centres, independent or international testing centres are available. Candidates should confirm registration requirements and methods for their specific tests well in advance, as these can vary by test location and centre.

Registration Location	Registration Method	Typical Deadline
School-based	Register through school	Early October
Independent Centre	Direct registration	Early October
International	Approved testing centre	Varies by centre policies

To ensure a smooth registration experience, applicants should regularly check the Cambridge admissions website and consult their school or local testing centre regarding any necessary forms or deadlines.

Registration Deadlines

Each Cambridge admissions test has a specific registration deadline, generally set for early October. These deadlines are particularly important to meet, as late registrations may incur additional fees or may not be accepted at all. Always refer to the official test websites for precise dates, as minor adjustments to deadlines can occur each year.

Applicants are encouraged to register as early as possible to avoid last-minute issues and to confirm their test location and time well before the exam date.

Test Costs

Most Cambridge admissions tests come with associated fees, which can vary depending on the location and testing centre. For instance, UCAT candidates within the UK pay a standard fee, while international applicants may have higher costs. In some cases, fee waivers are available for low-income applicants to help cover registration expenses.

Test	Standard Fee (Approx.)	Late Registration Fee	Fee Waiver Eligibility
UCAT	£70 (UK), £115 (International)	Yes	Available for low-income applicants
ESAT	£75 (UK and Ireland), £130 (International)	N/A	Available for low-income applicants

To determine the exact costs and to inquire about fee waivers, candidates should review details on the official test website or consult with their test centre.

Preparation Strategies

Preparing effectively for the Cambridge admissions tests is essential, as these assessments are both time-pressured and academically rigorous. A well-rounded preparation approach helps candidates build familiarity with the test format, manage time efficiently, and target areas for improvement. Below are some key strategies that can help optimise performance on these tests.

See Past Papers and Examples of Admissions Tests

One of the most effective preparation methods is to review past papers. Practising with previous tests allows candidates to become familiar with the question formats, structure, and difficulty level of each section. This exposure reduces the element of surprise and enables candidates to approach each question type with confidence and a clear strategy.

With Dukes Plus’s targeted admissions test preparation resources, candidates can approach their Cambridge assessments with confidence. Explore our Cambridge admissions test preparation resources here for more information on accessing mock tests and professional support.

Time Management Practice

Time management is a critical component of Cambridge admissions tests, which are typically designed to assess not only knowledge but also the ability to perform under timed conditions. Practising time management skills by setting timed sessions for each section helps candidates gauge the appropriate pace to complete questions accurately without rushing. Effective time management can significantly improve performance by reducing the chances of leaving questions unanswered or rushing through complex problems.

Get a Cambridge Admissions Tutor

Engaging with professional tutoring offers targeted support, helping candidates identify and address specific weaknesses. Tutors experienced with Cambridge admissions tests can provide personalised guidance, explain challenging concepts, and offer strategic approaches for tackling difficult questions. Professional tutoring also provides accountability and structured study plans, invaluable for maintaining a consistent and focused preparation schedule.

Dukes Plus provides specialised preparation support tailored to Cambridge admissions tests. Our tutoring services cover test-specific strategies, personalised study plans, and access to expert insights.

Working with experienced tutors can help candidates build confidence and maximise their potential, particularly if they require support in specific areas or wish to refine their approach further.