Cambridge English Admissions Test Guide

Cambridge English Admissions Test Guide

Our comprehensive guide to the Cambridge English Admissions Test provides all the essential details you need, including its structure, the courses requiring the test, and strategies for effective preparation. Visit our tutoring page to find out how Dukes Plus can support your journey through this vital stage of the Cambridge application process.

What is the Cambridge English Admissions Test?

The Cambridge English Admissions Test is a specialised examination designed to evaluate applicants’ abilities in close reading, essay writing, and language analysis. It is sat by all applicants to English at Cambridge who have been shortlisted for interview. It is one of the key components used by Cambridge admissions tutors to assess potential and suitability fothe English course.

Which Courses Require the Cambridge English Admissions Test?

The University of Cambridge uses this test to evaluate applicants for English. The test ensures that applicants possess the advanced interpretive and analytical skills necessary to succeed on this rigorous course.  You will sit the test at your chosen college if you are shortlisted for interview.

How is the Test Used?

Cambridge University relies on this test to distinguish between high-achieving candidates in its competitive application pool. Admissions tutors use the results to assess how well a candidate can interpret complex texts, construct reasoned arguments, and engage critically with challenging material. The test results, alongside other application elements such as personal statements, teacher references, and interviews, provide a holistic picture of an applicant’s academic potential.

What is a Good Score?

Cambridge does not release its marking criteria or an official pass or fail score. Your performance in the test will be just one factor considered as part of your application, along with your personal statement, submitted written work, and interview. However, as only around 1/3 of those invited to interview receive an offer, you will need to perform in the top third of shortlisted candidates in the test to enhance your chances of admission. Thorough preparation and practice is therefore highly advisable.

Does Cambridge Automatically Access Your Test Scores? Yes, your test will be marked directly by an admissions tutor at your chosen college. You will not need to submit your marks to Cambridge or your college – in fact, you will not have access to your marks yourself.

How is the Cambridge English Admissions Test Structured?

The Cambridge English admissions test lasts 90 minutes and requires you to write a single essay, comparing and contrasting two unseen literary passages from five provided. Cambridge recommend that you spend half an hour reading the texts and planning your response and one hour writing your essay. A sample paper is available here.

You should type your answer on a computer. No dictionaries or other reference sources are allowed, including online materials, and the university checks all answers using plagiarism detection software to make sure your essay is all your own work.

What Skills and Knowledge Does the Test Evaluate?

The test is designed to assess advanced skills in close reading, writing, and responsiveness to unfamiliar material Applicants are expected to interpret nuanced literary texts, paying close attention to language, style, and structure.  Writing skills are also critically assessed, including an applicant’s ability to present coherent arguments, maintain logical consistency, and use language effectively. Successful candidates typically demonstrate a skill in drawing out the complex meanings of texts, comparing and contrasting in interesting ways, and the ability to advance a nuanced argument in writing.

How to Register for the Cambridge English Admissions Test

You do not need to register for the Cambridge English Admissions test. If you are shortlisted for interview, your college will contact you directly to make arrangements for you to sit the test.

When is the Registration Deadline for the Cambridge English Admissions Test?

There is no registration deadline for the test as your college will contact you to arrange for you to take it, if you are shortlisted for interview. The test is usually taken in November or December following the October application deadline.

How Much Does the Cambridge English Admissions Test Cost?

There is no fee to sit the test.

How to Prepare for the Cambridge English Admissions Test

Preparation for this test requires a strategic approach. Begin by reviewing the sample test above to understand the test format and what candidates are asked to do. Practise interpreting and analysing challenging texts. You may wish to select a number of unfamiliar passages from a literary anthology like the Norton Anthology of Poetry, and practise reading and annotating them, comparing and contrasting their linguistic and thematic features.

The Cambridge English admissions test is also time-pressured, so it is vital that you write a few practice essays under timed conditions. Reviewing five texts, selecting two to compare, and then planning and writing your answer all in 90 minutes is challenging. Regular timed practice is essential to build confidence and ensure you can perform effectively under exam conditions.

For extra support in preparing, it’s advisable to work with a tutor for the Cambridge English admissions test. A tutor can work with you on practice close reading exercises and set you mock tests, marking your work and providing feedback to improve your skills. This targeted preparation can make a big difference to your confidence and performance when you come to take the test.

Why Choose Dukes Plus for Cambridge English Admissions Test Preparation?

At Dukes Plus, we provide expert tutoring tailored to the unique challenges of the Cambridge English Admissions Test. Our tutors specialise in helping students develop the skills needed to succeed, including advanced comprehension, critical analysis, and essay writing. With personalised support, practice resources, and one-on-one feedback, we help students maximise their potential.

We are proud of the improvements students make by working with us. 73% of our students receive offers from Oxbridge, compared to an average of 17%.

Dukes Plus by the numbers:   

• The average student improves their admissions test marks by 20% after just 4 hours’ tutoring  
• We have 20+ years of experience preparing students for Oxbridge  
• Our students receive 500+ Oxbridge offers every year  

For expert guidance tailored to your Cambridge application, visit our Cambridge English Admissions Test Tutors page.

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