UK Admissions Tests – What You Must Know Before Applying

If you’re aiming for Oxford, Cambridge, or other top UK universities, strong grades alone won’t guarantee your place. Many competitive programs require admissions tests to evaluate how well you think, reason, and solve problems skills that go beyond your school transcript.

Here’s a quick guide to the most important tests and who needs them:

Economics, Business, or PPE?

TSA – Thinking Skills Assessment
Used by Oxford and other top universities, the TSA tests your ability to reason critically and solve problems logically. It’s designed to assess your thinking skills, not subject knowledge.

Applying for Law?

LNAT – National Admissions Test for Law
Required by Oxford, UCL, LSE, and several others, the LNAT includes reading comprehension and an essay component. It’s used to measure your aptitude for studying law at a rigorous level.

STEM Fields: Maths, Engineering, Physics

TMUA, MAT, or PAT

• TMUA – Test of Mathematics for University Admission

• MAT – Mathematics Admissions Test

• PAT – Physics Aptitude Test (Oxford)
  Applicants to STEM courses at Oxbridge and other top-tier universities may be required to take one or more of these subject-specific assessments.

Medicine or Dentistry

UCAT – University Clinical Aptitude Test
All UK medical and dental schools use the UCAT. It covers abstract reasoning, decision making, and situational judgment. Preparation is essential, as it’s one of the most challenging tests.

New for 2025: UCL’s Own Reasoning TestTARA – Test of Academic Reasoning for Admissions
UCL is introducing its own test for select programs, following a growing trend among UK universities to assess students through independent reasoning exams.

The Bottom Line

Admissions tests are a key part of the application process at top UK universities. They help universities identify applicants who have the critical thinking skills and academic potential to succeed, beyond what grades alone can show.

What You Should Do Now

• Research your course and the university’s test requirements early

• Note that many tests are scheduled in October or November, earlier than UCAS deadlines

• Start your preparation well in advance to improve your performance

Need help preparing?
We offer test prep support for the LNAT, TSA, UCAT, and more. From strategy to practice sessions, we’ve got your back.

Fill out the Inquiry Form or contact us today to get started on your UK university journey.