For students aspiring to read engineering or natural sciences at the University of Cambridge or Imperial College London, the Engineering and Science Admissions Test (ESAT) result is a key determinant of their ultimate success in gaining admission. However, many students and their parents are unacquainted with the particulars of ESAT registration, such as the procedures for enrolment, the pertinent timelines, and the appropriate examination session for which to register. This article will, therefore, provide a detailed exposition and guidance on the various processes and facets of ESAT registration, aiming to elucidate these matters and resolve any uncertainties.
Since 2024, the ESAT has been centrally managed by UAT-UK (University Admissions Tests – UK), a not-for-profit organisation. UAT-UK focuses on university entrance examinations in the United Kingdom and currently oversees two computer-based testing programmes: ESAT and TMUA. The delivery of these tests is undertaken by Pearson VUE, the certification and licensure arm of the internationally recognised learning company, Pearson. With a vast network of over 5,500 test centres across more than 180 countries and territories, Pearson VUE provides professional assessment services to academic and admissions bodies globally.
The ESAT has two examination sittings, scheduled for October 2025 and January 2026. The pertinent dates are outlined below:
| 31 July 2025 | ESAT Registration Opens |
|---|---|
| 29 September 2025 | ESAT Registration Closes |
| 9 & 10 October 2025 | ESAT Test Dates |
| 14 November 2025 | ESAT Results Released |
| 27 October 2025 | ESAT Registration Opens |
|---|---|
| 19 December 2025 | ESAT Registration Closes |
| 6 & 7 January 2026 | ESAT Test Dates |
| To Be Confirmed (anticipated within six weeks of the test) | ESAT Results Released |
Important Notes Regarding Test Window Selection:
Applicants to the University of Cambridge must register for and sit the October examination. The January examination is not available to Cambridge applicants.
Specific Date Restriction for Certain Localities:
Candidates from mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau applying to the University of Cambridge are not permitted to sit the ESAT examination on 9 October 2025. Therefore, applicants from these localities targeting Cambridge must sit the ESAT examination on 10 October 2025.
1. Candidates must create a UAT-UK account on the official Pearson VUE website. (It is prudent to consult the official UAT-UK website for the latest registration guidance).
2. It is imperative that the name used for UAT-UK account registration precisely matches the name on the candidate’s identification document. Discrepancies may prevent the candidate from sitting the examination. It is also advisable for this name to be consistent with the name used in the UCAS application.
3. Following account creation, Pearson VUE will send an email enabling candidates to confirm their details and account settings (this email should be received within 24 hours). This email will also include a temporary password for the candidate’s account.
4. Upon receipt of the account confirmation email, candidates may log in using the temporary password, subsequently change their password, and locate their UAT-UK ID (format: UATUK######) in the top left-hand corner of the page navigation bar.
1. Log in to your UAT-UK account on the official Pearson VUE website and select the option to book the ESAT examination.
2. The ESAT examination comprises five sections. Typically, all candidates are required to sit the Mathematics 1 module. In addition to this, candidates will generally need to select two further modules from Mathematics 2, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology, in accordance with the requirements of their chosen university and specific programme of study. It is imperative that candidates meticulously consult the official admissions webpage of their prospective institution to confirm the precise subject combination stipulated for their intended course. Selecting an appropriate combination of subjects is likely to strengthen your university application.
3. Provide personal information pertinent to the examination. Compulsory fields are denoted by an asterisk (*).
4. Candidates can locate their nearest test centre via the Pearson VUE website to complete their ESAT registration. Kindly note that places at sought-after test centres are limited, particularly as the registration deadline nears. Booking well in advance is strongly advised.
Candidates requiring access arrangements are advised to register for the examination at the earliest opportunity. Registering later may diminish the likelihood of securing arrangements at the preferred date and test centre. UAT-UK may take up to ten working days to process applications for access arrangements. Furthermore, the deadline for applying for access arrangements is typically in advance of the standard registration deadline. It is essential to check and submit such applications with ample time.
All applications for access arrangements must be substantiated by evidence from a medical practitioner or specialist teacher, clearly detailing the candidate’s disability, medical condition, or other relevant circumstances.
Types of access arrangements that necessitate application and approval include:
As the 2025 ESAT examinations draw nearer, it remains of paramount importance for all students intending to apply for engineering and natural sciences programmes at the University of Cambridge and Imperial College London to acquaint themselves promptly with the latest examination updates and to familiarise themselves thoroughly with the complete ESAT registration procedure. Kindly make full use of this guide to prepare effectively for successful matriculation at your chosen institution.
Should you wish to explore further aspects of the ESAT examination, such as a comprehensive overview of test information, guidance on structuring your preparation timeline, and effective study strategies, you may also consult our other articles by clicking the link provided below.
ESAT Explained: Navigating the Modular Test for Science & Engineering
Conquer the ESAT: Multi-Subject Strategies for Online Test Success
