Tag: Oxford PAT

ESAT vs PAT Comparison: Strategies for Engineering & Science Test Prep

I. ESAT vs PAT: How to Choose Your Key to Top Science and Engineering Universities?

For students and parents preparing applications for engineering or science courses at Oxford, Cambridge, and Imperial College London, the names PAT (Oxford Physics Aptitude Test) and ESAT (Engineering and Science Admissions Test) will likely ring a bell. These are crucial ‘acid tests’ used by these top-tier institutions to select applicants for their science and engineering disciplines.

A common question naturally arises, particularly for those students and parents aiming for engineering or physics programmes at both Oxford and Cambridge/Imperial College: Given that both are science and engineering-related examinations, how significant are the differences between ESAT and PAT? If my child needs to prepare for both, is there an efficient way to combine their preparation? Or are they entirely distinct, requiring separate and independent study?

Admittedly, not all science applicants will need to tackle both examinations. For instance, those applying for courses in chemistry or biology-related fields (ESAT is required for Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, biological streams of Natural Sciences, and Veterinary Medicine at Cambridge) or materials science (PAT is required for Oxford) typically only need to prepare for one.

This article will delve into the core similarities and differences between the ESAT and PAT examinations. Our aim is to clarify the landscape for all students and parents interested in ESAT and PAT. Specifically for those needing to prepare for both – students applying for engineering or physics – we will focus on analysing the ‘correlation’ and ‘differences’ in their preparation, offering an effective combined strategy. For students who only need to take one examination, this comparison will also provide a deeper understanding of the unique aspects of the exam they face, thereby enabling more targeted preparation.

II. ESAT vs PAT: A Table for Understanding Core Information

First, let’s condense the key information about ESAT and PAT into a table. This will allow you to quickly grasp their overall structure and core differences.

Dimension	ESAT	Oxford PAT
Managing Body	UAT-UK	University of Oxford
Exam Administrator	Pearson VUE	Pearson VUE
Answering Format	Online computer-based	Online computer-based
Paper Structure	Total of 5 modules, typically choose 3: Mathematics 1 Mathematics 2 Physics Chemistry Biology	Unified paper: Mathematics + Physics
Question Types and Volume	81 multiple-choice questions (3 modules, 27 questions/module)	40 multiple-choice questions
Examination Duration	2 hours in total (3 modules, 40 minutes/module)	2 hours
Knowledge Base	A Level + GCSE Mathematics / Physics / Chemistry / Biology (depending on selected modules)	A Level + GCSE Mathematics + Physics
Further Mathematics	Not required	Not required
Scoring Method	Standardised score: 1.0-9.0 (after raw score conversion)	Raw score: 0-100
Calculator	Not permitted	Online calculator provided (personal calculators forbidden)
Dictionary and Formula Sheet	Not permitted	Not permitted
Required by University/Department	Cambridge: Engineering, Natural Sciences, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Veterinary Medicine Imperial College London: Department of Aeronautics, Department of Chemical Engineering, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Dyson School of Design Engineering, Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Department of Mechanical1 Engineering, Department of Physics UCL: Electronic and Electrical Engineering	Oxford: Physics, Physics and Philosophy, Engineering, Materials Science

Summary

As the table above illustrates, both ESAT and PAT are online, multiple-choice examinations administered by Pearson VUE, aimed at applicants for top university science and engineering courses, and neither requires knowledge of Further Mathematics. However, they differ in the breadth of subjects covered (ESAT is broader), whether they are modular (ESAT is), calculator policies, and the final presentation of scores (standardised score vs. raw score).

III. Analysis of Similarities and Differences: Feasibility and Key Points for Combined Preparation

Having grasped the core information, let’s now delve into the feasibility of preparing for ESAT and PAT concurrently, highlighting key areas that demand particular attention.

1. Where does the ‘Feasibility’ of Combined Preparation Lie?

For students aiming to tackle both examinations (specifically those selecting the Mathematics 2 + Physics modules for ESAT), a combined preparation strategy is indeed feasible. This is primarily due to the following commonalities:

Overlapping Mathematical and Physics Knowledge

The content required for ESAT’s Mathematics 1, Mathematics 2, and Physics modules significantly overlaps with the A-Level/GCSE Mathematics and Physics knowledge needed for PAT. This means that when revising core topics such as functions, mechanics, electricity, and basic calculus, you can effectively ‘kill two birds with one stone.’

Shared Skillset

Both examinations place considerable emphasis on a student’s logical-mathematical reasoning, their ability to apply scientific principles to solve practical problems, and their capacity to maintain clear thinking and accuracy under pressure. Honing these core scientific literacies will benefit performance in both tests.

Similar Format

Both are online multiple-choice examinations administered via the Pearson VUE platform. Familiarity with the computer-based testing environment, on-screen reading, and multiple-choice answering techniques is transferable between the two.

2. What are the ‘Points to Note’ for Combined Preparation?

Despite these commonalities, it’s crucial not to treat ESAT and PAT as interchangeable. You must clearly recognise and specifically address the following key distinctions:

ESAT’s Modularity and Breadth

ESAT is structured into five modules: Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. Students must select and prepare for three of these, guided by their university application requirements. This implies a potentially broader knowledge base (particularly if Chemistry or Biology is chosen). Furthermore, during the exam, students will need to swiftly switch between different subject mindsets and manage their time effectively within the independent 40-minute slots allocated to each module.

PAT’s Integration of Physics and Mathematics, and Depth

While PAT only tests Physics and Mathematics, it strongly emphasises their deep integration in problem-solving. Questions may be more comprehensively and ingeniously designed, potentially demanding a more profound understanding of physical concepts and a more versatile application of mathematical tools.

Fundamental Difference in Calculator Policy

This is a critical distinction requiring careful attention:

ESAT does not permit calculator use. Preparation must therefore involve significant effort in training mental arithmetic, manual calculation, estimation, unit conversion, and the fluent recall of formulae and constants.
PAT, conversely, provides an online calculator. During preparation, students cannot rely on their familiar personal calculators. Instead, they must invest time in becoming proficient with the specific online tool provided. This includes learning to judge when to use it for complex calculations and when manual calculation or estimation might be more efficient. The training for these two distinct calculation approaches and skillsets is fundamentally different.

Differing Emphasis on Speed

ESAT allocates 40 minutes for 27 questions per module, averaging roughly 1.5 minutes per question. This demands exceptionally rapid knowledge retrieval and reaction speed. PAT, while also multiple-choice and with a total duration of 2 hours for 40 questions (averaging about 3 minutes per question), might appear slightly more relaxed. However, its questions may require more time for thorough reading, comprehension, modelling, and calculation (especially when using the online calculator). Consequently, it places equally high demands on depth of thought and problem-solving efficiency.

IV. Effective Strategy: Devising Your ESAT and PAT Preparation Plan

Having clarified the similarities and differences, we can now formulate an effective preparation strategy, particularly for students requiring combined preparation.

1. From Where Does ‘Effectiveness’ Originate? When is it Applicable?

The ‘effectiveness’ of combined preparation primarily stems from integrating common foundations. It is especially applicable to students whose application pathways cover related courses at Oxford and Cambridge/Imperial College, and who select the Mathematics and Physics modules for ESAT. Consolidating the revision of core mathematical and physical knowledge can effectively save time. However, please remember that the realisation of this efficiency must be predicated on precise, differentiated training.

2. Practical Advice: How to Approach Combined Preparation?

Step One: Confirm Modules and Self-Assess

Firstly, confirm that your chosen course requires or allows the selection of ESAT’s Mathematics 2 and Physics modules! This is the prerequisite for combined preparation. Secondly, objectively assess your proficiency in Mathematics, Physics (and other ESAT elective subjects), and your abilities both with and without calculator assistance.

Step Two: Consolidate Common Foundations

Systematically revise and consolidate the overlapping A Level Mathematics and Physics core knowledge points. Focus on conceptual understanding and mastery of fundamental principles.

Step Three: Differentiated Specialist Training

ESAT Specialist Training

Undertake rigorous, high-intensity timed multiple-choice practice without a calculator. Focus on training speed, accuracy, and rapid knowledge retrieval skills.
Practise adapting to module switching to simulate continuous examination conditions.

PAT Specialist Training

Frequently use the official online practice platform to master the functions and limitations of the online calculator, and to identify the most efficient usage strategies.
Engage in targeted practice of multiple-choice questions that integrate Physics and Mathematics and demand depth of thought.
Critically use PAT past papers (note formatting differences prior to 2024), focusing on learning question approaches and the application of physical models.

Step Four: Simulate and Adjust

Periodically undertake full online mock examinations for ESAT (according to module combinations) and PAT, strictly adhering to time and calculator rules.

Based on mock examination results, analyse areas of weakness and promptly adjust revision priorities and training strategies.

Recommended Preparation Time

Considering the breadth of knowledge involved and the training of two different skill sets (particularly regarding calculators), it is advisable to allocate at least 5 months for systematic preparation. It is crucial to start early and ensure consistent, sustained effort.

Official Resources are Fundamental

The official ESAT and PAT websites, syllabuses, sample questions, and online practice platforms are fundamental resources that must be fully utilised.

Platforms such as Isaac Physics are beneficial for enhancing general mathematical and physical abilities.

Considering the unique nature of combined preparation, selecting courses and materials specifically designed for the characteristics of both ESAT and PAT will be significantly more effective. For example, the ESAT + PAT On-Demand Prep Suite and ESAT + PAT Live Classes offered by UEIE.

Key Recommended Resources

The greatest value of such resources lies in their optimised learning paths and training content, already structured according to the similarities and differences between the two examinations. They can clearly guide students on what to learn first, what to practise next, and how to practise most efficiently, thereby avoiding the potential waste of time and energy that can result from students figuring things out themselves. For those pursuing efficient preparation, this is a very wise choice.

3. Key Advice for Parents/Students

Combined preparation for ESAT and PAT is feasible, particularly for students primarily targeting engineering and physics disciplines. However, it is by no means an easy undertaking. The key to success lies in acknowledging and effectively addressing the core differences, especially calculator policies and examination style/structure. Planning must be meticulous, and training must be highly targeted; one cannot simply apply ‘one method for two examinations’.

V. Conclusion: Precise Analysis, Effective Preparation

In summary, ESAT and PAT, as gateways to science and engineering courses at their respective top universities, exhibit significant differences in terms of scope, structure, style, and particularly calculator policy, despite both being online multiple-choice examinations. Through the analysis in this article, we hope to have helped you clarify their core similarities and differences.

For applicants, whether focusing on one examination or needing to tackle both, the key to success lies in precisely understanding the requirements of the target examination, planning scientifically, and undertaking targeted, effective preparation.

Want to learn more? Please see:

ESAT Prep Hub

Master the ESAT with UEIE’s Prep Hub! We offer everything you need to succeed: in-depth video lecture series, extensive practice question bank, realistic full-length mock exams, expert guides, and insightful data analysis.

2025-05-06

2025 G5 Admissions Tests: Dates, Requirements & Preparation Timeline

I. Admissions Test Reforms: Navigating Your Choices

The landscape of admissions tests for Oxbridge and other G5 universities has been constantly evolving. Recently, several tests have been discontinued, while new ones like ESAT, UCAT, and TARA have emerged. Adding to the complexity, different universities often have varying test requirements even for similar courses, creating significant hurdles for applicants.

Strong performance in these admissions tests is vital for receiving an offer from a G5 university. For students and their parents, keeping up with the latest requirements, selecting the appropriate exams, and preparing efficiently pose considerable challenges.

This guide breaks down the 2025 admissions test schedule and specific course requirements for Oxbridge and G5 universities. Our goal is to assist applicants and their families in defining clear application targets, mapping out a practical preparation timeline, and focusing their efforts strategically to boost their chances of success.

II. Overview of 2025 Oxbridge & G5 Admissions Tests

As soon as universities officially released their 2025 admissions test details, we carefully compiled the following tables. They summarise the name, date, subjects/content covered, and applicable courses for each exam, aiming to provide a clear and quick understanding of this year’s Oxbridge and G5 test arrangements.

Tests for Cambridge, Imperial College, UCL & LSE

Test Name	Test Date(s)	Subjects/Content	Applicable Universities	Applicable Courses
STEP	STEP 2： 11 June 2025 STEP 3： 16 June 2025 2026 dates TBC	Mathematics, Further Mathematics	Cambridge University	Mathematics, Mathematics and Physics
ESAT	9 Oct 2025 (Not for mainland China, HK, Macau candidates) 10 Oct 2025 6-7 Jan 2026 (Not for Cambridge candidates)	Mathematics 1, Mathematics 2, Physics, Chemistry,Biology	Cambridge University	Engineering, Chemical Engineering & Biotechnology, Natural Sciences, Veterinary Medicine
			Imperial College	Aeronautics, Chemical Eng, Civil & Environmental Eng, Dyson Design Eng, Elec & Electronic Eng, Mechanical Eng, Physics
			UCL	Electronic & Electrical Engineering
TMUA	13 Oct 2025 (Not for mainland China, HK, Macau candidates) 14 Oct 2025 8-9 Jan 2026 (Not for Cambridge candidates)	Mathematics	Cambridge University	Computer Science, Economics
			Imperial College	Computing courses, Maths courses, Economics, Finance & Data Science
			LSE	Economics (Required), Econometrics & Mathematical Economics (Required), Maths & Economics (Recommended)
			UCL	Economics
TARA	15-16 Oct 2025 12-13 Jan 2026	Critical Thinking, Problem Solving, Effective Communication	UCL	Computer Science, Mathematical Computation, Robotics & AI, European Social & Political Studies, Int’l Social & Political Studies, Management Science, Social Sciences, Sociology & Data Science, Sociology
UCAT	7 July to 26 Sept 2025	Verbal Reasoning, Decision Making, Quantitative Reasoning	Cambridge University	Medicine
			Oxford University	Medicine
			UCL	Medicine
LNAT	1 Sept to 15 Oct 2025	Reading Comprehension, Essay Writing	Cambridge University	Law
			Oxford University	Law, Law with European Law
			LSE	Law
			UCL	Law

Oxford University’s Specific Admissions Tests

Test Name	Test Date(s)	Subjects/Content	Applicable Courses
MAT	22-23 Oct 2025	Mathematics	Mathematics, Mathematics & Philosophy, Mathematics & Computer Science, Computer Science, Computer Science & Philosophy
PAT	22-23 Oct 2025	Mathematics, Physics	Physics, Physics & Philosophy, Engineering, Materials Science
TSA	21-24, 27 Oct 2025	Critical Thinking, Problem Solving	Section 1 only: Economics & Management, Experimental Psychology, History & Economics, Human Sciences, PPL (Psychology, Philosophy & Linguistics) Sections 1 & 2: PPE (Philosophy, Politics & Economics)
AHCAAT	24 Oct 2025	Critical Academic Writing, Analysis of Ancient History Materials	Classical Archaeology and Ancient History
BMSAT	21-24, 27 Oct 2025	Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology	Biomedical Sciences
CAT	22-24 Oct 2025	Latin Translation, Greek Translation, Classical Languages Aptitude	Classics, Classics & English, Classics & Modern Languages, Classics & Asian and Middle Eastern Studies
MLAT	24 Oct 2025	8 Languages including French, Language Aptitude, Philosophy	European & Middle Eastern Languages, Classics & Modern Languages, English & Modern Languages, History & Modern Languages, Modern Languages, Modern Languages & Linguistics, Philosophy & Modern Languages
PhilAT	24 Oct 2025	Philosophical Reasoning	Philosophy and Theology

Tests Cancelled in 2024 and 2025 and Their Replacements:

Oxford’s HAT (History Aptitude Test) – No replacement
Cambridge’s ENGAA (Engineering Admissions Assessment) & NSAA (Natural Sciences Admissions Assessment) – Both replaced by ESAT
BMAT (BioMedical Admissions Test) – Replaced by UCAT or BMSAT (depending on course/university)

Test Format

With the exception of Cambridge’s STEP exams, all the tests mentioned above are delivered online as computer-based exams. They are administered by Pearson VUE at their global test centres.

III. Comparative Analysis of Oxbridge & G5 Test Requirements by Course

This section provides a side-by-side comparison of admissions test requirements for five major subject categories: Mathematics, Computer Science, Engineering, Natural Sciences (Physics), and Economics.

We will focus specifically on:

Required Tests: Which admissions tests does each university require for the same course?
Test Difficulty: What is the approximate difficulty level of each test?
Target Scores (Reference): Apart from Cambridge’s STEP, which has defined grade requirements, other tests do not have official ‘cut-off scores’. The reference scores provided in the tables below are not official data and do not necessarily represent the minimum scores achieved by admitted students.

1. Admissions Test Requirements for Mathematics Courses

University	Test	Difficulty	Target Score (Reference)
Cambridge University	STEP	Hard	Grade 1 or above
Oxford University	MAT	Relatively Hard	75+
Imperial College	TMUA	Medium	6.5+
LSE	TMUA	Medium	7.0+

Common Test Combinations for Oxbridge & G5 Mathematics Applicants

University Combination	Tests	Suggested Preparation Time
Cambridge + Other G5/Universities	STEP+TMUA	STEP: 6+ months + TMUA: 2-3 months OR STEP: 3-6 months + TMUA: 3-4 months
Oxford + Other G5/Universities	MAT+TMUA (STEP optional)	3-5 months (up to 10 months max)
Imperial / LSE / UCL + Other Universities	TMUA	4-6 months (up to 10 months max)

2. Admissions Test Requirements for Computer Science Courses

University	Test	Difficulty	Target Score (Reference)
Cambridge University	TMUA	Medium	7.5+
Oxford University	MAT	Relatively Hard	80+
Imperial College	TMUA	Medium	7.0+
UCL	TARA	Medium	Unknown (New for 2025 entry)

Common Test Combinations for Oxbridge & G5 Computer Science Applicants

University Combination	Tests	Suggested Preparation Time
Cambridge + Other G5/Universities	TMUA	3-5 months (up to 10 months max)
Oxford + Other G5/Universities	MAT+TMUA (STEP optional)	3-5 months (up to 10 months max)
Imperial + Other Universities	TMUA	4-6 months (up to 10 months max)
Imperial / UCL + Other Universities	TMUA+TARA	4-6 months (up to 10 months max)

3. Admissions Test Requirements for Engineering Courses

University	Test	Difficulty	Target Score (Reference)
Cambridge University	ESAT	Medium	Average 7.0+ across 3 modules
Oxford University	PAT	Relatively Hard	75+
Imperial College	ESAT	Medium	Average 6.5+ across 3 modules
UCL	ESAT	Medium	Unknown (New for 2025 entry)

Common Test Combinations for Oxbridge & G5 Engineering Applicants

University Combination	Tests	Suggested Preparation Time
Cambridge + Imperial / UCL	ESAT	3-5 months (up to 10 months max)
Oxford + Imperial / UCL	ESAT+PAT	3-5 months (up to 10 months max)
Imperial / UCL	ESAT	4-6 months (up to 10 months max)

4. Admissions Test Requirements for Natural Sciences (Physics) Courses

University	Test	Difficulty	Target Score (Reference)
Cambridge University	ESAT	Medium	Average 7.0+ across 3 modules
Oxford University	PAT	Relatively Hard	75+
Imperial College	ESAT	Medium	Average 6.5+ across 3 modules

Common Test Combinations for Oxbridge & G5 Natural Sciences (Physics) Applicants

University Combination	Tests	Suggested Preparation Time
Cambridge + Imperial	ESAT	3-5 months (up to 10 months max)
Oxford + Imperial	ESAT+PAT	3-5 months (up to 10 months max)
Oxford	PAT	3-5 months (up to 10 months max)
Imperial	ESAT	4-6 months (up to 10 months max)

5. Admissions Test Requirements for Economics Courses

University	Test	Difficulty	Target Score (Reference)
Cambridge University	TMUA	Medium	7.0+
Oxford University	TSA	Medium	PPE & E&M: 85+; Others: 70+
Imperial College	TMUA	Medium	6.5+
LSE	TMUA	Medium	7.0+
UCL	TMUA	Medium	6.5+

Common Test Combinations for Oxbridge & G5 Economics Applicants

University Combination

Tests

Suggested Preparation Time

Cambridge + G5 + Others

TMUA

4-6 months (up to 10 months max)

Oxford

TSA

4-6 months (up to 10 months max)

Imperial / LSE / UCL + Others

TMUA

4-6 months (up to 10 months max)

IV. Admissions Test & Interview Preparation Timeline

This section offers a general timeline for preparing for admissions tests and interviews, designed to help candidates plan effectively. Please note this is just a suggested timeline; your specific schedule should be adjusted based on your individual circumstances and the requirements of your target universities.

Time Period	Main Tasks	Key Focus Areas
Feb – Jun	Research, Skills Training	1. Read the latest admissions requirements on the Oxbridge/G5 university websites carefully. 2. Decide on target courses and the required tests. 3. Gather official materials: syllabuses, sample questions, past papers. 4. Understand test formats, question types, difficulty levels. 5. Create a detailed preparation plan or choose suitable prep courses/materials. 6. Strengthen maths and critical thinking skills for tests and interviews.
Jun – Sep	Systematic Revision, Build Foundation	1. Review foundational knowledge for each test subject based on the syllabus. 2. Use structured courses or materials for topic-specific practice. 3. Complete examples and exercises to consolidate knowledge. 4. Start attempting past papers (if available) to understand question styles and difficulty.
October	Final Push, Mock Exams	1. Take mock exams to familiarise yourself with timings and procedures. 2. Focus on weak areas identified in mocks. 3. Improve speed and accuracy in answering questions. 4. Get into optimal condition before sitting the actual tests.
Oct – Dec	Interview Preparation	1. Analyse test results (if released) to assess strengths and weaknesses. 2. Adjust application strategy if necessary (e.g., change target school/course – not applicable if UCAS submitted). 3. Intensify mock interview practice if you receive invitations.
Jan – Jun (Following Year)	Await Results, STEP Prep (if needed)	1. Wait for admission decisions. 2. If required, prepare for STEP exams (refer to STEP preparation guides).

2025-03-27