ESAT

Structure

Overview

The ESAT replaces the ENGAA and NSAA and is used for some engineering and science courses at Cambridge, Imperial, Oxford and UCL. Most candidates complete 3 independently timed modules: Mathematics 1 is compulsory, then two modules chosen from Biology, Chemistry, Physics or Mathematics 2 as required by the course.

Format

Published format

3 modules × 27 MCQ (5 options, 40 min each): Module 1 Mathematics (all) + 2 of: Biology/Chemistry/Physics/Mathematics 2 (by course)

Format guidance

Most courses require Mathematics 1 plus two other modules specified by the course; each paper has 27 questions and lasts 40 minutes, timed independently. Check the target course requirements before booking.

Structure

Structure Details

Each module consists of 27 five-option multiple-choice questions, lasts 40 minutes, and calculators may not be used. Mathematics 1 is compulsory for all candidates; the other two modules are specified by the target course. The five modules are timed independently, focusing on applying mathematical and scientific knowledge to solve problems within a short time.

Scoring

There is no penalty for wrong answers, and candidates are advised to attempt every question. Each module taken is reported separately on a scale of 1.0–9.0 marks, to one decimal place; institutions use these results alongside other application materials, and there is no uniform pass mark for the ESAT.

Preparation tips

Key Tips

▸27 questions per module / 40 minutes, with no negative marking for wrong answers.
▸Math 1 does not include calculus; questions from Math 2 must not be mixed in.
▸The old ENGAA/NSAA is not equivalent to the ESAT; use only questions that the official sources mark as still applicable.
▸Modules are specified by the target course; refer to the examination board and the university's official website.

Registration and results

Registration & Results

Registration windowThere are usually two test opportunities, in 10 and in 1 of the following year, with registration opening several weeks before each test

How to registerRegister and book a nearby authorised test centre via esat-tmua.ac.uk (the UAT-UK / Pearson VUE system).

Test datesTwo exam sittings: 10 and 1 of the following year

Results datesUsually published a few weeks after each sitting

How to access resultsCheck in the candidate account at esat-tmua.ac.uk; scores are sent to the relevant institutions such as Cambridge/Imperial College.

Official registration ↗Official results information ↗

Dates and arrangements change. Check the current official information before registering.

Official registration ↗Official sample questions ↗