Prepare with the Best Tutors For Oxbridge University Entrance Exam
Gaining admission to the prestigious Universities of Oxford and Cambridge, collectively known as Oxbridge, requires more than stellar grades. You must demonstrate critical thinking, subject-specific expertise, and exceptional problem-solving skills through rigorous entrance exams. At Rostrum Education, we offer expert-led, personalised online preparation to help you succeed in these high-stakes assessments and secure a place at your dream university.
Many of the courses at Oxford require applicants to take an admissions test, which is employed by them to choose among the many exceptional prospects who apply to study there. It is critical that you register for and take any admissions tests required for your programme in order to make your application as competitive as possible. Candidates are highly urged to devote some time to studying for the exam, examining test materials, and practising with previous years’ exams.
We Identify Tests You Might Need To Take for the Oxbridge Exam
Depending on your chosen course and university, you may need to sit for different entrance assessments. At Rostrum, we start by helping you understand which exams are required based on your course of interest, whether you’re applying for Law, Medicine, Engineering, or PPE. We evaluate your academic profile and tailor a roadmap for your Oxbridge entrance exam preparation accordingly.
University of Cambridge Admission Tests
Engineering and Science Admissions Test (ESAT)
Required for applicants to:
- Engineering
- Natural Sciences
- Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology
- Veterinary Medicine
Test Details:
- Format: Computer-based multiple-choice test administered by Pearson VUE.
- Modules: Candidates select three modules, with Mathematics 1 being compulsory. The additional modules can be chosen from Mathematics 2, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
- Duration: Each module lasts 40 minutes.
- Test Dates for 2025 Entry: Thursday 9 and Friday 10 October 2025.
- Registration: Must register in advance.
Note: The ESAT replaces the previously used ENGAA and NSAA tests.
University Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT)
Required for applicants to:
- Medicine (Standard Course A100)
- Medicine (Graduate Course)
Test Details:
- Format: Computer-based test assessing cognitive abilities, attitudes, critical thinking, and logical reasoning.
- Test Dates: Various dates available; candidates should check the UCAT official website for specific dates.
- Registration: Must register in advance.
Note: The UCAT replaces the BMAT for Medicine applicants at Cambridge.
Test of Mathematics for University Admission (TMUA)
Required for applicants to:
- Computer Science
- Economics
Test Details:
- Format: Two papers assessing mathematical thinking and reasoning.
- Duration: Each paper lasts 75 minutes.
- Test Dates for 2025 Entry: Monday 13 and Tuesday 14 October 2025.
- Registration: Must register in advance.
Note: Some colleges may also require the Computer Science Aptitude Test (CSAT) in addition to the TMUA for Computer Science applicants.
Sixth Term Examination Paper (STEP)
Required for applicants to:
- Mathematics
Test Details:
- Format: Written examination assessing advanced mathematical knowledge and problem-solving skills.
- Papers: Typically, applicants take STEP 2 and STEP 3.
- Test Dates: Usually held in June; specific dates are announced annually.
- Registration: Must register in advance.
College Admission Assessments
For several courses, assessments are conducted by individual colleges, often during the interview process. These do not require prior registration.
Courses with College Admission Assessments include:
- Architecture
- Asian and Middle Eastern Studies
- Classics
- Design
- English
- Geography
- History
- Oxford University Admissions Tests
- History and Modern Languages
- History and Politics
- Human, Social, and Political Sciences (HSPS)
- Linguistics
- Modern and Medieval Languages
- Music
- Philosophy
- Psychological and Behavioural Sciences
- Theology, Religion, and Philosophy of Religion
MAT – Mathematics Admissions Test
Required for applicants to:
- Mathematics
- Mathematics and Computer Science
- Mathematics and Philosophy
- Mathematics and Statistics
- Computer Science
- Computer Science and Philosophy
Test Details:
- Format: One paper assessing mathematical thinking and problem-solving through long-form questions
- Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Test Dates for 2025 Entry: Expected between 21–27 October 2025
- Registration: Through Pearson VUE; candidates must register via an authorized test centre
PAT – Physics Admissions Test
Required for applicants to:
- Physics
- Engineering Science
- Materials Science
- Physics and Philosophy
Test Details:
- Format: One paper combining physics and mathematics-based problem-solving
- Duration: 2 hours
- Test Dates for 2025 Entry: Expected between 21–27 October 2025
- Registration: Via Pearson VUE; registration is mandatory and must be completed by the deadline
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TSA – Thinking Skills Assessment
Required for applicants to:
- Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE)
- Human Sciences
- Experimental Psychology
- Psychology and Philosophy
- Psychology, Philosophy and Linguistics (PPL)
- Economics and Management
- History and Economics
Test Details:
- Format: Section 1 only – multiple-choice questions covering problem-solving and critical thinking
- Duration: 90 minutes
- Test Dates for 2025 Entry: Expected between 21–27 October 2025
- Registration: Register through Pearson VUE by the designated deadline
MLAT – Modern Languages Admissions Test
Required for applicants to:
- Modern Languages
- Modern Languages and Linguistics
- European and Middle Eastern Languages
- Modern Languages and English
- Modern Languages and Classics
- History and Modern Languages
- Philosophy and Modern Languages
Test Details:
- Format: Multiple short papers depending on the language applied for (grammar, translation, comprehension)
- Duration: Varies depending on the combination of language papers
- Test Dates for 2025 Entry: Expected between 21–27 October 2025
- Registration: Via Pearson VUE; language selection must match course requirements
CAT – Classics Admissions Test
Required for applicants to:
- Classics
- Classics and English
- Classics and Modern Languages
- Classics and Asian and Middle Eastern Studies
Test Details:
- Format: Translation and comprehension questions based on Latin or Ancient Greek; essay question for some applicants
- Duration: Approximately 1 hour
- Test Dates for 2025 Entry: Expected between 21–27 October 2025
- Registration: Through Pearson VUE test centres; check requirements for your specific course
PhilAT – Philosophy Admissions Test
Required for applicants to:
- Philosophy and Theology
Test Details:
- Format: One essay-style response to a philosophical prompt
- Duration: 1 hour
- Test Dates for 2025 Entry: Expected between 21–27 October 2025
- Registration: Through Pearson VUE before the published deadline
BMSAT – Biomedical Sciences Admissions Test
Required for applicants to:
- Biomedical Sciences
Test Details:
- Format: Computer-based test assessing biological reasoning, scientific knowledge, and problem-solving
- Duration: Approximately 2 hours
- Test Dates for 2025 Entry: Expected between 21–27 October 2025
- Registration: Register through Pearson VUE; test format replaces the BMAT for Oxford
AHCAAT – Ancient History and Classical Archaeology Admissions Test
Required for applicants to:
- Classical Archaeology and Ancient History
Test Details:
- Format: Written responses analyzing historical sources and constructing arguments
- Duration: Approximately 1 hour
- Test Dates for 2025 Entry: Expected between 21–27 October 2025
- Registration: Complete via Pearson VUE by the registration deadline
Few Tips to Start Your Oxbridge Preparation
Preparing for Oxbridge University entrance exams requires focus, dedication, and strategic planning. Here are some key tips to help you get started:
- Understand the Test Requirements: Different courses have specific exams and formats, so make sure you know which ones are applicable to your chosen course.
- Start Early: Begin your preparation at least six months before your exam date. This gives you enough time to cover all topics and practice regularly.
- Focus on Core Topics: Identify the key areas that your test will cover. Focus on strengthening your foundational knowledge.
- Practice with Past Papers: Past exam papers are an invaluable resource. They help you familiarize yourself with the test format and develop the ability to manage time effectively.
- Take Practice Tests: Simulate real exam conditions to assess your performance and identify areas for improvement.
- Stay Consistent: Regular study sessions, even if brief, are more effective than cramming all at once.
Why Choose Rostrum for Oxbridge Preparation Online
- Expert Tutors: Our team consists of Oxbridge graduates and subject specialists who are well-versed in the exams’ unique requirements.
- Tailored Programs: We create custom preparation plans that align with your individual strengths and weaknesses, ensuring focused and efficient study.
- Proven Track Record: Our students consistently perform well, with many securing places at Oxford and Cambridge universities.
- Flexible Online Learning: Our online platform allows you to access lessons from anywhere in the world, providing the flexibility you need to fit preparation into your schedule.
- Interactive Learning Methods: We use engaging teaching methods, including interactive quizzes, problem-solving sessions, and real-time feedback, to ensure you’re fully prepared.
Meet your oxbridge Mentor
Gwyn Day
Gwyn Day brings a wealth of experience to Rostrum Education as one of our most accomplished mentors. A member of Mensa, with an IQ in the top 0.05%, and a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts, Gwyn combines intellectual brilliance with decades of professional insight. Before entering education, Gwyn served as a Head Trader in the banking sector, giving him a unique edge in coaching students aiming for top-tier careers in finance, consulting, and law.
Specializations:
- Oxbridge, Ivy League, and M7 Business School admissions
- Undergraduate and postgraduate applications
- Personal statement and SOP refinement
- Interview training for university and graduate careers
- Internship and job placement coaching
- Neurolinguistic coaching for academic excellence
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Working with Ratish was an absolute game changer in my college application process. From the moment I met him, I could tell that he truly cared about helping me achieve my dreams and goals. He was incredibly knowledgeable about the college admissions process and was able to provide me with invaluable guidance and support every step of the way along with me gaining many useful skills for my future career. Thanks to his expertise and guidance, I was able to gain admission to my dream college due to his constant support and follow ups throughout my application and college selection journey.
The team at Rostrum was extremely helpful through this admissions cycle. Martin, Ratish, and Sanjog were very thorough in editing my essays, both supplemental and the Common Application essay as well as preparing me for the US interviews and in the profile building process. Gwyn was very supportive in helping me develop my super-curricular activities, writing the SOP, and polishing my interview skills, and helped me navigate the entire process seamlessly, resulting in offers from my top choices in both the US and the UK.
US universities require 4 years of UG, but the expertise of Rostrum helped shortlisted universities where I could apply with 3 year degree undergrad degree. From timely follow ups, to working on applications of 10 universities, my counsellor helped me craft more than 10 university specific essays. The great attention to minute detail was something which truly made the process exciting. Dea and Ratish were available round the clock to address to queries ( some extremely stupid ones too). When I look back 10 years down the lane, Rostrum’s mentorship will be my life’s happiest roller coaster memory.
One thing which really eased my work was working with Rostrum. I didn’t have to worry about my applications, writing essays, college research, and making a list of profile building activities. That really eased my work and I could focus on my academics and other extracurricular activities.
My UK mentor Khalid really helped me constantly refine my personal statement, and I also got a few inputs from Gwyn. All of these really helped me showcase my diverse extracurricular activities because I had a bunch of them that tied in with my major as well as show my passion for the field, which I think really made me stand out as someone who’s very genuinely interested in studying biomedical sciences. Rostrum knows what universities are looking for and in that sense they helped me decide what to show in my application.
Rostrum has really helped with preparing me for the interview process through technical mock interviews with Gwyn. I was able to develop my confidence and speaking abilities in order to convey my points more clearly. I’m grateful for their support throughout the whole application journey.
The whole team at Rostrum helped me prepare the best application possible. Shivangi and Ratish especially were so encouraging and guided me throughout the whole process. The whole team was always there whenever I had a question. I’m really grateful for all the support and effort!
From day one, Rostrum guided me through my application to Cambridge and helped me gain more insight into what makes a 'standout' Oxbridge application. Working with Rostrum was such an amazing experience and helped me get into my dream school!
College selection and the process can be a daunting task. Rostrum made this very comprehensive and comfortable. Setting goals, breaking down requisite action and thereafter it’s follow up, all seamlessly coordinated by Sanjog. His ability to be direct, connect and stay calm encouraged our son, Riyaan.
My counsellor at Rostrum guided me through each step of the application process from making a college list, setting deadlines for myself, writing my essays to finally sending the applications out. The entire team at Rostrum has been so supportive over the past few months and has responded promptly each time I had a question or a doubt.
My experience with Rostrum has been a wonderful journey. I would like to thank the entire Rostrum team for the support they have given. Special thanks to Shivangi and Ratish for their constant guidance and assistance throughout the application procedure. It wouldn’t have been possible without them. From short listing colleges to editing SOPs several times, they have been there for me. Big thanks to the entire team for catering to all my needs, for making me believe in my self and my potentials. I’m soo grateful to have joined Rostrum, they have truly helped me to achieve my dreams.
Rostrum Education has been extremely helpful, patient and considerate throughout my application process. I owe my gratitude to my mentor Maknoon as he was always ready to address any query I had, no matter how small. Gwyn Day was an essential part of my UK applications as he helped me choose universities, courses and also in perfecting my SOP, I am thankful to him and the entire team at Rostrum Education for everything.
Rostrum has been a huge help over the past year, Ratish and the team has helped and supported in each and every step of the journey. With their guidance and expertise they tailor fit you for the universities. never expected i’d get into such great universities. all thanks to them!
FAQ on Oxbridge University Entrance Exam Preparation
No, Oxford University does not accept the CLAT (Common Law Admission Test). Oxford has its own entrance tests for law programs, such as the LNAT (National Admissions Test for Law), which is used by various universities including Oxford.
To prepare effectively for the Oxford entrance exams, follow these steps:
- Know your test: Identify the specific tests required for your course (e.g., BMAT, MAT, TSA, etc.).
- Understand the format: Study the structure and types of questions that will be asked.
- Practice: Work through past exam papers and take practice tests to get used to the timing and difficulty level.
- Revise key topics: Focus on the core subjects related to your course, and reinforce your knowledge.
- Seek expert guidance: Consider working with an Oxbridge tutor to get personalized feedback and tips.
If you fail your Oxford entrance exam, it’s important to remain calm. Oxford typically considers a combination of your exam performance, personal statement, and interview. If you don’t get in this year, you can reapply for the next admissions cycle, but you must first ensure that you understand the areas where you can improve. Many students who don’t succeed the first time around ultimately gain acceptance in a subsequent application.
