Introduction
For students applying to competitive engineering and science programmes in the UK, admissions tests form a crucial part of the selection process. The ESAT helps universities assess how well applicants can apply their scientific and mathematical knowledge under timed conditions. Understanding the test structure, registration process, and preparation requirements early will help candidates avoid missed deadlines and unnecessary stress.
Test Format
There are five ESAT modules. Most courses will require candidates to answer Mathematics 1 and two further modules.
Each module lasts 40 minutes and contains 27 multiple choice questions. The ESAT will be 120 minutes long for most candidates.
| Module | Who takes this module? | Content | Duration |
| Mathematics 1 | All candidates take this module. | 27 multiple-choice questions | 40 minutes |
| Biology Chemistry Physics Mathematics 2 | Most candidates will take two of these modules. Some courses will specify which modules you must take, so you should carefully check the university webpages for your chosen course(s). | 27 multiple-choice questions in each module. | 40 minutes for each module. |
Universities using ESAT
The ESAT is currently used by the following institutions:
- University of Cambridge: Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Engineering, Natural Sciences, Veterinary Medicine
- University of Oxford: Biomedical Sciences, Engineering Science, Physics Physics and Philosophy
- Imperial University: Aeronautics, Chemical Engineering, Civil and Environmental Engineering, Dyson School of Design Engineering, Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Life Sciences, Mechanical Engineering, Physics
- UCL: BEng Electronic & Electrical Engineering and MEng Electronic & Electrical Engineering
Always confirm ESAT requirements directly on the university and course webpages, as requirements may vary by programme.
Important Dates
- The ESAT is offered in two sittings per year
- Applicants to the University of Cambridge must sit the October sitting
- Test sittings for 2026 have concluded
- Details for 2027 sittings will be released in April on the official ESAT website
Deadlines are strict, and late registrations are not accepted, so early planning is essential.
How to register?
- Visit the official ESAT website once registration opens
- Create an account and select your test sitting
- Choose the required modules based on your course requirements
- Book your test centre or online sitting (if available)
- Pay the test fee and confirm your booking
Make sure your registration details match your UCAS application information exactly.
How to Prepare
The ESAT assesses content that most students will already have studied during school-level mathematics and science courses. As a result, extensive new learning is usually unnecessary.
Recommended preparation steps:
- Read the official test specification carefully
- Identify any weaker topics and revise them
- Practise using official sample papers
Official preparation materials are available here: https://esat-tmua.ac.uk/esat-preparation-materials/
Conclusion
The Engineering and Science Admissions Test plays an important role in applications to some of the UK’s most competitive science and engineering degrees. By understanding the test format, registering on time, and preparing strategically, candidates can approach the ESAT with confidence.
If you are applying to ESAT-using universities such as University of Cambridge, Imperial College London, or University College London, ensure you check course-specific requirements and book your test as soon as registration opens.
All applicants must submit their undergraduate applications through UCAS:
- 15 October 2027 – deadline for the University of Cambridge, Oxford and most medicine, dentistry, and veterinary science courses
- 13 January 2027– equal consideration deadline for most undergraduate courses the majority of other undergraduate courses
Apply early, register for the required admissions tests, and use official preparation materials to give yourself the strongest possible chance of success.
