The short answer is: No. These are different admissions tests used for different courses. The test you need to take depends on the university and programme you are applying to.
Here’s what you need to know about TARA, the Test of Academic Reasoning for Admissions.
What is TARA?
The Test of Academic Reasoning for Admissions (TARA) is a non-subject-specific admissions test used by universities to assess the academic reasoning skills needed for undergraduate study.
Unlike tests that assess subject knowledge, TARA does not require you to study a particular subject syllabus. It tests how well you can think, analyse information, solve problems and communicate your ideas.
The test has three compulsory modules:
- Critical Thinking: 22 multiple-choice questions
- Problem Solving: 22 multiple-choice questions
- Writing Task: One essay-style question, chosen from three options
Each module lasts 40 minutes, making the total test time two hours. The Writing Task has a word limit of 750 words.
The Critical Thinking and Problem Solving modules are scored separately on a scale of 1.0 to 9.0. The Writing Task is not given a numerical score; instead, it is sent to the universities that use TARA as part of their admissions process.
Which universities accept TARA?
For the 2027 entry cycle, TARA is currently used by the University of Oxford and University College London (UCL) for selected undergraduate courses. You should always check the admissions requirements for your specific course before registering.
University College London (UCL)
UCL uses TARA for several courses in its 2027 admissions cycle, including:
- Computer Science BSc
- Computer Science MEng
- Computer Science and Mathematics MEng
- Robotics and Artificial Intelligence MEng
- Mechanical Engineering BEng
- Mechanical Engineering MEng
For UCL Computer Science, TARA is designed to help distinguish between highly qualified applicants by assessing critical thinking, problem-solving and writing skills. UCL considers the result alongside the rest of the application.
University of Oxford
Oxford requires TARA for applicants to:
- Economics and Management
- History and Economics
- History and Politics
- Human Sciences
- Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE)
- Psychology (Experimental)
- Psychology, Philosophy and Linguistics
All applicants must take the Test of Academic Reasoning for Admissions (TARA) as part of their application.
When can you take TARA?
There are two TARA test sittings for the 2027 entry cycle:
| Test sitting | Dates | Who can take it? |
| October 2026 | 12–16 October 2026 | All eligible candidates |
| January 2027 | 4–8 January 2027 | UCL and eligible non-Oxford applicants |
Oxford applicants are generally required to take the October sitting. For UCL applicants, either sitting can be used, unless the specific course says otherwise. Candidates can take the test only once in an admissions cycle.
For October 2026, test booking closes on 28 September 2026 at 6pm UK time. For January 2027, test booking closes on 7 December 2026 6pm UK time.
How do you apply for TARA?
TARA registration is separate from the UCAS application.
To register:
- Create a UAT-UK account.
- Enter your personal details and, if available, your UCAS Personal ID.
- Select TARA and add it to your test card.
- Book your test through the Pearson booking system.
- Choose an available Pearson VUE Test Centre and pay the test fee. (£133/INR 17,235 for candidates sitting the test outside the UK).
TARA is taken in person at a Pearson VUE test centre. UAT-UK operates test centres across many countries, so international applicants should book early to secure a convenient location.
Register for TARA through UAT-UK
Do you need to take TARA, TMUA and ESAT?
No. TARA, TMUA and ESAT are separate admissions tests. You take the one required by the course or university you are applying to.
The same principle applies across other universities. Do not register for all three tests simply because you are applying to competitive UK universities. First identify the courses you are applying to and then check which admissions test, if any, each course requires.
There can, however, be situations where a student applying to different courses needs different tests. For example, if your university list includes one course requiring TARA and another requiring TMUA, you may need to take both.
TARA vs TMUA vs ESAT: What’s the difference?
| TARA | TMUA | ESAT |
| Tests general academic reasoning, including critical thinking, problem solving and written communication. | Focuses on mathematical thinking and reasoning and is used for courses such as Mathematics and Economics. | Tests mathematics and science knowledge and reasoning and is used for a range of Engineering and Science courses. |
So, the course determines the test, not the university’s reputation or ranking.
How should you prepare for TARA?
Because TARA does not test subject-specific knowledge, preparation is less about learning a syllabus and more about becoming familiar with the question types, format and time pressure. A good starting point is to attempt a specimen paper under timed conditions and identify which types of questions take you the longest.
For the Writing Task, practise making a clear argument, organising your ideas logically and supporting your position with relevant examples. Remember that you have 40 minutes and a 750-word limit.
Check TARA preparation materials from UAT-UK.
Conclusion
TARA is designed to assess how you think, rather than what subject knowledge you have memorised.
If you are applying to a course that requires TARA, make sure you register before the deadline and familiarise yourself with all three modules. Most importantly, don’t assume that TARA, TMUA and ESAT are all required. Your admissions test depends on the specific course you are applying to.
Before registering, make a list of your target courses and check the admissions test requirement for each one. This will tell you exactly which test(s) you need to take.
