Preparing for university admissions tests
Do you want to apply for a degree that requires you to take one or more of the maths admissions tests – STEP, MAT and TMUA?
It’s important to ensure you’re well-prepared, because the questions in these tests are longer and less-structured than most A level Mathematics and Further Mathematics examination questions. You’ll benefit from getting used to this style of question beforehand and gaining confidence in tackling them.What are TMUA, AEA, MAT and STEP?
Are any of your students applying to study maths at a top university?
Several selective universities ask students applying to maths-related degree courses to take admissions assessments. These tests may form part of the offer for a place on the course or may reduce the UCAS points score required. These are generally required in addition to specific A level grades (or alternative qualifications).
The tests universities may require for maths courses are:
- STEP (Sixth Term Examination Paper)
- TMUA (Test of Mathematics for University Admission)
- AEA (Advanced Extension Award)
- MAT (Mathematics Admissions Test)
Which tests do universities ask for?
You should always check for individual university courses on the course webpage. If you are unsure, we encourage you to contact the course admissions tutor.
Courses which require a maths admissions assessment (TMUA, MAT, STEP)
| 2025 Entry | Mathematics Courses | Computer Science Courses | Economic Courses |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Cambridge | STEP | TMUA | TMUA |
| University of Oxford | MAT | MAT | TSA |
| Imperial College London | TMUA or STEP | TMUA | TMUA |
| University of Warwick | TMUA or STEP | TMUA | TMUA |
| London School of Economics | TMUA |
Some universities will make differentiated offers based on students having completed at least AS Further Mathematics. For some courses, completing AS Further Mathematics or A level Further Mathematics is a requirement.
If your school does not offer Further Mathematics, it may be possible for you to study Further Mathematics through the AMSP.
Support for developing your problem-solving skills:
Problem Solving Matters
A free course for Year 12 students from state-funded schools, academies and colleges designed to prepare students for the way they will have to think to achieve success in the MAT, TMUA and other problem solving mathematics examinations, including STEP, by developing their mathematical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Find out moreSetting Out In Problem Solving
University admissions tests (and A levels) require a higher level of problem solving than year 12 students will have seen before. This free course, comprising of a single online session, helps students start to build strategies to approach unfamiliar problems and provides information on what entrance exams are out there.
Find out moreSUMS Magazine
A monthly web magazine for all A level Mathematics students considering studying Mathematics at university, published by the AMSP. Each issue is packed full of support, resources and advice. There is a separate version for Year 12 and Year 13 students.
Find out moreOnline course for the MAT
Online specialist tuition to support student preparing for the Mathematics Admissions Test (MAT) taking place in the lead up to the test. This is a free course for Year 13 students from state-funded schools, academies and colleges comprising of 7 online small group sessions.
Find out moreOnline course for the TMUA
Online specialist tuition to support student preparing for the Test of Mathematics for University Admission (TMUA) taking place in the lead up to the tests.. This is a free course for Year 13 students from state-funded schools, academies and colleges comprising of 7 online small group sessions.
Find out moreOther support
More opportunities for you to prepare for university admissions tests will be available soon.
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