Admissions Tests

Submitted by anahastoy on Mon, 2021-06-14 13:35

Admissions tests are one of the elements that can make up your application. Our applicants often have different qualifications, sometimes from all over the world, so the admissions test provides admitting tutors a common set of data to compare all applicants for a specific course. It is also an important way to test your potential and aptitude, given that so many students have very strong personal statements, references and predicted grades. The test is an important criterion used for shortlisting for interviews (alongside the information on your UCAS form and any written work you may have had to submit) and in making final admissions decisions. While it is not used in isolation, we recommend that you take it seriously and take some time to familiarise yourself with the structure and the content of the test required by your course.  

Here are some important points to remember:

  • Check on www.ox.ac.uk/tests whether a test is required for your choice of course 
  • Register for the test by the deadline - remember, registration for an admissions test is not automatic
  • Check past papers, specimen papers, the syllabus if available (all in the ‘how to prepare’ section of each test on www.ox.ac.uk/tests) 
  • Practice is the best preparation, including practising under timed conditions

We understand that for many the admissions test is a new and possibly daunting experience. This guide has been designed to help you prepare, by breaking down how to approach writing for tests that are essay-based or have a ’written task’ element.  You can find information and advice in the test-specific sections of the guide.

Finally, don’t be discouraged if you are not reaching the high scores you may be used to achieving in school - remember that these tests are meant to stretch and challenge, so if you find them difficult that is completely normal!