How to pass the ESAT exam

What is the ESAT exam?

The Engineering and Science Aptitude Test (ESAT) is an entrance examination used by Imperial College London and the University of Cambridge. It is for students who want to seek entry onto Engineering and Science courses at these specific universities. It uses a combination of Maths and Physics, Chemistry and Biology topic questions to assess ability and to allow universities to select from a large number of applicants. All candidates take a Maths module and then other modules are selected based on the desired course. Applicants for Cambridge must take the test in October whereas applicants for Imperial can take the test in either October or January.

Engineering Focus

Candidates applying for engineering courses will take the Physics module alongside the Maths 1 and Maths 2 module. The questions in the test are not specific to engineering but use a combination of Maths and Physics to assess aptitude and likely success at undergraduate level in this highly challenging field.

Delving into Sciences

Candidates for Science or Veterinary Medicine courses will likely take Biology, Chemistry or Physics modules alongside Maths 1. The specific modules will be specified in the application information on the website of the course the student is applying to. It is important o take careful note of this and apply to sit the correct modules when you register for the test. The science modules assess skills in specific sciences to assess students’ ability to cope with a challenging subject at undergraduate level.

Imperial College London

If you are applying to Imperial College London for a course in one of the following departments, you must sit the ESAT in either October or January of the academic year before your course starts.

• Departments of Aeronautics, Chemical Engineering, Civil and Environmental Engineering, Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Design Engineering and Mechanical Engineering
• Department of Physics

University of Cambridge Requirements

If you are applying to the University of Cambridge for a course in one of the following departments, you must sit the ESAT in October of the academic year before your course starts. This is because Cambridge has an earlier UCAS deadline than other universities.

• Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology
• Engineering
• Natural Sciences
• Veterinary Medicine

Tips to Pass the ESAT

Practice materials are available on the ESAT website. An experienced tutor can also help you prepare. If you are unable to afford the entry fee for the ESAT, bursaries are available. Students will find their A-Level Maths and Further Maths (if appropriate) lessons are also excellent preparation, alongside specific science subjects depending on the course.

Concluding Thoughts

The ESAT is computer based and each module lasts around 40 minutes, with 27 questions. Depending on the number of modules you are undertaking, the test can take up to 2.5 hours with rest breaks. Breaks are available between modules. The test is taken at a local test centre; it is no longer taken in schools. Good luck with your ESAT preparation!

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