TMUA
The Test of Mathematics
for University Admission
A mathematics admissions test led by UAT-UK and delivered globally by Pearson VUE, recognised by Cambridge, Imperial, Warwick, LSE and other institutions, primarily assessing mathematical thinking and reasoning.
TMUA (The Test of Mathematics for University Admission) is primarily designed for mathematics, computer science, economics and related programmes, based on GCSE/AS level mathematics. The test comprises two papers, each 75 minutes with 20 multiple-choice questions, focusing on mathematical thinking and reasoning. Calculators and dictionaries are not permitted; there is no pass/fail threshold, with results reported as a single overall score on a 1.0–9.0 scale.
Schedule
Register NowTMUA preparation tools
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TMUA past papers 2016–2025
Official PDFs and answers for 2016–2023, plus the 2024 and 2025 papers online.
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TMUA score conversion and percentiles
Convert raw marks to a 1.0–9.0 score, compare curves and see where a score ranks.
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TMUA online mock exams
Timed Paper 1 and Paper 2 practice in the real computer-based format.
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My TMUA score record
Every paper you finish, with scaled scores and progress across attempts.
Not sure whether you need TMUA or ESAT? Read the TMUA vs ESAT comparison
TMUA Universities · 2027 Entry
Recognised Universities
2027 entry · 7 universities on the official UAT-UK list
| Requirement Level | University | Applicable Major | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mandatory | Cambridge | Computer Science; Economics; Mathematics | Compulsory on the official 2027 entry list; normally the October sitting |
| Mandatory | Oxford | Computer Science; Computer Science and Philosophy; Mathematics and Computer Science; Mathematics and Philosophy; Mathematics / Mathematics and Statistics | Compulsory on the official 2027 entry list |
| Mandatory | Imperial College | Computing degree family; Mathematics degree family; Economics, Finance and Data Science | Only the specific UCAS courses on the official 2027 list; all compulsory |
| Mandatory | LSE | Economics; Econometrics and Mathematical Economics | Listed as compulsory by both LSE and UAT-UK |
| Mandatory | Warwick | Computer Science (BSc/MEng); Computer Science with Business; Discrete Mathematics (BSc/MEng); Mathematics (BSc/MMath) | Compulsory, except for applicants eligible for a contextual offer |
| Mandatory | UCL | Economics, Economics with Study Abroad | Compulsory on the official 2027 entry list |
Score Competitiveness Each university and course decides how to use TMUA results; there is no universal admissions cutoff. UAT-UK states that TMUA has no pass/fail score; results are used alongside the rest of the application.
Policy Updates and Verification This table follows the official UAT-UK 2027 Entry course list, last updated April 2026. Cambridge and Oxford applicants normally sit in October, with limited exceptions for January-deadline routes.
TMUA Test Guide
Overview
Two-paper structure · Scoring scale · Exam regulations
Paper 1 (Applications of Mathematical Knowledge):20 questions / 75 minutes, testing the ability to apply mathematical knowledge in new contexts (algebra, functions, sequences, geometry, coordinate geometry, etc.).
Paper 2 (Mathematical Reasoning):20 questions / 75 minutes, testing mathematical reasoning and elementary logic (argumentation, proof) skills.
Scored by correct answers, no penalty for wrong answers; it is recommended to complete all questions.
Single score: 1.0–9.0 (to 0.1).
No pass/fail threshold, universities evaluate comprehensively with application materials.
Results are usually published through accounts about six weeks after the exam and sent to selected institutions.
Official focus: applying mathematical knowledge you have already learned to new situations.
Content: mathematics typically covered in school studies; use the official Test Specification for the detailed topic list.
Preparation: familiarise yourself with the question style and test player, then complete official specimen and practice tests under timed conditions.
Read official mathematics notes →Official focus: mathematical reasoning and simple ideas from elementary logic.
Official material: Notes on Logic and Proof explains the logic and proof language used in Paper 2.
Preparation: read the official specification and logic notes, then use specimen and practice tests to learn the question style and pacing.
Read official logic and proof notes →TMUA FAQ
FAQ
Common questions · Policies and procedures · Exam day and results
Completed continuously in one sitting: TMUA total duration 150 minutes, including two papers:
Paper 1 (Mathematical Reasoning):75 minutes, all 20 questions are multiple-choice.
Paper 2 (Mathematical Logic and Proof):75 minutes, all 20 questions are multiple-choice.
After submitting Paper 1, you can choose whether to start Paper 2 immediately (you can take a break); the two papers are conducted consecutively.
Calculator:Calculator: Strictly prohibited (all questions require manual calculation, e.g., simplifying √50 / 2).
Dictionary:Dictionary: Strictly prohibited (mathematical terms are standard expressions).
Computer-based system functions:Computer-based system functions: Supports question flagging and question navigator (shows answer status and flags); no built-in calculator.
Draft tools:Draft tools: Official provides A4 single-sided whiteboards, markers, erasers, cloths; if whiteboard is not erased, raise hand to request replacement. Some test centers provide erasable plastic boards/sealed draft paper; candidates are prohibited from bringing their own materials (water, tissues, paper, pens, etc.).
Hint:Whiteboard space is limited, it is recommended to use it in sections (e.g., left half for scratch work for paper 1, right half for proofs for paper 2).
Approach: Build foundational knowledge first, then use past papers for speed training; combine with computer-based simulation. Target: 70% of common question types should be quickly recognizable.
① Paper 1:MAT A (multiple choice) | AMC 12 (first 15 questions) | PAT Mathematics | ENGAA Mathematics
② Paper 2:STEP basic modules (introductory questions) | Notes on Logic & Proof | Jacqueline Taylor
③ Extension / Consolidation:ECAA Advanced Mathematics | Hodder Three-in-One (STEP/TMUA/MAT) | UKMT Senior/Kangaroo (optional)
④ Past Papers Finale:75-minute full papers (establish timing rhythm) | Deep review (master optimal solutions) | Convert wrong questions to Anki cards (cyclical reinforcement)
- Score Release:October 2026 session: 16th November 2026; January 2027 session: 8th February 2027.
- Score Validity:Valid only for current application cycle (2026/2027 sittings for 2027 admissions).
- Score Submission Policy:Scores automatically sent to registered institutions (Cambridge requires "TMUA" selection in UCAS application).
- Interface Proficiency:Familiarize with computer-based exam interface to avoid exam day confusion.
- Real-time Countdown:Provides countdown functionality to prevent accidental time overruns.
- Whiteboard Simulation:Adapt to marker writing technique (avoid illegible handwriting during exam).
- Full Pressure Testing:Simulate extended high-intensity continuous answering (reduce exam anxiety).
Strict adherence to no-calculator rules and effective use of simulation systems maximizes exam performance.
