Test of Mathematics for University Admission (TMUA) Guide

How to register for the TMUA

WHEN IS THE TMUA IN 2026?

There will be two sets of test dates for the TMUA in the 2026/27 application cycle, one in October and another in January. UAT-UK have not yet released dates for the upcoming cycle, but will do so on their website in April 2026.

All applicants to Oxford and Cambridge University must sit the TMUA in the October sitting.

Applicants to other universities (who are not also applying to Oxford or Cambridge) may decide whether they would rather take the test either in October or in January.

The tests dates may be during half term or school Christmas holidays, but with plenty of advanced notice this hopefully shouldn’t prevent your school or college from holding the test. Be aware that if you miss this date for whatever reason you will not be able to take the test on another day and your application will not be considered.

WHEN IS THE DEADLINE FOR REGISTRATION?

The TMUA, like many UK university Admissions Tests, requires applicants to register in advance of sitting the test. Applicants wishing to sit the test in October will have to register between July and September to be able to sit the test (although the deadline for many access arrangements is likely to be earlier in September, so be sure to register early if you’re likely to need special arrangements of any kind!). Specific dates will be released on the UAT-UK website in April 2026.

Applicants to universities other than Oxford and Cambridge taking the January 2027 test dates will most likely be asked to register between October and December. Again, check back in April 2026 for the exact dates for registration.

An applicant can register themselves on the UAT-UK website here. Simply follow all of the instructions, be sure to note down your candidate number, and select your test date and test centre. Since slots can get booked up, we recommend registering as far in advance as possible to give you the greatest likelihood of sitting the test on the date and at the test centre that best suits you.

Once registered, make sure that you have received an email stating your test centre location, and the date, time, and duration of the test. Make sure that this is done well in advance of the deadline. If you have extenuating circumstances (i.e. a situation beyond your control) that prevented you from registering on time, get in touch with the university to which you applied immediately and alert them of your situation.

If you’re struggling to keep on top of dates and deadlines, head to our website to download our free University Application Calendar, which features registration deadlines and test dates for all major UK admissions tests, as well as other key dates such as UCAS deadlines, interview dates, open days, and more.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO TAKE THE TMUA?

Whilst information on this year's test has not yet been released, the 2025 TMUA cost £75 for students applying in the UK and Republic of Ireland, and £130 for those anywhere else in the world. Some independent test centres also charge an additional administration fee for candidates to cover costs such as room hire and invigilation. Get in touch with your chosen test centre to clarify if this cost will apply to you.

Tips from a successful Cambridge student

HOW CAN I PREPARE FOR THE TMUA?

1. Master Core Mathematical Concepts: Thoroughly revise fundamental mathematical concepts, focusing on topics typically covered in the TMUA.
2. Practice Problem-Solving: Regularly work on maths problems that require analytical thinking and application of mathematical principles.
3. Time Management: Practise answering questions under timed conditions to improve your ability to manage time effectively during the TMUA. Practise answering questions under timed conditions to improve your ability to manage time effectively during the PAT. For access to bespoke, true-to-life mock papers with which to practise your timing skills, head to our Admissions Test Resources hub and browse our exclusive collections.
4. Seek Guidance: Consider seeking guidance from teachers or mentors experienced in TMUA preparation to receive valuable feedback and insights. Previous Oxbridge students who sat the TMUA themselves, such as our mentors here at Oxbridge Applications, are also a great source of knowledge to draw on, as they can give you an accurate picture of what it means to perform like a successful applicant.
5. Stay Confident and Composed: Approach the TMUA with confidence in your mathematical abilities, knowing that your preparation has equipped you for success.

TMUA PREPARATION MATERIALS

In addition to TMUA past papers on the UAT-UK website, we at Oxbridge Applications have written a series of additional mock papers. Our students have 33% more questions to practise with. Our mock TMUA papers can be found here and are included with our admissions test tuition. All of our TMUA tutors are highly-trained Oxbridge-educated professionals who can share their personal insights of having sat the test.

You can contact our Oxbridge-graduate Consultants on +44 (0) 20 7499 2394 or email [email protected] to discuss which of our test training would suit you best. We also have an online testing portal for students who want to sit the exam in timed, test conditions.