The Engineering and Science Admissions Test (ESAT) is used by Cambridge and Imperial College London for engineering, natural sciences, and related courses. It replaced the NSAA and ENGAA. It requires strong command of relevant A-Level subject content and works best with structured, early preparation.
What the ESAT tests
The ESAT consists of up to three 40-minute parts, each with 27 multiple-choice questions. Part 1 (Mathematics 1) is compulsory for all candidates. Then you select the other parts based on your course: Physics, Chemistry, Biology, or Mathematics 2. Cambridge typically requires Parts 1 and 2. Imperial may specify different combinations. Questions are at A-Level standard and designed to test understanding and application, not just recall.
How to prepare
Download the official specification from the ESAT website. It lists exactly which topics are assessed in each part. Use this as a checklist — work through each topic and identify gaps. Complete official practice materials. Then use past NSAA and ENGAA papers (the predecessor tests) as additional practice — they are closely aligned in style and difficulty.
Subject-specific preparation
For mathematics, focus on algebra, functions, calculus, proof, and sequences. For physics, focus on mechanics, electricity, and waves. For chemistry, focus on atomic structure, bonding, energetics, and equilibria. For biology, focus on cell biology, genetics, and ecology. You do not need to go beyond A-Level content, but you must know your A-Level content deeply and apply it under time pressure.
Timing and approach
Each 40-minute part has 27 questions, giving you approximately 90 seconds per question. This is tight. Practise pacing by completing timed sections from the start. If a question requires long calculation, note your progress, skip it, and return. Multiple choice allows for systematic elimination when you are unsure.
Checklist
- Download the official ESAT specification
- Identify which parts apply to your course
- Complete official practice materials
- Use NSAA and ENGAA past papers for additional practice
- Revise any A-Level topics listed in the specification where you are weak
- Practise under timed conditions with strict time limits
Common mistakes to avoid
- Going beyond A-Level content when the test does not require it
- Practising without timing
- Neglecting Mathematics 1, which is compulsory for all candidates
- Treating it like a revision exam rather than a reasoning test