The Mathematics Admissions Test (MAT) is used by Oxford, Imperial College London, and some other universities for mathematics, computer science, and related courses. It tests mathematical problem-solving, reasoning, and communication rather than speed. Preparation requires deep understanding of A-Level content and a sustained practice habit.
What the MAT tests
The MAT is a two-and-a-half hour written paper with five questions. Question 1 has 10 multiple-choice parts. Questions 2 to 5 are longer written problems requiring full working and explanation. Questions are drawn from material within reach of A-Level maths, with some topics going slightly further. You are expected to show your reasoning and explain your methods clearly.
Which courses require it
Oxford requires the MAT for Mathematics, Mathematics and Statistics, Mathematics and Philosophy, Mathematics and Computer Science, and Computer Science. Imperial uses it for Mathematics, Mathematics and Computer Science, and Mathematics and Statistics. Check the current requirements for each course as they can change.
How to prepare
Past MAT papers from 2007 onwards are available free from the Oxford MAT website. These are the essential preparation resource. Work through them starting with recent papers. Mark your work against the mark scheme honestly. For each question you could not complete, understand fully why. The MAT rewards creative thinking, so exposure to a wide variety of problem types is more valuable than repeating similar questions.
Written question technique
For the written questions, marks are awarded for method and explanation — not just the final answer. Show all your working. If you are stuck, write down what you know about the problem and try a different angle. A partial solution with clear reasoning earns marks. A blank question earns none. Practise communicating your mathematical thinking, not just computing answers.
Checklist
- Download and review at least five years of MAT past papers
- Work through questions under timed conditions
- Mark your own work honestly against the mark scheme
- Write full working and explanations even for multiple-choice parts
- Identify recurring topic areas and revise them thoroughly
- Practise presenting mathematical reasoning clearly in writing
Common mistakes to avoid
- Not showing working or explanation in written questions
- Only practising multiple-choice parts and skipping the longer questions
- Revising topics that rarely appear and neglecting core recurring themes
- Starting preparation too close to the test date