STEP (Sixth Term Examination Paper) is a challenging advanced mathematics paper used by Cambridge and some other universities as a condition of offers for mathematics courses. It rewards deep understanding and creative problem-solving. Preparation takes months, not weeks.
What STEP tests
STEP papers contain 13 questions across pure mathematics, mechanics, probability, and statistics. Candidates choose any 6 questions to answer. Questions require extended, multi-step solutions and go significantly beyond standard A-Level difficulty. Marks are graded S (Outstanding), 1 (Excellent), 2 (Good), 3 (Satisfactory), or U (Unclassified). Cambridge typically requires grade 1 or S.
STEP 2 vs STEP 3
STEP 2 is taken by most Cambridge mathematics offer holders. STEP 3 is harder and used less frequently. Both papers have the same structure. STEP 2 questions draw on A-Level maths and Further Maths. STEP 3 goes further. If you are doing A-Level Further Mathematics, start with STEP 2 and move to STEP 3 only if your offer or application requires it.
How to prepare over a longer period
Start by working through the STEP support programme, which is a free, structured online resource developed by Cambridge. It includes worked examples, exercises, and practice problems arranged by topic. Then work through past papers under timed conditions. Spend significant time on each question you cannot solve — look at the solution, understand it fully, and then try a similar question without the solution. Stamina matters: STEP papers are long and require sustained concentration.
Written communication in STEP
STEP rewards clear mathematical writing. Every step in a solution should be logically connected. Do not skip steps. Learn to write mathematics in flowing prose where appropriate. The marker must be able to follow your reasoning. Practise writing up solutions cleanly even in private practice sessions.
Checklist
- Complete the STEP Support Programme (free from Cambridge)
- Work through at least six years of past STEP papers
- Attempt questions under timed conditions
- Write up solutions fully and check against official mark schemes
- Focus on understanding solutions you could not reach, not just ones you could
- Ensure your A-Level Further Mathematics content is solid before STEP 3
Common mistakes to avoid
- Starting STEP preparation in September of Year 13 (too late for most)
- Skipping questions you cannot solve instead of learning from them
- Not doing Further Mathematics before attempting STEP 3
- Writing incomplete working in the belief partial answers will be obvious