TARA fee support
Apply for a TARA bursary first.
The UAT-UK bursary scheme lets eligible UK candidates take TARA free of charge. Check the criteria, apply before booking, and wait for the decision.
Check UAT-UK criteriaDo not pay for the test first. UAT-UK says it cannot reimburse candidates who pay before applying for a bursary.
Before you book
Check the current criteria
Use UAT-UK's evidence table and policy to confirm your award, documents and dates before you start.
Apply before you book
Apply through your UAT-UK account before selecting a test. If you already selected one, withdraw it and refresh the page first. Paying before applying cannot be reimbursed.
Wait for approval
UAT-UK says review can take up to five working days. Once approved, the bursary appears on your dashboard and you can apply to sit the test.
Check these criteria
UK residence and test centre
You must live in the UK permanently when you apply and plan to take TARA at a UK Test Centre.
Under 21 and in full-time education
UAT-UK says you may qualify if you receive free school meals, a 16–19 bursary in England, EMA in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland, or support as a care leaver.
Parent or guardian route (under 21)
If you are under 21 and in full-time education, a parent or guardian may receive one of UAT-UK's listed means-tested awards. The named parent or guardian must live at the same address as you. You do not need to show both.
Over 21 and no longer in full-time education
You must receive a qualifying award yourself. Check UAT-UK's full evidence list before applying.
Bursary application dates
- October 2026 only
- 21 September 2026 at 6pm BST
- January 2027 applications reopen
- 5 October 2026 at 3pm BST
- January 2027 application deadline
- 14 December 2026 at 6pm GMT
These are bursary dates, not the general test-booking closes. You can use a bursary once per test per admissions cycle.
If you do not book in October, or cancel more than 48 hours in advance, it applies to January. An October absence does not reissue the bursary; January then requires the test fee.
UAT-UK bursary scheme is the source of record. This page was checked 5 August 2026.
Continue with the official booking path
TARA Prep does not decide bursary eligibility or book a test. Book only after UAT-UK approves your application. A pending or declined application is not approval.