What is TARA?
TARA is a UAT-UK admissions test. Your course page decides whether you need it.
Check the exact course requirement.
TARA has Critical Thinking, Problem Solving and a Writing Task. Oxford lists it for some 2027-entry courses, with requirements remaining specific to each course.
Practise the right test.
Use the official specification first, then practise Critical Thinking and Problem Solving under time. TARA prep is separate from ESAT and TMUA prep.
The current format
| Module | What it tests | Format |
|---|---|---|
| ModuleCritical Thinking | What it testsArguments, evidence and conclusions. | Format22 multiple-choice questions in 40 minutes. |
| ModuleProblem Solving | What it testsReasoning through numerical and practical problems. | Format22 multiple-choice questions in 40 minutes. |
| ModuleWriting Task | What it testsClear, structured written argument. | FormatChoose one of three prompts in 40 minutes. Maximum 750 words. |
Critical Thinking and Problem Solving receive separate 1.0–9.0 scores. The Writing Task is unscored and sent to relevant universities.
Where does it fit?
Oxford 2027 entry
Oxford lists TARA for courses such as Economics and Management, Human Sciences, PPE and some Psychology courses. Requirements are course-specific.
If you were told to sit the TSA
Oxford's last TSA sitting was October 2025. Every course that used it now lists TARA, and your TSA Section 1 past papers are still the preparation UAT-UK points you to.
Check the dates
Booking and sitting dates can change, so confirm the current schedule before you book.
Questions applicants ask
What does TARA stand for?
TARA means Test of Academic Reasoning for Admissions. It is the UAT-UK test used by some universities and courses, with two scored reasoning modules and an unscored Writing Task.
Who needs to take TARA?
The exact course and university decide. Oxford lists TARA for courses including Economics and Management, Human Sciences, PPE and some Psychology courses for 2027 entry. Check your course page rather than relying on a subject label alone.
Is TARA the same as ESAT or TMUA?
No. TARA is a separate UAT-UK test. ESAT uses subject modules, while TMUA has two mathematics papers. Your course requirements decide which test, or tests, you need.
When is the 2026 TARA sitting?
The UAT-UK October 2026 sitting runs from 12 to 16 October for 2027 entry. Booking closes on 28 September 2026 at 18:00 UK time. Check UAT-UK for the live schedule.
Primary sources
Course requirements and test dates can change. These pages are the final check.