ESAT for Engineering at Cambridge
For Engineering at University of Cambridge, you sit Mathematics 1, Mathematics 2, Physics in the ESAT.
Which ESAT modules for Engineering?
For Engineering you sit these fixed modules. You cannot change them on test day.
- Mathematics 127 questions, 40 min
- Mathematics 227 questions, 40 min
- Physics27 questions, 40 min
How Cambridge uses the ESAT for Engineering
Cambridge uses the ESAT for Engineering, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Natural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine. The ESAT replaced the NSAA and ENGAA that Cambridge used previously, so past papers from those tests remain the closest available practice. You sit Mathematics 1 plus two further modules chosen to match your course, all in the October window, and the result feeds a holistic decision that includes your interview.
Confirm the requirement for your exact course on the official Cambridge admissions page.
Key ESAT dates for 2027 entry
- Registration opens: 20 July 2026
- Registration deadline: 28 September 2026 (register yourself, through UAT-UK via Pearson VUE)
- Test sitting: 12 October 2026 (October). Cambridge applicants must sit the ESAT in the October sitting.
- Results: November 2026
What score do you need?
Each ESAT module is marked on the UAT-UK scale from 1.0 to 9.0, and there is no fixed pass mark. Cambridge reads your score alongside your predicted grades, personal statement and, where it interviews, your interview. Competitive scores vary by course and year, so treat any target you see quoted online as a guide rather than a cutoff.
Prepare for the ESAT for Engineering
Sit full past papers (including the NSAA and ENGAA papers the ESAT replaced) with worked solutions, then practise the modules above.
Engineering ESAT: frequently asked questions
- Which ESAT modules do I sit for Engineering at Cambridge?
- You sit Mathematics 1, Mathematics 2, Physics.
- Do I need the ESAT for Engineering at Cambridge?
- Yes. University of Cambridge requires the ESAT for Engineering.
- When do I sit the ESAT?
- Cambridge applicants must sit the ESAT in the October sitting.
- How do I register for the ESAT?
- Registration is through UAT-UK (via Pearson VUE). For 2027 entry it opens on 20 July 2026 and closes on 28 September 2026. You must register yourself before the deadline.
- What ESAT score do I need for Engineering at Cambridge?
- Each ESAT module is marked on the UAT-UK scale from 1.0 to 9.0, and there is no fixed pass mark. Cambridge reads your score alongside your predicted grades, personal statement and, where it interviews, your interview. Competitive scores vary by course and year, so treat any target you see quoted online as a guide rather than a cutoff.