The PAT is Your Path to Oxford Physics
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Update for 2027 entry: Oxford has retired the PAT and replaced it with the ESAT for physics, engineering and materials science courses. The physics and maths mastery the PAT demanded is exactly what the ESAT now tests, and our tutors prepare you for it. Read on for the skills, or go straight to our ESAT tutoring.
What is the PAT?
The Physics Admissions Test (PAT) is an online test consisting entirely of multiple choice questions. It’s 2 hours long and sat under test conditions, usually at your school.
If you are applying for one of the following courses, you’ll be required to sit the Physics Admissions Test (PAT) as part of the admissions process:
Engineering Science
Materials Science
Physics
Physics and Philosophy
The PAT is designed to be appropriate for students studying in their final year of A-Levels (or equivalent), though they are known for their difficulty. So don’t worry if you can’t answer them all, in most years, the average score is between 50-60%.
The test evaluates a range of physics topics, as well as your ability to apply mathematical techniques to scientific problems. This means it's not just about memorising facts; it's about testing how well you understand and can manipulate core concepts in both physics and mathematics under pressure.
What to expect from your PAT package:
Once you’ve purchased your Admissions Test package or Premium UK package, you’ll receive expert guidance through each stage of your preparation. Here’s what to expect from a typical PAT-focused package:
Diagnostic lesson
During this session, we assess your current strengths and weaknesses in physics, focusing on areas such as problem-solving skills, mathematical techniques, and physical understanding. This step helps your PAT tutor create a personalized study plan tailored to your needs.
Problem Areas
Depending on your diagnostic session, your tutor will focus on areas of Physics that they determine you need the most help with. Whether that’s practicing questions involving mathematical physics, mechanics, or thermodynamics, your tutor will take you through all your problem areas so that you can approach any problem confidently.
Past Paper Practice and Strategy
A crucial part of preparing for the PAT is familiarity with the test format. Your tutor will provide plenty of practice with past paper questions, teaching you time-management strategies and how to approach difficult questions.
Mock PAT Tests
To simulate the test-day experience, we provide full-length, timed mock PAT tests. After each mock test, your tutor will give you detailed feedback on your performance, identifying strengths and pinpointing areas for improvement.
Review and Final Preparation
In the final stage of preparation, your tutor will help you consolidate your knowledge and skills, reviewing the key areas of the test.
Master the physics behind the problems, not just formulas.
Important PAT and admissions deadlines
Don’t worry, your Think Smart tutor will remind you of all of these deadlines, but it’s good to make a note of them:
28 September 2026
ESAT booking closes (6pm, UK time; booking opened in July).
15 October 2026
Final deadline for registering and submitting your UCAS application.
12 to 16 October 2026
the October ESAT window takes place at Pearson test centres.
16 November 2026
ESAT results are released.
December 2026
Shortlisted candidates are invited to attend interviews.
When registering for your test, you will be asked for your UCAS ID. If you haven't yet started your UCAS application, you can come back and fill this in later. It’s important to do, so don’t forget!
What to expect from your Think Smart tutor:
At Think Smart, our tutors are handpicked and thoroughly vetted to ensure you get an expert experience during your PAT tutoring service. With our Think Smart tutors, you’re guaranteed to receive:
Personalised guidance
We provide tailored strategies to each individual student, highlighting your strengths and addressing areas for improvement. We believe that no one student is the same, so why should their teaching be?
Insider insight
All of our PAT tutors have successfully taken the test themselves.
Comprehensive preparation for each section of the test
Taking you confidently from section to section, Think Smart is committed to providing rigorous but engaging preparation to help you excel.
More than just teaching
We strive to provide ongoing advice and motivation, helping you make decisions about your career and academics.
Have more questions? Reach out today and take the first step towards achieving your college dreams.
And don't miss your opportunity to succeed in the Oxbridge admissions process.
Think of your tutor like a personal guide through the Oxbridge process, we’re here for you!
Questions about PAT Exam tutoring
Can I use a calculator during the PAT?
You are given a calculator as part of the PAT online interface , but you are not allowed to bring your own calculator into the test.
Can I bring a formula list into the PAT?
No, you’re not allowed to bring any formula lists or tables into the exam. Time to memorise that equation!
Which universities use the PAT?
The PAT is only used by the University of Oxford for applicants to their Physics and related courses. Cambridge , on the other hand, uses a different admissions test .
How do I register for the PAT?
PAT registration no longer exists, as the test has been retired. Its successor, the ESAT, is booked through a UAT-UK account with Pearson VUE. For 2027 entry, booking for the October sitting closes on 28 September 2026.
Can I take the PAT if I am an international student?
The PAT has been retired, but its successor, the ESAT, is available to international students at Pearson test centres worldwide.
How is the PAT scored?
The raw score is scaled and converted to a score between 0 and 100 , with higher scores improving your chances of being shortlisted for an interview .
Does the PAT penalise incorrect answers?
No, the PAT has no penalties for incorrect answers!
Do I need to take my ID with me?
Yes, make sure to take your ID , as well as your candidate ID , with you on the test day.
How long is the PAT?
The PAT is two hours long and multiple choice .
How do I get my results?
Test scores are distributed to all applicants shortly after college decision letters are sent in January . If you so choose, you can write to your college to request feedback .
How do I prepare for the PAT?
Practise, practise, practise ! Preparation is key, so it’s important to review any topics that you find difficult . Practice solving problems under timed conditions , and review sample papers from previous years. Your Think Smart PAT tutor will guide you through all the right papers and provide feedback.
What are the main topics covered in the PAT?
The PAT assesses knowledge from secondary school Physics and Mathematics , including topics like mechanics , electricity , magnetism , thermodynamics , and waves . Check out the official syllabus here.
Can I retake the PAT if I don’t do well?
The same rule that applied to the PAT applies to its successor, the ESAT: you can only sit it once per application cycle.
What do I do if I can’t find a test centre in my country?
In the unlikely event you can’t find a test centre , you should contact the Oxford Admissions Office as early as possible. They’ll provide guidance on alternative arrangements .
When is the PAT held?
The PAT was traditionally held in late October (in 2024 it was October 28). It has now been retired: from 2027 entry, Oxford physics and engineering applicants sit the ESAT instead. The October 2026 ESAT window runs from 12 to 16 October, with booking closing on 28 September 2026.
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