The test

What is the TMUA?

The TMUA (Test of Mathematics for University Admission) tests mathematical thinking and reasoning, not syllabus recall. First used in 2016, it is now part of the UAT-UK testing framework. There are two papers of 20 multiple-choice questions each, scored from 1.0 to 9.0:

  • Paper 1 — Applications of Mathematical Knowledge20 questions · 75 min
  • Paper 2 — Mathematical ReasoningLogic & proof · 20 questions
Who requires it

Which universities require the TMUA — and for which courses

The TMUA is used by some of the UK's most selective universities for maths, computer science and economics. From 2026 entry Oxford replaced its MAT with the TMUA. Here's the course-by-course picture — required versus recommended.

University of OxfordNew for 2026 entry — replaces the MAT · October sitting only

Official page ↗
  • Mathematics / Mathematics and Statistics
    Required
  • Computer Science
    Required
  • Mathematics and Computer Science
    Required
  • Mathematics and Philosophy
    Required
  • Computer Science and Philosophy
    Required

University of CambridgeOctober sitting only

Official page ↗
  • Mathematics
    Required
  • Computer Science
    Required
  • Economics
    Required

Imperial College London

Official page ↗
  • MathematicsAll Mathematics programmes
    Required
  • ComputingIncl. joint Mathematics and Computer Science
    Required
  • Economics, Finance and Data Science
    Required

LSE (London School of Economics)

Official page ↗
  • Economics
    Required
  • Econometrics and Mathematical Economics
    Required
  • Mathematics & Economics, Financial Maths, Data Science…Recommended across LSE's quantitative degrees
    Recommended

UCL (University College London)

Official page ↗
  • Economics (BSc)New for 2026 entry
    Required

University of Warwick

Official page ↗
  • Computer Science
    Required
  • Mathematics (incl. MORSE, Stats)TMUA or STEP · a strong score can lower your offer
    Recommended

Durham University

Official page ↗
  • Mathematics / Mathematics and StatisticsTMUA or STEP · 6.0+ can reduce the grade offer
    Recommended

Requirements change from year to year — always confirm on each university's official course pages before you book. Compiled from the official admissions pages of the universities listed and UAT-UK.

Practise

Practise with the official past papers

Unlike brand-new exams, the TMUA is well established — UAT-UK publishes eight years of past papers, full worked solutions and on-screen practice, all free. That is the best preparation material there is, so we point you straight to it and our tutors work through it with you. Below are a few original questions just to feel the style.

A taste of the style — pick an answer to reveal the worked solution.

  1. Paper 1 · Applications

    Q1. How many distinct real values of xx satisfy log2x+log2(x2)=3\log_2 x + \log_2(x-2) = 3?

  2. Paper 2 · Reasoning

    Q2. Consider the statement: "For every real number xx, if x>2x > 2 then x2>4x^2 > 4." Which of the following is its negation?

  3. Paper 2 · Reasoning

    Q3. It is known that "if it rained, then the match was cancelled." You are told only that the match was cancelled. Which conclusion is logically valid?

Original TMUA-style questions, not official past papers. For full practice, use the official papers above.

Find a tutor

Learn the TMUA from research mathematicians

One to one with a G5 or top-UK maths PhD or postdoc — people who reason and prove for a living, which is exactly what Paper 2 rewards. Pay by the session; see who you'd work with before you commit.

We're upgrading our mentor system, which we expect to open next month. If you urgently need a tutor, please contact us directly.

FAQ

TMUA questions, answered

Is the TMUA just harder A-level maths?

No. It tests reasoning and proof-style thinking over speed and recall. Preparation is about how you think, which is why a research mathematician makes a strong tutor for it.

What's the difference between Paper 1 and Paper 2?

Paper 1 (Applications of Mathematical Knowledge) applies familiar A-level material to less familiar problems. Paper 2 (Mathematical Reasoning) is about logic and proof — spotting valid arguments, negations and counterexamples. Each is 20 multiple-choice questions in 75 minutes.

Are there official TMUA past papers?

Yes — UAT-UK publishes eight years of past papers (2016–2023) with full worked solutions, plus free on-screen specimen tests. They are the best practice material, and your tutor can work through them with you.

How are sessions run?

One to one, online or in London, booked by the session from your wallet. Your tutor is an active PhD or postdoc researcher — not a former student teaching on the side.

For researchers

Can you teach the TMUA? We need you.

If you teach A-level Maths to a high standard and enjoy proof and reasoning, you can teach the TMUA — Paper 2 is reasoning, the part most tutors find hardest to coach and where a real mathematician shines. Demand is high and strong tutors are scarce. Apply and start on your own terms.

Apply to teach