UK admissions test

TMUA preparation

The Test of Mathematics for University Admission (TMUA) is used by universities including Cambridge, Imperial, Warwick, LSE and Durham for mathematics, computer science and economics courses. It rewards clear reasoning more than long calculation, so the best preparation is steady practice on real questions.

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Papers
2 papers, 75 minutes each
Questions
20 multiple-choice per paper
Calculator
Not allowed
Score
1.0 to 9.0

How the TMUA is structured

Paper 1, Applications of Mathematical Knowledge, tests how well you use GCSE and A-level pure maths (algebra, functions, sequences, coordinate geometry, trigonometry, exponentials and logarithms, differentiation and integration) in unfamiliar problems.

Paper 2, Mathematical Reasoning, tests logic and proof: necessary and sufficient conditions, 'if and only if' statements, counterexamples, and spotting the error in an argument.

The test is taken on a computer at a Pearson VUE test centre and is run by UAT-UK. There is no negative marking, so every question should be answered.

How to prepare

  • Secure the pure maths first: fast, accurate algebra without a calculator matters in both papers.
  • Learn the logic vocabulary early. Paper 2 questions are quick once 'necessary', 'sufficient' and 'converse' are automatic.
  • Practise in timed sets of 20 questions, about 3.75 minutes per question, then review every wrong answer against a worked solution.
  • Finish with full past papers under exam timing in the final four to six weeks.

TMUA practice on EuclidCurve

Enrolled students practise genuine TMUA past-paper questions with official worked answers, organised by topic and by paper, alongside one-to-one tutoring. Access is by invitation: contact us to discuss joining.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use a calculator in the TMUA?

No. Calculators are not permitted in either paper.

How long is the TMUA?

Two papers of 75 minutes each, with 20 multiple-choice questions per paper.

How is the TMUA scored?

Results are reported on a scale from 1.0 to 9.0. There is no negative marking and no pass mark.