Think Smarter, Solve Faster: TMUA Success Starts here
Ace the TMUA and turn those numbers into offers from the UK’s top universities.
The Test of Mathematics for University Admission (TMUA) is required for applicants to mathematics-related courses at some of the UK’s top universities. The TMUA isn’t just about your knowledge of maths; it’s about your ability to apply that knowledge in unfamiliar situations, making the TMUA one of the hardest admissions tests in the UK.
With the help of our team of expert TMUA tutors, all of whom have successfully taken the test themselves, you’re guaranteed to walk into the exam with confidence. Take the first step towards your dream offer today.
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Which universities require the TMUA?
The following institutions have recognized the TMUA as a valuable tool for assessing applicants' mathematical thinking and reasoning skills.
University of Cambridge
Imperial College London
London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)
University of Warwick
Durham University
When is the TMUA?
| Test Sitting 1 | Test Sitting 2 |
| 16 and 17 October 2025 | 8 and 9 January 2025 |
All students applying to Cambridge must take the TMUA in the October sitting, in time for the earlier Cambridge admissions cycle. Other applicants have the option to sit for the test in either October or January.
2026-entry dates have not yet been released, but are likely to be around the same dates in 2025 and 2026.
What does the TMUA test?
The TMUA is structured into two distinct papers, each lasting 1 hour and 15 minutes, and are sat on 16th and 17th October 2024 respectively.
You are not permitted a calculator in either paper, so it’s important to get your mental maths up to scratch.
PAPER 1: Mathematical Thinking
Computer based
20 multiple-choice questions
75 minutes
This paper is designed to test your ability to apply your mathematical knowledge in new and unfamiliar situations.
The questions cover a range of topics, including algebra and functions, sequences and series, coordinate geometry in the (x, y) plane, trigonometry, exponentials and logarithms, differentiation, integration, graphs of functions, number, algebra, geometry, measures, statistics, and probability.
PAPER 2: Mathematical Reasoning
Computer based
20 multiple-choice questions
75 minutes
This paper has a different style of questioning compared to what you might be used to, with a greater focus on mathematical logic. The questions will assess your skills at interpreting mathematical conjectures, and your ability to deal with basic concepts from logic.
You should be comfortable with the same range of topics as in Paper 1, but with an added emphasis on proof and logical reasoning.
The TMUA is your first step towards Mathematics at a UK university.
Take it with confidence with Think Smart.
What to expect from your TMUA package:
Once you’ve purchased your admissions package, you’ll receive comprehensive guidance to help you navigate every step of the preparation process. Here’s what to expect from a typical package, though it may vary depending on how many hours you choose to book with us.
Step 1: Diagnostic Lesson
Begin with a thorough diagnostic session to assess strengths and weaknesses across both papers and create a personalized study plan.
Step 2: Mastering Paper 1 Skills
Focus on Mathematical Thinking (Paper 1), improving skills in algebra, trigonometry, differentiation, and integration, and applying knowledge to unfamiliar problems.
Step 3: Mastering Paper 2 Skills
Shift focus to Mathematical Reasoning (Paper 2), improving logical reasoning, proofs, and problem interpretation.
Step 4: Guided Mock Exams
Practice past papers for both papers, receiving expert tips and learning problem-solving strategies.
Step 5: Timed Mock Exams with Feedback
Complete timed mock exams for both papers, receiving in-depth feedback on performance and time management.
Step 6: Review and Final Preparation
Consolidate knowledge, refine strategies, and address final concerns to ensure full preparedness for test day.
Your tutor will help you consolidate your knowledge, polish your exam technique, and address any remaining concerns. By test day, you’ll feel confident, prepared, and ready to achieve your best possible score.
Our tutors aren’t just tutors, they’re mentors.
Our Admissions Experts are handpicked and thoroughly vetted to make sure you get an expert experience during your admissions tutoring service. With Think Smart, you’re guaranteed to receive:
Personalised guidance
We provide tailored strategies to each individual student, to highlight your strengths and address areas for improvement. We believe that no one student is the same, so why should their teaching be?
Insider insight
All of our TMUA 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
Our holistic approach means we strive to provide ongoing advice and motivation, helping you make decisions about your career and academics.
You don’t have to take our word for it…
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How is the TMUA scored?
Each question is worth one mark, and the final score is a value placed on a scale between 1.0 and 9.0, based on the number of marks achieved.
Most universities agree that a score of 6.5 or above will have a very positive effect on your application. Some universities may lower entry requirements if the candidate achieves a high TMUA score. For example, the University of Bath may offer lower entry requirements to students who achieve a strong score, typically above 6.0. Meanwhile, Durham University uses a threshold system, where applicants scoring above 6.5 may receive a reduced grade offer.
Most applicants fall around the 4.0 – 5.5 mark. A score in that range would typically be considered average to decent and would still act as positive evidence of mathematical ability.
Anything below 4.0 is not considered a positive score, and can reflect negatively on your application.
FAQs about the TMUA
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Yes, you have to pay to take the TMUA: £75 for students in the UK and Republic of Ireland or £130 for those outside the UK and Ireland. Bursaries are available to UK students in financial need.
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First, you must create a UAT-UK account with Pearson VUE, the UK examining body. Test booking will open 10 weeks ahead of each sitting, usually in August (and don’t miss this, as failure to register can invalidate your application)! You will then need to log on and book the TMUA.
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The TMUA is much more concerned with testing your theoretical and logical understanding of Mathematics, rather than your ability to memorise formulas (though this is important, too). It’s also fully multiple choice, unlike many papers you may have sat in school.
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The TMUA is definitely tricky, as it tests skills you may not have polished yet. It is harder than A-Level or equivalent Mathematics. Don’t worry; with the right preparation, you can perform well and even reduce the entry requirements for your conditional offer!
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No, there is no pass mark – just do the best you can!
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The TMUA covers many different topics, so beginning your preparation around six months in advance will give you the best advantage.
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No, there is no negative marking. You won’t lose marks for incorrect answers, so it’s always worth attempting every question.
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You will be notified when your test results are available to you via your UAT-UK account, approximately six weeks after your test sitting. Your results will automatically be sent to any TMUA institutions included in your UCAS application.
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No, the TMUA can only be taken once per admissions cycle. That said, some universities allow their applicants not to submit their TMUA score as part of their application.
Think of your tutor like a personal guide through the admissions process – we’re here for you!
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