The TMUA tests your mathematical thinking.
You need to take the TMUA if you are applying to:
- Computer Science
- Economics
You will take the test on 16 or 17 October 2024. You must take the test in this first sitting.
You should register for the TMUA by 16 September 2024.
Test format
The TMUA lasts 2 hours 30 minutes in total. It is divided into two parts.
| Part | What does it test? | Content | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Part 1: Applications of Mathematical Knowledge | Assesses your ability to apply your knowledge of mathematics in new situations. | 20 multiple-choice questions | 75 minutes |
| Part 2: Mathematical Reasoning | Assesses your ability to deal with mathematical reasoning, and simple ideas from elementary logic. | 20 multiple-choice questions | 75 minutes |
You will not be able to use a calculator or dictionary.
There is no pass or fail for TMUA. You should aim to do the best you can.
Your final scores are based on the number of correct answers you give. You do not lose marks for wrong answers, so it’s worth attempting all questions.
How to register for the TMUA
You must be registered in advance to sit the TMUA. You take the TMUA at your local Pearson VUE test centre. You can choose from a global network of test centres in more than 5,500 locations in over 180 countries.
Visit the Pearson VUE website, where you will be able to:
- create an account
- find your nearest test centre
- book and pay for the test
You can register for the TMUA from 1 August 2024. The registration deadline is 16 September 2024.
Access arrangements
If you normally have access arrangements in your public exams, you can apply for the same arrangements. You will need to submit an application and may need to provide supporting evidence in advance. Further information on this process will be available in spring 2024.
You will be able to apply for access arrangements from 3 June 2024. The deadline to apply for access arrangements is 29 August 2024.
TMUA for other universities
TMUA is used by several universities. If you’re applying to other universities who require TMUA, you only need to take the test once, but you must take the test in the October sitting.
TMUA Costs
There is an entry fee for the TMUA:
- £75 if taken in the UK or Republic of Ireland
- £130 if taken anywhere else
You’ll need to pay this fee (using a debit/credit card or bursary voucher) when you book your test.
Bursary voucher
UK candidates in financial need can apply for a bursary voucher to book the TMUA free of charge. If you are eligible we will provide you with a unique bursary voucher code which you can enter on the Pearson VUE website when you book your test, which will allow you to book the test without paying.
You can apply for a bursary voucher from 3 June 2024. The deadline to apply for a bursary voucher is the same as the test registration deadline – 16 September 2024. We will publish more information about the process and the eligibility criteria for the bursary voucher in spring 2024.
How to prepare for the TMUA
The focus of the TMUA is on mathematical thinking. It uses mathematics you will have already learned in your school studies, so there is no need to take a preparation course or to do much preparation beyond familiarising yourself with the test format and style of questions. We recommend that you read the test specification and notes on Logic and Proof, to identify any topics that you might need to revise.
Free practice materials will be available in May 2024 to help you prepare. There will also be information about the test format, specification and other useful support materials.
We don’t expect you to get every question right – you can learn more about how your performance fits into the rest of your application on the admissions assessment page.
Test results
You will get your results through the Pearson VUE booking portal, approximately six weeks after you take the test. The results will be automatically shared with us, so you don’t need to send them on.