Test essential skills for undergraduate study across a range of disciplines
Register for the TARA (from 31 July 2025)What you need to know
Who should sit the test?
The TARA is a non-subject specific test and is used in a range of subject areas. If you are applying to UCL, you must check the university webpages for your chosen course to see if the TARA is required. Failure to register for your admissions test may invalidate your application.
What is in the test?
There are two multiple choice modules within the TARA; Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving. This is followed by a Writing Task. The TARA assesses generic thinking skills and your ability to express yourself clearly in writing. You do not need any subject specific knowledge.
How is the TARA scored?
You will receive a separate score for Critical Thinking and Problem Solving. They score on a scale from 1 (low) to 9 (high), with results reported to one decimal place.
The Writing Task is not scored by UAT-UK. Instead, a copy of your response is sent to the universities where you applied (for a courses that requires the TARA).
Test Format
The TARA consists of three modules, each lasting 40 minutes. All modules are compulsory for all candidates and will be pre-selected for you when you book a test.
| Module | Who takes this module? | Content | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Critical Thinking |
All candidates take this module. |
22 multiple choice questions |
40 minutes |
|
Problem Solving |
All candidates take this module. |
22 multiple-choice questions |
40 minutes |
|
The Writing Task |
All candidates must answer one question from this module. |
One essay style question, selected from a choice of three. Word limit of 750 words. |
40 minutes |
Good to know
You will not be able to use a calculator or dictionary.
There is no pass or fail for the TARA. You should aim to do the best you can.
Your final scores for Critical Thinking and Problem Solving are based on the number of correct answers you give. You do not lose marks for incorrect answers, so it’s worth attempting all questions.
The Writing Task is unscored, and you only need to attempt one question in the Writing Task.
How to Prepare
The focus of the TARA is on generic skills essential for undergraduate study. You do not need subject specific knowledge, so the best way to prepare is to familiarise yourself with the test format and style of questions. We recommend that you read the test specification and answer the specimen test under timed conditions.
How to prepareCandidate Support
Bursary Scheme
Our bursaries are available to UK candidates. To be eligible you, or your parent/guardian, must meet certain criteria and be able to provide the required documentation. Bursaries, where granted, will cover the full cost of your test. Make sure you apply for this before you book your test. We will not be able to reimburse you after you have paid for a test.
Access Arrangements
You should let us know if you require any access arrangements for your test and provide appropriate documentary evidence. Make sure you apply for this before you book your test. We will not be able to make adjustments to the test when you arrive at the Test Centre.
Preparation Materials
We provide free preparation materials so that all candidates can familiarise themselves with the style of questions. You do not need any additional resources beyond what is provided here.
TARA for Universities
The TARA is currently used by UCL in a range of subject areas. Please ensure you check the course pages on the UCL website to see if the TARA is listed as part of the entrance requirements.
How to Register
You must register in advance to sit the TARA in one of our two sittings per year. There is no advantage in choosing the first or second test sitting.
Ensure you are familiar with the relevant deadlines as we are unable to make exceptions to these.
When you book your test, you will select an available Pearson VUE Test Centre. The earlier you book, the more likely it is there will be appointments at your preferred Test Centre.
The TARA costs £75 for candidates in the UK and Republic of Ireland. For those sitting elsewhere, it costs £130.
Before the test
Before you can register for a test, you need to make a UAT-UK account and enter your personal details.
From your dashboard, you can apply for a bursary or request access arrangements if needed. Make sure you do this before you book a test.
Then, follow our instructions on how to book your test.
Free practice materials are available to help you prepare for your test.
After the test
We will notify you when your test results are available via your UAT-UK account. This will be approximately four weeks after your test sitting. Results will be sent automatically to the institutions where you applied for a course that requires the TARA.