Question 1

What is the ESAT exam format and timing structure?

Accepted Answer

The Engineering and Science Admissions Test (ESAT) consists of multiple 40-minute modules containing 27 multiple-choice questions each. This enforces an exact pace of 88.8 seconds (rounded to 90 seconds) per question. Candidates sit Mathematics 1 (compulsory) plus two additional modules tailored to their chosen university degree course.

Question 2

Which universities and courses require the ESAT in 2026 and 2027?

Accepted Answer

The ESAT is required by the University of Cambridge for Engineering, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Natural Sciences, and Veterinary Medicine; and by Imperial College London for Aeronautics, Chemical Engineering, Civil & Environmental Engineering, Electrical & Electronic Engineering, Design Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Physics.

Question 3

Are calculators allowed in the ESAT?

Accepted Answer

No. Calculators, formula booklets, and external reference tables are strictly prohibited in the ESAT Pearson VUE testing environment. All calculations must be performed using mental math, dimensional estimation, and rough working on the provided dry-wipe booklet.

Question 4

How does sub90 ESAT prepare applicants for the 88.8-second question pace?

Accepted Answer

sub90 ESAT reverses traditional classroom multi-step derivations into 2-line Sub-90 shortcuts across all 75 Master Question Archetypes. Students train on an authentic Pearson VUE split-screen interface with dry-wipe scratchpad simulation, distractor forensics, and real-time pacing telemetry.

Question 5

What score is needed on the ESAT for Cambridge or Imperial interviews?

Accepted Answer

ESAT scores are reported on a 1.0 to 9.0 scale. A typical competitive benchmark for Cambridge and Imperial Engineering and Natural Sciences is 6.5 to 7.5+, with top-quartile interviewees generally scoring 7.0+ across all attempted modules.

Ready to Start Question 1?