Do I need to sit the TSA?
The Thinking Skills Assessment (TSA) is a form of assessment used to measure aptitude in critical thinking and problem-solving. The TSA is a requirement only for those looking to study certain courses at Oxford University:
- Philosophy, Politics and Economics
- Economics and Management
- Experimental Psychology
- History and Economics
- Human Sciences
- Psychology, Philosophy and Linguistics.
What is the difference between the TSA and the TARA?
As of 2025, students applying to study a range of courses at UCL will sit a very similar test, the TARA. (The preparation tips included below will also help you with the TARA, though it is worth checking specific details as sections and timings may differ slightly.)
UCL courses that require students to sit the TARA include those previously tested by UCL’s previous TSA equivalent, the TST. The full list of courses required to take the TARA is now:
- Computer Science (BSc/MEng)
- European Social and Political Studies (BA)
- European Social and Political Studies: Dual Degree (BA)
- International Social and Political Studies (BA)
- Mathematical Computation (MEng)
- Management Science (BSc)
- Robotics and Artificial Intelligence MEng.
- Social Sciences (BSc)
- Social Sciences with Data Science (BSc)
- Sociology (BSc)
Cambridge used to use the TSA for their Land Economy (BA) course but this is no longer the case. though there is some suggestion that Cambridge course may use the TARA in coming years.
Certain independent schools produce their own modified version of the TSA exam (sometimes called a Critical Thinking test) for 16+.
What is the TSA?
When sitting the TSA you will need to rapidly evaluate and interpret information, and come to logical conclusions. This test is a reliable indicator that you are able to think quickly and accurately, and are adept in multiple disciplines. This exam tests a variety of skills, which helps prepare you for higher learning.
At Oxford, the test is divided into two sections. (Those looking to study Philosophy, Politics and Economics are required to sit only Section 2.)
- Section 1 consists of 50 multiple-choice questions, and aims to assess problem-solving skills and numerical reasoning. You will also be tested on your critical thinking skills, incorporating the understanding of argument and basic reasoning, using language of the everyday.
- Section 2 evaluates your ability to communicate effectively in writing, and to organise concepts in a clear and precise manner. Candidates choose one question from four and questions are non subject-specific.
Types of questions in the TSA include:
- Verbal reasoning
- Numeric reasoning
- Spatial reasoning
- Deductive reasoning
The format is usually multiple choice, although there are instances where an essay is also required. Please double check this before you sit the exam relating to your course/institution.
How do I register for the TSA?
Tests are run by Pearson Vue and candidates for the above courses must register to sit these tests with Pearson well in advance of the actual test dates. This all happens early at Oxford so you must be very organised.
Dates change each year but registration should be possible from mid-August in the year preceding you taking up your place, with the tests themselves taking place across a five or ten day period in late October. Up to date information can be found on the Oxford University website.
Candidates should register to take the test early as possible, especially if you require access arrangements as you will need to show evidence of your eligibility - and have this accepted by Oxford. Candidates will also have to submit their UCAS ID but as this process starts so early at Oxford it is possible fill this part of the form in later on.
What is the TSA for?
For students, the test trains students in the skills required to process vast amounts of information quickly, and so may help them prepare for future exams relating to their chosen career path. The TSA is remarkably similar in structure and style to the psychometric tests used by top employers. By having an edge at a younger age, students will be more able to manage the questions set by employers once they come to the application stage. It also helps with improving decision making – something we could all benefit from.
Do I need to take the TSA for Cambridge University?
If you are applying to study Land Economy at the University of Cambridge, you are no longer required to sit the TSA.
Do I need to take the TSA for Oxford University?
If you are studying one of the following courses, you will need to take the TSA:
- Economics and Management - LN12
- Experimental Psychology - C830
- History and Economics - LV11
- Human Sciences - BCL0
- Philosophy, Politics and Economics - L0V0 - Read our Guide to PPE at Oxford
- Philosophy and Linguistics - VQ51
- Psychology and Linguistics - CQ81
- Psychology and Philosophy - CV85
Please note that if you are doing a joint honours programme, you will need to abide by the entry requirements for the other subject(s) too. This may require you sitting further exams.
You can confirm which test(s) your course requires at on the Oxford University website.
How to prepare for the TSA:
For Section 1, the allotted time per question is brief (under 2 minutes per multiple choice question), so students will need to work through the problems with speed and accuracy. The following tips are all about management and regulation of your time and your effort.
- Calculate the number of minutes you have per question before the exam.
- While preparing, have a timer in front of you, so you can see how long you are spending on each question.
- Spending too long on one question could put your overall score in jeopardy. If you run out of time on a question, make an educated guess, and move on.
- The questions tend to increase in difficulty as you move through the exam. Do not get complacent about time if you find the early questions straightforward.
- If you are already strong in Maths, you may want to put more emphasis on the verbal reasoning/essay questions, and vice versa.
- Some of the questions contain lots of data that you will have to interpret quickly (e.g. statistics tables, graphs etc.) There are often red herrings intended to throw you off – be mindful of this.
- Similarly, statements and arguments put forward can force you to make assumptions early. Always question your assumptions, and try to read all of the possible multiple choice answers before committing.
- Read the question twice!
- Think accuracy first, then speed: I recommend doing at least one past paper untimed, slowly and methodically. , Once you have a complete understanding of the types of questions being asked, you can move on to sitting practice exams under timed conditions.
- For the essay question, thinking of it like a debate or a discussion can be helpful. Think of the major arguments but be sure to think critically, in order to tease out some of the more subtle aspects of the question. Even if you have a strong opinion, make sure to express how others with different viewpoints could respond the question.
Where can I find past papers for the TSA?
Confusingly, the TSA used to be administered by Cambridge University, but is now licensed by Oxford who maintain and provide all elements of the test, including past papers. The test is now online and the platform has changed, but the range of past papers – found via this link TSA Past Papers. – are still relevant. Working through them will be hugely valuable in helping you to feel prepared and confident on test day.
There is also an online TSA practice test. that will allow you to explore the current testing platform.
The University also advise that all applicants will be invited to take a sample paper online well in advance of the actual test date.
TSA Recommended Reading
John Butterworth and Geoff Thwaites, Thinking Skills: Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
Thinking Skills Assessment tutors
Looking for extra support? If you are interested in finding out more about how Keystone Tutors can help you prepare for the TSA, visit our TSA tutors page. We also regularly run group TSA online preparation courses.