Admissions tests are a crucial part of many competitive university applications in the UK – especially for courses like medicine, law, and those at Oxford or Cambridge. With schools and colleges no longer managing test registrations, students must take responsibility for booking and preparing for these assessments.
If you're new to supporting students with admissions tests, here are five essential tips to help you guide them effectively.
1. Promote early awareness
Students often don’t realise they need to take an admissions test until it’s too late. Early awareness is key, starting conversations in the autumn term of Year 12 (or equivalent) can be beneficial.
- Use tutor time, assemblies, or HE bulletins to explain what admissions tests are and who needs them.
- Encourage students to check the UCAS search tool and university websites to identify required tests for their chosen courses. Remember these can differ across provider and course.
- Identify students applying to October deadline courses early, as tests may be needed before UCAS applications are sent.
- Reinforce messages by involving parents through events or follow-up emails.
2. Encourage effective preparation
Students need time to understand test formats, content, and expectations to prepare effectively.
- Encourage them to review specifications and identify knowledge gaps and content they may need to revise.
- Direct students to past papers and official practice resources from universities.
- Suggest forming peer study groups to stay motivated and revise together.
- Organise mock tests under timed conditions to help students practise pacing and build confidence.
3. Harness subject specialists
Subject staff at school or college can help with valuable insights into test content and preparation strategies.
- Ask subject teachers or Heads of Department if they have admissions test experience.
- Arrange drop-ins or support sessions with relevant departments to work on gaps in knowledge.
- Provide access to curated practice resources and subject-specific materials.
- Highlight opportunities like free webinars run by universities with subject specialists.
4. Support with logistics
Students should take ownership of their own requirements, but you can offer support and signposting along the way.
- Remind students to register for tests early, especially those with summer deadlines.
- Share guidance on test centre locations, travel options, ID requirements, and test day instructions.
- Ensure students needing access arrangements register in good time and have the right documentation – work with your SENDCO to support this.
- Signpost any available financial support if test costs are a barrier.
5. Reassure and encourage
- Admissions tests are designed to stretch students and help universities identify those with the potential to succeed.
- Remind students that these tests are meant to be challenging – feeling strateched is normal.
- Help them approach preparation with confidence, knowing support is available.
- Emphasise effort, resilience, and practice as the keys to doing their best.
Hear from the experts
We got together with a panel of experts from universities and key testing providers to share top tips for advisers. From key changes this year, to logistics and effective preparation – watch our video for the latest advice.
