The TARA Test Explained: A Complete Guide
The Test of Academic Reasoning for Admissions (TARA) is a new admissions test used by UCL. Here's exactly what it is, how it's structured and scored, and how to prepare for it.
If you're applying to certain courses at UCL, you may be asked to sit the TARA— the Test of Academic Reasoning for Admissions. It's one of the University Admissions Tests (UAT UK) delivered through Pearson VUE, alongside the ESAT and TMUA. Unlike a subject exam, TARA doesn't test what you've memorised — it tests how you think.
What is the TARA?
TARA is a non-subject-specific test designed to measure the reasoning skills you need to succeed on an academically demanding undergraduate degree. It was introduced by University College London (UCL) from 2025/26 entry. The test is computer-based and taken at a Pearson VUE test centre. It lasts two hours and is made up of three modules, taken in a fixed order — once you move on from a module, you can't go back.
The three modules
1. Critical Thinking
22 multiple-choice questions in 40 minutes, scored on a 1–9 scale. You analyse short arguments and judge them — strengthening and weakening them, identifying assumptions and flaws, matching arguments and applying principles, and drawing valid conclusions.
2. Problem Solving
22 multiple-choice questions in 40 minutes, scored on a 1–9 scale. No calculator is allowed — it's about reasoning, not arithmetic speed. Expect numerical and logical reasoning, selecting the relevant information, and spotting similar or analogous problems under time pressure.
3. Writing Task
40 minutes to answer one of three prompts, with a 750-word limit. This module is not scored — your essay is sent to the universities you apply to, who read it as part of your application. The skill is building a clear, structured argument and writing concisely, on prompt.
How TARA is scored
You get a separate score for Critical Thinking and Problem Solving, each on a 1–9 scale reported to one decimal place. There is no penalty for wrong answers, so you should attempt every question — never leave a blank. The Writing Task isn't scored; it's passed to admissions teams to read alongside the rest of your application.
Who needs to take TARA?
TARA is required for a range of UCL programmes, including Computer Science, Robotics and AI, Management Science, the European and International Social and Political Studies degrees, Sociology and Social Sciences. Requirements can change each admissions cycle, so always confirm the current requirement for your specific course and entry year on UCL's admissions pages.
How to prepare for TARA
Because TARA is a reasoning test, you can't cram facts for it — but you can absolutely train the skills. The biggest gains come from doing timed, exam-style questions, then reviewing why the right answer is right. Critical Thinking improves quickly once you learn the common question types; Problem Solving rewards a calm, structured approach; and the Writing Task gets easier with a repeatable way to plan an argument fast. Since you can only sit TARA once per cycle, focused practice matters.
Want structured help? Our 1-on-1 TARA coaching trains all three modules with a personalised question bank, timed mocks and feedback on your Writing Task.
Frequently asked questions
Is TARA the same as ESAT or TMUA?
No. All three are UAT UK tests delivered via Pearson VUE, but ESAT and TMUA are maths/science tests for STEM courses, while TARA is a general academic-reasoning test used by UCL.
Can I use a calculator?
No. Calculators and dictionaries aren't allowed. You're given an erasable booklet for working.
How many times can I take it?
Once per admissions cycle — so preparation counts.
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