TARA Coaching, 1-on-1 & Online
TARA is the new admissions test for UCL and other UAT UK courses. It measures how you reason — not what you've memorised. We coach the exact skills it tests: Critical Thinking, Problem Solving and the Writing Task, with personalised practice and timed mocks.
What is the TARA?
The Test of Academic Reasoning for Admissions (TARA) is run by UAT UK in partnership with Pearson VUE and was introduced by University College London (UCL) from 2025/26 entry. It is computer-based, taken at a Pearson VUE test centre, and lasts two hours across three timed modules taken in order.
Critical Thinking and Problem Solving are each scored on a 1–9 scale. The Writing Task is not scored — your essay is passed to the universities you apply to. There is no penalty for wrong answers, so every question should be attempted. Candidates may sit TARA only once per admissions cycle, which makes focused preparation count.
New to the test? Read our full TARA guide for the structure, scoring and prep tips in plain English.
The three modules
What each section tests — and what we drill with you.
Module 1 — Critical Thinking
22 multiple-choice questions · 40 minutes · scored 1–9
- Strengthening & weakening arguments
- Identifying assumptions and flaws
- Matching arguments & principles
- Drawing valid conclusions
Module 2 — Problem Solving
22 multiple-choice questions · 40 minutes · scored 1–9
- Numerical & logical reasoning
- Finding relevant information
- Identifying similar problems
- No calculator allowed
Module 3 — Writing Task
1 of 3 prompts · 40 minutes · 750-word limit · sent to universities
- Building a clear argument
- Structure and concision
- Responding to a prompt under time
- Not scored — read by admissions
Why prepare with us
Online, 1-on-1, built around how the test actually works.
Skill-first, not memorisation
TARA tests reasoning, not syllabus. We train the underlying thinking skills with timed, exam-style practice.
Large personalised question bank
Practice on a backend built for admissions tests, with sets matched to each module and your weak areas.
Progress tracking
See accuracy and timing per module so every session targets what will move your score.
Choose your plan
Flexible 1-1 hours. Fees shared on enquiry — message us for a plan that fits your timeline.
Focused Plan
20 Hours
of 1-on-1 coaching
- 20 hours 1-1 coaching
- Critical Thinking & Problem Solving drills
- Personalised question bank
- Timed module practice
- Progress tracking
Complete Plan
Most popular40 Hours
of 1-on-1 coaching
- 40 hours 1-1 coaching
- All three modules incl. Writing Task
- Full-length mock sittings & review
- Essay feedback on the Writing Task
- Detailed progress tracking
- Exam-day strategy
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.
We'll assess where you are and build a focused 1-on-1 plan.