TSA & TARA Practice Papers
Access free official TSA past papers - the best preparation resource for both the TSA (2026 entry) and the new TARA test (2027 entry onwards) for Oxford PPE, Experimental Psychology, Geography, and Economics admissions.
* All papers link directly to official examination board websites
Important: TSA Replaced by TARA for 2027 Entry
Oxford has announced that the TSA (Thinking Skills Assessment) will be replaced by TARA (Test of Academic Reasoning for Admissions) for students applying from October 2026 onwards (2027 entry).
Key Changes:
- Provider: Oxford → UAT-UK (via Pearson VUE)
- Format remains the same as TSA
- Same skills tested: critical thinking & problem-solving
- Registration opens August 2026
Good News for Preparation:
- TARA mirrors the TSA structure
- TSA past papers remain the best practice resource
- Continue preparing as if for TSA
Test Format Comparison
TSA Format
Thinking Skills Assessment - Oxford/Cambridge Assessment
Section 1: Thinking Skills
90 minutes, 50 multiple-choice questions. Tests problem-solving and critical thinking including numerical reasoning, spatial reasoning, and logical arguments.
Section 2: Writing Task
30 minutes, one essay from three choices. Required for PPE and E&M applicants only. Tests ability to organize ideas and communicate effectively.
Provider: Oxford / Cambridge Assessment
TARA Format
Test of Academic Reasoning for Admissions - UAT-UK
Section 1: Critical Thinking & Problem Solving
Multiple-choice questions testing the same core skills as TSA Section 1: critical thinking, problem-solving, and logical reasoning.
Section 2: Writing Task
Essay writing component following the same format as TSA Section 2 for applicable courses.
Provider: UAT-UK (via Pearson VUE centres)
Available TSA Practice Papers
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Browse Other TestsFrequently Asked Questions
What is the TSA and which Oxford courses require it?
The TSA (Thinking Skills Assessment) is Oxford's admissions test for PPE (Philosophy, Politics and Economics), Experimental Psychology, Geography, Economics and Management, and several other courses. It assesses critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. Note: TSA is being replaced by TARA for those applying from October 2026 onwards (2027 entry).
What is TARA and how is it different from TSA?
TARA (Test of Academic Reasoning for Admissions) is the new test replacing TSA for 2027 entry onwards. It will be administered by UAT-UK via Pearson VUE centres (similar to ESAT and TMUA). The format mirrors TSA: Section 1 tests Critical Thinking and Problem Solving with multiple-choice questions, and Section 2 is a writing task. Since TARA is designed to assess the same skills, TSA past papers remain the best preparation resource.
Should I still practice with TSA papers for TARA?
Yes, absolutely. Oxford has confirmed that TARA is designed to be very similar to TSA, assessing the same core skills of problem-solving and critical thinking. TSA past papers remain the best resource for TARA preparation. Students applying for 2027 entry should continue preparing as if for the TSA.
What is the format of the TSA and TARA?
Both tests have two sections: Section 1 is 90 minutes with 50 multiple-choice questions testing critical thinking and problem-solving. Section 2 is 30 minutes to write one essay from a choice of three topics (PPE and E&M applicants only). TARA maintains this same structure.
What is a good TSA/TARA score?
TSA Section 1 scores range from about 50 to 100. Competitive candidates typically score 65-70+. For PPE and E&M, the essay is equally important. Similar scoring is expected for TARA.
How should I prepare for TSA/TARA?
Practice logical reasoning and critical thinking skills. Complete past papers under timed conditions. For the essay, practice writing balanced arguments on current affairs topics. Read quality newspapers and learn to analyze arguments. These strategies work for both TSA and TARA.
When does TARA registration open?
Registration for TARA opens in August 2026 for those applying for 2027 entry. The test will be delivered through Pearson VUE centres, similar to other UAT-UK tests like ESAT and TMUA.
Need Help Preparing for Oxford?
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