How to Prepare for the ESAT: Complete 2026 Guide

For students applying to Engineering or Science degrees at top UK universities, the ESAT (Engineering and Science Admissions Test) is one of the most important yet widely misunderstood parts of the UK admissions process. In today’s climate, strong A level, IB or AP grades are no longer good enough on their own and do little to distinguish candidates. Universities increasingly use admissions tests like the ESAT to separate between candidates who are able to apply scientific concepts flexibly and those who can only reproduce familiar methods. 

This article breaks down what the ESAT actually tests, how universities use it and how students can prepare and excel in this critical part of the admissions process.