Understanding Oxford University's Physics Aptitude Test (PAT)

What is the PAT?

The Physics Aptitude Test (PAT) is an admissions test used by the University of Oxford if you apply to study an undergraduate degree in Physics, Materials Science, Physics and Philosophy or Engineering Science at the university. The two-hour test is comprised of online questions and a paper answer booklet which you sit at an authorised test centre, this is often your school or college. The test is designed for students who have completed the first year of the A-Level course (or equivalent) of Maths and Physics.

Why do I need to take the PAT?

The purpose of the test is to assess your aptitude for studying Physics and related subjects at degree level. It evaluates your problem-solving skills, your understanding of physical principles and your ability to apply these principles. It also assesses your mathematical ability in physical contexts. 

Scoring well on the Physics Aptitude Test can significantly impact your chance of being admitted to your chosen course at Oxford University. It's an important component of the overall application process, allowing the university to gauge your academic potential in Physics-related courses.

What topics are covered in the PAT?

TThe test covers similar content to GCSE and A-Level Maths and Physics and the syllabus covers a wide range of topics, including some that you may not have studied before so it is really important to look at the syllabus carefully to identify these. You may need to complete some independent research to prepare for these topics. Your teacher may be able to help signpost you to useful resources. The topics covered include:

• Elementary mathematics, e.g. algebra, trigonometry, binomial expansions

• Calculus

• Mechanics

• Waves and optics

• Electricity and magnetism

• Natural world, e.g. atomic structure, the solar system and circular orbits

You are not provided with any data sheets for the exam, so you will need to learn all the equations associated with the topics covered in the syllabus. A digital calculator is provided for the online test for you to use and you are not allowed to take your own calculator into the exam. The University of Oxford has produced a candidate preparation checklist which will help you prepare for the exam.

How can I revise for the PAT?

Preparing for the Physics Aptitude Test (PAT) for admission to the University of Oxford requires revision and, essentially, practice. Here are some effective strategies for revising and studying for the PAT:

• Understand the test format by looking at past papers

• Review the core physics concepts from GCSE and your A Level studies to-date

• Practise problem-solving using past papers and practice materials

• Strengthen your maths skills, identify if there are any weaknesses in them and focus on these areas

• Find additional study materials 

• Work with a friend who is also preparing for the PAT or seek a tutor

• Manage your time effectively, set aside dedicated time to prepare for the test and be consistent with your study routines

• Reflect on your mistakes as you complete practice material and focus on these areas to allow you to improve

What is a good score for the PAT?

A "good" score on the Physics Aptitude Test (PAT) can vary and is often relative to the overall performance of all students taking the test in that year. The test is challenging, and what is deemed a good score depends on how hard the test is and the average scores of candidates.

The University of Oxford has an upper threshold and if you score above this, you will be automatically offered an interview. Whilst this threshold value varies from year to year, you would need to score a percentage in the mid to high 60s for a chance of being automatically invited to interview. This is a very high score though and scoring above average would also put you in a good position to be invited for an interview. Typically the average score is in the range of 40 to 50%. 

Scoring lower than the average is far from ideal in terms of your application, although it does not necessarily mean that you won’t get invited for an interview. If you have a particularly strong personal statement, you may still be offered the opportunity to discuss your application further.