The STAT (Special Tertiary Admissions Test) is a computer-based test. It is only required by one UK university, the University College London. The STAT is designed to go hand in hand with the UCAS application in testing the suitability of Computer Science applicants for their degree.
Preparing for the STAT exam can be a challenging and demanding undertaking, especially as the test is new so preparation might seem difficult. The assessment tests your verbal and critical reasoning, quantitative reasoning and written English skills.
The Computer Science course at UCL is competitive and acing the STAT to get a spot is both necessary and challenging. But don’t worry as that’s where The Profs can help. Our expert admissions test and Computer Science tutors know exactly how to get you top scores. That’s our forte!
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What is the STAT?
The STAT is an online, computer-based admissions test administered by the Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER). It is accessible online to all students across the world.
UCL is using the STAT to check the suitability of Computer Science BSc/MEng applicants for the course.
Whilst an in-depth understanding of any discipline is not required for the STAT, it is designed to complement academic achievement. It is a multiple-choice test including verbal and critical reasoning, quantitative reasoning and written English. STAT emphasises general skills and aims to enhance academic performance.
Please note that UCL has not yet confirmed whether the STAT will be the Computer Science admissions test for applicants in 2025.
Which universities require the STAT?
The STAT is required by multiple Australian universities. So, if you’re applying for a course in Australia please check your chosen course and university pages directly.
Aside from Australia, the STAT is only required by:
- Massey University, in New Zealand, for the Bachelor of Veterinary Science course.
- UCL, in the UK, for Computer Science courses.
If you’d like some advice on which admissions test to take for the courses and universities you’re applying to, get in touch with our team.
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Who takes the STAT?
The STAT is available to anyone applying to study a course for which STAT is a prerequisite.
When it comes to UCL, only Computer Science applicants who are shortlisted are required to take the STAT. Only applicants who are invited to sit the test and complete it may be considered for admission.
Where do I take the STAT?
STAT is conducted online using remote proctoring, allowing test-takers to complete it from any appropriate location that meets the test’s technical specifications.
What is included in the STAT?
The STAT is taken online. Answer questions by clicking on the radio button next to the option you have chosen and navigate using the “Next” or “Back” buttons at the bottom of the screen.
There is also a timer at the top right-hand screen for you to keep track.
The standard STAT is broken down into sections:
| Section | Time | Questions | Content |
| 1A | 65 minutes | Critical reasoning: 35 questions | The emphasis lies in interpreting and comprehending ideas conveyed through language, with tasks that may require test takers to:
Certain questions gauge the comprehension of intricate and complex language, focusing on analysing and grasping the stimulus material. Other questions assess the understanding and processing of ideas presented in simpler language, emphasising information manipulation and problem-solving. The questions may encompass objective or subjective content, as well as conceptual or argumentative issues. |
| 1B | 65 minutes | Quantitative reasoning: 35 questions | This segment evaluates your understanding and utilisation of information within scientific and mathematical frameworks. Data may be presented in numerical, symbolic, spatial, or graphical formats. Questions do not necessitate extensive subject matter expertise; rather, they emphasise your capacity to interpret and apply information, and to utilise provided information for decision-making and problem-solving. |
| 2 | 65 minutes | Written English (WE test): 2 questions | The two essay assignments evaluate your proficiency in written communication. The initial task addresses a formal public affairs topic, encouraging argumentation. The second task presents a less formal subject, encouraging personal reflection. Each task undergoes assessment by two separate markers, focusing on three key criteria:
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Important notice: For UCL Computer Science courses, applicants are only required to complete sections 1A and 1B which totals 130 minutes and 70 questions overall (also note that UCL claims there are 80 questions for section 1 unlike the official STAT page).
Unsure what sections you need to practise for? Chat with our admissions test team who can help clarify everything you need to know and help you prepare. Even if you’re 100% sure about what to expect, consider our expert support so that you can get the best score possible. Remember, your STAT score could make or break our UCL offer. Excel in your academic journey and career with STAT Tutors by The Profs, where expertise meets personalised learning to pave your path to success.
How is the STAT exam marked?
For the STAT, there is no pass, fail or cut-off score. Instead, universities decide on the accepted minimum required scores for each course.
STAT scores are presented on a scale of 100 to 200, with an average score of 150, reflecting variations in test taker abilities and question difficulty levels.
The scoring process involves intricate algorithms, making it impossible for candidates to determine their exact number of correct answers.
The Total (Multiple Choice) Scale Score is computed by averaging the Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative Reasoning scores, while the Written English Score is evaluated separately. These scores offer a relative measure of a test taker’s ability relative to others. Navigate your educational path with confidence by consulting University Admissions Tutors at The Profs, where expert guidance transforms aspirations into academic achievements.
How will UCL use the STAT to assess applicants?
UCL will assess candidates based on their academic profile and personal statement via their UCAS application.
STAT results will aid in distinguishing among the many highly qualified applicants for Computer Science at UCL.
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What is the STAT timeline and when is the exam?
At the end of February, UCL applicants will be contacted to invite them to register and sit the test.
STAT registration opens in mid-March and closes in April. In 2024, the closing date was April 10th at GMT 23:59.
The STAT test window falls between early to mid-April. In 2024, the test window was the 9th to 15th of April.
For entry to Australian universities, registrations for STAT open in early May and close in mid-May. For 2024, the closing day is May 14th. The test window for entry to Australian universities is mid to late May. For 2024, this is the 14th to 21st of May.
There are also deadlines for scheduling your remote proctored session with ProctorU, so ensure that you double-check what these are. ProtcotU is a remote proctoring service, a top global provider of comprehensive testing & assessment services.
Please note: STAT results are usually valid for 3 years from the date of issue. However, some universities enforce their own limit on the length of time they accept a STAT score. Hence, students should check each university and course requirements carefully.
Our admissions test experts can help you build a revision timetable and master your STAT preparation so that you can attain a top score! Let us know if you’re serious about claiming success.
How do you register for the STAT?
If you are shortlisted by your chosen university, you will receive an email inviting you to take the STAT along with registration instructions.
How much does the STAT cost?
There is a payment fee for the STAT.
In Australia, the cost ranges from A$240 to A$225 depending on the section.
In the UK, the cost comes to £124.
When and how do I get my STAT results?
STAT results are released in just a few days after the conclusion of each test window.
When your results are ready, the STAT office will email you stating that your results are available to download from your STAT account. Next, you can log in to your ACER account to view your results. Results are not released over the phone, posted or directly emailed.
UCL applicants can expect their results back in late April. In 2024, the date is the 23rd of April.
Australian applicants should check the test windows calendar.
How do your chosen universities receive your STAT results?
Applicants to UCL and Massey, need not provide their results as these will be sent directly to the universities.
However, applicants to Australian universities will need to provide their STAT results to each university they wish to apply.
4 tips for UCL applicants to prepare for the STAT
1. Focus on developing your quantitative and critical reasoning skills
The focus of the STAT is not on specific subject knowledge but on quantitative and critical reasoning skills. It may be tempting to practise one element and not the other, however, it is extremely important to prepare equally for both.
Try revising Maths and Science by:
- Assumedly, you are taking A level Maths, so refresh your knowledge on this, and try completing papers from all exam boards (even those not administering your exams).
- If you are not taking Further Maths, see if you can learn parts of the course by sitting in on lessons, working with peers and studying the textbooks.
- Whatever science A levels you are taking, refresh your knowledge of them. Whatever science A levels you are not taking, see if you can self-study and teach yourself the subject content.
- Complete practice papers for other quantitative admissions, like the MAT, STEP and TMUA.
- Brush up on your quantitative skills by participating in the UK Maths challenge and an olympiad in Maths, Chemistry, Biology or Physics. This will also strengthen your general application!Benefit from expert guidance from one of our experienced admissions test tutors who can walk you through the whole process and prepare you as much as possible.
Note: all questions have the same value so try to answer as many as possible to maximise your score and keep in mind that there is only ONE correct answer. Also, don’t shy away from trying questions you’re unsure of as no marks are deducted for incorrect answers.
2. Master your timing
The importance of timing cannot be underestimated, so do not let bad timing drag down your results.
Here are some tips based on the STAT specifically:
- Work steadily through each question.
- Avoid spending too much time on any single question.
- If unsure about an answer, mark it and move on.
- Aim to finish a few minutes before the allocated time.
- Use any remaining time to review and reconsider uncertain answers.
- Break your time into blocks to monitor progress.
- Ensure every question is answered to maximise chances of success.
- Avoid rushing at the end; take the time to carefully consider answers.
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3. Complete practice papers and questions
Attempt practice papers and questions under timed conditions. Afterwards, take time to mark them accurately. The practice material on the STAT website provides the correct answers and explanations of worked examples. All the STAT practice material is available here, however, there are fees.
No worries if you’d like to avoid paying for practice material! UCL will send sample questions to all shortlisted applicants after the UCAS equal consideration deadline.
You can also ask teachers to mark your practice tests and give you feedback. Whatever you get wrong, revise it and, once you feel confident, ask a teacher to give you a similar question to try again. If your teachers are busy and unable to give you lots of help or any help at all, consider enlisting the support of one of our expert admissions test tutors.
Remember, for practice tests and especially the real test, you should sit the test in a comfortable and quiet location where disruptions will be minimal.
4. Seek help from a STAT expert
How you perform in the STAT will impact how likely you are to be offered a place by UCL and/or top Australian universities, so you must be prepared to do as well as possible in the exam.
Unfortunately, UK schools and colleges might not be equipped to provide specialist STAT preparation due to a lack of experience, expertise or resources as this is a new test in the UK. As a result, we advise seeking a professional admissions test tutor to help you through the process.
The Profs’ admissions test tutors have many years of experience preparing students for different admissions tests, with many having experience as exam and admissions officers. Over these years, they have built a bank of previous questions and developed in-depth knowledge of the mark scheme, so they know exactly what examiners will be looking for.
If you work with one of The Profs’ tutors, you’ll have a 95% chance of receiving an offer from your first or second choice university.
Plus, you can trust us to guide you through every stage of the admissions process to ensure that you don’t just succeed in the STAT but also achieve top A level or IB grades and perform well in your interview. Achieve unparalleled academic success by connecting with UCL Admissions Tutors through The Profs’ tailored tutoring sessions, ensuring your path to greatness in higher education and beyond.
