PAT Exam (Physics Admissions Test)
Your Gateway to Top European Universities through the PAT Exam by Stratagem Scholars
What is the PAT Exam?
The Physics Admissions Test (PAT) is a subject-specific entrance exam conducted by the University of Oxford for undergraduate courses in Physics, Engineering, and Materials Science.
It plays a vital role in the admissions process, as it assesses a student’s mathematical fluency, physics knowledge, and problem-solving skills under time constraints.
Moreover, the PAT is recognized as one of the most rigorous and competitive exams for science aspirants. It often serves as a key shortlisting tool for Oxford interviews.
Although it is primarily used by Oxford, other universities may also consider PAT scores informally while reviewing top candidates in Physics or Engineering.
Participating Courses Requiring the PAT Exam
| Course | Department |
|---|---|
|
Physics |
Offered by the Department of Physics
|
|
Engineering Science
|
Taught under Engineering Science
|
|
Materials Science
|
Focused on Materials Science
|
|
Physics & Philosophy
|
Joint Program (Physics + Philosophy Faculty)
|
|
Course
|
Department
|
|---|---|
|
Physics
|
Offered by the Department of Physics
|
|
Engineering Science
|
Taught under Engineering Science
|
|
Materials Science
|
Focused on Materials Science
|
|
Physics & Philosophy
|
Joint Program (Physics + Philosophy Faculty)
|
Oxford considers PAT scores along with UCAS applications and personal statements when shortlisting candidates for interviews.
Test Structure
| Section | Topics Covered | Question Type |
|---|---|---|
|
Part A
|
Mathematics |
Problem-solving, algebra, calculus, vectors, graphs
|
|
Part B
|
Physics (GCSE to early A-Level standard)
|
Mechanics, electricity, waves, energy, etc.
|
Algebra and functions
Coordinate geometry
Trigonometry
Vectors and geometry
Differentiation and integration
Graph sketching and transformations
Kinematics and dynamics
Energy, work, and power
Electricity and circuits
Waves and optics
Forces and Newton’s Laws
Thermal physics
Basic problem modeling
Mode: Paper-based (taken at registered centers or schools)
Test Date: Usually held in late October or early November, aligned with UCAS timelines
Scoring: Total score out of 100; each question carries a variable mark
Results: Shared only with Oxford and used for interview shortlisting
Applicants to Physics, Engineering, or Materials Science programs at Oxford
High school students from CBSE, ISC, IB, A-Level, or IGCSE backgrounds
Aspirants aiming to study mathematically rigorous physical sciences in the UK
Candidates looking to enhance their university applications through academic excellence
Comprehensive revision of Physics and Mathematics concepts
Real-world Physics problem solving with analytical strategies
Mock PAT papers and past paper practice with expert feedback
Stepwise answer writing and time management training
Mathematics mastery for Physics (vectors, calculus, and graphs)
Paper analysis and score improvement sessions
Our Success Track Record
Learners trained at Stratagem Scholars have:
Secured admission to Oxford for Physics and Engineering
Scored among the top percentiles of PAT test-takers
Built research-driven academic profiles that supported successful interviews and scholarships
