What Is the ESAT? A Quick Guide for Parents

The ESAT (Engineering and Science Admissions Test) is a new exam being introduced as part of the admissions process for certain university courses in science and engineering. It’s designed to assess how well students can apply mathematical and scientific knowledge to unfamiliar problems, skills that are essential for success in highly technical degree programmes.

Unlike school exams, the ESAT focuses on problem-solving, logical thinking, and applying concepts under pressure, rather than simple recall. It’s particularly relevant for students applying to courses like Electronic and Electrical Engineering.

The test will be delivered digitally via Pearson VUE, with sessions available in October 2025 and January 2026 for 2026 university entry. Students are encouraged to begin preparing well in advance, as strong performance in the ESAT can significantly strengthen their application.

At Ashbourne, we support students with focused preparation for the ESAT as part of our wider university application support programme. This includes practice exams, expert tuition in problem-solving, and personalised guidance tailored to each student’s goals.

If your child is planning to apply for a science or engineering degree that requires the ESAT, contact us to find out how we can help them prepare with confidence.