Guide, checked 2 September 2026
ESAT 2026: dates, fee and Cambridge courses
The Engineering and Science Admissions Test is a pre-registration test for several Cambridge science courses.
Checked on 2 September 2026 against: UAT-UK deadlines and Cambridge ESAT guidance.
Key dates and fee
Account creation, access arrangements and bursaries opened on 1 June 2026 at 15:00 BST. Booking opened on 20 July 2026 at 15:00 BST. Book the October sitting by 28 September 2026 at 18:00 BST. The test window is 12 to 16 October 2026. The fee is £78 for candidates in the UK and Republic of Ireland, or £133 for candidates sitting elsewhere.
Who needs ESAT at Cambridge?
Cambridge requires ESAT for Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Engineering, Natural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine. Cambridge applicants take the October sitting. The test is taken at an authorised assessment centre and registration is required in advance.