TSA Cambridge FAQs

What is TSA?

The TSA is a 90 minute test consisting of 50 multiple choice questions, testing problem soliving and critical thinking skills.

About the test.
TSA Specification

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Who needs to take TSA?

Candidates applying to most Cambridge University colleges may be required to take the TSA. The College administering your application will tell you if it is necessary to sit the TSA. If you are in any doubt, contact their Admissions Office.

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When is TSA taken?

The test will be arranged by the college to which you are applying and is normally taken while you are in Cambridge for your interview.

Arrangements for overseas applicants vary, for details contact the college to which you are applying.

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Where can TSA be taken?

Typically, candidates sit the TSA at their college; however some colleges choose to use a central testing site in Cambridge. Candidates will be notified of where they will be sitting the TSA by the college to which they have applied.

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How much does TSA cost?

There is no charge for candidates sitting TSA.

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As a candidate how do I register for TSA?

You cannot register yourself for TSA. If you are required to take TSA as part of your application the college to which you have applied will register you.

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As an Examinations Officer how do I register my candidates?

You do not need to register your candidates for TSA.  The University of Cambridge will register any candidate needing to sit TSA.

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What allowances are made for candidates with access arrangements?

For all access requirements, the applicant needs to approach their College Admissions Officer to make the necessary arrangements. Generally, for the paper-and-pencil test, Colleges can make any normal arrangements appropriate to the disability. For the on-line version, the only adjustment possible is to alter the total time allowed for the test. If this is not appropriate then the paper-and-pencil version will need to be used with suitable arrangements.

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Where should requests for special considerations be sent?

Special considerations are used to indicate to institutions that a candidate suffered temporary illness, injury or disposition at the time of the assessment. All requests for special considerations should be sent directly to the college to which the candidate has applied.

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What preparation materials are available for TSA?

Preparation materials and online practice test for TSA

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Are dictionaries allowed for TSA?

Yes, book or electronic dictionaries and bi-lingual dictionaries may be used.

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Are calculators allowed for TSA?

No, calculators may not be used.

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When will TSA results be published?

Procedures vary from college to college; therefore it is recommended that you contact the College Admissions Officer.

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Can previous TSA results be used as part of a new application?

Candidates should contact the college to which they are applying to discuss whether TSA would need to be retaken.

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Can TSA results be queried?

Cambridge Assessment does not accept requests for re-marks.

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Need More Information?
Email: TSA Cambridge Support Team
Call: +44 (0)1223 55 33 38
Opening Hours: 0900 - 1700 GMT


About the Test
Details about the format and content of the TSA


Test Preparation
TSA resources for candidates and teachers, including past papers, recommended reading lists and specifications.