Mathematics Admissions Test (MAT): A Complete Guide

The Mathematics Admission Test, commonly known as the MAT, is a subject-specific admissions test for applicants to certain university courses in the UK. It's a significant part of the application process for courses such as Mathematics, Computer Science, and their joint schools at the University of Oxford. The test is also used by Imperial College London for their undergraduate Mathematics courses.

The MAT is designed to test the depth of mathematical understanding of a student, rather than their speed or rote memorisation. This makes it a unique tool in assessing an applicant's suitability for the rigours of university-level Mathematics.

In 2022, over 2,500 students sat for the MAT, highlighting its importance in the university admissions process. The test is usually taken in late October or early November, with the test date being 19th October in 2023.

The Purpose of the MAT

The primary purpose of the MAT is to assess a student's mathematical abilities in a way that goes beyond the scope of A-level or equivalent qualifications. It's designed to test not just knowledge, but the ability to apply that knowledge in unfamiliar contexts, a skill that's crucial for success in university-level Mathematics and Computer Science courses.

The MAT focuses on mathematical thinking and problem-solving skills, rather than rote learning or the ability to quickly recall facts. According to the University of Oxford, the test is designed to "give candidates an opportunity to show their real mathematical ability". This means that it's not just about what you know, but how you use what you know to solve problems.

The test is also used by universities to differentiate between students who have achieved top grades in their school exams, which is increasingly necessary with the growing number of students achieving A* grades at A-level. In 2021, 44.8% of all A-level entries received an A* or A grade, up from 25.2% in 2019, making it more challenging for universities to identify the most capable students.

Who Should Take the MAT?

The MAT is specifically designed for students who are applying for Mathematics, Computer Science, and their joint schools at the University of Oxford. It's also used by Imperial College London for applicants to their undergraduate Mathematics courses.

If you're a student who enjoys problem-solving, has a strong grasp of mathematical concepts, and is considering a degree in Mathematics or Computer Science, then the MAT could be a key part of your university application. It's an opportunity to demonstrate your mathematical abilities beyond what's covered in your school exams.

It's important to note that the MAT is not a general admissions test. It's specifically designed to assess mathematical ability, so it's only relevant if you're applying for a course where this is a key requirement.

While the MAT is a UK-based test, it's not limited to UK students. International students can also take the MAT, and it's used by universities worldwide to assess applicants for their Mathematics and Computer Science courses.

Understanding the MAT Format and Structure

The MAT is a 2.5-hour paper-based test, divided into two sections. The first section contains multiple-choice questions that cover a broad range of mathematical topics. This section is designed to test your breadth of mathematical knowledge.

MAT Section 1 multiple choice question example

The second section of the test contains longer questions that require full, written solutions. These questions are more in-depth and are designed to test your ability to apply your mathematical knowledge to complex problems.

MAT Section 2 in-depth question example

The test covers a range of topics in Mathematics, including algebra, geometry, trigonometry, calculus, and more. The questions are designed to be challenging and to stretch your mathematical abilities to the limit.

One unique feature of the MAT is that it's designed to be taken without a calculator. This is to ensure that the focus is on your mathematical understanding and problem-solving skills, rather than your ability to use a calculator.

Key Topics Covered in the MAT

The MAT covers a wide range of mathematical topics, providing a comprehensive assessment of a student's mathematical abilities. The topics covered in the test are primarily based on the Mathematics A-level syllabus, making it a suitable test for students who have completed or are in the process of completing their A-levels. The syllabus includes the following areas:

1. Polynomials: This includes the quadratic formula, completing the square, discriminant, factorisation, and the Factor Theorem.

2. Algebra: This covers simple simultaneous equations in one or two variables, solution of simple inequalities, the Binomial Theorem with positive whole exponent, and combinations and binomial probabilities.

3. Differentiation: This includes the derivative of x^a (including for fractional exponents), derivative of e^(kx), derivative of a sum of functions, tangents and normals to graphs, turning points, second order derivatives, maxima and minima, increasing and decreasing functions, and differentiation from first principles.

4. Integration: This covers indefinite integration as the reverse of differentiation, definite integrals and the signed areas they represent, and integration of x^a (where a ≠ -1) and sums thereof.

5. Graphs: This includes the graphs of quadratics and cubics, graphs of sinx, cosx, tanx, √x, a^x, loga x, and solving equations and inequalities with graphs.

6. Logarithms and powers: This covers laws of logarithms and exponentials, and solution of the equation a^x = b.

7. Transformations: This includes the relations between the graphs y = f(ax), y = af(x), y = f(x - a), y = f(x) + a and the graph of y = f(x).

8. Geometry: This covers co-ordinate geometry and vectors in the plane, the equations of straight lines and circles, basic properties of circles, and lengths of arcs of circles.

9. Trigonometry: This includes solution of simple trigonometric equations, the identities tanx = sinx/cosx, sin^2x + cos^2x = 1, sin(90° - x) = cosx, periodicity of sine, cosine and tangent, and sine and cosine rules for triangles.

10. Sequences and series: This covers sequences defined iteratively and by formulae, arithmetic and geometric progressions, their sums, and convergence condition for infinite geometric progressions.

Useful Resources for MAT Preparation

When it comes to preparing for the Mathematics Admissions Test (MAT), it's crucial to have the right resources at your disposal. Here are some specific resources that can help you excel in the MAT:

1. Past Papers: We have complied together MAT past papers from Oxford University. These papers are invaluable for understanding the test's format and the type of questions you can expect.

2. MAT Syllabus: The MAT syllabus, which is based on the first year of A-level Maths, is a must-read for all test-takers. It provides a clear outline of the topics you need to cover.

3. MAT Livestream: The University of Oxford runs a weekly online event called the MAT Livestream, where they discuss maths problems and problem-solving strategies.

4. MAT Flashcards: The University also provides a set of flashcards for revising the MAT syllabus. These can be a handy tool for quick revision and to reinforce your understanding of key concepts.

5. Additional Problem-Solving Resources: Websites like Underground Mathematics, NRICH Advanced Problem Solving modules, and the STEP support programme offer a wealth of problem-solving exercises that can help you hone your mathematical skills.

6. Mock Tests: The University of Oxford has also organised multiple-choice tests in the style of Q1 on the MAT for the past few years. These tests, along with their solutions, are available on the University's website and can be a great practice resource.

7. Tutoring: Working with a MAT tutor can be immensely beneficial. A tutor can provide personalised guidance, help you identify and address your weaknesses, and offer strategies to improve your problem-solving abilities. They can also provide feedback on your practice tests and offer valuable insights into the test format.

Tips for Success in the MAT

Here is what one Oxford Mathematics lecturer and Oxbridge tutor, Dr Zhen Shao, had to say about how to do well on the test:

"Achieving success on the MAT exam requires keeping key strategies in mind. Strive for an accuracy of around 80%, allowing for some errors without compromising overall performance.


Avoid getting trapped by challenging questions. If you're spending excessive time on a question, it's best to move on and return to it later, if time permits. Don't let one difficult question hinder your progress on the rest of the exam.

Regular practice is crucial. Familiarize yourself with different question types and solve problems from past MAT exams. This enhances your understanding of the exam format and improves your problem-solving skills.

Effective time management is essential. Allocate your time wisely since the exam is timed. If you come across a particularly difficult question, don't dwell on it excessively. Prioritize answering questions you find more manageable, maximizing your use of available time.

In addition, maintain focus and composure during the exam. Take deep breaths, carefully read each question, and approach them systematically. This clear-mindedness and steady pace will help you tackle challenges with confidence.

Remember, success on the MAT exam is attainable through a combination of realistic goals, efficient problem-solving, consistent practice, effective time management, and a calm approach."

How to Register for the MAT

For the MAT in 2023, the administration of the test will be handled by Tata Consultancy Services (TCS). Previously the test was administered by Cambridge Assessment Admissions Testing. The registration deadline for the test is 29 September 2023, and the test date is set for 19 October 2023.

Applicants for Computer Science or for Computer Science and Philosophy will attempt questions 1, 2, 3, 5, and 6 for MAT 2023. There will no longer be a question 7. Schools and colleges can now register to be a test centre via the central University website.

It's important to note that the way candidates access the questions is changing for October 2023. Candidates will see the questions on a computer screen, but they will write their responses in a paper answer booklet, which will be scanned by their test centre.

Understanding MAT Scoring

The MAT is marked out of a total of 100 marks. The test consists of six questions, with the first being a multiple-choice question with ten parts, each worth 4 marks. For this question, marks are given solely for correct answers. Questions 2 to 6 are longer and each is worth 15 marks. For these questions, partial marks are given for workings out, allowing you to gain some credit even if you don't arrive at the final answer.

To give you an idea of what a good MAT score looks like, we can look at the average scores from the 2022 MAT. Among all applicants, the average score was 48.3. Among those who were shortlisted for interviews, the average score rose to 65.2. Successful applicants, i.e., those who were offered a place, had an even higher average score of 71.5.

These averages provide a rough benchmark for what you should be aiming for. However, it's important to remember that these are averages and the scores can vary from year to year. Also, the MAT score is just one part of your application and other factors such as your personal statement, academic record, and performance at interview will also be taken into account.

2022 MAT and Oxford Admissions Statistics

Key Statistics

• 15.8% of applications were open applications, a decrease from 19.4% in the previous admissions cycle.
• 20 applicants applied for deferred entry, down from 33 in the previous year. Of these, 7 were interviewed and 5 were offered places.
• The gender distribution among applicants was 29.9% female, slightly up from 29.3% in the previous year. However, the percentage of females offered a place decreased to 22.9% from 28.3%.
• 1486 applicants were studying A-levels in the UK, with 95% of these taking Further Mathematics as a full A-level. Of the 74 applicants studying A-levels in the UK who weren't taking Further Maths as a full A-level, 6 were shortlisted for interview, and fewer than 3 were offered a place.
• There were 1000 non-EU international-fee-paying applicants, a decrease from 1168 in the previous year.

Average Scores

In 2022, the test date was November 2nd, and 2621 applicants successfully registered for and sat the MAT.

The average scores for Oxford applicants were as follows:

• 48.3 amongst all applicants;
• 65.2 amongst shortlisted applicants;
• 71.5 amongst successful applicants.

Course Applications, Shortlisting, and Offers

The table below shows the number of applications, shortlisted candidates, and offers for each course. The data presented here pertains to applicants who applied in 2022 for courses starting in 2023 or 2024 (deferred entry).

Interview Stage

In December 2022, all interviews were conducted remotely. Most applicants were interviewed by at least two different colleges. The interviews were academic in nature, and applicants' performances were judged according to the admissions criteria and graded on a scale of 1-9.

Decisions

The Admissions Group operates various procedures to ensure that the strongest applicants are admitted to the University, irrespective of college choice. In this cycle, around 28% of offers were either open offers or made by a college other than the first college considering the applicant.

14 offers were made conditional on the Opportunity Oxford bridging programme to eligible students who would not otherwise have been admitted.

Final Thoughts

Preparing for the MAT can seem daunting, but with the right approach and resources, you can navigate this challenge successfully. Remember, the key is to start early, understand the format and scoring system, and make use of the wealth of resources available to you. Practice extensively with past papers and take advantage of the guidance offered by the University of Oxford and other reputable sources. Lastly, don't forget to take care of your wellbeing during this intense period. Good luck with your MAT preparation, and remember, every step you take towards mastering this test is a step towards your future in mathematics at one of the world's leading universities.