UCAT 2025
The UCAT is changing. In 2025, Abstract Reasoning will be withdrawn from the test. The test will comprise 3 cognitive subtests (Verbal Reasoning, Decision Making and Quantitative Reasoning) alongside the Situational Judgement Test.
In 2025, the standard exam will have the following structure and timings:
| Subtest |
Questions |
Subtest Time |
Scoring |
| Verbal Reasoning |
44 |
22 minutes |
300-900 |
| Decision Making |
35 |
37 minutes |
300-900 |
| Quantitative Reasoning |
36 |
26 minutes |
300-900 |
| Total Score |
|
|
900-2700 |
| Situational Judgement |
69 |
26 minutes |
Bands 1-4 |
The introduction screen for each section is timed separately. The total exam takes just under 2 hours.
Extended test times will be adjusted accordingly.
Further information can be found on the Test Format page.
UCAT 2025 FAQs
Why are we making these changes?
As part of our ongoing commitment to ensure the exam adds value to university selection processes, we monitor how each section of the test performs.
Our analysis has shown that Abstract Reasoning has lower predictive validity than the other sections. Researchers have consistently shown weaker predictive and incremental validity of the Abstract Reasoning subtest (Bela et al, 2022; Paton et al, 2022; Greatrix et al, 2021; Tiffin et al, 2016) compared to the other subtests. That means the subtest is not as effective as the other subtests in predicting candidate performance at university.
The test also has high coachability. Historical data on the Abstract Reasoning subtest has shown that candidate performance has increased, and response times decreased over the past 10 years. The nature of the subtest makes it much more coachable compared to the other cognitive subtests.
Removing the Abstract Reasoning subtest, allows us to allocate additional time to the remaining subtests and in Decision Making to increase the number of questions.
How will my score compare to historic values?
Although your overall total score will be different, the scores for each subtest will remain broadly comparable to previous years. We select exam forms using a set of content and statistical rules as well as standard equating methods to ensure results remain comparable between years.
We will provide information for candidates so that they can relate the new ‘three subtest structure’ back to performance in previous years.
When will preparation materials be available?
The new practice tests will be launched on 1st March 2025.
Candidates should use the free, official preparation materials to support their test preparation.
Due to these changes, the advice from commercial companies offering test preparation advice/materials may be incorrect as may advice more generally available online.
We therefore strongly advise candidates to use the official practice materials on our website, and to be cautious about using resources from any commercial providers, as these are not affiliated with UCAT in any way.
