TMUA Preparation Course
Oxbridge Gateway delivers a high-impact TMUA (Test of Mathematics for University Admission) Preparation Programme, designed to elevate students’ performance in this demanding assessment. Led by Oxbridge-trained mathematics specialists, the programme provides expert guidance, targeted strategies, and intensive practice to ensure candidates approach both papers with confidence and precision.
The TMUA assesses advanced mathematical reasoning, problem-solving, and logical thinking under timed conditions. Our programme offers flexible delivery through personalised one-to-one coaching or dynamic group sessions, ensuring every student receives the support they need. With tailored diagnostics, targeted strategies, and focused practice, we equip candidates to approach both Papers 1 and 2 with confidence and precision. Join us to strengthen your skills, refine your technique, and gain the edge required to succeed at the highest level.
About the TMUA
The TMUA is a key requirement for economics, computer science, and related undergraduate courses at top UK universities, including the University of Cambridge.
It is a computer-based test that assesses mathematical reasoning, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills through two papers: Applications of Mathematical Knowledge and Mathematical Reasoning. The TMUA lasts 2 hours 30 minutes in total, and does not allow the use of calculators or dictionaries.
For 2026 entry, registration opens on 31 July 2025 and closes on 29 September 2025. Cambridge applicants must sit the test on 13 or 14 October 2025, while other universities may accept the next test window which falls on 8 and 9 January 2026.
Courses That Require or Recommend TMUA:
University of Cambridge
Required: Computer Science, Economics
London School of Economics (LSE)
Required: Economics, Econometrics & Mathematical Economics
Recommended: Mathematics with Economics, Financial Mathematics, Data Science, Actuarial Science
University of Warwick
Required: Computer Science, Economics, Mathematics, Discrete Mathematics
Recommended: Economics & Management, Mathematics & Statistics, MORSE, Data Science
Imperial College London
Required: Mathematics and related courses
Recommended: Economics, Finance & Data Science
Durham University
Recommended: Mathematics, Mathematics & Statistics
University College London (UCL)
Recommended: Economics and related courses
Other universities may accept TMUA for mathematics-related courses It is important to check each university’s website for details.
TMUA scores are considered alongside academic achievements and personal statements, helping universities make holistic admissions decisions. Performing well demonstrates strong mathematical understanding, clear reasoning, and problem-solving skills, all essential for success in competitive undergraduate programs.
The TMUA Test Format
The TMUA is made up of two papers, each 75 minutes long, featuring multiple-choice questions designed to test mathematical reasoning and problem-solving skills.
PAPER 1
Applications of Mathematical Knowledge
Assesses the ability of student to apply mathematical knowledge in unfamiliar situations
20 multiple choice questions 75 minutes
PAPER 2
Mathematical Reasoning
Assesses the ability of student to deal with mathematical reasoning and simple ideas from elementary logic
20 multiple choice questions 75 minutes
TMUA 1-1 Personalised Tutorials
Papers 1 & 2: Individually Online
Our TMUA Individual Tutorials provide a one to one personalised approach tailored to each student's learning style and goals. Both Paper 1 and Paper 2 are taught by Oxbridge educated experts. The standard course can be customised to strengthen mathematical reasoning, problem solving, critical thinking, all essential for success in the TMUA. Students benefit from targeted feedback, detailed explanations, and bespoke worked examples designed to maximise assessment performance.
Flexible Schedule
Our private tuition offers a flexible schedule of personalised, expert-led sessions. Lessons can be spread out over several weeks or consolidated into a shorter frame (1 or 2 days), depending on each student’s preferences and availability. For students who are already familiar with the test format and content, we typically recommend 4 lessons (4 hours) to cover both papers.
Customisable Curriculum
Our tutoring services offer a high degree of customisability, catering to the specific needs of different students including ESL and those who require additional support. Tailored lessons are designed to address individual requirements, ensuring comprehensive guidance and targeted assistance throughout the TMUA preparation process.
Personalised Guidance
Students receive actionable feedback and useful tips on questions from all sections and best ways to prepare for the test, enabling them to identify strengths and areas for improvement.
TMUA School Tutorials
Papers 1 & 2: Group Online
Our TMUA Group Classes provide a fully interactive and collaborative learning environment where participants benefit from targeted feedback and expert led explanations. The course can be delivered for a group of up to 15 students, fostering a deeper understanding of the test requirements and strategies through group discussions with our TMUA Specialist. Section 1 is taught by an Oxbridge educated expert, including tutors with prior teaching experience at Oxbridge.
Tailored Class Structure
For school group tutorials, we recommend scheduling two sessions of two hours each (both sessions can be on the same day), designed for a class of up to 15 students. This structure includes interactive teaching and targeted feedback, ensuring that all participants gain a solid understanding of the key strategies and skills needed for both papers of TMUA. The structure can also be customised to suit the specific needs and objectives of the school or group.
Resource-Optimised Learning
The live format of the group tutorial enables direct interaction with the instructor, ensuring participants receive focused explanations, practical guidance, and targeted feedback. This approach supports students in identifying their strengths and areas for improvement while benefiting from structured collaborative learning.
Peer Support and Motivation
Participants benefit from peer support and collaboration in our group tutorials, where they can exchange ideas on practice exercises. This collaborative atmosphere help consolidate skills and knowledge during the sessions and foster each other's academic growth and success.
Our TMUA
Partnerships Director
John Au
MBA LLM MSci MA (Cantab)
Partnerships Director
John studied Natural Sciences (Chemistry) at King’s College, University of Cambridge, graduating in 2005. He subsequently earned both an LLM and an MBA from the University of London. Over the past two decades, John has held senior product leadership roles across multiple sectors, developing innovative digital solutions that leverage AI and behavioural science to transform how people learn, work, and make decisions.
His professional experience includes senior product management at Raspberry Pi, where he led the development of EdTech initiatives, and product management at Cambridge Cognition, managing the development of digital cognitive assessment tools for clinical trials. John also served as Head of Product at Verint Transversal, specialising in AI-powered knowledge management systems. This diverse background has given him a unique perspective on building scalable, user-centred technology products that align complex technical solutions with real-world user needs.
In addition to his corporate roles, John has been active in start-up funding and strategic partnerships, with a strong focus on scaling bold ideas—a concept he calls “10X thinking.” He currently leads digital product development at Oxbridge Gateway, overseeing the ASPIREdeck initiative, which integrates advanced psychometric and educational tools to transform students’ university preparation and early career growth. In his role as Partnerships Director for Oxbridge Gateway, he collaborates with high schools and academic institutions to expand access to these transformative tools.
Beyond his professional responsibilities, John mentors individuals on university applications and early-career development, contributing to numerous successful admissions to top-tier institutions worldwide. His overarching goal is to build scalable, highly-personalised, data-driven platforms that enhance educational guidance on a global scale.
Our TMUA Courses Highlights
In-Depth Study Resources
Gain access to proprietary materials, featuring expert-crafted practice questions, model answers, test-taking strategies, and additional resources.
Oxbridge-Educated Instructors
Our distinguished STEM faculty comprises seasoned professionals with unparalleled expertise in the TMUA and a proven track record of guiding students to success.
Exclusive Insights
Our course offers invaluable tips and strategies derived from extensive experience and a profound understanding of common pitfalls and effective techniques.
Comprehensive Curriculum
Our curriculum is exhaustive, encompassing multiple choice and essay section with in-depth analysis, worked examples and guided practices.
Personalised Feedback
Students receive actionable feedback on multiple-choice questions, enabling them to identify strengths, common pitfalls and areas for improvement.
Interactive Sessions
Engaging, interactive live sessions with our TMUA specialist to clarify doubts, reinforce learning, and provide real-time guidance.
Customisable
Our course can be tailored to meet the specific needs of individual institutions, accommodating various class sizes and extending the course duration as necessary.