Overview of BMSAT (Biomedical Science Admissions Test)
- The BMSAT is required for all applicants to Oxford’s Biomedical Sciences
undergraduate course (course code BC98), beginning with 2025 entry - It replaced the previous BMAT for this course from October 2024 (for 2025 admission) onward
Test Format & Content
- Duration: 90 minutes.
- Structure: 80 multiple-choice questions (20 questions each in Biology, Chemistry,
Mathematics, and Physics) - Content Level: Based on GCSE Higher Tier (or equivalent) for each
subject—nothing beyond that, unlike BMAT Section 2 which covered some A-level
content - Scoring:
– One mark per correct answer (max score = 80)
– No negative marking, so always attempt every question
Key Dates & Registration
- Registration Window: 18 June – 19 September 2025 (6 pm BST) via Oxford
Admissions Test Registration Portal - Booking Opens: 18 August – 26 September 2025 (6 pm BST) for selecting date and
test centre - Exam Dates: 21–24 October & 27 October 2025. (Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 are
excluded) University of Oxford - Test Delivery: Computer-based, administered at Pearson VUE authorised centres,
free via Oxford (though some centres may charge small invigilation fees) - UCAS ID requirement: Must be provided during registration to match your test
booking with your Oxford application; ensure both Oxford portal and UCAS use the
same email
Scoring & What Makes a Strong Performance
While there is no formal pass mark:
Preparation Tips
Content Revision
- Refresh knowledge across core GCSE topics for Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and
- Maths using official Department for Education specifications
- University of Oxford
Especially review Physics formulae—these are often forgotten post-GCSE and non-
calculator questions can be tricky
Practice Strategy
- Gather BMAT Section 2 past papers (since there are few official BMSAT papers
yet). Focus on questions drawing only from GCSE-level content - Begin with untimed practice to grasp format, then build up to timed mock exams
under full testing conditions - Practice transitions quickly between subject sections—you’re essentially doing four
mini-tests back-to-back within 90 minutes
Exam Technique
- As there’s no negative marking, answer every question, even if guessing.
- Work on time management: you have roughly 1.125 minutes per question (~67
seconds each). - Familiarise yourself early with non-calculator mental calculations, especially in
Maths and Physics.
On Test Day
- Arrive with valid ID as required by Pearson VUE centres.
- The test will be computer-based and automatically marked.
- Manage your time between sections carefully—don’t get stuck early on tricky
questions.
After the Test & Results
- Results: Typically released in January following the October test.
- Applicants receive
decisions via UCAS from the university (and individual policies may vary slightly). - Admissions Decisions: Based on a combination of your BMSAT score, academic
record, personal statement, references, and interview performance.
Summary
BMSAT is a 90-minute, 80-question multiple-choice test (20 questions in each
GCSE-level science or Maths subject), with no negative marking.Required for applicants to Oxford’s Biomedical Sciences course from October 2025.
Register between 18 June and 19 September 2025, book test dates from 18 August to
26 September, and sit the test between 21–24 Oct or 27 Oct 2025.Strong performance (60+) improves interview chances, but success depends on the
overall application.Preparation should focus on GCSE revision, high-volume practice under timed
conditions, and mastering exam technique without a calculator.If you need help preparing for the UCAT or understanding how it applies to specific
universities, feel free to ask!
