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Oxford's Department of Physics says everyone who applies to study Physics or Physics and Philosophy, without exception, must take the Engineering and Science Admissions Test (ESAT), a two-hour test that evaluates a student's ability in both physics and maths. The standard A-level offer is A*AA, which must include both Physics and Maths, with an A* in any of Mathematics, Physics or Further Mathematics.
The ESAT for Oxford Physics
The next ESAT will be 12-16 October 2026, according to the Department of Physics. All applicants are required to take the Mathematics I, Mathematics II and Physics modules. The department says the syllabus and difficulty level of the October 2026 ESAT will be different from those of the previously used Physics Aptitude Test (PAT).
Booking, test specifications and sample tests are on the UAT-UK site.
The offer
Oxford's Department of Physics has a standard offer at A level of A*AA which must include both physics and maths with an A* in any of mathematics, physics or further mathematics. You are also expected to pass the practical component of any science A level used to meet your offer.
Course page lists UCAS code F303 and application deadline 15 October 2026.
Shortlisting and interviews
Because there are typically 8-10 applicants per place, the Department of Physics shortlists to around 2.5 interviewed candidates per place (around 500 in total). The primary shortlisting criterion is the ESAT score, interpreted in the light of contextual data about candidates. Candidates normally receive two interview marks from their first college, each out of 10, and one interview mark (out of 10) from a second college chosen at random. Interviews are academic and principally consist of maths and physics questions. All interviews are virtual.
How decisions are made
Each candidate is given a numerical total score calculated from the ESAT score and interview scores, moderated by contextual information. The department says this score is used to rank applicants but is not an absolute admission criterion, because exam results, references and personal statements are also considered. Candidates are put into three bands: band A, approximately the top 100; band B, approximately the next 200; band C, those ranked below. Slightly over 200 offers are made each year. Final decisions are made by colleges in a joint meeting of all college physics tutors, so a candidate can receive an offer from any college, including one that did not interview them.
Physics and Philosophy
Applicants for Physics and Philosophy take the same ESAT and are assessed for physics in much the same way as single-honours applicants, with additional philosophy interviews.
Sources
- Oxford Physics course page
- Oxford Department of Physics, Admissions procedures for physics courses
- Oxford Department of Physics, ESAT page
- UAT-UK ESAT page
Always check Oxford's pages for the current requirements before you apply.
Last verified: 14 October 2026
Related
FAQs
Do I need to take the ESAT to apply for Physics at Oxford?
Oxford's Department of Physics says everyone who applies to study Physics or Physics and Philosophy must take the ESAT, without exception, and that all applicants take the Mathematics I, Mathematics II and Physics modules.
What A-level grades does Oxford ask for in Physics?
The Department of Physics has a standard offer of A*AA which must include Physics and Maths, with an A* in any of Mathematics, Physics or Further Mathematics.