Test dates
When Is the ESAT 2027?
The October 2026 sitting is the one Cambridge and Oxford need for the normal October UCAS deadline. That is the main date for 2027-entry applicants.
Last checked against UAT-UK: . Always confirm details on the official UAT-UK website before booking.
Countdown to the October sitting
October sitting countdown
55 days
until the October 2026 sitting opens on 12 October.
2027 entry sittings
| Sitting | Test window | Booking opens | Booking deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| October 2026 | 12 to 16 October 2026 | 20 July 2026 | 28 September 2026, 6pm UK |
| January 2027 | 4 to 8 January 2027 | 26 October 2026 | 21 December 2026, 6pm UK |
Full calendar: ESAT test dates.
China, Hong Kong and Macau
The window is narrower in China, Hong Kong and Macau. Book early.
| Sitting | Available dates |
|---|---|
| October 2026 | 12 or 13 October 2026 |
| January 2027 | 6 January 2027 |
Cambridge and Oxford
Cambridge
Normal 15 October deadline applicants must use October. Mature January applicants can use January.
Oxford
Standard undergraduate applicants with the 15 October deadline must use October.
Course-by-course modules: ESAT university requirements.
Time of day
There is no official best ESAT time. Pick the time when you are normally alert. Do not sacrifice a reliable travel plan for a supposed advantage.
Test centres
The ESAT is delivered at Pearson VUE test centres. Prioritise a reliable route, minimal travel stress and a time that fits your normal routine.
Book early
Booking early gives you a better chance of getting your preferred centre and appointment.
Frequently asked questions
When is the ESAT for 2027 entry?
The October sitting is 12 to 16 October 2026. The January sitting is 4 to 8 January 2027. Standard Cambridge and Oxford applicants with the 15 October UCAS deadline need October.
Can Cambridge or Oxford applicants sit in January?
Standard undergraduate applicants with the 15 October deadline must use October. Cambridge mature January applicants can use January. Check your specific course if you think you are an exception.
Is there a best time of day for the ESAT?
There is no official best ESAT time. Pick the slot when you are normally alert, and do not sacrifice a reliable travel plan for a supposed advantage.
Book early, then practise the sitting you actually have
Booking early helps with centre and time choice. Once the slot is fixed, the useful work is module practice, not hunting for a magic time of day.
Related guides
ESAT test dates
October 2026 and January 2027 sittings, deadlines and results dates.
What test day is like
Module timing, breaks, whiteboards, flagging and review screens.
ESAT preparation guide
The full plan: order of work, timeline and what to practise first.
ESAT university requirements
Cambridge, Oxford, Imperial and UCL modules, sittings and published data for 2027.
Does the ESAT have breaks?
Toilet breaks, module timing and access arrangements.
ESAT whiteboard rules
What you get for rough working, what you cannot bring, and what to practise with.
Sources
ESATCAMP is an independent preparation resource and is not affiliated with or endorsed by UAT-UK, Pearson VUE or any university.