Mathematics 1
- Algebra and functions
- Sequences and series
- Coordinate geometry
- Trigonometry
- Differentiation and integration
The Admissions Test
What is the ESAT?
The Engineering and Science Admissions Test (ESAT) is required for applications to Physics, Physics & Philosophy, and Engineering courses at Oxford University, Cambridge University, and Imperial College London. It is a competitive, paper-based test taken in October of Year 13, and performance in it carries significant weight in the admissions decision.
Required modules for your course
- Mathematics 1 — compulsory for all ESAT applicants
- Mathematics 2 — required for Physics, Physics & Philosophy, and Engineering
- Physics — required for Physics, Physics & Philosophy, and Engineering
Each module is 40 minutes and consists entirely of multiple-choice questions. There is no negative marking. All three modules are covered in this preparation programme.
Syllabus
Module 1
Module 2
Module 3
What the Course Covers
Each ESAT module is taught in full, with emphasis on technique, accuracy under time pressure, and recognising the question patterns the test consistently rewards.
Mathematics 2
- Further calculus
- Differential equations
- Complex numbers
- Vectors and matrices
- Proof and mathematical reasoning
Physics
- Mechanics and dynamics
- Waves and optics
- Electricity and magnetism
- Fields and particle physics
- Thermal and modern physics
Your Tutor
About Dr Anthony Korte
Dr Korte brings first-hand knowledge of what top universities test and why. A former Oxford Physics student ranked 2nd worldwide in entrance examinations, he works as an experienced PAT tutor and ESAT tutor with a strong record of preparing students for the Oxford Physics Aptitude Test (PAT), the ESAT, and other competitive university admissions tests.
- Undergraduate
- First Class degree in Physics, University of Oxford
- Postgraduate
- MSc with Distinction in Mathematical Modelling, University College London
- Doctorate
- PhD in Theoretical Physics, Imperial College London
- Research
- Published peer-reviewed research in theoretical physics
- Teaching
- Member of the Institute of Physics (MInstP). Extensive experience preparing students for competitive university admissions tests, including Oxford PAT, MAT, and ESAT
How It Works
Course Format
The programme is designed to be rigorous without being overwhelming — structured contact time, manageable group sizes, and a clear focus on what the test actually demands.
Group size
Small group tuition
Small groups allow targeted feedback and genuine discussion of problem-solving approaches.
Delivery
Online via Zoom
Interactive sessions with screen-sharing and real-time working through problems.
Coverage
All three ESAT modules
Mathematics 1, Mathematics 2, and Physics taught in a structured sequence.
Focus
Technique and strategy
Emphasis on problem-solving method, not just content recall. Timed practice under exam conditions.
September 2026 courses: 2-day Maths & Physics — £295; 1-day Maths or Physics — £195 each. 1-to-1 tuition also available at £70/hour. Full details and booking at physicsandmathscourses.com.
Student outcomes
What students and parents say
“Just to let you know — he got an offer from Oxford for Engineering.”
Parent — 2025
“She received a conditional offer to read Engineering at New College, Oxford.”
Parent — 2024
For returning visitors
Previously the Oxford PAT
Students and parents searching for an oxford pat online course or esat course online will find this programme directly relevant. The Oxford Physics Aptitude Test (PAT) was an Oxford University admissions test and the inspiration for this site’s domain name, which retains search value for those familiar with the legacy name. Oxford, Cambridge, and Imperial College now use the ESAT for applicants to Physics, Physics & Philosophy, and Engineering. Our preparation programme has been fully updated for the current ESAT format and syllabus. Oxford University’s own preparation course — formerly known as “Preparing for Oxford PAT” — is now called “Preparing for Oxford Physics”.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the ESAT?
- The Engineering and Science Admissions Test (ESAT) is a written admissions test required for applications to Physics, Physics & Philosophy, and Engineering courses at Oxford University, Cambridge University, and Imperial College London. It consists of multiple-choice questions across three modules: Mathematics 1, Mathematics 2, and Physics. Each module is 40 minutes and there is no negative marking. The test is taken in October of Year 13 and carries significant weight in the admissions decision.
- Which courses require the ESAT?
- The ESAT is required for Cambridge University applications to Physics, Physics & Philosophy, and all Engineering courses (including Chemical Engineering). Applicants to these courses must sit Mathematics 1, Mathematics 2, and Physics modules.
- What does the ESAT preparation course cover?
- The course covers all three ESAT modules in full: Mathematics 1 (algebra, functions, calculus, sequences and series), Mathematics 2 (further calculus, differential equations, complex numbers, vectors), and Physics (mechanics, waves, electricity, fields, thermal physics, modern physics). Each module is 40 minutes of multiple-choice questions. The focus is on problem-solving technique, exam strategy, accuracy under timed conditions, and extensive practice with past-paper style questions.
- How does online ESAT tuition work?
- Sessions are delivered online via Zoom in small groups. Dr Korte works through problems in real time using screen-sharing, with students able to ask questions and discuss approaches throughout. This format combines the rigour of structured classroom teaching with the convenience of online delivery.
- What makes Dr Korte qualified to teach ESAT preparation?
- Dr Korte holds a First Class degree in Physics from the University of Oxford (ranked 2nd in entrance examinations worldwide), an MSc with Distinction in Mathematical Modelling from University College London, and a PhD in Theoretical Physics from Imperial College London. He is a Member of the Institute of Physics (MInstP) and has extensive experience as a PAT tutor and ESAT tutor, helping students secure offers from Oxford and Cambridge.
- Is this course suitable for Year 12 students as well as Year 13?
- Yes. While the ESAT is sat in October of Year 13, starting preparation in Year 12 allows more time to develop the depth of understanding the test rewards. Year 12 students who begin early are often better placed to consolidate their A-level content alongside ESAT-specific technique. Dr Korte can advise on the most suitable timing for individual students.
- How much does the ESAT preparation course cost?
- September 2026 course fees: 2-day Maths & Physics — £295; 1-day Maths only — £195; 1-day Physics only — £195. 1-to-1 tuition is also available at £70 per hour. Full details and booking at physicsandmathscourses.com.
- When are the September 2026 ESAT courses?
- The September 2026 courses run on 19–20 September 2026. The 2-day course covers both days; the 1-day Maths course runs on 19 September; the 1-day Physics course runs on 20 September. Places are limited — early booking is recommended.
- I was looking for Oxford PAT preparation — is this the right course?
- Yes. This site was originally dedicated to Oxford PAT preparation. The Oxford Physics Aptitude Test (PAT) has been replaced by the ESAT for Oxford, Cambridge, and Imperial College applications. Students searching for an oxford pat online course or esat course online will find this preparation programme directly relevant. The course has been fully updated for the current ESAT syllabus and format.