Test for Tabs
The University of Cambridge has announced plans to introduce a new aptitude test (the Bmat) for applicants to several subjects, including economics, natural sciences, engineering and computer science.
22 of the 24 undergraduate colleges are piloting new brain-teasing tests following concerns about the record number of students getting straight As in their A-levels this year.
The papers have been described as "a combination of logic and problem-solving with an overlay of judgement and understanding." They have been introduced in order to complement the interview process, because admissions tutors are finding it increasingly difficult to distinguish between good and excellent candidates. The Director of Admissions at Cambridge, Susan Stobbs, said, "we do not wish to over-burden candidates but we are faced with the problem that the national examinations are not helping us much".
There are currently no plans for Oxford to introduce such methods except in medicine, but a spokeswoman said that they would be monitoring the success of the Bmat, and may consider employing it in the selection process for other subjects in the future.
16th Oct 2003