TSA
Thinking Skills Assessment - University of Cambridge
Test Information:
The University of Cambridge has been using the TSA (designed, developed and extensively researched by Cambridge Assessment) since 2001. This test measures an applicant's critical thinking and problem solving skills which are highly relevant to successful study at degree level. It is not subject-specific, so can be applied to various courses.
With the TSA, the aim is to provide an assessment of skills. Thinking Skills, which are teachable and can be useful to students in many different subject areas. For example, the skill of Critical Thinking can be useful in subject areas ranging from the Humanities (interpreting background documents and understanding the arguments in historical documents) and the Arts (following the reasoning of great thinkers) right through to the Sciences (appreciating advances in scientific development).
The TSA, then, reflects the skills that allow students to "work outside the box". Thus using the TSA should have a positive effect on study skills, as opposed to other kinds of tests that may simply provide snapshots of performance.
The test comprises of a 90 minute multiple choice test paper consisting of 50 questions focused on problem solving skills, including numerical and spatial reasoning and critical thinking skills, including understanding arguments and reasoning using everyday language.
Developed by Cambridge Assessment
Validation/reliability research by - Cambridge Assessment
Taken at - University of Cambridge/Cambridge Colleges. Online test or pencil-and-paper test (to be decided by the Cambridge College setting the test)
When - at interview
Duration - 90 minutes
How much - free to applicants
Fee reimbursement/bursary - N/A
Test required by - Cambridge Colleges for various courses (please check your chosen course and College below to establish whether a TSA test needs to be undertaken)
Website - Cambridge Assessment Admissions Tests - University of Cambridge
to topWhere TSA Cambridge is used:
TSA Cambridge is required for admission to some Colleges at the University of Cambridge:
Computer Science
Economics
Engineering
Land Economy
Natural Sciences
Politics, Psychology and Sociology
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Reviewed and updated: June 2011