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Admissions Tests

What makes a "good" Admissions Test?

SPA is not an auditing or validating body, nor does it comment on the value of the tests. We recommend HEIs consider if it is, or why it was, necessary to introduce a test and set this against the SPA criteria below.

SPA believes admissions tests should:

• Have rigorous validation and reliability testing
• Be supported by statistical and research evidence
• Ensure the minimum of bias in the test questions so the test is valid for applicants from all backgrounds in a UK context
• Be readily available and accessible to those with evidence of specific requirements in a timely way
• Provide exemplar materials and tests with answers
• Be fairly and professionally administered
• Be able to demonstrate they are fit for purpose and add value as part of holistic decision-making
• Be approved for use through the HEI's relevant structures and processes. Additionally, HEIs should ensure their appeal and complaint mechanisms cover queries about admissions tests.

HEIs should review the balance of factors for and against the introduction of a test, before the use is approved within the institution. Institutions should consider whether the potential of applicants can be assessed without the additional information that a test score may provide and they should be clear about what the test result will tell them about applicants.

If a fee is charged for a test consideration should be given by the HEI/test body to providing a fee waiver or bursary to applicants from widening participation/access backgrounds. HEIs may also wish to consider if, as part of their outreach and widening inclusion activities, they should provide potential students from a widening participation/access background with sessions for 'familiarisation' with the test.

SPA's initial report on admissions tests (June 2007), which was also submitted to the Government's Education and Skills Select Committee: Inquiry into Testing and Assessment, can be found here as a word document: Admissions Tests report.

More information about individual course entry qualifications and Entry Profiles is available on UCAS Course Search.

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Reviewed and updated: June 2011