A-Level Physics and A-Level Maths combined — most questions involve both subjects.

In the autumn of your application year, with the result forming part of your UCAS application.

Do I need Further Maths?

A-Level Maths is the baseline; Further Maths is helpful but not essential — we prepare students with and without it.

How is it different from A-Level exams?

A-Level tests knowledge within a familiar framework; the PAT tests applying maths and physics to unfamiliar problems from first principles.

PAT Preparation in London (Oxford Physics & Engineering)

For Oxford physics & engineering

Maths and physics combined in a single demanding paper. Our specialist tutors prepare you to handle the breadth and the time pressure with confidence, in small groups of no more than four.

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A student preparing for the Oxford Physics Aptitude Test at Excel Tutors

CombinesA-Level physics & maths
UniversityOxford (physics & engineering)
SatAutumn of application year
Class sizeMax 4 · 2-hour lessons

The PAT is required by Oxford for physics and engineering applicants, combining maths and physics in a single demanding paper.

Our specialist physics and maths tutors prepare students to handle the breadth and the time pressure with confidence — closing the gap between A-Level exam questions and the deeper reasoning the PAT requires.

What we focus on

Physics and maths, interwoven

Physics breadth

Mechanics, waves, electricity and more, applied to unfamiliar problems.

The maths it leans on

Algebra, calculus and trigonometry in context — integration and differentiation under pressure.

Speed & accuracy

Built through timed past-paper practice and speed drills.

Integrated thinking

Using maths as a tool in physics problems, with feedback on working, not just answers.

FAQs

Questions, answered

Applicants to physics and engineering at Oxford. Always check your university's entry page to confirm.

Master the maths and physics the PAT demands

A free assessment shows where you are across both subjects and builds a timed prep plan.