The Foundation Year in Chemistry, Engineering and Materials Science (CEMS) provides a strong grounding in core scientific and mathematical principles. The course places particular emphasis on building your confidence in applying knowledge, rather than simply acquiring it. Through problem-solving, laboratory work and an independent mini project, you will develop the skills needed to approach unfamiliar questions and work with increasing independence.

You will apply for a specific subject pathway, linked to the undergraduate degree you intend to study. These are:

• Chemistry with Foundation Year, the use of chemical and mathematical principles to explain the behaviour of atoms and molecules, and their physical and chemical properties.
• Engineering Science options*, with Foundation Year, applying mathematics and science to solve real-world problems 
• Materials Science with Foundation Year, exploring how materials are structured, how they behave, and how they can be designed for different applications 

Teaching during the Foundation Year is tailored to support your chosen pathway and prepare you for undergraduate study in that subject. All CEMS students follow a shared mathematics programme during the Foundation Year.  

* For Engineering Science, the options on UCAS include: Biomedical, Chemical, Civil, Electrical, Engineering, Information or Mechanical Engineering, but all options share the same syllabus on the Foundation Year. This reflects the unified approach of the Engineering Science course at Oxford: all students study the same core content, building a broad foundation before specialising later in their undergraduate degree.

Preparation for Undergraduate Studies
Alongside your subject studies, you will take the Preparation for Undergraduate Studies course. This will help you develop core academic skills, including academic writing and communication skills, and opportunities for reflective practice, to support your progression to undergraduate level.

For Chemistry with Foundation Year, students are expected to have Chemistry and Mathematics to A-level (or any other accepted equivalent qualification). An additional science subject or further mathematics are also recommended.

The typical A-level entry requirements are AAB, with an A in Chemistry.

We do accept other types of qualifications. More information about the academic entry requirements and accepted qualifications is available on the Foundation Year in Chemistry, Engineering and Materials Science course page on the University of Oxford website. 

For all Engineering Science with Foundation Year pathways, students are expected to have Physics and Mathematics to A-level (or any other accepted equivalent qualification). 

The typical A-level entry requirements are AAB, with an A in Physics.

We do accept other types of qualifications. More information about the academic entry requirements and accepted qualifications is available on the Foundation Year in Chemistry, Engineering and Materials Science course page on the University of Oxford website. 

All applicants must take the Engineering and Science Admissions Test (ESAT) as part of their application.  

For Materials Science with Foundation Year, students are expected to have Physics and Mathematics to A-level (or any other accepted equivalent qualification). GCSE-level Chemistry is also required and Chemistry at A level is highly recommended.

The typical A-level entry requirements are AAB, with an A in either Physics or Maths or Chemistry is required

We do accept other types of qualifications. More information about the academic entry requirements and accepted qualifications is available on the Foundation Year in Chemistry, Engineering and Materials Science course page on the University of Oxford website.  

All applicants for Engineering Science options with Foundation Year must take the Engineering and Science Admissions Test (ESAT) as part of their application. This must be taken before submitting your UCAS application and requires advance registration. This means that you should begin preparing your application earlier than in previous admissions cycles.

All applicants for Foundation Year in Engineering Science courses at Oxford University must take the following three modules: 

• Mathematics 1
• Mathematics 2
• Physics 

Foundation Year applicants can take the ESAT in either the October or January test window. Please visit the Admissions tests page on the University website for more information.

Visit the UAT-UK website for all information about:

• when and how to book your test appointment
• when and how to apply for access arrangements and bursaries
• how best to prepare for your test
• what to expect on the day of your test.

Bursaries for admissions tests

Candidates in financial need may be eligible for a bursary to cover the full cost of the ESAT admissions test. The bursary scheme is offered directly by UAT UK.

Bursaries are available for candidates who meet specific eligibility criteria, including applicants in receipt of Free School Meals, the 16–19 Bursary, or certain means-tested benefits. Supporting evidence is required as part of the application process. Applications for bursaries are made through your UAT-UK online account before booking your test.

• If you intend to take the test in October 2026, you must apply for a bursary by 21st September 2026, 6pm GMT.
• If you intend to take the test in January 2027, you must apply for a bursary by 14th December 2026, 6pm GMT.

Further information about eligibility and the application process is available on the UAT-UK bursary scheme website.