UCL Computer Science New STAT Admissions Test: Content and Preparation Tips | UCL计算机专业新增STAT笔试考查内容与备考建议

📚 UCL Computer Science New STAT Admissions Test: Content and Preparation Tips | UCL计算机专业新增STAT笔试考查内容与备考建议

For the 2025 entry cycle, UCL has introduced a major change to its Computer Science admissions process: all applicants must now take the STAT (Special Tertiary Admissions Test). This replaces earlier optional tests and ensures a fair, aptitude-based assessment for one of the UK’s most competitive computing programmes. This article explains exactly what the STAT involves, why it matters, and how to prepare effectively.

从2025年入学申请开始，伦敦大学学院（UCL）对其计算机科学专业的招生流程进行了重大调整：所有申请者必须参加STAT（特殊高等教育入学测试）。这项测试取代了以往可选的附加考试，旨在为这一竞争极为激烈的专业提供公平、基于能力的评估。本文将详细解读STAT考试的内容、重要性及高效备考策略。

1. Introduction: Why UCL Now Requires STAT | 引言：UCL为何新增STAT要求

Computer Science at UCL has become one of its most oversubscribed courses, with offer rates often below 10%. Traditional A-level or IB predictions, while important, cannot always differentiate top candidates. The STAT, developed by the Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER), measures generic reasoning and communication skills that are essential for university study – specifically quantitative reasoning, critical thinking, and written English. By requiring STAT scores, UCL gains a standardised metric to evaluate applicants from diverse educational backgrounds on a level playing field.

UCL的计算机科学专业已经成为该校最供不应求的课程之一，录取率往往低于10%。仅凭A-level或IB预估成绩，虽然重要，但无法总是有效区分顶尖申请者。由澳大利亚教育研究委员会（ACER）开发的STAT测试，衡量的是大学学习所必需的通用推理与沟通能力——具体包括定量推理、批判性思维和英语写作。通过要求STAT成绩，UCL获得了一个标准化的衡量标尺，能够在公平的基础上评估来自不同教育背景的申请者。

The test is not subject-specific; you do not need to know programming or advanced mathematics. Instead, it probes how well you can apply logic, interpret data, and construct a coherent argument under time pressure – skills that are at the heart of computer science.

该测试不考查具体学科知识；你不需要掌握编程或高等数学。相反，它考察的是你在时间压力下运用逻辑、解读数据和构建连贯论证的能力——这些正是计算机科学的核心素养。

2. STAT at a Glance: Test Structure and Timing | STAT考试概览：结构与时间分配

The UCL Computer Science STAT is a two-hour pen-and-paper or computer-based test that consists of two distinct parts. The table below summarises the key components.

UCL计算机科学专业要求的STAT考试为两小时笔试或机考，包含两个独立部分。下表总结了关键构成。

Section	Format	Questions	Time (approx.)
1. Multiple Choice: Quantitative Reasoning	35 multiple-choice questions	35	45 minutes
2. Multiple Choice: Critical Reasoning	35 multiple-choice questions	35	45 minutes
3. Written English (two short essays)	Two essay prompts; response required for both	2	30 minutes

The total duration is 120 minutes, and all sections must be completed in one sitting. The multiple-choice sections are scored separately, and the essays are assessed for clarity, coherence, and quality of argument.

总时长为120分钟，所有部分需在同一次考试中完成。选择题各部分独立评分，写作部分则根据清晰度、连贯性和论证质量评定。

Scores for quantitative and critical reasoning are typically reported on a scale from 100 to 200, with a mean around 150. UCL does not publish a fixed cut-off, but competitive applicants tend to achieve above 160 in each multiple-choice component and demonstrate strong written English.

定量推理和批判性推理的成绩通常以100至200的量表分报告，平均分约为150。UCL没有公布固定的分数线，但具有竞争力的申请者通常在每个选择题部分取得160分以上，并展示出优秀的英语写作能力。

3. Quantitative Reasoning: What It Tests | 定量推理：考查内容

The Quantitative Reasoning section assesses your ability to interpret numerical and graphical information and solve problems using basic mathematics. Topics include:

定量推理部分考查你解读数字和图形信息并运用基础数学解决问题的能力。涉及主题包括：

Interpretation of tables, bar charts, line graphs, and pie charts
Percentages, ratios, and proportions
Averages (mean, median, mode) and range
Simple probability and combinatorics
Currency conversion and unit analysis
Rate and speed calculations

Chinese: 解读表格、柱状图、折线图和饼图；百分比、比率和比例；平均数（均值、中位数、众数）和极差；简单概率与组合问题；货币换算和单位分析；速率与速度计算。

Each question presents a short stimulus – a graph, a table, or a few sentences of data – followed by a multiple-choice problem. No calculator is allowed in the paper-based format; for computer-based tests, a basic on-screen calculator may be available. You must therefore be comfortable with mental arithmetic and estimation.

每道题都会提供简短的刺激材料——一张图、一个表格或几行数据——然后给出一个选择题。笔试中不允许使用计算器；机考可能提供基本的屏幕计算器。因此你必须具备熟练的心算和估算能力。

For example, a typical question might show a table of smartphone sales over four quarters and ask: “If the profit margin is 25% and the total revenue in Q3 was £2.4 million, what was the profit in Q3?” You need to extract the relevant figure and apply a percentage.

例如，一道典型题目可能展示四个季度智能手机销量的表格，并提问：“如果利润率为25%，且第三季度总收入为240万英镑，那么第三季度的利润是多少？”你需要提取相关数据并进行百分比计算。

4. Critical Reasoning: What It Tests | 批判性推理：考查内容

The Critical Reasoning section measures your ability to comprehend, analyse, and evaluate arguments. It draws on short passages from a wide range of disciplines – science, humanities, social sciences, and everyday scenarios.

批判性推理部分衡量你理解、分析和评价论证的能力。题目取材于广泛的学科领域——科学、人文、社会科学以及日常情境。

Questions fall into several common types:

Identifying the main conclusion of a passage
Drawing an inference from given information
Spotting assumptions or flaws in reasoning
Evaluating the strength of supporting evidence
Applying principles to new situations

常见题型包括：识别段落的主要结论；从所给信息中推出推断；找出推理中的假设或漏洞；评价支持性证据的力度；将原则应用于新情境。

You do not need any prior subject knowledge. The test probes logical thinking: can you tell what follows from the text and what does not? Can you detect when an argument relies on an unstated assumption? Strong critical reasoning skills are vital for computer scientists who must debug code, design systems, and evaluate research.

你不需要提前储备任何学科知识。测试考察的是逻辑思维：你能判断文本能够推出什么、不能推出什么吗？你能察觉论证是否依赖未阐明的假设吗？强大的批判性推理能力对于需要调试代码、设计系统和评估研究的计算机科学家至关重要。

Practise by reading op-eds or scientific abstracts and asking: “What is the author trying to convince me of, and is the evidence sufficient?”

通过阅读评论文章或科学摘要来练习，并自问：“作者试图让我相信什么，证据充分吗？”

5. Written English: The Two Short Essays | 英语写作：两篇短文任务

The Written English component requires you to write two short essays in about 30 minutes. Prompts are typically argumentative or reflective, for example: “Is technology making us more or less connected?” or “Should funding for arts be reduced in favour of STEM?” You are assessed on the quality of your ideas, structure, clarity of expression, and control of English, not on whether the examiner agrees with your standpoint.

英语写作部分要求你在约30分钟内完成两篇短文。题目通常为议论文或反思性话题，例如：“科技让我们更紧密还是更疏远？”或“是否应该削减艺术资助以支持STEM学科？”评分依据是你的思想质量、文章结构、表达清晰度和英语运用能力，而非考官是否赞同你的观点。

Each essay should be concise (150–250 words). The key is to take a clear position in the opening sentence, develop two or three coherent points, and finish with a concluding thought. Avoid vague generalities; use concrete examples to back your argument. Because time is extremely tight, planning for 2–3 minutes per essay is essential.

每篇文章应简明扼要（150–250词）。关键在于开篇句便明确立场，展开两到三个连贯的论点，并以一个总结性思考收尾。避免模糊的空泛之谈，要用具体实例支撑论述。由于时间极为紧张，每篇文章花2–3分钟做提纲至关重要。

UCL uses this section to gauge your written communication skills, which are essential for lab reports, documentation, and collaborative projects. A strong essay demonstrates logical flow and a mature command of language.

UCL借助该部分衡量你的书面沟通能力，这对实验报告、文档撰写和协作项目不可或缺。一篇优秀的短文能够展示清晰的逻辑层次和成熟的语言驾驭力。

6. How STAT Differs from TMUA and Other Admissions Tests | STAT与TMUA及其他入学考试的区别

Previously, UCL Computer Science applicants were encouraged to sit the TMUA (Test of Mathematics for University Admission), which largely assesses mathematical reasoning and problem-solving in a more calculus- and algebra-heavy style. STAT, by contrast, is an aptitude test covering a broader range of generic skills: it includes verbal and quantitative reasoning in one instrument and adds a written English component. There is no advanced mathematics.

此前，UCL鼓励计算机科学申请者参加TMUA（大学入学数学测试），该测试主要考查数学推理和问题解决，风格偏向微积分和代数。相比之下，STAT是一项涵盖更广泛通用技能的性向测试：它在一份试卷中包含了文字推理和定量推理，并增加了英语写作部分。完全不涉及高等数学。

This shift means that students who excel in humanities and arts but have strong logical thinking can now compete more fairly alongside students with a pure STEM background. The STAT is also used by some Australian universities, giving it an international benchmarking flavour.

这一转变意味着，逻辑思维强但擅长人文艺术的学生现在可以与纯STEM背景的学生更公平地竞争。STAT也被多所澳大利亚大学采用，因而带有国际化基准考试的色彩。

Another important distinction: TMUA is mathematics-focused, whereas STAT requires balancing speed across quantitative, verbal, and writing tasks. Preparation must therefore be multi-dimensional.

另一个重要区别：TMUA聚焦于数学，而STAT要求在定量、文字和写作任务之间平衡速度。因此备考必须是多维度的。

7. Why STAT Scores Matter in UCL’s Holistic Review | STAT成绩在UCL综合评审中的重要性

Admissions tutors at UCL use STAT scores as one component in a holistic review process alongside predicted grades, personal statements, and references. Given that many applicants will present identical top-tier grades (e.g. A*A*A* or 44 IB points), STAT performance can be the tie‑breaker. A high STAT score signals that you can handle the intellectual demands of the course from day one.

UCL招生官将STAT成绩作为综合评审过程的一部分，与预估成绩、个人陈述和推荐信一同考量。由于许多申请者都会呈现完全相同的顶尖成绩（如A*A*A*或IB 44分），STAT表现就可能成为决胜因素。高STAT分数表明你从入学第一天起就能应对课程的智力挑战。

Importantly, a poor STAT score can significantly weaken an otherwise strong application. Therefore, treat the STAT as seriously as you would any A-level exam. Early registration and dedicated preparation are non‑negotiable.

重要的是，糟糕的STAT成绩会严重削弱原本强势的申请。因此，你应当像对待任何A-level大考一样认真对待STAT。尽早报名并投入专项准备是不可妥协的。

8. Preparation Strategy for Quantitative Reasoning | 定量推理备考策略

Start by revisiting GCSE-level numeracy: percentages, ratios, fractions, compound measures, and basic statistics. Then expand to data interpretation exercises. Work through official ACER STAT practice questions and also use resources designed for UK clinical aptitude tests (UCAT) quantitative reasoning sections, as the style is similar.

从复习GCSE程度的算术开始：百分比、比率、分数、复合测量和基础统计。然后扩展到数据解读训练。练习ACER官方的STAT样题，同时使用英国临床能力测试（UCAT）的定量推理部分作为辅助，因为风格非常接近。

Build your speed by timing every practice set. Aim to solve 35 questions in 45 minutes, which equates to roughly 75 seconds per question. Develop shortcuts: learn to estimate percentages, round numbers, and eliminate obviously wrong answers quickly. When you encounter a table, read the title, units, and headings first; do not dive straight into the numbers.

每次练习都要计时，提升速度。目标是在45分钟内完成35道题，平均每题约75秒。培养解题捷径：学会估算百分比、取整和快速排除明显错误的选项。遇到表格时，先读标题、单位和表头；不要直接扎进数字里。

Common pitfalls include misreading units (e.g. thousands vs. millions) and misinterpreting ‘which is NOT true’ questions. Maintain a log of your mistakes and review them periodically.

常见陷阱包括误读单位（如千与百万）和误解“哪一项不正确”之类的问题。建立错题日志，定期回顾复习。

9. Preparation Strategy for Critical Reasoning | 批判性推理备考策略

This section tests subtle logical distinctions. Begin by familiarising yourself with argument terminology: premise, conclusion, assumption, inference, and counterargument. Then practise with ACT/SAT reading sections, LNAT multiple-choice, and official STAT samples.

该部分考查细腻的逻辑区分。先熟悉论证术语：前提、结论、假设、推断和驳论。然后用ACT/SAT阅读部分、LNAT选择题和STAT官方样题进行练习。

For each passage, develop a disciplined approach: read the question stem first, then the passage, then predict an answer before looking at the options. This reduces the likelihood of being seduced by distractors. Common question types to master:

对每段材料，养成严谨的解题流程：先读题干，再读段落，然后在看选项前自己预判答案。这能降低被干扰项误导的风险。需要掌握的主要题型有：

Main conclusion – look for the statement that the whole text supports.
Inference – what must be true based on the passage, even if not stated.
Assumption – the unstated link that makes the argument valid.
Flaw – a weakness in how evidence leads to conclusion.

主要结论——寻找整段文本所支撑的陈述。推断——根据文段必然成立的，即使未明确说出。假设——使论证成立所需的未阐明的纽带。漏洞——证据导向结论过程中的弱点。

The language can be dense; improve your reading comprehension by regularly reading The Economist, Nature news, or well‑argued editorials. Summarise each paragraph in one sentence to sharpen your argument‑mapping skill.

文段可能很晦涩；通过定期阅读《经济学人》、《自然》新闻或论证严谨的社论来提高阅读理解力。用一句话概括每个段落，以锻炼你的论证梳理能力。

10. Preparation Strategy for Written English | 英语写作备考策略

You have very little time, so structure matters more than stylistic flair. Practise writing short, sharp essays using the PEEL method: Point, Evidence, Explanation, Link. For an argumentative prompt, state your position clearly in the first line. Use one paragraph per reason, and conclude by reinforcing your stance.

由于时间极为有限，结构比辞藻更重要。用PEEL法（观点-证据-解释-衔接）练习写出短小精悍的文章。面对议论文题目，首句即明确立场。每段阐述一个理由，结尾强化你的立场。

Time management is crucial: allocate 3 minutes to brainstorm and outline, 10 minutes to write, and 2 minutes to proofread each essay. Since you must write two, practise switching between prompts quickly. Develop a bank of flexible examples drawn from current affairs, technology, and ethics, which can be adapted to many topics.

时间管理至关重要：每篇文章分配3分钟构思和列提纲，10分钟写作，2分钟检查。由于需要写两篇，要练习快速切换题目。提前建立一套灵活的素材库，取材于时事、科技和伦理，这样可以适应多种话题。

To improve English fluency, non‑native speakers should practise timed IELTS Writing Task 2 or TOEFL independent essays. Focus on clear topic sentences and avoid overly complex grammar if it risks accuracy. UCL values clarity above all else.

为了提升英语流利度，非英语母语者应练习限时雅思写作大作文或托福独立写作。注重清晰的主题句，若复杂语法可能影响准确性，则避免使用。UCL最看重的是清晰度。

11. Registration, Key Dates, and Logistics | 报名、关键日期与考务安排

You must register for STAT through an ACER test centre or an approved UCL partner location. Registration typically opens in September for the October–November test window. Because UCL processes applications on a rolling basis, it is strongly advised to sit STAT in the early October session so that your scores reach UCL before the January UCAS deadline.

你必须通过ACER考试中心或经批准的UCL合作考点报名STAT。报名通常于9月开放，考试窗口在10月至11月。由于UCL采用滚动录取机制，强烈建议参加10月初的考试场次，以确保成绩在1月UCAS截止前送达UCL。

The test fee is paid at registration and varies by region (approx. £90–£130). Results are usually available within three weeks and must be sent directly to UCL using the correct institution code. Check the latest information on the UCL Computer Science admissions page and ACER’s website.

考试费在报名时缴纳，各地区有所不同（约90–130英镑）。成绩通常在三周内发布，必须使用正确的机构代码直接发送给UCL。请查看UCL计算机科学招生页面和ACER网站的最新信息。

12. Final Tips for Success | 成功备考的终极建议

Approach STAT as a marathon of mental agility, not a sprint of memorisation. Use full-length mock exams under timed conditions at least once a week in the final month. Review every mistake until you understand the underlying logic, not just the correct answer.

把STAT视为一场心智灵敏度的马拉松，而非记忆力冲刺。在最后一个月，每周至少进行一次限时全真模拟考试。对每一个错误仔细复盘，直到理解背后的逻辑，而不仅仅是知道正确答案。

On test day, bring required ID, get a good night’s sleep, and have a strategy for each section: for multiple choice, guess if stuck (there is no penalty); for essays, stick rigidly to your time splits. A calm, methodical mindset will serve you far better than last‑minute cramming.

考试当天，带好要求的身份证件，保证充足睡眠，并为每个部分规划好策略：选择题卡住就猜（答错不扣分）；写作严格执行时间分配。冷静、有条理的心态远比临阵磨枪更有帮助。

Remember, STAT is not about what you know – it is about how you think. Cultivate the habit of questioning, analysing, and articulating every day, and the test will become a natural showcase of your real potential.

记住，STAT不考查你知道什么——而在于你如何思考。在日常生活中养成质疑、分析和清晰表达的习惯，这项考试便能成为你真实潜力的自然展示。

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UCL Computer Science New STAT Admissions Test: Content and Preparation Tips | UCL计算机专业新增STAT笔试考查内容与备考建议