How BMAT scores convert

Q. How is the BMAT scored?

A. BMAT answer sheets are scanned, and the responses to Sections 1 and 2 computer-marked and verified by trained operators.

In Sections 1 and 2, there are no penalties for incorrect responses, only points for correct answers, so candidates are encouraged to attempt all questions.

So that the results of candidates taking different versions of the test (e.g. in different years) can be compared, marks on Sections 1 and 2 are converted to scores on the BMAT scale. This runs from 1 (low) to 9 (high), with scores being reported to one decimal place. The scale has been designed so that typical applicants to the most highly selective undergraduate university courses in the UK (who are by definition academically very able) will score around 5.0. The best applicants will score more highly, but 6.0 represents a comparatively high score and only a few very exceptional applicants will achieve BMAT scores higher than 7.0.

Section 3 responses are marked holistically - i.e. the essay is viewed as a whole, and a mark awarded based on its overall quality. Marks are awarded on a scale from 0 (low) to 15 (high). Each essay is marked twice, and the average of the two marks reported. If the two markers disagree significantly, the response is marked by a third examiner, and the final mark checked by a senior member of Cambridge Assessment staff.

Scores on each section of the test are reported separately to institutions, together with a scanned image of the essay. The use of BMAT scores in the admissions process varies from institution to institution. For more information about how a particular institution uses BMAT results, you should consult the prospectus or website of that institution, or contact the appropriate admissions office.