Sixth Term Examination Paper (STEP)
The Sixth Term Examination Paper, commonly known as STEP, is a university admissions test used primarily by the University of Cambridge, as well as a small number of other UK institutions, to assess applicants for mathematics-based degree courses. It is designed to test mathematical thinking, reasoning, and problem-solving at a level beyond standard A Levels. For students applying to study Mathematics, Computer Science with Mathematics, Engineering, Economics, or Physics, especially at Cambridge, the STEP is a vital part of the application process.
What is the Sixth Term Examination Paper (STEP)?
STEP is an advanced mathematics examination taken by students in Year 13 who are applying to study mathematics and related courses at top UK universities. The test is administered by Cambridge Assessment Admissions Testing and aims to provide a deeper insight into a student’s ability to solve complex problems using A Level mathematical knowledge and beyond.
Applicants to the University of Cambridge are most commonly required to sit STEP as part of the conditional offer for courses in Mathematics and Computer Science. Other universities that may include STEP as part of an offer include Imperial College London, the University of Warwick, and the University of Bath.
What Does the STEP Test Involve?
The STEP is a paper-based examination, not taken on a computer. There are now only two papers as STEP 1 has been discontinued:
- STEP 1 (based on A Level Maths content) – DISCONTINUED
- STEP 2 (based on A Level Maths and AS Level Further Maths)
- STEP 3 (based on A Level Maths and A Level Further Maths)
Each paper is three hours long and includes up to 12 long-form questions. Candidates are usually expected to attempt six questions per paper as they will only be scored on their six best answers. The questions are designed to test a student’s ability to apply mathematical knowledge in novel situations, demonstrating reasoning, precision, and creativity.
Please note that STEP 1 was discontinued in 2020.
Subjects and Who Should Take STEP
While STEP is most closely associated with Mathematics applicants at Cambridge, it is also relevant for students applying to courses with significant mathematical content such as Engineering, Economics, and Physics. It is particularly useful for those pursuing competitive courses that value analytical rigour.
STEP Exam Dates and Results Timeline
The STEP exams are typically held in June. In 2026, the scheduled test dates are the 6th and 10th of June. Results are usually released in mid-August, just ahead of A Level results day. Students can access their results online through the Cambridge Assessment Results website using their unique login credentials.
Please see here for key STEP dates.
Booking the STEP and Cost
Students must register for the STEP through an authorised test centre, which is usually their school or college. The registration deadline typically falls in early May. If the school is not a registered centre, arrangements can be made through Cambridge Assessment’s network.
In 2026, the cost per STEP paper was £102.50 if testing within the UK or £142.25 if outside the UK, though this may vary slightly by centre and year.
Grade Boundaries and Scoring
STEP results are graded from S (Outstanding) to U (Unclassified):
- S: Outstanding
- 1: Very Good
- 2: Good
- 3: Satisfactory
- U: Unclassified
Grade boundaries vary year to year, depending on the difficulty of the paper, and are published alongside the results.
What Is Considered a Good STEP Score?
A score of S or 1 is considered very strong and typically meets the conditions of most STEP-based offers. Cambridge, for example, often sets conditions such as achieving a grade 1 in both STEP 2 and STEP 3. Universities may vary in their exact requirements, so it is important to check the offer conditions carefully.
How to Prepare for the Sixth Term Examination Paper
Preparation for STEP should begin well in advance, ideally during Year 12. Unlike standard A Level questions, STEP problems require deep understanding and creative problem-solving skills. A successful preparation strategy might include:
- Studying STEP-specific textbooks such as the Advanced Problems in Mathematics series
- Attending STEP preparation courses or workshops
- Seeking support from an experienced STEP tutor
Tutoring for STEP
STEP is a uniquely challenging paper, and many students benefit from one-to-one tuition to help bridge the gap between A Level content and the demands of the test. A STEP tutor can offer structured guidance, problem-solving strategies, and personalised feedback to improve exam performance.
Can You Retake the STEP?
STEP is typically taken in the June of Year 13. If a student does not achieve the required grade, they may reapply to university the following year and resit the test, but most applicants only sit STEP once. It’s worth noting that offers based on STEP are usually for first-time applicants, so reapplying requires careful planning and discussion with admissions teams.
How SLT Can Help
At Simply Learning Tuition, we introduce students to highly qualified tutors who specialise in STEP preparation. Many are Oxbridge graduates with extensive experience of the test and a deep understanding of the mathematical thinking required to succeed. Our tutors provide:
- Bespoke one-to-one tuition (in person or online)
- Exam technique coaching and timed paper practice
- Targeted support in core A Level and Further Maths topics
- Ongoing feedback and progress monitoring
We also offer university admissions consultancy for families navigating competitive application processes, including course selection, personal statement guidance, and interview preparation.
Frequently asked questions
What is STEP sixth term examination paper?
STEP is an advanced maths exam used by top UK universities to assess applicants for mathematics and related degrees.
How hard are STEP papers?
STEP papers are designed to be significantly more challenging than A Levels and test deep mathematical understanding.
What is the STEP exam for UK?
The STEP is mainly used for entry to mathematics and related courses at Cambridge and a few other leading UK universities.
Are you allowed a calculator in STEP?
No, calculators are not permitted in the STEP examination. Candidates must instead rely on memorising key formulas prior to the test.
Contact us
If your child is preparing for STEP or applying to mathematics-based degrees, we would be delighted to support you.