Section 2 of the TSA isn't a requirement for every course, but for those who do require it, it is incredibly important to your application. It's also pretty difficult, as you'll be writing a full essay in just 30 minutes.

In 2026, "TSA Section 2" refers to the Writing Task portion of the Thinking Skills Assessment (TSA), an admissions test used primarily by the University of Oxford for courses like Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE) and Geography. Yes, it matters significantly, as it provides admissions tutors with a direct insight into your ability to construct a logical, persuasive, and concise argument under intense time pressure. While Section 1 tests raw problem-solving and critical thinking, Section 2 requires you to write a cohesive essay in just 30 minutes. It is often used as a "tie-breaker" or a qualitative filter to distinguish between high-scoring candidates during the shortlisting process for interviews. Because the essay is marked by the college tutors themselves rather than a computer, your ability to articulate complex ideas clearly is vital. Failing to take Section 2 seriously can undermine a strong Section 1 score, as Oxford places a high premium on the "writing and reasoning" skills that this section is specifically designed to evaluate.