Tips and Tricks for the TU Delft Aerospace Engineering Academic Test 2025/26

The Aerospace Engineering Bachelor's program at TU Delft has limited spots, with 440 students admitted each year. To secure your place, you’ll need to do well in both the Academic Aptitude Test and the Selection Exam. Below, we break down how the ranking system works, exam structure, and tips to help you perform at your best.

Ranking Calculation

Your ranking number is based on two main components:

1. Academic Aptitude Test (40%)

This assessment consists of two tests: the Study Motivation Test (SMT) and the MPT-Study. Together, these evaluate your motivation and personal traits related to study success.

• Study Motivation Test (SMT): Measures what motivates you in your studies by asking you to rank statements that reflect your preferences and drive.
• MPT-Study: Focuses on your behaviour in study situations, assessing characteristics like collaboration and problem-solving through multiple-choice statements.

The test results are compared to those of successful previous students. There are no right or wrong answers, and preparation is not required. Answer truthfully and rely on your instincts. These tests have no time limit but typically take around 15-20 minutes each.

2. Selection Exam (60%)

The Selection Exam is the most crucial part of the selection process, determining 60% of your final ranking score. It consists of three sections, taken one after the other, with no ability to return to a previous section once completed:

• Mathematics: 30 minutes, around 20 questions (30% of your exam score)
• Physics: 30 minutes, around 20 questions (30% of your exam score)
• First-Year Aerospace Engineering Topics (FYM): 30 minutes, around 25 questions (40% of your exam score)

The entire exam lasts 90 minutes and is composed of multiple-choice questions, scored based on the number of correct answers. There are no penalties for incorrect answers, and all questions are weighted equally. Questions within each section are randomized, and you can move back and forth between questions within a section until time runs out.

Your final score will be compared to that of other applicants, meaning there is no fixed pass or fail mark. TU Delft does not provide practice exams, but the Digital Learning Environment offers resources such as the syllabus and practice questions for math, physics, and FYM. However, platforms like DelftPrep create new practice exams each year to help students prepare by simulating real exam conditions and covering the full syllabus.

Exam Tips

While the Academic Aptitude Test is an important part of your final score, you have little control over the outcome of that test. In contrast, the Selection Exam gives you full control over your performance, making it the key area to focus on. By preparing effectively and using smart strategies during the exam, you can maximize your chances of achieving a high score.

The exam is fast-paced, with only 1 minute 30 seconds per question, so time management and accuracy are critical. Here’s how to approach the exam strategically:

What to do

• Start with questions you can solve easily. Focus on securing points early by answering questions you immediately understand. This will build confidence and help you gain momentum.
• Skip difficult questions. If you're unsure how to approach a question, don’t waste time. Mark the question number and move on to the next one. You can return to it later if time allows.
• Double-check your answers. Take 10-15 seconds to verify each answer after solving it to catch minor errors before moving on.
• Revisit skipped questions. After completing all the questions you’re confident about, use any remaining time to tackle the ones you skipped.
• Stay organized and calm. Following a clear strategy will help you maintain focus under pressure and avoid making careless mistakes.

What not to do

‍🚫 Don’t rush through the exam. Accuracy is more important than speed. It’s better to correctly answer 15 questions than to rush and get half of them wrong.

🚫 Don’t get stuck on a single question. If a question is taking too long, move on. Prioritize securing as many ‘easy’ points as possible before revisiting tougher questions.

Remember, ‘easy’ is different for everyone. If you see a question and immediately know how to approach and answer it, do it. If not, skip it and move on. Come back to those questions after you've finished the ones you’re confident about.

Calculator Advice

During the Selection Exam, you are only allowed to use the pre-installed calculator on your computer (Windows or Mac). This calculator has different modes, including standard and scientific—these are the only modes allowed. Modes like graphing, programming, or statistics are strictly prohibited.

Since you won’t be able to use a physical calculator, it's important to practice using your computer's built-in calculator ahead of time. Familiarizing yourself with its functionality can save valuable seconds and prevent mistakes during the exam.

Final Thoughts

The TU Delft Aerospace Engineering entrance exam is designed to test both your knowledge and ability to manage time under pressure. Since your score on this exam determines 60% of your final ranking, it’s your best opportunity to improve your chances of selection.

By focusing on preparation, practicing under real exam conditions, and applying the strategies outlined here, you can take full control of your outcome. Stay organized, calm, and accurate on the day of the exam. Good luck!