English and Modern Languages
The English and Modern Languages degree at Oxford offers a comprehensive education that blends English literature with one modern European language.
On the English side, students explore the full scope of literature in the English language, from Anglo-Saxon and medieval texts to contemporary works across the English-speaking world. This study develops a deep understanding of literary history, diverse genres, and varied authorial voices.
For the Modern Languages component, students gain practical skills in reading, writing, speaking, and comprehension while examining language academically—its structure, evolution, and societal impact. The program also introduces the literature, culture, and intellectual heritage of European countries, broadening students’ cultural and artistic perspectives.
Taught within the largest English and Modern Languages faculties in the UK, students benefit from guidance by world-renowned scholars and leading experts, ensuring exposure to cutting-edge research and intellectual leadership.
Course overview
UCAS code: See combinations
Entrance requirements: AAA
Course duration: 4 years with year abroad (BA)
Subject requirements
Required subjects: A modern language (depending on course choice) and English Literature or English Language and Literature.
Recommended subjects: Not applicable
Helpful subjects: Not applicable
Other course requirements
Admissions test: MLAT (depending on course choice)
Written Work: One piece
Admissions statistics*
Interviewed: 84%
Successful: 28%
Intake: 29
Successful for a different course: 11%
Applicant intake for a different course: 13
*3-year average 2022-24
Library and Learning Resources
Oxford provides exceptional resources for students of English and Modern Languages, giving access to some of the world’s most prestigious academic collections.
Students can utilize:
The English Faculty Library, containing essential collections for English literature study.
The Taylor Institution Library, renowned for its focus on modern European languages and literatures.
The Bodleian Library, one of Europe’s greatest libraries, including the Weston Library with rare manuscripts and early editions.
College libraries, offering curated collections and core course texts.
Digital and online resources, including databases, journals, and e-books to support research and study.
This extensive range of resources ensures students can pursue in-depth research and comprehensive learning throughout their course.
Course Structure and Flexibility
One of the key strengths of the English and Modern Languages course at Oxford is its flexibility, allowing students to tailor their studies to their interests.
First Year: Students focus on intensive practical work in their chosen modern language while studying selected key literary texts. On the English side, they gain foundational tools for analyzing language and literature, explore critical theories and methodologies, and receive tutorials in early medieval, Victorian, or modern English literature.
Second Year: Students expand their modern language skills and broaden their literary studies across different periods in both English and their selected language, with a wider range of options available.
Third Year (Year Abroad): A distinctive feature of the course, students spend a full year immersed in the culture of their chosen language, enhancing fluency and cultural understanding.
Final Year: Back at Oxford, students select from specialist option papers in English, modern languages, and comparative literature. The year culminates in a dissertation, allowing students to conduct original research focused on English literature, their modern language, or a comparative topic linking both disciplines.
Funding During the Year Abroad
Oxford provides a range of financial support options to help students make the most of their year abroad. Certain activities, such as working as a language assistant, may include a salary. Additional funding opportunities include:
Oxford Bursaries for UK students from lower-income households, assessed on a means-tested basis.
Travel grants available through colleges or the Modern Languages Faculty.
Hardship funds to assist students facing unexpected financial challenges.
Student Support Fund for UK students needing extra assistance during their year abroad.
Actual living costs, including accommodation, food, and travel, vary by destination and activity type. Additional expenses, such as visa fees or insurance, may also apply. Updated guidance is available on Oxford’s Study Abroad webpage.
A Typical Week
Students of English and Modern Languages at Oxford follow a carefully structured weekly schedule, balancing small-group teaching with larger lectures to ensure comprehensive intellectual and linguistic development.
Most students have one to two tutorials per week, complemented by compulsory language classes and three to four lectures per subject. Tutorials, central to Oxford’s learning system, involve 2–3 students working closely with a tutor to explore literary analysis, key texts, and broader cultural, social, or historical topics. Preparation typically includes essays, readings, and language exercises, with sessions fostering personalized feedback and lively discussion.
Seminars and language classes are small and interactive, often under 20 students, emphasizing spoken practice, translation, grammar, and discussion in the target language. Lectures are larger, providing thematic overviews of authors, historical movements, and critical approaches, laying the foundation for deeper tutorial work.
Teaching is delivered by a mix of permanent academic staff and postgraduate researchers, including world-renowned scholars and doctoral students, ensuring exposure to both authoritative knowledge and fresh perspectives.
This combination of tutorials, classes, and lectures develops independent learning skills while offering expert guidance and collaborative engagement. For detailed information on term structure, weeks, and vacation periods, students should consult Oxford’s Academic Year webpage.
Course Structure
The English and Modern Languages degree is carefully designed to progress over four years, combining a broad foundation in the first year with more advanced and specialized study in later years. The third year is spent abroad, providing an invaluable opportunity to immerse yourself in your chosen language and culture.
Year 1: Foundation and Introduction
In the first year of the English and Modern Languages course at Oxford, students establish a solid foundation in both English and their chosen modern language. The year is built around six core papers, combining theoretical study with practical linguistic training.
Year 1 Courses:
Introduction to English Language and Literature: Covers the history of the English language, literary genres, and critical approaches. Students also prepare a portfolio of essays to develop independent research and writing skills.
One Period Paper from Single Honours English Language and Literature: Focuses on a specific historical or thematic area, from Old English and medieval texts to modern literature, depending on interests.
Two Practical Language Papers: Develop grammar, translation, oral proficiency, and written expression in the chosen modern language.
Two Literature Papers in the Modern Language: Introduce key authors, texts, and literary traditions, preparing students for advanced study in later years.
Assessment: Students take six written exams covering all papers, and submit a portfolio of two essays for the Introduction course. While passing all first-year exams is required to progress, marks do not count toward the final degree, allowing students to focus on academic development and adjusting to the Oxford system.
Years 2 and 4: Advanced Study and Specialization
After completing the foundational first year, students in Years 2 and 4 of the English and Modern Languages course at Oxford engage in more advanced and flexible study. These years allow for deeper exploration of both English and Modern Languages, alongside opportunities to pursue personal academic interests through optional courses.
Courses in Years 2 and 4:
Three Papers from Single Honours English Language and Literature: Focus on major authors, genres, or literary movements in depth, covering areas such as Shakespeare, modernism, postcolonial writing, or other specialized fields.
Dissertation: A major independent research project, typically undertaken in the final year, allowing students to investigate a topic in English, Modern Languages, or a comparative theme linking both disciplines. This develops advanced research and analytical skills.
Modern Language Papers (Four Papers):
Two practical language papers emphasizing advanced writing, translation, comprehension, and oral communication, culminating in an oral examination.
One period of literature studying texts from a specific historical era, such as the Renaissance, Enlightenment, or modern period.
Optional papers on topics ranging from key authors, literary and linguistic analysis, to culturally significant subjects selected for academic enrichment.
The exact courses may vary annually depending on faculty resources and teaching priorities. Students should consult the Faculty of English and Modern Languages websites for up-to-date options.
Assessment: Students are evaluated through extended essays demonstrating independent research and critical analysis, alongside practical and written examinations at the end of Year 4, assessing both language proficiency and literary understanding.
Year 3: The Year Abroad
Year 3 of the English and Modern Languages programme at Oxford is a compulsory year abroad, providing full immersion in a country where your chosen language is spoken. This transformative year is designed to enhance fluency, deepen cultural understanding, and build confidence in using the language in real-world settings.
Students may choose from a variety of options, including:
Working as a paid language assistant in a school.
Undertaking an internship in a professional, cultural, or academic setting.
Studying at a partner university, gaining formal academic experience abroad.
Beyond language development, the year abroad offers a rich personal and professional experience, fostering independence, adaptability, and a broader global perspective.
Flexibility and Changes
Although the English and Modern Languages course at Oxford follows a structured framework, it offers substantial flexibility, enabling students to pursue their individual academic interests, particularly in the later years. Course content and format may occasionally change due to faculty updates or external factors. Students are advised to consult the latest course information and guidance to stay informed about any potential changes.
Academic Requirements
Oxford sets very high entry standards for the English and Modern Languages degree, reflecting the intellectual rigour of the course. Applicants are assessed not only on their grades, but also on the overall context in which those grades were achieved, ensuring a fair and balanced evaluation of every candidate.
Oxford Academic 2026 Requirements full detail Here.
Qualification Requirements
Oxford University Admission Requirements for English and Modern Languages are highly competitive and reflect the course’s academic rigor:
A-levels: Typical offers require AAA, demonstrating consistently high performance across selected subjects.
Scottish Advanced Highers: Applicants should achieve AA or AAB, depending on their subject combination.
International Baccalaureate (IB): A minimum of 38 points, including core points, is expected. Within this total, candidates must attain 666 at Higher Level, reflecting exceptional achievement in advanced subjects.
Other Equivalent Qualifications: Oxford welcomes students with alternative UK or international qualifications. Detailed guidance is available for qualifications such as the Scottish Highers, Welsh Baccalaureate, Access courses, or other recognised awards.
Contextual Consideration: Oxford evaluates applications holistically, taking into account the context in which grades were achieved. Factors such as school type, personal circumstances, and challenges faced are considered to ensure a fair assessment. For full details, applicants can consult the University’s policy on contextual data.
Subject Requirements
The subject prerequisites vary depending on whether you are applying for English and Modern Languages with a post-A-level (or equivalent) language or with a beginners’ language.
Post-A-level (or Equivalent) Language
Essential Requirements for English and Modern Languages at Oxford
Applicants are expected to have studied English Literature or English Language and Literature at an advanced level, such as A-level, Advanced Higher, IB Higher Level, or an equivalent qualification. In addition, candidates normally need to have studied their chosen modern European language at the same advanced level.
Students who have not formally studied the modern language at these levels may still be considered, provided they can demonstrate a proficiency equivalent to B1 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
The CEFR is an internationally recognised standard that measures language ability on a six-level scale:
A1–A2: Beginner levels
B1–B2: Intermediate levels
C1–C2: Advanced to near-native proficiency
At B1 level, students can understand the main points of clear, standard input on familiar topics, manage most travel situations, and produce simple connected text. Many formal language qualifications are mapped to the CEFR, so applicants should verify their level with their school, exam board, or testing centre if uncertain.
Beginners’ Language
Essential requirements:
- Candidates must again have English Literature or English Language and Literature at A-level (or Advanced Higher, IB Higher Level, or equivalent).
- Candidates may apply for the programme even if they have no prior knowledge of certain languages. These are known as “beginners’ languages,” and students can start them from scratch at Oxford. The languages currently offered as beginners’ options include:
- Czech
- German
- Italian
- Modern Greek
- Portuguese
This allows students to combine advanced English studies with the opportunity to learn a completely new language, opening doors to a wider range of cultural and literary traditions.
Additional Requirements
- If a practical component forms part of any science A-levels you are using to meet the academic offer, Oxford requires that you pass this practical element.
- If English is not your first language, you may also need to demonstrate proficiency through Oxford’s English language requirements. This ensures that all students can fully participate in the rigorous academic environment.
Applying
All applicants must follow Oxford’s formal application process as outlined on the Applying to Oxford webpages. These pages provide detailed, step-by-step guidance on how to prepare and submit your application, including information about deadlines, admissions tests, and written work requirements.
For the English and Modern Languages programme, there are also specific course-related requirements, which applicants should carefully review before submitting their application.
Admissions Tests
Admissions Tests for Oxford English and Modern Languages
Most applicants must take the Modern Languages Admissions Test (MLAT), designed to assess intellectual potential, reasoning, and language aptitude rather than prior knowledge.
Test date: 24 October 2025
Registration: Details released closer to the application period
Who must take it:
All applicants are required to sit the MLAT, except those applying with a Beginners’ Language, who are assessed through other parts of the admissions process.
The MLAT evaluates problem-solving, pattern recognition, and grammar comprehension, testing your ability to learn and think flexibly about languages. Full registration and preparation guidance is available on the official test page.
Written Work
As part of the application, candidates must submit one piece of written work in English to demonstrate their ability to analyse texts, construct coherent arguments, and write in a clear academic style. This is typically an essay completed during school studies.
Submission deadline: 10 November 2025
Guidance: Formatting instructions, cover sheet, and detailed requirements are available on Oxford’s Written Work page.
Applicants should also consult the Faculty of English Language and Literature for specific guidance on acceptable content and criteria.
Careers and Future Opportunities
Graduates of English and Modern Languages at Oxford gain a unique combination of specialized knowledge and transferable skills highly valued by employers. Key competencies developed include:
Multilingual Communication: Clear and effective expression in multiple languages, both written and spoken.
Critical Thinking: Evaluating arguments, questioning assumptions, and making informed judgments.
Cultural Empathy: Appreciating diverse perspectives and understanding different worldviews.
Textual Interpretation: Analysing complex literary and linguistic materials with precision.
Analytical Reasoning: Identifying patterns, deconstructing ideas, and solving problems.
Persuasive Argumentation: Constructing compelling, evidence-based arguments for academic and professional contexts.
These skills prepare graduates for careers in law, international relations, media, finance, diplomacy, consultancy, and the creative arts, among other sectors, demonstrating the versatility and global relevance of the degree.
Career Pathways
Graduates from Oxford’s English and Modern Languages programme enjoy diverse career pathways across multiple sectors, including:
Broadcasting and Media
Publishing and Journalism
Education and Teaching
Theatre, Arts, and Cultural Management
Public Administration and Policy
Business Management and Consultancy
Advertising, Marketing, and Communications
Translation and Interpreting
Librarianship and Information Services
Law and Legal Services
Proficiency in a modern European language further enables graduates to pursue internationally focused careers, working abroad or with global organisations where cross-cultural communication and linguistic expertise are highly valued.
Fees
For full-time undergraduate “Home” students, Oxford’s tuition fees align with the UK government’s maximum fee cap. For the 2025/26 academic year, this cap is £9,535 per year, which serves as the indicative fee for students starting in 2026. The final tuition will be confirmed once official government regulations are released.
Tuition fees may increase annually in line with government policies, inflation, and institutional adjustments. Prospective students should review Oxford’s guidance on projected fee changes to plan financially for the full duration of their degree.
Annual Course Fees:
Home students: £9,535
Overseas students: £43,600
Eligibility for Home fee status is determined by nationality, residency, and immigration status. Students unsure of their classification should consult Oxford’s official Fee Status Guidance for clarity.
Financial Support
Home Students:
Eligible UK students can access a tuition fee loan from the government, covering the full course fees, so no upfront payment is required. Oxford also offers one of the most generous bursary schemes in the UK. For 2026 entry, students from households earning up to £50,000 annually may qualify for financial assistance, with enhanced support available for those from households earning £32,500 or less. Additionally, the UK government provides maintenance loans and grants to help cover living costs for students who are UK nationals or have settled status and meet residency requirements.
EU, EEA, and Swiss Nationals:
From 1 August 2021, financial support from the UK government is available only to students holding UK citizens’ rights, including those with settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme or Irish nationals under the Common Travel Area.
Channel Islands and Isle of Man Students:
Funding and bursary arrangements differ for students from the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man. Applicants should consult local agencies for guidance:
-
States of Jersey
-
States of Guernsey
-
Isle of Man Government
Overseas Students:
International students are not eligible for UK government loans or Home bursaries but may apply for Oxford-specific scholarships and bursaries, including awards tailored for overseas applicants.
Equivalent or Lower Qualification (ELQ) Students:
Students who have already completed a prior undergraduate degree are classified as ELQ and are generally ineligible for government loans or Oxford bursary schemes. Alternative funding arrangements must be arranged independently.
Fees and Funding During the Year Abroad
Students undertaking the compulsory year abroad benefit from substantially reduced tuition fees:
Home students: approximately £1,430 for the year (around 15% of the annual UK government fee cap).
Overseas students: approximately £14,825 (indicative figure, subject to confirmation).
Planning ahead is essential. Students should research all costs early, including tuition, accommodation, visas, travel, and daily living expenses in the host country. Certain placements, such as paid internships or language assistant roles, may offer a salary.
Additional funding opportunities include:
Turing Scheme grants: UK government initiative providing living cost support and targeted assistance for disadvantaged students. Oxford actively applies for Turing funding for eligible placements.
Oxford bursaries and government support: Available to Home students from lower-income households during their year abroad.
College and faculty travel grants, hardship funds, and financial assistance: Support for students with limited resources.
For Turing Scheme-approved exchanges, students are not charged tuition by the host institution. If placements fall outside this scheme, students may be liable for local tuition or mandatory fees at the host university.
Up-to-date guidance on funding and Oxford’s Turing Scheme participation is available on the University’s Study Abroad webpage.
Course Data and UCAS Codes
Applicants for English and Modern Languages (EML) at Oxford can select from a diverse range of course combinations. These pair English studies with either a modern European language at beginners’ level (for those starting a new language) or at an advanced level (for students continuing a language they have previously studied).
Each course is assigned a unique UCAS code, which must be used when submitting your application through UCAS to ensure it is directed to the correct subject combination.
Available Courses and UCAS Codes:
English and Beginners’ Czech – QR3S
English and Czech – QR37
English and French – QR31
English and Beginners’ German – QR23
English and German – QR32
English and Beginners’ Modern Greek – QR39
English and Modern Greek – QQ37
English and Beginners’ Italian – RQ33
English and Italian – QR33
English and Beginners’ Portuguese – QR3M
English and Portuguese – QR35
English and Russian – QRH7
English and Spanish – QR34
For each course, applicants can consult Discover Uni to access subject-specific statistics such as student satisfaction, graduate outcomes, and employment prospects. These resources provide detailed insights into course structure, study expectations, and potential career pathways, helping students make informed decisions about their preferred combination.
FAQ
Is English a modern language? +
Yes, English is considered a modern language. Modern English has evolved since the late 15th century and continues to develop today.
What are examples of Modern Languages? +
Examples of modern languages include English, Spanish, French, German, Mandarin, Japanese, Arabic, and Portuguese.
What is the difference between English and modern English? +
English refers to the language overall, while modern English specifically denotes the form of the language spoken and written from the late 15th century to present.
What modern language is most similar to English? +
Languages most similar to English include German, Dutch, and other West Germanic languages due to shared vocabulary and grammar structures.
Why is studying Modern Languages important? +
Studying modern languages improves communication skills, cultural understanding, and career opportunities in global industries.