English and Modern Languages

About the Course

The English and Modern Languages degree at Oxford is designed to give students an exceptionally rich and wide-ranging education by combining the study of English literature with the study of one modern European language.

On the English side of the course, students are introduced to a broad and continuous tradition of literature written in the English language, stretching from its earliest roots in Anglo-Saxon and medieval texts all the way through to contemporary works produced across the English-speaking world today. This enables students to gain an appreciation of how English literature has developed over centuries, while also exploring the variety of forms, genres, and voices that exist within it.

On the Modern Languages side, students receive practical linguistic training, aimed at developing strong written, spoken, and comprehension skills in their chosen language. At the same time, the course encourages students to think about language as an academic subject in its own right—exploring its structures, evolution, and significance in society. Students are also introduced to the rich literatures, cultural histories, and intellectual traditions of European countries, opening up a wider world of thought and artistic expression.

Both the English Faculty and the Faculty of Medieval and Modern Languages at Oxford are the largest academic communities of their kind in the United Kingdom. Students therefore benefit from being taught by internationally respected scholars, many of whom are leading authorities in their fields of research.

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’s provision for students of English and Modern Languages is outstanding, offering access to one of the finest collections of academic resources in the world. Every student can make use of:

The English Faculty Library – housing key collections for English studies.
The Taylor Institution Library – a world-renowned library specializing in modern European languages and literatures.
The Bodleian Library – one of the greatest libraries in Europe, including the Weston Library, which contains priceless manuscripts and rare early editions.
College libraries – each student’s college offers its own collections, often including core texts for the course.
Digital and online resources – giving students access to databases, journals, and electronic books to support their learning.

This wealth of material ensures that students are never short of resources to pursue their studies and research in depth.

Course Structure and Flexibility

One of the greatest strengths of the course is its flexibility, allowing students to shape their academic journey according to their interests.

First Year:
Students undertake intensive practical work in their chosen modern language, alongside the study of selected key texts from that language’s literature. On the English side, students are introduced to the fundamental conceptual and technical tools used in the study of language and literature. They also explore different critical theories, methods, and approaches. Additionally, students receive tutorial teaching in one of three areas of English literature: early medieval, Victorian, or modern.
Second Year:
A wider range of options becomes available. Students continue to strengthen their modern language skills while expanding their study of literature across different periods in both English and their chosen language.
Third Year (Year Abroad):
This is a compulsory and distinctive feature of the course. Students spend an entire year immersed in the culture of their chosen language, significantly improving their fluency and deepening their cultural understanding.

Final Year:
On returning to Oxford, students can select from a broad range of specialist option papers in English literature, modern languages, and comparative literature. A major highlight of the final year is the dissertation, which allows students to produce an extended piece of original research. This can either focus on English literature, the chosen modern language, or a comparative topic that brings together both fields of study.

Funding During the Year Abroad

Financial support is available to help students make the most of their year abroad. Some activities, such as working as a language assistant, come with a salary. In addition, there are multiple sources of funding and bursaries:

Oxford Bursaries remain available for UK students from lower-income households, subject to means-tested assessment.
Travel grants may be offered through colleges or the Modern Languages Faculty.
Hardship funds are in place for students who face unexpected financial difficulties during their year abroad.
The University’s Student Support Fund can provide extra assistance to UK students with a financial shortfall.

It is important to note that actual living costs (such as accommodation, food, and travel expenses) will vary depending on the destination country and the nature of the activity undertaken. Some expenses, such as visa fees or insurance costs, may also apply. Up-to-date guidance is provided through the Study Abroad webpage.

A Typical Week

As a student of English and Modern Languages at Oxford, your weekly academic schedule will be carefully structured to balance different forms of teaching and learning. The aim is to ensure you receive both the individualized attention of small-group teaching and the breadth of knowledge that comes from attending larger lectures and classes.

Most students can expect to have one or two tutorials every week, alongside a series of compulsory language classes. In addition, you will usually attend three to four lecture courses per subject. This means that over the course of a typical week, you will be engaged in a wide variety of learning formats, each contributing to your intellectual and linguistic development in a different way.

Tutorials are at the very heart of the Oxford learning system. These are intensive academic sessions, usually held once or twice per week, where a small group of two to three students meets with a tutor. Each tutorial may focus on a different aspect of your course:
- exploring different methods of literary analysis
- offering an introduction to key texts in either English or your chosen modern language
- or addressing broader cultural, social, and historical issues connected with your degree.

In most cases, you will be expected to prepare in advance by writing essays, reading assigned texts, or carrying out language exercises. During the session, you will discuss your work directly with your tutor and peers, receiving personalized feedback and engaging in lively intellectual debate.

Seminars and Language Classes vary in size depending on the subject area and the options you select. On average, these groups are much smaller than typical university lecture groups, often containing no more than 20 students—and in many cases, significantly fewer. Language classes, in particular, tend to be very interactive, involving spoken practice, translation, grammar exercises, and discussions conducted in the target language.
Lectures are larger teaching sessions, where you may join students from across the faculty. Typically, you will attend three to four lecture courses per subject each week. These provide a broader framework for your studies, introducing important themes, authors, historical movements, and critical approaches. They often serve as a foundation for the more detailed exploration you undertake in tutorials and essays.

The teaching you receive will be delivered by a mixture of staff. The majority of your tutorials, classes, and lectures are taught by permanent members of academic staff who are college tutors and university lecturers. Many of these are internationally recognised scholars with extensive experience in both teaching and original research, which means you are learning directly from leading authorities in their fields. In addition, some teaching is carried out by postgraduate students, particularly those pursuing doctoral research, who bring fresh and current perspectives into the classroom.

This combination of tutorials, classes, and lectures ensures that students develop strong independent learning skills while also benefiting from the support of expert guidance and collaborative discussion.

For more detailed information about how the year is structured in terms of terms, weeks, and vacation periods, students are encouraged to visit the University’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

During your first year, you will build a strong foundation in both English and your chosen Modern Language. The year is structured around six core papers, which allow you to explore fundamental concepts in language and literature while beginning to develop practical linguistic skills.

Courses studied in Year 1 include:

Introduction to English Language and Literature – This course introduces you to the study of English as both a language and a literary tradition. You will explore the history of the language, literary genres, and critical approaches. As part of this course, you will also prepare a portfolio of essays, encouraging independent research and critical writing.
One Period Paper from Single Honours English Language and Literature – You will select one major historical or thematic paper, which could cover anything from Old English and early medieval texts to more modern literary periods, depending on your interests and availability.
Two Practical Language Papers – These focus on developing your skills in the chosen modern language, including grammar, translation, oral proficiency, and written expression.
Two Literature Papers in the Modern Language – These introduce you to important authors, texts, and literary traditions in your chosen language, setting the stage for deeper exploration in later years.

Assessment in Year 1:
At the end of your first year, you will take six written examinations covering the above papers. For the “Introduction to English Language and Literature” course, you will also submit a portfolio of two essays. It is important to note that while all first-year exams must be passed in order to progress, the marks from Year 1 do not count toward your final degree classification. This allows students to focus on adjusting to the Oxford system and developing their academic skills.

Years 2 and 4: Advanced Study and Specialization

(Year 3 is spent abroad—see below)

Once you return from your foundational year, your studies in Years 2 and 4 become more advanced, diverse, and flexible. You will deepen your engagement with both English and Modern Languages, while also having opportunities to pursue areas of personal interest through a range of optional courses.

Courses studied in Years 2 and 4 include:

Three Papers from Single Honours English Language and Literature – These allow you to study major authors, genres, or literary movements in greater depth. You might engage with Shakespeare, modernism, postcolonial writing, or other specialized fields, depending on the options offered.
Dissertation – This is an extended research project (usually in your final year), where you investigate a topic of your choice in either English or Modern Languages, or even a comparative theme that links both fields. The dissertation develops your ability to undertake independent scholarly research.
Modern Language (Four Papers) – These cover both practical language and literary or linguistic study, including:
- Two practical language papers (covering advanced writing, translation, comprehension, and oral communication, culminating in an oral examination).
- One period of literature (studying texts from a defined historical era, such as the Renaissance, Enlightenment, or modern period, in the target language).
- Optional papers (which may include prescribed authors, topics ranging from the 12th to 21st centuries, linguistics, or a special subject chosen for its academic or cultural significance).

The exact options available may vary from year to year, depending on faculty resources and current teaching priorities. For up-to-date details, students are advised to consult the Faculty of English website and the Modern Languages website.

Assessment in Years 2 and 4:
Evaluation takes several forms:

Extended essays written over the course of the second and fourth years, which allow students to demonstrate independent research and sustained critical analysis.
Practical and written examinations at the end of the fourth year, which assess both language proficiency and literary understanding.

Year 3: The Year Abroad

The third year of the programme is a compulsory year abroad, during which students live, study, or work in a country where their chosen language is spoken. This year is designed to significantly improve your fluency, cultural understanding, and confidence in using the language in real-world contexts. Options include:

Working as a paid language assistant in a school.
Undertaking an internship in a professional or cultural setting.
Studying at a partner university

This year is not just about language development—it is also a transformative personal experience, giving students independence and global perspective.

Flexibility and Changes

While the course has a clearly defined structure, Oxford emphasizes flexibility, allowing students to follow their own academic interests, especially in the later years. The content and format of the course may change in certain circumstances, for example due to faculty updates or wider external factors. Students are encouraged to check the most recent course information and guidance on 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.

Qualification Requirements

A-levels: Applicants are normally expected to achieve AAA, which demonstrates a consistently high level of academic performance across their chosen subjects.
Scottish Advanced Highers: Students should achieve either AA or AAB, depending on their subject mix.
International Baccalaureate (IB): A score of at least 38 points, including core points, is required. Within this total, candidates should have 666 at Higher Level subjects, reflecting outstanding achievement in the most demanding IB courses.
Other Equivalent Qualifications: Oxford also welcomes applications from students with alternative qualifications. The University provides detailed guidance for those with other UK qualifications (such as the Scottish Highers, Welsh Baccalaureate, or Access courses) as well as for those applying with international qualifications.

Wherever possible, Oxford considers an applicant’s results in the context in which they were achieved. This means that factors such as the type of school attended, background, and any challenges faced are taken into account when evaluating academic performance. You can read more about this approach in 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.

For English and Modern Languages with a Post-A-level (or Equivalent) Language

Essential requirements:

Candidates must have studied English Literature or English Language and Literature at an advanced level (A-level, Advanced Higher, Higher Level in the IB, or an equivalent qualification).
In addition, candidates are normally expected to have studied the chosen modern language at the same advanced level (A-level, Advanced Higher, Higher Level in the IB, or equivalent).

However, students who have not formally studied the modern language at these levels may still be considered. To be eligible, they must demonstrate a level of language proficiency equivalent to B1 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

The CEFR is an internationally recognised standard used to describe language ability on a six-point scale:

A1 and A2 – beginner levels
B1 and B2 – intermediate levels
C1 and C2 – advanced to near-native proficiency

At B1 level, a student can understand the main points of clear standard input on familiar topics, handle most travel situations, and produce simple connected text. Many formal language qualifications are mapped against the CEFR system, so if you are unsure about your own qualification level, it is advisable to check with your school, testing centre, or exam board.

For English and Modern Languages with a 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

For most applicants, admissions tests form an essential part of the Oxford application process. They are designed to assess not only existing knowledge but also intellectual potential, reasoning ability, and aptitude for further study.

Test name: Modern Languages Admissions Test (MLAT)
Test date: 24 October 2025
Registration window: To be confirmed (details will be released closer to the application period).

Who must take the test?

All applicants for English and Modern Languages (except those applying with a Beginners’ Language) are required to sit the MLAT.
Candidates applying for English and Modern Languages with a Beginners’ Language are exempt from this requirement, since their aptitude for new language learning will be assessed in other ways during the admissions process.

The MLAT evaluates skills such as problem-solving, pattern recognition, and understanding of grammar and syntax. It is not solely about how much you already know; it also tests your ability to learn quickly and think flexibly about language structures.

All necessary information about how to register for the test, where to sit it, and how best to prepare is made available on the official test page. Applicants are strongly encouraged to consult this guidance well in advance to ensure they are fully prepared.

Written Work

In addition to the test, written work is a crucial part of the application. This requirement allows tutors to see how you express yourself in extended written arguments and how you analyse texts independently.

Description: All candidates must submit one piece of written work in English for the English component of the course. This is usually an essay you have produced as part of your school studies. It should showcase your ability to analyse literature, construct an argument, and write clearly in an academic style.
Submission deadline: 10 November 2025
Guidance and cover sheet: General information, formatting instructions, and the required cover sheet for submission can be found on Oxford’s dedicated Written Work page.

Candidates should also review the specific requirements for written work in English Language and Literature, as outlined on the faculty website.

Careers and Future Opportunities

Graduating with a degree in English and Modern Languages equips students with a powerful combination of transferable skills and specialised knowledge. Employers greatly value the following abilities developed during the course:

Communication: Clear written and spoken expression in more than one language.
Critical thinking: Evaluating arguments and questioning assumptions.
Empathy: Understanding different cultures, perspectives, and worldviews.
Interpretation: Analysing complex texts and information.
Analytical reasoning: Breaking down ideas and recognising patterns.
Persuasive argumentation: Building well-supported and compelling cases.

Career Pathways

As a result, graduates go on to succeed in a wide variety of careers, including:

Broadcasting and media
Publishing
Education and teaching
Journalism
Theatre and the arts
Public administration
Business management
Advertising and marketing
Translation and interpreting
Librarianship and information services
The legal profession

Knowledge of a modern language also opens doors to internationally-focused careers, enabling graduates to work abroad or in global organisations where cross-cultural communication is essential.

Fees

For full-time undergraduate students classified as “Home” students, the University of Oxford currently charges tuition fees that are aligned with the maximum cap set by the UK government. At present, for the 2025/26 academic year, this cap is fixed at £9,535. This figure has therefore been used as the indicative annual course fee for students beginning their studies in 2026. However, it is important to note that the final fee will only be confirmed once the government has formally announced tuition fee policies for undergraduates starting in 2026.

As part of university policy, tuition fees generally increase each academic year. The adjustments are made in line with government regulations, inflationary pressures, and institutional policy. Prospective students are encouraged to consult the University’s guidance on likely increases to fees and charges in order to plan financially for the entire duration of their degree.

Annual Course Fees

Home students: £9,535
Overseas students: £43,600

Eligibility for Home fee status depends on factors such as nationality, residency, and immigration status. Students who are uncertain about their classification should carefully read the University’s official fee status guidance webpage.

Living Costs

Living costs at Oxford are generally lower than many students anticipate, partly due to the extensive resources, facilities, and support systems offered by the colleges and the University. For the academic year starting in 2026, students are advised to budget for personal living expenses in the range of £1,405 to £2,105 per month.

The University operates on an academic calendar divided into three eight-week terms. As a result, students are not usually required to remain in Oxford for more than six months in total per academic year. Nevertheless, many students choose to budget for a nine-month period, which ensures that they have sufficient financial resources during the vacation months to cover food, accommodation, travel, and other essential personal costs.

A detailed breakdown of estimated living costs—including accommodation, meals, study materials, and social activities—can be found on the University’s living costs webpage.

Financial Support

For Home students:

A tuition fee loan is available from the UK government, which covers the full amount of course fees. This means that eligible students do not have to pay tuition costs upfront.
Oxford also offers one of the most generous bursary schemes in the UK for Home undergraduates. In 2026, financial support will be available to students from households with an annual income of £50,000 or less, with additional assistance for those from households earning £32,500 or less.
The UK government also provides maintenance loans and grants to support living costs. These are available to students who are UK nationals or who have settled status and meet the residence requirements.

Eligibility for EU, EEA, and Swiss nationals:
For courses beginning on or after 1 August 2021, EU, EEA, and Swiss nationals are only eligible for UK government financial support if they have UK citizens’ rights. This includes students with settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, as well as Irish nationals under the Common Travel Area arrangement.

Islands students (Channel Islands and Isle of Man):
Students from the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man are entitled to different forms of financial support compared to other UK students. Information is provided directly by local funding agencies, such as:

States of Jersey
States of Guernsey
Isle of Man government

Overseas students:
International students are not eligible for UK government loans or Oxford’s Home bursary schemes, but they may apply for support under the Oxford Bursaries and Scholarships programme, including other scholarships specifically designed for overseas applicants.

Note on Equivalent or Lower Qualification (ELQ):
Students who have already completed a previous undergraduate degree are classified as ELQ students. These students are not eligible for government loans or Oxford bursaries.

Fees and Funding During the Year Abroad

Students undertaking the compulsory year abroad benefit from significantly reduced tuition fees. While final figures for future years have not yet been confirmed, the guide rates for 2026/27 are:

Home students: £1,430 for the year (equivalent to 15% of the annual government fee cap).
Overseas students: £14,825 for the year (illustrative figure, subject to confirmation).

Students are encouraged to begin researching financial costs for their year abroad early, ideally during their second year of study. This includes not only tuition fees but also accommodation, travel, visas, and day-to-day living expenses in their destination country.

In some cases, students undertaking work placements abroad may receive a salary, depending on the placement type and employer. Additional financial support is also available through the Turing Scheme, a UK government initiative that provides living cost grants and targeted support for disadvantaged students. Oxford actively applies for Turing funding to assist students on international placements.

Furthermore, students from lower-income households will continue to receive Oxford bursaries and government support while abroad. Colleges and faculties may also provide travel grants, hardship funds, and financial assistance for students with limited resources.

For placements that are part of approved exchanges under the Turing Scheme, students will not be charged tuition fees by their host institution. However, if a student participates outside of this framework, they may be liable to pay local course fees and other mandatory charges at the host university.

The latest updates about Oxford’s involvement in the Turing Scheme are available on the University’s dedicated webpage.

Course Data and UCAS Codes

Students applying for English and Modern Languages at Oxford have the opportunity to choose from a variety of subject combinations. Each option allows you to study English alongside either a modern European language at beginners’ level (for those starting a language from scratch) or at an advanced level (for those continuing a language they have already studied).

When applying through UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service), each course is identified by a unique UCAS code. This code is essential to ensure your application is directed to the correct subject combination.

Below is a list of the English and Modern Languages courses available, along with their UCAS codes:

English and Beginners’ Czech – UCAS code: QR3S
English and Czech – UCAS code: QR37
English and French – UCAS code: QR31
English and Beginners’ German – UCAS code: QR23
English and German – UCAS code: QR32
English and Beginners’ Modern Greek – UCAS code: QR39
English and Modern Greek – UCAS code: QQ37
English and Beginners’ Italian – UCAS code: RQ33
English and Italian – UCAS code: QR33
English and Beginners’ Portuguese – UCAS code: QR3M
English and Portuguese – UCAS code: QR35
English and Russian – UCAS code: QRH7
English and Spanish – UCAS code: QR34

Each of these courses will also have subject-specific information and statistical data provided by Discover Uni, a platform that gives applicants insight into things like student satisfaction, employment outcomes, and graduate earnings. By clicking on the individual course links, applicants can access further details about what each subject involves, the structure of study, and career prospects.

College Life at Oxford

Oxford’s college system is a defining feature of student life and plays a key role in shaping the student experience. Every student belongs not only to the University and their academic department but also to a college or hall, which acts as a smaller academic and social community.

Community and Support:
Each college is made up of academic staff (professors and tutors), support staff, and students from different years and subjects. This structure provides both a large, world-class university environment and a small, friendly community where students can feel supported and at home.
College Facilities:
While each college has its own unique traditions and character, most have a similar set of core facilities, such as:
- Porters’ lodge – a staffed entrance and reception area, often open 24/7, providing both security and assistance.
- Dining hall – where students can eat daily meals and attend formal dinners.
- Lending library – typically accessible around the clock during term time, with course-specific books and study spaces.
- Student accommodation – usually provided for first years on the main site or in a nearby college-owned building.
- Tutors’ teaching rooms – where many tutorials take place.
- Chapel and/or music rooms – for worship, concerts, or quiet reflection.
- Laundry facilities – available for student use.
- Green spaces – gardens, quads, or lawns where students can relax or study.
- Common room (JCR) – the Junior Common Room, a student-run space for relaxation, meetings, and events.
Accommodation:
Every first-year student is guaranteed a room in college-owned housing, ensuring a smooth transition into university life. Living with fellow first-years helps new students quickly build friendships and feel part of the community. After the first year, many colleges continue to offer accommodation for at least one more year, and some for the entire degree. Students may also choose to live in private housing after their first year, often with friends from their college or course.
Welfare and Support:
Colleges provide academic and personal support through tutors, welfare officers, and trained peer supporters. Academic tutors are not only there to guide your studies but are also approachable for advice on broader challenges. Welfare teams and student-run support networks ensure that every student has someone to turn to, whether for academic, personal, or health-related concerns. Many colleges also have a “college family” system, where older students act as mentors for new undergraduates.

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.