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english and spanish at oxford?

hi i’m in year 12 right now studying english and spanish a levels and btec media, im hoping to apply to oxford for english and spanish, but i just wanted to ask if it’s possible considering im doing a btec, and also to see if anyone here is doing english and an mfl in oxford and seeing their experience. oh and to see if there’s any advice anyone could give for those subjects.

so yeah thanks!
Reply 1
Hi soma! 👋
It’s fantastic to hear that you’re aiming for English and Spanish at Oxford—what an exciting and ambitious goal! Oxford’s joint honours courses like English and Modern Languages (including Spanish) are highly regarded, so you’re on the right track by researching early. Let’s break it down and address your questions:
1. Can you apply with A-levels and a BTEC? Absolutely! Oxford typically prefers applicants to have A-levels in subjects related to the course they’re applying for. Since you’re studying English and Spanish A-levels, those align perfectly with the degree requirements. While Oxford doesn’t traditionally consider BTECs as highly as A-levels, the fact that you’re doing two strong A-levels in relevant subjects works in your favor.
That said, your application will also be assessed holistically. Strong grades in your A-levels, a compelling personal statement, and a stellar performance on Oxford’s admissions test (more on this below!) can offset any concerns about the BTEC.
2. What is the admissions process like for English and Spanish? Here’s a quick overview:

Admissions Tests: For English and Spanish, you’ll need to sit two tests: the ELAT (English Literature Admissions Test) and the MLAT (Modern Languages Admissions Test).

ELAT: Tests your ability to compare and analyze literary texts. Start practicing essay responses to unseen extracts—you’ll need to show critical thinking and nuanced analysis.

MLAT: Focuses on your language proficiency. Brush up on grammar and vocabulary for Spanish. Past papers are invaluable for preparation.

Written Work: You’ll likely need to submit a piece of written work, such as an English essay, showcasing your analytical skills and writing ability. Choose something that reflects your best work.

Interviews: These are designed to explore your thought processes and intellectual curiosity. For English, expect to analyze texts on the spot. For Spanish, you might discuss language structure, cultural texts, or literature.

3. Advice for preparing your application:

Personal Statement: Use this to show your passion for both English and Spanish. Mention specific authors, books, or topics in both subjects that inspire you. For example, how has reading Lorca deepened your interest in Spanish culture? Or how does a particular genre of literature (like Gothic fiction) connect with your broader studies?

Extracurricular Interests: Highlight anything that shows your dedication to both subjects. For example, mention if you’ve participated in debates, written for a school publication, or traveled to a Spanish-speaking country to immerse yourself in the language.

Workshops and Events: If possible, attend Oxford’s open days or subject-specific workshops. Some colleges offer Modern Languages taster sessions, which can provide valuable insight.

4. Seeking experiences from current students: You can check out the Oxford Student Room forums or join social media groups where current and former students share their experiences. Alternatively, reach out to the admissions office—they sometimes put you in touch with student ambassadors who have studied similar courses.
5. A final bit of advice: This journey may seem daunting, but the fact that you’re already doing two strong A-levels in the right subjects is a huge plus. Use your personal statement to explain why your mix of qualifications (A-levels and BTEC) gives you a unique perspective or skill set—for example, maybe your BTEC in media has strengthened your analytical and creative abilities, which complement your study of English and Spanish literature.
Best of luck, soma! You’ve got this—stay curious and determined, and you’ll stand out. If you need help with personal statements, ELAT/MLAT prep, or anything else, feel free to reach out. 😊
OP, the previous post does not provide realistic advice. The suggestion that doing a BTEC wouldn't matter because you are also doing two A Levels is absurd. You would be competing against people on track for AAA and better in three A levels.

The blunt reality is that you would have little chance of obtaining a place at Oxford with two A levels and a BTEC in Media. That qualification is not academically rigorous enough to prepare you for one of the most academically demanding universities in the World.

Oxford's position on BTECs is set out in the link below.

https://www.ox.ac.uk/admissions/undergraduate/courses/admission-requirements/uk-qualifications
(edited 1 month ago)
I'd written something longer but TSR ate so in summary:

a) the BTEC may make you somewhat less competitive but I don't think that means you shouldn't apply
b) it's only 1/5 options so little risk of applying anyway as you have 4 chances otherwise for offers. And are applying to a course at most unis undersubscribed.
c) I gather MFL at Oxford is very lit heavy- read some Spanish literature over the summer
d) English lit at Oxford is much broader than the A-level, read around e.g. medieval, early modern and other periods
e) read some literary theory/criticism
f) think about how the two literary traditions influenced each other and/or compare in context of the respective societies

But overall if you're predicted As and A*s in your A-levels and a distinction in your BTEC do consider applying, just don't peg all your hopes and dreams on it. Consider it more of an aspirational choice :smile:
(edited 1 month ago)
Original post by artful_lounger
I'd written something longer but TSR ate so in summary:
a) the BTEC may make you somewhat less competitive but I don't think that means you shouldn't apply
b) it's only 1/5 options so little risk of applying anyway as you have 4 chances otherwise for offers. And are applying to a course at most unis undersubscribed.
c) I gather MFL at Oxford is very lit heavy- read some Spanish literature over the summer
d) English lit at Oxford is much broader than the A-level, read around e.g. medieval, early modern and other periods
e) read some literary theory/criticism
f) think about how the two literary traditions influenced each other and/or compare in context of the respective societies
But overall if you're predicted As and A*s in your A-levels and a distinction in your BTEC do consider applying, just don't peg all your hopes and dreams on it. Consider it more of an aspirational choice :smile:

I disagree. The BTEC in Media makes the OP uncompetitive as a candidate for Oxford and for other selective universities.

Unrealistic aspirations lead only to frustration. Unless the OP can ditch the BTEC and catch up in a third A level, the OP should significantly lower his or her expectations as to university places.

OP, what on Earth were you thinking when you chose BTEC Media if you had aspirations to apply to Oxford? You may perhaps have been badly advised by someone.

Note that Oxford does not offer Media Studies as an undergraduate degree. There is a big clue in that.
OP -
The issue you have is that Oxford’s standard offer is 3 As at A level for Humanities. The page linked above doesn’t say that BTechs can never be accepted and says they would be considered alongside A Levels. But the examples of the courses that accept BTechs are applied ones, whereas English and Spanish is a purely academic course. So it is not clear whether they would be willing to take your BTech in lieu of a third A Level

The risk you run is that the department is not able to make an offer based on 2 A levels and a BTech and so your application won’t be able to be considered.

It might be worth asking at an Open Day or contacting the departments at Oxford to check as it would be a shame to waste a UCAS slot if you would not be eligible to meet an Oxford offer for this course.
Reply 6
Original post by Stiffy Byng
OP, the previous post does not provide realistic advice. The suggestion that doing a BTEC wouldn't matter because you are also doing two A Levels is absurd. You would be competing against people on track for AAA and better in three A levels.
The blunt reality is that you would have little chance of obtaining a place at Oxford with two A levels and a BTEC in Media. That qualification is not academically rigorous enough to prepare you for one of the most academically demanding universities in the World.
Oxford's position on BTECs is set out in the link below.
https://www.ox.ac.uk/admissions/undergraduate/courses/admission-requirements/uk-qualifications

hey thanks, i kinda already knew this to be honest, but i just wanted to know if it was possible. oxford hasn’t ever really been like a lifelong dream of mine, i just wanted to know if it was even an option. i’m fine with not getting into oxford, so thanks for the blunt advice
Reply 7
Original post by artful_lounger
I'd written something longer but TSR ate so in summary:
a) the BTEC may make you somewhat less competitive but I don't think that means you shouldn't apply
b) it's only 1/5 options so little risk of applying anyway as you have 4 chances otherwise for offers. And are applying to a course at most unis undersubscribed.
c) I gather MFL at Oxford is very lit heavy- read some Spanish literature over the summer
d) English lit at Oxford is much broader than the A-level, read around e.g. medieval, early modern and other periods
e) read some literary theory/criticism
f) think about how the two literary traditions influenced each other and/or compare in context of the respective societies
But overall if you're predicted As and A*s in your A-levels and a distinction in your BTEC do consider applying, just don't peg all your hopes and dreams on it. Consider it more of an aspirational choice :smile:

thanks! it definitely is just more of an aspirational dream and i’m aware that my options make me a less competitive candidate. truth is i'm probably still going to apply for this course at other unis, hopefully other russel groups, so your advice is still very helpful!
Reply 8
Original post by Stiffy Byng
I disagree. The BTEC in Media makes the OP uncompetitive as a candidate for Oxford and for other selective universities.
Unrealistic aspirations lead only to frustration. Unless the OP can ditch the BTEC and catch up in a third A level, the OP should significantly lower his or her expectations as to university places.
OP, what on Earth were you thinking when you chose BTEC Media if you had aspirations to apply to Oxford? You may perhaps have been badly advised by someone.
Note that Oxford does not offer Media Studies as an undergraduate degree. There is a big clue in that.

dude chill i chose my subjects before i even wanted to go to oxford, it’s really not that deep i don’t care that much if i don’t get into oxford it’s just a little aspiration?? im not going to get frustrated.. you make a good point, sure, that my btec makes me an unrealistic subject, but i enjoy media and my school didn’t offer it as an alevel, and i didn’t want to spend my time studying something like history which i really started to hate at gcse level. i wasn’t badly advised by anyone, i made the choice to choose media because i still might choose to apply for media at other universities, cus media is something im also really passionate about. personally i love my subjects and i wouldn’t mind taking any of them to higher level education, whether it’s english, spanish or media, and in this post i was just exploring one route that could be option
Reply 9
Original post by xyz1234567
OP -
The issue you have is that Oxford’s standard offer is 3 As at A level for Humanities. The page linked above doesn’t say that BTechs can never be accepted and says they would be considered alongside A Levels. But the examples of the courses that accept BTechs are applied ones, whereas English and Spanish is a purely academic course. So it is not clear whether they would be willing to take your BTech in lieu of a third A Level
The risk you run is that the department is not able to make an offer based on 2 A levels and a BTech and so your application won’t be able to be considered.
It might be worth asking at an Open Day or contacting the departments at Oxford to check as it would be a shame to waste a UCAS slot if you would not be eligible to meet an Oxford offer for this course.
thanks, right now it’s too late for me to change my btec to an alevel, but i don’t want to anyway. if oxford wouldn’t consider my application that’s fine, there are so many other unis that would, especially if i somehow find a course that offers both film studies and spanish. but thanks, you’re right it would be a waste of a ucas slot!
Original post by somaaaaaaa
thanks! it definitely is just more of an aspirational dream and i’m aware that my options make me a less competitive candidate. truth is i'm probably still going to apply for this course at other unis, hopefully other russel groups, so your advice is still very helpful!

Honestly if you are predicted AA and Distinction at least (possibly A*A Distinction depending on the course requirements) or higher then you have little to lose by applying to Oxford as you will most likely get at least two offers from your other choices anyway :smile:

And if you are called to interview and do well there, you may well get an offer from Oxford too!
(edited 1 month ago)
Original post by somaaaaaaa
dude chill i chose my subjects before i even wanted to go to oxford, it’s really not that deep i don’t care that much if i don’t get into oxford it’s just a little aspiration?? im not going to get frustrated.. you make a good point, sure, that my btec makes me an unrealistic subject, but i enjoy media and my school didn’t offer it as an alevel, and i didn’t want to spend my time studying something like history which i really started to hate at gcse level. i wasn’t badly advised by anyone, i made the choice to choose media because i still might choose to apply for media at other universities, cus media is something im also really passionate about. personally i love my subjects and i wouldn’t mind taking any of them to higher level education, whether it’s english, spanish or media, and in this post i was just exploring one route that could be option

I am already chilled, thanks. My observation about unrealism was not directed at you, but at others who suggest that you'd have a chance of getting into Oxford, which you are sensible enough to realise is next to impossible with a qualification such as a BTEC in media

You shoud of course study what you wish, but you might perhaps find a degree in media studies intellectually unstimulating.

Many employers may tend to regard a degree in such a subject as unserious, because the subject lacks academic rigour and is largely self-referential.

University should of course be about much more than career prospects, but not being bored at university by studying a somewhat flakey subject which offers little academic challenge may be worth something.

By contrast, read English and/or Spanish and you get three or four years immersed in fabulous novels, plays, and poetry, and a degree that is respected beyond the academy.

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