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English Language and Literature

Courses tab icon About the course Course outline Entrance requirements How to apply

All candidates must follow the application procedure as shown in how to apply.  The information below gives specific details for students applying for this course.

Written work 

Candidates are required to submit one recent example of writing, by 11 November 2013. This should be a marked essay produced in the normal course of your school or college work and should not have been rewritten after marking. Preferably it should be an analytical discussion of a topic or topics in the field of English literature, though an English language topic is permissible. It should not be a short timed essay, a critical commentary on particular passages of text (practical criticism exercises), or a piece of creative writing.

See further guidance on the submission of written work

Written test 

All candidates must take the English Literature Admissions Test (ELAT), normally at their own school or college, on 6 November 2013. Separate registration for this test is required and the final deadline for entries is 15 October 2013. It is the responsibility of the candidate to ensure that they are registered for this test. See the website for further details.

What are tutors looking for?

Successful candidates will tend to be those who can give evidence of wide, enthusiastic and thoughtful reading. Tutors appreciate that you may be nervous in interview. You should not be afraid to defend your views or to suggest authors whose work you would particularly like to discuss.

Selection criteria

Candidates may wish to refer to the selection criteria for English

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