Oxford English Admissions Criteria

There are many myths and anecdotes about how Oxford admissions tutors decide who to offer places to, making it easy to forget the official selection criteria listed on the Faculty of English website:

Written Work Evaluation Criteria

  • Literary sensibility
  • Sensitivity to the creative use of language
  • Evidence of careful and critical reading
  • An analytical approach
  • Coherence of argument and articulacy of expression
  • Precision in handling concepts and presenting evidence to support points
  • Relevance to the question
  • Originality

Interview Performance Evaluation Criteria

  • Evidence of independent reading
  • Capacity to exchange and build on ideas
  • Clarity of thought and expression
  • Analytical ability
  • Flexibility of thought
  • Evidence of independent thinking about literature
  • Readiness and commitment to read widely with discrimination

It is worth reading these lists slowly and carefully, considering how to develop expertise in each area. Those with a fixed mindset might believe that performance on these measures is purely a matter of inherent talent or intelligence and may avoid practice, thinking improvement is impossible. However, those with a growth mindset understand that these skills can be developed and strengthened through consistent practice and effort, much like training is essential for success in sports competitions.

How to Become English Literature Expert

Actions for Becoming an English Literature Expert

At the bottom of this post is a list of actions that can be taken, a little each week, to gradually develop expertise in English literature. It's important to note that this does not require already being an expert, but rather demonstrating commitment to the ongoing process of becoming more knowledgeable. These suggestions are designed to support key aspects of the application process, including the UCAS personal statement, the ELAT test, written work, and interviews. They are also beneficial for Year 12 and 13 exams, ensuring the time invested is worthwhile.

Balancing these activities alongside sixth-form studies, part-time work, fitness routines, and other commitments may be challenging, but finding even small amounts of time can make a significant difference. For example, half an hour daily or a couple of hours on weekends can provide meaningful progress.

Suggested Actions:

  • Explore learning resources: The learning skills booklet for A-level students from Hodder Education offers practical advice for approaching A-level studies in ways that align with preparing for applications to top universities.
  • Understand what it means to excel in English: An insightful blog about the attributes associated with success in English Literature outlines qualities that can be cultivated and practiced over time.
  • Expand vocabulary: Maintaining a list of new words and their definitions is highly beneficial. Consulting a dictionary to understand unfamiliar terms not only enhances technical knowledge but also builds a rich vocabulary for expressing nuanced ideas across poetry, prose, and drama. Everyday conversations, readings, and observations can serve as valuable sources for new words.
  • Engage with recommended readings: Several booklists provide valuable suggestions for enriching literary understanding. For instance, Times Higher Education Supplement features a list of books to read before university, while Balliol College offers recommendations for ambitious younger readers.
  • Practice close reading: Dedicating time to slow, analytical, and detailed reading of poems or extracts from plays and novels can significantly enhance comprehension and critical thinking skills. This practice can be integrated weekly or daily during holidays. Anthologies or examples from university websites can provide guidance, and resources like *Slow Reading in a Hurried Age* by David Mikics offer excellent strategies for mastering this skill.

Expand Your Knowledge