What is the MLAT?
The MLAT is otherwise known as the Modern Languages Admissions Test (MLAT) and must be taken by students wishing to study modern languages at the University of Oxford. It is taken by students applying for the following undergraduate courses:
- European and Middle Eastern Languages
- Classics and Modern Languages
- English and Modern Languages
- History and Modern Languages
- Modern Languages
- Modern Languages and Linguistics
- Philosophy and Modern Languages.
Prospective students will sit different sections depending on which course they are applying to read. Each student sits a maximum of two sections from the overall test. You may also need to take the LAT (Language Aptitude Test) if you are applying as a beginner in a specific language, as you may not have the knowledge of the language to be able to undertake a translation-style paper. The LAT is a series of multiple choice questions which imagines a language and asks you to apply certain rules to it (for example, word order, sentence structures and spellings).
Why do Oxford use the MLAT?
Studying Modern Languages is a challenging prospect, and the University of Oxford want to assess candidates’ potential before they accept them onto their courses. The MLAT assesses whether students are suitable for these degree courses and whether they have the necessary skills and aptitudes to cope with the demands of the course.
Understanding the MLAT assessment
There are different sections to the MLAT test, all taken on a computer. Each section consists of multiple choice questions and will test a student’s knowledge and ability in the specific language, or in philosophy if that is a component of the prospective course.
Role of a tutor in MLAT preparation
Tutors can be very helpful in MLAT preparation. They can check a candidate’s prior knowledge and build on that, rather than take them through a one size fits all approach. Tutors who are fluent or extremely proficient in the language the candidate is hoping to study will be best placed to help, alongside tutors who have studied Modern Languages at university themselves.
Top tips for MLAT success
There are practice papers available for the MLAT, but the best place to start is to work on your written and spoken knowledge of the specific language you are hoping to study. Revise using your course books from school exams, or ask your tutor to help you identify suitable revision material. Timing is important as this test is short, so ensure you are practising timed sections of multiple choice questions at the correct speed. If you are hoping to study a language as a beginner, remember to prepare for the LAT as well.
