How to pass the ELAT exam

Notice – autumn 2024

At the time of writing, the ELAT had been scrapped for students applying to Oxford for entry in 2025. It is not known whether it will return, or in what form. The below is potentially of interest to students applying to study English, and we will update it when we learn about any changes. Good luck!

What is the Oxford English Admissions test?

The ELAT stands for the Oxford English Admissions Test and is an assessment specifically for prospective English and English-related courses undergraduate applicants at the University of Oxford. The ELAT asks candidates to respond to literary texts and evaluates their ability to analyse and produce a personalised response. The results of the ELAT form an essential role in determining a candidate’s suitability for undergraduate study at the University of Oxford.

Why do Oxford use the ELAT?

Applicants need to be able to demonstrate their potential to succeed on one of Oxford’s courses based on not only their school grades and academic achievements but also their potential for future study. The University of Oxford prides itself on the intensive nature of its courses and so students need to be able to demonstrate that they can cope with this level of study. The test determines critical thinking skills alongside analytical and creative skills.

How is the ELAT different for October 2024?

The ELAT will not be running in October 2024, but candidates will have to sit a different admissions test if they are applying to read English alongside another subjects such as classics. It will start again once the new format has been decided by the university. Candidates must send samples of their written work to the university as part of the admissions process.

What did Oxford historically look for in the ELAT exam?

Engagement with the text is the key issue for discerning success in the ELAT. Showing original thought, and a depth of understanding beyond study at Key Stage 5 is also important to determine whether or not an applicant has the ability to succeed at the university.  Prospective students are expected to have read widely, both fiction and literary criticism, and to be able to demonstrate this in their answers.

Where can you get ELAT past papers?

Whilst the format of the ELAT is being considered by the university, past papers are not currently available. However, these will likely be published once the new format has been decided.

Final thoughts on passing the ELAT

Keep reading as much as you can if you are considering the University of Oxford for your undergraduate study of English. Literary analysis is important, alongside a willingness to develop a personalised response to each text you read.

Resources for Further Reading:

Website

1. ELAT
2. ELAT information

Related subjects