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Your personal guide to an Oxford Modern Languages offer.
The Modern Languages Admissions Test (MLAT) was for years required for all applicants to any Oxford Languages course, whether French, Spanish, German, or one of the many other languages on offer.
Update for 2027 entry: Oxford has retired the MLAT. For most Modern Languages courses there is no longer a written admissions test: your linguistic potential is assessed at interview and through submitted written work (some joint courses use the TARA, so check your course page). The language skills the MLAT tested are exactly what interviews now probe, and our tutors prepare you for them.
With our team of expert MLAT tutors, all of whom have successfully taken the test themselves, you’re guaranteed to walk into your Oxford interview with confidence. Take the first step towards your dream Oxford offer, and get in touch today.
About the MLAT
The Modern Languages Admissions Test is a computer-based test made up of 10 sections. Each language section consists of:
- 20 multiple-choice questions
- 10 English-translation questions
The sections you take depend on which course you are applying for. There are eight individual sections for the following languages:
Czech🇨🇿, French🇫🇷, German🇩🇪, Italian🇮🇹, Modern Greek🇬🇷, Portuguese🇵🇹, Russian🇷🇺, Spanish🇪🇸
The other two sections are:
- The Language Aptitude Test (LAT), for those applying for Russian on its own or as a beginner, and courses with Polish
- The Philosophy test, for those applying for Philosophy and Modern Languages
Candidates will need to take a maximum of two sections.
Registration used to open in mid-August and close in early October. With the MLAT retired, there is nothing left to book: for most Modern Languages courses Oxford now assesses your linguistic potential at interview and through the written work you submit.
Your language ability is still a key factor in Oxford’s decision to extend an offer. Make sure you’ve secured yours.
What to expect from your MLAT package:
Once you’ve purchased your admissions package, you’ll receive comprehensive guidance to help you navigate every step of the MLAT preparation process.
Diagnostic Lesson
Your journey begins with a thorough diagnostic session. Your tutor will assess your current proficiency in key areas such as language aptitude, grammar, translation, and essay writing. Based on this, they will create a personalized study plan tailored to your strengths and areas for improvement.
Skill Building
Work with your tutor to master the essential skills Oxford Modern Languages applicants are assessed on. This includes developing your ability to analyze and translate texts, improving grammar and vocabulary, and crafting clear, well-structured essays.
Guided Mock Exams
Start with guided practice using past MLAT papers. Your tutor will walk you through each section, offer advanced strategies, highlight common mistakes, and teach you how to approach the most challenging tasks effectively.
Timed Mock Exams with Feedback
You’ll progress to full timed mock exams that replicate real test conditions. Your tutor will provide detailed feedback, identify patterns in your performance, and offer targeted advice to help you refine your approach and maximize your score.
Review and Final Preparation
Your tutor will help you consolidate your knowledge, polish your exam technique, and address any remaining concerns. By test day, you’ll feel confident, prepared, and ready to achieve your best possible score.
Our tutors aren’t just tutors, they’re mentors.
Our Admissions Experts are handpicked and thoroughly vetted to ensure you get an expert experience during your admissions tutoring service.
With Think Smart, you’re guaranteed to receive:
Personalised guidance
We provide tailored strategies to each individual student, to highlight your strengths and address areas for improvement. We believe that no one student is the same, so why should their teaching be?
Insider insight
All of our MLAT tutors have successfully taken the test themselves.
Comprehensive preparation
Taking you confidently from section to section, Think Smart is committed to providing rigorous but engaging preparation to help you excel.
More than just teaching
Our holistic approach means we strive to provide ongoing advice and motivation, helping you make decisions about your career and academics.
Think of your tutor like a personal guide through the MLAT Exam, we’re here for you!
Questions about MLAT Exam Tutoring
When is the MLAT?
It is not held anymore: the MLAT was retired after the 2025 cycle. From 2027 entry, most Oxford Modern Languages courses assess your language potential at interview and through submitted written work instead.
What does the MLAT consist of?
The MLAT is divided into several sections , depending on the course you’re applying for. These include: Language Aptitude Tests (e.g., LAT for beginners ) Translation exercises (from and into the target language) Grammar and vocabulary tests Essay writing in English or the target language
How long is the MLAT?
The MLAT is 30 minutes - 1 hour long , depending on the sections you will be taking. For example, the Language Aptitude Test (LAT) is 30 minutes , while the essay section may also be 30 minutes .
How do I prepare for the MLAT?
Preparing for the MLAT involves: Practicing past papers to familiarize yourself with the format Improving your grammar, vocabulary, and translation skills Working with a tutor to target your weaknesses
Is the MLAT difficult?
Though the MLAT is not a particularly long test , it can be challenging because it tests skills beyond standard school curricula , such as advanced translation and language aptitude . It’s not uncommon to achieve strong results with consistent practice and targeted preparation .
Do I need to know multiple languages for the MLAT?
No, you don’t need to know multiple languages unless you’re applying for a course that requires it (e.g., a joint degree in two languages ). However, you will need to demonstrate proficiency in the language(s) you’re applying to study , as well as strong analytical and writing skills .
Can I take the MLAT if I’m a beginner in a language?
Yes! If you’re applying for a language you’re starting from scratch (e.g., beginners’ Russian or Italian ), you’ll take the Language Aptitude Test (LAT) instead of a language-specific test . The LAT assesses your potential to learn a new language quickly .
How is the MLAT scored?
The MLAT is scored based on your performance in each section. There is no fixed pass mark , as Oxford uses your score alongside other factors (e.g., your personal statement, grades, and interview performance ) to assess your application .
What happens if I don’t do well on the MLAT?
Everyone can have a bad day sometimes. While a strong MLAT score can boost your application , Oxford considers your entire profile , including your predicted grades, personal statement, and interview performance . If you don’t perform as well as you’d hoped , focus on excelling in other areas of your application .
Are there past papers available for the MLAT?
Yes, past papers for the MLAT are available on the official Oxford admissions website . Practicing these is one of the best ways to prepare , as they give you a clear idea of the test format and question types .
Can I get help preparing for the MLAT?
Absolutely! Many students work with tutors or enroll in preparation courses to improve their skills . A tutor can provide personalized feedback, help identify weaknesses, and guide you through mock exams and practice questions .
What’s the difference between the MLAT and the LAT?
The MLAT is the overall test for Modern Languages applicants , while the LAT (Language Aptitude Test) is a specific section for beginners in a new language. If you’re applying for a language you’ve never studied before , you’ll take the LAT as part of the MLAT .
Do I have to register for the MLAT?
Not anymore. The MLAT has been retired: from 2027 entry there is no written test for most Oxford Modern Languages courses, and assessment happens at interview and through submitted written work. Some joint courses use the TARA instead, so check your course page on the official Oxford website.
Can I retake the MLAT if I’m unhappy with my score?
The MLAT has been retired, so this no longer applies. Your language ability is now assessed at interview, and you can apply once per admissions cycle.
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