Application Process

Applying for the BA in English at UCL is competitive. We receive a high volume of applications each year and have to select from a large pool of well-qualified applicants.

We assess applications by looking very carefully at the UCAS Form, including GCSE grades, and A Level predictions (or equivalents), the tutors’ reference, and the UCAS personal statement. We then shortlist the strongest candidates and make our final decisions based on a combination of all of the above criteria. 

• UCL Entry Requirements (includes information on alternative entry qualifications)
• Information about contextual offers via the Access UCL scheme

Given the large number of applications, it is unfortunately not possible for us to make an offer to every candidate who is predicted to achieve our A Level requirement of AAA or equivalent. We therefore place considerable weight on the UCAS personal statement when shortlisting. Our advice for a strong personal statement is that it is subject-focused. We do not recommend that you devote more than a sentence or two to extracurricular activities. You should use the statement clearly demonstrate that you are widely read, that you are passionate about studying English, and that you understand what this kind of degree involves. You should provide evidence that you can analyse the texts you talk about to a high level, showing us how you engage with the texts you have read in order to provide the admissions tutor with insights into your individual approach to thinking about literature. 

Offer Holders

Information about offer holder open days will be sent directly via email from the department.

General information for all those with an offer from UCL can be found on the Undergraduate Offer Holders webpage.

Further Information

Additional information, including international entry requirements, can be found on the BA English prospectus page.

If you have any further questions about the application process, please email us at english@ucl.ac.uk.