skip to content

Undergraduates

Faculty of Modern and Medieval Languages and Linguistics

 

Frequently asked questions

We know you'll have lots of questions about what it's like to study languages and about life at Cambridge.

Students walking togetherChoosing your course

Discover which courses you can study with us at the Faculty of Modern and Medieval Languages and Lingustics, why studying languages and linguistics makes for an exciting career, and what the requirements are.

 

Student reading notesApplications

If you're thinking of applying to study a course with us at MMLL, is there anything you can do to prepare? We have lots of helpful suggestions and explain the Cambridge admissions system.

 

 

Students enjoying a discussionTeaching

How does teaching work at Cambridge? How many hours of teaching and independent study should I expect each week? Does it take long to get from the city centre to the Faculty of Modern and Medieval Languages and Linguistics?

 

'Trackside in Uchuruk' by Barney Crawford. A view down a railway track with trees and buildings either sideYear Abroad

Students who study four-year Modern and Medieval Languages (MML) or History and Modern Languages (HML) courses spend their third year abroad - studying, working or teaching. It’s an exciting and challenging experience and an excellent way to immerse yourself in a culture and language.

 

'Three studentsOffer holders

If you've been offered a place to study History and Modern Languages or Medieval and Modern Languages, congratulations! Find out what you can do to prepare before you start in Cambridge.

 

 


Year Abroad

How can I spend my year abroad?

Currently our students have a choice of three options: 1) to study at a university or other Higher Education institution abroad; 2) to find employment abroad (the job has to be approved by the Faculty, so can’t be as an ‘au pair’ or waiter, for example); 3) to take up a British Council placement as an English assistant in a school abroad. Those opting to be English assistants usually spend the year in one place, but those who work or study can choose to spend time in two different countries. Students can study in any part of the world where the language is spoken; while many students spend their time in Europe, others live in Latin America, Africa or even French-speaking Canada! 

Will I receive any help or support from the Faculty/University when planning my year abroad or during my time abroad?

Yes, we have a dedicated Year Abroad Office that helps students preparing for the Year Abroad and while they are away from Cambridge on the Year Abroad itself.

Do I have to split my year abroad between two countries?

No, you don’t have to split your time between countries. Currently, students are able to split their time abroad across different countries if they wish to, or spend the required minimum of 8 months in one country.


Offer holders

I will be starting a degree in the Faculty of MMLL in autumn. Is there any reading that I should do before arriving?

It’s a good idea to undertake some preparation before arriving, if possible, as this will help you settle quickly into your work. MML and HML offer holders should visit our offer holders page for up-to-date information on how best to prepare. Here is our suggested preparatory readings for the Linguistics tripos.