What is the Difference between the VCE English Subjects?

When it comes to VCE, one thing is non-negotiable: you must complete an English subject at the Unit 3/4 level to be eligible for an ATAR. But with four different English options - English, English Language, Literature, and EAL - how do you know which one to choose?

This guide breaks down each subject so you can make an informed choice and maximise your results.

What is English (Mainstream)?

This is the most popular option, and is often compulsory at some schools. Here are some basic information about this subject.

Exam Format:

  • Section A: Text Response Essay
  • Section B: Comparative Text Response
  • Section C: Analysing Argument

Coursework may include:

  • Creative Response (mimicking an author’s style)
  • Presenting Argument (persuasive oral presentations)
  • Comparative Analysing Argument (comparing opposing articles)

Key Skills: Analytical essay writing, persuasive analysis, comparative thinking.

🚀
Want to smash VCE English in 2025/2026?
Get personalised support from our VCE English Tutor Specialists who understand scaling, strategy, and how to study smarter! 👇

What is English Literature?

Students passionate about deep reading, literary analysis, and working with a wide variety of texts should pick this subject.

Texts Studied:
Minimum six texts, including:

  • A novel
  • A poetry anthology
  • A play
  • Two others (can be short stories, essays, etc.)
  • One must be Australian
  • One must be an adaptation (for Unit 3 AoS 1)

Exam Format:

  • Section A: Literary Perspectives Essay
  • Section B: Close Analysis using selected passages

Coursework includes:

  • Creative Response
  • Adaptation and Transformation analysis

Key Skills: Critical thinking, literary theory, text interpretation, creativity.

What is English Language?

English Language is for students interested in linguistics, grammar, and how English works in the real world.

Topics Covered:

  • Language acquisition
  • Formal vs informal language
  • Australian English
  • Language change and variation
  • Subsystems of language (e.g. morphology, syntax, semantics)

Exam Format:

  • Section A: Short-answer responses
  • Section B: Analytical commentary on a text
  • Section C: Essay with stimulus material

Text Sources: Everything from government documents to memes and casual conversation.

Key Skills: Linguistic analysis, argument construction, data interpretation.

What is English as an Additional Language?

This subject is for students whose first language is not English.

What’s different?

  • Fewer texts studied (3 instead of 4)
  • Listening skills are tested
  • Modified tasks and expectations (e.g. shorter essays and speech times)

Exam Format:

  • Section A: Listening Comprehension
  • Section B: Text Response (EAL-specific prompts)
  • Section C: Argument Analysis + Short-answer responses

Key Skills: Comprehension, communication, contextual understanding.

Which English Subject Should You Choose?

It depends on your interests and strengths. Here's a simple breakdown:

SubjectBest For
EnglishBalanced essay writing and analysis
LiteratureDeep reading and literary discussion
English LanguageAnalytical and technical thinkers
EALNon-native English speakers needing tailored support

Conclusion

Also keep in mind subject scaling. While Literature and English Language often scale slightly higher than mainstream English, don’t pick a subject solely for scaling. Choose what suits your strengths and interests — you’ll perform better and enjoy the subject more.

Still after more resources? Check these out! 👇

How the VCE works: Understanding Victoria’s Year 12 ATAR system
The mysterious workings of the VCE can be a constant source of confusion for both students and parents — even those currently undertaking it! In this guide, we’ll break down the essentials of Victoria’s Year 12 ATAR system so you can finally understand how it all fits together.
VCE ATAR Scaling Report 2024: How to Maximise your ATAR in 2025
Interested in how your subject could scale your ATAR this year? This report analyses 2024’s ATAR trends to explore how scaling impacts different VCE subjects and how you can utilise that knowledge to maximise your marks.
How to Achieve Top Marks in VCE English Section A
To achieve top marks in VCE English, you will need to focus on demonstrating a strong understanding of your chosen text through a well-structured, analytical essay. In this study guide, we will share exactly how you are going to do this to succeed and score top marks in your VCE English essay! 🔥

FAQs

1. Which VCE English subject scales the best?

  • Literature and English Language typically scale slightly higher than mainstream English.
  • However, your individual performance is more important than the scaling difference.

2. Do I have to take English to get an ATAR?

  • Yes, two English units are compulsory and will count towards your ATAR.

3. Can I switch between VCE English subjects?

  • You can switch in Units 1/2, but switching during Units 3/4 is not recommended due to different course content and assessment styles.

4. Is Literature harder than English?

  • Not necessarily—it depends on your skills.
  • Literature is better suited to students who enjoy creative and critical reading, while English focuses more on structured analysis.