The University of Cambridge is considering removing the requirement for a GCSE foreign language as part of the application process. The aim is to increase applications from State schools. There is currently no university other than Cambridge that insists on core subjects that have been studied before applying. Cambridge plans to involve its departments in selecting the subjects and qualifications necessary for its admission process. After government changes to the national curriculum, only 17% of State schools require their students to study a foreign language after the age of 14. This change in the curriculum has made it difficult for Cambridge to find suitable candidates. According to the university, in 2000, 80% of UK school students studied a foreign language at GCSE; today, the figure is under 50%. The university’s view is that this change will allow young people easier access to the university. However, the university still encourages young people to learn other languages. Other universities, such as Oxford, have relaxed the requirements for a modern foreign language at GCSE. Two years ago, University College London (UCL) made a modern foreign language a compulsory condition of admission in 2012. In contrast, Cambridge’s decision comes five years after the government waved modern foreign languages as a necessary GCSE subject. Meanwhile, following recommendations from the Dearing report, every seven-year-old in England will have to study a modern foreign language as part of the national curriculum until the age of 14 beginning this year. Nonetheless, the move by Cambridge should not affect its student’s participation agenda, even if students do not possess a foreign language at GCSE level. In such circumstances, students may make a commitment to learn a language alongside or as part of their degree programme.