How to write your personal statement

Summary

The personal statement is a crucial part of the UK university application, providing an opportunity to stand out from other applicants. It should explain why you’ve chosen your subject, outline your goals, and demonstrate your relevant skills and experiences. A strong statement is structured with an engaging introduction, a middle section highlighting your skills and suitability for the course, and a conclusion that ties everything together. Avoid vague claims, focus on real examples, and double-check your spelling and grammar to make a positive first impression.

Takeaways

• 😀 The personal statement is a mandatory part of the UCAS application and is read by admissions tutors and lecturers.
• 😀 Avoid mentioning specific universities, as the same personal statement is sent to all five chosen universities.
• 😀 Plagiarism is strictly prohibited, and universities have software to detect copied content.
• 😀 The personal statement should reflect the real you, showcasing authenticity.
• 😀 You only have 4,000 characters, so make every word count, and don’t hesitate to rewrite your statement several times.
• 😀 A good personal statement has a clear structure: a beginning, middle, and end.
• 😀 The introduction should explain why you chose the subject, how the course aligns with your goals, and your current knowledge.
• 😀 In the middle section, focus on skills like teamwork, communication, and time management, and provide specific examples from your experiences.
• 😀 The conclusion should sum up your statement with a strong, memorable line that ties everything together.
• 😀 Double-check your spelling and grammar to avoid mistakes, as a polished statement is important for making a good impression.

Q & A

Why is the personal statement an important part of the UCAS application?

The personal statement is important because it gives you the chance to showcase your personality, motivations, and qualifications to admissions tutors. It's a key opportunity to stand out from other applicants with similar grades.

Can I mention specific universities in my personal statement?

No, you should not mention any specific universities. The same personal statement is sent to all the universities you apply to, so it's important to keep it general and focused on your chosen subject.

What happens if my personal statement is plagiarized?

If your personal statement is found to be plagiarized, universities may not offer you a place. They use advanced software to detect copied content, so it's crucial that your statement is original and authentic.

How long should my personal statement be?

Your personal statement can be up to 4,000 characters long, which translates to about 47 lines of text. You must use this space wisely and ensure that every word counts.

What should be included in the introduction of the personal statement?

The introduction should explain why you chose the subject you're applying for, how the course aligns with your future goals, and what prior knowledge you have in the field.

How should I approach writing the middle section of my personal statement?

In the middle section, focus on showcasing your skills and experiences that make you a good fit for university. Highlight abilities like teamwork, communication, and time management, and provide concrete examples to support your claims.

What type of experiences should I mention in my personal statement?

You should mention any work experience, hobbies, or extracurricular activities that have helped you develop relevant skills for your chosen course. These experiences will demonstrate your readiness for university.

What is the best way to end my personal statement?

You should conclude your personal statement with a strong, impactful line that summarizes your motivations and future aspirations, leaving a lasting impression on the admissions team.

Why is it important to check spelling and grammar in the personal statement?

Spelling and grammar are crucial because they reflect your attention to detail and professionalism. Errors can detract from the overall quality of your application.

What is the most important advice for writing a personal statement?

The most important advice is to be authentic and specific. Use examples to demonstrate your skills, motivations, and qualifications. A well-written personal statement should tell a compelling story about you.