How to write a personal statement for University

Everyone finds writing their Personal Statement challenging.  Here are a few hints and tips to get you started and to help you market yourself in the best possible light.

What to include

• Reasons for choosing the course or subject area.
• Demonstrate your understanding of the course or subject area.
• Relevant work or voluntary experience - what experience and skills have you gained?
• Extra-curricular activities.
• Career aspirations.
• Other interests, sports, hobbies.
• Make sure you try to include a “wow factor” – what is special about you?  Try to make your statement stand out from the crowd.

How to write a personal statement for university

• Clear and concise – 47 lines, 4,000 characters (including spaces).
• Precision and relevance – one statement fits all, try to narrow down to one subject area.
• Layout - headings and paragraphs make easier reading.
• Check spelling and grammar.
• Be honest and truthful – don’t make it up to make yourself 'more interesting'.
• Beware: Similarity Detection Service – make sure it’s your own work – the point of the Personal Statement is that it’s personal!
• Get your teachers or family to proofread it.
• Avoid humour and inspirational quotes.

Don’t forget that the person who will be reading your Personal Statement will be an admissions tutor who teaches on the course that you have applied for.

The ideal student

What admissions tutors are looking for:

The ideal Higher Education student will be…

• Self-motivated
• Enthusiastic
• Able to initiate
• Well organised
• Responsible

Try and demonstrate some of these qualities in your Personal Statement using evidence and examples. Make use of the advice on the UCAS website to find out what admissions tutors are looking for, for particular courses. More resources and useful links are available in the Writing a Personal Statement - useful links list‌.

For more information and tips for writing your Personal Statement take a look at our Personal Statement dos and don'ts.