Personal Statement Tips

Creating Your Personal Statement

A personal statement is a short piece written by you to tell universities about yourself, show them why you are a great candidate for their course, and create a good impression. All of your choices receive the same statement which has a limit of 4,000 characters or 47 lines. This page will give you advice and suggestions on what you may want to include, but remember that your statement is personal to you and there is no one right way to write one.

Why Do You Want to Study This Subject?

Consider why you want to study this course. It may be that there are certain elements which interest you, you have done work experience which sparked your interest, or you want to continue previous studies. Remember, everybody has different reasons for studying a course so make sure you are being specific to you. It is also always better to give a reason for studying than making generic statements such as: 'I have always wanted to study this subject.'

What Skills and Achievements Do You Have?

This is your opportunity to begin thinking more broadly about what you can bring to university. Consider the skills you have developed that relate to studying. This could be being an independent worker, having great time management skills, or being an excellent researcher. Make sure you have done your research on what learning at university is like, as it may be different to anything you have done before and will require different skills. When talking about your skills always make sure to give examples to back them up.

What Are Your Hobbies and Interests?

Think about what hobbies and interests you have and how they set you apart from other applicants. For example, playing a sport can show determination or collecting memorabilia can show you are passionate about something. It may be that these things have influenced your decision to study this subject, and if so then make sure you mention it.

You don't just have to link your hobbies and interests to what you want to study. You could talk about how you are going to contribute to student life by joining sports teams and societies.

What Are Your Future Plans?

Universities are interested in what you plan to do with your degree and why this route is right for you. It is a good idea to write about your career aspirations and how your degree is going to get you there as this shows you have really thought about your decision to study. Don't worry if your degree doesn't link to a particular career or you have not decided what you want to do in the future. It may be you want to study a particular subject to open up opportunities in that area, you want the skills that degree gives, or you just want to know more about that subject. The important thing is that you show you are thinking about what comes after university.

Advice for Mature Students

If you are a mature student then it may be a good idea to talk about what you did before you decided to return to education as this helps to give context to your decision. You could also talk about why you have chosen to come back to education, relevant experience either through paid or unpaid work, or what you want to do with your degree.

Advice for International Students

If you are an international student, it may be a good idea to tell universities why you want to study in the UK and why you can successfully complete a course that is taught in English. Make sure you mention if some of your studies have been taught or examined in English and if you have taken part in any activities where you have used English outside of your studies.

Personal Statement Advice Video

Take a look at one of our previous Live Lounges which gives lots of helpful advice for your personal statement.