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Your personal statement is a short piece of writing, just 4,000 characters or 47 lines of text, where you tell universities who you are, why you want to study your chosen subject, and why they should choose you. All of your university choices get the same statement from you as part of your application, so it is important that you get it right. It may be the first time you have written something like this, and it is normal to feel a little unsure. To help you out, we have collected some of our best tips and advice so you can write personal statement to be proud of.
Please note, this page is for students applying to start in 2025. If you are preparing to apply for study in 2026, make sure you are familiar with the changes being made to personal statements by taking a look at UCAS's Personal Statements for 2026 webpage.
A great personal statement shows universities who you are and tells your story. Avoid using generic phrases, such as: ‘I have always been interested in studying this subject.’ This does not tell us anything about you or why you are submitting an application. Instead, try giving personal examples of how you became interested in the subject and why you want to study it at university.
Also, your personal statement needs to be in your words. UCAS uses specialist software to see if a personal statement has been copied from somewhere else, so do not be tempted to use AI or copy.
You may be tempted to use long, complex words to show your understanding of a subject, but it is often better to use simple language where possible. This makes it easier for the reader understand why you want to study in the first place. If you are using subject-specific terminology, then make sure you have a reason for doing so.
While it is important to not overcomplicate your writing, this is still a formal application, and you should avoid using any slang or contractions, such as: ‘isn’t’ or ‘don’t’.
It can feel awkward to write about yourself and your achievements, but that’s exactly what we want to read about! If you are struggling, try listing your skills and achievements before you start writing, you probably have more than you think.
If you are struggling to write about your achievements, try the ABC method:
A - Activities: describe something that you have done, such as extra reading, work experience, or volunteering.
B - Benefits: explain some of the benefits you have gained from the activity.
C - Courses: link these benefits to you future course or career.
If you are not sure if you should include a particular skill or achievement, then think about if you can relate it to studying your subject or university. If you are not able to without it feeling forced, then don’t include it.
It may take a few drafts to create something that you are happy to submit, and that is fine. Sometimes it can be helpful to get everything written down in rough first draft and then refine it from there. Remember, you do not need to write it all at once, you could try writing small sections at a time and coming back with fresh eyes.
Remember to proofread your application before submitting it to help you avoid spelling and grammar mistakes. Ask friends, teachers, parents, carers, or anyone else you trust to have a look through, as the more readthroughs you can do the better. It may also help to put it through text-to-speech software and listen to it back so you can hear if something is not right.
We are also here to help. Email us your personal statement and the Education Liaison Team will take a look through and give you feedback.
Once you have submitted your application, take a look at our Applicants and Offer Holders webpage. This page is filled with information about the exciting next steps you can take on your journey to studying with us.
Check out our Personal Statement Live Lounge for even more top-tips from our expert Education Liaison Team.