By Jakir Hossain
According to UCAS, each year nearly 700,000 students apply for undergraduate courses in the UK. In your UK university application process, a personal statement sets you apart from other applicants with similar grades. But how?
It showcases who you are beyond grades and test scores, where you can share your passion, aspirations, and experiences, all in your voice.
That’s why you need to present both your academic accomplishments and your personal qualities, values, and motivations for pursuing higher education. So, how do you write a personal statement for university that captures the attention of admissions tutors? It’s not as hard as it looks.
By the end of this blog, you'll have the guidance to write a personal statement representing your individual experiences and aspirations.
Why is a Personal Statement for the University Important?
For students seeking admission to UK universities, a personal statement is more than just a requirement. The admissions team uses it to understand your personality, interests, motivations, and how your experiences align with the course you're applying for.
The admissions team wants authenticity and a well-rounded individual, not just another applicant with a standard template. Write your statement yourself and explain why you're a great fit for the university while describing your passion for the subject.
Relying on someone else or copying from the internet could backfire as universities check for similarities and plagiarism. Also during interviews, you may be asked about the personal statement, so being familiar with its contents is essential.
What to Include in a Personal Statement?
To write a strong personal statement, you should include these important elements:
- Motivation for your course choice
- Relevant experience and achievements
- Knowledge of the course
- Showcasing your character
- Consistency across UCAS choices
- Clarity and conciseness in writing
How to write a personal statement for university: Step-by-step guide
Here’s a breakdown of the personal statement writing process into manageable steps for you:
1. Research your Course and University
At first, understand the specific requirements of the course you’re applying for. Each university may have different expectations for personal statements. Check the university course page for guidance on what to include. This information will help you tailor your statement to meet their criteria, demonstrating your genuine interest.
2. Brainstorm Ideas and Experiences
Take some time to reflect on your academic or work experiences, achievements, and objectives. You should consider the following questions:
- What inspired you to choose this course?
- What relevant experiences have you had?
- How have these experiences shaped your academic journey?
Jot down key points to include in your statement and highlight your strengths and uniqueness.
3. Structure your Statement
A well-structured personal statement will help convey your message. Here’s a simple brief for you to follow:
- Introduction: Start with a hook that grabs the reader's attention. This could be a personal anecdote or a statement about your passion for the subject.
- Body: This section can be divided into two or three paragraphs. Then discuss your relevant experiences, skills, and achievements. Make sure you connect these points to your chosen course and university.
- Conclusion: Summarise your aspirations and how the course aligns with your future goals. You must highlight enthusiasm for the subject and your commitment to succeed.
4. Write and Edit Multiple Drafts
It's normal for your personal statement to require revisions. Start with a draft, then refine it by clarifying ideas, improving flow, and correcting errors. Write a draft, then revise it several times. Focus on clarity, coherence, conciseness, and correct grammar & spelling.
5. Seek Feedback
Before finalising your statement, ask for feedback from someone you trust, like a mentor. This will help you spot any areas for improvement. Consider the suggestions seriously and make necessary revisions.
Example of a Strong Personal Statement
Don't:
I have always wanted to study Psychology because I think it’s an interesting subject. I enjoy helping people, and I believe this course will allow me to do that. I did well in my A-levels, which makes me feel prepared for the challenges of university. I also enjoy reading and participating in extracurricular activities like sports. I think I would be a good fit for your university.
Do:
During my A-level studies, I volunteered at a local charity that supports individuals with learning disabilities. This experience taught me the importance of empathy and patience, and I found great satisfaction in helping others overcome their challenges. It was a turning point that solidified my commitment to studying Psychology, empowering me with the knowledge and skills necessary to make a positive impact in this field.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
The personal statement is not just about listing your qualifications; it’s about telling your story and showing how you have prepared for university life. This document can be a deciding factor in your application, so to ensure your personal statement stands out for the right reasons, avoid these common pitfalls:
- Generic statements: Personal statements should be unique. Avoid clichés and generic phrases that do not reflect your personality.
- Overly complex language: Write clearly and simply. Admissions tutors appreciate clarity over complexity.
- Ignoring the Word Limit: Be mindful of the word limit. Aim for around 4000 characters, or 47 lines, including spaces, or approximately 500 words, which is as specified by UCAS.
Frequently Asked Question
Can I copy someone else's personal statement?
No, copying a personal statement can lead to plagiarism, which universities actively check for. Your statement should reflect your unique experiences and voice.
What tone should I use in my personal statement?
Maintain a professional yet authentic tone that showcases your personality while adhering to academic standards.
How can I make my personal statement stand out?
Use specific examples, avoid generic phrases, and showcase your individuality and passion for the subject.
Is it necessary to follow a specific format for a personal statement?
While there is no strict format, a clear structure fits neatly within the allotted space, typically 1-2 pages. Standard formatting includes 1-inch margins and a 12-point font size.
How many personal statements do I need to write for UCAS?
You write only one personal statement, which is shared with all your choices, including any additional universities or courses during Extra or Clearing.
Final Thoughts
Your personal statement is an important part of your UCAS application, showcasing to universities why you would thrive as a student and why they should consider you for admission. By following the guidelines in this guide, you can create a personal statement that truly reflects your unique journey.
Take the time to reflect and write authentically about your experiences, as this will create a powerful narrative that showcases who you are. This personal touch will lay the foundation for your future at the university of your choice.