personal statement ucas counter

UCAS Personal Statement Length Checker

Please note: The line count may differ than the number of lines in the textbox above but when copy and pasted will match the line count on the UCAS application.

UCAS Personal Statement Requirements

• No longer than 4000 characters.
• No longer than 47 lines.
• Each line can be no longer than 94 characters. (Our character counter above already has a max line length of 94 characters unless otherwise noted.)
• Characters include spaces, carriage returns, and punctuation.

To see additional features including word count, paragraph count, space count and more use the character counter on our home page.

How to write your UCAS personal statement

The UCAS personal statement scares most high school students. Writing a perfect personal statement is a strenuous and unavoidable process. With roughly about 6 million university applications each year, officials need a method for filtering stronger applicants from everyone else.

As challenging as this task may appear, it is also your only chance to share your personality and eligibility for the degree program you have chosen. Follow our practices given, and you can absolutely make your personal statement up to the mark.

Start with a plan

Each year thousands of applications are received for the best degrees in the world and are best focused on the goal of making their application stand out from the rest.

Thus, planning out what you want to say prior to writing your UCAS statement makes it easy to write a convincing personal statement. Start off by making a rough draft, answering some questions like

• What subjects do you want to study?
• Why have you particularly chosen this path for yourself?
• What makes you think that you are best suited to study this degree program at the college?

Some of these points will form the backbone of your personal statement, so write them in a manner that makes sense to you.

Sometimes you want to create simple bullet points or use mind maps. No matter what you decide; your goal is the same. You want to clarify why the university should provide you with a spot.

Bigger Picture of the Degree

Talk about the course that you have applied to. How did you learn about it in the first place? What means did you use to deepen your interest and knowledge in this area?

It would be a huge plus to list the books you read and the meetings you have attended regarding the subject.

Please elaborate on your academic attitude towards the degree. What are your goals after graduating? What role will it play in helping you achieve your greatest ambitions? What sort of vocation plans do you have after graduation?

Write about your work experience and achievements

Your previous achievements are an essential part of your personal statement. Think about all the accolades you have received and the contests you have participated in. These can be in-school, national or international. Both academic and sports awards can greatly help emphasize your commitment.

Write about the important skills and experiences acquired elsewhere (such as hobbies) that can be chained to the degree of your choice.

Remember, you are searching for experience that shows why you need to study the subject that you have chosen. You are not just writing an essay about what you are doing in your high school syllabus.

Extracurricular Activities

Your extracurriculars ought to likewise be included in the personal statement. Whether it be a MUN or a cross country race, they pass on the message that you love participating in different events.

Likewise, it is really smart to discuss any expertise you have acquired through extracurriculars.

Discuss any leadership roles you could have held, as they improve your capacity to appreciate people on a profound level and put you across as a pioneer.

Community service is a plus in the UCAS statement as it shows a promise to a reason bigger than oneself.

You can link all these activities to your selected course in the best case. Be careful not to elaborate too much on extracurricular activities.

UCAS Character Count

There are some specific instructions for your personal statement that you can never ignore.

First, it must not exceed 4,000 characters or 47 lines of text (including blank lines), whichever comes first. If you do exceed this, the university will not get your entire statement.

So make sure your personal statement has a solid and decisive ending. It will look bad if you cut it off in the middle of a sentence after realizing that you have exceeded the text limit.

Instead, give each section proper attention, time, and character to plan your essay thoroughly.

However, while you are getting everything rolling, you ought to overlook these restrictions.

Tips for reducing the character count

From the get-go, you simply need to jot down all that you feel is significant. You will probably wind up with something very lengthy, but that is okay.

This is where you get to do some polishing and trimming. Maintain the focal point of your piece on the course you are applying for, why you want to do it and for what reason you are impeccably fit for it.

Glance through what you have composed until now - do you have the right balance? Cut off whatever continues a little to far, as you want to keep each point crisp and concise.

It is a difficult process to try to keep as much content as possible while keeping the character count low, so here are some simple ways to make it easier for you.

Avoid quotes

Read your personal statement and eliminate platitudes if there are any - for instance, 'I've wanted to study psychology since I was young'…The same goes for the quotations: except if they increase the value of your statement (which they don't most of the time!), it is really the best practice to remove them.

Make sure everything is concise

For each sentence in your piece, use the "so what?" rule. Does this sentence appear to be more reasonable for the course? If not, cutting it is best. This frequently happens when individuals write too much about their extracurriculars in a frantic endeavour to fit everything in. For extra analysis, feel free to use our sentence counter to calculate the average length of your sentences.

Colleges, notwithstanding, need to see a reflection and what you have extracted from your encounters; this implies it is normally better to simply discuss a few extracurriculars than to list many things that the reader is likely to skim.

Also, note that you don't have to use hospital or volunteer location names. This further allows you to remove the last few characters from the count.

Use colour coding

An easy way to see where you are losing most of your characters is to highlight the sections of your statement with different colours.

Check your language

We frequently invest a great deal of energy looking up big words with the expectation that it will make our work impressive. However, this isn't generally the best practice. It is, in many cases, best to cut these words for fundamental and engaging sentences.

I hope the process will now be transparent, and it will be more exciting for you as you embark on your writing.

How to use our UCAS personal statement checker

To use our tool simply copy and paste your personal statement into the text-box above.

At the top, you will see two metrics displayed. The first metric on the left is the total characters you've typed out of the limit of 4,000 characters.

The second metric on the right is the number of lines your text contains out of the max of 47 lines. The UCAS allows a maximum of 94 characters per line, which our line count feature already takes into consideration.

To make it easier you can click the green "copy text" button to copy the text in the text box. You can also click the red "clear text" button to delete all the text in the text-box.

Why use an online UCAS personal statement checker?

Reason number one: The character count feature in Microsoft Word will not give you an accurate reading. The reason is that Word does not count the carriage return (also known as the enter key) as a character while UCAS does count it as a character.

The problem is that this will cause Word to underestimate the character count. This could cause your essay not to be able to submit when you try to upload it. If anything it would be better to overestimate the word count on Word that way it will fit.

Our personal statement checker however will give you the same character count as UCAS unlike the Microsoft Word character count.

It can be helpful to see the character count in real-time as you are typing your personal statement. This way you are constantly reminded of how long your essay is.

If you are not paying attention it can be easy to lose track of how long your essay is and go over the limit.

Our tool makes it easier to be aware of the length and easy to cut back if necessary.

How many characters in a personal statement?

UCAS requires 4,000 characters in their personal statement. Use our personal statement checker above to see if your essay meets the requirements.

How many words in a UCAS personal statement

UCAS has a character limit of 4,000 characters. This equates to about 615 to 800 words.

How many words is 4000 characters?

4,000 characters is about 615 to 800 words. For more Characters to Words conversions, check out our Characters To Words Converter .

Does the personal statement character limit include spaces?

Yes, it does include spaces as well as carriage returns. Check your statement with our personal statement checker above.

Thanks for using our UCAS personal statement checker!

We appreciate you taking the time to check your personal statement using our webpage. As you know, this is a very important college application essay to get into British universities. UCAS stands for Universities and Colleges Admissions Service and is what the UK uses for the college application process. Good luck on your personal statement!

• Applying to Uni
• Apprenticeships
• Health & Relationships
• Money & Finance

Personal Statements

• Postgraduate
• U.S Universities

University Interviews

• Vocational Qualifications
• Accommodation
• ​​​​​​​Budgeting, Money & Finance
• ​​​​​​​Health & Relationships
• ​​​​​​​Jobs & Careers
• ​​​​​​​Socialising

Studying Abroad

• ​​​​​​​Studying & Revision
• ​​​​​​​Technology
• ​​​​​​​University & College Admissions

Guide to GCSE Results Day

Finding a job after school or college

Retaking GCSEs

In this section

Choosing GCSE Subjects

Post-GCSE Options

GCSE Work Experience

GCSE Revision Tips

Why take an Apprenticeship?

Applying for an Apprenticeship

Apprenticeships Interviews

Apprenticeship Wage

Engineering Apprenticeships

What is an Apprenticeship?

Choosing an Apprenticeship

Real Life Apprentices

Degree Apprenticeships

Higher Apprenticeships

A Level Results Day 2024

AS Levels 2024

Clearing Guide 2024

Applying to University

SQA Results Day Guide 2024

BTEC Results Day Guide

Vocational Qualifications Guide

Sixth Form or College

International Baccalaureate

Post 18 options

Finding a Job

Should I take a Gap Year?

Travel Planning

Volunteering

Gap Year Guide

Gap Year Blogs

Applying to Oxbridge

Applying to US Universities

Choosing a Degree

Choosing a University or College

Personal Statement Editing and Review Service

Guide to Freshers' Week

Student Guides

Student Cooking

Student Blogs

• Top Rated Personal Statements

Personal Statement Examples

Writing Your Personal Statement

• Postgraduate Personal Statements
• International Student Personal Statements
• Gap Year Personal Statements
• Personal Statement Length Checker

Personal Statement Examples By University

Personal Statement Changes 2025

• Personal Statement Template

Job Interviews

Types of Postgraduate Course

Writing a Postgraduate Personal Statement

Postgraduate Funding

Postgraduate Study

Internships

Choosing A College

Ivy League Universities

Common App Essay Examples

Universal College Application Guide

How To Write A College Admissions Essay

College Rankings

Admissions Tests

Fees & Funding

Scholarships

Budgeting For College

Online Degree

Platinum Express Editing and Review Service

Gold Editing and Review Service

Silver Express Editing and Review Service

UCAS Personal Statement Editing and Review Service

Oxbridge Personal Statement Editing and Review Service

Postgraduate Personal Statement Editing and Review Service

You are here

• Mature Student Personal Statements
• Personal Statements By University
• Personal Statement Editing Service
• 10 Personal Statement Don'ts
• Analysis Of A Personal Statement Example
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Personal Statement Timeline
• Personal Statement Tips
• Teacher's Advice
• How To Write A Personal Statement
• How To Start A Personal Statement
• Submit Your Personal Statement
• Personal Statement Questions 2025
• Personal Statement Changes 2024

Personal statement length checker

Enter your personal statement below to check if it meets the UCAS Apply requirements for the number of lines and character length.

The requirements for teacher training personal statements are different for UCAS Apply so this checker won't produce the correct results.

Your personal statement will be shown formatted according to UCAS's requirements, and the length and character limit calculated to check it's length.

Please note that the results of our personal statement checker may differ slightly from the UCAS Apply length checker. If you notice any differences please email us with copy of your personal statement and we'll. investigate further

How to write a UCAS personal statement

Writing a great personal statement

Read our guide on what it is, what to include, how to start, length and what makes a good personal statement 

Once you've decided which universities and courses to apply for, completing your application is pretty simple – until it comes to how to write your UCAS personal statement.

This guide covers everything you need to know about how to write a personal statement for university. We look at what it is and how you can start your personal statement. We've also got questions to guide you and a suggested personal statement structure you can use so you know what to put in it.

If you'd like even more resources, support and UCAS personal statement examples, you can sign up to access our personal statement hub .

What is the UCAS personal statement?

How universities use your ucas personal statement, how to start a ucas personal statement.

• Get feedback on your UCAS personal statement

The personal statement is part of your UCAS application. It's how you show your chosen universities why you'll make a great student and why they should make you an offer.

Your personal statement also helps you think about your choice of course and your reasons for applying, so you know you’ve made the right decision.

Get feedback on your personal statement

Sign up to our personal statement hub to get feedback on your draft. You'll also get access to videos, help sheets and more tips.

Sign up now

UCAS personal statement word limit

Your personal statement length can be up to 4,000 characters long. 

This may sound a lot, but it's a word limit of around 550–1000 words with spaces and only about 1 side of typed A4 paper.

You need to keep it concise and make sure it's clear and easy to read.

Applying for multiple courses

Although you can apply for up to 5 courses on your UCAS application, you can only submit 1 personal statement. So it needs to cover all your course choices.

If you really want to show your commitment to applying for different courses, we will accept a second personal statement from you to reflect your application e.g. if you are applying for Law elsewhere, but Criminology and Criminal Justice with us.

Lots of students who apply to university have achieved the basic entry requirements and many more students apply than there are places available. Admissions teams can use your UCAS personal statement to get to know you and decide why you're more suitable than other applicants.

Some universities read every personal statement and score them. Then they use them alongside your qualifications and grades to decide whether to offer you a place or interview. Other universities put less emphasis on the personal statement and use it with students who have borderline entry requirements.

Universities might refer to your personal statement again on results day if you don't get the grades you need. So a good personal statement could clinch you a uni place even if your grades aren't what you hoped for.

Starting your personal statement can seem scary when you're staring at a blank screen. But, things will seem less daunting once you start.

• Set aside some time in a place where you're comfortable and won't be disturbed. Grab a notepad or computer.
• Write down anything and everything that's influenced your decision to go to university and study your chosen subject. Jot down your skills and experience too.
• Use the questions below to guide you. Don't worry about the personal statement length at this point – you can cut things out later.

When to start your UCAS personal statement

Ideally, you want to leave yourself plenty of time – a few weeks or even months – to plan and write your personal statement.

Try not to leave it to the last minute, as tempting as this may seem when you've got so many other things to think about.

Questions to guide you

Your motivation.

• Why do you want to study at university?
• Why do you want to study this subject?
• How did you become interested in this subject?
• What career do you have in mind after university?

Academic ability and potential

• How have your current studies affected your choice?
• What do you enjoy about your current studies?
• What skills have you gained from your current studies?
• How can you demonstrate you have the skills and qualities needed for the course?
• What qualities and attributes would you bring to the course and university?

Your experience

• What work experience (including part-time, charity and volunteer work) do you have and what have you learnt from it?
• What positions of responsibility have you held? (For example, prefect, captain of a team or member of a committee)
• What relevant hobbies or interests do you have and what skills have they helped you develop?
• What transferable skills do you have, such as self motivation, team working, public speaking, problem solving and analytical thinking?

Research and reading

• How do you keep up with current affairs or news in your chosen subject?
• What journals or publications relevant to your chosen subject do you read?
• Which people have influenced you, such as artists, authors, philosophers or scientists?

Now it's time to write your personal statement using your notes. It's best to draft it on a computer, and remember to save it regularly.

You can copy and paste it into your UCAS application when you're happy with it.

Personal statement structure

While there's no set template for a personal statement, you may find it useful to follow this personal statement structure when you decide what to put in your statement.

What to include in a personal statement

• Reasons for choosing this subject(s)
• Current studies and how these relate to your chosen subject(s)
• Experiences and how these relate to your chosen subject(s)
• Interests and responsibilities and how these relate to your chosen subject(s)
• Your future after university
• Summary including why you'll make a great student

Further tips for a good UCAS personal statement

• Use information on university websites and the UCAS website. This often includes the skills and qualities universities are looking for in applicants
• Ask friends, family and teachers to remind you of activities you've participated in. They might remember your successes better than you do
• Don’t include lists in your application, like a list of all your hobbies. Focus on 1 or 2 points and talk about them in depth to show their relevance to your application
• Explain and evidence everything. It’s easy to say you have a skill, but it's better to demonstrate it with an example of when and how you’ve used it
• Avoid clichéd lines such as ‘I've always wanted to be a teacher’ as it says nothing about your motivations or experiences
• If you’re applying for a joint degree or different subjects, give equal time to each area and try to find common aspects that show their similarities
• Never lie or plagiarise another statement – you'll be caught and it could result in your application being automatically rejected
• Proofread your personal statement by reading it out loud and ask friends, family or a teacher to check it for you

Sign up to our personal statement hub

Watch videos, get top tips and download our help sheets – that's what our personal statement hub is for. It's for you to write your story, so you can show your strengths, ideas and passion to your chosen universities.

You'll also be able send us your draft, so you can get feedback and feel confident about what you've written.

Gold rating in national assessment of teaching excellence

Our TEF Gold rating ranks Portsmouth amongst the top universities in the UK for teaching. 

Find out more

• Oxbridge Law 24/25 Entry
• Non-Oxbridge Law 24/25 Entry
• Oxford PPE 24/25 Entry
• Oxbridge Economics 24/25 Entry
• Oxbridge Modern Languages 24/25 Entry
• Cambridge Land Economy 24/25 Entry
• Oxbridge Psychology 24/25 Entry
• Oxbridge English 24/25 Entry
• Oxford Human Sciences 24/25 Entry
• Oxbridge History 24/25 Entry
• Oxbridge Geography 24/25 Entry
• Cambridge Philosophy 24/25 Entry
• Oxbridge Classics 24/25 Entry
• Cambridge Architecture 24/25 Entry
• Cambridge HSPS Programme 24/25 Entry
• Oxbridge Medicine 24/25 Entry
• Oxford Biomedical Sciences 24/25 Entry
• Oxbridge Engineering 24/25 Entry
• Cambridge Natural Science 24/25 Entry
• Oxbridge Maths 24/25 Entry
• Oxbridge Computer Science 24/25 Entry
• Oxford Physics 24/25 Entry
• Oxford PPL 24/25 Entry
• Cambridge Veterinary Science 24/25 Entry
• Oxford Chemistry 24/25 Entry
• Oxford Biology 24/25 Entry
• Oxford Biochemistry 24/25 Entry
• Non-Oxbridge Medicine 24/25 Entry
• Non-Oxbridge Dentistry 24/25 Entry
• IMAT Medicine 24/25 Entry
• Can’t Find Your Subject?
• Law Interview Programme
• PPE Interview Programme
• Economics Interview Programme
• Oxbridge Medicine Interview Programme
• Natural Science Interview Programme
• Engineering Interview Programme
• Maths Interview Programme
• Dentistry Interview Programme
• Medicine MMI Interview Programme
• Our Guarantee

Our Students

Student Success Stories

• University Access Scheme
• New Tutor Application Form
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How Does It Work?
• +44 (0) 208 068 0438
• [email protected]

SCIENCE PROGRAMMES (25/26 ENTRY)

HUMANITIES PROGRAMMES (25/26 ENTRY)

GET STARTED

Can't find your subject?

OXFORD TESTS (25/26 ENTRY)

CAMBRIDGE TESTS (25/26 ENTRY)

MEDICINE TESTS (25/26 ENTRY)

View Our Free admissions guides & resources

How UniAdmissions Cracked The Oxbridge Formula

Applying for Oxbridge is an opportunity seldom approached correctly. So how do you enter the top 16% of a strong cohort of applicants that get an offer? Discover how UniAdmissions get 2/3 of our students in.

When Do 2024 Medicine Offers Come Out?

When do UK Medical School Interviews start and when do they release their final offers to applicants? Find out all the dates for 2024 medical school admissions in this helpful guide.

Inside The UniAdmissions Portal: The UA Advantage

UniAdmissions students have access to the world's first dedicated Oxbridge admissions preparation platform, and this guide will help you discover exactly how the Portal will help you get your offer.

Discover all guides

ABOUT UNIADMISSIONS

Learn about who the world's first Oxbridge prep school are.

Learn about the Portal; the heart of our Programmes.

UniAdmissions' Foundation

The Foundation is our charitable arm to support disadvantaged students.

Students & Tutors

Discover who a UniAdmissions student is and our admissions criteria.

Learn about our high-performing Oxbridge tutors.

We're proud of our alumni. Read about their journey with UniAdmissions here.

Admissions Resources

Free Admissions Guides

Visit our Learning Centre and read our in-depth free guides.

We are the world's biggest Oxbridge application publisher. Learn more here.

Teachers Learning Hub

Learn about how to help your students get their place at Oxbridge.

Get Started

• Access Student Portal
• Oxbridge Programmes
• Open Day Webinar
• Tutor Application Form
• Common Questions
• Download Our Prospectus
• The Ultimate UCAS Personal Statement Guide

Last Updated: 31st May 2022

Author: Rob Needleman

• Getting started

Table of Contents

When it comes to completing your UCAS application, the Personal Statement is one of the most important parts to consider.

While your grades show your academic ability and Admissions Tests assess your knowledge and capabilities, a Personal Statement is all about you. Tutors want to see the person behind the application and understand why you’re a suitable candidate for your chosen course. 

Although each university will have its own unique way of shortlisting applicants, your Personal Statement is your opportunity to demonstrate your strengths and let your personality shine through.

However, over 20,000 students apply for Oxbridge every year which is a lot to compete with. As such, you need to stand out from the crowd and really get across your reasons for wanting to study your topic, which can make the prospect of writing one and including all the right things pressurising. To help you, we have written this ultimate Personal Statement guide. Let’s get started.

How to write a Personal Statement

Your Personal Statement isn’t a long monologue of your life so far, nor a gigantic list of all your achievements. Think of yourself as a storyteller. Start at the beginning with how you developed an interest for your chosen subject and end with where you see yourself after university.

Before You Start

How to get started.

Before you sit down to write your UCAS Personal Statement, the first thing we recommend is to research the courses you want to apply for. This will help you prepare your statement as courses vary from university to university, and your content should reflect these. Bear in mind, you are only able to send one Personal Statement to all your chosen universities, so you can’t overly cater to one. Look at all of the details, including the structure, modules and examination methods, as well as what they’re looking for from a student. This will support your first draft, though bear in mind you’ll redraft a few times before it’s perfect.

For example, Oxford lists the personal characteristics that they look for in applicants to their Medicine degree:

How many words should a Personal Statement be?

Personal Statements can be up to 4,000 characters long (615-800), and no more. This might sound like a lot, but it’s just one side of A4 paper. There’s plenty of information to include, so make sure it’s concise, clear and easy to read.

When to start writing it

It’s never too early to start thinking about your Personal Statement and what you’re going to write about. But there is a deadline : October 15th for all Oxbridge courses including Medicine and Dentistry, and January 25th for other undergraduate subjects. We suggest you begin preparing at the start of the year, as this gives you plenty of time to plan, draft and rewrite until it’s perfect for submission.

Your Personal Statement is the first thing Oxbridge Admissions Tutors will see about you. It’s imperative you get it right.

Our Oxbridge Premium Programmes help you write a successful Personal Statment that ticks all the Admission Tutor’s boxes. Our proven support is implemented through various mediums including Personal Statment Intensive Courses, Personal Statment Marking and Personalised Reading Lists.

Discover our Oxbridge Premium Programmes  by clicking the button below to  enrol and triple your chances of success.

What To Include

Your Personal Statement is a glimpse into your passion, how keen you are to learn and what you already know about your chosen subject. Express your interest by commenting on the areas that fascinate you most. For example, is it helping people that draws you into Medicine, or is it the fascinating human anatomy? 

Another great way to show your enthusiasm is through your previous experience in the subject. Demonstrate why you’re suitable for the course by providing evidence of any relevant skills and qualities that relate to this. What are you good at? What have you done that proves it? 

• Answering Your Personal Statement Questions

Mention any additional projects, work experience or extra-curricular activities you’ve got involved with that further demonstrate you’re an ideal candidate. Reflect on the skills you’ve gained from these (as long as they’re transferable to your studies). Admissions Tutors will be looking for such information, as well as your unique selling points — give examples of things you’ve done that show you have a wider interest in learning. 

You should also try to link your interests, skills and qualities to your university research. However, Oxbridge are not interested in sports, hobbies or if you play any musical instruments — keep it academic.

Show you’re an interesting person and have a true passion for your subject, and your Personal Statement should be a winning one. Your enthusiasm is what will make your statement stand out, so don’t shy away from expressing your love for your chosen subject, though you don’t need to say you’ve dreamed about doing the course your entire life.

Aim to include things like:

• Personal attributes, such as adaptability, problem-solving and organisation
• Employment experience and volunteering work
• Personal interests in your subject
• Relevant extracurricular activities, like any clubs or societies you belong to
• Your future after university

The Structure

The key to writing a good UCAS Personal Statement is getting the structure right, as this can have a huge effect on the message it delivers. Often, students get caught up in the content and forget that presenting information effectively is just as important as the words included.

Each section of your statement needs to be crafted correctly so that Admissions Tutors can digest the information easily. While there are no strict rules on how to structure it — since it’s personal to you — there are a few rules of thumb to use to find the right balance. In general, though, remember to consider the format, structure and content equally, and you’ll write a great Personal Statement.

• Personal Statement Cheat Sheet

Here is a breakdown of how we recommend students to split up their essay:

• Introduction - About six lines
• Academic abilities - 22 - 27 lines
• Extra-curricular information - 10 - 12 lines
• Conclusion - No more than four lines

Personal Statement Introduction

Rightly or wrongly, it is highly likely that your UCAS Personal Statement will be remembered by its opening sentence. It must be something short, sharp, insightful, and catch the reader’s attention. It sets the precedent for the rest of your statement and unfortunately, decides whether your statement is paid particular attention to when read.

• Avoid using overused words like “passionate”, “deeply fascinating”, and “devotion”.
• Avoid using clichéd quotes like the infamous Coco Chanel’s “fashion is not something that exists in dresses only”.
• If you are going to use a quote, then put some effort into researching an obscure yet particularly powerful one – don’t forget to include a reference.
• Draw on your own personal experiences to produce something both original and eye-catching.

Once that’s out of the way, you need to answer the most important question:

The introduction does not need to be very long. It is generally a good idea to open the statement with something that sets the context of your application. For example, someone who is applying to study History may open: ‘History is all around us’, rather than ‘I have always been interested in History because…”

By the end of the introduction the reader should clearly know:

• What subject you are applying for
• What motivated you to apply for this subject

Make sure you keep it personal and honest! The exact phrase: “from a young age, I have always been interested in” was recently used more than 300 times in Personal Statements in a single year, and substituting “young” for “early” gave an additional 292 statements – these phrases can quickly become boring for Admissions Tutors to read!

Personal Statement Main Body

In the rest of your text, your aim should be to demonstrate your suitability for the course by exemplifying your knowledge of the course structure and its requirements through personal experience. Again, there are no rigorous guidelines on how to do this and it is very much down to your own writing style. Whereas some prefer a strict structure, others go for a more synoptic approach, but always remember to be consistent to achieve a flowing, easy to read Personal Statement.

Here’s the structure we recommend:

Paragraph #1: This should cover why you are suited for your subject. This will include your main academic interests, future ambitions (related to the chosen degree), and what makes the course right for you. This should be the academic side of why you want to study this subject.

Paragraph #2: This should still cover why you are suited for your subject. However, it can be less focused on academic topics. If you’ve had to overcome any significant challenges in life and wish to include these in your Personal Statement, this is normally the best place to do so. Similarly, any work experience or relevant prizes & competitions should be included here.

Paragraph #3: This is the smallest part of the main body and is all about extra-curricular activities. It is easy to get carried away in this section and make outrageous claims, e.g. claim to be a mountain climber if all you have ever climbed is a hill at the end of your street etc. Lying is not worth the risk, given that your interviewer may share the same hobby that you claim to be an expert in. So, don’t be caught out!

What you should include in your Personal Statement main body:

• Sports and other hobbies
• Musical instruments
• Work experience
• Personal interests in the field of study
• Personal attributes

What you shouldn’t include in your Personal Statement main body (or anywhere!):

• Negative connotations – always put a positive spin on everything
• Lack of reflection
• Controversy in whatever form it may come
• Generic/stereotypical statements
• Listing things

Personal Statement Conclusion

The conclusion of your Personal Statement should be more about leaving a good final impression rather than conferring any actual information. If you have something useful to say about your interest and desire to study your subject, you shouldn’t be waiting until the very end to say it!

A good conclusion should not include any new information, as this should be in the main body. However, you also need to avoid repeating what you have said earlier in your Personal Statement. This would be both a waste of characters and frustration for the tutor. Instead, it is better to put into context what you have already written and, therefore, make an effort to keep your conclusion relatively short – no more than four lines.

For more inspiration, take a look through our other successful Personal Statement a nalysis articles:

Successful Personal Statement For Natural Science (Physical) At Cambridge

Successful personal statement for economics at cambridge, successful personal statement for land economy at cambridge, successful personal statement for chemistry at oxford, successful personal statement for geography at oxford, successful personal statement for classics at oxford, successful personal statement for law at oxford, successful personal statement for classics at cambridge, successful personal statement for engineering at cambridge, successful personal statement for philosophy at cambridge, successful personal statement for veterinary medicine at cambridge, successful personal statement for psychological and behavioural sciences at cambridge, successful personal statement for psychology at oxford, successful personal statement for history at oxford, successful personal statement for physics at oxford, successful personal statement for cambridge mathematics and physics, successful personal statement example for computer science at oxford, successful personal statement for english at cambridge, successful personal statement for oxford english language and literature, successful personal statement for medicine at oxford university, successful personal statement for modern languages at oxford, successful personal statement for engineering at oxford, successful personal statement for natural sciences (biological) at cambridge, successful personal statement for economics & management at oxford, successful personal statement for ppe at oxford, successful personal statement for law at cambridge, successful personal statement for dentistry at king’s college london, successful personal statement for medicine at cambridge, our personal statement do’s.

1. Show passion for your subject

Admissions Tutors aren’t going to pick a candidate who doesn’t seem particularly interested in their field. Show your passion and eagerness to learn and succeed. Why do you love your subject? Why have you chosen it? What do you find most interesting and why?

2. Talk about you

This is your chance to talk about you, your interests and skills. It’s no good saying you’re passionate if you don’t prove that you are. Write in a natural style to show off your personality, making sure it’s genuine, relevant and specific.

3. Use appropriate language

Re-read your Personal Statement multiple times and check that the content is academic, engaging and clear.

4. Provide evidence to back up your claims

It’s all well and good saying you love medical science, but this is going to fall flat if you can’t back it up. Talk about your school subjects and results, any wider reading and relevant work experience. Perhaps you attended a lecture on your subject — this would be good evidence.

5. Link your activities outside of education to your course

Tell tutors why these activities are relevant and what you have learned as a result. Focus on transferable skills gained too, such as time management or organisational abilities.

6. Spell check and look for grammatical mistakes

Poor spelling and grammar makes for a terrible first impression, so ensure you triple-check it’s written to the highest standard before submitting it.

Our Personal Statement dont’s

1. Write a clichéd beginning

Don’t waste time thinking of a catchy opening. The best Personal Statements get to the point quickly, so avoid starting with phrases like “From a young age”, “I am applying for this course because”, and “Throughout my life I have always enjoyed…”. Go straight into why you are interested in your course subject.

2. Use cringe-worthy language and cheap gags

This is not impressive and can indicate that you’re not a serious student. It’s essential you don’t come across as verbose or pretentious too, as Admissions Tutors will spot this immediately. They are well-versed in the ramblings of students who think this tone makes them seem more intellectual.

3. Overcomplicate things

Say what you need to, be specific and don’t waffle too much — you’ll run out of characters fast.

4. Go overboard with extra-curricular activities

Talking about these is good, but the truth is, Admissions Tutors have very little interest in what you do outside of education unless you can find a way to directly link them to your subject.

5. Plagiarise content

You can read Personal Statement examples online for inspiration but avoid copying and pasting them. During your interview, you’re likely to be asked about specific parts of your statement, and if you’re caught off-guard, you’re going to look silly. This could ruin your chances of being accepted. Use a plagiarism detector to ensure your essay is unique.

6. Mention universities or specific courses by name

You can only write one Personal Statement, so it’s the same for each course you apply for. Avoid mentioning specific unis by name or detailing exact specifics of a module, for example. Keep it general.

Now you know what to include in your Personal Statement and the best practices for doing so, we hope you feel more confident writing it. We have plenty of guides and successful personal statement examples to go through in our Free Personal Statement Resources page. Good luck submitting your UCAS application!

First impressions count. Learn how to craft the perfect Personal Statement that demonstrates your suitability to Oxbridge Admissions Tutors.

We help you craft the perfect Personal Statement , achieve a highly competitive Admissions Test score and teach you how to Interview effectively – covering all areas of your Oxford or Cambridge application, from History to Medicine.

Discover our  Oxbridge Premium Programmes  by clicking the button below to  enrol and triple your chances of success.

UniAdmissions students placed at Oxford And Cambridge

Continue learning about Oxbridge...

5 study secrets from actual oxbridge students.

We reached out to some successful Oxbridge students to find out exactly what their study secrets are. Here's what we…

AI Writing & UCAS Personal Statements: What You Need To Know

When it comes to writing in the 2020s, AI-Generation has become one of the most important issues for many industries,…

Oxbridge Personal Statements: A Complete Teacher’s Guide

As a teacher, you will support students with their UCAS Personal Statements every year, but what about Personal Statements for…

UCAS Personal Statements Are Changing in 2025

On January 12th 2023, UCAS announced that the traditional Personal Statement would be replaced by a multi-question form for university…

Writing an Economics and Management Personal Statement for Oxford? If so, you’re in the right place! In this post, we…

Successful Personal Statement For Computer Science At Oxford

Read through a successful Computer Science Personal Statement for Oxford with a full analysis by Oxbridge Tutors. Find out why…

The Secrets to Oxbridge Admission.

• We cracked the Oxbridge formula . Find out what we discovered here.
• Looking for application support? Don't work with a random tutor. This is what you need to know first.
• Get up-to-date Oxbridge advice with our webinars. Follow our Open Days led by our experts and stay updated.
• Begin your Oxbridge journey with UniAdmissions through our programmes of support by clicking here.

How would you like to speak to an Admissions Consultant?

Tools For Aspiring Medical Professionals!

UCAS PERSONAL STATEMENT EDITOR

Use this page to check and edit your personal statement according to the UCAS guidelines. Scroll down to take advantage of the tips and tricks for writing a superb personal statement for medical school!

INSPIRATION

What is this page for?

• This page simply allows you to check and edit the length of your personal statement against the UCAS criteria of 47 lines.
• Microsoft word and google docs don’t necessarily count a “line” the same way UCAS does so this is a simple tool that checks everything against the strict UCAS criteria. Scroll down to get some inspiration while you write.

When to use?

• You can essentially use this page as a text editor for your statement if you wish. Microsoft Word and google docs have formatting options such as bold/ headings etc which are all stripped when you submit your personal statement.
• The editor on this page strips such formatting by default so you can focus on writing a top-notch statement, with a bit of inspiration from the tips below!
• MAKE SURE TO COPY ANY CHANGES MADE BACK INTO YOUR WORD EDITOR

Starting a statement is hard! 

• Which is why we put together some resources below to help make a start. 
• We also have an the inspiration page with exemplar personal statements and dissected paragraphs from previous medical students. Check it out here , or click the inspiration button below !

Paste Text Below

[ucas commentary=’false’]

TIPS TO WRITING A GOOD STATEMENT

Statement Outline

Why do you want to be a doctor? Believe me this won’t be the first or last time you answer this so have a good answer!

• What experience of medicine do you have, and what did you learn from these experiences? Skills gained?
• What are some extra-curricular activities that make you a well rounded candidate?
• Do these extra-curricular activities make you well suited for medicine? ie good communication as part of the debate team
• short and sweet conclusion to end

Introduction

Always Be original and honest. 

• Most people open with cliches. Don’t do that. 
• Maybe prepare an anecdote about your experiences with healthcare professionals. 
• They may have inspired you from a young age but don’t say you wanted to become a doctor from day 1.

Why do you want to become a doctor? 

This is usually the hardest question to answer and it takes a lot of figuring out. As cliche as it sounds, you must be compassionate, caring and willing to put your knowledge to good use in helping others. 

• is it because you care for others?
• Who inspired you and how?
• Did you have an experience in a hospital or care home, or even a non-medical experience that made you discover that caring for others was your passion?

Exploration and Suitability

How do you know you are cut out for medicine?

• What are the steps you have taken that demonstrate your passions for medicine?
• Have you done your research and actually sought out experiences that give you glimpses into the healthcare system?
• Most importantly what have these experiences taught you?

Extra-Curricular Activities

What do you do in your spare time?

What is a notable activity you do that demonstrates your commitments, communication skills, general roundedness, empathy, drive, ambition?

• Are you in a band , church choir , drama group, football club , or actively learning a new language ? These things prove you are driven and committed to achieving a goal
• are you in the debate team , an avid reader, part of the welcome team in your church , an open day host at your school, or a babysitter ? These things, as small as they sound can demonstrate your language and interpersonal skills , and your ability to be patient.
• are you a volunteer at a homeless shelter, care home or charity shop? These things show your compassion, care and kind nature, and will certainly give your personal statement a huge boost.  

You have done all the work!

• now just end with a nice closing remark summarising your suitability.
• Don’t however just repeat yourself over and over again.

See some good examples below!

EXAMPLE STATEMENTS

Example personal statments – Taken from our PS commentary page and originally from The Student Room PS archives.

Do you want some extra UCAT tips?

Get a list of 20 secret UCAT tips used by the best students to improve their scores on test day!

By UCAT_admin

Hi, I'm Josh, admin and creator of the site. Hopefully, you find some value using all the resources I worked very hard to create!

Related Post

5 easiest medical schools to get into for school leavers, latest ucat cut-off scores for medicine and dentistry – 2023/24, can you enter medicine without ucat, one thought on “ucas personal statement editor”.

[…] Test Your Personal Statement HERE […]

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

3 Sensible Reasons Why The UCAT Feels Impossible

The only 3 things you need to remember for ucat success.

How to write the best personal statement

A great personal statement will help your university application stand out and get those offers rolling in. We cover everything you need to know about writing your personal statement. 

• UCAS Form Advice
• UCAS Applications
• Tariff Points
• Personal Statement
• Where to Study: Home or Away?
• UCAS tariff calculator

A personal statement is meant to show off YOU. You’ll need to think about why you want to study the course you’re applying for, what you’ve done to work towards that already, what transferable skills you have and what you want to do after university. It’s a lot to think about and squish into the strict UCAS character and line limit, but don’t worry, we’ve got all the tips and advice you could want.

Personal statement all finished? Read more about applying to university.

CONTENTS: 

• When’s the deadline to finish my personal statement?   
• How to get started on your personal statement  
• Tailoring your personal statement to your subject choice
• How to structure your personal statement  
• What to include in your personal statement

Can you use AI when writing your personal statement?  

Things to avoid in your personal statement  , how long should your personal statement be  .

• How to edit your personal statement

Are you ready to submit your personal statement?  

Ucas proposed reform  , when’s the deadline to finish my personal statement .

The UCAS deadline for 2024 entry is 31 January 2024 at 6pm UK time. You can submit applications after this, but you won’t be covered by the Equal Consideration Policy and some courses may be full. Any applications received after 6pm on 30 June 2024 will be entered into Clearing.  

It’s best to have your personal statement drafted a couple of weeks before the deadline so you have time to get feedback on it and edit it. 

How to get started on your personal statement 

Before you even think about writing, you’ll have to research the courses you’re applying for. This can give you some inspiration on what to write about, and if you see you’ve already covered some of the first-year material, even better. 

After research comes planning. You’ll want to plan out paragraph by paragraph what you’re going to include to make sure you don’t repeat yourself or miss anything out. 

If you have your research and plan completed, it’s time to start writing!

How to start writing your personal statement.

Tailoring your personal statement to your subject choice   

Admissions tutors want to see why you’d be a good fit for the course you’ve applied for on your personal statement, so you’ll want to make sure the things you’re mentioning link back to the course you’ve applied to. For example, if you’re applying to study psychology, there’s not much point going on about how much you love watching Great British Bake Off. However, if you’re a huge fan of Milton’s Paradise Lost and you’re applying to study English literature, that’s a great thing to mention. 

 Not everything you mention has to be directly linked to your chosen course, but it should either link or demonstrate transferable skills useful to university study such as time management, leadership, balancing responsibilities or independent research.  

Tailoring your university personal statement to your subject  

How to structure your personal statement  

There’s no set way you have to structure your personal statement, but if you read a few examples online, you’ll probably notice a bit of a pattern occurring. The main thing to do is to open your personal statement by introducing yourself and why you want to study the course you’re applying to. You might then want to talk about: 

• Your academic qualifications 
• Any work experience or volunteering  
• Extracurricular activities  
• Any reading you’ve done around your subject (and what you learned from that reading!). 

 A good way to close your personal statement is to talk about what you’d like to do after university, and how the subject you’re applying for will help you get there.

Ashley Harrison-Barker, Home Admissions Manager at  University of Hertfordshire , says "We want you to give us a summary of you as an individual and your journey up until this point... Think of it as a timeline that explains your journey to-date and how you would use this course as a springboard to achieve your desired career aspirations."

How to structure your personal statement.

What to include in your personal statement  

Your personal statement should be just that – personal! Exactly what you should include depends on what you’ve done. However, some areas that you might want to cover in your personal statement include: 

• Work experience 
• Part-time work or volunteering 
• What you’re studying now 
• What topics within the subject particularly interest you 
• Your future career goals 
• Extracurricular activities or reading you’ve done relevant to your course 

Simone Wilson, Careers Manager at Wirral Grammar School for Boys, says it's important to, "explain what interests you about particular topics and how you have gone above and beyond to learn more about it."

Essential topics to include in your personal statement.

ChatGPT and AI is a hot topic right now, so you might be wondering whether it can help you write your personal statement. In short, you have to be careful if you’re using AI to help you with your personal statement.  

Your personal statement must be original work, which means you can’t copy and paste chunks from an AI. UCAS checks personal statements and can detect AI-written content, so using AI-generated paragraphs could harm your application. As Harrison-Barker says, "AI won’t know all your personal experiences so there is no substitute for the real thing."

However, AI can be helpful for the planning stage as it can generate personal statement examples that you can use for inspiration on what to cover and how to structure your own personal statement. It can also help you to brainstorm topics related to your subject that you could relate to your experience when it comes to writing your personal statement. 

Using AI and ChatGPT when writing your personal statement.

It probably goes without saying that you shouldn’t use any inappropriate language such as swear words in your personal statement. You should also avoid slang, or language that comes across as too informal (the admissions tutor is not your ‘mate’).   

Be wary of using cliches or buzzwords if you don’t have the experience and evidence to back them up, and of course you should avoid lying about anything. It’s also wise to avoid discussing anything that you can’t link to either the subject you’re applying to study, or a transferable skill you learned that’ll be useful at university.  

Words you should never use in your university application.  

The limit for your UCAS personal statement is 4,000 characters (not words!) including spaces or 47 lines, whichever comes first. To check the length of your personal statement, copy and paste it into the UCAS application form as character count may vary a little bit between your word processing program and UCAS, and the only way to check your line count is to put it into the application form. 

Read more about the length requirements for personal statements .

How to edit your personal statement 

Once you’ve got a first draft of your personal statement, it’s time to get feedback and redraft. One of the first things you’ll want to do is check how it compares to the UCAS character and line limit. You can’t go over the limit, but you want to get as much in as possible.  

You’ll also want to show it to a few people and get some feedback. You could ask your parents, friends or a teacher at school to read it over for you – the more eyes you can get on it the better. It’s good to show your personal statement to whoever is writing your UCAS reference so they can mention some of the things you’ve put into your personal statement.  

You’ll need to proofread it to make sure it all makes sense and there aren’t any spelling or grammar errors before you send off your final draft. 

How to tell if your university application is good.  

Have you drafted, redrafted and drafted your personal statement again? Have you checked for any spelling and grammar mistakes? Have you got a few people to look it over and give you feedback? If you answered yes to all of these questions and your personal statement fits within the UCAS character and line limit, all that’s left to do is go through our application checklist and send it off… 

University application checklist.  

For 2026 entry onwards, UCAS are changing the way the university application process works. For those applying for entry in 2024 or 2025, the personal statement will not be changing. We’ll bring you more information about the application reform when UCAS release the details of the updated process.

Read more about applying to university.

Not decided on your Final 5? Browse and book open days across the UK now to help you make your choice.

Similar articles

YOUR UCAS POINTS 0

Please wait

Cookies on our website

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We'd like to set additional cookies to understand how you use our site. And we'd like to serve you some cookies set by other services to show you relevant content.

UCAS personal statement checklist

Unless you’re applying for a course that interviews, your personal statement is the only opportunity you have to demonstrate your personality through your application. Once you’ve written your statement, why not use our checklist below to make sure you have got all the vital elements covered.

The personal statement on your UCAS application is your chance to really sell yourself to the universities you are applying to. We do read them and it can make the difference between receiving an offer and being unsuccessful.  Once you’ve got your ideas for your personal statement ready to go, use our handy checklist below to make sure you’ve covered all the important information.

• Have you said in the first two sentences what you would like to study? Remember, be innovative in the way you tell us.
• Have you proofread it? Get everyone involved: friends, family, teachers – anyone that’ll look at it. Try reading it aloud too – doing this will make it very clear if something isn’t quite right.
• Have you used full sentences, paragraphs and proper grammar? It is a formal document so should read like one.
• Have you double-checked your spelling and grammar? The UCAS application form doesn’t have a spellcheck function, so we recommend copying it into a word processor to use theirs (it will also give you the character count – remember you’ve only got 4000 – and that includes spaces!).
• Have you got the balance right? We recommend that your statement should focus 80% on the course, and why you want to study it, and 20% on you and your skills. Other universities might have different ideas on this though.
• Have you talked about why the course you are applying for is interesting to you – you need to convince Admissions Teams that you want to study this subject for at least the next 3 years.
• Have you told us how have you come to this decision on the course you are applying for? Have you shared your experiences – something unique to you?
• Have you provided evidence to any claims you make and told us how, as a result, you are more suitable to the course?
• Have you offered an opinion or discussed a contemporary issue around your subject? The best personal statements show what you’ve learned independently and how it’s informed your opinion.

Your Transferable Skills:

• Have you shown what makes you ideal for the course?
• Are the skills you’ve mentioned relevant to the course? Ask yourself the question ‘so what?’ If you can’t think about a reason to talk about a particular skill, the reader will wonder why you’ve mentioned it at all.

You can use the ABC test to see if you are making it relevant:

• A = Activity: This might be captaining a sports team, or being part of a drama club
• B = Benefit: This is the skill(s) you have gained from doing the activity
• C = Course: How the skill will help you to complete the course successfully

And finally, remember that this is a personal statement. It should be totally unique and all about you. Our final tip is this: If you were to anonymously give your personal statement to someone in your class, could they identify it as yours? If they couldn’t, we need to see more about you in there.

Read our tips for writing a UCAS personal statement

For more advice, see the UCAS tips for writing a personal statement

You might also be interested in:

• how to apply for undergraduate courses
• student support
• your offer and confirming your place
• transferring from other universities

UCAS Personal Statement and Examples

What is the ucas personal statement .

The Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) Personal Statement is the main essay for your application to colleges and universities in Great Britain. UCAS gives a nice explanation here , but in short, this is your chance to stand out against the crowd and show your knowledge and enthusiasm for your chosen area of study.

You’ve got 4,000 characters and 47 line limit to show colleges what (ideally) gets you out of bed in the morning. How long is that, really? Use your “word count” tool in Google or Word docs to check as you go along, but 4,000 characters is roughly 500 words or one page.

HOW IS THE UCAS PERSONAL STATEMENT DIFFERENT FROM THE US PERSONAL STATEMENT?

Think they’re the same? Think again. Here are some key differences between the UCAS and the US Personal Statement:

When you apply to UK schools, you’re applying to one particular degree program, which you’ll study for all, or almost all, your time at university. Your UCAS personal statement should focus less on cool/fun/quirky aspects of yourself and more on how you’ve prepared for your particular area of study.

The UCAS Personal Statement will be read by someone looking for proof that you are academically capable of studying that subject for your entire degree. In some cases, it might be an actual professor reading your essay.

You’ll only write one personal statement, which will be sent to all the universities you’re applying to, and it’s unlikely you’ll be sending any additional (supplemental) essays. Your essay needs to explain why you enjoy and are good at this subject, without reference to any particular university or type of university.

Any extracurricular activities that are NOT connected to the subject you’re applying for are mostly irrelevant, unless they illustrate relevant points about your study skills or attributes: for example, having a job outside of school shows time-management and people skills, or leading a sports team shows leadership and responsibility.

Your personal statement will mostly focus on what you’ve done at high school, in class, and often in preparation for external exams. 80-90% of the content will be academic in nature.

A QUICK STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE TO WRITING THE UCAS PERSONAL STATEMENT

This may be obvious, but the first step to a great UCAS Personal Statement is to choose the subject you’re applying for. This choice will be consistent across the (up to) five course choices you have. Often, when students struggle with a UCAS personal statement, it’s because they are trying to make the statement work for a couple of different subjects. With a clear focus on one subject, the essay can do the job it is supposed to do. Keep in mind you’re limited to 47 lines or 4000 characters, so this has to be concise and make efficient use of words.

To work out what information to include, my favourite brainstorming activity is the ‘Courtroom Exercise’. Here’s how it works:

The Courtroom Exercise

Imagine you’re prosecuting a case in court, and the case is that should be admitted to a university to study the subject you’ve chosen. You have to present your case to the judge, in a 47 line or 4,000 character statement. The judge won’t accept platitudes or points made without evidence–she needs to see evidence. What examples will you present in your statement?

In a good statement, you’ll make an opening and a closing point.

To open your argument, can you sum up in one sentence why you wish to study this subject? Can you remember where your interest in that subject began? Do you have a story to tell that will engage the reader about your interest in that subject?

Next, you’ll present a number of pieces of evidence, laying out in detail why you’re a good match for this subject. What activities have you done that prove you can study this subject at university?

Most likely, you’ll start with a class you took, a project you worked on, an internship you had, or a relevant extra-curricular activity you enjoyed. For each activity you discuss, structure a paragraph on each using the ABC approach:

A: What is the A ctivity?

B: How did it B enefit you as a potential student for this degree course?

C: Link the benefit to the skills needed to be successful on this C ourse.

With three or four paragraphs like these, each of about 9 or 10 lines, and you should have the bulk of your statement done. Typically two of these will be about classes you have taken at school, and two about relevant activities outside of school.

In the last paragraph, you need to demonstrate wider skills that you have, which you can probably do from your extracurricular activities. How could you demonstrate your time management, your ability to collaborate, or your creativity? Briefly list a few extracurricular activities you’ve taken part in and identify the relevant skills that are transferable to university study.

Finally, close your argument in a way that doesn’t repeat what you’ve already shared. Case closed!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What if I’m not sure what I want to study? Should I still apply? 

There are a number of broader programs available at UK universities (sometimes called Liberal Arts or Flexible Combined Honours). However,  you should still showcase two or three academic areas of interest. If you are looking for a broader range of subjects to study and can’t choose one, then the UK might not be the best fit for you.

What if I haven’t done much, academically or via extracurriculars, to demonstrate that I’ll be able to complete the coursework for my degree? Should I still apply?

You certainly can, but you will need to be realistic about the strength of your application as a result. The most selective universities will want to see this evidence, but less selective ones will be more willing to account for your potential to grow in addition to what you’ve already achieved. You could also consider applying for a Foundation course or a ‘Year 0’ course, where you have an additional year pre-university to enable you to develop this range of evidence.

If I’m not accepted into a particular major, can I be accepted into a different major?

It’s important to understand that we are not talking about a ‘major,’ as what you are accepted into is one entire course of study. Some universities may make you an ‘alternative offer’ for a similar but perhaps less popular course (for example you applied for Business but instead they offer you a place for Business with a Language).At others, you can indicate post-application that you would like to be considered for related courses. However, it’s not going to be possible to switch between two completely unrelated academic areas.

What other information is included in my application? Will they see my extracurricular activities, for example? Is there an Additional Information section where I can include more context on what I’ve done in high school?

The application is very brief: the personal statement is where you put all the information. UCAS does not include an activities section or space for any other writing. The 47 lines are all you have. Some universities might accept information if there are particularly important extenuating circumstances that must be conveyed. This can be done via email, but typically, they don’t want to see more than the UCAS statement and your school’s reference provides.

Now, let’s take a look at some of my favourite UCAS personal statement examples with some analysis of why I think these are great.

UCAS PERSONAL STATEMENT EXAMPLE FOR CHEMISTRY

When I was ten, I saw a documentary on Chemistry that really fascinated me. Narrated by British theoretical physicist Jim Al-Khalili, it explained how the first elements were discovered and how Chemistry was born out of alchemy. I became fascinated with Chemistry and have remained so ever since. I love the subject because it has very theoretical components, for example quantum Chemistry, while also having huge practical applications.

In this introduction, the student shows where his interest in Chemistry comes from. Adding some additional academic detail (in this case, the name of the scientist) helps guide the reader into more specific information on why this subject is interesting to him.

This aspect of Chemistry is important to me. I have, for example, used machine learning to differentiate between approved and experimental drugs. On the first run, using drug molecules from the website Drug Bank, I calculated some molecular descriptors for them. I started with a simple logistic regression model and was shocked to find that it had apparently classified almost all molecules correctly. This result couldn’t be right; it took me nearly a month to find the error. I accidentally normalized the molecular-descriptor data individually, rather than as a combined data set, thereby encoding the label into the input. On a second run, after fixing the error, I used real machine learning libraries. Here I actually got some performance with my new algorithm, which I could compare to professional researchers’ papers. The highest accuracy I ever saw on my screen was 86 percent. The researchers’ result was 85 percent; thanks to more modern machine learning methods, I narrowly beat them. I have also studied Mathematics and Physics at A Level and have been able to dive into areas beyond the A Level syllabus such as complex integration in math and the Schrödinger equation in Physics.

This paragraph outlines a clear case for this student’s aptitude for and interest in Chemistry. He explains in detail how he has explored his intended major, using academic terminology to show us he has studied the subject deeply. Knowing an admissions reader is looking for evidence that this student has a talent for Chemistry, this paragraph gives them the evidence they need to admit him.

Additionally, I have worked on an undergraduate computer science course on MIT Opencourseware, but found that the content followed fixed rules and did not require creativity. At the time I was interested in neural networks and listened to lectures by professor Geoffrey Hinton who serendipitously mentioned his students testing his techniques on ‘Kaggle Competitions’. I quickly got interested and decided to compete on this platform. Kaggle allowed me to measure my machine learning skills against competitors with PhDs or who are professional data scientists at large corporations. With this kind of competition naturally I did not win any prizes, but I worked with the same tools and saw how others gradually perfected a script, something which has helped my A Level studies immensely.

Introducing a new topic, the student again uses academic terminology to show how he has gone beyond the confines of his curriculum to explore the subject at a higher level. In this paragraph, he demonstrates that he has studied university-level Chemistry. Again, this helps the reader to see that this student is capable of studying for a Chemistry degree.

I have been keen to engage in activities beyond the classroom. For example, I have taken part in a range of extracurricular activities, including ballroom dancing, public speaking, trumpet, spoken Mandarin, and tennis, achieving a LAMDA distinction at level four for my public speaking. I have also participated in Kaggle competitions, as I’m extremely interested in machine learning. For example, I have used neural networks to determine the causes of Amazon deforestation from satellite pictures in the ‘Planet: Understanding the Amazon from Space’ competition. I believe that having worked on projects spanning several weeks or even months has allowed me to build a stamina that will be extremely useful when studying at university.

This penultimate paragraph introduces the student’s extracurricular interests, summing them up in a sentence. Those activities that can demonstrate skills that are transferable to the study of Chemistry are given a bit more explanation. The student’s descriptions in each paragraph are very detailed, with lots of specific information about awards, classes and teachers.

What I hope to gain from an undergraduate (and perhaps post-graduate) education in Chemistry is to deepen my knowledge of the subject and potentially have the ability to successfully launch a startup after university. I’m particularly interested in areas such as computational Chemistry and cheminformatics. However, I’m  open to studying other areas in Chemistry, as it is a subject that truly captivates me.

In the conclusion, the student touches on his future plans, using specific terminology that shows his knowledge of Chemistry. This also reveals that he aims to have a career in this field, which many admission readers find appealing as it demonstrates a level of commitment to the subject.

UCAS PERSONAL STATEMENT EXAMPLE FOR VETERINARY MEDICINE

This next statement has to accomplish a number of tasks, given the subject the student is applying for. As a vocational degree, applicants for veterinary medicine are committing to a career as well as a subject to study, so they need to give information demonstrating they understand the reality of a career in this area. It also needs to explain their motivation for this interest, which quite often is demonstrated through work experience (something which is often a condition for entry into these programs). Finally, as this is a highly academic subject to study at university, the author should include a good level of academic terminology and experiences in the statement.

There is nothing more fascinating to me than experiencing animals in the wild, in their natural habitat where their behaviour is about the survival of their species. I was lucky enough to experience this when in Tanzania. While observing animals hunting, I became intrigued by their musculature and inspired to work alongside these animals to help them when they are sick, as a veterinarian.

In an efficient way, the applicant explains her motivation to become a vet, then squeezes in a bit of information about her experience with animals.

As a horse rider and owner for nearly ten years, I have sought opportunities to learn as much as I can about caring for the animal. I helped around the yard with grooming and exercise, bringing horses in and out from the fields, putting on rugs, and mucking out. I have also been working at a small animal vet clinic every other Saturday for over 2.5 years. There, my responsibilities include restocking and sterilising equipment, watching procedures, and helping in consultations. Exposure to different cases has expanded my knowledge of various aspects, such as assisting with an emergency caesarean procedure. Due to a lack of staff on a Saturday, I was put in charge of anaesthesia while the puppies were being revived. I took on this task without hesitation and recorded heart and respiration rate, capillary refill time, and gum colour every five minutes. Other placements following an equine vet, working on a polo farm, and volunteering at a swan sanctuary have also broadened my experience with different species and how each possesses various requirements. During pre-vet summer courses, I was also introduced to farm animals such as pigs, cows, sheep and chicken. I spend some time milking dairy cows and removing clustered dust from chicken feet, as well as tipping sheep in order to inspect their teats.

In this paragraph, she synthesizes personal experience with an academic understanding of vet medicine. She demonstrates that she is committed to animals (helping in the yard, regular Saturday work, assistance with procedures), that she has gained a variety of experiences, and that she understands some of the conditions (caesareans, clustered dust) that vets have to deal with. Note that she also briefly discusses ‘pre-vet summer courses,’ adding credibility to her level of experience.

I have focused on HL Biology and HL Chemistry for my IB Diploma. I was particularly excited to study cell biology and body systems because these subjects allowed me to comprehend how the body works and are applicable to animal body functions. Topics like DNA replication as well as cell transcription and translation have helped me form a fundamental understanding of genetics and protein synthesis, both important topics when looking into hereditary diseases in animals. Learning about chemical reactions made me consider the importance of pharmaceutical aspects of veterinary medicine, such as the production of effective medicine. Vaccines are essential and by learning about the chemical reactions, I f developed a more nuanced understanding about how they are made and work.

Now, the statement turns to academic matters, linking her IB subjects to the university studies she aspires to. She draws out one particular example that makes a clear link between school and university-level study.

I have also written my Extended Essay discussing the consequences of breeding laws in the UK and South Australia in relation to the development of genetic abnormalities in pugs and German shepherds. This topic is important, as the growing brachycephalic aesthetic of pugs is causing them to suffer throughout their lifetime. Pedigree dogs, such as the German shepherd, have a very small gene pool and as a result, hereditary diseases can develop. This becomes an ethical discussion, because allowing German shepherds to suffer is not moral; however, as a breed, they aid the police and thus serve society.

The IB Extended Essay (like an A Level EPQ or a Capstone project) is a great topic to discuss in a personal statement, as these activities are designed to allow students to explore subjects in greater detail.

The first sentence here is a great example of what getting more specific looks like because it engages more directly with what the student is actually writing about in this particular paragraph then it extrapolates a more general point of advice from those specificities.

By choosing to write her Extended Essay on a topic of relevance to veterinary medicine, she has given herself the opportunity to show the varied aspects of veterinary science. This paragraph proves to the reader that this student is capable and motivated to study veterinary medicine.

I have learned that being a veterinarian requires diagnostic skills as well as excellent communication and leadership skills. I understand the importance and ethics of euthanasia decisions, and the sensitivity around discussing it withanimal owners. I have developed teamwork and leadership skills when playing varsity football and basketball for four years. My communication skills have expanded through being a Model U.N. and Global Issues Network member.

This small paragraph on her extracurricular activities links them clearly to her intended area of study, both in terms of related content and necessary skills. From this, the reader gains the impression that this student has a wide range of relevant interests.

When I attend university, I not only hope to become a veterinarian, but also a leader in the field. I would like to research different aspects of veterinary medicine, such as diseases. As a vet, I would like to help work towards the One Health goal; allowing the maintenance of public health security. This affects vets because we are the ones working closely with animals every day.

In the conclusion, she ties things together and looks ahead to her career. By introducing the concept of ‘One Health’, she also shows once again her knowledge of the field she is applying to.

UCAS PERSONAL STATEMENT EXAMPLE FOR AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING

Standing inside a wind tunnel is not something every 17 year old aspires to, but for me the opportunity to do so last year confirmed my long-held desire to become a mechanical engineer.

This introduction is efficient and provides a clear direction for the personal statement. Though it might seem that it should be more detailed, for a student applying to study a course that requires limited extended writing, being this matter-of-fact works fine.

I enjoy the challenge of using the laws of Physics, complemented with Mathematical backing, in the context of everyday life, which helps me to visualise and understand where different topics can be applied. I explored the field of aeronautics, specifically in my work experience with Emirates Aviation University. I explored how engineers apply basic concepts of air resistance and drag when I had the opportunity to experiment with the wind tunnel, which allowed me to identify how different wing shapes behave at diverse air pressures. My interest with robotics has led me to take up a year-long internship with MakersBuilders, where I had the chance to explore physics and maths on a different plane. During my internship I educated young teenagers on a more fundamental stage of building and programming, in particular when we worked on building a small robot and programmed the infra-red sensor in order to create self-sufficient movement. This exposure allowed me to improve my communication and interpersonal skills.

In this paragraph, the student adds evidence to the initial assertion that he enjoys seeing how Physics relates to everyday life. The descriptions of the work experiences he has had not only show his commitment to the subject, but also enable him to bring in some academic content to demonstrate his understanding of engineering and aeronautics.

I’m interested in the mechanics side of Maths such as circular motion and projectiles; even Pure Maths has allowed me to easily see patterns when working and solving problems in Computer Science. During my A Level Maths and Further Maths, I have particularly enjoyed working with partial fractions as they show how reverse methodology can be used to solve addition of fractions, which ranges from simple addition to complex kinematics. ­­­Pure Maths has also enabled me to better understand how 3D modelling works with ­­­the use of volumes of revolution, especially when I learned how to apply the calculations to basic objects like calculating the amount of water in a bottle or the volume of a pencil.

This paragraph brings in the academic content at school, which is important when applying for a subject such as engineering. This is because the admissions reader needs to be reassured that the student has covered the necessary foundational content to be able to cope with Year 1 of this course.

In my Drone Club I have been able to apply several methods of wing formation, such as the number of blades used during a UAS flight. Drones can be used for purposes such as in Air-sea Rescue or transporting food to low income countries. I have taken on the responsibility of leading and sharing my skills with others, particularly in the Drone Club where I gained the certification to fly drones. In coding club, I participated in the global Google Code competition related to complex, real-life coding, such as a program that allows phones to send commands to another device using Bluetooth. My Cambridge summer course on math and engineering included the origins of a few of the most important equations and ideologies from many mathematicians such as, E=mc2 from Einstein, I also got a head start at understanding matrices and their importance in kinematics. Last summer, I completed a course at UT Dallas on Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning. The course was intuitive and allowed me to understand a different perspective of how robots and AI will replace humans to do complex and labour-intensive activities, customer service, driverless cars and technical support.

In this section, he demonstrates his commitment to the subject through a detailed list of extracurricular activities, all linked to engineering and aeronautics. The detail he gives about each one links to the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in these subjects at university.

I have represented Model UN as a delegate and enjoyed working with others to solve problems. For my Duke of Edinburgh Award, I partook in several activities such as trekking and playing the drums. I enjoy music and I have reached grade 3 for percussion. I have also participated in a range of charitable activities, which include assisting during Ramadan and undertaking fun-runs to raise money for cancer research.

As with the introduction, this is an efficient use of language, sharing a range of activities, each of which has taught him useful skills. The conclusion that follows is similarly efficient and to the point.

I believe that engineering is a discipline that will offer me a chance to make a tangible difference in the world, and I am certain I will enjoy the process of integrating technology with our everyday life.

UCAS PERSONAL STATEMENT EXAMPLE FOR ECONOMICS AND SOCIAL POLICY

Applying for a joint honours course presents a particular challenge of making the case that you are interested in the first subject, the second subject and (often overlooked) the combination of the two. In this example, the applicant uses her own academic studies and personal experiences to make her case.

I usually spend my summer breaks in Uttar Pradesh, India working at my grandparents’ NGO which produces bio-fertilizers for the poor. While working, I speak to many of the villagers in the nearby villages like Barokhar and Dharampur and have found out about the various initiatives the Government has taken to improve the production of wheat and rice. I understand the hardships they undergo and speaking to them has shown me the importance of Social Policy and the role the government plays in improving the lives of people and inspired me to pursue my university studies in this field.

In the introduction, this applicant explains where her interlinking experiences come from: she has personal experiences demonstrating how economics impacts the most vulnerable in society. In doing so, she shows the admissions reader that she has a deep interest in this combination and can move on to discussing each subject in turn.

My interest in these areas has been driven by the experiences I had at high school and beyond. I started attending Model United Nations in the 9th grade and have been to many conferences, discussing problems like the water crisis and a lack of sustainability in underdeveloped countries. These topics overlapped with my study of economics and exciting classroom discussions on what was going on how different events would impact economies, for instance how fluctuations in oil prices will affect standards of living. Studying Economics has expanded  my knowledge about how countries are run and how macroeconomic policies shape the everyday experiences of individuals.

Unusually, this applicant does not go straight into her classroom experiences but instead uses one of her extracurricular activities (Model United Nations) in her first paragraph. For students applying for subjects that are not often taught at school (Social Policy in this example), this can be a good idea, as it allows you to bring in material that you have self-studied to explain why you are capable of studying each subject at university. Here, she uses MUN discussions to show she understands some topics in social policy that are impacting the world.

By taking up history as a subject in Grade 11 and 12, I have seen the challenges that people went through in the past, and how different ideas gained momentum in different parts of the world such as the growth of communism in Russia and China and how it spread to different countries during the Cold War. I learned about the different roles that governments played in times of hardships such as that which President Roosevelt’s New Deal played during the Great Depression. From this, I gained analytical skills by scrutinizing how different social, political and economic forces have moulded societies in the past.

In this paragraph, she then takes the nearest possible class to her interest in Social Policy and draws elements from it to add to her case for Social Policy. Taking some elements from her history classes enables her to add some content to this statement, before linking to the topic of economics.

To explore my interest in Economics, I interned at Emirates National Bank of Dubai, one of the largest banks in the Middle East, and also at IBM. At Emirates NBD, I undertook a research project on Cash Management methods in competitor banks and had to present my findings at the end of the internship. I also interned at IBM where I had to analyze market trends and fluctuations in market opportunity in countries in the Middle East and Africa. I had to find relations between GDP and market opportunity and had to analyze how market opportunity could change over the next 5 years with changing geo-political situations. I have also attended Harvard University’s Youth Lead the Change leadership conference where I was taught how to apply leadership skills to solve global problems such as gender inequality and poverty.

Economics is explored again through extracurriculars, with some detail added to the general statement about the activities undertaken during this work experience. Though the level of academics here is a little thin because this student’s high school did not offer any classes in Economics, she does as well as she can to bring in academic content.

I have partaken in many extra-curricular activities which have helped me develop the skills necessary for this course. Being a part of the Press Club at school gave me an opportunity to hone my talent for the written word and gave me a platform to talk about global issues. Volunteering at a local library taught me how to be organized. I developed research and analytical skills by undertaking various research projects at school such as the sector-wide contribution of the Indian economy to the GDP in the previous year. As a member of the Business and Economic Awareness Council at school, I was instrumental in organizing many economics-based events such as the Business Fair and Innovation Mela. Being part of various Face to Faith conferences has provided me with an opportunity to interact with students in Sierra Leone, India and Korea and understand global perspectives on issues like malaria and human trafficking.

The extracurricular activities are revisited here, with the first half of this paragraph showing how the applicant has some transferable skills from her activities that will help her with this course. She then revisits her interest in the course studies, before following up with a closing section that touches on her career goals:

The prospect of pursuing these two subjects is one that I eagerly anticipate and I look forward to meeting the challenge of university. In the future, I wish to become an economist and work at a think tank where I will be able to apply what I have learnt in studying such an exciting course.

UCAS PERSONAL STATEMENT EXAMPLE FOR HISTORY OF ART & PHILOSOPHY

This applicant is also a joint-honours applicant, and again is applying for a subject that she has not been able to study at school. Thus, bringing in her own interest and knowledge of both subjects is crucial here.

At the age of four, I remember an argument with my mother: I wanted to wear a pink ballerina dress with heels, made for eight-year-olds, which despite my difficulty in staying upright I was determined to wear. My mother persistently engaged in debate with me about why it was not ok to wear this ensemble in winter. After two hours of patiently explaining to me and listening to my responses she convinced me that I should wear something different, the first time I remember listening to reason. It has always been a natural instinct for me to discuss everything, since in the course of my upbringing I was never given a simple yes or no answer. Thus, when I began studying philosophy, I understood fully my passion for argument and dialogue.

This is an unusual approach to start a UCAS Personal Statement, but it does serve to show how this student approaches the world and why this combination of subjects might work for her. Though it could perhaps be drawn out more explicitly, here she is combining an artistic issue (her clothes) with a philosophical concern (her debate with her mother) to lead the reader into the case she is making for admission into this program.

This was first sparked academically when I was introduced to religious ethics; having a fairly Christian background my view on religion was immature. I never thought too much of the subject as I believed it was just something my grandparents did. However, when opened up to the arguments about god and religion, I was inclined to argue every side. After research and discussion, I was able to form my own view on religion without having to pick a distinctive side to which theory I would support. This is what makes me want to study philosophy: it gives an individual personal revelation towards matters into which they may not have given too much thought to.

There is some good content here that discusses the applicant’s interest in philosophy and her own motivation for this subject, though there is a lack of academic content here.

Alongside this, taking IB Visual Arts HL has opened my artistic views through pushing me out of my comfort zone. Art being a very subjective course, I was forced to choose an opinion which only mattered to me, it had no analytical nor empirical rights or wrongs, it was just my taste in art. From studying the two subjects alongside each other, I found great value, acquiring a certain form of freedom in each individual with their dual focus on personalized opinion and taste in many areas, leading to self- improvement.

In this section, she uses her IB Visual Arts class to explore how her interest in philosophy bleeds into her appreciation of art. Again, we are still awaiting the academic content, but the reader will by now be convinced that the student has a deep level of motivation for this subject. When we consider how rare this combination is, with very few courses for this combination available, the approach to take slightly longer to establish can work.

For this reason, I find the work of Henry Moore fascinating. I am intrigued by his pieces, especially the essence of the ‘Reclining Nude’ model, as the empty holes inflicted on the abstract human body encouraged my enthusiasm for artistic interpretation. This has led me to contemplate the subtlety, complexity and merit of the role of an artist. Developing an art piece is just as complex and refined as writing a novel or developing a theory in Philosophy. For this reason, History of Art conjoins with Philosophy, as the philosophical approach towards an art piece is what adds context to the history as well as purpose behind it.

Finally, we’re given the academic content. Cleverly, the content links both the History of Art and Philosophy together through a discussion of the work of Henry Moore. Finding examples that conjoin the subjects that make up a joint-honours application is a great idea and works well here.

Studying Philosophy has allowed me to apply real life abstractions to my art, as well as to glean a deeper critical analysis of art in its various mediums. My IB Extended Essay examined the 1900s Fauve movement, which made a huge breakthrough in France and Hungary simultaneously. This was the first artistic movement which was truly daring and outgoing with its vivid colours and bold brush strokes. My interest expanded to learning about the Hungarian artists in this movement led by Henri Matisse. Bela Czobel was one of the few who travelled to France to study but returned to Hungary, more specifically Nagybanya, to bestow what he had learned.

Again in this paragraph, the author connects the subjects. Students who are able to undertake a research project in their high school studies (such as the IB Extended Essay here, or the A Level Extended Project or AP Capstone) can describe these in their UCAS personal statements, as this level of research in an area of academic study can enliven and add depth to the writing, as is the case here.

As an international student with a multicultural background, I believe I can adapt to challenging or unfamiliar surroundings with ease. I spent two summers working at a nursery in Hungary as a junior Assistant Teacher, where I demonstrated leadership and teamwork skills that I had previously developed through commitment to sports teams. I was a competitive swimmer for six years and have represented my school internationally as well as holding the school record for 100m backstroke. I was elected Deputy Head of my House, which further reflects my dedication, leadership, teamwork and diligence.

As in the previous examples, this statement gives a good overview of the applicant’s extracurricular activities, with a mention of skills that will be beneficial to her studies at university. She then concludes with a brief final sentence:

I hope to carry these skills with me into my university studies, allowing me to enrich my knowledge and combine my artistic and philosophical interests.

UCAS PERSONAL STATEMENT EXAMPLE FOR LIBERAL ARTS

A good range of UK universities now offer courses called ‘Liberal Arts’ (or similar titles such as ‘Flexible Combined Honours’), which allows students to study a broader topic of study–perhaps combining three or four subjects–than is typically available in the UK system.

This presents a challenge in the personal statement, as within the 47 line / 4000 character limit, the applicant will have to show academic interest and knowledge in a range of subjects while also making the case to be admitted for this combined programme of study.

As a child I disliked reading; however, when I was 8, there was one particular book that caught my attention: The Little Prince. From that moment onwards, my love for literature was ignited and I had entered into a whirlwind of fictional worlds. While studying and analysing the classics from The Great Gatsby to Candide, this has exposed me to a variety of novels. My French bilingualism allowed me to study, in great depth, different texts in their original language. This sparked a new passion of mine for poetry, and introduced me to the works of Arthur Rimbaud, who has greatly influenced me. Through both reading and analysing poetry I was able to decipher its meaning. Liberal Arts gives me the opportunity to continue to study a range of texts and authors from different periods in history, as well as related aspects of culture, economy and society.

Here we have a slightly longer than usual opening paragraph, but given the nature of the course being applied for this works well. A personal story segueing from literature to modern languages to history and cultural studies shows that this student has a broad range of interests within the humanities and thus is well-suited to this course of study.

Liberal Arts is a clear choice for me. Coming from the IB International Baccalaureate Diploma programme I have studied a wide range of subjects which has provided me with a breadth of knowledge. In Theatre, I have adapted classics such as Othello by Shakespeare, and playing the role of moreover acting as Desdemona forced me to compartmentalise her complex emotions behind the early-modern English text. Studying History has taught me a number of skills; understanding the reasons behind changes in society, evaluating sources, and considering conflicting interpretations. From my interdisciplinary education I am able to critically analyse the world around me. Through studying Theory of Knowledge, I have developed high quality analysis using key questions and a critical mindset by questioning how and why we think and why. By going beyond the common use of reason, I have been able to deepen greaten my understanding and apply my ways of knowing in all subjects; for example in science I was creative in constructing my experiment (imagination) and used qualitative data (sense perception).

Students who are taking the IB Diploma, with its strictures to retain a broad curriculum, are well-suited to the UK’s Liberal Arts courses, as they have had practice seeing the links between subjects. In this paragraph, the applicant shows how she has done this, linking content from one subject to skills developed in another, and touching on the experience of IB Theory of Knowledge (an interdisciplinary class compulsory for all IB Diploma students) to show how she is able to see how different academic subjects overlap and share some common themes.

Languages have always played an important role in my life. I was immersed into a French nursery even though my parents are not French speakers. I have always cherished the ability to speak another language; it is something I have never taken for granted, and it is how I individualise myself. Being bilingual has allowed me to engage with a different culture. As a result, I am more open minded and have a global outlook. This has fuelled my desire to travel, learn new languages and experience new cultures. This course would provide me with the opportunity to fulfil these desires. Having written my Extended Essay in French on the use of manipulative language used by a particular character from the French classic Dangerous Liaisons I have had to apply my skills of close contextual reading and analysing to sculpt this essay. These skills are perfectly applicable to the critical thinking that is demanded for the course.

Within the humanities, this student has a particular background that makes her stand out, having become fluent in French while having no French background nor living in a French-speaking country. This is worth her exploring to develop her motivation for a broad course of study at university, which she does well here.

Studying the Liberal Arts will allow me to further my knowledge in a variety of fields whilst living independently and meeting people from different backgrounds. The flexible skills I would achieve from obtaining a liberal arts degree I believe would make me more desirable for future employment. I would thrive in this environment due to my self discipline and determination. During my school holidays I have undertaken working in a hotel as a chambermaid and this has made me appreciate the service sector in society and has taught me to work cohesively with others in an unfamiliar environment. I also took part in a creative writing course held at Keats House, where I learnt about romanticism. My commitment to extracurricular activities such as varsity football and basketball has shown me the importance of sportsmanship and camaraderie, while GIN (Global Issue Networking) has informed me of the values of community and the importance for charitable organisations.

The extracurricular paragraph here draws out a range of skills the student will apply to this course. Knowing that taking a broader range of subjects at a UK university requires excellent organizational skills, the student takes time to explain how she can meet these, perhaps going into slightly more detail than would be necessary for a single-honours application to spell out that she is capable of managing her time well. She then broadens this at the end by touching on some activities that have relevance for her studies.

My academic and personal preferences have always led me to the Liberal Arts; I feel as though the International Baccalaureate, my passion and self-discipline have prepared me for higher education. From the academics, extracurriculars and social aspects, I intend to embrace the entire experience of university.

In the final section, the candidate restates how she matches this course.

Overall, you can see how the key factor in a UCAS statement is the academic evidence, with students linking their engagement with a subject to the course of study that they are applying to. Using the courtroom exercise analogy, the judge here should be completely convinced that the case has been made, and will, therefore issue an offer of admittance to that university.

Recent Posts

• Podcast Episode 77: Rugby at universities in the USA
• US College Sports: Eligibility
• Navigating UK Foundation Programmes
• Applying to Australian Universities from the UK with an Australian passport
• Universities in Singapore and Hong Kong: what you need to know

[email protected]

+44 (0) 7392 846307, useful links, privacy policy, services for.

• Universities
• Success Stories

• Impartiality Statement
• For Students
• For Parents
• For Schools
• For Universities

• What we check
• Proofreading jobs
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy
• Academic Proofreading
• Essay Proofreading
• Thesis Proofreading
• Dissertation Proofreading
• 3 Hour Proofreading Service
• 24 hour proofreading service
• 48 hour proofreading service
• PhD proofreading
• Personal statement proofreading
• Document formatting
• Proofreading Website
• Blog Proofreading
• Report Proofreading
• Novel editing services
• Book proofreading service
• Journal Article Editing
• Law Journal Formatting
• Personal statement checker

Personal statement length checker

Do you want to know how long your personal statement is? You are in the right place.

**Important note – We don’t store or share your personal statement. It is 100% safe to use**

Benefits of using our personal statement checker:

• You don’t need to login to UCAS  and don’t need to use their tricky online form
• Our nifty checker uses their method of counting lines with 94 characters maximum per line
• It also uses their method of counting characters (including spaces etc.)
• Worried about the spelling, grammar and content of your statement? We offer an affordable personal statement editing service to improve the message of your personal statement.

Paste your personal statement below to check if it meets the UCAS Apply requirements for the number of lines and character length. Click “check length”.

NOTE : W e do not store your personal statement and you will not have problems with Turnitin. 

Make your personal statement stand out by removing grammar, spelling, punctuation and sentence errors: 

• We offer a personal statement editing service to improve the grammar, spelling and punctuation of your statement.  It only costs £30 and can really improve your personal statement before you send it to the institution you are applying for. Click on the order now button!

What is the UCAS personal statement word count?

UCAS does not specify a certain number of words. However, the personal statement is limited to 4,000 characters including spaces. You cannot use Word to check your statement length because they count words and spaces differently, hence why we have developed this tool for you.

Rated 4.9/5 On Trustpilot…Read Our Reviews

Pay with debit/credit card with paypal or stripe.

100% Confidential

We take confidentiality seriously, read our privacy policy to find out how we keep your document safe and secure.

What our customers say

Read more…

Contact Us Today

Proofreading samples.

We are a professional UK proofreading and editing company and we use two proofreaders on every document. Our service goes beyond mere proofreading and includes editing for sentence structure, lexis, repetition and more.

• PhD proofreading service
• Thesis proofreading service
• Academic Proofreading Service
• Universities

Customer Support Hours:

Monday to Friday: 08:00-19:00

Saturday: CLOSED.

Sunday: CLOSED.

Copyright 2023 | London Proofreaders is a trading name of MK Media Limited, a company registered in England and Wales.

Terms & Conditions

We use cookies to personalise your experience.

UCAS Personal Statement – A Secret to UK University Admissions

Ah, the UCAS personal statement —the single document that can make or break your dreams of attending a prestigious UK university. The task of encapsulating your skills, passions, and life experiences into a concise essay can feel daunting. But fear not! Crafting a compelling personal statement is more than possible; it’s entirely within your reach.

In this comprehensive guide, we won’t just scratch the surface with generic tips you’ve seen on every other website. Instead, we’ll delve deep into each aspect of the personal statement, from understanding basic requirements to mastering the art of storytelling. You’ll learn how to make each of your 4,000 characters count, tailor your statement to multiple courses, and let your personality shine through without resorting to clichés.

If you’re ready to transform a blank Word document into a stepping stone to your future, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s embark on this journey together!

What is a UCAS Personal Statement?

The UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service) personal statement is, in essence, your academic and personal elevator pitch rolled into one. This document is a key component of your university application , acting as a written testament to who you are and why you’re an ideal candidate for the course you’re applying for.

Many students make the mistake of underestimating its impact, treating it as a mere formality. In reality, the personal statement can be a tiebreaker between you and another candidate with a similar academic profile. With just two sides of an A4 paper—or 4,000 characters to be exact—you have a limited canvas to paint a comprehensive picture of yourself. That includes your motivations for applying, the skills and experiences that make you a suitable candidate, and your academic and career aspirations.

While the personal statement is but one part of your overall UCAS application, it’s the part where you get to speak directly to admissions tutors. Unlike standardised test scores or grades, it’s wholly in your control, giving you a unique opportunity to make your voice heard.

Now that you know what a UCAS personal statement is and why it’s important, you may be wondering how to approach it effectively. In the sections that follow, we’ll explore just that—breaking down each element and providing actionable tips to create a standout document.

Why Use Microsoft Word First?

The UCAS explicitly recommends that you draft your personal statement in Microsoft Word before pasting it into their online application form. On the face of it, this might seem like an unnecessary step; however, there are several compelling reasons for adhering to this guidance.

Avoid Timeout Stress

The UCAS online form times out after 35 minutes of inactivity , which can be quite stressful if you’re in the middle of crafting a sentence or contemplating the perfect wording. Drafting your statement in Microsoft Word ensures that you can take your time without fretting over losing your progress.

Spellcheck and Grammar Tools

Microsoft Word comes equipped with robust spelling and grammar check tools . While these shouldn’t be your sole resource for ensuring proper English usage, they do offer a helpful first pass to catch any glaring errors or awkward phrasing.

Word Count and Character Count Tools

Keeping within the 4,000 character limit, including spaces and punctuation, is crucial. Microsoft Word provides an easy-to-use tool for monitoring both your word and character count , helping you to be precise in your writing while ensuring you stay within UCAS guidelines.

Formatting and Organisation

Word offers straightforward formatting tools that allow you to divide your statement into clear paragraphs or sections. This helps in organising your thoughts coherently, making it easier for the admissions staff to follow your argument.

Revision and Version Control

The writing process often involves multiple drafts and revisions . Microsoft Word allows you to save different versions easily, so you can experiment with various approaches or go back to a previous version if needed. This is invaluable when you’re striving for a statement that accurately reflects your skills, experiences, and aspirations.

Collaboration and Feedback

Sharing your draft with teachers, mentors, or trusted family members for feedback is easier when using Word. They can use features like ‘Track Changes’ and ‘Comments’ to provide specific, actionable advice that you can incorporate directly into your statement.

By using Microsoft Word as your initial drafting platform, you’re not just following UCAS recommendations—you’re also availing yourself of tools that can significantly improve the quality and effectiveness of your personal statement.

What to Include in Your Personal Statement?

Embarking on your UCAS personal statement journey can be daunting, not least because you’re provided with a seemingly blank canvas yet constrained by a strict character limit. So, what should you include to make a compelling case for your university application? Here’s a roadmap to guide you.

Academic Achievements and Intellectual Curiosity

Begin by spotlighting your academic achievements and areas where you’ve excelled. But don’t just list your grades; demonstrate your intellectual curiosity and how it makes you an ideal fit for the course you’re applying to.

Relevant Skills and Experience

Universities look favourably upon candidates who bring more than just book smarts to the table. Discuss relevant skills you’ve gained outside of the classroom . Whether it’s teamwork from a sporting endeavour, leadership in a club, or creativity in the arts, these experiences offer a more rounded view of you as an applicant.

Work Experience or Volunteering

If you’ve taken part in work experience , internships, or volunteer work, be sure to mention this. Focus on what these experiences have taught you and how they’ve prepared you for the rigours of university life. For example, did a volunteering stint improve your time-management skills or give you hands-on experience in a field related to your course?

Extra-Curricular Activities

These are your secret weapon to stand out from the crowd. If you’re part of a club, society, or other organisation, discuss how these have shaped you. Have they made you more disciplined, improved your teamwork or leadership abilities, or perhaps kindled a newfound passion?

Career Aspirations

Universities want to produce graduates who will succeed in their respective fields. Thus, having a clear sense of your career aspirations can make your application more compelling. It demonstrates that you’re thinking long-term and see your university education as a crucial stepping stone.

Personal or Financial Circumstances

If there are special circumstances that have influenced your academic journey, like financial hardships or personal struggles, it can be appropriate to include these. However, the focus should be on how you’ve overcome these challenges, displaying traits like resilience and determination.

International Students: Why the UK?

If you’re applying from outside the UK, explaining why you’ve chosen the UK as your study destination can add a unique angle to your personal statement. Perhaps it’s the specific courses offered, the quality of education, or even the culture that attracts you.

By carefully selecting what to include in your UCAS personal statement, you’re not just filling in a form; you’re telling a nuanced story about who you are, what you bring to the table, and why you’re an excellent match for the course and the university.

Customising for Different Courses

One of the trickiest aspects of the UCAS personal statement is that you may be applying to multiple courses, possibly across different universities. Your personal statement needs to be a one-size-fits-all document , yet still uniquely tailored to each programme you’re interested in. Sounds like a paradox, doesn’t it? Fear not, for it’s entirely doable. Here’s how:

Start with Common Ground

Identify the common themes or skill sets that are universally sought-after for all the courses you’re applying to. For instance, critical thinking and problem-solving abilities are qualities most universities prize, no matter the specific course.

Highlight Transferable Skills

If the courses you’re applying to diverge significantly, focus on your transferable skills. Suppose you’re applying for both engineering and business courses. In that case, skills like analytical thinking, teamwork, and leadership are relevant and can be highlighted to suit both disciplines.

Use Course Descriptions as Your Guide

One way to make sure you’re hitting the right notes is to scrutinise the course descriptions from the universities you’re applying to. These often list the skills and qualities they’re looking for in candidates, providing you a template of sorts to base your personal statement upon.

Avoid Naming Specific Universities or Courses

It might seem like a good idea to explicitly mention why you want to attend a particular university or take a specific course. However, given that your personal statement is a blanket document for all your choices, this strategy is ill-advised.

Mention Specific Interests that Align with Multiple Courses

If you have interests or experiences that align well with all your course choices, by all means, include them. For example, if you’re applying to both literature and history courses, discussing your love for storytelling can cover both bases.

Adapt Your Tone and Language

While the content remains largely the same, slight changes in tone and language can make your personal statement feel more aligned with different courses. For example, using more technical jargon might suit science-related courses, whereas a more creative flair could be advantageous for arts and humanities courses.

Be Authentic

Finally, authenticity is key. Universities can usually tell if you’re stretching the truth or trying too hard to be someone you’re not. Your genuine enthusiasm for higher education and the courses you’re applying to will shine through naturally if you stick to your authentic self.

By following these guidelines, you can craft a UCAS personal statement that serves multiple purposes without losing its impact or authenticity. It’s all about finding the right balance and painting a complete picture of you as a multi-faceted candidate.

Discussing Extra-Curricular Activities

Extra-curricular activities are often considered the garnish to the main course of your academic achievements in a UCAS personal statement. While your academic record provides a foundational understanding of your scholastic abilities, your extra-curricular activities offer a lens into your personality, skills, and qualities that aren’t necessarily academic but are still crucial to your character.

Why Extra-Curricular Activities Matter

These activities paint a more comprehensive picture of you as a well-rounded individual. They reveal essential soft skills like teamwork, leadership, time management, and commitment—traits that universities highly value but aren’t explicitly showcased through your grades alone.

Choose Wisely

It can be tempting to list every single activity you’ve ever participated in, but quality trumps quantity. Select activities that resonate most with the courses you are applying for or display skills that are universally valued.

Context Is King

Merely listing your extra-curricular activities won’t suffice; it’s crucial to place them in context. If you’ve been part of a debate team, for instance, explain how it has improved your public speaking and critical thinking skills. Have you participated in sports? Discuss how it has instilled discipline, resilience, and a spirit of teamwork.

Balancing Breadth and Depth

While it’s advantageous to demonstrate a range of interests, diving deep into one or two key activities can be equally beneficial. This depth can show focus and dedication, attributes that can set you apart from other candidates who might have a more scattered approach.

The SMART Method

When discussing each activity, use the SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) criteria to add credibility and substance to your experiences. For example, instead of merely stating that you were a member of a charity organisation, specify that you organised a fundraising event that raised £2,000 for a local animal shelter over a 6-month period.

Non-traditional Activities Count Too

Don’t underestimate ‘less conventional’ activities like blogging, coding, or even gaming. These can also demonstrate valuable skills, such as creativity, analytical skills, or strategic thinking. Just make sure to link them back to qualities or skills that are relevant to the course or courses you’re applying for.

Showcase Growth and Learning

Finally, what did you learn from these activities? Did they challenge you in unexpected ways? Or perhaps they reaffirmed your career goals? Use these experiences as opportunities to demonstrate your growth and ongoing journey towards becoming a more enlightened and skilled individual.

By thoughtfully incorporating your extra-curricular activities into your UCAS personal statement, you offer admissions teams an invaluable glimpse into the person you are beyond the grades. In doing so, you make a compelling case for why you’d be a valuable addition to any university course.

Showcasing Relevant Work Experience in Your Personal Statement

Work experience is a fundamental aspect of your UCAS personal statement that can significantly enhance your application. However, it’s not just the fact you’ve had a job or completed an internship that matters; it’s how you present that experience and link it to your academic and career ambitions that makes all the difference.

Why Work Experience Matters

Admissions teams look for students who can balance both academic and real-world responsibilities. Work experience indicates that you have already stepped out of the classroom environment and tested your skills in real-world situations.

Different Types of Work Experience

Remember, work experience isn’t just restricted to corporate internships or part-time jobs. It could be volunteer work, freelance projects, or any other experience where you’ve demonstrated skillsets that are either directly or indirectly relevant to the course you’re applying for.

Tailoring Your Experience to Your Course

Make sure to draw parallels between your work experience and your chosen field of study. If you’re applying for a business course and you’ve worked in a retail position, discuss how this has given you an understanding of customer relations, supply chain, and perhaps even marketing.

Utilising the STAR Method

When detailing your experiences, consider using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your explanation. Describe the situation you were in, the task you were given, the actions you took, and the results you achieved. This formula helps provide a compelling narrative around your experience.

Showcasing Transferable Skills

Even if your work experience is in a field entirely unrelated to your course, you can still make it relevant by focusing on transferable skills. For example, working in a café could demonstrate skills in time management, customer service, and multitasking, all of which are valuable in any study or career path.

Explaining Gaps and Short-term Roles

If there are gaps in your work history or if you’ve had roles that lasted for a short time, be prepared to explain. Whether it was due to focusing on studies, travelling, or any other reason, make sure you present it as an opportunity where you learned something useful.

Quantifiable Achievements

Whenever possible, add numbers to quantify your achievements. If you improved a process that increased efficiency by 20%, mention it. These quantifiable facts provide a concrete dimension to your experiences.

Reflect on What You’ve Learned

Wrap up this section by reflecting on how your work experience has shaped you. Have you learned about what career you want to pursue or not pursue? Did the experience teach you about the kind of work environment in which you thrive? These reflections can add depth to your personal statement and make you more relatable.

By skillfully showcasing your work experience, you not only prove your capabilities but also demonstrate your commitment to succeeding both academically and professionally. It gives you a competitive edge and contributes to making your UCAS personal statement robust and compelling.

Break Your Letter Down

Example Personal Statement:

“Ever since I took part in a community clean-up campaign at age 10, I’ve been passionate about environmental conservation. This zeal led me to choose Environmental Science for my A-levels, sparking an aspiration to study Environmental Engineering at university.”

 [Body Paragraph 1: Academic Interests]

“My academic journey has been guided by a commitment to sustainable development. This was crystallized during my A-level project on wastewater treatment, where I delved into innovative techniques to purify water more efficiently.”

“Outside of the classroom, I co-founded my school’s Environmental Club, focusing on local conservation projects. I also volunteered for Clean the Beach, a community service initiative.”

“Through part-time work at a local café, I’ve honed my communication and teamwork skills, which I believe will be invaluable in group projects and presentations at university.”

Body Paragraph 4: Future Goals]

“My ultimate goal is to contribute to renewable energy solutions. I am eager to learn the engineering and technological skills necessary to make a significant impact on the environment.”

“I am enthusiastic about the prospect of joining your esteemed Environmental Engineering programme. My passion for the subject, combined with a strong academic background and extra-curricular involvement, makes me a well-rounded candidate for this course.”

Crafting an effective UCAS personal statement can be a daunting task, particularly when you have only 4,000 characters to convey your skills, experiences, and aspirations. The key to a well-structured and impactful statement is breaking it down into manageable sections.

Why Breaking it Down is Crucial

The personal statement serves as your written portrait to the admissions panel. Therefore, a well-structured format is crucial for ensuring your points are clear, focused, and easily digestible. Breaking down your statement allows you to allocate space judiciously, ensuring every essential aspect gets the attention it deserves.

Understanding the Structural Basics

The UCAS personal statement essentially comprises an introduction, a body, and a conclusion. While this format may seem basic, it serves as the skeleton around which your more detailed content will be structured.

• Introduction : A compelling opener that introduces you and outlines why you’re passionate about your chosen field of study.
• Body : Consists of sub-sections that discuss your academic background, work experience, skills, and other relevant aspects that make you a strong candidate for the course.
• Conclusion : A succinct closing that summarises your statement and leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

Tackling One Section at a Time

Once you’re aware of the basic structure, focus on completing one section at a time. This approach prevents you from feeling overwhelmed and enables you to devote quality time to each part.

Using Subheadings for Clarity

While the UCAS system doesn’t allow for formal subheadings, you can still use transitional sentences to signify a new section or topic. This strategy helps to guide the reader through your narrative.

Word Count and Character Limit

Always keep an eye on your word count and character limit, making adjustments as needed. Each section should be balanced; a 2,000-character introduction followed by a 500-character body will seem uneven.

Iterative Drafting

Don’t expect to get it right on the first try . Writing, reviewing, and revising are part and parcel of crafting a top-notch personal statement. An iterative approach will help you refine your language, improve your structure, and strengthen your argument.

Seeking Feedback

Once you’ve broken down your statement and drafted your sections, seek feedback from teachers, mentors, or family members. Their insights can be invaluable in refining your text and ensuring it’s well-rounded.

By breaking down your UCAS personal statement into its core components and tackling each one with focus and precision, you simplify the writing process. Not only does this make the task less intimidating, but it also helps to produce a final product that is clear, coherent, and compelling.

Drafting and Redrafting

A successful UCAS personal statement is rarely the product of a single draft. Instead, it evolves through a thoughtful cycle of drafting, redrafting, and proofreading. Below, we explore the key considerations during this crucial phase.

The Importance of Multiple Drafts

Creating multiple drafts may seem laborious, but it’s a critical step in refining your personal statement. Each draft allows you to hone your narrative, perfect your language, and further clarify your points, making your statement stronger with each iteration.

Starting with a Rough Draft

Your first draft is your playground; it doesn’t have to be perfect. The aim is to get your ideas down on paper without worrying too much about character limits or stylistic flourishes. Include all the points you want to make, knowing full well you’ll be revisiting and revising them later.

Assessing Your First Draft

Once your first draft is complete, set it aside for a bit. Giving yourself some time away from the text allows you to approach it later with fresh eyes. On your return, assess the draft critically, focusing on:

• Overall structure and flow
• Relevance of included content
• Language and tone
• Adherence to character limit

Prioritising Content in Subsequent Drafts

As you move from your first to subsequent drafts, you’ll need to start prioritising content. Not everything from your rough draft will make the final cut. Decide which points are most compelling and relevant to your application and focus on elaborating those.

Seeking External Feedback

After your second or third draft, seek external feedback from trusted sources like teachers, mentors, or family members. Fresh perspectives can offer invaluable insights that you might have overlooked.

The Final Draft

The final draft should be a well-balanced, clear, and impactful statement that adheres to UCAS’s character limits. By now, your text should be free of grammatical errors and spelling mistakes, and it should closely reflect your skills, experience, and aspirations.

Proofreading and Fine-Tuning

Even your final draft needs a thorough proofread. Spelling, punctuation, and grammar need to be impeccable. If possible, employ software tools to check for these, but also manually read your statement several times—preferably aloud—to catch any lingering errors or awkward phrasings.

Saving and Reviewing

Keep a saved copy of each draft and the final version. This not only serves as a backup but also provides a resource you can refer to during potential interviews or further application steps.

In summary, the drafting and redrafting process is not to be rushed or overlooked. The multiple drafts you create and refine are stepping stones towards a well-rounded, compelling personal statement that will catch the eye of university admissions panels.

Demonstrating Enthusiasm

Demonstrating enthusiasm in your UCAS personal statement is vital, yet it’s an area where many applicants stumble. The challenge lies in authentically communicating your zeal for the chosen course while maintaining a professional tone. Below, we’ll explore effective ways to inject enthusiasm into your statement.

The Importance of Genuine Enthusiasm

Firstly, it’s essential to note that admissions tutors can easily distinguish between genuine enthusiasm and an exaggerated display. A truly passionate account of why you want to study a particular subject will always stand out more than generic statements.

Methods for Demonstrating Enthusiasm

• Personal Anecdotes: Share experiences that have led you to develop a keen interest in your field. Maybe a book captured your imagination, or perhaps a specific event shaped your academic interests. These stories make your enthusiasm tangible.
• Course-Specific Details: Refer to specific modules, projects, or aspects of the course that excite you. The more specific you are, the more convincing your enthusiasm will appear.
• Past Achievements: Discuss past accomplishments related to the field to show your proactive approach. Have you won a related competition or undertaken a significant project? Make sure to share it.
• Future Goals: Clearly outlining your career ambitions can be a potent way to demonstrate your commitment and enthusiasm for the subject. It shows that you see the course as a stepping stone towards a fulfilling career.
• Active Engagement: Mention any relevant journals, podcasts, or seminars you follow. This indicates an ongoing commitment to understanding your field outside the academic curriculum.

Balance is Key

While enthusiasm is essential, remember to strike a balance. Your personal statement shouldn’t solely be an emotional account of your passion for the subject; it should also provide concrete examples that demonstrate this enthusiasm in a practical sense.

Avoid Overused Phrases

Steer clear of clichés like “I’ve always been passionate about…” or “Ever since I was young, I’ve loved…”. These statements are overused and rarely convincing. Instead, use personal experiences to show your enthusiasm.

Enthusiasm and Relevance

The enthusiasm you express must be directly related to the course for which you are applying. This not only underscores your genuine interest but also highlights your awareness of what the course involves.

In summary, genuine enthusiasm can set you apart in a sea of applicants. Be specific, be personal, and most importantly, be yourself. Your enthusiasm is a testament to your fit for the course, so let it shine through in your UCAS personal statement.

What to Avoid in Your Personal Statement

Navigating the do’s and don’ts of crafting a compelling UCAS personal statement can be a daunting task. While it’s crucial to demonstrate enthusiasm, skill, and aptitude, there are also pitfalls you must conscientiously sidestep. Below, we outline some key elements to avoid in your personal statement.

Mentioning Specific Universities

While it might seem beneficial to talk about why you are excited about particular institutions, remember that your UCAS personal statement is sent to all the universities you apply to. Mentioning one may not only limit your options but also put off other institutions.

Overuse of Humour

While a light touch can sometimes make your statement more engaging, excessive humour or jokes that could be misinterpreted are best avoided. The admissions team may not share your sense of humour, and it’s a risk that’s generally not worth taking.

Clichés and Overused Phrases

Phrases like “I’ve always been passionate about…” or “From a young age, I’ve always been interested in…” are overused and can appear insincere. Admissions tutors read thousands of statements, so originality is more likely to catch their eye.

Arrogance and Exaggeration

Confidence is good, but avoid coming across as arrogant or exaggerating your achievements. Claims like “I’m the best at…” not only reflect poorly on your character but are also hard to substantiate.

UCAS uses a Similarity Detection Service that utilises the Copycatch system to compare your statement against a comprehensive library of statements. It’s vital to ensure that the work you submit is your own.

Rambling and Lack of Structure

While you have limited space, make sure every sentence serves a purpose. Avoid going off on tangents and stick to a well-planned structure that efficiently communicates why you’re an ideal candidate for the course.

Negativity or Excuses

If there were obstacles or difficulties in your academic journey, it’s better to frame them as challenges you’ve overcome rather than excuses for poor performance. Negative language can cast a shadow over your application, regardless of your qualifications.

Ignoring Course Requirements

Failing to discuss the course specifics or neglecting to relate your skills and experiences to the course is a missed opportunity. Your statement should make clear why you’re not only a good student in general but also why you’re a good fit for the course you’re applying for.

Grammatical Errors and Typos

Spelling and grammar mistakes not only disrupt the flow of your statement but also call into question your attention to detail. Always proofread multiple times and consider asking others to review your statement as well.

In summary, avoiding these common pitfalls will put you in a strong position to create a personal statement that genuinely reflects your abilities and enthusiasm for your chosen course.

Using Online Resources Wisely

In the digital age, the internet offers a treasure trove of resources that can be a significant asset when you’re crafting your UCAS personal statement. However, it’s crucial to use these tools judiciously to ensure that your statement remains unique and authentic. Here are some guidelines for making the most of online resources.

Templates and Statement Builders

Several websites and platforms offer personal statement templates or even builders that guide you through the process. These can be a helpful starting point but should never be relied upon entirely. Your statement needs to reflect your personal experiences and aspirations, something a template can’t fully capture.

Online Courses and Webinars

Many organisations offer free or paid courses that guide you through writing a personal statement. These can provide valuable insights, but make sure you’re applying what you’ve learned to your unique situation, rather than regurgitating generic advice.

Online Examples

Looking at successful personal statement examples can be inspiring and offer a sense of the style and content that work well. However, be cautious not to lift phrases or sentences from these examples. Plagiarism is easily detected and will compromise the integrity of your application.

Editing and Proofreading Services

Some students opt to use online editing or proofreading services. If you choose this route, make sure the service is reputable. Also, review the changes they’ve suggested carefully to ensure they maintain your original voice and intent.

Discussion Forums and Social Media

Sites like Reddit , Quora , or specialised educational forums such as TSR can offer peer-to-peer advice and feedback. While this can be valuable, bear in mind that the individuals giving advice may not be experts, and their guidance should be taken as a part of a broader approach to crafting your statement.

Educational Blogs and Articles

Educational Blogs and articles can offer nuanced insights into what admissions tutors are looking for, as well as tips on structure, language, and content. Just remember, the best practice is to amalgamate different pieces of advice to tailor a statement that is uniquely yours.

AI and Automated Tools

Some advanced writing platforms employ AI to provide grammatical corrections and stylistic suggestions. While these tools can be incredibly useful for polishing your statement, they can’t replace the nuanced understanding and strategic approach that come from human input.

Fact-Checking and Credibility

When utilising online resources, it’s vital to cross-reference the information to ensure its credibility. Make sure you’re consulting sources that are current and respected within the field of higher education.

Data Protection

Be wary of sharing personal information or your full draft online, especially on platforms that aren’t secure. Your personal statement is a sensitive document that should only be shared with trusted individuals and platforms.

By using online resources wisely, you can enrich and polish your UCAS personal statement without sacrificing its authenticity or individuality.

International Students

International students face a unique set of challenges when applying to UK universities through UCAS. From cultural nuances to language barriers, there’s much to consider. This section aims to offer some tailored advice for international applicants crafting their UCAS personal statements.

Why the UK?

Admissions tutors are keen to understand why you’ve chosen the UK as your study destination. Your personal statement should make clear what attracts you to UK higher education. This could range from the reputation of UK universities and the courses they offer, to specific research opportunities that are unavailable in your home country.

English Proficiency

Mention any English language tests, courses, or qualifications you’ve completed. Highlight how your proficiency in English will enable you to succeed in a UK academic setting, not merely as a requirement for admission.

Cultural Adaptability

Show that you are aware of the cultural differences you may encounter and that you are open to embracing these. Whether you’ve had previous international experiences or are looking forward to your first, explain how these will help you adjust to life in the UK.

Financial Preparedness

If applicable, briefly mention how you plan to finance your studies. Whether it’s through scholarships, savings, or educational loans, a short statement on this can underline your seriousness and preparedness.

Transferrable Skills

International students often bring diverse perspectives and a wealth of unique experiences. Highlight the transferable skills you’ve gained from living or studying in a different cultural context and how these will contribute to the university community.

Legal Requirements

While you don’t need to go into detail about visa processes, you can mention if you have or are in the process of securing a student visa as a sign of your commitment and readiness.

Academic References

Your academic background may be based on a different educational system. Use your personal statement to bridge any gaps that UK admissions tutors might not be familiar with. Provide context if your academic achievements might appear unusual or are not immediately relatable to UK norms.

Networking and Future Goals

Admissions tutors appreciate students who are looking at the bigger picture. Discuss your career ambitions and how studying in the UK is a vital step towards achieving these goals. If possible, mention how you plan to utilise the UK’s networking opportunities, research facilities, or career services.

Personal or Social Reasons

Sometimes there are personal or social reasons for choosing to study abroad, such as familial aspirations or the wish to experience life in a diverse, cosmopolitan setting. While this should not dominate your statement, a brief mention can provide a more comprehensive picture of your motivations.

In sum, as an international student, your personal statement should not only meet the general UCAS requirements but also address your unique status, offering a compelling narrative that sets you apart from domestic applicants.

Addressing Personal or Financial Circumstances

When crafting your UCAS personal statement, you may wonder whether to include personal or financial challenges you’ve faced. This is a sensitive area, but if such circumstances have had a substantial impact on your academic performance or life experiences, it could be beneficial to mention them. Here’s how to do it appropriately.

Deciding What to Include

Firstly, decide if your personal or financial circumstances are relevant to your application and would add context to your academic record. These could range from dealing with family difficulties, financial hardships, or health issues that may have affected your grades or extra-curricular involvement.

Framing it Positively

Although you’re discussing challenges, aim to frame these experiences positively. For example, if financial constraints limited your access to educational resources, discuss how this has made you resourceful or driven to succeed despite obstacles. The key is to focus on how you’ve overcome these issues or what they’ve taught you, rather than dwelling on the difficulties themselves.

Be Specific but Brief

While it’s essential to give a clear picture of your circumstances, try to be as succinct as possible. Remember, you have a limited number of characters and lines, and you want the bulk of your statement to focus on your academic and extracurricular achievements.

Provide Context for Academic Performance

If your personal or financial circumstances have had a direct impact on your academic performance, it’s crucial to provide this context. Doing so helps admissions tutors understand any irregularities or gaps in your academic history, and it could make a significant difference in how your application is evaluated.

Verification

Keep in mind that universities may require verification for any claims you make about personal or financial hardships. Make sure you are prepared to provide evidence, whether that’s medical records, financial documents, or reference letters, to substantiate your statements.

Addressing the Future

After outlining the challenges you’ve faced, it might be useful to mention how you intend to manage these circumstances while at university. This shows admissions tutors that you’re not only aware of the challenges but have a plan in place to address them.

Use Discretion

Finally, use your judgement when including sensitive personal or financial information. Ensure it serves to strengthen your application rather than divert attention away from your qualifications and skills. If in doubt, seek advice from teachers, career advisors, or other trusted individuals who are familiar with the UCAS application process.

Incorporating personal or financial circumstances into your personal statement can offer admissions tutors a fuller understanding of you as a candidate. However, it’s vital to approach this carefully, ensuring it complements the rest of your application.

By now, you should have a comprehensive understanding of what goes into crafting an exceptional UCAS personal statement. But knowing and doing are two different arenas. The path from an idea to a fully-fledged personal statement can often be a labyrinth of self-doubt, second guesses, and the ever-daunting blank page. It’s not merely about narrating your life story or academic achievements; it’s about painting a vivid, multidimensional portrait of who you are and who you aim to become.

If you find yourself standing at the crossroads, unsure of how to proceed, allow me to introduce a game-changing solution: Edumentors . This isn’t just another online tutoring platform; it’s your backstage pass to an impeccable personal statement. The tutors at Edumentors offer a bespoke service tailored to your unique needs, whether that means crafting your statement from scratch or meticulously refining your existing work. Their expertise will bring your application to life by focusing on the details that really matter. Plus, they’re well-versed in British academic standards, ensuring that your statement not only shines but also resonates with UK admissions tutors.

The journey to higher education is a defining one, and your UCAS personal statement is more than a ticket to admission—it’s a declaration of your ambitions, a testament to your resilience, and a glimpse into your potential. So why leave it to chance? With Edumentors, you’re not just investing in a document; you’re investing in your future. Elevate your statement from good to extraordinary, and let your application be the one that sets the gold standard.

• Personal Statement
• University Application

GCSE Economics – Everything You Need to Know

GCSE Resit – Should You Do It? When and How?

Find a tutor.

Online tutors from top UK universities

By submitting this form you agree to be contacted by Edumentors

Recent Posts

We are educating children from 11 different countries

Fill out this form to get matched with a tutor & book a free trial

Get matched with a tutor & book a free trial.

Consult with expert and request free trial session

Request was sent

Thank you for submitting the form. One of our team members will be in touch with you soon

How to write your personal statement

It can be hard to know where to begin when writing your UCAS personal statement. We've put together some top tips and advice to help you make the most of your personal statement.

As part of the UCAS application process, you'll need to complete a personal statement. Your personal statement might be the only chance you have to ‘speak’ directly to an Admissions Tutor so it’s important to get it right. Many people find it difficult to write about themselves. Particularly their own strengths, so don’t worry if you’re struggling for ideas. You can use this guide to help ensure you write a great personal statement. 

Guide to writing your personal statement

Discover how to write a great personal statement with our handy guide. It covers everything you need to know from structuring to tips on what to include.

Hear from our students

Writing about yourself in a personal statement can be difficult, I’ve put together some tips that I found useful when writing my own personal statement.

Hi, my names Parsa, I am a 4th year pharmacy student. Writing a personal statement can be stressful and time consuming, but it doesn't need to be. Read my tips to help you to write the very best statement.

Your personal statement questions answered

What is a personal statement.

A personal statement is a short written account used to support your university application. It is your opportunity to ‘sell’ yourself to universities. And to show how and why you are a good candidate for your chosen course. A well-written application may convince a university to make you an offer or invite you to an interview. 

How to start a personal statement?

It’s never too early to start work on your personal statement. In fact, we’d recommend you give yourself as much time as possible.

Before you begin it’s important you have an idea of the course or subject area you want to study. Your personal statement needs to be specific so knowing what course you’re interested in will make it easier to start writing. It’s a good idea to check out the course descriptions in university prospectuses or on their website. This way you can find out the skills and experience that you’ll need. You can then reflect on how these relate to your own interests and qualities. 

Where to begin?

• Start with an engaging and positive introductory sentence which makes the admissions Tutor want to read on.
• Make it different. The most overused opening phrases are: “From a young age I have always been interested in…” and “For as long as I can remember I have been fascinated with…”
• State your reasons for applying to your chosen course and what it is that motivates you.

What makes a good personal statement?

The great thing about a personal statement is that it’s exactly that - personal. This is your chance to stand out from the crowd and explain why you’re the right choice for your chosen course.

It’s important that the statement reflects you, so you need to write in your own individual style. However, there are certain facts Admissions Tutors will be expecting to see. So it's important that you include these to ensure you give the best account of yourself, your skills and your experience.

Everything that you write should be relevant and linked to the course(s) you are applying for. Whilst you will only submit one personal statement it will be seen multiple times by all the universities and courses you have applied for.

Here are some questions to think about to ensure your statement stands out:

• Why do you want to study the course? You need to show that you have a genuine interest in the subject area and the motivation to immerse yourself in it.
• What makes you suitable? This is your chance to show how your experiences have prepared you to meet the demands of the course.
• What makes you stand out? Think about what you can offer outside of the lecture theatre and how you will contribute to the university community as a whole.

Download our guide to writing your personal statement for more top tips.

How long should a personal statement be?

Your personal statement needs to stay within the 4000 character limit set by UCAS. This includes spaces and blank lines. This might seem like a lot, but it's only around 1 side of typed A4 paper. So you need to keep it clear and concise. Use the UCAS personal statement tool to help you keep within the limit as well as tips on how to structure your statement.

How to structure a personal statement?

There is no set layout for your personal statement. But here are some style and structure tips to help you along the way:

• Make sure you sound interested in the course. Admissions Tutors will recognise applicants who aren’t totally committed.
• Don’t use bullet points. A personal statement is a chance to show how you can make a reasoned argument in continuous writing.
• Avoid repetition.
• You need to show rather than tell the Admissions Tutor that you are a good candidate. So don’t just list all your skills and achievements. Pick the most relevant, explain them carefully and provide examples.
• Check your statement for spelling and grammar. And then check again.
• Ask your parents, friends and/or teachers to read through your finished statement. They can help to make sure it flows and that you’ve not forgotten anything.

Personal statement dos and don'ts

Read it out loud., check it’s all there., do some practice., be well prepared., don't be negative., don't complicate it., don't copy or paraphrase., don't include irrelevant facts..

Get to know us

Book an Open Day to get a feel for our campuses and meet current students and staff. It's the perfect way to get a taste of university life.

University application dates

Completing and submitting your UCAS application

You will need to start your UCAS application around September in the year before you want to apply to university. For example, if you want to start in September 2025, start your application in September 2024.

You can start you application as early as May, but you won't be able to submit until September.

You'll need to submit your form to college so they can add your reference.

Make sure you submit your UCAS application online by the deadline. Deadlines vary each year and are different depending on the course you want to study.

Scroll or swipe on small screens to see all table columns

Once you submit your application through UCAS, they will send you an acknowledgement. They will then forward your application to your chosen institutions.

Getting a decision on your application

Once you've submitted your application, you may have several stages before you find out if you have an offer.

Institutions will look at a number of things to make their decision. This includes your personal statement, reference and predicted grades.

You might be invited to interview or audition to see if you're right for the course. This is also your chance to see if it's the right place for you.

If you submitted your application by the January deadline, you should receive all of your offers by March. Some courses and late applications may not receive responses until later in the cycle.

You can receive a conditional or unconditional offer, depending on whether you already have your grades or not.

Some universities might invite you to an offer holder or applicant day . This is a great opportunity to get a taste for your course and meet your tutors. 

Usually, you'll need to reply to any offers you have received by May. This depends on when you submit your UCAS application.

If you have conditional offers, you'll be able to choose one university as your firm choice, and one as insurance .

If you've used all five choices on your application, and you're not holding any offers, then you can add extra choices to your application - free of charge.

Wait for your results and prepare to enrol

If you're waiting for your results, you should receive these in either July or August. This depends on what qualification you have taken. 

Your offer will either be confirmed or rejected based on your results.

If you don't receive the results you expected, or you apply after July, you will be entered into UCAS Clearing . This helps match you to university places that haven't yet been filled.

Once you've confirmed your offer at your chosen university, you will receive information about how to enrol .

Best Examples of UCAS Personal Statement

Knowing how to write UCAS personal statement is a good thing because you do not need to worry. If you still want to know more ideas, then you need to check out samples and the UCAS requirements. Here is what you should know about UCAS, but remember you may hire personal statement editing services to improve it anytime you need.

UCAS Requirements

Aside from personal statement UCAS , there are still other requirements you must know.

Qualifications:

• Applicants must need to hold undergraduate degree or recognized equivalent qualification
• Applicants must need to achieved standard equivalent grade of C or higher in GCSE examinations in mathematics or English. For training applications in Wales, applicants must need to have a graded of B or higher.
• Applicants must need to passed professional skills test
• Applicants must need to have strong understanding on chosen subject

Non-Academic Requirements:

• Classroom experience: Applicants must need to have at least 2 weeks classroom experience.
• Medical fitness: Training provider should send health questionnaire
• Declaration of the criminal convictions

International as well as EU students: Applicants must need to demonstrate their English language skills.

Note: It is important to visit the school that you want to apply for to know what other requirements you need to submit are. Make sure that you know the UCAS requirements as soon as possible to start applying and to begin preparing all the documents needed.

Samples of UCAS Personal Statement: Tips

Start with the preparation in writing. Before writing, have a theme in mind. This will be the main message or story that will be used from the start to the end of your essay. Having a central theme is what you need to keep a strong personal statement that will impress your readers. When it comes to preparation, you should also take note of the outline. Come up with one before writing your essay. You can also brainstorm for some ideas that can help you write a good personal statement.

When starting, do not mention a college or university name; what you can write are your qualities and skills that they are looking for. Start with a list of things to include and begin writing your essay. Some things to include are subjects of interests, previous studies and relevant aspects of placements, volunteering and work experience. You may also include your hobbies or activities, showing your passion for the field.

You can also include achievements, which can highlight your skills and qualities. With your introduction, begin with an opening sentence, which can encourage your reader to keep on reading. Avoid fluff in writing, especially in the introduction. What you need is a hook that will catch your reader’s attention.

Also, you should structure the things to include. When it comes to the conclusion, you can reinforce your enthusiasm, commitment and skills, which matter to the college or university. Also, don’t forget about checking your spelling and grammar.

*Length is up to 4,000 characters, or 47 text lines, including blank lines and spaces. Make sure that you don’t copy because the UCAS has software that detects any traces of it.

There you have what to remember about the UCAS essay that you have to follow (requirements) and things to keep in mind when writing (tips).

Start preparing early, draft your first personal statement, edit and come up with several versions, until you reach perfection.

Start with UCAS personal statement today!

Image credit: stevesubg.wordpress.com, ihromamz.it, markedbyteachers.com

• All You Need to Know About GI Fellowship Personal Statement: Proper Length, Great Samples & Writing Tips May 23, 2019

• What Is the Best Personal Statement Number of Words Feb 7, 2016

• Beyond Grades: ERAS Personal Statement Secrets Aug 2, 2023
• Mastering the Art of Crafting a Memorable Personal Statement Conclusion Aug 2, 2023
• Personal Statement for Residency: Your Journey to Medical Excellence Aug 2, 2023
• Making a Compelling Emergency Medicine Residency Personal Statement Aug 2, 2023
• Application Requirements of the Top Universities in USA Jul 2, 2019