personal statement advice southampton

Advice for applying to study STEM subjects

Your personal statement is an important part of your application. For many, it can seem like a daunting exercise, but in fact it’s your opportunity to show universities who you are and why you are an excellent choice for their course. To help you write a personal statement that will secure your place at your university of choice, our STEM admissions tutors have put together some top tips below.

Your personal statement

Many people do not know what they want to do in the future – and that’s OK! Many just know they like a particular subject area and want to pursue it further. Some have wanted to pursue it since an early age or have developed an interest in it recently.

Whichever best describes you, tell us, in your own words:

The topics that fascinate you
What you hope to achieve through studying your subject and give an idea of where this might fit in with your longer-term aims
What sparked your initial interest in the subject
Why you chose this particular course
How you think the subject relates to the real world and society – think about its applications, the research that’s happening in the area and its global impact

Dr Lindsay-Marie Armstrong, Director of Admissions (Engineering)

“I enjoy reading about what you think are the next big challenges that we face as a society. Understanding the role you think engineering will play in solving global problems, even before you get to the course, is extremely valuable.”

The three most important things to demonstrate: passion, motivation and enthusiasm

Back up your passion and motivation with evidence. Explain why the subject fascinates you and what engages you.

You could discuss:

Videos, podcasts and lectures
Work experience
Topics you’ve studied

Professor David Smith, Admissions Tutor (Physics)

“Try to evidence your claims about yourself. i.e. rather than ‘I love physics’ write ‘My interest in physics led me to read this book or attend this lecture or take an optional physics club’. Remember you might be asked about your claims in an interview.”

Professor Russell Minns, Admissions Tutor (Chemistry)

"Don’t worry if you’ve not managed to get work experience, it’s not necessary for most subjects. Instead have a think about other things you’ve done outside of school or college that demonstrate your transferable skills."

We understand that it can be difficult to get relevant work experience and it’s not usually necessary for studying most subjects at university. But you can demonstrate valuable transferable skills and experience in many environments, such as:

Part time work
Sports activities
Organising social activities or charity events
Personal achievements from your hobbies

“Above all, tell us what you’ve done. This is much better than only talking about what interests you. This might be personal projects, or experiments with technology at home, but say something about your real experiences and how you learned from them.”

Dr Dave Millard, Director of Admissions (ECS)

Personal statement top tips

Tell us about your hobbies, interests and other activities, including employment or voluntary work, which show who you are as a person and demonstrate relevant skills
Try not to use clichéd phrases, saturate your personal statement with superlatives, or try too hard to impress
Be honest and true to yourself and your interests, then read it through and see if it is a true representation of you, and demonstrates your passion
Tailor the statement to your chosen course. Generic and formulaic statements do not demonstrate you as an individual and your genuine interest. We want to see your voice coming through in the statement
Discuss your other subjects and how they link with each other
Example personal statements online may be useful for inspiration but avoid plagiarising text from these. This is easy to check by UCAS and admissions tutors
Take care with grammar, spelling and punctuation, and avoid writing in note form; try to get someone else to proofread, or read it over backwards – it helps you to spot mistakes in your own writing
Remember, that all information in the personal statement may be drawn upon at interview, so be truthful about your knowledge, experience and motivations

Application tips

Make sure your subject choices meet the course requirements
Don’t be afraid to aim high and choose one university course with entry requirements above your predicted grades
You can include other qualifications not directly relevant to the application (e.g. music qualifications)
Double check that all information is accurate such as qualifications, education and contact details

Good luck with your application! If you’d like to discuss any aspect of your application with us, please email us at [email protected]

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"Writing a personal statement might seem like a daunting task but it really should not be difficult. Think of your personal statement as a way for you to give us a few more details about you – about your story, your interests and your motivations. I enjoy reading through personal statements of applicants and see the diversity of stories and interests that motivate students to apply to study chemical engineering with us."

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Personal statement advice: English

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What do English tutors look for in a personal statement?

If you're about to start drafting your personal statement, thinking about this question is a good place to kick off your thought process. Here's what a couple of admissions tutors we spoke to said...

‘A succinct and focused statement that:

specifies the kind of books you enjoy
details the specific aspects of literary study that appeal to you and, crucially, why
is written in good English (naturally), using correct punctuation and uncomplicated syntax.

‘You should be specific about the texts, contexts, and critical tendencies that really excite you. We read hundreds of statements each year, but genuine passion and detail will always catch our eye.

Which texts and authors should you cover?

Do use your statement as an opportunity to discuss one or two specific writers you're interested in – and preferably one who isn’t on the GCSE or A-Level English syllabus. It's a great way of demonstrating your interests and what inspires you about the study of literature.

Be genuine. Tutors want to hear an account in your own words of those books and features of literature that you found most enjoyable. But, while you might want to try and think outside the box by picking a more unusual novelist or poem, don't be obscure just for the sake of it. An insightful, imaginative, and critical response to literature is what will impress, not what's on your bookshelf.

As Keele University says, it’s fine to talk about your wider cultural insights too, such as plays you’ve seen or pieces of journalism you’ve liked.

What else should you include?

A strong opening – like the literary greats, you need to engage the reader from the very first line. Avoid gimmicks by keeping it specific. 'I don’t want a philosophical essay on the joys of reading, I want to know what turns you on about literature – start with that', one admissions tutor told us.
Evidence that demonstrates you're an analytical reader – not just someone who enjoys reading. For example, University of Bristol admissions tutors want to see some evidence of your analytical approach to the books you've read, and for you to express this in a way that shows clear thinking and understanding.
Your long-term career goals – if you have a profession in mind, do expand on this (warning: just saying you 'want to be a journalist' will make you sound like thousands of others). If you don't know what you want to do yet though, don't worry.
Your ambitions – according to Dr Emma Bainbridge, an English Admissions Officer at the University of Kent, expanding on what you hope to achieve while studying literature, not just what you already know, will impress.

English personal statement pitfalls to avoid

A boring opening – avoid 'I have always loved literature/reading' or 'I have always had a passion for literature…'.
Irrelevant context – talking about the Beatrix Potter book you were given when you were six probably won’t impress.
Overblown language – English applicants need a strong writing style, but don't go overboard. Cut lines like 'I was totally encapsulated by To Kill a Mockingbird' or 'my achievements at school were vast', and limit reaching for that 'synonyms' button.
Cut the cheese – the University of Southampton very sensibly suggests avoiding rhetorical phrases like 'So why English and philosophy, then?' You are applying to an English department, not The Apprentice.
Poor spelling and grammar – it is an English degree, after all!

Extracurricular interests

Most universities like to see some detail of this, but keep it interesting and brief – probably 20% maximum – and ask yourself why it’s relevant. For example, your experience listening to or coaching readers in your local primary school will probably make more impact than playing badminton.

How much you dedicate in your statement to outside interests will also depend on the kind of English degree you're applying for, or whether you're combining it with another subject.

Dr Antonella Castelvedere at University Campus Suffolk, whose degree course focuses on English language as well as literature, is looking for students to reflect on both elements, and mentions book group membership, theatre attendance, cultural projects or voluntary work in schools as examples of the kind of activities that would impress – along with anything that demonstrates inquisitiveness or critical thinking.

Put your personality into it

The English department at Royal Holloway reinforces Dr Thurston's point above about being turned off by ‘deep and meaningful philosophical statements’. The bottom line is, they would much rather read about you, your tastes in reading, your cultural activities, your aspirations, and some of your relevant personal experiences.

In summary, do try to give them a sense of your analytical approach and the breadth of your literary or cultural interests. But engage them with your passion and enthusiasm too.

Read more advice about writing your personal statement , and our English subject guide , covering courses, entry requirements, and careers.

How to strengthen your personal statement

To strengthen your university application, consider the following advice about writing your personal statement.

Personal statement is the section on your UCAS application that universities use to check that the course you have applied for is right for you.

To help you stand out, our Head of Admissions has shared these 10 personal statement top tips:

Interest in a particular course; Explain why you are interested in a particular course and describe what you have done to go beyond just taking an interest in the subject area. Try to support what you say with evidence and avoid sweeping statements such as 'I have always had an interest in physics', without anything to back them up.
Experience; Detail any relevant work experience and the skills you have acquired.
Extended project work experience ; If you are doing an extended project qualification (EPQ), mention your research and explain how it is helping you prepare for studying at Southampton.
Career aspirations ; Show commitment to your chosen subject area by writing about your career aspirations related to the course you want to study.
Hobbies and interests ; Include details about your hobbies and interests, especially if you are in a position of responsibility or they relate to your chosen degree course. Don't just give a list, consider choosing two or three interests to talk about in detail. You should also talk briefly about the skills you have gained from these activities.
University expectations ; What do you hope to get from university? Mention any societies or activities you plan to become involved in. Include areas you are active in now and any that would be completely new to you.
Be truthful ; Never lie in your personal statement. Just be you, let your potential show.
Strong conclusion ; Try to finish your personal statement with a strong concluding paragraph. You could sum up the type of person you are.
Save your work ; The UCAS apply website times out after an hour, so it may be easier to write your personal statement in a word processer, then cut, and paste it into your application. Remember to 'save' your work regularly.
Check and check again ; Take your time to proofread your personal statement and make sure your application is completed and accurate. Get at least one person, or ideally several people, to check your personal statement for spelling and grammar mistakes.

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Help with CVs

CV stands for Curriculum Vitae, which literally means 'The course of one's life'.

A CV (sometimes called a résumé) is a concise document that outlines the relevant facts about you and your experience to a prospective employer.

Unlike filling in an application form, writing a CV offers you the chance to present information about yourself in a way you feel highlights your strengths and particular experience.

When compiling your CV you should bear in mind that employers can check the details you give. They can access a database containing details of academic achievements, employment and membership of technical bodies, so remember to be truthful.

Covering letters

You should always send a covering letter with a CV. This letter needs to be short and to the point, explaining why you are sending the CV.

If it is in response to an advertised job, you could draw the employer's attention to the skills and experience you have that are particularly relevant to the post.

Be careful not to just repeat exactly what is in your CV.

If you have sent a speculative letter (a letter you send to find out if there are vacancies), you could say when you will follow up the enquiry with a telephone call.

Follow the tips here to help ensure you get an interview:

Make a good impression – This might be the first contact the employer has with you. Covering letters need to be set out correctly. It should be easy to read, printed in black ink and in a plain font.
Make it short and sweet – Letters need to be short and to the point – no more than one side of A4 paper. Also write it using short paragraphs.
Start and finish properly – If you start with 'Dear Sir / Madam', you must end with 'yours faithfully' then sign your name with your name printed underneath your signature. If you start with 'Dear Mr, Mrs, Ms, Dr' (followed by their name), you must end the letter with 'yours sincerely', then sign your name with your printed underneath your signature so the employer can read it.
Include all your details – Make sure that the employer has all your correct details – including postcode, telephone number, mobile number and email address (if you have one).
Check it thoroughly – Make sure you check the spelling and grammar. Get someone who is good at this sort of thing to double check it for you (for example, a youth worker, parent or teacher).

Your CV needs to be

Clear – you want the information to be understood straight away
Concise – you shouldn't give irrelevant information
Well laid out – so that the information given can be quickly found

To achieve this

Use clear headings to separate the various sections of the CV
Use bullet points rather than writing paragraphs or long sentences
Keep the CV short – preferably no more than two sides of A4
Your CV is an advertising document for yourself
Make sure you don't overlook your skills and experience

CV dos and don'ts

Put the strongest statements at the top and work down the page
Add a personal statement using just one or two sentences to summarise your strengths
Keep sentences and paragraphs short. Sentences should be between 15-20 words and paragraphs should be no more than 10 lines
Detail fully your achievements wherever possible
Have someone check your grammar, spelling and punctuation
Use 'I' – it is implied throughout
Include hobbies and social interests unless they are related to your current job target
Include pictures, salary information or other personal information, for example sex, weight, height
Try to be funny, or write in verse, or use coloured paper

How to layout a CV

There are many different ways to lay out your CV and we've provided some examples of CVs that others have found helpful.

Chronological CVs SHOW

A chronological CV emphasises work experience and personal history. This CV communicates that you are experienced and established in one career area.

Start with your most recent position and work back in time, giving the most space to recent employment. Detail the last four or five positions. You don't need to show every position change within a given employer.
Do not repeat details common to several positions. Stress major accomplishments and responsibilities that demonstrate your full competency to do the job.
Keep your job target in mind and as you describe prior positions and accomplishments, emphasise those that are most closely related to your next move up.
If you have completed a relevant course or received a degree within the past five years, it should go at the top of the CV. Otherwise, education should be listed at the bottom.

Chronological CV example

Functional CVs SHOW

A functional CV highlights major areas of accomplishment and strength, and allows you to organise these in an order that best supports your work objectives and job targets.

Use four or five separate paragraphs of sections, each one headlining a particular area of expertise or involvement. List functions, in order of importance, for example, design, research, supervision with the area most closely related to your job target at the top and described in slightly more detail.
Within each functional area stress your accomplishments, results or abilities most directly related to your job target.
Know that you can include any relevant accomplishment without necessarily identifying the employment or non-employment situation in which it took place.
Provide a summary of your work experience at the bottom, giving dates, employer and job title. If you have had no work experience, or a very patchy work record, leave out the employment summary (but be prepared to talk about it at the interview, so that you can show that you do have skills to offer).

Functional CV example

Targeted CVs SHOW

A targeted CV focuses on a clear, specific job target listing appropriate capabilities and supporting accomplishments. Each job target requires a different CV.

You must be clear and specific about your job target, the particular title or occupational field you want to pursue.
Capabilities and accomplishments must be stated briefly (one or two lines) and must be directly related to your job target.
Your list of capabilities should answer the question: 'What can you do?'
Experience and education are included, but not the focus; they should support the overall impression conveyed by the CV.

Targeted CV example

Further help

Alec - Free advice on CVs, resumes, interviews and job search
cvwriting.net
CV writing pack
Covering letter sample 1
Covering letter sample 2
Covering letter sample 3
Covering letter sample 4

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Personal statement examples by subject: complete list

Take a look at how other students have written their personal statements

When you're writing your university personal statement, a little inspiration can be handy.

On The Student Room, we have hundreds of real personal statements written by students when they applied for university in previous years.

You'll find all of these listed below, in order of subject.

For more help with writing your personal statement, our personal statement section is a good place to go. You can also find tips and discussion in the personal statement advice forum .

If you've already been to university, you can add your own personal statement to the library to help others.

And don't forget our sister site The Uni Guide , which has expert advice on getting your personal statement sorted.

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By Nik Taylor (Editor, The Uni Guide) | 12 October 2023 | 13 min read

Personal statement secrets – universities reveal all

Want to know how to craft an amazing personal statement? Take some advice from the experts...

Share this page

Email & print.

If you’re applying to uni this year, you’ll already know that one of the trickiest tasks is coming up with an original and interesting personal statement. That’s why we’ve gone straight to the experts – the university admissions staff themselves – to pick their brains on what makes a stand-out personal statement.

Read more: how to write an excellent personal statement in ten steps

The university application personal statement is changing in 2025
University admissions service Ucas has announced that a new style of personal statement will be launched in 2025. This will affect anyone making a university application from autumn 2025 onwards. .

Getting ready to write your personal statement

Understand what a personal statement is.

Your personal statement is a really important part of your application, and your chance to sell yourself to your chosen university. "Ultimately, a personal statement is a chance for you to convey why you would like to study a particular course, and how you hope this will benefit you in the future. We want to hear what skills and experience you possess which will help you at university, and your passion for your chosen subject," explains Annie Richardson, outreach assistant in the outreach and educational partnerships team at the University of Greenwich . "Admissions staff look for applicants with a strong interest in their course; good qualifications and relevant experience; and the resilience and motivation to complete their degree," Annie adds.

Read more: how to write your university application

Before you even start writing, you need to have your motives for applying clear in your mind. Don’t rush your research. "It's impossible to write a strong personal statement until you have explored your options and feel confident in your university course choices," says Annie. "Spend time planning what you intend to write and include in your personal statement," adds James Calcutt, schools and colleges liaison manager at Royal Holloway, University of London . "Students with the strongest and most detailed plans write the best statements. This is because they have something to refer to, ensuring they stay on topic, and it offers them the opportunity to order all their thoughts before writing their statement." Take the time to review uni websites, prospectuses and online student guides, as well as attending open days and checking out our university guides . You could also visit the forums for any unis you're interested in on our sister site The Student Room . Make sure you read the detail of each course and what it has to offer. Just because they have the same name , they will still have varying requirements. "Start early and take your time," says Anjli Shah, careers consultant at City, University of London . "Read the course summaries for every course you wish to apply for and where possible underline what they are looking for in candidates. Some universities will stipulate either in the course summary or clearly state what they look for in the personal statement. "Research the five courses that you want to apply for in detail. Every university publishes the course content and structure on their website. Understand what topics and modules you will be learning. Identify key themes across the courses and think about what you have done so far to develop your understanding and learning around the subject. As you do this, reflect on why this in interesting to you and why you want to study this. "Take a blank sheet of paper and jot down everything that comes to mind about why you want to study the course, the evidence (reading, experiences, project work etc) that you could include to show how you have developed your thinking about this subject. Always demonstrate what you learned rather than listing what you did. "Remember whilst it is a difficult exercise, it is also helping you to reflect on why you want to study this subject and the courses you are applying for, and so it is an important tool in your own decision making."

Read more: I want to go to uni but I don't know what to study

Keep your options open

Remember, it’s not wise to show a personal preference to one particular university, even if you have a favourite. "If you have paid to send five Ucas applications at once, the admissions tutors for each university all see the same personal statement. Do not make a specific reference to a specific university," says Annie at the University of Greenwich. "Remember that you can only have one personal statement no matter how many universities you’re applying to, so avoid mentioning any universities or modules by name," says Lisa Thomas, deputy director of admissions at the University of Chester . "Instead, it’s your task to show these universities why you’re well-suited to their courses, without mentioning specifics. "If you’re going for similar courses, you should notice likenesses in the skills, qualities and experience they’re looking for, making your life a bit easier. If you’re applying for courses that are very different, have a think about how your achievements, skill-set and experience can be applied more generally to fit with the varying course descriptions."

Read more: teacher secrets for writing a great personal statement

Getting started

Keep it personal.

When you're looking for inspiration on how to get started, remember: it's all about you. "The clue is in the word 'personal'," says Anjli at City, University of London. "All too often, students write what they think they ought to or will mention something in order to tick it off a checklist. This leads to disjointed personal statements that are too general and don’t tell us anything about why the student wants to study the subject they have chosen. So, make it personal! Spell out what motivates you to study the course; show us your academic engagement with the course." It can also be tempting to Google ‘personal statement’ and take your pick. But, be warned. Ucas has resources which will identify any plagiarised statements from the extensive library of archived statements.

Read more: Ucas deadlines and key application dates

Don’t be like the rest of them

Be sure your statement is a true reflection of you; this will give it a more authentic feel. "We really want to see applicants being themselves and using their own experiences to inform their personal statements," says Lisa at the University of Chester. "When you’re about to make the transition to higher education, it’s tempting to write in a stiff and formal way. It’s important to write clearly and appropriately but you should, ultimately, sound like yourself."

What to put in your personal statement

That first sentence….

For many of you this will be the hardest part, thanks to writer’s block, feeling pressured and desperation to create the perfect sentence. The solution? Get into your flow and scribble down all your thoughts in any old order first. "Students often struggle writing their personal statements because they think it needs to be perfect, or that they need to sound smart – so they end up not sounding like themselves," says Annie from the University of Greenwich. "Write multiple drafts of your application and start as early as possible. Even if you begin with a spider diagram or bullet points – that is still a draft." Then, when it comes to structuring your notes into your personal statement, focus on the things the universities will want to read. "Students can stand out by using their introduction to talk about what they are looking to study, why they have chosen this and where their interest comes from," says James at Royal Holloway, University of London . "This gives an excellent context to the statement and provides the admissions specialist with the important information early on." "Opening your statement with a unique line about yourself and how it relates to you wanting to study a particular course is a great way to get your personal statement to stand out straight away," adds Lisa at the University of Chester.

Be original

Avoid clichés (like the plague...), not least openers such as 'I have always wanted to be', 'From a young age' or 'I have always dreamed of' to justify your choice of subject. "Try to avoid phrases such as ‘I have been passionate about law from a young age’ - even if it’s true," says Lisa. "Admissions teams see them again and again. As an alternative, consider using your personal examples to demonstrate your passion for a subject. [For example], ‘I have been interested in law since shadowing a barrister as part of my work experience’."

Read more: the ten biggest mistakes when writing your personal statement

Make the word count count

Your personal statement has a strict limit of 4,000 characters (including spaces) or 47 lines of 95 characters (including spaces); whichever is shorter. Exceed this and Ucas Hub will immediately cut you off and could leave your personal statement dangling in the middle of an unfinished sentence. Editing matters! "Make sure each word counts," says Anjli at City, University of London. "Anything that you choose to include in your personal statement must be relevant to answering the question 'Why I want to study this subject'. "Avoid generalisations. Be specific. If you read a book tell us about a specific school of thought or theory and your learning from it. Does it back your point up? Do you disagree with it? Why? Don’t simply state you read it. Avoid trying to include everything that you have done in your life – only relevant elements that back up your motivation for and understanding of the academic subject you wish to study."

Read more: personal statement FAQs

Ditch the quotes

Admissions teams aren't interested in what somebody else has said about your subject – they want to hear what you think. "We often recommend that students avoid including quotes," says James at Royal Holloway, University of London. "The statement is short, and students only have a small space to demonstrate their thoughts and experiences. "We’re interested in hearing the student's opinions, not those of whoever they are quoting. Instead of quotes, we suggest students paraphrase the ideas and critical arguments of what they’ve read and give their interpretation."

Read more: how to write your personal statement in an evening

Don’t be a bluffer

Don’t write something in your personal statement that you won’t be able to talk about in an interview – keep it honest and resist the temptation to embellish the truth. "It’s important not to exaggerate or even make something up just because it sounds good," says Lisa at the University of Chester. "We get that you’re out to impress, but when it comes to your personal statement, it’s important to be honest and true to yourself."

Emphasise your student super powers

Universities need to be convinced that you have developed your study skills enough to be able to study independently. "Students who demonstrate they have critically engaged in their subject through wider reading, taster days and online courses stand out," says James at Royal Holloway, University of London. "It should become evident to the reader that the student knows why they wish to study the subject they have chosen as they demonstrate their learning so far and understanding of the subject," says Anjli at City, University of London. "This can come through their academic engagement with the subject in class but also through additional activities such as reading, listening to documentaries or podcasts or work experiences or project work that they have been doing."

Read more: how to write your personal statement when you have nothing interesting to say

Getting ready to send off your personal statement

Are extracurricular activities important.

This is always a very popular question on our sister site The Student Room . The key is relevance. "Admissions tutors are pleased to see extracurricular activities on a personal statement as it shows you have excellent time management and varying interests – traits that will serve you well during university," says Annie at the University of Greenwich. "There must be a balance between academic and extracurricular content," says James at Royal Holloway, University of London. "We often suggest a 75%-25% split between academic and non-academic content. With the extracurricular content, this can be anything that demonstrates crucial transferable skills that will be useful in the course the student is looking to study." Lisa at the University of Chester agrees that extracurriculars can give your application a boost. "You might think they’re not worth including, especially with the 4,000-character limit, but extracurricular activities can be where you really set yourself apart from other applicants. So, if you have any interests, hobbies or experiences that relate to your subject of choice or showcase your personal qualities, make room for them." Students "should highlight what skills they have developed by doing those activities and perhaps discuss how these will be useful on their course or at university," says Anjli at City, University of London. "If they are keen to continue certain activities at university then these can be referenced here. If they have had limited opportunity to pursue other activities, but have a part-time job or caring responsibilities, then these are equally important to talk about as they definitely give students a whole range of skills and show how the student is currently managing their academic studies with additional responsibilities." And Annie at the University of Greenwich has a tip for anyone puzzling over which extracurriculars to include. "If you are unsure how to make an extracurricular activity relevant to your application, you should remember your ABCs. "Think of an Action you have taken (a recent course/hobby/part time job); write about the transferable skills or Benefit this has helped you to develop; and how this experience will directly benefit you in your Course."

Read more: how long does it take unis to reply to your application?

Don’t keep the admissions team guessing

If you don’t know why the content of your statement is important, the admissions tutor won’t either. Whether you're writing about your interest in the subject or clarifying your skills, “make sure each point you are making is well developed and shows your motivation for the subject and builds on from the previous point – make it flow," says Anjli at City, University of London. "The most important aspect of any student's personal statement is demonstrating their passion for the subject. This should be their main factor for studying at university and should be front and centre in their statement," says James at Royal Holloway, University of London.

Show understanding of your future career

If you're applying for a vocational course, such as medicine or law, you'll need to show that you know what to expect. "If your course is vocational, you should show understanding of the career you are aiming for, any challenges you might face and your ability to cope with these," says Annie at the University of Greenwich.

Skip the jokes

Your personal statement isn't the place to try to be funny – save the jokes for meeting your roomates in halls. "A lot of people try to be funny in their application to stand out, but your sense of humour may not be the same as the admissions tutor," says Annie at the University of Greenwich.

Remember what you're writing

Stay laser-focused on what you're writing and why, and you'll end up with a much better personal statement. "What separates a good personal statement from a flawed one is often the tone or the structure," says Annie at the University of Greenwich. "Remember: it is not a letter – so do not structure it like one; it is not your life story – we do not need to know where you were born; it is not an academic essay – do not list all the books you have read; and, it is not a place to list your qualifications – you have already done that earlier in the application."

Read more: universities explain how to end your personal statement with a bang

Review and redraft

"You will probably redraft at least five times before you are happy with your personal statement," says Anjli at City, University of London. When you're editing it down, "keep the language simple and avoid unnecessary words such as 'indeed' or 'I had the opportunity to'. Keep it to the point," Anjli adds. "Remember the personal statement is about one side of an A4 sheet so you can only write so much. Do not try to include everything! Select five or six key points that you can develop in detail to demonstrate your motivation for and understanding of the course you are applying for."

Read it out loud

"Read your personal statement aloud – this can make a big difference," says Lisa at the University of Chester. You could also "try reading your work from the bottom up, taking each paragraph at a time – reading it in a different order can help you spot mistakes," Lisa adds.

Read more: five practical tips to help with your personal statement

Dotting the Is and crossing the Ts

Check, check and check again. "Now is not the time to be lazy with your proofreading and spellchecking," says Lisa. "The extra time you spend checking your personal statement could make an important difference. Obviously, if you do send off your personal statement with a mistake in, it isn’t the end of the world! But don’t take away from the great things you’re saying with errors that could have been caught."

Don’t be shy about asking for feedback

This is really important – when you’ve been re-drafting your application a number of times it can be hard to spot mistakes. “Get someone else to check over it – a fresh pair of eyes can work wonders," says Lisa. Visit our personal statements hub for more tips to help you ace your uni application.

You may want to look at these...

Writing a history personal statement: expert advice from universities.

Here’s how to shine in your history personal statement

The Ucas personal statement is changing in 2025

A question-based personal statement will be required as part of university applications from autumn 2025 onwards

How to write an excellent personal statement in 10 steps

Help and advice on putting your application together

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Tips for writing your personal statement

How to write a personal statement it's difficult to know where to begin. get hints and tips on structure, content and what not to write from a university expert..

An insider's view
What admissions tutors look for

Structuring and preparing your personal statement

What to write in a personal statement, examples to avoid, looking for clearing advice.

The Clearing concierge has the answers

An insider’s view

Personal statements may seem formulaic, but they can be critical to the decision-making process, and admissions tutors do read them.

If you’re applying for a high-demand course, your personal statement could be the deciding factor on whether or not you get an interview.

The Director of Marketing and Student Recruitment at the University of Gloucestershire , James Seymour, shares some top tips on how to write a personal statement.

What makes a good personal statement?

This is your chance to demonstrate your enthusiasm and commitment and show us what value you can add to a university. In the vast majority of cases, universities are finding ways to make you an offer, not reject you – the personal statement is your chance to make this decision easier for them!

First, you need to explain why you want a place on a course. Take a look at James’ tips on what you should include:

Explain the reason for your choice and how it fits in with your aspirations for the future
Give examples of any related academic or work experience
Show you know what the course will involve and mention any special subjects you’re interested in
Demonstrate who you are by listing any positions you’ve held, memberships of teams or societies, and interests and hobbies
Show consistency in your five UCAS choices. It may be difficult for an admissions tutor to take you seriously if your other choices, and references to them, are totally different. If your choices are different, you should explain this in your statement. The UCAS form is blind. Admissions tutors don’t know the other universities you’ve applied to, or your priorities, but you should still be consistent
Keep it clear and concise – UCAS admissions are increasingly paperless – so most admissions tutors/officers will read your statement onscreen

Explain what you can bring to a course and try not to just list experiences, but describe how they have given you skills that will help you at university.

Don’t just say: I am a member of the college chess club. I also play the clarinet in the orchestra.

When you could say: I have developed my problem-solving skills through playing chess for the college; this requires concentration and analytical thought. I am used to working as part of a team as I play clarinet in the college orchestra and cooperate with others to achieve a finished production.

Applying to university and UCAS deadlines
Applying and studying in the UK
University interviews

What will admissions tutors look for in your personal statement?

To decide if you’re the right fit, universities and colleges are interested in how you express your academic record and potential. This should be backed up by your reference.

Those working in admissions look for evidence of:

Motivation and commitment
Leadership, teamwork and communication
Research into your chosen subject
Any relevant key skills

Admissions tutors aren't seeking Nobel laureates. They’re looking for enthusiasm for the course being applied for, and self-reflection into why you’d be suitable to study it. What value could you add to the course? Where would you like to go once you graduate?

Ben, the Admissions Manager for Law at the University of Birmingham , shared with us what he expects applicants to tell him in their personal statement:

The personal statement is not only an excellent opportunity to showcase applicants individual skills, knowledge, and achievements, but it also provides us with an insight into the type of student they aspire to be and how they could fit into the academic community. Ben Atkins, Law Admissions Manager at University of Birmingham

Real-life example: the good

Real-life example: the not-so-good

How to make your personal statement stand out

You could have excellent experiences, but if they’re arranged in a poorly-written statement then the impact will be reduced. So, it’s important to plan your statement well.

A well-written personal statement with a clearly planned and refined structure will not only make the information stand out, but it’ll demonstrate you have an aptitude for structuring written pieces of work – a crucial skill needed for many university courses.

You can use it for other things too, such as gap year applications, jobs, internships, apprenticeships and keep it on file for future applications.

There's no one ‘correct’ way to structure your personal statement. But it’s a good idea to include the following:

A clear introduction, explaining why you want to study the course
Around 75% can focus on your academic achievements, to prove how you’re qualified to study it
Around 25% can be about any extracurricular activity, to show what else makes you suitable
A clear conclusion
How to start a personal statement

Your personal statement is your chance to really show why you deserve a place on your chosen course.

Remember to keep these in mind:

Be clear and concise – the more concentrated the points and facts, the more powerful
Use positive words such as achieved, developed, learned, discovered, enthusiasm, commitment, energy, fascination…
Avoid contrived or grandiose language. Instead use short, simple sentences in plain English
Insert a personal touch if possible, but be careful with humour and chatty approaches
Use evidence of your learning and growth (wherever possible) to support claims and statements
Plan the statement as you would an essay or letter of application for a job/scholarship
Consider dividing the statement into five or six paragraphs, with headings if appropriate
Spelling and grammar DO matter – draft and redraft as many times as you must and ask others to proofread and provide feedback
For 2022 – 23 applications, refer to the challenges you've faced during the pandemic in a positive way

Don’t

Over-exaggerate
Come across as pretentious
Try to include your life history
Start with: "I’ve always wanted to be a..."
Use gimmicks or quotations, unless they're very relevant and you deal with them in a way that shows your qualities
Be tempted to buy or copy a personal statement – plagiarism software is now very sophisticated and if you're caught out you won’t get a place
Make excuses about not being able to undertake activities/gain experience – focus on what you were able to do positively, e.g. as a result of coronavirus

For further details, read our detailed guide on what to include in a personal statement and the best things to avoid.

Note that if you decide to reapply for university the following year, it's a good idea to consider making some changes to your personal statement. Mention why you took a year off and talk about what skills you've learnt. If you're applying for a completely different subject, you'll need to make more changes.

James gives us real-life examples of things to avoid:

I enjoy the theatre and used to go a couple of times a year. (Drama)

I am a keen reader and am committed to the study of human behaviour through TV soaps!

I have led a full life over the last 18 years and it is a tradition I intend to continue.

I describe myself in the following two words: 'TO ODIN!' the ancient Viking war cry. (Law)

My favourite hobby is bee-keeping and I want to be an engineer.

My interest in Medicine stems from my enjoyment of Casualty and other related TV series.

I have always had a passion to study Medicine, failing that, Pharmacy. (A student putting Pharmacy as her fifth choice after four medical school choices – Pharmacy can be just as popular and high status as Medicine.)

Some final advice

Above all, remember that a personal statement is your opportunity to convince a university why it should offer you a place. So, make it compelling and there’s a much higher chance they will.

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FindAMasters
Postgraduate Personal Statements

Written by Ben Taylor

Once you’ve found the perfect Masters programme, the next step is to begin the application process. You’ll usually have to write a postgraduate personal statement that highlights your strengths, skills and experience, giving you the perfect opportunity to sell yourself and to show the admissions tutor that you’ll thrive at their university.

This page provides some practical tips on writing a successful personal statement for a Masters application, from the typical structure to avoidable mistakes – along with some examples of what to do and what not to do! We’ve also included links to several postgraduate personal statement examples in subjects including Business, Psychology and International Relations.

What should I include in a Masters personal statement?

Give examples of some of the skills and experience you’ve developed at university or at work, and how they’ll help you succeed with a Masters degree. These could include:

Time management
Communication
Internships
Public engagement
Conference attendance
Relevant extracurricular activities

Your personal statement is an opportunity to write about your future career goals, and how you think this Masters will help you achieve them. You can also discuss preliminary ideas you might have for your Masters dissertation , giving the admissions tutor an indication of the specialist knowledge you have in your discipline.

If there are any significant gaps in your education or employment, you should offer a brief explanation of those extenuating situations (for example, illness or a gap year). Don’t dwell on any unfortunate circumstances though – always strike a positive, optimistic tone.

In most (but not all) cases, you’ll apply directly to the university for a Masters rather than through a centralised system like UCAS. This means you can tailor each personal statement to the institution and programme in question (rather than submitting a single personal statement for five courses, like at undergraduate level in the UK).

You don’t necessarily have to a completely new personal statement for each Masters programme you apply to (there will usually be a degree of overlap between them), but it’s worth putting the extra effort in to make sure your application doesn’t seem like a generic copy-and-paste job to the admissions tutor reading it. You can do this by mentioning the university and department by name, and by providing specific examples of their syllabus that you find intriguing. Pay attention to what makes this particular Masters unique and refer to this in your statement.

How long should a Masters personal statement be?

When writing a postgraduate personal statement, you should aim for a word count of around 500 words (one A4 side of text). Some universities will have more specific requirements, however – for example, they might ask you to submit your personal statement via a form on their website with a character limit.

The relatively short nature of a Masters personal statement means that you should focus on being as succinct as possible, getting straight to the point and avoiding unnecessary detail.

Frequently asked questions about Masters applications

If you have any other questions or concerns about applying for a Masters, our FAQ page features lots of useful information on the application process and beyond. Find out more .

How should I write a personal statement?

How you write your personal statement is just as important as the content; a clear, structured statement is proof of your ability to communicate effectively.

These are some of the most essential attributes of a successful postgraduate personal statement:

Positive, enthusiastic language
Professional tone of voice
Compelling evidence to back up your claims
Concise and clear sentences

Meanwhile, this is a list of the tendencies to avoid in your personal statement:

Clichés – think of a way to put it that the admissions tutor won’t have seen lots of times before!
Waffle – don’t use meandering, vague sentences
Poor spelling and grammar – check, check and check again, running it past someone with a trustworthy pair of eyes

Don't : After falling in love with the Artemis Fowl series as a young child I have been driven to pursue the study of literature and I think your Masters would be the perfect place for me to continue my journey, given it’s world-leading status and your outstanding academic staff who’s expertise is aligned with my own personal interest in novels and poetry.

Do : Since graduating in 2015 with a First in Advertising from the University of Ogdenville, I’ve been working full-time as a copywriter for Hutz&co (one of Shelbyville’s largest marketing agencies). I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time at the company, learning a great deal about the importance of clear, compelling language. I’ve honed the communication skills I developed at university and feel well-equipped to continue my studies at North Haverbrook University.

Don’t make the mistake of using your undergraduate personal statement as a template for your Masters application. A Masters is a big step up from your undergraduate degree, and the admissions tutor will be looking for evidence that you’ve developed academically since then. Find out more about the differences between undergraduate and postgraduate courses .

Always give yourself enough time to complete your personal statement (and the application process in general) well before the deadline — don’t leave things to the last minute! It’s crucial to get another pair of eyes on your statement, so ask a friend or relative to proofread the text. It’s also worth checking if you have access to a careers adviser through your current (or previous) university who can help you with the application.

How should I structure a personal statement?

By carefully structuring your personal statement, you’ll present the admissions tutor with a logical and easy-to-follow text that shows exactly why you’re a perfect fit for a Masters. Make sure there’s a clear thread of argument linking each paragraph – avoid jumping from topic to topic.

Jot down a short plan before you begin working on the statement (don’t make it up as you go along!). In general, you should aim to write around five or six paragraphs, covering three broad categories:

An attention-grabbing introduction that sums up your academic and employment background. Don’t be tempted to use a gimmicky inspirational quote or cheesy opener, you’ll stand out for all the wrong reasons!
An engaging middle section that expands on your interests and provides concrete evidence of your strengths and skills.
A concise conclusion that draws together the most important elements of your application and will leave a lasting, positive impression of your motivation for study on this particular Masters programme.

Bear in mind that admissions tutors will be reading dozens (if not hundreds) of personal statements. They’ll appreciate a well-organised, methodical text that signposts all the significant parts of your experience and skills.

Postgraduate personal statement examples

We’ve written a selection of postgraduate personal statement samples for several popular subjects.

If you’re working on a personal statement for your Masters application, hopefully they’ll give you some inspiration – but don’t forget that they’re certainly not a substitute for your own unique experiences and background!

Business Studies
Computer Science
Data Science
Engineering
Forensic Psychology
Graphic Design
International Relations
Library Science
Public Administration
Public Health

Want more advice on postgraduate applications?

Check out our full guide to applying for a Masters or visit our pages on entry requirements and postgraduate references .

Find your perfect Masters!

Search from over 20,000 Masters degrees on our website to find one that is right for you

Our postgrad newsletter shares courses, funding news, stories and advice

Thinking of applying for a Masters? Our guide explains the process, personal statements, references and deadlines for Masters applications.

The main requirement to apply for a Masters is usually a Bachelors degree in a relevant subject. Our guide explains the admissions requirements for postgraduate courses.

You may need a language certificate to apply for a Masters abroad. A range of tests are accepted in different countries around the world.

Applying for a Masters can feel a bit daunting. Here is a checklist of all the things you need to do to make sure you have everything covered in your Masters application.

Masters programmes are delivered in English at universities around the world, but you may need to submit a test score if this isn't your first language. Common tests include the IELTS, TOEFL, PTE and Cambridge English.

Find out more about how different graduate entry tests for Masters degrees work, with information on the GMAT, GRE and other admissions exams.

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Southampton University Personal Statements

These UCAS personal statements have been kindly provided by students applying to University of Southampton. You can click on one of the links below to view the entire statement and find out if the applicant was offered a place.

You can also view our entire collection of personal statements or view personal statements for application at other universities .

Creative Writing Personal Statement Example 1 Writing gives me the freedom to create a world where I set the rules, where the characters act the way I want them to, a world where everything is exactly how I want it to be and I know that I am the one who controls everything...

Maths Personal Statement Example 3 I am extremely enthusiastic about my decision to read Mathematics at university as for as long as I can remember Maths has always been my main academic interest. From learning to count at primary school, to studying calculus towards my Mathematics A level, I have found this subject intriguing due to its obvious application to the real world...

Aerospace Engineering Personal Statement Example 1 Fire, the wheel, boats, book printing, electricity, engines, automobiles, planes, spaceships, wireless information transfer: engineering is determining this progress. Leading engineers are the creators of our future...

Maths and Spanish Personal Statement Example For as long as I have recognised words and numbers, I have seen a connection between the two. As I progressed in the AS Mathematics course I realised how drawn I was to the subject, motivating me to spend 2 weeks at school over the summer holidays learning 2 entire AS Further Maths modules, in order to take the full A-level course in one year...

Maths and Actuarial Science Personal Statement Example Maths is a subject like no other; its complexity makes it a challenging and often frustrating area of study, however the logic behind every problem leaves a feeling of certainty about it. My devotion to the subject has grown exponentially, especially in recent years...

Biomedical Sciences Personal Statement Example 32 Since humans have existed we have been susceptible to disease and illness. With the progress in the search of treatments for long-standing diseases accelerating faster than ever before, I believe that now is the perfect opportunity to utilise my interests in cell biology, biochemistry and neuroscience by studying a biomedicine degree...

Physics Personal Statement Example 5 With philosophy at its foundation, and mathematics as its language, physics is full of profound insights into the workings of the universe, from the tiniest quantum interactions to the forming of the most distant galaxies...

Geography Personal Statement Example 1 At first glance, my A Level choices appear scientifically biased, but they underpin key topics studied in Geography. I enjoy investigating the theories of global economies, population and poverty. The mathematics I have studied enables me to manipulate raw data meaningfully...

English Literature & Creative Writing Personal Statement Example 1 'I write for the same reason I breathe- because if I didn't, I would die.' I believe that Isaac Asimov sums up writing particularly aptly. Whilst it could be classed as hyperbole, I feel my sentiments are similar...

Mechanical Engineering Personal Statement Example 2 The ability to apply what I have learnt in the classroom to the outside world is an aspect of physics and maths that I particularly enjoy. An example of this was being able to calculate the coefficient of friction between a book and a table, by knowing the weight and measuring the angle at which it started to move...

Mechanical Engineering Personal Statement Example 8 If I were to describe myself in one word, it would definitely be inquisitive. Since young, I have always been eager to know how things work and what the principles that lie within them are. Hence I have always enjoyed science-related subjects particularly Mathematics and Physics...

English and Philosophy Personal Statement Example English has always been at the forefront of my mind, whether it be writing storybooks as a child, play-writing as a teen, or analysing literature at A Level. I enjoy the thrill of writing creatively but equally enjoy composing non-literary pieces where I can put across my views, inform or debate...

Chemistry Personal Statement Example (IB background) Few aspects of life fall outside the scope of chemistry and this is what fascinates me about this dynamic and fundamental science subject. From a young age I have enjoyed and excelled in mathematics which reflects my logical and enquiring mind...

Postgraduate Linguistics Personal Statement Example My interest in linguistics was gradually shaped throughout my life by all the different ways in which I have experienced languages: as a learner, translator, and as a teacher. However, it was the times spent living in Russia and later in the UK that made me fully understand that language can be a means of conveying much more than just our thoughts...

Geography Personal Statement Example 14 If I said ‘I’ve loved geography since an early age’, I’d be lying. Although I loved our family holidays, which have always been seen as expeditions, I didn’t think it was ‘geography’ until I started using places I’d been to as examples in geography lessons...

Medicine Foundation Year Personal Statement Example 1 Medicine is a combination of care, treatment and research which I am actively interested in. It is a general acknowledgement that good doctors are some of the hardest working and committed people you will meet...

Early Childhood Studies Personal Statement Example 5 Ever since I could remember I have always wanted to play a big part in children’s education. As I was growing up I could see children of my age in Africa struggling to go to school because of their circumstances...

Environmental Engineering Personal Statement Example Nowadays, Environmental Engineering plays a vital role in the world as the environment is being put under constantly increasing pressure. As I am fascinated by Science and Mathematics and feel that the environment is incredibly important, I decided to study this course...

Psychology Personal Statement Example 53 Studying psychology will be the beginning of my journey to a challenging, fascinating and gratifying career. Since I was quite young I have aspired to work in a caring role, and more recently in the area of mental health...

English Literature & Spanish Personal Statement Example For me, the most captivating part of English literature is the way great writers are able to influence the reader's imagination through the manipulation of language. The A-level topic of World War One literature was especially affecting because it showed me the importance of world events and their effect on contemporary literature that still inspires us today...

Natural Science/Geology Personal Statement Example The sheer intricacy of our planet is something that has always left me in utter amazement. From the creation of mountains to the way we as humans evolved. Science is a deep rooted love that has grown since I was a young child...

Law Personal Statement Example 70 Law is ever changing, whether parliament is passing new legislation, existing legislation is being rewritten or the courts are interpreting laws in different ways. In the case of Anthony Bland the distinguishing of earlier precedents was vital...

Economics Personal Statement Example 27 When asked 'Why do you want to study economics?' I have always struggled to find a concise answer. There are so many reasons why I would want to study the subject, and this made explaining such an answer quite difficult...

Aerospace Engineering Personal Statement Example 17 While other children fell asleep to the sound of their parents reading them bedtime fairytales, I was busy re-reading Ladybirds Explorer’s, “Flight” for probably the fourth time that day. I’ve been enthralled by the concept of flight and aerodynamics ever since I was young...

Medicine Personal Statement Example 66 White coats, stethoscopes hung around necks and the sense of playing hero were popular amongst childhood dreams. However, unlike others around me, this dream was not lost when I realised reality paved a much tougher road- instead, it grew to become a fierce ambition...

Archaeology Personal Statement Example 6 I have always enjoyed learning about different cultures and civilisations, reflected in my enduring love of history, and more recently, archaeology. Compared to modern history, archaeology carries a sense of enigma which makes it much more stimulating for an imaginative and inquisitive mind...

Mechanical Engineering Personal Statement Example 19 These days, we are surrounded by engineering marvels. From radios to space shuttles, everything involves a vital feat of engineering. That is what I find most attractive about this field as its application is everywhere...

Mechanical Engineering Personal Statement Example 20 Having spent most of my early childhood abroad and the rest in an international school, English has become my primary language. Despite being fluent in my native language, Vietnamese, I prefer using English most of the time, especially when it comes to studying...

Engineering Personal Statement Example 23 As I triggered the release mechanism and watched two pounds of rock hurtle skywards I thought to myself, "trebuchets are awesome!". Years passed before I realised that this was my first engineering project...

Engineering Personal Statement Example 24 When I was a child, most of the sentences I spoke out finished with a question mark, asking how everyday things work. Receiving answers to these questions and learning more about Mathematics and Physics has enlarged my desire to make human life easier and become an Engineer...

Computer Science Personal Statement Example 56 Computer Science - the most exciting insight into humanity's mission to conquer the future. It has been my favourite and most fascinating preoccupation since childhood, though back then I did not even know it...

Philosophy Personal Statement Example (Mature Student) Since leaving education in 2006 I have always wanted to return; a great love of learning, desire for knowledge and natural curiosity throughout my life resulted in an ambition to teach. It was with this ambition in my heart that I took the plunge and returned to education, beginning my Access course last year with the intention of applying to study for a primary education degree...

Electrical and Electronic Engineering Personal Statement Example 3 Curiosity has always been my nature since I was young and I was never afraid to know more as I really like challenges. This is why I have a keen interest in science ever since I started formal education, it explains the hows and whys in almost anything and everything...

Philosophy Personal Statement Example 15 The way philosophy can challenge our assumptions will never cease to astound me. I particularly remember my first lesson on Descartes, where I was asked to prove that I knew the room around me was real...

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IMAGES

Writing a Personal Statement
Writing a personal statement guide 2015 by Fred Binley Southampton Uni
5 Top Tips for writing your Personal Statement
How to strengthen your personal statement
My Medicine Personal Statement (FINAL)
How to strengthen your personal statement

COMMENTS

How to strengthen your personal statement
To strengthen your university application, consider the following advice about writing your personal statement. Personal statement is the section on your UCAS application that universities use to check that the course you have applied for is right for you. To help you stand out, our Head of Admissions has shared these 10 personal statement top ...
PDF MAKE YOUR APPLICATION STAND OUT
UCAS PERSONAL STATEMENT For the vast majority of courses, admissions officers do not interview. ... enhance your understanding of your chosen subject and advice on writing your personal statement. 1. Introduction ... www.southampton.ac.uk [email protected] +44 (0)23 8059 5000. Created Date: 20171213082631Z ...
PGT Application
Email: [email protected]. Telephone: +44 (0)23 8059 4732. You can also read our admissions policies in more detail. Find out how to apply for a postgraduate taught course at the University of Southampton. Explore our step by step guide and use our online application form to apply.
Writing a Personal Statement
Members of University of Southampton's School Liaison team will guide you through 5 top tips for your UCAS Personal Statement, in 5 minutes. For more info: h...
PDF Personal Statements
Writing your personal statement: Write a positive and interesting personal statement to hold the attention of the reader. Make sure that you address any specific questions that are asked - do not ignore them or think you can get away without answering them. Be specific and provide appropriate evidence, eg if you are applying for a teacher ...
Advice for applying to study STEM subjects
Generic and formulaic statements do not demonstrate you as an individual and your genuine interest. We want to see your voice coming through in the statement; Discuss your other subjects and how they link with each other; Example personal statements online may be useful for inspiration but avoid plagiarising text from these.
5 Top Tips for writing your Personal Statement
Writing your personal statement and need a little help? These 5 top tips will help you understand a few of the most important things you should consider.Find...
How to write an excellent personal statement in 10 steps
Use your closing couple of lines to summarise the most important points in your statement. 9. Check your writing thoroughly and get someone else to check it, too. 10. Give your brain a rest by forgetting about your personal statement for a while before going back to review it one last time with fresh eyes.
Personal statement advice: English
English personal statement pitfalls to avoid. A boring opening - avoid 'I have always loved literature/reading' or 'I have always had a passion for literature…'. Irrelevant context - talking about the Beatrix Potter book you were given when you were six probably won't impress. Overblown language - English applicants need a strong ...
How to strengthen your personal statement
To strengthen your university application, consider the following advice about writing your personal statement. Personal statement is the section on your UCAS application that universities use to check that the course you have applied for is right for you. To help you stand out, our Head of Admissions has shared these 10 personal statement top ...
Been There, Done That
Hello guys! In today's video I talk about my tips for alevels, writing your personal statement, and applying to ucas through the lens of hindsight on my own ...
Undergraduate applications
For 2024 entry, the application fee is £27.50 for up to five choices. When you apply through UCAS, you will be asked for an institution name and number and course code. Having the UCAS information ready will make things quicker: our code name is SOTON. our number is S27.
Will I get into Southampton Uni? / Personal Statement Help
However, I am unsure what to put for my personal statement. Notable things I have done are: - Work Experience at a Gas/Electrics Company helping to run the business - A-Level Computer Science project, making a flashcard revision program using complex programming techniques such as OOP and APIs - During Secondary I taught maths to struggling ...
What to Include in a Personal Statement
Your personal statement is the opportunity to show universities who you are, your ambitions and why you're passionate about the course you're applying for. Before you dive into writing, it's good to understand what you should include in your personal statement to make the most of the 4000-character count. The purpose of your personal ...
Help with CVs
Put the strongest statements at the top and work down the page; Add a personal statement using just one or two sentences to summarise your strengths; Keep sentences and paragraphs short. Sentences should be between 15-20 words and paragraphs should be no more than 10 lines; Detail fully your achievements wherever possible
Personal statement examples by subject: complete list
On The Student Room, we have hundreds of real personal statements written by students when they applied for university in previous years. You'll find all of these listed below, in order of subject. For more help with writing your personal statement, our personal statement section is a good place to go. You can also find tips and discussion in ...
Personal statement secrets
Make the word count count. Your personal statement has a strict limit of 4,000 characters (including spaces) or 47 lines of 95 characters (including spaces); whichever is shorter. Exceed this and Ucas Hub will immediately cut you off and could leave your personal statement dangling in the middle of an unfinished sentence.
Tips for writing your personal statement
Avoid contrived or grandiose language. Instead use short, simple sentences in plain English. Insert a personal touch if possible, but be careful with humour and chatty approaches. Use evidence of your learning and growth (wherever possible) to support claims and statements. Plan the statement as you would an essay or letter of application for a ...
Talk to an adviser
Come and talk to our advisers. Careers, Employability and Student Enterprise offers a range of support, including individual appointments. Our Ask the Adviser appointments are 15 minute conversations to chat about anything careers related. We may then refer you to appropriate resources or activities that we offer, including a 45 minute careers ...
Postgraduate Personal Statements
These are some of the most essential attributes of a successful postgraduate personal statement: Positive, enthusiastic language. Professional tone of voice. Compelling evidence to back up your claims. Concise and clear sentences. Meanwhile, this is a list of the tendencies to avoid in your personal statement:
University of Southampton Personal Statements
Southampton University Personal Statements. These UCAS personal statements have been kindly provided by students applying to University of Southampton. You can click on one of the links below to view the entire statement and find out if the applicant was offered a place. You can also view our entire collection of personal statements or view ...
PDF Applying for postgraduate study
The tracking is also used to display messages and rem. inders to you. Requirement The description of an item or message Received If you have submitted a document in support of an application requirement or a condition, the date at which the University
Family & Personal
Advice on marriage, separation and divorce, child custody and childcare, wills and probate, domestic violence, family courts procedures and more. Citizens Advice Southampton We provide free, confidential and impartial advice and campaign on issues affecting people's lives.