UCAS Personal Statement Guide

Your comprehensive online guide to building the best Personal Statement to get into your DREAM university!

This guide is made with the intention of applying to Economics / Finance / Accounting / Management courses at university - but the overall guidance remains similar for all courses, and the examples provided extend beyond the subjects mentioned above

Example Personal Statement (Economics)

Example Personal Statement (Computer Science)

Example Personal Statement (PPE)

Example Personal Statement (Law)

🔭 Step 1: Research and Reflection

Step 1: Research and Reflection

1. Understand the Course Requirements:

   • Analyse the core modules, elective options, and assessment methods for each course.

   • Consider the teaching philosophy and approach of each university.

   • Ensure your personal statement aligns with the unique aspects of each program.

   Example

   Example

2. Reflect on Your Interests and Goals:

   • Analyse why certain aspects of Economics, Finance, Accounting, or Management intrigue you.

   • Reflect on how pursuing this course aligns with your long-term career goals.

   • Consider how the unique features of each university's program will contribute to your academic and professional development.

   Example

⚒️ Step 2: Structure Your Personal Statement

1. Introduction:

   • Craft a captivating opening that goes beyond a generic statement of interest.

   • Pose a thought-provoking question or present a real-world challenge related to the field.

   Example

2. Academic Background:

   • Analyse specific academic achievements, showcasing a depth of understanding.

   • Discuss coursework or research projects that demonstrate your intellectual curiosity.

   • Connect your academic background to the specific requirements and expectations of each university.

   Example

3. Extracurricular Activities:

   • Provide concrete examples of your involvement in extracurricular activities.

   • Highlight leadership roles, emphasising the skills gained.

   • Analyse how these activities have shaped your character and prepared you for the challenges of the chosen course.

   Example

4. Work Experience:

   • Break down the specific responsibilities and achievements in your work experiences and volunteering work.

   • Analyse the transferable skills gained and how they make you a strong candidate.

   • Connect your work experience to the practical aspects of the course.

   Example

   Example

5. Skills and Attributes:

   • Identify key skills required for the course.

   • Provide evidence of how you've developed and applied these skills.

   • Analyse how these skills make you a suitable candidate for each university.

   Example

👥 Step 3: Personalize Your Statement

1. Demonstrate Your Understanding:

   • Showcase familiarity with current issues or advancements in the field.

   • Discuss personal projects or independent research to demonstrate a deeper understanding.

   • Analyse how your understanding aligns with the academic focus of each university.

   Example

2. Link to Future Goals:

   • Develop a clear narrative linking your experiences to your long-term aspirations.

   • Analyse how the chosen course is a crucial step toward achieving these goals.

   • Connect your future goals to the unique opportunities each university provides.

   Example

🤩 Step 4: Showcase Your Personality

1. Personal Development:

   • Share specific challenges and analyze how you overcame them.

   • Discuss the impact of challenges on your personal growth.

   • Analyse instances where stepping out of your comfort zone contributed to your development.

   Example

2. Highlight Your Values:

   • Connect your personal values to the values of each university.

   • Analyse how shared principles will contribute positively to the academic community.

   • Consider the cultural and community aspects of each university in relation to your values.

   Example

🔄 Step 5: Review and Refine

1. Edit for Clarity and Conciseness:

   • Analyse each sentence for clarity and purpose.

   • Eliminate redundancies and ensure a logical flow.

   • Use varied sentence structures for readability.

2. Seek Feedback:

   • Approach individuals for feedback from diverse perspectives.

   • Analyse feedback on both content and style, ensuring it aligns with the expectations of each university.

   • Consider the impact of feedback on refining your overall narrative.

3. Check for Plagiarism:

   • Use plagiarism-checking tools to ensure authenticity.

   • Analyse the uniqueness of your content.

   • Ensure your personal statement is a genuine reflection of your experiences and aspirations.

🤏 Step 6: Final Touches

1. Conclusion:

   • Summarize main points and provide a forward-looking statement.

   • Analyse how your unique qualities will contribute to the university community.

   • Reiterate your enthusiasm for the subject and the university.

Example

1. Proofread:

   • Perform a meticulous proofread, analysing grammar, punctuation, and formatting.

   • Read your personal statement aloud to identify any awkward phrasing.

   • Ensure a polished and professional appearance.

2. Formatting:

   • Analyse the adherence to UCAS formatting guidelines.

   • Ensure a consistent font and professional layout.

   • Consider the visual impact of your personal statement.

   • Ensure when copied into the portal, any formatting that you put in intentionally is not lost

📂 Step 7: Submit Your Personal Statement

1. Submit on Time:

   • Prioritise timely submission to showcase your commitment.

   • Assess the submission process to avoid last-minute technical issues.

   • Consider the impact of a timely submission on the overall impression of your application.

Remember, each step provides an opportunity to showcase your suitability for the course and your fit with the university's culture and values. Analyse your personal statement from the perspective of an admissions officer, ensuring it effectively communicates your unique qualities and aspirations.

😀 Additional Tips and Tricks:

1. Be Authentic: Your personal statement should reflect your genuine interests and motivations.

2. Show, Don't Tell: Use specific examples to illustrate your skills and experiences.

3. Tailor Each Statement: Customise your personal statement for each university/course to show your genuine interest.

4. Check Word Limit and Format: Adhere to UCAS guidelines regarding word count and formatting.

5. Start Early: Give yourself ample time to research, draft, and revise.

6. Seek Feedback: Get input from teachers, peers, and professionals to improve the quality of your statement.

7. Edit and Proofread: Ensure your final draft is free of grammatical errors and typos.

8. Avoid Clichés: Be original in your writing; avoid overused phrases or clichés.

9. Be Positive: Emphasise your strengths and achievements rather than dwelling on weaknesses.

10. Consider Structure: Have a clear introduction, body, and conclusion. Make sure each paragraph flows logically.

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