1. Personal statement
Preparation

2. Personal statement Purpose?
Many courses do not require applicants to take aptitude tests or undergo interviews.
Personal Statement is therefore your only opportunity to demonstrate your genuine interest in and passion for the subject you wish to pursue.
It should explain:
Why you want to study a particular course?
Why you will excel at that course?
How your other interests support and complement your studies.
The personal statement is your opportunity to tell universities and colleges about your suitability for the course(s) that you hope to study.

3. No such thing as a ‘model statement’
Personal statement
No such thing as a ‘model statement’
Personal statements do not have to be written in a format style.
Write is a style that comes naturally to you and that sounds like you.
Selectors can tell if an adult has helped you to write it.
Give them a sense of who you are and what makes you tick.
Establish a clear structure:
Begin with a powerful opening statement
Why you wish to study a particular course?
Follow this with evidence of your aptitude and enthusiasm for study.
Final selections might be about extra-curricular interest and a summary of your motivation and potential.

4. Personal statement It’s all about you!
Talking to others may help identify your special attributes and to recall relevant experiences.
Think about any notable accomplishments, people or events that have shaped you or influenced your goals.
Be original: avoid clichéd statements and use a natural tone.
Be specific: give relevant examples.
Be honest: make sure you have done everything mentioned.
Check your spelling, grammar and punctuation.
Ask others to read through your statement to ensure it flows well.
Don’t plagiarise! Software is used to detect and will alert universities.

5. Personal statement It’s all about you!
Don’t be afraid to talk about what makes you special and stand out; your personal statement isn’t a place to be modest.
When talking about your chosen subject in your statement it is worth looking in the Prospectus or at the webpage of the institution you are considering. Try to appeal to what they are looking for.
Make sure to express your appetite for learning. It’s important to give a well-rounded account of yourself showing your interests outside of your studies and sharing any relevant life experiences.
The great thing about the UCAS form is that you can save it and come back to it at a later date.

6. Personal statement Picking your courses
Actually look at the content of the courses and see what the modules entail. What do the courses specialise in?
Two courses with the same name won’t necessarily have the same content.
Will you enjoy it? Will it keep you interested for three years?
Focus 75% of the personal statement on the subject you want to study
Discuss why you’re applying to study the course, identifying any specific areas of interest within the subject area that you’d like to develop as part of your studies. You should also link your present studies to the proposed degree.

7. Personal statement Picking your courses
Clearly demonstrate a good understanding and enthusiasm for the subject applied for. Present your academic reading – mention your favourite author, researched or academic who shares your interests or inspires you.
Mention extra-curricular activities which are related to your chosen subject area, for example, participating in competitive athletic events for those applying to sport, editing or writing for a school newsletter/blog/website for those applying for Journalism can help illustrate engagement in the subject area.
Demonstrate that you understand the skills needed to succeed. For example, analytical skills, research skills, communication skills, organisational skills, motivation, alongside the specific skills required for the degree that you have applied for.
Give an indication of what you hope the degree will allow you do in the future and mention any specific career aspirations you have.

8. Personal statement Picking your courses
Focus a maximum of 25% of the personal statement on what you do outside of the classroom
What do you enjoy? How does this link to the subject that you want to study, or show your readiness for university?
The Admissions Tutor will be looking for your potential to succeed and real interest in the subject, especially if the course is vocational, alongside evidence that you can work hard and learn. They are also looking at what you will contribute to the course, the degree and to university life.
In conclusion, you need to demonstrate that you understand the course you have applied for and the demands it will place on you, and that you will be an interesting and enthusiastic student to teach.