A personal statement is a short essay that supports your application to study at a university. It is a core part of your university application and a well-written personal statement can make you stand out and give you advantage over other candidates. A personal statement is your opportunity to demonstrate your suitability for the programme you are applying to and to articulate the skills and experience you possess that made you select your chosen course.

 Here are some tips for writing your personal statement:

• List your reasons for applying

 Explain why you are interested in your chosen subject and why you are well suited for it. Write a strong and sharp introduction to capture the attention of the Admission tutor by conveying your passion and enthusiasm about your chosen programme. Write about your skills and how these skills relate to your course and career aspirations – use the course description to reflect the skills and qualities the institution value most.

Describe what interests you about the programme you are applying to, why it is the right one for you, and why you want to study it with the institution.  

• Experiences and interests that support your application

Draw on your relevant work experience and interests that can show why you are the ideal student for the programme and why you would enjoy it. Do you have any hobbies? Have you got any relating work experience? Have you studies the subject? Refer to courses attended, websites visited and books read about the subject area and explain how these influenced your decision.

• Conclude by stressing why they should chose you over other applicants

Conclude your personal statement by summing up your key qualities and strength that will make you an asset to the academic institution you wish to join. For example, you are academically prepared for university life, your ability to work on your own tuition, and your motivation.

• Be clear and concise – don’t waffle. Proofread your personal statement or get a teacher or career advisor to check it and correct any grammar/ spelling mistakes.