UCAS 2025
Craft a compelling 4,000-character statement that showcases your passion, experience, and potential. Your personal statement is your chance to stand out.
Follow this proven structure to create a balanced and compelling personal statement.
10% of statement (~~400 characters)
Grab attention with a compelling opening. Why are you passionate about this subject?
Instead of "I have always been interested in medicine," try "When I shadowed a surgeon last summer, I was captivated by the precision required to save a life."
40% of statement (~~1,600 characters)
Demonstrate your knowledge and passion for the subject through specific examples.
Discuss a specific concept from your A-Level studies that sparked further investigation, or a book that changed your perspective.
30% of statement (~~1,200 characters)
Highlight work experience, projects, or activities that developed relevant skills.
Rather than listing 10 activities, deeply explore 2-3 experiences and the skills you developed.
20% of statement (~~800 characters)
Showcase transferable skills and end with a strong statement about your future.
Connect your personal qualities to how they'll help you succeed in the course and future career.
Your opening line is crucial. Here are four proven strategies to hook the reader.
Start with a thought-provoking question that demonstrates your intellectual curiosity.
""Why do some nations prosper while others struggle? This question led me to explore the intersection of economics, politics, and development.""
Describe a specific experience that sparked your interest in the subject.
""Standing in the Turbine Hall at Tate Modern, I was struck by how art can transform an industrial space into a place of contemplation.""
Present a topic you've researched and show your ability to engage with complex ideas.
""The debate around CRISPR gene editing highlights a fundamental tension in bioethics that I find endlessly fascinating.""
Use a compelling statistic to demonstrate awareness of current issues in your field.
""With 91% of plastic ever produced never being recycled, environmental engineering isn't just a career choice—it's a necessity.""
These overused phrases make admissions tutors groan. Be original!
Different subjects have different expectations. Tailor your approach accordingly.
Don't rush your personal statement. Follow this timeline for the best results.
List all experiences, books, and ideas. Create a rough structure.
Write freely without worrying about length. Get all ideas on paper.
Cut to 4,000 characters. Improve flow and strengthen arguments.
Get feedback from teachers, counselors, and peers. Revise.
Final proofreading. Check character count. Perfect your opening.