Personal statement
Writing a statement needn’t be daunting. With enough planning and preparation, you can submit a strong application that clearly and concisely demonstrates your suitability.
What is a personal statement?
A personal statement is your time to shine and a crucial part of your university application. Admission tutors read hundreds of applications. By paying close attention to the presentation and content of your personal statement, you can stand out from the crowd.
How long should a personal statement be?
Direct applications
The length of your personal statement will depend on the course you are apply for. Direct applications will specify the word count.
Applications through UCAS
UCAS specify that your personal statement for university should be 4000 characters, including spaces and punctuation, and no more than 47 lines. UCAS have some handy guidance on writing your undergraduate personal statement.
How to write your personal statement
It is important to outline the reasons why you want to study a particular subject in your personal statement. Don’t be afraid to sell yourself. Explain why you are applying and what makes you a suitable candidate. Outline your achievements, skills, and experiences.
You should also remember to be concise – don’t repeat information that you may have included elsewhere in the application. Spelling, accuracy of grammar, and diversity of vocabulary are all important factors. So, use a spell check facility to ensure your spelling and grammar are accurate.
How to start a personal statement
Begin with why you chose this course. It’s not just about what you write, but how you write it. Remember to use language that conveys your enthusiasm. What excites you about this subject?
View our video on the do’s and don’ts of writing your personal statement.
Things to include
- Your suitability and enthusiasm for the subject(s) you wish to study.
- Your transferable skills.
- Work experience relevant to the subject area.
- Your career aspirations, academic interests, and the reasons why you want to go to university.
- Personal qualities and other interests that make you stand out from the crowd.
Things not to include
- Copying content directly from websites or publications. Your application will be passed through plagiarism detection software. Any significant similarities could result in your application being excluded.
- Outlining negative experiences. Instead, outline how you successfully overcame obstacles.
- Relisting information submitted elsewhere in the application. This includes qualifications.
- Using slang, abbreviations, or text speak. Humour should also be considered carefully. It should be used sparingly, or preferably, not at all.
- Providing irrelevant information that doesn’t enhance your application.
- Making fabricated or unsubstantiated claims. You need to provide supportive detail to back up your assertions.
How to end a personal statement
End your personal statement by leaving a strong lasting impression. What makes your personal statement unique? You. Write about your ideas for the future. What you would bring to the course. And what you want to get from your overall university experience.
Check, check, and check again
Show your personal statement to your friends and family to get feedback. Where possible, allow yourself time to fine tune your work before submitting it.
Further advice
If you are applying to Edge Hill University and would like any additional advice about writing a personal statement, please contact Course Enquiries on (+44) 01695 657000 or complete our online enquiry form.
Further information is also available on the UCAS website.