It's an important part of your UCAS form or college application – a personal statement.
The statement is split into three questions. Careers adviser Kelda Sinclair looks at each one and how you might tackle it. Our handy video will also explore top tips – and what not to do!
1: Why do you want to study this course or subject?
This is where you show knowledge about your course and passion for the subject.
These prompts might help you get started:
- Why do you love the subject?
- Were you inspired by an event in your life or a role model?
- Is the course connected to hobbies or activities that you love?
- How will the course help you achieve your future career goals?
Think about why you want to take up the career(s) that the course could lead to. That’s especially important for vocational courses such as social work or medicine.
2. How have your qualifications and studies prepared you for this course?
How do your studies relate to what you want to do at college or university? They might have been at school, college or online. How have these helped you develop the skills you need for your chosen course?
Have you had any school achievements, such as awards, or student responsibilities such as band member or prefect?
Explain how these activities developed your skills and strengths.
Need some inspiration? Learn more about skills or discover your strengths. Your careers adviser can also help you identify these.
3. What else have you done to prepare outside of education?
What you do outside school helps your statement shine – here’s your chance to shout about it!
Work experience
What was your work experience and why was it useful or interesting? It could be at a primary school or care home, online work experience or a local charity.
Reflect on your experiences and the skills you gained, linking them to your chosen course.
I'd recommend our article on finding work experience, too.
Life experiences or responsibilities
Have you overcome a situation that's influenced your decision? Have your responsibilities helped you develop qualities such as resilience?
Hobbies, interests and achievements
Whether it’s sports, interests or hobbies, highlight anything that makes you a great student. You might also have won a competition or taken part in a local community project. How have these experiences shaped you?
Use My Profile
The best way to keep a track of your achievements is using My Profile. It’s a brilliant way to record your qualifications, awards, skills, values and more!
Top tips for writing your statement
Three more of our careers advisers have some great tips for you when writing your statement!
Ready to start your statement?
Visit UCAS for guidance, videos and more tips – and use the UCAS statement builder to write it.