Personal Statements: Dos and Don'ts

Sponsored by Liverpool Hope University

Most courses do not require an interview, therefore Universities only receive your UCAS application

Personal statements are your opportunity to draw upon your strengths, experiences and qualities in order to impress their admissions team

DO

• Think about why you are applying
• Understand the subject
• Think about your strengths. Why is this subject a good fit for you?
• Do you have relevant experience with evidence?
• Use formal English, good structure and correct grammar
• How has previous study helped to prepare you for this subject?
• Be concise
• Try to use the maximum word count (up to 4000 words). But do not go over
• Use language the reader will understand
• Be enthusiastic and convey your passions

DON'T

• Talk about just one uni/course/subject if you are applying for multiple
• Plagiarise
• Discuss hobbies/interests too much
• Convey opinions without evidence
• Use poor grammar/spelling or incomplete sentences
• Do not waffle
• Little focus on the subject interested in
• Go over the word count
• Rely on spellcheck
• Exaggerate

What else to consider

1. Paragraphs
2. A balance of academic and extra-curricular
   content
3. Evidence that you've researched your
   choices
4. Lateral thinking – what inspires you?
5. Honesty
6. Enthusiasm
7. Give examples and experiences
8. What do you want from the course?
9. End on a positive note