5 Tips for a Standout UCAS Personal Statement

Your UCAS personal statement is your chance to shine. It’s a crucial part of your application, giving you 4,000 characters to convince admissions tutors that you are the perfect candidate for their course. Here are our top five tips to make your statement stand out.

1. Start with a Strong Opening

Grab the reader's attention from the very first sentence. Avoid clichés like "From a young age, I have always been interested in...". Instead, start with an engaging anecdote, a thought-provoking question, or a powerful statement that shows your passion for the subject.

2. Show, Don't Just Tell

Instead of just listing your skills and experiences, demonstrate them with specific examples. Don't just say you're a good team player; describe a time you collaborated with others on a project and what you achieved. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your examples effectively.

3. Connect Your Experiences to Your Chosen Course

This is vital. For everything you mention – whether it’s work experience, a book you’ve read, or a club you’re in – you must link it back to your chosen course. Explain what you learned and how it has deepened your interest in the subject. This shows the admissions tutor that you have a genuine and well-researched passion.

For more detailed support, check out our Personal Statement & SOP Guidance service.

4. Structure it Clearly

A good structure is essential. A common approach is:

• Introduction: Your hook and why you want to study the course.
• Body Paragraphs: Discuss your academic background, work experience, and extracurricular activities, always linking back to the course.
• Conclusion: Summarize your key strengths and reiterate your enthusiasm for the course and your future career aspirations.

5. Proofread, Proofread, Proofread!

Spelling and grammar mistakes can give a terrible impression. Read your personal statement aloud to catch errors, use a spell checker, and ask teachers, family, or friends to review it. A polished, error-free statement shows professionalism and attention to detail.

Ready to get started? Our expert advisors can provide one-on-one support to help you craft the perfect personal statement.