Personal Statement | What university admissions tutors are looking for
One of the most complex parts of the UCAS application process is the Personal Statement. 83% of students reported to UCAS that the process was stressful, with 79% agreeing that the statement is difficult to complete without support. The issue is confounded by the fact that many students don't know how admissions tutors use personal statements in their decision-making process. With that in mind, we look at what university admissions are looking for from your personal statement.
Are personal statements changing?
Despite last year's news that personal statements were changing, this is now not the case for the 2024 entry. Instead, UCAS is looking to reform the process and make the statement less stressful while still allowing students to use it as a way to show they are more than their grades.
In their report Future of Undergraduate Admissions, student feedback shows that 72% of students felt positive about the Personal Statement, feeling this is where they could use their own voice and advocate for themselves. For this reason, UCAS is looking to make the personal statement more transparent with more structured questions around:
1. Motivation for Course. Why do you want to study these courses?
2. Preparedness for Course. How has your learning so far helped you to be ready to succeed in these courses?
3. Preparation through other experiences. What else have you done to help you prepare, and why are these experiences useful?
4. Extenuating circumstances. Is there anything the universities and colleges need to know to help them put your achievements and experiences so far into context?
5. Preparedness for study - What have you done to prepare yourself for student life?
What are admissions officers looking for
A survey of university admissions officers commissioned by ACS International Schools found the top qualities universities look for in applicants' personal statements are:
A positive attitude towards study.
A passion for their chosen subject.
An ability to think and work independently.
Consistency and the ability to complete tasks.
An inquiring mind.
Teamwork and collaboration.
Positive attitude towards study
In addition to academic achievements, you can convey your positive attitude and passion by highlighting noteworthy accomplishments such as awards, individual projects or further academic work. These examples showcase your commitment to expanding your knowledge and your study skills.
Passion for the subject and course
Universities also want to see your passion for the subject you're applying to study. So aside from highlighting your academic interests, read precisely what the course is about and then talk about your reasons why you want to do the course, whether it's your passion for statistics, the problem-solving nature of the course or why you love the type of work you'll be covering on the relevant degree. Also, be sure to articulate specific questions you have about your intended field of study, as expressing a genuine interest in exploring unanswered questions demonstrates passion for your subject.
An ability to think and work independently
One of the main areas university admission tutors worry about is whether students are ready to step up to undergraduate work. The way to show this is to talk about your ability to work independently outside of your A-level work, with examples of university summer schools, events, and non-academic work. Demonstrate that you are committed to continuous learning by also discussing any courses, workshops, or online programs you have completed outside of formal education. This illustrates a proactive approach to expanding your knowledge.
Consistency and the ability to complete tasks
Teacher assessments and GCSE grades play a part here, but so does what you do outside your studies. Are you involved with the school council or the student newspaper? Do you mentor younger kids or have a part-time job? Have you done the Duke of Edinburgh award or drama courses? If so, mention this in your personal statement, as all these things show a sense of responsibility, leadership, collaboration and commitment.
An inquiring mind
An inquiring mind is a large part of what admissions tutors look for. They want to know that you are passionate about learning and willing to go beyond what the course expects. You can show them this by talking about how you have read around your subject, attended related events, listened to podcasts and more.
Showcase instances where you have excelled in challenging coursework, particularly in subjects that require critical thinking, analysis, and problem-solving. Emphasise any honours, awards, or special projects that reflect your curiosity and finally, detail any independent research, projects, or personal initiatives you have undertaken outside the standard curriculum.
Teamwork and collaboration
Nearly three-quarters of university admissions officers say they look for evidence of an ability to work well in groups. So, be sure to also talk about any group work you are part of, such as a sports team, debate club, or any other place where you have worked well with others. Include volunteering ventures, work experience, and even how you collaborate as part of a part-time job.
Whatever you decide to write, be sure to use the personal statement to show who you are, not who you think they want you to be. It's important to strike a balance between showcasing your personal qualities and addressing the specific requirements of the course. Be genuine, and use your personal statement to convey why you are a strong candidate academically and also an individual who would contribute positively to the university community.
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