personal statement why you choose this university

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Interview questions answered: Why did you choose this university?

Applying for a place at a university, you’ll always have to go through the admission process . In the better scenario (the easier one), you just fill in an application form (online or offline), submit the required documentation, and eventually get the desired reply –the acceptation of your application. In many cases, however, you will have to pass an admission interview , competing with other students for the limited number of spots in the study program. This is the case especially with nursing schools, pharmacy schools, med schools, law schools , etc.

Regardless of whether you have to interview for your place or not, you will almost always face the question about your choice: Why our university? Why not some other place? In many cases you have to answer this question directly on the application form , and you will almost always face it in your interview as well. Let’s have a look at 7 sample answers to the question, including some unconventional choices. Check them out, pick one that resonates with the message you try to convey on your application, makes sense for the given university, and then adjust it slightly for your application form or the eventual interview at school.

7 sample answers to “Why did you choose this university?” interview question

• I’ve chosen your place for two main reasons . First one is the study program . I went through the curriculum for all four years , checked every subject, and I find your curriculum superior to other competing universities in the country. Second reason is your location . I know the city well, like it a lot, especially the surrounding nature, and I can imagine living there for the next few years at least.
• I wanted to study with the best . You top the national rankings of universities , many top-class professors teach at your place, and I know that a degree from your university means something in the job interviews, and will open me doors to interesting places once I earn it. I have the grades to apply for a place at your med school, and see no reason why I should opt for the second best alternative. I hope you will give me a chance to prove my motivation and readiness for studies in an interview.
• Honestly speaking, I applied with you because I know I have a realistic chance to get in . I haven’t been the best student at high school, and it would be a waste of time sending my application to certain universities, which would not even bother reading it once they see my GPA . But I do not support such elitist institutions. At the end of the day, you will find some great teachers at every university , and I see no reason why I cannot learn the management at your place. What’s more, I like the mission statement of your school , the role you play in a local community, and would be proud to belong to your students .
• I have several reasons for my choice. First of all, I did not get in the last year , but I had a really good impression from the interviews , and enjoyed my time with the teachers and students of the school. Gaining some working experience and improving my interviewing skills during the “gap year”, I wanted to give your place another shot, because I know I will have a better chance this time around, more experienced and mature. What’s more, I really like the research opportunities for undergraduate students , something not many schools in the area offer. And last but not least, I live in the city. It will be easier for me to financially support my studies, because I won’t have to pay for rent or for the dorm.
• I just love everything about your place . First of all, the campus. The huge library, the park, I just found the place incredibly inspirational and motivating . I have visited it several times already. Secondly, the study program, and the emphasis you put on hands-on practice . Then I also like your basketball team , I am a big supporter and will try to play in the team if I get a chance. And last but not least, the way you present your place online and in the media really resonates with my values , and I will be incredibly happy to study at your school…
• My main reason is your athletic team . I’ve studied the application rules carefully, and I know that with my results and record times I am eligible to get a scholarship at your place. I know the coaches, and have been following their careers for a while, and would love to train under them , and represent the colors of your school with some great results. At the same time, however, I want to have something to fall back on in life , because a career of an athlete is short, and an injury can always stop you. Studying sports management and marketing while trying to become a top-class runner seems like a dream come true to me. And I can live this dream at your university.
• Two of my close friends study at your university. I interviewed them a couple of times, trying to get first-hand information, about the teachers, the subjects, the life at the college and everything. And I love what they say about the quality of lectures, the interaction with both teachers and students, the after school activities, as well as the leadership of the place. It motivated me to apply with your university, and when I saw that you have a course in water resources engineering, something I always wanted to study , it was an easy choice…

Give them some praise, but try to be honest

At the end of the day, admission committee members are humans from flesh and bones , just like you or me. They enjoy when someone recognizes a good job they do , when people talk nicely about their place of work. Try to find something you can praise the university for. Options are almost endless.

Their campus, study programs, their online presentation, scholarships they offer, modern technology they have in place, attitude to various issues we face as humanity, particular teachers and professors, research activity they do, their athletic teams, and so on, and so forth. But do your research first , because it is important to be realistic.

Praising some school for the results of their students or teachers, while in fact they are on a tail end of the rankings in the categories you praise them for, will earn you nothing but rejection . Do your research, find things worthy of praise, and then praise them on your application, or in the interviews.

Refer to the study program anytime you can

At the end of day, study program is the most important thing for your choice. Regardless of having a beautiful campus or employing the best teachers in the country, it makes no sense to study at some university, unless you can study the subjects of your choice, unless you like the curriculum.

As you can observe on my list of sample answers, students typically pick several reasons for their choice . And you should do the same thing, making sure that the study program is one of the reasons . You can even take this one step further, picking particular subjects you like , or teachers , or even master’s degrees you can pursue later on at the same university, citing them as the main reason of your application.

At the end of the day, you will likely apply with several schools. And it is right to do so, because you do not want to bet all your chances on a single application form. When hearing (or reading) why you chose their university, however, admission committee members should get an impression that they are your first choice . That’s the ultimate goal you should try to achieve with your answer to this tricky question…

Ready to answer this one? I hope so! But do not forget to check also sample answers to other tricky college interview questions:

• Does your academic record accurately reflect your capabilities?
• What accomplishments are you most proud of?
• If you were an animal, what would you be?
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How to Write a UCAS Personal Statement [With Examples]

James is senior content marketing manager at BridgeU. He writes and directs content for BridgeU's university partners and our community of international schools

What are the big challenges students should be aware of before writing their UCAS Personal Statement?

• The essential ingredients for writing a great Personal Statement
• How to write the UCAS Personal Statement [with examples]

Final hints & tips to help your students

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The UCAS Personal Statement can sometimes be a student’s only chance to impress a UK university. Read our in-depth guide to helping your students plan & write a winning application.

There are hundreds of articles out there on how to write a UCAS Personal Statement that will grab the attention of a UK university admissions officer.  

But if you’re working with students to help them perfect their Personal Statement in time for the  relevant UCAS deadlines , we can sum up the secret to success in three words.

Planning, structure and story. 

The UCAS Personal Statement is a student’s chance to talk about why they want to study for a particular degree, course or subject discipline at a UK university. 

As they set about writing a personal statement, students need to demonstrate the drive, ambition, relevant skills and notable achievements that make them a  suitable candidate for the universities they have chosen to apply to . 

But the UCAS Personal Statement requires students to write a lot about themselves in a relatively short space of time. That’s why lots of planning, a tight structure and a compelling story are essential if a student’s Personal Statement is to truly excel. 

As important deadlines for UK university applications grow closer, we at BridgeU have put together a guide, outlining some of the strategies and techniques to help your students to write a personal statement which is both engaging and truly individual.

Handpicked Related Content

Discover the simple steps that will boost the confidence of your native English speaking & ESL students alike in  University Application Essays: The 5 Secrets of Successful Writing .

As they begin to plan their Personal Statement, students may feel intimidated. It’s not easy to summarise your academic interests and personal ambitions, especially when you’re competing for a place on a course which is popular or has demanding entry requirements. In particular, students will likely come up against the following challenges.

Time pressure

Unfortunately, the Personal Statement (and other aspects of university preparation) comes during the busiest year of the student’s academic life so far.

Students, and indeed teachers and counsellors, must undertake the planning and writing of the personal statement whilst juggling other commitments, classes and deadlines, not to mention revision and open day visits!

Because there is already a lot of academic pressure on students in their final year of secondary school, finding the time and headspace for the personal statement can be hard, and can mean it gets pushed to the last minute. The risks of leaving it to the last minute are fairly obvious – the application will seem rushed and the necessary thought and planning won’t go into  making the personal statement the best it can be . 

Sticking closely to the Personal Statement format

The character limit which UCAS sets for the personal statement is very strict – up to 4,000 characters of text. This means that students have to express themselves in a clear and concise way; it’s also important that they don’t feel the need to fill the available space needlessly.  Planning and redrafting of a personal statement is essential .

Making it stand out

This is arguably the greatest challenge facing students – making sure that their statement sets them apart from everyone else who is competing for a place on any given course; in 2024 alone, UCAS received applications from 594,940 applicants. In addition, UCAS uses its own dedicated team and purpose built software to check every application for plagiarism, so it’s crucial that students craft a truly  original personal statement which is entirely their own work .

The essential ingredients for writing a great UCAS Personal Statement 

We’ve already mentioned our three watch words for writing a high quality Personal Statement.

Planning. Structure. Story. 

Let’s dig deeper into these three essential components in more detail.

Watch: How to Write a UCAS Personal Statement with University of Essex

Planning a ucas personal statement.

It might sound like a no-brainer, but it’s vital that students plan their Personal Statement before they start writing it. Specifically, the planning phase could include: 

• Students thoroughly researching the UK university courses they plan on applying to. 
• Deciding on what relevant material to include in their Personal Statement (we’ll cover this in more detail later on). 
• Writing an unedited first draft where they just get their thoughts and ideas down on paper. 

Structuring a UCAS Personal Statement

As we’ve discussed, the UCAS Personal Statement requires students to be extremely disciplined – they will be required to condense a lot of information into a relatively short written statement. This means that, after they’ve written a rough first draft, they need to think carefully about how they structure the final statement. 

A stand out Personal Statement will need a tight structure, with an introduction and a conclusion that make an impact and really help to tell a story about who your student is, and why they are drawn to studying this particular degree. 

This brings us nicely to our third and final ingredient…

Telling a story with a Personal Statement

The UCAS Personal Statement is a student’s opportunity to show a university who they are and how their life experiences have shaped their academic interests and goals. 

So a good Personal Statement needs to offer a compelling narrative, and that means making sure that a student’s writing is well-structured, and that every sentence and paragraph is serving the statement’s ultimate purpose –  to convince a university that your student deserves a place on their subject of choice. 

How to help your students start their UCAS Personal Statement

In order to ensure that a personal statement is delivered on time and to an appropriate standard, it’s essential to plan thoroughly before writing it. Here are some questions you can ask your students before they start writing:

How can you demonstrate a formative interest in your subject?

It may sound obvious but, in order for any UCAS personal statement to have the necessary structure and clarity, students need to think hard about why they want to study their chosen subject. Ask them to think about their responses to the following questions:

What inspired you to study your chosen subject?

Example answer:  My desire to understand the nature of reality has inspired me to apply for Physics and Philosophy

Was there a formative moment when your perspective on this subject changed, or when you decided you wanted to study this subject in more detail?

Example answer:  My interest in philosophy was awakened when I questioned my childhood religious beliefs; reading Blackburn’s “Think”, convinced me to scrutinise my assumptions about the world, and to ensure I could justify my beliefs.

Can you point to any role models, leading thinkers, or notable literature which has in turn affected your thinking and/or inspired you?

Example answer :  The search for a theory of everything currently being conducted by physicists is of particular interest to me and in “The Grand Design” Hawking proposes a collection of string theories, dubbed M-theory, as the explanation of why the universe is the way it is.

Asking your students to think about the “why” behind their chosen subject discipline is a useful first step in helping them to organise their overall statement. Next, they need to be able to demonstrate evidence of their suitability for a course or degree. 

How have you demonstrated the skills and aptitudes necessary for your chosen course?

Encourage students to think about times where they have demonstrated the necessary skills to really stand out. It’s helpful to think about times when they have utilised these skills both inside and outside the classroom. Ask students to consider their responses to the following questions. 

Can you demonstrate critical and independent thinking around your chosen subject discipline?

Example answer :  Currently I am studying Maths and Economics in addition to Geography. Economics has been a valuable tool, providing the nuts and bolts to economic processes, and my geography has provided a spatial and temporal element.

Are you able to demonstrate skills and competencies which will be necessary for university study?

These include qualities such as teamwork, time management and the ability to organise workload responsibly.

Example answer:  This year I was selected to be captain of the 1st XV rugby team and Captain of Swimming which will allow me to further develop my leadership, teamwork and organisational skills.

How have your extracurricular activities helped prepare you for university?

Students may believe that their interests outside the classroom aren’t relevant to their university application. So encourage them to think about how their other interests can demonstrate the subject-related skills that universities are looking for in an application. Ask students to think about any of the following activities, and how they might be related back to the subject they are applying for.

• Clubs/societies, or volunteering work which they can use to illustrate attributes such as teamwork, an interest in community service and the ability to manage their time proactively.
• Have they been elected/nominated as a team captain, or the head of a particular club or society, which highlights leadership skills and an ability to project manage?
• Can they point to any awards or prizes they may have won, whether it’s taking up a musical instrument, playing a sport, or participating in theatre/performing arts?
• Have they achieved grades or qualifications as part of their extracurricular activities? These can only help to demonstrate aptitude and hard work. 

How to write the UCAS Personal Statement [with examples] 

If sufficient planning has gone into the personal statement, then your students should be ready to go!

In this next section, we’ll break down the individual components of the UCAS Personal Statement and share some useful examples.

These examples come from a Personal Statement in support of an application to study Environmental Science at a UK university. 

Watch: King’s College London explain what they’re looking for in a UCAS Personal Statement

Introduction.

This is the chance for an applying student to really grab an admission tutor’s attention. Students need to demonstrate both a personal passion for their subject, and explain why they have an aptitude for it .  This section is where students should begin to discuss any major influences or inspirations that have led them to this subject choice. 

Example :  My passion for the environment has perhaps come from the fact that I have lived in five different countries: France, England, Spain, Sweden and Costa Rica. Moving at the age of 15 from Sweden, a calm and organized country, to Costa Rica, a more diverse and slightly chaotic country, was a shock for me at first and took me out of my comfort zone […] Also, living in Costa Rica, one of the most biodiverse countries in the world, definitely helped me realize how vulnerable the world is and how we need to take care of it in a sustainable manner. 

This opening paragraph immediately grabs the reader’s attention by giving the reader an insight into this student’s background and links their academic interests with something specific from the student’s personal backstory. 

Discussing Academic Achievements 

The next paragraph in this Personal Statement discusses the student’s academic achievements. Because this student has had an international education, they frame their academic achievements in the context of their personal background. They also cite useful examples of other curricula they have studied and the grades they have achieved. 

Example : 

Throughout my academic life I have shown myself to be a responsible student as well as a hard working one, despite the fact that I have had to move around a lot. I have achieved several other accomplishments such as a high A (286/300) in AS Spanish at age 15, and also completed a Spanish course of secondary studies for ‘MEP’(Ministerio de Educacion Publica), which is a system from Costa Rica.   

You’ll notice that this student doesn’t just list their achievements – their strong academic performance is always linked back to a wider discussion of their personal experiences. 

Showcasing Extracurricular Activities

As well as discussing academic achievements, a good Personal Statement should also discuss the student’s extracurricular activities, and how they relate back to the student’s overall university aspirations. 

By the third/fourth paragraph of the Personal Statement, students should think about incorporating their extracurricular experiences, 

Another valuable experience was when my class spent a week at a beach called ‘Pacuare’ in order to help prevent the eggs of the endangered leatherback turtle from being stolen by poachers who go on to sell them like chicken eggs. We all gained teamwork experience, which was needed in order to hide the eggs silently without scaring the mother turtles, as well as making it more difficult for the poachers to find them. 

When the poachers set fire to one of the sustainable huts where we were staying, not only did I gain self-awareness about the critical situation of the world and its ecosystems, I also matured and became even more motivated to study environmental sciences at university.

This is a particularly striking example of using extracurricular activities to showcase a student’s wider passion for the degree subject they want to study. 

Not only does this Personal Statement have a story about volunteering to save an endangered species, it also illustrates this applicants’ wider worldview, and helps to explain their motivation for wanting to study Environmental Science. 

Concluding the UCAS Personal Statement

The conclusion to a UCAS Personal Statement will have to be concise, and will need to tie all of a student’s academic and extracurricular achievements. After all, a compelling story will need a great ending. 

Remember that students need to be mindful of the character limit of a Personal Statement, so a conclusion need only be the length of a small paragraph, or even a couple of sentences. 

“ After having many varied experiences, I truly think I can contribute to university in a positive way, and would love to study in England where I believe I would gain more skills and education doing a first degree than in any other country.  “

A good Personal Statement conclusion will end with an affirmation of how the student thinks they can contribute to university life, and why they believe the institution in question should accept them. Because the student in this example has a such a rich and varied international background, they also discuss the appeal of studying at university in England. 

It’s worth taking a quick look at a few other examples of how other students have chosen to conclude their Personal Statement. 

Medicine (Imperial College, London) 

Interest in Medicine aside, other enthusiasms of mine include languages, philosophy, and mythology. It is curiously fitting that in ancient Greek lore, healing was but one of the many arts Apollo presided over, alongside archery and music.   I firmly believe that a doctor should explore the world outside the field of  Medicine, and it is with such experiences that I hope to better empathise and connect with the patients I will care for in my medical career. 

You’ll notice that this example very specifically ties the students’ academic and extracurricular activities together, and ties the Personal Statement back to their values and beliefs. 

Economic History with Economics (London School of Economics)

The highlight of my extra-curricular activities has been my visit to Shanghai with the Lord Mayor’s trade delegation in September 2012. I was selected to give a speech at this world trade conference due to my interest in economic and social history. […] I particularly enjoyed the seminar format, and look forward to experiencing more of this at university. My keen interest and desire to further my knowledge of history and economics, I believe, would make the course ideal for me.

By contrast, this conclusion ties a memorable experience back to the specifics of how the student will be taught at the London School of Economics – specifically, the appeal of learning in seminar format! 

There’s no magic formula for concluding a Personal Statement. But you’ll see that what all of these examples have in common is that they tie a student’s personal and academic experiences together – and tell a university something about their aspirations for the future.

Watch: Bournemouth University explain how to structure a UCAS Personal Statement

Know the audience

It can be easy for students to forget that the person reading a personal statement is invariably an expert in their field. This is why an ability to convey passion and think critically about their chosen subject is essential for a personal statement to stand out. Admissions tutors will also look for students who can structure their writing (more on this below). 

Students should be themselves

Remember that many students are competing for places on a university degree against fierce competition. And don’t forget that UCAS has the means to spot plagiarism. So students need to create a truly honest and individual account of who they are, what they have achieved and, perhaps most importantly, why they are driven to study this particular subject.

Proof-read (then proof-read again!)

Time pressures mean that students can easily make mistakes with their Personal Statements. As the deadline grows closer, it’s vital that they are constantly checking and rechecking their writing and to ensure that shows them in the best possible light. 

Meanwhile, when it comes to giving feedback to students writing their Personal Statements, make sure you’re as honest and positive as possible in the days and weeks leading up to submission day. 

And make sure they remember the three key ingredients of writing a successful Personal Statement. 

Planning, structure and story! 

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How to Write a Personal Statement That Wows Colleges

← What Is an Application Theme and Why Is It Important?

10 Personal Statement Examples That Work →

  Most of the college applications process is fairly cut and dry. You’ll submit information about your classes and grades, standardized test scores, and various other accomplishments and honors. On much of the application, your accomplishments must speak for themselves. 

The personal statement is different though, and it’s your chance to let your voice be heard. To learn more about the personal statement, how to choose a topic, and how to write one that wows colleges, don’t miss this post.

What is the Personal Statement?

Personal statements are used in both undergraduate and graduate admissions. For undergrad admissions, personal statements are any essays students must write to submit their main application. For example, the Common App Essay and Coalition Application Essay are examples of personal statements. Similarly, the ApplyTexas Essays and University of California Essays are also good examples .

Personal statements in college admissions are generally not school-specific (those are called “supplemental essays”). Instead, they’re sent to a wide range of schools, usually every school you apply to. 

What is the Purpose of the Personal Statement?

The personal statement is generally your opportunity to speak to your unique experiences, qualities, or beliefs that aren’t elsewhere represented on the application. It is a chance to break away from the data that defines you on paper, and provide a glimpse into who you really are. In short, it’s the admissions committee’s chance to get to know the real you.

So, what are colleges looking for in your personal statement? They are looking for something that sets you apart. They are asking themselves: do you write about something truly unique? Do you write about something common, in a new and interesting way? Do you write about an aspect of your application that needed further explanation? All of these are great ways to impress with your personal statement.

Beyond getting to know you, admissions committees are also evaluating your writing skills. Are you able to write clearly and succinctly? Can you tell an engaging story? Writing effectively is an important skill in both college and life, so be sure to also fine-tune your actual writing (grammar and syntax), not just the content of your essay.

Is your personal statement strong enough? Get a free review of your personal statement with CollegeVine’s Peer Essay Review.

How To a Choose A Topic For Your Personal Statement

Most of the time, you’re given a handful of prompts to choose from. Common personal statement prompts include:

• Central aspect of your identity (activity, interest, talent, background)
• Overcoming a failure
• Time you rose to a challenge or showed leadership
• Experience that changed your beliefs
• Problem you’d like to solve
• Subject or idea that captivates you

One of the questions that we hear most often about the personal statement is, “How do I choose what to write about?” For some students, the personal statement prompt triggers an immediate and strong idea. For many more, there is at least initially some uncertainty.

We often encourage students to think less about the exact prompt and more about what aspects of themselves they think are most worthy of highlighting. This is especially helpful if you’re offered a “topic of your choice” prompt, as the best essay topic for you might actually be one you make up!

For students with an interesting story or a defining background, these can serve as the perfect catalyst to shape your approach. For students with a unique voice or different perspective, simple topics written in a new way can be engaging and insightful.

Finally, you need to consider the rest of your application when you choose a topic for your personal statement. If you are returning from a gap year, failed a single class during sophomore year, or participated extensively in something you’re passionate about that isn’t elsewhere on your application, you might attempt to address one of these topics in your statement. After all, the admissions committee wants to get to know you and understand who you really are, and these are all things that will give them a deeper understanding of that.

Still, tons of students have a decent amount of writer’s block when it comes to choosing a topic. This is understandable since the personal statement tends to be considered rather high stakes. To help you get the ball rolling, we recommend the post What If I Don’t Have Anything Interesting To Write About In My College Essay?

Tips for Writing a Personal Statement for College

1. approach this as a creative writing assignment..

Personal statements are difficult for many students because they’ve never had to do this type of writing. High schoolers are used to writing academic reports or analytical papers, but not creative storytelling pieces.

The point of creative writing is to have fun with it, and to share a meaningful story. Choose a topic that inspires you so that you’ll enjoy writing your essay. It doesn’t have to be intellectual or impressive at all. You have your transcript and test scores to prove your academic skills, so the point of the personal statement is to give you free rein to showcase your personality. This will result in a more engaging essay and reading experience for admissions officers. 

As you’re writing, there’s no need to follow the traditional five-paragraph format with an explicit thesis. Your story should have an overarching message, but it doesn’t need to be explicitly stated—it should shine through organically. 

Your writing should also feel natural. While it will be more refined than a conversation with your best friend, it shouldn’t feel stuffy or contrived when it comes off your tongue. This balance can be difficult to strike, but a tone that would feel natural when talking with an admired teacher or a longtime mentor is usually a good fit.

2. Show, don’t tell.

One of the biggest mistakes students make is to simply state everything that happened, instead of actually bringing the reader to the moment it happened, and telling a story. It’s boring to read: “I was overjoyed and felt empowered when I finished my first half marathon.” It’s much more interesting when the writing actually shows you what happened and what the writer felt in that moment: “As I rounded the final bend before the finish line, my heart fluttered in excitement. The adrenaline drowned out my burning legs and gasping lungs. I was going to finish my first half marathon! This was almost incomprehensible to me, as someone who could barely run a mile just a year ago.”

If you find yourself starting to write your essay like a report, and are having trouble going beyond “telling,” envision yourself in the moment you want to write about. What did you feel, emotionally and physically? Why was this moment meaningful? What did you see or hear? What were your thoughts?

For inspiration, read some memoirs or personal essays, like The New York Times Modern Love Column . You could also listen to podcasts of personal stories, like The Moth . What do these writers and storytellers do that make their stories engaging? If you didn’t enjoy a particular story, what was it that you didn’t like? Analyzing real stories can help you identify techniques that you personally resonate with.

3. Use dialogue.

A great way to keep your writing engaging is to include some dialogue. Instead of writing: “My brothers taunted me,” consider sharing what they actually said. It’s more powerful to read something like:

“Where’s the fire, Princess Clara?” they taunted. “Having some trouble?” They prodded me with the ends of the chewed branches and, with a few effortless scrapes of wood on rock, sparked a red and roaring flame. My face burned long after I left the fire pit. The camp stank of salmon and shame. 

Having dialogue can break up longer paragraphs of text, and bring some action and immediacy to your story. That being said, don’t overdo it. It’s important to strike a balance between relying too much on dialogue, and using it occasionally as an effective writing tool. You don’t want your essay to read like a script for a movie (unless, of course, that’s intentional and you want to showcase your screenwriting skills!).

Want free essay feedback? Submit your essay to CollegeVine’s Peer Essay Review and get fast, actionable edits on your essay. 

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Personal Statements

1. giving a recap or report of all the events..

Your essay isn’t a play-by-play of everything that happened in that time frame. Only include relevant details that enrich the story, instead of making your personal statement a report of the events. Remember that the goal is to share your voice, what’s important to you, and who you are. 

2. Writing about too many events or experiences. 

Similarly, another common mistake is to make your personal statement a resume or recap of all your high school accomplishments. The Activities Section of the Common App is the place for listing out your achievements, not your personal statement. Focus on one specific experience or a few related experiences, and go into detail on those. 

3. Using cliche language.

Try to avoid overdone quotes from famous people like Gandhi or Thoreau. Better yet, try to avoid quotes from other people in general, unless it’s a message from someone you personally know. Adding these famous quotes won’t make your essay unique, and it takes up valuable space for you to share your voice.

You should also steer away from broad language or lavish claims like “It was the best day of my life.” Since they’re so cliche, these statements also obscure your message, and it’s hard to understand what you actually mean. If it was actually the best day of your life, show us why, rather than just telling us.

If you want to learn more about personal statements, see our post of 11 Common App Essay Examples .

Want help with your college essays to improve your admissions chances? Sign up for your free CollegeVine account and get access to our essay guides and courses. You can also get your essay peer-reviewed and improve your own writing skills by reviewing other students’ essays.

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By Nik Taylor (Editor, The Uni Guide) | 18 August 2023 | 22 min read

How to write an excellent personal statement in 10 steps

Stand out from the crowd: here's how to write a good personal statement that will get you noticed

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Your personal statement forms a core part of your university application, and the sooner you get going, the better you can make it. You may think that your personal statement won’t matter as much to unis as your grades and experience but a great personal statement could make all the difference between you and a candidate with the same grades. Sure, your application might not reach that deal breaker stage. But is it something you want to leave to chance?  Here we’ll take you through the process of planning, writing and checking a good personal statement, so you end up with something you can submit with confidence. And to make sure the advice we're giving you is sound, we’ve spoken to admissions staff at loads of UK universities to get their view. Look out for video interviews and advice on applying for specific subjects throughout this piece or watch our personal statement playlist on YouTube .

• Are you looking for personal statement examples? Check our library of hundreds of real personal statements, on The Student Room

Personal statement deadlines

You'll need to make sure you've got your personal statement written well in advance of your application deadline. Below are the main university application deadline dates for 2024 entry.

2024 entry deadlines

16 October 2023: Deadline for applications to Oxford and Cambridge universities, along with most medicine, dentistry, and veterinary courses.   31 January 2024: Deadline for applications to the majority of undergraduate courses. After this date, universities will start allocating places on these courses –   but you can still apply after the 31 January deadline , as this article explains . 30 June 2024:  Students who apply after this date will be entered into Clearing .

• Read more: Ucas deadlines and key application dates

What is a personal statement?

A personal statement is a central part of your Ucas application, where you explain why you’ve chosen a particular course and why you’ll be good at it. It's your chance to stand out against other candidates and hopefully get that all-important offer. You only write one personal statement which is then read by each university you apply to, so if you are applying for more than one subject (or it's a combined course) it's crucial that you include common themes or reference the overall skills needed for all subjects. Personal statements are especially important if you’re trying to get on a very competitive course, where you need to do anything you can to stand out to admissions tutors. Courteney Sheppard, senior customer experience manager at Ucas, advises that your personal statement is "the only part of the application that you have direct control over. Do lots of research to demonstrate your passion, curiosity and drive to pursue your chosen subject." There’s a limit on how much you can write: your personal statement can be up to 4,000 characters (including spaces) or 47 lines of 95 characters (including spaces); whichever is shorter. This may appear generous (read: long) but once you've got going you may find yourself having to edit heavily.

• Read more: teacher secrets for writing a great personal statement

1. Plan what you want to cover

The first thing you need to do is make a plan. Writing a personal statement off the top of your head is difficult. Start by making some notes, answering the following questions:

• What do you want to study?
• Why do you want to study it?
• What is there about you that shows you’re suited to studying this subject at university? Think about your personality, as well as your experiences.
• What are your other interests and skills?

These few points are going to form the spine of your personal statement, so write them in a way that makes sense to you. You might want to make a simple bulleted list or you might want to get all arty and use a mindmap. Whatever you choose, your aim is the same. You want to get it clear in your own head why a university should offer you a place on its course. Getting those details down isn't always easy, and some people find it helpful to make notes over time. You might try carrying a notebook with you or set up a memo on your phone. Whenever you think of something useful for your personal statement, jot it down. Inspiration sometimes comes more easily when you’re thinking about something else entirely. It might help to take a look at The Student Room for some sample personal statements by university and sample personal statements by subjects , to give you an idea of the kind of thing you want to include. 

• Read more: personal statement FAQs

2. Show off your experience

Some things are worth adding to your personal statement, some things are not. Firmly in the second camp are your qualifications. You don’t need to mention these as there’s a whole other section of your personal statement where you get to detail them very precisely. Don’t waste a single character going on about how great your GCSE grades are – it’s not what the admissions tutor wants to read. What they do want to see is: what have you done? OK, so you’ve got some good grades, but so do a lot of other applicants. What have you done that’s different, that shows you off as someone who really loves the subject you’re applying for? Spend some time thinking about all the experience you have in that subject. If you’re lucky, this might be direct work experience. That’s going to be particularly appropriate if you’re applying for one of the more vocational subjects such as medicine or journalism . But uni staff realise getting plum work experience placements is easier for some people than others, so cast your net wider when you’re thinking about what you’ve done. How about after-school clubs? Debating societies? Are you running a blog or vlog? What key skills and experience have you picked up elsewhere (eg from hobbies) that could be tied in with your course choice? Remember, you’re looking for experience that shows why you want to study your chosen subject. You’re not just writing an essay about what you're doing in your A-level syllabus. Use this checklist as a guide for what to include:

• Your interest in the course. Why do you want to spend three years studying this subject at university?
• What have you done outside school or college that demonstrates this interest? Think about things like fairs/exhibitions, public lectures or voluntary work that is relevant to your subject.
• Relevant work experience (essential for the likes of medicine, not required for non-vocational courses such as English )
• Skills and qualities required for that career if appropriate (medicine, nursing and law as obvious examples)
• Interest in your current studies – what particular topics have made an impression on you?
• Any other interests/hobbies/experiences you wish to mention that are relevant either to the subject or 'going to uni'. Don't just list your hobbies, you need to be very selective and state clearly what difference doing these things has made to you.
• Plans for a gap year if you’re deferring entry.

Read more: 6 steps you need to take to apply to university

3. Be bold about your achievements

Don't be bashful about your achievements; that’s not going to help you get into uni. It's time to unleash your inner Muhammed Ali and get all “I am the greatest” with your writing. Do keep it focused and accurate. Do keep your language professional. But don’t hide your qualities beneath a layer of false modesty. Your personal statement is a sell – you are selling yourself as a brilliant student and you need to show the reader why that is true. This doesn’t come naturally to everyone, and if you’re finding it difficult to write about how great you are it’s time to enlist some help. Round up a friend or two, a family member, a teacher, whoever and get them to write down your qualities. Getting someone else’s view here can help you get some perspective. Don’t be shy. You are selling your skills, your experience and your enthusiasm – make sure they all leap off the screen with the way you have described them.

• Read more: the ten biggest mistakes when writing your personal statement  

4. How to start your personal statement

Type your personal statement in a cloud-based word processing program, such as Google Docs or Microsoft Word and don’t copy and paste it into Ucas Hub until it’s finished.  One of the benefits of doing it this way is that you can run spell check easily. (Please note, though, that Word adds "curly" quotation marks and other characters (like é or ü) that won't show up on your Ucas form, so do proofread it on Ucas Hub before submitting it to ensure it is how you typed it.)  Another big benefit is that you'll always have a backup of what you've written. If you're being super careful, you could always save your statement in another place as well. Bear in mind that extra spaces (eg adding spaces to the beginnings of paragraphs as indentation) are removed on Ucas. In your first sentence, cut to the chase. Why do you want to do the course? Don’t waste any time rambling on about the daydreams you had when you were five. Just be clear and concise – describe in one line why this course is so important to you. Then, in the rest of your intro, go into more detail in demonstrating your enthusiasm for the course and explaining how you decided this is what you want to do for the next three or more years. However you choose to start your statement, just avoid the following hoary old chestnuts. These have been some of the most used lines in personal statements over the years – they are beyond cliche, so don’t even think about it.

• From a young age I have (always) been [interested in/fascinated by]…
• For as long as I can remember, I have…
• I am applying for this course because… 
• I have always been interested in… 
• Throughout my life I have always enjoyed… 
• Reflecting on my educational experiences… 
• [Subject] is a very challenging and demanding [career/profession/course]… 
• Academically, I have always been… 
• I have always wanted to pursue a career in… 
• I have always been passionate about…   

5. Focus your writing on why you've chosen that subject

So you’ve got your intro done – time to nail the rest of it. Bear in mind that you’ve got to be a little bit careful when following a personal statement template. It’s easy to fall into the trap of copying someone else’s style, and in the process lose all of your own voice and personality from your writing. But there is a rough order that you can follow, which should help keep you in your flow. After your opening paragraph or two, get into any work experience (if you’ve got it). Talk about extracurriculars: anything you've done which is relevant to the subject can go here – hobbies, interests, volunteering. Touch on your career aspirations – where do you want this course to take you? Next, show your enthusiasm for your current studies. Cite some specific examples of current work that you enjoyed. Show off your relevant skills and qualities by explaining how you’ve used these in the past. Make sure you’re giving real-world examples here, not just vague assertions like “I’m really organised and motivated”. Try to use examples that are relevant.   Follow this up with something about you as a person. Talk about non-academic stuff that you like to do, but link it in some way with the course, or with how it shows your maturity for dealing with uni life. Round it all off by bringing your main points together, including a final emphasis of your commitment to studying this particular course.

• Read more: how to write your personal statement in an evening  

6. How long should a personal statement be?

You've got to work to a very specific limit when writing your personal statement. In theory you could use up to 4,000 characters – but you’re probably more likely to be limited by the line count. That's because it's a good idea to put line breaks in between your paragraphs (to make it more readable) and you only get a maximum of 47 lines. With this in mind, 3,500 characters is a more realistic limit. But when you’re getting started you should ignore these limits completely. At first, you just want to get down everything that you feel is important. You'll probably end up with something that is far too long, but that's fine. This is where you get to do some polishing and pruning. Keep the focus of your piece on the course you’re applying for, why you want to do it and why you’re perfectly suited to it. Look through what you’ve written so far – have you got the balance right? Chop out anything that goes on a bit, as you want each point to be snappy and succinct.

• Read more: universities reveal all about personal statements  

7. Keep it simple

8. Smart ways to end your personal statement

Writing a closing line that you’re happy with can feel as tricky as coming up with your opener. What you’re looking for here is a sign-off that is bold and memorable. The final couple of sentences in your statement give you the opportunity to emphasise all the good stuff you’ve already covered. Use this space to leave the reader in no doubt as to what an excellent addition you would be to their university. Pull together all your key points and – most importantly – address the central question that your personal statement should answer: why should you get a place on the course?

• Read more: universities explain how to end your personal statement with a bang  

9. Make sure your personal statement has no mistakes

Now you’ve got a personal statement you’re happy with, you need to make sure there are no mistakes. Check it, check it a second time, then check it again. Once you’ve done that, get someone else to check it, too. You will be doing yourself a massive disservice if you send through a personal statement with spelling and/or grammatical errors. You’ve got months to put this together so there really is no excuse for sending through something that looks like a rush job. Ask your teachers to look at it, and be prepared to accept their feedback without getting defensive. They will have seen many personal statements before; use what they tell you to make yours even better. You’ve also got another chance here to look through the content of your personal statement, so you can make sure the balance is right. Make sure your focus is very clearly on the subject you are applying for and why you want to study it. Don’t post your personal statement on the internet or social media where anyone can see it. You will get picked up by the Ucas plagiarism checker. Similarly, don't copy any that you find online. Instead, now is a good time to make your parents feel useful. Read your personal statement out to them and get them to give you feedback. Or try printing it out and mixing it up with a few others (you can find sample personal statements on The Student Room). Get them to read them all and then try to pick yours out. If they can't, perhaps there's not enough of your personality in there.  

10. Don't think about your personal statement for a whole week

If you followed the advice at the very start of this guide, you’ve started your personal statement early. Good job! There are months before you need to submit it. Use one of these weeks to forget about your personal statement completely. Get on with other things – anything you like. Just don’t go near your statement. Give it a whole week and then open up the document again and read through it with fresh eyes. You’ll gain a whole new perspective on what you’ve written and will be well placed to make more changes, if needed.

• Read more: how to write your personal statement when you have nothing interesting to say  

10 steps to your ideal personal statement

In summary, here are the ten steps you should follow to create the perfect personal statement.  

Personal statement dos and don'ts

• Remember that your personal statement is your personal statement, not an article written about your intended field of study. It should tell the reader about you, not about the subject.
• Only put in things that you’re prepared to talk about at the interviews.
• Give convincing reasons for why you want to study the course – more than just "enjoying the subject" (this should be a given).
• For very competitive courses, find out as much as you can about the nature of the course and try to make your personal statement relevant to this.
• Be reflective. If you make a point like 'I like reading', 'I travelled abroad', say what you got from it.
• Go through the whole thing checking your grammar and your spelling. Do this at least twice. It doesn’t matter if you’re not applying to an essay-based course – a personal statement riddled with spelling mistakes is just going to irritate the reader, which is the last thing you want to do. If this is something you find difficult then have someone look over it for you.
• Leave blank lines between your paragraphs. It’s easier for the reader to get through your personal statement when it’s broken into easily digestible chunks. Remember that they’re going to be reading a lot of these! Make yours easy to get through.
• Get someone else's opinion on your statement. Read it out to family or friends. Share it with your teacher. Look for feedback wherever you can find it, then act upon it.
• Don’t write it like a letter. Kicking off with a greeting such as "Dear Sir/Madam" not only looks weird, it also wastes precious space.
• Don’t make jokes. This is simply not the time – save them for your first night in the union.
• Don’t criticise your current school or college or try to blame teachers for any disappointing grades you might have got.
• Be afraid of details – if you want your PS to be personal to you that means explaining exactly which bits of work or topics or activities you've taken part in/enjoyed. It's much more compelling to read about one or two detailed examples than a paragraph that brushes over five or six.
• Just list what you're doing now. You should pull out the experiences that are relevant to the courses which you're applying to.
• Mention skills and activities without giving examples of when they have been demonstrated by you or what you learnt from them. Anyone can write "I have great leadership skills" in a PS, actually using a sentence to explain when you demonstrated good leadership skills is much rarer and more valuable.
• Refer to experiences that took place before your GCSEs (or equivalent).
• Give explanations about medical or mental health problems. These should be explained in your reference, not your PS.
• Apply for too many different courses, making it difficult to write a convincing personal statement which supports the application.
• Write a statement specific to just one institution, unless you're only applying to that one choice.
• Copy and paste the statement from somewhere else! This means do not plagiarise. All statements are automatically checked for plagiarism by Ucas. Those that are highlighted by the computer system are checked manually by Ucas staff. If you’re found to have plagiarised parts of your statement, the universities you apply to will be informed and it could jeopardise your applications.
• Use ChatGPT or another AI program to write your personal statement for you. Or, if you do, make sure you thoroughly edit and personalise the text so it's truly yours. Otherwise you're very much at risk of the plagiarism point above.

You may want to look at these...

How to write your university application.

Tips for writing your university application, including deadlines and personal statements

The Ucas personal statement is changing in 2025

A question-based personal statement will be required as part of university applications from autumn 2025 onwards

How long does it take for universities to reply to your application?

It might feel like it's taking forever for your uni offers to come through. Find out what's going on, and when you should hear back

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How to Answer: Why Did You Choose to Attend This University or College?

Here are some things to keep in mind when coming up with your answer.

Talk about what makes your college or university a good fit for you.

Whether you originally picked the school because it offered a great curriculum for your chosen major, had an incredible faculty or was the most affordable school in your state, you likely put some thought into picking the place where you were going to spend the next four years. When preparing your answer, mention one or two key things that led to your decision and show how these things have shaped your experience at the school.

Say something like: “I originally chose to attend XYZ University because ______________. During the time I’ve spent there, I’ve been lucky enough to have access to ______________. My education has given me a solid foundation for a career in _________ and I’m so glad I made the decision to go to school there.”

Pro Tip: If your college or university was your first choice because it was the only school you applied to, don’t mention that. Instead, focus on why it was your only choice. Maybe it offered a comprehensive scholarship program, the campus was close to your hometown or going there was a family tradition. Lead with that and then explain the additional benefits you’ve gained during your time there.

Show how your choice of school connects with your choice of career.

Once you’ve established the process that led you to attend your chosen college or university, connect this back to the job opportunity you’re applying for. If your major doesn’t directly relate to the position, talk about relevant skills you’ve learned through electives or experience you’ve gained through internships. Since employers are interested in how you evaluate opportunities and make decisions, showing that you’ve thoughtfully considered the current opportunity will reassure them that you’re committed to the position and the organization.

Say something like: “The experiences I’ve had at XYZ University have also shaped my decision to apply for this position. I want a role that will allow me to put the things I’ve learned into practice and develop my skills even further. I know that this position would be a good fit for me and I’m excited about the possibility of joining the team.”

Now bring it all together.

“I originally chose to attend XYZ University because ______________. During the time I’ve spent there, I’ve been lucky enough to have access to ______________. My education has given me a solid foundation for a career in _________ and I’m so glad I made the decision to go to school there. The experiences I’ve had at XYZ University have also shaped my decision to apply for this position. I want a role that will allow me to put the things I’ve learned into practice and develop my skills even further. I know that this position would be a good fit for me and I’m excited about the possibility of joining the team.”

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Next, get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as How to Become a Recruiter and find answers to common interview questions such as How Do You Handle Pressure? .

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Personal Statements: Why Universities Ask for Them and How to Write One

Unify - Helping people like you to study abroad

Writing personal statements are often a key a part of university applications, and especially so for business school admissions . But what are they, why do universities ask for them, and how do I write one?

In this guide, we’ll cover exactly that to help you understand the importance of personal statements and tips to help you get started writing yours!

What Is a Personal Statement?

A personal statement involves writing about your experience, skills, achievements, and ambitions. It’s usually required to apply for business school , and it’s an opportunity to sell yourself to the university and persuade the admissions board that you’re a suitable applicant.

Personal statements differ from CVs. They’re instead structured in paragraphs, and it’s not just about listing experiences. It’s about describing how these have given you skills that will help you at university and throughout the course.

Why Do Universities Ask for Them?

Personal statements help universities decide on applicants who are the most suitable for the institution and specific course .

As many business school programs are over-subscribed, these often play a crucial role in the selection process. If you’re applying for a high-demand course, your personal statement may just be the deciding factor on whether you get an interview or not!

Personal statements allow you to share more information than can be squeezed on a CV and gives universities a more detailed look at what makes certain applicants stand out from others.

A good personal statement should convey enthusiasm and passion for the course subject and the applicant’s suitability for the program. University admissions are also often looking for evidence of leadership, teamwork, communication, commitment, motivation, research into the subject matter, and any relevant key skills.

How Do I Write a Personal Statement?

It can be difficult to know how to get started writing your personal statement. So, here are some tips to help you!

1. Plan it out and have a clear structure.

Have your motives for applying for the course clear in your mind. Being confident in your choice makes this easier, so spend some time researching the course further. Then, start planning out what details you’re going to include in your personal statement. This will help provide you with something to refer back to and allows you to order your thoughts into a clear structure. Then, set out to write approximately 500 words, and always finish with a small paragraph summarizing the key points you want the admissions team to remember.

2. Cover the topics universities want to hear about.

There are a number of topics you need to cover in a personal statement. This includes reasons for wanting to study the course, why you’re suitable, why you want to study in that country, current or previous studies, related interests and hobbies, academic and professional achievements, and work experience. Don’t be generic. Try to make it as personal as possible as universities want to learn about you and how you fit with what they value.

3. Show off enthusiasm, motivation, and what makes you unique.

Make sure you’re showing how excited you are about the prospect of joining the program and the motivation that drives you. Your statement should also be personal and a true reflection of yourself. So, be original and avoid the cliches admissions teams see again and again. Think outside of the box and focus on what sets you apart.

4. Make sure everything you share is relevant.

As there’s often a word or character limit for personal statements, don’t waste any space on information or details that aren’t relevant to your chosen course and career path. So, double check that everything you’re including really is relevant.

5. Review your grammar.

Spelling and grammar matters, so you’ll need to look over your personal statement and go through multiple rounds of editing. It’s also often helpful to ask others to proofread your statement and provide feedback, so you can fix errors and make improvements.

6. Try to convince, not inform.

When writing a personal statement, focus on convincing the admissions teams that you are a great candidate for their course and not just informing them of your experience. This can be challenging if you haven’t done this style of writing before, so take your time working on this. And find ways you can “show” and not just “tell”.

7. Talk to alumni or current students.

Find alumni or current students you can chat to and ask them how studying at the university is or was and how they achieved their goals while or after they studied. Universities love to know that you talked with alumni or current students. It shows you’ve thoroughly researched the institution.

8. Don’t forget to include your goals and aspirations.

Within your personal statement, make sure to add what your aspirations are and what you hope to achieve by studying there. This should include your professional, academic, and personal goals and can show universities what your motivations and objectives are.

9. Get help from educational consultants.

Writing personal statements is often tricky and overwhelming, so getting help from expert educational consultants can provide you with valuable feedback. This can allow you to improve your statement and the rest of your application.

Unify is here for you! We partner with the top educational consultants in the world to ensure you prepare the best application possible for business school. So, let us help you improve your personal statement and CV and prepare for interviews. Get in touch with our team of college counselors and career coaches for free advice and hands-on support for preparing a strong business school application.

Why did you choose this university? 5 Best Answers

Table of Contents

How do you answer why do you choose this university?

• Know why you chose the university.
• Be prepared to discuss how the university can help you reach your goals.

What not to say when answering

• “I didn’t get into my first-choice school.”
• “It was the only university that accepted me.”
• “I chose it because it’s close to home.”

Common Reasons students choose a particular university:

• The Academics
• Job Opportunities
• Education Fees
• Distance from Home

5 Best Answers to the question, “Why did you choose this university?”

I chose this university for its excellent reputation in business and economics. I want to pursue a career in investment banking, and I know that your alums have a good track record of getting jobs at top firms.

I was looking for a small school where I would get attention and support from my professors. When I visited your campus, I got a good feeling from the students and faculty. Everyone was really friendly and seemed like they were passionate about their work.

I chose this university because it has a great business program, and I wanted to study business administration. The professors have much real-world experience, and the classes are interactive and engaging. Plus, the campus is beautiful, and the students are friendly. Overall, it was the perfect fit for me.

I chose this university because it offers a great range of courses that interest me. In particular, the course in creative writing has appealed to me, and I believe it will help me develop my skills in this area. The lecturers are also very experienced and passionate about their subjects, which is important to me. Overall, this university will provide me with a great learning experience.

I chose this university because of its excellent sports program. I wanted to be able to play football at the collegiate level, and this school offered me the best opportunity to do that. The coaches are top-notch, and the facilities are some of the best in the country. The fans are incredibly passionate about their teams, creating a great game-day atmosphere. I can’t imagine going anywhere else.

Bonus Example Answer

I chose this university because the faculty here strongly emphasizes providing students with plenty of hands-on practice. In many of my classes, I’ve had the opportunity to get out of the classroom and into the lab, where I can apply what I’m learning directly to real-world problems. This experience is invaluable and something you don’t often find at other universities. I also appreciate that this university has a large and diverse student body. So many different perspectives are represented here, which makes for a truly enriching educational experience. Everyone I’ve met has been incredibly welcoming, and I know I’ll continue to learn a lot from my classmates in years to come.

In conclusion

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The Secrets to Writing a Brilliant Personal Statement | University Series Pt 1

The Personal Statement is probably the most crucial element of any university application . It is the closest an Admissions Officer will get to asking ‘who are you really?’, ‘what can you bring to the course?’ and ‘why should I choose you over anyone else?’. That last question is a really important one. You want to prove to whoever reads your Personal Statement why you are most deserving of a place on the course you’ve applied for! But I realise that’s no easy task. Trying to write a statement to get yourself noticed for all the right reasons can be a tall order when you are already juggling numerous deadlines and assessments. To simplify things for you, I’ve put together this handy guide which reveals the secrets to writing a brilliant Personal Statement. Read on for my tips on what to include, structure and selling yourself on paper!

But first things first…

A Few Facts on what the Personal Statement actually is…

• As most universities do not interview applicants, this is your only opportunity to share with Admissions Officers why you wish to study your chosen course
• You have a limit of 4,000 characters and 47 lines
• Your Personal Statement is uploaded as part of your UCAS application – UCAS is the platform used when applying to study at UK universities
• You can only write one Personal Statement to cover all of your applications through UCAS (you have up to five course choices), so don’t mention a university or a specific course by name

Spend Time Planning

It’s likely that you won’t have ever written anything quite like a Personal Statement before. For this reason, I suggest spending time to plan out your ideas and thoughts, before you put together a first draft. I found mind-mapping my ideas onto an A3 sheet of paper really helpful, as this allowed me to make links between various areas of my academics and extra-curricular activities. If you’re really struggling to make a plan, check out this useful document from UCAS , designed to help you gather your thoughts on what to include.

Now, time for my advice when it comes to structuring your Personal Statement… 

Introduction – state your purpose

Here you need to make it very clear what it is you want to study, and (briefly) why you want to study it. Originality is key. However, avoid being cliché. Just remember, what you do want to do is grab the Admissions Officer’s attention.

Often, the opening sentence is the hardest one to write. Do read this excellent article for a guide to writing killer openings with your Personal Statement! As well as offering advice on how to begin, it also includes helpful tips on what to avoid.

Main Section – how have you come to the decision to choose your course? What has prepared you to take it on?

Here I suggest you think about two things…

1. School Work

• How has your studying so far led you towards your course choice?
• Are any of your IB subjects particularly relevant to your course?
• Don’t be afraid to be specific – talk about which topics/modules (ideally relevant ones) that you found especially interesting, and why .
• Give evidence of how you have gained the key skills to succeed on your course.

2. Outside of School

How have you gone out of your way to learn about your subject of choice beyond just school? Examples of this might include:

• Reading books/articles not on your school reading lists
• Watching documentaries/listening to podcasts
• Attending talks/events/lectures on your subject
• Seeking relevant work experience
• Visiting museums/exhibitions
• Talking to experts in the field/current students

Extra Curriculars

Use this next section to show that you are an interesting individual who is capable of successfully pursuing several interests at once. This demonstrates the ability to manage your time well and is a skill which all successful university students have! Discuss your most impressive pastimes: clubs, positions of responsibility, awards, charitable efforts… CAS activities are perfect for this!

Briefly restate why you want to study your course, and why you are a strong applicant. Be concise, and ensure this section makes an impact – it will be the final thing the Admissions Officer reads, so leave a lasting impression!

In terms of how much to write for each section, here’s my suggestion:

• Introduction – 15%
• Main Section – 60%
• Extra Curriculars – 15%
• Conclusion – 10%

Given the unique nature of the Personal Statement, it’s a good idea to produce a few drafts. Play around with different examples and the structure of your statement.  And do remember that every statement is different – if you read an older student’s Personal Statement, don’t feel that yours has to be similar, or follow the same format. Definitely get someone to read through your statement before you submit your application. It’s always useful to have another set of eyes check for spelling/grammar mistakes you might have missed. Or if your school/college has a University/UCAS Advisor, ask them for feedback on your draft. Alternatively, you can get advice on your Personal Statement from one of our elite tutors. As someone who will have recently been through the university application process, your tutor will be able to offer relevant support! For more information, click HERE .

Overall, the key is not just to tell  the admissions officer why you are keen and capable of studying this course, but to show  them. Use evidence to back up what you are saying at every opportunity. Ground what you are saying in real world examples of your ability and enthusiasm. Show them that you mean business! Let your interests and achievements speak from themselves, and you will be putting your best foot forward. You can do it!

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Example of a personal statement for a business degree  .

A business degree personal statement has a big impact on your chances of getting admitted to your desired University.

While grades and UCAS points are an important part of your application, indicating intellectual or academic strength, personal statements are how you demonstrate your character and extracurricular experience.

A personal statement shows your academic achievements in addition to providing context and insight into your passion and goals for business studies. Admissions committees want to know the value you can bring to the university - a personal statement helps them to better determine this.  

This guide will help you write a comprehensive and effective personal statement - one that complements your academic scores with a clear description of your unique talents, experience, ambitions and goals. 

The Structure of a Good Personal Statement

A good business degree personal statement should have a clear and logical structure.

Typically you would want to include the following sections…

Introduction:

• Your motivation for pursuing a business degree.
• Your reason for choosing this course at this university.

Skills and Achievements:

• Key traits and characteristics.
• Your academic accomplishments.
• Any business-related extracurriculars and leadership roles.

Your Business Experiences:

• Work shadow programs, Internships, group projects, or roles that highlight your relevant skills and learning inside or outside of the classroom.
• Key contributions and takeaways from each experience.

Closing Statement:

• Reiteration of your passion and suitability for the course.
• Vision for your future in business.

1. The Introduction: Crafting the Opener

The introduction of your personal statement sets the tone. It's where you explain 'why' you want to study a business degree. The opening lines are important because they capture the admissions committee's attention.

Clarity: Begin with a clear, concise statement about your desire to study business. This could stem from a lifelong fascination, a transformative experience, or a future goal you're aiming for. Explain briefly why you’re interested in this particular course at this particular University.

Personal Touch: Share a personal anecdote or experience that ignited your passion for business. Did a specific event or individual inspire you? Elaborate briefly, connecting it to your broader aspirations.

Forward-looking: Highlight where you envision a business degree taking you. Are you looking to drive innovation in a particular sector? Maybe you aspire to be a future leader in sustainable business practices?

Concise: Keep it short and impactful. Avoid meandering or generic statements. Be genuine about your motivation, ensuring it's specific to your aspirations. Any personal anecdotes should be concise and punchy - to the point.

Your introduction should come across sincerely. It should set the tone by offering a short description of your past inspirations and future ambitions in the realm of business.

2. Skills and Achievements

It’s important to effectively showcase your skills and achievements. Here's how to strategically highlight them:

Traits: Begin by pinpointing key character traits that support and emphasise your suitability for a business course. Are you a decisive problem solver? Perhaps you excel at analytical thinking or demonstrate resilience in the face of challenges. 

Identify your strongest relevant attributes and share them to paint a picture of the potential you can bring to the course. Committees are always looking to find candidates who have traits that will make them good business students and future industry leaders.

Academic: Reference all relevant courses or subjects that align with the courses you're applying to. Did you ace your 'Business Studies'? Why did you settle on the subjects and courses you chose at school? Perhaps you were involved in an olympiad? Make sure to mention any honours or accolades, or academic activities that showcase your academic ability and past performance. 

Academic excellence is always worth mentioning, even in school subjects you might feel are unrelated to business. Bear in mind that ‘business’ is vast, complicated, and ever-changing. It is difficult to predict what knowledge and skills might become critically important to business activity in the future. So, share your academic strengths and interests, whatever they may be. 

Activities: Beyond the classroom. Business schools value real-world engagement, leadership, and teamwork experience . Did you take part in any societies? Did you play a leadership role? Or partake in a notable entrepreneurship competition? Emphasise any leadership roles or participation in business-centric events. These experiences underscore your passion and hands-on involvement in the world of business.

3. Relevant Experience & Roles

A University admissions committee won’t expect you to have started your career already. But they will greatly value any extracurricular initiative. If you have been involved in any entrepreneurial, leadership, or management roles at school, then mention them. If you are a mature student, and have been in the workforce for some time, use any relevant work experience.

Internships or Work Experience: Were you part of an internship or work shadow programme? If so, then it would be excellent to mention how you actively participated in a formal business environment. Describe what business you were a part of, what you did, and what you learned from the experience. Perhaps that experience taught you skills? Any exposure to a business environment is valuable.

Projects & Working as Part of a Team: Perhaps you spearheaded a project at school? Working effectively in a team is a highly valued skill. If you can showcase any team experience that will definitely stand in your favour. Highlight the challenges that you faced, how you resolved them, and show what you learned from your experience working with a group of people. 

Roles: Did you assume any significant roles at school or in a business setting outside of school? Outline your responsibilities, the impact you made, and the insights you gleaned from both your successes and failures. This demonstrates not just your capability to understand a role and its responsibilities, but also your adaptability in changing challenging circumstances. 

If you felt you learned from an unsuccessful project where you had an important role, then share what you might do differently - what you learned. The ability to learn from past ‘failures’ is an extremely desirable trait that admissions committees will value highly.

For each experience, focus on the value you added and the lessons you learned. This will give admissions committees a clear picture of your practical abilities and your potential contribution to their course.

4. Closing Statement: A Strong Impression

Your closing remarks are crucial. They should leave the admissions committee with a good impression and reinforce your fit for the course.

Reiterate Passion: Briefly touch upon the core reasons driving your interest in business, consolidating what you've shared throughout your statement. Perhaps you're motivated by the challenges and opportunities of the evolving business landscape, or you're dedicated to making a positive impact in a specific sector.

Your fit for the Degree: Highlight your alignment with the specific business degree courses to which you're applying. Have you been particularly impressed by their focus on entrepreneurship or their reputation for fostering global leaders? Express how their unique offerings align with your aspirations.

Your Future Vision: Provide a glimpse into your future. Post-degree, where do you see yourself? Leading a startup? Championing sustainable practices in a multinational? Use this chance to project your potential contributions to the business world, showcasing ambition and forward-thinking.

Gratitude and Openness: Express appreciation for considering your application. Showcase your openness to further discussions, signalling your enthusiasm and readiness to engage with the institution.

End on a strong note, ensuring your closing words echo your dedication, clarity of vision, and the unique value you'll bring to the institution. 

Tips & Advice: Helpful Hints to Strengthen Your Personal Statement

Your personal statement is a reflection of your journey, aspirations, and suitability for the business degree. Keep these tips in mind for a standout submission:

• Authenticity: Always be genuine. While it's essential to present your best self, resist the urge to embellish or overstate. Authentic experiences resonate more than grand exaggerations.
• Clarity: Opt for clear, concise language. Admissions committees appreciate directness over dense jargon. Let your true voice shine through.
• Examples: Don't just state; demonstrate. If you claim to be a problem-solver, illustrate with an instance where you tackled a challenge head-on.
• Tailoring: Beyond expressing your passion for business, pinpoint why this specific degree aligns with your goals. Is it their renowned faculty, innovative curriculum, or alumni network?
• Review: Never underestimate the value of proofreading. Ensure your statement is free from errors, reads smoothly, and truly represents you. It also often pays to get someone else to read it and give you constructive feedback.

We hope this guide will help you to create the best personal business degree statement that you can. Best of luck with your applications going forward.

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  I am keen to pursue MSc (PGCertPGDip) Logistics and Supply Chain Management progamme at the University of Brighton because the professional world today is highly competitive and the importance of supply chain management and logistics in globalization, and digitization has multiplied. As I aim to improve and strengthen my knowledge of this Logistics and Supply Chain Management. This course covers topics such as Digital Supply Chain, International ....

PersonalStatement- BSc (Hons) Computer Science

The course that I’m looking to pursue is BSc (Hons) Computer Science at University of East London (UEL). Through the teachings of this course, I will be able to gain invaluable in-depth and practical knowledge which will help me in starting a successful career. The opportunity to apply my theories and ideas in practice will benefit me to enhance my skills and knowledge and to achieve a deeper understanding of the field of Web Technologies, Computer S....

Personal Statement - LLM International Law and Social Justice

I am keen to pursue LLM International Law and Social Justice at University of Brighton. This LL.M in international law and Social Justice will complement and enhance my Bachelor degree. The application is supported by my CV and evidence of my qualifications, references and my eligibility to study. This will verify the information contained within this application. If I may complete the LLM international law and Social Justice, I will get a vast idea about ....

Personal Statement - MSc Management with Professional Development and Planning

I, S Ahmed, am from Bangladesh a highly ambitious boy. I am 27 years old. I have decided to study in the MSc Management with Professional Development and Planning (PDP) Programme at BPP University because it is a comprehensive and detailed course of study that provides the knowledge and skills needed by contemporary global business organisations. As this course prepares graduates for management-level positions and so I am looking forward to achieving this ....

Personal Statement of Purpose - MBA

I am keen to study MBA at York Saint John University, London. This course is suitable for me to enhance my academic qualifications and it will be a great opportunity to start a successful career through deep insights and practical knowledge. Moreover, I believe getting a chance to pursue my study career in this University will progress me both professionally and intellectually, besides the opportunity to apply my theories and ideas in practice will benefit....

Personal Statement of Purpose - BSc (Hons) Computer Science with International Foundation Programme

I am intending to pursue the BSc (Hons) Computer Science with International Foundation Programme at University of East London (Malvern House). This course is currently in the midst of a technological and computing revolution that will radically change my life and potentially redefine what it means to be human. I will be able to build a strong foundation in computer science fundamentals in this course, including modeling and designing information systems, d....

Personal Statement - BSc (Hons) Business Management

I am keen to study the BSc (Hons) Business Management with International Foundation Programmeat the University of East London.I am very ambitious and I have always been interested in management-related things. I believe Management to be a fast-developing profession as business industries are heavily involved with their management for all kinds of decisions, and I find the prospect of working in this field inspiring. And I found that studying this course wi....

SOP – MSc Management with Project Management

My name is BalajiYadagani, and I’m a 28-year-old Indian looking to pursue MSc Management with Project Management with Professional Development and Planning (PDP) at BPP University. This course is suitable for me to enhance my academic qualifications and it will be a great opportunity to start a successful career through deep insights and practical knowledge. I have gained knowledge and skills of English language during my bachelor’s at Jawaharl....

SOP - MSc Management with Professional Development and Planning

I want to study the MSc Management with Professional Development and Planning (PDP) module offered by BPP University because the programme is a comprehensive and detailed programme of study that offers the knowledge and skills demanded by contemporary global business organizations. The programme provides a range of theoretical knowledge of modern business practice while equips with number of practical skills that can enhance my competitive edge to potentia....

Personal statement - MSc International Management

I am keen to pursue MSc International Management at University of Brighton. By researching the course curriculum available at university website, I become to know that this course helps students to develop the global business knowledge which will help me to achieve my future career goal. Moreover, I believe getting a chance to pursue my study career in thisUniversity will progress me both professionally and intellectually. Besides the opportunity to apply ....

Personal Statement - MSc Healthcare Leadership

My name is Md R Islam and I am 25 years old. I am from Bangladesh. Right now, I am intending to pursue the MSc Healthcare Leadership programme at BPP University. By studying this programme I will be able to evaluate critically a range of leadership models, techniques, and appropriate application to everyday working practice. Moreover, I believe getting a chance to pursue this MSc course at this University will progress me both professionally and intellectu....

SOP - MSc Computer Science with Professional Experience

I amkeento pursueMSc ComputerSciencewith ProfessionalExperienceatYork StJohn University. This programme will balance bothadvancedpractical skills and theoreticalknowledge to providewith theabilityto entera range ofprofessionalIT disciplines andemployment.Moreover, this coursehelps student to furtherdevelop their knowledge andskills within the cutting-edgeareas of ComputerScience. Accordingto myresearch andfindingsIhavefound that an MScin ComputerScience....

SOP - MSc Accounting and Finance [Advance Diploma Route]

I have chosen to study MSc Accounting and Finance [Advance Diploma Route] at BPP University. This course modules is designed to develop critical thinking and analytical skills, the further study is essential for a successful global accounting career. The course is ideal for starting a successful career through invaluable insights and practical knowledge which will be playing a vital role to achieve my future career objectives. BPP University offers some....

Personal Statement - MSc Planning and Development

I am M Ali and from Bangladesh. I am writing this application with great joy to study the course MSc Planning and Development at the Queen’s University Belfast. This course is designed to provide a broad knowledge of planning and professional skills and to use statistical analysis. More importantly, this course will teach me how they solve problems, and create new solutions for the built environment and understand the complexity of environmental mana....

PS - MSc Accounting and Finance [Advanced Diploma Route]

I am willing to study the MSc Accounting and Finance [Advanced Diploma Route] programme at BPP University. The course is ideal for starting a successful career through invaluable insights and practical knowledge which will be playing a vital role to achieve my future career goal. After completing my HSC & SSC in Science group, I completed my Bachelor of Arts and Masters in Da’wah and Islamic Studies. During my school days, I had taken part in ....

Personal Statement of Purpose - MSc Management

I am intending to study the MSc Management at University of Brighton to enhance my academic knowledge and create better and further opportunities for my career. By doing a lot of research on the University website for the course, I can confidently say that this course will satisfy my curiosity and hope and it will lead me to a career that I aim to develop in a sustainable way. In this MSc Management program at Brighton University, I will be able to do c....

Statement of Purpose - MBA

I am Md S Uddin,keen to study the MBA with work placement at York St John University London Campus to enhance my current academic attainments, extend my skills in Business and with professional skills and create better opportunities to design my career in the field. Following my Secondary and Higher Secondary education were science background and I studied my Bachelor and Master Degree in Daw’ah and Islamic Studies under the International Islamic ....

Personal Statement - MSc International Business

I have been doing extensive research since my last graduation to narrow-down my prospective course of study. After much deliberation, I have decided to pursue MSc International Business at University of Bedfordshire. The program provides its students with the knowledge and professional skills that go beyond the scope of standard management and I believe that this program will give the premise to me to advance into a profession with extraordinary potential.....

Statement of Purpose-MSc International Business

Following my Successful completion of the MSc International Accounting and Finance at London South Bank University, I have made a strategic decision to extend my academic knowledge and skills further with an MSc in International Business so that I can gain mastery in varied functions of business and organisations. My aim is to gain control over my efficiency and leave no gap in my accomplishments so that I can be a human asset for my employer or my own pro....

Statement of Purpose - MSc International Business

Upon finishing my recent study of MSc International Finance, while waiting for the final result, a thorough inspection in my accomplishments till now, I find myself narrowed to a one dimensional direction of accounting and finance. A transition and shift to UK’s dynamic environment from my home country Pakistan, I have observed the broader aspects of career directions and demands of global business organisations. The needs for rounded knowledge and s....

Statement of Purpose - DBA Course

I am very keen to follow Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) course at University of the Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD). While doing my Master in Management with Finance from BPP University after my MBA from University of West London, I became more attached to the management area of business and industry and planned my career in this arena. The DBA course will enable me to gain new horizon of knowledge in those areas and boost my career prospects as....

Statement of Purpose MSc Clinical Dermatology course

A medical graduate from the College of Medicine, University of Sulaimani, Iraq with few years of experience as a Dermatology Professional, I am driven to gain advanced level knowledge and skills in the field from scholastic institution and specialise in Clinical Dermatology with a master degree. After exploring my options and researching different study opportunities, I am keen to follow the MSc Clinical Dermatology course offered by Kings College London. ....

MBA - sample statement of Purpose

To master my business management knowledge and skills that I have gained from my recently completed Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) course, I aim to follow the Master of Business Administration course (MBA) and progress towards my career goals. After extensive search and research of course, universities and study destinations, I have decided to undertake the MBA programme offered by the University of the West of Scotland (UWS). At UWS, this MB....

LLM Commercial and Corporate Law - Sample Personal Statement

My name is T Ahmed. My nationality is Bangladeshi and I am 25 years old. I am intending to pursue the LLM Comparative Commercial Law at BPP University to to achieve a deeper understanding of the field of Comparative Commercial Law. I look forward to having the opportunity to study it to a higher level. Following my SSC & HSC, I have completed my Bachelor of Laws (Honours) from ASA University of Bangladesh in 2019. Then I admitted myself at Jagannath Un....

MBA with pre-master's

A recent graduate of Political Science, I have been in search of scopes for job opportunities in my home country and found very limited options let alone extreme competition in Bangladesh Job Market where unemployment rate is too high. The analysis has prompted me to re-think and plan realistically for further study options that can facilitate more and better career prospects. An evaluation of the current trends of the job market in Bangladesh, I have esta....

MSc Business with International Management with Advanced Practice

Today’s changing nature of global business and organisations that are evolving at fast pace to emancipate traditional management with business leaders who are versatile and pragmatic. Given the recent development that my home country India has seen in the last decade, it has become integral to co-ordinate and sustain the growth with skilled and professional human capital. This importance goes further with demands for skilled and educated women to put....

MBA (Master of Business Administration)

I am keen to pursue the Master of Business Administration (MBA) programme offered by the celebrated Bristol Business School of University of the West of England (UWE). As the MBA is recognised as the benchmark professional qualification in management, this rigorous and career-oriented MBA programme, once qualified will give the message to my employer that I can think strategically and beyond my immediate role. These programmes will undoubtedly help me g....

Following my recently completed Master of Business Studies under the National University of Bangladesh, I take great interest to study an MBA programme under the Northampton University, the ‘Gold’ ranked university by the Teaching Excellence Framework. I have made the decision after considering all aspects of my academic and career developments. In my Master of Business Studies, I have gathered one-dimensional knowledge mainly focused to man....

MSc Clinical Dermatology

Note: the example personal statement (statement of purpose) below is for guidelines only and to help you understand how to write one - do not copy any part of it. When applying to universities, write your own personal statement (statement of purpose) according to your profile for the course you are applying. Please check HERE for detailed guidelines on how to write a personal statement (statement of purpose). I am keen to follow the MSc Clinical Dermato....

DBA - Doctor of Business Administration

I am highly motivated to study the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) programme to enhance my academic accomplishments and gain further personal and professional developments. The qualification would facilitate me to realise my career plan as a business management consultant and develop it to further height. I have recently completed MSc Management with Finance course - the study has provided me insights into various areas of management and busines....

Personal Statement for MBA course application

A recent graduate with a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) Degree, the Master of Business Administration (MBA) course as my postgraduate study pathway is the reflection of my academic pursuance for greater depth of knowledge in the area. While reviewing my options for a master’s study between MSc and MBA, I have concluded that being a premier business and management qualification, an MBA could provide rounded knowledge while complementing my ....

Doctor of Business Administration - DBA

I am keen to follow the DBA programme offered by the University of the West of Scotland to gain further academic progression and enhance my academic heights to next level. This accomplishments along with my current qualifications would provide me the strength to realise my career plan as a consultant for business and organisations. From my research, I have found out that as the number of MBA holders continues to grow, the DBA qualification enables gradu....

MSc International Human Resource Management

I want to pursue my higher education at University of Bedfordshire for the MSc International Human Resource Management in November 2021 intake. I want to study this course to enhance my current academic credentials and prepare myself as a career ready graduate with required skills and knowledge for my future managerial role (HR & Admin ) at BEXIMCO Textile Limited , Bangladesh. I strongly believe that this course will meet the requirement with relevant....

MSc Finance and Business Management

My Enthusiasm knows no bound to apply for the MSc Finance and Business Management course at the University of Bedfordshire. While researching on my further study options in the UK, the course and its contents have caught my attention – the 3 in 1 combination of finance, business and management incorporated in one master degree is truly a perfect opportunity to specialise in 3 vital functional areas of business organisations. The course has been ....

MSc Computing Networking Programme

I am interested to follow the MSc Computing Networking programme at the University of Bedfordshire because this course will enhance my knowledge of computer networking technologies - through the use of real-world applications, I will gain an in-depth understanding of advanced and academic computing skills. I have studied BCS Certificate and Diploma level in computing followed by year 3 top up BSc in Computing under the University of Greenwich. In thes....

MBA Programme

The MBA Global Business is a premier masters qualification offered at Coventry University London – the qualification is a powerful demonstration of some of the most sought-after attributes in any executive: intelligence; innovation; and determination. It blends established expertise with the latest thinking of contemporary business and management to provide a real catalyst to develop career. In a fiercely competitive employment market, the MBA giv....

LLM Commercial Law

With the procession of globalisation internationally based and active industries continue to grow each year and marching together. In this climate of globalisation, commerce and trade exert some of the most powerful influences on human activity and commercial relationships reflect a constantly evolving world. The above aspects have brought good practice along with malpractice in business and organisations. The ingenuity of traders and the complexity of ....

ACCA programme

Developing countries like Bangladesh, my home country, we need Accountancy and Finance professionals equipped with Western and European qualifications accompanied by practically experienced social, cultural and economic activities practised there. There was a time, it had been almost impossible to gain access to these special qualifications by students in general. ACCA (The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) – the largest accountancy b....

BSc (Hons) Professional Accounting Course

Note: the example personal statement (statement of purpose) below is for guidelines only and to help you understand how to write one - do not copy any part of it. When applying to universities, write your own personal statement (statement of purpose) according to your profile for the course you are applying. Please check HERE for detailed guidelines on how to write a personal statement (statement of purpose). My aim is to become a ....

ACCA Course

I am motivated to study the ACCA course which predominantly focuses in accounting and finance with other key functional areas of business and organisation. The syllabus of the programme is modernised to address global issues virtually in all aspects of business. Being qualified with ACCA would equip me with complete knowledge and competences in professional capacity for accounting, finance, tax, audit, management, consultancy, marketing, human resource, co....

The ACCA Programme

I am an MA in the subject of English – English is a major international language and the language of corporate world. The language dominates the communications among business communities across the globe. The study of English itself does not have much merit in itself except for academic learning. The knowledge does not have much use apart from communication in the present global climate of business revolution. I have realised this after coming to ....

The ACCA Course

Though I have very strong academic achievements and qualifications, I have realised my attainments have enabled me extensive theoretical knowledge which requires transformation with professional skills and competences. Moreover, the theoretical parts of learning can be further explored with critical analysis techniques and tools. This findings in my skills shortage have prompted me to decide to study ACCA programme that offer professional edge with advance....

ACCA - Association of Chartered Certified Accountants Study

I am keen to pursue the ACCA programme because the programme is a comprehensive and intensive investigation into key areas in accounting and finance - it is both academically rigorous and closely in line with professional practice. Accounting has been defined as the measurement and disclosure of financial information that is used by managers, investors and others to make decisions about the allocation of resources within organisations. It is much more t....

MSc International Marketing Course

In today’s era of globalization, business functions are more independent and require specialist knowledge to sustain growth and remain competitive. General management with bit of knowledge in every function is no more effective and hence traditional management has shifted focuses on specialist knowledge and skills in individual units or single functions. Modern business organsiations now demand specialists in every department. I have learned this ....

ACCA Programmes

Today’s world of success is dominated by business and Accounting is often described as the 'language of business', it involves analysing and using financial information to understand and evaluate the financial position of an organisation. Accounting is really the language business speaks. Business communicates in dollars and pounds and accountants are an integral part of that communication. A professional accounting qualification is not ju....

MSc International Marketing programme

From my recent study MBA, I have learned that marketing marks the heart and soul of most business because the success of a business is directly impacted by marketers – from the analyses of markets and consumers, to the advertising and selling of products. Successful businesses like Virgin, McDonalds, KFC, Apple, Coca-Cola, they all have one thing in common – a successful, dynamic marketing team. In a world where social media and relationship....

MSc Computer Networking

I write to express my enthusiasm and interests in the MSc Computer Networking study opportunity and particularly why University of Bedfordshire is my first preference as an institute for my higher study. As because I completed BEng (Hons) Telecommunication and Computer Networks Engineering from London South Bank University and as because Computer Networking one of my favorite subjects in undergraduate, I am very passionate and wish to promote my career in ....

MBA International

Note: the example personal statement (statement of purpose) below is for guidelines only and to help you understand how to write one - do not copy any part of it. When applying to universities, write your own personal statement (statement of purpose) according to your profile for the course you are applying. Please check HERE for detailed guidelines on how to write a personal statement (statement of purpose). The world is changing, a....

LLB - the Bachelor of Laws (Hons) Course

My upbringing has honed my perception of society and people leading me to be acutely aware of social injustice, inequality, exploitation, discrimination, and religious fundamentalism, especially in a society such as the one I am a citizen of – Sri Lanka.  As I grew up I nurtured a desire to work through my life in establishing a society that would be free from these. As such, I have chosen to study law (LLB) and take training as a Lawyer/Ba....

BSc (Hons) Business Management Course

A devoted student of business discipline since my secondary school, I have recently completed a BTEC Level 3 Certificate in Business successfully. The qualification has perfectly set a platform for me to start my bachelor degree study in the area of business in the UK universities. I have taken considerations for options available for me at different institutions, and finally decided to study the BSc (Hons) Business and Management at the BPP University, th....

BSc (Hons) Business and Management

Ba (hons) business management programme (final year).

I have chosen to pursue the BA (Hons) Business Management degree course under the University of Sunderland London because this course has been developed not only to reflect the increasing international dimension of business and management, but also to provide a range of opportunities and experiences that will help develop my the intercultural skills necessary to operate effectively across national and cultural boundaries. The study would give me a true ins....

Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) programme

The globally recognised ACCA qualification is a badge of quality and professionalism – it provides knowledge and skills at the highest professional standard. It is a broad-based qualification, focusing on the essential skills of accounting, business, finance and management - ACCA incorporates subjects, in fact, areas of accountancy, management, audit, tax, corporate law, finance and other related functions of business and organisation. I am intere....

PGD Strategic Leadership and Executive Management Programme

I intend to follow the Post Graduate Diploma in Strategic Leadership and Executive Management programme at the Westminster Kingsway College (WKC) which is in the forefront in providing this life-skill course. The programme has been designed on a combination of executive coaching and work based learning – this allow learners to define a set of objectives designed to have a real impact on their workplace and develop these into a work-based learning ....

MSc Project Management

The principle reason that motivated me to pursue the MSc Project Management course is the appeal and challenge Project Managers experience in delivering assignments they undertake in their career. The qualification, indeed, lead to very smart and modern careers for graduates who love challenges, creativity, leadership and success. As a graduate of Mathematics, I have cultivated these features in my student life. Now, for my master level of study, I would l....

MSc Medical Ultrasound Programme

I am keen to study the MSc Medical Ultrasound programme to develop my skills and work towards advanced and consultant-level practice. As a healthcare professional, the area has drawn my interest and I believe the study will enhance my competences to further level with newer domain of knowledge and skills. From the study, I aim to develop my understanding of the relevant ultrasound principles including current applications of ultrasound and imaging modal....

MSc Marketing and Business Management

As they say: without marketing there is no business; and both marketing and business must be management efficiently and effectively, I have decided to study a post-graduation qualification that combines both and carry on from my current qualification. I have found the MSc Marketing and Business Management fulfils my academic goals and would help achieving my career aspirations. In fact, today’s business world is constantly changing; technological ....

MSc Management programme

Note: the example personal statement (statement of purpose) below is for guidelines only and to help you understand how to write one - do not copy any part of it. When applying to universities, write your own personal statement (statement of purpose) according to your profile for the course you are applying. Please check HERE for detailed guidelines on how to write a personal statement (statement of purpose). I have chosen to study t....

MSc Management with Project Management

As a student, I have been always in search for the knowledge and skills that would put me the right direction with concurrent trends of global business and position me in strong career role that I enjoy with thorough and complete knowledge, skills and efficiency and thus be in demands with employers as a key player. With my BSc in Computer Science and MSc in Mathematics from India, I sought for business management knowledge from Europe to earn transfera....

MSc Management with Finance

A bachelor degree holder in the business administration from south Asia, I have recently accomplished a BSc (Hons) in Business Studies from the University of Ulster, United Kingdom. While these two qualifications from two different continents are at same academic level, the different learning set up and environment, education system have transformed my knowledge with newer perspectives and better insights. The study has, in fact, driven my academic pursuan....

MSc International Tourism and Hospitality Management

I have noticed that tourism and hospitality are closely-related areas of an economic and social phenomenon that have developed a critical role in the world economy. The industry has become one of the major players in international commerce, and represents at the same time one of the main income sources for many developing countries with economic and employment benefits. The profession is not only profit oriented but also interesting and full of colourful f....

MSc International Marketing

I take great inspiration from my recently attained higher study programme, MBA International under Anglia Ruskin University to further expand my knowledge in the branches of business management and gain all-round efficiency. One of the major areas that has been highlights of global business success in most recent time is International Marketing and this was not served in the menu of my MBA syllabus. To fulfil my academic aspiration with complete satisfacti....

MSc International Business Programme

I am keen to follow the MSc International Business Programme at University of Ulster London to fulfil my academic vision of gaining the ultimate contemporary knowledge and skills in the area and to achieve my career goal and its subsequent development in international arena. Earlier I had studied an MBA via BTEC Advanced Professional Diploma in Management Studies (APDMS).  I was awarded 60 APL credits for the APDMS by New Bucks University towards t....

MSc International Business

In the era of “Information & Technology”, the world has truly provided a wonderful platform for every person to chase their own dream and turn them into reality. As for me, my dream is to study MSc International Business at University of Bedfordshire. I set my heart on developing my current academic achievement under University of Bedfordshire, because I will be constantly exposed to skills and ideas that will enable me to develop into a managemen....

MSc International Business Management

Business success requires a breadth of knowledge and abilities of efficient management to survive in fierce global competition. The economic backbone of contemporary world is backed by business and creative management that can administer and conducts operations with strategic action in different functions. Since my academic interests and career visions evolve in the area, I have made decision to study the MSc International Business Management programme wit....

I have chosen to study MSc Finance and Business Management programme because I believe from the study I will develop an in-depth understanding of finance and its management in the success of business. I will learn to apply latest thinking on finance and management to the analysis of the key business problems being experienced by the world's major businesses and to develop the research skills necessary to tackle financial and business management problem....

MSc Finance and Accounting

It is my most recent study of BA Honours in International Management that has given me a good chance to assess my learning needs with specific needs and I have identified what areas to focus more and specialise on in today’s global environment of economic challenge. After careful thought and research, I have finally synchronised my career targets with my academic aims and made my decision to follow the MSc Accounting and Finance programme. The two....

MSc Applied Finance

Note: the example personal statement (statement of purpose) below is for guidelines only and to help you understand how to write one - do not copy any part of it. When applying to universities, write your own personal statement (statement of purpose) according to your profile for the course you are applying. Please check HERE for detailed guidelines on how to write a personal statement (statement of purpose). I have chosen to study MSc Applied Finance p....

MSc Applied Finance Programme

I have chosen to study MSc Applied Finance programme because I believe from the study I will develop an in-depth understanding of finance to apply latest thinking on finance and management to the analysis of the key problems being experienced by the world's major businesses and to develop the research skills necessary to tackle financial and business management problems and issues. Unlike my current qualification MBA, I will have the opportunity to ....

MSc Accounting and Finance

Note: the example personal statement (statement of purpose) below is for guidelines only and to help you understand how to write one - do not copy any part of it. When applying to universities, write your own personal statement (statement of purpose) according to your profile for the course you are applying. Please check HERE for detailed guidelines on how to write a personal statement (statement of purpose). I have chosen to study MSc Ac....

Today's business environment is continuously changing and the management is facing diverse challenges ranging from the financial constraints of the current global economy, to the demand for raw materials and the need to focus on sustainability and corporate social responsibility. Future managers must be prepared with knowledge and skills that addresses international business issues in contemporary time and reflects on the actions and needs for capabili....

MBA in IT Management

I have chosen to study the MBA (Information Technology Management) programme under the University of Bedfordshire because this programme is designed to help students meet the challenges that managers are facing in the global business environment in the IT industry- this would be an ideal opportunity to enhance my academic knowledge, develop professional experience and prepare for career progressions. From extensive research on the course, syllabus, cont....

MA International Human Resource Management

My choice of MA International Human Resource Management course as my higher study programme is not a selection at spur of the moment; it is a reflection of my long preparation since I completed my Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) degree under Eastern University, Bangladesh. In fact, in my BBA study, my major was Human Resource Management and I thoroughly enjoyed strategic human resource management, industrial relations, organisation change and ....

MA in International Development

I am M Hasan from Bangladesh. I am writing this statement with great joy to study the course MA International Development at the University of East Anglia (UEA). This course is designed to provide a broad knowledge of moral, practical, and political challenges that are faced by the world today. More importantly, this course will teach me how the world politics, morals, gender equality, climate change and access to education shapes the economy. If I get the....

LLM International Human Rights Law

I  have  made  my  mind  to  study  LLM International Human Rights Law at University of Bedfordshire (UoB). LLM Human Rights Law is a unique programme designed  to enable students to progress to become human rights practitioners and specialists in this dynamic area of law.  This  course  would  allow  me  to  gain  academic  progress sion  since  it  is&n....

Bachelor of Laws (Hons)

Lawyers play different roles in eradicating corruption, uplifting human rights and establishing the rule of law. Hence, I believe that training as a Lawyer would certainly give me the best opportunity to stand up against all the wrongs in the society and that would be the best way to serve the people of my country. For this, the first step I like to take is to study the LLB (Honours) programme. The LLB is the quickest and most common route to becoming a....

HND Business Management

I am keen to study the HND Business Management at the highly esteemed Ealing, Hammersmith & West London College as part of my higher education plan and reach to my career goals. This course under the well-known awarding body Edexcel has been designed to prepare students with contemporary business management knowledge to match the ever changing global business and organisations and their effective management. The course structure is planned to dev....

Extended Masters in Management

I am keen to follow the Extended Masters offered by the BPP University, UK’s only university exclusively dedicated for business and the professions. As this 2 year programme is designed with a Pre-Masters Diploma in Business Management in the 1st year and then an MSc in the 2nd year – the programme aims to prepare students with pre knowledge for the chosen field of MSc at the university including MSc Management, MSc Management with Finance, ....

Degree Foundation Programme

Note: the example personal statement (statement of purpose) below is for guidelines only and to help you understand how to write one - do not copy any part of it. When applying to universities, write your own personal statement (statement of purpose) according to your profile for the course you are applying. Please check HERE for detailed guidelines on how to write a personal statement (statement of purpose). I am eager to follow the Degr....

BSc (Hons) Nursing

I want to study nursing because I believe it will be the start of a long and successful career in working in the medical field. My goal is to work in operating theatres. I want to develop a set of skills which will stay with me for the rest of my life and kick start a career doing something I love. In fact, I would like to study nursing because I feel it will lead me directly to one of the most emotionally fulfilling careers available, as well as giving....

BSc (Hons) International Business Management

I am pleased to apply for the BSc (Hons) International Business Management since I have found the programme crossing my academic progression route. I have found the programme offered by Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) very interesting in fulfilling my academic and career goal. The course offered by ARU covers all the major functional areas of business and organisation from finance and marketing to human resource management and information management; it ....

BSc (Hons) Business Management

The time I realised the employment market and the economic backbone of the world is dominated by business degree holders, I had already completed my BA (Pass) course in general discipline. In particular, my work role at Inspire System Limited as Account Executive has inspired my ambition to gain qualification in business related area significantly. Driven by my dream, I applied to the UK Government College, Westminster Kingsway College to study BTEC Lev....

BSc (Hons) in Business and Tourism

Tourism is now one of the largest industries in the world, with increasingly less and less of the world untouched by its influence. As such, it operates in highly dynamic and diverse sets of environments. Tourism Business, Tourism Management have brought business and tourism in single platform. The modern tourism industry requires managers with relevant knowledge and skills. A BSc programme in Business and Tourism can mingle business and tourism for the....

PGD Strategic Leadership and Executive Management

It gives me great pleasure to apply for the PGD Strategic Leadership and Executive Management programme at the Westminster Kingsway College, a publicly funded highly trusted college in Central London. I have made the decision, after careful thought and extensive research, to study this programme as my higher education in the UK with the vision to gain skills that would enhance my knowledge and competency at higher level academically and professionally. ....

Association of Chartered Certified Accountants

Following my MSc in Financial Management qualification in 2012, I have been in constant search for a real career for couple of years with my Tier 1 Post Study Work Visa. Today after 2 years, I have the chance to re-assess  my position and discover the reasons for not being able to match what I really want as career, and this goes without saying that I must acquire professional competency, skills and knowledge that contemporary employers look for, not ....

BA (Hons) Business and Marketing

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What is an engineering personal statement?

Your engineering personal statement should tell the university all about your strengths, skills, experience and ambitions.

It should also convey your enthusiasm for engineering (either in general, or for a specific branch such as civil, aeronautical, etc.), and what aspects of the subject you enjoy and why.  

Your engineering personal statement will be used by universities to decide whether you are a good candidate to study engineering, and whether they want to offer you a place on their course.

How do I write an engineering personal statement?

It’s a good idea to start your statement with why you want to study engineering at university. Try to pick one or two specific aspects that you like in particular and why they appeal to you.

Make sure you back up everything with examples (always show, don’t tell). You need to convince the admissions tutors that you they should offer you a place on their engineering course over anyone else.

A successful engineering personal statement should be written clearly and concisely, with a good introduction, middle, and conclusion.

For inspiration on how to write your own unique statement, take a look at some of our engineering personal statement examples above.

What should I include in my engineering personal statement?

It’s important to include skills and experience from all areas of your life and try to relate them to hobbies or extracurricular activities if they helped you to build on certain strengths.

Think about how any work experience has benefitted you, and how it might be useful in your degree. University admissions tutors want to know what you can bring to their department and what value you can add.

Engineering also required you to demonstrate experience in highly practical subjects.

For example, for an electrical engineering personal statement, you could talk about your hands-on skills and interests. Have you repaired a radio or television? How did you do it and what did you learn from it?

Make sure you explain with enthusiasm – tutors want passionate students on their course that are really going to make the most of their time at university.

For more help and advice on what to write in your engineering personal statement, please see:

• Personal Statement Editing Services
• Personal Statement Tips From A Teacher
• Analysis Of A Personal Statement
• The 15th January UCAS Deadline: 4 Ways To Avoid Missing It
• Personal Statement FAQs
• Personal Statement Timeline
• 10 Top Personal Statement Writing Tips
• What To Do If You Miss The 15th January UCAS Deadline.

What can I do with an engineering degree?

There are many career options available to those wishing to study engineering. These include:

• Mechanical / electrical / chemical / aerospace / marine engineer
• Operations manager
• Building site inspector
• Signalling technician
• Metrologist
• Technical brewer
• Boat builder .

However, there are other areas or industries you can choose to work in where an engineering degree would be useful, such as teaching or research. For more information and advice, please see AllAboutCareers and the National Careers Service .

Which are the best UK universities for engineering?

Currently, the best universities in the UK for studying engineering at in 2023 are:

Other top universities for engineering include the University of Strathclyde , University of Manchester and the University of Edinburgh . For more information about UK university engineering rankings, please see The Complete University Guide .

What are the entry requirements for engineering?

If you want to take a degree in engineering you need an A level (or equivalent) in maths. In many cases you also need physics.

Some chemical engineering degrees ask for maths and chemistry instead; some ask for maths and physics; and some ask for all three.

Therefore, it's important to check the entry requirements carefully for any engineering course you are considering applying for.

A level entry requirements range from CCC to A*A*A*, with universities and colleges usually asking for ABB.

Find out more in our engineering subject application guide .

Which is the easiest engineering degree?

Most students would say that although still considered challenging, civil engineering is the easiest engineering degree to obtain.

However, it is still a rigorous course and you will need all the necessary entry requirements to secure a place (as well as a great personal statement !).

What engineering job has the highest salary?

According to the Engineer Salary Survey 2022 , engineers in the manufacturing sector are the highest paid in the UK, with an average salary of £65,340; followed by engineers in the energy, renewables and nuclear sector, who earn an average of £62,709.

The average salary for all engineers in 2022 was £58,108, which compares reasonably well with other professions in the UK, sitting below those in strategy and consultancy, qualified accountants, and those in banking, but above those working in financial services.

Is studying engineering hard?

Engineering ranks among one of the hardest degrees you can do.

The degree requires you to have everything from logic and common sense to a tremendous amount of patience when things don't go your way.

Engineering can be very difficult because you're essentially becoming a “professional problem solver”.

Remember that all engineering fields require a sting grasp of mathematics but some require more than others.

Engineering disciplines like electrical , mechanical , chemical , biomedical , software , aerospace and civil engineering all require very good math skills. However, some disciplines, like industrial engineering require slightly less.

Further resources

For more information on engineering degrees and careers, please see the following:

• What type of engineering should you study?
• Engineering and technology subject guide
• Engineering degrees in the UK
• Engineering and maintenance careers
• What are all the different types of engineering jobs?
• 5 exciting careers in engineering
• Engineering careers advice for school leavers .

Related resources

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Engineering Graduates: What Next?

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 " I chose to attend Simon Fraser University (SFU) for its renowned Department of French, which offers a robust academic program with a strong focus on literature and language studies. SFU's commitment to fostering a multicultural and inclusive environment resonated with my personal and professional goals."  

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French master's student in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences

Tell us a little about yourself, including what inspires you to learn and continue in your chosen field.

My name is Atanga Williams, and I am a Master of Arts in French student here at Simon Fraser University before coming here, I obtained a Bachelor of Arts in French and Chinese from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology. I am inspired by the power of effective communication to bridge cultural gaps and foster understanding. My dedication to continuous learning stems from a desire to make a meaningful impact through language education and bilingual communication, ensuring information is accessible and clear for all.

Why did you choose to come to SFU?

I chose to attend Simon Fraser University (SFU) for its renowned Department of French, which offers a robust academic program with a strong focus on literature and language studies. SFU's commitment to fostering a multicultural and inclusive environment resonated with my personal and professional goals.

How would you describe your research or your program to a family member?

My research at Simon Fraser University delves into how African migration and cultural identity are portrayed in literature, focusing on the novel "Le ventre de l'Atlantique" by Fatou Diome. I examine how characters in the book navigate their sense of self and belonging in a new cultural context. By analyzing the author's writing techniques and the historical and social backgrounds of the story, I explore how these themes impact the characters' personal growth and identities.

What three (3) keywords would you use to describe your research?

Identity, Migration, Belongingness

How have your courses, RA-ships, TA-ships, or non-academic school experiences contributed to your academic and/or professional development?

My courses and teaching assistantships (TA-ships) have significantly contributed to my academic and professional development. Advanced coursework at Simon Fraser University provided me with in-depth knowledge of French literature and themes in migritude. Through TA-ships, I gained valuable experience in teaching, curriculum development, and student engagement, honing my communication and instructional skills.

What have been the most valuable lessons you've learned along your graduate student journey (or in becoming a graduate student)?

During my graduate journey, the most valuable lessons I've learned include the importance of resilience and adaptability, the value of effective communication, and the necessity of interdisciplinary thinking. Resilience and adaptability have helped me navigate the challenges and setbacks inherent in advanced research.

How do you approach networking and building connections in and outside of your academic community?

I make it a point to attend relevant academic events and workshops. These provide valuable opportunities to meet peers, share my research, and learn from others in my field. I actively participate in the SFU Graduate Students' Union and the SFU Teaching Support Union meetings. These gatherings provide a platform to connect with fellow students and teaching staff, discuss common issues, and collaborate on initiatives.

What are some tips for balancing your academic and personal life?

I prioritize my tasks by importance and deadlines. By focusing on what's most crucial, I can manage my workload effectively without neglecting my personal life.

Contact Williams: [email protected]

• Student Responsibilities

A college closes every week. How to know if yours is in danger of shutting down.

As if finding a suitable , affordable college isn’t hard enough, students must also find one that isn’t likely to close on them, experts say.

Every week, on average, a college or university closes , according to an analysis by the State Higher Education Executive Officers Association. That’s up from about two a month last year and could worsen this fall as college enrollment dwindles further, experts said.

When schools close, fewer than half of the students transfer to another school, the executive officers association said. Of those who do, less than half graduate, it said. The others who reenrolled and didn’t finish, just added to their student debt and “added to the population of students who have some college but no credential,” the association said.

That means choosing a school that’s the right fit for you and affordable isn’t enough. You also need to research the school’s financials to ensure its solvency, said Jack Wallace, director of governmental and lender relations at Yrefy, a private student-loan company.

“You’ve got to look at the school’s financials, liquidity and endowments,” he said, noting the work is like researching a company to decide whether to buy its stock.

Why are so many schools closing?

Many small private schools, both for-profit and nonprofit, depend on tuition to operate. With enrollments trending lower for more than a decade, smaller schools with little to no endowments are having trouble staying afloat , experts said.

Undergraduate enrollment in 2023 was 15% below peak levels from fall 2010, “with no meaningful growth expectation on the horizon,” Fitch Ratings said . “Eroding consumer sentiment on the affordability of a higher education degree and unfavorable longer-term demographic trends for high school graduate totals together could translate into demand pressure well into the next decade for the sector.”

New federal rules are also squeezing budgets, Fitch said. Overtime pay is required for salaried employees earning less than about $55,000 a year, up from the $35,568 threshold. “For colleges already managing extremely tight or deficit operations, any additional mandated costs will compound budgetary stress,” Fitch said.

And “what may be a final nail in the coffin is the FAFSA debacle,” said Shannon Vasconcelos, financial aid consultant at Bright Horizons College Coach. “There’s a decrease in the number (of FAFSAs) submitted, and that leads to enrollment decreases.”

The number of high school seniors who submitted the Free Application for Federal Student Aid through June had dropped 11.6% from a year ago, according to National College Attainment Network.

What red flags should students look for in a school?

It’s not a perfect science, Vasconcelos said, but some steps students and families can follow to get a sense of how well capitalized a school is include:

• ProPublica Nonprofit Explorer allows you to search the financials of any nonprofit organization, including schools. “Look at the net income over several years and see if it consistently has huge profits each year, whether it’s positive net income or negative, or in a downward trend,” Vasconcelos said. “If it’s losing money or if net income’s trending down, that can be a real red flag the finances are not working well at this college, and you might want to give it a little extra thought about enrolling.”
• Search the school on the internet “and throw in words like 'finances' and 'layoffs' to see if there’s any news about the school’s financial issues,” she said. “A closure usually doesn’t happen totally out of the blue . Usually, you’ll see some news about layoffs and budget cuts for a number of years before closure happens.”
• Take a tour and ask yourself, “How are the physical state of buildings?” she said. “Are there improvements or decrepit buildings? Are there signs of innovations or status quo? Are they adding new programs or not? These can give you an idea of whether they have money to invest in new things.”
• Common Data Set is standardized data every school collects and publishes. “It will be on the school’s website but sometimes it’s buried,” Vasconcelos said. “So, you may want to Google the college’s name and ‘common data sets’ to find it. It will have numerous years of data, and it’s in a consistent format from school to school so it’s easy to compare.”

Within the common data set, she said, the two biggest things to examine are:

Enrollment data in Section B. “If enrollment’s consistently declining, the school could be struggling,” she said. “It can be a strategy to cut back enrollment to keep afloat, but you need to consider if it’s a bad sign.”

Amount of institution non-need-based scholarships and grants in Section H2A, line O. “This sounds counterintuitive, but these are recruitment scholarships. If these are increasing, it could be seen as a measure of desperation,” Vasconcelos said. “They could be trying to draw in more students that pay tuition.”

Education costs: Can I afford to send my children to college? This question helped me see other options.

Don't go broke: How to pay for college without going broke? Let us count the ways

Taking these steps doesn’t guarantee your school won’t close, but they can minimize your risk of it happening and your dropping out as a result.

“In the best situations, colleges that close have prepared and worked out mergers with other colleges or transfer agreements with other colleges they’ve partnered with so students can get automatic admission as a transfer student,” Vasconcelos said. “They’ll try to ease the path for existing students, but it’s always major disruption and not every student will take that. The new school may be far away, social adjustment may be hard, credits may not transfer. It can be major disruption, and the school may not be a right fit anymore.”

Medora Lee is a money, markets, and personal finance reporter at USA TODAY. You can reach her at [email protected] and  subscribe to our free Daily Money newsletter  for personal finance tips and business news every Monday through Friday morning.  

How to write a personal statement for further education

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Writing about the course

Why are you applying for your chosen course(s)?

Explain why you want to do your chosen course(s). For example, someone who wanted to work with animals might write 'I would like to study a BTEC in animal care as I am passionate about looking after animals. I already look after two dogs and it will help me in my future career plans.'

Why does this course interest you?

You can write about anything you've read about the course(s) that you find interesting and would like to find out more about.

Why do you think you are suitable for the course(s)?

In this section, you can write about any experiences you have had that are related to the course(s), or any skills you've learnt that might help you. For example, if you have done any related volunteering or work experience, or if you have a part-time job such as babysitting, which shows more general strengths such as responsibility or commitment.

Do your current studies (e.g. GCSEs) relate to the course(s) you have chosen? If so, how?

You can let the provider know how much you enjoy a subject by writing about a course you have already studied that you found really interesting or you were good at.

Skills and achievements

Write about anything you have done that might help with your application.

• Write about anything you are proud of passing, for example, grade 2 in piano, or being selected for a sports team.
• Include any awards you have done, such as Duke of Edinburgh, or through ASDAN, for example.
• You can add any positions of responsibility you have held, for example, being a prefect or helping with young students at school.

Hobbies and interests

Make a list of your hobbies, interests, and anything you do socially.

• Think about how they show your skills and ability.
• Try to link them to skills and experience you might need on your chosen course(s).

Work history

Include details of placements, work experience, voluntary work, or jobs, especially if it is relevant to your chosen course(s).

• Try to show how this experience gave you new skills or made you think about your future plans, for example, things you really enjoyed or were good at.
• Also include any part-time work you are still doing, like a Saturday job or babysitting.

Career plans

Use this section to tell the provider what you might like to do in the future as a career after completing the course. Explain how you would like to use the course(s) you have applied for to help you reach your goal.

Dos and don’ts when writing a personal statement

• Do  use your best English and check your spelling and grammar are correct.
• Do  be enthusiastic – if you show your interest in the course, it will help your application.
• Do  ask people that you trust, like your teacher/adviser or parent/carer to read through what you have written and give you feedback.
• Don’t  exaggerate – you might be asked about what you have written if you attend an interview with the course provider.
• Don’t  leave it until the last minute – it's a good idea to give yourself time to think about what you write to make sure you don’t forget anything.

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Big dad energy: How Harris got to Walz

Vice President Kamala Harris had just 16 days to pick someone she could be linked to forever. She ended up going with one of the options that she — and the rest of the world — knew the least. 

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz was a dark horse from the start, left off early lists of potential running mates. But no one used the 16 days since President Joe Biden stepped aside more effectively than Walz, who charmed Harris and national Democrats alike with a Diet Mountain Dew-fueled media tour that labeled the opposition as “weird” and won him a spot in history.

The choice will leave an indelible imprint on the image of Harris that is still forming for many Americans, who know her far less than they do Biden or former President Donald Trump, raising the stakes of a choice that can be difficult in the best of times, let alone under unprecedented time pressure.

In Walz, a gun-owning hunter who enlisted in the Army National Guard at 17, Harris sees a loyal governing partner who complements her background. The governor does not typically use a teleprompter, so had to practice with one Tuesday before his big speech at his debut rally in Philadelphia.

Harris did not know any of the candidates very well just three weeks ago. But after she whittled down her final list to Walz, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro and Sen. Mark Kelly, D-Ariz., and held in-person interviews with them Sunday, Harris concluded she had the best personal rapport with Walz and was convinced that he would have her back and not let his personal ambitions get in the way.

“You also have to ask yourself at some point: Is this someone you would want to have lunch with every week for four years?” a White House official said.

Ultimately, people close to Harris say, it came down to trusting her “gut,” with an aide comparing it to finding a husband. No one was perfect, but Walz was seen as the best. 

The pick stunned many Democrats, including some top party donors, who were unfamiliar with the sleeper candidate.

“Once they read about him, they were impressed,” said Harris campaign national finance chair Chris Korge, who started fielding calls the moment the news broke. “I got a ton of calls today and not one of them negative. They loved how relatable he was.”

Now, Harris is betting that Walz’s Midwestern dad charm will win over America like it won over her team. 

This is the inside story of how Harris got to Walz, based on interviews with more than a dozen Democrats, several of whom requested anonymity to speak candidly about what happened behind the scenes.

A ticking clock 

Harris’ advisers did not wait for Biden to step aside.

With a looming deadline that Democrats concluded they had to meet to finalize their nominee, people close to Harris and outside allies began a few days before his announcement to start thinking about what her campaign might look like and started batting around names of potential running mates at daily meetings.

Almost immediately after Biden dropped out, her team concluded that it most likely had to be a middle-aged white man, for many of the reasons Barack Obama chose Biden as his running mate.

It’s not “rocket science,” said a person familiar with the Harris campaign’s thinking. “Let’s just face it. There’s a lot of sexist, racist white dudes out there in America who don’t like Trump but just need a little extra validation.”

They needed “someone who gives moderate Republican voters a place to go,” said another person familiar with the process. “The Nikki Haley voters that are like, ‘God, JD Vance is terrifying and Trump is horrifying, but I wasn’t really sure that Biden could do the job, and I’m not sure that she can do the job.’”

Nine names were initially selected to enter the vetting process, led by former Attorney General Eric Holder and former White House counsel Dana Remus. 

By last Thursday, Holder and Remus had compiled their findings for a meeting Friday with a panel of trusted confidants who conducted the first interviews. They included Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto, D-Nev., former Labor Secretary Marty Walsh and former Rep. Cedric Richmond of Louisiana, a top Biden adviser who has remained on the Harris campaign. 

By Saturday, the team had whittled the list down to three names — Walz, Shapiro and Kelly — who were told to prepare for face-to-face meetings with Harris.

On Sunday, the black SUVs with out-of-state plates slipped through the gates of the Washington Naval Observatory, home to the vice president’s residence, on their way to the most important meeting of their occupants’ lives. 

Walz left his meeting feeling confident. Shapiro did not. 

“He wrestled with it Sunday,” said a person close to Shapiro, because he “loves his job” and, only two years in, has more he wants to do. “[He’s] all in for her, no matter where he sits,” the source added.

By the end of the weekend, Harris had been speaking so much with candidates and advisers that her voice was growing hoarse, and she took to carrying throat lozenges to the nonstop meetings.

Meanwhile, beyond the black iron fence of the observatory, the apparatus to support the eventual running mate began to whir to life. 

Former Biden State Department official Liz Allen was tapped to be the eventual running mate’s chief of staff, while “jump teams” were dispatched to the finalists in case they were chosen. Staffers at the campaign’s headquarters in Wilmington, Delaware, began preparing graphics, videos, talking points and even stump speeches for each of the finalists. 

Aides tried to buy Harris as much time as possible, printing signs with different potential candidates and even changing party rules — ironically via a party committee Walz chaired — so she could make her pick after the party formally nominated her.

“People were like it was ‘The Bachelor’ playing out in real time,” Rep. Elissa Slotkin, D-Mich., joked outside a polling place Tuesday.

Candidates who have gone through vetting processes in previous years describe it as a grueling and uncomfortable process that more than one have compared to a proctology exam. 

There are exhaustive questionnaires about the candidates’ legal, financial, political, personal, family and employment backgrounds, followed by hourslong interviews known as  “murder boards” at which dirty laundry is aired and hypothetical scenarios are presented to see how the candidates react. And then, maybe, they get to meet with the candidate for the actual job interview.

“It’s a grind of a process,” said former Housing Secretary Julián Castro, who was vetted to be Hillary Clinton’s running mate in 2016.

Loyalty to Biden

If Walz was the underdog, Shapiro was seen as the front-runner from the beginning, followed by Kelly — and all three ended up as finalists. 

In the small world of Democratic politics, the two governors are friends, and they attended a Bruce Springsteen concert in New Jersey last year, along with former Rep. Beto O’Rourke of Texas, who served in the House with Walz and has been boosting him behind the scenes.

“Lori and I consider Tim and Gwen to be good friends of ours and we are excited for them and for the country to get to know the great people we know them to be,” Shapiro said in a statement Tuesday. 

Kelly had the most impressive résumé of any candidate, but many Democrats see him as an underwhelming speaker and personally cool.

Some Harris allies also felt he was not loyal enough to Biden in the trying weeks after his poor debate performance and believed he had not done enough to defend the administration’s border policies, according to a person familiar with the process.

Kelly praised Walz in a statement, noting that his wife, Gabby Giffords, served with Walz in the House. 

“Gabby and I are going to do everything we can to make Kamala Harris and Tim Walz the next president and vice president,” he said.

Kelly’s team did not respond to a request for additional comment. 

While Shapiro, a golden-tongued prosecutor with presidential ambitions of his own, attracted the most vocal support, he also saw the most public campaign against him on Harris’ short list — especially over his stance on Israel and his criticism of pro-Palestinian protesters.

But her team was not convinced that he or any of the other candidates could really deliver their home states. 

“Polling showed Shapiro wouldn’t help that much more than the others,” said a Democratic strategist familiar with the polling the party rushed to complete before Harris had to decide. “And bringing Gaza back into the foreground would just be awful all the way around. Nobody wanted to return to that.”

Other Harris allies raised concerns about his support for school vouchers, his handling of a sexual harassment claim against one of his closest former aides and a complicated legal case stemming from his time as attorney general.

But perhaps more important than any specific issue was concern that Shapiro’s personal ambitions could conflict with hers — something raised directly to Harris’ team by an adviser to Sen. John Fetterman of Pennsylvania, who has clashed publicly with Shapiro.

“I would not want to be ahead of Josh Shapiro in the line of succession,” said a senior Democrat who has worked with him. 

Shapiro’s team did not respond to a request for additional comment. 

People close to Harris said that given the unusual way she was nominated and recognizing that internal dissent and a primary challenge are possible in 2028, from the beginning she was looking for someone who would be willing to stand behind her and defend her thick or thin.

“MAGA is just going to unleash. These are going to be terrifyingly crazy days. She needs someone who will be able to prop her up during hard times and someone who, when these memes take hold, when the deepfakes take hold, when all those things start happening, will be able to stand by her,” said a person familiar with the Harris campaign’s thinking.

Walz, on the other hand, is seen as an affable team player who came up in the military and the classroom, not the arena of power. 

He was seen as someone who would not “sabotage” her, as a person familiar with the vetting process put it, by leaking or talking behind her back should she become president.

White House officials took notice that he was one of the only ones who went to the cameras to publicly defend Biden after his tense July 3 meeting with Democratic governors after his poor debate performance.

Among Biden aides and advisers, the word most commonly used to describe Walz is “loyal.”

“She really does need someone who’s going to be a true partner to her, just like she was to President Biden,” said a person familiar with her thinking.

The case for Walz

Harris and Walz had met only a handful of times, most notably when she visited a Planned Parenthood clinic in St. Paul in March.

But Harris and her team were watching as the candidates auditioned, in a way, through appearances on TV and the stump, and they were impressed as Walz became an overnight sensation by labeling Republican JD Vance as “weird” the day after Trump chose him.

The word showed up in a campaign news release two days after Walz used it, and then, a few days later, Harris herself used it at a fundraiser in the Berkshire Mountains of western Massachusetts, and it became widely used across the party.

“Shapiro looks and talks like the next Obama, which is what a lot of folks were excited about,” said Caitlin Legacki, a veteran strategist who has worked with moderate and Midwest Democrats.“Walz looks and talks like [Sen.] Jon Tester [of Montana], which gives us running room in suburban, exurban and maybe even rural places.”

On Capitol Hill, Minnesota Democrats began pitching him to reporters and colleagues — before realizing that no one had given Walz a heads-up about the effort.

“I had to call Tim, because I hadn’t actually talked to him about whether he might want to be VP or not,” Rep. Angie Craig, D-Minn., said. “So, kind of got the cart before the horse. ... It truly happened organically.”

And for Democrats concerned about Muslim and Arab voters, especially in Michigan, Walz’s history winning a state with a large Muslim community is a relief. 

“He doesn’t demean anybody that he represents, and that’s an important community in his state,” a Michigan elected official said.

While many Democratic officials scoffed at the voters who opted for “uncommitted” over Biden in this year’s presidential primaries, Walz defended them as “civically engaged” citizens.

And Democrats noted that the choice of Walz has the knock-on benefit of elevating Minnesota Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan, who would become the first Indigenous female governor in American history if Walz steps down.

Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison said Harris’ choice of Walz was a “brilliant” decision. He added that Walz has the skills to speak directly to the concerns of Midwestern voters, and that while Minnesota is a blue state, Democrats there work for it every year.

“It’s never easy,” Ellison said. “We don’t win just because we’re a blue state…We win because we knock on doors and talk to our neighbors and work together. And Tim Walz understands the Minnesota method of winning.”

Minnesota nice

While Walz came seemingly out of nowhere for many Americans, Minnesota Democrats who have known him for years said they are “not at all” surprised, as Sen. Tina Smith put it, to see Walz go from unknown to a household name in two weeks flat. They say that soon, the rest of America will see what she and other Minnesotans already know.

“He’s just a really interesting leader,” Smith said. 

Walz spent his last morning of relative normalcy with family, staff members and donuts at Eastcliff, the stately white mansion overlooking the Mississippi River in St. Paul’s leafy Merriam Park. The house, typically used by the president of the University of Minnesota, has been occupied by the governor’s family as their official residence undergoes renovations.

Wearing a black T-shirt, khakis and white sneakers under his signature camouflage baseball cap, Walz answered his cellphone and put it on speaker mode. 

“Listen, I want you to do this with me,” Harris said. “Would you be my running mate?”

He did not hesitate. 

“I would be honored, madam vice president,” he said. “The joy that you’re bringing back to this country, the enthusiasm that’s out there — it would be a privilege.”

Outside, neighbors marveled at the spectacle, saying Walz’s family has held several gatherings to apologize for the hubbub created by their presence. “He’s a very approachable guy and very, very down to Earth,” said Mike Veehof, who lives next door. 

After hanging up with Harris, Walz called his staff and climbed into an SUV, which took him to a chartered Embraer E-170 bound for Philadelphia and his first joint rally with Harris. Secret Service agents were waiting there to take him under their protection.

Alex Seitz-Wald is a senior political reporter for NBC News.

Yamiche Alcindor is an NBC News Washington correspondent.

Monica Alba is a White House correspondent for NBC News.