9 Top Tips for Writing an Excellent Personal Statement

1. Start by Writing Down Everything You’ve Done

Before you begin crafting sentences, make a detailed list of everything you’ve done relevant to your subject. Include books, lectures, projects, and academics you've interacted with. It’s far easier to cut things down later than to build ideas from nothing. Once you’ve gathered everything, highlight the experiences that best show intellectual curiosity and initiative.

2. Tell a Story — Show How Your Interest Has Grown Over Time

A great personal statement tells a story of academic discovery. Link your experiences together logically so your journey feels natural and engaging. For example: Reading one book may have inspired further research, which led to a project or competition. This narrative flow shows academic curiosity.

3. Start with Question One — ‘Why Do You Want to Study This Course?’

In the UCAS personal statement, the first question you must answer is why you want to study your subject. Start with a specific example — perhaps a book, experiment, or real-world experience that captured your curiosity. Make sure it’s authentic and realistic, avoiding exaggerated claims. Choose a moment that genuinely reflects your academic journey and connects to what you’ve done since.

4. For Question Two — ‘How Have Your Qualifications and Studies Helped You Prepare?’

Don’t just list your A levels or IB subjects — everyone else has studied the same ones. Instead, focus on the extra steps you’ve taken beyond the classroom. Include research placements, extended projects, competitions, lectures, or online courses. Show how you’ve gone beyond what was required because you love learning.

5. For Question Three — ‘What Else Have You Done to Prepare Outside of Education?’

This is your chance to discuss extracurriculars — but focus on skills and character, not just hobbies. Talk about what these activities taught you: teamwork, perseverance, creativity, or time management. Show that you can balance multiple commitments successfully — something tutors value highly.

6. Start Early — Planning Ahead Pays Off

The most impressive personal statements are built over time. Start planning at least a year in advance so you can take advantage of opportunities like internships and research projects, many of which open in January and close by April. Starting early gives you time to gather meaningful experiences and reflect on them thoughtfully.

7. Get Feedback — But Remember It’s Your Voice That Matters

Once you’ve written a draft, get feedback from teachers, parents, and tutors. Fresh perspectives can help improve clarity and flow. However, remember that everyone will have an opinion. Use feedback wisely, but make sure the final statement still sounds like you — authentic, enthusiastic, and confident.

8. Talk to a Personal Tutor — They Can Make a Huge Difference

Working with a personal tutor can elevate your statement. They can help you create research projects, recommend resources, push your understanding beyond A levels, structure your ideas, and proofread your writing. At The Admissions Academy, our tutors specialise in guiding students through every stage of the process with expert insight and feedback.

9. Get Feedback from Yourself — Re-Read It with Fresh Eyes

After you’ve finished a near-final draft, take a few days off and re-read it as if you were an admissions tutor. Ask: Does it clearly show why I love this subject? Does it feel authentic? Small improvements at this stage often make a big difference to flow, tone, and clarity.

Conclusion: Write Your Story, Not Someone Else’s

Your personal statement is your opportunity to tell your academic story — to show how your curiosity has grown, how you’ve prepared, and what excites you about studying further. The strongest statements are authentic, structured, and focused on intellectual curiosity. They demonstrate that you’re ready to take your academic interests to the next level. At The Admissions Academy, we help students craft personal statements that capture their voice, showcase their strengths, and demonstrate genuine academic passion. With expert feedback and structured support, you can turn a daunting task into a confident, compelling narrative. Visit The Admissions Academy to connect with an expert tutor and start writing a personal statement that truly stands out.