Postgraduate Personal Statements

Your personal statement is the most important part of your application. Use it to create a positive first impression by demonstrating your experience and skills and expressing your motivation and commitment.

Don't be tempted to use the same personal statement for each application. Find out what is relevant for each course and institution and focus on each application independently.

What to include

Why you have chosen a particular course or research

  • How did you decide on this subject?
  • What has influenced your choice?
  • Have certain people influenced you?
  • What did you do to find out more about it?


How your academic experience is related to the area you want to study or research

  • Do you have relevant knowledge gained through a module, dissertation or project?
  • How well did you perform in relevant modules?
  • Have you been awarded any scholarships?
  • Do you have relevant technical or scientific skills?


Consider your non-academic experience and how it may be relevant.

  • Have you done voluntary or paid work in a related area?
  • Do you have a personal interest in the subject?
  • Are you involved in related extracurricular activities? e.g. writing for the student newspaper for journalism courses.

Relevant personal skills


Show that you have carefully considered the demands of postgraduate study by giving evidence of your ability to:

  • work independently;
  • communicate effectively in written and oral formats;
  • meet tight deadlines;
  • manage your time effectively;
  • show resilience and determination.

Think about demonstrating other skills specific to your chosen course or research area. Remember to give evidence; don't just say you have a particular skill - prove it!

Why you have chosen a particular university

  • Are there certain academic staff you want to work with?
  • Do they specialise in certain research areas that interest you?
  • Does the structure of the course may attract you?
  • Does the university have a good teaching or research record?
  • Try not to repeat what you have read on the university website.

Your career goals


It is not essential to have a definite plan or goal but it is important to show that you have considered the options and how this course will further your goals. A clearly thought out career path and how the course will help you reach this objective will show your commitment and motivation.

 

How to present the statement

Structure

  • Your statement needs to have a definite structure that includes an introduction, main body and ending.
  • The introduction is important; it should interest the reader immediately and should lead into the main section.
  • The main section could contain information on your experience, knowledge and interest.
  • The conclusion should sum up your evidence and reasons for application.
  • Keep your information relevant to course/research area and the university.

Language

  • Make sure your statement is grammatically correct and has no spelling mistakes.
  • Keep language simple and clear to ensure your statement is easy to read.
  • Use a positive and engaging writing style to show your genuine interest in the subject.


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