university of essex personal statement writing guide postgraduate

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How to write a postgraduate personal statement

29 th September 2021

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Applying for postgraduate study? This guide supports you in writing a great postgraduate personal statement that’s tailored to your course.

What do admissions tutors look for

How to write a personal statement

What to write

Check and check again

What do admissions tutors look for in a postgraduate personal statement.

A personal statement is part of your university application. It’s an opportunity to demonstrate your suitability for a course. Admissions tutors want to know why you want to study the course and how your experiences make you the ideal candidate.

The difference between a postgraduate application from an undergraduate one is that it is fully tailored to a particular university’s course. As an undergraduate, your statement is more generic as it can be sent to five universities. Whereas your postgraduate personal statement is for one course only – it should be a lot more specific to what and where you’re applying for.

Postgraduate study is also a significant level up from undergraduate, so avoid using the statement you wrote for your bachelor’s course as a template. The admissions team is interested in how you’ve grown since your previous studies.

Writing a personal statement for university is different to writing one for a job application. It should show your academic interests and explain why the university will help develop your learning and research. You’re not trying to charm the reader. Instead, you're providing insight into who you are, your achievements and your enthusiasm for the course.

Before putting pen to paper, read through all information about the course and what you need to do to apply.

If you can, arrange to speak with one of the course tutors or a current student to discuss what admissions tutors are looking for. Are you able to see examples of successful personal statements from previous applicants?

Your relevant academic and practical experiences
The bits about the course that particularly interest you
Anything else the university has asked you to include

You can then use this to structure your plan.

Carefully plan what you’re going to write in each paragraph to ensure you include all the important information and present it coherently. Your course will demand effective communication from you, and admissions tutors will look for evidence of this in your writing.

An interesting introduction that outlines your academic background and relevant experiences
Engaging middle paragraphs that detail, with examples, how your interests, achievements and experiences make you right for the course
A strong conclusion that pulls together the main points and summarises why you want to study it

Each paragraph and sentence should flow logically into the next. If you want, you can split up sections with headings (like ‘Academic achievements’ or ‘Career goals’) to make the statement easy to navigate.

For the word count, check with the university you’re applying to, as each may ask for different things.

What to write in a personal statement

You want to show how your interests and experiences make you the right person.

How will the course help with your future goals?
What experiences do you have that provide evidence of your interest in the course?
What modules or projects in your undergraduate degree really challenged your thinking?
How has any employment shaped your ambitions?
Have any personal or public events inspired you?
Which books have you read, or activities have you been involved in, that have influenced you?

Rather than just listing experiences, explain how they shaped you and how they will help you succeed. There’s no need to write down your qualifications as the admissions tutor will have these details with the rest of your application.

What are your hobbies?
Are you part of any sports teams or societies?
Do you volunteer?

This builds a picture of who you are and what you’ll be like as a student. If you want to and if relevant, refer to challenges you encountered during the pandemic – but in a positive way.

You don’t need to include everything in your statement. It should highlight the key information and leave the reader wanting to interview you to find out more.

The admissions team will be looking through many personal statements – they want to see a variety of experiences and stories. You can reflect this in your writing style; avoid repetition and use a variety of words to paint a unique picture.

Try not to use obvious phrases such as ‘I have always been interested in...’ or a gimmicky opening line like a famous quote. Instead, get to the point quickly and say in your voice why you’re excited about the course.

Be concise and make every word count. What you write should be relevant and honest, demonstrating your potential. Everything should be balanced; you can be confident in your abilities but try not to come across as arrogant. Show why you should be given the place, but don’t beg.

First-person narrative
Correct use of spelling, grammar and punctuation
Varied and interesting vocabulary
A positive and friendly, yet professional tone
Paragraphs that flow logically into the next
Clear and concise points backed up with evidence
Clichéd language
Waffle or too much irrelevant information
Vague or confusing sentences
Excuses for gaps in your experience

Proofread your statement to check that your points are clear and there are no spelling or grammatical errors. You can use spellchecking tools and free writing assistants like Grammarly or Hemingway Editor to perfect your work. Reading your statement aloud can be helpful to see if it makes sense and flows well.

Ask at least one other person to read through and check it. This could be a friend, family member, careers adviser or a tutor if you’re still at university. A second pair of eyes may spot anything that doesn’t make sense or errors that you’ve missed.

Personal statement tips

Give yourself plenty of time to write, edit and check
Take lots of breaks and return to your work with fresh eyes
Make sure your statement is unique and written by you
If you’re an international student, say why you want to study in the UK
Be prepared to talk about what you’ve written in an interview
And if you’re applying for more than one course, make sure to write a different, tailored statement for each application!

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Essex University Personal Statements

These UCAS personal statements have been kindly provided by students applying to The University of Essex. You can click on one of the links below to view the entire statement and find out if the applicant was offered a place.

You can also view our entire collection of personal statements or view personal statements for application at other universities .

Computer Games Programming Personal Statement Example 7 As a keen gamer, it has always been a dream to follow games programming as a career and work for a game developing company or, preferably, to run my own business. This is why I have decided to study a course in this field...

Politics and Sociology Personal Statement Example 3 International relations and political science always attracted my attention and I clearly remember how impressed I was after the very first lesson on political science. Our teacher briefly explained us how political science had become an independent science and how it developed from a number of other disciplines: philosophy, history, economics, law...

Economics Personal Statement Example 27 When asked 'Why do you want to study economics?' I have always struggled to find a concise answer. There are so many reasons why I would want to study the subject, and this made explaining such an answer quite difficult...

History & Politics Personal Statement Example For years I have listened to my family discussing the latest political and historical issues on the news and I have been fascinated and awed by the fact that there was never a wrong or right answer, decision or explanation to a given problem...

Sociology and Anthropology Personal Statement Example 2 One of the main reasons why Sociology is of interest to me is that it studies the differences among social groups and in the society around us. I believe it is essential to understand how society works in order to blend with it and be a part of it...

Politics and International Relations Personal Statement Example 11 Throughout my life, I have been fascinated but also deeply fearful of the power that politicians around the world possess. Having grown up in the years following Lithuania's departure from the Soviet Union and joining the European Union, I have observed how imperative it is that political decisions should be made responsibly...

Philosophy Personal Statement Example 14 What does it mean to be a person? How do we know what is right from wrong? These are questions that Philosophy seeks to answer and I want to be at the forefront of exploring these questions. I am fascinated by how Philosophy has moulded the principles of society and has provided the key foundations for all of human thought...

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Tips for writing your personal statement

How to write a personal statement it's difficult to know where to begin. get hints and tips on structure, content and what not to write from a university expert..

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An insider’s view

Personal statements may seem formulaic, but they can be critical to the decision-making process, and admissions tutors do read them.

If you’re applying for a high-demand course, your personal statement could be the deciding factor on whether or not you get an interview.

The Director of Marketing and Student Recruitment at the University of Gloucestershire , James Seymour, shares some top tips on how to write a personal statement.

What makes a good personal statement?

This is your chance to demonstrate your enthusiasm and commitment and show us what value you can add to a university. In the vast majority of cases, universities are finding ways to make you an offer, not reject you – the personal statement is your chance to make this decision easier for them!

First, you need to explain why you want a place on a course. Take a look at James’ tips on what you should include:

Explain the reason for your choice and how it fits in with your aspirations for the future
Give examples of any related academic or work experience
Show you know what the course will involve and mention any special subjects you’re interested in
Demonstrate who you are by listing any positions you’ve held, memberships of teams or societies, and interests and hobbies
Show consistency in your five UCAS choices. It may be difficult for an admissions tutor to take you seriously if your other choices, and references to them, are totally different. If your choices are different, you should explain this in your statement. The UCAS form is blind. Admissions tutors don’t know the other universities you’ve applied to, or your priorities, but you should still be consistent
Keep it clear and concise – UCAS admissions are increasingly paperless – so most admissions tutors/officers will read your statement onscreen

Explain what you can bring to a course and try not to just list experiences, but describe how they have given you skills that will help you at university.

Don’t just say: I am a member of the college chess club. I also play the clarinet in the orchestra.

When you could say: I have developed my problem-solving skills through playing chess for the college; this requires concentration and analytical thought. I am used to working as part of a team as I play clarinet in the college orchestra and cooperate with others to achieve a finished production.

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What will admissions tutors look for in your personal statement?

To decide if you’re the right fit, universities and colleges are interested in how you express your academic record and potential. This should be backed up by your reference.

Those working in admissions look for evidence of:

Motivation and commitment
Leadership, teamwork and communication
Research into your chosen subject
Any relevant key skills

Admissions tutors aren't seeking Nobel laureates. They’re looking for enthusiasm for the course being applied for, and self-reflection into why you’d be suitable to study it. What value could you add to the course? Where would you like to go once you graduate?

Ben, the Admissions Manager for Law at the University of Birmingham , shared with us what he expects applicants to tell him in their personal statement:

The personal statement is not only an excellent opportunity to showcase applicants individual skills, knowledge, and achievements, but it also provides us with an insight into the type of student they aspire to be and how they could fit into the academic community. Ben Atkins, Law Admissions Manager at University of Birmingham

Real-life example: the good

Real-life example: the not-so-good

How to make your personal statement stand out

You could have excellent experiences, but if they’re arranged in a poorly-written statement then the impact will be reduced. So, it’s important to plan your statement well.

A well-written personal statement with a clearly planned and refined structure will not only make the information stand out, but it’ll demonstrate you have an aptitude for structuring written pieces of work – a crucial skill needed for many university courses.

You can use it for other things too, such as gap year applications, jobs, internships, apprenticeships and keep it on file for future applications.

There's no one ‘correct’ way to structure your personal statement. But it’s a good idea to include the following:

A clear introduction, explaining why you want to study the course
Around 75% can focus on your academic achievements, to prove how you’re qualified to study it
Around 25% can be about any extracurricular activity, to show what else makes you suitable
A clear conclusion
How to start a personal statement

Your personal statement is your chance to really show why you deserve a place on your chosen course.

Remember to keep these in mind:

Be clear and concise – the more concentrated the points and facts, the more powerful
Use positive words such as achieved, developed, learned, discovered, enthusiasm, commitment, energy, fascination…
Avoid contrived or grandiose language. Instead use short, simple sentences in plain English
Insert a personal touch if possible, but be careful with humour and chatty approaches
Use evidence of your learning and growth (wherever possible) to support claims and statements
Plan the statement as you would an essay or letter of application for a job/scholarship
Consider dividing the statement into five or six paragraphs, with headings if appropriate
Spelling and grammar DO matter – draft and redraft as many times as you must and ask others to proofread and provide feedback
For 2022 – 23 applications, refer to the challenges you've faced during the pandemic in a positive way

Don’t

Over-exaggerate
Come across as pretentious
Try to include your life history
Start with: "I’ve always wanted to be a..."
Use gimmicks or quotations, unless they're very relevant and you deal with them in a way that shows your qualities
Be tempted to buy or copy a personal statement – plagiarism software is now very sophisticated and if you're caught out you won’t get a place
Make excuses about not being able to undertake activities/gain experience – focus on what you were able to do positively, e.g. as a result of coronavirus

For further details, read our detailed guide on what to include in a personal statement and the best things to avoid.

Note that if you decide to reapply for university the following year, it's a good idea to consider making some changes to your personal statement. Mention why you took a year off and talk about what skills you've learnt. If you're applying for a completely different subject, you'll need to make more changes.

James gives us real-life examples of things to avoid:

I enjoy the theatre and used to go a couple of times a year. (Drama)

I am a keen reader and am committed to the study of human behaviour through TV soaps!

I have led a full life over the last 18 years and it is a tradition I intend to continue.

I describe myself in the following two words: 'TO ODIN!' the ancient Viking war cry. (Law)

My favourite hobby is bee-keeping and I want to be an engineer.

My interest in Medicine stems from my enjoyment of Casualty and other related TV series.

I have always had a passion to study Medicine, failing that, Pharmacy. (A student putting Pharmacy as her fifth choice after four medical school choices – Pharmacy can be just as popular and high status as Medicine.)

Some final advice

Above all, remember that a personal statement is your opportunity to convince a university why it should offer you a place. So, make it compelling and there’s a much higher chance they will.

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How to Write a Postgraduate Personal Statement: A Comprehensive Guide

15th August 2024

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university of essex personal statement writing guide postgraduate

Applying for a postgraduate programme, whether it’s a Master’s or a PhD, is an important step in your academic and professional journey. A crucial part of your application is the personal statement—a document that offers you the opportunity to present yourself beyond your grades and qualifications. It’s your chance to showcase your motivation, experience, and suitability for the course you are applying for. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of writing a postgraduate personal statement, providing practical tips, templates, and examples to help you craft a statement that stands out.

Understanding the Purpose of a Postgraduate Personal Statement

Unlike undergraduate applications, which may focus more on general enthusiasm for a subject, postgraduate programmes often require a deeper demonstration of your academic and professional goals. Admissions committees are looking for candidates who not only have a passion for their chosen field but also possess the maturity, experience, and direction to succeed at a higher level.

An impactful postgraduate personal statement should:

Highlight your academic background and relevant experience.
Explain your motivation for pursuing postgraduate study.
Demonstrate your understanding of the course and how it aligns with your goals.
Reflect on your personality, enthusiasm, and commitment.

How to Write a Postgraduate Personal Statement

1. start with a strong opening.

The opening of your personal statement is crucial. It’s your first opportunity to grab the reader’s attention and make a positive impression. Begin with a compelling statement or an anecdote that reflects your passion for the subject. Avoid generic phrases like “I have always been interested in…” Instead, be specific about what sparked your interest and how it has developed over time.

For example: “While working on my undergraduate dissertation, I became deeply fascinated by the intersection of technology and education, particularly how digital tools can enhance learning experiences in underprivileged communities. This experience ignited my desire to pursue a Master’s in Educational Technology.”

2. Showcase Your Academic Background

Your academic background is one of the most important aspects of your UCAS postgraduate personal statement. Highlight relevant coursework, projects, and research that have prepared you for postgraduate study. Be specific about how these experiences have shaped your understanding of the subject and your readiness for advanced study.

If you’re applying for a research-based programme, mention any research you have conducted, including your methodology, findings, and the impact of your work. For taught courses, focus on modules and assignments that are particularly relevant to the course you’re applying for.

For example: “During my undergraduate studies in Computer Science, I completed modules in Machine Learning and Data Analysis, which provided me with a strong foundation in algorithm design and statistical modelling. My final year project, which involved developing a predictive model for analysing social media trends, solidified my interest in pursuing further research in data science.”

3. Discuss Your Professional Experience (if applicable)

If you have relevant work experience, this is the time to highlight it. Discuss how your professional background has prepared you for postgraduate study and how it complements your academic achievements. Be sure to explain any skills you’ve gained that will be valuable in your postgraduate programme, such as project management, teamwork, or technical expertise.

For example: “After completing my degree, I worked as a marketing analyst for two years, where I gained practical experience in data-driven decision-making and campaign optimisation. This role not only enhanced my analytical skills but also deepened my understanding of consumer behaviour—insights that I am eager to explore further through a Master’s in Marketing Analytics.”

4. Explain Your Motivation for Postgraduate Study

This section should delve into why you want to pursue postgraduate study and why now is the right time for you. Discuss your long-term career goals and how the course you’re applying for will help you achieve them. It’s important to show that you’ve thought carefully about your decision and that you’re committed to making the most of the opportunity.

For example: “My long-term goal is to contribute to the development of sustainable energy solutions. I believe that pursuing a Master’s in Renewable Energy will equip me with the advanced technical knowledge and research skills needed to innovate in this field. The course’s focus on both theoretical and practical applications aligns perfectly with my career aspirations.”

5. Demonstrate Your Knowledge of the Course and Institution

Admissions tutors want to see that you’ve done your homework. Show that you understand what the course involves and why you’re interested in it. Mention specific modules, faculty members, research opportunities, or facilities that attracted you to the programme. This demonstrates your genuine interest and helps you stand out from applicants who may have applied without much consideration.

For example: “I am particularly drawn to the MSc in Environmental Science at [University Name] because of its interdisciplinary approach and the opportunity to work with Professor [Name] on [specific research project]. The university’s state-of-the-art laboratories and strong links with industry make it the ideal place for me to develop the expertise needed to pursue a career in environmental consultancy.”

6. Reflect on Your Personal Qualities and Skills

Your personal statement should also reflect who you are as a person. Discuss any qualities, skills, or experiences that make you a strong candidate. This could include your ability to work independently, your problem-solving skills, or your resilience in the face of challenges. Personal qualities are especially important if you’re applying for a course that requires a high level of self-motivation and discipline, such as a PhD.

For example: “My experience of balancing full-time work with part-time study has taught me the importance of time management and perseverance. These qualities will be invaluable as I undertake the demanding research required for a PhD in Psychology.”

7. Conclude with a Strong Closing Statement

The closing paragraph of your personal statement should summarise your key points and reiterate your enthusiasm for the course. Leave the reader with a lasting impression of your commitment and readiness for postgraduate study. Avoid ending with a generic sentence—make sure your closing ties back to your opening and reinforces your overall narrative.

For example: “In summary, my academic background, professional experience, and unwavering commitment to [specific field] have equipped me with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the [specific course]. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to [university’s name] and to further my research in this dynamic and impactful field.”

Postgraduate Personal Statement Examples

To give you a better understanding of how to structure and write your personal statement, here are a couple of brief postgraduate personal statement examples:

Example 1: MSc in Data Science “My fascination with data began during my undergraduate studies in Mathematics, where I excelled in modules such as Statistical Modelling and Data Analysis. My final year project, which involved using machine learning algorithms to predict housing market trends, further fueled my interest in the field. After graduating, I worked as a data analyst, where I gained hands-on experience with big data tools and techniques. I am eager to build on this foundation through a Master’s in Data Science at [University Name], with a particular interest in [specific area of interest], and to contribute to innovative research that addresses real-world challenges.”

Example 2: PhD in Environmental Psychology “Throughout my academic journey, I have been drawn to the psychological impacts of environmental change. My undergraduate dissertation on the cognitive effects of urban green spaces on mental health solidified my desire to pursue research in this area. After completing a Master’s in Psychology, where I focused on environmental stressors, I now seek to undertake a PhD to explore the intersection of environmental design and human well-being. [University Name]’s focus on interdisciplinary research and its renowned faculty make it the perfect place for me to further my studies and contribute to the field of environmental psychology.”

Postgraduate Personal Statement Template

Here’s a simple postgraduate personal statement template to help you get started:

Start with a compelling hook or anecdote.
Briefly mention your academic background and interest in the subject.
Highlight relevant coursework, projects, and research.
Discuss any achievements or experiences that have prepared you for postgraduate study.
Describe relevant work experience and how it complements your academic background.
Mention any skills gained that are relevant to the course.
Explain why you want to pursue this course and how it fits into your career goals.
Discuss your interest in the specific programme and institution.
Reflect on the personal qualities and skills that make you a strong candidate.
Provide examples of how these qualities have been demonstrated in your academic or professional life.
Summarise your key points.
Reiterate your enthusiasm for the course and your commitment to success.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When writing your personal statement, keep in mind the following common mistakes:

Being too vague: Avoid generic statements that could apply to anyone. Be specific about your experiences and goals.
Overloading with information: Keep your statement focused and relevant. Don’t try to include every detail of your life—stick to what matters most for the programme.
Ignoring the course requirements: Tailor your statement to the specific course and institution. Show that you’ve done your research and understand what they’re looking for.
Spelling and grammar errors: Proofread your statement carefully. Even minor mistakes can leave a negative impression.

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Crafting a compelling postgraduate personal statement can be daunting, but you don’t have to do it alone. Whether you’re applying for a Master’s or a PhD, our expert team can help you write or edit your statement to ensure it reflects your strengths, experiences, and aspirations.

We understand the nuances of different fields and can tailor your personal statement to meet the specific requirements of your chosen course. Let us help you put your best foot forward and increase your chances of success in the competitive world of postgraduate admissions. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can support you on your academic journey.

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How to write a personal statement for Masters courses

A good personal statement can mean the difference between getting an offer and being rejected. Your personal statement should show us that you are the right person for the course.

Alternatively, you can see our advice for writing a UCAS personal statement .

Masters Open Day, Online

Find out about the essentials of Masters study online on Saturday 23 November from 10:30am-2:30pm.

Our online open day will give you the opportunity to:

attend live subject sessions with the academics who teach our Masters courses
find out what postgraduate life is really like from current students
hear from staff on postgraduate support, applications, funding and life in Brighton.

Book your place

Learn how to:

plan your personal statement
structure your personal statement
use engaging and convincing content and language .

Planning your personal statement

A personal statement is a piece of writing that you submit as part of your application. It is a statement of academic interests and should not contain any autobiographical information about your personal life.

Instead, it should show us that you are the right person for Sussex by telling us why you want to study your course , and any extra information about your achievements to date.

See our Masters courses for more information

When you have finished planning your personal statement, you can use our postgraduate application system to start your application.

You need to:

carefully read the information required of you
research the course you are applying for, so that you can explain why you want to study it. If you are applying for more than one course, do not use the same statement for all applications.

The following questions may help you plan your personal statement:

Why do you want to study a Masters and how will it benefit you?
How does the course fit your skill set?
How do you stand out from the crowd - e.g. work experience?
What are you aspiring to be/do in your future career?
How can your work contribute to the department/University/society?

If you're applying for a subject that is in a different field to your undergraduate degree, tell us why you have decided to change your direction of study.

Think about:

how you will bring fresh insight to your course as a result of your undergraduate degree
the reasons for deciding to change your field of study
how changing your direction of study will help you with your future career.

Use a tight structure in your personal statement and make sure each paragraph logically follows on from the one before.

Your personal statement must:

have an eye-catching and interesting introduction, and an engaging middle part and conclusion
have an introduction that acts as a framework for the rest of your statement, with the main part of your statement detailing your interests, experience and knowledge
be between 250 and 500 words
have short sentences of no more than 25-30 words
use headings (if you wish) to break up the content - for example, 'Why this university?' 'Why this subject?' 'Ability', 'Personal experience' and 'Career aspirations'

'My passion for Psychology stems from my interest in how dementia affects the personality of patients living with the condition. That's why I spent my gap year working with the Alzheimer's Society, supporting patients and families by visiting them at home and holding surgeries to give them and carers someone to talk to.'

'It was not until my grandmother was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and ischaemic dementia that the link between brain functioning and cognition became a passion. The enormity of the precision at which the brain functions to produce our cognitive abilities, socially acceptable behaviours and intricate physiological processes astounded me. I found myself questioning the cognitive functions and human behaviours I had previously just accepted, desperate to understand how the unseen and seemingly small entities within the brain could impact our daily behaviour.'

the conclusion should sum up your main points, reflect on your main accomplishments and clearly show your desire to study.

Your personal statement is where you show us your commitment, dedication and motivation for studying the course. It is your chance to show us the course is for you.

Your personal statement should:

give strong reasons as to why you want to study the course at Sussex. This could be for your future career or because of the University's reputation
mention relevant study - including projects, dissertations, essays - or work experience
provide evidence of your key skills including, research, critical thinking, communication, organisation, planning and time-management and show how you can contribute to the department
show what makes you stand out as a candidate
explain who your main influences have been and why
draw on your other experiences: for example are you a member of a society, have you written any papers or won any awards, scholarships or prizes?
highlight your career aspirations and show how the course will help you achieve them.

See an example personal statement [PDF 31.95KB]

Your tone should be positive and enthusiastic. It should show your willingness to learn and persuade us you have what it takes to suceed on one of our courses.

You should:

use fresh and exciting language to make your application stand out, and use engaging opening paragraphs
use accurate grammar, punctuation and spelling
use clear language in short sentences and avoid extravagant claims

Example:

Don't: 'I was inspired by the University's world-renowned researchers and world-leading facilities.'

Do: 'I was inspired to study Animal Biology because of the groundbreaking work into the behaviour of bees that is being led by Sussex Professor Francis Ratnieks. I follow the work of the University of Sussex Laboratory of Apiculture and Social Insects and would be proud to study in such a renowned department and contribute to its highly ranked research.'

proofread your statement and ask a friend or relative to read it.

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Personal statement advice: physics
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How To Write Your Undergraduate Personal Statement
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What to include in a personal statement
Using AI and ChatGPT to help you with your personal statement
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References for mature students

Motivation and honesty

Try to give tutors evidence in your personal statement that demonstrates why you are genuinely inspired by physics. What is it that motivates you about the subject personally? Write about this in an interesting and reflective way – and be honest, too. Our guide to studying physics at university may offer some useful pointers .

As an admissions tutor from Lancaster University puts it, 'if the Big Bang theory sparked your interest in physics, explain why.' Likewise, guidance on the University of St Andrews website says: 'we do expect you to know clearly why you wish to follow a degree programme in physics (and astronomy)… use your personal statement to tell us.'

Remember, if you’re invited to an interview, your statement is sure to form the basis of at least one or two of the questions. This could also be the case if you're invited to an applicants’ open day, where your personal statement may act as an ice-breaker in an informal interview or discussion with staff. Keep this in mind, and don’t write anything that you wouldn’t be happy to talk about in more detail if you were asked.

Wider reading

What will always go down well is if you give an example of an interest in physics you've explored for yourself, outside your school or college syllabus, and especially any wider reading you’ve done.

Be selective in your choice – admissions tutors often tell us that they read about the same books over and over again in personal statements. So either choose something that’s slightly more unusual or obscure or, if it’s one of the more popular science books, then make sure you give your own personal take on it, or write about it in a reflective way that reveals something about what it was that inspired you specifically.

Whatever you do, don’t just say 'I read New Scientist.’ All the other applicants probably read it too. So either be specific, like picking out one article and explaining how it impacted on you, or choose something you’ve read that’s a little more obscure.

Roddy Vann, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Physics at University of York, went a step further when he told us that he is unimpressed by applicants who just say things like ‘I have read A Brief History of Time.’ He would prefer you to express your opinion on a contemporary issue, like your views on whether we should build more nuclear power stations. It’s not so much what you read, it’s what you think that matters.

More physics personal statement pointers

Individual university websites are a great resource for advice. Durham University says it looks for 'a genuine interest in science and technology,’ so here’s where your evidence needs to come in. If you designed a water bottle rocket-launcher, and subsequently learned it was Newton’s second and third laws that made it work, then selectors will probably be very interested to read a short, reflective paragraph about this. They’ll remember you for it too. Tutors at the University of Bath, meanwhile, want to see something that:

is honest, original, to the point, grammatically sound, and not too quirky
gives them some evidence of your interest, motivation, and commitment to the subject, including your wider reading or any events you’ve attended, and your extra-curricular activities and interests

They also say that they 'rarely reject a student because of a personal statement' but that 'in the case of a student who has narrowly missed their offer grades, we may look to the statement for signs of something special.' The University of Bristol is looking for evidence that you appreciate the importance of maths in a physics degree, as well as explaining why you want to pursue a degree in physics.

Don't forget your other extra-curricular interests and perhaps devote a short paragraph to these – whether it’s sport, the creative arts, a part-time job, or something you do that helps others. For more advice on drafting your personal statement, see our article on how to get writing your personal statement .