What to include

Interests, experiences and abilities that can be included in your statement

Below are some suggestions of what to include in your personal statement. These are guidelines only so don't worry if some of the suggestions do not apply to you.

  • why you have chosen the course(s) - this is particularly important when you're applying for a subject that you have not studied before
  • the reasons why that subject area interests you
  • evidence that you understand what is required to study the course, eg if applying for psychology courses, show that you know how scientific the subject is
  • how your current or previous studies relate to the course(s) that you have chosen
  • any activities that demonstrate your interest in the course(s)
  • why you want to go to university or college
  • details of jobs, placements, work experience or voluntary work, particularly if it's relevant to your chosen course(s)
  • hobbies, interests and social activities that demonstrate your skills and abilities
  • details of non-accredited skills and achievement which you have gained through activities such as:
    • ASDAN (Award Scheme Development and Accreditation Network) awards, for example, Universities Award
    • Diploma of Achievement
    • Duke of Edinburgh Award
    • OCNW Level 3 Certificate in Personal Development for Progression
      (previously known as the Liverpool Enrichment Programme);
    • Millennium Volunteers Scheme
    • v 50Hour Award
    • WorldWide Volunteering Certificate of Volunteering Achievement
    • Young Enterprise
  • details of accreditation achieved for any activities in preparation for higher education, for example through the ASDAN Aimhigher Certificate of Personal Effectiveness (CoPE qualification)
  • any other achievements that you are proud of, eg reaching grade three piano or being selected for the county cricket team
  • positions of responsibility that you hold / have held both in and out of school, eg form prefect or representative for a local charity
  • attributes that make you interesting, special or unique
  • whether you have any future plans of how you want to use the knowledge and experience that you gain.

If you are not in full-time education, you should give details of any relevant work experience, paid or unpaid, and information about your current or previous employment.

If you are an international student, also give your answers to these questions:

  • Why do you want to study in the UK?
  • What evidence do you have to show that you can successfully complete a higher education course that is taught in English? Please say if some of your studies have been assessed in English.
  • Have you had a position of authority or used your communication skills in any activity?