Postgraduate Applications - Personal Statements

You are typically allowed about 1 page of A4 (250-500 words) to "sell yourself". Sometimes you will simply be asked to "provide evidence in support of your application" whereas sometimes the question will be much more prescriptive: “Describe briefly your reasons for wanting to teach, giving the relevance of your previous education and experience, including teaching, visits to schools and work with other young people" (taken from a PGCE application form). 

Sometimes, you will be given a very clear indication of what you should write, but in the absence of this, here are some tips: 

1. Don't use the same statement for all applications. Each statement will need a slightly different emphasis, depending on the university you are applying to.  
2. Make sure that you answer the questions asked in each statement.  
3. Research the university and course/research area. Find out what sets your choice apart from other universities.  
4. Use good English. If your statement is fresh, lively, and different, you'll be putting yourself ahead of the crowd. Read your statement very carefully.  
5. Be clear and concise. Don't waffle! Show the ability to put the salient points across in a few words.  
6. Stay within prescribed word limits.  
7. Pay attention to presentation! 
8. Be positive and enthusiastic – selectors will read many personal statements and you want yours to stand out. 
9. Give your statement a structure with an introduction, a main body and a conclusion.  

• The opening paragraph is important - grab the reader's attention!  
• The middle section might detail your interest and experience in your particular field, as well as your knowledge of the field. Be specific in relating what you know about the field and use the language professionals use in conveying this information.  

10. Get your final draft checked by friends, academics or an Adviser, at a quick advice appointment. 

Possible content for your statement  

Why do you want to do the course/research?  

• Try to convey your enthusiasm and motivation for study/research 

• Don't try to write what you think they want to hear, write your real reasons 
• Write about any projects or dissertations you have done if they are relevant 
• Mention any prizes you have won, also travel or study abroad and relevant employment 
• Describe anything that shows creativity, dependability or independence 

Why this subject?  

• Be clear about why you have chosen this subject 
• Is the programme noted for a particular emphasis, speciality or orientation?  
• When did you become interested in this field and what have you learned about it? What insights have you gained?  
• How have you learned about this field - through classes, seminars, work or conversations with academic staff?  

Why this university?  

• Be specific – don’t make bland statements such as “because you are an internationally-renowned university with an excellent academic reputation”.  
• Is the programme noted for a particular emphasis, speciality or orientation?  
• Are there specific academic staff you want to do research or study with?  
• What is it about the structure of the course, or the choice of modules, that appeals to you?  

What academic skills have you got to offer? 

• Specific computing skills 
• Knowledge of relevant scientific techniques etc.  

What personal skills can you offer? e.g. ability to work in a team, with little supervision. 

• Demonstrate that you've done your homework about the course/research and that you've seriously considered your strengths and weaknesses for postgraduate study or research.  
• If you have done vacation jobs, what skills have you learned: team-working, communication, working under pressure?  

What are your strengths?  

In what ways are you better than other applicants? If you can't answer this question, don't expect the selectors to answer it for you!  

What are your career aims?  

You may not have a very clear focus on what you want to do afterwards, but you should have some ideas. A clear direction will strengthen your commitment to do well in your studies and selectors will know this.  

References 

The academic reference is a vital part of your application. Choose your referees carefully – they should know you and your academic work well. Somebody who has taught you for a module relevant to the postgraduate study you are applying for (or, better still, supervised you for a dissertation) is ideal. You do not have to give your Personal Tutor as a referee if you don’t feel that you have had sufficient contact with them for them to be able to give a thorough reference. 

It’s a good idea to discuss your plans with your referee, as they may be able to offer further advice and suggest suitable universities. Give them a copy of your application when you send it off and, if you are applying for funding, make sure that their reference is submitted to the relevant awards body before the closing date.