What should I prioritise in my personal statement?

It's a common misconception that a personal statement should say lots about your extra-curricular life and experiences. However, it's important to realise that including these details really depends on the universities you're applying for, and that as a result, all personal statements differ widely: there should be no formulaic approach. For UK universities, a focus on the subject, or subjects that you're studying is crucial. Extra-curricular achievements should be limited to a maximum of about two to four sentences towards the end of the statement, unless you are studying a practical subject where such details might be relevant - like sport science - or unless you are trying for a specific scholarship or grant where, again, extra-curricular is specifically relevant. American universities also require huge extra-curricular input. For UK universities, prioritising very specific details about what you like in your subject, why you like it, and how you've demonstrated this interest in your life, both inside and outside school, is essentially the point of the personal statement. 

JB
Answered by Jessica B. Personal Statements tutor

2259 Views

See similar Personal Statements Mentoring tutors

Related Personal Statements Mentoring answers

All answers ▸

Where do I even start with writing my personal statement?


What do you think you could bring to the course and how do you think the course would benefit you?


How do I write a strong and convincing personal statement that will get me the position that I am applying for?


If you had to give one piece of advice about writing personal statements what would it be?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences