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• UCAS Personal Statements Are Changing in 2025

Last Updated: 16th January 2023

Author: Matthew Amalfitano-Stroud

Table of Contents

It was announced by UCAS in January of 2023 that traditional Personal Statements will be removed from the university application process in the UK. 

Since 1993, UCAS has required university applicants in the UK to submit a 4,000-character Personal Statement during the application process, which would then be accessed by university admissions teams to assist in the shortlisting process. 

However, it has been confirmed by UCAS that this process will be changing as soon as 2025. Here, we dissect the announcement, discuss what we currently know about this change and explain how this could affect your university application. Let’s begin:  

In short, this is what you need to know:

• UCAS Personal Statements are being replaced by a multi-question survey that gives applicants the chance to explain various aspects of their application.
• This change could be implemented as early as the 2025 admissions cycle for 2026 Entry in the UK.
• This will affect all applicants, both home and internationals, looking to attend a UK university in 2026 and beyond.
• Students will need to learn how to take on these new questions rather than traditional Personal Statement writing.
• Teachers will need to be prepared to do research on this new system and provide support for students in order to maximise their chances of success.
• We at UniAdmissions are keeping a very close eye on the situation and will update this guide as new information surfaces. We will also ensure that our support systems are up-to-date and effective at helping students through these changes.

What are Personal Statements Being Replaced with?

With the announcement that the current system for UCAS Personal Statements will be getting replaced, it is only natural to be asking what will be replacing it. Thankfully, we have already been given some idea of what to expect. 

Unlike the other major shake-up to the 2024 admission process, the removal of various admissions tests including the BMAT , the official announcement has provided us with an explanation of what UCAS is seeking to implement instead of traditional Personal Statements. 

Put simply, the current format of providing a 4,000-character piece of writing will be replaced with a series of specific questions which applicants must answer. These questions will still allow you to write your answers out, but you will be answering set questions instead of having to plan and structure a full statement from scratch. 

The specifics of this system have not been announced yet, including the number of questions and the character limits. We also don’t know what the questions will be yet as they are still being developed. However, we do know the key areas that these questions will focus on (all points are taken directly from the UCAS report): 

• Motivation for Course – Why do you want to study these courses?
• Preparedness for Course – How has your learning so far helped you to be ready to succeed on these courses?
• Preparation through other experiences – What else have you done to help you prepare, and why are these experiences useful?
• Extenuating circumstances – Is there anything that the universities and colleges need to know about, to help them put your achievements and experiences so far into context?
• Preparedness for study – What have you done to prepare yourself for student life?
• Preferred Learning Styles – Which learning and assessment styles best suit you – how do your courses choices match that?

Of course, this is all subject to change as UCAS is still actively working with universities to determine what they want most from applicants. However, it seems that they are aiming to cover the same ground as traditional Personal Statements while also allowing applicants to discuss more personal factors such as motivation, preference and extenuating circumstances. 

At UniAdmissions, we ensure all of our students receive the most up-to-date support.

At UniAdmissions, we’re working tirelessly to ensure that our tutors, curriculum and resources are ready to get our students through these changes. You can join them today and ensure you get the support you need to make it through the 2024 admissions cycle . 

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When Are UCAS Personal Statements Being Replaced?

The initial announcement stated that these reforms to the Personal Statement system will be introduced in the 2024 admissions cycle for 2025 entry. However, UCAS have since gone back on this and delayed the change to as early as 2025 (for 2026 Entry). However, this change could also occur the following year for 2027 Entry. 

UniAdmissions contacted UCAS directly to confirm if a date had been set for the implementation of the new Personal Statement format. The representative stated the following: 

The current discussion around the Personal Statement changes are to improve the application process for all applicants. At the moment the earliest this change would take place is in the 2026 application cycle. There won't be any changes this year. UCAS Representative

It’s worth mentioning that these plans have been in place for a fair amount of time, with discussions of reforming the application process starting in April 2021. However, this change still won’t be implemented for another year, so applicants applying for 2025 (and potentially 2026) Entry will still need to submit a traditional Personal Statement. 

Why Are UCAS Personal Statements Being Removed?

The announcement of these reforms was made on January 12th 2023 via a blog post on the official HEPI website. This post highlights the amendments being made to the Personal Statement process and the research that was conducted to influence this change.  

Interestingly, the data quoted in this post states that the majority of applicants surveyed were happy with the current Personal Statement process, with 72% feeling positive about it. However, the same survey indicated that 83% of applicants found the process stressful and 79% felt unable to complete theirs without support. This is the data that most likely influenced the changes. 

The post’s writer, Kim Eccleston, states that they are aiming to provide better support for both applicants and universities, creating “a more supportive framework” that allows applicants to write about what the universities need to know in a less restrictive way. It is also stated in a more detailed outline of the announcement that both students and teachers preferred the use of specific questions instead of free-form writing. 

However, a previous post released in November 2022 provides even more insight into the reasoning behind this decision. Based on data featured in HEPI Debate Paper 31 , various industry professionals had commented on the challenges facing applicants of certain background when it comes to the current style of Personal Statement. 

Within the quotes featured here, the traditional UCAS Personal Statement was described as “ambiguous” , “unfair” and “barometers of middle-class privilege” . These comments may potentially be in reference to the current importance of work experience, which can be difficult to obtain without connections in certain industries, as well as additional experiences which may not be available to all applicants.  

Therefore, this new system should presumably reduce the barriers for disadvantaged applicants by shifting focus to each individual’s own interest and abilities within their chosen subjects. 

Other Changes being Made by UCAS

Personal Statements are only one of five key areas being altered by UCAS, as highlighted in the blog post. This is certainly the most significant action taking place, but other changes to the application process include: 

• Academic references are being reformed, moving from a free-text approach to a set of three questions, similar to the Personal Statement reforms.
• The 'Entry Grade Report' will be created, which allows applicants to see grade profiles that have been accepted for courses over a five year period.
• A 'Course Recommendation Tool' is being created to provide applicants with personalised suggestions for courses based on their current grades and preferences.
• A 'Fair Access Programme' is being created to encourage widening access and participation.

Overall, it seems these changes all have the same intent; to level the playing field and make university applications more achievable for everyone. 

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How will this affect my university application?

As previously stated, if you are applying to university this year for 2025 Entry, you will not be affected by these reforms and will need to submit a traditional Personal Statement to UCAS like previous years. 

For applicants applying for 2026/27 Entry and beyond, your application will follow this new process, meaning you won’t have to submit a full Personal Statement but will instead need to answer a series of questions relating to your application and abilities for your chosen course. 

When hearing that the whole process will be changing, this typically instils a feeling of dread as you’ll be treading new ground that no one else has experienced before. However, it’s important to understand that UCAS states these changes are being made for the benefit of both the applicants and the universities. 

As we’ve already discussed, a key part of the reason this change is being implemented is that a high percentage of applicants found writing a traditional Personal Statement stressful, which is counterintuitive to what UCAS is trying to achieve. By providing applicants with a strong framework, in the form of specific questions, this new process should allow more applicants to provide better quality statements for universities. 

This change is also set to be particularly beneficial to those from disadvantaged backgrounds, as the process will allow them to better express their ability regardless of any areas that may be lacking due to factors out of their control. Essentially, the new process should allow more people to stand a better chance of making a good impression despite limitations. 

How Can I Start Preparing?

If you’re starting your preparations early, the main barrier you’ll face at this stage of preparation is not knowing what the questions will be, as they have yet to be announced. There are no resources available currently that cover this system, so you’re going to have to be independent with your preparation here.

Since we have a rough outline of what the questions to focus on, you should still be able to practice your responses. Although they won’t be as relevant any more, it would still be helpful to check out Personal Statement guides and examples as these can help you pin down the language and writing style you use. 

With all this information now available to us, you should be able to get a sense of what to do for your application in the coming years. The initial introduction of this system in 2024 will act as a test of its effectiveness, so elements could be changed in the years following. However, the important thing is that you understand how things are changing from the current system and how you can make the most of the new system. 

If you are applying for university in 2023 for 2024 Entry, you will need to make sure you’re ready to write your Personal Statement. Thankfully, UniAdmissions have plenty of resources to help you through it, including our Ultimate UCAS Personal Statement Guide and our collection of successful Oxbridge Personal Statements . 

If you’re looking for more in-depth support that covers the whole application process for Medicine, Law and Oxbridge courses, them find out how you can enrol in one of our Premium Programmes .  

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UCAS personal statements are changing: here’s what you need to know

Personal statements are set to become a thing of the past. The University and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) has introduced a new process for university applications.

Personal statements are set to become a thing of the past. The University and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) has introduced a new process for university applications from 2025, meaning that the process will change in 2024 ready for 2025 entrants.

Personal statements have always been an essential part of the university application process. However, UCAS has decided to scrap personal statements in their traditional form. They will now be replaced by a new three-question structure.

If you are preparing to apply for university right now, then you don’t need to worry too much. This new structure isn’t coming into play until 2025, when students are applying for 2026 entry.

What is the new application process?

The new application process differs from the original university application process. Initially, university students were required to write a personal statement, which would be uploaded to UCAS Hub . Universities would then read the personal statement as part of your original university application and make their offers from there.

Under the new process, it will work differently. Under the new university admissions policy, you will no longer be required to write a detailed personal statement but will need to answer questions related to three key areas.

Current key themes are:

• Motivation for course: Why do you want to study the course?
• Preparedness for course: How has your learning thus far helped you to be prepared for your course?
• Preparation through other experiences: What else have you done to help yourself prepare? How and why are these experiences so useful?
• Extenuating circumstances: Is there anything the university needs to know about you? (optional)

These questions allow students to present themselves in their own words but with more structure. Teacher references will also change, allowing for more objective comments.

Depending on user feedback, these questions may change in the future.

• Preparedness for study: What have you done to prepare yourself for student life?
• Preferred learning styles: Which learning and assessment styles suit you best?

Following extensive consultation, UCAS scrapped the latter three. This is because UCAS discovered that the themes would be too difficult to universities that have different teaching and assessment styles. The extenuating circumstances question will have a different section to be answered, but not everyone will need to answer it.

When does this new process start?

This new process will be introduced in 2025 and take effect for 2026 applicants. Those applying to university for 2023, 2024 or 2025 will still need to write a personal statement for their application in the current format.

This means the new process will be coming in after January 2025 (October 2024, if you are applying to Oxbridge ).

A personalised tool will also launch later this year. This tool will provide applicants with entry-grade reports that will give students a range of the profiles accepted onto similar courses over a five-year period, using UCAS data.

Why is the process changing?

UCAS has decided to change the university application process based on student feedback. This process will now offer greater support for applicants from different academic backgrounds.

UCAS has recently published their own report on current applications, called the Future of Undergraduate Admissions report. This research discovered that, out of 13,000 polled students, as many as 83% found writing a personal statement to be too stressful, while a further 79% found the statement too difficult to write without appropriate support.

Personal statements were not unpopular, however. 72% of students found that personal statements were essential parts of the university application process. Personal statements allowed students to stand out as more than just application numbers and their grades. However, the question format s will allow students to continue to stand out from other applicants.

How are teacher references changing?

Teacher references are changing to allow teachers to make more objective comments regarding students. Students can pick current or former academic referees, such as teachers, tutors or head teachers; these referees will then write a full reference to their career goals, work experience and predicted grades.

This process is set to change slightly for 2026 applicants. Under the new system, the referee will instead answer three structured questions. In these questions, teachers will include a general statement about the student’s school or college, any extenuating circumstances that could affect the student’s exam performances and any other circumstances the teacher feels the university should be aware of.

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Change to Personal Statements for 2025 Entry

Dr Rahil Sachak-Patwa

The landscape of university applications in the UK is transforming. From 2025, the University and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) is set to revolutionise the way aspiring students present themselves to universities. Central to this change is the overhaul of personal statements, a staple of the application process for decades. These changes, applicable from the 2025 entry, mark an important shift in how students will convey their aspirations, preparedness, and suitability for their chosen courses.

This article aims to dissect these changes, providing a comprehensive understanding of what they entail, their implications for prospective students, and the reasoning behind this significant shift in the UCAS application process . As we navigate through this transition, we want you to understand not just the 'what' and 'how' of these changes, but also the 'why' behind them, so that applicants and educators alike are well-equipped for this new era in university undergraduate admissions.

Background of Personal Statements in UCAS

For many years, personal statements have been a cornerstone of the UK's university application process through UCAS . Personal statements provided students a platform to express their academic interests, achievements, and aspirations beyond the confines of grades and test scores. This narrative component enabled applicants to stand out as individuals, showcasing their passion, motivation, and suitability for their chosen courses.

Traditionally, personal statements have required students to craft a coherent and compelling essay, typically limited to 4,000 characters or around 500-600 words. This format demanded not only a deep understanding of the chosen subject area but also the ability to articulate thoughts and experiences effectively. For universities, these statements provided valuable insights into the applicant's personality, critical thinking, and potential to thrive in a higher education environment.

However, despite their value, personal statements have also been a source of considerable stress and anxiety for applicants. The open-ended nature of these essays often left students grappling with what to include and how best to express themselves. This challenge was particularly acute for those without access to quality guidance or support, potentially leading to disparities in the application process. Recognising these issues, UCAS's decision to revamp the personal statement format is a move towards a more structured, equitable, and less stressful application experience .

Reasons for Change

The decision to reform the personal statement process stems from extensive research and feedback collected by UCAS indicating a need for a more accessible and less stressful application system. According to UCAS's own data , a staggering 83% of students found writing personal statements to be excessively stressful, while 79% struggled to write them without adequate support. These figures highlight a significant challenge in the existing system – the creation of a personal statement that can often be an overwhelming and inequitable task for many students.

Furthermore, the existing format was found to disadvantage those without access to high-quality advice or guidance, widening the gap between applicants from different educational backgrounds. This disparity was particularly pronounced for students from disadvantaged backgrounds, who might not have the same level of support in crafting a personal statement that adequately reflects their potential and achievements.

UCAS’s initiative to revamp the personal statement process is also aligned with its broader goal of diversifying university admissions. By simplifying the application process, UCAS aims to create a more level playing field, giving every student an equal opportunity to showcase their abilities and aspirations. The new format is designed to reduce the ambiguity and stress associated with personal statement writing, making the process more straightforward and less reliant on external assistance.

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Overview of the Change to Personal Statements

In 2025, UCAS is shifting from the traditional personal statement to a more focused and structured set of questions. This change is designed to provide a clearer and more supportive framework for applicants, reducing stress and promoting fairness in the admissions process . The new format comprises three main questions, each with a distinct purpose, and an optional section for extenuating circumstances:

1. Motivation for Course : This question delves into the student's genuine interest in their chosen course. Applicants are encouraged to express what drives their choice – be it career aspirations, a profound interest in the subject, or other motivations. It's an opportunity for students to demonstrate their understanding of the course content and how it aligns with their future goals. This question also serves to ensure students have thoroughly researched their options, understanding the unique aspects of each course and how it fits with their personal objectives.

2. Preparedness for Course : Here, students are asked to articulate how their academic background and formal learning experiences have prepared them for success in their chosen courses. This may include specific subjects studied at the school or college level, skills acquired, and how these elements contribute to their readiness for higher education. The response should reflect a clear understanding of what the course demands and how the student’s prior learning supports these requirements.

3. Preparation through Other Experiences : This question broadens the perspective, inviting students to discuss other activities that have contributed to their preparation for university. Responses may cover a range of experiences, including extracurricular activities, work experience, voluntary engagements, or personal projects. The emphasis here is on reflection – students should articulate what they have learned from these experiences and how they contribute to their preparedness for the course.

The optional section on Extenuating Circumstances allows students to provide context to their academic and personal experiences, offering insights into challenges faced and overcome. This section acknowledges that each student’s journey is unique and that certain experiences may have impacted their educational pathway.

UCAS's revised approach, informed by feedback and extensive consultation, aims for a more straightforward and transparent application process. It seeks to guide students more effectively through their responses, removing the guesswork and anxiety traditionally associated with crafting a personal statement. However, note that the questions specified above are subject to change as UCAS finalises its research into the area. To stay up to date with these changes and prepare for them, consider getting in touch with a UCAS application tutor .

Impact of the Change on Applicants

The introduction of the new question-based format by UCAS in 2025 is poised to have a positive impact on university applicants. One of the primary benefits of this change is the reduction in stress and uncertainty associated with writing a traditional personal statement. The structured questions provide a clear idea on what kind of information is expected, making it simpler for applicants to articulate their thoughts and qualifications.

This new format is particularly beneficial for students who may have previously found the open-ended nature of personal statements daunting. It levels the playing field by reducing the reliance on external support or resources, which not all students have equal access to. The questions are designed to extract relevant and specific information, enabling all students, regardless of their background, to effectively showcase their motivations, preparedness for study, and suitability for their chosen courses.

Moreover, the optional section on extenuating circumstances allows students to provide a more holistic view of their academic and personal journey. This is especially important for those who have faced challenges or circumstances that may have impacted their educational experiences, ensuring that these factors are considered in the admissions process.

Wider Context and Additional Changes to Application

Making higher education more accessible.

The transformation of the personal statement format is part of a broader move by UCAS towards a more inclusive and supportive university application process. This change is accompanied by several other initiatives aimed at assisting applicants, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds, in making informed decisions about their higher education.

These developments include introducing a personalised course recommendation tool. This tool uses extensive data, including subject interests, career aspirations, and academic achievements, to recommend suitable university courses to applicants. In its pilot phase, this tool demonstrated its effectiveness in broadening students' options, often suggesting courses they hadn't previously considered​​.

UCAS is also intensifying efforts to widen access to higher education. Programs like the Fair Access Programme and the Outreach Connection Service are instrumental in linking students and educational institutions to resources offered by universities and third-sector organisations. These initiatives play a crucial role in overcoming barriers faced by students from less advantaged areas, contributing to a notable increase in their university application and attendance rates​​.

Preparing for the Changes

As the UCAS application process undergoes significant changes, both students and educators must adapt to these new requirements. While the exact questions replacing the traditional personal statements have not been finalised yet, it is important to prepare for the new process and anticipated format​​.

Brainstorming and Practicising

Students should start by familiarising themselves with the proposed question areas, such as motivations for choosing a course, preparedness through learning and other experiences, and any extenuating circumstances. Even though the precise questions are still being developed, understanding these key areas will be vital. Students should practice articulating their motivations, experiences, and how their academic journey aligns with their chosen course.

For a thorough preparation, we recommend consulting a UCAS personal statement tutor to help you in the process so that you can learn to convey your strengths most effectively in the personal statement questions.

Staying Up to Date

Educators and advisers must also stay informed about the latest developments in the UCAS application process. They should prepare to guide students through this new format, helping them to reflect on and articulate their responses effectively. This is especially important given the new structure, which seeks more targeted and specific information than the traditional personal statement format.

By proactively preparing for these changes, students can ensure they present a well-rounded and compelling application, while educators can provide the necessary support to navigate this evolving landscape.

The imminent transformation of the UCAS application system, notably transitioning from the traditional personal statements to a series of precise, focused queries, marks a significant evolution in the UK's university admissions arena. Scheduled for introduction in 2025, this initiative is designed to mitigate the application-related stress and foster an environment of equal opportunities for all aspirants, irrespective of their backgrounds.

For students and educators alike, keeping pace with these changes and adapting to them is imperative. In essence, this reform heralds a new era in UK higher education, one that promises equitable access and an unbiased platform where every student can effectively showcase their unique capabilities and dreams, paving the way for a more just and accessible academic future.

Are the new UCAS questions the same for all courses?

The UCAS personal statement questions are designed to be broadly applicable across various courses. However, the way students respond to these questions can and should be tailored to their specific course choices. For example, while the question about motivation for a course remains consistent, a student's answer will vary significantly based on whether they are applying for a science, arts, or humanities program. The key lies in how applicants relate their experiences and aspirations to the specific requirements and nature of the courses they are applying for.

How do these changes influence the role of UCAS references?

The changes to the UCAS application process, including the personal statement reform, also extend to the references provided by teachers or advisers. References will transition from a free text format to a more structured approach with specific sections. This new format will likely prompt referees to focus on distinct aspects of a student's capabilities and experiences, ensuring that the information provided is directly relevant to the application. It will help educators provide more targeted and concise insights about a student's suitability for higher education.

How do these changes affect deferred 2025 university applications?

For students planning to defer their university entry to 2025, it's important to note that they will be subject to the new UCAS application process, including the reformed personal statement structure. This means that instead of preparing a traditional personal statement, they will need to respond to the specific questions set by UCAS. It's advisable for deferred applicants to stay informed about the final details of these changes and start thinking about how they will address the new questions in their applications.

When will the final UCAS questions be confirmed?

As of now, UCAS has not confirmed a specific date for finalising the new personal statement questions. The process of refining these questions is ongoing, involving consultations with students, schools, universities, and colleges. Applicants and educators are advised to regularly check the UCAS website and updates for the most current information and to begin familiarising themselves with the proposed question areas to prepare effectively for the upcoming changes.

Can I submit different answers to different universities?

The UCAS application system allows students to apply to multiple universities, but it requires them to submit a single set of answers for the personal statement questions. This means that while students can apply to different institutions, their responses to the personal statement questions will be the same for all applications. It's important to craft answers that are broadly applicable and reflective of the student’s overall academic and personal achievements, motivations, and preparedness, keeping in mind the varied courses they are applying for.

Do the changes affect mature or international students differently?

The changes to the UCAS application process, including the new personal statement format, apply to all applicants, including mature and international students. The aim is to create a more equitable and accessible application experience for everyone. However, mature and international students may have different life experiences and educational backgrounds to draw from in their responses, which can be an advantage in showcasing a diverse range of experiences and perspectives.

Can I still mention extracurricular activities in my answers?

Yes, extracurricular activities remain an important aspect of your UCAS application. While the new format introduces specific questions, these still allow room to discuss activities outside of formal education. Applicants should relate these activities to the questions, particularly those asking about preparation and motivation. For example, leadership roles in clubs or participation in sports can demonstrate skills relevant to your course choice and should be included in your responses to illustrate a well-rounded profile.

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Changes to the UCAS Personal Statement

The UCAS personal statement has been a stumbling block for university applicants for decades. However, UCAS (University and Colleges Admissions Service) is shortly to introduce an entirely new process which will instead adopt a structure incorporating six questions applicants will have to answer instead.

How will the personal statement be changing?

The previous requirement was for a lengthy and potentially unstructured personal statement which would be uploaded to the UCAS Hub.

Universities would read this statement, and potentially make admissions decisions and offers based upon your statement and your predicted grades. For a lot of students, especially those who didn’t necessarily have access – either socially or financially – to a lot of the extracurricular activities their peers might, this immediately put them at a disadvantage. Initially the new process was due to be introduced in 2024, for applicants looking for university entry from 2025. However, UCAS have now decided that it won't be introduced until 2025 at the earliest.

Currently, it is understood that the new process will ask you to answer questions on six areas related to your potential suitability for university entrance and study on your course. These are likely – but not yet confirmed – to be something along the following lines:

• Why do you want to study this course?
• What have you learned so far that prepares you for this course?
• What else have you done (that isn’t necessarily directly related to the subject) that helps you prepare, and why has this been useful?
• Are there any circumstances that the university needs to be aware of (such as personal, health, home, or other home life issues)?
• How have you prepared/are you preparing for student life (i.e. independent living)?
• Which styles of learning suit you best?

This structured statement will allow students to give the university admissions board a good idea of who they are and what they might offer to the course and to the institution, but also give them guided help with what has previously been a dreaded part of the admissions process. It’s not just students that are subject to changes here; teacher references will also undergo changes, with an emphasis on objective assessment. The changes are still in fledgling form, and feedback will be sought from end users to refine the changes even further if necessary.

When will the changes to the personal statement take effect?

If you’re applying next year for 2026 entry, the bad news is that you will still have to write a personal statement (although, of course, there’s nothing to stop you using the prototype questions to help you structure this and make the process easier!).

These changes will come into effect for students looking to enter a programme of higher education from 2026 onwards.

What will help you, however, if you’re planning to go to university in 2024, is the personalised tool .

This will allow you to see the kind of profiles that have been accepted onto courses similar to those you are interested in over the past five years. So really don’t despair if you’re in the “last of the personal statements” intake!

Why is the personal statement changing?

University entrants are changing. Applicants who wouldn’t have considered university education as being a possibility for them even a decade ago are now graduating with top degrees.

However, the personal statement – with a bias towards those who are lucky enough to have a rich social and extracurricular experience to back up their academic prowess – wasn’t adequately reflecting (or indeed supporting) the students who might have needs or circumstances that precluded wider experiences. Current findings from UCAS show that 79% of students found the personal statement “too difficult” to write without additional and appropriate support. That’s almost 4/5 of applicants, so unquestionably shows the need for change.

That doesn’t mean, however, that students don’t see and acknowledge the value of the personal statement. The revamped, structured statement should allow all university applicants to show their worth on an equal basis.

To find out more, read the following report on the Future of Undergraduate Admissions from UCAS.

News | Education

UCAS ditching personal statement for university entry

The Universities and Colleges Admissions Service ( Ucas ) will no longer require students to write a personal statement when applying for university .

The change comes amid claims that the personal statements favour middle-class students who may have better access to “high-quality advice and guidance”, according to Ucas.

The 4,000-character essay will be scrapped and replaced with a series of questions about the higher education course they are applying for.

Ucas announced in February 2022 that it was considering changes to university applications.

At the time, Michelle Donelan, the universities minister, said “I have always felt that personal statements in their current form favour the most advantaged students.

“So I’m pleased that Ucas have confirmed that reform of the personal statement is in their plans so that personal statements work to the benefit of all students.”

Ucas consulted with 1,200 students, 170 teachers, and more than 100 universities and colleges before making the reforms, as reported by The Times.

According to Ucas , although 72 per cent of respondents surveyed felt positive about the personal statement, 79 per cent agreed that writing the statement is difficult to complete without support, and 83 per cent said they found the process of writing a personal statement stressful.

The structured questions aim to  “bring focus and clarity for students, reducing the need for support”.

Students will be asked questions about their motivations for studying courses, what they have done to prepare, and any extenuating circumstances.

Kim Eccleston, head of strategy and reform at Ucas, said in a Higher Education Policy Institute blog post: “We believe this will create a more supportive framework, which in turn will help guide students through their responses by removing the guesswork, as well as capturing the information universities and colleges have told us they really need to know from applicants when it comes to offer-making.”

The changes to the admission process will be introduced no earlier than 2024 for students applying to begin university in 2025.

And in the future, Ucas said that it would consider moving away from written text to multimedia submissions.

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ELVIS OXFORD ADMISSIONS and TUTORING

UCAS personal statement remains unchanged for 2025 entry

You may have heard that UCAS, the company which operates the university admissions service in the UK, was planning to scrap the personal statement for 2025 admissions entry. For over 30 years, the personal statement has been the centrepiece of university applications in the UK (alongside A-Level/IB grades), with students investing countless hours to develop a 4000-character text that encompasses their knowledge and passion for their chosen subject. As such, any change to such a well-established part of the process could represent a significant challenge for parents, students, teachers, and university admission staff alike.

While it is true that UCAS is currently undertaking a consultation to replace the current format of an unstructured personal statement with a set of defined questions for students to answer, no changes will be made until applications for 2026 entry. The personal statement in its current form will remain unchanged for 2025 (see below, from UCAS website).

So, what are the proposed pre-defined questions that students will have to answer and be evaluated on as part of their application? At present, the following three questions have been confirmed for inclusion once the new personal statement format is implemented for 2026 entry. 1) Motivation for course: Why do you want to study these courses?

2) Preparedness for course: How has your learning so far helped you to be ready to succeed on these courses?

3) Preparation through other experiences: What else have you done to help you prepare, and why are these experiences useful?

The great news is that these questions address exactly the kind of content that should be included in a great personal statement in its current form. Indeed, these questions encapsulate exactly the kind of content I recommend including in a personal statement : what A-Level/IB content sparked your interest in your subject? how have you expanded on your interests beyond the classroom and what did you learn from these experiences? what role does your subject play in the wider world? what career/professional aspirations will you achieve by studying your subject?

We can logically assume therefore that these are the criteria that admissions tutors will be using (and have been using over the years) to assess your personal statement for 2025 entry as well.

The challenge, however, is that as schools become increasingly aware of these changes and communicate them to their students, more and more applicants will address all of the above points in their personal statement. How will you be able to make your personal statement stand out?

At Elvis Oxford Coach, we specialize in personal statement development, covering all of the following: idea and extra/supercurricular activity suggestions, discussion/teaching of wider reading, structural organization of your personal statement, scientific accuracy review, and full editorial, grammatical and stylistic review.

With our support, we will guide you in exploring your subject, making sure that you can effectively and originally communicate your knowledge motivation for your subject. Our expertise lies in Biochemistry, Biology, Chemistry and closely related subjects, but we can support students in all subjects at various stages with their personal statement development.

Book a free consultation below to discuss your needs, with fully flexible and customizable services and payment plans.

To make sure you don't miss any updates on the UCAS application process or great tips on how to develop an excellent personal statement and acing your interview, make sure you sign-up to this feed!

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Ucas changes ‘fairer’ for disadvantaged students

Ucas will reframe the personal statement into a series of questions from next year, the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service has announced.

Questions are expected to focus on areas such as an applicant’s motivation for the course they are applying for, as well as their preferred approaches to learning.

Ucas intends to introduce the changes in 2024 for 2025 entry, after consulting with students, teachers, advisers, universities and colleges.

And a union leader has said that the move “feels to be a step towards a simplified, fairer application process”.

Six key areas have been identified for the focus of the questions so far: motivation for the course; preparedness for the course; preparation through other experiences; extenuating circumstances; preparedness for study; preferred learning style. 

Over the past year, Ucas said it has “consulted with 1,200 domestic and international students, over 170 teachers and advisers and over 100 universities and colleges as well as engaging with governments, regulators and the charity sector across the UK”. 

And it says it will continue to engage with the sector to help shape the delivery of the reforms “as we continue to test and validate our proposed questions”.

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Geoff Barton, general secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders, said that, currently, “it can feel as if personal statements favour more advantaged students whose parents have been through the university system, and are therefore better equipped to help their children write it and provide a wide range of experiences that they can cite within it”.

Mr Barton said that the existing system is “badly in need of reform” but warned that “changes will need to balance the need to establish a consistent format with allowing students to express themselves”.

“Breaking down the personal statement into specific questions feels to be a step towards a simplified, fairer application process,” he said. “We will consider the proposals in detail and consult with members before providing feedback.”

A 2022 Ucas survey found that 72 per cent of applicants felt positive about the personal statement, but 83 per cent reported that “the process of writing a personal statement is stressful”, with 79 per cent agreeing that the statement is “difficult to complete without support”.

Ucas has also announced today that it will bring in changes to the academic reference element of the application.

Under the changes, the free text approach will be replaced with three structured questions that will act as a “built-in guide for referees keeping their focus firmly in the areas that providers want to know more about”.

Lee Elliot Major, a professor of social mobility at the University of Exeter, said it was “hugely positive” to see Ucas confirming the move to structured questions. 

He added: “No one should underestimate how important this reform will be in helping to level the playing field in university admissions. I’ve been calling for reform as statements currently add further advantage for middle-class applicants who are often given help in filling in their submissions.

“As we enter an era of increasing competition for the most selective university degree courses, we need more structured and transparent university admissions that are fair and fit for purpose for all.” 

A report published last November by the Higher Education Policy Institute recommended that the personal statement be replaced with a series of short-response questions to address the “unnecessary burden” of the task , which was “contributing to inequalities in higher education access”.

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UCAS: Future of undergraduate admissions (personal statements)

The EPC response to this consultation can be found here.

UCAS has recently shared plans to reform the personal statement to a series of questions. You can read UCAS’ Future of Undergraduate Admissions report here .

It was clear from our recent Recruitment and Admissions Forum that there is a multiplicity of uses of personal statements and views on their reform within the Engineering Academics network. None the less, the EPC Recruitment and Admissions Committee identified a number of areas in relation to engineering HE that they would like UCAS to consider further, including:

• the practical nature of engineering courses;
• the typical absence of engineering from the key stage 1 –  5 curriculum;
• the extent to which engineering applicants apply to other subjects;
• the extent to which engineering applicant apply across engineering disciplines;
• the need for grades on entry to include subject information (physics / maths);
• how grades on entry will be presented to applicants with a mix of qualifications (e.g. BTEC and A level);
• how new qualifications, such as T levels, will be addressed;
• the need for greater transparency around contextual offers.

We are currently preparing an executive response to highlight these areas. Do please comment below in response to these or to add others.

We also invite you to engage with a University of Manchester study led by Tom Fryer (who joined UCAS’ Kim Eccleston and others to debate personal statement reform at our Forum in December) to help identify which questions may be the most appropriate. The proposals have shifted from the position that was advocated by UCAS in the EPC debate just before Christmas, so we like to think engineering’s representation at the Forum was effective.

The EPC remains particularly keen to ensure that any engineering specific nuances are understood by UCAS. For example, do personal statements serve a specific purpose for those applying to a subject they have not studied at school for which there are only proxy (predicted) grades and how is this best served? Please highlight any engineering specific feedback in your response(s).

https://www.qualtrics.manchester.ac.uk/jfe/form/SV_2gj0WFGkWcARhum

The survey takes five minutes and is directed at all professionals involved in admissions. If you do not feel you are the right person in your university to complete the survey, please do feel free to forward it.

You can also respond directly to UCAS. The reform is an evolving process, with plans to introduce personal statement questions in 2024 for 2025 entry,

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Personal statement

Your personal statement is a really important part of your UCAS application. 

It helps our admissions tutors get an insight into who you are and whether you'd be a good fit for the course you're applying to. 

You can only submit one personal statement for the five courses and universities you apply for. 

You're also limited to 4,000 characters (including spaces) or 47 lines, whichever comes first, so it's useful to make a plan of what you want to say before you start.

Tell us why you want to study the course you're applying for

We're looking for people with a genuine enthusiasm for the subject they're applying for – and that they understand what it involves – so it's useful to   highlight things that inspired your interest, including:

• books you have read
• work or voluntary experience you have undertaken
• lectures or courses you have attended
• any relevant extracurricular activities you’ve taken part in

This a really important part of your personal statement so make sure your passion really shines through.

This means avoid saying you want to study something just because it is interesting.

Instead, explain what you find interesting about it, for example, a particular topic you know you’ll be able to carry on studying at university or something related to it.

Don’t be afraid to use language which shows your enthusiasm for the course or life in general. Be positive and focus on things you thoroughly enjoy.

Skills and experiences

At Imperial, you'll have the freedom to take control of your learning, with options within many courses to customise what you learn and the experiences you have. 

As a research-led university, we'll encourage you to get hands-on in the process of discovery, innovation and learning through and from your own mistakes.

You will also learn to communicate your research findings and have the opportunity to work in teams, as well as on your own.

Think about the sort of skills that you have gained that are relevant to your chosen subject – you'll be able to find more detail about the style of learning for your chosen subject on our course pages .

Don't forget to provide evidence for the skills and knowledge you have. And remember to choose quality over quantity – we'd rather read about a smaller number of skills with evidence than a long list which doesn't explain how you've acquired each skill/quality and how it will help you be successful in your chosen course of study.  

Work experience

Work experience isn’t essential for most Imperial courses, but if it is a course requirement, make sure you get some and then tell us how it's helped to confirm your choice of subject.

You may also wish to use your personal statement to outline your career aspirations and motivation for the future.

Get the right balance

Imperial is not all work and no play. Our students have a huge range of interests – evidenced in our 350+ student-run clubs and societies.

Tell us about your passions and your hobbies, particularly how they have helped you develop skills and qualities that make you a strong candidate. Made you a better leader, for example. Made you more resilient. Or improved your teamwork and communication skills. 

Also tell us about something you do simply for the fun of it. You don't need to go into too much detail as you don’t have the space, but it helps us to get to know you and may be something we ask you more about if you're invited for an interview at a later stage.

Make it personal

Your personal statement should be about you so don't focus on what your friends are writing. Be clear about your own motivations and what you can bring to Imperial. 

Use it to create a unique picture for our admissions tutors of who you are and why you'll be successful in your chosen course of study. 

Also avoid the temptation to copy anyone else's. UCAS runs all personal statements through its similarity detection system, Copycatch, to compare them with previous statements.

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Ucas to replace personal statement with series of questions

Admissions service also making changes to teacher references, and plans to release details of grade profiles that were accepted onto courses.

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The Ucas personal statement is to be replaced by a series of questions following concerns that it was too stressful for UK students.

The admissions service said it believes the change to the 4,000 character essay – which had previously been  criticised for contributing to inequalities in higher education access  – will create “a more supportive framework”.

Advocates of reform said the change will help “level the playing field” in university admissions.

The  Future of Undergraduate Admissions report  by Ucas also announced that academic references would become structured questions, and that students will be able to see a range of accepted entry grades for different courses to improve transparency.

A recent Ucas survey found that 83 per cent of students reported the process of writing a personal statement stressful, with 79 per cent saying it is difficult to complete without support.

Based on this feedback, Kim Eccleston, head of strategy and reform at Ucas, says the current format will be reframed into a series of questions focusing on six key areas: motivation for the course, preparedness for the course, preparation through other experiences, extenuating circumstances, preparedness for study, and preferred learning style.

“We believe this will create a more supportive framework which in turn will help guide students through their responses by removing the guesswork, as well as capturing the information universities and colleges have told us they really need to know from applicants when it comes to offer-making”, she writes in a  blog published by the Higher Education Policy Institute .

The questions are set to be introduced in 2024, for students entering higher education in 2025, while Ucas said it paved the way for further enhancements, such as moving to multimedia submissions.

Lee Elliot Major, professor of social mobility at the University of Exeter , said the move to structured questions was “hugely positive”.

“No one should underestimate how important this reform will be in helping to level the playing field in university admissions,” he added.

“I’ve been calling for reform as statements currently add further advantage for middle class applicants who are often given help in filling in their submissions.”

Providers had told Ucas that the subjective nature of the academic reference section – typically filled out by an applicant’s form tutor or careers adviser – made it challenging to be used to compare applicants against each other.

As a result, it will be replaced with three structured questions – a mandatory general statement about the referee’s school, plus optional information sections on extenuating circumstances affecting the applicant’s performance.

Beginning with the 2024 entry cycle, Professor Elliot Major said it will enable more “objective and useful comments from teachers”.

“As we enter an era of increasing competition for the most selective university degree courses, we need more structured and transparent university admissions that are fair and fit for purpose for all,” he added.

In addition, entry grade reports will be available through the Ucas website, which will give a range of grade profiles that have been accepted onto courses over a five-year period.

It said that this personalised tool, which will launch this year, will prompt applicants to dig deeper into entry requirements and re-evaluate options that may have been considered out of reach.

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Important Updates on UCAS Personal Statements for 2024 and Beyond

UCAS Personal Statements will not be changing for the 2024 admissions cycle as previously suggested.

We understand that the university application process can be both exciting and challenging, and we are here to support you every step of the way. Recently, there have been significant developments regarding the structure of UCAS personal statements, which we believe is crucial information for all prospective students.

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Initially, UCAS had proposed changes to the personal statement system, indicating a shift towards shorter questions in place of the traditional long-form personal statement starting from the 2024 application cycle. However, we would like to bring to your attention that there has been a recent update from UCAS regarding this matter.

According to the latest information from UCAS (available here ), despite initial plans to make changes for the 2024 entry, UCAS has decided to keep the current system intact. The 2024 application cycle will proceed with the familiar long-form personal statement.

Looking ahead, UCAS is in the process of consulting with students and educators to determine whether they will implement changes from autumn 2025 onwards. While there is a possibility of transitioning to a series of shorter questions, this decision is yet to be finalised, and UCAS is actively seeking input from stakeholders.

What does this mean for you as a prospective applicant? Well, if you’re applying in the coming 2024 cycle, then you do not need to worry about the Personal Statement format changing from the current familiar one. If you’re applying from autumn 2025, however, it means keeping on top of updates from UCAS so that you can be aware of what you have to do as soon as the new Personal Statement system is finalised. In the meantime, thinking critically about your motivations, passions, and key skills in relation to your chosen degree course will always be helpful to your application, regardless of whether or not these changes transpire.

As the situation evolves, we here at Oxbridge Applications will keep you informed of any further updates and adjustments to our support services to ensure that you are well-prepared for your application journey. If you have any questions or concerns regarding these developments or any aspect of the application process, please do not hesitate to reach out to us at [email protected] or +44 (0) 20 7499 2394. We are here to support you in achieving your academic goals.

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UCAS Will Replace Personal Statements in 2024: What Students Need to Know

Big changes are coming to the UCAS application process . UCAS announced that they will be replacing personal statements with a series of structured questions starting in 2024 . This new approach aims to reduce stress for university applicants while still giving them a chance to share information about themselves.

Why is UCAS Changing Personal Statements?

The personal statement has been one of the key criteria of the UCAS application for years. However, feedback from both students and universities highlighted some issues with the current free-form format. Surveys found that 83% of students felt writing the personal statement was stressful and 79% said it was hard to complete without support .

Universities also noted it can be difficult to compare personal statements , as content varies widely depending on the individual student. With no set guidelines, students receive different levels of help based on what resources are available.

The goal of the new structured questions is to focus responses and make the process more equitable across the board . Applicants will have clarity on what information universities want to know upfront.

What Will Replace Personal Statements?

Starting with the 2025 UCAS application entry, personal statements will be replaced by six key questions identified through research with universities:

• Motivation for Course – Why do you want to study these courses?
• Preparedness for Course – How has your learning so far helped you to be ready to succeed in these courses?
• Preparation through Other Experiences – What else have you done to help prepare, and why are these experiences useful?
• Extenuating Circumstances – Is there anything the universities need to know to put your achievements into context?
• Preparedness for Study – What have you done to prepare for student life?
• Preferred Learning Styles – Which styles suit you best and how do your course choices match that?

The goal is to capture the key information universities need while allowing applicants to share relevant details about themselves. UCAS continues to refine the focus areas based on feedback.

What This Means for Applicants

Replacing personal statements will affect students definitely. For students applying in 2024 and beyond, the new questions will change how you present yourself to universities. 

The good news is that the process aims to be more straightforward with a clear structure to follow. However, it still requires thought and effort to make your responses stand out.

With less space for elaborate anecdotes, choose details carefully to showcase your skills, experience and fit for the program. Follow prompts closely and focus on exactly how you meet the criteria.

The emphasis will likely shift from creative writing skills to concise, persuasive responses showcasing your abilities. Take time to reflect on experiences that highlight your motivation and preparedness.

What Happens Next?

UCAS emphasizes this change will be a process based on continuous feedback. They aim to introduce the new questions somewhere in 2024 to allow students and advisors time to adjust.

Before launch, UCAS is gathering input on areas like:

• Are there any missing question topics?
• How much preparation time would your role need?
• Perspectives on allowing different statements per university choice.

There is still time to share thoughts and help shape this update. UCAS also hints at more innovations in future cycles, such as multi-media submissions.

Postgraduate Personal Statements Remain Unchanged

The upcoming changes to the personal statement will only apply to undergraduate UCAS applications . For students applying to postgraduate, PhD and master’s programmes , personal statements will remain a required component of the application process. 

These programmes will continue to use free-form personal statements, allowing applicants ample space to detail their motivations, relevant skills and experiences. Universities utilise personal statements to assess candidates’ fit and potential for rigorous further study required at the postgraduate level. 

While undergraduate admissions are evolving, postgraduate applicants can expect the current personal statement format to persist across UK universities.

Learn more:

• How to Write a Personal Statement for a Masters Degree
• How to Write a Personal Statement for a PhD

Final Thoughts: Personal Statement Change

The UCAS personal statement as we know it will soon be a thing of the past. While it marks a major change, the update aims to streamline the process for all involved. Students can focus on putting their best foot forward in a more structured format. With some preparation, applicants will still be able to share their unique stories.

FAQ: UCAS Replacing Personal Statements

Why is ucas replacing personal statements.

UCAS decided to replace free-form personal statements after feedback showed the current format causes stress for applicants. Universities also noted personal statements can be difficult to compare. The new structured questions aim to make the process more straightforward and equitable.

When will the new questions be implemented?

UCAS plans to introduce the structured questions no earlier than 2024, for use in the 2025 application cycle. This timeline allows students, advisors, and universities time to adjust to the new format.

What will the new questions focus on?

Based on research with universities, UCAS identified six key topics: motivation and preparedness for the course, relevant experiences, extenuating circumstances, preparedness for study, and preferred learning styles. Applicants will need to concisely answer prompts on each theme.

How many questions will there be?

UCAS is still finalising the format, but the initial framework suggests six main questions covering the key themes. Each theme may have multiple sub-questions to guide responses.

Will the word count stay the same?

We don’t know yet. Details are still in progress, but it’s likely the total word count will be similar to the current 4,000-character limit for personal statements. Word counts may vary per question.

How should students prepare for the new format?

Students should reflect on key experiences that showcase their skills, motivation and readiness for university study. Focus responses on providing relevant details the prompts ask for.

Will universities have access to past personal statements?

UCAS has not indicated if universities will still have access to personal statements submitted before 2024 during the transition period.

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Americans will need Real ID to travel, enter US federal buildings in 2025: Here are the requirements

NEW YORK -- The United States is less than a year out from the Department of Homeland Security's federal requirement for Real ID for domestic flights and entering federal facilities, and to help you get ahead -- and avoid a dreaded hour-long wait at the DMV -- "Good Morning America" has gathered all the essential details you need to ensure your identification is up to date.

WHAT IS A REAL ID?

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security previously delayed the implementation of Real ID several times over the past few years due to the COVID-19 pandemic. But as of this week, U.S. residents have under a year to obtain their soon-to-be federally required form of identification.

Here's what you need to know:

The federal Real ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 following the 9/11 Commission's recommendation that the Federal Government "set standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver's licenses," the DHS states on its website .

The new rules set out which forms of identification may be used to board flights within the United States and to enter secure federal facilities such as military bases, federal courthouses and other federal facilities.

Applying for a Real ID requires proof of identity, proof of residency and a trip to your local DMV. See below for more on the full requirements and application process details.

All U.S. states, the District of Columbia and five U.S. territories are issuing Real IDs.

You can visit the DHS website for additional answers to some frequently asked questions about Real ID.

REAL ID APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS

Requirements are largely similar across the states, but as of 2021, according to DHS, states are no longer required to collect a social security document from a Real ID applicant. They still must collect and retain the number as part of the application process to verify that information with the Social Security Administration as currently required by the Real ID regulations.

"Not all states have applied this, so please check with your state driver's licensing agency to find the most up to date information," the DHS website states.

In California for example, residents can apply for a Real ID by filling out an application online and upload documents before visiting a DMV office with their uploaded documents to complete the application, which should only take about 15 minutes in person, depending on wait times.

Here's everything California residents would need to provide for the application:

Proof of identity: One original or certified document. For example, a valid passport or birth certificate. Legal name change document is required if name on proof of identity is different from the name on the other documents such as a marriage certificate or adoption papers.

Proofs of California residency: Two documents, paper copies. For example, a utility bill or bank statement.

Social Security number: Some exceptions may apply. Click here for additional details from the DMV REAL ID page.

WHAT IS THE LATEST DEADLINE FOR REAL ID?

Earlier this week marked one year before DHS begins enforcing the Real ID requirement on May 7, 2025.

Starting on that date, a Real ID or other federally approved identification will be required to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities.

Federal agencies including Transportation Security Administration may only accept state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards as identification for the purposes of accessing federal facilities -- including TSA airport security checkpoints -- if the license or card was issued by a Real ID compliant state in accordance with the Real ID security standards.

Enhanced Driver's Licenses issued by Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York and Vermont are considered acceptable alternatives to REAL ID-compliant cards, according to DHS, and will also be accepted for official REAL ID purposes.

WHAT DOES A REAL ID LOOK LIKE?

The Real ID looks almost the same as a current state ID card or driver's license, but has a compliant star marking.

Some differences may vary by state, such as in California, where a small golden bear appears on the top right corner with the white star on the animal's left side.

If an ID says "federal limits apply," that person will not be able to board a domestic flight or enter federal facilities, such as military bases, federal courthouses, and other locations after the May 7, 2025, deadline.

DOES THE REAL ID REPLACE A PASSPORT?

The Real ID does not replace a passport for international travel, however it ensures that travelers can fly domestic within the U.S. and access secure federal locations without additional documentation, according to the DMV.

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