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- Physics Personal Statement Examples
When applying to Physics you need to prepare yourself for the three key segments: PAT test , personal statement and interview. However, learning from the examples can be very beneficial and inspiring. Below you can find successful Physics personal statement examples . Both personal statements are highly accepted by Physics tutors at major UK universities.
Physics Personal Statement Example
From the vast expanse of the cosmos to the microscopic world of particle interactions, physics seeks to understand the fundamental workings of nature across all scales. This breadth draws me to physics, along with the many mysteries that still exist. I plan to expand my knowledge through university study, equipping me to participate in modern research that shapes our understanding and technological capabilities.
Visiting CERN with my school, based on an essay competition on dark matter and energy, gave me invaluable exposure to particle physics research. I attended lectures detailing experiments like LHCb and explored the facilities, getting a behind-the-scenes look at one of the world’s leading research organisations. A highlight was working hands-on with real LHC data during a coding activity organised by Bristol University. Using decays of kaons, we applied cuts to improve signal efficiency and purity – gaining practical insight into the analysis work of particle physicists. This inspiring experience affirmed my interest in pursuing physics at university.
Expanding my studies, I have independently taken GCSE Astronomy . Learning about the cosmos on both large and small scales – from stars and galaxies to exoplanets – has deepened my appreciation for the stunning complexity of our universe. I find great joy in gaining knowledge that allows me to understand more of what I observe in the night sky.
My strong mathematical skills will aid me in tackling university-level physics. I achieved 100% on the AS Mechanics module, which reflects my aptitude for the quantitative side of physics. Studying A-Level Chemistry has also provided useful background in nuclear processes and other relevant areas.
Last year, I spent a year in America as an AFS exchange student. Adapting to a completely new environment improved my independence, problem-solving abilities, and cultural awareness. My English fluency increased dramatically as I made friends from around the world. This experience taught me to approach challenges from diverse perspectives – a skill that will help me thrive in university physics.
Physics underlies all natural phenomena and has led to technological innovations that transform society. I am compelled to further my physics education not just to satisfy my curiosity, but to meaningfully contribute to this enterprise for the benefit of all. I am eager to join a university community passionate about pushing the frontiers of human knowledge and look forward to the challenging, rewarding work ahead.
This personal statement for the Physics course was sent to Bristol University, Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial and Manchester University. It was accepted by all.
Personal Statement Example for Physics
My innate curiosity about how things work has led me towards a deep interest in Physics , something I hope to pursue at the university level and beyond. I believe Physics plays a fundamental role in understanding ourselves and our universe and equips us to tackle pressing challenges facing society.
My passion for Physics began in childhood when I became transfixed by documentaries on quantum mechanics, space exploration and great scientists like Einstein . This early inspiration developed as I began studying Newtonian mechanics , electromagnetism, thermodynamics and more in school. I was always drawn to go beyond textbook examples, reading around subjects to satisfy my curiosity about real-world applications like semiconductors, medical imaging and green energy solutions. Academically, I have consistently excelled in Physics and Maths , achieving top marks. This reflects my diligence, determination and ability to tackle complex concepts.
Beyond the classroom, I have sought opportunities to expand my Physics knowledge. I attended lectures at nearby Durham University , broadening my understanding of astrophysics and particle physics. During my work experience at a materials science company, I used physics principles to test the characteristics of nanomaterials. I also represented my school in the UK Physics Olympiad, reaching the national finals and honing my problem-solving skills. As an avid reader of New Scientist, I have developed a holistic perspective on how physics relates to other scientific fields.
With excellent teachers encouraging me, I have cultivated a collaborative approach to learning. I worked closely with peers on practical experiments, data analysis and A-level assignments. As treasurer of the school Science Society, I organised rewarding trips to CERN and the Science Museum. Through these experiences, I have learned to communicate complex scientific ideas.
In the future, I hope to research to push the frontiers of human knowledge. Your Physics programme appeals due to the access to specialist facilities like laser laboratories and the chance to join a vibrant, intellectually stimulating community. With my academic abilities, passion for the subject and determination to succeed, I believe I would thrive here. Studying at your university would be an invaluable step towards realising my aspiration to become a pioneering Physicist.
This Physics personal statement was sent to Oxford (rejected), Cambridge (rejected), UCL (offer), Durham University (offer) and University of Bristol (offer).
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PERSONAL STATEMENT EXAMPLE Physics Personal Statement
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Physics Personal Statement
The varying scale of physics study is what most excites me: from the universe down to small scale particle interactions, it fundamentally governs all these areas and the many unknowns still existing, which I find fascinating. I want to develop my knowledge through further study of physics to be part of modern day research, which has such a huge impact on our lives.
Alongside my studies, I have been involved in many projects in and out of school to further my interest in physics beyond the A Level course, most recently on Oxford’s UNIQ Physics summer school. In advance of this, I read Feynman’s ‘Six Not-so-easy Pieces’. While I found many of the concepts discussed initially challenging (mainly time dilation, length contraction and curved space), I enjoyed Feynman’s clever analogies to explain these concepts, such as through bugs and hot plates. Study of these topics at Oxford developed my understanding of and interest in relativity, with the opportunity to have intellectual conversations with leading academics being most beneficial and enjoyable. Using the Michelson interferometer to measure sodium emission lines was a session that I particularly enjoyed due to experiencing the university approach to practical work and using equipment that I had only read about, and wouldn’t have otherwise had the opportunity to use. I’ve also read ‘The Last Three Minutes’, in which I found Davies’ links between astro-, particle and quantum physics particularly interesting. However, one of the most interesting points for me in both books was not the content but by how much our knowledge has advanced during my lifetime, with discoveries such as the observation of gravitational waves (which Davies had only predicted), especially as this was performed on a somewhat enlarged version of equipment I have now used.
This year I was selected to join Project Horizon, my school's near-space programme. Over the year, we planned the launch of a payload into the stratosphere, where I led a small team of engineers building and soldering the flight computer and the payload. We had a number of sensors to capture data including temperature, humidity and UV and IR intensity, which was interesting to analyse and compare to expected trends. The payload reached 37864m, capturing spectacular footage from three cameras, which we are hoping to use in a series of outreach lessons in local primary schools. Over the past year I have also mentored a Y8 pupil in physics, as well as assisting in one lower school physics class every week as a STEM Ambassador. This opportunity to have my own basic physics knowledge questioned was extremely beneficial, while also giving back to my school community.
I’ve learnt Mandarin Chinese for the last 5 years and see this as a great benefit to my future career prospects due to the global nature of modern science. Playing the piano since infant school, now at ABRSM Grade 6 level, shows my commitment and I am also proven to be a strong leader: being Vice-Captain of School I work with the Senior Leadership Team to ensure the smooth running of the school on a weekly basis, while also leading and organising the largest RAF Air Cadet section in the country as the Cadet Warrant Officer, and being part of a Cub Scout leadership team to run a weekly programme of activities for 8 to 10 year olds. These all show my willingness to take up the leading role of a university society or in the local community, as well as my ability to communicate with all ages, from young children to peers and staff, and to be adaptable and innovative when things don’t go to plan: all making me suited for group work and the practical side of the course. Overall, I am looking forward to furthering my physics ability at university and believe I display inter-personal and time management skills essential for this challenge, with the prospect of a career in the aviation or space industries adding to my motivation to study the subject.
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Successful Personal Statement For Cambridge Mathematics And Physics
Last Updated: 6th April 2022
Author: Rob Needleman
Table of Contents
Welcome to our popular Personal Statement series where we present a successful Personal Statement, and our Oxbridge Tutors provide their feedback on it.
Today, we are looking through a Mathematics and Physics applicant’s Personal Statement that helped secure a place at Cambridge University. The Mathematics and Physics Course at Cambridge offers the opportunity to study a wide range of subjects: everything from abstract logic to black holes.
Read on to see how this strong Personal Statement addresses both maths and physics to showcase a high level of their ability.
Here’s a breakdown of the Personal Statement:
SUCCESSFUL?
The universities this candidate applied to were the following:
INTERVIEW + REJECTED
Enrolling on our Oxbridge Maths comprehensive Programme will give you access to Personal Statement redrafts.
Your tutor will give you actionable feedback with insider tips on how to improve and make your Personal Statement Oxbridge quality for the best chances of success.
Mathematics And Physics Personal Statement
Since childhood, I’ve always loved complex puzzles, logical problems and challenges. Later on I discovered mathematics and physics which offered a lot of interesting problems and I enjoyed spending time on them. I loved the fact that real-life events, such as throwing a ball, could be described by a virtual language created by humans. However the most impressive fact for me was when I discovered that mathematicians and physicists can predict events just by solving equations. That’s is when I decided that maths and physics are what I want to do in life to contribute to the world.
Even though my passion in mathematics started very early, I have struggled to get to where I am now. When I got into Bratislava’s best gymnasium in mathematics I found myself at a position I had never been before. That was the first time I wasn’t the best in mathematics in our class, in fact I was one of the weaker students in this field. However over time I made my way to the top, but I still couldn’t surpass my classmates. When I got to the 5th grade, I realized why I didn’t succeed. That year we got a new mathematics teacher and she opened my eyes and showed me the beauty of maths. The most important thing that happened that year however was when I won the regional mathematics Olympiad and they invited me to KMS which is a camp for people interested in mathematics. There I realized that the school mathematics is just a fraction of the possibilities in this area. However the thing that I believe helped me in mathematics is that I started enjoying it. Rather than solving a Sudoku or crossword puzzle I was solving geometry problems. Since then I have won many prizes including bronze medals from the Middle European Mathematical Olympiad and the International Mathematical Olympiad.
Besides maths and physics I also love playing the piano and practicing Kung Fu. I have played the piano for 13 years and my personal favourites are Chopin’s Nocturnes. I may not be great at it, but playing the piano helps me relax and forget about my worries for a while. I practice Kung Fu mainly for health. My favourite style is Bagua. I learned that Kung Fu is not only a martial art, but a way of living. Besides Kung Fu and the piano, I also enjoy teaching kids interesting facts or problems in mathematics. During school, I teach a mathematics club and I want to teach the kids that mathematics isn’t just numbers.
Every summer I help organize a mathematics day camp for children. Mathematics may be the subject which I’m best at, but I don’t want to be ‘just a mathematician’ in the future. Since I was little, I’ve always wanted to do something great like solving global issues or inventing something useful, however I realize that it is very hard to achieve this with pure mathematics. People advised me to go study economics and financial mathematics so I could have a good job and earn money, but that is not what I want to achieve in life. My goal is to shape the world and make it a better place for future generations. This is the reason I want to study physics or engineering. I started doing physics two years ago and since then I participated and won some competitions including the Regional Physics Olympiad. To be better at physics I started reading Feynman’s lectures which helped me a lot, but also taught me that there is much to learn out there about the world. The reason why I want to study in the UK is because there are many opportunities compared to Slovakia. I have many friends who study there and heard from them that it’s an amazing experience. The most important fact, though, is that in the UK I can study and work with people who are ambitious. I know what I want to achieve in life, and even though I don’t yet know exactly how to get there or where ‘there’ will be, I believe that a UK university education will steer me in the right direction.
For more inspiration, take a look through our other successful Personal Statement a nalysis articles:
Successful Personal Statement For Natural Science (Physical) At Cambridge
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Good Points Of The Personal Statement
This is a very good statement. The statement is well-written and structured. The student describes their life experiences without making the statement sound like a list of achievements. This is achieved because the student explains every experience described, rather than listing their life experiences with no context. It is clear that the student has many talents and achievements, and these are stated in a humble manner that does not make it seem as though the student is bragging. It is clear that the student is aware of the significance of their decision to study outside of their native homeland and the challenges that this will bring. The student explains their reasons for applying to study a dual honours course and does not neglect either discipline.
Bad Points Of The Personal Statement
The student uses the word ‘gymnasium’ instead of school/college. Whilst this may be the term used in Slovakia, in the UK a ‘gymnasium’ is a place where people exercise and its use in this statement is somewhat confusing. The way in which the student writes about their personal experiences makes the statement sound somewhat like an autobiography.
UniAdmissions Overall Score:
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
This is a very good statement. The student clearly has personality and a high level of ability. Strange terminology used can be excused due to the fact that the student’s first language is not English, and that the vast majority of the statement is very well-written.
This Personal Statement for Maths and Physics is a great example of how to showcase a high level of ability. The candidate’s interest and achievements are clearly shown which is vital to Admissions Tutors.
Remember, at Cambridge, these Admissions Tutors are often the people who will be teaching you for the next few years, so you need to appeal directly to them.
You can find more successful personal statements and our expert guides on our Free Personal Statement Resources page.
Our expert tutors are on hand to help you craft the perfect Personal Statement for your Cambridge Mathematics and Physics application.
With our Oxbridge Maths Premium Programme, we help you craft the perfect Personal Statement , score highly on the STEP and teach you how to Interview effectively .
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Physics with Theoretical Physics
Advance your understanding of theoretical physics in this professionally accredited degree.
Advance your understanding of theoretical physics in this professionally accredited degree
Develop your interest in mathematics and its application in relation to this field of science
Complete a substantial project exploring a topic area of your choice during your final year
Showing course information for 2025 View 2024 course information
Course key facts
Qualification, october 2025, ucas course code, not set home, not set overseas, delivered by, department of physics, south kensington, applications: places, 7 : 1 (2023), minimum entry standard, a*a*a (a-level), 40 points (international baccalaureate), course overview.
Explore how the principles and laws of physics underpin most science and engineering disciplines on this three-year course.
Problems in physics can relate to phenomena on gigantic scales such as the cosmos, minutely small ones, and virtually any other scale in between.
Throughout this course, you'll develop a large range of problem-solving skills that can also be applied to many other (seemingly unrelated) situations.
You'll receive a grounding in physics, mathematics, computational and experimental methods in preparation for advanced study or a career in the field.
This programme is particularly suited to those with a specific interest in mathematics and its application, with less emphasis on experimental work than our standard Physics courses.
You'll learn in a department at the forefront of research, guided by world-leading researchers with a high level of expertise in their specific field. Key topics covered during your first two years include electromagnetism, relativity and quantum physics.
Your third year provides opportunities to advance your knowledge across a wide range of optional modules. This work will allow you to take advantage of the diverse research specialisms within the department.
Your studies will culminate in a major project, carried out under supervision within one of our research groups.
This page is updated regularly to reflect the latest version of the curriculum. However, this information is subject to change.
Find out more about potential course changes .
Please note: it may not always be possible to take specific combinations of modules due to timetabling conflicts. For confirmation, please check with the relevant department.
You’ll study these core modules.
Core modules
Practical physics: laboratory, computing and problem solving.
Build your laboratory and computing skills and receive training in a range of experimental techniques covering several areas of physics.
Vector Fields, Electricity and Magnetism
Become familiar with the key concepts of vector calculus and use them to provide a foundational introduction to electricity and magnetism.
Mechanics and Relativity
Develop your understanding of the mathematics and physics of motion in space and time and advance your knowledge of classical mechanics.
Oscillations and Waves
Gain an in-depth knowledge of oscillation and waves and appreciate their importance in multiple areas of basic physics.
Statistics of Measurement and the Summer Project
Further develop your understanding of several practical aspects of physics and carry out a project in either practical physics, computational physics, or a blend of the two.
Mathematical Analysis
Learn to think ‘like a mathematician” and understand the mathematics underlying notions of limits and infinity, with particular emphasis on the underpinnings of Calculus.
You’ll take the following core modules.
You’ll also choose one I-Explore module, and one optional module.
Advanced Practical Physics
Carry out experiments exploring complex physical phenomena and advance the skills developed in Year 1 laboratory and computing.
Thermal Physics and the Structure of Matter
Receive a grounding in the structure of matter at the microscopic and macroscopic levels and explore thermodynamics and statistical physics.
Differential Equations and Electromagnetism
Analyse various topics in electromagnetism (EM) and develop your knowledge of linear differential equations (DEs).
Quantum Physics
Study the formal framework of quantum mechanics and apply this knowledge to atomic physics to explain the structure and behaviour of hydrogen and more complex atoms.
Mathematical Methods
Review several mathematical techniques fundamental for performing computations across physics and necessary for a proper formulation of its foundations.
Your I-Explore module offers you choices from a range of subjects hosted outside of the department.
You will be taught alongside students from other courses with options including business, management and many more.
Optional modules
Communicating physics.
Spend time in a local school, supporting teaching whilst gaining experience of the science education children experience.
Suns, Stars and Planets
Become familiar with the structure and evolution of the Sun and other stars, and learn about the key physical principles that determine the state of the planets in our own Solar System.
Environmental Physics
Understand the application of core physical concepts to the Earth system, and develop a critical, practical awareness of global environmental change.
You'll study all core modules and choose one of the project modules.
You will also choose four or five optional modules. Most of these will be theoretical optional modules.
Nuclear and Particle Physics
Examine the physics of elementary particles and nuclei, explore concepts associated with symmetries and use relativistic kinematics to calculate simple interactions.
Comprehensives
Test your problem-solving ability using the basic principles of physics before applying them to unfamiliar situations.
Solid State Physics
Cover the fundamentals of the physics of solids and explore how the properties of solids are determined by microscopic physics.
Advanced Classical Physics
Explore advanced concepts in classical physics and build your appreciation of the role played by symmetries in fundamental physics.
Project modules
Year 3 project.
Complete a research project that tackles an open problem in physics for which the answer is not yet known or settled.
Essay Project
Carry out a research investigation that places an emphasis on your ability to discern, contextualise and critically analyse the research of others.
Obtain a mathematically rigorous understanding of laser physics and examine the basic mechanisms of laser action and how real-world lasers operate.
Physics of Medical Imaging and Radiotherapy
Analyse a range of clinical imaging modalities and radiotherapies and understand the physical principles underlying the interactions of x-ray radiation with tissue.
Principles of Instrumentation
Investigate the principles and practice of instrument science and use a prototyping system to build and characterise key instrument components.
Plasma Physics
Discover the broad range of physical phenomena which determine the behaviour of plasmas and the importance of collective effects.
Learn the basics of modern cosmology, and study the foundations of the Hot Big Bang theory.
Hydrodynamics
Explore the fundamental concepts of shocks and gain a thorough understanding of compressible flow and its importance in supersonic motion.
Space Physics
Unpick the key physical theories that control the properties of different space plasmas and plasma phenomena.
Laser Technology
Assess key laser applications and commercially important lasers and build your understanding of nonlinear optical phenomena and contemporary applications.
Quantum Optics
Examine quantum mechanics using light, atoms and their interactions, and learn how quantum optics can provide tools to develop quantum technology.
Introduction to Plasmonics and Metamaterials
Broaden your appreciation of the optics of small metallic nanoparticles and nanoantennas.
Information Theory
Analyse modern information theory, from the laws of probability to the storage and transmission of (digital) information.
Entrepreneurship for Physicists
Develop your entrepreneurial and organisational skills and consider how to establish a technology-based enterprise that maximises your physics education.
Concepts in Device Physics
Explore how electronic, photonic and magnetic devices work and gain insight into some of the latest research developments in nanomaterials and device physics.
Atmospheric Physics
Review the basic structure of an atmosphere and the climate system, and use fundamental thermodynamics to derive expressions.
Optical Communications Physics
Deepen your knowledge of how modern optical communications technologies operate, and explore the operations of optical fibre networks.
Theoretical optional modules
Statistical mechanics.
Study how the co-operative behaviour of many simple constituents can lead to the emergence of new physics, and investigate continuous phase transitions.
Complexity and Networks
Explore why the 21st century could be 'the century of complexity' and examine how interactions between many small but interacting parts can lead to the emergence of dramatic results on large scales.
Foundations of Quantum Mechanics
Acquire the mathematical techniques and conceptual background required to understand the foundations of quantum mechanics.
Computational Physics
Build your understanding of the finite difference methods used to solve differential equations in physics.
Astrophysics
Apply physical concepts from your earlier studies to explain the formation, existence, and appearance of astronomical objects.
Group Theory
Become fluent in the language of representation theory and confident in its applications to non-relativistic quantum mechanics.
General Relativity
Develop your understanding of general relativity (GR), Einstein's theory of gravity, and understand the new, relativistic world view of four-dimensional Lorentzian spacetime.
Quantum Field Theory
Discover why quantum field theory (QFT) is essential to understand nature at smallest scales and understand the use of fields to describe fundamental particle physics.
Advanced Particle Physics
Study the “Standard Model” (SM) of particle physics and assess both its advantages and limitations.
Quantum Information
Analyse the fundamental principles and applications of quantum information and their realisation.
Unification - The Standard Model
Deepen your knowledge of the properties required for the Lagrangian of a field theory, and explore how symmetries are represented mathematically and reflected in physical observables.
Quantum Theory of Matter
Understand the concept of topology in condensed matter physics using examples of current interest.
Professional accreditation
This degree is professionally accredited by the Institute of Physics (IOP) .
With a professionally accredited degree, you’ll be able to demonstrate to employers that you have achieved an industry-recognised standard of competency. Professional accreditation also provides international recognition of your qualifications, which you can use to launch a career abroad.
Our BSc Physics courses partially satisfy the academic requirement for professional registration as a Chartered Physicist (CPhys) . This is a highly respected qualification earned by professionals working in physics, which can lead to higher earning potential and better career prospects.
To gain Chartered status after you graduate, you’ll need to demonstrate that you have knowledge equivalent to an accredited integrated Master’s degree.
Our accreditation agreement with the Institute of Physics is renewed every five years. The current accreditation agreement was recently renewed through 2027.
Associateship
In addition to your degree, you’ll receive the Associateship of the Royal College of Science (ARCS) upon completion of this course. This associateship is awarded by one of our historic constituent Colleges.
Teaching and assessment
Balance of teaching and learning.
- Lectures, tutorials and laboratory work
- Independent study
- Research project
Years 1 & 2
- 50% Lectures, tutorials and laboratory work
- 50% Independent study
- 0% Research project
- 13% Lectures, tutorials and laboratory work
- 87% Independent study
Teaching and learning methods
Balance of assessment.
- Written examination
- 25% Coursework
- 15% Practical
- 60% Written examination
- 20% Coursework
- 10% Practical
- 70% Written examination
- 15% Coursework
Assessment methods
Entry requirements.
We consider all applicants on an individual basis, welcoming students from all over the world.
- International Baccalaureate
- English language requirement
- Foundation programmes
- Other qualifications
To include:
- A* in Mathematics
- A*/A in Physics
- A in another subject (Further Mathematics is recommended, but not essential)
Chemistry, although not essential, is considered to be a useful third subject for developing knowledge and understanding of the course. Not accepted : General Studies and Critical Thinking Science Practical Endorsement: If you are made an offer you will be required to achieve a pass in the practical endorsement in all science subjects that form part of the offer.
Typical offer
A*A*A-A*A*A* (applicants studying three A-levels)
Made to at least 80% of 2023 A-level applicants.
Support for widening participation applicants
Our contextual admissions route for UK applicants may entitle you to additional considerations within the application process to help us form a more complete picture of your potential to succeed at Imperial.
Find out more about who is eligible and what support you may receive .
40 points
- 7 , 6, 6 including Mathematics and Physics at higher level
Preferred Mathematics syllabus : The Mathematics Analysis and Approaches or the Applications and Interpretation syllabi will be accepted at higher level, but Analysis and Approaches is preferred.
42 points
Made to at least 80% of IB applicants in 2023.
Find out more about who is eligible and what support you may receive .
All candidates must demonstrate a minimum level of English language proficiency for admission to Imperial.
For admission to this course, you must achieve the higher university requirement in the appropriate English language qualification. For details of the minimum grades required to achieve this requirement, please see the English language requirements .
Imperial does not offer its own Foundation Programme. However, the following are accepted for entry to this programme:
- UCL’s Undergraduate Preparatory Certificate for Science and Engineering (UPCSE), and
- Warwick’s International Foundation Programme (IFP) in Science & Engineering
Students complete four modules across the year – two compulsory and two elective modules.
Compulsory modules:
- Research and Academic Skills: Science and Society
- Academic English
Elective modules:
- Mathematics
Minimum requirements
The Department of Physics minimum requirements are:
- 80% overall
- 80% Mathematics
- 80% Physics
Warwick IFP Science and Engineering
The Department of Physics minimum requirements are:
- 80% Mathematics and Physics
To meet these requirements, you should choose from the following IFP pathways:
- Engineering
UK qualifications
If you are studying a UK qualification, other than A-levels, choose your qualification from the list below to see the entry requirement for this course.
This qualification is not accepted for entry to this programme.
Our minimum entry standard is:
- D2 in Mathematics
- D2 / D3 Physics and one other subject (grades any order)
Our minimum entry standard is AAA overall, to include:
- A in Mathematics
- A in Physics
International qualifications
We accept a wide range of qualifications from different countries – choose your qualification from the list below to see the entry requirement for this course. If your qualification is not included, it might not be accepted for entry. You can check with the relevant Admissions team for confirmation.
Our minimum entry standard is 5, 5, 5, 5 overall, from:
- 5 in Calculus BC
- 5 in Physics C Electricity and Magnetism
- 5 in Physics C Mechanics
- 5 in Chemistry, Statistics, Computer Science, Macro or Micro Economics
*If you are studying additional High School Qualifications alongside Advanced Placements, requirements may apply to both sets of qualifications.
- ATAR 98.5 with AAA including Maths and Physics
Our minimum entry standard is ATAR 98.5 with:
- 45/50 Maths
- 45/50 & 42/50 including Physics (grades any order)
- A+/A including Physics (grades any order)
- EA / HA including Physics (grades any order)
- 1 Mathematics
Our minimum entry standard is 8.5 overall, to include:
- 9 in Mathematics
- 9 in Physics
*Grades above are when grades out of 10. Grades are doubled when marked out of 20.
Our minimum entry standard is 5.9 overall, with the following state exams:
- 6 in Mathematics
- 6 in Physics
Our minimum entry standard is 90% overall from year 12 subjects, to include the following grades at Year 12:
- 90% in Mathematics
- 90% / 85% including Physics (grades any order)
- 85% in two further subjects
- 1 (AAA) in Mathematics (double unit)
- 1 (AAA) in Physics (double unit)
- 1 (AAA) in two further units
- 5 Mathematics (HL)
- 5 Physics (HL)
- 5 Other (HL)
Our minimum entry standard is 19.5 overall:
- 20 Mathematics
- A-level Mathematics grade A*
- A-level Physics grade A
Our minimum entry standard is 11 overall, to include:
- 12 in Mathematics
- 12 / 10 in Physics and Other (grades any order)
- 91% Mathematics Extensive (State Exam)
Our minimum entry standard is 85% overall, to include:
- 9 / 8.5 including Physics
- 7 Mathematics (advanced)
Our minimum entry standard is 17 overall, to include two speciality subjects at year 13:
- 16 in Mathematics with option Mathematics Expert
- 16 in Physics-Chemistry
Our minimum entry standard is 1.4 overall, to include the following abiturprufung exams:
- 14 in Mathematics
- 14 in Physics
- 5* Mathematics
- 5* / 5 including Physics (grades any order)
Our minimum entry standard from higher level subjects is:
- 5 Mathematics
Our minimum entry standard is 9 overall, to include:
- 9 / 8 including Physics
Our minimum entry standard is 92% overall, to include:
- 95% in Mathematics
- 95% / 90% including Physics
Our minimum entry standard is three higher level DP courses (stand alone or within the CP), to include:
- 7, 6, 6 including Mathematics* and Physics at higher level
*Mathematics Analysis and Approaches or the Applications and Interpretation syllabi will be accepted at higher level, but Analysis and Approaches is preferred.
Higher level DP courses may also be presented in combination with other accepted qualifications, providing a minimum equivalent of three A level breadth of study is presented. Accepted qualifications with subject and grade requirements are available in the entry requirement section of each course page. If you require guidance, please contact Admissions.
Due to the highly selective nature of admissions at Imperial, candidates should be aware that those presenting the full IB Diploma will typically be considered as presenting more competitive applications.
Our minimum entry standard is 18.5 overall:
- 19 Mathematics
- 19 / 18 including Physics
- H1 Mathematics
- H1 in two further subjects
- H2 in two further subjects
Our minimum entry standard is 90% overall, to include the following five unit subjects:
Our minimum entry standard is 100 overall, to include:
- 10 in Mathematics
- 10 / 9 including Physics
- 6 in three other subjects
Our minimum entry standard is 55 overall, to include:
- 55 in Mathematics 1
- 55 / 50 including Physics
Our minimum entry standard is AAA in intermediate subjects with the following at advanced level:
Our minimum entry standard is 5 overall:
Our minimum entry standard is 8.6 overall, to include:
Our minimum entry standard is E overall from Level 3:
- E Mathematics
- 6 Mathematics
- 6 / 5 including Physics
Our minimum entry standard is the following subjects at advanced level - numerical grades refer to the required stanine:
Our minimum entry standard is 18 overall including:
- 19 in Mathematics
Our minimum entry standard is 9.5 overall including:
- 9.5 in Mathematics
- 9.5 / 9 including Physics
Our minimum entry standard is AAA overall from H2 subjects, to include:
Our minimum entry standard is 4.5 overall:
- 4.5 Mathematics
- 4.5 Physics
Our minimum entry standard is 3.8 overall:
- 3.8 Mathematics
- 3.8 Physics
Our minimum entry standard is A in the majority of subjects, to include:
- A in Mathematics 4
- A in Physics 2
Our minimum entry standard is 5.5 overall to include:
- 5.5 Mathematics
- 5.5 / 5 to include Physics
How to apply
Apply via ucas.
When applications open, you will be able to start your application via UCAS Hub. There you can add this course as one of your choices and track your application.
UCAS institution code: I50
Application deadlines – 29 January 2025 at 18.00 (UK time)
Admissions test – the ESAT
To be considered for this course for 2025 entry, you will need to sit the Engineering and Science Admissions Test (ESAT) as part of the application process.
The ESAT is a computer-based assessment and is made up of individual multiple-choice assessments. These will differ depending on the Imperial course you are applying to.
Find out more about the ESAT and how to register for 2025 entry.
Assessing your application
Admissions Tutors consider all the evidence available during our rigorous selection process and the College flags key information providing assessors with a more complete picture of the educational and social circumstances relevant to the applicant. Some applicants may be set lower offers and some more challenging ones.
ATAS certificate
An ATAS certificate is not required for students applying for this course.
Transfer between courses
The high level of shared content in the first two years of our Physics degrees means that transfer to another degree within the Department is usually possible in the first two years.
- To transfer onto the BSc or MSci with Theoretical Physics, you must take the appropriate mathematics module(s).
- Transfer onto the Year Abroad degree must be done at the very start of your first year.
Please note there is no benefit in applying to multiple courses within the Department of Physics, and you should only apply to one course from this department.
If you are made an offer, you will have the opportunity to discuss your choice of degree and the potential to transfer on to another degree within the department.
If you are an international student, transferring to a different course could have an impact on your student visa. Please visit our International Student Support webpage for further information.
Transfer to Year Abroad
Year abroad, language requirement.
Teaching is in the language of your host country in France, Germany, Italy and Spain, so you will need to reach an acceptable proficiency in the relevant language before you go. Free language classes are available at the College to help you prepare.
Availability
There are limited places available on the Year Abroad programme, which means that competition for selection is strong and a placement cannot be guaranteed.
Normally, only students with marks of 60% or above will be eligible for placements in France and Germany. Only students with marks of 70% or above will be eligible for placements in Singapore and the USA.
Please note the list of universities located abroad that the Department currently has partnerships with is illustrative.
Partnerships with universities are subject to continuous review and individual partnerships may or may not be renewed.
Tuition fees
Overseas fee, as a guide, the home fee for 2024–25 was £9,250 per year, inflationary increases.
Your fee is based on the year you enter the College, not your year of study. This means that if you repeat a year or resume your studies after an interruption, your fees will only increase by the amount linked to inflation.
Find out more about our tuition fees payment terms , including how inflationary increases are applied to your tuition fees in subsequent years of study.
Which fee you pay
Whether you pay the Home or Overseas fee depends on your fee status. This is assessed based on UK Government legislation and includes things like where you live and your nationality or residency status. Find out how we assess your fee status .
Government funding
If you're a Home student, you can apply for a Tuition Fee Loan from the UK government to cover the entire cost of tuition for every year of your course.
You can also apply for a means-tested Maintenance Loan to help towards your living costs.
Imperial Bursary scheme
We’re offering up to £5,000 each year through our Imperial Bursary scheme for eligible Home undergraduates.
If your household income remains under £70,000 a year, you’ll automatically qualify for every year of your course.
Find out more about our Imperial Bursary scheme .
As a guide, the Overseas fee for 2024–25 was £41,650 per year
How will studying at imperial help my career.
Improve your career prospects by developing a broad range of professional skills.
Approximately half of Imperial students also pursue MSc or PhD degrees.
Many Imperial graduates move into traditional technical jobs because of their analytical and problem-solving skills.
Oil and gas, telecommunications, business consultancy, banking, and finance are among them.
Other potential career prospects include the civil service, cyber risk modelling, the energy industry, and the automotive industry.
Further links
Contact the department.
- Telephone: +44 (0)20 7594 7513
- Email: [email protected]
Visit the Department of Physics website
Request info
Learn more about studying at Imperial. Receive useful information about our life in our undergraduate community and download our latest Study Guide.
Events, tasters and talks
Meet us and find out more about studying at Imperial.
Find an event
Course data
Compare this course, terms and conditions.
There are some important pieces of information you should be aware of when applying to Imperial. These include key information about your tuition fees, funding, visas, accommodation and more.
Read our terms and conditions
You can find further information about your course, including degree classifications, regulations, progression and awards in the programme specification for your course.
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Physics & astrophysics personal statement example.
I have always considered Physics to be a captivating area of study, whether it is a question of how aspects of it work, or indeed why they work. As such, I have found deep fascination in studying Physics, as it is able to provide answers (as well as evidence) to such queries. However, as one question is answered, many more are created; this makes Physics an enigmatic branch of study, which I find very appealing.
Having studied Physics at A-Level, along with Mathematics and Chemistry, it soon became clear to me that Physics was my ideal career path, specifically Astrophysics.
I am particularly inquisitive about the physics concerning black holes and nebulae, and the roles played by quantum physics across the universe; I take great interest in how the strangest phenomena of our universe work, finding the fact that particles so small can play such a large role in endless everyday processes extremely remarkable and fascinating.
Mathematics provides logical explanations for many aspects of Physics, while Chemistry involves many concepts which depend entirely on the laws of Physics to be functional (e.g. infrared spectroscopy). I feel that my aptitude for Mathematics in particular has fuelled my interest in physics. At secondary school, I won the Mathematics subject award on several occasions at the annual awards evening.
My interest in Physics was further increased when I visited the Christie Hospital in Manchester with some of my peers, in order to learn about the applications and possibilities that medical physics could offer.
I keep abreast of developments in Physics through the news as well as Physics-related websites. By doing this I am able to be informed about a wide variety of updates in Physics, ranging from lunar eclipses and meteor showers to new developments at CERN in Geneva. I certainly think that the attempted investigation into the universe’s origins is, in itself, a magnificent undertaking.
I enjoy reading a wide variety of literature, which influenced my choice to study A-Level English Language and Literature. During my AS year, I studied Ian McEwan’s The Child In Time, an underlying theme of which is the fluidity and relativity of time; as such, for me, this book encompassed both my fascination with Physics and love for literature.
This subject has further developed my ability of critical analysis, which I feel is a valuable skill particularly in practical physics.
In Year 11, I was appointed as Head Boy, which involved many addresses to my school at events, interactions with other schools in the local area, and heading the student council; essentially, I acted as an ambassador for the school. From this, I was able to consider arguments from different viewpoints critically, as well as working in a team effectively.
Furthermore, I was able to develop my skills in terms of confidence and putting forward ideas/suggestions, through frequent consultation with the school’s senior leadership team. I have also helped out at open evenings both at secondary school and sixth form (where I assisted the Physics department on the latter occasion).
This involved the explanation of several Physics concepts to prospective students, such as the conservation of momentum when discussing Newton’s Cradle.
Aside from my devout fascination with Physics, I enjoy many leisure activities such as drawing and swimming, as well as activities that require logical thinking.
While at university, I would enjoy getting involved in societies and other pursuits. After achieving a degree, I would aspire to work either as an astrophysicist or researcher; this would allow me to share my knowledge on a subject that is becoming increasingly relevant in the modern world. In exchange for the opportunity of higher education, the university would receive a hardworking and committed individual who strives to achieve the best in everything he undertakes.
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This personal statement was written by Cyclohexane for application in 2013.
Cyclohexane's university choices The University of Durham University of Leeds The University of Manchester Cardiff University The University of Sheffield
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Current students share their thoughts on planning for university, student life and what it’s like to study at the university of surrey., personal statement top tips.
We know that writing your personal statement can be a difficult and confusing experience, so we have come up with some tips that can help make the process easier!
Showcase your enthusiasm for the course through wider research
Universities want to see that you’re applying for their course because you are genuinely interested in the subject. Reading a book, attending a lecture and watching documentaries are great ways of showing your interest in your desired course as it will allow you to show universities what specific aspects of the course interest you.
Mind map your motivations for applying to your particular course
We know it can be hard finding ways to show your motivations that aren’t cliche or cringey. Making a mind map can help you break down your ideas and give you topic headings for each paragraph.
For example, if you are applying for law: do you want to qualify as a solicitor at the end of your degree? Do you have a passion for advocacy? Do you believe that English Law needs to be reformed to be in line with today’s society?
Talk about your extra-curricular activities
Universities want to see that you are a well rounded individual. Do you regularly partake in a sport? Can you play an instrument? Are you an avid home baker? Do you have a large TikTok following?
Extra-curricular activities are great because they show that you know how to organise your time and understand the importance of taking care of your mental health. Universities want to know what your hobbies are, so make sure you tell them!
Explain how your A-Levels will help you on your case
There are so many transferable skills that you gain from your A-Levels. For example, Chemistry can help develop your analytical thinking which can be incredibly useful for Law or Business as well as Biomedicine and Chemistry. Drama can help develop your public speaking skills as well as creativity and teamwork.
What characteristics do you display that would make you a good fit for the course
Is there something about you that you believe makes you an ideal candidate? Are you very organised? Are you resilient? There may be times in your degree that are more challenging than others. If you can show that you have the skills to help yourself through those hard times universities want to know!
Have someone read each draft
Sometimes it can be useful getting someone else to read your work as they can give you advice on the punctuation and the flow of the statement. If it is someone who is close to you, they may also give you ideas of other things that you could include.
We hope that you’ve found these tips helpful and that they’ve given you some ideas of what to write. At the end of the day, universities want to read why you want to apply and why you are the best applicant.
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Anonymous samples of my work for admission to degree programs in physics.
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- MS Physics, Nuclear Research
- MSc Physics UK, History of Time
- MSc Physics UK, Flight Simulation
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22 Surprising Facts About: Albert Einstein.
Premium Statement Service by Dr. Robert Edinger
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Statements of Excellence for Admission to Graduate School in Physics
I help as many people as I can in the area of Physics although I can make no claims to any special qualification in this area. I only had one Physics class, decades ago as an undergraduate students called "Physics for Poets." I do like to think, however, as a professional word smith, that I draft effective statements for applicants to graduate school in Physics because I help them to include and account for the "big picture" the relevance of physics of humanity. It is a specia privilege and honor to draft statements for people whose story excites me, people who I feel strongly are in a unique position to give something of importance to their respective professions. I only do my best, taking the time to reflect on your story as well, usually doing some internet research on your behalf.
I want to help you get admitted to graduate school in Physics.
Free Document Evaluation. After you fill out my Online Interview Form , I will ask you some specific questions by email if I need any further information. Please also send your resume/CV and or rough draft if you have one.
Talent and potential for research are the big things that graduate school programs in Physics are looking for in applicants. Many successful applicants have extensive research experience, often spending their summer vacations in the laboratory.
You will also need a highly eloquent Statement that portrays you as someone with enormous potential to contribute to the advance of Physics over the long term.
Some additional tips for preparation for graduate school in Physics include:
- Ask for recommendations now, while the professor remembers you well!
- Talk to your professors about where you should apply, who might be good to work with, and what schools they think would be a good match for your interests!
- Surf the web, what work/experiments interest you?
- Contact professors who do interesting work and talk to them about it (email, phone)
- If possible, attend colloquiums to get a feel for what’s out there.
- Think about where you will be living as well (where you really want to live, city, state, etc.
- Apply to at least 5-8 schools of different levels of competitive admission so that if you do not get accepted to your first choice, you get accepted somewhere.
- If you find a professor you click with, apply there!
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The Humanitarian Side of Physics
Along with his famous scientific accomplishments, Albert Einstein should be acknowledged for his humanitarian struggles to achieve peace and international cooperation.
Albert Einstein was one of the most influential scientists of all time! But he was also an inquisitive philosopher who had many inspiring thoughts about the meaning of life, the nature of free will and existence and our place in the cosmos. The Cosmic View of Albert Einstein (Sterling Publishing, 2013) by Walt Martin and Magda Ott compiles Einstein’s most inspirational cosmic utterances in one large volume. The following excerpt is from the foreword by Alice Calaprice, the former senior editor of the book´s publisher.
Albert Einstein, the supernova among physicists, is best known for his so-called genius, pacifism, and his humanitarian and political activism. His achievements are enough to make the most accomplished among us blush, but he was in fact a modest and humble human being, making his way through life like the rest of us, often making mistakes along the way.
He was, however, wise enough to change his mind as circumstances and the passage of time dictated, both in his physics and his worldview. In an appropriate juxtaposition of wisdom, intellect, technology, and art, the editors’ compilation of Einstein’s most memorable words and photographs offered by NASA, other observatories around the world, and amateur astronomers vividly captures the beauties of our expanding and dynamic Universe.
“The eternal mystery of the world is its comprehensibility. The fact that it is comprehensible is a miracle,” Einstein mused around 1936. These photos and the work of the scientists and technical experts behind them—artists all—are proof of humankind’s desire to comprehend the miraculously changing canvas we call the cosmos.
Einstein’s “Cosmic Religion”
The dominant effect of the photos in this book is to inspire wonder and awe: words Einstein used to define his faith in the power and laws of Nature. He called this his “cosmic religion”. Einstein most likely meant to convey that it is possible to be religious—that is, not an atheist—without believing in the “personal” God that most societies throughout the world see as God.
Einstein’s idea of religion, is based on a more constant theme—that of nature and her almost unwavering, harmonious laws. “I believe in Spinoza’s God, who reveals himself in the lawful harmony of the world, not in a God who concerns himself with the fate and the doings of mankind,” said Einstein. Einstein unified science and religion in this way, and referred to himself as a “deeply religious nonbeliever.” Being open-minded and inclusive in his worldview, he also found Jesus, Buddha, and Moses equally compelling as prophets.
Einstein was in wonder and awe that “the Old One,” as he referred to God, had set an almost perfect system of order in motion since the earliest times of the big bang. This system has persevered through eons of physical changes. And, in the case of Earth at least, through biological transformations and evolution.
Through these laws of nature, the universe has been able to survive to the present day. In more recent times, humankind has been able to tamper with natural laws in the name of progress, often resulting in benefit to people but in harm to the planet. In today’s world, Einstein would surely speak out for a balance that, through some sacrifice on the part of overly zealous consumers in some parts of the world, is certainly possible.
Pacifism, Social Responsibility of the Scientist, and World Government
Einstein was a lifelong pacifist except during the World War II era, when Adolf Hitler forced him to compromise his beliefs. “My pacifism is an instinctive feeling, a feeling that possesses me because the murder of people is disgusting,” he wrote around 1929.
“My attitude is not derived from any intellectual theory, it´s based on my deepest antipathy to every kind of cruelty and hatred.” He also often spoke of the responsibility of scientists and policy makers to make the best use of new discoveries for peaceful purposes rather than war. For the benefit of all humankind.
In August 1948, three years after the end of WW II, he released a message to fellow intellectuals: “We scientists, whose tragic destination has been to help in making the methods of annihilation more gruesome and more effective, must consider it our solemn and transcendent duty to do all in our power in preventing these weapons from being used for the brutal purpose for which they were invented. What task could possibly be more important for us?”
Einstein felt great remorse about the contribution of physics to the technology used to make bombs. He spent the last ten years of his life fighting for the peaceful uses of atomic energy.
He appended his last signature to a nonscientific statement that came to be called the Russell-Einstein Manifesto, one of the most important documents of the twentieth century which remains highly relevant to this day.
It was issued three months after his death by philosopher and peace activist Bertrand Russell. This document was a call to all nations “to renounce nuclear weapons as part of a general reduction of armaments”. It was signed by nine other prominent scientists.
Today, Einstein continues to be honored for his unwavering if unsuccessful humanitarian struggles to achieve peace and international cooperation, and for his passionate opposition to McCarthyism, racial segregation, ethnic discrimination, and his support of human rights throughout the world.
Humans are but a tiny note in the music of the spheres. We as scientists and people, should redouble their efforts to come together as one people on Earth: here to protect, preserve, and revere our physical space as well as our fellow creatures.
If you´d like to study physics or need documents to improve your chances of success when applying for jobs, educational programs or internships, please let us know! We support humanitarian physicists!
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- Graduate Studies in A&S
Your Personal Statement for Graduate School
Starting from scratch.
The personal statement is your opportunity to speak directly to the admissions committee about why they should accept you. This means you need to brag. Not be humble, not humblebrag, but brag. Tell everybody why you are great and why you’ll make a fantastic physicist (just, try not to come off as a jerk).
There are three main points you need to hit in your essay:
- Your experience in physics. Direct discussion of your background in physics and your qualifications for graduate studies should comprise the bulk of your essay. What research did you do, and did you discover anything? Did you take inspiring coursework or go to a cool seminar? What do you want to do in graduate school? There’s a ton to discuss.
- Your personal characteristics. What makes you stand out? You’ve probably done a lot in college that’s not physics research or coursework. You need to mention the most impressive or meaningful of these commitments and accomplishments, and you need to demonstrate how they will eventually make you a better physicist. Are you a leader? A fundraiser? A teacher? A competitive mathematician? A team player? An activist for social change? All of these not-physics experiences may translate over to skills that will help you as a physics professor or researcher someday, and you can point this out!
- Context for your accomplishments. Is there anything else about your personal history or college experience that an admissions committee needs to know? The application form itself may only have space for you to list raw scores and awards, but graduate schools evaluate applications holistically. Thus they ask for the essay so you have a chance to tell your story and bring forth any personal details (including obstacles you overcame) to help the committee understand how great you truly are. Your application readers want to help you, and they’re giving you the chance to show how hard you’ve worked and how far you’ve come. But it’s up to you to connect the dots.
This type of essay is a lot more serious and a lot less creative than a college essay, a law school essay, or an essay for admission to a humanities PhD program. You’re basically trying to list a lot of facts about yourself in as small a space as possible. This is the place to tell everyone why you’re great. Do not hold back on pertinent information.
The following is going to be a general guide about how to write a first draft of your main graduate school essay. By no means think this is the only way to do it — there are plenty of possibilities for essay-writing! However, see this as a good way to get started or brainstorm.
If you’re completely stuck, a good way to start writing your essay is to compose each of the five main components separately.
- Your research experience
- Your outside activities or work experience
- Personal circumstances
- A story about you that can serve as a hook
- Your future goals + why you chose to apply to each school
At the end, we’ll piece these five different disjoint pieces together into one coherent essay.
1. Your research experience (and scientific industry employment)
This is the most important part of your essay, so it’s the place that we’ll start. We’ll pretend we’re structuring each research experience as its own paragraph (you can go longer or shorter, depending on how much time you spent in each lab or how much progress you made). Let’s see how it might work:
- .Simple overview of research: what you worked on, the name of your primary supervisor (professor or boss), and the location (university + department or company + division). The first time you mention a professor, you call them by their first and last name: “I worked for Emmett ‘Doc’ Brown in Hill Valley.” All subsequent times, you address them by their title and last name: “Dr. Brown and I worked on time travel.”
- “My research group was trying to build a time machine. My specific project was to improve the flux capacitor needed to make the machine work. I was able to make the capacitor exceed the 1.21 gigawatts needed for it to work. In addition, I helped do minor mechanical repairs on the DeLorean in which we built it.”
- “When I came back, I decided to take two additional graduate-level courses on time travel, and I found a similar internship the following summer.”
Then you just jam it all together into a semi-coherent paragraph:
In 1985, I worked for Emmett ‘Doc’ Brown in Hill Valley. Dr. Brown’s research group was trying to build a time machine. My specific project was to improve the flux capacitor needed to make the machine work. I was able to make the capacitor exceed the 1.21 gigawatts needed for it to work. In addition, I helped do minor mechanical repairs on the DeLorean in which we built it. When I came back, I decided to take two additional graduate-level courses on time travel, and I found a similar internship the following summer .
You’re not a character from Back to the Future , and it’s not beautiful prose, but you have to start somewhere. It’s more important to get all the facts you need down on the page before you work too hard on editing. Save that for after you have a well-structured and mostly-written essay.
2. (A) Your primary extracurricular activities or (B) your primary life experiences
(A) Tell the committee about any other major honors or experiences you’ve had in physics. Also write a paragraph or two about your interests outside of physics class and science research. Use this space to highlight the really impressive features of your activities:
- a second major or minor
- leadership positions in clubs, student representative to department/university committees, elected position in student government
- science clubs: Society of Physics Students, Math Club, engineering organizations, societies for students underrepresented in the sciences, etc.
- teaching activities: TA positions, tutoring, volunteer teaching commitments in any field of study, coaching a team, etc.
- other regular volunteering activities
- science advocacy and activism: political issues (government funding, global warming, nuclear policy, etc), improving diversity and inclusion in the sciences, science outreach on campus or in the local community
- a significant time commitment: varsity sports, heavy school-year employment, etc.
- other relevant skills: writing/publishing experience, public speaking, proficiency in other languages
- major fellowships, scholarships, honors, prizes, or awards you’ve won and if needed, an explanation of their significance/meaning
- attendance of physics conferences, symposia, summer schools, etc. that you haven’t already been able to mention in conjunction with the description of your research
If you have done many extracurricular activities, focus your 1-2 paragraphs on leadership positions, teaching, and service, particularly in the sciences.
(B) If you came to college a few years after you left high school, or if you are coming to graduate school a few years after you left college, then you need to write a few paragraphs discussing those life experiences. What did you do during that time? What experiences led you to choose physics graduate school as your next step? If you applied earlier but your application was rejected, how have you become more qualified since the last time you applied? You can feel free to ignore some of the advice we give later about how much of the essay you should focus on discussing physics experiences — structure the essay however you need to, to get the pertinent information across. Also, use Google extensively to find advice from other people who were in a situation similar to yours.
3. Personal circumstances
Now, look back at the various disjoint pieces of your essay that you need to fit together. What else might be relevant about you that you haven’t been able to mention yet?
Are there any major shortcomings in your application package? You need to address these, but do so INDIRECTLY. If you point your own flaws out to the committee directly, you are setting yourself up for failure. However, it is possible to leave pointed explanations for them in plain sight in your essay. For example, if you have a GPA that might seem low by normal graduate school standards, you could explain the significant amount of time you devoted to other major activities or a job, or describe any obstacles you have had to overcome (with the implication that you did so while still maintaining a GPA and completing your degree).
Even if your raw scores are perfect and your research excellent, you need to make your application stand out by letting the reader know who you are as a person. More specifically, you need to give some indication of how you will contribute to the diversity in background, experience, perspective, talents, and interests of students in the program.
- To quote a CommonApp essay prompt, “Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.”
- What makes you you ? What makes you interesting/fun/cool? What makes you stand out that won’t already be visible from your transcripts, recommendation letters, and application forms? How might you contribute to the diversity in background, experience, perspective, talents, and interests of students in a graduate program?
- How did you end up in physics? Why do you want to pursue physics? Is there some event, course, experience, or activity that was particularly meaningful for your life or that guided you into this path?
- Was there an extenuating circumstance that affected your performance in college? Think carefully about how and where you will discuss it. For example, you could frame it in a positive light so that you come off as resilient. An example might be “Despite [this factor], I was still able to [accomplish that].” You can also ask a trusted professor to mention it in their reference letter.
4. The hook
The final major piece of writing we’re going to do is a hook to open your essay. Do you have some anecdote, story, or achievement that will really grab the reader’s attention right away? They’re reading through nearly a thousand applications in hopes of narrowing down the pile to under a hundred, so what will make you be among those who stand out? Think about this as you assemble the rest of your essay.
5. Your future goals and why you’re interested in each graduate school
For every school you’re applying to, you need to write 1-2 paragraphs (~10% of the essay) about why you’re applying to that school.
Now this can be tricky. You need to gather some information via the Google about each individual school beforehand:
- What would you be interested in researching at that school? Are there particular professors who stand out?
- Does the school prefer if you have a fairly defined idea of the 2-3 people you’d want to work for ahead of time, or do they favor applicants who aren’t certain yet?
- Does the school evaluate all applications at the same time, or do they send your application to separate committees for the research subfield(s) you indicate on the application form?
- Why are you going to graduate school and/or what do you want to do afterwards? How will your five to seven year experience doing a PhD at a certain place prepare you for that path?
Even if you definitely know what you want to do or even if you’re completely sure you need to explore a few areas of physics, you need to write this section of your essay to cater towards each school. This involves a few hours of research on each school’s website, looking up the research fields in which the department focuses and learning about the specialization of each professor.
Here’s a good way of compiling your first draft of this section:
- I [am interested in/want to] work on [one or two research fields you might be interested in]. Specific professors whom I would want to work for are [three to four professors].
- My life experiences that led me to pick these choices are [something].
- I am especially excited about [university name]’s [resource/opportunity] in [something to do with physics].
6. Compiling your final essay
By now, you should have written (most of) the disjoint individual pieces of the puzzle. You might be under the expected word count, you might be over the expected word count, or you might be right on track. You can forget about all that for now — it’s more important to get something together, and we’ll fix all those details later.
Because you’re probably submitting about a dozen distinct essays, let’s ignore the “Future plans” piece of the essay and try to just get one main body of the essay put together with the other paragraphs. For each school, you’ll tack the “future plans” part of the essay either onto the end of the essay or in some spot you’ve chosen in the middle that helps everything flow. For now, ignore word count and just get words on the page. You can go back through and slice out sections of the main essay to meet smaller word counts for certain schools.
Look at the pieces of your life. How do they logically fit together? Is your story best told chronologically, with one research experience or activity falling logically after the other? Or is there something that makes you so unique and special that it belongs right at the very beginning of the essay? Sort the pieces so that they assemble in a good order.
Next, we need to check on the size of these pieces. At the very least, discussion of research activities/STEM work experience and your future goals in research should make up 75-80% of your essay. If you wrote many long, elaborate paragraphs about your time in your fraternity or on the women’s tennis team, now is the time to scale that back to only a sentence. Remember that the admissions committees truly only care about your potential to succeed in the future as a physicist. If you couldn’t give a clear explanation to your major advisor about how a tangential experience shows your potential to succeed in physics, you shouldn’t include it. (Note that “I got straight A’s in graduate courses while also involved in [major time commitment]” is an acceptable reason to include something and is beneficial to state.)
Did you talk about anything that happened in your childhood? (“I was interested in physics since in the womb”) Get rid of it. The only things that happened before college that are appropriate to mention are: (1) some significant aspect of your personal background that your application would be incomplete without, or (2) major college-level achievements: research leading to a publication, getting a medal in the International Physics/Math Olympiad, or dual-enrollment programs. However, mention items from (2) sparingly. You want to show that you’ve made major strides in the past four years; do not focus on your glory days in the past.
Do your paragraphs transition neatly from one to the next, or does your essay still feel off-kilter? A simple one sentence transition between paragraphs – either at the end of one or at the start of the next – can do wonders for your essay. Make sure it would make sense to someone who doesn’t know your background as well as you. Use the transition sentences to make your essay more interesting. Tell a story.
Congratulations. Now you have your first real draft of facts. Before you joyously run to your computer to submit your graduate application or run to your professor to give it a look over, go to one of your friends first.
The biggest danger with a graduate admissions essay is that you come off as really self-centered or boring. Nobody wants to read a thousand essays that merely list every single fact about a person’s life; they want to read a story. We helped you put together the bare bones of a graduate admissions essay, but did you tell a story? Did your personality shine through?
It’s a lot easier to go back and do an overhaul of an essay if you have something down on the piece of paper. Your friends might be able to help point out places that you can make your essay flow better or seem more interesting. They can tell you where to add more pizzazz in an otherwise boring research statement (“I worked on computational models of astrophysics during the month of July.” versus “I was so stoked when I found out I’d be modeling exploding stars that summer! That was the moment I knew I wanted to be a physicist.”). Take a day off, walk around, and then go back to your draft ready to show the world how excited you are to be a physicist and what an exciting physicist you are.
Our next section gives general tips for editing your personal statement, no matter whether you took our advice on how to start writing. Go through these steps very carefully to make sure you have an essay you’re proud of to send off to the admissions committee.
By the end of this process, you should have an impressive, interesting, factual draft of your qualifications that you’re ready to show a couple of trusted professors. You’ve worked super hard, and you’ve done a good job, we’re sure. However, professors are always critical, so don’t be upset if they tell you quite a few things to change. A young student reads an essay a lot differently than the older professors who are on the admissions committee, so it’s really important to get their perspective. Listen to what they say and truly consider making those changes. Edit once more, and repeat as many times as you need to.
At some point, you’ll finally be done with this long, difficult process and can proudly press “submit!”
General Tips for Editing
First things first: a step-by-step method for proofing your essay:.
Here’s what to do step-by-step once you’ve followed our advice and have created a full first draft .
- Read your essay aloud to yourself. Is it interesting? Would everything make sense to someone who doesn’t know you? Probably not… See our advice below for making your draft better . You’ll probably need to repeat step 1 many times before you get to something you think has pretty good content and is pretty interesting.
- Check your grammar, spelling, and style. We have a guide to doing that at the very bottom of this page. Also, pay attention to your word processor: if there are any bright red or bright green underlines, that should be your first warning sign!
- Have a trusted friend (or two) in the sciences read the essay for style and voice. Do you have a good opening hook? Are there any passages that make you come off as arrogant, whining, or annoying? (You absolutely have to brag about yourself, but don’t say it in a way that makes you come off as a jerk — scroll down for advice on that.) Have them proof your rewrite for any final errors.
- Once you’ve gone through steps 1-3 and are completely certain that this is a nearly-perfect draft, have a PHYSICS PROFESSOR or two read your nearly-final essay. (D on’t send them an incomplete draft; they’ll get peeved. They’ll probably also only look over it once, so use your one shot wisely. They have a lot of students, you know. ) A graduate admissions essay is very different from a college essay. The physicists reading your application aren’t looking for the student with the most well-rounded course choices, the head of the most clubs, or the person who can write the most creative statement. They’re looking for evidence of the specific attributes that show you have the capability of being a future physicist. This is why you need to ask a professor in the field of physics . Not just a biology professor, not just a physicist in industry; make sure you ask a physics professor . Have we made this clear?
- Listen to what you’re proofreaders say and amend your essay, but you don’t have to follow every last bit of advice. If your gut tells you to ignore one or two of their suggested changes, that’s okay. That is, it’s fine to make sure your essay sounds like you and says everything you want it to say.
- Rinse and repeat. (redo steps 2-5)
- At some point, you’ll either get right up close to the deadline or have a draft you think is final. READ IT ALOUD before you press submit.
General Content Advice
You’re applying to a physics program!
Don’t forget this! The people reading your application care most about your background in, preparation for, and involvement in activities related to physics research. You should be spending almost all of your essay demonstrating your interests and ability to do physics.
It’s okay to mention substantial time commitments and achievements outside physics; however, pay attention to how you do so. Your capacity and potential to perform scientific research are what you are mainly being judged on, so description of physics-related research, coursework, and goals should make up most of your main essay (you should aim for 75%+). If an application allows you to write separate research and personal statements, then the former statement needs to be 100% focused on physics, and the latter should frame your physics experiences/goals within the context of your personal life.
- Absolutely mention teaching and outreach experiences if you have any. Grad schools really do care about these! It’s great too if some of your teaching experience is in a STEM field.
- Also, don’t be shy about mentioning participation in activism , particularly related to diversity and inclusion in STEM or higher education. These are generally not seen as minuses on a physics application, and there are fellowships/ programs related to diversity at some graduate schools.
- Mention of activities tangential/irrelevant to the sciences should only make up a small portion of your essay, and you should mainly highlight your biggest achievements/time commitments. For example, you shouldn’t make a long list of every one of the dozen intramural sports teams you participated on in college. However, it would be great to mention that you captained the club soccer team or that your volleyball team won a local championship.
- You need to make sure it doesn’t seem like you would prefer to pursue one of these activities as a full-time career instead of physics research. Remember, you’re applying to a physics program! (Perhaps you could frame non-physics activities as demonstrating good aspects of your character: you’re hardworking, a leader, work well on a team, can balance multiple commitments, etc.)
Your essay isn’t meant to be a restatement of your CV.
The essay illuminates the how and why of what’s on your CV, and connects the dots between experiences.
- You need to describe your research experiences in depth. What did each of the labs you worked in generally do, and what were your specific contributions? What did you learn about physics in each lab or what new physics did you observe/discover/create? What skills did you develop that will be useful in graduate studies? What did you learn about your own interests and talents in each lab? Did you write any reports or publish any papers? Did you present the work anywhere? Were you listed as an author on someone else’s presentation? Do you have any papers in preparation for publication, or do you plan to in the near future?
- Second of all, the essay should connect the dots. How did you choose to do what you did in college? How did you choose the research experiences in which you participated? What do you want to do in your graduate studies and further in the future? Why?
Make sure you’ve included information specific to the graduate school you’re writing about.
Why are you applying to this specific program? What general research area are you leaning towards, and are there any specific professors you would be interested in? This isn’t a binding commitment. But don’t make yourself seem too narrow: if you say you only would want to go to a certain school if you could work for one or two people, that will severely hurt your chances of getting in.
Have you addressed your shortcomings adequately?
Are there any major shortcomings in your application package? You need to address these, but do so INDIRECTLY. If you point your own flaws out to the committee directly, you are setting yourself up for failure. However, it is possible to leave pointed explanations for them in plain sight in your essay. For example, if you have a GPA that might seem low by normal graduate school standards, you could explain the significant amount of time you devoted to other major activities (with the implication that you did so while still maintaining a respectable GPA and completing your degree)…
Have you fully explained your personal background?
…but even if your raw scores are perfect and your research excellent, you need to make your application stand out by letting the reader know who you are as a person. More specifically, you need to give some indication of how you will contribute to the diversity in background, experience, perspective, talents, and interests of students in the program.
Your essay should contain the highlights of your college career: your experiences, your activities, your awards. But an essay shouldn’t be just a two-page-long list: a good essay conveys a sense of who you are as a person, your personality, and why you are unique or a unique fit for the program.
The application essay is your chance to explain any aspect of your background that is not reflected elsewhere, but that your application would be incomplete without. This is up to you: only you can fully explain your own story.
Along the same line, graduate school admissions committees don’t just admit the set of 22-year-olds who attended the top high schools, then the top-ranked colleges, where they got the top GPA in the toughest classes and were SPS president. Admissions committees consider all criteria in light of where each individual student started out and any circumstances he/she faced along the way.
Students who followed nontraditional paths, came from disadvantaged backgrounds, or faced other extenuating circumstances during college might wish to either mention these in their essay or ask a trusted advisor to write about it in their letter. Some topics you may wish to address are:
- Factors from before WashU. Normally, you’re supposed to mention your pre-college experiences only sparingly (or not at all) in an admissions essay. However, there are circumstances in which it may be beneficial. Do you come from an under-resourced background, and you started out college in pre-calculus, which set back your study of physics to sophomore year? Were you hyper-accelerated in math or science, which makes your transcript look very strange and uneven? Did you transfer from a community college? From another college? Does a high school research experience relate to your future interests? Are you graduating early, and why? Anything else? If it’s important, mention it and explain how it affected you!
- You’re not 22! Did you take a few gap years to find yourself, work off loans, get married and have kids, or serve in the military? Are you super young? What exactly is your background? What would you want the committee to know to help them evaluate if you’re a good candidate for graduate school? What life experiences have you had that made you want to go to – and that will help you succeed in – graduate school? It would be abnormal if everyone entering a PhD program were 22! If you came from a nontraditional background, explain it, and don’t take our advice too seriously. A different essay style/structure may be more suitable.
- Personal circumstances. A parent lost their job mid-college, which impacted your enrollment. You or a family member faced a major health problem. Your hometown suffered a natural disaster. You worked a full-time job while still in school. Another major event in your life. Tips we’ve seen online? You only need to mention the pertinent details, don’t make it the focus of your essay, and be positive — phrase it as what you were able to accomplish in light of a circumstance (instead of describing it in a way that might come off as a complaint). Another option is to ask a close professor to mention the situation in their reference letter instead.
- You made a mistake. You had trouble adjusting your freshman year of college, but things went up from there. You made bad choices on what to spend your time on a couple semesters. You faced university disciplinary action or committed a non-traffic crime. Talk to your four-year advisor, major advisor, or a trusted professor about what appears on your record, what you have to report on your application, and how to mitigate its negative effects on your future to the greatest extent possible through your personal statement and other minor essays on the application. Always be honest, but always be positive: show how you’ve moved forward and grown since then.
- Anything else. The list above was by no means comprehensive! If there is something an admissions committee needs to know in order to understand how great of a fit you are for their program, then mention it. If you have any questions about your essay and it’s contents, please ask a trusted professor.
Make your essay interesting!
The science graduate school application essay may not seem nearly as freeform or fun as your undergraduate CommonApp essay, the paper your roommate’s submitting to an MFA program, or a law school essay. However, the physics professors spending hours reading literally hundreds of essays will appreciate if you make yours more interesting than a list of your achievements. Make your essay stand out as one they’ll remember.
Showcase your personality. Once you’ve gotten all the necessary facts together in your essay in some sort of coherent order, it’s time to make sure the essay is actually interesting to read. Read it aloud, and have a friend read it aloud. Does the essay convey who you really are, or does it sound like you’re reading some really dry, boring report? Most likely it’s the latter at this point.
Pull out another piece of paper or a new window on your computer screen, and start writing a new version of each paragraph that sounds a bit more interesting, enthusiastic about physics, and fun. It’ll take time, but you can do this without going over the word count. See how different these two sentences sound, even though they’re about the same length and convey the same content:
- Boring phrasing: In my sophomore spring, I worked in the theoretical kinematics laboratory of Sir Isaac Newton at Cambridge. We studied the manner in which balls roll down hills.
- Better phrasing: Sophomore spring, I enjoyed the opportunity to study the fascinating theoretical nature of how balls roll down hills with Sir Isaac Newton at Cambridge.
Both students convey the necessary facts the graduate committees are looking for: (1) the student worked abroad in a famous person’s lab, (2) the student did theoretical research, and (3) the specific project regarded how balls roll down hills. The first example sounds like a true but boring listing of facts. The second example not only tells what the student did, but also shows the student’s appreciation for the opportunity, as well as that the enthusiastic student found that they enjoyed work of a theoretical nature in this specific subject area. Instead of directly writing “I love and care about physics,” show it through the way you phrase your essay.
Don’t come off as unlikable
By now, you have probably been advised a thousand times about what not to write in an application like this one – insults, complaints, or bigoted remarks; opinions on polarized topics distant from physics; any trouble you got into in college that you wouldn’t want your parents to know about; etc.
But sometimes we still say things in personal statements that are meant with entirely good intentions but that other people read the completely wrong way. Your friends and professors should be able to pick some of these out in your essay, but here’s a simple guide to help yourself too.
(1) Don’t name-drop unless it has to do directly with your accomplishments in physics. Look out for areas of your personal statement that may turn off a reader because you come off as arrogant, spoiled, or out of touch with reality. Also remember that life is not a complete meritocracy. It is much easier to get ahead if you have lots of connections that help you along the way — but despite this, you should not overtly use your personal statement to pull connections that are not directly physics-related.
Here are some exaggerated examples:
Bad: The summer after junior year, my best friend’s father, Albert Einstein, hooked me up with an internship at Princeton with Eugene Wigner. Better: The summer after junior year, I took a research internship at Princeton with Eugene Wigner. You don’t have to tell someone you got the internship because you happened to have a great connection (nobody will care that you’re friends with a famous person). It’s better to just say that you did the internship. They will, however, care about the name of the famous person you worked for.
Bad: I did not do as well on the GRE as I hoped because I crashed my Lamborghini on the way to the test. Better: I did not do as well on the GRE as I hoped because I got into a car accident on the way to the test. It might be easier to have a friend read for subtle (or not-so-subtle) phrasing and word choices that might read the wrong way to a reader. Here, the mention of the luxury car brand makes it look like the student is trying to show off (and probably doesn’t realize that the car costs more than they’ll earn from graduate school all five years total).
Bad: Your university’s biggest donor is a family friend, and five generations of my family have attended your physics graduate program. Better: When I visited my physics PhD brother at your campus, I enjoyed seeing X, Y, and Z facilities, which I think will be greatly beneficial to my physics education. Also good: I spent a summer in the laboratory of Professor — at your university, and I would love to continue working for her in graduate school. If you have a connection to the university, don’t just state it. Find a way to phrase it to make you seem more like a better fit for their graduate program.
(2) Please remember that the admissions committee does not owe you anything for any reason. So, please don’t claim that you deserve admission, honor and recognition, or anything else from them. Do not even make the mistake of phrasing something badly so that it seems like you think that way. It will only make them dislike your application.
Bad: Given the fact that I won a Fields Medal, a Wolf Prize in Physics, and the Nobel Peace Prize, I am clearly the best applicant out there. Better: Some of the highlights of my college experience include a Fields Medal, the Nobel Peace Prize, and a Wolf Prize in Physics.
Bad: I worked so hard in college that I clearly deserve the opportunity to attend your university. Better: I found the time and effort I put into physics very worthwhile and fun, and I hope to keep working in this field in the future.
Bad: I am a great fit for your program. Better: Your program would be a great fit for me.
(3) You got where you are because of hard work, not just raw intelligence. Or at least, frame it this way. Nobody wants to hear how naturally intelligent you think you are — instead, your personal statement should demonstrate the achievements that your intelligence has earned you. Leave it to your reference writers to provide an external evaluation of your mental capabilities. Just trust us on this one. Using the same reasoning, don’t tell everyone about qualities of your character. Show them. Graduate admissions committees are smart. They can infer these things.
Bad: Because of my natural intelligence and talent for physics, I won the “Best Physicist” prize. Better: Because of my research efforts, I won the “Best Physicist” prize.
Bad: I am a super nice person because I help people with physics all the time with volunteer stuff. Better: Every weekend for two hours, I enjoy showing small children the wonders of physics at the Volunteer Science Thing.
Bad: I am super smart because I have published three papers. Better: I have published three papers.
(4) Claim credit for your accomplishments, but give credit to others too where it’s due. We’re sure you did a ton of hard work in college, and that’s great. However, you need to recognize that it wasn’t just you. Your research advisers, graduate student mentors, classroom professors, and many others helped you get where you are today. Acknowledge your own successes, but give credit where it is due.
Bad: Last summer I built the first-ever time travel machine. Better: Last summer I worked at a secret government agency with a team of twenty scientists under the guidance of Aristotle to build the 21st century’s first-ever time machine.
Bad: I wrote and published a particle physics paper myself, even though there are three authors. Better: Professor — guided me through the process of writing and publishing my first-author particle physics paper.
(5) Don’t be overly negative or critical of any of your physics experiences. That is, be yourself, and don’t give opinions that are completely untrue. If you didn’t like doing theory research, then you don’t have to say you did. But it’s not a good idea to express extreme distaste for any area of physics in your essay — try to find something good about every experience and phrase it in a positive light. Here’s an example of a fib, the way you might be tempted to fix it, and an even better way of doing so:
- Your original attempt to seem happy: I worked on computational and analytical aspects of string theory at the Institute of Advanced Study. It was one of the most fascinating experiences of my life and I could see myself doing the exact same thing in graduate school at your great string theory program. I like experimental work too.
- The way you actually feel about things: I worked on a project about string theory at the Institute for Advanced Study. My research advisor had me split my time between computational work and pen-and-paper problems. I absolutely hated doing pen-and-paper math. It sucked!
- A more positive way of phrasing the truth: I loved the computational aspects of my string theory work at the Institute for Advanced Study. However, the next summer, I discovered that I more enjoyed applying my computational skills in a laboratory setting.
The mechanics of your writing: sentence and word choices
You can make a drastic difference in the quality of your essay just by checking on a few more mechanical aspects of your writing: sentence structures, phrasing, and even grammar. As you work on your drafts, continually try to improve these things. Here are a few of the many aspects to which you might want to pay attention…
Are all of your sentences good sentences? Are all of your sentences complete? Do any of the sentences run on? Do all the sentences logically follow one another? Does your story make basic sense? Make sure that nothing you wrote sounds or seems awkward!
Make sure your sentence structures aren’t repetitive. It’s very easy to get caught into the habit of writing, “I did this. I did that. I did the other thing.” Your essay is going to use the first-person pronouns “I” and “we” more than you’re probably used to, but that’s okay and not self-centered. You are writing about yourself, you know! However, there are ways to do it that seem less obnoxious or monotonous. Let’s look at a few examples of how we can rephrase or rearrange sentences so that we don’t get stuck in the same patterns too often.
- I did research about nuclear reactors under the supervision of Enrico Fermi at the University of Chicago last summer.
- This past summer, I researched nuclear reactors with Enrico Fermi at the University of Chicago.
- Enrico Fermi taught me about building nuclear reactors last summer at the University of Chicago.
- Nuclear reactors captivated me during my summer internship with Enrico Fermi at the University of Chicago.
- My first exposure to nuclear reactors was last summer, when I worked for Enrico Fermi at the University of Chicago.
- At the University of Chicago, I studied nuclear reactors with Enrico Fermi.
- When I was at the University of Chicago last summer, I studied nuclear reactors with Enrico Fermi.
- I want to study theoretical physics in graduate school.
- At graduate school, I want to study theoretical physics.
- My preferred area of graduate research would be theoretical physics.
- My graduate research interests are in theoretical physics.
- The theoretical physics research opportunities at [insert university here] excite me.
- Theoretical research most attracts my interests for graduate studies.
As you can see, there are seemingly endless choices for rearranging the words in your sentences or finding ways you can rewrite them that carry across the same (or more!) information.
Make sure your word choices aren’t boring or repetitive. You might find yourself using only commonplace adjectives over and over again (good, bad, happy, sad, etc.). Or perhaps you do the opposite — you have a plethora of repetitions of the same unusual adjective (like plethora) used multiple times in the same paragraph, one after the other.
Pull out a thesaurus and find some good synonyms! Or better yet, be more accurate about what you want to say. For example, consider word replacements in the overused phrases:
Professor Bender’s least favorite word: interesting. As in, “That research is/was/seems interesting .”
- intriguing, fascinating, inspiring, delightful
- appealing, enticing, exciting, fun
- novel, cutting-edge, exhilarating
- challenging, thought-provoking, stimulating
The verb around which your essay is centered: research. “With Arthur Holly Compton, I researched …”
- worked on, studied, learned
- examined, analyzed, investigated, probed, observed, experimented, tested
- found [a result], discovered, came up with [an idea], unraveled, explained
- calculated, computed, solved, answered, evaluated
- formulated, designed, fabricated, planned, developed, created, invented, built, prepared
Be clear and concise. Most graduate schools only give you two pages to tell your story, even if you think it would be easier to hand in a novel. If you find yourself sitting at your computer with an incredibly long draft, you’re going to need to take out some material.
Start with irrelevant details: you don’t need to tell us that last spring, you worked on a laptop with exactly 16 gigabytes of RAM, 2 terabytes of storage, manufactured by a small company from your homestate, that has exactly 6 bumper stickers decorating its case. Get rid of that paragraph!
Next, look at your research and activity descriptions. Only include the most relevant information. If you got second place in an international physics competition and fourth place in the local math contest, you can remove the latter from the main body of your essay. If you worked on four projects with your biophysics group, two of which led to a paper and two of which mainly consisted of cleaning your mentor’s Petri dishes, then it should be obvious which should deserve most (or all) of your essay’s attention. Don’t be afraid to be vicious with your red pen.
Once you’ve gotten rid of things that are very obviously unnecessary and have cut your essay down to a couple of paragraphs above the required word count, it’s time to start modifying the lengths of your sentences and paragraphs themselves. While it may seem like you’ve done everything right, and that every single thing in your essay is utterly necessary, think again! Remember the paragraph in which we discussed the many ways in which you could rewrite a sentence? (scroll up…) Time to use that same strategy to shorten sentences or combine two short sentences into one long, complex one. Also, if you’re trying to make your essay meet a page count, make sure that none of your paragraphs end with a single word on a line — try to fill up each line with as many characters as possible by changing word choices or phrasing. The best way to do this is to look at some examples.
Example 1 – using abbreviations
- Old essay. I worked in the Compton Group at Washington University my freshman summer…The next summer, I went to Fermilab to work on particle physics…In junior year, I worked in an optics laboratory at Washington University…As a senior, I worked on biophysics at Washington University.
- New essay. I worked in the Compton Group at Washington University (WU) my freshman summer…The next summer, I went to Fermilab to work on particle physics…In junior year, I worked in a WU optics lab..As a senior, I worked on biophysics at WU.
Example 2 – combining sentences
- Old. At graduate school, I would like to study particle physics. I am deeply interested in this topic because of my experience working in Professor Compton’s research group.
- New. My past work with Professor Compton has motivated me to study particle physics in graduate school.
Example 3 – choosing shorter words or phrases, even if you think they sound less fancy (scientists prefer clarity and conciseness over clunky phrasing)
- Old. My research provides incontrovertible evidence for this.
- New. My research proves this.
- New. My research demonstrates this.
Example 4 – condensing information that can be grouped together
- Old. Team experiences comprised a large and enjoyable part of my college years, both in the laboratory and outside. My junior year, our math team was in the top ten in the Putnam competition. My senior year, my physics team got a gold medal in the University Physics Competition. I am also on the varsity underwater basket weaving team, which won the University Athletic Association title.
- New. During college I enjoyed working with teams both in and out of the lab. Some of my notable team achievements include a top-ten finish in the Putnam math contest, a gold medal in the University Physics Competition, and winning the division title in underwater basket weaving.
There are many other creative ways you can cut down on space in your essay. It may be difficult and time-consuming to cut down your composition to an appropriate length, so be sure to budget enough days before your essays are due!
Look out for silly mistakes! Make sure you didn’t type something careless like “form” instead of “from.” Double-check that you didn’t confuse your/you’re or there/their/they’re. Are all your commas in the right places? Carefully and slowly read through your essay. If you accidentally had one mistake when you submitted, it probably won’t be a big deal. But if you have multiple careless errors in your essay, the admissions committees might get the wrong impression that you didn’t care enough to write your essay properly.
Forensic Science BSc (Hons) Personal Statement
- Reading time: 3 minutes
- Price: Free download
- Published: 9th July 2023
- Word count: 814 words
- File format: Text
Ever since I was young, I have been captivated by the intricate world of forensic science. The allure of uncovering hidden truths and solving complex mysteries has always excited me, and it is with great enthusiasm that I have chosen to pursue a degree in Forensic Science . This field combines my passion for science with my innate curiosity and desire to make a tangible difference in the world.
What excites me the most about forensic science is the opportunity to apply scientific principles to real-life scenarios. The subject encompasses a wide range of disciplines, from chemistry and biology to physics and psychology, all of which contribute to the comprehensive understanding necessary for effective crime scene investigation. The prospect of delving into the intricate details of DNA analysis, fingerprint identification, and ballistics analysis sparks a genuine excitement within me. I am eager to explore how these scientific techniques can be utilized to reveal the truth behind criminal activities and contribute to the administration of justice.
My academic journey thus far has prepared me well for the challenges of a Forensic Science degree. Throughout my secondary school years, I dedicated myself to the study of biology , chemistry , and physics, cultivating a strong foundation in the sciences. These subjects have not only nourished my analytical and problem-solving skills but have also instilled in me a deep appreciation for the scientific method. Furthermore, my current studies in criminology have provided me with a valuable understanding of the legal and ethical aspects of forensic science, reinforcing my desire to pursue a career in this field.
To complement my academic pursuits, I have actively sought out work experiences that would bolster my knowledge and practical skills in forensic science. Last summer, I secured an internship at a local crime laboratory, where I had the opportunity to observe and assist forensic scientists in their day-to-day operations. From analyzing DNA samples to examining trace evidence under the microscope, I witnessed firsthand the meticulousness and attention to detail required in this field. This experience not only solidified my interest in forensic science but also enhanced my ability to work effectively in a laboratory setting.
Beyond my academic and work experiences, I have had several life experiences that have shaped my character and further ignited my passion for forensic science. Growing up in a neighborhood plagued by crime, I witnessed the devastating impact of unlawful acts on individuals and communities. This exposure heightened my determination to contribute to the fight against crime and to assist in ensuring the safety and well-being of society as a whole. Moreover, my involvement in community outreach programs, where I organized workshops on forensic science for underprivileged youth, allowed me to share my knowledge and inspire others to consider careers in this field.
One of my proudest achievements thus far has been my contribution to a team project on forensic DNA analysis during my criminology course. Collaborating with fellow students, we successfully devised an innovative method for enhancing DNA extraction from degraded samples, improving the accuracy and reliability of forensic DNA profiling. Our work was recognized at a regional symposium, where we presented our findings and received positive feedback from renowned forensic scientists. This achievement reinforced my belief in the transformative power of teamwork and research in advancing the field of forensic science.
In addition to my academic achievements and experiences, I possess a range of skills that make me well-suited for a degree in Forensic Science. I am highly detail-oriented, possessing the ability to meticulously analyze complex data and draw meaningful conclusions. My strong organizational skills enable me to manage multiple tasks efficiently, ensuring that projects are completed within strict deadlines. Moreover, I am an effective communicator, able to convey complex scientific concepts in a clear and concise manner, as demonstrated during presentations and interactions with colleagues and peers.
Looking ahead, my plans and ambitions for the future are deeply rooted in my passion for forensic science. Upon completing my degree, I aspire to pursue postgraduate studies, specializing in forensic DNA analysis. I am particularly interested in exploring novel techniques for forensic identification, such as the use of next-generation sequencing and advanced statistical models. Ultimately, I aim to contribute to the development of cutting-edge forensic technologies and methodologies that will aid in the resolution of criminal cases and the delivery of justice.
In conclusion, my unwavering passion for forensic science, coupled with my academic achievements, work experiences, and personal qualities, make me an ideal candidate for the Forensic Science BSc (Hons) program. I am ready to immerse myself in the challenging and dynamic world of forensic science, to apply my knowledge and skills in the pursuit of truth, and to make a meaningful impact in the field. I am eager to embark on this transformative journey and am confident that the program will provide me with the necessary tools to achieve my goals and contribute to society’s well-being.
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For me, this personal statement struck the perfect balance between ambition and humility, and I will similarly try to present my accomplishments with the same grace in my application.
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Physics Personal Statement Example 1. One of the most appealing features of Physics is the way that complex physical phenomena can be explained by simple and elegant theories. I enjoy the logical aspect of the subject and I find it very satisfying when all the separate pieces of a problem fall together to create one simple theory...
It is easy to read, well-structured and the student comes across as a very likeable individual. This Personal Statement for Physics is a great example of a well written and effectively-structured Statement. The candidate's interest and achievements are clearly shown which is vital to Admissions Tutors. Remember, at Oxford, these Admissions ...
Physics Personal Statement Example 1. One of the most appealing features of Physics is the way that complex physical phenomena can be explained by simple and elegant theories. I enjoy the logical aspect of the subject and I find it very satisfying when all the separate pieces of a problem fall together to create one simple theory.
Personal Statement Example for Physics. My innate curiosity about how things work has led me towards a deep interest in Physics, something I hope to pursue at the university level and beyond. I believe Physics plays a fundamental role in understanding ourselves and our universe and equips us to tackle pressing challenges facing society.
Ian Whittaker, physics admissions tutor at Nottingham Trent University, shares his dos and don'ts for the opening lines of your physics personal statement. "From a personal view, avoid starting your personal statement with 'I have enjoyed physics from a young age when I first learned about topic x…' "I would say this is how about 90 ...
Physics Personal Statement Example 9. Physics is at the core of everything we see and do. By using statistics and equations, we can. phenomena that we observe. I feel that the opportunity to deepen my understanding of Physics. virtually any career path, which for me, ideally lies in the field of Physics. that I cannot surpass in any other subject.
These physics personal statements are written by real students. Among them you will find personal statements that have formed part of successful applications to universities such as Leeds, Cambridge and Nottingham. Bear in mind, these personal statements are presented in exactly the way they were originally submitted to Ucas. Don't expect them ...
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.
Degree Course Quiz. Find the ideal university course for you in minutes by taking our degree matchmaker quiz today. Browse our range of Physics personal statement examples. Gain inspiration & make sure you're on the right track when writing your own personal statement.
Physics Personal Statement. The varying scale of physics study is what most excites me: from the universe down to small scale particle interactions, it fundamentally governs all these areas and the many unknowns still existing, which I find fascinating. I want to develop my knowledge through further study of physics to be part of modern day ...
This Personal Statement for Maths and Physics is a great example of how to showcase a high level of ability. The candidate's interest and achievements are clearly shown which is vital to Admissions Tutors. Remember, at Cambridge, these Admissions Tutors are often the people who will be teaching you for the next few years, so you need to ...
1.3 Personal statement criteria. We may refer to the personal statement and reference to differentiate between applicants with similar academic profiles. In these cases, we use the following criteria: Interest and commitment to maths and physics. Wider interests including sport, music, community action, etc. Standard of written English.
This is an example personal statement for a Masters degree application in Physics. See our guide for advice on writing your own postgraduate personal statement. Physics has long been a fascinating subject for me. I have always been interested in how things work in the world around us. Ever since a school trip to CERN in 2014, Physics became a ...
Contact the department. Telephone: +44 (0)20 7594 7513. Email: [email protected]. Visit the Department of Physics website.
In conclusion, my unwavering passion for physics, coupled with my relevant academic background, practical experience, achievements, and personal qualities, make me an ideal candidate for the BSc (Hons) in Physics. With a deep-rooted desire to unravel the mysteries of the universe and a commitment to academic excellence, I am excited to embark ...
Q&A with J. Ritchie Patterson from Cornell UniversityRitchie Patterson is a professor in the Department of Physics at Cornell University. She has been the director of graduate studies, chaired the Graduate Admissions Committee, and advised students at and beyond Cornell on applying to graduate school.Question: What do you look for in a personal statement/statement of
Personal statement; Application reference. Teacher reference guidance; Contextual admissions schemes; Admissions tests. Engineering and Science Admissions Test (ESAT) ... Our BSc Physics courses partially satisfy the academic requirement for professional registration as a Chartered Physicist (CPhys). This is a highly respected qualification ...
Green: offer made. Red: no offer made. This personal statement is unrated. I have always considered Physics to be a captivating area of study, whether it is a question of how aspects of it work, or indeed why they work. As such, I have found deep fascination in studying Physics, as it is able to provide answers (as well as evidence) to such ...
18,112. Ronald_James said: Hello everyone, I am a mature student applying to an undergraduate course with a foundation year, and as I finalize my university application, I'm seeking valuable feedback on the content and structure of my personal statement. I would greatly appreciate any insights and perspectives you may have.
We know that writing your personal statement can be a difficult and confusing experience, so we have come up with some tips that can help make the process easier! Showcase your enthusiasm for the course through wider research. Universities want to see that you're applying for their course because you are genuinely interested in the subject.
[email protected]. 1-812-675-4937. Statements of Excellence for Admission to Graduate School in Physics. I help as many people as I can in the area of Physics although I can make no claims to any special qualification in this area. I only had one Physics class, decades ago as an undergraduate students called "Physics for Poets."
Starting From Scratch. The personal statement is your opportunity to speak directly to the admissions committee about why they should accept you. This means you need to brag. Not be humble, not humblebrag, but brag. Tell everybody why you are great and why you'll make a fantastic physicist (just, try not to come off as a jerk).
Whatever the reasons why your specific course appeals to you, make sure to include them in your personal statement. 4. Go into detail about your past studies. When applying for PhD Physics, you need to outline exactly why and how you are well-suited to the course based on your previous academic experience.
Preview: Ever since I was young, I have been captivated by the intricate world of forensic science. The allure of uncovering hidden truths and solving complex mysteries has always excited me, and it is with great enthusiasm that I have chosen to pursue a degree in Forensic Science.This field combines my passion for science with my innate curiosity and desire to make a tangible difference in ...
The study of interfacial roughening is common in physics, from epitaxial growth in the lab to pioneering mathematical descriptions of universality in models of growth processes. These studies led to the identification of a series of general principles. Typically, stochastic growth produces an interface that becomes rougher as the deposit grows larger; this roughening can only be counteracted ...