university of leeds postgraduate personal statement

Faculty of Social Sciences
School of Law

How to apply

You can apply online through the University of Leeds  applicant portal . 

When to apply

Application deadlines for the majority of Masters courses in the School of Law are:

International: Friday 28 June 2024
UK: Friday 16 August 2024

Staged admissions

The School of Law operates a staged admissions process for the following courses with selection deadlines throughout the year:

MSc Law and Finance 
LLM International Business Law

If you apply before the Application deadline  for a particular stage, you will normally receive a response on or before the Decision by date for that stage. 

If you require an earlier decision in order to meet a scholarship deadline, please notify us through the My Enquiries section of the application portal once you have applied. 

We receive a high volume of applications for these courses so we may need more time to assess your application. If you do not receive an offer in a particular stage, you will be notified that your application has been either unsuccessful or carried forward to be considered in the next stage. Applications will only be carried forward once.  

All deadlines are 23:59 UK time
Applications for each stage open immediately after the deadline for the previous stage

Conditional offers 

You do not need to have fulfilled all entry requirements before applying. Provided that your application satisfies all other entry requirements, a conditional offer may be made on the basis of a predicted result – for example, the final mark of your first degree or an English language test. You must provide your final results before an unconditional offer can be made. The deadline for meeting your conditions is Monday 12 August 2024, 23:59 UK time.

This is to allow applicants who need a Student route visa time to be confirmed as unconditional, and to pay the tuition fee deposit or provide the sponsor evidence that is required for us to issue a CAS in support of the visa application.

Unconditional offers

If your offer has been confirmed as unconditional, the deadline for paying your deposit or providing exemption evidence is  Monday 26 August 2024 . For more information, see our  guidance on how to pay your deposit, or provide deposit exemption.

What do I need to include in my application? 

Please check that your qualifications match the entry requirements for the course you are applying for, see the course page for details.

When reviewing applications, particular attention will be paid to academic performance. Given the competition for places, preference will be given to applicants who have exceeded or who are projected to exceed our minimum requirements. 

Your application must include the following: 

Original copy of your degree certificate and transcript, or a partial transcript if you are still studying, plus a formal translation into English, if applicable
An approved English language test* (if applicable) 
A letter of financial sponsorship (if applicable) 
Any previous UK CAS, visa and BRP documents, if you are an international student who has previously studied in the UK on a Tier 4/Student visa.

The following are optional:

An up-to-date CV, if your chosen course requires work experience
A personal statement, written in English.

As part of your online application you will be able to upload scanned documents. 

* Applicants who have not yet completed   an approved English language test  may apply for a Masters course prior to taking a test. 

Admissions policy 

The University of Leeds admissions policy can be found here.

Academic life
Registration
Module Enrolment
Making changes
Attendance and Absences
Academic Dates and Deadlines
Study Support
Leeds for Life
Plus Programme
Higher and Degree Apprenticeships
School of Medicine
Lifelong learning centre
Online learning support
Navigating online learning systems
Key dates and locations
Preparing for your assessments
Online assessments
On-campus assessments
I need help during the assessment period
What happens after the assessment period?
Classification
Academic Integrity
Artificial intelligence (AI)
Postgraduate research
Starting your research
During your research
Thesis Submission and the Viva
Postgraduate researcher policies and procedures
Funding for postgraduate researchers
The Doctoral College
Research practice
Prepare for your graduation ceremony
Leaving the university
Official documentation and regulations
Feedback and complaints
Responding to your feedback
Research student policies and procedures
Taught student policies and procedures
Paying fees and charges
University scholarships and funds
Leeds Bursary
University Financial Assistance Fund
External funding
Student loans
American and Canadian student funding
Funding for medics and dentists
NHS Learning Support Fund
Study abroad and work placements
Finding work
Opportunities
Languages for All
The Turing Scheme
Leadership programmes
Support and wellbeing
Counselling and wellbeing
Groups and workshops
Togetherall, resources and self help
Your emotional wellbeing
Healthy relationships with yourself and others
Dealing with academic challenges and life stress
Academic stress and challenges
Life stress and challenges
Support for our diverse students
Disabled student support
Who we support
Setting up your support
Funding for disabled students
Support for disabled students
Your safety
Online safety
Safety at home
Your safety out and about
Your personal and emotional safety
Bereavement
Medical services and what to do if you're ill
Harassment and misconduct
Sexual Violence
Your campus experience and life in Leeds
Study abroad
Where can I go?
Prepare to apply
Get ready to go
Study Abroad funding and costs
During your Study Abroad year
Returning to Leeds
Summer abroad
International students
Prepare for Leeds
Your first weeks at Leeds
International orientation
Complete start-up processes
Opening a bank account
Settle into life at Leeds
Global Community
Intercultural work and volunteering
Intercultural experiences
Explore Languages and Cultures
Living in the UK
International families
Work volunteering and your visa
Student Life
Your time in Leeds
Finding Your Way Around
Children and Family
Staying Safe
Fraud and scams
Health and wellbeing
The Leeds Partnership
Laidlaw Leadership and Research Programme
Undergraduate research opportunities
Applications and interviews
Career options
Starting your own business (SPARK)
Jobs and work experience
Discover your future
Final year support
Leadership programme

Transcripts and statements

Transcripts are available to current and former students. Statements are available to former students who require proof of their studies and award (where applicable).

Transcripts

Your transcript details the modules that you studied during your programme, the number of credits associated with each module (for modular programmes of study), and the marks that you achieved. It also provides a record of whether you undertook a year in industry or period of study abroad. Any marks that are still provisional will not appear on your official transcript. Marks are not officially awarded until the end of the academic year

Current students should apply for a transcript online.

Former students who have completed their studies or have permanently withdrawn from their programme, should apply for a former student transcript .

Transcripts are not available for former taught postgraduate students who graduated before July 1992 as marks are not held for these students. Please apply for a former student statement .

A statement is an official document that confirms your basic personal details, attendance dates, programme of study and, if applicable, the qualification, classification achieved and award date.

Former students who have completed their studies or have permanently withdrawn from their programme, should apply for a former student statement .

You may need a statement as a supporting document to verify your degree in your home country. Please check with your embassy or ministry of education whether this is a requirement.

Academic verifications

An Academic Verification is a document which confirms your basic programme and award details where applicable. Academic verifications are not sent to students but to third parties, such as employers and other institutions.

Third party organisations requiring academic verification for a University of Leeds student now need to register with Prospects Hedd and submit all enquiries at: www.hedd.ac.uk.

Former students who require a document to verify their degree should apply for a former student statement .

Current students who require proof of their student status should apply for a Registration Status Certificate online.

For more information about the services available to you after you have graduated please see our Alumni page .

The Library
Leeds University Union
Terms & Conditions
Accessibility
Privacy and cookies
Freedom of Information

Student Good Guide

The best UK online resource for students

How To Write Masters Personal Statement

A strong Masters personal statement is an essential part of your postgraduate application . It is your chance to convince admissions tutors that you are the right fit for the course and deserve a place in their programme.

In this comprehensive guide on how to write a Masters personal statement in the UK, we covered everything you need to know to write a successful postgraduate personal statement. Plus, real student examples.

We really understand how challenging and stressful can be to write a personal statement for a master. Let’s start.

What is a Masters Personal Statement?

A personal statement is a written type of essay that you submit as part of your postgraduate application. It is an opportunity to introduce yourself to the university and demonstrate to admissions tutors that you are a good fit for the course. Admission tutors need to choose among lots of applicants, essay can make a big difference in your postgraduate application.

How long should a personal statement be for masters?

You should aim to write a masters personal statement of around 500 words.

However, some universities may require more, often up to 1000 words. Hence, it is important to check the application guidelines before writing your statement for a specific university and course.

How should I structure my masters personal statement?

When it comes to writing your personal statement for masters or postgraduate, it’s important to have a clear and logical structure in mind.

Starting with a strong introduction that captures the reader’s attention and explains why you’re interested in the specific Masters programme you’re applying to.

Use the following paragraphs to discuss your academic and professional background , highlighting the skills, experience and knowledge that make you a strong fit for the programme. Emphasize how the course aligns with your future career goals .

Keep in mind that you have a limited word count, so make every sentence count . Use short, concise paragraphs that are easy to read and understand.

In your personal statement conclusion, summarise why you’re the ideal candidate for the programme and leave the admission tutors with a good impression.

Keep it short and to the point.

Aim for a total of four or five paragraphs in your personal statement for master degree.

When applying for a Masters degree , use standard fonts and text size of 11 or 12. If you’re applying through UCAS postgraduate service , font style won’t be an issue as text is automatically formatted.

Question to ask before writing

Consider asking yourself the following questions before writing your personal statement for master’s degree:

What inspired you to choose this specific Masters’s programme?
What aspect of the subject matter excites you?
How did your undergraduate studies shape your decision to apply for this programme or university?
Do you have any relevant work experience that can strengthen your postgraduate application?
What personal experiences can you share that align with your decision to apply to this programme?
What accomplishments can you highlight that demonstrate your qualifications for this course?
Why did you choose to apply to this university in particular?
What are your future career goals?

What should I include in a personal statement for masters?

When writing your personal statement for masters degree , it is important to tailor it to the postgraduate course you are applying for.

Some general guidance on what you should include in your personal statement for masters:

Your reasons for applying for a particular postgraduate programme and why you deserve a place above other applicants. Write about your academic interests , career goals and the university’s reputation , and write about which aspects of the specific course you find most appealing.

Address how undergraduate study has prepared you for a postgraduate course, mentioning your independent work (e.g. dissertation) and topics that most interested you.

Highlight relevant skills and experience that will enable you to make an impact on the specific course, summarising your abilities in core areas including organisation, communication, time management, and critical thinking.

You can also cover any grades, include awards, work placements, extra readings, or conferences that you’ve attended and how these have contributed to your Master’s study.

Explain your career aspirations and how the course will help you achieve them. Describe how studying your chosen course fits in with your long-term ambitions and career path.

Tie in your undergraduate studies – for example, if you did your dissertation on something and you’d like to expand on it in your master’s. Trying to link the two together is distinct from the undergraduate personal statement. Shona Barrie – Director Of Admissions, University Of Stirling

How to start a personal statement for a master?

At the start of your personal statement for a Masters’s programme , it’s important to make a strong and lasting first impression . Admissions tutors read hundreds of applications per course, so you want to make sure that your opening sentence is concise , clear , and impactful .

Instead of trying to come up with a catchy opening, focus on getting straight to the point and highlighting your qualifications for the course. Avoid over-the-top statements, gimmicks, or popular quotes as they can come across as contrived and make it harder for admissions tutors to take you seriously.

Here are a few examples of strong opening sentences to consider:

“With a background in Environmental Science and a passion for sustainable energy solutions, I am excited to apply for the Masters programme in Renewable Energy at your university.”

“As someone who has always been interested in the field of Artificial Intelligence and has gained experience in coding and machine learning, I am eager to further my studies in the Masters program in AI at your university.”

“Through my undergraduate studies in Psychology and my professional experience as a mental health counsellor, I have developed a strong interest in neuropsychology. That’s why I am excited to apply for the Masters course in Clinical Neuropsychology at your university.”

In each of these examples, you can see that the students are specific about their backgrounds, interests, and experiences, and how they align with the postgraduate programme they are applying to.

How to end a personal statement for masters

When it comes to ending your personal statement for a Masters application, it’s important to impress university admissions tutors.

Your conclusion in the master’s personal statement should be short , and to the point , and leave no doubt in the mind of the admissions tutor that you are the perfect candidate for the course.

One way to do this is by summarising your key points and highlighting how they demonstrate your qualifications for the programme. Keep it concise and avoid repeating yourself or going off-topic.

Instead, focus on making it clear why you would be a good student at the university.

To give you an idea of what a strong conclusion can include , we wrote a few examples :

“With my background in X and passion for Y, I am confident that I would thrive in the Masters programme at your university. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to the department’s research and further my professional growth.”

“I am eager to bring my experience in X and my interest in Y to the postgraduate course at your university. The opportunity to learn from and collaborate with esteemed faculty members is truly exciting for me.”

“As someone who has always been passionate about Y and driven to make a difference in the field of Y, I am confident that the X course at your university is the perfect fit for me. I look forward to the opportunity to grow as a professional and make an impact.”

Work Experience in a personal statement for masters

Including your professional experiences in your masters personal statement can provide valuable insights into your interests and understanding of your chosen area of study.

This is especially crucial when applying for postgraduate courses, as it demonstrates your proactivity and dedication to your future academic or career goals, which universities look for in postgrad applicants.

Instead of simply listing your work experiences, it’s important to reflect on them.

Share with admission tutors not only what you did on your job but also what you learned from it and how you plan to apply those lessons in your postgraduate studies.

This highlights your ability to reflect and learn from your experiences, which is an essential skill for postgraduate students to have.

What should you avoid in a personal statement for Masters?

When writing your personal statement for a Masters courses, there are a few things to keep in mind to avoid and ensure it stands out and increases your chances of being accepted to the study programme.

Be original: Avoid using quotes in your statement, instead use your own words and voice. This will make your essay unique and more personal.
Avoid clichés : To make your statement stand out, avoid using templates or commonly used phrases. Instead, use your own words to express yourself.
Keep it concise: Keep your statement to around a single page and make sure it is relevant to the programmes you are applying for.
Be selective: Only include hobbies or experiences that are relevant to the courses you are applying for and explain why they are important to you.
Show, don’t tell: Instead of saying you’re passionate about the subject, show it through your words and experiences.
Tailor it: Make sure to tailor your personal statement for each programme you are applying for.
Avoid lists: Instead of listing your qualifications, explain how they make you a strong candidate for the masters programme.
Proofread: Before submitting your application, make sure to proofread your personal statement for any errors or typos, and double-check that it is for the correct programme and university. It is always a good idea to get help from professionals, to check grammar and proofreading.

By following our guidelines on what to avoid, you can ensure that your personal statement is clear, concise, and tailored to the programme you’re applying for. Increasing your chances of being accepted.

Difference between personal statements for postgraduate and undergraduate

A personal statement for postgraduate study and one for undergraduate study are similar in that they both serve as a way for you to introduce yourself and demonstrate your qualifications , but there are some key differences to keep in mind when writing each .

For postgraduate study , personal statements tend to be more specific and targeted . Instead of providing a broad overview of your interests and experiences, you should focus on how your background, skills, and goals align with the specific courses and field of study you’re applying to.

This requires you to do more research on the programme and its entry requirements, and you should highlight how you will be able to contribute to the university and chosen programme.

Postgraduate personal statements require a more detailed explanation of your academic and professional experience. This could include discussing your previous coursework, research experience, and any relevant work or internship experience, and how they have prepared you for masters study.

Also, you will need to mention in a postgraduate personal statement your long-term goals and career aspirations in more detail. This will give the admissions tutors a sense of how you plan to use the learnings from the programme to achieve your career goals.

Lastly, master’s personal statements tend to be shorter than undergraduate ones, usually around 500 words. It is assumed that as postgraduate students have more academic and professional experience, they do not need as much space to prove their worthiness.

While a personal statement for undergraduate study can be more broad and general, a personal statement for postgraduate study should be more focused, specific, and tailored to the course you’re applying for.

Masters personal statement example

I am eager to pursue a Master’s Degree in Finance as I believe it aligns perfectly with my career goals. The programme’s academic rigour and focus on corporate finance, coupled with its practical relevance to the current industry, make it the ideal choice for me. My background in the financial services industry, combined with my undergraduate studies in Electronics and Communications Engineering and my postgraduate diploma in Marketing and Finance, have prepared me well for this next step in my education.

I have a strong passion for problem-solving, mathematics, and analytical thinking, and I am eager to apply these skills within the field of finance. I believe that a Master’s Degree in Finance from your esteemed university will provide me with the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical experience to excel in the industry. I am particularly interested in gaining an in-depth understanding of current techniques and developments in finance, financial applications, and financial markets, as well as honing my research skills.

My ultimate goal is to secure a challenging and rewarding role within the finance profession. I understand that there is still much for me to learn, but I am excited to embrace new challenges and become a valuable contributor to the field. I am confident that this program will provide me with the knowledge and skills necessary to achieve my career goals.

Read other personal statement examples .

Research Course You’re Applying

It’s essential to research the programme and demonstrate your understanding of the field you are entering. This will show the admissions tutors that you are well prepared for the course and have a clear vision for your future research, study and goals.

One way to present your familiarity with the field is by mentioning specific scholars and researchers who work in the department.

You can find this information on the university’s website, and by reviewing the research interests and publications of the faculty members.

By aligning your interests with those of the faculty members, you can show that your research will fit well within the department and that you have a clear understanding of the master’s degree programme.

It’s also important to avoid generic statements such as applying to the school because it is the highest ranking or because you love the city where it is located.

If you have already contacted a professor or faculty member in the department, make sure to mention it in your personal statement. This will show that you have taken the initiative to learn more about the programme and that you are eager to work with the department’s faculty.

What admissions tutors are looking for a master’s application?

One of the main things that admissions tutors are looking for is an explanation of how the course links your past and future. They want to see that you have a clear understanding of how the programme aligns with your interests , goals , and career aspirations .

This can be demonstrated through your academic and non-academic experiences, as well as your skills, commitments, and enthusiasm for the field – we already discussed this in detail in previous parts of this guide.

Admissions tutors also want to see that you have a solid understanding of the institution’s area of expertise. This means showing that you have done your research on the university’s research focus and facilities, and how they align with your research interests.

Other than that, they want to see evidence of your knowledge and genuine interest in the subject, perhaps including some academic references or readings.

Another key element that admissions tutors are looking for is evidence of your abilities, commitment, and enthusiasm.

Deadline For Postgraduate Applications

The deadline for postgraduate applications in the UK can vary depending on the university and programme to which you are applying.

Some universities may have a fixed deadline while others may have rolling deadlines. It is important to check the specific deadline for the universities and courses you are interested to study. The UCAS postgraduate deadline is usually around the end of March, however, it’s always a good idea to verify with the university you are applying for.

It is also worth noting that some universities may have an earlier deadline for international students or certain programmes, so it is important to check the deadline for your specific situation.

Final Thoughts

A strongly written personal statement is an essential part of your postgraduate application. It is your chance to demonstrate your academic interests, abilities and goals, and demonstrate that you are a good fit for the course.

Remember to tailor your statement to the course you are applying for, be concise, and focus on your strengths and how they align with the programme.

When it comes to applying for a Masters’s programme, the process is often different than that of undergraduate studies in the UK. Probably you will be submitting your application directly to the university. However, it is worth noting that UCAS Postgraduate, a service provided by UCAS , has a search tool for limited master’s programmes.

Most UK universities require a personal statement when applying to a masters degree programme. However, some universities instead have a predefined set of questions for applicants.

You can submit a personal statement to as many universities as you are applying to for your Masters degree.

No, but if you have any questions regarding university programmes for masters, you can contact the admission manager and discuss.

Current Students

Study with Us
Work with Us

This is how to write a personal statement for a Master's

In theory, a personal statement should be easy. but we understand how hard it is to put pen to paper. read our latest blog by postgraduate student, kristina, on how to write a personal statement when applying for your master's. .

It can be tricky to put down in words why you should be accepted on a course, especially when you're trying to be persuasive, formal and concise all at once. Below, I've collated both what to include in a personal statement, as well as top tips to make sure your personal statement accurately reflects you, your passion and why you're a perfect fit for the postgraduate course of your choosing.

What should I include in a postgraduate personal statement?

1. why do you want to study this course.

This section has two clear and distinct points. Firstly, you need to project your passion for the subject. In my opinion, the hardest part about this is being engaging and passionate, without sounding cliched or insincere.

Secondly, you need to have some kind of idea how this Master's relates to your life goals. Is there a specific job you want? Or, perhaps a specific organisation that you’d like to work for? Maybe you have plans to study this subject beyond your Master's, and you intend on completing a PhD?

The admissions team is more likely to recruit you if they think that you might contribute to the academic field, or to the specific university department.

2. What relevant skills can you bring from previous academia?

Once you've stated why you want to study a course, now you need to argue why the university should want you. At this stage, give a succinct but comprehensive overview of your relevant skills and academic experience. For example, “ During my undergraduate studies, I improved my mathematical, analytical and problem-solving skills .”. Then go into detail about specific case studies, assignments, achievements etc..

The key point here is to make sure everything you mention is relevant. It's natural to want to sell yourself by listing all of your achievements, but only showcasing relevant information can act as a testament to your essay-writing skills.

3. What relevant skills can you bring from your personal or professional life?

Have you had relevant jobs/volunteering/internships? This is an opportunity to show that you’ve taken initiative to develop skills in the field beyond compulsory academic activities. This section doesn't just reflect your abilities, but your passion for your chosen career path through the fact you've dedicated your personal time to expanding your skills.

4. Why this specific course?

So you've said which subject you want to study, you've shown how you fit the requirements and how you intend to put your learnings to good use. Now, explain why you want to study this specific course. Mention the modules by name and how the learning formats will help your learning i.e. if there's lab work, field work etc. This is your opportunity to show you have carefully considered the different postgraduate courses available to you, and state your reasons for narrowing it down to the one you're applying for.

Tips for writing a university personal statement

Rediscover your old statement as a reminder.

Writing a personal statement for a Master’s degree is much the same as writing one for an undergraduate degree. My first tip would be to search through your old files and find the personal statement you submitted to UCAS all those years ago.

Whilst the content will be very different, reminding yourself of the structure you used and the topics you covered is just one way to trigger ideas for what to write in your new personal statement.

In fact, I have a folder on my laptop full of all my old job and university applications so that I can draw inspiration and sometimes re-use relevant sections, whilst slightly modifying them to fit the role I am applying for. This saves a lot of time.

Start early so you can take your time, and revisit

Writing ~1,000 words in one sitting probably isn’t the best idea. Whilst everyone has different styles of working, I personally feel that the best way to write something like this is to start out with a bullet point plan. This way you don’t have to simultaneously think about content, structure, and wording, you can just brainstorm ideas for the content, then reshuffle them into an order that makes sense and flows. Once you've sorted this out, you can spend time thinking about how you will construct the sentences and paragraphs.

Being organised like this gives you the freedom to take breaks and revisit your personal statement at a later time or date.

Make sure your ending is strong and clear

The first and last paragraphs are the most important. The serial-position effect in psychology shows that people tend to remember the first and last items on a list much better than they remember the content in the middle, so your introduction and conclusion should be your best-selling points.

Make sure every point you make is evidenced

Anyone can say that they have a specific skill or interest in a certain topic, but you need to convince the admissions team that you know what you’re talking about.

A key framework to follow is skill > evidence & understanding > outcome. For example, state you have a relevant skill (e.g. scientific literature reviews) and then talk about specific techniques (e.g. avoiding bias, using a reference manager) or specific examples (dissertation topic and what methods you used / conclusions you reached / real world implications of the topic). The outcome will often be that you achieved a high grade or were praised.

Draw on your undergraduate successes

Talking in detail about your dissertation is imperative for research master’s or those which include a dissertation. If you achieved a first-class grade for it, or are predicted a first-class grade, then mention it.

Write for academics

Write academically (e.g. “it is” rather than “it’s”) and formally, but balance this with conveying enthusiasm and not sounding robotic. One way to test whether your writing flows is to read it out loud to yourself.

Tailor your application to your course

Tailor your application so that it is very specific to the course. Mention specific modules or interests/skills that relate strongly to aspects of the course. Most courses have their own webpage on the university website. This page is your most important resource for ensuring that you write a persuasive personal statement, as it will outline relevant skills, interests, career paths, module descriptions etc.

Get a second opinion

Ask someone to proofread the final draft. Fresh perspectives are always valuable. Also, it’s often easier for someone else to point out your strengths and accomplishments than it is for you to.

Overall, your personal statement needs to be lots of small anecdotes that relate to each other and can be joined up to tell one overarching story about you, to persuade the admissions team that you will succeed in the course, benefiting the university and also your own progress in life. For more information on applying for a Master's, why not read this blog by student Amy Harris on funding a Master's ?

Discover Postgraduate Study at Newcastle

Published By Kristina on 02/09/2020 | Last Updated 17/11/2023

How to revise: 5 top revision techniques

Wondering how to revise for exams? It’s easy to get stuck in a loop of highlighting, copying out, reading and re-reading the same notes. But does it really work? Not all revision techniques are...

How can international students open a bank account in the UK?

Opening a student bank account in the UK can be a great way to manage your spending and take advantage of financial offers for university students. Read on to find out how to open a bank account as...

Celebrating diversity with the Festival of Culture

Every year, the Newcastle University Students’ Union hosts the Festival of Culture – a celebration of diversity and multiculturalism when students share their heritage with others through dance,...

find your perfect postgrad program Search our Database of 30,000 Courses

Postgraduate personal statement.

A postgraduate personal statement is one of the most important steps to consider when applying for a masters course or applying for a PhD .

Writing a postgraduate personal statement is a standard part of the admissions and entry requirements process. Your personal statement and your references are the two main sources of information in your postgraduate application, and the personal statement is the one you have control over.

So, how do you write a postgraduate personal statement that stands out?

How to write a postgraduate personal statement

Follow this process to write the perfect personal statement.

Check the course criteria

Firstly, you’ll need to check the course criteria. It is important that you become familiar with what the program involves, as well as its entry requirements, and the kind of skills that will be required from you in order to gain a place on the course.

This will provide you with key information to cover in your postgraduate personal statement, and give you an idea of the kind of student that the university accepts on that particular course.

Key information that will help you write your postgraduate personal statement includes:

Course modules - Are there any specific course modules that will play to your strengths? Mention how you can bring knowledge, passion and discussion to these particular areas of the course in your masters personal statement, and relate this to your previous experience at undergraduate level.

Teaching and assessment style - Does the course specify particular teaching or assessment styles? Show the university that you are well suited to those styles. For example, if the course uses group presentation assessments, mention your previous experience with this during undergraduate study.

Key skills - Do the course details specify any desired skills or requirements from students? Tailor your personal statement to demonstrate your ability in these skills.

Entry requirements - Most masters and postgraduate courses will specify entry requirements. This usually relates to the grade, or predicted grade, you have at undergraduate level. It is a good idea to mention this in your postgraduate personal statement when applying for a course.

Outline your skills and experience

The next step is to outline your skills, knowledge and experience. You can do this by drafting out a rough mind map of the skills that you think would be relevant to your chosen postgraduate course.

This will also help demonstrate your passion for the subject, and give the university a strong impression of why you want to study that particular course.

When including these skills in your statement, mention your intention to develop your skills at postgraduate level . This will help reflect your intentions to engage with the course content and thrive in an academic setting.

Answer key admission questions

The easiest way to start writing a postgraduate personal statement is to make a plan. Work out what sort of things the university wants to know about you, and then answer those questions. Good questions to look at include:

Why do you want to study this particular course?

Why do you want to study at this particular university?

What part of the course in particular appeals to you? e.g. certain modules or work opportunities.

What previous experience do you have in the area you are applying to study?

What skills do you have that’ll lend themselves to postgraduate study? e.g. if you apply for a research masters , what did you learn from doing a dissertation?

What career path or further study route would you like to take after your postgraduate study?

Write with a positive tone

As well as thinking about what to write in your postgraduate personal statement, it’s just as important to consider how to write it.

Your postgraduate or masters personal statement should be received with a positive tone, demonstrating your passion and drive to the reader. Create a positive sentiment using confident language.

Here’s an overview of action verbs to include in your personal statement:

Established

Write in an active voice to demonstrate your active participation in projects.

What do you mean by active voice?

Take a look at the two examples below:

Active voice: I developed key interpersonal skills through group work.

Passive voice: Key interpersonal skills were developed through group work.

Add personality

This doesn’t mean you need to write something that no-one has ever read before, but that you need to make sure some of your personality comes across in your statement.

Did you get into philosophy thanks to a certain work of fiction? Mention it (briefly). Did a particular incident doing undergrad biology make you want to study medicine ? Write it down! Remember, whilst there’s a set amount of things you need to include (like answering the questions above); don’t restrict your personal template to a template you find online if you see opportunities to make your writing stand out.

Tailor to individual universities

Remember that a postgraduate personal statement is different to an undergraduate statement as you can tailor it to each individual university. You shouldn’t send out the same masters personal statement to each university.

There are two good ways to do this – either write one for each university, or write a basic template, and adjust it to focus on each university you apply for.

Create your first draft

Once you have all of your thoughts and key points together, it’s time to write the first draft of your masters personal statement. Don’t worry about perfecting it at this point. The aim of a first draft is to revisit it later on and identify any areas that need improvement.

How long should a postgraduate personal statement be?

A postgraduate personal statement should have a word count of around 500 words, or one side of A4 . Some universities will specify personal statement word count requirements in the application details, and some will use online submission forms with set character limits.

It is important that you adhere to this and make sure that your postgraduate personal statement is the ideal length. This will show that you can interpret and deliver a brief. Some universities require much more than the standard personal statement length, such as the University of Oxford , so make sure you check!

How do you start a postgraduate personal statement?

Starting your personal statement can be the hardest part of writing your first draft. It is best to keep your opening statement simple . University admissions will have to read through a lot of applications, so it’s helpful to get to the point and demonstrate your interest in the course from the beginning.

Here are some top tips for writing your personal statement intro:

Avoid clichés. Admission staff will have read these a thousand times. Cliche openings can include sentences like “For as long as I remember…”, or “I have always wanted to be a…”

Show your passion for the topic and explain the reasons you want to study that course

Why are you excited about studying that course? Be specific.

Don't always start at the beginning. Try writing your introduction as the last step in the writing process.

Proofread and edit your statement

Finally (and the most important part of all!), proofread your personal statement. Take a few days away from it, and then go back and read it again.

After you’ve edited it, find someone else to take a look too. Ideally, if you can find a tutor willing to help, they’re your best bet. If not, a friend already on a postgraduate course should have an idea of how to write a postgraduate personal statement successfully.

Once you’ve done all of this, your statement should be ready. Take a deep breath, upload the file (or put it along with your printed copy), and finish the rest of your application.

Make sure you keep a copy on file, just in case you need to refer to it later!

Postgraduate personal statement tips

Another important thing to remember when writing your postgraduate personal statement is to be 100% honest and true - don’t just make things up !

In the same way that you should NEVER lie on your postgraduate CV , you shouldn’t do this on your postgraduate personal statement either. It’s not just important to make sure you don’t make things up about yourself – make sure anything you say about the university and the postgraduate course you’re applying to has been thoroughly researched.

After all, the university is definitely the expert on what it offers, and the admissions office will certainly know if you’re making it up.

Make sure you’re memorable

Of course, there are also ways to help your postgraduate personal statement get noticed beyond what you actually write, and that’s to make yourself memorable in other ways .

Name-dropping is probably not the solution here, but dropping in references to subjects you know their department specialises in is definitely worthwhile. Just make sure you know what you’re talking about and haven’t just picked something at random!

Fill in the gaps

But what if you’ve got some weak spot that comes up? Perhaps you did worse than expected on a certain module, or you have an unexplained gap in between leaving university and applying for further study? You simply need to own it.

The university might want to know about these things, and the best thing you can do is explain it, and put a positive spin on it. Did you get worse results than expected because you were ill? Say as much – and then mention how much extra reading you’ve done since, and how much you’re looking forward to improving in that area!

The university will understand this and appreciate your additional efforts in other areas.

Keep it concise

A personal statement shouldn't be too long, there'll be many other personal statements that need to be read and considered, so you should ensure you make your points in a concise and engaging fashion.

Start early

This advice may be common sense but it is crucial. By starting early you will reduce the stress of writing a personal statement by a long way. This will give you plenty of time to get a head start and reduce your stress when applying for a masters or other course.

Use consistent structure

Keep your masters personal statement structure clear and consistent. If the overall structure and layout of your personal statement is poor, you will drastically decrease your chances of getting an offer.

You can easily solve the problem of poor layout by following this simple check-list:

Ensure all margins are the same

Ensure the font is the same throughout

Ensure the size of the font is the same throughout (except subheadings)

Ensure spacing is the same throughout

You will need to plan the structure of your statement and make sure that it flows – with the best way of checking this being to read your personal statement out loud a number of times. This will enable you to weed out any sentences or words that just don't quite fit.

Things to avoid in your postgrad personal statement

So far in this article we’ve looked at how to write your postgraduate personal statement, but what about the things that you should avoid? Here’s our rundown of the top eight postgraduate personal statement no-nos!

Misinformation & exaggeration – stick to the facts and don't lie, sounds fairly straightforward, right? But it's all too easy to write what you would like to have done rather than what you actually have done. Even easier than a little misinformation, is a little exaggeration. Stretching work experience to cover a gap or inflating your responsibility can get you caught out. Ultimately exaggerating or making up information in your personal statement can end up in you losing your place on the course or your funding – so stick to the truth.
Typos – obviously, you need to proofread your personal statement and not just for the information you've contained in it. Don't rely on spell checkers to get it right, read through it a few times just for errors and get someone you trust to do the same as sometimes you can read and re-read something and not spot a small error. Small typos could have a big impact on the admissions panel.
Passionless personal statement – try to convey your passion for your postgraduate subject through your personal statement, however be careful as you don't want to overdo it and come across as being insincere. It's a difficult balance, but an important one. Again, get someone you trust or who has experience of the course you're applying for to give your personal statement a read through and give you their honest opinion.
Slang words – keep your language formal and avoid slang words as well as impenetrable technical language. You've already successfully applied for an undergraduate degree and you've probably also successfully applied for a job, so you should understand what clear language to use. Some courses, like law or medicine, might require more formal language than some of the arts, but check with trusted colleagues or those who've already completed the course. Which leads us onto…
Ignoring feedback – if you ask someone to read through your personal statement, then you should probably take the time to listen to what they really think about it. If you disagree with them remember it is your personal statement and it is you who will be doing the course you're applying for, but, do listen to the advice in the first instance.
Repetition – you'll want to include a short introduction and a short conclusion, but avoid repeating yourself in the main body of your personal statement. You will only need to explain a point once – again it is always useful to get someone else to read through to check you're not repeating yourself at any point.
Plagiarism – unless you completed your undergraduate degree a long time ago, then you should know that almost everything you submit will be run through plagiarism software. Many universities and the system used in the UK for undergraduate applications use plagiarism software on personal statements already. Stay away from copying and pasting anything, even if you plan to rewrite it, as it is easy to forget or not notice the plagiarised sections once you've finished.
Bitterness & negativity – avoid complaining about any past experiences you’ve had, especially educational ones, you will never know where the person reviewing your application has worked or studied before. Negativity reflects badly on you, and you should try instead to demonstrate any positive outcomes that you have had from a bad experience.

Masters personal statement examples

Personal statement example: psychology masters .

"I have always been fascinated by the human mind and its intricate workings, which is why I am excited to pursue a Masters in Psychology. My previous studies in psychology at undergraduate level have inspired my interests in this field, and I am now eager to take my understanding of the subject to the next level.

Areas that particularly interested me at undergraduate level include cognitive psychology and neuroscience. I am fascinated by the ways in which the brain processes information, and the impact this has on human behaviour. By studying a masters degree in psychology, I hope to further explore these areas and develop a deeper understanding of the subject.

Alongside my academic studies, I have volunteered for a local mental health support charity, where I gained experience in a practice-based setting. This experience helped me develop valuable insight into real-life applications of psychology, and has inspired me to pursue a career in this field.

I am excited about the opportunity to study psychology in more depth, and am confident that I have the skills and motivation to succeed at masters level. I am committed to making a positive impact with my skills and knowledge, and believe that this course will provide me with the necessary tools to achieve this.”

Personal statement example: engineering masters

“As an ambitious and driven individual with a strong passion for engineering, I am excited to apply for the Master of Engineering program at XYZ University. My undergraduate studies in mechanical engineering provided me with a solid foundation in the field, and I am now eager to take my knowledge and skills to the next level.

Throughout my studies, I have had the opportunity to gain hands-on experience through various internships and research projects. These experiences have not only confirmed my passion for engineering but also allowed me to develop important skills such as problem-solving and critical thinking.

I am particularly interested in the area of sustainable energy and am eager to explore this field further through the Master of Engineering program. I am confident that the program's emphasis on research and hands-on learning will provide me with the knowledge and skills necessary to make a positive impact in this field.

Furthermore, I believe that the diverse student body and faculty at XYZ University will provide a valuable learning environment and endless opportunities for personal and professional growth. I am excited to be a part of this community and contribute to the university's mission of advancing the field of engineering.

I am confident that the Master of Engineering program at XYZ University is the perfect next step in my academic and professional journey – and I am eager to begin this new chapter of my life.”

Personal statement example: linguistics masters

“Having always been fascinated by language, I am thrilled to apply for the Linguistics masters course at XYZ University. My undergraduate studies in English Language and Linguistics have given me a solid foundation of knowledge in this field, and I am now ready to delve deeper and gain a more comprehensive understanding of the intricacies of human language.

Throughout my undergraduate degree, I have been particularly interested in phonology and syntax, and have had the opportunity to conduct independent research in these fields of study. This experience further inspired my passion for linguistics and helped me develop important skills – such as analytical thinking and data analysis.

I am excited for the opportunity to continue developing my knowledge in these areas, as well as expand my understanding in other areas of linguistics. I am drawn to the program’s focus on computational linguistics, as this is not something that I have had the opportunity to explore at undergraduate level, despite being an area I find fascinating.

The diverse student body and renowned linguistics faculty at XYZ University will provide a valuable learning environment and promising opportunities for personal and professional development. I hope to be a part of this community and contribute to the faculty’s aims to advance the field of linguistics.

I am confident that the program offers the perfect next step in my academic journey, and I am excited to begin this new chapter of my life.”

In conclusion, a personal statement is important to get right because it gives the university admissions panel their very first impression of you. Take your time, be proud of your skills and achievements. Your statement could make the difference between securing a spot and not, so make sure your application stands out from the crowd.

UCAS Postgraduate & Postgraduate Applications

Things To Avoid In Your Postgrad Personal Statement

Preparing For Your Postgraduate Application

How To Apply For A Masters

Entry Requirements For Postgraduate Students

How To Choose A Masters Degree

Postgrad Solutions Study Bursaries

Exclusive bursaries Open day alerts Funding advice Application tips Latest PG news

Sign up now!

Take 2 minutes to sign up to PGS student services and reap the benefits…

The chance to apply for one of our 5 PGS Bursaries worth £2,000 each
Fantastic scholarship updates
Latest PG news sent directly to you.

Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Cultures
School of English
Undergraduate

Your personal statement

As part of your application to Leeds, you'll be asked to submit a personal statement of around 4,000 characters. This is a great opportunity to show that you have the passion, drive, and imagination to study with us.

Follow these tips to find out what makes a great personal statement - you can find more information about how to apply on the course page for your chosen degree.

Be thorough

Read up on the content of your chosen course and use it to inform your application. Check your grammar, spelling and punctuation very carefully.

If you're applying for a course which covers more than one subject area think about how those subjects interact with and complement each other; your course will constantly draw connections between them, so your application should demonstrate your ability to do the same.

Be specific

Passion for your subject is vital for studying at university level, and your application should reflect this. But don't forget to include specific detail about why that subject excites and challenges you.

You could tell us about a book or stage production you've encountered recently. What did you find interesting about them, and what themes or devices have you identified?

Evidence your abilities

Try to demonstrate your skills and abilities in English. Showcase your analytical skills in relation to texts and art forms you’ve explored beyond your A-Level studies.

We'd like to hear how you've engaged with your chosen subject so far through essays, productions, or other projects. But remember, you should keep information about extra-curricular activities to a minimum unless they relate directly to your subject.

Keep it simple

A full, detailed and well-written statement will stand out in all the right ways. While we value creativity, you should prioritise showing us evidence of your critical thinking about the subject(s) you want to study, whether that's literature, language, creative writing, or theatre.

Aimen Mahmood BA English Literature

I have not disliked one moment of my degree, and most of the credit goes to the incredible teaching staff; the quality of teaching here is unparalleled. I have never met people who are more passionate about their careers and about imparting knowledge. Their passion becomes my passion every time.

Masters Study and Funding online event

A person sitting in a cafe, holding open a large notebook and smiling.

Join us online on Wednesday 17 April to receive expert advice on how to make your Masters a reality with funding.

Watch our recorded subject talks

An academic speaking to a room of students sat at computers.

Masters courses

A masters student smiling and stood in Parkinson Court with people in the background

We have more than 300 Masters degrees. More than 160 courses can be offered part-time and a number are available online.

Postgraduate newsletter updates

Postgraduate students outside Clothworker's Court with bright flowers in the foreground

Whether you’re continuing from undergraduate study, returning to education or changing direction, a Masters degree at Leeds will help you take the next step and enhance your employability.

You can learn from experts and industry leaders. Our academics' globally recognised research will feed into your course. You'll be part of a pioneering research community , taking creative strides to build a better world.

We’ll challenge you to explore, question and discover. You can become a specialist in your subject.

We have more than 300 Masters degrees. More than 160 courses can be offered part-time and a number are available online. Find the course for you .

Explore Masters information

Funding your studies.

Find out about the different ways you can fund your postgraduate studies.

A Masters student stood in front of the Parkinson Building

Industry links

You can enhance your employability with our industry links and careers guidance.

Alumni Ahmed Oshinibosi, Lead Engineer at Bentley Motors and University of Leeds alumnus.

A step-by-step guide to applying.

Masters students using a laptop in an industrial space

Masters fees

Information about tuition fees and how to pay.

Two masters students in the library discussing work around a laptop

Accommodation

Find out your accommodation options for living in Leeds.

Two female students standing up, talking in a university hall of residence kitchen.

Chat to our students

Want to find out more about life as a Masters student? Chat with our student ambassadors and ask any questions you have.

Two Masters students sat together in the library, looking at a notepad and smiling.

Invest in your career

Alongside expert subject knowledge, you can build professional experience and valuable transferable skills that employers look for, like critical thinking and project management

You will benefit from our strong partnerships with leading companies and careers support , plus opportunities to take part in work placements, live projects and fieldwork. Many of our academic team are consultants and practitioners outside of the university, providing an industry-focused education.

27th in the UK The Guardian University Guide 2024

75th in the world QS World University Rankings 2024

Student stories

Libby chilton, ma fashion, enterprise and society.

I was keen to develop my business mindset and get back into an industry that interested me.

Beth Peacock, MSc Biopharmaceutical Development

I chose to study a Masters because I realised employers were looking for more experience than I had. It has already helped my progression.

Ishan Lee, MA Advertising and Marketing

Leeds has been a fantastic place for me – it’s given me a perfect balance of academic learning and work experience.

Student Blog Squad

Chat to a student
Mature students
Parents' guide
Schools and colleges

Undergraduate Applicant Days

Undergraduate open days, virtual open day.

Research degrees
Professional development

Postgraduate Open Days

Information for employers
Sport and active lifestyles
Leeds Beckett Students' Union

Life in Leeds

Virtual campus tour.

Apply to study
Fees and scholarships
Support for students
International partners
International Summer School
English language courses
Study abroad
Find your country for entry requirements
English language requirements
Find an agent in your country
Applying for your visa
Course fees and living costs
International scholarships
Global Village
Arrival guide
International Partners
Study Abroad Partners
Research centres
Research Areas
Research Excellence Framework
Teaching and research facilities
Research for business
Carnegie Applied Rugby Research centre
Centre for Active Lifestyles
Centre for Applied Social Research
Centre for Biomedical Science Research
Centre for Child and Adolescent Physical Literacy
Centre for Culture and Humanities
Centre for Dementia Research
Centre for Entrepreneurship and Knowledge Exchange
Centre for Health Promotion
Centre for Human Performance
Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Citizenship, Education and Society (CIRCES)
Centre for LGBTQ+ Inclusion in Education
CollectivED: The Centre for Coaching, Mentoring & Professional Learning (in education)
Centre for Psychological Research
Centre for Race, Education and Decoloniality
Centre for Research in Computer Science and Applications
Centre for Social Justice in Sport and Society
Centre for Sport Coaching
Centre of Excellence for Mental Health in Schools
Cybercrime and Security Innovation Centre
Interdisciplinary Centre for Implant Research
Leeds Arts Research Centre
Leeds Sustainability Institute
Obesity Institute

The Retail Institute

Story Makers Company
Sustainable Business Research Institute
Architecture
Computer science
Culture and the arts
Events, Tourism and Hospitality Management
Social Sciences
The Graduate School
Types of research degrees
Funded studentships
Doctoral funding
Our university
Our schools
Our community
Work with us
Sustainability
Contact and find us
Campuses and facilities
Equality and inclusion
Governance, leadership and structure
Public information
Leeds School of Arts
School of Built Environment, Engineering and Computing
Leeds Business School
Carnegie School of Education
School of Events, Tourism and Hospitality Management
School of Health
School of Humanities and Social Sciences
Leeds Law School
Carnegie School of Sport
LBU Together blog
Support. Report. Respect. A safe and inclusive community
University Mental Health Charter
WE CHALLENGE - the big issues affecting people and planet
Schools and colleges outreach
Business services
Business consultancy
Recruit our students

Work at Leeds Beckett

Develop your business
Develop your people
Work with our students and graduates
Leeds Beckett Business Centre
The Knowledge Exchange
Business news
Get funded and innovate
Office space, networking and mentoring
Support for small and medium-sized businesses
Tap into new research and insights

Help to Grow: Management

Knowledge transfer partnerships (ktps).

Short courses and CPD

Carnegie Great Outdoors

The leadership centre, manage your preferences.

The Leeds Beckett website is designed to enable you to manage your own privacy preferences. By clicking on 'Cookies' below you can manage what data the site collects about your browsing. This will only maintain if you are on your own device or using a synched version of your chosen browser. If you are using a shared or public machine without synching your browser then there is no need to change the preferences.

Our site is built with accessibility in mind and we seek to adhere to the WACG AA levels of compliance for digital accessibility. To support that we have provided instructions on managing animations below.

Necessary cookies enable you to use all the different parts of leedsbeckett.ac.uk. Without them services that you have asked for cannot be provided. Necessary cookies can only be disabled by changing your browser preferences.

Analytical cookies help us understand how people are using our websites, so we can improve them and provide a better user experience. We also sometimes get our approved partner companies to analyse how people are using Leeds Beckett Websites and they may set their own analytical cookies in order to do this.

Marketing cookies allow us to provide you with online adverts that are the most relevant and useful for you.

For more information please view our Privacy Policy

Animations & Interaction

The Leeds Beckett University website occasionally uses animations to page elements and animated gifs to add impact to pages. If you wish to stop them from playing for accessibility purposes or for personal preference then please see the guidance below. Please note that browsers sometimes change how they operate, so please refer to your browser help files to find their latest information.

How do I turn off animations?

Chrome users will need to use browser extensions. Animation Policy from Google will help you set your own preferences.

Microsoft Edge

There is currently no way to disable animations within Microsoft Edge. Users of Edge (Chromium) browser can install the Chrome extensions above and use them.

Internet Explorer

To stop animations on a single page you can just press the 'Esc' key. This will stop the animation on that page. If you wish to restart the animations you need to refresh the page. To permanently disable the playing of animated GIF images, open Internet Options > Advanced tab. Under the Multimedia section, uncheck the Play animations in webpage check-box, click Apply and Exit and then restart your computer.

Type about:config in Firefox address bar and hit Enter to open Settings. Search for the image.animation_mode flag and change its value from Normal to None. Once you restart Firefox this will disable animations.

Top tips for writing your personal statement

Hi, I’m Hollie, a Sports and Exercise Therapy student at Leeds Beckett. In this blog I’m going to provide you with some useful tips for writing your personal statement.

The personal statement section of the UCAS application is an important part of the process. This is an opportunity for you to tell the universities all about yourself. Some of you may be sat staring at the screen thinking ‘How on earth do I write about myself?’ Don’t worry, I’ve been there. Highlighting all of your best points, skills and aspirations can be a tricky thing to do, but it’s not impossible and I am here to help you.

Before you write

Before you start tapping away at your computer or staring at a blank screen, here are a few things which could help you prepare and get you started:

Research the course. Before I started writing, I made sure I understood what the course involved and made a note of any modules that I was interested in
Know the commitment and skills needed for the course and maybe start thinking about the career you are hoping to go into afterwards
Note down your previous employment, work experience and education
Make a note of any skills you’ve gained or improved on during your past experiences
I found it useful to write out a draft and plan of what you want to put into each section before making a start on the actual piece. You can find an outline of the different sections of the personal statement on the university website .

Catch the reader's attention

You want your personal statement to stand out from the crowd. In my opinion, the introduction should start with something that will show them you are a little bit different and that will also show them your personality. The purpose of the introduction is to let the university know why you are excited about the course and to make them want to read more about you.

Why you want to study that course

In this section, it’s your opportunity to tell the university why you are applying for the course. When writing my application, I asked myself ‘What has made you want to apply for the course?’ I found that going straight in the with the ‘why’ at the beginning of the paragraph instantly made it clear to the university exactly what it was I wanted out of the course and my motivations for applying. Keeping your points concise and using simple short sentences throughout your personal statement is a good way to keep the reader engaged and ensure that your point doesn’t get lost.

Within this section I recommend explaining how the course fits in with your future aspirations and how the degree will allow you to pursue these dreams. I used the research I gathered about the course and modules to help explain why I was looking forward to certain aspects. This showed the university that I was already proactive, organised and passionate about the subject, which is a key part of being at university.

Past experiences and education

Next, it’s time to dive into your past education and work experience. This section is all about showcasing how they relate to the course and have inspired you to pursue your specific career path. This is a great way to show off what you have already done and skills you have already gained. Add in any past courses you have done, A levels or BTECS that may be related to the course, or extra courses you have completed outside of college. In my application I made reference to my BTEC and talked about what I had learnt and how this knowledge will be beneficial to certain modules on the course. I was also able to talk about why I enjoyed specific elements of my BTEC and how I was looking forward to learning more about the subject at university level.

After your education I recommend talking about any jobs or work experience you have already had. Now is a really good time to pick up on your skills and show them off. Think about things you may have worked on improving or new skills you have learnt? For example, has your time management improved? Do you have brilliant customer service? Are you good at working in a team? Are you easily able to adapt in situations and think fast? You could also talk about how these fit into the skills needed for the course you are applying for and how you feel they will help you succeed.

Hobbies and interests

It’s also a great idea to talk a bit about the things you enjoy and take interest in, outside of studying. This is where your personality really gets to shine. Do you play a sport? Do you like to write blog posts? Do you play a musical instrument? The list could go on and there are so many interesting things you can mention in this point. As well as showing the university what I’m about, I also used this section to show how my hobbies related to the course. I did this by talking about how I had written and worked with many health and fitness brands and so had experience in the industry. It’s important to show how proud you are of your own achievements.

What you want to achieve

I used the conclusion to show the university what I wanted to gain from the course. I asked myself, ‘Why is it worth your time?’ ‘What would you hopefully like to do after the course?’ By talking about the future, it shows that you’re already thinking ahead and know why it is you want to complete the degree.

Ask friends and family to read it

When you have finished writing it’s a good idea to ask a friend or family member to read through it for you. I found that a fresh pair of eyes can do wonders when you are sat there wondering if you have done enough or wondering what needs to be changed. Don’t be afraid to ask friends and family members to read it, read it and read it again until you are happy with the result. A second opinion and a few re writes can honestly help more than you realise!

", "label": ""}' href="https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/blogs/student-blog-squad/authors/hollie/"> Hollie

Hi I’m Hollie, a fitness instructor, blogger and Sport Therapy student. I have a passion for all things fitness, wellbeing and mental health. I am a massive advocate of self love and spreading kindness in everything you do! I believe together we can make ourselves and the world a better place.

More from the blog

My top reasons for choosing lbu" }'> my top reasons for choosing lbu, the impact of my applicant day experience" }'> the impact of my applicant day experience, how my applicant day made me confident in my university choice" }'> how my applicant day made me confident in my university choice.

This website uses cookies to improve your browsing experience. See our Privacy policy .

Find your country

Middle East

North America

Can't find your country in our list?

university of leeds postgraduate personal statement

Writing a personal statement to apply for a master's course

If you apply for a master's, you need to write a personal statement or statement of purpose to show you're ready for the course. find out what we look for..

Why you need to write a personal statement

When you apply to study for a master's degree at Bath, you need to write a personal statement as part of your application.

A personal statement is your opportunity to show that a master’s course is right for you and that you have the potential to complete it successfully. You should show us you have a clear understanding of what studying the course will involve. 

Some people call this a 'statement of purpose' or something similar.

Who will read your personal statement

A member of the Admissions team will read your personal statement. We'll use it as part of the process to decide who we can offer a place to.

Planning your personal statement

Read the application criteria

Make sure you carefully read and follow any instructions on the application form so that you include everything we want to see.

Do some research

Start by researching the course, department, and University thoroughly for each new application. Think about what evidence you can include to show you have the right skills, knowledge, and experience for the course. If you’re naturally modest about your abilities, consider asking a current tutor or mentor what they might include.

If the course entry requirements demand a specific skill, like maths or programming, you should be able to show how you meet this requirement.

Psychology applicants

For some of our Psychology courses, there are specific criteria for what you should include in your personal statement. Read about these on the Psychology course pages .

Writing an effective personal statement

Give yourself plenty of time to write your statement. Don’t leave it to the last minute.

Decide how you will structure the personal statement. While there’s no single structure that’s ideal for every application, focus on presenting your case in a clear, logical way.

State the name of the programme and the University, and write a separate personal statement for each application. Even if the courses you are applying for are very similar, you should write a tailored response for each one.

In most cases, there will be a word limit of 400 to 600 words.  

Write your personal statement in your own words. Don’t copy one from somewhere else.

General writing tips

Write in a style that is clear, concise, and not too elaborate or complicated
Write in active voice - for example, 'I completed a placement in 2022', not 'A placement was completed in 2022'
Structure your statement using short sentences and paragraphs
Be as definite as possible in the way you word your statement - for example, instead of saying, “I hope to do this”, say ‘I want to,” or “I intend to do this.”
Make sure you only include relevant information - if something you mention isn’t related to your skills or why you want to study the course, then don’t include it 
Don’t overstate your achievements; it may strike a boastful tone that’s unlikely to strengthen your application
Don’t repeat information that you've already covered elsewhere in the application
Avoid using clichéd phrases or quotes as opening lines and instead, go for a succinct summary of your academic and employment background

You should always proofread your personal statement and remove any grammatical or spelling errors. It can be hard to spot mistakes in your own writing, so ask someone else to review it too.

What to include in your personal statement

Demonstrate motivation and enthusiasm

When we read your personal statement, we'll be looking for evidence that, after researching your options, you’ve decided that this is the best university and degree for you. We want to see that you’re excited about the opportunity to study here, and the degree fits in with your long-term goals.

Consider including:

a specific reason, or reasons, why you want to do the course
a specific reason why you want to do the course at Bath
an explanation of how the course relates to what you want to do in the future
evidence of your commitment and enthusiasm

Saying ‘I am committed and enthusiastic’ is not enough. Demonstrate it through your knowledge of the course, department and its research, for example, or your passion for your field of study.

Highlight your suitability

Your personal statement needs to showcase the skills, knowledge, and experience which make you suitable for the course. We want to see that you have the subject-specific and transferable skills to succeed and thrive on the course.   

Academic achievements

Consider including examples of academic achievements, with an explanation of how they’ve prepared you for the content and demands of the course. You could also give an explanation of how the course links to, and potentially builds on, what you've done in the past. 

Professional achievements

Include any relevant work experience. Use your duties, tasks, and responsibilities during the job or placement to help convey what you gained from the experience.

Relevant hobbies and interests

You can also include your hobbies and volunteering activities. These can highlight positive qualities and experience that add to the picture of you as a suitable candidate.

Other skills

Give evidence of transferable skills. These could include presentation skills, group work, written communication skills, independent learning, perseverance, and time management. They can help to indicate how well you are likely to perform on course assessments and course requirements.

If you've overcome challenges because of a disability or long-term health condition, sharing this can show evidence of achievement, strength of character, and sought-after skills. Talking about personal development you've gained because of a disability can also make you stand out from other applicants.  Read more about how we support disabled students .

Try to use more recent examples of your experience, skills and strengths. You can also include details of any relevant experience you plan to gain before starting your degree.

Mitigating circumstances

If you've experienced any difficult or mitigating circumstances that may have affected previous studies, you are welcome to include this if you wish to do so. Only include this information if it is relevant to the application.

More guidance about applying for a master's course
Applying for a taught postgraduate course
Accepting your offer of a place on a taught postgraduate course

If you have any questions about your postgraduate application or writing a personal statement, get in touch.

Central Postgraduate Taught Admissions

On this page.

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.

University of Reading Cookie Policy

We use cookies on reading.ac.uk to improve your experience. Find out more about our cookie policy . By continuing to use our site you accept these terms, and are happy for us to use cookies to improve your browsing experience.

Continue using the University of Reading website

Postgraduate personal statements

Your personal statement is a lengthy and crucial step in your postgraduate application process

Preparation

Applying for postgraduate courses, whether masters, PhD, or professional courses, especially those required for teacher training, journalism, law and psychology conversion, can be competitive.

Your personal statement needs to be well written, relevant and give clear reasons for wanting to apply, in addition to what you can bring to the course and how you plan to use it in the future. Some institutions will tell you exactly what it should cover, others will leave it to you to decide what to include.

Research your course options thoroughly, websites such as findamasters.com , findaphd.com , jobs.ac.uk/phd and ucas.com can help, with sites like lawcareers.net , British Psychological Society ( bps.org.uk ) and National Council for the Training of Journalists ( nctj.com ) providing details of programmes. Some courses may be available on a part-time or distance learning basis as well as full-time and in person.

Applications are usually made directly to institutions for masters and PhD programmes and many advertised programmes include the contact details of the Programme Leader or Supervisor, so making contact can demonstrate interest and you can refer to any contact you made in your personal statement. Try to visit an open day if possible, to meet staff and students and explore facilities, or at least interact online.

Check the course start date, some programmes may have a January/February start date in addition to the usual autumn one. Carefully check the application closing date. Demonstrate how you meet the entry requirements and link any relevant transferable skills, work experience, research, projects, and modules.

Presenting your personal statement

The personal statement should be around one side of A4 in length, unless otherwise specified – always check if there is a word count limit and if so, stick to it. For your first draft, don’t worry about the word length, just write it, and then edit it down.
Write in paragraphs with a minimum font size of 11, breaking it into paragraphs to avoid solid text.
If you are applying to several postgraduate courses, then you will need to tailor your statement for each one. Each application must be relevant for every individual course and institution, so if you are using text generative AI to help you draft an initial response make sure that you are changing the information you are uploading so that it’s relevant to each institution/course. And always improve the responses that text generative AI gives, as they won’t be good enough for a successful application .
What to include (unless otherwise specified)

Your motivations:

This is a paragraph describing the reasons why you want to study further. When explaining your motivations try not to describe your life story (all too often people start by saying “From an early age I’ve always...”). Clearly show why the subject is of interest to you, for example:

Do you want to study aspects of what you have been learning at undergraduate level in more depth because you enjoy the subject? Has a life experience sparked the interest in new, or deeper, understanding?
Do you need to learn a new skill or subject for your career, either because you are pivoting to a new path, or higher education qualifications are a requirement?

Why this subject, course and institution:

Here you need to describe your motivations for wanting to do this specific subject and course. You can talk about the course topics/modules that you are particularly keen to study. Are there any aspects of this course which are unique, and not offered elsewhere?

Acknowledge any specialisms or awards the university or department may have, including naming academics you are eager to learn from, and relevant reading and research you have completed. If you’ve been to visit and you loved the facilities or campus, mention that too.

What you can bring to the course:

What they are checking is that you can cope with the academic rigours of the course and will successfully complete it. Highlight your academic achievements, knowledge, research, and projects.

Go into detail about how you achieved your qualifications and how you meet or exceed the entry requirements. Include the skills you developed, such as being focused, meeting deadlines, critical analysis, and discussions, sharing and receiving feedback, time management, communication, and giving presentations.

What makes you a good student and effective learner? Include the academic skills you have developed though individual projects and group work, where you might have worked in diverse and international teams, conducted research using different sources, referencing skills, creating posters, attending conferences and any software, databases, and IT skills.

Career aspirations:

What career plans do you have and how will this course help you to achieve them? Don’t worry if you change your mind later if you just have one or two that you are considering at the time of application. You may be considering several possibilities and the course will help you to clarify which route is best for you. It’s important to give some indication that you have considered what you will do once you’ve completed the course. Whatever it is, explain this as clearly as possible.

Work experience:

Through full or part-time work experience, or the Undergraduate Research Opportunities Programme, you may have gained some useful experience which is directly related to the course you are applying for, if so, make sure to highlight this. If your experience isn’t relevant, you can still highlight the transferable skills you have developed, which will help in planning and organising your academic work.

Voluntary work/extra-curricular activities/positions of responsibility:

Include any extra-curricular experience, such as being a member of a club or society, having a position of responsibility such as a course representative, ambassador or mentor, any achievements or taking part in voluntary work and how you plan to get involved at your new institution.

A personal statement may be read before the rest of your form, so don't assume the reader has prior knowledge of your qualifications, skills, and experience. Ensure the information you provide compliments what you have written elsewhere on the form.

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.

University of Reading Cookie Policy

Continue using the University of Reading website

Postgraduate personal statements

Your personal statement is a lengthy and crucial step in your postgraduate application process

Preparation

Applying for postgraduate courses, whether masters, PhD, or professional courses, especially those required for teacher training, journalism, law and psychology conversion, can be competitive.

Presenting your personal statement

The personal statement should be around one side of A4 in length, unless otherwise specified – always check if there is a word count limit and if so, stick to it. For your first draft, don’t worry about the word length, just write it, and then edit it down.
Write in paragraphs with a minimum font size of 11, breaking it into paragraphs to avoid solid text.
If you are applying to several postgraduate courses, then you will need to tailor your statement for each one. Each application must be relevant for every individual course and institution, so if you are using text generative AI to help you draft an initial response make sure that you are changing the information you are uploading so that it’s relevant to each institution/course. And always improve the responses that text generative AI gives, as they won’t be good enough for a successful application .
What to include (unless otherwise specified)

Your motivations:

Do you want to study aspects of what you have been learning at undergraduate level in more depth because you enjoy the subject? Has a life experience sparked the interest in new, or deeper, understanding?
Do you need to learn a new skill or subject for your career, either because you are pivoting to a new path, or higher education qualifications are a requirement?

Why this subject, course and institution:

What you can bring to the course:

What they are checking is that you can cope with the academic rigours of the course and will successfully complete it. Highlight your academic achievements, knowledge, research, and projects.

Career aspirations:

Work experience:

Voluntary work/extra-curricular activities/positions of responsibility:

Applying to Uni
Apprenticeships
Health & Relationships
Money & Finance

Personal Statements

Postgraduate
U.S Universities

University Interviews

Vocational Qualifications
Accommodation
Budgeting, Money & Finance
Health & Relationships
Jobs & Careers
Socialising

Studying Abroad

Studying & Revision
Technology
University & College Admissions

Guide to GCSE Results Day

Finding a job after school or college

Retaking GCSEs

In this section

Choosing GCSE Subjects

Post-GCSE Options

GCSE Work Experience

GCSE Revision Tips

Why take an Apprenticeship?

Applying for an Apprenticeship

Apprenticeships Interviews

Apprenticeship Wage

Engineering Apprenticeships

What is an Apprenticeship?

Choosing an Apprenticeship

Real Life Apprentices

Degree Apprenticeships

Higher Apprenticeships

A Level Results Day 2024

AS Levels 2024

Clearing Guide 2024

Applying to University

SQA Results Day Guide 2024

BTEC Results Day Guide

Vocational Qualifications Guide

Sixth Form or College

International Baccalaureate

Post 18 options

Finding a Job

Should I take a Gap Year?

Travel Planning

Volunteering

Gap Year Guide

Gap Year Blogs

Applying to Oxbridge

Applying to US Universities

Choosing a Degree

Choosing a University or College

Personal Statement Editing and Review Service

Guide to Freshers' Week

Student Guides

Student Cooking

Student Blogs

Top Rated Personal Statements

Personal Statement Examples

Writing Your Personal Statement

Postgraduate Personal Statements
International Student Personal Statements
Gap Year Personal Statements

Personal Statement Length Checker

Personal Statement Examples By University

Personal Statement Changes 2025

Personal Statement Template

Job Interviews

Types of Postgraduate Course

Writing a Postgraduate Personal Statement

Postgraduate Funding

Postgraduate Study

Internships

Choosing A College

Ivy League Universities

Common App Essay Examples

Universal College Application Guide

How To Write A College Admissions Essay

College Rankings

Admissions Tests

Fees & Funding

Scholarships

Budgeting For College

Online Degree

Platinum Express Editing and Review Service

Gold Editing and Review Service

Silver Express Editing and Review Service

UCAS Personal Statement Editing and Review Service

Oxbridge Personal Statement Editing and Review Service

Postgraduate Personal Statement Editing and Review Service

Mature Student Personal Statements
Aberystwyth
Anglia Polytechnic University
Bath Spa University College
Bournemouth University
British College of Osteopathic Medicine
British School of Osteopathy
Canterbury Christ Church University College
Central School of Speech and Drama
Chester A College of The University of Liverpool
City College Manchester
Coventry University
De Montfort University
Edge Hill College of Higher Education
Falmouth University
Farnborough College of Technology
Glamorgan Centre for Art and Design Technology
Glasgow Caledonian University
Goldsmiths College
Heriot-watt
Heythrop College
King's College
Kingston University
Leeds Metropolitan University
Liverpool Hope
Liverpool John Moores University
London Metropolitan University
London South Bank University
Loughborough
Loughborough College
Middlesex University
Napier University, Edinburgh
Newcastle College
Northumbria University
Nottingham Trent
Oxford Brookes
Queen Margaret University College, Edinburgh
Queen's, Belfast
Regents Business School London
Roehampton University of Surrey
Royal Holloway
Royal Veterinary College
Sheffield Hallam University
Southampton
Southampton Institute
St George's Hospital Medical School
St Mary's University College
Staffordshire University
Strathclyde
Swansea Institute of Higher Education
Thames Valley University
The Arts Institute At Bournemouth
The Glasgow School of Art
The Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts
The London Institute
The Manchester Metropolitan University
The North East Wales Institute of Higher Education
The Robert Gordon University
The Surrey Institute of Art and Design
The University of Bradford
The University of Buckingham
The University of Gloucestershire
The University of Huddersfield
The University of Salford
University College Northampton
University College Worcester
University of Abertay Dundee
University of Brighton
University of Central Lancashire
University of Derby
University of East London
University of Glamorgan
University of Greenwich
University of Hertfordshire
University of Lincoln
University of Plymouth
University of Portsmouth
University of Sunderland
University of Teesside
University of The West of England, Bristol
University of Ulster
University of Wales College, Newport
University of Wales Institute, Cardiff
University of Wales, Bangor
University of Westminster
University of Wolverhampton
Writtle College
York St John College
Personal Statement Editing Service
Personal Statement Writing Guide
Submit Your Personal Statement
Personal Statement Questions 2025
Personal Statement Changes 2024

Leeds University Personal Statements

These UCAS personal statements have been kindly provided by students applying to University of Leeds. You can click on one of the links below to view the entire statement and find out if the applicant was offered a place.

You can also view our entire collection of personal statements or view personal statements for application at other universities .

Biomedical Science/Neuroscience Personal Statement Example The limitless potential of the life sciences and the opportunity for world-changing breakthroughs are both exciting and compelling to me. Upon hearing about a disease for the first time, I am eager to find out more about the precise ways in which it affects the body, which has led me to spend much time researching the details of various diseases...

Geology Personal Statement Example 1 My interest in the natural world started early in my life. At the age of 4 and at my first school years, my favorite trip was at the Greek Natural History museum where I admired the shinny purple stones, the giraffe, the lions, and most of all, the huge Triceratops skeleton...

International Relations Personal Statement Example Being of Pakistani heritage means I am at the heart of multiculturalism that many would say defines Britain today. Growing up as a British Asian in the last decade has allowed me to experience life embedded in a world of politics, not only from a Western perspective but also that of other cultures...

History Personal Statement Example 5 As the descendant of an Auschwitz survivor, my family history allows me to understand the influences that the Second World War has had on people's families and the victims of the Nazi regime in occupied Poland...

Physics Personal Statement Example 4 The elegance of the scientific subjects, in particular physics is what has established my eagerness for a deeper insight into the subject. What sets physics apart from the other sciences, in my opinion, is that it can be practically applied to all instances of life...

Languages Personal Statement Example 10 At the age of eight, a friend introduced me to Guy Hamilton's 1969 film 'Battle of Britain'. This instilled in me two things: my doomed childhood ambition to be a Spitfire pilot, long since grudgingly abandoned, but also, perhaps ironically, a love for the sound and feel of the German language that has stayed with me all through the intervening decade...

English Literature Personal Statement Example 1 When I saw Gatz, John Collin's eight hour interpretation of The Great Gatsby, I noticed that Fitzgerald changes the colour of Daisy's hair every time he describes it. It is "like a dash of blue paint", "yellowy" like her daughters and then "dark, shining"...

French and Italian Personal Statement Example 1 I see speaking a foreign language as a key to a door opening up a new world of possibilities and opportunities. As a child my mother insisted I learned another language, she told me to grab any possible open window for a life beyond my own imagination...

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...

Physics Personal Statement Example (International Student) 1 Some people believe there is no universal key to the mysteries of the world, but I am convinced otherwise. Since early childhood when my parents, both physicists by training, patiently answered all my why-questions and encouraged me in my fascination with astronomy, I have been thinking of Physics as the perfect science that can unveil all the secrets that fascinate humanity...

Maths and Economics Personal Statement Example 1 By skimming through a daily broadsheet or examining journals such as ‘The Economist’ it is clear to see that economic issues affect everyone both locally as well as on a global scale. However, I have been interested by Mathematics for many years and have found my enjoyment for it has increased as the depth of my understanding has grown...

English Personal Statement Example 22 What I enjoy above all else in a piece of literature is the feeling that it has brought about change, either in me or in some wider context. Literature which offers the opportunity for an adapted way of living or thinking, however slight, is I think a thing to be kept and treasured in our intellects...

Physiology and Medical Sciences Personal Statement Example The human body is arguably the most complex life form that has ever existed. Studying how the body works helps us to comprehend the many processes that maintain health and find better treatment for diseases...

English Personal Statement Example 23 My love of literature is rooted in the connection it gives us to centuries of ideas, giving us the ability to converse with ghosts, linking us with the greatest and most eloquent minds in history; as Bovee puts it, “books are embalmed minds”...

Biomedical Engineering Personal Statement Example 2 Thanks to my mother's profession, I have had a front row seat in observing the radical changes made in the medical field with the introduction of new devices. I have also seen the beneficial effects these developments have had on the lives of people living in the less affluent countries in the Middle East; these observations coupled with my interest in mechanics have inspired me to pursue a career in biomedical engineering...

Computer Science Personal Statement Example 45 Advances in computer and information technology over the past few decades have brought about revolution in science, medicine, education, business, and entertainment. I wish to be part of the future revolution and that is why I want to study computer science...

Medicine Personal Statement Example 43 The ever-evolving nature of medical science and the certainty that we will know more about the many different healthcare practices has inspired me to pursue a career in medicine. My dedication to studying medicine has been confirmed by the experience I have gained in different hospitals and practices and I look forward to the academic discipline and challenges that will arise...

English Personal Statement Example 26 Growing up reading Roald Dahl, I saw elements of myself in Matilda, as ever since I can remember, I have loved reading. My passion for English could be seen by those around me, as a child, having taught myself to read and write by the time I was 4 years old, and there was never any doubt that I would go on to pursue a career in English...

Chemical Engineering Personal Statement Example 8 From the very first day of college I’ve been gradually developing a great interest in all aspects of Chemistry and Maths. Having recently read, “Beyond the Molecular Frontier: Challenges for Chemistry and Chemical Engineering” I have discovered what an imperative role chemists and chemical engineers play in industry and how, by working together, they contribute to an improved future...

Geography Personal Statement Example 14 If I said ‘I’ve loved geography since an early age’, I’d be lying. Although I loved our family holidays, which have always been seen as expeditions, I didn’t think it was ‘geography’ until I started using places I’d been to as examples in geography lessons...

Geography Personal Statement Example (Human/Environmental) The possibility of the human race’s days being numbered by our destructive lifestyles, as planted in my mind by Al Gore’s sensationalised and controversial ‘The Inconvenient Truth’, has fuelled my interest in the global warming phenomenon, forcing me to question society’s reluctance to tackle it and realise the worldwide impact of each of our daily lives...

Aeronautical Engineering Personal Statement Example 1 The rapid progress and achievements in aircraft technologies has motivated me to follow a career in aeronautical engineering as it plays a very significant role in today's modern world. It is fascinating to see how engineers apply scientific and mathematical principles to everyday situations like the design, manufacture and operation of efficient structures, machines, processes and systems...

Natural Science/Geology Personal Statement Example The sheer intricacy of our planet is something that has always left me in utter amazement. From the creation of mountains to the way we as humans evolved. Science is a deep rooted love that has grown since I was a young child...

English Literature and Sociology Personal Statement Example Since I have begun to study A Level English Literature, it is the way in which writers use expression within their writing to influence and manipulate the reader's emotions which has most intrigued me...

Physics Personal Statement Example 13 Attending university has been a lifelong dream of mine; ever since my childhood, I have been told that I should, and I have always agreed with the sentiment. If I were asked to pin down an exact reason, however, I would be forced to confess that I do not know - I just enjoy learning new things and exercising my mind...

Mechanical Engineering Personal Statement Example 16 Being born as a son to two former engineers, I was raised in an environment where curiosity is treasured and nurtured. It wasn't surprising that as I became older, my fascination towards science and technology also grew along with me...

History & Politics Personal Statement Example For years I have listened to my family discussing the latest political and historical issues on the news and I have been fascinated and awed by the fact that there was never a wrong or right answer, decision or explanation to a given problem...

Civil Engineering Personal Statement Example 16 Civil engineering is a profession that is growing and evolving at a fast pace. Civil engineers play a major role in the world meeting the high demand for new buildings and improved infrastructure. I am keen to become a Civil Engineer and I believe I have the talents to be successful in this profession...

Dentistry Personal Statement Example 10 My interest in Dentistry initially arose from my own experiences with Dentists. When I was younger, I suffered from cyclic neutropenia which led to many dental problems, and was always grateful to my dentist and dental hygienist for all their help...

English Literature & History Personal Statement Example 1 Throughout my education, I have constantly been captivated and inspired by my History and English studies. I have recognised how the two disciplines entwine and coexist to create an invaluable tool with which to explore the past and future...

Medicine Personal Statement Example 67 Studying the history of medicine made me realise what a huge impact doctors have on people’s lives. I’ve always wanted a career involving people as I’m fascinated by our unique nature and the human body itself...

Natural Sciences Personal Statement Example 4 Why and How? I believe these are the two most important question words as they express mankind’s unquenchable thirst for knowledge, and they have lain the foundation of sciences and have helped us find answers and solutions to problems throughout history from the domestication of fire to Darwin’s theory of evolution, to landing on the moon and so on...

Mathematics Personal Statement Example 16 I have always had a passion and a thorough understanding of the subject of Mathematics. This helped me to progress academically because, unlike a lot of people, I have not had to worry about passing my GCSE Maths exams...

Spanish and Chinese Personal Statement Example My passion for Modern Foreign Languages is what drives me to pursue a degree in Chinese and Spanish; my fascination and curiosity to explore the cultures of not only China and East Asia, but also of the Hispanic world, motivate me to learn and discover the languages of these regions...

Law Personal Statement Example 84 The reason I want to study law, is that it has always intrigued me; there’s never been any other option for me it has always been law. I am captivated in the development of the law as it interests me the way the law is changing around the needs of civilisation...

Sociology Personal Statement Example 13 Being able to engage and immerse myself in a thought-provoking subject such as Sociology has allowed me to develop a desire to delve even deeper into it at an advanced level. As unpredictable liberated beings, having a means of examining the connections between humans and social organization through Sociology has enabled me to comprehend human behaviour and social stratification; to question rather than accept; allowing me to appreciate the inquisitiveness nature, which I believe is the essence of this subject...

Geography Personal Statement Example 19 I could say that my love of Geography started in school, but in fact holidays to foreign lands have had a more significant impact on me. From the volcanic badlands of Lanzarote's Timanfaya, to the unique beauty of Ngorongoro crater in Tanzania, Geography and its impact on nature and human development have awed me...

Biological Sciences Personal Statement Example 3 When I was in primary school I would take pens apart to put them back together, so that I could see how every small piece fits together to create a whole working object, and as I furthered my education my focus shifted to the w orld around me...

Politics, Philosophy & Economics (PPE) Personal Statement Example 3 In this day and age virtually every aspect of our lives may be considered political. My passion to study Politics stems from this tenet and a belief that a comprehension of Politics is integral to understanding the current state of humanity...

Chemistry Personal Statement Example 18 Chemistry explores the properties of all matter and energy in our universe, which eventually leads to breakthroughs that benefit mankind, ranging from how to prevent food from decomposing to understanding what chemicals can help or harm you...

Civil Engineering Personal Statement Example 17 My decision to study engineering stems from a desire to contribute to the evolution of society through a process that does not just define our environment but our era. My personal inspiration is the Segovia aqueduct, an 800m long, 30 metre high Roman marvel which still stands today...

Electrical and Electronic Engineering Personal Statement Example 3 Curiosity has always been my nature since I was young and I was never afraid to know more as I really like challenges. This is why I have a keen interest in science ever since I started formal education, it explains the hows and whys in almost anything and everything...

University specific personal statements
All personal statements

The browser you are using is no longer supported and for that reason you will not get the best experience when using our website.

You currently have JavaScript disabled in your web browser, please enable JavaScript to view our website as intended.

Careers and Employability Service

Application forms

Cover letters

Personal statements

The purpose.

The purpose of a personal statement is for recruiters to understand you and your suitability for the job or course that they are offering and not because they want to make things difficult for you. It is an opportunity for you to present your goals, experiences and qualifications in the best possible light as well as demonstrating your written communication and other skills. From your point of view the main purpose of a personal statement is to make your application stand out against all the others.

You may be asked for a personal statement as part of an application for a postgraduate course, or as part of a job application form .

Preparation

Research the company or organisation using resources such as: the company/organisation website, news articles or social media. For more information about how to best research and improve your commercial awareness .
Thoroughly read through and research the role or course you are applying for.
Identify aspects of the role or course that are most important to you.
Check the word or character limit (if applicable) as this will indicate how much the employer is expecting to read. Do not go over – most online forms will automatically cut your answer off.
Read through any guidance provided by the employer or institution and ensure you follow the instructions.

Based on the information you have gathered, when planning consider the following:

How does the job or course link with your career ambitions?
What differentiates this job and company to you from its competitors?
What interests you about the field of work/study?
What relevant skills/experiences do you have that will help you be successful in this line of work?
What difficulties have you overcome and what skills did you use in order to do so?
Why should you be chosen above the other applicants?

Writing your first draft

Make sure that your statement has a clear structure, so that recruiters can easily recognise what parts of the job application you are addressing. We suggest using a structure similar to the one below.

Start with a strong introductory paragraph about why you want the position that will grab the reader's attention. This can be what makes your application unique.

Middle section

Provide details of your interests, knowledge and experience that are relevant to the job and your application to show you can do the job or course. Try to provide recent and relevant examples and ensure you use these examples to evidence the competencies that required for the opportunity. Try to use no more than two or three paragraphs.

End section

Summarise your suitability and motivation for the job or course and demonstrate what particularly attracts you to this employer or course provider. Do not include any new information in this section.

Try to make your statement unique. Be clear and concise and try to avoid using long sentences
Carefully tailor your personal statement to the job or course you are applying for. Copying & pasting from another application will tend not be very successful. As with cover letters , if you could substitute the name of the employer, organisation or course provider for another, then you have not tailored your statement sufficiently.

Proof-reading and amending

After all the time and effort you have spent developing your personal statement, it would be a shame to submit it before you have proof-read and thoroughly checked it through. To make absolutely sure, get someone else to read it – the best of writers miss mistakes in his/her own work due to familiarity with the text.

Interviews and assessments

View our interview and assessment centre tips.

Explore how to make your application form stand out from the crowd.

Skip to content
About Accessibility on our website

Staff Directory
Personal statements
University Home
Careers and Employability Service
CVs and Interviews

Personal statements for postgraduate applications provide an opportunity for you to show your motivation and suitability for the degree programme. Our resources and mini courses give you tips on how to create statements with real impact.

Thoroughly research your chosen degree programme (core courses and elective options) and institution.
Don’t rush: give yourself plenty of time to complete your personal statement. This may take several drafts.
Follow the instructions: take careful note of word counts and other guidelines.

A good personal statement usually includes:

An opening paragraph which starts with a good strong opening statement and explains why you have decided to apply.
Information on your relevant studies and how this new programme will build on your existing knowledge.
A summary of any relevant work and/or volunteering experience.
How this programme will help you in realising your career goals.
A conclusion which sums up what you have to offer and why you want to study at that particular institution.

You can organise your information in different ways but following the order above should give you a good logical structure and flow.

If you are given guidance on the length and content of your statement, ensure that you follow this carefully. If no guidance is given, we recommend to aim for no more than one and half pages (around 500-750 words).

Once you have drafted your personal statement and double checked the spelling and grammar, we can provide feedback on the content, quality and impact of your document. Please either book an appointment with the subject specialist Adviser or use our Virtual Adviser Service for this.

Careers & Employability Service
Graduates Hub

Writing a personal statement

A personal statement should be a positive summary of you and your motivations for applying for an opportunity. It's an important section in this type of application form and will take the most amount of time to complete. This section normally appears with a large text box after you have filled in your basic information.

It is a good idea to draft your personal statement in a separate Word document. This enables you to keep a copy which will be important to reflect on should you be invited to an interview. It also enables you to proofread your work to check for spelling and grammar. If possible get someone else to proofread your personal statement.

Try to write concisely. Don’t make the statement too long with superfluous detail, but neither should it be too short. There should be enough to ‘sell’ yourself, without boring them. Stick to a word count if there is one.

How to structure your personal statement

When presented with an empty text box, it can be difficult to know where to start. If you are not given specific instructions about content, you should always aim to include the following:

Describe what motivates you and attracts you about the opportunity. Show that you have a realistic understanding of what is involved and can draw parallels with positive experiences you have already had, even if these have been in different settings.

Your background research will enable you to demonstrate your motivation more effectively. By knowing more about them you will have more to talk about, and will therefore be more effective in specifically evidencing your motivation and your understanding of the opportunity and the company. For example, their projects, values or personal development opportunities may have taken your interest. Whatever captures your attention, try to be as specific and authentic as possible. Generic statements do not tend to work well here.

Many recruiters use the person specification as a selection tool when reviewing your statement. For this reason, it is important that you evidence their criteria as clearly as possible. To achieve this you could:

Use the key competencies as sub-headings to signpost the recruiter to the relevant information
Theme different key competencies into separate paragraphs. Ideally, order these paragraphs in the order that they appear in the person specification so that it is easy for the recruiter to follow
Theme key experiences in separate paragraphs in order of relevance, e.g. a paragraph on your education, then your projects, then your work experience etc. Clearly demonstrate the relevant skills and experiences when describing these experiences.

If there isn’t a formal specification available, then write it against the competencies that they say they are looking for in the advert or from wider research.

You may find the STAR structure useful to refer to when presenting examples to demonstrate a competency:

Situation – Provide some brief details about the situation so that the reader can understand the context of the example Task – Explain the objective/purpose, i.e. what you were aiming to do Action – Describe what you did and summarise your actions Result – Finish with the outcome. Show that you met your objectives and, if appropriate, comment on what you learnt from the experience

This is the opportunity for you to demonstrate your relevant skills, attributes and specific knowledge, so make sure you sell yourself.

You might also use this section to set out experiences that you feel are of ‘secondary’ importance, i.e. things that are still relevant but which you haven’t written about elsewhere in the form. For example, you might write about interests, leisure pursuits or volunteering that are not directly relevant to the job but where you have developed some pertinent transferable skills.

You could also use this section to explain how you coped with any setbacks and refer to qualities such as determination and persistence. This can be helpful to explain re-sits, changing courses, lack of relevant experience or time gaps. Write positively about the experience, for example, what you learnt from it and what you have done to address the issue since then, if applicable.

Try to end on a high note with a positive concluding statement. You could reiterate your motivation and commitment.

1. Before writing your personal statement, make sure you have done your research into the opportunity and reflected on how you meet the requirements. For further information on how to do this, see Preparing to write an application form

2. Draft your personal statement in a separate document. This enables you to keep a copy of your responses, which will be important to reflect on should you be invited to an interview. It also enables you to proofread your work to check for spelling and grammar. It is also a good idea to get someone else to check your application for you.

Experience all t he benefits and services that come from being a Sheffield graduate.

Write My Essay Service Helps You Succeed!

Being a legit essay service requires giving customers a personalized approach and quality assistance. We take pride in our flexible pricing system which allows you to get a personalized piece for cheap and in time for your deadlines. Moreover, we adhere to your specific requirements and craft your work from scratch. No plagiarized content ever exits our professional writing service as we care. about our reputation. Want to receive good grades hassle-free and still have free time? Just shoot us a "help me with essay" request and we'll get straight to work.

Finished Papers

Customer Reviews

IMAGES

100+ Personal Statement Examples
Postgraduate Personal Statement Help UK
Job Description
Get Accepted with a Winning Grad Personal Statement
Do you know, why it is really important to write a postgraduate
FREE 8+ Personal Statement Samples in PDF

VIDEO

Postgraduate Researcher of the Year 2012, joint third, Gordon Hutchins
How To Write The Best Personal Statement For UK / USA Universities

COMMENTS

Personal statement tips
Your personal statement is your chance to stand out from the crowd. It is unique and individual to you, but some things to include are: Enthusiasm and motivation - your passion for the course should be clear and relate to you and your experiences (eg projects, field trips or experiences at school that sparked your interest in your subject ...
How to apply
A personal statement, written in English. As part of your online application you will be able to upload scanned documents. * Applicants who have not yet completed an approved English language test may apply for a Masters course prior to taking a test. Admissions policy The University of Leeds admissions policy can be found here.
For Students
Third party organisations requiring academic verification for a University of Leeds student now need to register with Prospects Hedd and submit all enquiries at: www.hedd.ac.uk. Former students who require a document to verify their degree should apply for a former student statement. Current students who require proof of their student status ...
How To Write Your Postgraduate Personal Statement
Just start by showing your enthusiasm for the subject, showcasing your knowledge and understanding, and sharing your ambitions of what you want to achieve. Avoid cliches . Remember, this opening part is simply about introducing yourself, so let the admissions tutor reading your personal statement get to know you. Keep it relevant and simple.
How To Write Masters Personal Statement In 2024
Keep it short and to the point. Aim for a total of four or five paragraphs in your personal statement for master degree. When applying for a Masters degree, use standard fonts and text size of 11 or 12. If you're applying through UCAS postgraduate service, font style won't be an issue as text is automatically formatted.
How to write a personal statement for a Master's
Tips for writing a university personal statement Rediscover your old statement as a reminder. Writing a personal statement for a Master's degree is much the same as writing one for an undergraduate degree. My first tip would be to search through your old files and find the personal statement you submitted to UCAS all those years ago.
How to Write a Postgraduate Personal Statement
A postgraduate personal statement should have a word count of around 500 words, or one side of A4. Some universities will specify personal statement word count requirements in the application details, and some will use online submission forms with set character limits. It is important that you adhere to this and make sure that your postgraduate ...
Your personal statement
Your personal statement. Your personal statement. As part of your application to Leeds, you'll be asked to submit a personal statement of around 4,000 characters. This is a great opportunity to show that you have the passion, drive, and imagination to study with us. Follow these tips to find out what makes a great personal statement - you can ...
Masters courses
We have more than 300 Masters degrees. More than 160 courses can be offered part-time and a number are available online. Find the course for you. Join us for your postgraduate studies and to be part of a prestigious university in a vibrant and student-friendly city. We're ranked in the top 75 in the QS World University Rankings 2024.
how to write a personal statement
Get some top tips and examples on writing the perfect personal statement for your university application. ... Postgraduate Open Days ... The Leeds Beckett University website occasionally uses animations to page elements and animated gifs to add impact to pages. If you wish to stop them from playing for accessibility purposes or for personal ...
Top tips for writing your personal statement
Hi, I'm Hollie, a Sports and Exercise Therapy student at Leeds Beckett. In this blog I'm going to provide you with some useful tips for writing your personal statement. Written By. Hollie. Published on 13 Nov 2023.
Writing a personal statement to apply for a master's course
State the name of the programme and the University, and write a separate personal statement for each application. Even if the courses you are applying for are very similar, you should write a tailored response for each one. In most cases, there will be a word limit of 400 to 600 words. Write your personal statement in your own words.
Postgraduate personal statements
The personal statement should be around one side of A4 in length, unless otherwise specified - always check if there is a word count limit and if so, stick to it. For your first draft, don't worry about the word length, just write it, and then edit it down. Write in paragraphs with a minimum font size of 11, breaking it into paragraphs to ...
Postgraduate personal statements
Presenting your personal statement. The personal statement should be around one side of A4 in length, unless otherwise specified - always check if there is a word count limit and if so, stick to it. For your first draft, don't worry about the word length, just write it, and then edit it down. Write in paragraphs with a minimum font size of ...
University of Leeds Personal Statements
You can click on one of the links below to view the entire statement and find out if the applicant was offered a place. You can also view our entire collection of personal statements or view personal statements for application at other universities. Psychology Personal Statement Example (Mature Student) 1. Earlier this year I was involved in a ...
Personal statements
The purpose. The purpose of a personal statement is for recruiters to understand you and your suitability for the job or course that they are offering and not because they want to make things difficult for you. It is an opportunity for you to present your goals, experiences and qualifications in the best possible light as well as demonstrating ...
PDF Writing a Personal Statement for Postgraduate Applications
Stick to word limits (if given) and in most cases you should be able to say what you need to say on one side of A4. Keep the language simple and clear so it is easy to read whilst still being professional. Be positive and show enthusiasm for the subject. Within the main body of the statement you should aim to cover:
Personal statements
Personal statements for postgraduate applications provide an opportunity for you to show your motivation and suitability for the degree programme. ... Once you have drafted your personal statement and double checked the spelling and grammar, we can provide feedback on the content, quality and impact of your document. ... University of Aberdeen ...
Writing a personal statement
2. Draft your personal statement in a separate document. This enables you to keep a copy of your responses, which will be important to reflect on should you be invited to an interview. It also enables you to proofread your work to check for spelling and grammar. It is also a good idea to get someone else to check your application for you.
University Of Leeds Personal Statement Postgraduate
University Of Leeds Personal Statement Postgraduate - Nursing Business and Economics Management Healthcare +108. Robert. ... University Of Leeds Personal Statement Postgraduate: 8521 . Finished Papers. 100% Success rate 4.8/5. REVIEWS HIRE. Naomi. Order preparation While our expert is working on ...
University Of Leeds Personal Statement Postgraduate
University Of Leeds Personal Statement Postgraduate - Level: University, College, High School, Master's, PHD, Undergraduate ... Review > 1098 Orders prepared. University Of Leeds Personal Statement Postgraduate: Enter your phone number and we will call you back. 675 . Finished Papers. Create new Account. 1 Customer reviews. Level: College, High ...

How to apply

Transcripts and statements

Transcripts

Academic verifications

What is a Masters Personal Statement?

How long should a personal statement be for masters?

How should I structure my masters personal statement?

Question to ask before writing

What should I include in a personal statement for masters?

How to start a personal statement for a master?

How to end a personal statement for masters

Work Experience in a personal statement for masters

What should you avoid in a personal statement for Masters?

Difference between personal statements for postgraduate and undergraduate

Masters personal statement example

Research Course You’re Applying

What admissions tutors are looking for a master’s application?

Deadline For Postgraduate Applications

Final Thoughts

This is how to write a personal statement for a Master's

What should I include in a postgraduate personal statement?

2. What relevant skills can you bring from previous academia?

3. What relevant skills can you bring from your personal or professional life?

4. Why this specific course?

Tips for writing a university personal statement

Start early so you can take your time, and revisit

Make sure your ending is strong and clear

Make sure every point you make is evidenced

Draw on your undergraduate successes

Write for academics

Tailor your application to your course

Get a second opinion

Related Articles

How to revise: 5 top revision techniques

How can international students open a bank account in the UK?

Celebrating diversity with the Festival of Culture

You May Also Like

find your perfect postgrad program Search our Database of 30,000 Courses

How to write a postgraduate personal statement

Check the course criteria

Outline your skills and experience

Answer key admission questions

Write with a positive tone

Add personality

Tailor to individual universities

Create your first draft

How long should a postgraduate personal statement be?

How do you start a postgraduate personal statement?

Proofread and edit your statement

Postgraduate personal statement tips

Make sure you’re memorable

Fill in the gaps

Keep it concise

Start early

Use consistent structure

Things to avoid in your postgrad personal statement

Masters personal statement examples

Personal statement example: engineering masters

Personal statement example: linguistics masters

Related articles

Sign up now!

Your personal statement

Be thorough

Be specific

Evidence your abilities

Keep it simple

Aimen Mahmood BA English Literature

Masters Study and Funding online event

Watch our recorded subject talks

Masters courses

Postgraduate newsletter updates

Explore Masters information

Industry links

Masters fees

Accommodation

Chat to our students

Invest in your career

Student stories

Beth Peacock, MSc Biopharmaceutical Development

Ishan Lee, MA Advertising and Marketing