Outline before you begin. List ideas. Choose topics related to your chosen degree program that reveal you are an enthusiastic candidate for admission with a genuine interest in your chosen field of study.
Write in English unless you are applying to a university in Wales, in which case write in English or Welsh. For international students, the personal statement is a place to prove your English skills.
Explain why you are applying for the degree program. Brunel University recommends spending 50 to 75 percent of your personal statement on this topic. University of Birmingham admissions tutor Dr. Niall Livingstone wants to see evidence of your "intellectual curiosity," including experiences that sparked your interest in your chosen field. The Universities and Colleges Admissions Services (UCAS) says the person reading the personal statement will be an expert in your chosen field and will want to know the specifics of why you chose the course.
Write about a personal hobby or interest--such as sports, cooking or music--that emphasizes traits necessary for your chosen course such as teamwork, creativity or attention to detail, as UCAS. This is a way to reveal your personality while keeping all information pertinent to your education.
Mention volunteer activities, work experience, gap year activities, personal achievements and awards not included in your application, especially if they are relevant to your course. As University of Birmingham admission tutor Dr. Jeremy Wyatt stresses, activities prove your enthusiasm more convincingly than simply stating your enthusiasm without evidence.
Describe career plans if you know them. Admissions tutor Dr. Ian Gameson at the University of Birmingham says he does not require a "detailed career map," but simply wants to see what types of jobs the student wishes to pursue with the degree.
Include the reasons you want to study in the UK if you are an international student. If English is not your first language, explain where you have used English and any language classes you have taken.
Check and edit your essay. UCAS claims you must commit yourself to re-writing your essay more than once to polish it. Check spelling and grammar and have trusted individuals read the essay for mistakes you may have missed.