So you’ve made the decision to apply for a postgraduate course and have researched the course and the University, what’s next?
A personal statement is your opportunity to showcase what you have to offer and convince the admissions tutor(s) that you have the motivation, relevant knowledge, and academic capability to successfully complete the course and reflect well on the institution.
Remember, when you have finished the first draft you can have it reviewed by one of our advisers via our Careers information and advice appointments. These can be booked via mycareer.
Best of luck!
Jenny Livesey, Careers Adviser
Before you begin
- Check whether the University admissions team has written instructions on what to include, word count, etc.
- Unless they say otherwise, we recommend you write about 500 words, which is approximately 1 A4 page.
A personal statement should address these questions:
Why do you want to study this subject?
Begin with some concise motivations that are personal to you, rather than making generalisations such as ‘I am hardworking’.
Don’t just make claims, give evidence for these motivations e.g. My passion for Film was sparked when I attended a screening of What is Film? by Lucie Birnie at the Bristol Festival of Ideas.
Why have you chosen this specific course and institution?
Consider what attracted you to this course and this institution. What makes it unique compared to other universities?
Again, avoid generalisations like ‘you’re an internationally renowned university’. Instead, choose something specific about the institution you’ve discovered when researching it.
For example, I am applying to the University of Bristol as I was inspired by the medical department receiving a Carbon Literate accreditation for its dedication to climate change.
What are your plans?
Show the admissions tutor that you’re not just doing further study because you can’t think of anything else to do. Even if you have not fully planned your next career steps, a broad statement will suffice.
For example, As I aim to become an accountant, I am particularly attracted to your programme as it offers the accreditation needed.
Are you academically capable of taking this course?
Admissions tutors will be looking for evidence of academic capability as well as motivation. A good place to start is a dissertation or extended project, as this will show the development of advanced knowledge or skills.
You should also think about relevant units you’ve taken e.g. By attending the weekly seminar series run by the Department of Classics I developed my knowledge of Latin and its reception.
Do you have any relevant work experience?
Key skills for postgraduate study can be demonstrated by a wide range of work experience. Even work experience that seems irrelevant provides you with transferable skills.
For more tips, do’s, and don’ts, visit the Further Study page of our website and have a look at Prospects’ postgraduate personal statement guide.
For more information specific to PhDs, read these blog posts: