Personal Statement

 

Preparing for Postgraduate Applications

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Applying for postgraduate programs—whether for a master’s, PhD, or specialized professional course (such as teaching, journalism, law, or psychology conversion)—can be highly competitive. Crafting a compelling personal statement is essential, as it should clearly express your reasons for applying, highlight what you bring to the program, and outline how you plan to use your studies in the future. Some institutions specify what your statement should include, while others leave it up to you.

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Research your options thoroughly online, as some programs may offer part-time, distance learning, or in-person study modes. Applications are usually submitted directly to the institution, and many listings include contact details for program leaders or supervisors—reaching out to them can show your interest and provide valuable insights to incorporate into your statement. Attending open days or virtual events is also helpful, allowing you to meet staff, interact with current students, and view facilities.

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Be sure to check both the start dates (some programs offer January/February options in addition to autumn) and application deadlines. Your personal statement should demonstrate how you meet entry requirements, referencing any transferable skills, relevant work experience, research, and academic projects.

 

Structuring and Presenting Your Personal Statement

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Aim to keep your personal statement to one side of A4, unless the institution specifies a different length. If a word limit applies, adhere to it. Start with a full draft without focusing on length, then refine and edit for clarity. Use at least an 11-point font size, and break it into paragraphs to improve readability.

Tailor each personal statement to fit the specific course and institution. If you’re using AI tools for drafting, make sure to customize responses to reflect each program’s unique attributes. Enhance AI-generated text with personalized details to ensure a strong application.

 

Key Elements to Include​

 

Your Motivations:
Explain why you’re interested in further study without diving into a personal history. Instead, focus on what draws you to the field:

• Do you want to deepen your understanding of what you studied as an undergraduate?

• Did a life experience inspire this interest or a desire to learn something new?

• Are you acquiring skills for a career change or to meet requirements in your field?

 

Why This Subject, Course, and Institution:
Discuss your reasons for selecting this specific program. Mention course modules, unique aspects of the program, and any special achievements of the university or department, including faculty members you’d like to work with. Reference any related research you’ve completed or, if you’ve visited the campus, note what appealed to you about the environment or facilities.

 

What You Bring to the Course:
This section demonstrates that you’re prepared for the academic demands. Highlight relevant qualifications, knowledge, and projects you’ve completed. Emphasize skills such as meeting deadlines, critical thinking, time management, communication, and collaboration. Describe experiences in diverse and international groups, conferences attended, IT and database skills, and any relevant software expertise.

 

Career Aspirations:
Outline your career goals and explain how this course will help you reach them. If your plans aren’t yet fixed, mention the directions you’re considering and how the program will aid in clarifying your path. It’s helpful to show you’ve considered the next steps beyond the course.

 

Work Experience:
Include any full-time, part-time, or research experience (such as through an undergraduate program) relevant to the course. If your experience isn’t directly related, emphasise the transferable skills, such as planning, organisation, or leadership, which will benefit your academic journey.

 

Voluntary Work, Extracurricular Activities, and Leadership:
Mention relevant extracurriculars, such as club memberships, positions of responsibility (course representative, ambassador, or mentor roles), achievements, and volunteer work. Share your intentions for getting involved in activities at the new institution.

 

Final Tips:

Your personal statement may be read before the rest of your application, so don’t assume the reader knows about your qualifications and experiences. Make sure the statement complements and enhances the information elsewhere in your application.