Writing a personal statement can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to sum up your ambitions, experience, and personality in just a few hundred words. Whether you’re applying for university, college, or a sixth form place, your personal statement plays a crucial role in showing admissions teams who you are beyond your grades.
At TLC LIVE Online School, we’ve supported many students through the application process, helping them craft clear, compelling, and confident personal statements. In this post, we’ll cover practical tips, real examples, and the most common mistakes to avoid—so you can submit a statement that stands out for the right reasons.
What Is a Personal Statement?
A personal statement is a written account of your skills, achievements, goals, and motivations. It forms part of applications for UCAS, sixth form, apprenticeships, or certain job roles. It’s your chance to show why you’re a great fit for your chosen course or career path—and what makes you different from other candidates.
Most university personal statements are around 4,000 characters (roughly 500–600 words), while college and sixth form applications may ask for shorter versions.
Tips for Writing a Strong Personal Statement
1. Start with a plan
Before you write a single sentence, jot down your key achievements, interests, subjects you enjoy, and any relevant work experience. Think about how they link to the course or role you’re applying for.
2. Open with impact
Your first few lines should grab attention—avoid clichés like “Since I was a child…” Instead, try to reflect genuine enthusiasm for the subject or field.
3. Show, don’t just tell
It’s easy to say you’re passionate about biology, but what have you done to demonstrate it? Use examples: a project, work experience, books you’ve read, or clubs you’ve joined.
4. Balance academic and personal interests
Focus mainly on your academic strengths and subject-related activities, but also mention hobbies or achievements that show soft skills like leadership, teamwork or communication.
5. Tailor it to the course
Look closely at the course description and pick out key skills or qualities they value—then show how you match them.
6. Get feedback
Ask a teacher, tutor, or careers adviser to review your draft. A second pair of eyes can spot errors and offer suggestions for improvement.
Common Personal Statement Mistakes to Avoid
– Being too vague
Avoid general statements like “I like helping people” without specific examples. Admissions teams want evidence.
– Repeating your CV
Your personal statement should complement your academic record—not list it again.
– Poor structure or flow
Make sure your statement has a clear beginning, middle and end. Use paragraphs to break up your ideas logically.
– Trying to sound overly impressive
Don’t overload your writing with long words or jargon. Clear, honest language is far more effective.
– Leaving it too late
Rushing a personal statement the night before the deadline almost always leads to a weaker final product. Start early and give yourself time to refine it.
Example Opening Lines (Do’s and Don’ts)
✔ Do:
“My interest in psychology grew after volunteering with a local mental health charity, where I observed how support services impact young people’s wellbeing.”
✘ Don’t:
“I have always been fascinated by the human brain and want to study psychology to help people.”
How TLC LIVE Online School Can Help
At TLC LIVE, we don’t just teach academic subjects—we also prepare students for their next steps. Our qualified UK teachers offer personalised support for:
Crafting and editing personal statements
Planning UCAS applications
Interview preparation and mock interviews
Subject-specific tutoring to boost confidence and results
Whether you’re aiming for university, sixth form or an apprenticeship, our tailored guidance ensures you present your strengths clearly and professionally.
Final Thoughts
A great personal statement won’t write itself—but with the right structure, clear examples and honest reflection, it can make a powerful impact. Focus on what makes you a strong candidate, and take the time to polish your writing until it truly represents your potential.
TLC LIVE Online School is here to support you at every stage, from subject tutoring to university preparation. For help with personal statements or other application support, contact our team today.
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