Your personal statement. University applications.

As the deadline approaches for university applications, many students will be finalising their application and perhaps struggling with their personal statement.

Here are a few useful tips to help you write a personal statement that tells universities why they should choose you!

• Your personal statement must have no more than 4000 characters.

• The opening paragraph is generally the most important. You must grab the reader's attention. The lead paragraph becomes the framework for the rest of the statement

• It is important to explain why you want to study the course you are applying for so if your personal interests and hobbies are relevant, link them to the skills and experience required for the course.

• Your statement will sound more convincing if you write about why an experience, activity or interest makes you a good candidate for the course.

• Try to explain your strengths and why you are better than other applicants. Demonstrate how your life experiences prove that you can manage your time effectively or that you can cope under pressure when family or personal issues arise.

• Your written statement must be well written, check for grammar, spelling and punctuation errors. For courses such as English, this is of paramount importance!

• Your personal statement must strongly support your desire to study your chosen degree.

• Don't forget to include any work experience relevant to your chosen course.

• Your statement must reflect your understanding or knowledge about the course you are applying for.

• If you are an international student tell universities why you want to study in the UK.

• Explain what your long term goals will be be after completing a university course.

• Be original. This is a "personal" statement so avoid cliché's where possible. Try and write in a natural tone.

If you are stuck with your personal statement consider finding a private tutor. Many tutors have assisted students with their university applications.

Best of luck!