When you apply for a postgraduate course, you may be asked to write a personal statement, a statement of interest, or answer questions on topics like your:
- reasons for applying
- experience and achievements
- career aspirations
What you need to provide
Check the application information on your course page to find out what you will need to provide in your application.
Make sure you read any guidance on the course page or department website about what to include in your statement or answers.
Tips for writing a statement
Once you know what you need to provide, you should start to prepare your responses.
Always make sure you:
- start writing in plenty of time and do not leave it too late
- check the character or word limit in the Applicant Portal
- do your research. Find out what your course covers and think about how that can shape your statement or response to a question
- think about why you want to do your course and how it can help you to achieve your goals
- put a plan together for longer answers or statements
When it’s time to write:
- include relevant examples of your experience, do not just cram everything in
- do not repeat information
- be honest about your achievements and experience
Writing a research proposal
Depending on the course you’re applying to, you may also be asked to write a research proposal.