university of exeter personal statement masters

• Applying to Uni
• Apprenticeships
• Health & Relationships
• Money & Finance

Personal Statements

• Postgraduate
• U.S Universities

University Interviews

• Vocational Qualifications
• Accommodation
• ​​​​​​​Budgeting, Money & Finance
• ​​​​​​​Health & Relationships
• ​​​​​​​Jobs & Careers
• ​​​​​​​Socialising

Studying Abroad

• ​​​​​​​Studying & Revision
• ​​​​​​​Technology
• ​​​​​​​University & College Admissions

Guide to GCSE Results Day

Finding a job after school or college

Retaking GCSEs

In this section

Choosing GCSE Subjects

Post-GCSE Options

GCSE Work Experience

GCSE Revision Tips

Why take an Apprenticeship?

Applying for an Apprenticeship

Apprenticeships Interviews

Apprenticeship Wage

Engineering Apprenticeships

What is an Apprenticeship?

Choosing an Apprenticeship

Real Life Apprentices

Degree Apprenticeships

Higher Apprenticeships

A Level Results Day 2023

AS Levels 2023

Clearing Guide 2023

Applying to University

SQA Results Day Guide 2023

BTEC Results Day Guide

Vocational Qualifications Guide

Sixth Form or College

International Baccalaureate

Post 18 options

Finding a Job

Should I take a Gap Year?

Travel Planning

Volunteering

Gap Year Guide

Gap Year Blogs

Applying to Oxbridge

Applying to US Universities

Choosing a Degree

Choosing a University or College

Personal Statement Editing and Review Service

Guide to Freshers' Week

Student Guides

Student Cooking

Student Blogs

• Top Rated Personal Statements

Personal Statements By Subject

Writing Your Personal Statement

• Postgraduate Personal Statements
• International Student Personal Statements
• Gap Year Personal Statements

Personal Statement Length Checker

Personal Statements By University

• Personal Statement Changes 2024

Personal Statement Template

Job Interviews

Types of Postgraduate Course

Writing a Postgraduate Personal Statement

Postgraduate Funding

Postgraduate Study

Internships

Choosing A College

Ivy League Universities

Common App Essay Examples

Universal College Application Guide

How To Write A College Admissions Essay

College Rankings

Admissions Tests

Fees & Funding

Scholarships

Budgeting For College

Online Degree

Platinum Express Editing and Review Service

Gold Editing and Review Service

Silver Express Editing and Review Service

UCAS Personal Statement Editing and Review Service

Oxbridge Personal Statement Editing and Review Service

Postgraduate Personal Statement Editing and Review Service

You are here

• Mature Student Personal Statements
• Aberystwyth
• Anglia Polytechnic University
• Bath Spa University College
• Bournemouth University
• British College of Osteopathic Medicine
• British School of Osteopathy
• Canterbury Christ Church University College
• Central School of Speech and Drama
• Chester A College of The University of Liverpool
• City College Manchester
• Coventry University
• De Montfort University
• Edge Hill College of Higher Education
• Falmouth University
• Farnborough College of Technology
• Glamorgan Centre for Art and Design Technology
• Glasgow Caledonian University
• Goldsmiths College
• Heriot-watt
• Heythrop College
• King's College
• Kingston University
• Leeds Metropolitan University
• Liverpool Hope
• Liverpool John Moores University
• London Metropolitan University
• London South Bank University
• Loughborough
• Loughborough College
• Middlesex University
• Napier University, Edinburgh
• Newcastle College
• Northumbria University
• Nottingham Trent
• Oxford Brookes
• Queen Margaret University College, Edinburgh
• Queen's, Belfast
• Regents Business School London
• Roehampton University of Surrey
• Royal Holloway
• Royal Veterinary College
• Sheffield Hallam University
• Southampton
• Southampton Institute
• St George's Hospital Medical School
• St Mary's University College
• Staffordshire University
• Strathclyde
• Swansea Institute of Higher Education
• Thames Valley University
• The Arts Institute At Bournemouth
• The Glasgow School of Art
• The Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts
• The London Institute
• The Manchester Metropolitan University
• The North East Wales Institute of Higher Education
• The Robert Gordon University
• The Surrey Institute of Art and Design
• The University of Bradford
• The University of Buckingham
• The University of Gloucestershire
• The University of Huddersfield
• The University of Salford
• University College Northampton
• University College Worcester
• University of Abertay Dundee
• University of Brighton
• University of Central Lancashire
• University of Derby
• University of East London
• University of Glamorgan
• University of Greenwich
• University of Hertfordshire
• University of Lincoln
• University of Plymouth
• University of Portsmouth
• University of Sunderland
• University of Teesside
• University of The West of England, Bristol
• University of Ulster
• University of Wales College, Newport
• University of Wales Institute, Cardiff
• University of Wales, Bangor
• University of Westminster
• University of Wolverhampton
• Writtle College
• York St John College
• Personal Statement Editing Service
• Personal Statement Writing Guide
• Submit Your Personal Statement
• Personal Statement Questions 2024

Exeter University Personal Statements

These UCAS personal statements have been kindly provided by students applying to University of Exeter. You can click on one of the links below to view the entire statement and find out if the applicant was offered a place.

You can also view our entire collection of personal statements or view personal statements for application at other universities .

French and Arabic Personal Statement Example In studying French and Arabic, I am eager to compare two mutually influential languages and cultures, particularly their overlapping history and its cultural representations. I decided to defer my entry to retake my Maths A2 and plan to turn this to my advantage by working and living in France, putting what I've already learnt of the French language and culture into practice...

Mathematics and Economics Personal Statement Example 1 As Pythagoras may have said, (Ambitious)2 + (Bold)2 = (Critical thinker)2 makes a perfect student and is what I strive to be. From the simple Pythagorean to the complex Fermat's Last Theorem, mathematics is a never ending branch of study which I enthusiastically enjoy studying and why I wish to pursue it even further at university...

Psychology Personal Statement Example 6 It was the odd behavioural traits displayed by my uncle, who has Asperger’s syndrome that first generated from a young age my questioning about why he acted so ‘differently’ to the rest of us. This was part of what led to my interest of studying psychology, as it made me question how and why humans are so disparate from one another, and what part the brain plays in running our everyday lives...

Accounting Personal Statement Example 1 My world is populated by numbers. Numbers are the most powerful tool for good and I see myself as someone who can wield these numbers. That is why accountancy is the only option, in my opinion, to study at university...

Economics and PPE Personal Statement Example My aspiration to study economics at both advanced and degree level has stemmed from my lasting interest in current affairs and world development. These issues require an application of economics in real-life situations and can be related to many diverse subjects such as politics, philosophy and psychology...

English Personal Statement Example (Mature Student) Having worked on a secure psychiatric unit for two years, caring for many people unable to or precluded from following their dreams due to mental illness, as well as over a decade employed in positions just to pay the bills, I am finally pursuing my dream of becoming a published novelist...

Spanish and Economics Personal Statement Example My aspiration to study Spanish and Economics has not only been influenced by my curricular education but also from experiences I have had throughout life. I am intrigued in the effects caused by the failing Euro zone, and I consider communication among speakers of different languages essential in progressing forward...

Biology Personal Statement Example 5 Outside was always my favourite place as a child, splashing in puddles, inspecting insects under magnifying glasses and having snail races with my brothers. The living world fascinated me. My enthusiasm has only increased over the years and living by the sea has inspired me further...

History Personal Statement Example 13 Until I began my A-levels last September, I had never been to school or followed a formal syllabus. My parents homeschooled me. They guided, encouraged, and fed my interests with books, documentaries and discussions...

Anthropology and Archaeology Personal Statement Example My interest in culture first started when I began to attend my local Hindu Temple with my friend in primary school. I was highly interested in how her surroundings differed from my own and enjoyed immersing myself in her way of life...

English Literature Personal Statement Example 3 When I was seven years old, I first read 'Twist of Gold' by Michael Morpurgo. When reading the book I was captivated by the absorbing plot, beguiling characters and incredibly vivid imagery. Since that time, I have been a passionate reader, particularly admiring the fluidity and profound depth of character and emotion that can be found in work by authors such as Sylvia Plath and Doris Lessing...

Geography Personal Statement Example 4 All through my academic life I have found Geography extremely interesting because of the vast range of topics involved with it and how it relates to every subject in one way or another. I have a particular interest in the physical side of Geography and especially the topics of: climate change, coasts, hazards and the environment...

English and History Personal Statement Example 1 I believe history inspires optimism. With the state being cut and our economy weakening we could easily fall to pessimism. I just have to look within history to see that just over 400 years ago Queen Mary I killed 'rebels' for heresy when they protested, whereas Modern freedoms have allowed me to protest openly in several Unite marches...

Geography Personal Statement Example (Physical) My choice of Geography as a degree course has stemmed from a long felt sense of awe of the natural environment and a constant curiosity concerning how natural processes operate. This has grown during my school career, particularly during sixth form, where my passion for geography has taken off...

Psychology Personal Statement Example 48 Since embarking on the A level course 16 months ago I have decided to devote my life to working in psychology. I am struck by the way Psychological research has impacted all areas of life, but also how much there is yet to understand...

Anthropology Personal Statement Example 5 I realised that I wanted to study Anthropology in 2005 after picking up a book called ''Mapping Human History'' by Steve Olson. I read the book cover to cover a number of times, and knew that I had discovered a subject that I was not only interested in learning but wanted to investigate for myself...

English Literature Personal Statement Example 16 I believe that to read English is to read the human being itself: after all, we are all writers. Even in the very act of choosing our words - thinking them, speaking them, physically writing them down - we create something meaningful...

Geography Personal Statement Example (Human/Environmental) The possibility of the human race’s days being numbered by our destructive lifestyles, as planted in my mind by Al Gore’s sensationalised and controversial ‘The Inconvenient Truth’, has fuelled my interest in the global warming phenomenon, forcing me to question society’s reluctance to tackle it and realise the worldwide impact of each of our daily lives...

Engineering Personal Statement Example 19 Physics is that branch of science without which science is just like a beautiful lamp with no light. For centuries, mathematicians and physicists have made plenty of scientific contributions thus helping the world make a better place to live...

Environmental Engineering Personal Statement Example Nowadays, Environmental Engineering plays a vital role in the world as the environment is being put under constantly increasing pressure. As I am fascinated by Science and Mathematics and feel that the environment is incredibly important, I decided to study this course...

English Literature & Spanish Personal Statement Example For me, the most captivating part of English literature is the way great writers are able to influence the reader's imagination through the manipulation of language. The A-level topic of World War One literature was especially affecting because it showed me the importance of world events and their effect on contemporary literature that still inspires us today...

Civil Engineering Personal Statement Example 14 Civil engineers shape and manage the world around us for the benefit of others and being able to use my skills in mathematics, physics and design to do such tasks would be a very exciting and rewarding experience...

Ancient/Medieval History Personal Statement Example My decision to study Medieval History at a higher level was never a difficult one. Having always been interested about the relationship between the past and the present, studying History at AS-Level only strengthened my decision...

Creative Writing Personal Statement Example 2 To me, fiction is like the magic carpet of Aladdin. It takes me to travel through time and space and explore the slices of human experience. In the wonderful trips, I am guided by the author and accompanied by the characters...

Law Personal Statement Example 70 Law is ever changing, whether parliament is passing new legislation, existing legislation is being rewritten or the courts are interpreting laws in different ways. In the case of Anthony Bland the distinguishing of earlier precedents was vital...

History Personal Statement Example 37 My interest in history lies in the simple fact that I have always been fascinated by the past. At eleven I won a full academic bursary to attend my current school. This was a way into a community in which my intellectual curiosity would be valued and where I could further my enthusiasm for history...

Computer Science Personal Statement Example 51 Building my first computer was an experience I will never forget. Looking over what seemed to be a city of silicone, I marveled at how elegantly the components were arranged on the motherboard. Yet I did not feel fully satisfied, as I knew there was a whole other world of computing, which could only be explored by completing a degree in computer science...

History Personal Statement Example 43 I have always wanted to be part of an open-minded society and live in a country where originality is rewarded, so the UK came to my mind as being the best country to read my degree. My passion for the English language has developed over years of studying English at school, where I have been successful in every written and oral exam...

Engineering Personal Statement Example 23 As I triggered the release mechanism and watched two pounds of rock hurtle skywards I thought to myself, "trebuchets are awesome!". Years passed before I realised that this was my first engineering project...

Biological Sciences Personal Statement Example 3 When I was in primary school I would take pens apart to put them back together, so that I could see how every small piece fits together to create a whole working object, and as I furthered my education my focus shifted to the w orld around me...

• University specific personal statements
• All personal statements

My Suitability for The Course - Personal Statement of Exeter

water engineering interest

How to Get Into Exeter University

07/12/2022 Richard Evans

The University of Exeter is a popular Russell Group university in southwest England. It is regularly ranked in the top 20 universities in the UK, currently ranking as 19th best according to Times Higher Education and 15th best according to The Guardian University Guide . Exeter University is a well-respected, research-intensive university and is a common insurance choice among Oxbridge applicants as a result. Though it is competitive, with the right support, hard work and preparation, you can maximise your chances of getting an offer. With key stats on the admissions process and insider knowledge from ex-admissions officers on how to make your application stand out, The Profs’ experts are here to help.

What is the Exeter acceptance rate?

In 2021, the undergraduate Exeter acceptance rate was 19.6% (based on data by UCAS ). The university received 41,695 applications and granted places to 8,175 students. However, with the help of The Profs’ expert Exeter consultants, more than 90% of students receive an offer from their first or second choice university, so get in touch with our team to maximise your chances of getting in.

Which subjects is Exeter known for?

Exeter is a great all-rounder university that specialises in a range of subjects and disciplines. It is ranked in the top 10 in the UK for 14 subject areas, including History, Classics, Geology, Accounting and Finance, Psychology, and Business and Management Studies. The University of Exeter Business School was named Business School of the Year in the 2022 Times Higher Education Awards. The university was also awarded the Queen’s Anniversary Prize for its pioneering research around combatting the effects of marine plastic pollution.

Is Exeter a Russell Group university?

Yes, the University of Exeter is one of the 24 Russell Group universities. It is a leading university in the UK and in the 2021 assessment of research quality, 89% of its research was assessed as ‘internationally excellent’ and 47% as ‘world-leading’. The Complete University Guide ranks Exeter as the 14th best Russell Group university.

What are the Exeter entry requirements?

Exeter University’s entry requirements vary depending on the course you’re applying to study and the country you’re applying from. The table below shows the UK qualifications and some of the most common international qualifications accepted by Exeter, and the entry requirements for each.

Exeter accepts a wide range of international qualifications. It displays international qualifications by country on its individual course pages, so always check there before applying. For more information on how to apply to Exeter as an international student, check on the university’s own support page , read our guide for international applicants , or get in touch with The Profs for one-to-one support from one of our international admissions experts .

Does Exeter give contextual offers?

Exeter does take into consideration contextual factors that may affect your previous educational performance and experiences. Depending on which criteria you meet, you may be eligible for a contextual offer of up to three grade reductions. Many students won’t be eligible for Exeter’s contextual offers, however it is always worth checking using the university’s published eligibility criteria .

Does Exeter give unconditional offers?

The University of Exeter does not give unconditional offers to applicants who have not yet achieved their final exam results. That means that students applying during Year 12 in the UK (or equivalent year internationally) will only receive conditional offers and will therefore be granted a place only once they have received their A level results (or equivalent) and met the offer requirements.

6 tips for getting into Exeter

1. double check the entry requirements.

The entry requirements for Exeter differ greatly between courses – not just in terms of grades, but also the specific subjects required. For example, for its BMBS Medicine, applicants need to achieve As in both A level Biology and Chemistry, as well as an A in a third subject. Medicine applicants must also take the UCAT (University Clinical Aptitude Test) and attend a Multiple Mini Interview (MMI). If you need support improving your grades to meet Exeter’s competitive entry requirements or making your application stand out, then reach out to The Profs’ admissions consultants today. We’ll offer a free initial consultation to determine your likelihood of achieving a place at Exeter and set up any additional support you may need.

2. Attend open days and other Exeter initiatives

The University of Exeter offers a range of ways that you can engage with the university before applying. This will not only help you to decide whether Exeter is right for you, but also give the university the opportunity to get to know you and for you to build connections with key members of your chosen department. Exeter holds both in-person and online open days that allow you to learn more about your department and course. The university also offers a free programme to year 10 students called Exeter Scholars , which gives you the opportunity to first-hand experience of student life at Exeter and develop your passion for a chosen subject. There are also pre university summer schools you can attend. Ultimately, if you are set on getting into Exeter, showing determination and commitment to the university through your experience is a great way to stand out and maximise your chance of an offer.

3. Think about the long-term plan

Getting into Exeter is a great goal to have, but it’s also important to think about the long-term plan. Like Oxbridge, LSE, Warwick, and other top UK universities, Exeter will not only want to see a genuine passion and commitment to studying your chosen course, but also a plan of how the skills and knowledge you will develop on the course will help you achieve longer-term goals. Make sure that your goals are specific to the course you are applying for. For example, if you are applying to study Geography, is there an area of Human or Physical Geography that particularly interests you? If so, how have you already taken steps to pursue this interest, and how will Exeter’s Geography degree course help you to expand your knowledge and go on to pursue this interest in your career? Your long-term goals don’t have to be industry-specific; they may be academic (such as wanting to study a Master’s or PhD) and you may be at the very beginning of your exploration. Exeter won’t expect you to be super detailed or stick to your plan at this stage, but it’s good to show that you are motivated and driven, especially considering the reputation Exeter has amongst employers. In fact, Exeter is ranked the 14th most-targeted UK university by the top employers in 2021-2022, according to the Graduate Market in 2022 Research Report , and it boasts superb links with hundreds of international, national and regional employers. For more support on coming up with a career plan or simply tailoring your personal statement to a university like Exeter, get in touch with our team.

4. Do wider reading and extracurricular activities related to your subject

When it comes to writing your personal statement, showing a genuinely passionate and in-depth understanding of your subject goes a long way. Exeter University values academic, independent, and well-read students, so citing wider reading and other extracurricular activities you’ve done to specifically enhance your knowledge of your chosen subject area will help you stand out to them. Try to make sure that every book and article you’ve read, club you’ve taken part in, or organisation you’ve volunteered with is clearly relevant to your subject. If you’re not sure what to include in your personal statement, reach out to our team of tutors today. We can help you to identify where your strengths are and advise you on how to develop your academic and extracurricular profile ready for submitting your application to Exeter University.

Top tip: You cannot include details about the specific Exeter course you’re applying for in your personal statement because this statement will be sent to all of the universities you apply for. However, you can (and should) still do your research into your chosen course at Exeter and use this information to subtly tailor your statement. For example, you could look at notable tutors/lecturers working in the department and see what research they have done and what modules they teach. If you see something that aligns with your interests, consider citing a piece of research or book they have written, or talk in depth about a specific topic they cover in a module. This could give you a one-up over other applicants when the department comes to making final decisions about who to offer places to.

5. Get relevant work experience

To help prove your commitment to your long-term goals outlined in your personal statement, you should look to gain relevant work experience in your field. Whether paid or unpaid, having experience working in your desired field will provide you with invaluable real-life knowledge about the industry. For some Exeter courses, such as LLB Law and BMBS Medicine, work experience is valued extremely highly, so it’s important that you get experience in relevant settings. For example, Medicine applicants should have work experience in at least one (but ideally more than one) medical setting, such as a hospital, GP surgery, hospice, or another medical environment. This experience not only helps you to understand what is involved in a career in Medicine, but also reassures Exeter that you are committed to pursuing a career in the field. Read our guide to applying for Medicine for more information on this competitive degree programme. Some courses are harder than others to find direct work experience for. If you can’t secure work experience relevant to your chosen subject, try to engage in as many extracurricular activities related to your chosen subject area as you can instead. For instance, if you’re applying for Mathematics, you could join a school Maths club or take part in the UK Maths Challenge to gain valuable extra skills to supplement your application. This will still help to strengthen your application and show your commitment to the subject area.

6. Invest plenty of time into writing your personal statement

It may seem obvious given the tips above, but making sure that you’re investing plenty of time into writing your personal statement is crucial to the success of your application. For many of Exeter’s most competitive courses, lots of applicants will achieve the grades required for entry. Exeter, like other top universities, will therefore be relying on applicants’ personal statements to decide who to offer places to, so it’s really important to submit the best personal statement possible. Use your personal statement as a chance to express what makes you more committed and more passionate than most. Keep a record of all of your academic achievements, career ambitions, skills, and experience, and use these to build a solid personal statement that explains exactly why you would be an excellent candidate for your chosen course. Crafting an excellent personal statement takes time and expertise. That’s where The Profs can help. Our experienced admissions tutors work with you throughout the university application process, providing guidance on how to enhance your academic profile and ultimately write a stand-out statement that is tailored to Exeter and your specific course. Thanks to our support, more than 90% of students we work with receive an offer from their first or second choice university. For more information on how we can help, get in touch with our team today.

Note that all students applying for university in 2023 for courses beginning in 2024 will be required to submit a UCAS personal statement as normal. However, from 2024/25 onwards, there will be changes to the UCAS application process and students will no longer be required to write a personal statement. Instead, all applicants will answer a series of shorter, more tailored questions provided by UCAS.

Where is Exeter University?

The University of Exeter is located in the city of Exeter, Devon, which is located in the southwest corner of England. The university has four campuses, two of which are in Exeter and two in Cornwall. Its Streatham Campus is on the northern edge of the city of Exeter and is within walking distance to the city centre. You can travel from London to Exeter via train in around 2 to 2.5 hours.

Is Exeter a campus university?

Exeter is a campus university. It has four campuses, two of which are in Exeter (Streatham Campus and St Luke’s Campus) and two in Cornwall (Penryn Campus and Truro Campus).

Is Exeter University good?

Exeter is a well-respected, research-intensive university and is a common insurance choice among Oxbridge applicants as a result. It is regularly ranked in the top 20 universities in the UK, currently ranking as 19th best according to Times Higher Education and 15th best according to The Guardian University Guide . It also has many accolades to its name, most recently being awarded Business School of the Year in the 2022 Times Higher Education Awards and the Queen’s Anniversary Prize for its pioneering research around combatting the effects of marine plastic pollution.

Is Exeter a red-brick university?

The University of Exeter is not considered an original red-brick university. However, it is known as one of multiple younger civic universities that shares characteristics with red-brick universities, along with Reading, Southampton, Hull, Leicester and Keele. It is also a Russell Group university alongside many of the red-brick universities including Manchester, Liverpool, and Sheffield.

Is Falmouth University part of Exeter University?

Falmouth University is not linked academically to Exeter University; Falmouth University is a specialist arts institution, whereas Exeter University offers a wide range of disciplines. The two universities do, however, share a campus in Falmouth (Penryn Campus).

Browse more “ University Applications ” related blogs:

Richard Evans

Contact the profs.

Or fill in the form below and we will call you:

What level of study?

What do you need help with, what subject/course , which university are you applying to.

*Please enter a subject/course

*Please enter which university you are studying

How much tutoring do you need?

*Please be aware that we have a 5-hour minimum spend policy

What are your grades ?

*Please enter the subject you are studying and your preditected grades

Please provide additional information

The more detailed this is, the quicker we are able to find the perfect tutor for you.

*Please fill in the empty fields

Contact details:

*Please enter a valid telephone numbers

*Please enter a valid email address

*Please make your email and confirmation email are the same

*Please complete the catpcha below

Ready to submit ?

We do not facilitate cheating or academic misconduct in any way. Please do not call or request anything unethical from our team.

Subscribe to our newsletter

Did you enjoy reading How to Get Into Exeter University? Sign up to our newsletter and receive a range of additional materials and guidance that can help advance your learning or university application.

The UK’s highest rated tuition company since 2016 on Trustpilot

• Log in
• Site search

Personal statements for postgraduate applications

A well-crafted Masters personal statement is the key to convincing admissions tutors that you deserve a place on a postgraduate course. Discover the dos and don'ts of writing a personal statement and take a look at some examples for inspiration

What is a personal statement?

'We certainly find the personal statement an essential part of the application process,' says Helen Hayes, assistant registrar (postgraduate and non-standard admissions) at Aberystwyth University.

A Masters personal statement is a piece of writing that you submit as part of your postgraduate application . It's your first real chance to sell yourself to the university and to demonstrate to admissions tutors that you're right for the course.

It's likely that you've already written a personal statement for your Bachelors degree , so this should give you some idea of what to expect. However, don't be tempted to use your undergraduate personal statement as a template. You will have progressed academically since then and admissions tutors will want to see evidence of this.

Your postgraduate personal statement should be unique and tailored to the course that you're applying to. Use the opportunity to show off your academic interests and abilities, and to demonstrate that the programme will benefit from your attendance as much as you'll benefit from studying it.

'From an admissions officer perspective, given that we have to read a large number of personal statements, we are always keen to see enthusiasm, interest and passion for the subject emanating off the page,' adds Helen.

How long should a postgraduate personal statement be?

A Masters personal statement should be around 500 words. This equates to one side of A4. However, some universities require more, often two sides. Some institutions also set a character limit instead of a specific word count, so it's important that you check the application guidelines before starting to write your statement.

As they're relatively short in nature, don't waste words on autobiographical information. This isn't necessary in postgraduate personal statements. Instead, focus on why you want to study a particular programme and your potential to successfully complete the course.

What should I include in a Masters personal statement?

You should tailor your personal statement to fit the course you're applying for, so what to include will largely depend on the course requirements. However, in general you should write about:

• Your reasons for applying for a particular programme and why you deserve a place above other candidates  - discuss your academic interests, career goals and the university and department's reputation, and write about which aspects of the course you find most appealing, such as modules or work experience opportunities. Show that you're ready for the demands of postgraduate life by demonstrating your passion, knowledge and experience.
• Your preparation  - address how undergraduate study has prepared you for a postgraduate course, mentioning your independent work (e.g. dissertation) and topics that most interested you.
• Evidence of your skillset  - highlight relevant skills and knowledge that will enable you to make an impact on the department, summarising your abilities in core areas including IT, numeracy, organisation, communication, time management and critical thinking. You can also cover any grades, awards, work placements, extra readings or conferences that you've attended and how these have contributed to your readiness for Masters study.
• Your goals  - explain your career aspirations and how the course will help you achieve them. 'Describe how studying your chosen course fits in with your long-term ambitions and career path,' advises Helen.

Address any clear weaknesses, such as lower-than-expected module performance in your undergraduate degree or gaps in your education history. The university will want to know about these, so explain them with a positive spin. 'We look for positive reflection in situations like this,' explains Helen. 'Cover how things have been addressed and what will be different in your proposed postgraduate studies.'

How should I structure my personal statement?

Your personal statement should follow a logical, methodical structure, where each paragraph follows on from the one before. Make sure paragraphs are short, succinct, clear and to the point. Remember, you only have 500 words to use.

Capture the reader's attention with an enthusiastic introduction covering why you want to study a particular Masters. Then, engage the reader in your middle paragraphs by summing up your academic and employment background, evidencing your knowledge and skills and demonstrating why the course is right for you.

Your conclusion should be concise, summarising why you're the ideal candidate. Overall, aim for five or six paragraphs. You can use headings to break up the text if you prefer.

The majority of postgraduate applications are submitted online directly to the university. If this is the case, present your personal statement in a standard font such as Arial, Calibri or Times New Roman, text size 11 or 12. If your course application is submitted through UKPASS (UCAS's postgraduate application service) font style won't matter, as personal statements are automatically formatted.

How can I write a good postgraduate personal statement?

• Give yourself plenty of time and don't rush . Your personal statement can make or break your application so it needs to be perfect. Tutors can tell if you're bluffing, and showing yourself up as uninformed could be costly. Before you start, read the rules and guidelines provided, check the selection criteria and research the course and institution.
• The best personal statements adopt a positive, enthusiastic and professional tone and are presented in clear, short sentences . Avoid elaborate or overly complicated phrases. Unless otherwise stated, all postgraduate personal statements should be written in English and your spelling, grammar and punctuation must be spot on, as the personal statement acts as a test of your written communication ability.
• Don't use the same supporting statement for every course . Admissions tutors can spot copy-and-paste jobs. Generic applications demonstrate that you have little understanding of the course. In order to stand out from the crowd, Masters personal statements must be unique and specific to the course and institution.
• Draft and redraft your statement until you're happy . Then ask a friend, family member or careers adviser to read it. Proofreading is incredibly important to avoid mistakes. Memorise what you've written before any interviews.

What do I need to avoid?

• follow online examples too closely
• use your undergraduate UCAS application as a template
• be negative
• lie or exaggerate
• use clichés, gimmicks, humour, over-used words such as 'passion' or Americanisms
• include inspirational quotes
• make pleading/begging statements
• needlessly flatter the organisation
• include irrelevant course modules, personal facts or extra-curricular activities
• namedrop key authors without explanation
• use overly long sentences
• repeat information found elsewhere in your application
• leave writing your personal statement to the last minute.

How should I start my Masters personal statement?

Try not to waste too much time coming up with a catchy opening. The more you try, the more contrived you'll sound and the more likely you are to fall into the trap of using clichés.

Avoid using overused phrases, such as:

• For as long as I can remember…
• From a young age…
• I am applying for this course because…
• Throughout my life I have always enjoyed…
• I have always been interested in…
• I have always been passionate about…
• I have always wanted to pursue a career in…
• Reflecting on my educational experiences…

Admissions tutors read hundreds of applications per course so the opening paragraph of your personal statement needs to get straight to the point and make a real impact. Avoid overkill statements, gimmicks and popular quotes.

If you're really struggling, come back and tackle the opening once you have written the rest.

How should I end my personal statement?

Conclusions should be short, sharp and memorable, and leave no doubt in an admissions tutor's mind that you deserve a place on a course.

The perfect ending should pull all of your key points together without waffling or repeating yourself.

Like the rest of your Masters personal statement, keep the ending simple. Be succinct and make it clear why you'll be an asset to the university and end on a positive note, with a statement about why the institution would be lucky to have you as a student.

What are admissions tutors are looking for?

• an explanation of how the course links your past and future
• an insight into your academic and non-academic abilities, and how they'll fit with the course
• evidence of your skills, commitment and enthusiasm
• knowledge of the institution's area of expertise
• reasons why you want to study at the institution
• demonstrable interest in the subject, perhaps including some academic references or readings.

Personal statement examples

The style and content of your postgraduate personal statement depends on several variables, such as the type of qualification that you're applying for - such as a  Masters degree , a conversion course or  teacher training . Here are some postgraduate personal statement templates to help you get started:

Law personal statement

You'll apply for an LLM the same way you would for any other Masters, directly to the university. Whether you're undertaking a general LLM or a more specific programme, such as an LLM in human rights or international business law, you'll need to convey why you want to study the law in more depth and how this could potentially aid your career. Discover more about LLM degrees .

Psychology personal statement

Applications for conversion courses such as these are fairly straightforward and made directly to individual institutions. You need to explain why you want to change subjects and how your current subject will help you. Explain what experience you have that will help with your conversion subject, and what you hope to do in the future. Learn more about  psychology conversion courses .

Social work personal statement

If your Bachelors degree was in an unrelated subject but you now have ambitions to work as a social worker you'll need a Masters in social work (MSW) to qualify. Social work Masters have a substantial work placement element so you'll need to cover what you hope to achieve during this time as well as demonstrate other relevant experience. Find out more about social work courses .

PGCE primary personal statement

As well as detailing why you want to work with this particular age group, a PGCE primary personal statement should highlight the ways in which your educational background has inspired you to teach. You'll need to cover relevant skills you have gained and any related work experience, as well as demonstrate your knowledge of the primary national curriculum. Read up on PGCEs .

PGCE secondary personal statement

You'll need to cover why you want to teach at secondary level while also acknowledging the pressures and challenges of working with older pupils. As you'll be teaching a specific subject, you'll need to evidence your knowledge in this area and demonstrate how your first degree was relevant. It's also essential to highlight any related work or voluntary experience. Learn more about teaching personal statements .

Find out more

• Search postgraduate courses .
• Find out what else you must consider when  applying for a Masters degree .
• Completed your application? Discover what  postgraduate interview questions  you may be asked.

How would you rate this page?

On a scale where 1 is dislike and 5 is like

• Dislike 1 unhappy-very
• Like 5 happy-very

Thank you for rating the page

2024 applications are now open – book a free consultation today to get yours started! If you are applying for an undergraduate degree, please add our buzzword “UKApplication16” to your UCAS application; instructions can be found here.

The deadline for UCAS undergraduate applications (courses starting in September 2022) is January 26th. After this date, courses may not be available at all institutions. Contact us today to get your application started!

Please select a country

The americas.

• United States
• United Kingdom

Middle East and Central Asia

• Saudi Arabia

Asia Pacific

• Philippines

92 Global offices in 40 countries

South England

ADD TO FAVOURITES

University of Exeter

The University of Exeter offers exciting courses in the beautiful and historic surroundings of South West England. As a member of the UK’s prestigious Russell Group of leading research universities , Exeter combines excellence in teaching and research with an outstanding student experience. In the National Student Survey, the University was ranked first amongst Russell Group universities for overall student satisfaction.

Exeter welcomes over 30,000 students from more than 150 countries to four friendly campuses: Streatham and St Luke’s in Exeter, Devon, and Penryn and Truro in Cornwall. These locations offer inspiring, safe environments where you will soon feel at home.

Whichever Exeter campus you choose, the University are committed to making your student experience the best it can be. There's plenty to keep you entertained with bars, pubs, clubs, theatres, and music venues. You’ll also find world-class sports facilities for beginners and athletes alike. Exeter are the number one sports university in the south of England and Wales, and we frequently finish top five in the British Universities and Colleges Sport (BUCS) rankings each year.

In an era of unprecedented change, Exeter are transforming how they educate the brightest young minds to shape the leaders of tomorrow.

Exeter School of Law

An Exeter Law degree delivers a rigorous understanding of legal principles and examines law in different theoretical and social contexts, constantly keeping an eye on regional and global developments. The Exeter approach characteristically involves studying law in applied settings, such as community legal projects, advocacy, pro bono work, small learning communities, mooting, or a 4-year work placement program.

Programs most popular with Canadian students include their fast track, two-year Graduate LLB, LLB Law, LLB English Law and French Law/Master 1 (Maîtrise en Droit). Alongside core modules in legal skills, students can also choose from a wide range of vocationally orientated options, from Human Rights Law to Medical Law and Commercial Law.

University of Exeter Business School

The University of Exeter Business School is a member of an elite group of business schools globally to hold ‘triple crown’ status, with accreditations from the three leading accreditation bodies: EQUIS, AMBA and AACSB.

Exeter Business School uses insight and expertise to redefine the role of business globally and to teach students how to use sustainable and responsible business principles to become successful leaders. Exeter research expertise focuses on three important themes: helping address climate change and other global issues such as biodiversity loss, rising poverty and social inequalities: Environmental Sustainability, Technological Transformation and Responsible Leadership.

The University of Exeter Business School was named Business School of the Year at the Times Higher Education Awards 2022 and is joint number one in the UK for business graduate prospects (CUG 2023).

Services for International Students

The International Student Support Office can help students with issues such as visas, bank accounts and settling in at the beginning of the term. The office also publishes Your International News every month, which details the various international events run throughout the year. These include trips to various cities, nearby attractions, cultural festivals, and celebrations.

All students are allocated a personal tutor or a staff member from the same academic school who is available to discuss problems or academic progress. The University was named best in the UK for international student satisfaction by StudyPortals and is also 1st in the Russell Group for student satisfaction. INTO University of Exeter runs pre-sessional and in-sessional English lessons for students, covering subject-specific as well as general academic and social English.

Pre-arrival careers and employability modules are specifically available for postgraduate students and will help you develop the skills to succeed in UK and global business environments. Global companies, including Deloitte, EY, PwC and Unilever, employ recent Exeter graduates.

For 2024 entry, £2.5m of scholarships will be available at the University of Exeter.

Contact SI-UK about your application

• 11th in the Times University Guide 2024
• 18th in the Guardian University Guide 2024
• 153rd in QS World University Rankings 2024
• 177th in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024
• 151-200th in the Academic Ranking of World Universities 2023

In the REF 2021, more than 99% of the University of Exeter's research is of international quality, with 89% internationally excellent and 47% world-leading. Its world-leading research impact has grown by 72% since 2014, more than any other Russell Group university.

Exeter Business School was named UK Business School of the Year at the Times Higher Education (THE) Awards 2022 and is the joint #1 Business School in the UK for Business graduate prospects (CUG 2023).

Accommodation

Accommodation is guaranteed for all new unaccompanied international students who accept an offer and apply for accommodation by the deadline. There is a wide range of catered and self-catered accommodation, with studio flats and shared houses available. All are within 20 minutes’ walk of the nearest campus. Self-catered accommodation is generally arranged in flats of three to twelve people with a shared kitchen and communal area. Private rented accommodation is available through landlords or private halls of residence.

The University’s campuses in the South West of England offer a safe, high quality environment for study and living. Academic, social, and sports facilities are conveniently located within easy walking distance of one another on beautiful, green and safe campuses with fantastic modern facilities. With beautiful, Green Flag award winning campuses in Devon and Cornwall, Exeter is a university of the whole South West.

The University of Exeter’s main Streatham Campus is regarded as one of the most beautiful parkland campuses in the UK. Overlooking the Roman city of Exeter, now the regional capital, features beautiful architecture and excellent retail and leisure facilities. The St Luke’s campus, where Sport Science, Medicine and Education students study, is also located here. Exeter is the 6th safest place to live in the UK and the 4th top place to live in the UK for recreation (Rightmove).

Exeter has superb travel links, with an international airport and two railway routes into London (2 hours to Paddington), meaning it is within easy reach of London, Europe and beyond.

Streatham Campus, Exeter

Acknowledged as one of the most beautiful campuses in the UK, the Streatham Campus is built upon a 350-acre country estate overlooking the vibrant city of Exeter, featuring beautiful architecture and excellent retail and leisure facilities. Officially registered as a Botanic Garden, Streatham Campus boasts an array of immaculately preserved gardens, lakes, woodlands and fountains that integrate seamlessly with the university’s historic and modern architecture. The city's transport hubs include Exeter St Davids railway station, connecting to London in 2 hours, the M5 motorway and Exeter International Airport, connecting the city nationally and internationally.

Penryn Campus, Cornwall

Shared with Falmouth University, the Penryn Campus combines the latest academic research and residential facilities with vibrancy, energy and friendliness. The campus is nestled in 100 acres of the gorgeously maintained Cornish countryside, just northwest of the maritime town of Falmouth, and provides spectacular views over the Fal Estuary.

St Luke’s Campus, Exeter

Founded in 1854 as a teacher training college, students have studied at St Luke's for over 160 years. The campus is located on the eastern edge of the city centre. It is home to Sport and Health Sciences, the Medical School, the Academy of Nursing, the Department of Allied Health Professions and PGCE students.

Truro Campus, Cornwall

Our Truro Campus is situated at the Knowledge Spa on the Royal Cornwall Hospital (Treliske) site. It is the base for University of Exeter Medical School students studying MSc Environment and Human Health and for a proportion of Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (BMBS) students during years 2, 3, 4 and 5.

• K. Rowling (Author)
• Vanessa Kirby (Actress)
• Thom Yorke (Musician)
• Mark Labbett (TV Personality)
• Steve Backshall (Naturalist and Explorer)
• Sajid Javid (Politician)
• Rhod Gilbert (Comedian)
• Zara Tindall (Equestrian)

Register for free consultation

Your Bookmarks

View all Bookmarks

Studying at an Oxbridge University - Insight from a University of Oxford Alumnus

University of greenwich - law webinar series, medicine interview preparation workshop 2023, returning to canada with your uk law degree, exeter experts ranked among world’s most influential scientists, scottish university of the year 2024, exclusive scholarships awarded to si-uk students, ulaw online campus international open day.

SI-UK's service is fast, reliable and efficient. My consultant improved my chances of getting into a top university.

Read more testimonials

Book your Free Consultation

We will be in touch within 24 hours to arrange your initial consultation at your nearest SI-UK office. If you are unable to visit us in person, consultations can also be arranged over Skype.