Undergraduate application information

Your personal statement

Download our personal statement writing guide
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What is a personal statement?

Applying to university means writing a personal statement; and for many students, it’s the part that feels the most overwhelming. What do you say? How do you start? And how do you prove you’re ready for your course?

That’s exactly why we created the Essex Personal Statement Writing Guide: a step-by-step resource designed with our Admissions Selectors (the people who make the decisions).

What is a personal statement?

Your personal statement is your chance to show us:

  • why you’re passionate about your chosen subject
  • how your previous studies have prepared you

  • and what experiences make you a strong applicant

It’s your opportunity to tell your story; and make it clear you’re ready for university study.

Why you’ll want the guide

Inside the guide, you’ll discover:

  • A proven structure that takes the stress out of getting started

  • What actually stands out to Admissions Selectors (and what usually doesn’t)

  • How to show subject motivation in a genuine, specific way

  • How to link your experiences to the course you’ve chosen

  • Tips for writing clearly and avoiding common pitfalls

You’ll get tailored, up-to-date advice that helps you craft a strong and confident personal statement.

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Looking for a step by step guide to writing your personal statement?

You're in the right place. Whether you're applying for 2025 or 2026 we have a bespoke guide to help you through the process of writing your personal statement.

Sign up for the Essex personal statement writing guide