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Our 10 Top Tips for Writing a Standout Oxbridge Personal Statement to Get You an Oxbridge Interview

Oxbridge personal statement 101: top tips for writing by oxbridge graduates.

You've sat your exams, chosen your top 5 Universities to apply to, you've registered with UCAS. Now what? Oh yes, you've got to write a personal statement - 4000 characters to encapsulate why YOU are suitable for your course. 

You know the standard pitfalls, you know you won't be in the 1779 candidates each year on UCAS who begin their statement with 'From a young age I have always been...', you know not to begin with a motivational quote or to include too many 'I love''s or 'passions'. You also know that the personal statement is not the be all or end all of your application - yes, admissions will look at it, and certainly it matters for some subjects and Universities more than others, but at the end of the day your exam results and interview, if you have one, will speak louder than 4000 characters can.

Still, you might as well get it right - done well, your personal statement can demonstrate what motivates your study of your given subject now and give an insight into your academic ability , which can only boost your application. U2 has curated 10 top tips, based on the advice of Oxbridge alumni in over 20 subjects, to help you overcome this often daunting task. Do also check out the abundance of articles we have published on subject-specific personal statement content creation and writing - we have written articles for an array of subjects including Dentistry , Politics , Biological Natural Sciences , English , History , Veterinary Science and more via our Free Resource Library ! These include reading and wider subject exploration recommendations, as well as information on preparing for interviews for your course of application.

1) Less is More When it Comes to Your Personal Statement

Try to be specific and DON'T waffle. Tutors hate it when you try to sound over the top of use overly-complicated words. One of the most frequent pitfalls admissions tutors see when assessing Personal Statements are students trying to fit as much as possible into their statement. LESS IS MORE. Don't write about every book you've ever read, but choose one or two to illustrate your enthusiasm for the subject. Make sure to go in-depth in your analysis of the book/ article/ experience you mention - showcase your opinion and link back to how this demonstrates your motivation for wanting to study your course of application. This also means that when it comes to interview, you have loads more to draw on than the content of your personal statement as you won’t have mentioned every single activity you have undertaken on the A4 page.

Key Stylistic Points:

Write in simple, straightforward, everyday English.

Express yourself as succinctly as possible using short sentences.

Do not get weighed down in jargon or complicated terminology – and if you do use some, make sure that you use it properly. 

2) Don’t Try to Tell a Grand Narrative

In the subject paragraphs of your personal statement, do not try to tell any form of grand narrative about either you or the subject e.g. “the first moment I realised I wanted to study Philosophy was” or even “Philosophy is the most important subject because”; these come across as pompous and insincere. Likewise, admissions tutors don’t wish to know that from the time you were a young boy, you loved playing with lego, which led to a love of engineering, they want to know what motivates you in your course of interest NOW. It is much better to simply write about the ideas, concepts and theories that have captured your attention through your work at school and how you’ve explored them in your own reading or other activities.

Personal Statement Introduction Example Structure:

‘My interest/curiosity in materials science first emerged following XYZ. This led me to pursue further research, reading, etc., including taking a biomedical engineering course at […]. These experiences have only increased my enthusiasm for the subject, and I am now keen to engage with it more deeply by studying for a MEng (or whatever the course might be…) in Materials Science at the University of XYZ’

3) Think Outside the School Curriculum

To impress Oxbridge admissions tutors, it's essential to demonstrate a genuine passion for your chosen subject beyond the school curriculum. Utilise your personal statement as an opportunity to showcase evidence of your interest, such as additional reading or relevant work experience. The best candidates often exhibit a wealth of knowledge they've gathered in their own time, reflecting their proactive approach to learning. Show resourcefulness by seeking information from various sources, including podcasts, lectures, books, critical articles, and even visits to museums. Mentioning these diverse avenues of learning highlights your intellectual curiosity and willingness to explore beyond the confines of the classroom. Additionally, participating in essay competitions can be a valuable way to showcase your dedication and self-motivation. Select a couple of reputable essay prizes, like the Keble College Essay Prize, and challenge yourself to produce well-researched and thoughtful essays within the specified word limit. Discussing your experiences with these prize essays in your personal statement reveals your commitment to academic excellence and willingness to engage deeply with your subject.

Participating in essay competitions not only demonstrates your commitment and self-motivation but also showcases your ability to engage in independent research and critical thinking. These competitions often require you to delve into specific topics, conducting your own reading and analysis. By discussing your involvement in prize essays in your personal statement, you present evidence of your intellectual curiosity and willingness to take on academic challenges. Admissions tutors will be impressed by your proactive approach to learning and your ability to synthesise complex ideas into well-structured essays. It shows that you are willing to go above and beyond what is expected and that you are well-prepared to embrace the rigorous and intellectually stimulating environment that Oxbridge has to offer.

We regularly update our co-curricular division website, Minds Underground, with top choice essay competitions to enter. We also run our own yearly Minds Underground Essay Competition (e.g. in Medicine, Politics, Law etc.) if you want to have a go!

4) Think About Your Personal Statement Structure

When crafting your university personal statement, it's essential to treat each point as a mini argument, providing evidence and meaningful connections to strengthen your case. Mere assertions like "I'm interested in X" lack substance without delving into the why and how of your interest. Instead, showcase your inquisitiveness by relating X to Y, highlighting the knowledge or experiences gained from this connection . By doing so, you demonstrate critical thinking and the ability to draw meaningful connections between subjects. For instance, if you express an interest in history, explain how exploring historical events shed light on current societal issues or how studying past political decisions can inform future policy-making. By presenting such thoughtful interconnections, you not only emphasise your passion for the subject but also showcase your intellectual curiosity and capacity for interdisciplinary learning.

A coherent structure is vital for your personal statement to have a strong impact on admissions tutors. Consider organising your statement into 3-4 main paragraphs, each focusing on a key topic area of interest . Start by introducing your primary interests and motivations, providing a clear roadmap for your readers. Subsequently, delve into the first topic area, weaving in relevant experiences and academic accomplishments that demonstrate your commitment to this subject. Then, smoothly transition to the next topic, establishing a logical flow that links the areas together. For instance, if you're passionate about environmental science, you could connect it to public policy by discussing your participation in sustainability initiatives and how this drove your interest in influencing policy decisions for a greener future.

Finally, ensure that your closing paragraph succinctly summarises your key points and highlights your enthusiasm for pursuing these areas at the university. Additionally, include a very short paragraph on extracurricular activities, demonstrating your well-roundedness and ability to balance academic pursuits with other interests, further reinforcing your suitability as a prospective student. This clear and cohesive structure will make your personal statement memorable and impactful, leaving a positive impression on the admissions committee.

5) Check and Double Check Claims of Knowledge

Crafting a compelling university personal statement is a critical step in the admissions process, allowing students to showcase their academic achievements, aspirations, and potential contributions to the academic community. However, exercise caution and diligence when including claims of knowledge in your statement . Making inaccurate or unsupported assertions can be an immediate red flag for admissions tutors, as it raises doubts about the applicant's credibility and attention to detail. Admissions professors and interviewers are well-versed in their respective fields, and they may thoroughly scrutinise a personal statement during interviews. Thus, if an applicant includes a questionable or unsupported claim, they should be prepared to provide a comprehensive explanation and back it up with evidence or examples. This scrutiny ensures that the university maintains its standards of academic integrity and selects students who possess genuine knowledge and intellectual curiosity. Therefore, double-check and verify the accuracy of any claims made in your personal statement, ensuring you present a truthful and compelling narrative that reflects your genuine capabilities and potential for academic success.

Suggested Exercise: When preparing for interview, take each sentence of your personal statement and imagine your interviewer asks you to explain what you meant by it. Brainstorm an answer, thinking about evidence you can bring in to back up any claims e.g. your analysis, further reading, statistics etc.

6) Work/ Research experience

Know when your work experience is relevant. An English tutor will be interested in your work as research assistant for a professor. They'll be less interested by your summer internship at Goldman. For some subjects, work experience is more crucial than others, namely the sciences and of course, Medicine. Don't just state it, explain what you learnt and how it's helped you.

Students with an interest in research fare well in Oxbridge applications as courses are research-heavy - you will be writing 1-2 essay each week for Humanities subjects, and science subjects require extensive independent research prior to tutorials. Therefore, demonstrating research experience is extremely beneficial to application - Back in the day, U2 Tuition’s Co-Founder, Camille (Oxford English graduate), worked as a research assistant on an Oxford professor’s project on the Oxford English Dictionary. She was asked about the experience at interview and was able to lead a fascinating discussion on the origins of language, the effect of Shakespeare in coining new terms etc.

If you would like help seeking research experience to include in your personal statement, visit our Minds Underground division’s Research & Work Experience page!

7) Subject-Specific Research/ Exploration

When composing your university personal statement, the importance of showcasing your knowledge of research in your subject cannot be overstated. While the relevance may vary across disciplines, being well-informed about past and current research papers can significantly strengthen your statement's credibility and demonstrate your commitment to academic excellence. Utilising resources like Google Scholar or JSTOR enables you to stay up-to-date with the latest theories, critical discussions, and key movements in your field. By engaging with scholarly articles, you gain valuable insights into the ongoing discourse within your chosen subject, allowing you to develop a more nuanced understanding of its complexities and challenges. When applicable, referencing these research papers in your personal statement can illustrate your engagement with the academic community and your ability to contextualise your interests within the broader scholarly landscape. This not only highlights your dedication to the subject but also reflects your potential as a future contributor to the field's advancement.

As you prepare for your university application, it is vital to cultivate breadth, depth, and independence in your reading habits . Reading widely exposes you to diverse perspectives and helps you appreciate the interdisciplinary nature of many subjects . It allows you to identify connections between seemingly unrelated topics, fostering a holistic and well-rounded approach to your studies. Simultaneously, reading closely and delving deeply into specific areas of interest allows you to develop specialised expertise and become well-versed in the nuances of your chosen field. This depth of knowledge showcases your dedication and passion for the subject, making you a more attractive candidate to university admissions. Additionally, pursuing your own interests within the subject demonstrates initiative and intellectual curiosity, indicating that you are capable of self-directed learning and are genuinely invested in your academic pursuits. By striking a balance between broad exploration and focused inquiry , you not only enrich your personal growth but also equip yourself with the necessary skills and insights to thrive in your university studies and beyond.

8) Stay Relevant

No one wants to know about your passion for your subject from before you could walk. Anything you include should be directly linked to your interest and suitability for the course, or at least connected somehow. They want to know what's motivating your study of it NOW.  

Crafting an outstanding Top UK University or Oxbridge personal statement requires staying informed and engaging with current developments in your chosen subject. Subscribing to reputable academic journals is an excellent way to keep abreast of the latest research and advancements in your field. Journals often publish cutting-edge studies and critical discussions that can inspire your own academic interests and inform your future studies. Additionally, reading articles from platforms like The Conversation , which covers diverse topics from Health & Medicine to Politics & Society, provides valuable insights into real-world applications of academic knowledge. By referencing relevant articles in your personal statement, you showcase your engagement with contemporary issues and demonstrate how your academic pursuits align with broader societal concerns. For instance, if you aspire to study environmental science, discussing the implications of recent environmental policies or breakthroughs in sustainable technologies reveals your passion for making a positive impact through your studies.

For applicants interested in Law, incorporating current legal issues and developments into your personal statement can be highly impactful. Mentioning landmark court cases, legislative changes, or emerging legal challenges demonstrates your awareness of the dynamic nature of the legal field and your ability to analyse complex issues critically. Articulating your thoughts on these matters and explaining how they have influenced your desire to study law can impress admissions tutors. On the other hand, if you're applying for a STEM subject, delving into scientific breakthroughs of the past 20, 50, or 100 years offers a glimpse into the rich history of scientific discovery. Highlight the breakthroughs that resonate with you the most and explain how they sparked your curiosity and passion for your chosen field of study. Demonstrating this connection between historical achievements and your personal motivations provides the admissions committee with valuable insights into your scientific interests and intellectual drive. By showcasing your enthusiasm for current topics or historical milestones, you present yourself as an informed and passionate applicant eager to contribute to the academic community.

9) Ensure You Can Expand…

When it comes to discussing your university personal statement during an Oxbridge interview, the approach can vary depending on the interviewer. Some tutors might use it as a starting point to delve deeper into your interests and experiences, using it as a reference to stimulate further discussion. As an applicant, it's crucial to be well-prepared and confident in the books and topics you've referenced in your statement. Have a clear understanding of these references and be ready to elaborate on them or demonstrate how they relate to other subjects. Moreover, don't shy away from expressing your own opinions on the material you've read. Whether you agree or disagree with a critic or author, be willing to voice your thoughts thoughtfully and respectfully . However, keep in mind that the tutor conducting the interview may hold a different perspective, having dedicated their career to studying the same critic or author. So, if you disagree, be prepared to justify your viewpoint with rational arguments and be open to defending your stance further during the interview.

The Oxbridge interview is an opportunity for you to showcase your intellectual curiosity and critical thinking skills. Therefore, besides discussing your referenced materials, be prepared to offer your unique insights and interpretations. Demonstrate your ability to engage with academic content beyond merely summarising it. Reflect on the implications of the ideas you've encountered and consider how they might intersect with other areas of study. Your capacity to express original thoughts and connect different concepts will impress the interviewers and show them your potential as a future scholar. Just remember to back up your viewpoints with well-reasoned arguments, as interviews often involve rigorous intellectual discussions. Embrace the chance to engage in academic debates, but do so respectfully and with an open mind, as these exchanges can further reveal your suitability for the university's academic environment.

10) Extra-Curriculars

You'll be hard-pressed to find an Oxbridge tutor who cares a lot about your budding sports career. Keep extra-curriculars to 1-2 lines at the end of your statement unless they are extremely subject-relevant. The function of the extracurricular paragraph is to show that you are a real person with interests outside academia. It is not a factor in their assessment of you as a prospective applicant. Use it as an opportunity to add colour to you as an individual, rather than to brag about getting sports colours or being a prefect; make it quirky, interesting and unique. For other UK universities, more of a focus can be placed on extra-curricular where relevant.

N.B. Oxbridge interviews are very subject-specific, but that is not to mean you won’t have ample opportunity to engage in a wide array of extra-curricular opportunities once you are at Oxford or Cambridge. There is loads on offer for you to get involved in!

Looking for Support Brainstorming and Drafting your Oxbridge Personal Statement With An Oxbridge Tutor From Your Specific Course?

U2 Tuition’s team of Top Russell Group University and Oxbridge graduates offer personal statement writing support sessions and a proofreading service as part of our application support offering . Personal statement writing is an iterative process, especially if you want to create an outstanding impression! Our personal statement tutors support students all the way through from personal statement planning, to polishing the final product.

Students will be paired with a primary Oxbridge tutor in their chosen subject. An example session structure could be as follows:

Personal Statement 101-Session (1hr 30 mins): for preliminary planning and content brainstorming, and understanding how admissions tutors use the personal statement to screen candidates

1-1 Tutorial Session (1hr): strengthening evidence of further subject exploration. U2’s mentors may suggest reading/ research lists, or a Minds Underground masterclass / research project

1-1 Tutorial Session (1hr): Improving on the structure of the personal statement and creating a stand-out opening paragraph

1-1 Tutorial Session (1hr): Demonstrating motivation, ability, communication skills etc.

Offline or online help (~1hr) with polishing, reviewing and proof-reading the final product

Note: Mentors will provide students with tasks to complete between each session e.g. building on their draft personal statement, filling gaps e.g. in wider reading.

For content ideas, why not take a research project, co-curricular masterclass or subject-specific Summer School (e.g. Medicine, Law, Economics, Geography, Engineering & more!) with our Oxbridge-educated subject specialists on our co-curricular division, Minds Underground ?

And lastly, check out our Oxbridge Admissions Ultimate Guide for any extra tips and tricks!

Sessions from £70/h + VAT.

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Top 10 Tips for an Oxbridge Personal Statement

1. make it personal.

University admissions tutors go through hundreds of Personal Statements every year, especially at Oxbridge, where there are usually over 10 applicants per place! Applications, from the university’s perspective, are a long process involving thousands of applicants so it’s important that you use your Oxbridge Personal Statement to stand out and be remembered. They will likely make a decision about whether you will be further considered for admission long before they’ve finished reading. Therefore, you need to make sure to capture their attention quickly. Have you done any relevant work experience, or perhaps a research project? Put that near the top of your Oxbridge Personal Statement to stand out straight away.  Look online for example Oxbridge Personal Statements for your chosen course to get ideas, but make sure not to plagiarise! All UCAS Personal Statements are checked for plagiarism against all other Personal Statements.

2. Don’t talk about your A levels

Further to the last point, don’t spend a lot of time talking about your A levels. Almost everyone has done them, and you want to give Oxford or Cambridge a reason to choose YOU and not someone else. You have a limited number of characters in which to show them why, so use that space to talk about things unique to you. Keep reading for ideas about what you should put instead.

3. Read around your subject

Books you’ve read are a great way to both show your interest in the subject and stand out from everyone else on your personal statement. Remember that if you go to Oxbridge, you might even meet the person who wrote the book you read, or someone who worked with them. Make sure to discuss an idea from the book you found interesting or surprising, and why the book was important to you to show that you’ve really learnt from it.

4. Ask for feedback

A great way to improve your Oxbridge Personal Statement is to ask for feedback from your teachers and friends. It’s easy to miss spelling and grammar mistakes, and it can be very useful to get a second opinion about vocabulary and sentence structure. Your Oxbridge Personal Statement will likely have sentences that are phrased awkwardly and it will be difficult for you to notice it and think of anything else to say when it’s something you’ve written yourself. Therefore asking someone else is an important tool, make sure to ask someone with experience in your subject to make sure all the specifics are correct, your school teacher for the chosen subject or any family/friends who studied a similar subject at University.

5. But not from too many people

Although the last point still stands, you don’t want to ask too many people for advice. How can this be? They will all have their own ideas, and although most of them will be good, hearing a lot of conflicting suggestions will confuse you and make you doubt yourself. The truth is that there is no perfect Oxbridge Personal Statement, but there are a lot of great ones. Whilst external opinions are valuable, ensure that they don’t take away from what is YOUR piece of work. Ultimately, your Oxbridge Personal Statement should capture who you are and not anyone else!

6. It will take more than one draft

It may seem like you could get your Oxbridge Personal Statement done in one night. After all, it’s only 4000 characters or about 600-800 words. However, if you think this then you’re in for a rude awakening! Take it from us, first, you’ll feel like you’ve got nothing to write, then it will start pouring out and very soon you’ll have far too much and you’ll have to get rid of whole sections. After that comes vocabulary. “If I can just rephrase this, I can make it 5 characters shorter”, you’ll think to yourself. Trust me, I’ve been there. Then you’ll show it to your teacher and she’ll tell you to include another point in there. It can feel like it never ends, but you have to finish it at some point – again you need to find a balance. Don’t rush it – you have until October for Oxbridge/medicine applications and until January for other applications. This gives you plenty of time to make the best Personal Statement you can. If you’re really stuck for something to improve, come back the next day with a fresh set of eyes, or ask a  friend or teacher to read it.

7. Show, don’t tell

Imagine someone told you that they are the best mathematician ever. You wouldn’t believe them at first; you might ask them some maths questions, what qualifications they have etc. In the same way, universities won’t believe you if you just say how good a candidate you are; you need to show them. For example, don’t say that you’re passionate about your subject. Instead, tell them what books you’ve read about or online courses or extracurricular projects you’ve done. Don’t just say that you’re organized, tell them about some work experience you’ve done and show them how you used your organizational skills to do it. Never say anything you can’t back up. If you don’t think you’ve got anything like this to say, it’s not too late to start. Go and do some work experience or read a book before you have to submit your Oxbridge Personal Statement . Self-reflection is key so learn how to do it effectively and efficiently. 

8. Make it relevant to your chosen course

For everything you say about yourself, try to show why it will make you a good candidate for the course you are applying to. Obviously, don’t go too far with this. There are some skills, such as intelligence, that are just generally good and you don’t have to say why they’re good for a specific course. However, if you apply to something with a high workload like medicine it may be good to show how you’re good at time management, and if you apply to something with a lot of problem-solving like STEM then it may be good to show that you have problem-solving ability. This is also a good way to plug up any gaps left by your A levels. If, for example, you are applying for a course with a creative element and your A levels don’t include a lot of creativity then talk about a hobby you do and how you use creativity to do it.

9. Get it done early

The Oxbridge Personal Statement is the first step in your application, and it will require your best work. As such, it’s vital to give yourself plenty of time to come up with all the best things about yourself to write and to make improvements. Start it with plenty of time to spare so you don’t have to rush, and don’t let it take up all your time when you have important studying to do.

10. Submit it and move on

When you’ve dotted every i and crossed every t, checked all your spelling and vocabulary, and asked your friends, your teachers, the postman and his dog to read your Oxbridge Personal Statement, you still may feel like there’s more you can improve. You have to ignore this feeling. If you’ve done all you can and followed all the tips in this article then your time will be better spent studying to ace your admissions test, and make sure you keep up with your A levels!

Getting your Oxbridge Personal Statement in nice and early also shows the university that you’re well prepared. We will admit, the waiting for a response can be the hardest part, but it’s a marathon, not a sprint, and the Personal Statement is only the first hurdle.

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How to write a great personal statement for Oxbridge applications

The personal statement is one of the first chances you will have to impress Oxbridge admissions tutors. Our guide will help you craft your personal statement to get your application for Oxford or Cambridge University off to the best possible start.

Please note that the format for the UCAS Personal Statements will change in 2024 for admissions in 2025. Although the format will be different (a series of structured questions and answers rather than a free-form essay), the preparation required and content to include will be very similar.

When to start preparing for your Personal Statement

Oxbridge applications typically have a deadline of 15 th October.

Our Oxbridge admissions consultants recommend that the summer of your Lower Sixth Year is a good time to begin thinking about your personal statement. You will need multiple rewrites and plenty of time to think over your work. We see a direct correlation between the number of drafts and the time allowed for a personal statement and its effectiveness. The Personal Statement really is meant to be about your passions and experience and it takes time to to develop. 

How to start

SLT Oxbridge coach Anil recommends: “A good place to start is to find your university courses’ reading list for first or second year.” These can be found either online at your university course website, student forums or Oxford University’s suggested subject resources page .

“If you pick a few titles that genuinely spark your interest and read them over summer, then you will already be ahead of the game when it comes to writing your personal statement. “

This is a useful practice as not only will it be directly relevant to your course and subject, but will also be crucial preparation for your interview. It will show a level of proactive, academic curiosity which is key when applying to Oxbridge.

When it comes to summer reading, it is important to remember not to sacrifice quality for quantity. The aim is to expand the depth of your understanding about a particular subject you are interested in, not to read as many titles as possible in a short space of time.

A good exercise to perform when reading  is to take your time to think and engage with its content. If there is something that really interests you, then research further by following up with some academic articles on the same subject. These seeds of interest will begin to form the basis of your personal statement.

Expert View

“A good place to start is to find your university courses’ reading list for first or second year. If you pick a few titles that genuinely spark your interest and read them over summer, then you will already be ahead of the game when it comes to writing your personal statement." Anil, Oxbridge applications specialist

What to include in your personal statement

When writing your personal statement, that key word is ‘personal’. It is an opportunity to exhibit your academic potential through achievements, character and sustained academic interest beyond your school knowledge. It is important to remember to interlace what you have written with how it fits into your academic career – e.g. if you are writing about things you have read, listened to, visited or watched, you must weave it into how they support your chosen academic subject. Why did you choose these activities? What impact did they have on you? What did you do next? Use them as evidence for your commitment to your interests and chosen subject. 

Phrases that help you achieve this include: 

• “My interest in international relations led me to read/watch/attend…” 
• “Through reading/watching/attending X I became curious to learn more about Y. In turn, this led me to consider how that affects Z, which is how I came to read/watch/attend…”

Through these interlacing methods you can begin to draw links and themes that run throughout your interests. You can then offer your opinion on these themes and expand on why you feel they are important and interesting. 

Oxford University recommends that 80% of your personal statement should focus on your academic activities, both at school and beyond school.

Recommended Structure:

• An opening paragraph explaining why you have chosen your subject and why you want to take that particular course…
• Followed by 3-4 paragraphs displaying your academic skills, interests and activities both in school and beyond school…
• Concluding with a short closing paragraph about your extra-curricular interests, not necessarily academically focused, which shows transferable skills/character and future ambitions.

What not to mention in your personal statement

As previously mentioned, personal is the key word in a personal statement. With this in mind, you want to portray yourself accurately and so it is extremely important not to lie, embellish or try to live up to what you think the ‘ideal’ student would write. In the unlikely event that this does not come across as generic or insincere in your writing, it will soon become apparent when it comes to your interview that the work is not original.

Your personal statement must be articulate, well-structured and logically written. This means you must avoid unsupported statements or SPaG (spelling, punctuation and grammar) errors.

One final word of warning: please do avoid trying to be ‘cute’ or funny. Even if you succeed, it will detract from the professional, academic tone you ought to be trying to get across.

Personal Statements, Interviews and Colleges

If your application has been successful, then the last stage of the admissions process is the Oxbridge interview. This usually takes place around December. The interview is held in the college you have named as your first choice (though especially at Oxford, it is common to have further interviews at other colleges).

There are 39 colleges at Oxford and 31 at Cambridge, each of which offer different courses, are in different parts of the city, and have a unique atmosphere and culture. When applying through UCAS, there is an option to submit an ‘open application’ which will place you in any college that offers the course that you will be applying for.

The interview is usually conducted by a panel of 2-3 interviewers. Each interviewer will have read your personal statement and may use it as the basis of some of their questions. With this in mind, it is important that you are very familiar with the content of your personal statement and can be ready to answer any questions relating to it and to offer further insights which complement what you have written.

Our full guide to the Oxbridge interview contains more helpful information and advice.

Subject-specific additional testing 

As a result of the large number of candidates who apply for Oxbridge every year, the admissions process is extremely selective. Most courses at Oxford and Cambridge also require subject-specific assessments as well as the personal statement. Generally, the Oxford tests are pre-interview written aptitude tests that will be used to inform the interviewers of a candidate’s strengths and weaknesses. 

At Cambridge, however, the tests are usually taken in college on the same day as the interview, and will be used to inform the admissions team and contribute to the overall application. However, it is important to note that for certain subjects at Cambridge (e.g. veterinary medicine, chemical engineering, computer science, economics, law, natural sciences and economics) the tests will be held pre-interview. These are called ‘Pre-Registration Assessments’.

How Simply Learning Tuition can help

Our team have helped hundreds of students secure places at Oxford and Cambridge from a wide range of state and independent schools in the UK and around the world. Our success rate for first choice colleges is an average of 60% compared to the national average of 16%.  We always advise students to apply to a range of Russell Group and other leading universities and our success rate for these is 95% first or second choice institution.

We work with a team of around 30 Oxbridge applications specialists . They are experts at supporting students throughout the journey of crafting the perfect personal statement – from helping with reading lists to honing phrasing and structure. They also have fantastic track records in preparing students for the rigours of subject-specific admissions testing.

Please contact us to see how we could help with your Oxbridge application preparation.

Frequently asked questions

What does oxford university look for in a personal statement.

Oxford and Cambridge Universities (Oxbridge) are looking for students who will be able to handle a large workload, and can demonstrate genuine passion and intellectual curiosity. They also need to be able to contribute meaningful insights during small tutorial group sessions. With this in mind, Oxbridge are looking for candidates who can particularly exhibit their academic potential through their personal statement. Oxford University has recommended that 80% of your personal statement should be focused on your academic activities, both at school and outside.

What does Cambridge University look for in a personal statement?

Similarly to Oxford, Cambridge are looking for individuals with a high threshold for a challenging workload as well as an ability to contribute meaningful critical analysis or subject insights in small tutorial groups. Your personal statement is an opportunity to showcase your scholarly ability by displaying your achievements and interests, both in school and beyond school, as evidence of your commitment and interest to your subject.

How do I start an Oxbridge personal statement?

It is recommended that around 80% of the content in your personal statement should be focused on showcasing your academic abilities and potential. The opening paragraph should explain why you have chosen your subject and why you want to do that particular course. Are there any specific modules that you are particularly excited about? Are there any lecturers that you are inspired by? Why do you want to study this subject for three/four years?

How important is the personal statement for Oxbridge?

The personal statement is a crucial part of the Oxbridge admissions process. It is the first opportunity for the Oxbridge admissions team to gain an understanding of your academic ability and to decide whether you may be a good fit for life as an Oxbridge student. It is an opportunity to stand out beyond your submitted qualifications to show why you want to study there and how you would be a good addition to their institution.

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How To Write An Oxbridge Personal Statement

Writing your Oxbridge personal statement? Being two of the most prestigious universities in the world, and having many applicants who surpass their requirements, we've provided a few pointers to help your personal statement stand out in your Oxbridge application .

1. Start early

The extra level of preparation that an Oxbridge application requires, combined with the October deadline, means that pupils should try to start planning their personal statement in Year 12.

The first draft of the personal statement should be completed by the end of summer holiday between Year 12 and 13, which means any extra reading or work experience that a student may wish to include in it must be completed before this time.

2. Focus on your academic strengths

Prove your academic strength in your subject with examples of books you’ve read around your subject, an essay you’ve written, a prize you’ve won, lectures you’ve attended, documentaries you’ve watched or even podcasts you’ve listened to.

Admissions decisions at Oxford and Cambridge are solely based on academic ability and potential. Whereas a regular personal statement might be split 75/25 into academic content and content focussed on extracurricular activities, this should be more like an 90/10 split for an Oxbridge personal statement.

Students should therefore try to use the limited word count to only discuss experiences which have helped expand their understanding or passion for their subject.

Here are some questions for to reflect on:

• How have my experiences expanded my enthusiasm for my subject?
• What skills/knowledge have I gained from my experiences?
• How will this make me a better student in the future?

3. Discuss the subject

• Be passionate. A requirement not often mentioned in guidelines for Oxbridge applications but which is of just as much importance is genuine interest and love for the subject you desire to study. Try to illustrate this in your personal statement not just through your achievements but also through actually talking about the subject.
• Tutors will expect you to have followed up on your interest in your subject through extracurricular activities and having read around the subject . Make sure to mention what you’ve read and done and explain to them in a way that shows you really know what you’re talking about. Remember the way to show genuine interest is not to tell them 'I’ve read X and I’ve done Y' but to make it implicit from what you’re saying. Talking ABOUT the content of what you’ve done or read as opposed to mentioning it in a sentence is a far better way of doing this.

Write about how your wider research has developed your thinking in your personal statement too. For example, if you’ve read a book about a period of history you’ve been studying at A-Level you can write a sentence about how that book gave you an alternative point of view that you hadn’t previously considered. Or, you can talk about the role you took in a debate at school and how that either confirmed or changed your opinion on a topic area.

• Be honest. Don’t lie about having read books that you haven’t or being interested in things you aren’t as you may get caught out at the interview stage. Most admissions tutors are looking for potential as opposed to prior knowledge so try not to make stuff up. In the past people who’ve gotten in have quoted from the likes of Harry Potter or nursery rhymes; which if done well, comes across just as well (if not slightly cooler) than quoting from a well known academic. If you do choose to use a famous quote or talk about a well known book then try to say something different!

4. Talk about yourself

• Make them want to meet you! Oxford and Cambridge place a great deal of importance on the interviews so to make sure you get selected for one, try to show the real you in your statement. It shouldn’t just be a list of your achievements (though I’m sure for some of you this could fill the entire word count). Whilst what you’ve done may be impressive, giving them a feel for your real interest and ideas will make them want to meet you and talk about these in an interview.  
• Tie in your hobbies and interests to your academic abilities (where possible). This will make you a more interesting candidate and the tutors will be keen to find out more about you.

All successful Oxbridge candidates are interviewed as part of the admissions process, and interviewers often draw on things mentioned in the Personal Statement. To help put you in control of the interview as much as possible, you can leave ‘hooks’ for the interviewer which directs them towards subjects you will be able to expand upon. If an applicant writes: “I was fascinated by the similarities between Jane Austen and Charlotte Bronte” they can expect to be asked what it was in particular that they found interesting, and think of some specific examples to talk about in the interview.

This is one reason why you should always be honest in your personal statement. You should never claim to have read a book that you haven’t, even if you plan to read it after submitting your UCAS form. Also, don't pretend to have an interest in a certain subject just because you think it will sound impressive.

5. Be original

• Try not to be clichéd and just tell them you read magazines like the Economist , as they’ll already be rolling their eyes as they read it. Talk instead about an article you found particularly interesting or your opinions on that newspaper to make you stand out from the crowd and show you have something to say.  
• A strong opening is vital. This may seem pretty obvious but far too many people start their statement with a line about how they’ve recently become interested in the subject they’ve chosen to study. Think of different ways to start, perhaps with a quote or a story or talking about an article you’ve read, again remember not to go for overused quotes or stories again.  
• Use language that you are comfortable with, and don't rely on a thesaurus to make you sound intelligent. Stick to words and phrases you would use in everyday conversation, and you will come across as a more genuine person that the tutors will want to connect with.  
• Don’t necessarily stick to the standard format for personal statements. Whilst it’s important to include all the necessary information about your subject and yourself if you can think of a different way to present it then don’t be afraid to go for it.

For 2021 entry, Oxford University received almost 24,000 undergraduate applications for around 3,300 undergraduate places. This means there are around 7 applications for every available place. In 2020, Cambridge University received 20,426 applications for around 4,500 places. With many of these applicants holding top grades, it can be very difficult to stand out from the crowd. This is where your original thinking comes in handy. In your personal statement, think about how the subject you are applying relates to your other studies, the world around you and your personal experiences.

It’s important for the candidate to remember that the interviewers have made a career out of their chosen subject; they will genuinely be interested to have a conversation with you if you can bring an interesting or original thought to your personal statement and interview .

Further information

For more advice on applying to Oxbridge, please see:

• Should I apply to Oxbridge?
• Cambridge University personal statement examples
• Oxford University personal statement examples
• Oxbridge Interview
• Oxbridge Interview Tips
• Postgraduate Study at Oxbridge .

How to craft a winning personal statement for Oxbridge

Oxford and Cambridge applicants often receive conflicting advice on how to write their personal statement. So how does one navigate those tricky waters? How does one impress an Oxbridge Professor in only 4000 characters?

GUIDES UNIVERSITY ADMISSIONS UK UNIVERSITIES UCAS OXBRIDGE CAMBRIDGE OXFORD

Lukas Seifert

7/8/2023 4 min read

Don’t worry: the personal statement isn’t the make or break for Oxbridge applications. However, it is the only way of signaling personality and interests before the interview. In fact, it plays a large part in deciding whether or not an applicant will make it to the interview stage. Unlike predicted grades, written work or admissions tests, the personal statement tells a tutor what makes you unique.

But what makes a cutting-edge personal statement? An applicant might receive conflicting advice, with friends telling them to expand on their Grade 8 piano, while teachers suggest listing the 20 books read in the last month. So how does one navigate these tricky waters? How does one impress an Oxbridge Professor in only 4000 characters?

There is no simple formula. The personal statement is the chance to stand out and following a strict scheme is inherently counteractive.

However, there are some ways of increasing the odds of writing a powerful statement. With that, here are 10 tips for you to craft the ideal Oxbridge personal statement!

Start Early and Research Thoroughly

Beginning the personal statement writing process well in advance allows for ample time to research the chosen course. Even more crucially, it leaves time for aligning your experiences, interests, and goals with the specific course. Developing your reading repertoire is a lengthy process and curating a healthy base to work off of requires careful thought.

Show off Academic Excellence

Oxbridge seeks students who are academically exceptional and passionate about their chosen field. Highlight academic achievements, particularly in subjects relevant to the desired course. Demonstrate intellectual curiosity, independent research, and critical thinking skills. That means showcasing your ability to formulate and support arguments, drawing on relevant evidence or examples. Thinking beyond the curriculum and questioning established ideas is highly impactful. Importantly, you should show a wide range of interest; for example, an effective English personal statement would touch on multiple genres and time periods.

Structure Your Statement Logically

Organize the personal statement in a clear and coherent manner. Whether by following a narrative or by breaking down specific interest points in the course in each paragraph, structure is key. Start with a compelling introduction that grabs the reader and sets the tone for the rest of the statement. Follow with paragraphs that flow logically, with the concluding line of each paragraph setting up the next. Conclude with a strong summary that not only reaffirms your suitability for the course, but leaves the tutor wanting to discuss your ideas further.

Show Your Personality

Some flair can go a long way, given it’s not overdone. Admissions tutors read countless statements, and injecting your unique voice helps you stand out. Using flair in your writing captures attention and leaves a lasting impression. However, strike a balance between creativity and clarity, ensuring your message remains focused. Use a mix of vivid language, compelling anecdotes, and perhaps even a thought-provoking metaphor to bring your experiences to life. Show your intellectual curiosity and critical thinking through well-crafted arguments and insightful observations. The goal is to demonstrate your ability to think independently, communicate effectively, and contribute something substantial. In that vein, infuse the personal statement with your own distinct style. Finally, while it's important to present your best self in your personal statement, remember to stay true to your own voice and experiences. Avoid exaggerations or embellishments that may come across as inauthentic.

Pay Attention to Detail and Language

Ensure your personal statement is free from grammatical errors, typos, and awkward phrasing. Review and edit your statement multiple times, seeking feedback from teachers, mentors, or family members. Use precise language to convey your ideas concisely and effectively. Avoid unnecessary jargon or clichés , opting for clear and concise sentences that demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively.

Reflect on Relevant Experiences

Reflect on any work experience, internships, or other activities that have shaped your academic development. Focus on experiences that directly relate to your chosen course and discuss the impact these had on your understanding of the subject and your commitment to pursuing it further at university. For example, if you’re applying to study History of Art at Cambridge, your internship last summer at an art gallery would be worth mentioning.

Highlight Your ‘Unrelated’ Interests and Hobbies

It can be helpful to mention your personal interests and hobbies outside of academia. Oxbridge looks for well-rounded individuals who can contribute to the wider university community. Discuss your participation in sports, arts, music, or community service, emphasizing the skills and qualities you have developed through these activities, such as discipline, creativity, or empathy. Ideally, these should be transferable skills that could be applied in university life. Word of warning: according to Oxford, only about 20% of the personal statement should revolve around activities unrelated to your choice of course. Do not let this section of the statement dilute your focus.

Redraft the Work

Allowing time for redrafting is key. Through multiple revisions, you can hone ideas, refine language, and ensure coherence and clarity. Redrafting allows for critical evaluation and improvement, enhancing the statement's impact, persuasiveness, and alignment with the rigorous standards of Oxbridge admissions. Seek feedback from teachers, mentors, or advisors who can provide valuable insights and suggestions for improvement. Consider their feedback carefully and make appropriate revisions. Polish your personal statement until it is concise, engaging, and reflective of your true potential. Take the time to ensure it represents you in the best possible light.

Be Passionate

Tutors can smell passion. Bringing energy and life into your writing is hard, but can be managed by grounding yourself in facts, while simultaneously expanding the horizons of your vision. The application should explain why they find the subject fascinating and what motivates them to study it at a higher level. Illustrating enthusiasm through specific examples is central. Genuine enthusiasm shines through your words, making your statement compelling and memorable. Passion not only showcases your dedication, but demonstrates your ability to go the extra mile.

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How to write a brilliant personal statement

Your personal statement satisfies a number of checkboxes for Admissions Tutors. It’s the first opportunity to give them the chance to meet the real you. You can demonstrate a passion to study your intended subject, show what you are capable of bringing to the university and faculty and prove why you are the applicant that should be offered a place.

As you only have a limited space to express yourself – just 4,000 characters or 47 lines in the UCAS box (whichever limit you reach first) which is equivalent to just over a full typed page of A4 – you need to make every included sentence count. It’s important to remember you only get to write one personal statement that will be sent to all your over university choices. Your statement needs to be tailored as much as you can to each of the courses you are applying to as you don’t want tutors to doubt your commitment to their university and course. 

There is one guarantee when writing a personal statement – you won’t get a quality, polished personal statement on your first attempt. In fact, it often takes many drafts, lots of editing and plenty of late-night spurs of inspiration to get a strong personal statement that encourages offers from your preferred universities. To assist you in getting started, we’ve gathered together the following useful tips that will lead you in the right direction and help you to get to grips with how to write a great personal statement for university. 

What should you include?

It’s called a personal statement but that doesn’t mean Admissions Tutors want a complete timeline of your life from childhood. They want to see the best side of your academic self, your passion for the course and subject you are applying to and an overview of your academic achievements that are relevant to your subject. In your personal statement, it’s beneficial to include;

• Any subject-related work experience you have completed or intend to carry out
• Any courses or lectures you have attended that advanced your knowledge
• Demonstrations of your interest extending beyond the classroom environment
• A relevant list of book, articles and essays you have read

Try to avoid simply listing the things you have done and instead, try to show how your reading and experiences have expanded your knowledge and developed your interests and understanding of your chosen subject. Relevant extra-curricular activities and achievements should also get a mention however, how much space you dedicate to this section is dependent on the university you are applying to. For students applying to Oxford, Cambridge or Imperial universities, extra-curricular activities should be kept to a footnote mention with a greater focus on your academic achievements. Students that are applying to universities such as Loughborough will need to include their extra-curricular achievements in more detail. These universities look at what you can bring to the faculty as a whole and supporting extra-curricular activities can show you will be a good fit. 

How do you start?

Starting your personal statement can be done in a million ways and is often the part that many students get stuck on. There is no correct way to start your statement off, some applicants choose to begin with a quote that is relevant to their interests while others open with an anecdote that provides insight into where their curiosity for the subject has come from. 

How you open will set the tone for the rest of your personal statement, including establishing your enthusiasm and interest in your subjects and providing the Admissions Tutor with an introduction to your personality. Never use someone else’s words or pretend to be someone else in your personal statement, the Admissions Tutors will quickly see through this and with only a short space to express your true academic self, you don’t want to waste space on other’s content. We recommend speaking as though you were speaking to your headteacher, in a clear, mature tone that retains a sense of who you are as an individual. 

How do you finish?

Finishing your personal statement can be as hard as finding the right words for your introduction. The final paragraph doesn’t have to be long or expansive, but simply enough to round off your statement and summarise your interest and dedication to your chosen subject. This part may need some reworking after 4,000 characters of blowing your own trumpet so get plenty of feedback to avoid getting carried away and coming across too arrogant or self-assured in your outro!

Is there anything to avoid?

Your personal statement is submitted alongside your UCAS form, so there is no need to rehash or revisit certain details such as your A-Levels or GCSE grades. Avoid mentioning anything that is readily available to the Admissions Tutors and instead, use the space to focus on selling your own subject interest and dedication. 

Aim to remain positive in your personal statement as you are selling your achievements and showing off why you are going to be a good choice for the university, so you should avoid using this space to explain potential disagreements that influenced your grade or reasons behind extended periods of leave. 

If there is further information that you feel is beneficial for the Admissions Tutors to know, you should talk to your teacher about including a note in the reference section of your UCAS form. Admission Tutors prefer to read this from the teacher’s point of view and it ensures you can use your personal statement space for the things that matter – the achievements, interests and eagerness that universities are looking for. 

Final advice

After potentially spending days, weeks and even months drafting, editing and reworking your personal statement, proof-reading may not seem like an exciting activity but it is absolutely essential. Typos can and do regularly change our opinion of a piece and its author, even if it is something minor in an otherwise engaging and informative article, so it’s key to ensure your personal statement is without grammatical flaws. 

Admission Tutors are likely to be strict on accuracy and grammar and to ensure your personal statement ticks the right boxes. We recommend asking your teachers, friends and parents to read over and proof-read your personal statement a few times. A further tip we can offer is to begin with the last sentence and work your way through your personal statement backwards, sentence by sentence. This ensures you can focus on the individual sentence and its accuracy and grammar, rather than getting distracted by the full statement. 

From all of us at Oxbridge Applications, we wish you the best of luck with your personal statement. It can be tricky, but look at it as your first challenge to university life and use this opportunity to talk about your best and most interesting subject – you!

Writing a personal statement for Oxford and Cambridge? We explore some of the frequently asked questions about Oxbridge personal statements in our  12 Personal Statement FAQs and answers  article.

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Successful Personal Statement For Oxford English Language And Literature

Last Updated: 5th April 2022

Author: Rob Needleman

Table of Contents

Welcome to our popular Personal Statement series where we present a successful Personal Statement, and our Oxbridge Tutors provide their feedback on it. 

Today, we are looking through an English Language and Literature applicant’s Personal Statement that helped secure them a place at Oxford. The English Language and Literature course at Oxford is one of the broadest degrees in the country, so let’s see how the applicant navigated around this to write a strong Personal Statement. 

Here’s a breakdown of the Personal Statement:

SUCCESSFUL?

The universities this candidate applied to were the following:

Enrolling on our Oxbridge English comprehensive Programme will give you access to Personal Statement redrafts. 

Your tutor will give you actionable feedback with insider tips on how to improve and make your Personal Statement Oxbridge quality for the best chances of success.  

English Personal Statement

George Eliot’s metaphor for imagination- ‘inward light which is the last refinement of Energy … bathing even the ethereal atoms in its ideally illuminated space’- is beautiful. The powerful image supported by the underlying liquid consonants skilfully leads to the action it describes, but it is also the suggestion of particle physics and mass-energy equivalence that interests me about this quotation. In this way, I have gained more from reading ‘Middlemarch’ as I appreciate Eliot’s constant links between science and fiction, and I believe scientific study has generally sharpened my abilities of analysis and concise expression.

I have loved working as a steward at the Globe Theatre; I had the opportunity to see many plays, including a production of Marlowe’s ‘Dr Faustus’. I read Dante’s ‘Inferno’ and several books of Milton’s ‘Paradise Lost’ for a different portrayal of hell and sin to that depicted in ‘Dr Faustus’. I found the torment and suffering described by Dante graphic, whilst the first person narrative drew me closer to the pathos fear and disgust expressed. Milton’s depiction of a mental state is much more powerful in my opinion, and has interesting parallels to Faustus’ state of damnation. I also saw Shakespeare’s ‘As You Like It’, ‘All’s Well that Ends Well’ and ‘Much Ado About Nothing’ whilst stewarding. ‘Much Ado About Nothing’ reminded me of the surprising similarity between Shakespeare’s comedies and tragedies. Claudio and Hero’s troubled love and Don John’s self-proclaimed villainy seem to mirror the actions of Othello, Desdemona and Iago. Viewing comedy as a structure, ‘Much Ado’ contains the potential tragedy of ‘Othello’, but an added last act resolves all tensions and ends so happily and neatly that it seems to me rather unrealistic.

I enjoyed Dickens’ ‘Our Mutual Friend’ for its satirical portrayal of superficial London society. His depiction of characters and scenes make the novel humorous and therefore very different to ‘A Tale of Two Cities’. Here, the powerful characterisation emphasises the terrible human suffering and moral corruption, for example his effective personification of ‘La Vengeance’, who encourages the cries of bloodlust from Parisians. I found it easier to empathise with Jude in Hardy’s ‘Jude the Obscure’ than with Dickens’ creations however, since his actions appear futile against the fate which continually works against him. There seems to be no hope in the novel, unlike the eventual triumph of love over death in ‘A Tale of Two Cities’. Just as in ‘Tess of the d’Urbervilles’ and ‘A Pair of Blue Eyes’, love and happiness seem only like a prelude to grief and sorrow linked with the relentless passing of time. I find Donne’s approaches to this theme interesting too: in both his love poems and the Holy Sonnets, Donne uses form to counter and control the passing of time and the prospect of change.

I have participated in many music groups and ensembles at school, having achieved Grade 8 with distinction in both Flute and French Horn. I have worked for two years in my local Cancer Research shop as part of the Gold Duke of Edinburgh award, and also spent a residential week with a charity called Activenture, looking after children of different ages and abilities, for which I received the Young Carer of the Year award. During my gap year, I plan to join my local orchestra and travel for three months around South America, but ultimately I am most excited about the time I will have to read and further explore English literature.

For more inspiration, take a look through our other successful Personal Statement a nalysis articles:

Successful Personal Statement For Natural Science (Physical) At Cambridge

Successful personal statement for economics at cambridge, successful personal statement for land economy at cambridge, successful personal statement for chemistry at oxford, successful personal statement for geography at oxford, successful personal statement for classics at oxford, successful personal statement for law at oxford, successful personal statement for classics at cambridge, successful personal statement for engineering at cambridge, successful personal statement for philosophy at cambridge, successful personal statement for veterinary medicine at cambridge, successful personal statement for psychological and behavioural sciences at cambridge, successful personal statement for psychology at oxford, successful personal statement for history at oxford, successful personal statement for physics at oxford, successful personal statement for cambridge mathematics and physics, successful personal statement example for computer science at oxford, successful personal statement for english at cambridge, successful personal statement for medicine at oxford university, successful personal statement for modern languages at oxford, successful personal statement for engineering at oxford, successful personal statement for natural sciences (biological) at cambridge, successful personal statement for economics & management at oxford, successful personal statement for ppe at oxford, successful personal statement for law at cambridge, successful personal statement for dentistry at king’s college london, successful personal statement for medicine at cambridge.

Download our Free Personal Statement Starter Guide 

Good Points Of The Personal Statement

The candidate’s wide range of personal interests are clearly demonstrated, and — for the most part — are well-linked to their subject application, giving it further strength. They are able to use independent thought to illustrate how various bits of reading they have done are linked. The list of works they discuss ranges from poetry to plays to Victorian novels; a strong variety of works. They evaluate these across genres and are able to apply critical thought and analysis to them. Throughout their discussions of various texts, the applicant clearly illustrates their enthusiasm for the subject; their writing is energised by positivity and personal engagement with the material.

Bad Points Of The Personal Statement

The candidate could have worked even harder to connect their extra-curricular activities to their application (though their relevance was clear in most instances). The effect of the applicant’s use of independent thought and personal experience was often slightly dulled by their use of highly personal and personalising terms such as ‘beautiful’, or simply ‘I enjoyed’. Though there is perhaps nothing wrong with these evaluations as an initial starting point, the candidate could have pushed further with their readings to interrogate these works further. Though the applicant demonstrates a wide literary foundation, their commentary did at times lapse into plot summary, which is less interesting than their own thought.

UniAdmissions Overall Score:

This candidate’s application reads as both impressive in its depth of knowledge and personal in its illustration of thought and enthusiasm. As such, it reads as a statement that is well-balanced and well-judged; the reader is able to get a good sense of this applicant’s interests on both a personal and academic level. The statement could have made greater use of critical language and could have included fewer instances of value judgments; small alterations which would have given the candidate’s discussions greater academic depth.

This Personal Statement for English is a great example of a statement done right. The candidate’s interest is clearly shown which is vital to Admissions Tutors.

Remember, at Oxford, these Admissions Tutors are often the people who will be teaching you for the next few years so you need to appeal directly to them.

Go to our Free Personal Statement Resources page for even more successful personal statements and expert guides.

Our expert tutors are on hand to help you craft the perfect Personal Statement for your Oxford English application.

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