ucas personal statements 2025

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• UCAS Personal Statements Are Changing in 2025

Last Updated: 16th January 2023

Author: Matthew Amalfitano-Stroud

Table of Contents

It was announced by UCAS in January of 2023 that traditional Personal Statements will be removed from the university application process in the UK. 

Since 1993, UCAS has required university applicants in the UK to submit a 4,000-character Personal Statement during the application process, which would then be accessed by university admissions teams to assist in the shortlisting process. 

However, it has been confirmed by UCAS that this process will be changing as soon as 2025. Here, we dissect the announcement, discuss what we currently know about this change and explain how this could affect your university application. Let’s begin:  

In short, this is what you need to know:

• UCAS Personal Statements are being replaced by a three-question survey that gives applicants the chance to explain various aspects of their application.
• This change will be implemented for the 2025 admissions cycle for 2026 Entry in the UK.
• This will affect all applicants, both home and international, looking to attend any UK university in 2026 and beyond.
• Students will need to learn how to take on these new questions rather than traditional Personal Statement writing.
• Teachers will need to be prepared to do research on this new system and provide support for students in order to maximise their chances of success.
• We at UniAdmissions are keeping a very close eye on the situation and will update this guide as new information surfaces. We will also ensure that our support systems are up-to-date and effective at helping students through these changes.

What are Personal Statements Being Replaced with?

With the announcement that the current system for UCAS Personal Statements will be getting replaced, it is only natural to be asking what will be replacing it. Thankfully, we have already been given some idea of what to expect. 

Unlike the other major shake-up to the 2024 admission process, the removal of various admissions tests including the BMAT , the official announcement has provided us with an explanation of what UCAS is seeking to implement instead of traditional Personal Statements. 

Put simply, the current format of providing a 4,000-character piece of writing will be replaced with a new “scaffolded structure” of three specific questions which applicants must answer. These questions will still allow you to write your answers out, but you will be answering set questions instead of having to plan and structure a full statement from scratch. 

For each question, applicants will need to write a minimum of 350 characters. The overall character limit for the Personal Statement across the three questions (including spaces) will be 4,000 – this is the same as the current limit. 

Responses will need to be submitted via the online UCAS system, which will now feature three text boxes instead of one (one for each question). Each box will include an exact character counter and tips for each question. 

The three questions you’ll have to answer are as follows: 

• Why do you want to study this course or subject?
• How have your qualifications and studies helped you to prepare for this course or subject?
• What else have you done to prepare outside of education, and why are these experiences useful?

These questions cover the important topics that would typically be included in a standard Personal Statement, so the content of your writing should mostly stay the same. The key difference is that your writing will no longer need to flow as a singular piece of work, meaning introductions and conclusions will be de-emphasised. 

In 2023, UCAS initially announced a selection of six questions that were being considered for a new Personal Statement system. These were as follows:

• Motivation for Course – Why do you want to study these courses?
• Preparedness for Course – How has your learning so far helped you to be ready to succeed on these courses?
• Preparation through other experiences – What else have you done to help you prepare, and why are these experiences useful?
• Extenuating circumstances – Is there anything that the universities and colleges need to know about, to help them put your achievements and experiences so far into context?
• Preparedness for study – What have you done to prepare yourself for student life?
• Preferred Learning Styles – Which learning and assessment styles best suit you – how do your courses choices match that?

UCAS stated that these were subject to change based on feedback from schools and students, with the new three-question system being the result of this work (removing the last three questions in the process). 

Of the questions originally planned for the Personal Statement, one aspect that will no longer be covered is Extenuating Circumstances. This was previously going to be a section that allows applicants to discuss any issues that may have impacted their application negatively (illness, family circumstances, etc).

UCAS states that this section was removed from the Personal Statement due to its inclusion as one of the three questions in the Academic Reference (also a part of the UCAS process). If you have anything that you want to discuss in this section, you will need to speak with your referee to explain what you would like to include in the reference. 

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At UniAdmissions, we’re working tirelessly to ensure that our tutors, curriculum and resources are ready to get our students through these changes. You can join them today and ensure you get the support you need to make it through the 2024 admissions cycle . 

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When Are UCAS Personal Statements Being Changed?

The most recent announcement from UCAS regarding Personal Statements confirms that this new system will be implemented in August of 2025, meaning applicants for 2026 Entry will be the first to face the changes. Applicants in 2024 for 2025 Entry will have to complete the single, free-form document like previous years, 

It’s worth mentioning that these plans have been in place for a fair amount of time, with discussions of reforming the application process starting in April 2021. However, this change has finally received a confirmed date for implementation after previously being planned for 2023. 

Why Are UCAS Personal Statements Being Changed?

The announcement of these reforms was initially made on January 12th 2023 via a blog post on the official HEPI website. This post highlights the amendments being made to the Personal Statement process and the research that was conducted to influence this change.  

Interestingly, the data quoted in this post states that the majority of applicants surveyed were happy with the current Personal Statement process, with 72% feeling positive about it. However, the same survey indicated that 83% of applicants found the process stressful and 79% felt unable to complete theirs without support. This is the data that most likely influenced the changes. 

The post’s writer, Kim Eccleston, states that they are aiming to provide better support for both applicants and universities, creating “a more supportive framework” that allows applicants to write about what the universities need to know in a less restrictive way. It is also stated in a more detailed outline of the announcement that both students and teachers preferred the use of specific questions instead of free-form writing. 

However, a previous post released in November 2022 provides even more insight into the reasoning behind this decision. Based on data featured in HEPI Debate Paper 31 , various industry professionals had commented on the challenges facing applicants of certain background when it comes to the current style of Personal Statement. 

Within the quotes featured here, the traditional UCAS Personal Statement was described as “ambiguous” , “unfair” and “barometers of middle-class privilege” . These comments may potentially be in reference to the current importance of work experience, which can be difficult to obtain without connections in certain industries, as well as additional experiences which may not be available to all applicants.  

Therefore, this new system should presumably reduce the barriers for disadvantaged applicants by shifting focus to each individual’s own interest and abilities within their chosen subjects. 

Other Changes being Made by UCAS

Personal Statements are only one of five key areas being altered by UCAS, as highlighted in the blog post. This is certainly the most significant action taking place, but other changes that were previously made to the application process include: 

• Academic references are being reformed, moving from a free-text approach to a set of three questions, similar to the Personal Statement reforms.
• The 'Entry Grade Report' will be created, which allows applicants to see grade profiles that have been accepted for courses over a five year period.
• A 'Course Recommendation Tool' is being created to provide applicants with personalised suggestions for courses based on their current grades and preferences.
• A 'Fair Access Programme' is being created to encourage widening access and participation.

Overall, it seems these changes all have the same intent; to level the playing field and make university applications more achievable for everyone. 

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How will this affect my university application?

As previously stated, if you are applying to university this year for 2025 Entry (and deferred Entry for 2026), you will not be affected by these reforms and will need to submit a traditional Personal Statement to UCAS like previous years. 

For applicants applying for 2026 Entry and beyond, your application will follow this new process, meaning you won’t have to submit a full Personal Statement but will instead need to answer a series of questions relating to your application and abilities for your chosen course. 

When hearing that the whole process will be changing, this typically instils a feeling of dread as you’ll be treading new ground that no one else has experienced before. However, it’s important to understand that UCAS states these changes are being made for the benefit of both the applicants and the universities. 

As we’ve already discussed, a key part of the reason this change is being implemented is that a high percentage of applicants found writing a traditional Personal Statement stressful, which is counterintuitive to what UCAS is trying to achieve. By providing applicants with a strong framework, in the form of specific questions, this new process should allow more applicants to provide better quality statements for universities. 

This change is also set to be particularly beneficial to those from disadvantaged backgrounds, as the process will allow them to better express their ability regardless of any areas that may be lacking due to factors out of their control. Essentially, the new process should allow more people to stand a better chance of making a good impression despite limitations. 

How Can I Start Preparing?

If you’re starting your preparations early, the main barrier you’ll face at this stage of preparation is not knowing what the questions will be, as they have yet to be announced. There are no resources available currently that cover this system, so you’re going to have to be independent with your preparation here.

Since we have a rough outline of what the questions to focus on, you should still be able to practice your responses. Although they won’t be as relevant any more, it would still be helpful to check out Personal Statement guides and examples as these can help you pin down the language and writing style you use. 

With all this information now available to us, you should be able to get a sense of what to do for your application in the coming years. The initial introduction of this system in 2025 will act as a test of its effectiveness, so elements could be changed in the years following. However, the important thing is that you understand how things are changing from the current system and how you can make the most of the new system. 

If you are applying for university in 2024 for 2025 Entry, you will need to make sure you’re ready to write your Personal Statement. Thankfully, UniAdmissions have plenty of resources to help you through it, including our Ultimate UCAS Personal Statement Guide and our collection of successful Oxbridge Personal Statements . 

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By Nik Taylor (Editor, The Uni Guide) | 18 July 2024 | 6 min read

The Ucas personal statement is changing in 2025

A question-based personal statement will be required as part of university applications from autumn 2025 onwards

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Why is the personal statement changing, how has ucas decided on these changes to the personal statement, do universities care about the personal statement, how have teacher references changed.

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Looking for help with your personal statement?

If you are currently working on your university application personal statement, you'll find plenty of help and support on The Uni Guide and over on The Student Room. The changes described above will only be relevant for people who are applying to start university in 2026 or later. If you are applying to start university before then, you will still need to complete the current personal statement.

How to write an excellent personal statement in 10 steps

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UCAS Personal Statement Changes: FAQ

Personal Statement

Last updated: 23 July 2024

Starting in September 2025, students applying for a UK university through UCAS will face a revamped application process designed to better support those from disadvantaged backgrounds.

To level the playing field, the traditional free-response personal statement , which allowed up to 4,000 characters, will be replaced by three mandatory questions. The new questions will be:

• Why do you want to study this course or subject?
• How have your qualifications and studies prepared you for this course or subject?
• What else have you done to prepare outside of education, and why are these experiences helpful?

Understandably, you may have questions regarding these changes, so below, we have collated some commonly asked questions ahead of the changes for 2025. If you have any further questions, do not hesitate to reach and contact our writing team today.

UCAS Personal Statement Changes FAQ

What is changing with ucas personal statements.

From September 2025, UCAS is replacing the traditional 4,000-character personal statement with three structured questions. Applicants will need to answer questions about their motivations and preparedness for their chosen course.

What are the new questions applicants need to answer?

• Applicants can showcase their passion and knowledge about their chosen course.
• How have your qualifications and studies helped you to prepare for this course or subject?
• This question allows students to highlight relevant skills gained during their education.
• Students can discuss personal experiences and extracurricular activities, demonstrating their suitability for the course.

Why is the UCAS personal statement changing?

UCAS aims to make the application process fairer, particularly for students from disadvantaged backgrounds. The structured questions provide clearer guidance, which can help all students present their qualifications and experiences more effectively.

Will the character limit change?

No, the total character limit remains 4,000 characters. Applicants can distribute these characters flexibly across their answers to the three questions.

How does this change support disadvantaged students?

The structured questions are designed to give students greater confidence in their responses, reducing the advantage of those with extensive support.

What are experts saying about the reform?

Jo Saxton, UCAS Chief Executive, supports the change, believing it will open opportunities for more students. Social mobility expert Lee Elliot Major also views the reform as a significant step towards a fairer admissions system. However, some parents, like Leesa Chester, argue that the questions are essentially the same as the existing personal statement format and may not significantly impact the support needed by disadvantaged students.

What is the impact on application rates for disadvantaged students?

UCAS data shows a persistent gap between the application rates of the most and least advantaged students. This year, the proportion of applicants from disadvantaged backgrounds fell in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, while it rose in Scotland. The new changes aim to address these disparities.

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How to ace the new UCAS personal statement (2025)

11 Plus, 13 Plus, Other School Entrance, University Admissions, English & Maths

September 6th, 2024

Navigating the new format of the UCAS personal statement requires a slightly different approach. Read on to uncover the changes for 2025, and how you can make the most of your personal statement and achieve your place at university.

What is a UCAS personal statement?

The UCAS personal statement plays a key role university application decision making process in the UK. It’s an opportunity for prospective students for undergraduate courses to showcase their skills, experiences, and motivations in writing for choosing a particular course. Through this statement, students must make a compelling case to admissions tutors as to why they are a suitable candidate for their course of choice. As students usually apply for more than one course, the statement has to fit the different courses equally well.

Format of the new UCAS personal statements

UCAS personal statements are changing from 2025. The format has changed and reflects changing expectations in UK higher education. Previously, students were asked to write one statement but now they must answer structured responses to three specific questions posed by UCAS. These questions are:

• Why do you want to study this course or subject?
• How have your qualifications and studies helped you to prepare for this course or subject?
• What else have you done to prepare outside of education, and why are these experiences useful?

This new approach, which comes into force in 2025, encourages a more standardised narrative, enabling applicants to better match their qualifications and fit for the course. The answers have a minimum length of 350 words and the total length must not exceed 4000 words.

What is UCAS?

UCAS, or the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service, is an organisation which is responsible for administering applications to higher education courses in the UK. UCAS provides a single online platform through which students can apply to multiple universities and courses. It also has a supportive role, providing students with essential information and guidance throughout their application.

Why does UCAS use a personal statement?

There are various reasons why UCAS still uses a personal statement. It allows candidates to stand out from other with the same or similar predicted grades. It presents a personal narrative, based on specific questions set by UCAS, allowing prospective students to express their individuality, explain reasons behind their academic interests, and highlight experiences that they feel have prepared them for life at university. The UCAS personal statement helps admissions officers match students to courses where they will thrive.

Practice makes perfect

The new format if the UCAS personal statement should make writing it slightly more straightforward. There are now specific answers to be given, meaning that although these can be drafted and edited, they are to be completed in a specific format. Don’t hesitate to ask for help from your school or college.

Review example statements

Looking at sample personal statements from previous applicants can provide useful insights. As this is the first year of the new format, schools and colleges will have to write their own sample statements to help. Students must use their own original ideas, but can ask for help where needed to ensure their ideas are coherent and match up to the course to which they are applying.

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UCAS personal statement changes

UCAS are changing the way personal statements work. This will affect anyone applying to start university in September 2026. Here's what that means for you.

What we'll cover:

Why are ucas changing personal statements.

• When will these changes take place?

What are the new personal statement questions?

• Top tips for writing a personal statement

Personal statements are a way to help your application stand out. They can demonstrate your passion for the subject or skills that will help you to succeed. This can help universities decide whether to make you an offer or not.

However, many students find writing a personal statement stressful. It can be hard to condense yourself into two sides of A4 paper. What do you include? What do you not include?

That is why UCAS have introduced a new, more structured personal statement made up of three questions. This will give your personal statement a clear focus and allow you to share your achievements in different parts of your life. This should be a maximum of 4000 characters, including spaces.

When will theses changes take place?

UCAS will change personal statements for anyone who is applying to start university in September 2026.

Students applying for September 2025 entry will not be affected. If this is you, check out some of our top tips for writing a personal statement .

1. Why do you want to study this course or topic?

This question allows you to express your interest in the subject, including what motivates you to study this course. Is it a longstanding passion of yours, or does it align with your career goals?

You should also demonstrate your knowledge about the subject, so admissions officers can feel confident it's the right course for you. You could do this by discussing the kind of topics you will be studying. For example, if you want to study law, does one type of law interest you more than others and why?

2. How have your qualifications and studies helped you to prepare for this course?

This is your chance to show that you have the ability to succeed on your course. You should talk about the knowledge you already have in this subject, such as key theories or areas that you have enjoyed studying.

You should also read the course description and modules to identify the skills you will need. That could include essay writing, critical thinking and teamwork skills.

Don't just write a long list of skills - provide evidence and show how they would help you on your course. Here are some examples:

• Analytical skills - Studying English and History at A Level has helped to develop my analytical skills. These are essay-based subjects, which require the ability to analyse and evaluate evidence. This will help me when studying history, as I will be able to interpret and analyse primary and secondary sources.
• Teamwork skills - My A Level Business course has included a group presentation about the marketing mix. We divided the different areas between us and then suggested improvements, which we implemented together. For example, I suggested using more visual aids to the presentation. This would prompt us during the presentation and help the audience understand what we were talking about. The rest of the team agreed and we added this in our slideshow. The ability to raise suggestions and discuss this with a team will help me during group projects in my degree.

3. What else have you done to prepare outside of education, and why are these experiences helpful?

This is your chance to show who you are outside of education and demonstrate how it can help your studies. This can include sports, hobbies or volunteering.

For example, if you want to study business and have volunteered in a charity shop, you could talk about how this made you interested in management. Or if you're part of a football team, you could talk about the teamwork and communication skills this has taught you. 

You could also discuss any wider reading you have done around the subject. Synthesise the ideas in the book and present your thoughts about it. This again demonstrates your interest in that area.

Top tips for answering the new personal statement questions

Keep it relevant, provide evidence, focus on what you have done, read it aloud, don't complicate it, don't waffle, don't be negative, don't copy or paraphrase, where next.

The UCAS personal statement changes will affect people applying to start university from September 2026. Students applying to start university in September 2025 will not be affected.

Check out some more of our advice for applying to university.

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Updates to the UCAS Personal Statement Format: A Guide for Applicants

Learn how to navigate the new UCAS personal statement format in 2026 with three structured prompts. Learn to effectively showcase your strengths and motivations.

Sep 16, 2024

Navigating the New UCAS Personal Statement Format: A Guide for Applicants

The UCAS personal statement has undergone a significant change, introducing a structured format with three specific prompts. While this may seem daunting at first, it actually offers a clearer framework for applicants to showcase their strengths and motivations.

Understanding the New Format

• Focus and Clarity: The new format requires a more focused approach, as you'll need to distribute your 4,000 characters across three questions. This encourages you to organize your thoughts and highlight the most relevant information.
• Key Points: The structure helps you ensure that you address all the essential aspects universities want to know about you.

Starting in September 2025, for students applying for 2026 entry, the personal statement will no longer be a single free-form essay. Instead, you’ll need to answer three structured questions, with a total character count of 4,000. Let’s break down what this means for you.

The new questions are:

Why do you want to study this course or subject?

• How have your qualifications and studies prepared you for this course or subject?

What other experiences outside of education have prepared you for this course, and why are they useful?

What Admissions Officers Are Looking For in Your Personal Statement Responses 

Understanding these expectations will help you tailor your answers to showcase your genuine interest, preparedness, and relevant experiences effectively.

This question aims to gauge your genuine interest and motivation for choosing the course. An admissions officer wants to understand why this particular subject excites you and how your passion aligns with the course content.

Here are some tips to help you craft a compelling answer:

1. Motivation Matters

• Be Specific: Avoid generic answers like "I want to make money" or "I want to help people."
• Connect to Your Passions: Explain how the course aligns with your personal interests or career goals.
• Highlight Your Strengths: Discuss how the course will allow you to leverage your existing skills or knowledge.

2. Research is Key

• Understand the Curriculum: Familiarize yourself with the course structure, specific topics, and potential assignments.
• Identify Unique Aspects: Highlight any particular aspects of the course that resonate with you, such as a specific professor, research opportunities, or hands-on projects.

3. Be Authentic

• Show Your Enthusiasm: Let your passion for the subject shine through in your answer.
• Be Honest: Avoid exaggerating or fabricating your reasons for choosing the course.

Example: Instead of saying, "I want to be a doctor," you could say, "I've always been fascinated by the human body and the complexities of disease. The medical field's emphasis on problem-solving and critical thinking aligns perfectly with my strengths, and I'm particularly drawn to the opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research in cancer treatment."

How have your qualifications and studies helped you to prepare for this course or subject?

This question aims to assess how your academic background has equipped you with the necessary skills and knowledge for the program.

Here's how to craft a strong answer:

1. Highlight Relevant Skills

• Identify Key Competencies: Determine the specific skills and knowledge required for the course.
• Connect to Your Background: Explain how your previous studies have developed these competencies.

2. Cite Specific Examples

• Discuss Relevant Courses: Mention specific subjects that have directly prepared you for the course.
• Share Project Experiences: Describe projects or assignments that demonstrate your ability to apply your knowledge.

3. Demonstrate Your Passion

• Explain Your Interest: Discuss how your past studies have fueled your passion for the subject.
• Show Your Enthusiasm: Convey your excitement about continuing to explore the field.

Example: Instead of saying, "I'm taking biology, so I'm prepared for a medical degree," you could say, "My IB HL Biology course has deepened my understanding of human anatomy and physiology. The research project I conducted on the effects of climate change on coral reefs demonstrated my ability to analyse complex scientific data and draw informed conclusions. I'm particularly excited to apply these skills to the study of infectious diseases and public health.

By following these tips, you can effectively demonstrate how your past studies have prepared you for the course and showcase your potential for success. Remember to be specific, provide concrete examples, and highlight your passion for the subject.

This question seeks to understand the additional efforts you've made beyond your formal education to prepare for the course.

Here's how to craft a compelling answer:

1. Highlight Relevant Experiences

• Identify Key Skills: Determine the specific skills and qualities valued by the program.
• Connect to Your Experiences: Explain how your extracurricular activities, work experience, or personal projects have developed these skills.

2. Provide Concrete Examples

• Describe Your Involvement: Detail your role and responsibilities in each activity.
• Quantify Your Impact: Explain the outcomes or achievements resulting from your efforts.

3. Explain the Relevance

• Connect to Your Course: Discuss how your experiences have deepened your understanding of the subject.
• Demonstrate Your Passion: Show how these activities have fueled your enthusiasm for the field.

Example: Instead of saying, "I volunteered at the animal shelter," you could say, "As a volunteer at the local animal shelter, I gained valuable experience in animal care and developed strong communication skills while working with a diverse team of volunteers. My involvement in animal rescue projects has reinforced my commitment to environmental conservation and inspired me to pursue a career in veterinary medicine."

By following these tips, you can effectively demonstrate how your extracurricular activities have enriched your application and showcase your well-roundedness. Remember to be specific, provide concrete examples, and explain the relevance of your experiences to your chosen course.

Our Tips for Success

• Start Early: Give yourself ample time to brainstorm and outline your answers.
• Be Specific: Use concrete examples to illustrate your passion, skills, and experiences.
• Seek Feedback: Get input from teachers, mentors, or expert advisors to refine your responses.
• Write Clearly: Ensure your writing is clear, concise, and easy to understand.
• Choose Your Examples Carefully: The specific questions allow for direct comparisons between candidates. Select examples that effectively highlight your strengths and align with the prompts.
• Be Succinct: While the character count remains the same, the new format requires focused and targeted responses to each question. Avoid rambling and ensure your answers are relevant.

Preparing for the New Format

• Academic Enrichment: Delve deeper into your chosen subject to demonstrate your passion and understanding. Consider participating in subject-related activities like reading, research, or projects.
• Subject-Relevant Extracurriculars: Engage in activities that align with your field of interest, such as internships, research projects, or specialized clubs.
• Strategic Reflection: Consider how your academic and extracurricular experiences relate to each prompt. Tailor your responses to effectively address the questions and showcase your strengths.

We can provide valuable support in your preparation. Our coaches can support you as you develop subject expertise, critical thinking, and understanding.

By following these tips and leveraging the resources available, you can effectively navigate the new UCAS personal statement format and create a compelling application that highlights your unique qualities and potential.

Get started on your UK university journey now. 

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UCAS to replace personal statement essay with three questions to help disadvantaged people

UCAS surveyed potential applicants about to start their personal statement and found more than three-quarters prefer the new three-question format.

By Claire Gilbody Dickerson, news reporter

Thursday 18 July 2024 03:37, UK

Students applying for university through UCAS will be required to answer three questions under new plans to help support people from disadvantaged backgrounds. 

Under the current system, prospective students have been filling out a free-response essay for their personal statement, which can be up to 4,000 characters long.

But amid concerns the task helps advantaged people who can get support, the essay will, as of September 2025, be replaced with three mandatory questions.

The questions are:

• Why do you want to study this course or subject?

• How have your qualifications and studies helped you to prepare for this course or subject?

• What else have you done to prepare outside of education, and why are these experiences helpful?

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Students seeking to start university in 2026 will be the first to experience the reformed application form, which will allow for the same amount of writing as the essay.

The move comes as UCAS data suggests the gap in university application rates between the most and least advantaged students has widened in the last year.

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Data shows the application rate from the most disadvantaged backgrounds has fallen slightly to 25.4% in England, while the application rate for the most advantaged has marginally increased to 60.7%.

UCAS surveyed potential applicants about to start their personal statement, and found more than three-quarters prefer the new three-question format.

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Previous UCAS research found 79% of students felt that the process of writing the personal statement was difficult to complete without support.

Jo Saxton, chief executive at UCAS, said: "The changes to the personal statement, along with our recent fee waiver for students in receipt of free school meals, are all part of UCAS's contribution to the sector-wide effort to ensure more people from disadvantaged backgrounds can benefit from the life-changing opportunity of higher education."

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Ucas to replace personal statement with series of questions

Admissions service also making changes to teacher references, and plans to release details of grade profiles that were accepted onto courses.

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The Ucas personal statement is to be replaced by a series of questions following concerns that it was too stressful for UK students.

The admissions service said it believes the change to the 4,000 character essay – which had previously been  criticised for contributing to inequalities in higher education access  – will create “a more supportive framework”.

Advocates of reform said the change will help “level the playing field” in university admissions.

The  Future of Undergraduate Admissions report  by Ucas also announced that academic references would become structured questions, and that students will be able to see a range of accepted entry grades for different courses to improve transparency.

A recent Ucas survey found that 83 per cent of students reported the process of writing a personal statement stressful, with 79 per cent saying it is difficult to complete without support.

Based on this feedback, Kim Eccleston, head of strategy and reform at Ucas, says the current format will be reframed into a series of questions focusing on six key areas: motivation for the course, preparedness for the course, preparation through other experiences, extenuating circumstances, preparedness for study, and preferred learning style.

“We believe this will create a more supportive framework which in turn will help guide students through their responses by removing the guesswork, as well as capturing the information universities and colleges have told us they really need to know from applicants when it comes to offer-making”, she writes in a  blog published by the Higher Education Policy Institute .

The questions are set to be introduced in 2024, for students entering higher education in 2025, while Ucas said it paved the way for further enhancements, such as moving to multimedia submissions.

Lee Elliot Major, professor of social mobility at the University of Exeter , said the move to structured questions was “hugely positive”.

“No one should underestimate how important this reform will be in helping to level the playing field in university admissions,” he added.

“I’ve been calling for reform as statements currently add further advantage for middle class applicants who are often given help in filling in their submissions.”

Providers had told Ucas that the subjective nature of the academic reference section – typically filled out by an applicant’s form tutor or careers adviser – made it challenging to be used to compare applicants against each other.

As a result, it will be replaced with three structured questions – a mandatory general statement about the referee’s school, plus optional information sections on extenuating circumstances affecting the applicant’s performance.

Beginning with the 2024 entry cycle, Professor Elliot Major said it will enable more “objective and useful comments from teachers”.

“As we enter an era of increasing competition for the most selective university degree courses, we need more structured and transparent university admissions that are fair and fit for purpose for all,” he added.

In addition, entry grade reports will be available through the Ucas website, which will give a range of grade profiles that have been accepted onto courses over a five-year period.

It said that this personalised tool, which will launch this year, will prompt applicants to dig deeper into entry requirements and re-evaluate options that may have been considered out of reach.

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Everything You Need to Know About the Changes to UCAS’s Personal Statement (2025/26 entry)

Key changes you need to know about to the UCAS personal statement.

In 2026, the UCAS personal statement will be changing from one piece of text to a multi-question missive.

But what does this mean for you and your students?

Our latest resource covers everything you need to know about the upcoming changes to personal statements including what’s required, how they’re changing and how to best prepare your students.

You’ll also find tips and advice on how they can tweak and refine their writing and tailor their answers accordingly to align with this brand-new format.

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UCAS Application Questions 2025

If you are reading this, it is likely you have already heard that UCAS are scrapping the personal statement from 2025 onwards.

Looking back, the UK's university admissions service has gradually changed over the years, with the aim of providing a better service to the hundreds of thousands of higher education applicants who use their online systems each year.

This includes the introduction of Clearing Plus in 2020, the release of a new tool called UCAS Hub (that merged UCAS Apply and UCAS Track) in 2021, and the launch of new widening participation questions in 2022.

If you're wondering what's happening next, all the information you need about changes to the UCAS application for 2025 can be found below.

Why is UCAS scrapping the personal statement from 2025?

During their consultation period, in conjunction with the Department of Education, UCAS collected feedback and insights from nearly 15,000 students, universities, colleges, and conservatoires; over 700 teachers and their representative bodies; and sector stakeholders, to create a Reimagining UK Admissions report .

The survey found that students have mixed thoughts about the UCAS personal statement .

Some rely heavily on input from others to make sure they've done a good job and included all the information they are supposed to.

By splitting the statement into sections, it will be clearer to students what supporting information is significant to their application, making it easier to present themselves in the best light, as well as increasing their chances of understanding what they should include.

What will the personal statement be replaced with?

The following sections have been raised for inclusion by admissions staff in universities and colleges. They are intended to help admissions teams assess whether applicants are a good fit for the course, and how they might compare to other applicants for the same courses:

Motivation for course: Why do you want to study this course(s)?

This might be because you want to pursue a particular career path, or simply because you are passionate and enthusiastic about the subject.

By thinking about this question, students can ensure that the course they have chosen will deliver on their expectations, whether this is professional accreditation, a pathway to a specific job role or the opportunity to explore a subject in detail that fascinates them.

Ultimately, universities and colleges want to see that you have checked the content of their course carefully to ensure it is a suitable match for them.

Preparedness for course: How has your learning so far helped you to be ready to succeed on these courses?

This is an opportunity for students to highlight what they’ve learnt from school or college or any other formal learning setting.

This might be an A level curriculum helping them understand the breadth of a discipline and pointing them to further research into where their interests most lie. It may be specific skills and competencies related to the courses they want to go on to study. As always, answers will be personal to each student but key here is demonstration of understanding of what will help them succeed.

Preparation through other experiences: What else have you done to help you prepare, and why are these experiences useful?

The experiences featured here are likely to be varied and may include activities such as self directed extracurricular learning, involvement in sports or social clubs, and employment or other work experience. What all responses should include is a reflection on why the activity is being referenced – what has been learned from it? What skills have been developed? What critical thought has been sparked, and what did the student do next as a result? Why will these things help them on their courses?

Extenuating circumstances: Is there anything that the universities and colleges need to know about, to help them put your achievements and experiences so far into context?

Not all students will feel the need to respond to this question, but for those who strongly feel that they would like to contextualise their application in their own words, this space allows them to do this without 'spending' words they could be using to articulate their skills and suitability for the courses.

Preparedness for study: What have you done to prepare yourself for student life?

Here students are encouraged to reflect on their transition to higher education with more independent learning and in some cases independent living. Again, providers are seeking to understand the extent to which applicants appreciate these changes and understand what they need to do to succeed.

Preferred learning styles: Which learning and assessment styles best suit you – how do your courses choices match that?

Some students may prefer signficant amounts of contact time; others will thrive through independent study. Others may work best through group projects and or through solo work.

Frequent practical assessments may suit some while long written examinations may be the preference of others. Again, providers want to see that students have considered this in making their choices, and want to be confident that the course and student are a good match.

How will the final set of questions be decided?

UCAS have carried out a survey, aimed at capturing wider feedback from customers and stakeholders to help us refine the theme for the questions. Once we have identified these, our user experience team will start to look at how we word the questions so that we can ensure all students understand exactly what is being asked of them. 

When will the changes to the UCAS personal statement occur?

Although UCAS won't be launching their new application process before 2024 (for those starting courses in Sept/Oct 2025), they would still like to hear from prospective applicants so they can gain a better understanding of their own timelines for preparing for this change and will confirm timelines once they have received this feedback.

Will videos be allowed as part of my personal statement in the future?

UCAS is aware that mixed media personal statements may help some applicants. This might be from universities/colleges offering courses where other skills such as performance are more relevant, or from students who feel they can better present themselves in ways other than writing. In splitting the personal statement into sections, we can start to explore combining written and other responses – but as always we will conduct significant customer and stakeholder engagement before making any decisions on this.

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• Gain an in-depth understanding of internal business functions, including operations, finance, sales and marketing, human resource management, accounting, technology, and the impact of AI
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• Solve practical and theoretical problems with new mathematical, data analytical and IT skills
• Master a range of tools to advise and influence stakeholders, confidently communicating ideas and arguments

Year 1: Introduction to Management (20 Credits); Communication Skills for Managers (20 Credits); Managing People (20 Credits); Global Business Fundamentals (20 Credits); Sustainability Management (20 Credits); Marketing in a Digital World (20 Credits) Year 2: Applied Project Management (20 Credits); Digital Business and Emerging Technologies (20 Credits); Business Finance for Managers (20 Credits); Applied Operations Management (20 Credit); Leadership in Practice (20 Credits); International Business in the Global Economy (20 Credits) Year 3: Data Analysis and Management Decision Making (20 Credits); Applied Management Business Project Proposal (20 Credits); Entrepreneurship and Innovation (20 Credits); Strategic Management Sustainability and Ethics (20 Credits; Applied Management Business Project (40 Credits)

Assessment method

The programme features a variety of assessments including coursework and examinations. Coursework is in the form of essays, reports or case studies, while group or individual presentations may be required to assess other competencies. Examinations will be with written elements or multiple-choice questions and may be unseen or part-seen, where assessment material is released in advance.

This is the deadline for applications to be completed and sent for this course. If the university or college still has places available you can apply after this date, but your application is not guaranteed to be considered.

Application codes

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Points of entry

The following entry points are available for this course:

International applicants

We welcome students from around the world, offering a culturally diverse study environment, with our specialist service helping choose your study location, correct visa, finance option and even somewhere to live. We’re also a Student Sponsor and are fully recognised and accredited as a Higher Education Institution.

Qualification requirements

There are no qualification requirements for this course.

AAT Level 3 must be accompanied by: - A maximum of three other tariff qualifications (e.g. A-levels) to equate to the required equivalent overall UCAS tariff points of 120. - Appropriate professional experience Level 4 Will be considered via the Accreditation of Prior Learning route for entry onto year two (plus two modules from year one) ACCA Exam passes with ACCA may enable entry part way through the programme We will consider applicants who have: - Recognised qualifications in combination which equate to a minimum of 120+ UCAS tariff points - A recognised and equivalent vocational, industry or professional qualification - A recognised and equivalent qualification (examinations and experience) and apply following the Accredited Prior Learning procedure

Please click the following link to find out more about qualification requirements for this course

https://www.bpp.com/courses/accountancy-and-tax/undergraduate/bsc-accounting-and-finance

Student Outcomes

There is no data available for this course. For further information visit the Discover Uni website .

Fees and funding

Tuition fees.

Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .

Additional fee information

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BPP University BPP House Aldine Place 142-144 Uxbridge Road London W12 8AA

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If you're writing a psychology personal statement, describing your personal insights into the subject or how you've pursued your interest outside the classroom will impress over quoting Freud or Milgram (which might sound a little pretentious). That's what psychology admissions tutors told us when we asked them what they're looking for in your personal statement.

Five things to include in your psychology personal statement

The University of Bristol highlights five elements of a strong, academically focused psychology statement:

• Ensure it is well structured and well written .  
• Give details of any specific interests or ambitions you have that relate to the content of the course.
• Demonstrate your enthusiasm for psychological research as a focus for academic study.
• Provide evidence of when you have pursued your interest in psychology outside the classroom (see above!)
• Give examples of non-curricular activities you are involved in which indicate the contribution you are likely to make to university life. Any relevant work experience you have under your belt is also worth talking about. But if you haven't gained experience in the field directly, think creatively - there might be ways to link observations from your part-time job, voluntary work or extra-curricular activities to psychology. One successful applicant finished her statement with a short paragraph about her Saturday job on a supermarket fish counter, describing the satisfaction she got from knowing how to gut and fillet a mackerel. Linking her experience to psychology in an innovative but relevant way was a lot more interesting than just saying it had improved her teamwork or communication skills, which are a bit broad.

Psychology tutors tell it like it is

Here are some more points to avoid:

• A lack of understanding: ‘Some applicants display a misconception of what psychology is. We want to know that you understand the importance of scientific elements of the course and the importance of statistics and experimentation’.
• Not enough engagement with the subject: ‘Some applicants are rejected because of a lack of commitment to the subject, especially in cases where it appears that they’ve applied for a mixture of courses rather than five psychology ones’.
• Making it too personal: ‘Some applicants expand too much on personal circumstances, such as mental health issues or life events. Studying psychology may not necessarily help, so don't overplay personal stories’.
• Getting the tone wrong: don’t just say you ‘want to help people’ and don’t use inappropriate language like ‘less fortunate people’. Also, avoid inserting sophisticated language or phrases if you don’t fully understand them – ‘straightforward language is never a bad thing’.

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