Understanding the changes to UCAS personal statements for 2026 entry
- abisadviceeducatio
- Aug 29, 2025
- 2 min read
Updated: Aug 30, 2025
What’s changing?
Starting in September 2025, the UCAS personal statement will no longer be a single free-form essay. Instead, applicants will respond to three specific questions, each with a minimum character count of 350 characters, contributing to the overall 4,000-character limit (including spaces).
The three questions
The new personal statement format will consist of the following questions:
Why do you want to study this course or subject? This is your opportunity to express your passion and motivation for choosing this particular course.
How have your qualifications and studies helped you to prepare for this course or subject? Here, you can discuss the academic skills and knowledge you've gained that will support your success in the course.
What else have you done to prepare outside of education, and why are these experiences useful? This section allows you to highlight extracurricular activities, work experience, or other relevant experiences that demonstrate your commitment and preparedness .
Don't know where to start? Book a personal statement consultation today with an expert.
Why the change?
UCAS has introduced these changes to make the application process more structured and accessible. The aim is to provide clearer guidance on what universities are looking for, helping all applicants present their strengths effectively.
What does this mean for you?
As a student entering Year 13 this September, these changes will directly affect your UCAS application. You will need to adapt your approach from writing a single free-form essay to responding clearly to the three structured questions. It is important to start reflecting now on why you want to study your chosen course, how your academic experiences have prepared you, and what extracurricular or work experiences demonstrate your skills and commitment. Planning your answers carefully will help you create a strong and focused personal statement that meets the new requirements.
Final thoughts
While the format of the UCAS personal statement is evolving, the core purpose remains the same: to provide universities with insight into who you are and why you're a strong candidate for your chosen course. By understanding these changes and preparing accordingly, you can ensure that your application effectively communicates your strengths and aspirations.
For more detailed guidance on writing your personal statement, you can visit the official UCAS website.
If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to email me.
Whether you need advice on what to include or constructive feedback on a draft you’ve already written, you can book an appointment today to discuss your personal statement with an experienced higher-education specialist.
Comments