Navigating the 2025 UCAS Personal Statement Changes: What You Need to Know

The UCAS personal statement has long been a pivotal component of university applications in the UK, offering students a platform to showcase their passions, qualifications, and readiness for higher education. Starting from September 2025, changes will be implemented to make this process more structured and equitable for all applicants.​

Why the Change?

Feedback from students highlighted that while 89% understood the purpose of the personal statement, 79% found it challenging to complete without adequate support. The unstructured nature of the traditional format often placed students from disadvantaged backgrounds at a further disadvantage. In response, UCAS aims to level the playing field by introducing a more guided approach.

What’s changing?

The free-form personal statement will be replaced by three structured questions:

  1. Why do you want to study this course or subject?: This allows you to express your passion and understanding of the chosen field, demonstrating to universities why you’re a suitable candidate.
  2. How have your qualifications and studies helped you to prepare for this course or subject? Here, you can highlight relevant skills and knowledge gained during your education that will support your success in the course.
  3. What else have you done to prepare outside of education, and why are these experiences helpful? This section provides an opportunity to discuss extracurricular activities, work experience, or personal responsibilities that have equipped you with transferable skills pertinent to your chosen course.

The overall character limit remains at 4,000 characters, allowing flexibility in how you allocate space to each response.

Impact on Applicants

These changes are designed to provide clearer guidance, reducing the stress associated with writing personal statements and ensuring all students, regardless of background, can effectively convey their suitability for higher education. The structured format aims to make the application process more transparent and equitable.

Preparing for the New Format

To adapt to this new structure:

1. Reflect on Your Motivations: Consider what draws you to your chosen course and how it aligns with your future aspirations.

2. Assess Your Academic Journey: Identify specific subjects, projects, or experiences during your studies that have prepared you for this course.

3. Evaluate Extracurricular Contributions: Think about activities outside the classroom—such as volunteering, part-time work, or personal projects—that have developed relevant skills and insights.​

Conclusion

The upcoming changes to the UCAS personal statement represent a shift towards a more structured and supportive application process. By understanding and preparing for these changes, you can present a compelling narrative that effectively showcases your readiness for university study.

Stay proactive and start planning your responses early to navigate these changes successfully.