Writing a personal statement for UK universities: the 80-20 technique

At St Paul’s School, we employ a distinctive and effective technique when guiding students through the process of crafting personal statements for UK university applications. Recognising the unique requirements of the UK admissions process, our approach places an emphasis on academic achievements, subject-specific relevance and a coherent demonstration of the students’ passion for their chosen fields of study.

This method ensures that each student’s personal statement not only aligns with their academic pursuits but also presents a compelling narrative that resonates with the expectations of admissions tutors across various courses. Students are equipped with the tools to showcase their academic prowess and to demonstrate a genuine commitment to their chosen academic paths.

We call it the 80-20 technique.

Step 1. Understand the 80-20 rule

Ensure that 80 per cent of the personal statement focuses on academic achievement. This should be experience and knowledge accrued inside and outside the classroom, directly related to the courses you want to pursue.

The remaining 20 per cent will ideally touch upon aspirations and relevant extracurricular activities.

Step 2. Start with a strong introduction

Encourage students to begin with a captivating introduction that succinctly expresses their passion for their chosen field of study and hints at their academic journey.

3. Develop a list of 12 bullet points

Guide students in creating a list of 12 bullet points that showcase academic accomplishments, relevant experiences and extracurricular activities. The first point should detail what sparked their interest in the subject, and the last should discuss future aspirations.

Step 4. Craft the personal statement

Paragraph 1: Academic passion and journey

Emphasise the discipline’s unique aspects that captivate the student.

Briefly mention multicultural perspectives if relevant.

Paragraphs 2-4: Academic achievements

Delve into specific projects, coursework and research related to the chosen field.

Highlight achievements in subjects relevant to the course.

Paragraphs 5-7: Academic proficiency

Showcase achievements in relevant subjects, exams and competitions.

Discuss any additional courses or certifications that enhance their academic profile.

Paragraphs 8-10: Aspirations and extracurricular activities

Discuss aspirations and goals, linking them to the chosen course.

Highlight leadership roles and participation in relevant clubs or societies.

Emphasise any interdisciplinary interests that complement the chosen course.

Paragraph 11: Real-world application

Detail any internships, work experience or projects that apply academic knowledge to real-world scenarios.

Paragraph 12: Conclusion

Summarise key points.

Express excitement about future challenges and contributions to the chosen field.

Step 5. Use factual and concise language

Advise students to maintain a factual and concise writing style.

Eliminate unnecessary adjectives and adverbs; instead, focus on specific details and achievements.

Step 6. Give students feedback

Ensure the language remains authentic to the student’s voice. Offer students feedback on their writing in light of the 80-20 rule. At St Paul’s, all members of the careers and university guidance team are linguists by training and started their careers as language teachers, which makes helping students to improve their writing a little easier. If help is needed, reach out to the English department at your school.

Step 7. Revise and edit

Emphasise the importance of multiple revisions.

Check for clarity, coherence and grammatical accuracy.

Make sure the student does not mention a specific university in their personal statement.

Remember that the same personal statement is going to be read by admissions tutors at five different universities or on five different courses.