Personal Statement Changes: The Truth Behind the New UCAS Application Questions
If you've been following the latest news on university applications in the UK, you might have come across sensational headlines proclaiming "the end of the personal statement." While these declarations grab attention, they can be misleading. The reality is that the traditional personal statement is evolving into a more structured format, but its essence remains intact. Here at William Clarence, our education consultants are ready to help you navigate these changes and craft compelling responses for your Oxbridge admissions and other applications.
Understanding the New Structured Questions
From September 2025, UCAS is introducing three structured questions to replace the open-ended personal statement. These questions are designed to focus applicants' responses and provide clarity for admissions tutors. Here’s a closer look at what they entail:
- Why do you want to study this course or subject?
- This question is an opportunity for applicants to demonstrate their passion and knowledge about their chosen field. Much like the best personal statements, it allows students to convey their enthusiasm and understanding in a targeted way.
- How have your qualifications and studies helped you to prepare for this course or subject?
- Here, students can showcase their academic achievements and relevant skills acquired during their studies. This structured approach ensures that applicants highlight their preparedness in a concise and focused manner.
- What else have you done to prepare outside of education, and why are these experiences helpful?
- This question provides space for discussing extracurricular activities and personal experiences. It’s a chance to show how these activities have shaped your suitability for the course, reflecting the holistic approach that the best personal statements have always embodied.
Why the Change?
UCAS aims to streamline the application process and make it more accessible. The three-question format is intended to reduce the pressure on students to craft a narrative from scratch while still allowing them to present a well-rounded picture of themselves. Each question collectively retains the 4,000-character limit of the traditional personal statement, giving students ample space to express themselves.
The Essence Remains the Same
Despite the structural shift, the core purpose of the personal statement remains unchanged. The new questions still require students to reflect on their motivations, academic background, and extracurricular involvement—elements that have always been central to a compelling personal statement. In fact, the structured approach may help students organise their thoughts more effectively, ensuring that they cover all crucial aspects of their application.
How William Clarence Can Help
At William Clarence, our team of expert education consultants understands the nuances of these personal statement changes. We offer personalised guidance to help you navigate the new format and ensure that your responses stand out.
- Tailored Advice: We provide one-on-one consultations to understand your unique experiences and aspirations, helping you craft responses that truly reflect your strengths and interests.
- Oxbridge Admissions Expertise: Our consultants have extensive experience with Oxbridge admissions, ensuring that your application meets the high standards expected by these prestigious institutions.
- Holistic Support: Beyond the structured questions, we assist with all aspects of the application process, from selecting the right course to interview preparation.
Conclusion
The introduction of structured questions in the UCAS application process is not the end of the personal statement but an evolution towards clarity and accessibility. By focusing on specific aspects of your academic and personal journey, these questions aim to draw out the most relevant and impactful information. At William Clarence, we are dedicated to helping you adapt to these changes and excel in your university applications. Contact us today to learn how our expert guidance can make a difference in your academic future.