In this section, find out how to write a strong personal statement when applying for either further study or a job.
When applying for further study such as a Master's or PhD, you will often be asked to write a personal statement (sometimes called a statement of purpose).
Statements like this are also required when applying for some jobs, for example they are common when applying for research assistant positions in universities. In these types of job applications, you will usually be asked to fill out a free text box ‘describing how you fit the person specification or job description’.
Whether for further study or a job, statements like these should convince the reader that you have the skills, knowledge and motivation to succeed in the opportunity you are applying for. It is best not to write a generic statement and use it to apply for multiple opportunities. To maximise your chances of success, write a targeted statement for each opportunity you apply for.
You might want to use GenAI to help you to write a personal statement. Please see our Generative AI webpage for advice on how to do so effectively. For statements, it is important to remember that GenAI cannot know what your personal motivations are, what you enjoy or how you match to the opportunity you are applying for. You can use GenAI as a tool to aid your writing, but not to replace your own thinking.
Examples of personal statements can be found in our CVs, Cover Letters and Personal Statements guide. If you are applying to a taught postgraduate course at Imperial, make use of the guidance on how to write a personal statement for study at Imperial.
Writing a personal statement
- Check the instructions for the statement you have been asked to write. Is there a specified word length? Have you been asked to address any specific topics/questions in the statement?
- For further study applications, research the course you are applying to thoroughly. Find out what topics will be taught; what options you will have; how the department/university supports students; how you will be examined; what they look for in applicants and what graduates of the courses typically go on to do. Reflect on your motivations for applying for this course and how it fits in with your long-term career plans. Reflect on what experiences you have had that showcase your ability to be successful in your future studies. Evidence can come from projects, work experiences, volunteering, extracurricular activities etc.
- For a job, research the employer and the job role you are applying to thoroughly. If it is a research group, read about the research they do. Review the job description and person specification and think about experiences you can write about to evidence your ability to be successful in this role.