• Applying to Uni
  • Apprenticeships
  • Health & Relationships
  • Money & Finance

Personal Statements

  • Postgraduate
  • U.S Universities

University Interviews

  • Vocational Qualifications
  • Accommodation
  • ​​​​​​​Budgeting, Money & Finance
  • ​​​​​​​Health & Relationships
  • ​​​​​​​Jobs & Careers
  • ​​​​​​​Socialising

Studying Abroad

  • ​​​​​​​Studying & Revision
  • ​​​​​​​Technology
  • ​​​​​​​University & College Admissions

Guide to GCSE Results Day

Finding a job after school or college

Retaking GCSEs

In this section

Choosing GCSE Subjects

Post-GCSE Options

GCSE Work Experience

GCSE Revision Tips

Why take an Apprenticeship?

Applying for an Apprenticeship

Apprenticeships Interviews

Apprenticeship Wage

Engineering Apprenticeships

What is an Apprenticeship?

Choosing an Apprenticeship

Real Life Apprentices

Degree Apprenticeships

Higher Apprenticeships

A Level Results Day 2024

AS Levels 2024

Clearing Guide 2024

Applying to University

SQA Results Day Guide 2024

BTEC Results Day Guide

Vocational Qualifications Guide

Sixth Form or College

International Baccalaureate

Post 18 options

Finding a Job

Should I take a Gap Year?

Travel Planning

Volunteering

Gap Year Guide

Gap Year Blogs

Applying to Oxbridge

Applying to US Universities

Choosing a Degree

Choosing a University or College

Personal Statement Editing and Review Service

Guide to Freshers' Week

Student Guides

Student Cooking

Student Blogs

  • Top Rated Personal Statements

Personal Statement Examples

Writing Your Personal Statement

  • Postgraduate Personal Statements
  • International Student Personal Statements
  • Gap Year Personal Statements

Personal Statement Length Checker

Personal Statement Examples By University

Personal Statement Changes 2025

  • Personal Statement Template

Job Interviews

Types of Postgraduate Course

Writing a Postgraduate Personal Statement

Postgraduate Funding

Postgraduate Study

Internships

Choosing A College

Ivy League Universities

Common App Essay Examples

Universal College Application Guide

How To Write A College Admissions Essay

College Rankings

Admissions Tests

Fees & Funding

Scholarships

Budgeting For College

Online Degree

Platinum Express Editing and Review Service

Gold Editing and Review Service

Silver Express Editing and Review Service

UCAS Personal Statement Editing and Review Service

Oxbridge Personal Statement Editing and Review Service

Postgraduate Personal Statement Editing and Review Service

You are here

  • Mature Student Personal Statements
  • Personal Statements By University
  • Accountancy and Finance Personal Statements
  • Actuarial Science Personal Statements
  • American Studies Personal Statements
  • Anthropology Personal Statements
  • Archaeology Personal Statements
  • Architecture Personal Statements
  • Art and Design Personal Statements
  • Biochemistry Personal Statements
  • Bioengineering Personal Statements
  • Biology Personal Statements
  • Biomedical Science Personal Statements
  • Biotechnology Personal Statements
  • Business Management Personal Statement Examples
  • Business Personal Statements
  • Catering and Food Personal Statements
  • Chemistry Personal Statements
  • Classics Personal Statements
  • Computer Science Personal Statements
  • Computing and IT Personal Statements
  • Criminology Personal Statements
  • Dance Personal Statements
  • Dentistry Personal Statements
  • Design Personal Statements
  • Dietetics Personal Statements
  • Drama Personal Statements
  • Economics Personal Statement Examples
  • Education Personal Statements
  • Engineering Personal Statement Examples
  • English Personal Statements
  • Environment Personal Statements
  • Environmental Science Personal Statements
  • Event Management Personal Statements
  • Fashion Personal Statements
  • Film Personal Statements
  • Finance Personal Statements
  • Forensic Science Personal Statements
  • Geography Personal Statements
  • Geology Personal Statements
  • Health Sciences Personal Statements
  • History Personal Statements
  • History of Art Personal Statements
  • Hotel Management Personal Statements
  • International Relations Personal Statements
  • International Studies Personal Statements
  • Islamic Studies Personal Statements
  • Japanese Studies Personal Statements
  • Journalism Personal Statements
  • Land Economy Personal Statements
  • Languages Personal Statements
  • Law Personal Statement Examples
  • Linguistics Personal Statements
  • Management Personal Statements
  • Marketing Personal Statements
  • Mathematics Personal Statements
  • Media Personal Statements
  • Medicine Personal Statement Examples
  • Midwifery Personal Statements
  • Music Personal Statements
  • Music Technology Personal Statements
  • Natural Sciences Personal Statements
  • Neuroscience Personal Statements
  • Nursing Personal Statements
  • Occupational Therapy Personal Statements
  • Osteopathy Personal Statements
  • Oxbridge Personal Statements
  • Pharmacy Personal Statements
  • Philosophy Personal Statements
  • Photography Personal Statements
  • Physics Personal Statements
  • Physiology Personal Statements
  • Physiotherapy Personal Statements
  • Politics Personal Statements

Psychology Personal Statement Examples

  • Radiography Personal Statements
  • Religious Studies Personal Statements
  • Social Work Personal Statements
  • Sociology Personal Statements
  • Sports & Leisure Personal Statements
  • Sports Science Personal Statements
  • Surveying Personal Statements
  • Teacher Training Personal Statements
  • Theology Personal Statements
  • Travel and Tourism Personal Statements
  • Urban Planning Personal Statements
  • Veterinary Science Personal Statements
  • Zoology Personal Statements
  • Personal Statement Editing Service
  • Personal Statement Writing Guide
  • Submit Your Personal Statement
  • Personal Statement Questions 2025
  • Personal Statement Changes 2024

Our psychology UCAS personal statement examples below will inspire you to write your own unique statement, and help you understand how students have successfully applied for a psychology degree in the past.

What else can I find on this page?

What is a psychology personal statement?

How do i write a psychology personal statement, what should i include in my psychology personal statement.

  • How do I write my psychology personal statement introduction?

How do I write the conclusion for my psychology personal statement?

What can i do with a psychology degree.

  • What are the best UK universities for psychology?

A psychology personal statement is a creative piece of writing that demonstrates your skills, experience and hobbies/extracurricular activities and how they relate to a degree in psychology.

Psychology has always been a popular and therefore competitive subject, so you need to make sure your statement stands out from the crowd and is as polished as you can make it.

At Studential, we always recommend students start by making a series of notes about themselves, which they can then use to put together a coherent personal statement. These should include:

  • Specific aspects of the course that interest you
  • Examples of coursework or projects you have completed
  • Books, articles, etc. you have read related to the subject area
  • Work experience or voluntary work in this area
  • Conferences you have attended
  • Personal experiences that sparked your interest in this subject
  • What you hope to do once you have completed your degree in terms of your career
  • Experiences that show you are a reliable and responsible person, e.g. part-time job, small business enterprise, community and/or charity work, sixth form committee, helping out at school events, etc.

You also need to think about your interests and skills, such as hobbies, other languages you speak, etc. as well as your plans for a gap year (if you're planning on taking one).

Once you have written all these down, you think about your opening paragraph, and begin to get something down. It's a good idea to allocate at least one paragraph to each bullet point to make sure you've covered everything.

When you have your first draft in place, you can revise it and ask your family, friends and tutors for help. Incorporate any feedback, comments and suggestions they offer, and see if they improve your statement.

Keep redrafting until you feel it's as polished as possible - remember, you'll be facing some stiff competition!

  • The main aim of your personal statement is to show the admissions tutors why they should pick you to attend their course and university.
  • Look at the course content and link it to your personal qualities, future goals and achievements. For example, you might have done some work shadowing at a counselling clinic or peer mentoring at your school or college.
  • If you're applying for a joint honours, make sure you cover both subjects in the course.
  • For those applying for a postgraduate course, draw attention to any clinical work experience you've completed to demonstrate your expertise and knowledge in the subject.
  • Read our psychology personal statement examples above for inspiration on how to make yours a success (please don't plagiarise them!).
  • Remember to avoid using cliches, over-used words or phrases, humour, jokes, or taking any political or religious viewpoints.
  • Structure it with a clear introduction, middle and end. You only have 4,000 characters to sell yourself, so try to make every word count!

For more help and advice on what to write in your psychology personal statement, please see:

  • Personal Statement Editing Services
  • Personal Statement Tips From A Teacher
  • Analysis Of A Personal Statement
  • The 15th January UCAS Deadline: 4 Ways To Avoid Missing It
  • Personal Statement FAQs
  • Personal Statement Timeline
  • 10 Top Personal Statement Writing Tips
  • What To Do If You Miss The 15th January UCAS Deadline.

How do I write a psychology personal statement introduction?

We recommend starting your psychology personal statement with either a story about how you came to be interested in the subject, or picking one or two aspects that you particularly enjoy and why you find them interesting. For example, the following applicant has chosen to talk about their childhood, and the consequences of their behaviour:

"Psychology encapsulates every aspect of our lives. From childhood, the reasons behind why we do what we do has fascinated me; and when I was disciplined for the type of mischief that one commits at a young age, my reasoning for my actions were always “To see what would happen.”

My parents mistook this as an act of mindless disobedience whereas it was in fact my first attempt at social psychology. Then, as I further discovered the leading figures in psychology, my knowledge and love of the intricacies of the human and animal mind grew."

These introductory paragraphs explain why the candidate is keen to pursue a course in psychology at university, while at the same time relating an engaging anecdote from their past, which helps to draw the reader in and make them want to read on further.

Another applicant who has submitted their statement to Studential has decided to talk about their Uncle, who has Asperger's Syndrome, and how they wondered why he was so different from everyone else:

"It was the odd behavioural traits displayed by my uncle, who has Asperger’s syndrome that first generated from a young age my questioning about why he acted so ‘differently’ to the rest of us.

This was part of what led to my interest of studying psychology, as it made me question how and why humans are so disparate from one another, and what part the brain plays in running our everyday lives."

Again, this provides an interesting hook for the reader, while demonstrating why they want to study psychology at a higher level.

These two examples should give you a good idea of how you might go about writing your own unique introduction to your psychology statement, but if you feel you need further inspiration, take a look at our list of over 100 psychology personal statement examples for more ideas.

To round off your personal statement, we suggest a paragraph or two about your extracurricular activies and hobbies, and how they have helped you to develop skills that will aid you with your psychology course at university. You may also wish to include a short sentence or two about your future ambitions or career plans, and how a degree in psychology will help you achieve these.

For example, this applicant has chosen to conclude their statement by talking about their current work experience and how it has improved their communication skills, along with their desire to complete a PhD once they've finished their undergraduate degree:

"I currently help people who struggle with language barriers by being a Spanish interpreter in different fields. Observing people from different age and cultural groups gave me first-hand experience considering the effects of stress due to the inability to communicate. This has, in addition to improving my communication skills, taught me how to deal with people from different social groups. I believe these interpersonal skills are valuable in the world of psychological research, in order to build rapport with participants in certain contexts. It has also taught me tolerance for others and the ability to remain poised during stressful situations. To culminate, in regards to my future career plans I would like to remain in further education and do a Phd in psychology- a step forward in my desired career as a researcher."

As another example, you can see how a candidate below chooses to talk to about their work experience with elderly people that have dementia, and how they want to improve their knowledge of the brain and their problem-solving skills:

"Subsequently, I did work experience at St Peter's residential care home. During my placement, I worked with nurses and kitchen staff to provide quality service to the elderly. I assisted in serving tea and lunch and also interacted with the elderly during social activities. This helped me to know how to interact with elderly people with dementia and gain a different perspective on elderly people.

I want to study psychology to further develop my knowledge in the scope of the brain, its anatomy and how it works. I want to learn how to work through problems carefully and logically applying scientific principles. Furthermore, I want to expand my awareness in all the different fields involved in the course, so that I can master any situation that I am presented with in my chosen field."

However you decide to conclude your statement, always try to relate it to the course you are applying for, i.e. psychology, and end on a positive, enthusiastic note that will make the admissions tutor want to make you an offer.

For more inspiration on how to write a conclusion, please take a look at our psychology personal statement examples .

For those with a psychology degree, there are many career options available, including:

  •     Clinical psychologist
  •     Counselling psychologist
  •     Educational psychologist
  •     Forensic psychologist
  •     Further education teacher
  •     Health psychologist
  •     High intensity therapist
  •     Occupational psychologist
  •     Psychological wellbeing practitioner
  •     Sport and exercise psychologist

Other career paths where a psychology degree could be useful include:

  •     Advice worker
  •     Border Force officer
  •     UCAS Careers advice
  •     Chaplain
  •     Counsellor
  •     Detective
  •     Education consultant
  •     Human resources officer
  •     Life coach
  •     Market researcher
  •     Mediator
  •     Neuroscientist
  •     Play therapist
  •     Policy officer
  •     Psychotherapist
  •     Special educational needs coordinator (SENCO)

For more help and advice on psychology careers, please see Prospects and the British Psychological Society .

What are the best universities for psychology?

Currently the best UK universities for studying psychology at are:

For more information about UK university rankings for psychology, please see The Guardian and The Complete University Guide .

Related resources

How to apply for a psychology degree.

psychology personal statement introduction

Find out more

UCAS Pyschology Guide

psychology personal statement introduction

Psychologist Careers

psychology personal statement introduction

Types Of Psychology Degree

psychology personal statement introduction

Psychology Personal Statement Writing

psychology personal statement introduction

How to Create your Personal Statement for Psychology

Sponsored school(s).

Odds are, if you are at the stage of writing a personal statement, then you are more than likely preparing applications for graduate schools in psychology. Below find out what it is, why you need one, and get some pointers on crafting a personal statement that will put your best foot forward with the admissions committees.

What is a Personal Statement?

Commonly referred to as a “statement of purpose”, and by some as an “application essay”, a personal statement is your opportunity to introduce and  sell yourself to a desired graduate program or college . In most cases, the personal statement can serve as the defining factor that allows students to stand out in a pool of applicants with equally high GPAs and test scores. Plus, a stellar statement of purpose could also help the applications of students who have unfavorable scores and grades.

Before You Begin…

Consider the type of personal statement required of you:.

Personal statements can range from  a few paragraphs to several one-page essays  that address different topics. They will vary widely between programs and schools, which means that you might craft quite a few of these application essays if you seek admission into various programs.

The objective of these statements all share a common thread: for the graduate committee to get a clear understanding of your career and academic aspirations as well as a sample of your writing abilities (a skill of utmost importance for comprehensive graduate study).

If Topics Are Chosen By You

The specific expectations of a statement of purpose might vary. Some schools might leave the direction and objective of the essay up to the applicant. In cases, you have the freedom to choose what you write about although, as a rule of thumb,  essays should take on a professional/ academic focus  rather than be personal or autobiographical. Don’t confuse personal statement with a long essay about your life growing up.

Instead, demonstrate your best attributes by outlining your fit, interests, previous experiences, servant leadership, research and courses you have taken that affirmed your dedication to the field of study. If you were not given specific questions, then be sure to touch bases with all of these that are relevant to your background in a logical and consistent manner.

If Topics Are Chosen By the Program

Other schools may provide you with a list of specific questions to answer pertaining to your career objectives and how obtaining an education with the particular program may advance you towards your goals.

Examples of specific topics outlined by graduate schools in psychology include:

Explain any previous work experience or teaching experiences you have in the field of psychology and why those experiences make you a strong candidate for our program.

Explain your long-term career goals.

Why do you think this program is a good fit for you?

How do you think this program can help you further your career objectives?

How has your previous education prepared you to take on study at the graduate or professional level?

What experience do you have conducting research? Rate your interest in conducting research.

What practitioners, researchers, or authors in the field of psychology have influenced your interest in this area of study?

Reflect on these questions or topic areas for a while before starting the writing process. Review your resume for direction about skills, experiences, or even lack of experience that you’ll want to identify and elaborate on in your paper. Write a list of attributes that you think describe you and consider how they are relevant to your interest in pursuing higher education.

During and After Writing…

Express your motivation.

When developing a statement of purpose for graduate schools in psychology, you will want to write at length about your particular interests, motivation, and passion for the field of study. Consider what experiences or traits you have that make you a better candidate than the hundreds of other applicants vying to gain admission.

Back up your expression of motivation with hard facts. The admissions committee wants a well-rounded candidate with a number of professional experiences that have helped clarify their ability to handle graduate study. Simply going on and on about how bad you want to be in the program with no relevant experiences that support that claim may not win you any favor.

Be Honest and Clear

When preparing a document that is virtually serving as a personal advertisement, you will write at length about the skills you possess that strengthen your application: academic curiosity, flexibility, maturity, persistence, and professionalism among others. When elaborating on your strengths, be sure to do so with respect to their relevance and importance. Do not go on about a characteristic that could be considered minor or irrelevant.

Also, be mindful of stating your goals and interests clearly and honestly. If you are not interested in a particular area, then leave out that information. Do not express an interest or ability that you do not have. It’s significant to discuss your weaknesses as well. If you have low test scores or a less-than-spectacular GPA, point that out in advance. Explain, if appropriate, why these aspects of your application are weak and follow up with a plan to rectify those aspects if you are accepted into graduate school.

Summary Points to Remember

  • At this point, you can’t change your college or graduate school entrance test scores or your grade point average. You can, however, make a significant impact during the applications process by developing a well-written statement of purpose.
  • Avoid writing at length about your personal history. Stick to the qualities and experiences that are relevant to your growth and abilities in the field of psychology.
  • Answer all questions from the application and be sure to meet the page or word count requirements.
  • Be sure to clearly and honestly relate your experiences and interests, also taking time to point out both strengths and weaknesses. Share how you plan to overcome those weaknesses or use them to your advantage.
  • Ask someone else to look over your statement of purpose–an advisor or professor in your department–who can give you straightforward feedback on its content.
  • Customize each personal statement to the program or school you are applying. Elaborate on how that particular program can assist you in reaching your goals.
  • During revisions, pay attention to the strength and dynamism of your opening paragraph. Your goal is to hook the readers and give them the desire to keep reading.

Featured Faculty

psychology personal statement introduction

Interview: Kurt Kraiger, Professor of Psychology, Director, Colorado State University

Kurt Kraiger, Professor of Psychology and Director of the MAIOP Program , joins us today to discuss their Master of A...

  • Before You Apply
  • General Info
  • Taking the GRE
  • Recommendation Letters
  • Building a Resume
  • Financing Graduate School
  • Choosing A Program
  • Online Programs
  • Finding a Good Match
  • Campus Schools by State
  • Doctorate/PhD Programs
  • No-GRE Programs
  • Undergraduate Advice
  • Accreditation
  • Transitioning
  • Ph.D. Programs
  • Best Paying Careers

Explore Careers

Search and compare 200+ Psychology Career choices along with detailed salary reports from Indeed.com, CareerBuilder, and SimplyHired

About This Site

We are an open forum for articles, manuscripts, unpublished thesis, and letters as well as a guide for job, career and program advice from like-minded Graduates. We are seeking submissions that will be of interest to the community.

Home › University › How To Write A Personal Statement? 10 Tips + Student Questions Answered › How To Start A Personal Statement: Tips & Examples

How To Start A Personal Statement: Tips & Examples

  • Published January 20, 2023

Woman writing on her notebook

Table of Contents

We’re regularly asked the question “ how to start a personal statement ”? It’s a challenging task for anybody but worry not as we’re here to help guide you through the process. 

The introduction is the first thing the admissions committee will read. That’s why the first sentence of a personal statement should be a catchy, attention-grabbing hook or story that grabs the reader’s attention and sets up the main point of your essay.

A lacklustre introduction may lose your readers’ interest, preventing them from reading the rest of your personal statement!

But don’t worry, this article will guide you on writing a personal statement introduction, a few examples of opening sentences and how to captivate the admissions tutors. Without further ado, let’s get started.

Top Tip: Leave Your Introduction For Last

You know what they say, the hardest thing to do is  start . So skip the introduction for now and focus on the main body of your personal statement. If you’re not sure what your main content should be, read out how to write a personal statement guide.

After nailing down the main points, you’ll have a concrete idea of how your introduction can captivate the reader and stay relevant to the bulk of the writing. Go ahead and work on the rest of your personal statement.

Come back when you’re finished! And if you’re worried about your conclusion then check out our advice on  personal statement conclusions .

2. Cut To The Chase

You only have  4,000 characters  to sell yourself as an ideal student candidate. Make each character and paragraph count! That means forget about flowery words and directionless statements. When you start your personal statement, explain your motivations for choosing your course in one or two sentences.

Although you will discuss this in-depth in the main body of content, capturing your reader’s attention with a quick overview of why you’re enthusiastic about your chosen course is crucial. That’s why capturing the reader’s attention by jumping straight to the point is key to starting a personal statement.

how to write a personal statement introductions

3. Be Specific

Never give vague details when expressing why you want to pursue your course. “I always wanted to be an engineer since I was a kid,” or “I want to become a doctor because I enjoy science” isn’t advised. 

On that note, if you’re applying to medicine refer to our guide on  how to write a medical personal statement . We suggest being more specific than that, and you can include your academic achievements too. Here are a few suggestions that may help you:

  • You witnessed an inspirational figure in your life solve a massive problem with a specific skill set (doctor, engineer, etc.)
  • While you were at a charity event, you encountered a problem that kept people in deprivation. By pursuing this course, you’re a part of the solution.
  • You’re good at, and you enjoy a specific skill set. The course you’re eyeing puts great emphasis on this particular skill.
  • There was a moment in your life when you succeeded in solving a problem. You felt significant by doing so, and you want to keep doing that for the rest of your life (teaching poor children how to read)
  • You watched a movie or read a book that ignited your passion for the course. After doing volunteer work or part-time employment related to your course, you’re determined to pursue it.

Craft a sentence or two that encapsulates the core of your “why.” Do this, and your reader will want to read more!

4. Demonstrate Knowledge In Your Chosen Course

An essential element of starting a personal statement is to express why you’re enthusiastic about taking your chosen course. You need to demonstrate that you’re aware of what you’re getting yourself into in the process. Answer any of these prompt questions for inspiration:

  • What do you find interesting about the course?
  • How do you believe the course will help you achieve your goals?
  • How will you use your chosen course to contribute to society?
  • What hurdles do you expect to encounter, and how will you handle them?

Decide which of these questions fits best into the main content of your  personal statement . Write your answer in a sentence or two, weave them into your application essay and think about the help you received from your tutors in the past.

5. Ditch The “Since I Was A Child” Line

We’re often asked  what not to put in a personal statement  and “Since I was a child” is a cliche statement that gets thrown around haphazardly. How many students have said this at least once in their personal statements?

Recalling your childhood passions is a weak “why” for pursuing your course. Why? Because the admissions committee is looking for a relevant and up-to-date reason.

When you were little, you had zero knowledge and little enthusiasm to become successful in your field. You had no idea what skillsets you needed or what other options were available to you.

But if you were to cite a recent event in your life that supports your determination to pursue your course, that screams “educated choice” right there. And  that  is what the admission committee is looking for after reading hundreds, if not thousands of introductions.

6. Brainstorm Several Versions Of Your Opening Lines

The desire to get it right the first time paralyses you from starting. So permit yourself to write freely. Write as many versions of your opening lines as possible.

Don’t worry about the grammar, spelling, or character count just yet. Type everything that goes off the top of your head. When you’re done, take a look at your list.

Cross out the ones you dislike, and encircle the ones you think have potential. Then start piecing the puzzle pieces together to check out if the intro lines fit with the rest of your personal statement. 

If you’ve found three potential opening statements, try reading them aloud together with the rest of your personal statement. Do they flow seamlessly into one another? Make the necessary adjustments. Play around with it until you feel you’ve hit the spot.

7. Make Your Opening Statement Error Free

Your opening statement is your hook line. Spelling or grammatical errors at the start discourage your reader from reading further. If you have errors at the beginning, you’ll most likely have them in your main content!

So make sure your English is simple, flawless, and straightforward. Run your personal statement through a tool like Grammarly to weed out most of the errors.

The Hemingway app is also a helpful tool for checking for passive voice and other writing problems. Take advantage of writing assistant tools, especially if you’re a non-native English writer.

8. Read Examples Of Personal Statements

Read as many personal statement examples as you can. Any that captivated you, keep them in your notes. Figure out  why  these statements stood out to you compared to the others. What elements can you place in  your  personal statement?

When reading personal statements that put you off, find out why. What characteristics do they have that elicit a negative reaction from you? List them down, and make sure you avoid them.

After this exercise, you should have a few more ideas about your personal statement introduction.

9. Ask For Feedback

Never underestimate what feedback can give you. Ask your family, friends, and acquaintances about your opening statement. Does your personality shine through? Is it straight to the point? Does it flow smoothly with the main content of your personal statement?

Listen to what they have to say. Jot down important points. You’ll need their feedback to get a second opinion on whether it works for you or not.

10. Give Yourself Time

Your chosen career depends on your college education. And a first crucial step is to convince the admission committee you’re worth accepting into your university. You have to give your personal statement your best shot. Give yourself enough time to brainstorm and think everything over.

You can’t finish a complete,  well-written personal statement  in a week. Much less overnight!

So make sure you set aside enough time to put your best foot forward. After finishing a complete draft of your personal statement, put it down. Forget about it for a few days. Then come back and reread it.

With a fresh set of eyes, you’ll notice details you may not have seen before! Revise as much as you need.

Do I Need To Write An Introduction For A Personal Statement?

Yes, we recommend writing an introduction for your personal statement as it provides context to the rest of your writing. The introduction is an opportunity to make a good first impression and capture the university admissions officer’s attention.

What is a good opening sentence for a personal statement?

Here are some examples of a good opening sentence for a captivating introduction. Note how it ties into the university degree almost straight away with first-hand experience:

  • “Growing up in a small town with limited resources sparked my curiosity and drive to pursue higher education and make a positive impact in my community.”
  • “From a young age, I have been fascinated by the intricacies of the human mind and the power of psychology to improve people’s lives.”
  • “As a first-generation college student, I am determined to break barriers and pave the way for future generations through a career in law.”
  • “My passion for sustainable design was ignited by a volunteer trip to a developing country, where I witnessed the devastating effects of environmental degradation firsthand.”
  • “A chance encounter with a blind person and their guide dog inspired me to pursue a career in veterinary medicine, with the goal of improving the lives of animals and their human companions.”

Please do NOT use these in your personal statements, use these to guide you on how you want to start your personal statement.

Can You Open Your Personal Statement With A Quote?

It is a risky move to open your personal statement with a quote and can come across as clichéd or insincere to the university admission officers. However, there are rare occasions when it can work, just make sure the quote relates to your degree and experience you’re writing about.

Get Ready To Write Your Personal Statement

How does one start a captivating personal statement? Take the time to think about what makes an effective introduction.

Read examples of personal statements from other students to glean ideas for how yours might stand out. Once you have read through some good ones, they should be more than just two or three!–look closely at what elements made them so successful. 

Then try applying those same principles on how to start a personal statement! Don’t forget to bookmark this post for future reference.

Related Content

The friendliest university cities around the world.

psychology personal statement introduction

Real Alumni Stories

Learn more about our alumni through their success stories.

  • Real stories about our Alumni
  • Students share their programme experiences
  • Case studies from Alumni heading to Oxbridge
  • Alumni insights and stats

Empower Your Child's Future: Book Your Complimentary Consultation Now

  • Receive tailored advice to match your child's interests and goals.
  • Gain insights from our experienced programme consultants.
  • Get answers in real-time, making your decision-making process smoother and more informed.

Immerse Education advisor

* Terms and Conditions may apply

Receive priority enrolment for new summer school locations by registering your interest below.

" * " indicates required fields

Our programme consultant will contact you to talk about your options.

  • Family Name *
  • Phone Number
  • I'm a Parent
  • I'm a Student
  • Yes. See Privacy Policy.
  • First Name *

Would you like to receive anything else?

  • Prospectuses
  • Residential Syllabus Overviews (ages 13-15)
  • Residential Syllabus Overviews (ages 15-18)
  • Residential Syllabus Overviews (ages 16-18)
  • Online Syllabus Overviews (ages 13-18)
  • Immerse Education Prospectus 2024
  • Career Insights - London Course Guide
  • Career Insights New York
  • Career Insights San Francisco
  • Online Insights Prospectus
  • Online Research Programme Prospectus
  • Academic Insights - Cambridge & Oxford Prospectus
  • Academic Insights Sydney
  • Academic Insights Toronto
  • Female Future Leaders
  • Dates & Fees
  • Architecture
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Business Management
  • Business Management (Sydney)
  • Business Management (Career Insights)
  • Computer Science
  • Creative Writing
  • Creative Writing (Sydney)
  • Creative Writing & Film (Career Insights)
  • Earth Sciences
  • Engineering
  • Engineering (Career Insights)
  • Engineering (Sydney)
  • Film Studies
  • International Relations
  • International Relations (Sydney)
  • Medicine (Career Insights)
  • Medicine (Sydney)
  • Natural Sciences
  • Psychology (Sydney)
  • Veterinary Studies (Sydney)
  • Banking & Finance (New York)
  • Business Management (London)
  • Data Science & Analytics (San Francisco)
  • Creative Writing & Film (London)
  • Entrepreneurship (San Francisco)
  • Engineering (London)
  • Fashion & Design (New York)
  • Health Tech & Biotechnology (San Francisco)
  • Marketing & Entertainment (New York)
  • Medicine (London)
  • Law (New York)
  • Software Development & AI (San Francisco)
  • Architecture & Design (Career Insights)
  • Biotechnology
  • Business Management (Toronto)
  • Computer Science & AI (Toronto)
  • Criminology
  • Engineering (Toronto)
  • English Literature
  • Fine Art (Career Insights)
  • Game Design (Career Insights)
  • Law (Career Insights)
  • Mathematics
  • Medicine (Toronto)
  • Nanotechnology
  • Computer Science & AI
  • Sustainability

Complete Your Request

ESLDIRECT.COM

ESL Resources for Job Hunters, English Learners, Adult Learners and Tutors

How to Write a Personal Statement for Psychology: With [Examples]

In this article, we discuss how to write a personal statement for psychology courses with helpful tips and examples.

What do a volunteer in a program for homeless children, a future college lecturer, and a medical student with a passion for supporting high achievers with ADHD have in common? They all want to study psychology.

By the end of this guide, you will have everything you need to write an outstanding personal statement for psychology.

psychology personal statement

Table of Contents

What is a psychology personal statement, what are the different stages of writing a personal statement for psychology, psychology personal statement example #1, psychology personal statement example #2, psychology personal statement example #3, faq (frequently asked questions), more personal statement tutorials.

It’s a professional essay that outlines your interest and knowledge in the field, along with your relevant qualifications and career goals. You will also explain how you fit with the psychology program to which you are applying.

A well-crafted personal statement can help you stand out from other applicants and demonstrate your commitment to psychology and your enthusiasm for learning. The statement should provide insight into why you are interested in studying psychology.

Furthermore, the statement should highlight any skills and experiences you have, such as research experience or volunteer work.

For example,

“I also volunteered at a local after-school club for vulnerable teens, where I was able to witness first-hand the impact that psychological support can have on an individual’s well-being. I believe that I learned as much from the experienced, committed counsellors there as I did in my early classes in psychology. I am deeply committed to entering psychology and making a positive difference in the lives of others.”

1. Understand the Course and Application Requirements

Before you start writing, make sure you understand the specific requirements of the psychology course you’re applying for.

Ask your chosen university or college for any specific guidance they may have and read it carefully.

Make sure you familiarise yourself with any guidelines including word count, and list any information you should include in your personal statement.

2. Identify your interests

Writing a personal statement for a psychology course can seem daunting, but breaking it down into individual steps can be much easier.

Start by identifying your experience, interests and skills, including, work experience, conferences you have attended, and voluntary work.

“With this in mind, I have volunteered for the past three summers at Rainbow House, where counsellors and psychologists help support people struggling with a range of addictions access counselling, and practical training and prepare to re-enter the workforce. I believe that without counselling as an intrinsic part of the process, they would not see the levels of success that they have.”

Be sure to explain reasons for your interest in the branches of psychology that the course may cover, and provide examples from your own life when possible.

Let your passion for the subject and your natural curiosity shine through in your personal statement, and make sure it is original and specific to your experiences.

3. Write down your initial ideas

When writing a personal statement for psychology, it is important to plan properly by writing down your initial ideas.

This idea list should include your experiences, interests, and skills related to psychology and why you are applying to study psychology.

Use your initial ideas to create an outline for your personal statement that includes a brief introduction about yourself and why you want to study psychology. Choose the experiences that made an impact on you, particularly if they relate to your future career.

“…my ambition is to continue my studies and complete a PhD, in order to lecture in psychology at college level. I believe that every field of medicine should have experts who are passionate about academic excellence and I want to use my talent for coaching and tutoring my peers at a higher level.”

Think about how to make your opening sentences captivating and relevant, as this will be your first impression on the reader. Use short, punchy sentences to grab the reader’s attention.

4. Write your personal statement

Start with an engaging opening paragraph. Make sure to use a professional and formal writing style, avoid jokes, and make sure your personality comes through in your writing.

‘I am excited to apply to study psychology at postgraduate level as I have always been fascinated by how the mind works. My interest in this psychology was there from a very early age, when I tested in the 90th percentile as being very empathetic and supportive of other pupils at elementary school. During High School I was able to volunteer to work on homework with young children who were homeless and seeing them cope with challenging emotional issues filled me with admiration for their resilience while wanting to let them know that I was there to offer academic support also.’

Allocate one paragraph to each point on your list. Make sure your statement is specific and original, and avoid long-winded sentences.

Once you have your first draft, seek feedback from classmates as well as tutors. Incorporate any comments, feedback, and suggestions that improve your statement.

5. Revise your personal statement

  • Wait 24 hours, then read over your final draft and check for grammar or spelling mistakes. Read it out loud or have someone else read it for you to ensure it is clear, informative and personal.
  • Ensure your personal statement is original and specific to your experiences.
  • Stay away from any negative content unless talking about how a difficult experience has made you stronger and more resilient, which will make you a better student.
  • Keep redrafting until you feel it is as polished as possible.

I am excited to apply to study psychology at a postgraduate level as I have always been fascinated by how the mind works. My interest in this psychology was there from a very early age when I tested in the 90th percentile as being very empathetic and supportive of other pupils at elementary school. During High School, I was able to volunteer to work on homework with young children who were homeless and seeing them cope with challenging emotional issues filled me with admiration for their resilience while wanting to let them know that I was there to offer academic support also.

During my undergraduate degree in biology, I was the president of the psychology club, where I worked with graduate students to complete several independent research projects on topics relating to young learners. As a result, I am keen to become a child psychologist, focusing on supporting young people who are homeless and in the foster care system.

I also volunteered at a local after-school club for vulnerable teens, where I was able to witness first-hand the impact that psychological support can have on an individual’s well-being. I believe that I learned as much from the experienced, committed counsellors there as I did in my early classes in psychology. I am deeply committed to entering psychology and making a positive difference in the lives of others.

I am confident that my passion, curiosity, and dedication to psychology make me a strong candidate for this program, and I am excited to have the opportunity to continue my studies at a higher level and become part of a new learning community.

With every academic paper and publication, I read since beginning to study medicine and psychology, my interest in the subject has grown. In light of my fascination with behaviour and the mind, as well as my interest in helping patients, psychology is my chosen subject for further study. It is extremely important to me to continue learning and building upon my knowledge, and I am full of admiration for grassroots charities making sure that all patients can access high-quality, affordable care.

With this in mind, I have volunteered for the past three summers at Rainbow House, where counsellors and psychologists help support people struggling with a range of addictions access counselling, and practical training and prepare to re-enter the workforce. I believe that without counselling as an intrinsic part of the process, they would not see the levels of success that they have.

While I enjoy being involved in this type of community project and foresee my involvement continuing for many years, my ambition is to continue my studies and complete a PhD, in order to lecture in psychology at college level. I believe that every field of medicine should have experts who are passionate about academic excellence and I want to use my talent for coaching and tutoring my peers at a higher level. I maintain a 4.0 GPA and have taken three extra credit courses while acting as a research assistant for Professor Dimbleby one day a week.

I feel prepared for the challenges that lie ahead and am eager to join a world-class team at Cornell to become the best that I can be and support others to be their best.

I have long had an interest in better understanding psychopathologies and wish to pursue a psychiatry residency at Ramsey Hospital after graduating from Cold Springs University Medical School. It has been fascinating to see the societal change in terms of acknowledging and talking about mental and social issues such as depression and anxiety as well as the contribution and importance of the inclusion of neurodivergent people in our communities. As a future psychiatrist, I am committed to treating every patient with respect and dignity, ensuring I am treating the person rather than focusing only on the diagnosis.

My psychiatry rotation during medical school was an enriching experience and I became confident in taking patients’ psychiatric history and conducting mental status exams. My ability to build rapport with patients and question them directly but respectfully, improved over the six weeks and I look forward to focusing more on these skills as I gain a deeper understanding of effective psychiatric care.

Last year I volunteered with a charity supporting mental health and neurodivergence awareness in Hanoi, Viet Nam, as I feel a deep connection with that country, thanks to having Vietnamese-American relatives. I learned that there are very few psychologists and even fewer clinical psychiatrists who can prescribe medication and treatment. As increasing numbers of teenagers and adults as well as younger children are being diagnosed with ADHD, as in the US, there are often long waiting times, and challenges in accessing medication. There is much work to be done on the use of non-stimulants to treat ADHD where stimulants such as amphetamines are ineffective and I completed my final research paper on this topic.

In Vietnam it was interesting to me to encounter some of the same prejudices as my older sister encountered from relatives and her primary care doctor, who insisted that my sister could not have ADHD because she is a well-paid, successful accountant. The struggle to balance and often hide symptoms of her condition has left my sister battling anxiety and depression and I am particularly interested in developments in treating ADHD in combination with depression, severe anxiety and other psychiatric conditions.

Following my residency my goal is to qualify as a psychologist and practice locally in Arizona while offering continuing long-distance support via Zoom to the team in Hanoi. I am determined to become an outstanding psychiatrist, enhancing my patients’ emotional well-being while supporting them as individuals with the best and most professional care.

Some of these questions were already covered in this blog post but I will still list them here (because not everyone carefully reads every paragraph) so here’s the TL;DR version.

What format should I use for my personal statement for psychology?

Your personal statement should include a brief introduction about yourself, your experiences, any past knowledge and why you want to study this specific course. Also include details of your relevant hands-on experiences (research, internship, volunteer, work, etc.) and what you learned from them.

Additionally, if you are applying to a PhD program, make sure to mention the name of the faculty member(s) you are applying to.

How should I structure my personal statement for psychology?

A personal statement for psychology should begin with an introduction about yourself, such as your experiences and any past knowledge that relates to the field, as well as why you want to study psychology.

The body of your statement should go into depth on your relevant hands-on experiences, such as research, internships, volunteering, or work. Be sure to provide details about what you did, the names of any organizations or people you worked with, and what you learned from the experience.

The conclusion should show how you are a good fit for the school/program/faculty member you are applying to, such as how the experience you mentioned has solidified your interest in the field.

Finally, it is important to ensure your statement flows. Take time to edit and proofread your statement to make sure everything connects and is cohesive.

What topics should I focus on in my personal statement for psychology?

Consider the aspects of the psychology course that you enjoy the most and do some additional reading beyond what you’ve been taught.

Additionally, provide specific examples of how you’ve pursued your interest in the subject, such as writing about a topic you’ve studied that you find fascinating or discussing a book or blog post that made you want to learn more.

Finally, consider which field of psychology you would like to specialize in and why.

What level of detail should I go into for my personal statement for psychology?

It’s important to go into specific detail about your interests and skills.

Avoid sweeping generalisations (I always get high grades) and give focused details (I maintain a 3.9 GPA).

Research the course you are applying for so you have a realistic idea of what you will be doing on it, and make sure to articulate why you want to study psychology.

What should I avoid when writing my personal statement for psychology?

When writing your personal statement for psychology, there are a few things you should avoid in order to give yourself the best chance of getting onto your desired course.

  • Firstly, avoid using an informal writing style or telling jokes. Use a professional and formal tone when injecting personality into your statement.
  • Be mindful of not giving too much personal information in terms of speaking about your own life events, mental health challenges, or learning difficulties unless they have made you stronger.
  • Finally, pay attention to your tone and avoid phrases such as “less fortunate people”. Stay away from using sophisticated language or phrases if you don’t understand them. Be honest and original.

How can I get feedback on my personal statement for psychology?

Ask trusted individuals, such as professors, mentors, and friends, to read over your statement and give feedback. This will help you to identify any errors or missing information that you may have overlooked.

  • Personal Statement versus Statement of Purpose
  • How to Write a Winning Scholarship Personal Statement: With Examples
  • Residency Personal Statement Examples: Top Tips for Best Length, Content, and Structure
  • Statement of Purpose Examples: How to Write the Best One for You?
  • Nursing Personal Statement Examples in 2023
  • How to write a Resume Personal Statement That Gets You the Job – with Examples and Tips
  • Pharmacy Personal Statement Examples: How to Write a Strong Statement for Pharmacy School
  • How to Write a Personal Statement for Engineering: Examples and Advice
  • Best Internal Medicine Personal Statement Examples For Residency
  • MBA Personal Statement Examples for Graduate Applicants
  • Law Personal Statement Examples to Help With Your Law School Application
  • How to Write a Personal Statement for Criminology: With Helpful Examples

psychology personal statement introduction

Student Good Guide

The best UK online resource for students

How To Write A Personal Statement For Psychology

How To Write A Personal Statement For Psychology

Writing a personal statement for a psychology course in the UK can be a daunting task. Your personal statement is an opportunity to highlight your achievements, experiences, and goals, and to showcase your fit for a specific programme or institution.

It is an important part of your application and can be the deciding factor in whether or not you are accepted. 

Many students want to study psychology in the UK since it has one of the best universities in the world. Also, many international students are applying to UK universities every year. In total, around 60000 students study psychology in the UK.

In this blog post, we will provide tips and guidelines on how to write a compelling personal statement for a psychology degree and university. We will also discuss common mistakes to avoid and give some examples to help you get started preparing for your university application.

What is a personal statement for psychology?

A personal statement for psychology is a written document that is typically submitted as part of a UCAS application in the UK.

It is an opportunity for you to show your unique background, experiences, how strong the secondary school education you have, and your interests, and to explain how these have prepared you for a career in psychology.

In your personal statement, you should highlight your passion for psychology and your goals for the future. This part is very important for admission tutors at universities.

You should also write about a relevant research project or work experience, as well as any relevant coursework or extracurricular activities. 

However, the personal statement for psychology needs to be a very well-written and thoughtful reflection of your strengths and goals and should demonstrate your readiness to pursue a degree in psychology.

Recommended guides:

  • How To Write A Dentistry Personal Statement
  • How to Write a Personal Statement for a Masters Degree
  • How to Write a Personal Statement for a PhD
  • UCAS Personal Statement:
  • Tips for Personal Statement for the University
  • How to Write a Personal Statement That Stands Out

What makes a good personal statement for psychology

Writing a good personal statement for psychology can be intimidating, but this is the most important part of your university application process. You will have only one chance to grab the attention of very detailed admission tutors.

When creating your personal statement for psychology, it’s essential to focus on your passion and demonstrate your desire to pursue an undergraduate degree in psychology. To make your application stand out, be specific and provide concrete examples of your experiences and accomplishments.

It’s also essential to use a clear and concise writing style, avoiding jargon – this is something that is not appropriate for university admission tutors. And don’t forget to carefully edit and proofread your statement to ensure it’s error-free and presents a polished, professional image.

Finally, make sure to tailor your statement to the specific psychology programme applying for. Since you will study Psychology, you can choose from many programmes. See the list below. 

Consider the values and goals of the programme, and explain how your experiences and interests align with these. Asking a friend or family member to review your statement before submitting it can also be helpful. Also, you can hire a professional writer to proofread your application.

Check out our UCAS-specific guide: Perfect your application with these useful guides.

  • UCAS Reference Letter
  • UCAS Tariff Points Table: How does it work [Example table]
  • UCAS Application: Process and Deadlines Explained in Details
  • UCAS Extra 2023: The Ultimate Step-by-Step Guide
  •   UCAS Clearing
  • UCAS Application Process for International Students  

How to structure a psychology personal statement

Well-written psychology personal statements increase your chances of getting a place on your desired course and help you stand out from other applicants.

Learning what to include and how to structure your psychology personal statement can improve its quality. As a general framework for your psychology personal statement, we have included some steps below.

Research before starting writing 

Ensure that you are familiar with any specific guidelines or information that needs to be included in your psychology personal statement.

For example, formatting advice, examples of the kind of experience that would be relevant to mention, or what they are looking for in candidates may be included. Your writing can be guided and informed by this information.

Outline ideas on paper 

Prepare a brief outline of what you want to discuss in your psychology personal statement. An introduction to yourself, your experiences (shown in an example), your knowledge, research projects (if you have it), important skills, and why you are interested in this particular course might be included.

The outline can help you plan the structure and content of your personal statement.

Write an amazing personal statement introduction

You will have the first opportunity to demonstrate to admission tutors why you are the best candidate for a psychology course during your introduction.

Stand out while staying on topic by highlighting what makes you unique in terms of your skill sets, experience, and passions.

Engage Tutors with your statement

The opening sentences of your personal statement are crucial in making an impact on admission tutors. To capture their attention and interest, try starting with punchy, short, and relevant sentences that stand out and create a smooth flow for the reader.

Experiences, skills, and interests in psychology

A personal statement is much more than a representation of yourself. It emphasises why the psychology course is appropriate for you.

Highlight to university members why you’re interested in psychology and what abilities you’ll bring to your studies to achieve.

Always back up your views with real-world examples from your own life, whether it’s a personal experience, something you witnessed secondhand, or something you read about that inspired you to pursue this job.

Make a clear conclusion

An excellent conclusion to your psychology personal statement , like the start, may create a lasting influence on the tutors . Try to cover all of the essential arguments you’ve raised in a clear, succinct manner. Show why you want to study a specific course at a university.

Stick to the subject and avoid using fluffy, long boring sentences. Make sure you leave the admission tutor in a good, enthusiastic tone so that they end your statement with a positive view.

Check to spell and proofread errors

Before you submit your UCAS personal statement , be sure to thoroughly proofread it for any grammar or spelling errors. Reading it out loud or having someone else read it for you can help catch mistakes.

Keep in mind that a successful psychology personal statement is clear , informative , and personal , so avoid using overly long sentences and aim for a professional yet energetic tone.

Highly recommended to read:

  • Applying To Medicine in the UK
  • Writing a Winning Medical Personal Statement

Tips for writing your psychology personal statement

1. start early.

Writing a psychology personal statement is a time-consuming process if the writing is not your “thing”, so it’s essential to start early . This will allow you to brainstorm ideas, gather materials, and revise your statement multiple times before submitting it.

2. Understand the Purpose of the Personal Statement

Before you begin writing your personal statement for the UCAS application , it’s important to understand the purpose of the statement. A personal statement for psychology university should:

  • Explain your motivations for pursuing a degree in psychology
  • Describe your research interests and career goals
  • Highlight your relevant experiences and achievements
  • Demonstrate your fit for the subject and school you are applying to

3. Follow the Prompt

Most programmes will provide a prompt or guidelines for creating your psychology personal statement. It’s important to follow these guidelines closely and address all of the points requested in the prompt. If the programme doesn’t provide a prompt, you can use the list above as a general guide.

4. Be Specific and Personal

A personal statement should be specific and personal. Avoid vague or general statements, and focus on specific experiences, A-levels, subjects, achievements, and goals.

Use concrete examples to illustrate your points and help the reader understand your motivations and interests.

5. Use a Clear and Cohesive Structure

Psychology personal statement should be well-organised and easy to follow. Use a clear and cohesive structure to help the reader understand your story and the progression of your experiences and goals.

Don’t use headings or subheadings to divide your statement into sections. Use transitional phrases to help connect your ideas.

6. Edit and Proofread

Once you have completed a personal statement, it’s important to take the time to edit and proofread your work. Check for typos, grammatical errors, and spelling mistakes, and make sure your statement is clear and concise.

You can ask a trusted friend, family, alumni student, teacher from the same subject or professional tutor to review your application for feedback and suggestions.

7. Avoid Common Mistakes

There are several common mistakes to avoid when writing a personal statement for a psychology course:

  • Failing to follow the prompt or guidelines
  • Being too general or vague
  • Focusing too much on your weaknesses
  • Using overly technical language or jargon
  • Submitting a statement that is too long or too short
  • Not including experience and example

8. Use Examples to Illustrate Your Points

To make your personal statement more engaging and memorable, use examples to illustrate your points. This can help the reader better understand your motivations, interests, and goals, and it can help bring your statement to life.

9. Show, Don’t Tell

When working on your personal statement, use descriptive language and action verbs to show interest, rather than tell, the reader about your experiences and achievements. This can help paint a vivid picture for the reader and make your statement more engaging and memorable.

Advice From Psychology Students

Here is advice from students who have undergraduate degrees.  

I structured it by introducing myself first and then talking about my passion for psychology. I then talked about my experiences and how they adapted me for my studies, before talking about why I wanted to come to USW and study Psychology. – First-year student Keira
If I was to do it all again, I would talk more about my current interest in Psychology and read around this subject, as I think this would have demonstrated initiative and real passion. – First-year student Keira

Here in our Psychology personal statement examples section, we have amazing samples you can use as guidance for yours. Make sure you check them before you start perfecting your application for UCAS .

Psychology Courses to Apply In The UK

A list of psychology degrees available for undergraduate applicants in the UK are:

  • Child psychology
  • Clinical 
  • Developmental 
  • Educational 
  • Experimental 
  • Forensic  
  • Social 
  • Sport 
  • Criminal 

Final Thoughts

Preparing a personal statement for psychology is a vital part of the university application process. It’s your first contact with admission tutors as a future student.

A compelling personal statement focuses on your passion for psychology and your future goals, provides specific examples of your experiences and achievements, and it’s tailored to the specific course you are applying for. 

With these tips and guidelines in mind, you can start preparing for an application that will increase your chances of getting accepted.

Most universities in the UK recommend that a personal statement for psychology be around 4,000 characters or 47 text lines long.

In your personal statement, you should include your passion for psychology and your future goals, any relevant research, coursework, or extracurricular activities, and how these experiences have prepared you for a career.

  • Oxbridge Law 24/25 Entry
  • Non-Oxbridge Law 24/25 Entry
  • Oxford PPE 24/25 Entry
  • Oxbridge Economics 24/25 Entry
  • Oxbridge Modern Languages 24/25 Entry
  • Cambridge Land Economy 24/25 Entry
  • Oxbridge Psychology 24/25 Entry
  • Oxbridge English 24/25 Entry
  • Oxford Human Sciences 24/25 Entry
  • Oxbridge History 24/25 Entry
  • Oxbridge Geography 24/25 Entry
  • Cambridge Philosophy 24/25 Entry
  • Oxbridge Classics 24/25 Entry
  • Cambridge Architecture 24/25 Entry
  • Cambridge HSPS Programme 24/25 Entry
  • Oxbridge Medicine 24/25 Entry
  • Oxford Biomedical Sciences 24/25 Entry
  • Oxbridge Engineering 24/25 Entry
  • Cambridge Natural Science 24/25 Entry
  • Oxbridge Maths 24/25 Entry
  • Oxbridge Computer Science 24/25 Entry
  • Oxford Physics 24/25 Entry
  • Oxford PPL 24/25 Entry
  • Cambridge Veterinary Science 24/25 Entry
  • Oxford Chemistry 24/25 Entry
  • Oxford Biology 24/25 Entry
  • Oxford Biochemistry 24/25 Entry
  • Non-Oxbridge Medicine 24/25 Entry
  • Non-Oxbridge Dentistry 24/25 Entry
  • IMAT Medicine 24/25 Entry
  • Can’t Find Your Subject?
  • Law Interview Programme
  • PPE Interview Programme
  • Economics Interview Programme
  • Oxbridge Medicine Interview Programme
  • Natural Science Interview Programme
  • Engineering Interview Programme
  • Maths Interview Programme
  • Dentistry Interview Programme
  • Medicine MMI Interview Programme
  • Our Guarantee

Our Students

Student Success Stories

  • University Access Scheme
  • New Tutor Application Form
  • Frequently Asked Questions
  • How Does It Work?

Enrol before the 17th May and get 4 hours of A-Level tutoring. Book your consultation here.

Students who enrol on a Programme before the 17th May will get 4 hours of A-Level tutoring as a complimentary addition. Begin by booking your consultation here.

  • +44 (0) 208 068 0438
  • [email protected]

SCIENCE PROGRAMMES (25/26 ENTRY)

HUMANITIES PROGRAMMES (25/26 ENTRY)

GET STARTED

Can't find your subject?

OXFORD TESTS (25/26 ENTRY)

CAMBRIDGE TESTS (25/26 ENTRY)

MEDICINE TESTS (25/26 ENTRY)

View Our Free admissions guides & resources

How UniAdmissions Cracked The Oxbridge Formula

Applying for Oxbridge is an opportunity seldom approached correctly. So how do you enter the top 16% of a strong cohort of applicants that get an offer? Discover how UniAdmissions get 2/3 of our students in.

How To Stay Motivated During Your A-Level Exams

With A-level exam season in full swing, we've put together 6 useful tips and tricks to stay motivated and achieve those expected grades.

Inside The UniAdmissions Portal: The UA Advantage

UniAdmissions students have access to the world's first dedicated Oxbridge admissions preparation platform, and this guide will help you discover exactly how the Portal will help you get your offer.

Discover all guides

ABOUT UNIADMISSIONS

Learn about who the world's first Oxbridge prep school are.

Learn about the Portal; the heart of our Programmes.

UniAdmissions' Foundation

The Foundation is our charitable arm to support disadvantaged students.

Students & Tutors

Discover who a UniAdmissions student is and our admissions criteria.

Learn about our high-performing Oxbridge tutors.

We're proud of our alumni. Read about their journey with UniAdmissions here.

Admissions Resources

Free Admissions Guides

Visit our Learning Centre and read our in-depth free guides.

We are the world's biggest Oxbridge application publisher. Learn more here.

Teachers Learning Hub

Learn about how to help your students get their place at Oxbridge.

Get Started

  • Access Student Portal
  • Oxbridge Programmes
  • Open Day Webinar
  • Tutor Application Form
  • Common Questions
  • Download Our Prospectus

Successful Personal Statement For Psychology At Oxford

Last Updated: 6th April 2022

Author: Rob Needleman

Table of Contents

Welcome to our popular Personal Statement series where we present a successful Personal Statement, and our Oxbridge Tutors provide their feedback on it. 

Today, we are looking through a Psychology applicant’s Personal Statement that helped secure a place at Oxford University. The Psychology Course at Oxford is a scientific discipline, involving the rigorous formulation and testing of ideas. It works through experiments and systematic observation rather than introspection.

Read on to see how this candidate demonstrates their academic interests and initiative.   

Here’s a breakdown of the Personal Statement (the applicant uses most of the 4,000 characters available):

SUCCESSFUL?

The universities this candidate applied to were the following:

Enrolling on our Oxbridge Psychology comprehensive Programme will give you access to Personal Statement redrafts. 

With our  Oxbridge Psychology Premium Programme, your tutor will give you regular actionable feedback with insider tips on how to improve and make your Personal Statement Oxbridge quality for the best chances of success.  

Discover our Premium Programmes today to learn how you can enrol and triple your chances of success.  

Psychology Personal Statement

How does the mind work? The mind is a mystery housed within the most complex mechanism known to man: the human brain. My innate curiosity compels me to find out more about such a mystery through the study of Psychology.

I have long been interested in how our minds differ: for example, why have I always been a strong mathematician while my brother finds it challenging? Being a musician, I found Kathryn Vaughn’s research supporting a correlation between musical and mathematical abilities particularly thought provoking, while I have also wondered whether my childhood obsession with jigsaws helped me develop problem-solving skills, which are particularly relevant in Geometry: the area with the biggest rift in our abilities. Ann Dowker’s argument, in ‘Individual Differences’, that educational methods influence such differences was also particularly compelling. Therefore, in my gap year, whilst helping struggling learners in KS3 Mathematics at a local school, and, when I help educate children in Tanzania as an International Citizen Service volunteer with the VSO charity, I will evaluate the success of different educational methods. This will give me experience of carrying out my own research, and, will develop skills such as empathy, which is important in the more sensitive areas of Psychology. Furthermore, I recently assisted a University of Oxford researcher conducting follow-up assessments with children in local primary schools. These measured reading-age, language comprehension and numeracy level, and are used to gauge and refine the Catch-Up charity’s numeracy intervention programme. As some of the children being assessed were from a control group, my involvement also enlightened me to ethical aspects of research.

Differences that occur in the criminal mind are also of great interest to me. As an elected Student Ambassador for the Holocaust Educational Trust, I visited Auschwitz-Birkenau earlier this year, where I learnt about Rudolf Hoess. Hoess exterminated thousands of families, yet lived with his own family just outside the camp. This ignited an interest in complex behaviour; therefore I read Stanley Milgram’s research into whether ‘the Germans are different’, and learnt about his Theory of Obedience. This developed an interest in Forensic Psychology, and I subsequently attended a Forensics course at Nottingham University, where I learnt about a Forensic Psychologist’s role, during Mental Health tribunals, for example.

Deterioration of the mind, and methods to counteract this, also interest me. Reading the Psychologist has given me an insight into how the effectiveness of such methods could be analysed using a high-resolution 3D brain atlas; while a presentation from Claire Rytina enlightened me to useful cognitive treatment designed to rebuild and retrieve memory following her Viral Encephalitis. I have also voluntarily worked at a Nursing Home with some Dementia sufferers, and noticed that many sufferers enjoyed me playing music from their past, and sometimes, this triggered some of their memories. This made me wonder whether the music stimulated neurones which had lain dormant for years, similarly to when neurones are used for the first time, as Hubel and Weisel’s nature/nurture research has shown. Studying this in A level Biology gave me an interest in neuroscience, while Biology also stressed the importance of controls and fair tests, which are invaluable during Psychology experiments too. My mathematical skills in statistics will also be beneficial when analysing empirical evidence; and, the deep level of analysis and evaluation used for varying sources in A level History will be useful when studying case studies, while my essay techniques will help me when writing reports, and when considering issues from different perspectives.

Overall, I feel that my broad interests and skills will enable me to thrive as a Psychology student at a demanding University, where I would also make a positive contribution to University life.

For more inspiration, take a look through our other successful Personal Statement a nalysis articles:

Successful Personal Statement For Natural Science (Physical) At Cambridge

Successful personal statement for economics at cambridge, successful personal statement for land economy at cambridge, successful personal statement for chemistry at oxford, successful personal statement for geography at oxford, successful personal statement for classics at oxford, successful personal statement for law at oxford, successful personal statement for classics at cambridge, successful personal statement for engineering at cambridge, successful personal statement for philosophy at cambridge, successful personal statement for veterinary medicine at cambridge, successful personal statement for psychological and behavioural sciences at cambridge, successful personal statement for history at oxford, successful personal statement for physics at oxford, successful personal statement for cambridge mathematics and physics, successful personal statement example for computer science at oxford, successful personal statement for english at cambridge, successful personal statement for oxford english language and literature, successful personal statement for medicine at oxford university, successful personal statement for modern languages at oxford, successful personal statement for engineering at oxford, successful personal statement for natural sciences (biological) at cambridge, successful personal statement for economics & management at oxford, successful personal statement for ppe at oxford, successful personal statement for law at cambridge, successful personal statement for dentistry at king’s college london, successful personal statement for medicine at cambridge.

Download our Free Personal Statement Starter Guide 

Good Points Of The Personal Statement

This statement is powered by a broad range of academic interests — all of which the candidate has explored to a deep and commendable level. They are able to articulate how these interests came about, why they are important and how they intersect. In so doing, the candidate clearly demonstrates their ability to think independently, undertake independent projects and foster a wide-ranging curiosity. Furthermore, they clearly illustrate how their academic interests have had a bearing on their actions outside of the classroom; activities that require a substantial amount of initiative and endeavour.

Bad Points Of The Personal Statement

While the consideration of a range of different areas of psychology is illustrative of a consistently curious individual, this statement would have benefited from greater cohesion as an overall piece. The candidate could have also found a less rhetorical way of opening their statement; their tone at this point is not a mode of speech that they return to elsewhere, and as such, it seems somewhat like a non-sequitur. Their prose thereafter is much more engaging, and it seems unfulfilling and irrelevant to include such mystifying text at the start.

UniAdmissions Overall Score:

This candidate maturely presents their academic interests and particular areas of personal pursuit. As a result of this, they are able to demonstrate moments at which they have taken impressive amounts of initiative, and have really gone out of their way in order to experience their academic interests outside of the classroom. They are thereby able to fashion themselves as a curious, energetic, academic individual, who is able to think independently and develop their own work. There are potential areas for stylistic improvement within the statement, but they do not hinder the overall impression given of a capable and committed candidate.

This Personal Statement for Psychology is a great example of demonstrating academic interest and initiative. The candidate’s interest and passion are clearly shown which is vital to Admissions Tutors.

Remember, at Oxford, these Admissions Tutors are often the people who will be teaching you for the next few years, so you need to appeal directly to them.

Go to our Free Personal Statement Resources page for even more successful personal statements and expert guides.

Our expert tutors are on hand to help you craft the perfect Personal Statement for your Oxford Psychology application.

With our  Oxbridge Psychology Premium Programme, we help you craft the perfect Personal   Statement , score highly on the TSA and teach you how to  Interview effectively .

Discover our Premium Programmes by clicking the button below to enrol and triple your chances of success.

UniAdmissions students placed at Oxford And Cambridge

Continue learning about Oxbridge...

Ai writing & ucas personal statements: what you need to know.

When it comes to writing in the 2020s, AI-Generation has become one of the most important issues for many industries,…

Oxbridge Personal Statements: A Complete Teacher’s Guide

As a teacher, you will support students with their UCAS Personal Statements every year, but what about Personal Statements for…

UCAS Personal Statements Are Changing in 2025

On January 12th 2023, UCAS announced that the traditional Personal Statement would be replaced by a multi-question form for university…

Writing an Economics and Management Personal Statement for Oxford? If so, you’re in the right place! In this post, we…

Successful Personal Statement For Computer Science At Oxford

Read through a successful Computer Science Personal Statement for Oxford with a full analysis by Oxbridge Tutors. Find out why…

TSA Section 2: The Essay

Section 2 of the TSA is an extended essay responding to an excerpt of text. The best way to guide…

The Secrets to Oxbridge Admission.

  • We cracked the Oxbridge formula . Find out what we discovered here.
  • Looking for application support? Don't work with a random tutor. This is what you need to know first.
  • Get up-to-date Oxbridge advice with our webinars. Follow our Open Days led by our experts and stay updated.
  • Begin your Oxbridge journey with UniAdmissions through our programmes of support by clicking here.

Personal Statement Starter Guide

We have developed an 80-page E-Book filled with expert Personal Statement Advice. Inside, you’ll find guides on planning and writing your personal statement, as well as our full collection of 25+ Successful Oxbridge Personal Statements.

Get it directly to your inbox by registering your email.

How would you like to speak to an Admissions Consultant?

Example Personal Statement: Psychology

We analyse a student's personal statement.

Example Personal Statement: Psychology

This student applied to study Psychology and Criminology at Southampton, Royal Holloway and Swansea, as well as Psychology at Liverpool and Oxford Brookes. They received offers from all five of their universities.

Here we break their personal statement down into parts, analysing each section so you can learn from their experience.

I became interested in the relationship between human behaviour and the brain after a member of my family was diagnosed with dementia. Having noticed the relationships between the deteriorating condition and abnormal behaviour, I began to question how the brain affects memory and behaviour. My growing interest in the link between the biology of a person and their behaviour was what originally drove me to study Psychology A-Level. Studying Psychology at university will allow me to develop my research and problem solving skills as well as my interest in the mind and behaviour. 

You should outline your interest in the subject without relying on one specific ‘lightbulb’ moment - in this example, the student has identified an initial interest and mentioned how they expanded on it to make their decision to study Psychology at university.

Careful not to make your response too emotive - mentioning poor health in your family as a stimulus for your interest is fine providing you keep your writing academic rather than emotional. If it’s too difficult to write about, choose a different driver.

One of the topics I found most interesting during my A-Level course was Psychopathology. This topic led me to research the inner workings of the atypical mind, particularly the mind of a criminal in Psychopath Whisperer by Kent Kiehl. The most engaging aspect of the book was a case study into a repeat offending paedophile. Despite all rehabilitation efforts failing, further investigation found a large tumour in his frontal lobe which, when removed, stopped all deviant behaviours. I find the relationship between psychology and criminology fascinating and looked into this further starting with Jim Fallon’s TED Talk ‘Exploring the mind of a killer’ where I learnt about the thought processes behind the crime, why criminals commit a crime, and whether they have free will. I used this research to help develop my understanding of my module on abnormal behaviour and would like to study this further.

Point out something specific you have studied that interests you, but avoid writing ‘I am passionate about…’. Evidence your interests by writing about ways you’ve explored your subject independently. Exploring things you find interesting without being told to by a teacher demonstrates your natural curiosity in the subject, and will give you the scope to write about your interest in topics that will be on your future courses. 

Studying both Biology and Chemistry has helped me to develop my skills in conducting experiments, particularly my hypothesis writing and my ability to analyse experimental data. For example, in my Biology A-Level coursework, I studied the effect of caffeine on the breakdown of protein, hypothesising that protein breakdown would be faster after caffeine intake. I plotted my data on a variety of graphs and used them to identify the rate of the reaction. I explored my hypothesis further in psychology, looking into the effect of caffeine on mental conditions, including addiction. Using my in class research, I linked this to genetics and gene mutations as part of the nature vs nurture debate to bring in my interest in criminals as this is a key element of the study of criminal minds.  

You don’t need to explain or even list the A-Levels you’re taking, but you should point out any transferable skills you’ve built, especially if they’re listed on your course page. For example, psychology courses tend to ask for scientific and analytical skills so this student has pointed out their skills in experiments, and they’ve linked this back to an interest in psychology to show how they can use their analyses across their subjects.

Remember that you need to answer the question ‘what makes me a good candidate for this course’, so pick out key examples that demonstrate that you are!

Recently, I attended a lecture by Dr Guy Sutton, a Professor in Neuroscience at Nottingham University. He discussed dissection, brain function and - most interestingly - the neuropathology of Schizophrenia. This led me to research the relationship between this mental illness and criminal behaviour. I was fascinated to find that, where previously it was thought that Schizophrenia drove people to violence, evidence has been uncovered to suggest that criminality is not a symptom of this condition, and the correlation between Schizophrenia and crime is due to the homelessness, poverty, or drug abuse that so often accompanies this illness. My research impressed upon me the importance of studying the mind; this new evidence changed both the way Schizophrenics are treated in society, and how mentally ill criminals are sentenced. 

Research into and passion for your subject doesn’t have to be about reading - if you’ve visited a lecture, museum, or something similar, mention it to demonstrate your passion and commitment.

Make sure you don’t just mention the experience and move on; you should link together your experience and your reading, and reflect on what you learnt or how it improved your understanding of the subject. Linking your subject to real world events demonstrates to admissions tutors that you understand and appreciate its relevance in the world around you, and demonstrates that you are capable of processing and evaluating information independently.

I enjoy art where I love to explore the inner workings of the mind from a creative perspective. I entered a sculpture which represented motor neurone disease into a competition; I explored the conflict between the minds of both humans and animals, and my entry was exhibited in the Saatchi Gallery where I was asked to film a short video explaining my thought process behind the piece. I am also a bowler for both my District and County cricket teams where I was awarded ‘best bowler’ for three seasons for my hard work, dedication, and drive to improve. As a result of my improving teamwork and leadership skills, I am a Level 1 coach and have begun working towards my level two coaching certificate. I have recently been given the responsibility of running my own team where I hope to inspire the next generation of cricketers. 

Don’t be afraid to highlight your achievements - you should be proud of them! Make sure you point out any accolades, awards, or competitions you have won or taken part in, alongside any extra curricular activities that have helped you develop your skills. You don’t have to link these back to your subject - the point of this section is to demonstrate your skills, not show that you are suitable for psychology. You don’t need a conclusion - use those characters to fill out your examples! If you do choose to end on a conclusion, write about what you are looking forward to studying, rather than any career goals; you are applying to be a student, not a future psychologist!

Latest posts:

Unifrog’s virtual work experience week (1st-5th july 2024) faqs.

1st May 2024

Skills development workshop and insights day with the British Army

26th April 2024

The student aspiration gap: what it is, why it matters, and how we fight it

29th January 2024

Counselor spotlight: Augusto Neto at St. Paul's School, Brazil

8th January 2024

How Bloomberg is getting closer to disadvantaged students with Unifrog’s help

4th January 2024

How to create a gold-tier early careers strategy

21st December 2023

Unifrog World of Work Conference round-up

9th November 2023

10 years of Unifrog

6th November 2023

How to create an inclusive recruitment process

4th October 2023

Unifrog and Ford collaborate on skills development workshop for students

27th September 2023

Privacy & Terms

International schools

UK schools + colleges

Universities

Case studies

psychology personal statement introduction

Clearing Universities & Courses

Clearing advice.

Recommended Clearing Universities

Popular Course Categories

psychology personal statement introduction

Course Search & Discover

Start the search for your uni. Filter from hundreds of universities based on your preferences.

Search by Type

Search by region.

Recommended Universities

psychology personal statement introduction

Ravensbourne University London

London (Greater) · 88% Recommended

psychology personal statement introduction

Swansea University

Wales · 100% Recommended

psychology personal statement introduction

University of Surrey

South East England · 98% Recommended

Search Open Days

What's new at Uni Compare

psychology personal statement introduction

University of Roehampton

Study a teaching degree at one of the UK's leading teacher training providers

psychology personal statement introduction

University of Sussex

Prepare for a digitally advanced workplace with cutting edge Finance Degrees

Ranking Categories

Regional rankings.

More Rankings

psychology personal statement introduction

Top 100 Universities

Taken from 65,000+ data points from students attending university to help future generations

psychology personal statement introduction

About our Rankings

Discover university rankings devised from data collected from current students.

Guide Categories

Advice categories, recommended articles, popular statement examples, not sure what to search for, take our quick degree quiz.

Find the ideal uni course for you with our Course Degree Quiz. Get answers in minutes!

Take our full degree quiz

Get more tailored course suggestions with our full Course Degree Quiz and apply with confidence.

PERSONAL STATEMENT EXAMPLE Psychology and Neuroscience Personal Statement

Submitted by Caroline

Uni Logo for Bangor University

Study Psychology at a BPS accredited Uni

Discover the wide world of Psychology, from human development to influences like biology and socialisation at Bangor.

Uni Logo for Swansea University

Calling all curious minds! Delve into the depths of human behaviour at Swansea.

Get expert scientific training and unlock the secrets of the mind with Swansea's Psychology degrees. Explore their wide range of degrees and discover how you can tailor your studies to your interests.

Psychology and Neuroscience Personal Statement

Purpose for learning is a key difference between animal and human brains; whereas evidence suggests that animal brains have evolved to learn what is useful for their immediate needs, humans have a greater capacity to learn and store information even if it has no obvious us, which allows us to advance as a species. This distinction was my first encounter with Psychology and Neuroscience in an essay competition about animal and human thought. I concluded that the study of Psychology is both paramount to giving us an insight into the human mind and, unquestionably, the subject I wish to study at university.

I enjoyed ‘Incognito’, by Eagleman, addressing free will through the lens of Neuroscience; it supported a conclusion that I had arrived at via other reading, that if who we are is so dictated by our brain chemistry that a minute alteration in neurotransmitters can produce alarming changes to our behaviour, it is questionable whether we are truly free. Having previously only considered this question from a broader, philosophical standpoint, I was excited by the insights that scientific research can bring to issues; I feel that Psychology bridges Science and Philosophy perfectly.

It is fascinating how simple impulses and synapses can cause the complex mental life we experience. I read ‘The Brain’, by Wenk, which interested me as it allowed me to more fully understand the links between underlying neural mechanisms and behaviour. For example, Wenk addresses the neurological causes of psychological conditions, such as the link between serotonin and depression. The promise that psychological and neuroscientific research can bring us excites me both for intellectual curiosity but also from a compassionate point of view; it is my dearest ambition to contribute to such research in the future. To this end, I completed a research Gold CREST project in Chemistry that I extremely enjoyed; this also advanced my abilities in scientific method and experiment-design. Chemistry is especially interesting to me from a psychological angle, as the mind and consciousness are essentially simple molecular interactions.

Intrigued by consciousness I attended a panel debate at LSE, about what it is and if it is present in animals. I was curious as to where we could draw the line between conscious and unconscious beings. Although I think it simplistic to suggest that neural activity and consciousness are separate entities, it remains indisputable that some actions require more conscious thought than others. Thus Eagleman’s observation that the level of consciousness an animal has is ‘paralleled to their intellectual flexibility’ is a convincing one, and I am inclined to agree there is a spectrum of different degrees of consciousness. Enthused by what I learnt, I gave a presentation at my school about animal consciousness, language and morality; I was delighted with how many of my peers and teachers engaged with this and the ensuing discussion challenged some of my perspectives and allowed stimulating intellectual debate.

I am also interested in memory, both neurologically looking at dendritic spines, but also from a broader perspective with respect to the malleability of memory and the judicial implications of this. Interested by what I had learned, I gave an interactive talk on memory to children. This was also interesting from a psychological angle as the children reacted differently to the same stimuli and it is fascinating to be able to partly understand why that is the case; studying Psychology gives me a new understanding of the world. This was further demonstrated to me when I was volunteering in a primary school, as well as in my roles as Prefect and Head Chorister. I also enjoy leadership and responsibility as Head of Fair Trade and Head Editor of the history magazine. Furthermore I am doing Gold DofE.

To understand the mind is to understand our world and I am excited by the prospects of studying the mind to undergraduate level and beyond.

Recommended Course

psychology personal statement introduction

Recommended Statements

Submitted by anonymous

Psychology and Philosophy Personal Statement

For centuries humanity has pondered the definitions of truth and falsehood. For many, the truth is simply ...

Psychology Personal Statement

While growing up, an individual experiences countless differing fields of psychology without even realisin...

My first experience in the field of psychology was in year 9, I was asked to complete a project of my choo...

My desire for wanting to pursue psychology in higher education not only stems from a personal perspective ...

psychology personal statement introduction

undergraduate Universities

Undergraduate uni's.

Photo of Ravensbourne University London

Ravensbourne

103 courses

Photo of Swansea University

Swansea Uni

1319 courses

Photo of University of Surrey

Uni of Surrey

750 courses

Photo of University of Portsmouth

Uni of Portsmouth

761 courses

Photo of Arts University Plymouth

114 courses

Photo of Northeastern University - London

Northeastern Uni

Photo of University of East London

Uni of East London

575 courses

Photo of Leeds Beckett University

Leeds Beckett Uni

454 courses

Photo of University Academy 92, UA92

Uni of Sunderland

340 courses

Photo of Cardiff Metropolitan University

Cardiff Met Uni

501 courses

Photo of University of Brighton

Uni of Brighton

407 courses

Photo of University for the Creative Arts

Uni for Creative Arts

672 courses

Photo of University of Chester

Uni of Chester

645 courses

Photo of SOAS, University of London

467 courses

Photo of University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD)

886 courses

Photo of University of Leicester

Uni of Leicester

432 courses

Photo of Heriot-Watt University

Heriot-Watt Uni

334 courses

Photo of University of Westminster

Uni of Westminster

503 courses

Photo of University of Winchester

Uni of Winchester

259 courses

Photo of Bangor University

548 courses

Photo of Goldsmiths, University of London

Goldsmiths, UOL

344 courses

Photo of University of Roehampton

Uni of Roehampton

468 courses

Photo of Middlesex University

Middlesex Uni

634 courses

Photo of Staffordshire University

Staffordshire Uni

472 courses

Photo of University of Bradford

Uni of Bradford

390 courses

Photo of University of Hertfordshire

Uni of Hertfordshire

584 courses

Photo of West London Institute of Technology

West London IoT

Photo of Escape Studios

Escape Studios

Photo of ARU Writtle

ARU Writtle

104 courses

Photo of Kingston University

Kingston Uni

617 courses

Photo of Wrexham University

Wrexham Uni

289 courses

Photo of New Model Institute for Technology and Engineering, NMITE

Uni of Suffolk

186 courses

Photo of University of Kent

Uni of Kent

580 courses

Photo of Bath Spa University

Bath Spa Uni

520 courses

Photo of Queen's University, Belfast

Queen's Uni

635 courses

Photo of Coventry University

Coventry Uni

480 courses

Photo of University of Bedfordshire

Uni of Bedfordshire

656 courses

Photo of University of the West of England (UWE), Bristol

UWE, Bristol

497 courses

Photo of Leeds Arts University

Leeds Arts University

Photo of University of Central Lancashire

Uni of C.Lancashire

798 courses

Photo of University of Essex

Uni of Essex

1400 courses

Photo of University of Huddersfield

Uni of Huddersfield

668 courses

Photo of University of Reading

Uni of Reading

685 courses

Photo of University of South Wales

709 courses

Photo of Anglia Ruskin University

Anglia Ruskin Uni

808 courses

Photo of Edge Hill University

Edge Hill Uni

383 courses

Photo of University of Hull

Uni of Hull

498 courses

Photo of Nottingham Trent University

Nottingham Trent

912 courses

Photo of LIBF

FIND THE IDEAL COURSE FOR YOU

Degree Course Quiz

Find the ideal university course for you in minutes by taking our degree matchmaker quiz today.

Find the latest from Uni Compare

Image of University of Roehampton

University of Law

Ranked Top 20 amongst English universities in the 2023 National Student Survey, click here to learn more!

Image of Cardiff Metropolitan University

Cardiff Metropolitan University

Ranked as the most sustainable university in Wales (People & Planet University League 2023/24)

IMAGES

  1. Foundations in Clinical Psychology Masters personal statement

    psychology personal statement introduction

  2. Writing in Psychology Personal Statement

    psychology personal statement introduction

  3. Psychology Personal Statement

    psychology personal statement introduction

  4. Psychology personal statement example in Word format

    psychology personal statement introduction

  5. Psychology degree personal statement example

    psychology personal statement introduction

  6. Psychology Personal Statement copy.pdf

    psychology personal statement introduction

VIDEO

  1. Personal statement advice: Psychology

  2. Write an Incredible Personal Statement: 3 Steps with Examples

  3. Zainab's *Psychology* Personal Statement

  4. How to write a personal statement for university

  5. A Step-by-Step Guide to Personal Statement Structure by @mattgreen.jgm

  6. How to write a personal statement

COMMENTS

  1. Psychology Personal Statement Examples

    Psychology Personal Statement Example 5. Psychology has been a part of my life indirectly for many years, from something as insignificant as people watching in a cafe to an impromptu counselling session for a friend with emotional trauma. I have had a real desire to work with people for a long time and have always been fascinated with human ...

  2. Psychology Personal Statement Writing Guide and Example

    How to write a psychology personal statement. Here are some steps to help you write your personal statement: 1. Read the instructions thoroughly. The first step to writing an effective personal statement is to know what your audience expects from your essay. Take time to read the essay instructions for all the institutions for which you plan to ...

  3. Psychology Personal Statement Examples

    Degree Course Quiz. Find the ideal university course for you in minutes by taking our degree matchmaker quiz today. Browse our range of Psychology personal statement examples. Gain inspiration & make sure you're on the right track when writing your own personal statement.

  4. Writing a psychology personal statement: expert advice from

    Remember that a personal statement should be written to persuade the admissions tutor that you're a good fit for the course and have the skills to succeed. Put yourself in their shoes and think about what would convince you. Be honest but avoid false modesty. Sell yourself as a future psychologist in the making.

  5. How to Create your Personal Statement for Psychology

    Customize each personal statement to the program or school you are applying. Elaborate on how that particular program can assist you in reaching your goals. During revisions, pay attention to the strength and dynamism of your opening paragraph. Your goal is to hook the readers and give them the desire to keep reading.

  6. PDF Guide to Writing a Personal Statement

    undergraduate psychology programs provide appropriate advising and mentoring concerning graduate school culture and the requirements of the graduate school application process, their majors are likely to commit these KODs. For example, an unmentored psychology major may interpret a personal statement at face value by perceiving it as an

  7. How to start a personal statement: The attention grabber

    Top tips on how to write your statement opener. We spoke to admissions tutors at unis and colleges - read on for their tips. 1. Don't begin with the overkill opening. Try not to overthink the opening sentence. You need to engage the reader with your relevant thoughts and ideas, but not go overboard. Tutors said: 'The opening is your chance ...

  8. How To Start A Personal Statement: Tips & Examples

    4. Demonstrate Knowledge In Your Chosen Course. An essential element of starting a personal statement is to express why you're enthusiastic about taking your chosen course. You need to demonstrate that you're aware of what you're getting yourself into in the process.

  9. How to write a personal statement for Psychology

    Show passion. We want to know where this interest in psychology comes from, what excites you and how you indulge your passion. Simply saying: "I have always been interested in psychology" is meaningless without presenting any evidence. Demonstrate how this interest has manifested itself and what you have done to take it further.

  10. Psychology Personal Statement Advice

    The University of Bristol highlights five elements of a strong, academically focused psychology statement: Ensure it is well structured and well written. Give details of any specific interests or ambitions you have that relate to the content of the course. Demonstrate your enthusiasm for psychological research as a focus for academic study.

  11. PDF Personal Statement Workshop

    Example: UNC-CH Personal Statement Prompt § On a separate page, write a personal statement that includes the following: • a. Description of any work experience relevant to psychology and research (bibliographic, laboratory or other) that you may have done (or are doing) either as part of employment or to complete your present program.

  12. How To Write a Compelling Psychology Personal Statement

    6. Conclude with a clear summary. Just like the introduction, a good conclusion to your psychology personal statement can leave a lasting impression on the reader. Try to cover all the important points that you have mentioned in a clear, concise way. Avoid too many fluffy, long sentences and stick to the point.

  13. PDF Writing Personal Statements for Graduate School Clarity Use simple

    Writing Personal Statements for Graduate School. Your personal statement is your introduction to a university admission committee. The aim of your statement is to communicate that you are intelligent, and literate, and that you have interests and abilities in common with the program in which you are interested.

  14. Personal Statement for Psychology: With Tips and Examples

    Psychology Personal Statement Example #2. With every academic paper and publication, I read since beginning to study medicine and psychology, my interest in the subject has grown. In light of my fascination with behaviour and the mind, as well as my interest in helping patients, psychology is my chosen subject for further study.

  15. How to Write Your Personal Statement

    A personal statement is a short essay of around 500-1,000 words, in which you tell a compelling story about who you are, what drives you, and why you're applying. To write a successful personal statement for a graduate school application, don't just summarize your experience; instead, craft a focused narrative in your own voice. Aim to ...

  16. How To Write A Personal Statement For Psychology

    Tips for writing your psychology personal statement 1. Start Early. Writing a psychology personal statement is a time-consuming process if the writing is not your "thing", so it's essential to start early. This will allow you to brainstorm ideas, gather materials, and revise your statement multiple times before submitting it. 2.

  17. Undergraduate Personal Statement Example: Psychology

    Undergraduate Personal Statement Example: Psychology Personal Statement Example: Introduction "As a result of continued progress in the field of psychology over recent decades, researchers and psychologists can now offer increasingly meaningful observations and analyses regarding human behaviours, processes and emotions.

  18. Writing a Personal Statement

    General Outline. Opening Paragraph - 4 to 6 sentences. Academic Accomplishments - 5 to 7 sentences. Research Experience - 5 to 8 sentences. Employment/Volunteer Work/Clinical Experience - 5 to 8 sentences. Future Plans/Goodness-of-Fit - 6 to 9 sentences. Concluding Paragraph - 4 to 5 sentences. (Information adapted for the purposes ...

  19. Successful Personal Statement For PBS At Cambridge

    This Psychological and Behavioural Sciences Personal Statement successfully helped an applicant receive a Cambridge offer. Here's the analysis ... encouraging me to start an online course "Introduction to psychology" taught by the University of Toronto. My curiosity still reaches far beyond these introductions and I am looking forward to ...

  20. Successful Personal Statement For Psychology At Oxford

    This Personal Statement for Psychology is a great example of demonstrating academic interest and initiative. The candidate's interest and passion are clearly shown which is vital to Admissions Tutors. Remember, at Oxford, these Admissions Tutors are often the people who will be teaching you for the next few years, so you need to appeal ...

  21. Example Personal Statement: Psychology : Unifrog Blog

    Here we break their personal statement down into parts, analysing each section so you can learn from their experience. I became interested in the relationship between human behaviour and the brain after a member of my family was diagnosed with dementia. Having noticed the relationships between the deteriorating condition and abnormal behaviour ...

  22. Psychology & Neuroscience Personal Statement Examples

    Psychology and Neuroscience Personal Statement. Purpose for learning is a key difference between animal and human brains; whereas evidence suggests that animal brains have evolved to learn what is useful for their immediate needs, humans have a greater capacity to learn and store information even if it has no obvious us, which allows us to ...