computer science personal statement structure

Computer Science Personal Statement (Guide + Examples!)

Applying to study computer science can be quite a complicated programs. There are so many programs out there with so many application requirements. But don’t worry, we’re here to help.

Table of Contents

What Is a computer science personal statement?

A computer science personal statement is a document that you submit as part of your application to study computer science.

In this statement, you’ll need to talk about your motivation for wanting to study computer science, as well as your skills and experience . This is your chance to sell yourself to the admissions committee and demonstrate why you’re the perfect candidate for their program.

Anatomy of a personal statement

Now that we’ve covered what a computer science personal statement is, let’s take a look at what it should include.

1. Introduction

2. your motivation for wanting to study computer science.

In this section, you’ll need to explain your motivation for wanting to study computer science. What is it about computer science that interests you? What are your long-term career aspirations? This is your chance to sell yourself to the admissions committee and demonstrate your commitment to the subject.

3. Your skills and experience

In this section, you’ll need to talk about your skills and experience . What computer science-related courses have you taken? Do you have any industry experience? This is your chance to show the admissions committee that you have the skills and experience necessary to succeed in their program.

4. Conclusion

Who reads my computer science personal statement.

The computer science personal statement is read by the admissions committee of the computer science department to which you’re applying.

How long should my computer science personal statement be?

Your computer science personal statement should be between 500 and 1000 words . This is enough space for you to introduce yourself, talk about your motivation for wanting to study computer science, and discuss your skills and experience.

What should I include in my computer science personal statement?

Some things that you may want to include in your computer science personal statement are:

Your personal statement may also include other information that you feel is important for the admissions committee to know about you. However, make sure that whatever you include is relevant to computer science and will help you stand out as a strong candidate.

What should I not write in my computer science personal statement?

Second, avoid including information that is not relevant to computer science . The admissions committee is looking for evidence that you’re passionate about computer science and have the skills and experience necessary to succeed in their program, so including information about your hobbies or extracurricular activities may not be the best way to go forward.

An exception to this is if you’re including information about extenuating circumstances that have impacted your academic performance, in which case you should briefly explain how these circumstances have affected you and why you’re still a strong candidate for their program.

Tips on writing a top-notch computer science personal statement

Now that we’ve gone over what to include and what not to include in your computer science personal statement, let’s talk about how you can write a top-notch personal statement.

First, start by brainstorming a list of your computer science-related experiences, skills, and accomplishments . This will give you a good starting point for your personal statement and help you determine what information is most relevant to include.

By following these tips, you can write a computer science personal statement that is sure to impress the admissions committee and increase your chances of getting into your dream program.

Computer science personal statement examples

Now that we’ve covered the basics of what a computer science personal statement should include, let’s take a look at some computer science personal statement examples.

“I have been programming since I was 12 years old, and ever since then I have been fascinated by the possibilities that computer science offers. I am motivated by the idea of being able to create something from scratch and see it come to life, and I know that computer science will allow me to do just that. In addition, I have experience in working with code from different languages, which has taught me how to think critically and solve problems. My skills in critical thinking and problem solving are essential for studying computer science, as they will allow me to tackle complex challenges head-on.

Apart from my skills and experience, I am also passionate about learning new things. This is why during my free time I volunteered for Code for America, where I worked with a team of designers and developers to build a civic engagement platform. This experience showed me the importance of collaboration when it comes to creating something amazing, and it solidified my belief that teamwork is key to success.

Last year, I also had the opportunity to intern at Lyft, where I worked on a team that developed a new feature for the Lyft app. This experience was invaluable, as it gave me insights into the inner workings of one of the world’s most successful companies. It also showed me how computer science can be used to solve real-world problems.

Ultimately, I believe that I would be an excellent candidate for your computer science program because of my passion for the field combined with my skills and experience. I am confident that I have what it takes to succeed in computer science, and I hope to use my skills and knowledge to make a difference in the world.”

“I have always been interested in the way computers work and how they can be used to solve problems. This interest began when I was very young and has continued to grow as I have gotten older. My father is a computer scientist, so I have been exposed to computer science my entire life. In high school, I took several computer science courses and really enjoyed them. I also competed in several programming competitions and did well in them. In the following essay, I want to highlight my accomplishments as a computer science candidate and express my passion for this exciting field.

I am a computer science major at *NAME* University. I have taken several computer science courses and have gotten exceptional grades. My favorite course so far has been Introduction to Algorithms, for which I worked as a teaching assistant during my third year. I also competed in the Association for Computing Machinery International Collegiate Programming Contest, and our team placed in the top 100 out of 6,000 teams worldwide. This experience showed me that I have the ability to solve complex problems and work well under pressure.

As a student, I also worked as a part-time research assistant in the AI and Robotics laboratory, where I assisted in the development of a computer vision system for an autonomous robot. This experience allowed me to develop my skills in programming and computer science. In addition, I have also been a member of the Student Senate and have served on the Executive Board of the Student Government Association. These experiences have allowed me to develop leadership skills and learn how to work with others.

I am interested in computer science because it is a field that is constantly changing and evolving. There are always new problems to solve and new ways to solve them. I find this challenge exciting and invigorating. I am also interested in computer science because it is a field that combines creativity with logic. I enjoy using both my creative and logical sides when solving problems.

I am applying to your program specifically because I believe that it will allow me to further develop my skills in computer science. I am looking forward to taking classes from renowned professors and working with other talented students. I believe that your program will provide me with the skills and knowledge that I need to become a successful computer scientist.”

“Computers have always been a part of my life. As a toddler, I would watch my father work on computer programs for his business. Fascinated by the blinking cursor on the screen, I would ask him what he was doing and how it worked. My parents bought me my first computer when I was in grade school and I taught myself how to program in BASIC.

One of my biggest accomplishments in the field of computer science so far has been developing a computer program that can generate 3D models of human faces. This program has the potential to be used in a variety of applications, such as video game development, computer-aided design, and even law enforcement. I am currently working on submitting this program to a computer science conference for publication.

I have also been involved in a number of extracurricular activities related to computer science. I am a member of the Association for Computing Machinery and the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers. I have also volunteered my time to teach computer science to elementary and middle school students through a local program called Girls Who Code.

Besides this, I have worked on several personal coding projects of my own. For example, I created a computer program that can solve Sudoku puzzles by using a technique called constraint satisfaction. I also developed a website for a local business called Joe’s pizzeria. My skills in computer science have also helped me in my other hobbies, such as photography and video editing. For the latter, I made a light correction tool that can automatically color-correct a video based on the primer of a still image.

I believe that my passion for computer science, as well as my experience in the field, makes me an ideal candidate for a graduate program in computer science. I am excited to continue learning and expanding my skills in computer science so that I can make an impact in this field. For this reason, I am excited to submit an early decision application to your computer science graduate program.”

What should I do after I have my first draft?

After you have completed the first draft of your computer science personal statement, you should follow these steps to edit, polish, and finalize your computer science personal statement:

2. Proofread and edit it : This step is crucial. A well-written and error-free computer science personal statement will make you look more professional and competent. Use spell check and grammar check , and then have someone else proofread it for you.

3. Ask for feedback : Once you’ve proofread and edited your computer science personal statement, ask a few people for their feedback. Choose people whose opinions you trust and who will be honest with you.

5. Modify personal statement for each program : Don’t just submit the same computer science personal statement to every program you apply to. Tailor it to each individual program, highlighting why you’re a good fit for that specific school.

6. Submit : Once you’re happy with your computer science personal statement, submit it along with the rest of your application.

Elmar Mammadov is a software developer, tech startup founder, and computer science career specialist. He is the founder of CS Careerline and a true career changer who has previously pursued careers in medicine and neuroscience.

Successful Personal Statement Example For Computer Science At Oxford

Last Updated: 6th April 2022

Author: Rob Needleman

Computer Science

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

Today, we are looking through a Computer Science applicant’s Personal Statement that helped secure a place at Oxford University. The Computer Science Course at Oxford is about understanding computer systems and networks at a deep level. Read on to see how this excellent Personal Statment gives attention to the mathematical side of Computer Science and showcases their achievements.

Here’s a breakdown of the Personal Statement (the applicant came very close to the 4,000 character limit):

SUCCESSFUL?

The universities this candidate applied to were the following:

LOUGHBOROUGH

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

Your tutor will give you actionable feedback with insider tips on how to improve and make your Personal Statement Oxbridge quality for the best chances of success. Discover our Oxbridge Computer Science Premium Programme , enrol and triple your chances of success!

Example Computer Science Personal Statement

My first experiences with mathematics throughout school were always enjoyable but not inspiring. While I loved working with maths, and enjoyed representing our school in both the UKMT and Hans Woyda team competitions, I felt that maths could not be the end-in-itself the school syllabus presented it as. As I progressed through secondary education, however, I began to really see it as the powerful tool to understand and structure reality that it is.

The first time I saw that my interpretation of the use of maths had some substance was during a work experience placement I organised at IMSO (International Mobile Satellite Organization). There I encountered some examples of the mathematical and computing problems involved in working with satellites: from the difference between the Euclidean geometry on a map and the Elliptical geometry on a globe, to the logistics of moving satellites around to meet demand while keeping them in orbit. These were problems that demanded much more than mere number crunching, and being exposed to this gave me a taste of what maths beyond school might involve. A second work experience spell at Siemens provided me a much more in-depth view of the important role that communication systems play in keeping a company running efficiently and effectively.

My passion for mathematics and computing was further extended while reading ‘The Magical Maze’ by Ian Stewart. The description of maths as the exploration of a maze of our own creation had an incredibly profound effect on my understanding of what research in mathematics involves. What interested me especially was the visual part of resolving problems, so that they did not rely completely on resolving long calculations. This was close to how I like to understand and explain my ideas in mathematics.

Douglas Hofstadter’s ‘Gödel, Escher, Bach’ gave me a much deeper understanding of the axiomatic systems that make up maths and how parallels can be drawn between different subjects to gain a further understanding of them all. Connected by the theme of Gödel’s Incompleteness Theorem, the author passes through seemingly unrelated topics, such as the problem of consciousness and the mathematics of Zen principles, to explain the theorem. Although not the focus of the book, I have also enjoyed reading the links that are presented between maths and computing; it seems to me that maths is not just related to computing – computing is the physical manifestation of mathematics.

Maths and computing are about describing mental processes in a precise, logical way. The rigour required for mathematical proof leaves little room for subjectivity: something can be proven, disproven or unproven, but this depends completely on the validity of your logic. The idea of being able to extract order from apparent chaos, working through concepts until they click is what I love about these subjects, and what has attracted me to take those as an integral part of my further education.

However passionate I am about my academic studies, I also enjoy being involved in extracurricular activities. As head of mentoring and a prefect, I have improved my organizational abilities working with staff and mentors in developing study programmes for those students requiring extra help. Completing the Duke of Edinburgh bronze award – now working on the silver award – has allowed me to practice and develop my leadership and teamwork skills.

In my spare time I enjoy playing tennis, skiing and swimming; the latter I practice at competition level. I also love travelling, as having spent my childhood in Denmark, Egypt, United Kingdom and Spain has given me a hunger for mixing with different cultures. I like to unwind by playing the piano – I find that the pleasure one derives from making a piece your own is one that few activities can match.

I am thrilled about the prospect of further study in these subjects with some of the leading professors in the fields, and look forward to participating in university life.

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28 example Oxbridge Personal Statements
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Good Points Of The Personal Statement

This is a well-written, structured statement. The student explains their reasons to pursue a dual-honours degree and gives equal attention to both disciplines to which they are applying. The student adds personality to the statement by thoroughly explaining their own views on all of the examples of literature read around maths and computing.

Bad Points Of The Personal Statement

There are quite a lot of short paragraphs. The student could have saved space by consolidating some paragraphs into one, hence shortening the statement. The student starts three paragraphs with ‘My’ or ‘In my’. This is quite repetitive. There are too many paragraphs, seven in total. Paragraphs five and six could be shortened and grouped into one paragraph. In the third paragraph, it appears as though the student has either forgotten to add an addition space (in order to start a new paragraph) or has incorrectly started a new line for the sentence ‘Douglas Hofstadter’s…’.

UniAdmissions Overall Score:

This is a very good statement. The student has clearly achieved a lot and writes in a clear and easy-to-understand way. Attention is given to both maths and computer sciences, which is essential as the student is applying for a dual honours course. With some restructuring, this could be an excellent statement.

This Personal Statement for Computer Science is a great example of how to tackle applying to two different degrees or dual honours. The candidate’s interest and achievements 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.

You can find more successful personal statements and our expert guides on our Free Personal Statement Resources page.

Personal statements are just one area of the application process for Computer Science. We also have a comprehensive guide on the wider Computer Science entry requirements .

Successful Personal Statement For Law At Cambridge

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Writing the Perfect Computer Science Personal Statement

How to write a perfect computer science personal statement

Introduction.

Securing a place in a prestigious university computer science course can be highly competitive. If you are aiming for a Russell Group University or even an Oxbridge University, you need to know that they expect high standards. With numerous applicants vying for limited seats, it's crucial to present yourself as an exceptional candidate. One powerful tool at your disposal is the personal statement. This blog post will guide you through the process of crafting a winning personal statement, showcasing your passion for computer science, unique experiences, and future goals. By following these tried-and-tested techniques, you will be equipped to impress admissions committees, increase your chances of acceptance, and embark on an exciting academic journey.

1. Know Your Audience

Before diving into writing your personal statement, it's crucial to understand the expectations and values of the university admissions committee. Research the university's mission, vision, and curriculum to align your goals with theirs. Familiarize yourself with the specific requirements of the computer science program, highlighting key characteristics and skills they are seeking in applicants. This knowledge will enable you to tailor your personal statement to resonate with the selection panel and demonstrate your suitability for the course.

2. Reflect on Your Journey

To create a compelling personal statement, delve into your personal and academic experiences that have shaped your passion for computer science. Reflect on any challenges you have faced and how these have reinforced your determination. Highlight standout moments, such as participation in coding contests, internships, or research projects, that have nurtured your interest in the field. Articulate how these experiences have driven your decision to pursue a computer science course at the university.

3. Showcase Your Skills and Achievements

Highlighting your relevant skills and achievements is essential to demonstrate your competence and distinguish yourself from other applicants. Discuss your proficiency in programming languages, problem-solving abilities, and any noteworthy projects you have undertaken. Provide evidence of your skills using concrete examples, including software development projects, technical challenges overcome, or academic awards attained. By emphasizing your capabilities, you will exhibit your potential value to the computer science program.

4. Convey Your Passion

Universities seek individuals who are passionate about computer science and can contribute to the academic community. Communicate your enthusiasm by explaining how the subject captivates you, discussing influential readings or inspirational innovators. Illustrate how you have pursued your passion outside of formal education, such as attending conferences, participating in coding boot camps, or engaging in open-source projects. Conveying your fervor for the subject will demonstrate your dedication and drive for success.

5. Define Your Future Goals

Admissions committees are interested in candidates with clear vision and ambition. Outline your long-term objectives in the field of computer science, showing how the university's program aligns with your goals. Discuss your aspirations to contribute to cutting-edge technology, address industry-specific challenges, or make a positive societal impact through your work. Demonstrating your future plans will assure the admissions panel of your determination and long-term commitment, increasing your chances of acceptance.

6. Be Authentic and Engaging

While ensuring your personal statement meets academic and professional standards, it should also serve as a reflection of your authentic self. Use a conversational tone and inject your unique personality into your writing. However, strike a balance by maintaining professionalism and avoiding overly informal language. Engage the reader with captivating anecdotes, personal experiences, or thought-provoking ideas. By standing out from the crowd and captivating the admissions committee, you increase the chances of leaving a lasting impression.

Crafting a perfect personal statement for a university computer science course is a meticulous yet rewarding process. By understanding the expectations of the admissions committee, reflecting on your journey, and showcasing your achievements and skills, you can effectively highlight your strengths. Coupled with a genuine passion for computer science and clear future goals that align with the program's objectives, you set yourself apart from other applicants. Remember to remain authentic, engaging, and proofread meticulously to ensure your statement shines. Your well-crafted personal statement will undoubtedly make a compelling case for your acceptance, propelling you towards a successful future in the field of computer science.

See the list of DOs and DONTs when writing a computer science personal statement.

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Computer science, computing and IT personal statement examples

Here you'll find a collection of computer science personal statements, all written by real students. Among them are some that have helped students make successful applications to universities such as Oxford, Imperial and Manchester.

Some also feature review comments from The Student Room personal statement review team.

Take a look through a few of these samples to get some inspiration for your own computer science personal statement.

Computer science personal statement examples - top rated by students

We have lots of computer science personal statement examples that you can read through. To help you find the best ones, we asked students to vote for which they found the most useful.

The following personal statements are those that were the most highly rated.

Computer science degree personal statement example (1f) Oxford offer Submitted by: Anonymous "Computer Science interests me because it incorporates both logic and systematic working with a form of speed and automation that could..."

Computer science degree personal statement example (1g) Cambridge offer Submitted by: Anonymous "To study computer science or mathematics at university has been my dream from a young age. The aspect that fascinates me the most is..."

Computer science degree personal statement example (2d) Imperial offer Submitted by: Anonymous "The difference in the level of technology today compared to a decade ago excites me. This, coupled with the logic and..."

Computer science degree personal statement example (1z) with philosophy Submitted by: Anonymous "I am fascinated by the efficiency and power of computers: we route ourselves through traffic using mapping programs in our pockets..."

Computer science degree personal statement example (2i) Imperial offer Submitted by: Anonymous "My motivation for pursuing a degree in Computer Science comes from the challenge of solving difficult problems and the..."

Computer science and cyber security degree personal statement example (1a) Submitted by: Anonymous "As an entrepreneur with a passion for computers, cyber security, and cybercrime investigations, pursuing further education in the field of..."

Computer science and mathematics degree personal statement example (1c) Submitted by: Anonymous "Computers let us harness the power of mathematics and have given us the best problem solving tool ever known. The study and..."

Computer science degree personal statement example (1b) with review and advice Submitted by: Anonymous "I have chosen to study Computer Science because I am fascinated by how computers work and I spend most of my spare time..."

Computer science degree personal statement example (2b) Manchester offer Submitted by: Anonymous "Since first being introduced to QBasic in secondary school I have been intrigued by how computers can be manipulated to work for us..."

Advanced computer science degree personal statement example (1a) Submitted by: Anonymous "I’ve always been fascinated with computer systems and networking. I taught myself the C programming language at age 16..."

Full list of computer science personal statement examples

Studying computer science at university.

Choose to study a computer science degree and you will learn the skills that wlll enable you to create computer programs and systems.

Computer science students can speclalise in areas such as artificial intelligence, cyber security, data management and virtual reality.

As a computer science graduate, you'll have a wide range of career paths available to you, from small business roles to positions at the heart of global corporations.

Explore computer science courses at UK universities on The Uni Guide .

Advice on writing your computer science personal statement

On The Uni Guide, we've got advice from universities on what they want to see in a computer science personal statement .

Among the tips shared by these admissions experts:

Don't worry if you don't have experience, but be clear about your motivation for studying the subject
Highlight the skills you have developed outside the classroom
Reflect on the key elements of the degree you've chosen; show that you understand what it's about
Keep the focus on yourself and explain why you deserve a place on the course

More help with your personal statement

You can find personal statement examples for other courses by using this subject list, or by returning to our personal statements by subject page.

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computer science personal statement structure

Personal Statement Examples for Graduate School: Computer Science

A student writing their application essay

Crafting a Standout Computer Science Personal Statement

Crafting a compelling personal statement is crucial for graduate school acceptance. Successful statements showcase your academic and professional accomplishments. They also put a spotlight on your personality, goals, and motivations. When you master this process can make your application stand out and secure your place in graduate school. That’s where our expertise comes into play. Our expertise is here to guide you through the graduate application complexities, providing insights, guidance, and feedback to enhance your writing and engage admissions committees.

Successful Personal Statement Examples for Graduate School

In this post, we’re excited to open our collection of personal statement examples for graduate school. We’re sharing two that students just like you used to get into graduate Computer Science programs:

First this Master’s application essay for California State University delves into the transformative power of technology in the public sector and reflects on personal experiences and research aspirations. This essay is a strong example of blending personal narrative with professional goals.

Second, this PhD application essay for Vanderbilt University shows a profound passion for computer science, driven by undergraduate studies, professional experience, and a keen interest in cloud technology and volunteer work. As a result, it’s a strong example of weaving together various aspects of life.

Both essays, while strong in their current form, nevertheless offer learning opportunities on how further refinement can enhance clarity, coherence, and impact. Our commentary on these pieces provides actionable advice on how to approach revisions, ensuring that each paragraph serves a clear purpose and contributes to the overall narrative effectively.

How We Can Help You Write A Successful Personal Statement

Explore our graduate school personal statement examples and feedback to grasp the detailed analysis and attention that perfects a statement. Whether starting your draft or finalizing revisions, our insights will help you showcase your strengths, improve weaknesses, and express your future vision.

Finally, remember that a great personal statement does not just happen—it is crafted. Let us guide you through this process, offering the expertise and feedback necessary to turn a good personal statement into an outstanding one. Explore our blog for more tips. If you want even more consider a Magoosh Premium Plan to get expert help with both the GRE and your graduate application. You’ll get expert lessons and explanations, real ETS questions, 6 full-length practice tests, and access to more real Personal Statement, CV, and Statement of Purpose examples.

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If you're interested in a studying Computer Science, then why don't you check out our regularly updated catalogue of available Computer Science Masters courses .

Hannah Slack

Hannah worked at FindAMasters as a Content Writer from 2020 to 2023. She started with us part-time whilst studying for her PhD, giving her personal experience with balancing work responsibilities with academia. Hannah has a Bachelor’s degree in History from the University of East Anglia, and both a Masters in Early Modern History and a PhD on Early Modern English seafarers from the University of Sheffield.

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Crafting an Outstanding Computer Science Personal Statement: Tips and Examples

Dirghayu Kaushik

29 August 2024

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Introduction

When it comes to applying for a computer science degree, your personal statement is a critical component of your university application. It’s more than just a summary of your academic achievements and extracurricular activities; it’s a window into your passion for the subject, your understanding of its complexities, and your readiness to embrace the academic challenges ahead.

This comprehensive guide offers essential advice, detailed examples, and practical tips to help you craft an impactful computer science personal statement.

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Understanding the Essence of a Computer Science Personal Statement

The Role and Importance of Your Personal Statement in University Applications

The gateway to your future in computer science.

Your computer science personal statement is not just a formality; it’s a pivotal part of your university application. It’s where you can articulate your interest in computer science, your understanding of the field, and how your experiences have prepared you for this course of study.

This section of your application gives you the opportunity to stand out from other candidates by highlighting your unique insights, experiences, and aspirations.

Showcasing Your Personality and Passion

A personal statement goes beyond academic achievements. It’s a platform to show your genuine enthusiasm for computer science. You can discuss what aspects of the subject fascinate you, such as artificial intelligence, cyber security, or software development, and why. Share what drives your interest in these areas and how you have pursued this passion through projects, reading, or relevant experiences.

Demonstrating Your Suitability and Preparedness

Admissions tutors want to know why you are a good fit for their computer science program. This is your chance to showcase your technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and any relevant work or project experience.

Talk about specific instances where you’ve applied your computer science knowledge, whether it’s in coding a simple app, participating in hackathons, or taking additional courses related to computing.

Structuring Your Computer Science Personal Statement Effectively

Crafting a compelling introduction.

The opening of your personal statement should grab the reader’s attention. Start with a compelling anecdote, a fascinating fact about computer science, or a personal experience that sparked your interest in the field. This will set the tone for your statement and engage the admissions tutors right from the start.

Developing the Body with Relevant Content

In the body of your statement, delve into your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and work experiences. Explain how these experiences have prepared you for a degree in computer science.

Be specific about the skills you’ve developed, such as programming languages you’re proficient in, mathematical competencies, and any notable projects or achievements.

Concluding with Your Future Aspirations

Conclude your statement by tying your past experiences and current interests to your future goals. Discuss how a degree in computer science will help you achieve your career aspirations. This not only shows your commitment to the field but also your potential to contribute meaningfully to it.

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Key Components of a Strong Computer Science Personal Statement

Demonstrating Academic Preparedness and Intellectual Curiosity

Showcasing academic achievements and potential.

It’s essential to highlight your academic strengths, especially in subjects relevant to computer science like mathematics, physics, or computing.

Discuss any special projects, extended essays, or research you’ve undertaken that demonstrate your ability to handle complex concepts and your readiness for university-level study.

Illustrating Intellectual Curiosity

Express your intellectual curiosity about computer science. Discuss books, articles, podcasts, or lectures that have deepened your understanding and interest in the field. This shows that you are engaged with computer science beyond the classroom and are eager to explore its different aspects.

Reflecting on Relevant Experiences and Extracurricular Activities

Leveraging extracurricular activities.

Highlight how your extracurricular activities have contributed to your passion for computer science. Whether it’s a coding club, robotics team, or personal projects, these experiences can demonstrate your practical skills and commitment to learning more about the field.

Gaining Real-World Experience

If you have had internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer experiences related to computer science, discuss what you learned from these opportunities.

Describe any projects you worked on, challenges you faced, and how these experiences have shaped your understanding of what a career in computer science entails.

Personalizing Your Statement with Unique Insights and Experiences

Sharing personal stories and experiences.

Personal anecdotes can make your statement memorable. Share stories about how you became interested in computer science, challenges you’ve overcome in your journey, or moments of success and what they meant to you. This personal touch can make your statement stand out.

Connecting Your Past Experiences to Your Future Goals

Reflect on how your past experiences have shaped your current interests and future aspirations in computer science. This shows a coherent narrative and a clear understanding of how a computer science degree fits into your long-term goals.

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Crafting Your Narrative: Tips and Techniques

Writing Tips for a Compelling Personal Statement

Creating a compelling personal statement for your computer science application can be a pivotal factor in your admission process. Here are some key points to consider when crafting your statement:

Start with a Strong Opening : Capture the reader’s attention from the beginning. Use an engaging anecdote, a thought-provoking question, or an interesting fact about computer science to start your statement.
Be Authentic : Write in your own voice. Your personal statement should reflect your personality and enthusiasm for the subject. Avoid trying to sound overly formal if it doesn’t come naturally.
Show, Don’t Just Tell : Demonstrate your passion and skills through specific examples. Instead of simply stating that you love computer science, describe projects, experiences, or challenges that showcase your interests and abilities.
Make It Personal and Unique : Share personal experiences or stories that influenced your decision to pursue computer science. This can include anything from an inspiring teacher to a particular problem you solved or software you developed.
Structure Your Content Wisely : Organize your statement in a clear and logical manner. Start with your interest in computer science, follow with your experiences and achievements, and conclude with your future aspirations.
Highlight Relevant Skills and Achievements : Discuss your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and any work experience relevant to computer science. Be specific about the skills you’ve developed, such as programming languages, mathematical aptitude, or analytical thinking.
Reflect on Your Learning Journey : Talk about what you have learned from your experiences and how they have prepared you for a degree in computer science. Reflect on both successes and challenges and what they taught you.
Connect Past Experiences with Future Goals : Illustrate how your previous experiences have shaped your current interests and how they align with your future career aspirations in computer science.
Keep It Concise and Focused : Avoid unnecessary details and keep your statement to the point. Each paragraph should contribute to building a comprehensive picture of your passion and suitability for a computer science degree.
Proofread and Revise : Ensure your statement is free from grammatical errors and typos. Read your statement multiple times, and have it reviewed by teachers, mentors, or peers for feedback.
Avoid Clichés and Overused Phrases : Steer clear of generic statements and clichés that don’t add value to your narrative. Strive for originality in both content and expression.
Balance Confidence with Humility : While it’s important to showcase your accomplishments and skills, maintain a tone of humility. Acknowledge that there is always more to learn and grow.
Respect the Word Limit : Adhere to any specified word limits or guidelines provided by the university. This shows that you can follow directions and express yourself concisely.
End with a Strong Conclusion : Conclude your statement by reinforcing your passion for computer science and your eagerness to further explore this field at the university level.

Remember, your personal statement is a critical component of your application. It’s your opportunity to make a memorable impression and demonstrate why you are an ideal candidate for a computer science program.

Avoiding Common Pitfalls in Personal Statements

When crafting a personal statement, especially for a competitive field like computer science, it’s just as important to know what to avoid as it is to know what to include. Here are some key points to help you steer clear of common pitfalls:

Steer Clear of Clichés : Avoid overused phrases and generic statements that don’t add a unique perspective to your application. Phrases like “I have always been passionate about computers” are too vague and don’t tell the admissions committee anything specific about you.
Avoid Repetition : Don’t repeat information that can be found elsewhere in your application, like grades or test scores. Use the personal statement to provide new insights into your character, experiences, and aspirations.
Resist Exaggeration or Untruths : Be honest and authentic. Overstating your accomplishments or skills can backfire if you’re unable to back them up. Stay true to your actual experiences and achievements.
Don’t Neglect the Basics : Spelling, grammar, and punctuation mistakes can detract from your statement’s impact. Proofread thoroughly and consider having someone else review your statement for errors.
Avoid a Negative Tone : Keep the tone positive and forward-looking. Even when discussing challenges or failures, focus on what you learned or how you’ve grown from those experiences.
Don’t Make It a Resume : Your personal statement shouldn’t be a list of accomplishments and activities. Instead, it should tell a story about who you are and why you’re passionate about computer science.
Beware of Being Too Vague or Broad : Be specific in your examples and explanations. General statements don’t convey a deep understanding or genuine interest in the field.
Avoid Controversial Topics : Steer clear of polarizing or controversial subjects unless they are directly relevant to your interest in computer science and you can discuss them in a thoughtful and respectful manner.
Don’t Rely on Quotes or Clichéd Inspirations : Opening with a quote or a very common source of inspiration can come across as unoriginal. It’s better to use your own words to express your motivations and aspirations.
Avoid Underestimating the Importance of Structure : A disorganized personal statement can be difficult to follow. Ensure your statement has a clear introduction, body, and conclusion.
Don’t Ignore the Prompt : If the university provides a specific prompt or question for the personal statement, make sure you address it directly. Ignoring the prompt can give the impression that you’re not attentive to details.
Resist the One-Size-Fits-All Approach : Customize your statement for each application. A generic statement that doesn’t address specific aspects of the program or university may come across as insincere.
Avoid Technical Jargon Overload : While it’s important to demonstrate your knowledge, overly technical language can make your statement less accessible. Remember, your audience may not have the same level of expertise in computer science.
Don’t Forget to Show Your Human Side : While technical skills and academic achievements are important, also show aspects of your personality and life outside of academics. This can include hobbies, volunteering, or other interests that have shaped you as a person.

By avoiding these common pitfalls, your personal statement will have a better chance of resonating with the admissions committee, showcasing not only your qualifications for a computer science program but also your unique character and perspective.

A well-written computer science personal statement can significantly enhance your university application. It allows you to showcase not just your academic abilities and technical skills, but also your passion for the subject and your vision for the future.

Use the tips and advice provided in this guide to create a compelling and authentic personal statement that resonates with admissions tutors and paves the way for your academic journey in computer science.

Q1: How much emphasis should I place on discussing programming languages and technical skills?

While technical skills are important, balance them with your passion for the subject, problem-solving abilities, and how these skills have contributed to your interest in computer science.

Q2: Can I include my hobbies and interests outside of computer science in my statement?

Yes, especially if they demonstrate skills relevant to computer science, such as analytical thinking, creativity, or teamwork.

Q3: How can I make my personal statement stand out among many applicants?

Focus on being authentic, share unique personal experiences or insights, and clearly articulate your passion and understanding of computer science.

Q4: Is it okay to mention a specific university program or professor in my statement?

If you’re writing a statement for a specific university, it can be beneficial to mention specific aspects of their program that attract you. However, if you’re using the same statement for multiple applications, keep it general.

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• Introduction
• Understanding the Essence of a Computer Science Personal Statement
• Key Components of a Strong Computer Science Personal Statement
• Crafting Your Narrative: Tips and Techniques
• Conclusion

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A Guide to Writing Personal Statement for Computer Science

Table of Contents

The best personal statement for computer science should be strong and act as a perfection of yourself. It should highlight your potentials, engage employers, and establish your communication skills.

A personal statement is an integral part of any graduate application. It lets you tell the admissions’ committee why you want to study computer science and how your past experiences have prepared you.

So, how do we write a personal statement that stands out? This guide provides an example of a great personal statement and how to write it.

Points to Note When Writing Your Personal Statement

A computer science personal statement explains why you want to study it and why you’re the ideal candidate .

It should highlight your programming experience, skills, and interests. In addition, it is essential to demonstrate how pursuing a degree in computer science will help you achieve your future goals.

Here’s how to structure your statement.

1. Kickoff Strong

Start by briefly explaining why you’re interested in computer science and what sparked your interest. However, resist the urge to start with a life story about how and when you received your first computer.

2. What Sparked Your Interest?

Share what you’ve read about the topic in books or newspapers. You can also state what you’ve learned from your programming experience or anything else that has sparked your interest in this area of study. What is it about computers or programming that attracts you?

3. Flaunt Your Knowledge

Instructors particularly appreciate statements that convey your interest in and comprehension of computer science. Don’t bother explaining it to them; they know what it is. Prove your expertise.

4. Any Personal Goals concerning the Subject?

Where do you see yourself five years from now? Will you be an engineer or in a backend support position?

What short-term and long-term goals are you pursuing? Be honest about what you’ve achieved and your path to reach the next step.

Great Example of a Personal Statement for Computer Science

black and silver laptop computer on table

A personal statement is a brief essay on your academic and professional goals and why you want to study computer technology. Here’s a good example using INK .

As someone with a strong interest in computer science, I am excited about the opportunity to pursue my studies at the graduate level. My undergraduate coursework has provided me with a solid foundation in this field’s theoretical and practical aspects. I look forward to continuing my learning journey in an environment conducive to creativity and innovation.

One thing that appeals to me about computer science is its potential for problem-solving. There are always new challenges to be tackled and puzzles waiting to be solved. In addition, CS provides opportunities for applying creative thinking and technical prowess. Working on cutting-edge projects makes one’s resume stand out and allows developers ample room for growth.

I have had some fantastic internship experiences during my undergrad years. With my experience and strong interest in the CS field, I would be an asset to any company in this area.

Wrapping Up

For the best personal statement for computer science , arrange your thoughts, explain your facts, and include an emotional tale and your hobbies. Take plenty of time to plan and write your statement; your hard work will be well-spent.

A Guide to Writing Personal Statement for Computer Science

Abir Ghenaiet

Abir is a data analyst and researcher. Among her interests are artificial intelligence, machine learning, and natural language processing. As a humanitarian and educator, she actively supports women in tech and promotes diversity.

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10 Top Tips for an Cambridge Computer Science Personal Statement

Your Cambridge personal statement is a crucial component in your university application. It gives you a chance to articulate why you’re interested in Computer Science at Cambridge and to distinguish yourself from other applicants. Additionally, it offers the Cambridge interviewer a focal point to base discussions about your personality, interests and deduce your commitment to the subject you’re applying for. To help guide you through the process, our Cambridge application experts have compiled a list of top 10 tips. This includes everything you should do and not do for your Oxbridge Computer Science Personal Statement for the 2024/25 application cycle.

Table of Contents

All applicants for Computer Science (including applicants to mature Colleges) must take the Test of Mathematics for University Admission (TMUA). They should take this at an authorised assessment centre (usually your school or college), for which you register in advance. Find out more about this here .

At the University of Cambridge, in Years 1 and 2, assessment is currently by three-hour examinations taken in the final term of each year. In Year 3, students have coursework and three-hour examinations. Practical work is undertaken and assessed in all years of the degree programme.

Please note that successful Cambridge Computer Science applicants need to do some preparatory reading. They must also complete a pre-arrival online course before the start of the first term. Admissions tutors will send students details after their place is confirmed.

Top 5 Tips for a Cambridge Computer Science Personal Statement

1. tell your story ..

Your story will be what makes your UCAS personal statement unique. You should outline why you want to study Computer Science. Also include anecdotes indicative of your personality and hunger for the subject. This will be how you get the Cambridge admissions tutors to notice your university application. This is where you should note down relevant work experience, extra-curricular reading. You should also mention why you were interested in Computer Science in the first place, as well as what makes you suitable to study at Cambridge University.

2. What makes you suitable

What distinguishes you from all other Cambridge applicants applying for Computer Science? Is there work experience, or extra-curricular work have you done that you can talk about that might set you apart from everyone else? It’s not enough to list achievements. Talk about what skills you have gained that will not only make you a suitable Computer Science student, but also a suitable Cambridge University student.

3. Read around the subject you’re applying for .

Podcasts, magazine articles, documentaries or research papers relating to the field of Computer Science are all great ways to engage with new content. Examples include the ‘ Spark with Nora Young ’ podcast. Click here for a concise reading list published by Cambridge. A good way to start is by picking a topic within the field of Computer Science that interests you. You can listen to or read the information to and from school or work.

4. Proof read & read aloud your work .

Once you’re happy with the content of your draft, check it, check it and check it again! A good way to check your work would be to ask people to proofread it. Examples include a teacher in the Computer Science field, a current Cambridge student, or a student studying Computer Science who has already written a personal statement. Other people may be able to spot mistakes or improvements within your statement that you haven’t picked up on.

5. Why Computer Science .

Why have YOU applied to Computer Science? What careers or opportunities will studying this degree present to you? Examples include data analyst, games designer, web designer, amongst more. Consider your ambitions and how you will benefit society. These examples include, but aren’t limited to, furthering technology in the future, and analysing data to reduce risk for a multitude of companies.

Top 5 things to AVOID for your Cambridge Computer Science Personal Statement

Writing a list of achievements – Avoid listing things for the sake of it. It will be better to pick some key points or experiences and expand on what you learnt from them. This will show the Cambridge admissions tutors that you have reflected on your experiences, and that you have some insight into what a career of Computer Science would entail.
Don’t write anything that isn’t true – Don’t exaggerate. Admissions tutors may ask you to provide evidence of your stated achievements. It will reflect badly on you if you are unable to answer questions at an interview because you have exaggerated certain experiences. Not only that, but it will make your personal statement appear less authentic.
Copy someone else’s personal statements – Don’t plagiarise. Do not copy someone else’s UCAS personal statement or use something you have found on the internet. UCAS uses software to check every personal statement for plagiarism.
Not reflecting on or justifying your point – Write succinctly and explain points without repeating yourself. Don’t tell the Cambridge admissions tutors what they already know. Instead, expand on how you’ve acquired certain skills and why they’re important. Remember, quality is always better than quantity- it’s better to expand on a few points than to list every point you can without going into detail.
Don’t sound unprofessional – Steer clear of slang, clichés and quotes. It will sound repetitive to Cambridge admissions tutors to hear about how students are “passionate” about their subject or that they have a “thirst for knowledge”. Write about your personal experience with your Computer Science journey, and allow the admissions tutors to do the rest.

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Sample Personal Statement for Computer Science

by Talha Omer, M.Eng., Cornell Grad

In personal statement samples by field.

The following personal statement is written by an applicant who got accepted to the master’s program in computer science. Variations of this personal statement got accepted at the University of Utah, Stanford and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. Read this essay to understand what a top personal statement in CS should look like.

Sample Personal Statement in Computer Science

While SpaceX was launching satellites into space, my country was hoping for another loan from World Bank. I, for one, wondered when power outages would end in my home country. The delipidated condition of my country made me value the small things in life – from dreaming with my siblings about our future to just lying in the backyard gazing into the very depths of space, determined to make ourselves proud. Though my family comes from humble beginnings, my parents left no obstacle unturned to educate us. My father’s love for technology and education grew stronger with age and time. I still remember when he purchased a Pentium-1 for us, the first computer in my family and perhaps in my neighborhood. Almost every week, it needed repair because of our doings, but he kept encouraging us.

Inspired by my passion for technology, I applied to the topmost computer science undergrad program. My parents were overjoyed when I was accepted because I was the first in my family to attend college. One month into my undergrad, I founded “The CS Media Club,” a society with a vision to share success stories of software developers. It was the same time the following year when I handed over the elective office of the President to the freshmen students. For me, it was the start of a versatile voyage, an inherent determination to change lives, which fostered other ventures. Eventually, I volunteered as Brand Ambassador for International Youth Coding Challenge (IYCC). Under IYCC, I vowed to promote coding competitions among students. Again, I received an overwhelming response. Gradually this initiative expanded into astronomy and astrophysics, which still gives me goosebumps.

I faced many financial and academic challenges, and I had two options: either give up my education or don my diligence glasses to compete with the best. I chose the latter. Hence started my struggle as a freelance programmer. As a freelancer, I built lasting relationships with clients and enriched my communication skills. In addition, the soft skills I learned boosted my confidence to participate in MUN Conferences. I also leveraged my confidence and took two paid summer internships with Google and Apple. This provided real-life coding experience, amplified my interpersonal skills, and revamped my career path.

So, this journey from lying and looking into the depths of the space to now typing this essay in Microsoft’s office is full of adventures and emotions. All the years of hard work landed me a dream job with Microsoft, but like my late grandfather used to say, it is always lonely at the top. Thus, my inner self urges me to excel further and bring world-class coding and development knowledge to my home country.

We have a vast talent pool but not enough guidance and opportunities. My college professor often called our young minds the ambitious unguided missiles. I want to change this narrative and become a symbol of hope for many like me. I aim to join academia and research to guide the youth. I also want to establish a community of young developers and form research alliances with other organizations in exchange for ideas. This way, I hope to bring reality to some other kid aiming to build something wondrous for his home country under the fading light of our home.

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How to write a personal statement

How to approach writing your personal statement for graduate applications.

If you’re applying for a grad course that requires a personal statement (sometimes also called a ‘statement of purpose’), it can be difficult to know where to start and what to include. Read on for tips from some of our masters’ students about their process and what they found helpful.

1. Before you start

The academic work is the most important reason why we’re here, but that also translates into work experiences, internships, volunteering. I think a big part of the personal statement is crafting that narrative of academic self that fits alongside your professional experiences, to give that greater picture of who you are as an academic. Lauren (MSc Modern Middle Eastern Studies)

Start by thinking about the skills, knowledge and interests you’ve acquired over time and how the course at Oxford will take them forward.

Your statement is the story you want to tell about yourself and your academic work to the department you are applying to.

Most of your application and its supporting documents communicate plain facts about your academic career so far. Your personal statement is your best opportunity to put these facts into context and show assessors how you’ve progressed and excelled.

Make sure you highlight evidence of your achievements (a high grade in a relevant area, an award or scholarship, a research internship).

Presenting yourself

When I was writing my personal statement, I went onto my course website. I looked at what they emphasised and what kind of students they were looking for, and I wrote about my experiences based on that. Kayla (MSc in Clinical Embryology)

Make it easy for an assessor to see how you meet the entry requirements for the course (you can find these on each course page ).

Don’t make any assumptions about what Oxford is looking for!

Get to know your department

You want to study this particular subject and you want to study at Oxford (you’re applying here, so we know that!) but why is Oxford the right place for you to study this subject? What interests or qualities of the academic department and its staff make it attractive to you?

Use your academic department’s website for an overview of their research, academic staff and course information (you'll find a link to the department's own website on each course page ).

I said, ‘why do I actually want to be here? What is it about being at Oxford that’s going to get me to what I want to do? Sarah (Bachelor of Civil Law)

Talk it out

Talking to others about your statement can be a great way to gather your ideas and decide how you’d like to approach it. Sarah even managed to get benefit out of this approach by herself:

“I spent a lot of time talking out loud. My written process was actually very vocal, so I did a lot of talking about myself in my room.”

2. The writing process

Know your format.

Make sure you’ve read all the guidance on the How to Apply section of your course page , so you know what’s needed in terms of the word count of the final statement, what it should cover and what it will be assessed for. This should help you to visualise roughly what you want to end up with at the end of the process.

Make a start

When it comes to writing your personal statement, just getting started can be the hardest part.

One good way to get around writer’s block is to just put it all down on the page, like Mayur.

First - write down anything and everything. In the first round, I was just dumping everything - whatever I’ve done, anything close to computer science, that was on my personal statement. Mayur (MSc Computer Science)

You’ll be editing later anyway so don’t let the blank page intimidate you - try writing a little under each of the following headings to get started:

areas of the course at Oxford that are the most interesting to you
which areas you’ve already studied or had some experience in
what you hope to use your Oxford course experience for afterwards.

3. Finishing up

Get some feedback.

Once you’ve got a draft of about the right length, ask for feedback on what you’ve written. It might take several drafts to get it right.

This could involve getting in touch with some of your undergraduate professors to ask them to read your draft and find any areas which needed strengthening.

You could also show it to people who know you well, like family or friends.

Because they’re the first people to say, ‘Who is that person?’ You want the people around you to recognise that it really sounds like you. It can be scary telling family and friends you’re applying for Oxford, because it makes it real, but be brave enough to share it and get feedback on it. Sarah (Bachelor of Law)

Be yourself

Finally - be genuine and be yourself. Make sure your personal statement represents you, not your idea about what Oxford might be looking for.

We have thousands of students arriving every year from a huge range of subjects, backgrounds, institutions and countries (you can hear from a few more of them in our My Oxford interviews).

Get moving on your application today

To find out more about supporting documents and everything else you need to apply, read your course page and visit our Application Guide .

Application Guide: Statement of purpose

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Chemistry and Physics have both helped to improve my analytical and evaluative skills. Within maths I have been lucky enough to have a teacher who was very interested in computer science. He has been especially helpful, lending me books such as Gödel, Escher, Bach: an Eternal Golden Braid. This has given me an insight into the richness that is computer science.

My interest in computing has not been restricted to the classroom and college life. Within the last twelve months I’ve used the knowledge that I’ve gained over the past twelve years together with the help of my family to set up my own computer related business. This has given me a totally new perspective on how certain things function, and how business operates.

The writing of a business plan was a totally alien experience for me, but over the course of 9 months I researched and planned, and finally when the plan was complete I was rewarded with the satisfaction of knowing that I had completed something that most people would never have the chance to do especially at my age.

Through the setting up of the company and its subsequent running I have learnt many things. These include how to balance tasks effectively, how critical teamwork can be and how to delegate tasks to get the job done quickly and efficiently.

As well as spending time both studying and helping to run the business I understand the importance of having time to relax. One of my hobbies that I try to make time for is learning to fly, and gaining my private pilots license.

As a child I dreamed of becoming a pilot and luckily its one dream that I’ve managed to follow. I love the freedom that flying gives you and the control that you have when in the air. Training for my private pilots license (PPL) has also involved me taking onboard a lot of responsibility for the safety of those onboard, and those around the aircraft.

From ensuring that I carry out the pre-flight checks correctly, and knowing what’s around you both while you’re on the ground and in the air to ensuring that I’m prepared for any eventuality.

I also enjoy both playing and watching tennis. I’ve played in various competitions before, and have helped to umpire junior matches at my club. To ensure that I can fit everything in I’ve had to develop very good time management, prioritising what I need to do efficiently.

I’m looking forward with great anticipation to the challenges that studying for a degree in computer science will bring.

Profile info

This personal statement was written by Soulfish.

Soulfish's university choices Cambridge University The University of Edinburgh The University of York

Green : offer made Red : no offer made

Degree Computer Science at The University of York

Related Personal Statements

A good profile but have you.

Fri, 04/06/2004 - 00:00

a good profile but have you READ the books you mention and also elaborate more on Maths - it's very crucial to your Computer Science degree. Why Comp Sci not SW Engineering or Comp Games, what do you hope to learn?

ignore the h8r comment above

Mon, 06/09/2004 - 00:00

I just graduted from a Comp Si degree and your PS covers waay more than I did. Ignore the comment above adding more academi will make your PS seem too rehearsed. It is lear you have a passion for computing that is all the admissions officers are looking for. Good luck!

This is one of the best

Thu, 20/01/2005 - 00:00

This is one of the best computer science personal statements that I have ever set my eyes on. You clearly have a deep interest in the subject. You'll secure places easily! All the best for University.

if n really wrote this ps by

Wed, 02/11/2005 - 00:00

if n really wrote this ps by urself then it is really good. nice one

I enjoyed reading this. Very

Mon, 07/11/2005 - 00:00

I enjoyed reading this. Very straight to the point and is what everyone does too.

Needs Work..

Wed, 26/04/2006 - 00:00

Sentences are too attenuated...Grammatical reconstruction is required...In other words, some sentences are too long and muddled. They can confuse the reader. Just my 2 cents...BLE$$.

L6 personal statement researcher

Fri, 16/06/2006 - 00:00

Thank You for this brilliant personal statement. It has played a huge part my planning.

Thank you very much this has

Mon, 16/10/2006 - 22:18

Thank you very much this has helped me out greatly. I was killing myself on how to write mine

Looks great but...

Tue, 16/01/2007 - 18:25

Well I have read some of your statement. I am considering Uni, but not sure what cource to take....... I ahve no idea what computer science is but, i dont think i'll do well at it becasue i do not no what it is. HOw long did it take you, did you use a dictionary? Does it really have to be that loooooooonnnnnnnnnnnngggggggggg?????

overall this is good,

Fri, 02/03/2007 - 23:43

overall this is good, although the first paragraph leaves a lot to be desired. the first line is grammatically incorrect, and the following two are clumsy. i can see why cambridge wouldn't have liked this.

first impressions are key with a personal statement, it is very like an interview in this respect.

Wed, 14/03/2007 - 19:25

The lack of details raises red flags for me; I've no idea what business this student initiated, don't know his father's job, or the name of the very helpful teacher.

wel..this is how it goes.

Tue, 08/05/2007 - 15:05

wel..this is how it goes..pretty average..nahin to special...cud rite better in my sleep son..get ur act together and show me that u have general interest inthis subject and that u didnt copy this from a book or a sheet which ur careers advisor probably gave u!

this statement is 2 reheresed

Wed, 09/05/2007 - 14:13

this statement is 2 reheresed and sounds like the write isjus trying to make things up which would impress the reader surely a more honest statement would go down better?!?

wadup man dis is a gd

Mon, 02/07/2007 - 08:38

wadup man dis is a gd personal statment i was looking for a gd 1 to help me with me with my one and dw iam not gonna copy it but i got a gd lk at how a gd ps should be

Thu, 16/08/2007 - 20:37

This is horrible. Do you people read admissions websites. This will get rejected. They don't care about your past when you were a little boy. They want to hear about your college years. Every sentence should mean something, and this was just a bunch of bologna.

this was quite a good

Fri, 14/09/2007 - 10:17

this was quite a good personal statement i found it very useful

Thu, 20/09/2007 - 09:22

I do not understand why everyone is going off it with this PS. It is obvisouly good or else all of the universities would not have made an offer would they??

Great personal statement.

Mon, 22/10/2007 - 10:21

Great personal statement. thank yuour for giving me an idea on how to do mines.!!!

Very interesting

Wed, 31/10/2007 - 09:45

very nice!! i really enjoy reading your personal statment and it helped me alot to write my personal statment. GOOD KEEP IT UP!!! ALL BEST WISHES FOR U 4RM SIMRAN

Fri, 02/11/2007 - 07:19

its was such a nice statement...thank you...it has been of great help to me

Tue, 06/11/2007 - 18:23

Very nicely done. Just wanted to say thanks because you've just helped me write mine as I didn't know where to start.

sounds too forced and tries

Thu, 29/11/2007 - 21:26

sounds too forced and tries hard to be the stereotypical computing essay. lacks depth. a person who wasn't doing computing a levels or knows nothing about it could have written the same kind of essay.

I am so much overwhelmed by

Sat, 08/12/2007 - 19:55

I am so much overwhelmed by your interesting and inspiring Personal Statement on computer science. I love it.

Dwumfour's Applauds

Sat, 08/12/2007 - 20:02

I could not afford to stop reading your all inspiring and motivating Personal Statement on Computer Science. You've really giving me a wonderful beginning I never thought of.Great Job.

this really heleped me!thanks

Tue, 01/04/2008 - 15:58

this really heleped me!thanks a lot :) really good statement

Sun, 06/07/2008 - 03:16

Humm not bad not bad

Spectacular

Sat, 23/08/2008 - 19:26

Never in all my years have I been so amazed. This personal statement is truely a work of art. Absolutely super.

Wow, every uni you've put

Sun, 21/09/2008 - 20:52

Wow, every uni you've put here (excluding cambridge) is what im applying for. How have you found york and its courses?

[X]erver Killah!{}

Mon, 17/11/2008 - 10:17

Thankyou for this, it has guided me through the structure well, good luck

Good PS there man!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Mon, 17/11/2008 - 12:42

I have spent a few minutes looking for samples of personal statements but this beats all I have seen and it is really helping me in writing mine .

Wed, 19/11/2008 - 23:38

i wish this was my work ,the PS is the best so far,its worth more than an admission.keep it up

you obvioulsy love yourself

Fri, 02/01/2009 - 20:03

wow i'm so impressed dis is

Wed, 27/05/2009 - 01:08

wow i'm so impressed dis is good

Fri, 09/10/2009 - 15:04

I've just read your PS and surprised how you could mixed all these things and organized them perfectly to showing us a great story to enjoy

thanks alot and good luck

It does sound impressive. Yet

Tue, 10/11/2009 - 11:55

It does sound impressive. Yet at the same time it lacks computer science, which involves a lot of maths. It sounds like you're applying for a course involving computer engineering

Excellent statement, thanks

Thu, 07/01/2010 - 15:42

Excellent statement, thanks for the inspiration. I have long had difficulty in decided how to start my PS.

Personal Statement

Sat, 08/01/2011 - 02:26

Nice to see an entusiastic wrong en with a computer fetish on such a cracking website

Mon, 25/04/2011 - 19:08

Excellent start point

excellent brilliant it's much

Sun, 08/05/2011 - 16:03

excellent brilliant it's much help of mine to write my own personal statement.

Mon, 12/09/2011 - 22:15

This ps was amazing, thanks for letting me use it for mine. Im sure to get in with this!

excellent ps. The passion for

Wed, 02/11/2011 - 12:15

excellent ps. The passion for the subject have been keenly expressed. If u are honest with what you have said then you should definitely get a place at the university. "GOOD LUCK"

What Grades did you get,

Mon, 09/01/2012 - 01:53

What A-level grades and as grades did you achieve. who ever wrote this personal statement

not so long

Tue, 14/02/2012 - 11:08

You are obviously interested in the subject area, but you could have done it much more concisely.

With 100's of application to read, admissions aren't looking for your life's history. A short and to the point statement will work as well if not better.

Thu, 25/10/2012 - 18:41

Competent but standard, bland and boring. Admissions tutors receive hundreds of applications like this daily and this does not stand out from the crowd at all. It is, in fact, more of an archetype for a run of the mill application, encapsulating everything that everyone else will have included in theirs. Small wonder Cambridge declined you. You must be different.

NERD! no really well done bro

Wed, 25/09/2013 - 12:50

Wow! An Awesome Personal

Mon, 30/09/2013 - 17:57

Wow! An Awesome Personal Statement! =)

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By Nik Taylor (Editor, The Uni Guide) | 18 August 2023 | 22 min read

How to write an excellent personal statement in 10 steps

Stand out from the crowd: here's how to write a good personal statement that will get you noticed

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Your personal statement forms a core part of your university application, and the sooner you get going, the better you can make it. You may think that your personal statement won’t matter as much to unis as your grades and experience but a great personal statement could make all the difference between you and a candidate with the same grades. Sure, your application might not reach that deal breaker stage. But is it something you want to leave to chance? Here we’ll take you through the process of planning, writing and checking a good personal statement, so you end up with something you can submit with confidence. And to make sure the advice we're giving you is sound, we’ve spoken to admissions staff at loads of UK universities to get their view. Look out for video interviews and advice on applying for specific subjects throughout this piece or watch our personal statement playlist on YouTube .

Are you looking for personal statement examples? Check our library of hundreds of real personal statements, on The Student Room

The university application personal statement is changing in 2025
University admissions service Ucas has announced that a new style of personal statement will be launched in 2025. This will affect anyone making a university application from autumn 2025 onwards. .

Personal statement deadlines

You'll need to make sure you've got your personal statement written well in advance of your application deadline. Below are the main university application deadline dates for 2024 entry.

2024 entry deadlines

16 October 2023: Deadline for applications to Oxford and Cambridge universities, along with most medicine, dentistry, and veterinary courses. 31 January 2024: Deadline for applications to the majority of undergraduate courses. After this date, universities will start allocating places on these courses – but you can still apply after the 31 January deadline , as this article explains . 30 June 2024: Students who apply after this date will be entered into Clearing .

Read more: Ucas deadlines and key application dates

What is a personal statement?

A personal statement is a central part of your Ucas application, where you explain why you’ve chosen a particular course and why you’ll be good at it. It's your chance to stand out against other candidates and hopefully get that all-important offer. You only write one personal statement which is then read by each university you apply to, so if you are applying for more than one subject (or it's a combined course) it's crucial that you include common themes or reference the overall skills needed for all subjects. Personal statements are especially important if you’re trying to get on a very competitive course, where you need to do anything you can to stand out to admissions tutors. Courteney Sheppard, senior customer experience manager at Ucas, advises that your personal statement is "the only part of the application that you have direct control over. Do lots of research to demonstrate your passion, curiosity and drive to pursue your chosen subject." There’s a limit on how much you can write: your personal statement can be up to 4,000 characters (including spaces) or 47 lines of 95 characters (including spaces); whichever is shorter. This may appear generous (read: long) but once you've got going you may find yourself having to edit heavily.

Read more: teacher secrets for writing a great personal statement

1. Plan what you want to cover

The first thing you need to do is make a plan. Writing a personal statement off the top of your head is difficult. Start by making some notes, answering the following questions:

What do you want to study?
Why do you want to study it?
What is there about you that shows you’re suited to studying this subject at university? Think about your personality, as well as your experiences.
What are your other interests and skills?

These few points are going to form the spine of your personal statement, so write them in a way that makes sense to you. You might want to make a simple bulleted list or you might want to get all arty and use a mindmap. Whatever you choose, your aim is the same. You want to get it clear in your own head why a university should offer you a place on its course. Getting those details down isn't always easy, and some people find it helpful to make notes over time. You might try carrying a notebook with you or set up a memo on your phone. Whenever you think of something useful for your personal statement, jot it down. Inspiration sometimes comes more easily when you’re thinking about something else entirely. It might help to take a look at The Student Room for some sample personal statements by university and sample personal statements by subjects , to give you an idea of the kind of thing you want to include.

Read more: personal statement FAQs

2. Show off your experience

Some things are worth adding to your personal statement, some things are not. Firmly in the second camp are your qualifications. You don’t need to mention these as there’s a whole other section of your personal statement where you get to detail them very precisely. Don’t waste a single character going on about how great your GCSE grades are – it’s not what the admissions tutor wants to read. What they do want to see is: what have you done? OK, so you’ve got some good grades, but so do a lot of other applicants. What have you done that’s different, that shows you off as someone who really loves the subject you’re applying for? Spend some time thinking about all the experience you have in that subject. If you’re lucky, this might be direct work experience. That’s going to be particularly appropriate if you’re applying for one of the more vocational subjects such as medicine or journalism . But uni staff realise getting plum work experience placements is easier for some people than others, so cast your net wider when you’re thinking about what you’ve done. How about after-school clubs? Debating societies? Are you running a blog or vlog? What key skills and experience have you picked up elsewhere (eg from hobbies) that could be tied in with your course choice? Remember, you’re looking for experience that shows why you want to study your chosen subject. You’re not just writing an essay about what you're doing in your A-level syllabus. Use this checklist as a guide for what to include:

Your interest in the course. Why do you want to spend three years studying this subject at university?
What have you done outside school or college that demonstrates this interest? Think about things like fairs/exhibitions, public lectures or voluntary work that is relevant to your subject.
Relevant work experience (essential for the likes of medicine, not required for non-vocational courses such as English )
Skills and qualities required for that career if appropriate (medicine, nursing and law as obvious examples)
Interest in your current studies – what particular topics have made an impression on you?
Any other interests/hobbies/experiences you wish to mention that are relevant either to the subject or 'going to uni'. Don't just list your hobbies, you need to be very selective and state clearly what difference doing these things has made to you.
Plans for a gap year if you’re deferring entry.

Read more: 6 steps you need to take to apply to university

3. Be bold about your achievements

Don't be bashful about your achievements; that’s not going to help you get into uni. It's time to unleash your inner Muhammed Ali and get all “I am the greatest” with your writing. Do keep it focused and accurate. Do keep your language professional. But don’t hide your qualities beneath a layer of false modesty. Your personal statement is a sell – you are selling yourself as a brilliant student and you need to show the reader why that is true. This doesn’t come naturally to everyone, and if you’re finding it difficult to write about how great you are it’s time to enlist some help. Round up a friend or two, a family member, a teacher, whoever and get them to write down your qualities. Getting someone else’s view here can help you get some perspective. Don’t be shy. You are selling your skills, your experience and your enthusiasm – make sure they all leap off the screen with the way you have described them.

Read more: the ten biggest mistakes when writing your personal statement

4. How to start your personal statement

Type your personal statement in a cloud-based word processing program, such as Google Docs or Microsoft Word and don’t copy and paste it into Ucas Hub until it’s finished. One of the benefits of doing it this way is that you can run spell check easily. (Please note, though, that Word adds "curly" quotation marks and other characters (like é or ü) that won't show up on your Ucas form, so do proofread it on Ucas Hub before submitting it to ensure it is how you typed it.) Another big benefit is that you'll always have a backup of what you've written. If you're being super careful, you could always save your statement in another place as well. Bear in mind that extra spaces (eg adding spaces to the beginnings of paragraphs as indentation) are removed on Ucas. In your first sentence, cut to the chase. Why do you want to do the course? Don’t waste any time rambling on about the daydreams you had when you were five. Just be clear and concise – describe in one line why this course is so important to you. Then, in the rest of your intro, go into more detail in demonstrating your enthusiasm for the course and explaining how you decided this is what you want to do for the next three or more years. However you choose to start your statement, just avoid the following hoary old chestnuts. These have been some of the most used lines in personal statements over the years – they are beyond cliche, so don’t even think about it.

From a young age I have (always) been [interested in/fascinated by]…
For as long as I can remember, I have…
I am applying for this course because…
I have always been interested in…
Throughout my life I have always enjoyed…
Reflecting on my educational experiences…
[Subject] is a very challenging and demanding [career/profession/course]…
Academically, I have always been…
I have always wanted to pursue a career in…
I have always been passionate about…

5. Focus your writing on why you've chosen that subject

So you’ve got your intro done – time to nail the rest of it. Bear in mind that you’ve got to be a little bit careful when following a personal statement template. It’s easy to fall into the trap of copying someone else’s style, and in the process lose all of your own voice and personality from your writing. But there is a rough order that you can follow, which should help keep you in your flow. After your opening paragraph or two, get into any work experience (if you’ve got it). Talk about extracurriculars: anything you've done which is relevant to the subject can go here – hobbies, interests, volunteering. Touch on your career aspirations – where do you want this course to take you? Next, show your enthusiasm for your current studies. Cite some specific examples of current work that you enjoyed. Show off your relevant skills and qualities by explaining how you’ve used these in the past. Make sure you’re giving real-world examples here, not just vague assertions like “I’m really organised and motivated”. Try to use examples that are relevant. Follow this up with something about you as a person. Talk about non-academic stuff that you like to do, but link it in some way with the course, or with how it shows your maturity for dealing with uni life. Round it all off by bringing your main points together, including a final emphasis of your commitment to studying this particular course.

Read more: how to write your personal statement in an evening

6. How long should a personal statement be?

You've got to work to a very specific limit when writing your personal statement. In theory you could use up to 4,000 characters – but you’re probably more likely to be limited by the line count. That's because it's a good idea to put line breaks in between your paragraphs (to make it more readable) and you only get a maximum of 47 lines. With this in mind, 3,500 characters is a more realistic limit. But when you’re getting started you should ignore these limits completely. At first, you just want to get down everything that you feel is important. You'll probably end up with something that is far too long, but that's fine. This is where you get to do some polishing and pruning. Keep the focus of your piece on the course you’re applying for, why you want to do it and why you’re perfectly suited to it. Look through what you’ve written so far – have you got the balance right? Chop out anything that goes on a bit, as you want each point to be snappy and succinct.

Read more: universities reveal all about personal statements

7. Keep it simple

8. Smart ways to end your personal statement

Writing a closing line that you’re happy with can feel as tricky as coming up with your opener. What you’re looking for here is a sign-off that is bold and memorable. The final couple of sentences in your statement give you the opportunity to emphasise all the good stuff you’ve already covered. Use this space to leave the reader in no doubt as to what an excellent addition you would be to their university. Pull together all your key points and – most importantly – address the central question that your personal statement should answer: why should you get a place on the course?

Read more: universities explain how to end your personal statement with a bang

9. Make sure your personal statement has no mistakes

Now you’ve got a personal statement you’re happy with, you need to make sure there are no mistakes. Check it, check it a second time, then check it again. Once you’ve done that, get someone else to check it, too. You will be doing yourself a massive disservice if you send through a personal statement with spelling and/or grammatical errors. You’ve got months to put this together so there really is no excuse for sending through something that looks like a rush job. Ask your teachers to look at it, and be prepared to accept their feedback without getting defensive. They will have seen many personal statements before; use what they tell you to make yours even better. You’ve also got another chance here to look through the content of your personal statement, so you can make sure the balance is right. Make sure your focus is very clearly on the subject you are applying for and why you want to study it. Don’t post your personal statement on the internet or social media where anyone can see it. You will get picked up by the Ucas plagiarism checker. Similarly, don't copy any that you find online. Instead, now is a good time to make your parents feel useful. Read your personal statement out to them and get them to give you feedback. Or try printing it out and mixing it up with a few others (you can find sample personal statements on The Student Room). Get them to read them all and then try to pick yours out. If they can't, perhaps there's not enough of your personality in there.

10. Don't think about your personal statement for a whole week

If you followed the advice at the very start of this guide, you’ve started your personal statement early. Good job! There are months before you need to submit it. Use one of these weeks to forget about your personal statement completely. Get on with other things – anything you like. Just don’t go near your statement. Give it a whole week and then open up the document again and read through it with fresh eyes. You’ll gain a whole new perspective on what you’ve written and will be well placed to make more changes, if needed.

Read more: how to write your personal statement when you have nothing interesting to say

10 steps to your ideal personal statement

In summary, here are the ten steps you should follow to create the perfect personal statement.

Personal statement dos and don'ts

Remember that your personal statement is your personal statement, not an article written about your intended field of study. It should tell the reader about you, not about the subject.
Only put in things that you’re prepared to talk about at the interviews.
Give convincing reasons for why you want to study the course – more than just "enjoying the subject" (this should be a given).
For very competitive courses, find out as much as you can about the nature of the course and try to make your personal statement relevant to this.
Be reflective. If you make a point like 'I like reading', 'I travelled abroad', say what you got from it.
Go through the whole thing checking your grammar and your spelling. Do this at least twice. It doesn’t matter if you’re not applying to an essay-based course – a personal statement riddled with spelling mistakes is just going to irritate the reader, which is the last thing you want to do. If this is something you find difficult then have someone look over it for you.
Leave blank lines between your paragraphs. It’s easier for the reader to get through your personal statement when it’s broken into easily digestible chunks. Remember that they’re going to be reading a lot of these! Make yours easy to get through.
Get someone else's opinion on your statement. Read it out to family or friends. Share it with your teacher. Look for feedback wherever you can find it, then act upon it.
Don’t write it like a letter. Kicking off with a greeting such as "Dear Sir/Madam" not only looks weird, it also wastes precious space.
Don’t make jokes. This is simply not the time – save them for your first night in the union.
Don’t criticise your current school or college or try to blame teachers for any disappointing grades you might have got.
Be afraid of details – if you want your PS to be personal to you that means explaining exactly which bits of work or topics or activities you've taken part in/enjoyed. It's much more compelling to read about one or two detailed examples than a paragraph that brushes over five or six.
Just list what you're doing now. You should pull out the experiences that are relevant to the courses which you're applying to.
Mention skills and activities without giving examples of when they have been demonstrated by you or what you learnt from them. Anyone can write "I have great leadership skills" in a PS, actually using a sentence to explain when you demonstrated good leadership skills is much rarer and more valuable.
Refer to experiences that took place before your GCSEs (or equivalent).
Give explanations about medical or mental health problems. These should be explained in your reference, not your PS.
Apply for too many different courses, making it difficult to write a convincing personal statement which supports the application.
Write a statement specific to just one institution, unless you're only applying to that one choice.
Copy and paste the statement from somewhere else! This means do not plagiarise. All statements are automatically checked for plagiarism by Ucas. Those that are highlighted by the computer system are checked manually by Ucas staff. If you’re found to have plagiarised parts of your statement, the universities you apply to will be informed and it could jeopardise your applications.
Use ChatGPT or another AI program to write your personal statement for you. Or, if you do, make sure you thoroughly edit and personalise the text so it's truly yours. Otherwise you're very much at risk of the plagiarism point above.

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How to provide evidence

You will need to be enthusiastic about engineering and show evidence of this in the personal statement is the simple advice from University of Dundee. So, here are some ideas on how to do this:

Work or extracurricular experiences: This doesn't necessarily have to be directly in an engineering field. Try and give examples of things you've done that highlight your technical aptitude, teamwork skills, leadership, or problem-solving abilities. Similarly, reflect on any extracurricular achievements that demonstrate good time management and self-organisation.
Relevant skills: Admissions tutors are looking for creative people with initiative, curiosity, and a bit of originality. So, if you’re interested in how things work, sketching new ideas, or taking things apart and repairing them, include this here. Perhaps you’ve taught yourself to code or made your own burglar alarm? Reflect on what you learned or the skills you developed.
Extra reading: Include any examples of things you've read that have influenced your interest in engineering. Don't just list them though – elaborate on one or two specific issues you read about recently and the impact it made on you.
Your future plans: If you have a particular goal in mind, then mention what you plan to do with your engineering degree, whether it’s your long-term career aspirations or just your ambition to make the world a better place.
Course suitability: Engineering is a challenging discipline, so demonstrate that you have the ability and motivation to complete the course.

What not to do

Don’t be irrelevant: The University of Bath says, 'The best engineers have a wide range of interests… but don’t let important information about yourself be buried in irrelevant detail'.
Don’t say ‘when I was a child’: An admissions tutor doesn't want to know that the first word you ever uttered was 'hydraulics', or that you played with lego as a child. What you did recently is much more relevant than what you did when you were six.
Don’t list interests or experiences without reflecting on them: It’s not enough just to say 'I have always been interested in X, Y and Z...'. Instead, describe a work experience placement, project or piece of coursework you did and explain what you found interesting or challenging about it (and why).
Don’t ignore key advice: Check out the department websites of the universities you're applying to, as some explain what they're looking for in an engineering personal statement. Each engineering degree course at the University of Bristol, for instance, has its own list of requirements - starting with leadership for its engineering design degree.

Structuring your statement

As well as relevant detail, Dr Will Whittow from the The Wolfson School of Mechanical, Electrical and Manufacturing Engineering at Loughborough University wants to see a statement that is properly structured. This way you’ll clearly promote your skills and showcase your technical experience.

There are no cast-iron rules about the structure, but we’ve taken some tips from Dr Whittow to draw up a framework you could use:

Your motivation: In your first paragraph, explain your motivation and why you’re enthusiastic about the course, giving specific examples of what interests you and a glimpse of any specific knowledge you already have.
Mention your career ambitions too: Just don’t waste space listing your A level subjects, telling them what an engineer does, or starting with a quote ‘Ever since I was a child…’.
Your relevant insights or experience: In your second and third paragraphs, show your passion by providing evidence of what you’ve learned from any relevant experience, insights, interests or achievements, starting with your strongest point. This will be all the more impressive if it was outside of school or college, like relevant work experience, engineering taster days or CREST Awards. Commenting on what you’ve learned from your EPQ or a similar school or college project would fit well here too, but it really needs to be relevant.
Your transferrable skills: In your final paragraph mention anything else that takes up a lot of your time, like a part-time job, caring for a family member, or other interests, responsibilities or extracurricular activities. But draw out the transferable skills you’ve learned from them, like time management, teamwork or leadership. And be specific. Just saying you play badminton or took the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award means nothing – either say something interesting about it that provides relevant evidence or, better still, choose something that not so many people do.

Just like Southampton's Admissions Tutor advised in the quote, try to show a bit of spark and talk about something a bit different from everyone else.

computer science personal statement structure

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Computer Science Personal Statement (Guide + Examples!)

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Crafting an Outstanding Computer Science Personal Statement: Tips and Examples

The Role and Importance of Your Personal Statement in University Applications

Showcasing Your Personality and Passion

Demonstrating Your Suitability and Preparedness

Structuring Your Computer Science Personal Statement Effectively

Developing the Body with Relevant Content

Concluding with Your Future Aspirations

Demonstrating Academic Preparedness and Intellectual Curiosity

Illustrating Intellectual Curiosity

Reflecting on Relevant Experiences and Extracurricular Activities

Gaining Real-World Experience

Personalizing Your Statement with Unique Insights and Experiences

Connecting Your Past Experiences to Your Future Goals

Writing Tips for a Compelling Personal Statement

Avoiding Common Pitfalls in Personal Statements