What is a personal statement? (2026 UCAS format)

A personal statement is a set of three short written answers that UCAS asks you to complete when you apply for university.

Instead of one long essay, you respond to three structured questions about your motivation for the course, your preparedness, and your experiences.

These answers help universities understand your interest in the subject and how your skills and experiences make you a suitable applicant.

What are the 2026 UCAS personal statement questions?

1. Why do you want to study this course or subject?
2. How have your qualifications and studies helped you to prepare for this course or subject
3. What else have you done to prepare for this course or subject?

For guidance and expert advice on answering the new 2026 UCAS questions, visit our full guide to writing your UCAS personal statement.