Helping your child write a great personal statement
Your child may find writing their personal statement the most difficult part of the application process – they’re not alone.
Information and advice pages
Helping your child write a great personal statement
Your child may find writing their personal statement the most difficult part of the application process – they’re not alone.
How can we help?
Having trouble with something on your application? Search our FAQs to see if you can find an answer to common issues people contact us about, or find out how to get in touch below.
How do employers view distance learning degrees?
Is a distance learning degree viewed the same way as a degree studied on campus? Do employers recognise them? Find the answers to these common questions and learn about the different skills you can get from distance learning.
How to end your personal statement
The personal statement is your opportunity to talk about you, and why you want to enrol on a particular course. You’ve got this far – showing your passion for the subject. But how do you end your personal statement in a way that truly does it justice?
How to get a reference for conservatoire applications
Who should write your reference and how do you go about getting one? Find out more about references for conservatoire applications.
How to start a personal statement: The attention grabber
The personal statement is your opportunity to talk about you, and why you want to enrol on a particular course. But how do you start it strongly? Read our advice below on what to include, what not to do, and how to approach it.
How to write a UCAS Conservatoires personal statement
The personal statement is your opportunity to talk about you, and why you want to enrol on a particular course. You should describe the ambitions, skills, and experience that’ll make you suitable for the course.
How to write your personal statement: 2026 entry
Applying for university or college to start your studies in 2026? Find out more about the changes to the personal statement format and tips on what to include.
International events
It's a good idea to talk about your higher education options in person. Go to a course provider open day to explore the campus and get insights from staff and students – or take a virtual tour. We also recommend you go to UK events or one of the British Council events around the world. You'll find lots of helpful advice, and can ask any questions you may have.
Interview tips
Interviews and auditions help course tutors to compare applicants before deciding what offers to make. Get some advice here.
Join the UCAS Conservatoires scheme
Here you’ll find more information about UCAS Conservatoires, who can join the scheme, and how to do this.
Join the UCAS Undergraduate scheme
Find out about our undergraduate service to providers and members.
Key documents
Find key information from UCAS, including our corporate strategy, Annual Report, and End of Cycle Reports.
Managing applications in the adviser portal
Find out how to manage your centre’s undergraduate applications through the adviser portal.
Mature students: five things to include in your personal statement
The personal statement is your opportunity to talk about you, and why you want to enrol on a particular course. Applying to university if you’re 21 or over isn’t unusual, but how can you best make that life experience shine through?
Midwifery 2026 personal statement guide
Tell admissions tutors why you want to become a midwife, your existing insight into the role, and evidence the skills you have that midwives need. Add a bit of personality and you’ll ensure you stand out for a place on a midwifery course.
Modes of postgraduate study
Full-time or part-time postgraduate courses, and which other study modes are available? Find out the pros and cons of each.
Nominating your referee for conservatoire applications - 2026 entry
Who should be your referee, and what do they have to do? Find out more about references for conservatoire applications.
Part-time jobs for international students in the UK
Finding a part-time job while at university in the UK is a great way to earn extra money, meet new people, and build professional skills. Find out the visa rules, the type of student jobs you can find, and how to fit it in around your studies.