This is your opportunity to add that vital, personal touch to your application. You are aiming to give the admissions tutor a picture of the type of person you are, what you will bring to the course, and what you want from the course.

Here you can detail your achievements so far, your interests and the reasons for your choice of course and career. If you have one, your Record of Achievement or Progress File can help you compile your statement.

You only get 4000 characters so plan what you want to say and how you are going to say it. Make your statement structured, positive and easy to follow. Using headings can aid readability. Prepare your statement off-line using a word processor and then copy and paste it into the form. Save the entry and then check the formatting.

• Show how your interest in your subject has developed and what are your ultimate goals.
• Be enthusiastic about your chosen course and show how you have researched the area.
• Explain why the courses you have chosen are the best options for you. Remember that whilst the universities and colleges you have applied to cannot see your other choices, they can all see your personal statement.
• Mention any job, placement, work or voluntary experience you have and what you gained from it. In particular mention relevant experience, skills, motivation, insight and knowledge.
• Include details of any non-accredited skills and achievements that you have gained through activities such as Duke of Edinburgh, Millennium Volunteers, etc.
• Indicate those areas of school life that you find particularly interesting.
• Mention the qualities you can bring to the course and to the university or college.
• Outline your social, sports or leisure interests.
• Wherever possible use real examples of how your personal qualities have come to the fore.
• If you have applied for sponsorship, mention it here.
• If you are planning a year out, explain how this will benefit you and your future studies.