Mastering the New UCAS Structured Personal Statement: Tips from Abbey College Cambridge

Introduction

The UCAS personal statement is undergoing a significant transformation. From September 2025, students applying for 2026 university entry will no longer submit a free-form essay but instead respond to three structured questions.

This change is designed to offer clarity, reduce stress, and ensure all students—regardless of background—have equal footing in articulating their university ambitions. At Abbey College Cambridge, students benefit from world-class university preparation, making them especially well-positioned to thrive under this new format.

This guide will provide you with some guidance for what to write in each of the three sections, as well as general tips and tricks for getting started on writing your personal statement over the summer. Good luck, and remember to be confident in yourself and your passions!

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What’s Changing in the UCAS Personal Statement?

Gone is the single 4,000-character essay. The new structure breaks the statement into three question-based sections, each requiring at least 350 characters:

1. Why do you want to study this course or subject?

2. How have your studies helped you prepare?

3. What have you done outside of school to prepare?

This new model is focused, fairer, and designed to help students reflect more deeply on their academic journeys. Learn more about the new format on the UCAS website.

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1. Why Do You Want to Study This Course or Subject?

This section is your opportunity to express your genuine academic passion. Abbey College Cambridge encourages students to explore their interests early through initiatives like the Pre-Degree Diploma Programme and Abbey Inspires, helping them find clarity in their subject choices.

Tips for students:

• Reflect on a defining moment (a project, lesson, or book) that sparked your interest.

• Make it personal and specific—avoid generic phrases like “I have always been passionate about…”

• Connect your interest to your long-term goals and how your course will help you achieve them.

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2. How Have Your Qualifications Helped You Prepare?

Here’s where you highlight your academic strengths and course-specific skills. With small class sizes and subject-specialist teachers, Abbey College Cambridge equips students with a strong foundation.

Tips for students:

• Mention specific A-Level or GCSE subjects that relate directly to your course.

• Emphasise any coursework, independent study, or research that challenged you intellectually.

• Don’t just list subjects—explain what you learned and how it shaped your thinking.

Pro tip: Use the PEEL method (Point, Evidence, Explain, Link) to make your writing clear and structured.

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3. What Have You Done Outside Education to Prepare?

Admissions tutors look for students who engage with their subject beyond the classroom. This section lets you showcase that commitment through work experience, competitions, volunteering, or independent learning.

Abbey College Cambridge students often take part in:

• National Olympiads and subject-based competitions

• Work placements for Medicine, Law, and Engineering

• The Oxbridge and Elite University Preparation Programme

Tips for students:

• Reflect on what you learned from these experiences.

• Explain how they’ve deepened your understanding or shaped your future aspirations.

• Make specific connections between your experiences and aspects of the university course.

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Abbey College Cambridge: Your Personal Statement Advantage

As an Abbey College Cambridge student, you have access to an exceptional level of personalised support that will help you to cultivate the perfect application and stand out – make sure you make the most of everything that is on offer!

• Weekly UCAS support, built into the timetable

• One-on-one guidance from Personal Tutors and Directors of Studies

• Specialist programmes for Medicine, Oxbridge, Law, and competitive STEM fields

• Mock interviews, BMAT/UCAT practice, and statement feedback cycles

Explore Abbey College Cambridge’s university preparation journey here.

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Final Writing Tips

• Start early: Abbey College Cambridge’s structured timeline ensures you never feel rushed.

• Avoid repetition: Each answer should add new insight.

• Draft and refine: Work together with your UCAS advisor to write multiple drafts.

• Stay honest: Authenticity stands out more than perfection.

Bonus tip: Read your answers aloud. It helps catch awkward phrasing and ensures a natural tone.

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Final Thoughts: Your Path to University Success

By the end of the writing process, your personal statement will have changed, but your passion, preparation, and potential remain at the heart of your university application.

With the structured support of Abbey College Cambridge, you’re not just writing a personal statement—you’re crafting your story, your purpose, and your academic future.

Want personalised advice? Schedule a UCAS session with your UCAS advisor or speak to your Tutor/Director of Studies to gain even more support.