oxbridge medicine personal statement examples

3 Successful Medicine Personal Statements for Oxbridge

Medicine Personal Statement Oxbridge Examples

Are you tired of rewriting your draft so many times? Getting different opinions and conflicting advice?

I helped three medical applicants to get offers from prestigious medical schools in the UK. Including an offer from Oxford University, King’s College London, and the University of Bristol . I worked one-to-one with each student, adding quality content, transition sentences, and improving the flow by working on each paragraph. 

Read on to find 3 winning techniques to make your medicine personal statement stand out to Oxbridge and Russel Group Universities.

Why is the admissions process so subjective?

Admission tutors will skim through an essay you have spent weeks working on, even months!

Why? They get thousands of applications, half of which are pretty much the same. Same boring introduction and similar stories and experiences. They’re tired of reading the same thing.

Just imagine being an admissions tutor at Oxbridge – It’s a Friday afternoon, and it’s piping hot. There’s no air conditioning in your admissions office, and you are exhausted from checking hundreds of personal statements on UCAS. You’ve already decided which applicants you want to interview, but you still have two or three more statements to read.

Is your application worth that last spot in the interview pile? Will they remove someone else from the interview list to make space for you?

That’s not exactly how it works, but the concept is the same! One medicine personal statement will be remarkable to one tutor and boring to the next. It is incredibly subjective. You want to do everything possible to maximise your chances of getting in.

• How do you write a Personal Statement for Medicine? – Oxbridge Applicants
• 3 Winning techniques
• Personal Statement Medicine Example 1 –  Accepted at King’s College London
• Example 2 –  Accepted at Oxford University for Medicine
• Example 3 – Accepted at the University of Bristol for Medicine

How do you write a Personal Statement for Medicine? - Oxbridge Applicants

One that makes an admission tutor pick up the paper and say, “Wow. This is the perfect candidate.”

This guide will teach you how to sprinkle your magic into your draft. Blowing the Oxbridge admission tutor out of the water instantly puts you at the top of their list. Sounds impossible, right?

Well, I am sharing with you the key ingredients to the best medical personal statement recipe.

3 Winning Techniques for your Medicine Personal Statement

These 3 winning techniques are used time and time again in successful medicine personal statements. I have helped over 500 students to gain admission based on these techniques and a few other secret top tips. It’s proven to work, and you’ll see examples of this technique in the statements below.

Technique 1 – Storytelling

One thing we have in common with the admissions committee is that we are human, which means we are subject to emotions. According to a psychological study , evoking emotions will instantly make your story relatable. You will use the art of persuasion to convince them to pick you.

Take the admission tutor on your journey by creatively setting the scene. Read creative writing to get ideas and prompts to help you get started—emotions ties in with sounds, visual imagery, smells, and feelings. You want to activate these parts of their brain psychologically. This is a proven technique used extensively in marketing and selling.

Don’t focus on a sob story; we do not want them sobbing that Friday evening in the office. You want them to feel intrigued, delighted, sympathetic, and motivated by what you have to offer.

How to pick a story? Start with your most memorable experience, the best or worst experience you have had, whether you watched a physician deliver bad news or handle an angry patient.

You can even set a scene when describing your hobby—an exciting tennis match or winning a football tournament. Everything can be related back to the course. Start with your MOST powerful sentence .

Technique 2 – Answer this: Why You?

Don’t beat around the bush and tempt them into reading more. Get straight to the point. What if they put you in the rejection pile after only reading the introduction? Your introduction must be CONCISE. Tell them why YOU. Don’t make them read another 3 paragraphs to find out what you are applying for or that you’ve shadowed one of the best maxillofacial surgeons in the world. If your experience is worth writing about, then tell them right away.

Just grab their attention and worry about the rest later.

Technique 3 – Ace the Conclusion

End the personal statement by reasserting the points in your introduction and summarising everything you have done. Trust me, by the end of the essay, they will forget. 

Remind them of your top 3 experiences and tell them your goal and how you hope to achieve it. Avoid sounding egotistic here. Humbly express what you wish to do in the future.

Avoid this cliché: “I hope to impact the world through medicine.” It signals alarm bells. How will you make a difference while at university or as a qualified doctor? They don’t want false promises! Just be genuine to sound authentic.

How can you use these 3 techniques?

Read the medical personal statement examples which capture all 3 winning techniques! 

Medicine Personal Statement Example - Offer from King's College London

“The summit of the French Alps offered picturesque views of the crystal-clear glacier lakes. The icy wind picked up and chilled me to the bone. Sweat droplets formed on my father’s forehead as he ripped off his gloves and uppercut the air in celebration. As the stormy weather began to pick up, we began to descend immediately. I planned the route through treacherous conditions and successfully reached the camp uninjured. Despite not being directly related to medicine, this life-changing experience proved that my resilience and determination were enough to achieve any goal I set myself. Unlike many, medicine was not something I was dead set on. Based on my career advisor’s advice, I acquired work experience in a hospital. I suppose she picked up on my compassionate and ambitious nature and felt medicine was the right fit for me. In her defence, she was right. I shadowed physicians and saw them diagnose life-changing illnesses, discuss end-of-life care with families, and witnessed the heart-breaking moment a daughter missed her mother’s final moments. On the contrary, these experiences moved me and motivated me to pursue medicine. The sheer empathy expressed by the doctors made the patients’ healthcare journeys more bearable. You could sense the gratitude when a patient was seen following hours of debilitating pain. Dr Mistry shared the challenging aspects of medicine but was incredibly fulfilled in her role. I was intrigued by the analytical skills needed when using symptoms and diagnostic results to make a management plan. It was the authority the doctor had in being responsible for the patient’s care and leadership to manage the team which inspired me. This ability to attend to needs and tailor care based on their life circumstances was admirable. I knew I wanted to make a difference, and these various aspects truly did match my personality and willingness to serve. I am an active community member and volunteer with many causes that are dear to me. This began with helping at an animal rescue centre. This was a tough role but incredibly rewarding to help match those searching to foster or adopt. I later acquired a position with Red Cross, familiarising myself with the trauma caused by natural disasters. My involvement led to various certifications, and I led a team of younger volunteers to attend to those affected by severe flooding. I have since followed up with these sufferers, aiding in their insurance claims and searching for new homes. I addressed their concerns and helped in finding resources that suited them. Learning to tailor my communication to help those of various ethnic, religious, and socioeconomic backgrounds was integral to this role. I needed to understand the needs of those I was helping to make a real difference. Furthermore, I work in a charity shop and regularly build a rapport with customers and help them find items that would interest them. Speaking to one customer led to an opportunity to help out at her mother’s care home, where I was lucky enough to oversee dentists and doctors who attended for home visits. Elderly care was far from straightforward; honestly, it was mentally taxing at times, but I still felt motivated to help. I recognised the challenges the elderly faced in remembering medication and the struggles of those with dementia, forgetting their family’s names. I empathised with family members who visited and helped make them feel comfortable. My path to medicine has not been traditional. It began in the French Alps, where I recognised my determination to reach a goal, and my medical interests soon became apparent through shadowing. I am fortunate to have gained a comprehensive view of the realities of medicine and am not afraid to step up to the challenge. My desire to serve the community has been a significant part of my upbringing, and I now wish to help the community as a physician in secondary care. “

Medicine Personal Statement Oxbridge - Offer from Oxford University

“Witnessing my mother’s manic episode was genuinely a terrifying experience. As a child, I experienced the trauma of being raised by a mother who was very unwell and required mental health services. Unfortunately, mental health was taboo in my community, and she avoided seeking help when in need. I grew up anticipating when her next episode would be until she was in crisis and ended up in a psychiatric hospital. I was ashamed for feeling like a burden had been lifted. However, this experience was pivotal in my decision to pursue medicine, a career where I could impact patients by breaking down the stigma. The psychiatrists that diagnosed my mother referred me to the necessary services. I soon learned that she was on the right path to improving, and I was able to have my basic needs met. My life completely changed, and I am grateful for the care they provided and the compassion they showed at the hospital. Despite being young, I was incredibly mature, and the doctors understandably explained the diagnosis, yet I still reached out to Dr Google to understand more. I reached out to mental health charities, where I learned that there was a stigma associated with mental illness, particularly in South Asian communities. I later endeavoured to help other children facing similar challenges to those I encountered. I spent three years volunteering with ****** charity, learning about safeguarding, consent, and attending to children’s needs. After many years at the charity, the children shared their emotional stories, and I often had to seek advice from the safeguarding lead. My priority was ensuring the children were safe but willing to share their difficulties. My voluntary work geared me towards medicine, particularly psychiatry, and I delved into wider reading to understand the impact psychosis can have. I am intrigued by the management of such conditions, as it often involves continual monitoring, complex treatment plans and a mixture of psychotherapy combined with pharmacological therapy. The anatomy of the brain and lack of understanding behind the biochemistry leading to mental illness perplexes me. I could grasp a glimpse of life as a physician during my primary care shadowing. As well as helping in administration, record keeping, and attending to patients, I could sit in through many consultations. I observed urgent cases where patients were referred to ambulatory care, and many patients attended with symptoms of depression and anxiety. Reflecting on this experience, it became more apparent that mental illness is more common than ever due to increased diagnosing and recognition of symptoms. Not only by physicians but primarily by patients who are now more aware and educated on concerning symptoms. I aimed to provide more support to those at my school and led a group of students in organising regular group therapy sessions for us to vent about our studies. Many confided in me following the sessions, sharing their difficulties, and I noticed a few who needed urgent help. Despite only helping a small group, I valued being able to take a leadership role in planning activities and taking charge of organising. It was an enriching role, and I imagine physicians feel the same sense of fulfilment when correctly diagnosing and helping a patient in need. Bipolar is a complex disorder that negatively impacted many sacred years of my childhood. I was young, impressionable, and desperate to help my mother. This rooted my desire for medicine and led to many experiences. I shadowed in primary care, volunteered with the youth, and led therapy sessions, and I am now one step closer to becoming a physician. Therefore, if fortunate enough to be admitted, I aim to pursue this career and progress into the field of psychiatry, where I can tackle the stigma and treat patients silently suffering like my mother was.”

Winning Medicine Personal Statement - Offer from the University of Bristol

“ Desperate to observe the subsequent surgery, I hurried behind the consultant entering the pre-operative room. The scent of hand sanitiser filled the room, monitors beeping, and a patient lay prepared for the life-altering operation. Having spoken to the patient prior to her operation, I recognised the detrimental impact scoliosis had on her quality of life. Not only for her but also for her family. I began to realise the need for full mobility in every moment of our lives, from simply getting out of bed to commuting anywhere. This single experience during my shadowing was marked in my memory. Healthcare practitioners do far more than diagnosing and prescribing – there is an entire multi-disciplinary team dedicated to caring for a patient’s needs. A curiosity for caring for others had drawn me to multiple career options, from working in a care home to being a physician. I honestly had considered all options, but this final shadowing experience captivated me. Choosing to embark on a course at seventeen has not been straightforward. It was impossible to understand the depths of what a role involves without gaining first-hand experience. Hence, I delved into various opportunities to gauge the necessary attributes required for a role as a physician. My journey began in a care home as an eager volunteer hoping to gain insight into the reality of being a care home nurse. To call it mentally taxing would be an understatement. Nevertheless, I built my resilience from engaging with patients with dementia and their families. I was dedicated to understanding the full effects of dementia on one’s ability to cope. This opened me up to a realm of other interests, such as the anatomical, biochemical, and genetic components contributing to such deterioration. Despite gaining countless skills, I aspired to be directly involved in a patient’s care. I observed a doctor’s outpatient visit to the home. I was immediately impressed by the high level of knowledge and ability to concisely explain a patient’s condition while being empathetic and aware of the family’s emotions. My care home experience later drew me to shadowing a pharmacist for a week. This provided invaluable insight into pharmacists’ responsibilities, as they often deal with patients with a complex medical background on a concoction of drugs. Knowing the interactions, side effects, and required doses came naturally to them. I was inspired by their extensive knowledge and observed their ability to maintain a patient’s dignity when discussing sensitive topics. I found that patients often turn to pharmacists since COVID-19 has reduced the number of face-to-face visits. The challenge this brought to pharmacists was evident. I hope to bear this in mind as a future physician. More recently, I arranged to shadow at a primary care facility, my local GP. Each day brought variety and a diverse group of patients and various concerns. Some concerns required simple reassurance, while others required a call to secondary care. I learnt the possible pathways and need for liaison with the local hospital or other practitioners; excellent verbal and written communication proved paramount. My duties involved helping with bookings, administrative responsibilities, reassuring anxious patients waiting for appointments, and following up on referrals. It was initially overwhelming to cope with the workload, but I quickly adjusted and enjoyed the dynamic environment. The pressure to complete my tasks led to me delegating my time based on the task’s priority, similar to a physician who must triage based on urgency. My collective experiences from shadowing in theatre, primary care, and voluntary work have reaffirmed my passion for the medical field. I have remained committed to my education and hope to continue this determination in medicine. The opportunity to impact patients’ lives through medicine would be invaluable. “

The students who wrote these medical personal statements for Oxbridge first reached out to me because they were strugglingstruggled to put their thoughts together. They had a rough draft with unique experiences but had not written them coherently and engagingly. I helped them to craft their story and evoke emotion from the admission team .

Each applicant successfully received interview invites from all of their universities.

Are you having difficulty writing your personal statement? Then reach out for professional help. 

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Medicine Personal Statement Examples

Get some inspiration to start writing your Medicine Personal Statement with these successful examples from current Medical School students. We've got Medicine Personal Statements which were successful for universities including Imperial, UCL, King's, Bristol, Edinburgh and more.

Personal Statement Examples

• Read successful Personal Statements for Medicine
• Pay attention to the structure and the content
• Get inspiration to plan your Personal Statement

Personal Statement Example 1

Check out this Medicine Personal Statement which was successful for Imperial, UCL, QMUL and King's.

Personal Statement Example 2

This Personal Statement comes from a student who received Medicine offers from Bristol and Plymouth - and also got an interview at Cambridge.

Personal Statement Example 3

Have a look at this Medicine Personal Statement which was successful for Imperial, Edinburgh, Dundee and Newcastle.

Personal Statement Example 4

Take a look at this Medicine Personal Statement which was successful for King's, Newcastle, Bristol and Sheffield.

Personal Statement Example 5

Pick up tips from this Medicine Personal Statement which was successful for Imperial, Birmingham and Manchester.

Personal Statement Example 6

This Personal Statement comes from a student who got into Graduate Entry Medicine at King's - and also had interviews for Undergraduate Medicine at King's, QMUL and Exeter.

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Medicine Personal Statement Examples – Oxford (Alexander)

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Welcome to our collection of Medicine Personal Statement Examples! We’ve searched far and wide to find personal statements from successful applicants all around the UK and asked them to analyse the strengths and weaknesses of their work for your own inspiration. Today’s subject is from Alexander, who studies Medicine at the University of Oxford.

Alexander applied to study medicine in 2014 at 4 of the best medical schools in the UK, including Edinburgh and Sheffield . In the end, he received offers from both University College London and the University of Oxford , of which he chose the latter and began his studies in 2015.

Let’s read the personal statement that got him a place at Oxford, or skip straight to his feedback to learn what made his personal statement a success!

Please be aware that these examples are meant purely for the sake of inspiration, and should absolutely NOT be used as a model around which to base your own personal statement. UCAS have a rather strict system that detects plagiarism .

University of Oxford Medicine Personal Statement Example

Whole personal statement.

Life as a doctor is hard – long hours, demanding patients and a pressurised working environment. However you also have the tremendous privilege of helping people at their most vulnerable. This is what appeals to me about medicine.  

I have always been interested in science and health and used to enjoy listening to my grandfather talking about his experiences as a family doctor at the birth of the NHS. My parents are pharmacists, so healthcare has always featured in family conversations. It made me think that medicine would be a challenging yet rewarding career.  

Medicine reflects my academic interests. For instance, I am a keen follower of rugby and American Football and became intrigued by concussion. My EPQ allowed me to research the physiology of brain injuries, analyse scientific papers on the materials used in helmet construction and study the psychological impact of wearing helmets.  

Taking part in the Chemistry Olympiad and Cambridge Chemistry Challenge really tested my understanding and ability to apply the principles of chemistry to new and unique situations such as drug manufacture. I was particularly interested in the complexity of the processes that create some of our most basic, yet fundamental drugs.  

I am curious about medical research, so read ‘The Trouble with Medical Journals’ by former BMJ editor, Dr Richard Smith. It showed me how difficult it is to conduct studies that are wholly free from bias and conflicts of interest, and opened up an interesting debate about the role of pharmaceutical companies in funding clinical trials.  

My work experience has given me a great insight into life as a doctor. I organised a placement in an orthopaedics department, where I closely observed the whole process from admission and surgery to after-care. I saw how important communication was in all aspects of the department: having clear, defined roles in theatre, and using the right language to guide scared patients through complex procedures. I also witnessed first-hand one of the main challenges facing a doctor – dealing with uncooperative patients, yet still achieving a good outcome.  

My work as a volunteer at a dementia care home showed me some of the harsher realities of long-term illness and gave me a practical understanding of the effects of degenerative brain disease. I spent time talking to residents and keeping them company, including one who was a former matron. She could remember how to diagnose illnesses but could not remember when she last had a cup of tea. When I asked her about her time as a matron, she cried. I found this upsetting and it pushed me way out of my comfort zone. Initially I felt uncomfortable and did not know how to approach my time at the home. However I persevered and gained a new appreciation of the difficulties faced by both the elderly and those caring for them.  

A doctor must keep calm and make good decisions under pressure. On my Gold DofE expedition, I used my problem-solving ability to navigate out of a dense forest using only contour lines. At times the group became frustrated and started to argue. I took responsibility to try and resolve these difficulties by suggesting solutions in a non-confrontational manner.  

My passion outside work and college is cricket. I play as much as I can for several clubs and coach young people aged 4-15. I like the responsibility of influencing a young cricketer’s development. Coaching has enabled me to gain valuable experience in organising other people and become a better communicator. It can be frustrating, but worth it when you see how much they improve. I also help junior school children with their reading, which is richly rewarding but demands great patience.  

In summary: I enjoy science. I can relate to people. I am resilient and would relish an environment of lifelong learning. A career in a caring profession like medicine would be stimulating, meaningful, and provide me with the best opportunities to apply my knowledge to benefit others.

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University of Oxford Medicine Personal Statement Example Analysis

Now, let’s go section by section and see what Alexander has to say about what he wrote:  

INTRODUCTION

Introduction

I wanted to keep this introduction very simple and straightforward, which I believe I did well. I didn’t waffle about any life-changing events that made me decide to study medicine overnight, I just focused on an honest appraisal of my background that led me to consider medicine. It’s very direct, but I feel admissions teams prefer honestly over trying to create a massively blown-up story about something that is actually pretty simple. It saves time and space that can be used to thoroughly discuss my experiences and skills later on.

‘Life as a doctor is hard’ does sound a little cliché and cringy when I read it back all these years later. I wanted to create a catchy opening but instead, it just feels like I’m either moaning or explaining medical work to a child. In the second part, emphasising the medical background I come from may come across as I’m only doing medicine because my family do it/want me to do it. It is certainly worth mentioning, but I barely discuss how living with medical professionals has helped me develop my own skills and interests.

Lastly, and this is a reoccurring issue, why did I split this into two paragraphs? They both link together, but splitting this section in half makes each part feel less significant than if I had left them as one.  

I am curious about medical research, so read ‘The Trouble with Medical Journals’ by former BMJ editor, Dr Richard Smith. It showed me how difficult it is to conduct studies that are wholly free from bias and conflicts of interest, and opened up an interesting debate about the role of pharmaceutical companies in funding clinical trials.

I start off the main part of my personal statement by discussing my academics. Here, I found ways to relate the extra things I’d done at sixth form (EPQ, Olympiad, Trouble with Medical Journals) to medical topics and reflected on how they had helped me become a good medicine applicant. Again I kept the things I gained from them very simple, being very clear about exactly what I did and not trying to stretch the truth. Although I am trying to sell myself, I didn’t want to over-exaggerate my accomplishments as many admissions teams can see right through insincerity. Detailing my additional research is also a great way of demonstrating my interest in medicine in a practical and applicable way, rather than just describing life experiences that inspired me.  

Throughout these paragraphs, the writing sometimes comes across as a bit waffly, such as being intrigued by concussions because of rugby and American football. It’s a very random detail to mention and could have flowed more naturally into my EPQ. Instead of providing this surface-level information about myself, I could perhaps have given examples of what I’d learnt, although I did leave it slightly open to encourage interviewers to ask me about my EPQ at the interview. I do provide a better amount of depth when discussing the other topics here though.  

As for the paragraphing issue, this section is a bit more justifiable as each paragraph does tackle a separate topic. However, paragraphs this small do make the content feel less important or in-depth.

This is my discussion of work experience and volunteering work . Here, I was clear that I organised my orthopaedic work experience and dementia home volunteering myself, not that it was arranged for me. This may seem like an odd thing to point out, but it definitely shows a level of confidence and initiative that some applicants do miss (it was especially important for me considering my medical background, it would be very easy for the reader to assume my parents sorted something for me).  

Again, I didn’t over-exaggerate what I had done or learnt, I was very factual and let that speak for itself as I was confident it was good enough to be impressive. Even if it wasn’t the most impressive experience they had seen, the confidence in which I presented it gives it equal or greater value to work experience that has been dressed in over descriptive language.  

Paragraph-wise, this is actually a section I handled correctly in my opinion.  

Given how much I could have written about these two experiences, I unfortunately wasn’t as reflective as I should have been here. I had learned a lot from these experiences, but I only really discussed the surface-level skills I had learnt from them. There are many underlying lessons that I could have defiantly discussed in order to give this section a bit more power.  

I was a bit nervous about including the time I made a person cry, and how difficult I initially found the care home, but overall I think that it was important to show awareness that I’m not yet a perfect doctor/person, but at least I have been able to see an improvement in myself from the experience. This is a tactic that could backfire if you’re not fully confident, but as long as you can explain yourself in the interview, you’ll come off as a stronger candidate because of it.  

Here we have another pretty straightforward paragraph which only says what I myself did and doesn’t try and take too much credit. It ticks off some of the soft skills medical schools are looking for, again with examples that I could elaborate on further in the interview. The first sentence of this paragraph also serves to justify the inclusion of everything else I discuss here by linking everything back to medicine.  

In reality, it’s a bit of a filler paragraph to try and show I’ve got some other skills they are after. Nothing here is as strong as what I previously discussed, although it’s really not expected to. I certainly don’t feel it’s a particularly strong or stand-out paragraph like the previous one, but it serves its purpose of demonstrating some additional skills.  

I think this paragraph works well, showing both my extra-curricular interest in cricket and also how I’ve turned my passion for it into something that helps others, which sounds like a decent analogy to medicine. The personal statement isn’t just about medical abilities; universities also want students who are happy, healthy and likely to contribute to university life as a whole. This example perfectly encapsulates how I would be a fantastic university student!

Everything doesn’t need to be “all medicine, all the time”, but linking this topic to medicine would have definitely helped it feel more relevant in this personal statement. I just said that this sounds like a good analogy for medicine, so all I would have needed to do is point this out in a slightly more explanatory way. Looking at the wording and phrasing I used, “ I like the responsibility ” maybe sounds a bit sociopathic while “organising other people” is also a slightly odd phrase. The junior school reading is maybe something I could have expanded on further, to show a bit more breadth.

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This is a proper summary of my personal statement; it doesn’t contain any new information and brings everything from my personal statement together in just 3 lines. It comes across as very snappy and ends with a true reflection of why I want to study medicine. This is pretty much everything expected of a good quality conclusion.  

This is perhaps where I may become a bit overly confident describing myself with all those terms. Taken on its own, the paragraph does nothing to show how I can say these things about myself, but I have tried to demonstrate why I believe I have those qualities throughout my statement. So hopefully, in context, it sounded appropriate. I suppose it must have done or else I wouldn’t have gotten my offers.  

Final Thoughts

Throughout this analysis, I have made sure to point out several times that this statement is no-nonsense and straight to the point. It’s very factual, and I make a point of showing my qualities with evidence rather than just saying I am caring or I like science for example. I show a good breadth of experiences and am not afraid to speak about the bad ones, which shows I have a fuller picture of the highs and lows of a career in medicine. I wrote this knowing that whoever would end up reading would know far more than me about medicine and be far more experienced than myself, so I didn’t want to either talk down to them or sound like I was desperate to impress them. I’d say the biggest strength of this personal statement is its confidence. When writing, know what your strengths are and own up to your weaknesses while understanding that they don’t detract from your abilities unless you let them.  

Because I was applying to Oxford I put my academic achievements first, even though my strongest paragraphs were more in the middle. There were several things that I had done that I did not include, and perhaps I could have created more space by shortening some of the paragraphs to create space for them, to ensure I’m covering more of the skills and qualities medical schools are after. These are all structural issues, but I had a few issues with my writing style too. The confident writing approach is effective when done well, but it can fall flat when you make weird statements like my first line, or become a bit too cocky. There’s a balance to reach and, although you probably won’t perfect every line, you will need to most likely go through countless drafts to get it right.  

So there you have it! This personal statement helped Alexander earn 2 offers from two of the most prestigious medical schools in the country!

Everyone has different experiences and abilities, so you may not be able to relate to everything that was said in this personal statement. However, the information and advice provided by Alexander is universal and will help any applicant write a better personal statement!  

Be sure to check out more Medicine Personal Statement Analyses to see advice from all different kinds of applicants, including Ali Abdaal , another Oxbridge medical student! Or if you want to get started on your own statement, check out 6med’s Medicine Mastery Bundle for all the support and resources you’ll ever need for your whole application. 

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Oxbridge Personal Statement Examples

Tips and Tricks for the Personal Statement

by Dhakshana Sivayoganathan | Jul 17, 2020 | Educational Resources , Oxbridge Resource | 1 comment

Welcome back to another blog post in our Oxbridge Resources series! Following our blog post on the non-academic opportunities available, we will now be giving you some advice on how to write an amazing personal statement that will make you stand out. Although Hogwarts doesn’t require a written application, unfortunately for you, Oxbridge alongside other medical schools does in the form of the UCAS application, which includes the daunting personal statement! We will break down the do’s and don’ts of writing your personal statement, as well as directing you towards useful resources and examples. So, without further ado, let’s get started!

Why is the personal statement so important?

Personal statements can differentiate you from other applicants as most have strong GCSE grades and A-Level predictions, alongside stellar references. Therefore, your personal statement is your chance to stand out from the crowd and give an insight into why medical schools should choose you. This does not mean that you need to write a weird and wacky personal statement, but one that is unique and effective in portraying your interest and experiences in medicine so far.

Your personal statement might serve as a great starting point at interview, easing you into a situation which you might initially find nerve-wracking. Your personal statement will both allow you to demonstrate your passion for medicine and discuss some academic subjects you might be interested in, allowing you to come across as an enthusiastic, well-informed applicant.

Ground rules for the personal statement?

You may be surprised to find out that there are no hard and fast rules as to how you should write your personal statement. However, a few key points you should try to answer are:

• Your motivation: what sparked your interest, and why do you want to study medicine?
• How have you gone about gaining a realistic insight into medicine?
• What makes you a suitable candidate to study medicine?
• What skills have you witnessed a healthcare team/professional demonstrate?
• How have you demonstrated these skills yourself?
• You should aim to show your enthusiasm and motivation through  detailed  examples of how you have explored medicine beyond the A-Level syllabus. For instance, by extra reading, through work experience or attendance on extra-curricular courses.
• How will you be able to cope with the challenges of medicine – i.e. do you have a work-life balance?
• For Oxbridge, they also tend to like a more academic paragraph as they are research-heavy universities that like to teach on a stronger scientific foundation; this by no means that the whole personal statement should be academic however and you should strike a balance!

Finally, although it is not specified anywhere, you must prioritise quality over quantity. Rather than listing activities that you have partaken in, you should think carefully and reflect upon what experiences have been of most value and have provided you with the best insight. You should then expand on these in detail and link the skills you have witnessed from the experience to ones you already have and are currently building.

It also goes without saying that your punctuation and grammar needs to be spot on in your final draft as otherwise, it will look quite sloppy handing in a personal statement that doesn’t read well. Of course, it won’t be perfect the first time around, so don’t worry about this until right at the end after you have got all the content down and are beginning to format!

How to get started?

Getting started might be one of the hardest parts of writing your personal statement as you may feel like there is so much for you to do, and you may not know where to start!

A way that can help you organise your thoughts is by writing a list of experiences and linking them to the skills and qualities of a doctor. You can check these skills and qualities of a doctor on the Good Medical Practice (GMP) to try and see what skills they are looking for and use it as a template, or even use the medical schools’ selection criteria on their websites.

The link to the GMP is as follows:  https://www.gmc-uk.org/ethical-guidance/ethical-guidance-for-doctors/good-medical-practice

Once you have done this, we would advise you to start whittling down your list to the experiences you feel are most versatile and show that you have demonstrated many of the skills and qualities of a doctor and this will allow you to go into more detail and provide the most coherent paragraph. You need to bear in mind that you will probably not be able to fit in everything you want into your personal statement, so prioritising the key experiences that you can expand upon easily is helpful.

How to structure your personal statement

Once you have thought about what you want to include in your personal statement and the skills that you have demonstrated and seen in your various experiences, it is crucial to tie these points together and follow a rough structure such that flows well.

We would advise that you write your personal statement in chronological order, starting with what initially drew you into medicine to how you went about gaining a realistic insight and finally talking about how you have demonstrated that you have the skills and qualities required of a doctor/healthcare professional.

Although the thing that “sparked” your interest will probably be personal, typically the main reasons people mention are a personal/family experience involving healthcare teams, a passion for the sciences and/or a desire to help other people. Even though these are typical reasons for people choosing to study medicine, these are by no means the only reasons, so don’t worry if you have something else that ignited your passion for medicine and feel free to mention it if it’s appropriate!

From there, it is important to realise that what you have mentioned in your introduction was only the start of your decision to study medicine and subsequently you have gone onto gain a realistic insight via an accumulation of experiences. This would be an appropriate place to start talking about what you witnessed at work experience and volunteering. Do not only describe what you saw but mainly show how you have reflected upon these experiences and learnt about the skills and qualities a doctor demonstrates.

This could have then gone on to inspire you to further research a particular topic and would be effective to include as it shows how you have taken the initiative to further your initial interest. This will allow you to show your passion for the sciences and research, especially if you link in some super curricular activities you have undertaken that have furthered your interest in medicine. This paragraph can be particularly important as for Oxbridge it is often the paragraph from which questions are asked, if any, regarding the personal statement as the admissions tutors may be interested in how you have demonstrated your passion for the sciences.

Following this, you can also mention other interests you might have, such as your extracurricular activities. You don’t need to go into them in depth unless you think they are relevant to your decision to study medicine. Their primary purpose is to show that you can keep a good work-life balance and have also developed key skills that you have noticed doctors and other healthcare professionals demonstrate, such as leadership, teamwork and communication.

Finally, you can add a brief conclusion that demonstrates you have gained a realistic insight through your experiences and reinforces the idea that you would make a good medical student and doctor. Having a conclusion is not strictly necessary, so it is up to you to decide whether you would like to include one. Both of us wrote a conclusion as we felt that it provided a strong and positive ending note to our personal statements and was effective in affirming our desire to pursue medicine!

Balancing what other medical schools are looking for vs Oxbridge

As you are probably not only applying to Oxbridge, but also to three other medical schools, you want to make sure that you balance what you write in your personal statement so that it appeals to all the medical schools you are applying to and is not too specific for Oxbridge  (i.e. don’t make it all academic!).

As both Oxford and Cambridge follow a traditional course, focusing on the science underpinning medicine and research, you should talk about some academic research you may have done into a particular topic of medicine to show your passion for the sciences. We would recommend that you limit this to a single paragraph so that it doesn’t become overwhelming and you are also able to get across the other reasons why the medical schools should choose you. You could show a particular area of medicine you are interested in through super curricular activities you have undertaken. For example, EPQ, online courses, writing an article and research placements – we discussed this in more depth in our previous blog post regarding non-academic opportunities you can be undertaking during this time and the link to that blog is as follows:  https://medicmentor.co.uk/oxbridge-non-academic-activities/

Although super-curriculars are important, it is still essential that you strike a balance between your academic and extracurricular activities. This is effective in demonstrating that you have a work-life balance and can also be useful in showing that you have already developed the skills you will be required to demonstrate as a future medic.

At the end of the day, medicine is a demanding career choice, and all medical schools, Oxbridge included, will be looking for someone who has a passion for medicine and is also capable of being resilient. A great way of showing that you have some tools for coping under pressure is by linking in an extracurricular activity that you enjoy which helps you destress. This is an effective way of showing your suitability for the course.

SAQ (Cambridge specific)

As you may have wanted to balance your personal statement such that it was suitable for all medical schools and not only Oxbridge, you may not have made your personal statement as academic as you may have wanted to. Don’t worry at all, as this is the case for most students.

Once Cambridge has received your application to the university through UCAS, they get back to you and ask you to fill a Supplementary Application Questionnaire (SAQ). This is compulsory to fill out and is often asked to be returned a week after the deadline for your UCAS application to be submitted.

Most of the information is similar to that included in your UCAS application. Still, it also asks for what topics you have learnt as part of your A-Level courses thus far such that interviewers have an idea of what topics they can ask questions on at interview.

Moreover, there is a section where you can write an optional personal statement. It is important to realise that this is optional and there is no obligation whatsoever for you to write it and if you don’t, you won’t be penalised. That being said, if you feel there is something more you want to talk about (often academic) which will further demonstrate your passion for the sciences to the admissions tutors feel free to use this space. There is not too much space in the optional section, but it might be a useful opportunity to go into further detail with regards to your super-curricular activities, research projects etc.

We would definitely not recommend completing this section of the SAQ for the sake of it as the admissions tutors will probably tell if you are writing extra because you feel like you have to. Still, it can also be a useful area to discuss something you maybe couldn’t have gone into as much detail in, in your UCAS personal statement.

Reflection in your personal statement

Reflection is an essential part of medicine as it not only allows you to recognise your own strengths and weaknesses but also to learn much more effectively from your experiences. By reflecting in your personal statement, you can demonstrate that you have obtained a realistic insight into medicine and are aware of the skills you will be required to show as a medical student and doctor.

A way to reflect on your personal statement is using Gibbs reflective cycle, which is a structure that can help you organise and develop upon your learning experiences. This will help you expand on your experiences in a way that is specific to you and can be useful in helping you stand out, showing that you have clearly given some thought into why you would be a suitable applicant to medical school.

Available at: https://www.crowe-associates.co.uk/coaching-tools/gibbs-reflective-cycle/

Additionally, at interview, it is effective to structure your answer by using the STARR technique. We will expand on this later in a future blog post but for your convenience have given you an idea of what it is by providing an explanation of the abbreviation!

S – Situation

T – Task

A – Action

R – Result

R – Reflection

Common pitfalls

There are some common mistakes you may make along the way, so we will point them out so that you can avoid them and write a high-quality, balanced personal statement. They are as follows:

• It is important to prioritise quality over quantity  and go into detail about what you learnt from the examples you have mentioned.
• We wouldn’t recommend you to focus excessively on your school grades  as this is not the point of the personal statement and instead you should discuss why your various experiences show you are a strong applicant. These can instead be mentioned in other areas of your application, such as in your teacher’s reference. We have gone into more detail about this later on in this blog.
• Don’t make it seem as if you have been lazy when arranging work experience.  Instead of stating that someone arranged work experience for you, you should mention that you took the initiative to further your interests.
• Concentrating too much on future career plans.  Don’t delve into a specific speciality unless that is something that sparked your interest in medicine in general.
• Saying statements using ‘we’ instead of ‘I’.  Even though you might have worked in a team in various activities, you want to make sure that you state your specific involvement and contribution to demonstrate the skill sets you have to offer.
• Not evidencing your claims.  If you make a statement about yourself, such as ‘I am a good leader’, you can’t just leave it at that, but should instead explain and provide examples of where you have demonstrated this skill in your life.
• Plagiarising other personal statements or lying about your experiences.  It is quite self-explanatory why you shouldn’t do this but honesty and being trustworthy is an important quality of a doctor so if you lie in your personal statement or reproduce work that is not yours this could lead to severe consequences.
• Remember to check your SPAG (Spelling, Punctuation and Grammar).  It is important to do this; otherwise, your personal statement, which is a big chance to let yourself shine, would look sloppy.
• Name dropping.  You don’t need to mention the names of the places where you did your work experience or volunteering, as this does not add value to your application and will cost you characters which you could use to say something else.

Teacher’s references

You may be wondering how the teacher’s reference is relevant to your personal statement. The teacher’s reference is an incredibly useful bit of your application that can often be underestimated and not used to its full potential. Inevitably, you will not be able to include all the points you want to make in your personal statement that you believe will make you stand out. Nevertheless, the teacher’s reference, which is not as limited for words, could be a perfect place for including the things you may have wanted to include but didn’t have the chance to in your personal statement.

We would recommend that you make a list of achievements or experiences that you were unable to include in your personal statement and then give this to the tutor that writes your reference. If you have an achievement for various subjects and different subject teachers contribute to your teacher’s reference, we would recommend that you write a list of accomplishments from across different subjects and give these lists to various subject tutors such that they can include these in their part of the reference.

Finally, the teacher’s reference could be a perfect place to talk about your extracurricular achievements that your teachers may be unaware of as often people don’t have enough space in their personal statement to go into detail about their achievements.

Summer School

One of the aims of the Medic Mentor summer school is that every student completes their personal statement to a final draft standard. If you attend the summer school, you will have the fantastic opportunity to have medical students and doctors support you throughout 2+ intensive days writing your personal statement from scratch. This is not to say that you will not be writing your own personal statement, but that you will have the chance to receive immediate feedback and support as you go along. On top of this, the support you receive is not only limited to until summer school finishes, but you have the guidance of a mentor who has just been through the process, only an email away, which is very helpful!

As amazing as the summer school is, you shouldn’t worry that if you don’t attend it, your personal statement will not be good enough for the medical schools you are applying to. You will probably have to spend more time on it during the summer, but you can still produce a great personal statement by using some of the advice we have given you and asking for feedback – we will further discuss this below. The Medic Mentor team will still be more than happy to help guide and support you along the way if you remain proactive in asking for feedback.

Asking for feedback on personal statement

We would recommend that you send your personal statement off to as many reliable and helpful sources as possible. This could include anyone related or unrelated to the subject, different teachers from different subjects, medical students, doctors, and your family.

This can be really helpful so they can give you their thoughts on it and you can improve it every time you make a new draft. However, you should make sure to take their comments with a pinch of salt, as everyone will have different views and it’s up to you at the end of the day what you want to keep and want you to change. The most reliable sources to listen to are probably those who work in the medical profession. However, it is still useful to ask for the opinions of others, especially with regards to wording and the flow of what you have written.

How your personal statement is used at interview

Something worth bearing in mind whilst you are writing your personal statement is that anything you mention is fair game at interview, so the interviewers can ask you about it. They tend to do this at the start of the interview to ease you in, as you should know about the topics you have mentioned very well. Therefore, we recommend that you make sure you know your personal statement thoroughly and have read and reviewed any books you may have included beforehand in case they ask you about something from it.

For Oxbridge in particular, it is likely that if you have done a research placement it may be brought up as although the interview is predominantly science-based, it may be used to ease you in and would be an effective way to judge your passion for the sciences. The same is said for what you include in the SAQ in your Cambridge application so to make sure to have a thorough read of both and know them inside out before you go for your interview!

In this blog, we have covered a range of advice from how to get underway with writing your personal statement, to some useful tips on how to make you stand out and to how your personal statement will be used at interview. Writing your personal statement can be one of the hardest aspects of the application process, as you may want to make it perfect, but inevitably, you will always want to change and improve it. Nevertheless, we hope that the tips and tricks that we have discussed above will make this process easier and more straightforward.

As always feel free to comment down below and we will make sure to get back to you as soon as possible! We are planning on having our last Oxbridge Q&A session next week at 7pm BST, so we hope that you will join us then.

Finally, make sure to look out for our next blog post on the BMAT which we will hopefully be publishing sometime next week! We hope this blog has helped! 🙂

Koby Kalavannan and Laura Stirling

Hi Koby, this is a phenominal blog post! If any student reading this is worried about their UCAS references, they can direct their reference teacher to register for our free teacher workshop on Friday 7th August 2020 at 4pm, which is all about how to write an outstanding reference for their applying students! Teachers can sign up on the teacher area of this website. The workshop is not appropriate for students to join, but please let your teachers know!

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• Medicine: How to Apply

Medicine: Writing your Personal Statement

Download this page as a pdf document

Your personal statement is an important part of your application to Oxford. It allows you to tell us about your interests, achievements and ambitions in your own words. Although we do not formally score your statement we read it carefully. If you are invited for interview, the statement is likely to provide a focus for the questions that you are asked. It is therefore essential that your statement is an accurate, unembellished account of your activities. We may check the claims that you make on your statement: discovery of fabricated or exaggerated material – during the admissions exercise, or even later on during your time as a student – may bring into question your suitability to practise Medicine. 

Present yourself in the best light:  the same basic facts about yourself (in terms of education, interests, experience), when presented differently, can quite dramatically convey positive or negative messages about you to tutors.

For A100 Medicine at Oxford, UCAT and (if taken) GCSEs are predominantly used initially to determine whether or not you are short-listed for interview. The information that you provide in your personal statement becomes increasingly important if you are not short-listed on the basis of UCAT score and (if taken) your GCSEs. Of course, every detail becomes important once you have reached the interviews and are being considered for a place.

1. Please do not be shy in declaring any mitigating circumstances

These may help us to put your achievements or personality within a finer context. We actively look for reasons why you may have under-performed in examinations, or performed well against the odds. These may be factors associated with your schooling, health or domestic circumstances. If you are returning to study after a break, or switching vocation, it is even more important to highlight your reasons for choosing to study Medicine, and for you to demonstrate your determination, resilience, ability and commitment. 

2. Do not simply recount everything you have ever undertaken

We’re looking for quality, not quantity! Remember that large numbers of applicants apply for our courses. Tell us in what ways you will stand out from the crowd. In choosing to talk about an activity, describe what you have drawn from the experience: has it changed you as a person? Did it surprise you?

3. We want to learn about you as a person, not just about your academic qualifications

If you have undertaken extra-curricular activities, or hold positions of responsibility at school, tell us why you sought these, and why they are important to you. You will not impress us by simply recounting that you took up a placement in Thailand, but we might be more appreciative if you tell us what you personally learnt from the experience, about your interaction with local people, and about shadowing the medical team working within your village. 

Example: I have become involved with a city music and drama group, and work especially with the younger members. I find this exciting and more than occasionally challenging. Coaching for the group has given me experience in organising others, as well as teaching them. Watching group members learn and progress is thrilling, especially in the case of one of them who has ADHD. At first he was incapable of remaining still, silent or attentive for even a few minutes, but eventually became far more focused and calmer, making excellent progress in many areas.

4. Directly address our selection criteria in your statement

Here are our selection criteria and some examples:

Personal characteristics: suitability for medicine

• Empathy: ability and willingness to imagine the feelings of others and understand the reasons for the views of others

Example: My volunteering in the local community and my studies in Religion and Classical Civilization have also increased my ability to understand varying cultural, ethical and social perspectives, and allowed me to look at issues in a wider context.

• Motivation: a reasonably well-informed and strong desire to practise medicine

Example: My interest in the human body burgeoned while I was taking the Essentials of First Aid class organised by St John Ambulance. The two consecutive years of volunteer service in X Hospital that followed reinforced my passion for the subject.

• Communication: ability to make knowledge and ideas clear using language appropriate to the audience
• Honesty and Integrity
• Ethical awareness
• Ability to work with others

Example: I have had a weekend job at X since 2016, which has further allowed me to develop teamwork skills, taught me how to work towards personal targets when under pressure, and allowed me to interact with many different members of the public.

Example: Dancing has taught me valuable people skills; you learn to work intimately with fellow dancers and trust them completely.

• Capacity for sustained and intense work

Academic Potential

• Problem-solving: critical thinking, analytical approach
• Intellectual curiosity: keenness to understand the reason for observations; depth; tendency to look for meaning; enthusiasm and curiosity in science
• Communication skills: willingness and ability to express clearly and effectively; ability to listen; compatibility with tutorial format

Example: Studying History at A-level has helped develop my writing and critical analysis skills.

Example: At school I have taken part in a French exchange programme which greatly improved my language skills, independence and confidence.

5. You will not be alone in trying to open your statement with an attention grabbing intro

If you try this, make sure it helps tutors to learn something about what motivates and enthuses you.

Example: My vast collection of books and videos on "How the Body Works" when I was 7 years old first triggered my interest in the functions of the body. Watching the little personified, cartoon blobs that represented red blood cells run around an animated yet functioning body fascinated me and I longed to find out more. As a result, when a friend received a letter explaining their little girl had just been diagnosed with X at just 14 months old, I was intrigued to find out what this was.

6. The statement is called a personal statement for a reason

It should be written by you, not by your parents, siblings, or teachers. Do not plagiarise material that you find on the web as there is a great chance that such deception will be discovered.

7. Do not feel that there is a precise template to follow that will score you points!

We look for bright and independent thinkers, so try to be original!

• Course Structure
• Academic Entry & Age Requirements
• Selection Criteria
• Health & Fitness to Practise
• Application Checklist
• Application Process
• Introductory Reading
• Writing your Personal Statement
• Anatomy of a Personal Statement
• Graduate Applicants
• Mature Applicants
• International Applicants
• Mitigating circumstances
• Shortlisting Process and Admissions Statistics
• Fees and Funding

medmentor ®

Book recommendations for an oxbridge medicine personal statement, some reading suggestions that you may wish to discuss in an oxbridge personal statement and tips on how to include them..

When considering the approach to take for a personal statement directed at Oxbridge, it is important to think about including further reading as this is something they favour. This does not have to be books, it can be articles, courses, journals, or anything else that shows that you have taken an interest in medicine. They want to see that you have been proactive and taken a  step further to learn more about the profession. But, sometimes it can be difficult to weave these into your personal statement, therefore in this post, we will discuss how this can be done as well as provide some recommendations of reading material.

How to write about books?

A misconception surrounding Oxbridge is that you need excessive further reading to stand of chance of getting an offer. This is absolutely not the case! Whilst it is useful to have some academic content, i.e. further reading, in your personal statement, it is not a requirement. It is also important to note that too much focus on further reading, meaning it takes up the majority of the personal statement, may be disadvantageous. At most, a few lines or a short paragraph should be sufficient. Rather than summarising the reading, you should talk about what you find interesting about it, and what you learnt from it. This could be a particular condition you found interesting, a case study you resonated with, an aspect of healthcare you might want to go into etc.

Book Recommendations

The Man who mistook his Wife for a Hat, Oliver Sacks : This book is a collection of patient cases who the neurologist Oliver Sacks encountered during his career. Each of these cases is individual and unique and offers a detailed visual description of how many neurological disorders and diseases present in patients. This book is a fantastic and insightful read for those interested in a career in neurology or psychiatry. Although difficult to understand initially due to medical terminology, it is a great piece of text to discuss at interviews. When talking about the book I would personally recommend taking a particular case you found interesting, talking about why it stood out, what you’ve done since reading about it to learn more about that disease, and how it may link to your desire to study Medicine. This shows you’ve read the book and have taken the necessary steps to explore this interest further, expanding your knowledge in the process.

When Breath Becomes Air, Paul Kalanithi : This is a non-fictional autobiography that details the author’s battle with stage 4 lung cancer. As a neurosurgical resident in the US, he experienced symptoms of lung cancer but was initially diagnosed as healthy. After a long and arduous journey battling cancer, he sadly died at the age of 37. The book was published after his death and received excellent reviews worldwide. This book is a great choice for those who are interested in a career in oncology. Although written by a doctor, it is written from the patient’s perspective, contrasting to ‘The Man who mistook his Wife for a Hat’, so would certainly be interesting to write about. When writing about this book, I would take a similar approach to the one above – talk about what you found particularly fascinating, what you have done since to learn more, and how it may link to your desire to study Medicine.

Life at the Extremes, Frances Ashcroft : This is an exciting read if I do say so myself! This book focuses on how people survive extreme conditions – things like temperature extremes, altitude extremes and depth extremes. This book gives examples of how the body is adapted for human survival in harsh conditions. Answering questions like ‘What causes mountain sickness?’, ‘Why do astronauts faint when standing up after returning to Earth?’ and ‘Why don’t penguins get frostbite?’ This book is excellent for people who want to learn more about physiology and the scientific principles behind bodily systems. A more scientifically oriented read with a huge variety of examples. It may also be quite useful for interviews as it encourages you to think about slightly out of the box scenarios, and helps develop your ability to apply your prior scientific knowledge when problem-solving.

A quick example of how you may wish to talk about books:

“The book ‘The Man who mistook his Wife for a Hat’ particularly furthered my interest in neurology. I especially enjoyed a case on visual agnosia, where the patient was able to see objects but couldn’t recognise them. To learn more about this abnormality I completed an online course on neurological diseases where I learnt more about the pathophysiology of devastating disorders such as Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis.”

General Tips

The biggest tip I can give is that if you mention a book in your personal statement, please make sure you have actually read the book and know it fairly well. So many people mention books that they have not read or have only read part of. Of course, interviewers know this, so they often try and ask interviewees about the book to make sure they have read it. This can include questions like ‘You mentioned this condition from this book. What can you tell me about it?’ or ‘What else did you find interesting from this book?’ etc. So please make sure you are prepared to answer questions like these! You won’t have to know enough to recite the entire book, but just enough to provide a summary and offer some thoughts about what you liked/disliked about it. Another important factor to consider is to not just mention a book for the sake of it. Only mention things in your personal statement if you actually think it adds something and it helped you decide on Medicine as a career or learn more about the profession. Sometimes, it may be more suitable to talk about journals, articles or other forms of reading depending on what you would like to convey. Often books give personal narratives and experiences, which may not be suitable for you. If this is the case for you, I would recommend looking at some of the below resources:

• New Scientist
• FutureLearn
• Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs)

For more information regarding online courses such as FutureLearn and MOOCs, see our post ‘ Free Online Courses For Medicine Applications 2021 ’ (although written last year it is still very relevant).

To summarise…

Books are a great way to express your desire to pursue medicine, but they are by no means a requirement for Oxbridge. It is important to only mention reading you find genuinely interesting as you won’t be able to talk about it well at an interview if you are not passionate about it. Sometimes it may be better to talk about alternative further reading such as journals depending on the nature of what you would like to talk about and convey. If you do talk about a book(s), please be careful about the wording to ensure you talk about it in a way that is effective at expressing your interest. Also, please make sure to actually read the book – if you receive an interview and you are asked about it, you will most certainly lose out on marks if it is clear you haven’t read it!

Author: Chandan Sekhon

Editor: Allegra Wisking

Prepare for Success with the SuperPack

Top 10 Tips for an Oxbridge Personal Statement

Table of Contents

1. Make it Personal

University admissions tutors go through hundreds of Personal Statements every year. Especially at Oxbridge, where there are usually over 10 applicants per place! Applications, from the university’s perspective, are a long process involving thousands of applicants so it’s important that you use your Oxbridge Personal Statement to stand out and be remembered. They will likely make a decision about whether you will be further considered for admission long before they’ve finished reading. Therefore, you need to make sure to capture their attention quickly.

Have you done any relevant work experience, or perhaps a research project? Put that near the top of your Oxbridge Personal Statement to stand out straight away.  Look online for example Oxbridge Personal Statements for your chosen course to get ideas, but make sure not to plagiarise! All UCAS Personal Statements are checked for plagiarism against all other Personal Statements.

2. Don’t talk about your A levels

Further to the last point, don’t spend a lot of time talking about your A levels. Almost everyone has done them, and you want to give Oxford or Cambridge a reason to choose YOU and not someone else. You have a limited number of characters in which to show them why, so use that space to talk about things unique to you. Keep reading for ideas about what you should put instead.

3. Read around your subject

Books you’ve read are a great way to both show your interest in the subject and stand out from everyone else on your personal statement. Remember that if you go to Oxbridge, you might even meet the person who wrote the book you read, or someone who worked with them. Make sure to discuss an idea from the book you found interesting or surprising, and why the book was important to you to show that you’ve really learnt from it.

4. Ask for feedback

A great way to improve your Oxbridge Personal Statement is to ask for feedback from your teachers and friends. It’s easy to miss spelling and grammar mistakes, and it can be very useful to get a second opinion about vocabulary and sentence structure. Your Oxbridge Personal Statement will likely have sentences that are phrased awkwardly and it will be difficult for you to notice it and think of anything else to say when it’s something you’ve written yourself.

Therefore asking someone else is an important tool, make sure to ask someone with experience in your subject to make sure all the specifics are correct, your school teacher for the chosen subject or any family/friends who studied a similar subject at University.

5. But not from too many people

Although the last point still stands, you don’t want to ask too many people for advice. How can this be? They will all have their own ideas, and although most of them will be good, hearing a lot of conflicting suggestions will confuse you and make you doubt yourself. The truth is that there is no perfect Oxbridge Personal Statement, but there are a lot of great ones. Whilst external opinions are valuable, ensure that they don’t take away from what is YOUR piece of work. Ultimately, your Oxbridge Personal Statement should capture who you are and not anyone else!

6. It will take more than one draft

It may seem like you could get your Oxbridge Personal Statement done in one night. After all, it’s only 4000 characters or about 600-800 words. However, if you think this then you’re in for a rude awakening! Take it from us, first, you’ll feel like you’ve got nothing to write, then it will start pouring out and very soon you’ll have far too much and you’ll have to get rid of whole sections. After that comes vocabulary. “If I can just rephrase this, I can make it 5 characters shorter”, you’ll think to yourself.

Trust me, I’ve been there. Then you’ll show it to your teacher and she’ll tell you to include another point in there. It can feel like it never ends, but you have to finish it at some point – again you need to find a balance. Don’t rush it – you have until October for Oxbridge/medicine applications and until January for other applications. This gives you plenty of time to make the best Personal Statement you can. If you’re really stuck for something to improve, come back the next day with a fresh set of eyes, or ask a  friend or teacher to read it.

7. Show, don’t tell

Imagine someone told you that they are the best mathematician ever. You wouldn’t believe them at first; you might ask them some maths questions, what qualifications they have etc. In the same way, universities won’t believe you if you just say how good a candidate you are; you need to show them. For example, don’t say that you’re passionate about your subject. Instead, tell them what books you’ve read about or online courses or extracurricular projects you’ve done.

Don’t just say that you’re organised, tell them about some work experience you’ve done and show them how you used your organizational skills to do it. Never say anything you can’t back up. If you don’t think you’ve got anything like this to say, it’s not too late to start. Go and do some work experience or read a book before you have to submit your Oxbridge Personal Statement . Self-reflection is key so learn how to do it effectively and efficiently.

8. Make it relevant to your chosen course

For everything you say about yourself, try to show why it will make you a good candidate for the course you are applying to. Obviously, don’t go too far with this. There are some skills, such as intelligence, that are just generally good and you don’t have to say why they’re good for a specific course. However, if you apply to something with a high workload like medicine it may be good to show how you’re good at time management, and if you apply to something with a lot of problem-solving like STEM then it may be good to show that you have problem-solving ability.

This is also a good way to plug up any gaps left by your A levels. If, for example, you are applying for a course with a creative element and your A levels don’t include a lot of creativity then talk about a hobby you do and how you use creativity to do it.

9. Get it done early

The Oxbridge Personal Statement is the first step in your application, and it will require your best work. As such, it’s vital to give yourself plenty of time to come up with all the best things about yourself to write and to make improvements. Start it with plenty of time to spare so you don’t have to rush, and don’t let it take up all your time when you have important studying to do.

10. Submit it and move on

When you’ve dotted every i and crossed every t, checked all your spelling and vocabulary, and asked your friends, your teachers, the postman and his dog to read your Oxbridge Personal Statement, you still may feel like there’s more you can improve. You have to ignore this feeling. If you’ve done all you can and followed all the tips in this article then your time will be better spent studying to ace your admissions test, and make sure you keep up with your A levels!

Getting your Oxbridge Personal Statement in nice and early also shows the university that you’re well prepared. We will admit, the waiting for a response can be the hardest part, but it’s a marathon, not a sprint, and the Personal Statement is only the first hurdle.

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• Oxbridge Personal Statement Examples

Check out our successful Oxbridge personal statement examples below.

You will find a collection of standout personal statements that have helped students gain admission to the prestigious universities of Oxford and Cambridge .

These Oxbridge personal statement examples can serve as inspiration and guidance as you begin to write your own.

Whether you are applying to study law , natural science , economics , or any other course , these examples can help you showcase your unique strengths and experiences compellingly.

Recommended reading:

• How to Apply to Cambridge University
• How to Apply to Oxford University
• The Best Cambridge Colleges
• The Best Oxford Colleges

Successful Oxbridge Personal Statement Examples

Oxbridge personal statement example for economics course.

I volunteer at a local soup kitchen in Singapore, where I help distribute food and check on the well-being of lower-income families living in public housing.

One day, we encountered a family of five who were all seriously or terminally ill but were not receiving any government social support and had been relying mostly on NGOs for assistance.

This experience highlighted a social issue that concerns me – the lack of adequate social security support in Singapore despite its economic strength.

I believe more attention should be paid to addressing poverty and inequality.

I volunteered at the soup kitchen not only to help those in need but also to understand their struggles, as their interests are often overlooked.

As an economics student, I have learned how well-informed economic policy can improve lives by guiding social analysis.

This subject excites me and has motivated me to learn more through books, volunteering, and participating in economics-related competitions.

For example, I received a distinction award in the National Economics and Financial Management Quiz, which tests quick thinking, logical, and mathematical skills.

I also submitted an essay for the GlaxoSmithKline-Economic Development Board Book Prize on how Singapore can capitalize on Asian talent as a source of growth.

In addition, I participated in the local Math Olympiad received a bronze award, and completed a month-long internship at Centennial Asia Advisors, where my work contributed to the analysis of the Great Recession and the process of purchasing bonds to address the crisis.

This experience gave me a greater understanding of the importance of economic policy and its application.

I am also actively working to make a difference. Along with a group of friends and an NGO, I am committed to helping the village of Tom in Cambodia escape poverty by building schools and providing water filtration devices for villagers.

We also plan to support children with scholarships through fund-raisers. Personally helping Tom overcome poverty is one of my goals, and I believe that a strong understanding of economics will be essential in achieving this.

In addition to my academic and volunteer pursuits, I have also participated in various activities that have helped me grow as a person.

For example, I participated in The Odyssey of The Mind, a competition that challenges teams to think creatively through dramatic performances.

Our team won the World Championship after competing against teams from 60 other countries.

I am also an avid sailor, having represented my school as captain and Singapore in international competitions.

What I value most from these experiences are the relationships I formed with my teammates and the importance of dedication and perseverance in achieving success.

At school, I helped start the Young Diplomats’ Society, an interest group focused on Model United Nations Conferences (MUNC).

At Princeton University MUNC, I received an honourable mention, and at the Nanyang Technological University MUNC, I received the Dorothy Cheung Award for Best Delegate.

I also organized the annual iMUN@AC, serving as Chief of Staff in one year and Secretary General in another.

These MUNCs sparked my interest in global politics and led me to research the causes of the Rwandan Genocide for my IB Extended Essay, a 4000-word research paper that I thoroughly enjoyed and received an “A” grade for.

As John Maynard Keynes said, an economist is part philosopher, part statesman, and part mathematician.

I hope to study economics so that I can learn how to make changes on local, regional, and global levels.

Oxbridge Personal Statement Example For Law Course

I have always been drawn to the fields of law and justice. Even as a child, I was fascinated by the concepts of right and wrong and how they were applied in society.

My interest in history has also allowed me to learn about the evolution of the legal system over time.

During my school years, I took on leadership roles, including being a Senior Prefect and a member of the Student Council.

These experiences gave me a unique perspective on how a school operates and the importance of rules for both students and staff.

In my GCSE years, I had the opportunity to study Critical Thinking, which allowed me to hone my analytical and debate skills.

As part of this course, we visited Winchester Crown Court, giving us the chance to observe a court case in person and see the legal system in action.

This experience had a profound impact on me and further solidified my desire to pursue a career in law.

I also gained valuable insights into the legal profession through a two-week work placement at a local solicitor’s firm during the summer between school and college.

During this time, I was able to observe court proceedings and learn about the daily operations of a solicitor’s office.

In my free time, I enjoy reading classic fiction such as “Great Expectations” by Charles Dickens and “North and South” by Elizabeth Gaskell.

I also enjoy cooking, travelling, and leading a healthy and active lifestyle.

I am confident that my personal skills, knowledge, attributes, and work ethic make me an excellent candidate for a law degree at your university.

I hope to use my time at university to develop the skills and qualifications necessary to have a successful career in law and to gain further experience in the courtroom.

Oxbridge Personal Statement Example For Natural Sciences Course

I was always fascinated by the natural world and spent hours exploring the forests and streams near my home.

This curiosity eventually led me to pursue a degree in biology at Oxford University, where I excelled academically and gained valuable experiences that have prepared me to take the next step in my education.

Throughout my undergraduate studies, I have taken a range of ecology courses and consistently earned high marks. In addition to my coursework, I have also been actively involved in several extracurricular activities that have allowed me to further explore my interests in biology and ecology.

For example, I have participated in research projects on the Forest Eco Programme and have worked as an intern at EcoBio Ltd where I gained valuable hands-on experience.

One of the things that set me apart from other applicants is my passion for biology and my dedication to making a positive impact in the world.

This drive was sparked by my achievements in school, which taught me the importance of the environment and motivated me to pursue a career in which I can make a difference.

I am excited to apply to the biology course at Oxford University because of its reputation for excellence and its commitment to providing students with a world-class education.

I believe that the University of Oxford will provide me with the knowledge and skills I need to achieve my goals and make a meaningful contribution to my field.

I am confident that my strong academic and extracurricular background, along with my passion and dedication, make me a strong fit for the course.

I am eager to join the vibrant intellectual community at Oxford and to continue pursuing my goals in biology.

Oxbridge Personal Statement Tips 

Focus on the following suggestions to write a successful personal statement for Oxbridge :

• Start by thinking about your goals and why you want to pursue them at Oxbridge. What sparked your interest in your field of study, and how have your experiences prepared you to pursue it at a top university?
• Reflect on your achievements and experiences. What have you accomplished that demonstrates your potential to succeed at Oxbridge? This could include academic achievements, extracurricular activities, internships, or other experiences.
• Consider what makes you unique. What sets you apart from other applicants and makes you a strong fit for the program you’re applying to?
• Write in a clear and concise manner, using concrete examples to illustrate your points. Avoid using overly complex language or jargon, and be sure to proofread for spelling and grammar errors.
• Edit and proofread your personal statement carefully. It’s important to take the time to polish your statement and make sure it’s the best it can be.

Personal Statement Examples

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Our 10 Top Tips for Writing a Standout Oxbridge Personal Statement to Get You an Oxbridge Interview

Oxbridge Personal Statement 101:

You've sat your exams, chosen your top 5 Universities to apply to, you've registered with UCAS. Now what? Oh yes, you've got to write a personal statement - 4000 characters to encapsulate why YOU are suitable for your course. 

You know the standard pitfalls, you know you won't be in the 1779 candidates each year on UCAS who begin their statement with 'From a young age I have always been...', you know not to begin with a motivational quote or to include too many 'I love''s or 'passions'. You also know that the personal statement is not the be all or end all of your application - yes, admissions will look at it, and certainly it matters for some subjects and Universities more than others, but at the end of the day your exam results and interview, if you have one, will speak louder than 4000 characters can.

Still, you might as well get it right - done well, your Oxbridge personal statement can demonstrate what motivates your study of your given subject now and give an insight into your academic ability , which can only boost your application. U2 has curated 10 top tips, based on the advice of Oxbridge alumni in over 20 subjects, to help you overcome this often daunting task. Do also check out the abundance of articles we have published on subject-specific personal statement content creation and writing - we have written articles for an array of subjects including Dentistry , Politics , Biological Natural Sciences , English , History , Veterinary Science and more via our Free Resource Library ! These include reading and wider subject exploration recommendations, as well as information on preparing for interviews for your course of application.

10 Top Tips for Writing a Standout Oxbridge Personal Statement

1) less is more.

Try to be specific and don’t waffle. Tutors hate it when you try to sound over the top of use overly-complicated words. One of the most frequent pitfalls Oxbridge admissions tutors see when assessing Personal Statements are students trying to fit as much as possible into their statement. Less is more. Don't write about every book you've ever read, but choose one or two to illustrate your enthusiasm for the subject. Make sure to go in-depth in your analysis of the book/ article/ experience you mention - showcase your opinion and link back to how this demonstrates your motivation for wanting to study your course of application. This also means that when it comes to interview, you have loads more to draw on than the content of your Oxbridge personal statement as you won’t have mentioned every single activity you have undertaken on the A4 page.

2) Don’t Try to Tell a Grand Narrative

In the subject paragraphs of your Oxbridge personal statement, do not try to tell any form of grand narrative about either you or the subject e.g. “the first moment I realised I wanted to study Philosophy was” or even “Philosophy is the most important subject because”; these come across as pompous and insincere. Likewise, admissions tutors don’t wish to know that from the time you were a young boy, you loved playing with lego, which led to a love of engineering, they want to know what motivates you in your course of interest NOW. It is much better to simply write about the ideas, concepts and theories that have captured your attention through your work at school and how you’ve explored them in your own reading or other activities.

Oxbridge Personal Statement Introduction Example Structure: ‘My interest/curiosity in materials science first emerged following XYZ. This led me to pursue further research, reading, etc., including taking a biomedical engineering course at […]. These experiences have only increased my enthusiasm for the subject, and I am now keen to engage with it more deeply by studying for a MEng (or whatever the course might be…) in Materials Science at the University of XYZ’

3) Think Outside the School Curriculum

To impress Oxbridge admissions tutors, it's essential to demonstrate a genuine passion for your chosen subject beyond the school curriculum. Utilise your Oxbridge personal statement as an opportunity to showcase evidence of your interest, such as additional reading or relevant work experience. The best candidates often exhibit a wealth of knowledge they've gathered in their own time, reflecting their proactive approach to learning. Show resourcefulness by seeking information from various sources, including podcasts, lectures, books, critical articles, and even visits to museums. Mentioning these diverse avenues of learning highlights your intellectual curiosity and willingness to explore beyond the confines of the classroom. Additionally, participating in essay competitions can be a valuable way to showcase your dedication and self-motivation. Select a couple of reputable essay prizes, like the Keble College Essay Prize, and challenge yourself to produce well-researched and thoughtful essays within the specified word limit. Discussing your experiences with these prize essays in your Oxbridge personal statement reveals your commitment to academic excellence and willingness to engage deeply with your subject.

Participating in essay competitions not only demonstrates your commitment and self-motivation but also showcases your ability to engage in independent research and critical thinking. These competitions often require you to delve into specific topics, conducting your own reading and analysis . By discussing your involvement in prize essays in your Oxbridge personal statement , you present evidence of your intellectual curiosity and willingness to take on academic challenges. Admissions tutors will be impressed by your proactive approach to learning and your ability to synthesise complex ideas into well-structured essays. It shows that you are willing to go above and beyond what is expected and that you are well-prepared to embrace the rigorous and intellectually stimulating environment that Oxbridge has to offer.

We regularly update our co-curricular division website, Minds Underground, with top choice essay competitions to enter. We also run our own yearly Minds Underground Essay Competition (e.g. in Medicine, Politics, Law etc.) if you want to have a go!

4) Think About Your Oxbridge Personal Statement Structure

When crafting your university personal statement, it's essential to treat each point as a mini argument, providing evidence and meaningful connections to strengthen your case. Mere assertions like "I'm interested in X" lack substance without delving into the why and how of your interest. Instead, showcase your inquisitiveness by relating X to Y, highlighting the knowledge or experiences gained from this connection . By doing so, you demonstrate critical thinking and the ability to draw meaningful connections between subjects. For instance, if you express an interest in history, explain how exploring historical events shed light on current societal issues or how studying past political decisions can inform future policy-making. By presenting such thoughtful interconnections, you not only emphasise your passion for the subject but also showcase your intellectual curiosity and capacity for interdisciplinary learning.

A coherent structure is vital for your personal statement to have a strong impact on admissions tutors. Consider organising your statement into 3-4 main paragraphs, each focusing on a key topic area of interest . Start by introducing your primary interests and motivations, providing a clear roadmap for your readers. Subsequently, delve into the first topic area, weaving in relevant experiences and academic accomplishments that demonstrate your commitment to this subject. Then, smoothly transition to the next topic, establishing a logical flow that links the areas together. For instance, if you're passionate about environmental science, you could connect it to public policy by discussing your participation in sustainability initiatives and how this drove your interest in influencing policy decisions for a greener future.

Finally, ensure that your closing paragraph succinctly summarises your key points and highlights your enthusiasm for pursuing these areas at the university. Additionally, include a very short paragraph on extracurricular activities, demonstrating your well-roundedness and ability to balance academic pursuits with other interests, further reinforcing your suitability as a prospective student. This clear and cohesive structure will make your personal statement memorable and impactful, leaving a positive impression on the Oxbridge admissions committee.

5) Check and Double Check Claims of Knowledge

Crafting a compelling Oxbridge personal statement is a critical step in the admissions process, allowing students to showcase their academic achievements, aspirations, and potential contributions to the academic community. However, exercise caution and diligence when including claims of knowledge in your statement . Making inaccurate or unsupported assertions can be an immediate red flag for admissions tutors, as it raises doubts about the applicant's credibility and attention to detail. Admissions professors and interviewers are well-versed in their respective fields, and they may thoroughly scrutinise a personal statement during Oxbridge interviews. Thus, if an applicant includes a questionable or unsupported claim, they should be prepared to provide a comprehensive explanation and back it up with evidence or examples. This scrutiny ensures that the university maintains its standards of academic integrity and selects students who possess genuine knowledge and intellectual curiosity. Therefore, double-check and verify the accuracy of any claims made in your personal statement, ensuring you present a truthful and compelling narrative that reflects your genuine capabilities and potential for academic success.

U2 Tuition Exercise : When preparing for interview, take each sentence of your personal statement and imagine your interviewer asks you to explain what you meant by it. Brainstorm an answer, thinking about evidence you can bring in to back up any claims e.g. your analysis, further reading, statistics etc.

Looking for support with your Oxbridge Personal Statement or other areas of the admissions process?

U2 Tuition has a brilliant team of Oxbridge educated tutors who are highly experienced in guiding students through all stages of the Oxbridge admissions process. Our Oxbridge tutors can assist with:

Independent subject-specific research to allow you to write a rich and detailed personal statement.

Personal statement review to ensure your narrative stands out.

Tailored admissions test preparation

Interview practice, including Mock Interview Days

Find out more about our Oxbridge tutoring programmes.

6) Work/ Research experience

Know when your work experience is relevant. An English tutor will be interested in your work as research assistant for a professor. They'll be less interested by your summer internship at Goldman. For some subjects, work experience is more crucial than others, namely the sciences and of course, Medicine. Don't just state it, explain what you learnt and how it's helped you.

Students with an interest in research fare well in Oxbridge applications as courses are research-heavy - you will be writing 1-2 essay each week for Humanities subjects, and science subjects require extensive independent research prior to tutorials. Therefore, demonstrating research experience is extremely beneficial to application - Back in the day, U2 Tuition’s Co-Founder, Camille (Oxford English graduate), worked as a research assistant on an Oxford professor’s project on the Oxford English Dictionary. She was asked about the experience at interview and was able to lead a fascinating discussion on the origins of language, the effect of Shakespeare in coining new terms etc.

If you would like help seeking research experience to include in your personal statement, visit our Minds Underground division’s Research & Work Experience page. U2 tuition can also lead students through a 1:1 independent research project by matching them with an expert Oxbridge tutor in their subject. Find out more about our Oxbridge mentoring opportunities.

7) Subject-Specific Research/ Exploration

When composing your university personal statement, the importance of showcasing your knowledge of research in your subject cannot be overstated. While the relevance may vary across disciplines, being well-informed about past and current research papers can significantly strengthen your statement's credibility and demonstrate your commitment to academic excellence. Utilising resources like Google Scholar or JSTOR enables you to stay up-to-date with the latest theories, critical discussions, and key movements in your field. By engaging with scholarly articles, you gain valuable insights into the ongoing discourse within your chosen subject, allowing you to develop a more nuanced understanding of its complexities and challenges. When applicable, referencing these research papers in your personal statement can illustrate your engagement with the academic community and your ability to contextualise your interests within the broader scholarly landscape. This not only highlights your dedication to the subject but also reflects your potential as a future contributor to the field's advancement.

As you prepare for your university application, it is vital to cultivate breadth, depth, and independence in your reading habits . Reading widely exposes you to diverse perspectives and helps you appreciate the interdisciplinary nature of many subjects . It allows you to identify connections between seemingly unrelated topics, fostering a holistic and well-rounded approach to your studies. Simultaneously, reading closely and delving deeply into specific areas of interest allows you to develop specialised expertise and become well-versed in the nuances of your chosen field. This depth of knowledge showcases your dedication and passion for the subject, making you a more attractive candidate to university admissions. Additionally, pursuing your own interests within the subject demonstrates initiative and intellectual curiosity, indicating that you are capable of self-directed learning and are genuinely invested in your academic pursuits. By striking a balance between broad exploration and focused inquiry , you not only enrich your personal growth but also equip yourself with the necessary skills and insights to thrive in your university studies and beyond.

8) Stay Relevant

No one wants to know about your passion for your subject from before you could walk. Anything you include should be directly linked to your interest and suitability for the course, or at least connected somehow. They want to know what's motivating your study of it NOW.  

Crafting an outstanding Top UK University or Oxbridge personal statement requires staying informed and engaging with current developments in your chosen subject. Subscribing to reputable academic journals is an excellent way to keep abreast of the latest research and advancements in your field. Journals often publish cutting-edge studies and critical discussions that can inspire your own academic interests and inform your future studies. Additionally, reading articles from platforms like The Conversation , which covers diverse topics from Health & Medicine to Politics & Society, provides valuable insights into real-world applications of academic knowledge. By referencing relevant articles in your personal statement, you showcase your engagement with contemporary issues and demonstrate how your academic pursuits align with broader societal concerns. For instance, if you aspire to study environmental science, discussing the implications of recent environmental policies or breakthroughs in sustainable technologies reveals your passion for making a positive impact through your studies.

For applicants interested in Law, incorporating current legal issues and developments into your personal statement can be highly impactful. Mentioning landmark court cases, legislative changes, or emerging legal challenges demonstrates your awareness of the dynamic nature of the legal field and your ability to analyse complex issues critically. Articulating your thoughts on these matters and explaining how they have influenced your desire to study law can impress admissions tutors. On the other hand, if you're applying for a STEM subject, delving into scientific breakthroughs of the past 20, 50, or 100 years offers a glimpse into the rich history of scientific discovery. Highlight the breakthroughs that resonate with you the most and explain how they sparked your curiosity and passion for your chosen field of study. Demonstrating this connection between historical achievements and your personal motivations provides the Oxbridge admissions committee with valuable insights into your scientific interests and intellectual drive. By showcasing your enthusiasm for current topics or historical milestones, you present yourself as an informed and passionate applicant eager to contribute to the academic community.

9) Ensure You Can Expand…

When it comes to discussing your university personal statement during an Oxbridge interview, the approach can vary depending on the interviewer. Some tutors might use it as a starting point to delve deeper into your interests and experiences, using it as a reference to stimulate further discussion. As an applicant, it's crucial to be well-prepared and confident in the books and topics you've referenced in your statement. Have a clear understanding of these references and be ready to elaborate on them or demonstrate how they relate to other subjects. Moreover, don't shy away from expressing your own opinions on the material you've read. Whether you agree or disagree with a critic or author, be willing to voice your thoughts thoughtfully and respectfully . However, keep in mind that the tutor conducting the interview may hold a different perspective, having dedicated their career to studying the same critic or author. So, if you disagree, be prepared to justify your viewpoint with rational arguments and be open to defending your stance further during the interview.

The Oxbridge interview is an opportunity for you to showcase your intellectual curiosity and critical thinking skills. Therefore, besides discussing your referenced materials, be prepared to offer your unique insights and interpretations. Demonstrate your ability to engage with academic content beyond merely summarising it. Reflect on the implications of the ideas you've encountered and consider how they might intersect with other areas of study. Your capacity to express original thoughts and connect different concepts will impress the interviewers and show them your potential as a future scholar. Just remember to back up your viewpoints with well-reasoned arguments, as interviews often involve rigorous intellectual discussions. Embrace the chance to engage in academic debates, but do so respectfully and with an open mind, as these exchanges can further reveal your suitability for the university's academic environment.

You may find our Oxbridge Interview guides a useful starting point. Alongside a bank of interview questions, these also include useful guidance as to how to develop your own reading and carry out more independent research to help build your Oxbridge personal statement. Find our Oxbridge Interview Guides tailored to a range of subjects on our Material Resources store .

10) Extra-Curriculars

You'll be hard-pressed to find an Oxbridge tutor who cares a lot about your budding sports career. Keep extra-curriculars to 1-2 lines at the end of your statement unless they are extremely subject-relevant. The function of the extracurricular paragraph is to show that you are a real person with interests outside academia. It is not a factor in their assessment of you as a prospective applicant. Use it as an opportunity to add colour to you as an individual, rather than to brag about getting sports colours or being a prefect; make it quirky, interesting and unique. For other UK universities, more of a focus can be placed on extra-curricular where relevant.

N.B. Oxbridge interviews are very subject-specific, but that is not to mean you won’t have ample opportunity to engage in a wide array of extra-curricular opportunities once you are at Oxford or Cambridge. There is loads on offer for you to get involved in!

Looking for Support Brainstorming and Drafting your Oxbridge Personal Statement With An Oxbridge Tutor From Your Specific Course?

U2 Tuition’s team of Top Russell Group University and Oxbridge graduates offer personal statement writing support sessions and a proofreading service as part of our application support offering . Personal statement writing is an iterative process, especially if you want to create an outstanding impression! Our personal statement tutors support students all the way through from personal statement planning, to polishing the final product.

Students will be paired with a primary Oxbridge tutor in their chosen subject. An example session structure could be as follows:

Personal Statement 101-Session (1hr 30 mins): for preliminary planning and content brainstorming, and understanding how admissions tutors use the personal statement to screen candidates

1-1 Tutorial Session (1hr): strengthening evidence of further subject exploration. U2’s mentors may suggest reading/ research lists, or a Minds Underground masterclass / research project

1-1 Tutorial Session (1hr): Improving on the structure of the personal statement and creating a stand-out opening paragraph

1-1 Tutorial Session (1hr): Demonstrating motivation, ability, communication skills etc.

Offline or online help (~1hr) with polishing, reviewing and proof-reading the final product

Note: Mentors will provide students with tasks to complete between each session e.g. building on their draft personal statement, filling gaps e.g. in wider reading.

For content ideas, why not take a research project, co-curricular masterclass or subject-specific Summer School (e.g. Medicine, Law, Economics, Geography, Engineering & more!) with our Oxbridge-educated subject specialists on our co-curricular division, Minds Underground ?

And lastly, check out our Oxbridge Admissions Ultimate Guide for any extra tips and tricks!

Sessions from £70/h + VAT.

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How to write an English Personal Statement Worthy of Oxbridge

How to write a Chemistry Personal Statement Worthy of Oxbridge

Oxbridge Entry Requirements: The Grades and Beyond

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• How To Write An Oxbridge Personal Statement

Last Updated: 5th November 2018

Author: Rob Needleman

Table of Contents

Oxford and Cambridge see hundreds of Personal Statements each year, so how do you make your Oxbridge Personal Statement count?

The majority of students are applying with excellent grades, experiences and scores of the highest calibre. However, even the most talented individuals can miss out on a place because of the Oxbridge Personal Statement.

This is because it is not only your academic achievements that make up your identity. Never underestimate the power of being passionate about your chosen degree, it is a big factor that Admissions Tutors look for. It’s not all about your academic prowess.

This article is all about how to write an Oxbridge Personal Statement. We go through important considerations including how to genuinely demonstrate passion without saying “I am passionate”, how to write about reading and what Admissions Tutors are looking for. Let’s get started. 

Writing About Your Subject In Your Personal Statement

Why exactly are you so passionate about studying this degree? Universities often hear phrases like, “I am passionate about the law and aim to one day work at a law firm”, however, this does not demonstrate what it is about law that makes you intent on studying it.

If there have been instances in your life that have helped you discover your passion for this subject, mention them. Discuss the qualities and skills that equip you for the subject; if you are analytical and adept at problem-solving, how would this assist you in exploring History or Law? Perhaps you have a systematic and organised brain, skilled at working through issues of Physics.

You might be completely passionate about a subject, but unless you demonstrate genuine reasons for applying, how are Admissions Tutors supposed to know you are truly passionate? Keep reminding yourself that the only things the Tutors know about you are through your Personal Statement until you get to the Interviews. Use this opportunity to showcase why you are dedicated to the subject. 

Enrolling on our Oxbridge Premium Programmes 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.  

What do Oxbridge Admissions Tutors Look For?

Universities are there to teach you, and what is most important to them is not that you have a thorough knowledge of your subject, but rather that you have the skills to allow you to grow and expand your mind in your chosen field.

Admissions Tutors are looking to answer some questions about you, as they will be the ones who you meet each week and will play a huge part in your Oxbridge experience:

• Will you be open to learning new things?
• Can you cope with a challenging workload?
• Are you a person that the professors will enjoy teaching?

Make this clear to the Admissions Tutors!

Let’s look at an example for Cambridge Medicine :

Your Oxbridge Personal Statement is your chance to not only demonstrate your intelligence (your school scores will prove that for you), but to show the kind of person that you are, and why you would be a valuable addition to their college community. Oxford and Cambridge particularly revel in the exploration of knowledge and are far more concerned with seeing how far you will push the boundaries of your subject.

But above all, be honest and ensure the qualities you discuss really do match up with what the Admissions Tutors are looking for. 

For more inspiration, take a look through our other successful Personal Statement a nalysis articles:

Successful Personal Statement For Law At Cambridge

Successful personal statement for economics & management at oxford, successful personal statement for natural science (physical) at cambridge, successful personal statement for economics at cambridge, successful personal statement for land economy at cambridge, successful personal statement for chemistry at oxford, successful personal statement for geography at oxford, successful personal statement for classics at oxford, successful personal statement for law at oxford, successful personal statement for classics at cambridge, successful personal statement for engineering at cambridge, successful personal statement for philosophy at cambridge, successful personal statement for veterinary medicine at cambridge, successful personal statement for psychological and behavioural sciences at cambridge, successful personal statement for psychology at oxford, successful personal statement for history at oxford, successful personal statement for physics at oxford, successful personal statement for cambridge mathematics and physics, successful personal statement example for computer science at oxford, successful personal statement for english at cambridge, successful personal statement for oxford english language and literature, successful personal statement for modern languages at oxford, successful personal statement for engineering at oxford, successful personal statement for natural sciences (biological) at cambridge, successful personal statement for ppe at oxford, successful personal statement for dentistry at king’s college london, successful personal statement for medicine at cambridge, oxbridge personal statement wider reading.

With an Oxbridge Personal Statement, students will be aiming to display their knowledge and ability to study their subject at a top university. Therefore, it is essential to include evidence of reading material that might demonstrate initiative and your academic interest.

How Much Reading Is The Right Amount For A Personal Statement?

There is not a specific number of books that you should read to develop and enhance your interest and knowledge of your subject. You may notice that we did not say ‘the number of books you should read to add to your Personal Statement’. There is a huge difference, reading is not a tick box exercise.

As an Oxbridge applicant, you will be applying because you’re passionate about your subject and see yourself immersed in a career related to the subject. If not, then it will be a huge task to genuinely convince Admissions Tutors that you are driven and dedicated to study the subject. It will also be incredibly difficult to keep yourself motivated with the demanding workload of Oxbridge if the course doesn’t interest you.

Going back to the question above, the better way of phrasing it is ‘how do I include wider reading in my Personal Statement?’. We will go through this in more detail below but something we regularly stress with Personal Statements is when writing about reading, achievements, work experience etc. you must never list. To ensure you make an impact on the Admissions Tutors, you have to select relevant points and explain them, how they made an impact on your decision to study the course and anything you feel you gained from these opportunities.

If you are really stuck with wider reading, we have an article that provides reading lists for each Oxbridge subject .

The Different Types Of Reading

“ Wider Reading ” is a very loose term, and you can demonstrate your interest and initiative with different types of material and sources, especially if, as mentioned above, you can show that you have done something with it afterwards.

Here are some other kinds of sources you could try and find:

Don’t forget that you may rely on these sorts of materials in your Oxbridge studies so you should show that you can use and understand them in the same way as you would any other academic source.

How To Include Wider Reading

The difference between a good candidate and a great candidate can be demonstrated by actually doing something with the reading and research you do. That is, you can browse as many sources as you like, but in your Oxbridge Personal Statement, you should be able to demonstrate that you have opinions and can evaluate arguments. Therefore, you should leave space in your Personal Statement to write about how your reading affected you.

Here are some questions to ask yourself to help with adding your reading to your Personal Statement:

• Did you agree with the reading?
• Does this exercise show that you can take the initiative and read around your subject?
• Did this reading inspire you to look up something further, or perhaps carry out a project?
• Why did you read this in the first place? Was it upon recommendation? Was it part of work?
• Did you think of any challenges to the point of view put forward?
• Did you go on to read something else as a result? What and why?
• What have you done with your reading?

UniAdmissions Tip

We suggest reading outside of your subject as well to avoid running out of steam or getting too narrow. This includes personal development books to improve your organisation and time management skills. At Oxbridge, you will need good organisation skills to plan your time effectively around lectures, labs and leisure.

This is important, so make sure you are not just name-dropping but giving a real review of what you think. An Oxbridge Personal Statement will be put to the test at an Interview. It is very likely that Admissions Tutors will want to explore some of your ideas there so you need to be ready.

Final Words

You should now have a clearer idea of how to improve and strengthen your Oxbridge Personal Statement to ensure it makes more of an impact on the Admissions Tutors and demonstrates that you are Oxbridge material.

The content we have gone through can be used for other universities you are applying to and if you would like more general information on how to structure your Personal Statement, or how to make your Personal Statement Stand out , we have plenty of insightful guides for you to work through to help you write the perfect Personal Statement.

Looking for Personal Statement support to strengthen your application?

Students enrolled on our  comprehensive application support Programmes  will get access to Personal Statement redrafts.

Your tutor will give you actionable feedback with insider tips on how to improve your statement for the best chances of success. With UniAdmissions, you can triple your chances of success . Want to find out how?

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How to Write the Perfect Oxbridge Personal Statement

1st February 2024

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Securing a place at the University of Oxford or Cambridge (commonly referred to as Oxbridge) is a dream for many aspiring students. A critical component of the application process is the personal statement, a unique opportunity to showcase your passion, academic skills, and suitability for the chosen course. In this guide, we will explore the essential elements and strategies to help you write the perfect Oxbridge personal statement, leaving a lasting impression on the admissions committee.

Understanding Oxbridge Personal Statements

The typical length for an Oxbridge personal statement is around 4,000 characters. It’s crucial to structure your statement with a compelling introduction, a body that highlights your academic achievements and extracurricular activities, and a thoughtful conclusion. Unlike other universities, Oxbridge places great emphasis on academic prowess and the specific course you’re applying for. Tailor your personal statement to reflect your passion for the subject, demonstrating a deep understanding and curiosity beyond standard curriculum requirements.

Strategies for Writing a Standout Oxbridge Personal Statement

• Start with a Captivating Introduction: Engage the reader from the outset. Whether it’s a thought-provoking quote, a personal anecdote, or a bold statement related to your chosen field, make sure your introduction is memorable and reflects your genuine enthusiasm for the subject.
• Showcase Academic Passion: Demonstrate your academic prowess by discussing specific books, articles, or projects that have influenced your interest in the subject. Avoid generic statements and instead delve into the specifics of your intellectual curiosity.
• Relate Extracurriculars to Academia: While Oxbridge values extracurricular activities , tie them back to your academic pursuits. Showcase how your involvement in clubs, competitions, or projects has shaped your skills and attributes relevant to your chosen course.
• Display Critical Thinking: Oxbridge places a premium on critical thinking. Discuss any independent reading, research projects, or academic challenges you’ve undertaken. Showcase your ability to think analytically and your passion for exploring beyond the standard curriculum.
• Highlight Relevant Skills and Achievements: Detail any relevant skills, achievements, or work experience that align with the demands of your chosen course. Discuss how these experiences have prepared you for the academic challenges you’ll face at Oxbridge.

Perfecting the Language and Tone

Formal Tone: Maintain a formal and professional tone throughout your personal statement. This is not the place for colloquial language or overly casual expressions.

Concise and Precise Language: Make every word count within the character limit. Use concise and precise language to convey your ideas effectively. Avoid unnecessary jargon or overly complex sentences.

Proofreading: Proofread your personal statement meticulously. Typos, grammatical errors, or inconsistencies can detract from your overall presentation. Consider seeking feedback from teachers, peers, or family members to ensure clarity and coherence.

Example Sentences for an Oxbridge Personal Statement

• “Exploring the intricacies of quantum mechanics in ‘The Character of Physical Law’ by Richard Feynman captivated me, propelling my desire to unravel the mysteries of the universe through theoretical physics at Oxbridge.”
• “My participation in the Model United Nations not only honed my public speaking skills but also deepened my understanding of global politics, aligning with my ambition to study Politics, Philosophy, and Economics at Oxbridge.”

Your Path to Oxbridge

Crafting the perfect Oxbridge personal statement is a meticulous process that requires a thoughtful blend of academic passion, extracurricular achievements, and critical thinking. By tailoring your statement to your chosen course, showcasing relevant experiences, and perfecting your language and tone, you can create a compelling narrative that sets you apart from other applicants.

Our expert team is here to provide personalised guidance and support, ensuring that your personal statement reflects the excellence and passion necessary for admission to the University of Oxford or Cambridge. Explore how we can elevate your Oxbridge application – your academic journey begins with a well-crafted personal statement, and we’re here to help you succeed .

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The Aspiring Medics

Oxford medicine personal statement (yusuf).

In this series of blogs, medical students and medicine offer holders share and explain their personal statement so that you can learn from our experiences and reflections. Yusuf is an undergraduate medical student at Oxford university and received offers from Oxford, Sheffield and St. George's.

Disclaimer: Please do NOT be tempted to use our personal statements as a model/foundation/plan. UCAS is very strict about plagiarism, more information can be found here .

Please remember that there is no such thing as a model personal statement. By definition, it is supposed to be unique and there is no "golden formula".

Fuelled by an innate curiosity, I am intrigued by the complexities of the human body and the diversity of medicine. Being able to work with a vast spectrum of patients and alongside other healthcare professionals promises an emotionally fulfilling career. The wide range of diseases and combinations thereof will allow me to be perpetually challenged yet intellectually stimulated.

Some students like to talk about a childhood moment in which they had the revelation that they wanted to do medicine; others speak about how they have always wanted to study medicine from a young age. Really it's about being honest and showing a realistic insight into medicine. For me, it was wanting to apply science directly to disease (intellectual curiosity) as well as being able to work with patients and other healthcare professionals (emotionally fulfilling).

Attending multidisciplinary meetings during work experience helped me grasp the varied input that is required in all aspects of patient care. It exemplified the kind of teamwork and opportunities for continued professional development that I aspire to be a part of. Lifelong learning and education are cornerstones of medicine. Observing a thoracocentesis revealed the importance of tailored communication in a doctor's role as practitioner, teacher and supervisor as I witnessed the consultant explain the procedure to myself, trainees and the patient in appropriate detail. This is a skill I have honed by mentoring students of varying age and ability. It has been a pleasure to see them learn and progress over time, showing me the value of dedication to improvement that is so important in medicine.

Simply stating your work placements isn't insightful for medical schools. They're not interested in the exact sort of placement you did but they are interested in what you've taken away from those experiences; what personal insight it gave you. It's important to not over-exaggerate the impact it had, it's about getting the balance between coming across as genuine and being insightful.

I found further evidence of medicine's compelling dynamism at a Research & Development site. Here I was introduced to chlorhexidine and its application to reduce omphalitis and thus infant mortality in Nepal. It illustrated the importance of research and the ensuing challenges faced in improving standards of living. Being actively involved in Model United Nations (MUN) for the last four years, I have discussed topics including the growth of antibiotic resistant bacteria at conferences. Wishing to draw attention to such issues, I am spearheading a MUN conference as a platform for debate.

Not only is it important to demonstrate that you understand the qualities required for a doctor but you also want to show (and not tell) that you possess them. Throughout your personal statement, you want to create hooks for the admissions tutors and so having a few unique examples is really useful. Your involvement in academic projects and debates can be a really way of demonstrating intellectual curiosity.

Working as an optical assistant and volunteering at a dementia care home, I made sure to seize opportunities to develop a foundation for my clinical skills. By engaging in conversation with them about their treasured memories, I learned just how therapeutic it can be for a patient to have someone spare a moment to listen. It struck me just how important even the smallest gestures could be for those at the mercy of chronic disease. Being part of a patient's journey to recovery is an element of medicine I find appealing and I have gained an appreciation for the intricacies of the human eye.

As well as your academic ability, you really want to ensure you are showing the admissions tutors that you have begun to develop the foundations for your interpersonal skills. Your voluntary work and part-time jobs will be fantastic ways to show your commitment, empathy and communication skills.

Completing my Silver CREST and Industrial Cadet awards I have learned how to develop my independent research skills, as well as structure projects and meet deadlines. Seeking advice and scouring websites as part of my EPQ on pain receptors, I sought to compare sources and comprehend the etymology of medical terms. Doctors continually face ethically and emotionally challenging situations which I explored first hand, writing an article for Medic Mentor on whether death should be normalised for doctors. Considering contrasting viewpoints broadened my understanding of end of life care and the duties of a doctor.

I knew I wanted to have an academic focus on my personal statement because I was applying to Oxford. Please don't treat your personal statement as a CV simply listing off all the science projects that you've done and articles you've written. It's about quality over quantity.

Earning the position as Head Boy, I have further improved my leadership skills through appropriate delegation and adapting to last minute changes. Practising karate and engaging in drama, public speaking and debating has immensely strengthened my time management and self-discipline, as well as being valued outlets for enjoyment and creative thinking away from my studies. Additionally, I am in the process of completing my Gold DofE award where teamwork and resilience under pressure will be crucial to resolve challenges encountered.

Medicine is very demanding both as a university course but also as a career and therefore you want to show the admissions tutors that you already have developed coping mechanisms that will mean that you are able to manage high workloads and the stress involved.

I believe my greatest achievement will be the impact I make on the lives of others by continuously striving to push the limits of my potential with my desire to improve and hunger to learn. Medicine will pose many challenges, of that I am certain, but I believe no other degree or career could provide me with such a lifelong sense of fulfilment.

I ended my personal statement with summarising my motivations for being a doctor as well as reinforcing how I have a realistic understanding of medicine but for me the positives outweigh the negatives.

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