Writing a personal statement can feel daunting. Trying to fit all your academic and extracurricular achievements, goals, and motivations into a few hundred words — and still stand out — can be overwhelming. While there are many tips on what you should include, today we’re focusing on something equally important: what you should avoid saying in your personal statement.
Universities receive tens of thousands of applications each year. As a result, admissions officers have seen all kinds of personal statements. Many of them struggle to stand out and don’t feel personal. One of the biggest mistakes students make is including overused or vague phrases that immediately reduce the uniqueness and impact of their application.
So, what should you avoid?
1. Cliché Openings
“Ever since I was a child, I wanted to become a doctor.”
“For as long as I can remember, I dreamt of studying aerospace engineering.”
“I was always interested in physics.”
These openings (and their many variations) have been used countless times. They don’t tell the admissions officers anything specific or unique about you. These phrases are too broad, vague, and impersonal. Instead, start with a specific anecdote or moment of realisation that genuinely sparked your interest in the subject. The key is to be personal.
2. Following in Someone Else’s Footsteps
“My father is a financist, so I want to study economics too.”
It’s natural to be inspired by those around you, but universities want to understand your motivation. What excites you about the subject? What have you explored independently? Avoid basing your entire application on someone else's career or achievements.
3. Unsubstantiated Claims
“I am the best student in my school.”
Strong statements without evidence can come across as arrogant or empty. Confidence isn’t a bad thing, but you don’t want the admissions team to think you’re exaggerating. Instead of unsupported self praise, demonstrate your strengths through examples — like leadership in a group project, initiative in a personal endeavour, academic curiosity, or resilience through challenges.
4. Irrelevant Life Stories
“When I was eight, I broke my arm, and that taught me resilience.”
While personal growth is important, not every story from your past is relevant to your academic goals. Stick to experiences that directly relate to your subject interests, academic development, or skills that demonstrate your readiness for university.
5. Generic Statements About the Subject
“Economics is important because it helps society function.”
“In the modern world, technology is an integral part of everything we do.”
Avoid telling the admissions committee what they already know. Instead, dig into why the subject excites you. What issues or questions do you want to explore further? What have you done to engage with the subject beyond the classroom?
6. Repeating Information About Yourself
“I received a 9 in my Maths GCSE.”
“I study English, Biology and Drama at Sixth Form.”
Your personal statement is a chance to tell the admissions team more about you and your aspirations, so avoid repeating information already included in your application. Instead, focus on presenting new details and explain why you’re a suitable candidate for the course.
7. Trying to Cover Too Much
Listing every award, hobby, and subject can make your statement feel scattered and unfocused. Choose a few meaningful experiences and reflect on them in depth. Quality always beats quantity.
8. Humour, Slang, or Overly Casual Language
Your personal statement is a professional piece of writing. Humour is subjective, and what you find funny may not resonate with the admissions officer. Tone, context, and prior experiences can all influence how a joke is received — so it's best to avoid them entirely. Similarly, avoid slang or overly informal phrasing. Keep your language clear, polished, and respectful.
9. Long or Multiple Quotations
While a brief, relevant quote might occasionally enhance your statement, long or multiple quotations should be avoided. Your personal statement is about you. With limited space, quoting someone else takes away from your opportunity to express your own thoughts and voice. Instead, share your own perspective and show your understanding of the subject.
Your personal statement is your story — not your parents’, not your teacher’s, and certainly not ChatGPT’s! Be authentic, specific, and self aware. A great personal statement reflects who you are now and shows a clear sense of purpose for the academic journey ahead.
Need help crafting a compelling personal statement? Our expert advisors at EducAd Consulting are here to support you every step of the way.