How to Write a Personal Statement for Sixth Form
Your personal statement is one of the most critical parts of your application to sixth form. It’s your chance to showcase your personality, goals, and why you’re a great fit for your chosen institution. Follow our expert tips to craft a statement that stands out. You might also find the following guides and information useful for preparing a successful sixth form application:
Sixth Form Application Guide
What is a Personal Statement?
A personal statement is a short essay where you explain:
- Why you’re applying to this sixth form.
- Your academic interests and goals.
- Your extracurricular achievements and personal qualities.
Your personal statement is an extremely important part of your application to The NCS as it provides us with key information about you and your interests, it’s vital that you spend time thinking about what you want to include so you present yourself in the best possible light.
10 Steps to Write a Strong Personal Statement
1. Start with Research
Before you begin writing, research the sixth form’s values, ethos, vision, and courses. For The NCS you can find a wealth of information about our holistic A-Level education, the courses we offer, and discover what our alumni are now doing with the knowledge and skills they learned at The NCS. You can also visit sixth form’s social media accounts, such as on Instagram and TikTok to discover students talking about their experiences. (The NCS is not responsible for content on external websites and services)
2. Craft a Compelling Introduction
Begin with a strong opening sentence that highlights your passion for learning. For example: “I am eager to join The NCS because I value its focus on academic excellence and leadership development.”
3. Highlight Your Academic Interests
Discuss the subjects you want to study and why they inspire you. Provide specific examples, such as a topic or project you enjoyed at school.
4. Why Do You Want To Join The NCS?
Include reasons for why you want to join us for your A-Level studies at The NCS. What appeals to you? What aspects of our student offer will help you grow? How can we help you realise your ambitions?
5. Share Your Ambitions
Explain how sixth form will help you achieve your future goals, whether academic, professional, or personal.
6. Include Hobbies and Extracurricular Activities
Talk about hobbies that reflect your skills, such as teamwork, creativity, or leadership. For instance, mention involvement in sports, volunteering, or creative arts. Your interests are often a great way to help you stand out and make you a memorable candidate.
7. Be Honest and Authentic
Avoid exaggeration. Admissions teams value sincerity over perfection.
8. Adhere To The Word Count
There will be a limit as to the length of your personal statement. Always make sure you know what it is and make sure it’s not exceeded.
At The NCS your personal statement should be no longer than 800 words about the reasons why you have decided to apply to The NCS, what your future ambitions are, and what subjects you wish to study and why. You will have an additional 500 words to discuss outside hobbies and interests. We want to know more about you and whether you believe like us that through education you can become a future leader.
9. Get Outside Perspective
Once you have drafted your personal statement it’s always good to get someone else to read it and give you a critical perspective. This could be your parent, carer, teacher, friend or mentor but it’s important whoever you choose they are honest and open with you and give you constructive feedback.
10. Proofread Meticulously
Errors in grammar or punctuation can hurt your application. Ask a teacher or mentor to review your statement before submission.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using clichés like “I’ve always wanted to…”
- Submitting a generic statement not tailored to the institution.
- Failing to check for spelling and grammar errors.
- Do not use AI to write your personal statement. Our application system uses detection software to quickly identify statements that have been written by (in part or full) AI language models and/or have been plagiarised. Any detected use of AI or plagiarised content may invalidate a student’s application to join us.
Example Personal Statement Starters
- “My passion for science was sparked when I conducted a biology project on genetics.”
- “As a student, I thrive in environments that challenge me to think critically.”
- “I am excited to contribute to the diverse and dynamic community at The NCS.”
Need More Help?
For further guidance, read our Sixth Form Application Tips or ask one of your teachers for assistance.
Ready to apply?
Make sure you've read our How To Apply guide, then click below to begin your application from 1st January 2025.
Ready to apply?
Make sure you've read our How To Apply guide, then click below to begin your application.