For decades, the requirement to write a personal statement has been the foundation of the UCAS application process, offering applicants the chance to showcase their individuality and passion. However, starting in 2025, UCAS is making a big change to the process for those applying for 2026 entry. UCAS has expressed that the current method is outdated, with many finding the process of writing a personal statement challenging and not truly reflective of who they are and what they have to offer. Applicants will now be required to answer three specific questions. This blog will explore these three questions and how they may benefit or disadvantage our future university applicants.

The New Questions:

1. ‘Why do you want to study this course or subject?’
2. ‘How have your qualifications and studies helped you to prepare for this course?’
3. ‘What else have you done to prepare outside of education, and why are these experiences helpful?’

Pros of the New Approach:

• Clear and Focused- The questions provide a clear direction, making it easier for applicants to organise their responses. This could be helpful for those who struggle with the open-ended nature of personal statements.
• More Relevant Responses- With specific questions, it may be easier for applicants to provide information that universities are keen to know. This could make applications more straightforward and help admissions teams evaluate them more effectively.
• Less Pressure- Writing a personal statement can be stressful because of its essay format. The new approach might reduce this stress by providing a clear framework, allowing applicants to focus on showcasing their strengths without the added pressure of writing a perfect statement.

Cons of the New Approach:

• Less Personal and Creative- Personal statements allow applicants to share their experiences and aspirations in their own way, showing off their personality and creativity. The new question-based approach might limit their ability to express individuality, making it harder to stand out from other applicants.
• Less Flexibility- The new approach may result in applicants feeling restricted by the specific questions, making it difficult for them to fully offer their experiences and aspirations.
• Risk of Similar Responses- With every applicant being required to answer the same questions, there is a risk that applicants’ answers may be similar. This may make it harder for the admissions team to differentiate between applicants based on these responses alone.

As this significant shift takes hold, it will be interesting to observe how it impacts university admissions. Will it truly make the process more accessible, or will it supress the creativity and individuality that personal statements once allowed? Only time will tell! But, one thing is for certain, the UCAS application process is entering a new era.