Planning
First, take a look at our Higher Education Planner, to help you understand the timeline for researching, applying and interviewing for a university place.
Next, think about which universities you might like to go to. There are lots of places to choose from, so go along to some open days to see what courses are offered. Local university open days can be found here:
You could also contact Propel for comprehensive information about what each university across the county is able to offer to care leavers.
Writing your Personal Statement
Writing your personal statement can be tricky. But it’s a vital opportunity to tell the Admissions Tutor why they should consider you for the course.
| Do's | Don'ts |
|---|---|
| Explain your suitability for the course | Use inappropriate language |
| Demonstrate your enthusiasm | Try to be ‘quirky’ |
| Show your commitment | Copy anyone else’s statement |
Tutors can recognise copied texts and won’t consider you at all if they know the statement isn’t yours.
Make sure your statement is clear and concise, with no spelling mistakes or repetition and lots of interesting, varied vocabulary. It should have a beginning, middle and end.
University websites provide guidelines to help you, and we’ve provided some tips below.
- Say why you have chosen the course
- Demonstrate an understanding of your chosen subject
- Talk about your current studies with interest
- Discuss your ambitions and aspirations for the future
- Mention any work experience, volunteer work or extra curricular activities
- Describe examples as evidence of relevant skills, strengths and interests
- If you have overcome adversity in some way, explain how that has made you a stronger person - be proud of your achievements
Once you’ve finished the first draft, proof read it, re-draft it and ask your carer and teacher to read it and give you some feedback.