do you need a personal statement for physiotherapy

• Personal statement advice: physiotherapy

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You'll impress them by reflecting on your experiences and understanding of the profession, talking about how you've demonstrated relevant skills, and by showing your awareness of the breadth of what physiotherapists actually do.

That's what admissions tutors told us when we asked them what they're looking for – here are some more of their dos and don'ts.

For more personal statement advice, see our article on how to sell yourself in your statement .

Show you know what physiotherapy involves

This is a competitive field. To have a good chance of being selected you will need to demonstrate a realistic understanding of the role, and show that you’re 100% committed to it. It’s important to show that you’ve researched the career – the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy is a good starting point. You should also back this knowledge up with your experience – but what experience?

Firstly, experience of observing or at least talking to physiotherapists is highly desirable. It’s even better if you can do this in more than one setting, whether it’s in hospitals, private practice, GP surgeries, schools, residential homes, sport centres, or clubs or out in the community. Although it’s increasingly difficult to obtain formal work experience, try to plan ahead and use your initiative to secure this in time.

The next best thing is general experience or voluntary work in any health or care setting. Take the opportunity to observe how staff communicate and interact with people, especially vulnerable individuals such as children, the elderly, or people in distress.

What to include in your statement

There is no one-size-fits-all way to structure your personal statement, but here are some pointers:

Check what specific universities want

Some universities provide information about their selection criteria on their website, and some actually score your statement against those criteria. It may give you a handy framework to base your statement around.

Explain your motivation

Why do you want to be a physiotherapist specifically? How did you arrive at the decision that it’s the right fit for you? Convey your enthusiasm and determination. Don’t just say you want to be in a caring profession – be specific!

Show you understand the scope of physiotherapy

There’s a tendency for some applicants to be drawn to the profession through their passion for sport, with a view to becoming a sports physiotherapist. But the reality is that you will probably work with a range of patients with a wide variety of conditions, not necessarily sports-related.

This partly explains why one admission tutor's top personal statement tip was 'don’t mention sport!' It’s important to realise that sport isn’t representative of the profession as a whole. For instance, sports physiotherapy is predominantly concerned with musculoskeletal conditions in patients who are likely to otherwise be healthy and motivated.

So do show what you’ve learned about the diverse range and backgrounds of patients you will be treating or the kinds of situations these patients may also be dealing with. Reflect on the challenges this creates for the physiotherapist, such as how to motivate patients to manage their own long-term recovery when they are also having to cope with other conditions, illnesses, or struggles (such as depression, dementia, or family circumstances).

Reflect on the skills and qualities required

Don’t simply list what you saw in any experience or placements – they want to know how what you observed changed your perceptions or understanding.

Similarly, it’s not how much experience you’ve had that matters, it’s the quality of your insights and how you reflect on them.

Referring to your own experience as a patient may also be helpful, but only if you’ve gained a real insight through it.

Demonstrate that you have these qualities

The final piece in the jigsaw is to provide evidence of how you’ve personally demonstrated some of the important qualities you’ve observed.

Pick out your key observations and be explicit in explaining the links with your own skill set. For example, ‘on placement I noticed that physiotherapists needed skill X... I demonstrated skill X myself when I...’

Physiotherapists have to talk to, collaborate with, and counsel people, so do include how you’ve demonstrated these ‘softer’ caring, helping, or listening skills (this can be in or outside of school).

Other relevant qualities to talk about might include problem-solving, coping with pressure, being non-judgemental, leadership, and working in a team.

Values based selection

We spoke to a member of the admissions team at one of the universities who score your personal statement against their selection criteria. One of her key messages was that they assess your suitability for the career as a whole, not just the course.

In fact, some of the heaviest weightings in their scoring criteria are linked to the six core values of the NHS Constitution. So make sure you’re familiar with the NHS Constitution, and that you’re able to demonstrate behaviours of your own that align with these core values.

Mention any ambitions

This isn’t essential but, if you have a clear view of the direction you want your career to take, blend this into your statement too. This could be in the opening, the middle, or as a concise concluding sentence.

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How Do I Write My PTCAS Essay (Personal Statement)?

The PT School application process is challenging, to say the least. But, it’s incredibly rewarding, because at the end of this process you’ll be on your way to starting your career and getting your dream job as a physical therapist.

One of the most important parts of the PT School application process is the personal statement , or the essay . Each year, the Physical Therapy Centralized Application Service ( PTCAS ) sets a specific prompt for the personal statement. This personal statement is submitted to every school to which you apply. In short, it’s a chance for you to set yourself apart from the other applicants. So, how do you write your PTCAS essay ? Let’s dive in to learn more about this part of the application process, and learn more about our services to help you with your personal statement here !

What is a Personal Statement?

A Personal Statement is an essay that explains your background and allows you to describe yourself. It’s a common requirement for graduate schools and jobs, so it’s especially important for you to use the personal statement to explain why you want to pursue this opportunity.

A Personal Statement can be a general description of yourself or it can answer a specific prompt . It’s common for graduate schools to ask specific questions for the Personal Statement.¹ In this case, the Personal Statement is a chance for you to show the admissions committee who you are beyond the data in your application . In an essay format, you can expand upon your character, goals, and background, allowing the admissions committee to get to know you.

What Should I Know About a Physical Therapy Personal Statement?

PTCAS Personal Statement prompts can vary in topics, but ultimately they touch on the physical therapy profession. It’s important that you answer the PTCAS question in your essay. But you should also view this as an opportunity to describe yourself to the admissions committees. Keep in mind that these committees are reviewing hundreds, or even thousands, of applications each year. Use this opportunity to set yourself apart .

In your essay, you should explain why you want to become a physical therapist, but try to avoid using a common reason such as “I want to help people.” Show the admissions committee your passion for physical therapy and prove to them why you belong in physical therapy school and why you’re going to become a great physical therapist.

Above all, remember that through the 4,500 characters in your essay, you’re not just telling the admissions committees who you are… you’re showing them.

Contact us today with any questions or for help with your PT school personal statement!

Lab P. The Personal Statement // Purdue Writing Lab. Purdue Writing Lab. https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/job_search_writing/preparing_an_application/writing_the_personal_statement/index.html. Published 2020. Accessed July 26, 2020.

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Doctor of Physiotherapy

For the physiotherapist by the physiotherapist

How to Write a Personal Statement for Physiotherapy?

When it comes to pursuing a career in physiotherapy, crafting a compelling personal statement is a crucial step in the application process. Writing a personal statement for physiotherapy allows you to showcase your passion, qualifications, and suitability for this rewarding profession. In this article, we’ll explore how to write a personal statement for physiotherapy that effectively communicates your dedication and readiness to excel in this field.

To write a personal statement for physiotherapy, start by highlighting your genuine interest in the field and your motivation to pursue a career as a physiotherapist. Share relevant experiences, such as volunteer work or internships, that have influenced your decision and provided insight into the impact of physiotherapy on individuals’ lives. 

Additionally, emphasize your academic background, relevant skills, and personal qualities that align with the values and requirements of the profession. Lastly, convey your understanding of the role of a physiotherapist and your commitment to contributing to the health and well-being of patients through compassionate care and evidence-based practice.

Table of Contents

Personal Statement of Purpose for Physiotherapy

Crafting a statement of purpose for physiotherapy is a crucial step for individuals to express their passion and readiness for this rewarding career. It offers a platform to showcase qualifications and convey dedication to patient care, highlighting their suitability for the field.

Expressing Passion and Dedication

Crafting a statement of purpose for physiotherapy allows individuals to express their genuine passion for the field and their dedication to making a positive impact on patients’ lives. It provides an opportunity to communicate their enthusiasm and commitment to pursuing a career in physiotherapy.

Showcasing Qualifications and Readiness

Writing a statement of purpose for physiotherapy enables individuals to showcase their qualifications , relevant experiences, and personal qualities that make them well-suited for the profession. It serves as a platform to highlight their readiness and enthusiasm for embarking on a career in physiotherapy.

Conveying Understanding of the Profession

A statement of purpose for physiotherapy allows individuals to convey their understanding of the role of a physiotherapist and their commitment to upholding the values and responsibilities of the profession. It provides a means to articulate their understanding of patient care and evidence-based practice in the field of physiotherapy.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to write a personal statement for physiotherapy:

Express Your Passion

Start by expressing your genuine passion for physiotherapy. Share what sparked your interest in the field and any experiences that influenced your decision, such as volunteer work or internships.

Highlight Your Skills and Qualities

Highlight the skills and personal qualities that make you a great fit for physiotherapy. This could include strong communication skills, empathy, and a solid understanding of healthcare practices.

Demonstrate Your Commitment

Demonstrate your understanding of the role of a physiotherapist and express your commitment to providing compassionate care and making a positive impact on a patient’s health and well-being. Show that you’re ready to contribute to the field with enthusiasm and dedication.

By following these steps, you can craft a personal statement that truly reflects your dedication and readiness to pursue a career in physiotherapy.

How to Write a Personal Statement for a Physiotherapy Job?

Here’s a simple guide to help you write a personal statement for a physiotherapy job:

Show Your Enthusiasm

Express your genuine passion for physiotherapy and why you’re excited about the job. Share experiences that motivated you, like internships or volunteer work.

Highlight Your Skills

Talk about the skills and qualities that make you a great fit for the job. This could include strong communication skills, empathy, and a solid understanding of physiotherapy practices.

Demonstrate Your Dedication

Show that you understand the responsibilities of a physiotherapist and how you plan to contribute to patient care. Express your commitment to making a positive impact on people’s health through your work.

By following these steps, you can create a personal statement that showcases your passion and suitability for a physiotherapy job. 

Final Words

In conclusion, writing a personal statement for physiotherapy is an opportunity to convey your genuine passion for the field, showcase your qualifications, and express your commitment to patient care. It serves as a powerful tool to demonstrate your readiness and enthusiasm for pursuing a career in physiotherapy, ultimately highlighting your suitability for the profession. By crafting a well-thought-out personal statement, you can effectively communicate your dedication and aspirations, setting the stage for a successful journey into the field of physiotherapy.

MAHMUDUL HASAN

"Hasan", I am a physiotherapy Doctor. I have completed my B.S.c course (4 years) under Rajshahi University, Faculty of Medicine, Rajshahi. Currently I am working as a clinical physiotherapist at a renowned physiotherapy center and I am continuing my MPT (Master's of physiotherapy) degree at CRP, Savar.

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• Physiotherapy Personal Statement Examples

Your personal statement is an essential part of the UCAS application process , as it allows you to showcase your passion for physiotherapy and demonstrate why you are the ideal applicant for the course. To help you write a winning university application , we are showing you free physiotherapy personal statement examples that you can use for inspiration.

Physiotherapy Personal Statement Example

As someone who has always had a passion for physical activity and fitness, I believe that studying for a degree in physiotherapy is the ideal next step for me. Having already achieved a first degree in physical education, I am now eager to build on my knowledge and experience and to develop the skills that will enable me to help people recover from injuries, prevent future injuries, and live healthy, active lives.

One of the reasons why I am so passionate about physiotherapy is that I believe in the importance of physical fitness and well-being for the health of the whole person, both physically and mentally. Through my work as an instructor, I have seen first-hand the positive impact that regular exercise can have on people’s lives, and I am eager to help others experience those same benefits.

In addition to my work as an instructor, I have also gained valuable experience through my involvement with the Duke of Edinburgh Award. Over the past four years, I have completed my Bronze and Silver awards, and more recently, I achieved my Gold Award. As part of this award, I spent a week at a camp for disabled teenagers, where I was a buddy to an 18-year-old girl with profound Cerebral Palsy. This experience gave me a real insight into the challenges faced by people with disabilities, and the important role that physiotherapy can play in helping them to lead active and fulfilling lives.

More recently, I have had the opportunity to gain further experience through my work at Nottingham Nuffield Hospital. Here, I observed clinical assessments in the outpatient department and saw firsthand the crucial role that physiotherapists play in helping patients to recover from a wide range of injuries and conditions. I also had the opportunity to work alongside physiotherapists on the ward, where I was able to see how they use their skills to help patients who are recovering from surgery or illness to regain their strength and mobility.

I am convinced that studying for a degree in physiotherapy is the ideal next step for me. With my passion for physical activity and fitness, combined with my existing knowledge and experience, I believe that I have the qualities and skills needed to make a real difference in the field of physiotherapy. I am excited about the prospect of learning more about the science of human movement, rehabilitation, and injury prevention, and I am eager to contribute to the growing body of knowledge in this field. Ultimately, my goal is to become a skilled and compassionate physiotherapist, helping people of all ages and abilities to lead healthy, active lives.

Physiotherapy Personal Statement Example For UCAS

I have been drawn to the field of physiotherapy. From the early stages of my academic journey, I have been interested in the human body and how it functions, particularly with movement and sports. Pursuing this passion, I have taken on various experiences that have allowed me to gain an understanding of the essential role that physiotherapy plays in helping people achieve their physical goals.

My work experience placements at Watford General Hospital and Mount Vernon Hospital have been instrumental in shaping my decision to pursue a career in physiotherapy. During my time there, I was able to observe and learn from skilled professionals, as well as get an insight into the various techniques and treatments used in the field. I was particularly fascinated by the paediatric centre in mid-Wales where I had the privilege of accompanying a physiotherapist on house visits. Witnessing the impact that physiotherapy had on children’s lives was truly inspiring, and I felt a sense of fulfilment in being able to contribute to their wellbeing.

In addition to my work experience, my recreational and competitive background in sports has helped me to develop an understanding of how physiotherapy can help to prevent and treat injuries. As a Senior Sport Organiser, I have gained experience in working with young athletes and have learned how to create a safe and healthy environment for them to thrive. My part-time job as a pool lifeguard has also allowed me to hone my communication and interpersonal skills, which I believe will be vital in my future career as a physiotherapist.

Throughout my experiences, I have come to appreciate the wide range of skills and knowledge required of a physiotherapist. It is not only about diagnosing and treating physical conditions, but also about building relationships with patients and their families, educating them on how to take care of their bodies, and helping them to set achievable goals. I am excited by the prospect of developing these skills further and making a difference in people’s lives.

I am eager to pursue a career in physiotherapy and believe that my academic achievements, work experience, and personal qualities make me an ideal candidate for the program. I am committed to continuous learning and growth, and I am confident that I will excel in the program and make valuable contributions to the field of physiotherapy.

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Writing Your Personal Statement

INtroduction

A personal statement is an incredibly unique piece of writing which makes it difficult to provide specific advice for. That said, universities will have certain expectations when you are applying for physiotherapy.

We will help guide you through the steps to ensure that you have provided the information that universities will be looking for.

Get Individual Personal Statement Advice Now!

It's easy to worry about not having the right "structure" but to begin it is important to make sure that you have all of the right detail required.

To produce an impactful personal statement, you must answer the following four questions:

1. Why do you want to be a physiotherapist?

2. What do you know about physiotherapy?

3. What skills does a physiotherapist require?

4. Why do you think you will be a good physiotherapist?

Before beginning your writing process, answer each of these questions in as much detail as possible. Most of the information you write here will be useful throughout your personal statement.

Alongside these answers, make a list of any additional information about yourself that you would like to include: your hobbies and interests, your previous jobs or additional non-physiotherapy related experiences.

The Structure

The structure of a physiotherapy personal statement is not significantly different from any other course. General advice on the structure of a personal statement splits it up into three main parts; beginning, middle and end.

Check out all of the sections individually below!

The Beginning

The beginning is the part where you really need to sell you passion for physiotherapy and explain why you so want to be a physiotherapist!

If you have already answered the questions in the detail section (above) then you already have the answer! You just need to make that language a bit more fancy, enthusiastic and exciting with a sprinkle of some “buzzwords” (see buzzwords section) and you have a quality opening paragraph.

Ensure that right from the beginning you show that you have a wide knowledge of physiotherapy - avoid answers that only suggest your passion for physiotherapy is sport. Many applicants are inspired to become a physiotherapist with the goal of becoming a sports physiotherapist, however, universities are looking for applicants who want to join the profession to provide empathetic and compassionate care for all patients.

This part is going to be the biggest and probably the most important.

This is where you have to demonstrate that you know what a physiotherapist does. The answers from questions two and three from The Detail section will come in useful here!

During this part you need to show off all of your knowledge and show how have gone above and beyond to find out as much as you can about physiotherapy. Meanwhile, you can begin to show them exactly why you will be a good physiotherapist (question 4!). As much of this as possible should be reflections on your own personal experiences and activities. Everyone is able to say that physiotherapists should be “this, this and this,” but for a good quality personal statement, you need to show them that you already have the personal qualities required to be a physiotherapist.

They will be looking for evidence that you have meaningful insight into physiotherapy and what the career entails - this can be shown through your work experiences and wider reading.

They want to see demonstration of interpersonal skills such as care and empathy alongside teamworking and good communication skills. Try demonstrate these through evidence.

Finally, they may also be looking for signs of self-reflection - the ability to reflect upon what you have seen or done and the way that it changed your attitude or practice.

This is perhaps the most individual and interesting part of your personal statement.

You need to show how you are unique – what makes you different from the rest, why do you stand out from all of the other candidates. Try to show off your extra-curricular activities, exciting courses you have completed and anything else that you think makes you look individual.

This will be the last thing they read so try to make it impactful. If possible, link it back to the beginning and your reasons for wanting to be a physiotherapist.

If possible, it is nice to finish with something topical at the time of writing. For example, has the COVID pandemic increased your desire to improve the quality of peoples lives?

Getting the right balance

To reiterate, everyone’s personal statements will be different and individual to each person. However, it is important that there is a good balance of information in each relevant area. As a very basic guideline, it is suggested that you beginning and end should make up about 25-40% of your total writing.

The middle makes up the rest – this gives you plenty of opportunity to talk about your experiences, show what you have learnt about physiotherapy/physiotherapists and explain why you would be a good physiotherapist.

THE Physio Specifics

Often teachers/lecturers/friends/family (and the rest) will be very helpful in making sure your personal statement reads well and has a good amount of information, however, it is likely that they will not have any specific knowledge on the things that physiotherapy courses look for.

The following suggestions are things that universities are commonly looking for in your personal statement. Try to demonstrate these in the best possible way.

Physiotherapy Knowledge

You must show the reader that you have a broad knowledge of physiotherapy and know that they don’t just massage people!

Demonstrate a good basic knowledge of the main three physiotherapy disciplines and that in addition to these physiotherapists also have many other roles in healthcare.

Don’t mention what exact specific career in physiotherapy you want even if you know you are only interested in sport or MSK, the university will look upon this badly.

Work Experience

Work experience is incredibly useful and almost always essential for universities (they have been more lenient on this during COVID times).

You must tell them what you learnt about physiotherapy but also what skills physiotherapists demonstrate and how you have those skills.

If you haven't been able to gain specific work experience, think about what experiences you have had that would be valuable as a physiotherapist; carers, sports coach, healthcare assistants, etc.

It is not so much about the quantity but the quality of what you learned and how you explain why this gives you a greater understanding of what it takes to be a physiotherapist or how it has developed your skills that will make you a better physiotherapist.

Wider Reading

Universities will love it if you have already begun reading physiotherapy literature!

Pick a random specific topic in physiotherapy that interests you and read some journal abstracts – you can find these on Google Scholar or Microsoft Academic.

You will look even better if you are able to critically analyse what you have read and learnt!

For example, learn as much as you can about one treatment technique and how effective evidence suggests it is.

If not already familiar, make sure you are well aware of the NHS values and the 6 C's.

You should try to incorporate these into your personal statement as skills/traits you have learnt from seeing physiotherapists or examples of where you have demonstrated them.

Ultimately, these values are requirement to become a physiotherapist, therefore, the universities want to see that you understand and demonstrate the personal traits needed.

Hopefully this guide has given you a better idea of what universities are looking for in physiotherapy personal statements. I hope that you have found the advice useful.

Your personal statement is unique to you, therefore, any more prescriptive advice would be a bigger hinderance than a help.

If you are unsure about your personal statement, or would like more in-depth personal advice, remember that we offer a personal statement checking service - HERE

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The Curly Clinician - Physical Therapy + Lifestyle

PTCAS: Personal Statement/Essays

December 23, 2017 Physical Therapy , Pre-PT , PTCAS & Planning

Welcome to the last #dptwiththecc post (*cue sad music*)

Today I will discuss PERSONAL STATEMENTS & SUPPLEMENTAL ESSAYS!

What is a personal statement.

Every year, PTCAS has an “essay” section. This is essentially your personal statement, even though it is not stated outright. The personal statement is your chance to really show your personality, so you want to make it count! If your grades or GRE scores aren’t the best, your essays could really set you apart, + take your application to the next level.

The question/prompt will be the same for everyone, and this is updated every few application cycles. Because the PTCAS application opens at the end of June/early July, PTCAS usually releases the prompt for the upcoming cycle on their Twitter and Facebook pages in the spring. This will give you time to start brainstorming and drafting your essay before the application even opens!

Past PTCAS Prompts :

• 2016-2017, 2017-2018 : “What is professionalism in the context of being a student in a doctor of physical therapy program?”
• 2018-2019, 2019-2020 : “Describe a meaningful experience in your life. Reflect on how that experience influenced your personal growth, such as your attitudes or perceptions.”
• 2020-2021 : “Every person has a story that has led them to a career. Since there are a variety of health professions that “help” others, please go beyond your initial interaction or experiences with physical therapy, and share the deeper story that has confirmed your decision to specifically pursue physical therapy as your career.”

In addition to the PTCAS essay, most programs require you to write supplemental essays . These are additional essays that will let the program know a little bit more about you. These essays could be long or short, depending on the program. When I applied, my program had 2 supplemental essays (1150 characters each). One essay asked about a life failure and how I overcame it, and another asked about my experience with diversity.

What should I write about?

Katie from My Road to PT has a GREAT blog, and in her post about essays, she comprised a list of some example topics + questions. They are listed below:

PTCAS Essay

• How have your life experiences shaped who you are?
• What observation experiences can you talk about?
• Are there any patients that have influenced you?
• How has an experience impacted how you want to want to practice physical therapy?
• Who are the most influential people in your life?
• When did you know that you wanted to be a physical therapist?
• When have you been on a team or worked in a group? How was the team approach better than working by yourself?
• Where do you see the field of physical therapy going, and how do you fit into that picture?
• What sort of physical therapist to you see yourself being?
• How would you treat your future patients?
• What dream goals do you have?
• What character traits are important to have as a physical therapist
• What experiences have strengthened those traits for you, or what traits are you currently working on?
• How has your time spent as a patient affected how you will be a physical therapist?
• Are there any specific therapists that you wish to be like, or any therapists that you don’t want to become?
• Why will you be valuable to this profession?
• Are you interested in teaching, research, owning your own business, traveling, working for a nonprofit, or volunteering in another country?

Autobiography Essay

• What challenges have you overcome in your life?
• What are some of your major accomplishments?
• Why do you want to be a physical therapist?
• What things have you done that helped you grow as an individual
• What activities have you participated in?
• Who are some influential people on your life?
• How have your family, friends, or peers shaped who you are today?
• How would other people describe you?
• What 5 words describe you the best?
• What character traits are important for a physical therapist to have? Do you have these traits, or how are you improving them?
• What is important to you?
• How will your experiences make you a successful physical therapy student/physical therapist?
• How did your upbringing shape your personality, and how will that make you a better physical therapist?
• How have your experiences led you to the physical therapy career instead of other health care careers?
• Is there a central theme about your life experiences?
• How can you contribute to the field of physical therapy and your future patients?

Diversity Essay

• Describe your life experience as it is related to your culture.
• Is it hard to understand others who are from a different culture?
• Do you have a culturally different perspective than your peers?
• Does your culture have a different set of health care beliefs, or have you encountered another culture with different beliefs?
• Have you had an experience in life where you felt like your culture created a barrier for you?
• Have you volunteered for an economically disadvantaged population?
• Do you have trouble relating to higher socioeconomic classes?
• Have your experiences helped you relate better to certain people?
• Have you witnessed any social, cultural, or economic barriers when observing in a health care setting?
• How have you learned from any of these experiences?
• How does recognizing, understanding, or appreciating diversity make you a better physical therapist?
• Have you worked with individuals with disabilities?
• How do these experiences support that you will be able to work with diverse patients when you are a physical therapist?

Re-applicant Essay

• Have you retaken any classes?
• Did you retake the GRE?
• Do you have additional observation experiences?
• Did you observe in any new settings or see a different patient population?
• Did you have any additional work experience?
• Where you involved in any groups or team sports?
• Did you volunteer?
• How are you more prepared to be a successful student?
• Have you improved any personal skills?
• Have you worked with individuals that are different or gave you a unique perspective?
• What have you learned and how have you improved?
• How did these new experiences change your perspective, improve your application, change your personality, teach you something new, help you grow, or support your desire to become a physical therapist?

While these specific questions may not be asked, they can be used to brainstorm possible responses/give you an idea of the types of questions to expect.

What should I put in my personal statement?

Why you actually want to become a physical therapist is the number one thing that should be in your essay (duh)! You should also try to have a “theme” (as long as you can somehow relate it to the prompt). This will make your essay cohesive, and interesting to read. Almost everyone wants to be a physical therapist because they want to help people, or because they had an awesome physical therapist when they were injured. While this is great, try to focus on another reason why you want to become a physical therapist. This is a personal statement, so make it personal! For my PTCAS essay, I wrote about the lack of representation in the field for black women, and how I want to help increase the presence of underrepresented populations + treat underserved communities! Really think about WHY you want to help people. What are your passions? Pull from your life experiences (healthcare + non-healthcare related) to make your theme come to life.

In addition, you should extensively research the programs you are applying to before you write your supplemental essays! Read their mission statement, and find out what they value. Are they a research program? Do they really value diversity and inclusion? Are they big on global health? Whatever the program’s values are, include how your personal values align. This will make you stand out, and show that you are a serious applicant. If it is applicable to the prompt, you could also discuss why you want to attend the program that you are applying to!

How long does the personal statement have to be?

PTCAS has a limit of 4500 characters (about 1 page) for your essay. I would recommend using most or all of this space (without adding in irrelevant information of course) if possible. If you can get your point across in fewer characters, then that’s fine too! I wouldn’t stress about the character limit until you feel like you’ve completed most of your essay, as it is easier to take things out at the end. I would recommend drafting your essay in a program like Microsoft Word (or a plain text editor like Notepad), so that you can always see how many characters you’re at. Then, you can just paste the essay into PTCAS later.

Does your academic record accurately reflect your capabilities?

This question will be asked in the PTCAS application, but I wouldn’t answer it unless there was an extenuating circumstance that affected your academics. Admissions committees don’t want to hear excuses for why your grades weren’t as good as you wanted your freshman year (it happens!), or how you spent too much time partying or distracted. As long as your grades improved over time (your transcript will reflect this), you are fine!

General Tips

• ACTUALLY ANSWER THE PROMPT! I know this may seem obvious, but I have edited many essays for pre-PT students, and come across essays that didn’t even answer the prompt. This is a sure-fire way to stop someone from reading your essay, so follow directions, and try not to deviate too far from the prompt.
• Avoid contractions (i.e. don’t, can’t, won’t, etc.). Your essay should be formal.
• Show don’t tell!
• Vary your sentence structure. You want your writing to have style, so don’t make every sentence sound the same.
• Make sure to have an introduction (with a captivating opener to engage the reader), and a conclusion to bring your essay full circle (remember your theme!). I began my essay with a childhood memory, but you could begin with a quote (kinda cliché, but you could make it work), a question, a general idea, or something else. You want to grab the reader’s attention immediately!
• Remember HIPAA! If you want to discuss a patient you observed, don’t include any of their personal information!
• Don’t plagiarize!
• Keep your audience in mind: you never know who the admissions committee is composed of, and everyone may not agree with your views.
• When brainstorming, start by making a list of your thoughts/ideas about the prompt. Later, you can turn these ideas into actual paragraphs.
• Make sure your theme is present in each paragraph.
• Have at least 3-4 people proofread/edit your essays (for content + grammar). Of course, you’re going to think your essay is good, but you need an outside source’s opinion. You may think you’ve conveyed your point, but you’ll never know for sure unless you have someone proofread it. This could be a family member, a friend, a current DPT student, a physical therapist, a professor, etc. The Student Doctor Network Pre-PT Forum has a thread you can visit if you’re looking for someone to edit your essay. I wouldn’t recommend having another pre-PT student edit your essay (unless you know them personally, or really trust them), as there are some not-so-nice people online that could potentially steal your essay. I had my mentor (who is also a physical therapist), a recent DPT grad, and an accepted pre-PT student edit my essays. Try to avoid having too many people edit your essays, as you may lose your “personal” touch.
• Provide lots of examples!
• Don’t rush the process! It takes a while to write a good essay, so allow yourself enough time to do so. You may even have to take a break and come back later with a fresh mind. Regardless, you’ll have that “aha” moment eventually! If you are really stuck, try writing in a different environment (i.e. the library, a coffee shop, or a bookstore). Sometimes a change of scenery is all you need!
• Try reading your essay out loud. It is much easier to catch mistakes this way, versus if you are only reading it in your head.

Thank you so much for tuning in to this series! If you missed any of the posts, be sure to check them out under the “ Pre-PT ” section of the blog! I covered getting organized, grades/study tips, extracurricular activities, observation hours, letters of recommendation, and the GRE! Once it gets closer to the new application cycle, I will definitely have more tips and advice for y’all!

Remember that I am available for editing (PTCAS essay, supplemental essays, and resumes), so click here if that is something you are interested in!

If you have any requests for posts you’d like to see in the future (or ever need anything), feel free to leave a comment, DM me on Instagram , or shoot me an email ( [email protected] )! Can’t wait to continue creating content for you guys!

Reader Interactions

February 24, 2020 at 3:59 am

loved this. Really informative and inspiring. Thank you.

March 3, 2020 at 3:24 pm

You’re so welcome!

July 9, 2020 at 8:21 am

This was very helpful. I felt like I was constructing my essay on a blank canvas, but this article gave me a structural foundation of where to start. Thank you!

July 9, 2020 at 10:24 pm

Ah yay this makes me so happy Brittany! Good luck with the rest of your application girl!

September 19, 2020 at 11:31 am

This blog has helped me through every single step of my PTCAS application process! You’re truly a lifesaver because you give answers to all the little things that everyone asks and but no one really addresses. If i get into PT school, it’ll all be thanks to you!

September 24, 2020 at 3:40 pm

Ahhhh Sara that makes me so happy I am so glad that my blog has been a good resource for you! Good luck with the rest of the application process 🙂

July 24, 2021 at 1:54 pm

Love this! Your blog has been very helpful in my process of submitting apps. I had a question; where did you submit/find any extra supplemental essays?

August 28, 2021 at 12:13 pm

Hi Ashley, I’m so happy to hear this! They would be within the PTCAS application!

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Personal Statement Tips for Physiotherapy School Admissions

Written by Anthony Pinto Da Costa

Admissions | applications, 0comment(s), october 1, 2021.

Of all the requirements for PT school in Canada , the personal statement is definitely one that raises the eyebrows of many applicants each and every year. The confusion is largely due to the ambiguity of piecing together a descriptive essay about yourself that conveys to admissions committees that you’re the right fit for their program.

Some of the common inquiries we hear with each passing application cycle include:

• How do I write a good personal statement?
• What do I need to include in my personal statement?
• What do admissions committees want to hear?
• How do I organize all of my thoughts into a brief but strong personal statement?

At PhysioSchool.ca, we hear you loud and clear. We had all of the same questions when we were applying, which is why we’re writing this blog today to answer your questions and provide you with some helpful tips on how to write your personal statement for physio school applications.

Here we go.

Tip #1 – Start early

We cannot stress this one enough. Start getting yourself “in the know” early, so that you can plan accordingly. Before putting pen to paper, you should first be able to answer the following questions:

• Which PT programs require a personal statement?
• What types of questions do various schools ask on their personal statement?
• How long can my answers be (i.e., word/character count)?

Once you gather all of this information, you can start chipping away on mapping out the content you’d like to include within your personal statement.

Tip #2 – Genuinely ask yourself: “Why do I want to be a physiotherapist? “

It’s pretty much guaranteed that you’ll be asked, “why do you want to be a physiotherapist?” on a personal statement. Admissions committees are very interested in knowing your intent for choosing physiotherapy as a career. Why? Because they want to ensure that they’re admitting individuals who have made an informed career decision and are genuinely passionate about becoming a physiotherapist.

For that reason, we highly recommend sitting down with yourself to think hard about why you want to be a physiotherapist. And believe us, we understand that it’s not always a simple question to answer, as there may be many reasons why you want to pursue PT. We suggest that you write all of these reasons down in front of you. It will help give you clarity, and most importantly, it will help guide your entire personal statement. When you have a strong “why” from the beginning, writing your statement will come a lot easier. On the contrary, if your foundation isn’t solid, your personal statement may fall flat.

So, please! Ask yourself: “Why do I want to be a physiotherapist?”

Tip #3 – Write out a list of your experiences

Your personal statement is essentially your way of “selling yourself” to the admissions committees. Apart from providing them with a compelling reason as to why you want to be a PT, speaking about your work and volunteer experience can really help you impress those who make admissions decisions.

In order to make writing about your experiences a seamless process, we recommend first writing out a list of your work and volunteer experiences (PT- and non-PT-related experiences). Ensure to include what your role was during each experience, whether it was work or volunteer, the location, how long you were at each location, and the types of people you worked with. This will essentially function as your rough draft.

Once you have all of that information laid out in front of you, turn your rough draft into sentences to be used in your personal statement. Be sure to mention how these experiences will help you in becoming a good physiotherapist one day.

Tip #4 – Do your research on the physiotherapy profession

As mentioned earlier, PT school admissions committees aim to admit those who have made an informed career decision. That being said, it will bode well for you to convey that you are knowledgeable about the physiotherapy profession throughout your personal statement.

Having exposure in physiotherapy settings prior to applications will certainly help you out with that, but it would be in your best interest to also do your research on the profession. The PT profession is incredibly diverse; physiotherapists work in a variety of settings with a wide-range of patient populations. Given that, it’s important to become familiar with the profession at large in order to show the admissions committees that you understand what PT has to offer.

Tip #5 – Rigorously edit and revise your personal statement

This one’s a no-brainer. Once you think you have a finished product, you must rigorously edit and revise your personal statement. Do your very best to catch any spelling or grammatical errors, run-on sentences, redundancies, and any other issues you pick up on that may be problematic for your readers. The good thing about this is that you don’t have to do this alone! Reach out to any friends, family members, and/or mentors that you trust to proofread your essay as well. A second or third set of eyes may pick up on things that you missed, so it’s great to have some people in your corner to help with editing and revising.

We realize that this may be one of those tips that one can simply just gloss over, but in all seriousness, we cannot emphasize the importance of this one enough. Remember that the admissions committees don’t just judge what you say in your personal statement, but also how you say it. The applicants who can do both of those things very well are usually the ones that come out on top.

Writing a great personal statement for your physio school applications can be a challenging task. However, if you follow the tips that you read about in this blog post, you’ll eventually be able to muster up a personal statement that you can be proud of in no time.

We hope you found these tips helpful. Thank you for reading.

If you’re looking for extra help and guidance on writing your personal statement, check out our PT Application Booster course today! We have an entire module dedicated to helping you write a personal statement that will give you the competitive edge for physio school applications. What are you waiting for? Enrol today!

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Physiotherapy personal statement example 3.

My fascination with the body and understanding how it functions has fuelled my desire to pursue a career in physiotherapy as it incorporates science, sports and medicine which are all areas of specific interest to me. The flexibility and variety of career paths available and the practical emphasis in this profession, as well as the prospect of improving someone's standard of life and well-being particularly appeals to me.

Stemming from my keen interest in the body and sports, I am currently studying both a vocational qualification and an additional advanced level biology course. The depth and detail of biology coupled with both the theoretical and practical aspects of the vocational course, acquired through specific units such as anatomy, physiology, sports massage and sport injury, has provided me with an adequate foundation for studying physiotherapy.

I find myself excited by the idea of improving my knowledge and feeding my desire by studying subject areas such as anatomy, neurological rehabilitation and therapeutic skill. The work experience I am currently undertaking with physiotherapists in the NHS and private practices in Ghana, when I visit family on scheduled holidays, has enabled me to gain a concise insight into the work ethic and opportunities available in this profession.

I felt a strong sense of satisfaction from helping my dad through his battle with prostate cancer, by giving him massages that helped to improve his mobility and comfort. While I was in Ghana I also experienced the drastic change in the condition of an old lady with arthritis in her hands. Through the use of massage, compression gloves and therapeutic exercise over a period of weeks, there was an exceptional improvementin her muscle strength and joint mobility. However, it was the expression of glee, as she could now write with no pain, which confirmed my aspiration to become a physiotherapist.

I am currently an active participant in my college's student union as vice president, black students' officer, department representative and course representative. These roles involve meetings with students and heads of staff plus taking on board information and ideas restructuring them, then presenting them in a more engaging manner in order to see them implemented; also dealing with sensitive racial issues. These responsibilities have refined and strengthened my time management and organisational skills along with conveying my creative, proactive and down-to-earth nature.

Sport is a significant part of my life; football and badminton being my favourites. I really enjoy the fast pace, quick thinking and swift movements associated with each sport as well as the large physical demands, focus and concentration. The overwhelming feeling of delight, as I smash the shuttlecock or score a goal, is what keeps me addicted.

My acceptance of new ideas and willingness to try alternative experiences has led me to develop a range of diverse interests including contemporary architectural design, conceptual automobile design, technological gadgetry and social comedy. Their striking visual stimulation and controversial nature enthral me. Trance, classical and R'n'B are at the heart of my broad ranging music tastes, while skydiving, bungee-jumping, rock climbing and free- running are all activities I wouldn't hesitate to participate in. I feel this expresses my enthusiasm to live life to its fullest and have a career that allows others to do the same.

Profile info

This personal statement was written by guidomq for application in 2009.

guidomq's university choices King's College London The Manchester Metropolitan University Sheffield Hallam University St George's Hospital Medical School York St John College

Green : offer made Red : no offer made

Degree Physiotherapy at King's College London

guidomq's Comments

thought it was rather mature, but it came to me at 2 am in November and I must have changed it at least 25 times. so don't be too worried if it isn't coming to you straight away.this site helped as well.

This personal statement is unrated

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