phd personal statement leeds

• Faculty of Biological Sciences
• Research degrees

How to apply

We offer a number of research project opportunities. PhD and MSc by Research projects are often part of a wider context of ongoing research within the faculty. You can visit our  Research and Innovation pages  to find out more about the vital work happening in the Faculty of Biological Sciences.

Apply online now , or follow this guide explaining steps  one ,  two  and three  to complete your application.

Step 1  — choose an existing research project or start your own

Directly-funded research projects:  These are typically attached to a specific research project and usually cover tuition fees and maintenance for living expenses. PhD studentships are very competitive, so it is important that you apply as early as possible once you have found a project.

Project opportunities:  If you have already secured your own funding (i.e. through your own finances, external funding or through a University of Leeds funding scheme), you can browse through our  research opportunities database  to find one which matches your research interests and is not directly-funded.

Start your own project:  If you would like to start your own research project, you first need to find and contact a supervisor via the  research supervisor database . Your potential supervisor must be an expert in the topic you are interested in to ensure that your research is accurate and adding to current knowledge. When you contact a potential supervisor, be prepared to discuss your area of research, proposed topic and research interests.

Step 2  – apply for a research degree

You can  apply for your research degree online . Make sure you complete the application form as fully as you can.

All applications require you to provide the following documents:

• copies of your degree certificate(s);
• copies of your transcript(s) of marks achieved for all qualifications;
• CV including information on academic study, work experience and any publications;
• evidence of  English language qualifications  (if applicable).

Fill out the names and the university email addresses of two academic referees in the online application form. The Admissions Team will contact your named referees directly.

We do not require a research proposal for applications at this stage. A cover letter or personal statement can be helpful but it is not compulsory to provide one. 

Directly-funded research projects, including DTP (Doctoral Training Partnership) research projects – You will need to provide the following information:

• the title of the funded research project/DTP in the ‘Funding’ section of the online application form;
• the title of the research project you are applying for in the ‘Research Area’ field of the online application form.

Project opportunities – You will need to provide the following information:

• your expected source of funding in the ‘Funding’ section of the online application form;

Start your own project – You will need to provide the following information:

• your expected source of funding in the ‘Funding’ section of the online application form and a funding award letter, if you have received one;
• your proposed research area in the ‘Research Area’ field of the online application form;
• the names of up to three supervisors you are interested in studying with in the Faculty of Biological Sciences.

Step 3  – find and apply for funding

You do not need to complete this step if:

• you have already secured funding;
• you have applied for a funded research project.

If you are hoping to secure funding for your research degree, there are many options available.

• You can browse our  funding opportunities database  in the ‘Funding’ search category. Scholarships are awarded on the basis of academic merit and are very competitive, so it is important that you apply as early as possible; 
• There are trusts, charities and foundations that award partial funding for postgraduate study. There are huge numbers of applications for these sums of money, so you will need a strong case to make a successful application.

Research opportunities

Postgraduate research opportunities.

• Personal Statements for PhD Study

Written by Mark Bennett

Universities often ask prospective students to provide a personal statement for PhD study. This is likely to be a key part of your PhD application .

Whereas your research proposal explains the potential of your project, your personal statement (also known as a PhD statement of purpose) demonstrates your suitability for doctoral work in general.

Writing a PhD personal statement can seem challenging, but it’s also a valuable opportunity to state what you have to offer and ‘sell yourself’ as a PhD candidate.

This page explains how to write a PhD personal statement, including suggestions for an effective structure and some additional tips for success.

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What is a phd statement for.

A personal statement provides additional information on a PhD applicant’s academic background, relevant experience and motivations for undertaking postgraduate research.

It is different from a PhD proposal, which outlines a particular research topic, explaining its aims, methodology and scholarly or scientific value.

Put simply, if a PhD is a unique individual project (and it is) then your personal statement shows that you’re the kind of unique individual who can complete one.

The form it takes can vary. Universities may include a space for a personal statement in their application materials, or they might ask you to submit it as a separate document or in place of a covering letter . Make sure you check what’s required before you start writing.

Will I have to write a personal statement for a PhD programme?

Not necessarily. Some PhD applications don’t actually ask for a separate personal statement. This may be because the admissions tutors want to focus on your research proposal instead (and leave other details for interview questions ).

A personal statement is very likely to be requested if you you’re applying to an advertised project with pre-defined aims and objectives (and aren’t submitting your own PhD proposal). If so, it will be your main chance to say why you’re the best student for this position.

Who will read it?

Your PhD statement may end up being read and considered by various people:

• Admissions tutors will check that you have relevant experience and qualifications for this programme and that these are up to the standard expected of a PhD candidate.
• Potential supervisors will be interested in your specific academic background as well as your motivations for working in their department or research group.
• Interview panellists (who may include admissions tutors and supervisors) will probably consult your personal statement when preparing questions for you .

These people will be interested in slightly different things, but don’t worry: a good statement should be able to satisfy all of them.

What is a PhD statement of purpose?

If you’re applying for a PhD programme at an American grad school , you may be asked to provide a ‘PhD statement of purpose’.

A PhD statement of purpose (SOP) is your chance to demonstrate that you’re an ideal fit for the grad school in question.

It’s essentially the equivalent of a personal statement, but you should check the application details for your preferred institution to make sure you’re covering everything you need to. Always follow the conventions of the country that your prospective programme is in.

What should my PhD personal statement include?

The exact content of your PhD statement of purpose will depend on the kind of project you’re applying for and the requirements set by your university.

You should check the latter carefully. If the admission guidelines ask for your personal statement to refer to specific details (such as motivations, career goals, your choice of university, etc) make sure it does.

In general, your PhD statement should cover the following topics:

1. What is your background?

Keep this relevant (and fairly brief). Admissions tutors and supervisors will be interested in what’s brought you to choose a PhD, but they won’t need to know your life story (and you won’t have time to tell it to them).

If your interest in your subject was inspired in childhood, feel free to say so. But focus on the interest, not the childhood.

2. Why do you want to research this topic?

Every personal statement needs to explain your motivation for taking on a PhD, but what you include here will depend on the kind of PhD you want to take on.

If you’re also submitting a separate research proposal you should probably focus more on why you want to research a PhD than the specific topic you’re proposing to research (that, after all, is what your research proposal is for).

If you’re applying for an advertised project (and not proposing your own research) you should say something about your interest in that PhD: what interests you about it and what you can bring to it.

3. What academic experience do you have?

Your personal statement isn’t a CV, so avoid simply listing qualifications you’ve detailed elsewhere in your application (on your CV , for example).

But your personal statement is a chance to comment on your CV and explain the significance of those qualifications for your PhD application. This is vital if you want to stand out from the crowd.

Most PhD applicants are academically excellent. Be proud of your own results, but explain what those degrees (including specific units and dissertation projects) taught you about the subject you now want to research.

4. What extra-curricular experience do you have?

Another way to build upon your academic qualifications is to include other experience that has also demonstrated (or developed) relevant skills for your PhD.

Again, relevance is key. You may also wish to include one or two examples of your wider experience and achievements, but the focus should be on your suitability for PhD study.

Examples of your character and qualities may be relevant for some projects – particularly those with a charitable focus, human-interest angle or clear social benefits / outcomes. Otherwise, try to stick to relevant skills such as organisation, independent project management, self-motivation, etc.

5. What are your broader goals and motivations?

It’s a good idea to say something about how this PhD fits into your wider aims and career goals.

The specifics of what you plan to do after your doctorate may not matter to your admissions tutors, but the fact that you have plans and can show that a PhD fits them demonstrates that you’ve thought seriously about a doctorate and are likely to commit to overcoming the challenges it involves.

6. Are there any other areas or issues arising from your CV?

Your personal statement is a great opportunity to expand upon your CV.

That could mean providing more detail about academic degrees (as above). But it can also mean explaining any gaps or irregularities and anticipating some of the questions they might raise.

Perhaps you didn’t do as well as you hoped on your undergraduate degree, but went on to find your niche and succeed with a more specialised Masters. It’s OK to acknowledge and explain that if so – particularly if your Masters relates closely to your PhD.

Similarly, if there’s a gap in your CV, it’s better to explain it than leave any begged questions – particularly if there’s a perfectly good reason why you weren’t working or studying at that point.

How to write a PhD personal statement

Crafting a good PhD personal statement requires discipline and planning.

Writing about yourself may not seem particularly hard, but selecting, sequencing and organising your material can be harder than it seems. You know a lot about you, after all, but you only have so much time and space. Speaking of which:

How long should a PhD personal statement be?

A PhD personal statement should be 400-500 words, fitting on one side of an A4 sheet of paper. Your university may set a specific word count or maximum length, so make sure to check the application details.

Either way, you should aim to be disciplined and concise. There are two reasons for this:

One is that the ability to think – and express yourself – clearly is a key PhD skill in all subject areas. There’s no harm in demonstrating it now.

The other is that admissions tutors and prospective supervisors are people. People who may well have a lot of personal statements and applications to assess, besides yours. If you give them a long essay to read, they might not.

How should I structure my statement?

The sequence above actually provides a good ‘spine’ for a personal statement (with roughly a paragraph or two for each section):

Start with a quick introduction, explaining who you are and what your background is. Try to have this progress naturally into your research interests and your choice of PhD and university.

From there you can move on, logically, to expanding on your skills and experience and how these make you a good fit for the PhD in question. If you wish to comment on other areas of your CV, do so at appropriate points here.

Finally, you can conclude with a section on your longer-term goals and aspirations.

What writing style should I use?

The ‘personal’ aspect of your statement should extend to its content (it’s a document about you) but not necessarily to its tone (it’s also a professional document, part of an application for a specific role).

That doesn’t mean you can’t express yourself (your reader will want to see that you’re passionate about your subject and enthusiastic about PhD research) but keep things professional and relevant.

These guidelines should also extend to way you write. Try to stick to short sentences and express yourself with clarity and precision. After all, a personal statement that’s easy to read is more likely to be read.

What extra-curricular experience do you have?

What are your broader goals and motivations, are there any other areas or issues arising from your cv, learn more about phd applications.

There are several components of a PhD application , besides your personal statement or statement of purpose. Our guides cover references , research proposals , academic CVs , cover letters and more.

Tips for writing your PhD personal statement

Our postgrad newsletter shares courses, funding news, stories and advice.

Some of the ingredients for a great PhD statement vary from project to project and from student to student (it’s a personal statement, after all).

But the following general tips are still worth bearing in mind:

• Keep it relevant – Remember that this is a statement about you as a potential PhD student, not just a statement about you.
• Don’t duplicate your research proposal – A personal statement and a research proposal are two separate things. If you’re submitting both, make sure they cover different (and appropriate) ground.
• Be honest – If you’re lucky, the content of your personal statement could end up informing questions at your PhD interview . Don’t let embellishments or inaccuracies turn those into awkward questions.
• Look for guidelines – If your university asks you to cover something specific in your proposal, make sure you do so. The same applies to space limits or word counts.
• Think of the statement as a beginning, not an end – Resist the temptation to include everything, ‘just in case’. By focussing on the most important elements you’ll improve the clarity of your statement and increase your chance of covering other details at your interview.
• Address questions arising from elsewhere – If there’s a gap in your CV or an issue with one of your references, your personal statement can be an opportunity to (briefly) explain that.
• State, don’t plead - This isn’t a letter asking to be given a PhD place. It’s a statement showing why you should be given a PhD place. That’s even more important if there’s funding involved.
• Be confident – By the same token, don’t be afraid to demonstrate self-belief. Express your skills and achievements honestly, but be proud of what they represent.

Finally, before you submit your statement (and the rest of your PhD application ) ask someone who knows you to read it. They could be a friend, an employer, a current tutor or even one of your referees .

Either way, they’ll have a fresh perspective on your statement and will be able to tell you if it makes sense and comes across effectively. If they know you (and your work) well enough they may also be able to spot any details you’ve missed, or suggest ways to improve what you have included.

Ready to apply for a PhD?

Head over to our course search to find PhD opportunities and get in contact with universities.

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We've answered some of the most frequently asked questions about PhDs, covering course types, applications, funding and the benefits of further study.

Getting ready to apply for a PhD? Our guides explain research proposals, references and entry tests for doctoral programmes.

Understand what a successful PhD research proposal needs to include and how to go about writing one for your project application.

Our guide explains how to contact a potential PhD supervisor to discuss your proposal or ideas with them before applying.

A checklist of the things you'll need to do when making an international PhD application, from meeting the entry requirements to sorting out your visa.

What documents you need for a complete study abroad application, what they are and what they should and should not include.

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There are several conditions that must be met before you are awarded your research degree and can attend a graduation ceremony.

Research degree award

Your research degree award can only be confirmed once all the following conditions have been met:  

• Your examiners’ report has been approved by the Progression and Examinations Group at one of its meetings.
• Doctoral College Operations (DCO) has received confirmation that the internal examiner is satisfied with any corrections.
• You have deposited the full text version of your eThesis in White Rose eThesis Online .
• All tuition fees to the University have been paid.
• If applicable, all assessed or taught modules have been completed successfully.

In accordance with the decision of the Graduate Board no exceptions will be permitted and the staff in DCO have no discretion in these matters.  

After the Progression and Examinations Group meeting you can track progress towards award in GRAD via the ‘award checklist’. Once your name has appeared on a pass list you will receive an email to your University account confirming the award of your degree. Please allow five working days from the date of the meeting for this to happen (occasionally there may be queries that need to be resolved before award, which may extend this timeframe).

You can find out more about pass lists on the Examination process overview page of the For Students website . 

Subject to checks by the Graduation Team, you will be eligible to attend graduation ceremonies if you have completed your viva and been recommended for the award of your research degree, and your examiners’ report has been approved by the Progression and Examinations group. You do not need to have completed your corrections or deposited your eThesis. You should, however, still ensure that you meet your four or 12 week deadline for corrections, and that you deposit your eThesis within one month of your corrections being approved.

Further information about the arrangements for graduation and certificates can be found on the Graduation page on the For Students website .

Graduation-related deadlines for postgraduate researchers (PGRs) – December 2024

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Your degree certificate won’t be handed to you at graduation. Instead, this will be posted and emailed to you.  Please see further information on the Graduation certificate update page of the For Students website .

Award statement for research degrees 

After your name has appeared on a pass list, if you require evidence of your research degree award before you receive your official certificate, you may wish to request a statement. The statement will confirm: your period of study, school of registration, thesis title, submission date for examination, viva date and date of award. Statements can take up to four weeks to process (please note that if you apply for a statement before your name has appeared on a pass list, the four week period will begin from the date of the pass list). Statements for research degrees are free of charge for the first three months after your name has appeared on a pass list. Requests for research degree statements can be made to the thesis examination team  if evidence of your research degree is essential at that time eg for job applications. After three months, statements should be ordered through the online store on the University website and there is a small charge.

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PGRs holding a current Student Visa may be able to apply for the Graduate Visa once they have appeared on the pass list. Further information is available on the Working in the UK after study page of the For Students website .  

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How to write a PhD personal statement

16 th August 2022

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Not sure where to start when it comes to writing a PhD personal statement? We have put together a helpful article packed full of advice for writing your PhD personal statement (or cover letter), so you can approach the task with confidence. PhD personal statements are incredibly important bits of work, showing how suitable you are for studying within the department that you are applying to, so it’s wise to make sure you’ve done your absolute best – you only get to make your first impression once! Have a read of our useful PhD personal statement tips, make a cup of coffee, and start showing off your writing skills. 

What is a PhD personal statement?

How do i write a phd personal statement, how should i structure a phd personal statement, what should i write in a phd personal statement, what style should i use for a phd personal statement, how should i check my phd personal statement, phd cover letter and personal statement tips.

When applying for a PhD course, you may have to submit a research proposal as well as a personal statement or cover letter.

The proposal details your research project (such as proposed methods, results and planned analysis) and why there is value in exploring it.

Your personal statement outlines why you are suitable for doctoral study. In addition, it should say why you’re interested in the specific PhD with that particular department and how your experiences can add to it.

Sometimes you only have to submit a proposal or a personal statement. If you have to submit both, be sure that they clearly cover these separate areas.

Your PhD application is very different from an application you may have made before through UCAS. It goes directly to the university and needs to be fully tailored to what the department is looking for. It’s similar to a job application.

If you haven’t already, get in touch with the PhD supervisors or other contacts within the department you want to work in. They regularly need PhD students to support their work, so they will probably be happy to help you with your application.

When planning what to write, read all relevant information about the course and any guidance from the university – for example, lists of desirable criteria, or a person specifications. You can use each criterion as a heading and make bullet points on what to write under each one.

• An introduction that outlines why you want to do the PhD
• Middle paragraphs that say how your interests and experiences make you right for doctoral study, and why the university department is a suitable fit for you
• A concluding paragraph that summarises why you’re the best person for the course

Aim to explain how your skills and experience make you a suitable candidate for this particular PhD at this specific university.

• Why should you be completing research in this area?
• What are your strengths and achievements?
• What are your influences?
• Why is this university the right one for your project?
• Why do you want to work with this team?
• Make sure that you give evidence and not just state points, especially if the criteria are specific. What have you done to match the requirements?

You can discuss your wider achievements or extracurricular activities, but try to keep it suited to the PhD. If you want, add information about gaps in your CV or any other issues that are relevant.

If you're applying for a fellowship (a funded PhD), you should tailor your application to the funder. Spend enough time researching the fellowship so you talk about why it will be beneficial to you.

Aim to be concise in your writing. The university may set a limit on the word count, but if not, your personal statement should ideally be no longer than one side of A4. Be concise and make every word count.

Your statement should reflect the academic nature of the writing you’ll be doing in the PhD. For example, if your work is scientific, the people who will read your statement want to see that you can provide evidence and an explanation with each point you make.

For more information on how to write a personal statement, see our general postgraduate advice article.

Go to: How to write a postgraduate personal statement

When writing your application, spend plenty of time rewriting sections to perfect it. A good idea is to spend 20 minutes editing for every hour you spend writing. If you can, sit in a different environment to edit than where you write from, as this will help keep your mind clear and fresh.

Develop a strong academic CV – this is what admissions tutors will usually look at before reading your personal statement. Use the CV to list your experiences, and don’t repeat the same information in your statement.

Start putting your application together early, even as early as a year before the PhD will begin. This will give you time to contact supervisors. Your applications may be due in January before you start, so you’ll need to set aside plenty of time if you’re applying for funding.

Next: Read more about Mistakes to avoid on your postgraduate application

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• How To Write Your Postgraduate Personal Statement

Postgraduate study

• Qualification types
• What are the differences between an undergraduate and postgraduate personal statement?
• Why study postgraduate?

What's on this page?

What is a personal statement, preparing to write your personal statement, opening your personal statement, work experience and future plans, ending your personal statement.

Your postgraduate personal statement is your chance to get noticed for your expertise and experience you’ve gathered. It’s an important part of the application process as it allows you to talk about yourself and your passions and prove the value you can bring to your chosen university.

In this article, we’re going to talk you through how to write a postgraduate personal statement that stands out and gives you the best chance of being offered a place on the master’s programme you’re applying for. 

Shona Barrie – Director of Admissions, University of Stirling

You’ll have already written a personal statement for your undergraduate study, so you’ll know the importance of preparation. There are two things to think about when you’re planning:

• The practical and factual information you need to get across.
• Then, the more emotional, human parts of you that make you different to everyone else. 

Before you start writing, take some time to think about the key things you’d want your chosen university to know about you, and get them down on paper.

Questions to focus your mind

• Why have you chosen this master’s programme?
• Why are you passionate about this subject matter? 
• How has your undergraduate study influenced your decision to apply?
• Have you got any work experience that might help you?
• What life experiences have you had that you could talk about?
• What achievements can you talk about to support your application?
• Why do you want to study at this particular university?
• What plans and ambitions do you have for your future career?

Three top tips

Be specific.

Remember that a postgraduate personal statement needs you to talk specifically about the university you’ve chosen.

Demonstrate experience

Universities will be looking for postgraduate students who are able to demonstrate expertise in a particular subject – so include that.

Show what you've learnt

Tell the university about your university life as an undergraduate and include any clubs or societies you were involved in.

Admissions tutors will be reading a lot of personal statements so it’s important to grab their attention right from the start. 

You can find a full guide on How to start a personal statement: The attention grabber but here are the main things for you to think about. 

• Don’t overthink the opening . Just start by showing your enthusiasm for the subject, showcasing your knowledge and understanding, and sharing your ambitions of what you want to achieve.
• Avoid cliches . Remember, this opening part is simply about introducing yourself, so let the admissions tutor reading your personal statement get to know you. 
• Keep it relevant and simple . You’re limited on how much you can include so avoid long-winded explanations. Why use 50 words when ten can make your point?

Talking about the course

Now you’re ready to start talking about the course and subject you’re applying for.

There are four main areas you’ll need to cover in this section of your personal statement. 

• Why are you applying for this master’s?  Think about your undergraduate study and how this master’s will develop your expertise further. Do you have career aspirations this course will help you achieve?
• Why does the subject interest you? This is your chance to show your passion and really demonstrate who you are. If you have work or volunteering experiences related to the subject, include them here.
• Why do you think you’ll be an asset to the university?  Your personal and practical skills combined together create a unique picture of who you are and why you’ll be a successful postgraduate student, so include both. 
• How does your previous undergraduate study relate to the course? Showcase your enthusiasm for your current study and take the opportunity to demonstrate your skills and knowledge now, and how you want to build on that. 

Next, you’ll need to write about your personal skills and achievements.

Universities like to know the abilities you have that’ll help you on the course, or generally with life at university. Don’t forget to include evidence to back up why you’re so passionate about the programme you’ve chosen.

Your personal skills and achievements

Be bold and talk about the achievements you’re proud of., include positions of responsibility you hold, or have held, both in and out of school., what are the things that make you interesting, special, or unique .

Your work experience and future plans are important to include in your personal statement. You should share details of jobs, placements, work experience, or voluntary work, particularly if it's relevant to your course. 

• Try to link any experience to skills or qualities that’ll make you successful on your course.
• If you know what you’d like to do after as a career, explain how you plan to use the knowledge and experience you’ll gain.

It’s always good to connect the beginning of your statement to the end and a great way to reinforce what you said at the start. You want to see the ending as your chance to end in a way that’ll make the university remember you. 

This final part of your personal statement should emphasise the great points you’ve already made and answer the question of why you should be offered a place on the course. 

Read our full guide on How to finish your statement the right way .

Aakriti Labra – MSc Occupational and Organisational Psychology, University of Surrey

Now you’ve written your postgraduate personal statement, you’ll need to do a couple of final things before you submit it. 

• Have you proofread your personal statement? Don’t just rely on spellcheckers. We’d recommend reading it out loud as that’s a great way to spot any errors as well as checking it sounds like you. 
• Have you asked for feedback? Ask friends, family or your undergraduate university tutors to have a read through your personal statement and take their feedback on board.
• Check out our personal statement dos and don'ts Have a look at the common pitfalls against your final draft to make sure you haven't made any obvious errors!

Postgraduate

More advice.

Use the UCAS’ personal statement tool alongside this guide to help you structure your ideas.

Do you want to understand the differences between an undergraduate and postgraduate personal statement? Take a look at our guide here.

Why study a postgraduate course? Find out here.  

What funding is there for postgraduate courses?  

Sponsored articles UCAS Media Service

How to find a job, five reasons to sign up to the ucas newsletter, student finance for postgraduate loans.

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how to write a personal statement

Getting started.

The personal statement is your chance to show universities why you would make a great student on your course. It helps us get to know you and is an important factor in the application process. To help you get started, we’ve put together a guide below.

There are certain steps to follow in order to make sure you are ticking all the boxes when you write your personal statement. In this guide, we've broken it down into manageable sections so you can feel more confident before hitting ‘send’ on your UCAS application.

Our guide to writing your personal statement

The first thing to figure out is what the purpose of a personal statement is…

Your personal statement is your chance to show universities what you’re all about! You may be under the impression that getting into university is just about getting good grades, but that is only one element of why a university might make you an offer. Universities want people who have something about them, so they are also looking at your personality, what your interests are, what motivates you and your personal statement is your opportunity to tell them all about this.

Before you start writing…

The most important thing to do before you write your personal statement is to plan. Make sure that you carefully think about the different sections you want to include, the type of message you are trying to get across and the most important points you want to include. Once you have the framework, it's just a case of following your plan and ensuring that you use your own personal tone and writing style to show your personality.

Some helpful personal statement examples

Take a look at the examples below showing you how to complete the different sections of a personal statement. It’s important to note that these are just examples, here to inspire your own personal statement and should not be copied. Universities take plagiarism extremely seriously and there are advanced systems that can detect any form of copy and paste (even if you just change a few words). You don’t need to copy anyway, you’ve got this!

Writing your introduction

Your introduction should be a collection of short sentences and the aim is to catch the reader’s attention. Don’t waste time with lots of detailed long sentences where there is a chance your point could get lost.

• Tell the reader why you are excited about the course
• Tell the reader what your motivations are

The introduction is all about showcasing your enthusiasm so make sure that you explain why you are saying something. Don’t just say “I find politics really fascinating”. Tell them why you find it fascinating, what specifically interests you about it.

Below is an example of how to start a personal statement.

I have always been interested in helping people and sharing my knowledge to try and solve other people’s problems. Growing up as the eldest within a large family with lots of responsibilities, I have learnt to be kind, caring and to be a great listener. I understand that there are many issues affecting young people and I want to develop this knowledge by studying Childhood Studies at university. I have always wanted to work for a children’s charity to help give children from lower economic backgrounds the motivation to develop their skills to want to continue doing well at school. I believe that this degree will provide me with the experience and knowledge to do this and make a difference within the community. Childhood studies {"creator":{"jobTitle":"","name":"Childhood studies","@context":"http://schema.org","@type":"Person"},"text":"I have always been interested in helping people and sharing my knowledge to try and solve other people’s problems. Growing up as the eldest within a large family with lots of responsibilities, I have learnt to be kind, caring and to be a great listener. I understand that there are many issues affecting young people and I want to develop this knowledge by studying Childhood Studies at university.\n\nI have always wanted to work for a children’s charity to help give children from lower economic backgrounds the motivation to develop their skills to want to continue doing well at school. I believe that this degree will provide me with the experience and knowledge to do this and make a difference within the community.","@context":"http://schema.org","@type":"Quotation"}

Writing about your subject

This section is a key part of your personal statement. It is your opportunity to show the university why you have a passion for the subject you are applying for. Think about the following:

• Why do you like your chosen subject?
• Why are you suitable for this course?
• How do your previous or current studies relate to your chosen course?
• What activities do you do that are related to your chosen subject? For example, if you are applying for a sports course and you are part of a sports team, how does what you have learnt from the team give you additional skills for this course?
• Research the modules and course information and pick out sections that you can specifically talk about
• Show evidence that you understand the key factors of the course you are applying for

Below is an example of writing about your subject in a personal statement.

Storytelling is such an important part of everyday life. One element within English literature which I find the most fascinating is symbolism. I read a lot in my spare time and find it is a great way to relax and unwind. I love analysing the texts and working out how the green light in The Great Gatsby represents his dream and hope or how the blood in Shakespeare’s Macbeth represents Duncan’s murder and the guilt Macbeth feels about this. I am looking forward to developing this analytical skill further and learning about a variety of texts from different genres, outside of my initial circle of literature. I also write and perform my own poetry at open mic nights and have been particularly inspired by Sylvia Plath. Not only is literature a key part of my personal life but I also have experience studying and writing texts from my time studying English Literature for my A levels. This combination of passion, personal and academic experience is a great foundation to the study of English Literature at university. English Literature {"creator":{"jobTitle":"","name":"English Literature","@context":"http://schema.org","@type":"Person"},"text":"Storytelling is such an important part of everyday life. One element within English literature which I find the most fascinating is symbolism. I read a lot in my spare time and find it is a great way to relax and unwind.\nI love analysing the texts and working out how the green light in The Great Gatsby represents his dream and hope or how the blood in Shakespeare’s Macbeth represents Duncan’s murder and the guilt Macbeth feels about this. I am looking forward to developing this analytical skill further and learning about a variety of texts from different genres, outside of my initial circle of literature. I also write and perform my own poetry at open mic nights and have been particularly inspired by Sylvia Plath.\nNot only is literature a key part of my personal life but I also have experience studying and writing texts from my time studying English Literature for my A levels. This combination of passion, personal and academic experience is a great foundation to the study of English Literature at university.","@context":"http://schema.org","@type":"Quotation"}

Writing about your hobbies and work experience

When you mention any social activity or interest, try and think about how they showcase an element of your personality or how they reflect a skill relevant to the course. This section will tell a university about your character and the type of person you are.

You can also discuss any work experience relevant to the course or any volunteering projects you have participated in.  Where possible refer each point back to what you have learnt and how it could be relevant to the course.

Below is an example of writing about your hobbies and work experience in a personal statement.

Outside of my studies, I am a very confident rugby player. Rugby has always been a love of mine and is a sport that I have really worked hard to perfect. I not only compete on a regular basis, but I also now teach children on a Saturday at the local club. Playing rugby has taught me many skills including teamwork, mental and physical strength, commitment as well as the ability to motivate people. Working with children has also taught me a new skill set including patience, the ability to communicate with a wide range of audiences as well as problem solving. I know that these skills will be useful and can be developed on further whilst studying Sports Coaching at university and in my future career. {"creator":{"jobTitle":"","name":"","@context":"http://schema.org","@type":"Person"},"text":"Outside of my studies, I am a very confident rugby player. Rugby has always been a love of mine and is a sport that I have really worked hard to perfect. I not only compete on a regular basis, but I also now teach children on a Saturday at the local club.\nPlaying rugby has taught me many skills including teamwork, mental and physical strength, commitment as well as the ability to motivate people. Working with children has also taught me a new skill set including patience, the ability to communicate with a wide range of audiences as well as problem solving. I know that these skills will be useful and can be developed on further whilst studying Sports Coaching at university and in my future career.","@context":"http://schema.org","@type":"Quotation"}

Writing your conclusion

This is your chance to leave a lasting impression. Write something that will stand out, that the university will remember you by. This would usually be in the form of wrapping together all points made so far and adding a final unique spin. You may use this opportunity to reflect on your past and how that has led you to the decision to study at this university or specific course.

You could also talk about your future aspirations, how you think this course will help you achieve these or maybe you want to reflect on your chosen industry at the moment and think about how your ideas would help develop or change this for the better. Whatever you choose to end with, ensure that you keep it concise and powerful.

Below is an example of writing your conclusion in a personal statement.

"The fashion world is always adapting but one thing that isn’t changing is the way that fashion impacts on our planet. Global warming is real and it is happening. The fashion industry plays a major role in this with big companies promoting quick fashion trends and excessive use of plastic packaging. Although more and more people are becoming aware of these issues, there are still not enough options for people to buy into sustainable fashion. By studying Fashion at university and gaining a full understanding of the industry, I want to be able to make a change. One of the main issues with sustainable clothing is the limitations it provides and so my future goals is to create a popular clothing company which provides up to date designs and current trends, that is easily accessible but is sustainable and good for our planet." Fashion {"creator":{"jobTitle":"","name":"Fashion","@context":"http://schema.org","@type":"Person"},"text":"\"The fashion world is always adapting but one thing that isnt changing is the way that fashion impacts on our planet. Global warming is real and it is happening. The fashion industry plays a major role in this with big companies promoting quick fashion trends and excessive use of plastic packaging. Although more and more people are becoming aware of these issues, there are still not enough options for people to buy into sustainable fashion.\nBy studying Fashion at university and gaining a full understanding of the industry, I want to be able to make a change. One of the main issues with sustainable clothing is the limitations it provides and so my future goals is to create a popular clothing company which provides up to date designs and current trends, that is easily accessible but is sustainable and good for our planet.\"","@context":"http://schema.org","@type":"Quotation"}

Before you submit your application…

Once you have finished, leave it for a day before proofing and editing so that you are approaching it with a fresh pair of eyes.

• Spell check and grammar check - it may sound simple, but it’s extremely important and showcases a professional approach
• Make sure that you have highlighted your strengths throughout
• Ensure that everything you have said has a reason for mentioning it. Anything that seems “random” or “empty rambling” should be removed
• Ensure that you have referred to the correct course that you are applying for
• Make sure your personality shines through
• Ask other people like a friend, parent or teacher to read it, to give advice and another perspective

Finally, make sure that you are happy with it! This is your application and your chance to showcase yourself to the best of your ability. Give it your best shot!

Your personal statement dos and don'ts checklist

• Be positive. Enthusiasm for your course goes a long way and could help land you a place on it
• Ask friends and family for feedback. Don’t be worried if they point out a few flaws. It’s all part of the process and will help ensure your statement is as good as it can be
• Proof it before you send it (your friends, family or a teacher could also help with this too) – grammatical and spelling mistakes could ruin a great effort. Avoid repetition and be careful of using American spellings and text speak
• Know your strengths and use them to stand out. You want to reflect on what you have learnt so far (both in education and in your personal life) and explain why it will help you on the course. Personal interests, hobbies and life experiences are always a plus and make your statement original
• Tailor it to the course you are applying to. Research the skills required for the course and show you have them and know how to apply these
• Explain what you will gain from the course and what the course will gain from you
• Stick to the character and line limit – you have 4,000 characters and 47 lines. To help with this, be clear and concise – big words and long sentences do not usually work. Instead, ensure that you have a clear, easy-to-read structure
• Talk about the career path you would like to take and why you think the course will help you achieve it
• Avoid generic statements and clichés, such as “I’ve always wanted to…” or “For as long as I can remember I have wanted to be a…”
• Keep a copy for future reference. Some courses have interviews and you may be asked to talk more about something you have mentioned
• All personal statements are checked for similarity – don’t copy or share yours as plagiarism could affect the outcome of your application. Be original
• Rely on a spellchecker – it is not as reliable as proofing your statement yourself
• Try to include all your qualities. Instead focus on the ones you are most proud of
• Procrastinate or leave it to the last minute – your statement could end up missing valuable information and you want to leave enough time for proofing
• Talk about hobbies that are too general or irrelevant to your course – they will not make you stand out
• Just list your achievements – focus on the skills you’ve learned from any achievements and why they will help you on the course
• Treat it as a list of skills and interests – without context and reasoning they will lose their value
• Exaggerate or make things up – it is much easier to get caught out than you might think
• Repeat yourself. You’ve only got 4,000 characters, so don’t waste any saying something you’ve already covered
• Be shy. This is your opportunity to showcase why you 

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Leeds University Personal Statements

These UCAS personal statements have been kindly provided by students applying to University of Leeds. You can click on one of the links below to view the entire statement and find out if the applicant was offered a place.

You can also view our entire collection of personal statements or view personal statements for application at other universities .

Biomedical Science/Neuroscience Personal Statement Example The limitless potential of the life sciences and the opportunity for world-changing breakthroughs are both exciting and compelling to me. Upon hearing about a disease for the first time, I am eager to find out more about the precise ways in which it affects the body, which has led me to spend much time researching the details of various diseases...

Geology Personal Statement Example 1 My interest in the natural world started early in my life. At the age of 4 and at my first school years, my favorite trip was at the Greek Natural History museum where I admired the shinny purple stones, the giraffe, the lions, and most of all, the huge Triceratops skeleton...

International Relations Personal Statement Example Being of Pakistani heritage means I am at the heart of multiculturalism that many would say defines Britain today. Growing up as a British Asian in the last decade has allowed me to experience life embedded in a world of politics, not only from a Western perspective but also that of other cultures...

History Personal Statement Example 5 As the descendant of an Auschwitz survivor, my family history allows me to understand the influences that the Second World War has had on people's families and the victims of the Nazi regime in occupied Poland...

Physics Personal Statement Example 4 The elegance of the scientific subjects, in particular physics is what has established my eagerness for a deeper insight into the subject. What sets physics apart from the other sciences, in my opinion, is that it can be practically applied to all instances of life...

Languages Personal Statement Example 10 At the age of eight, a friend introduced me to Guy Hamilton's 1969 film 'Battle of Britain'. This instilled in me two things: my doomed childhood ambition to be a Spitfire pilot, long since grudgingly abandoned, but also, perhaps ironically, a love for the sound and feel of the German language that has stayed with me all through the intervening decade...

English Literature Personal Statement Example 1 When I saw Gatz, John Collin's eight hour interpretation of The Great Gatsby, I noticed that Fitzgerald changes the colour of Daisy's hair every time he describes it. It is "like a dash of blue paint", "yellowy" like her daughters and then "dark, shining"...

French and Italian Personal Statement Example 1 I see speaking a foreign language as a key to a door opening up a new world of possibilities and opportunities. As a child my mother insisted I learned another language, she told me to grab any possible open window for a life beyond my own imagination...

Physics & Astrophysics Personal Statement Example I have always considered Physics to be a captivating area of study, whether it is a question of how aspects of it work, or indeed why they work. As such, I have found deep fascination in studying Physics, as it is able to provide answers (as well as evidence) to such queries...

Physics Personal Statement Example (International Student) 1 Some people believe there is no universal key to the mysteries of the world, but I am convinced otherwise. Since early childhood when my parents, both physicists by training, patiently answered all my why-questions and encouraged me in my fascination with astronomy, I have been thinking of Physics as the perfect science that can unveil all the secrets that fascinate humanity...

Maths and Economics Personal Statement Example 1 By skimming through a daily broadsheet or examining journals such as ‘The Economist’ it is clear to see that economic issues affect everyone both locally as well as on a global scale. However, I have been interested by Mathematics for many years and have found my enjoyment for it has increased as the depth of my understanding has grown...

English Personal Statement Example 22 What I enjoy above all else in a piece of literature is the feeling that it has brought about change, either in me or in some wider context. Literature which offers the opportunity for an adapted way of living or thinking, however slight, is I think a thing to be kept and treasured in our intellects...

Physiology and Medical Sciences Personal Statement Example The human body is arguably the most complex life form that has ever existed. Studying how the body works helps us to comprehend the many processes that maintain health and find better treatment for diseases...

English Personal Statement Example 23 My love of literature is rooted in the connection it gives us to centuries of ideas, giving us the ability to converse with ghosts, linking us with the greatest and most eloquent minds in history; as Bovee puts it, “books are embalmed minds”...

Biomedical Engineering Personal Statement Example 2 Thanks to my mother's profession, I have had a front row seat in observing the radical changes made in the medical field with the introduction of new devices. I have also seen the beneficial effects these developments have had on the lives of people living in the less affluent countries in the Middle East; these observations coupled with my interest in mechanics have inspired me to pursue a career in biomedical engineering...

Computer Science Personal Statement Example 45 Advances in computer and information technology over the past few decades have brought about revolution in science, medicine, education, business, and entertainment. I wish to be part of the future revolution and that is why I want to study computer science...

Medicine Personal Statement Example 43 The ever-evolving nature of medical science and the certainty that we will know more about the many different healthcare practices has inspired me to pursue a career in medicine. My dedication to studying medicine has been confirmed by the experience I have gained in different hospitals and practices and I look forward to the academic discipline and challenges that will arise...

English Personal Statement Example 26 Growing up reading Roald Dahl, I saw elements of myself in Matilda, as ever since I can remember, I have loved reading. My passion for English could be seen by those around me, as a child, having taught myself to read and write by the time I was 4 years old, and there was never any doubt that I would go on to pursue a career in English...

Chemical Engineering Personal Statement Example 8 From the very first day of college I’ve been gradually developing a great interest in all aspects of Chemistry and Maths. Having recently read, “Beyond the Molecular Frontier: Challenges for Chemistry and Chemical Engineering” I have discovered what an imperative role chemists and chemical engineers play in industry and how, by working together, they contribute to an improved future...

Geography Personal Statement Example 14 If I said ‘I’ve loved geography since an early age’, I’d be lying. Although I loved our family holidays, which have always been seen as expeditions, I didn’t think it was ‘geography’ until I started using places I’d been to as examples in geography lessons...

Geography Personal Statement Example (Human/Environmental) The possibility of the human race’s days being numbered by our destructive lifestyles, as planted in my mind by Al Gore’s sensationalised and controversial ‘The Inconvenient Truth’, has fuelled my interest in the global warming phenomenon, forcing me to question society’s reluctance to tackle it and realise the worldwide impact of each of our daily lives...

Aeronautical Engineering Personal Statement Example 1 The rapid progress and achievements in aircraft technologies has motivated me to follow a career in aeronautical engineering as it plays a very significant role in today's modern world. It is fascinating to see how engineers apply scientific and mathematical principles to everyday situations like the design, manufacture and operation of efficient structures, machines, processes and systems...

Natural Science/Geology Personal Statement Example The sheer intricacy of our planet is something that has always left me in utter amazement. From the creation of mountains to the way we as humans evolved. Science is a deep rooted love that has grown since I was a young child...

English Literature and Sociology Personal Statement Example Since I have begun to study A Level English Literature, it is the way in which writers use expression within their writing to influence and manipulate the reader's emotions which has most intrigued me...

Physics Personal Statement Example 13 Attending university has been a lifelong dream of mine; ever since my childhood, I have been told that I should, and I have always agreed with the sentiment. If I were asked to pin down an exact reason, however, I would be forced to confess that I do not know - I just enjoy learning new things and exercising my mind...

Mechanical Engineering Personal Statement Example 16 Being born as a son to two former engineers, I was raised in an environment where curiosity is treasured and nurtured. It wasn't surprising that as I became older, my fascination towards science and technology also grew along with me...

History & Politics Personal Statement Example For years I have listened to my family discussing the latest political and historical issues on the news and I have been fascinated and awed by the fact that there was never a wrong or right answer, decision or explanation to a given problem...

Civil Engineering Personal Statement Example 16 Civil engineering is a profession that is growing and evolving at a fast pace. Civil engineers play a major role in the world meeting the high demand for new buildings and improved infrastructure. I am keen to become a Civil Engineer and I believe I have the talents to be successful in this profession...

Dentistry Personal Statement Example 10 My interest in Dentistry initially arose from my own experiences with Dentists. When I was younger, I suffered from cyclic neutropenia which led to many dental problems, and was always grateful to my dentist and dental hygienist for all their help...

English Literature & History Personal Statement Example 1 Throughout my education, I have constantly been captivated and inspired by my History and English studies. I have recognised how the two disciplines entwine and coexist to create an invaluable tool with which to explore the past and future...

Medicine Personal Statement Example 67 Studying the history of medicine made me realise what a huge impact doctors have on people’s lives. I’ve always wanted a career involving people as I’m fascinated by our unique nature and the human body itself...

Natural Sciences Personal Statement Example 4 Why and How? I believe these are the two most important question words as they express mankind’s unquenchable thirst for knowledge, and they have lain the foundation of sciences and have helped us find answers and solutions to problems throughout history from the domestication of fire to Darwin’s theory of evolution, to landing on the moon and so on...

Mathematics Personal Statement Example 16 I have always had a passion and a thorough understanding of the subject of Mathematics. This helped me to progress academically because, unlike a lot of people, I have not had to worry about passing my GCSE Maths exams...

Spanish and Chinese Personal Statement Example My passion for Modern Foreign Languages is what drives me to pursue a degree in Chinese and Spanish; my fascination and curiosity to explore the cultures of not only China and East Asia, but also of the Hispanic world, motivate me to learn and discover the languages of these regions...

Law Personal Statement Example 84 The reason I want to study law, is that it has always intrigued me; there’s never been any other option for me it has always been law. I am captivated in the development of the law as it interests me the way the law is changing around the needs of civilisation...

Sociology Personal Statement Example 13 Being able to engage and immerse myself in a thought-provoking subject such as Sociology has allowed me to develop a desire to delve even deeper into it at an advanced level. As unpredictable liberated beings, having a means of examining the connections between humans and social organization through Sociology has enabled me to comprehend human behaviour and social stratification; to question rather than accept; allowing me to appreciate the inquisitiveness nature, which I believe is the essence of this subject...

Geography Personal Statement Example 19 I could say that my love of Geography started in school, but in fact holidays to foreign lands have had a more significant impact on me. From the volcanic badlands of Lanzarote's Timanfaya, to the unique beauty of Ngorongoro crater in Tanzania, Geography and its impact on nature and human development have awed me...

Biological Sciences Personal Statement Example 3 When I was in primary school I would take pens apart to put them back together, so that I could see how every small piece fits together to create a whole working object, and as I furthered my education my focus shifted to the w orld around me...

Politics, Philosophy & Economics (PPE) Personal Statement Example 3 In this day and age virtually every aspect of our lives may be considered political. My passion to study Politics stems from this tenet and a belief that a comprehension of Politics is integral to understanding the current state of humanity...

Chemistry Personal Statement Example 18 Chemistry explores the properties of all matter and energy in our universe, which eventually leads to breakthroughs that benefit mankind, ranging from how to prevent food from decomposing to understanding what chemicals can help or harm you...

Civil Engineering Personal Statement Example 17 My decision to study engineering stems from a desire to contribute to the evolution of society through a process that does not just define our environment but our era. My personal inspiration is the Segovia aqueduct, an 800m long, 30 metre high Roman marvel which still stands today...

Electrical and Electronic Engineering Personal Statement Example 3 Curiosity has always been my nature since I was young and I was never afraid to know more as I really like challenges. This is why I have a keen interest in science ever since I started formal education, it explains the hows and whys in almost anything and everything...

• University specific personal statements
• All personal statements

• Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Cultures
• School of English
• Undergraduate

Your personal statement

As part of your application to Leeds, you'll be asked to submit a personal statement of around 4,000 characters. This is a great opportunity to show that you have the passion, drive, and imagination to study with us.

Follow these tips to find out what makes a great personal statement - you can find more information about how to apply on the course page for your chosen degree.

Be thorough

Read up on the content of your chosen course and use it to inform your application. Check your grammar, spelling and punctuation very carefully.

If you're applying for a course which covers more than one subject area think about how those subjects interact with and complement each other; your course will constantly draw connections between them, so your application should demonstrate your ability to do the same.

Be specific

Passion for your subject is vital for studying at university level, and your application should reflect this. But don't forget to include specific detail about why that subject excites and challenges you.

You could tell us about a book or stage production you've encountered recently. What did you find interesting about them, and what themes or devices have you identified?

Evidence your abilities

Try to demonstrate your skills and abilities in English. Showcase your analytical skills in relation to texts and art forms you’ve explored beyond your A-Level studies.

We'd like to hear how you've engaged with your chosen subject so far through essays, productions, or other projects. But remember, you should keep information about extra-curricular activities to a minimum unless they relate directly to your subject.

Keep it simple 

A full, detailed and well-written statement will stand out in all the right ways. While we value creativity, you should prioritise showing us evidence of your critical thinking about the subject(s) you want to study, whether that's literature, language, creative writing, or theatre.

Aimen Mahmood BA English Literature

I have not disliked one moment of my degree, and most of the credit goes to the incredible teaching staff; the quality of teaching here is unparalleled. I have never met people who are more passionate about their careers and about imparting knowledge. Their passion becomes my passion every time.

Department of Finance

Select Section

PhD personal statement and resume

You should prepare your personal statement in advance to be uploaded into the online application via the application tab titled “Supplemental.” In review of your personal statement, the admissions committee will seek evidence of your maturity, leadership, strength of purpose, academic potential and ability to communicate clearly and professionally. Please be concise, yet thorough.

The statement should be no more than two to four pages long. Ensure the document file is not password protected and is in .doc, .pdf or .txt format. Please note that special fonts and/or formats (italics, bold, etc.) may be lost during submission. Be sure to carefully proofread your statement prior to submission.

Distinguish yourself

Submission of the personal statement allows you an opportunity to highlight the qualities and experiences that distinguish you as a prospective W. P. Carey doctoral student. Applicants are requested to provide information pertaining to the following areas as part of their statement:

• Your name as it will appear on the ASU Graduate College application
• The ASU Application Reference Number assigned to you upon submission of your online application and/or your 10-digit ASU Identification Number
• Your personal background, including formative events and circumstances such as extracurricular activities, honors, achievements and community activities
• Work experience, including credentials you have from your hands-on and professional experiences
• Descriptions of the research projects you have conducted and your personal research interests
• Other personal attributes and qualities
• Qualifications and reasons for interest in the W. P. Carey PhD in business administration with a specialization in finance
• How obtaining a PhD will help you achieve your personal career goals and objectives

Employment summary/resume

You should prepare your resume information in advance to be uploaded into the online application via the application tab titled “Additional Info.” Ensure the document file is not password protected and is in .doc, pdf or .txt format. Please note that special fonts and/or formats (italics, bold, etc.) may be lost during submission. Be sure to carefully proofread your statement prior to submission.

Resumes should include:

• Job titles and positions held, key responsibilities and accomplishments for each position, and salary history (optional)
• Honors, awards, certificates, professional organizations, volunteer activities and community involvement
• Computer skills, multilingual abilities and overseas travel or work experience
• Academic background, including schools attended and degrees earned

Answers to additional questions

You should be prepared with responses that describe what qualifies you to meet the W. P. Carey School of Business expectation that all new students have proficiency in using a computer spreadsheet, programming and college-level business calculus / statistics. Responses of 255 characters or less are required regarding two categories, (1) Computer Competency and (2) Calculus / Statistical Competency, and should include class number, course titles, grades, institution name, etc.

How to apply for Masters courses   Applying for Masters courses

Applications for Masters courses are submitted online and you will be able to track your application at each stage of the process.

Before you apply, we recommend you take some time to read our  Taught Admissions Policy for 2024/25  or Admissions Policy 2025-26 .

International applicants:  If you are an international applicant, we recommend you use the services of our overseas representatives to make your application. We also advise that you visit the UK government website  to check the visa requirements for studying in the UK.

Step 1 – find your course

Our full list of Masters courses can be found in Course Search . Course start dates and application deadlines vary, so please check the details of your chosen course before applying. If no deadline is given, we advise applying by July where possible, particularly for international applicants who will require a visa to study in the UK. If you intend to apply for funding, we advise that you submit your course application at least two months before any specific scholarship deadline.

Before you apply, please make sure that you will be able to meet the following requirements:

• the academic entry requirements for your course, as listed on  Course Search . If you have studied overseas, check the equivalent international entry requirements
• the University’s English language requirements
• the financial requirements

If you are still studying for the appropriate qualifications and have not yet met the entry requirements, you can usually still apply for a course. You may receive an offer of a place on the condition that you meet the requirements before you start your course.

Step 2 – apply

Applications open each October for courses starting in the next academic year.

To apply, submit an application using our online application portal . You will be able to log in and track the progress of your application at any time. There is no application fee.

If you experience any difficulties, please  email the Admissions Enquiries team on [email protected] .

Saving your application

You can save your application at any point so you do not need to fully complete it in one session. However, your application may be deleted after 180 days if you do not submit it within this time.

Supporting documentation

Make sure you have all your supporting documents scanned and ready to upload with your online application. All documents should be in English, or accompanied by certified translations into English.

Required documents include:

• your degree certificate and academic transcripts (or a partial/interim transcript, if you are still studying). Please also include a grading scale if this is not clear from your transcripts
• evidence of your English language proficiency. If you do not yet hold a suitable qualification, please select the option ‘No English Language Test’ when applying
• scanned copies of any UK visas/permits/CASs you currently hold or have previously held, if you are applying as an international student.

Depending on the course you apply for, you may be asked to provide additional documents, such as:

• a personal statement
• a portfolio
• translation tests.

If your course requires a personal statement, you will find guidance within the application form. We advise that you write your statement separately and then either upload it as a document or copy the text into the application.

If your course does not require additional documents, there will be no option to provide them in the application form and there is no need to submit them separately.

When you apply, you may be required to nominate two referees who have knowledge of your academic and/or professional ability. They should usually be a lecturer or supervisor at your last educational institution. However, if you have been out of education for more than five years or are applying with evidence of work experience, it may be appropriate to choose work-related referees. It is your responsibility to ensure that the referees you nominate are able and willing to provide a reference for you.

For some courses, you may be required to provide reference letters at the point of application in addition to the details of your referees. Please check Course Search for any specific requirements for your course.

When reference letters are not required at the point of application, they will not be requested automatically from your referees when your application is submitted. Instead, the admissions team will first assess your application to see if a decision can be made without references. If references are needed, the admissions team will then email your referees using the details you provided.

Please note that for some courses we do not require any references, so you will not be asked to provide any referee details when you apply and there is no need to provide them separately.

Declaring a criminal conviction

If you have an unspent criminal conviction, you may need to declare it to us. This is usually required when we make you an offer that you wish to accept. For a small number of our courses, you will need to declare it when you apply. Having a criminal conviction will only rarely stop you from studying at Leeds. Find out more about declaring a criminal conviction .

Step 3 – we process your application

Your academic school may contact you directly if they require any further information or wish to invite you for an interview or audition. You will receive an email asking you to check your applicant portal for more details.

For some courses, we use a staged admissions process. This means that your application will be assessed against all the other applications received for the course during a specific period of time. You will receive a decision by a set date based on when you applied. If you have applied to study with one of the following academic schools, please check their website for information on whether a staged admissions process is in place for your course and when to expect a decision:

• Business School
• Business School – MBA
• School of Civil Engineering
• School of Computing
• School of Design
• School of Earth and Environment
• School of Electronic and Electrical Engineering
• School of Geography
• School of Law
• School of Mathematics
• School of Media and Communication
• School of Performance and Cultural Industries

For courses where we do not assess applications in stages, we aim to make decisions within six to eight weeks if all necessary documents have been received. However, due to a very high volume of applications it may take longer for your application to be reviewed. We will contact you as soon as an update is available.

If you have a scholarship deadline, please notify your academic school using the My Enquiries section of our online application portal and they will try to make a decision in time, where possible.

Step 4 – we let you know our decision

We will notify you of the outcome of your application by email and in the portal. If your application is successful, you will be able to view your offer letter in the Decisions section of  our online application portal . If your offer is unconditional, we will also send a copy of your offer letter by post.

Occasionally, the academic school may think that it is more appropriate to offer you a place on a different Masters course. In this case, we will notify you of a change of course offer and you will be able to see the details by logging in to your applicant portal.

Step 5 – you reply to the offer and meet any deadlines

If you receive an offer, you can accept it in our online application portal .

If your offer is conditional, you must typically meet your offer conditions by six weeks before the start date of the course. If you are an international applicant and you accept an unconditional offer, we will ask you to  pay a tuition fee deposit or provide appropriate exemption evidence  by four weeks before the start date of your course.

If you will be taking a pre-sessional English language course at our Language Centre before your Masters degree, different deadlines apply. For more details, please see our deadlines for pre-sessional English courses .

If you are not able to join the course this year and would like to join us for a future intake, you will need to reapply as we do not permit deferrals.

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