UCAS Personal Statement Reform in 2025

UCAS Personal Statement Reform in 2025 

The UCAS personal statement has long been an essential component of the UK university application process. However, change is on the way. Starting in 2025, UCAS will be introducing significant reforms to how personal statements are written and evaluated. This is the first change to UCAS personal statements since 1993!

For students planning to apply to universities in the UK, understanding these changes will be crucial to ensuring their applications stand out. In this article, we will break down the upcoming changes, what they mean for you, and how Dukes Plus can help you navigate the new landscape and write a winning personal statement.

The History of UCAS Personal Statements 

For decades, the personal statement has been a pivotal part of the university admissions process. Students have used it to showcase their passion for their chosen subject, highlight their achievements, and convey their potential. However, the personal statement has also been criticised for its subjectivity and the inequalities it can perpetuate.

What is the 2025 UCAS Personal Statement Reform? 

In response to these concerns, UCAS has announced significant changes that will take effect in 2025. The most notable change is the move away from the traditional free-form personal statement. This will be replaced with a new format that will be structured around a series of pre-set questions. 

Key Aspects of the Reform

Here are some key aspects of the 2025 reform: 

• Standardised questions: Applicants will now respond to a set of questions instead of writing an open-ended personal statement. These questions will focus on areas such as academic interests, extracurricular activities, and career aspirations. 

• Clarity for students: The new format is designed to be clearer and more focused, reducing the ambiguity that some students have previously struggled with. 

The three questions will be: 

• Why do you want to study this course or subject? 

• How have your qualifications and studies helped you to prepare for this course or subject? 

• What else have you done to prepare outside of education, and why are these experiences useful? 

The Impact of the Reform on Applicants 

While the 2025 UCAS personal statement reform is a welcome change for many, it also brings new challenges for students. For those accustomed to crafting detailed personal narratives, this shift to a more structured format may feel restrictive. However, this is also an opportunity to showcase your strengths more concisely. And, for competitive courses, the new system will still require applicants to stand out – just in a more focused and targeted way.

The hope is that these changes will create a more equitable process, giving all applicants an equal chance to highlight their abilities and potential. 

Academic advisors and educators are already weighing in on the implications of these changes. Many believe that while the reform will help level the playing field, students will need to adjust to the new format by honing different skills, such as responding succinctly and providing clear, impactful answers. 

How Can Dukes Plus Help You Prepare? 

At Dukes Plus, we understand that the 2025 UCAS personal statement reform presents new challenges for students. That’s why we’re here to provide expert guidance every step of the way! 

Our advisors are well-versed in the latest changes, and can guide you through them. They can help you write responses that highlight your strengths and stand out in a crowded field. Whether you’re preparing for competitive courses or simply want to ensure your answers are as strong as they can be, we offer a range of services tailored to your needs. 

Here’s how we can support you: 

• Personalised tutoring: We’ll help you develop the skills needed to respond effectively to the new question-based format, focusing on clarity, conciseness, and impact. 

• SAT and ACT Preparation: For students applying to both UK and US universities, we offer comprehensive support in preparing for standardised tests like the SAT and ACT. Our tailored programs ensure you’re fully prepared for every aspect of the application process. 

• US Ivy League applications support: If you’re applying to Ivy League schools, we provide specialised guidance to help you navigate the unique demands of US applications, including essay writing, interview preparation, and more. 

With our proven track record of success, Dukes Plus is your go-to partner in achieving your academic goals. 

Conclusion 

The UCAS personal statement reform of 2025 will reshape the university admissions process, creating both new opportunities and challenges for applicants. While the new format aims to level the playing field, students will need to adapt and develop new skills to succeed. 

At Dukes Plus, we’re committed to helping you navigate these changes and make your university application stand out. With our expert guidance and personalised support, we’ll make sure you’re well-prepared to meet the demands of the new personal statement format! 

Speak to an Admissions Expert 

Sources  

Personal statements for 2026 entry onwards | Undergraduate | UCAS