chevening personal statement

Scholarships

How To Write Personal Statement For Chevening Scholarship

8 minute read

September 26, 2023
No comments

Every year, the Chevening Scholarship provides countless individuals with the opportunity to pursue their dreams of higher education in the United Kingdom. However, securing this prestigious scholarship is no small feat. One of the pivotal elements in your Chevening application is the Personal Statement . This document serves as a window into your life, aspirations, and values. In this guide, we’ll explore the essential aspects of crafting a compelling Personal Statement that can make the difference between a rejection and a life-changing scholarship.

To write an effective personal statement, start by researching the Chevening program thoroughly to understand its mission and values. Reflect on your personal and professional journey to identify key experiences that have shaped you. Writing a personal statement for the Chevening Scholarship is a crucial step in the application process, and it requires careful consideration and planning. This statement serves as your opportunity to present a compelling narrative that showcases your unique experiences, aspirations, and commitment to Chevening’s values. To write an effective personal statement, start by researching the Chevening program thoroughly to understand its mission and values. Reflect on your personal and professional journey to identify key experiences that have shaped you.

Craft a well-organized statement that tells your story, highlights your achievements and leadership experiences, and demonstrates how you align with Chevening’s goals. Additionally, customize your statement for specific course choices if applicable, and seek feedback from trusted individuals to ensure clarity and conciseness. A thoughtfully written personal statement can make a significant difference in your Chevening Scholarship application, setting you on the path to pursuing higher education in the United Kingdom and contributing positively to your home country’s development.

Understanding the Chevening Personal Statement

The Chevening Personal Statement is more than just a few paragraphs about yourself. It’s your chance to shine, showcasing why you’re the perfect candidate for this scholarship. But before we delve into the art of crafting an outstanding statement, let’s lay the groundwork.

Length and Format Requirements: Chevening sets specific guidelines for the length and format of your Personal Statement. You must adhere to these requirements diligently to avoid any complications during the application process.

Key Components of a Personal Statement: The Personal Statement comprises crucial elements that tell your unique story. These include your background, achievements, aspirations, leadership experiences, and how you align with Chevening’s values. Mastering these components is pivotal to your success.

Crafting an Engaging Personal Statement

Your Personal Statement is your chance to captivate the Chevening selection committee and make them believe in your potential. It’s the most critical piece of the puzzle, and it deserves your utmost attention.

Telling Your Story

The journey to a Chevening Scholarship often starts with your own life story. Sharing your background and experiences allows the committee to understand where you come from and how you’ve evolved. It also lays the foundation for showcasing your suitability for the scholarship.

-Discuss Your Background: Offer insights into your personal and academic journey. What events and experiences have shaped you into the person you are today? Highlight any challenges you’ve overcome , as they demonstrate resilience and determination.

Highlight Achievements and Aspirations: Your achievements are the proof of your capabilities. They showcase your dedication and excellence. Furthermore, your aspirations reveal your vision for the future. How do you plan to utilize the Chevening Scholarship to achieve your goals? Make it clear, concise, and compelling.

Demonstrating Leadership and Impact

Chevening scholars are expected to be future leaders who can make a positive impact on their home countries and the world. To convince the committee that you are such a candidate, you need to demonstrate your leadership abilities and your capacity to create meaningful change.

Discuss Leadership Experiences: Share instances where you assumed leadership roles, whether in academics, work, or community projects. Detail your responsibilities, challenges faced, and the outcomes achieved.

Show How You’ve Made a Positive Impact: Leadership is not just about titles; it’s about influence and impact. Highlight how your leadership efforts have resulted in tangible, positive changes in your community, workplace, or academic pursuits.

Aligning with Chevening Values

Chevening Scholars are expected to embody the program’s values of leadership, networking, and academic excellence. You must not only meet these values but also demonstrate your commitment to them.

Emphasize Your Commitment to Chevening’s Values: Explain how your experiences and aspirations align with Chevening’s core values. Showcase your dedication to leadership, your enthusiasm for building networks, and your pursuit of academic excellence.

Contribute to the Chevening Community: Describe how you plan to give back to the Chevening community and how you will use your scholarship to create positive changes in your home country.

The Writing Process

Stress the Need for Careful Planning and Drafting: Before you start writing your Chevening Personal Statement, it’s crucial to understand that this is not a task to be rushed. Careful planning and meticulous drafting are essential to create a compelling and effective statement.

Pre-writing Steps

Research the Chevening Program and Its Values: To write a statement that resonates with the selection committee, you need a deep understanding of the Chevening program, its mission, values, and goals . Conduct thorough research to gather this essential information.

Reflect on Your Personal and Professional Experiences: Take time to introspect and reflect on your life journey. What pivotal moments, challenges, or accomplishments have defined your path? How have your personal and professional experiences shaped your aspirations and values?

Drafting and Revising

Start with a Strong Opening: The beginning of your Personal Statement sets the tone. Craft an engaging and memorable opening that grabs the reader’s attention and introduces the core theme of your statement.

Organize Your Statement Effectively: Ensure a logical flow throughout your statement. Organize your content in a way that leads the reader through your story and key points seamlessly.

Revise for Clarity and Conciseness: Clarity is paramount. Review your draft multiple times, focusing on sentence structure, grammar, and vocabulary. Trim unnecessary words to ensure your statement is concise and impactful.

Showcasing Skills and Achievements

Explain the Significance of Highlighting Skills and Achievements: Your skills and achievements are like the evidence that supports your candidacy. They substantiate your claims and demonstrate your qualifications for the Chevening Scholarship.

Academic and Professional Achievements

Discuss Academic Accomplishments: Detail your academic journey, including any notable awards, scholarships, or research projects. Highlight academic achievements that showcase your intellectual capabilities and dedication to learning.

Highlight Professional Achievements and Experience: If you have work experience, emphasize your professional accomplishments. Discuss significant projects, promotions, or contributions to your workplace that illustrate your expertise and potential.

Leadership and Extracurricular Activities

Describe Leadership Roles: Provide examples of your leadership experiences, whether in school, work, or community involvement. Explain the impact of your leadership and how it aligns with your future goals.

Discuss Involvement in Extracurricular Activities: Mention your participation in extracurricular activities, clubs, or organizations that have allowed you to develop valuable skills and contribute to your community. Highlight any leadership roles or initiatives you took within these activities.

Language and Communication Skills

Showcase Language Proficiency: If applicable, discuss your proficiency in English or any other languages relevant to your Chevening application. Provide evidence of language proficiency through standardized tests or language courses.

Emphasize Effective Communication Skills: Effective communication is a critical skill for Chevening Scholars. Share examples of situations where your communication skills played a significant role in achieving positive outcomes, whether in your studies, work, or community engagements.

By following these guidelines in outlining the writing process and showcasing your skills and achievements, you can craft a Personal Statement that not only meets Chevening’s expectations but also sets you apart as an exceptional candidate. Remember, this is your opportunity to demonstrate why you are deserving of the Chevening Scholarship, so invest time and effort into making it shine.

Tailoring Your Statement for Chevening

Stress the Importance of Customizing Your Personal Statement: Crafting a one-size-fits-all personal statement won’t do justice to your Chevening application. Emphasize the necessity of customizing your statement to align with the unique values and requirements of the Chevening Scholarship.

Addressing Chevening’s Values and Objectives

Discuss How Your Goals Align with Chevening’s Mission: Begin by explaining how your personal and professional goals align with Chevening’s mission to create future leaders and influencers who drive positive change globally.

Show Your Commitment to Contributing to Your Home Country: Elaborate on your dedication to making a significant impact in your home country upon completing your studies in the UK. Highlight your vision for contributing to the betterment of your nation.

Adapting for Different Course Choices (if Applicable)

Customize Your Statement for Specific Courses: If you are applying for different courses, tailor your statement accordingly. Explain why each course is relevant to your career aspirations and how it will enable you to make a difference in your field.

Explain How the Chosen Course Fits Your Career Goals: For each course choice, demonstrate a clear connection between the course curriculum and your long-term career objectives. Convince the selection committee that your chosen field of study will equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to achieve your goals.

Seeking Feedback and Proofreading

Emphasize the Value of Peer Reviews: Stress the importance of seeking feedback from mentors, professors, or colleagues who can provide valuable insights into your statement’s content, structure, and overall impact.

Highlight the Importance of Proofreading: A polished and error-free personal statement is essential. Emphasize the significance of thorough proofreading to eliminate grammatical errors, typos, and formatting issues.

Customizing your Chevening Personal Statement demonstrates your dedication to the scholarship and your commitment to making a meaningful contribution to your home country and the world at large. By following this outline, you’ll be better prepared to create a tailored and compelling statement that increases your chances of becoming a Chevening Scholar.

Crafting a personal statement for the Chevening Scholarship is not merely a formality; it’s a chance to tell your story, showcase your achievements, and align your aspirations with Chevening’s values. It’s a document that can open doors to transformative educational opportunities and a platform to contribute meaningfully to your home country’s development. By following the guidelines outlined and pouring your passion into your words, you can create a compelling personal statement that sets you apart as an ideal candidate for the Chevening Scholarship.

How long should my Chevening Personal Statement be?

The Chevening program typically requires a personal statement of approximately 500 to 600 words. It’s crucial to adhere to this word limit, as exceeding it may result in your application being disqualified.

Can I reuse my personal statement for multiple course choices within the Chevening application?

While you can reuse some sections of your personal statement, it’s essential to customize it for each course choice. Explain why each course aligns with your career goals to demonstrate your commitment to your chosen field of study.

What should I do if I have limited leadership experience to include in my personal statement?

If you have limited formal leadership roles, focus on showcasing instances where you’ve taken initiative, demonstrated problem-solving skills, or contributed to positive outcomes in your community or workplace. Leadership can take various forms, and the selection committee values your potential to grow as a leader.

Blessing Etim

How To Ask A Girl Out In College

December 4, 2023

Do Community Colleges Give Scholarships

7 minute read

Are College Scholarships Taxable Income

5 minute read

Can I Get A Scholarship For Community College

December 5, 2023

3 minute read

What Colleges Offer Nail Technician? Comprehensive List

August 26, 2023

How Do You Tryout For College Cheerleading

December 1, 2023

Sample of Personal Statement for Chevening Scholarship

In order to be eligible for a Chevening scholarship , you will need to submit a personal statement that tells us about your unique experience and why you are the best candidate for the program. This guide will show you how to write a personal statement for the Chevening scholarship that will help you stand out from the rest and potentially earn yourself a scholarship.

You should also apply for these Scholarships

Scholarships in Switzerland | Fully Funded Study
German Government Scholarships | Fully Funded
Scholarship in Italy For International Students | (Fully Funded)
Scholarships in Austria 2023 for International Students | Fully-Funded
Denmark Scholarships 2023 For International Students
University of Adelaide Australian Government Scholarships 2023

I am a recent graduate of a four-year university. I have participated in numerous extracurricular activities, including involvement with a student-run charity that helps underprivileged children. I also volunteer my time to teach young children how to read and write. In my free time, I enjoy reading, listening to music, and spending time with my family. I am confident that I have the qualities and experiences that will make me an excellent candidate for the Chevening Scholarship program.

As a student, I have always been an avid reader. It is through my love of reading that I have developed an interest in international affairs. I am confident that this interest will benefit me as I pursue a career in diplomacy.

My time spent at university has also given me the opportunity to develop strong leadership skills. As president of my student government, I was able to successfully lobby for funding and bring about change on campus. This experience has taught me how to work effectively with others and develop comprehensive plans. In addition, I have worked as a volunteer tutor for disadvantaged youth and as a member of Amnesty International USA’s board of directors. These experiences have shown me how to be fervently engaged in my community and how to contribute positively to society.

I am confident that my background in international affairs and my leadership skills will make me a valuable asset to any organization. If chosen for the Chevening Scholarship, I would devote myself completely to completing the program and contributing to British diplomacy.

Work Experience

I have had experience working in a variety of different environments both in the UK and abroad. I have worked as a barista, a customer service representative and most recently as a marketing manager. I have gained experience in working with a diverse range of clients and I have developed strong interpersonal skills. This has given me an insight into how businesses work and has equipped me with the knowledge to carry out effective marketing programs.

Activities and Hobbies

When I’m not studying or working, I enjoy spending time outdoors hiking, biking, and camping. I also enjoy playing the violin and reading. In my spare time, I like to cook and experiment with new recipes.

Community Service

In my community service experience, I have worked with a wide variety of organizations and communities. I have always been motivated to give back to my community, and this has been furthered by my experiences in community service.

I have found that working with different organizations gives me a better understanding of the needs of my community and the ways in which I can help meet those needs. My most recent experience was working with a homeless shelter. During my time there, I learned about the challenges facing homeless individuals and how I could help make a difference.

I am confident that my experiences in community service will help me to be successful as a scholar at the Chevening Scholarship Program. In addition, my skills in communication, problem-solving, and leadership would be valuable assets in any organization or community.

In order to be competitive for a Chevening Scholarship, it is essential to have a strong personal statement. This document should demonstrate your writing skills, your dedication to international affairs, and your passion for global travel. Here is an example of a personal statement for a Chevening Scholarship:

I am extremely passionate about international affairs and the opportunities that travel provides for understanding different cultures. I have traveled extensively throughout Africa and Asia, and I hope to continue exploring new parts of the world through scholarship programs like the Chevening Scholarship. I am confident that my experiences and interests will contribute invaluably to my academic achievements and future career aspirations. Thank you for considering me for this award!

Sample Personal Statement for a Fulbright Scholarship

I am extremely excited to be applying for the Fulbright Scholarship. I have been involved in international volunteer work since high school and have always been interested in learning more about other cultures. I believe that this program will allow me to gain invaluable experience and knowledge in different parts of the world. I am confident that my skills and experiences will benefit both my academic career and future travel plans. Thank you for considering me for this award!

For More Scholarship Opportunities Follow our Facebook Page, Twitter , and Telegram

Latest Post

Scholarships in Hong Kong without IELTS 2024

York University Scholarships 2024 in Canada | Fully Funded

Fully-Funded Turkish Government Scholarship 2024

GREAT UK Scholarships 2024-2025 | (Fully Funded)

Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships 2024 | Fully Funded

1000+ Denmark Government Scholarships 2024 | Fully Funded

Bachelor Scholarships
Business Scholarship
College Scholarship in USA
Fellowship/Exchange Program
International Jobs
Master Scholarships
Medical Scholarship
Online Courses
PhD Scholarships
Postdoctoral Scholarships
Scholarships
Universities Acceptance Rate
Without IELTS Scholarships 2024

Guidance from our top admission experts — for free!

Admit Finder

Discover Past Admits, Gauge Your Chances!

Shortlist Builder

Personalized University Picks, Just a Click Away.

Course Finder

Navigate Global Courses Tailored for You

Scholarship Finder

Unlock Funding Opportunities Worldwide.

Get tailored study abroad advice.

Planning to study abroad?

Build your target shortlist and see your odds of getting into top schools with Ambitio's AI shortlist builder!

Heading Out Already?

Our Ivy League mentors and top admission experts can help with personalized tips to get you into your dream school

6 minutes read

Crafting a Winning Chevening Personal Statement for Your Scholarship Essay

Dirghayu Kaushik

28 August 2024

Worried about the cost of Studying Abroad?

Introduction to the Chevening Personal Statement

The Chevening Scholarship, a renowned UK government-funded program, offers a transformative opportunity for ambitious individuals to pursue postgraduate studies in the UK.

Integral to the Chevening application is the personal statement, a pivotal document that distinguishes you in a highly competitive candidate pool.

This blog explores essential strategies for crafting a compelling personal statement, emphasizing your unique strengths and aligning them with the Chevening ethos.

Understanding the Importance of the Personal Statement in the Chevening Application

Your personal statement is not just an essay; it’s a narrative of your journey, ambitions, and potential as a future leader. It’s your chance to convey to the selection committee why you stand out from other candidates, how the Chevening Scholarship aligns with your career aspirations, and how you intend to leverage this opportunity for your personal growth and the betterment of your community.

Stuck on How to Pick Your Ideal College?

Essential Elements of a Chevening Personal Statement

Demonstrating Leadership and Influence

Leadership and influence are cornerstones of the Chevening ethos. Discuss instances where you’ve demonstrated these traits, whether through work experience, community service, or engagement in social services.

Emphasizing Your Leadership Journey: Recount specific examples of your leadership experience. It could be a project you spearheaded at work, a community initiative you led, or a challenging situation where you influenced others for a positive outcome. Reflect on what these experiences taught you about leadership and how they have prepared you for future challenges.

Showcasing Your Ability to Influence Others: Illustrate how you’ve positively influenced your peers, organization, or community. This could include mentoring others, driving change in your workplace, or volunteering in community projects. Explain how these experiences have honed your skills in influencing and motivating others towards a common goal.

Aligning Your Career Goals with the Scholarship

Your career goals should resonate with the objectives of the Chevening Scholarship. Articulate how the scholarship will enable you to achieve your professional aspirations.

Outlining Your Career Plan: Clearly state your short-term and long-term career goals. Explain how these goals are aligned with your field of study and how the Chevening Scholarship will help you achieve them. Be specific about the role this scholarship will play in your career trajectory.

Connecting Your Studies to Your Career Objectives: Elucidate how your chosen field of study is pertinent to your career objectives. Discuss the skills and knowledge you hope to gain through your studies in the UK and how they are crucial for your future professional endeavors.

Networking and Community Engagement

Networking and community engagement are vital aspects of the Chevening experience. Highlight your skills in these areas and your plans for future engagement.

Building and Leveraging Networks: Discuss your current networking strategies and how you plan to expand them through the Chevening Scholarship.

Highlight any existing connections with Chevening alumni or other professionals in your field, and discuss how you plan to build on these relationships.

Engaging with Communities: Reflect on your past community engagement experiences. How have these shaped your understanding of global issues?

Discuss your plans to continue this engagement during and after your studies in the UK, emphasizing how the Chevening network will aid in these endeavors.

See how Successful Applications Look Like!

Access 350K+ profiles of students who got in. See what you can improve in your own application!

Crafting a Compelling Narrative

Creating a narrative that captivates and resonates with the Chevening Scholarship selection committee is crucial. Here are key points to consider when constructing your narrative:

Begin with a compelling hook that captures your unique story or perspective.
Introduce your background, highlighting experiences that have shaped your aspirations and values.
Share personal stories that showcase your ability to overcome challenges.
Reflect on how these experiences have contributed to your personal and professional development.
Illustrate how your life experiences have influenced your career path.
Discuss pivotal moments or influential individuals who have guided your professional journey.
Detail your academic achievements, professional experiences, and any recognitions or awards.
Emphasize how these accomplishments have prepared you for future challenges and successes.
Clearly state your long-term career goals and how they align with the Chevening objectives.
Discuss your vision for contributing to your field, community, or country in the future.
Include specific examples of leadership roles and initiatives you have undertaken.
Highlight how these experiences have honed your leadership and team-building skills.
Justify your selected field of study and its alignment with your career aspirations.
Discuss how studying in the UK under the Chevening program will help you achieve your goals.
Illustrate your understanding of global issues and how you plan to address them.
Include examples of community service, volunteer work, and international experiences.
Discuss why the Chevening Scholarship is crucial for your career development.
Explain how this opportunity will enable you to contribute to the Chevening community and beyond.
Reinforce your commitment to your goals and the values of the Chevening program.
Leave a lasting impression that underscores your potential as a future leader.

Remember, your narrative should be cohesive, engaging, and reflective of your unique journey. It should convey not only your achievements and aspirations but also your character and potential to be an influential leader.

Telling Your Unique Story

Your personal statement should reflect your unique journey. Share your personal experiences, challenges overcome, and lessons learned. This narrative should weave together your academic achievements, work experiences, and personal growth, presenting a holistic picture of who you are and what you aspire to be.

Highlighting Personal Growth and Resilience: Share anecdotes that showcase your resilience and ability to overcome challenges. This could include personal, academic, or professional obstacles you’ve faced and how you’ve grown from these experiences.

Connecting Personal Experiences with Professional Aspirations: Discuss how your personal experiences have shaped your professional goals. This could include influential moments, key individuals who have inspired you, or significant life events that have directed your career path.

Reflecting on Past Achievements and Future Potential

The Chevening Scholarship is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional achievements and possess the potential for future success. Reflect on your past achievements and how they indicate your potential for future impact.

Showcasing Academic and Professional Achievements: Detail your academic successes, professional milestones, and any recognitions or awards you have received. Explain how these achievements are steps towards your larger career goals.

Projecting Future Success and Impact: Articulate your vision for the future. How do you see yourself contributing to your field, community, or country in the long run? Discuss how the Chevening Scholarship will be instrumental in realizing this vision.

Start Your University Applications with Ambitio Pro!

Get Ambitio Pro!

Begin your journey to top universities with Ambitio Pro. Our premium platform offers you tools and support needed to craft standout applications.

Unlock Advanced Features for a More Comprehensive Application Experience!

Start your Journey today

Addressing Key Components of the Chevening Scholarship

Understanding the Chevening Criteria

It’s crucial to align your personal statement with the core criteria of the Chevening Scholarship. This includes demonstrating leadership potential, a clear career plan, the desire to develop a global network, and the intention to return to your home country post-study to contribute positively.

Meeting the Leadership Criteria: Reiterate instances where you have demonstrated leadership. This could be in a professional setting, through volunteer work, or in academic pursuits.

Outlining a Clear Career Plan: Ensure that your career plan is well-articulated, realistic, and aligns with the values and objectives of the Chevening Scholarship. Discuss how your intended course of study in the UK will help you achieve these career goals.

Writing with Clarity and Purpose

A well-written personal statement is clear, concise, and purposeful. It should be structured logically, with each paragraph flowing seamlessly into the next. Use this opportunity to demonstrate your communication skills, a key attribute for Chevening scholars.

Maintaining Clarity and Coherence: Organize your thoughts logically. Each paragraph should focus on a specific theme or aspect of your application, building a coherent narrative throughout the essay.

Being Concise and Purposeful: Avoid unnecessary details. Focus on experiences and achievements that are most relevant to the Chevening criteria and your career objectives. Each sentence should add value to your narrative.

Conclusion: Your Path to a Chevening Scholarship

A strong personal statement for the Chevening Scholarship is more than just an essay; it’s a testament to your journey, aspirations, and potential as a future leader.

By highlighting your leadership skills, aligning your career aspirations with the scholarship’s aims, and showcasing your potential to influence, you create a compelling narrative that resonates with the selection committee.

Remember, this scholarship is not just about academic excellence; it’s about finding future leaders who will make a global impact. Your personal statement is the first step in that journey.

How long should my Chevening personal statement be?

Your personal statement should adhere to the word limit specified by the Chevening Scholarship. It’s typically around 500-700 words. Focus on being concise and clear, covering all relevant aspects without exceeding the word limit.

Can I apply for the Chevening Scholarship if I have already studied in the UK?

Yes, previous study in the UK does not disqualify you from applying for the Chevening Scholarship. However, you should demonstrate how further study in the UK aligns with your career objectives and benefits your home country.

Should I mention specific universities or courses in my personal statement?

Yes, mentioning specific universities or courses can strengthen your application by showing that you have a clear and informed plan for your studies in the UK. Ensure that these choices align with your career goals and the objectives of the Chevening program.

Spread the Word!

Share across your social media if you found it helpful

• Introduction to the Chevening Personal Statement
• Essential Elements of a Chevening Personal Statement
• Crafting a Compelling Narrative
• Addressing Key Components of the Chevening Scholarship
• Conclusion: Your Path to a Chevening Scholarship

Build your profile to get into top colleges

Phone Number

What level are you targetting

Almost there!

Just enter your OTP, and your planner will be on its way!

Code sent on

Resend OTP (30s)

Your Handbook Is Waiting on WhatsApp!

Please have a look, and always feel free to reach out for any detailed guidance

Click here to download

Meanwhile check out your dashboard to access various tools to help you in your study abroad journey

Recent Blogs

How To Write a Film and Media Studies Personal Statement

Good Psychology Books to Read for Personal Statement

Good Economics Books for Personal Statement

Find your Dream school now⭐️

Welcome! Let's Land Your Dream Admit.

Let us make sure you get into the best!

2024 Winter
2024 Spring
2024 Summer

Enter verification code

Code was sent to

Our Experts

Connect with us on our social media

Top tips for a strong Chevening application

Swansea University

Places for a Chevening scholarship are incredibly competitive, they enable outstanding emerging leaders from all over the world to pursue one-year master’s degrees in the UK.

These scholarships are open to students from Vietnam and India and offer the chance of fully funded postgraduate study at any Welsh university. Chevening scholars can focus on achieving their academic goals while enjoying the experience of a lifetime.

Successful applicants will live and study in Wales for a year. It’s an unrivalled chance to develop professionally, academically, and personally, to grow your network, experience Welsh culture and build a lasting relationship with Wales and the UK.

With applications opening soon, we wanted to share some top tips for writing a strong application to give you the best chance of success!

Start early: Give yourself plenty of time to research, prepare, and write your application. Last-minute rushes can lead to mistakes and a lack of thoroughness.
Read guidelines carefully: Understand the Chevening eligibility criteria and the specific requirements for the course you're applying for. Make sure you adhere to the guidelines closely.
Focus on leadership and networking: Chevening looks for candidates who not only excel academically but also demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to creating positive change in their home country. Emphasise your leadership experiences and explain how you plan to use your studies to make a difference.
Create a strong personal statement: Your personal statement is crucial. Highlight your academic and professional achievements, goals, and the reasons you're an ideal candidate for the scholarship. Discuss how your chosen course of study aligns with your career aspirations and country's development needs.
Show your impact: Use concrete examples to demonstrate how your past achievements have made a positive impact on your community or field. Quantify your accomplishments wherever possible.
Tailor your essays: Adapt your essays to each question while maintaining a consistent narrative. Address each prompt directly, showcasing your strengths, experiences, and motivations.
Explain any gaps: If you have gaps in your academic or professional history, explain them clearly. Whether it was due to personal reasons, further learning, or career changes, provide context to eliminate potential concerns.
References matter: Choose references who can speak knowledgeably about your achievements, character, and potential. Provide them with information about your Chevening application so they can tailor their recommendations accordingly.
Proofread thoroughly: Typos and grammatical errors can detract from your application's quality. Proofread multiple times and consider asking someone else to review your application as well.
Show cultural sensitivity: Demonstrate your understanding of cross-cultural issues and the challenges your home country faces. Show that you can work effectively in a multicultural environment.
Research the course and university: Familiarise yourself with the course content, faculty, and facilities at the chosen university in Wales. Explain how their offerings align with your academic and career goals.
Plan your post-study return: Chevening Scholars are expected to return to their home country after completing their studies. Outline how you intend to apply the knowledge and skills gained to contribute to your country's development.
Engage with the Chevening community: If possible, connect with current or past Chevening scholars to gain insights into the application process and the experiences of successful applicants.
Use a structured approach: Organise your application logically, with a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and a compelling conclusion. Maintain a coherent flow between different sections of your application.
Seek feedback: Before submitting, ask mentors, teachers, or professionals you trust to review your application. Fresh perspectives can help you identify areas for improvement.

Remember that Chevening is highly competitive, so putting in the effort to create a strong and compelling application is essential. Good luck! Or as we say in Welsh pob lwc !

Chevening - Wales: an amazing place to start my next chapter

Minh, a Chevening Scholar from Vietnam, shares her reflections of studying in Wales.

Student Stories

Why choosing a Welsh university for your Chevening application might be your best idea ever

When considering where to pursue your studies under the prestigious Chevening Scholarship, the options can seem endless. However, one unique avenue that is worth your attention and consideration is the prospect of studying in Wales.

Nearly 130,000 students are enrolled on courses at our universities. Here are 10 reasons why you should join them.

About Wales

Before you start...

This site uses animations - they can be turned off.

Terms and Conditions

By using this site, you confirm you agree to our Terms and Conditions .

Sign up to our newsletter

Receive all the latest information about studying in Wales, scholarships opportunities, and student advice straight to your inbox!

laurensia.saraswati

Thoughts Left Unspoken

Writing Chevening Essay: Breakdown Those 4 Questions

Writing an essay for Chevening scholarship was not an easy task. But surely, we need to invest our time to write, revise and polish it. The whole writing process took me 1.5 months, but let’s not use this as a standard as anyone can have different situations.

In this post, I’m going to breakdown each question and share how I answered my Chevening essay. It is surely not the perfect one, but I’d like to share what I think essential when answering those four questions. I also did a mentoring program for Chevening applicants 19/20 and some of my mentees were accepted! Having said that, I’m sure there are some of my tips that you can use.

Disclaimer. This post does not reflect on the Chevening Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) and its partner organisations. This story is just my experience and personal thoughts working on Chevening’s essay.

Without further ado, let’s go through each question.

Leadership and Influence

One of the common thoughts that most applicants have about leadership is the position; the title. I would say, no. The title is a legitimation that you have the power to lead, but beyond that, I think the most important thing that Chevening really look is the impact of your leadership. They are also looking for a potential leader. So, it does not matter if you don’t have a Manager, Head, Leader, etc in your resume as long as you can showcase your influencing and leadership skills by giving examples.

Before start writing, think about what leadership accomplishments that you had. List all down and select two to three examples that gave great impact and made you learn the most. Each question only allows 500 words hence we really need to be careful to choose which experience to be put in the essay. If you can, try to put examples in different cases and environment to show that you have a range of leadership experiences.

As I already mentioned in the previous post about general tips for writing Chevening essay, it is important to give an introduction. Although this is just a suggestion, if you’re unsure where to start, you can try with what you believe about leadership or a brief about what kind of leader you think you are. After that, you can link to your leadership experiences, supporting your statement about the leadership that you write in the introduction. Build an engaging introduction is also crucial to make the panel stay reading your story. Remember, they read thousands of essays, at least you want to keep them engaged with your essay.

In my case, my first sentence in the intro was: I believe that the leaders are not born, but made through a process of hard work. I then supported this statement by briefly telling several experiences during high schools and how it has been forming me primary wisdom about leadership. However, this is not my highlight of the leadership experience that I want to tell the panel. Hence, I used a linking sentence such as I apply this wisdom to excel my role in current employment, but my training is never complete. The linking sentence could also serve as a bridge to the next thing I have on my plate and build the story’s flow.

Then, I wrote two examples of my leadership experiences which are happened in my office using Situation, Task, Actions, Result (STAR) structure. Read about this here . I would say give more portion for “action” because the more specific and detail you give, the more panellist know you hence more room to asses you.

I wrote one success story about my experiences in leading an early-stage start-up company. When you write a success story, make sure that you’re really specific about what you did, what steps that you did differently to achieve the goal? Did you face challenges? How did you overcome the challenge? Did people doubt you? How did you convince them to finally follow your leadership? I wrote about making an unpopular decision which I deemed a huge challenge; I should do it otherwise it won’t do any good for the company. From this story, I took an angle on the lesson learned and how it contributed to mature my emotions.

When you write about result, if you can, give a quantifiable result to justify the impact. However, the bottom line is to justify your impact. Tell them that there are people who benefited from the projects that you led — it could be personal or organisational.

Another thing is to mention your lesson learned. What you learned from each experience that contributes to your personal development. I personally think this is critical to show that you’re a human and a growing person. We all know that leadership is not a one-day skill, it takes years to sharpen it hence mistakes are okay to be mentioned as long as you can turn the “angle” into supporting your story.

Finish the essay with a closing paragraph which amplifies Chevening’s role in developing your leadership skill. What is your aspiration, in regards to leadership skill, if you were accepted as Chevening scholar? State this briefly and do the same for the next 4 questions.

I would say that the networking question was a bit difficult for me to elaborate. Why? Because again, Chevening is looking for someone whose networking skills could create an impact. So, in my opinion, it’s not about showing off how big your network is or how often you attend networking events, instead of how you use your network to create a greater impact.

Using the same approach as in question 1, answer the question by STAR structure. Started by an introduction, get into the main body and finish with closing.

In my case, I was using my exchange program to South Korea during undergraduate study as a chance to meet new friends — where one of that friend was playing a great role of me working at an early-stage startup company, a place where I highlighted my leadership skills in the first question. The company is obviously has been a place for me to create an impact on the team and communities. For instance, a collaboration opportunity with external media to provide cross-content and it would give us huge traffic for the website.

Emphasise the impact you’ve created because of the networking you did. Give two to three networking skills and experiences that you have and again, be detail. Highlight that the impact is not only beneficial for you, but also for another side that you network with.

In the closing, you should elaborate Chevening’s role in your networking skills, you can try to relate how Chevening would expand your networking and how will you use Chevening networking if you were accepted as Chevening scholar.

Studying in the UK

While questions about leadership and networking are more to dig your skills and capability in becoming a potential future leader, in my opinion, questions about studying in the UK and career plan are crucial to showing your cause, passion and how do you stay true with that. This can be a very critical part that would differentiate you from other applicants I guess, as I would say that Chevening is looking for people who would serve and build their community. So, it is important to answer the last 2 questions coherently.

To make your essay coherent, try to answer these questions as a base for you to answer questions number 3 and 4.

What is my passion/concern?
What problems do I want to solve?
How will I solve the problems?

My ultimate advise for this part is don’t write more than 50% for the courses and campus rank. Write more about you: your passion, area of expertise, problems found in your field and what is your vision — which supposed to be related with your expertise area. Think about why taking a master study in those three sp ecific courses and universities is going to help you to achieve your vision. This information is really helpful to link and congruent your story in the question no.4 (career plan).

In my case, I used a fact that the growth of digital start-up in Indonesia has been astonishing recently but it is not followed by the success rate of a startup. If you want to use a fact, don’t forget to put the source. I outlined that the major problem was startup founders mostly great in building products yet tend to ignore other managerial skills such as people development, sales and finance (again, I put source). I then linked this statement to my personal experience working in an early stage start-up company where I had limited experiences or skills which happens to be a similar situation like startup founders. Hence, a degree in innovation and entrepreneurship would give me a balanced set of technical skills and knowledge in building early ventures.

From previous paragraph, I answered three basic questions to outline my background. Who am I? — A start-up early employee, what is my passion? — early venture development, what problems do I want to solve? — the high rate of startup failure rate and how will you solve it? — a degree in innovation and entrepreneurship by Chevening scholarship as one of stepping stones and followed by action plans that I will write in the question no.4

After outlining the “background” story about you, you can write the three courses. Highlight the reason why you choose them, it can be the campus ranking, curriculum, or professors/projects. I chose Warwick University’s Innovation and Entrepreneurship because of the curriculum, the final project worth 50% of the final grade in which devoted to developing the business innovation carefully. The school also placed the second rank of best Entrepreneurship master degree in the UK, after Oxford. My second choice was Imperial College and the third was the City University of London.

By the way, another advise choosing the school, besides research the course and its curriculum, do find out about the whole campus. Think about the facilities, clubs/societies, opportunities, the lifestyle (or living cost), nearby attractions, the city it’s located, etc. Ask current students about living in your designated campus, how do they like the campus and its surroundings? How about life after campus? I’m saying this not because I dislike Warwick University, instead, the campus has its own art centre and biggest sports centre in Coventry — which is realllly cool, but I would say Coventry itself doesn’t have many attractions to offer. But for the bright side, that really helps me to focus on my study and save money (it’s true!); it forces me to travel to other places more often hehe. I would share my travel stories in other posts. Coventry also not too far from London and Birmingham, the two biggest cities in the UK. It’s easier for me to jump on opportunities in UK startups scene.

Career Plans

One thing I always shared to Chevening applicants who asked me to proofread their essay is: make a clear plan and breakdown into short term, mid-term and long term goal. Ensure each breakdown is contributing to your long-term goals if that makes sense? This way, it shows that you know how to get there. In my case, I wrote for immediate plans (2 years after study), the next 5 years and beyond 5 years. Make sure that your career goals are answering your concern and supporting your passion (stated in question no.3) which forms a more congruent essay.

As you need to relate your career goals to what the UK Government do in your country, you need to research. This might be different in every country and it might change year by years. You can start the search from the official UK’s government website ( http://gov.uk/world/name of country/news). Research thoroughly and try to link what you can contribute through your career goal.

Another thing to highlight is state how Chevening is one of the paths you would greatly benefit to take you to your future goals. How would you apply things you got from Chevening (the scholarship, the network, the education, the international friends) in your future career path? In my case, I outlined that I would use network from Chevening alumni to open access for mentors who can guide and share expertise to founders in establishing a new business.

As this is the last question, end the whole essay with a strong “punchline”. Keep elaborate Chevening, you can try to summarise outlined your aspiration by being a Chevening scholar. In my case, I mentioned that I still have to acquire deeper knowledge in innovation and entrepreneurship, as well as expanding my network to collaborate together in solving the problem. I acknowledged that from previous experiences, I gained valuable lessons in networking and leadership, however, I believe it’s still not enough. I then closed with thus, by being a Chevening scholar, I believe I would be (fill in the blank).

I hope this article helps you! I also want to highlight that this is just my personal experience and thoughts, it might be not relevant for different courses; many of my Chevening friends pursue a course that I don’t know it exists 😀 (but that’s what I like about Chevening: they acknowledge that future leaders can contribute in any field). Lastly, write the essay with all your heart, write what you feel right and true. Good luck, keep fighting and believe in yourself!

Published by laurensiairma

ESTJ; my stories are on my own perspective. View all posts by laurensiairma

61 thoughts on “Writing Chevening Essay: Breakdown Those 4 Questions”

[…] breakdown of each question is posted here. However, there are some important points I want to point out when you work for Chevening […]

Thank you! That’s really inspiring!

what a magnificent breakdown kak, terima kasih 🙂 *udah pinter cantik pula idamaannnnn huaa

Haha thank you! Goodluck!!

Thank you so much! My leadership essay exceeds the word count of 500, will the reading committee consider my application? this is my biggest concern, please leave me a reply if you know about the issue.

HI Mohammad, I think it will be best to stay at 500. Panellists read thousands of essays, they probably do skimming reading and you don’t want to leave them uninterested if your story is too long. It’s our challenge to make our essay is engaging and effective within 500 words. It’s hard indeed, but just be direct and straight to the answers asked in the questions. Hope it helps.

Thanks a lot for your all your tips! I’m glad I bumped into your blog. I have a tiny question related to essays 3 and 4: when I write about the efforts of the UK being made in my country, do I need to cite/quote the, let’s say, the FCDO and put their reference somewhere? I’m wondering since I think the link itself would take away many words out of my 500 word count. Or is there a specific format I should stick to? Thanks once again!!

Hi Mitch. When I cited the source, I just write “according to xxx research in 2015 (for example)..” and then put the whole link in the footnote. Actually there’s no specific format about citing (As this is not academic essay) and I guess this format worked well. Hope it helps!

Amazing guidance, many thanks for sharing this with us confused youths. I am working for an educational Facebook page in Vietnam (which works to aid scholarship applicants in their process and is currently having over 41 000 followers). May I translate this entry into Vietnamese and share it on my page? I will credit you with this link and send you the draft before publishing Thank you in advance,

Hi Anne, thanks for reaching me out. Yes, sure you can 🙂 Please head to my Instagram @laurensiaimce and dm me. Thank youu!

Thank you so much for such an amazing and detailed information.

Dear Linos, Thanks for the kind word!

Thank you. Your insights shed bright lights on what panel really look for and what they expect. It is my first year applying for Chevening. The process itself offers so much excitement. I am a language teacher and want to develop myself as leader and influencer in education. Could I contact you directly to get help for my essays? thank you.

Hi Bekzod, yes you can head to my Instagram and leave me a dm. Thank you!

Thank you for this! Its a wonderful detailed and helpful article!

Thank youuuu!

Thank you so much Lauren, your posts has been really helpful. Please do you know if Chevening also supports for non partner universities

Hi Isaiah, they support non-partners too. If Im not mistaken, what makes different between partner and non-partner is the scholarship ratio between chevening and the sponsors (partner). For awardee, there wont be any impact.

priceless informaion!!!

Thank you 🙂

Thank you for this article Lauren, please can I send you a mail

Hello ! I am a student applying for Chevening . This is my first time. I have no IG or FB. May i have your mail ID? I request you to proofread my essays and offer feedback. Many thanks, M

Hi, please contact me via linkedin: Laurensia Irma Saraswati. Thank youu!

A very thoughtful article! I am also applying for Chevening scholarship this year. This article gives me a lot of insights into my essay

May I ask you to proofread my essays kak? Thanks a lot!

Regards, FM

Hi Faisal, thank you so much for reading my blog! I’m currently unavailable for proof read, so sorry! Good luck for your application!

Hi Abdibasid, thank you for reading my blog too! Good luck for your application!

Hi Laurensia, thanks for sharing this insightful article. Just curious in your opinion, is it better to write all three courses or can I just focus to one course only?

Hi Dee, so sorry for late reply. I wrote all three courses but I explained the first choice slightly more than other two. It’s because I really like my first choice and highlight what I need to study there. Hope this helps.

Hello Laurensia, I am beyond grateful to you for this detailed article!. I tried to reach out to you on LinkedIn but it seems that it’s not possible to contact you via instant messaging. I hope you get to see my request.

Hi Assia, yeah we connected through Linkedin right? 🙂

This is a beautiful guide, if followed carefully with a mother luck, one can get the scholarship I believe. Thanks a bunch

Hi James, thank you so much for reading my blog. Good luck!!

Wow ! Just perfect post. One of the best posts I have ever read about Chevening. Heartfelt thanks ♡♡

Hi Marwa, thank youuuu!!

Thank you so much for this, your guidance was invaluable!

Dear Akeyo, thank youuu so much for the kind words. Good luck on your application!

Dear Laurensia, This is the most flexible article i have ever read for Chevening application. I have a question regarding experience as i have more than 6 years of experience which is totaling 11,000 hours (35 hours / week). The minimum requirement is 2,800 hours but i want to know is there any upper limit. if i show the full 11,000 into my application. Would it impact or not? Waiting for your reply. Thanks

Hi Sagheer,

Thanks for reading my blog! As far as I know there is an upper limit, but I forgot what the number is. Btw, if the system already recorded that you have min. 2000 hrs of working experience, you’ll be okay!

Thank you Laurensia for your reply. Yes i checked Chevening website they said a range of minimum 35 to maximum 60 hours per week. So what i understand is that i can add maximum employers as far as the time spend per week at each employer does not exceed 60 hours per week.

Halo, Kak Lauren! What an inspiring article :)) Kak Lauren, would you please be my mentee for Chevening 🙂 I do really need someone to review my essay. Hopefully you can be my mentee. Thankyou in advance :))

Hi Ratri, Apologies for late reply. I’m soo sorry I’m currently unavailable for becoming a mentor neither proofread assistance 😦 Good luck in your application!

HeyLaurensia, Loved the the detailed article. I used the contents in your blog to edit my essays. Thank you so much.

Hi Maryam, thanks for your kind word! Good luck for your application!

Dear Laurensia, I am so excited to read your blog which has a completed information for potential applicants. I have question that i have worked more than 11,000 hours and if i want to show them in full does it have a negative impact on my application? Is there any Upper limit for working hours?

Thanks the insights

hello Laurensia, Thank you for this help! I want to ask if it’s okay to write UK in essay or we have to in full (united kingdom)? another qn is that, is there a problem when one chooses one course at all three universities or we have to choose three courses as well?

That was very usefull I think if this essey included some bullet piont can be more ataractive. Tank you .

Halo kak,… Ketika kita copas essay ke sistem chevening,sebaiknya antar paragraf diberi spasi (di-enter) atau tidak ya? Apakah hal ini mempengaruhi? Terima kasih

Apologise for very late reply. Aku dikasih paragraf dulu, supaya bacanya enak. Jujur gak tau mempengaruhi atau nggaknya, cuma at least buat akunya sendiri, aku jadi bisa baca lebih jelas. Hope this helps!

Hi Laurensia, thank you for such great tips on writing the chevening essay. I have been applying for chevening scholarship for the past 3 years and I am not shortlisted for interviews. I was wondering if you would be able to give me points on my essays? It would be great help for me. Thank you!

great explanation, really help me to start my essay! i’ll just bookmarked this, then

Thank you! Goodluck!

Hello, I am really glad i came across your blog. My questions are, I was given admission in only one University and that is the course i really wanted, can i just focus on that one course? I also want to know, what to know the most challenging stage for you. How long can the process of writing the essay take? Do i need someone to guide and coach me physically?

Hi Simon, thanks for reading my blog. I think, based on Chevening requirement, we still need to provide 3 courses. Perhaps you want to include similar courses in 3 different campus? Because as far as I know, if applicants can’t obtain the unconditional acceptance letter from the first choice, then they can submit LOA from the second choice.

The most challenging stage while writing essay was connecting the dots. I had several leadership & networking experiences, but struggled to showcase which one to put in the essay(since I only have 500 words). I know what to study, but difficult how to link it with future career and past experiences. I got helped by a friend and together we dig down what should be included in the essay, what is not. The process itself was more like a journey to know more of what I’m good at and my aspiration is.

For guide and coach, it depends on you. If you think you really know what your passion is and have clear aspiration, then maybe no need. Sometimes coach/mentor helps to connect your dots, it is you who should discover the dot itself.

Hope it helps, good luck!

thanks a lot forthis great article Laurencia, I wanted to know how we can get the university admission ? in the website part where you can search the available courses , they don’t show them you have to write the name or the university or course ? thnks for your help

Hi Hamza, you can find the course & campus list here: https://www.chevening.org/scholarships/find-a-course/ the list has a direct link to the campus website.

thank you so much be blessed

Thank youu!

Hello Dear Laurencia,

I hope that you are doing well and that Eid passed in a good way for you and your family , how can I contact you please it’s urgent , thanks a lot I made comments in the past but you don’t respond

Crafting a Winning Chevening Personal Statement for Your Scholarship Essay

Dirghayu Kaushik

28 August 2024

Worried about the cost of Studying Abroad?

Introduction to the Chevening Personal Statement

The Chevening Scholarship, a renowned UK government-funded program, offers a transformative opportunity for ambitious individuals to pursue postgraduate studies in the UK.

Integral to the Chevening application is the personal statement, a pivotal document that distinguishes you in a highly competitive candidate pool.

This blog explores essential strategies for crafting a compelling personal statement, emphasizing your unique strengths and aligning them with the Chevening ethos.

Understanding the Importance of the Personal Statement in the Chevening Application

Stuck on How to Pick Your Ideal College?

Essential Elements of a Chevening Personal Statement

Demonstrating Leadership and Influence

Aligning Your Career Goals with the Scholarship

Your career goals should resonate with the objectives of the Chevening Scholarship. Articulate how the scholarship will enable you to achieve your professional aspirations.

Networking and Community Engagement

Networking and community engagement are vital aspects of the Chevening experience. Highlight your skills in these areas and your plans for future engagement.

Building and Leveraging Networks: Discuss your current networking strategies and how you plan to expand them through the Chevening Scholarship.

Highlight any existing connections with Chevening alumni or other professionals in your field, and discuss how you plan to build on these relationships.

Engaging with Communities: Reflect on your past community engagement experiences. How have these shaped your understanding of global issues?

Discuss your plans to continue this engagement during and after your studies in the UK, emphasizing how the Chevening network will aid in these endeavors.

See how Successful Applications Look Like!

Access 350K+ profiles of students who got in. See what you can improve in your own application!

Crafting a Compelling Narrative

Creating a narrative that captivates and resonates with the Chevening Scholarship selection committee is crucial. Here are key points to consider when constructing your narrative:

Begin with a compelling hook that captures your unique story or perspective.
Introduce your background, highlighting experiences that have shaped your aspirations and values.
Share personal stories that showcase your ability to overcome challenges.
Reflect on how these experiences have contributed to your personal and professional development.
Illustrate how your life experiences have influenced your career path.
Discuss pivotal moments or influential individuals who have guided your professional journey.
Detail your academic achievements, professional experiences, and any recognitions or awards.
Emphasize how these accomplishments have prepared you for future challenges and successes.
Clearly state your long-term career goals and how they align with the Chevening objectives.
Discuss your vision for contributing to your field, community, or country in the future.
Include specific examples of leadership roles and initiatives you have undertaken.
Highlight how these experiences have honed your leadership and team-building skills.
Justify your selected field of study and its alignment with your career aspirations.
Discuss how studying in the UK under the Chevening program will help you achieve your goals.
Illustrate your understanding of global issues and how you plan to address them.
Include examples of community service, volunteer work, and international experiences.
Discuss why the Chevening Scholarship is crucial for your career development.
Explain how this opportunity will enable you to contribute to the Chevening community and beyond.
Reinforce your commitment to your goals and the values of the Chevening program.
Leave a lasting impression that underscores your potential as a future leader.

Telling Your Unique Story

Reflecting on Past Achievements and Future Potential

Start Your University Applications with Ambitio Pro!

Get Ambitio Pro!

Begin your journey to top universities with Ambitio Pro. Our premium platform offers you tools and support needed to craft standout applications.

Unlock Advanced Features for a More Comprehensive Application Experience!

Start your Journey today

Addressing Key Components of the Chevening Scholarship

Understanding the Chevening Criteria

Meeting the Leadership Criteria: Reiterate instances where you have demonstrated leadership. This could be in a professional setting, through volunteer work, or in academic pursuits.

Writing with Clarity and Purpose

Maintaining Clarity and Coherence: Organize your thoughts logically. Each paragraph should focus on a specific theme or aspect of your application, building a coherent narrative throughout the essay.

Conclusion: Your Path to a Chevening Scholarship

A strong personal statement for the Chevening Scholarship is more than just an essay; it’s a testament to your journey, aspirations, and potential as a future leader.

Remember, this scholarship is not just about academic excellence; it’s about finding future leaders who will make a global impact. Your personal statement is the first step in that journey.

How long should my Chevening personal statement be?

Can I apply for the Chevening Scholarship if I have already studied in the UK?

Should I mention specific universities or courses in my personal statement?

Spread the Word!

Share across your social media if you found it helpful

• Introduction to the Chevening Personal Statement
• Essential Elements of a Chevening Personal Statement
• Crafting a Compelling Narrative
• Addressing Key Components of the Chevening Scholarship
• Conclusion: Your Path to a Chevening Scholarship

Build your profile to get into top colleges

Phone Number

What level are you targetting

Almost there!

Just enter your OTP, and your planner will be on its way!

Code sent on

Resend OTP (30s)

Your Handbook Is Waiting on WhatsApp!

Please have a look, and always feel free to reach out for any detailed guidance

Click here to download

Meanwhile check out your dashboard to access various tools to help you in your study abroad journey

Recent Blogs

How To Write a Film and Media Studies Personal Statement

Good Psychology Books to Read for Personal Statement

Good Economics Books for Personal Statement

Find your Dream school now⭐️

Welcome! Let's Land Your Dream Admit.

Let us make sure you get into the best!

2024 Winter
2024 Spring
2024 Summer

Enter verification code

Code was sent to

Our Experts

Connect with us on our social media

FindAMasters
How I Won a Chevening Scholarship – 10 Tips for Success

If you’re planning to do your Masters in the UK as an international student, chances are you’ve already heard of the Chevening scholarship. The UK government’s international award scheme is highly prestigious due to its competitive selection process. My cohort (2018-2019) had over 68,000 applicants from 168 countries, but only 1,800 of us made it! Chevening scholars attain academic and professional growth, extensive networking opportunities, the UK cultural experience, and lasting positive relationships with the UK. And we get to join an exclusive alumni network! How cool is that?

The selection process takes roughly a year, and comprises application, interview, conditional offer, final award and pre-departure briefing stages. I won’t lie, the process will demand exceptional mental and emotional strength, but don’t let that deter you from this life-changing opportunity.

Personally I’m glad I went through the process, and I am now enjoying my Masters here in the UK. If you’re thinking of applying yourself, here are some tips from my experience!

#1 It’s not just about you

Chevening wants you to use the knowledge you gain in the UK to give back to your home country, not just to advance your own career.

Remember that scholars carry the reputation of Chevening and their home countries, so they are encouraged to look beyond themselves. That’s why we cannot apply to remain in the UK immediately after our studies (instead, we’re expected to return home and work for at least two years).

#2 Check the eligibility criteria

You’d be surprised how many people overlook this obvious requirement. You’ll need at least two years’ work experience and an undergraduate degree equivalent to an upper second-class 2:1 honours degree in the UK.

Don’t forget to check admission criteria when browsing courses and universities, as it helps to apply to these at the same time. Note that some universities may also charge non-refundable application fees.

#3 Observe the timeline

The Foreign Commonwealth Office releases a timeline for the selection process each year. Follow them on social media ( @CheveningFCDO ) so you don’t miss out on vital information. You must be physically present at certain stages (e.g. interview and pre-departure briefing) so it’s best to keep travel plans in check.

#4 Research, research, research!

You can either choose to apply to three similar courses at different universities, or three different courses at one university. Any recognised UK university and course is fine, provided it is a one-year taught postgraduate course which leads to a Masters degree. You cannot change your choices later on, so this is your one chance to pick something that matches your development goals.

#5 Write your essay with conviction and consideration

The essays you’re asked to write will be an important part of your application. Think about what you want to say and believe in yourself! I had initially contemplated applying for public policy and governance instead of journalism, but I quickly realised I could not convince myself that the subject was the best choice for me. If you cannot convince yourself of the justifications you are making in your essays, how can you convince the selection panel?

For essays that stand out, explore other potential angles on a topic instead of stating the obvious. In the leadership section of my essays, the easy route would have been to talk about my leadership skills and how I benefited from them. Instead I highlighted how good leadership can inspire and contribute to human capital development. Draw on your experiences where need be but keep examples short and let the word limit steer you to be concise. For after-study plans, it may help to refer to the UK’s efforts in your home country that are aligned to your field of study.

#6 Don’t duplicate, don’t cheat!

The folks at Chevening want to know who you are as a person, not just your qualifications and career plans. Never get someone else to write your essays because your interview session will revolve around the points you made in them. Beware using repetitive answers as well. It’s easy to fall into this trap as the essay questions are related to each other. Instead, work your essays in such a way that they complement each other, and have a coherent flow.

#7 Prepare to elaborate

It’s easier to justify courses in a field of study that you are already involved in, but Chevening doesn’t stop you from choosing a different course from your current career path. If you’re making the switch, you must explain why this is beneficial to your future and how you expect to cope. Talk about your academic / professional background and mention relevant experiences that led you to this decision.

#8 Choose your referees carefully

Many applicants choose one academic and one professional referee, but it’s fine to provide two professional ones instead. I approached two bosses who I believed knew me better than professors who might not recall some kid they taught many years ago. Contact your referees when filing your application because if you make it to the interview stage, the referral letters must be submitted before your interview date.

#9 Check if you need language qualifications

I’m of little help here, since I was exempted from this requirement. What I do know is that you must provide proof of language qualifications (unless exempted) as part of three required documents within a set deadline to secure a full award. If you’re putting off taking the language qualification exams until after the conditional offer, plan well so you can get the results before deadline.

#10 Don’t delay

As with all other applications, do not leave anything until the eleventh hour. The online application system can slow down badly as the deadline approaches, so try to get things sorted well ahead of time. This year, the deadline is 1 November 2022 .

If you need more guidance, I’d suggest you keep an eye out for Chevening workshops. In some countries, the British embassy hosts workshops featuring past scholars and guest speakers. I attended one in Malaysia, where I learned more insider tips on what makes a successful Chevening application. I hope you find these tips helpful, and please don’t be put off applying for the Chevening because the prize is worth the fight. Good luck!

Editor's note : This blog was first published on 08/02/19. We've checked and updated it for current readers.

Search for a Masters

Browse over 20,000 Masters courses on FindAMasters today.

Our free newsletter will keep you up to date with Masters funding opportunities throughout the year.

Select your nearest city

Aberystwyth
Beaconsfield
Bishop Burton
Bournemouth
Bridlington
Chatham Maritime
Cirencester
East Malling
Hemel Hempstead
High Wycombe
Huddersfield
Isle of Man
Jordanstown
London Central
London East
London South
London West
Londonderry
Loughborough
Middlesbrough
Milton Keynes
Musselburgh
Northampton
Potters Bar
Saffron Waldon
Scarborough
Southampton
St Leonards on Sea
Stoke on Trent
Wolverhampton

You haven’t completed your profile yet. To get the most out of FindAMasters, finish your profile and receive these benefits:

Monthly chance to win one of ten £10 Amazon vouchers ; winners will be notified every month.*
Access to our £6,000 scholarship competition
Weekly newsletter with funding opportunities, application tips and much more
Early access to our physical and virtual postgraduate study fairs

Or begin browsing FindAMasters.com

or begin browsing FindAMasters.com

*Offer only available for the duration of your active subscription, and subject to change. You MUST claim your prize within 72 hours, if not we will redraw.

Create your account

Looking to list your Masters courses? Log in here .

Let us help you find a Masters

Never miss a course

Enter our ambassador competition

Get funding news, tips and advice

Hear about upcoming events

Sign up to our newsletter today

We've been helping students find the right postgraduate course for over a decade.

Login to your account

Enter your username below to login to your account.

How To Write A Personal Statement For Masters (17 PDF Sample Examples)

Published: 14 Mar 2022 Study Abroad 109,707 views

A personal statement for masters program is one of the most important parts of your college application and writing a good one is what’s the exception between receiving an offer and being rejected.

If you’ve been tasked with presenting a personal statement, you should keep in mind that whatever you submit must put you forward as the right candidate for the course. Additionally, it should convince the admissions officers that you deserve a place on your program of study.

Achieving the above, is a skill most postgraduate students are yet to acquire but thankfully this article on How To Write A Personal Statement For Masters covers everything you need to know on doing this.

In this article you’ll learn:

What is a personal statement?
Tips for making your personal statement for masters stand out
How to write a personal statement for masters
Personal statement for masters sample
Examples of personal statement for masters
Conclusion – things to avoid when writing a personal statement for masters

Read: Admission Interview Tips .

What Is a Personal Statement?

A personal statement AKA admissions or application essay or statement of purpose is a type of essay or written statement a candidate presents to a college, university, or graduate school they are applying to, explaining why they want to attend that school, study a particular course, and why they would be a perfect fit for these things.

A personal statement for masters is an essay you submit specifically for your postgraduate application. Writing one presents the opportunity for you to promote yourself to a school and show the admissions teachers that you are the perfect candidate for a course.

Tips For Making Your Personal Statement For Masters Stand Out

Before we get into how you should write a statement of purpose for masters, we would first like to share with you certain tips to include in your essay to make it stand out from that of other applicants and be convincing enough to any admissions officer that reads it. The tips we have mentioned here, cover general things like starting and ending your personal statement, timing, length, and what to include and what not to include in the essay, etc.

1. Starting And Ending A Personal Statement

When starting a personal statement, you would want to right off the bat grab the reader’s attention. To do this, start the statement by writing about your degree of choice, next why you want to study it and then how you got interested in it.

The next 2 sentences after that should cover a summary of your background in the chosen field, and you conclude by saying what you plan to do once you acquire your graduate degree.

Also start with that the evaluators reading want to hear first, then every other information should come second. You will notice we’ve used in the sop examples for masters we will share with you later in this article.

2. Plan Ahead

A personal statement is not something you rush while writing, which means if you want to get something good before you application then you must start to decide things like the length and how long it should take to complete.

Let us throw more light on this…

For length, a personal statement should be brief ranging somewhere between 500 -700 words, although schools often detect how long it should be. So, this is dependent on the institution you are applying to.

In terms of what to say in a statement, you could include personal experiences like why you were driven to apply for the program, an experience you had with a scholar in your chosen discipline, a course you took that inspired you to pursue masters, or a key moment during your studies which further motivated you.

No matter what you decide to write, just keep in mind that you need to take your time to craft something good even if it means creating several drafts before the real thing and do not forget to proofread the statement for errors.

3. Research Your Program Of Study

Researching your program of study is one way to establish that you truly understand the discipline you’re getting into and prove to the admissions officer that you thoroughly thought about it before applying.

And because you want to put yourself forward as a serious candidate, one way to make you research easier is for you to visit the website of the department you are applying to. This page will contain information about faculty members, their specialisation, and publications.

From the intel, you gathered there you can now identify which professors match your interests and which ones you will benefit the most from learning under. After you’ve found this out, relate the same in a sentence or two in your statement of purpose for masters.

Example: “I would be honoured to study under the tutelage of Professor Nadia whose work I found resonated strongly with my beliefs and intended projects in this course”.

4. Avoid Clichés, Junks, And Many Details

When writing a statement of purpose for master degree try to avoid clichés, junks, and unnecessary details so that you don’t lose or bore your readers in between. Be as concise as possible, even if it’s your chance to express yourself.

A personal statement is an opportunity for the admissions committee to get information that tells the that you are suitable for the course. So, when you overpower your statement with too many words, stories, and useless details, you come off as someone who is just trying to meet the word count.

5. Include Your Personal History Only If It Adds To The Statement

Do not include your personal history in your statement of intent for masters if it is not relevant to your purpose of study. This means no need for you to tell that story about that time you helped someone treat a cut and immediately realised that you wanted to be a doctor or nurse or how you developed a taste for reading at a very young age.

We can guarantee you that the hundreds of other applications competing for the same spot you are felt the same way, so saying those things really doesn’t make you unique.

On the other hand, if you are going to add personal history to your statement, you can put in things like an internship you did and the experience you got from the job, a major research project you ran by yourself, publications you’ve read or published, conferences you’ve attended or presentations you’ve done. These experiences are more concrete and are directly related to your program of study. They also set you apart from other applicants.

6. Don't Use The Same Personal Statement For All Your Applications

One common mistake applicant make that you shouldn’t is using the same statement of purpose for master degree for all your applications. Using the same information repeatedly even if you are going to change the university names is risky and could land you in a big mistake on a day you forget to be thorough.

All programmes have their own unique set of questions they want to see answered and information they need in your personal statement.

And even if some of them like extracurricular activities, proposal for project, why you are applying to the school, your unique qualities, and research works you’re doing might appear the same, do not use one statement to respond to all of them.

Write a new unique personal statement every time you want to apply.

Check out: How to Write a Good CV for Students - Resume Examples for Students (PDF).

How To Write A Personal Statement for Masters

When writing a personal statement for masters there are several steps and ground rules you need to follow to ensure that it comes out good enough to impress the admissions team of a school, and ultimately convince them to give you a spot on your program of study.

If writing one is something you are currently struggling with and can’t seem to get down the process of it right no matter what, this section on how to write a personal statement for masters, discusses in detail everything you need to get help with yours.

There are 4 parts to consider when writing your personal statement and we have listed them below:

1. Planning A Personal Statement

A personal statement is a piece of writing showing your academic interests and is only for application purposes which means there is no room for any autobiographical information in it about your personal life. Be as to-the-point as possible when writing it and stick to telling the school why you are the right person for the course, plus any other extra information detailing your achievements.

Before You Start:

Allot plenty of time to write your msc personal statement so that you don’t rush it. Remember, this simple piece of writing is your one shot at convincing a school that you are the best applicant they’ve seen and as such can either make or break your application.

Read the information expected of you from the university, rules and guidelines given, selection criteria and understand what they mean. Also research the institution.

Do a thorough research on the course you are applying for; this will help you explain better why you want to study it. The tutors interviewing you can tell when you are lying and presenting yourself as uninformed can cost you the admission.

Ensure that you don’t use the same personal statement for all your applications.

When Writing:

When writing the statement there are some questions to ask yourself that can help you plan it better. Those questions are:

Why you want to study a master’s and how does it benefit you in future?
How does the course you have chosen fit into your pre-existing skill set?
How do you stand out from the crowd as an applicant - e.g., work experiences you’ve had in the same field you are applying for?
What do you aspire to do or be as a future career and how will the course help you achieve that?
How can your work or skillsets contribute positively to the department/ university you are applying to, or society at large?

On the other hand, if you are applying for the masters to change from the field you studied in your undergraduate to another field, you should tell the school why you decided to take a different path in your studies.

Questions to ask yourself for this include:

Your reason for deciding to change your discipline.
How your undergraduate degree will be material for bringing fresh insights into your masters course.
How changing your study path will help you attain your future career.

2. Structuring A Personal Statement

Having good structure for your personal statement for master degree is important because it ensures that everything from the beginning, middle, and ending of the statement is written and equally falls in place perfectly.

We’ve left some tips for you below to help you:

Start your personal statement with an attention-grabbing introduction that is not dramatic or cliché. That means you should not begin with any of these over-used phrases we’ve listed out below:

For as long as I remember…

Since my childhood…

I want to apply to this course because I’ve always felt a strong connection to it…

All my life, I have always loved…

My interest in (course) always ran deeper than…

I’ve always been zealous about…

Ever since I was a child, I’ve always wanted to pursue a career in…

My past educational experiences have always…

'My passion for Child Psychology is influenced by my curiosity in how autism affects the personality of children living with this condition. That's why I dedicated the 3rd year of my undergraduate study interning with the Child Rehabilitation Centre in my community, which caters to the patients and work closely with their families in developing care plans that work for their child.

You would want to be as snappy as possible with your opening because the admission officer has over a hundred applications to read and can’t waste all their time on yours. This means you should avoid overpowering it with unnecessary facts, quotes, and stories from your life.

The middle part of your ma personal statement is where the main content of the write-up should be. This is where you show your dedication to the course you’ve chosen, what motivated you to choose it, and why you are the right candidate for it.

When writing the middle part of a graduate personal statement, you should:

Give concrete reasons why you want to study a course at the University. The reason could be because of how the course is aligned to your future career or the University’s reputation in teaching that program.
Mention relevant things like projects, dissertations, or essays you’ve done, and any work experience you have.
Show proof of your core skills like and how they can contribute to the department.
Prove what makes you a unique candidate.
Discuss who your main influences for wanting to study the course are and why.
Add experiences like memberships to clubs that are related to your field, papers you’ve written before, awards, scholarships, or prizes.
Draw focus to how the course links to your past and future.
Mention your academic and non-academic skills and how they fit the course.

For Formatting:

Keep the statement length between 250 -500 words or as directed by the school.
Sentences should be no more than 25-30 words.
Use headings to break up the content – Why this university? Why this subject? Etc.
Make claims and provide evidence to back each of them up. This can be done by discussing your work experience and academic interests.

Language and tone to use:

The tone for your masters application personal statement should be positive and enthusiastic, to show you eagerness to learn and so that you convince the evaluators that you have what it takes to succeed.
Use exciting and refreshing language, and an engaging opening line.
Ensure you grammar, punctuations, and spellings are accurate.
Avoid exaggerated claims you cannot backup.
Don’t use cliché generic terms and keep your focus on the course.

Keep the ending of your essay for master degree application concise and memorable, leaving no doubt in the admission officers mind that you deserve a spot on the program.

To create the best ending summarise all your key points without dragging it our or repeating yourself. The ending should be simple, end on a positive note and make it clear that the school will be lucky to have you on their program.

Personal Statement for Masters Sample

In this section, we have left a masters personal statement example for you, which you can use as material to write yours for any course of study you are applying to a school for.

My passion for Filmmaking, was influenced by my growing up reading novels and plays by my idols William Shakespeare, Tennessee Williams, and Maya Angelou, which graciously provided me with the opportunity to not just hear good stories, but also appreciate great storytellers whose plays still shake the foundations of the film industry.

Growing up, I loved movies and found myself fascinated by the stories, the characters and most importantly the realization that the human mind could create something so beautiful and gripping. I studied each film like a guide and whenever they ended, I would act out the scenes on my own, putting on a one-woman show for myself whenever I was alone at home. These things would later form the basis of me writing my first published book which was a drama titled The Reward of Evil Deed.

To me, loving literature and chasing it down all these years was something that made me different, but I also enjoyed it because films are more than something I just wanted to watch and forget, it is something that I wanted to be a part of. I didn’t just want to appreciate great films, I wanted to make them.

During my bachelor’s degree in India, I had the privilege of taking Literature classes stemming from British, American, and Indian literature to broaden my mind. I was also opportune to read great authors like John Donne, John Milton, Emily Dickinson, Charles Dickens, Mark Twain, Anton Chekov, Virginia Woolf, and of course Margret Atwood who I follow closely on Instagram. Three years later not only did I graduate as one of the best students in the school, but I did so with a first-hand knowledge of what it means to be a passionate storyteller whose art transcends time, language barrier, and location.

In addition to devouring Literature and watching satirical films like it’s the news, I am also an avid reader and prolific writer who throws herself into whatever she sets her heart on. I am the proud author of Forgetting Bangalore which is a personal memoir about my three years of studying in India, read amongst my closest friends who I shared those times with. In school, I also wrote the script for a short film for the class Psychology assignment titled The Ordeal which I uploaded to my YouTube page and uploaded to my application form.

Apart from writing for myself, I also function as a content creator/marketer for companies I have worked for in the past and is still working for now. I play the Bass guitar well and occasionally dabble in Lead guitar.

For far too long, I have aspired to be, but now I want to become a filmmaker and I strongly believe that through your institution that I would be able to learn and master all the aspects associated with filmmaking. I hope to attend Central Film School next year, enrolling in MA Practical Filmmaking under the tutelage of the amazing Faculty members.

Although I don’t have the professional skills or much of a background in filmmaking, I am passionate and have a zeal burning strongly that it will set the film industry on fire. I am a good storyteller, I am brilliant, resilient, and determined to succeed, and when I want something, I push until I get it, I am also a fast learner. I strongly believe that these attributes are what will help me successfully complete this master’s program.

Personal Statement PDF

You can also download this statement of purpose sample for masters degree pdf here and take your time to read it later – Personal Statement For Masters Sample .

Examples of Personal Statement for Masters

We have taken the time to source for some of the best postgraduate personal statement examples, which you can use in addition to the personal statement for masters program example as a template to write yours.

While you scroll through our list, you will find the perfect masters essay example for any field you wish to apply for, from business administration, to Psychology, to information technology, and lots more.

1. msw personal statement

We have found one of the best msw personal statement examples out there for you.

social work masters personal statement .

2. personal statement for masters in public health

mph personal statement examples

3. personal statement for masters in management

Personal statement for master degree sample for masters in management . , 4. personal statement for masters in education example.

personal statement for masters in education example

5. psychology masters personal statement

psychology masters personal statement example

6. sample personal statement for masters in data science data science masters personal statement

7. speech and language therapy personal statement statement of purpose for masters sample: speech and language therapy

8. business administration personal statement personal statement for masters in business administration

9. personal statement for masters in cyber security pdf masters degree personal statement examples for cyber security

10. personal statement for masters in finance msc finance personal statement examples

11. statement of purpose for masters in information technology pdf msc personal statement examples for information technology

12. international development personal statement statement of purpose for masters example

13. msc international business management personal statement international business management personal statement examples

14. computer science masters personal statement

statement of purpose for masters in computer science pdf

15. personal statement for masters in economics statement of purpose sample for masters degree in economics

16. mha personal statement statement of purpose format for masters in health administration

Conclusion – Things to Avoid When Writing A Personal Statement For Masters When writing a personal statement for university masters, there are some things you should avoid, so that you don’t ruin your essay. We have listed out those things below: • Avoid negativity. • Following an online template blindly. • Do not include unnecessary course modules, personal facts, or extra-curricular activities in your personal statement. • Do not lie or exaggerate an achievement or event. • Do not include inspirational quotes to your statement. • Avoid using clichés, gimmicks, humour, over-used word such as 'passion' or ‘driven’. • Do not make pleading statements. • Avoid mentioning key authors or professors in your field without any explanation. • Avoid using sentences that are too long. • Avoid flattering the organisation or using patronising terms. • Do not repeat information in your statement that you have already listed in your application. • Avoid waffling i.e., writing at length. • Don’t start writing your personal statement at the last minute.

How to Write a Good Letter of Recommendation for Students (10 PDF Sample Examples).

How to Write a Good Financial Aid Appeal Letter (13 PDF Sample Examples).

How to Write a Good Personal Statement for a Scholarship ( 7 PDF Sample Examples).

How To Write A Good Motivation Letter For Scholarship (4 PDF Sample Examples).

How To Write A Letter Of Intent For Scholarship (4 PDF Sample LOI Example).

Latest Blog Posts

US Visa Types Fees & Requirements
20 Free Social Media Marketing Course
30 Best Medical Universities In The US 2024
Tips To Find And Apply For Scholarships Online
30 Best Study Techniques To Try This 2024
26 Best Country To Teach English 2024
26 Best Free AI Chatbot 2024
20 Best Countries To Relocate 2024
Best Scholarships
DAAD MIPLC Scholarships for Students from Developing Countries (Germany) 2024
University of Oxford Skoll Scholarships 2025 (Fully-funded)
University of Michigan African Presidential Scholars Program 2024
University of Miami 2025 Stamps Scholarship (Fully-funded)
Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of British Columbia 2024
Korea Advanced Institute Of Science and Technology (KAIST) Undergraduate Scholarship 2024
King's College London Chevening Scholarship for International Students 2024
Yenching Academy Masters Fellowships for International Students 2024

Scholarship Tips

Scholarships by country to study.

United Kingdom
United States
South Africa
New Zealand
Netherlands

Scholarships by Category

Postgraduate
Undergraduate
College School
Entrepreneurs
Bachelors Degree
Women Scholarships
Fully Funded

Scholarships by Country of Origin

African Students
Developing Countries

Scholarships by Institution / Company

Flinders University
German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD)
University of Edinburgh
The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS)

Scholarships by School

University of Melbourne
University of Kent
University of Oxford
University Of Queensland, Australia
Privacy Policy
Terms of Use

Scholarships

Undergraduate Scholarships
Masters Scholarships
MBA Scholarships
Ph.D Scholarships
Fellowship Scholarships
Fully Funded Scholarships
F1 Visa Interview Questions And Answers
Scholarship Application Letter
Letter Of Intent For Scholarship
Personal Statement For Masters
Motivation Letter For Scholarship
Scholarship Acceptance Letter

Other Locations

Scholarships in UK
Scholarships in Canada
Scholarships for Nigerian Students
Scholarships for African Students
Study Abroad Community

Home — Essay Samples — Education — Scholarship — My Application For Chevening Scholarship

My Application for Chevening Scholarship

Categories: Academic Interests Personal Experience Scholarship

About this sample

Words: 1605 |

Published: Nov 8, 2019

Words: 1605 | Pages: 4 | 9 min read

Works Cited

African Women's Development Fund. (n.d.). Our grants. http://awdf.org/grantees/
Arese, U. (2016). The smart money woman. Troubador Publishing Ltd.
County Government of Kericho. (2018). Kericho County integrated development plan 2018-2022.
Health Renaissance Network. (n.d.). About us.
Kipkemoi, J. K. (2019). Youth leadership and representation in Kenya's devolved governance: Experiences from Kericho County. Commonwealth Journal of Local Governance, (22), 26-42.
Kweyu, R., Opiyo, R., & Siboe, G. (2016). Determinants of early sexual debut among high school students in Kisumu County, Kenya. Journal of Education and Practice, 7(6), 147-156.
National Youth Council of Kenya. (2019). National youth policy 2007 review report. https://nyc.go.ke/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Report-of-the-Review-of-the-National-Youth-Policy.pdf
Population Reference Bureau. (n.d.). PACE project.
World Vision Kenya. (n.d.). Programs. https://www.wvi.org/kenya/our-work/health
Young African Leadership Initiative. (n.d.). About YALI.

Cite this Essay

To export a reference to this article please select a referencing style below:

Let us write you an essay from scratch

450+ experts on 30 subjects ready to help
Custom essay delivered in as few as 3 hours

Get high-quality help

Prof. Kifaru

Verified writer

Expert in: Education Life

+ 120 experts online

By clicking “Check Writers’ Offers”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy . We’ll occasionally send you promo and account related email

No need to pay just yet!

Related Essays

2 pages / 895 words

1 pages / 575 words

1 pages / 652 words

1 pages / 670 words

Remember! This is just a sample.

You can get your custom paper by one of our expert writers.

121 writers online

My Application for Chevening Scholarship Essay

Still can’t find what you need?

Browse our vast selection of original essay samples, each expertly formatted and styled

Related Essays on Scholarship

I am applying for the master’s programme and the VUFP Scholarship at the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam to advance my career path and to develop skills that others need. My goal in life is to be useful to others, for me that is [...]

The National Honor Society (NHS) is a prestigious organization that recognizes outstanding high school students who demonstrate excellence in scholarship, leadership, service, and character. These four pillars are the foundation [...]

The pursuit of personal goals is often a journey marked by resilience, determination, and a deep-rooted desire for self-improvement. Scholarships, in this context, play a pivotal role in enabling ambitious individuals to [...]

The Ron Brown Scholar Program is a prestigious scholarship that aims to support and empower exceptional young African American students as they pursue their academic and professional goals. Established in memory of Ron Brown, [...]

Dear Sir/Madam, I am very glad to apply for Master in Electrical Engineering for Hungarian Scholarship. I have completed my undergraduate studies in Electrical Engineering from University of Engineering & Technology, [...]

I am writing this essay about why I deserve the scholarship. To start, Aristotle, the famous Greek philosopher once said, “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.” And while I pride myself in [...]

Get Your Personalized Essay in 3 Hours or Less!

We use cookies to personalyze your web-site experience. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .

Instructions Followed To The Letter
Deadlines Met At Every Stage
Unique And Plagiarism Free

How to write a personal statement

How to approach writing your personal statement for graduate applications.

If you’re applying for a grad course that requires a personal statement (sometimes also called a ‘statement of purpose’), it can be difficult to know where to start and what to include. Read on for tips from some of our masters’ students about their process and what they found helpful.

1. Before you start

The academic work is the most important reason why we’re here, but that also translates into work experiences, internships, volunteering. I think a big part of the personal statement is crafting that narrative of academic self that fits alongside your professional experiences, to give that greater picture of who you are as an academic. Lauren (MSc Modern Middle Eastern Studies)

Start by thinking about the skills, knowledge and interests you’ve acquired over time and how the course at Oxford will take them forward.

Your statement is the story you want to tell about yourself and your academic work to the department you are applying to.

Most of your application and its supporting documents communicate plain facts about your academic career so far. Your personal statement is your best opportunity to put these facts into context and show assessors how you’ve progressed and excelled.

Make sure you highlight evidence of your achievements (a high grade in a relevant area, an award or scholarship, a research internship).

Presenting yourself

When I was writing my personal statement, I went onto my course website. I looked at what they emphasised and what kind of students they were looking for, and I wrote about my experiences based on that. Kayla (MSc in Clinical Embryology)

Make it easy for an assessor to see how you meet the entry requirements for the course (you can find these on each course page ).

Don’t make any assumptions about what Oxford is looking for!

Get to know your department

You want to study this particular subject and you want to study at Oxford (you’re applying here, so we know that!) but why is Oxford the right place for you to study this subject? What interests or qualities of the academic department and its staff make it attractive to you?

Use your academic department’s website for an overview of their research, academic staff and course information (you'll find a link to the department's own website on each course page ).

I said, ‘why do I actually want to be here? What is it about being at Oxford that’s going to get me to what I want to do? Sarah (Bachelor of Civil Law)

Talk it out

Talking to others about your statement can be a great way to gather your ideas and decide how you’d like to approach it. Sarah even managed to get benefit out of this approach by herself:

“I spent a lot of time talking out loud. My written process was actually very vocal, so I did a lot of talking about myself in my room.”

2. The writing process

Know your format.

Make sure you’ve read all the guidance on the How to Apply section of your course page , so you know what’s needed in terms of the word count of the final statement, what it should cover and what it will be assessed for. This should help you to visualise roughly what you want to end up with at the end of the process.

Make a start

When it comes to writing your personal statement, just getting started can be the hardest part.

One good way to get around writer’s block is to just put it all down on the page, like Mayur.

First - write down anything and everything. In the first round, I was just dumping everything - whatever I’ve done, anything close to computer science, that was on my personal statement. Mayur (MSc Computer Science)

You’ll be editing later anyway so don’t let the blank page intimidate you - try writing a little under each of the following headings to get started:

areas of the course at Oxford that are the most interesting to you
which areas you’ve already studied or had some experience in
what you hope to use your Oxford course experience for afterwards.

3. Finishing up

Get some feedback.

Once you’ve got a draft of about the right length, ask for feedback on what you’ve written. It might take several drafts to get it right.

This could involve getting in touch with some of your undergraduate professors to ask them to read your draft and find any areas which needed strengthening.

You could also show it to people who know you well, like family or friends.

Because they’re the first people to say, ‘Who is that person?’ You want the people around you to recognise that it really sounds like you. It can be scary telling family and friends you’re applying for Oxford, because it makes it real, but be brave enough to share it and get feedback on it. Sarah (Bachelor of Law)

Be yourself

Finally - be genuine and be yourself. Make sure your personal statement represents you, not your idea about what Oxford might be looking for.

We have thousands of students arriving every year from a huge range of subjects, backgrounds, institutions and countries (you can hear from a few more of them in our My Oxford interviews).

Get moving on your application today

To find out more about supporting documents and everything else you need to apply, read your course page and visit our Application Guide .

Application Guide: Statement of purpose

Can't find what you're looking for?

If you have a query about graduate admissions at Oxford, we're here to help:

Ask a question

Privacy Policy

Postgraduate Applicant Privacy Policy

What are your chances of acceptance?

Calculate for all schools, your chance of acceptance.

Your chancing factors

Extracurriculars.

How to Write a Personal Statement That Wows Colleges

← What Is an Application Theme and Why Is It Important?

10 Personal Statement Examples That Work →

Most of the college applications process is fairly cut and dry. You’ll submit information about your classes and grades, standardized test scores, and various other accomplishments and honors. On much of the application, your accomplishments must speak for themselves.

The personal statement is different though, and it’s your chance to let your voice be heard. To learn more about the personal statement, how to choose a topic, and how to write one that wows colleges, don’t miss this post.

What is the Personal Statement?

Personal statements are used in both undergraduate and graduate admissions. For undergrad admissions, personal statements are any essays students must write to submit their main application. For example, the Common App Essay and Coalition Application Essay are examples of personal statements. Similarly, the ApplyTexas Essays and University of California Essays are also good examples .

Personal statements in college admissions are generally not school-specific (those are called “supplemental essays”). Instead, they’re sent to a wide range of schools, usually every school you apply to.

What is the Purpose of the Personal Statement?

The personal statement is generally your opportunity to speak to your unique experiences, qualities, or beliefs that aren’t elsewhere represented on the application. It is a chance to break away from the data that defines you on paper, and provide a glimpse into who you really are. In short, it’s the admissions committee’s chance to get to know the real you.

So, what are colleges looking for in your personal statement? They are looking for something that sets you apart. They are asking themselves: do you write about something truly unique? Do you write about something common, in a new and interesting way? Do you write about an aspect of your application that needed further explanation? All of these are great ways to impress with your personal statement.

Beyond getting to know you, admissions committees are also evaluating your writing skills. Are you able to write clearly and succinctly? Can you tell an engaging story? Writing effectively is an important skill in both college and life, so be sure to also fine-tune your actual writing (grammar and syntax), not just the content of your essay.

Is your personal statement strong enough? Get a free review of your personal statement with CollegeVine’s Peer Essay Review.

How To a Choose A Topic For Your Personal Statement

Most of the time, you’re given a handful of prompts to choose from. Common personal statement prompts include:

Central aspect of your identity (activity, interest, talent, background)
Overcoming a failure
Time you rose to a challenge or showed leadership
Experience that changed your beliefs
Problem you’d like to solve
Subject or idea that captivates you

One of the questions that we hear most often about the personal statement is, “How do I choose what to write about?” For some students, the personal statement prompt triggers an immediate and strong idea. For many more, there is at least initially some uncertainty.

We often encourage students to think less about the exact prompt and more about what aspects of themselves they think are most worthy of highlighting. This is especially helpful if you’re offered a “topic of your choice” prompt, as the best essay topic for you might actually be one you make up!

For students with an interesting story or a defining background, these can serve as the perfect catalyst to shape your approach. For students with a unique voice or different perspective, simple topics written in a new way can be engaging and insightful.

Finally, you need to consider the rest of your application when you choose a topic for your personal statement. If you are returning from a gap year, failed a single class during sophomore year, or participated extensively in something you’re passionate about that isn’t elsewhere on your application, you might attempt to address one of these topics in your statement. After all, the admissions committee wants to get to know you and understand who you really are, and these are all things that will give them a deeper understanding of that.

Still, tons of students have a decent amount of writer’s block when it comes to choosing a topic. This is understandable since the personal statement tends to be considered rather high stakes. To help you get the ball rolling, we recommend the post What If I Don’t Have Anything Interesting To Write About In My College Essay?

Tips for Writing a Personal Statement for College

1. approach this as a creative writing assignment..

Personal statements are difficult for many students because they’ve never had to do this type of writing. High schoolers are used to writing academic reports or analytical papers, but not creative storytelling pieces.

The point of creative writing is to have fun with it, and to share a meaningful story. Choose a topic that inspires you so that you’ll enjoy writing your essay. It doesn’t have to be intellectual or impressive at all. You have your transcript and test scores to prove your academic skills, so the point of the personal statement is to give you free rein to showcase your personality. This will result in a more engaging essay and reading experience for admissions officers.

As you’re writing, there’s no need to follow the traditional five-paragraph format with an explicit thesis. Your story should have an overarching message, but it doesn’t need to be explicitly stated—it should shine through organically.

Your writing should also feel natural. While it will be more refined than a conversation with your best friend, it shouldn’t feel stuffy or contrived when it comes off your tongue. This balance can be difficult to strike, but a tone that would feel natural when talking with an admired teacher or a longtime mentor is usually a good fit.

2. Show, don’t tell.

One of the biggest mistakes students make is to simply state everything that happened, instead of actually bringing the reader to the moment it happened, and telling a story. It’s boring to read: “I was overjoyed and felt empowered when I finished my first half marathon.” It’s much more interesting when the writing actually shows you what happened and what the writer felt in that moment: “As I rounded the final bend before the finish line, my heart fluttered in excitement. The adrenaline drowned out my burning legs and gasping lungs. I was going to finish my first half marathon! This was almost incomprehensible to me, as someone who could barely run a mile just a year ago.”

If you find yourself starting to write your essay like a report, and are having trouble going beyond “telling,” envision yourself in the moment you want to write about. What did you feel, emotionally and physically? Why was this moment meaningful? What did you see or hear? What were your thoughts?

For inspiration, read some memoirs or personal essays, like The New York Times Modern Love Column . You could also listen to podcasts of personal stories, like The Moth . What do these writers and storytellers do that make their stories engaging? If you didn’t enjoy a particular story, what was it that you didn’t like? Analyzing real stories can help you identify techniques that you personally resonate with.

3. Use dialogue.

A great way to keep your writing engaging is to include some dialogue. Instead of writing: “My brothers taunted me,” consider sharing what they actually said. It’s more powerful to read something like:

“Where’s the fire, Princess Clara?” they taunted. “Having some trouble?” They prodded me with the ends of the chewed branches and, with a few effortless scrapes of wood on rock, sparked a red and roaring flame. My face burned long after I left the fire pit. The camp stank of salmon and shame.

Having dialogue can break up longer paragraphs of text, and bring some action and immediacy to your story. That being said, don’t overdo it. It’s important to strike a balance between relying too much on dialogue, and using it occasionally as an effective writing tool. You don’t want your essay to read like a script for a movie (unless, of course, that’s intentional and you want to showcase your screenwriting skills!).

Want free essay feedback? Submit your essay to CollegeVine’s Peer Essay Review and get fast, actionable edits on your essay.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Personal Statements

1. giving a recap or report of all the events..

Your essay isn’t a play-by-play of everything that happened in that time frame. Only include relevant details that enrich the story, instead of making your personal statement a report of the events. Remember that the goal is to share your voice, what’s important to you, and who you are.

2. Writing about too many events or experiences.

Similarly, another common mistake is to make your personal statement a resume or recap of all your high school accomplishments. The Activities Section of the Common App is the place for listing out your achievements, not your personal statement. Focus on one specific experience or a few related experiences, and go into detail on those.

3. Using cliche language.

Try to avoid overdone quotes from famous people like Gandhi or Thoreau. Better yet, try to avoid quotes from other people in general, unless it’s a message from someone you personally know. Adding these famous quotes won’t make your essay unique, and it takes up valuable space for you to share your voice.

You should also steer away from broad language or lavish claims like “It was the best day of my life.” Since they’re so cliche, these statements also obscure your message, and it’s hard to understand what you actually mean. If it was actually the best day of your life, show us why, rather than just telling us.

If you want to learn more about personal statements, see our post of 11 Common App Essay Examples .

Want help with your college essays to improve your admissions chances? Sign up for your free CollegeVine account and get access to our essay guides and courses. You can also get your essay peer-reviewed and improve your own writing skills by reviewing other students’ essays.

Student-centric advice and objective recommendations

Higher education has never been more confusing or expensive. Our goal is to help you navigate the very big decisions related to higher ed with objective information and expert advice. Each piece of content on the site is original, based on extensive research, and reviewed by multiple editors, including a subject matter expert. This ensures that all of our content is up-to-date, useful, accurate, and thorough.

Our reviews and recommendations are based on extensive research, testing, and feedback. We may receive commission from links on our website, but that doesn’t affect our editors’ opinions. Our marketing partners don’t review, approve or endorse our editorial content. It’s accurate to the best of our knowledge when posted. You can find a complete list of our partners here .

How to Write an Amazing Personal Statement (Includes Examples!)

Lisa Freedland is a Scholarships360 writer with personal experience in psychological research and content writing. She has written content for an online fact-checking organization and has conducted research at the University of Southern California as well as the University of California, Irvine. Lisa graduated from the University of Southern California in Fall 2021 with a degree in Psychology.

Learn about our editorial policies

Zach Skillings is the Scholarships360 Newsletter Editor. He specializes in college admissions and strives to answer important questions about higher education. When he’s not contributing to Scholarships360, Zach writes about travel, music, film, and culture. His work has been published in Our State Magazine, Ladygunn Magazine, The Nocturnal Times, and The Lexington Dispatch. Zach graduated from Elon University with a degree in Cinema and Television Arts.

Bill Jack has over a decade of experience in college admissions and financial aid. Since 2008, he has worked at Colby College, Wesleyan University, University of Maine at Farmington, and Bates College.

Maria Geiger is Director of Content at Scholarships360. She is a former online educational technology instructor and adjunct writing instructor. In addition to education reform, Maria’s interests include viewpoint diversity, blended/flipped learning, digital communication, and integrating media/web tools into the curriculum to better facilitate student engagement. Maria earned both a B.A. and an M.A. in English Literature from Monmouth University, an M. Ed. in Education from Monmouth University, and a Virtual Online Teaching Certificate (VOLT) from the University of Pennsylvania.

Student completes a personal statement she has been writing for a college application

The personal statement. It’s one of the most important parts of the entire college application process. This essay is the perfect opportunity to show admissions officers who you are and what makes you stand out from the crowd. But writing a good personal statement isn’t exactly easy. That’s why we’ve put together the ultimate guide on how to nail your personal statement, complete with example essays . Each essay was reviewed and commented upon by admissions expert Bill Jack. Let’s dive in!

Related: How to write an essay about yourself

What is a personal statement?

A personal statement is a special type of essay that’s required when you’re applying to colleges and scholarship programs. In this essay, you’re expected to share something about who you are and what you bring to the table. Think of it as a chance to reveal a side of yourself not found in the rest of your application. Personal statements are typically around 400 – 600 words in length.

What can I write about?

Pretty much anything, as long as it’s about you . While this is liberating in the sense that your writing options are nearly unlimited, it’s also overwhelming for the same reason. The good news is that you’ll probably be responding to a specific prompt. Chances are you’re applying to a school that uses the Common App , which means you’ll have seven prompts to choose from . Reviewing these prompts can help generate some ideas, but so can asking yourself meaningful questions.

Below you’ll find a list of questions to ask yourself during the brainstorming process. For each of the following questions, spend a few minutes jotting down whatever comes to mind.

What experiences have shaped who you are?
What’s special or unique about you or your life story?
Who or what has inspired you the most?
What accomplishments are you most proud of?
What are your goals for the future? How have you arrived at those goals?
If your life was a movie, what would be the most interesting scene?
What have been some of the biggest challenges in your life? How did you respond and what did you learn?

The purpose of these questions is to prompt you to think about your life at a deeper level. Hopefully by reflecting on them, you’ll find an essay topic that is impactful and meaningful. In the next section, we’ll offer some advice on actually writing your essay.

Also see: How to write a 500 word essay

How do I write my personal statement?

Once you’ve found a topic, it’s time to start writing! Every personal statement is different, so there’s not really one formula that works for every student. That being said, the following tips should get you started in the right direction:

1. Freewrite, then rewrite

The blank page tends to get more intimidating the longer you stare at it, so it’s best to go ahead and jump right in! Don’t worry about making the first draft absolutely perfect. Instead, just get your ideas on the page and don’t spend too much time thinking about the finer details. Think of this initial writing session as a “brain dump”. Take 15-30 minutes to quickly empty all your thoughts onto the page without worrying about things like grammar, spelling, or sentence structure. You can even use bullet points if that helps. Once you have your ideas on the page, then you can go back and shape them exactly how you want.

2. Establish your theme

Now that you’ve got some basic ideas down on the page, it’s time to lock in on a theme. Your theme is a specific angle that reflects the central message of your essay. It can be summarized in a sentence or even a word. For example, let’s say you’re writing about how you had to establish a whole new group of friends when you moved to a new city. The theme for this type of essay would probably be something like “adaptation”. Having a theme will help you stay focused throughout your essay. Since you only have a limited number of words, you can’t afford to go off on tangents that don’t relate to your theme.

3. Tell a story

A lot of great essays rely on a specific scene or story. Find the personal anecdote relevant to your theme and transfer it to the page. The best way to do this is by using descriptive language. Consult the five senses as you’re setting the scene. What did you see, hear, taste, touch, or smell? How were you feeling emotionally? Using descriptive language can really help your essay come to life. According to UPchieve , a nonprofit that supports low income students, focusing on a particular moment as a “ revised version of a memoir ” is one way to keep readers engaged.

Related: College essay primer: show, don’t tell

4. Focus on your opening paragraph

Your opening paragraph should grab your reader’s attention and set the tone for the rest of your essay. In most cases, this is the best place to include your anecdote (if you have one). By leading with your personal story, you can hook your audience from the get-go. After telling your story, you can explain why it’s important to who you are.

Related: How to start a scholarship essay (with examples)

5. Use an authentic voice

Your personal statement reflects who you are, so you should use a tone that represents you. That means you shouldn’t try to sound like someone else, and you shouldn’t use fancy words just to show off. This isn’t an academic paper, so you don’t have to adopt a super formal tone. Instead, write in a way that allows room for your personality to breathe.

6. Edit, edit, edit…

Once you’re done writing, give yourself some time away from the essay. Try to allow a few days to pass before looking at the essay again with fresh eyes. This way, you’re more likely to pick up on spelling and grammatical errors. You may even get some new ideas and rethink the way you wrote some things. Once you’re satisfied, let someone else edit your essay. We recommend asking a teacher, parent, or sibling for their thoughts before submitting.

Examples of personal statements

Sometimes viewing someone else’s work is the best way to generate inspiration and get the creative juices flowing. The following essays are written in response to four different Common App prompts:

Prompt 1: “Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.”

When I was eight years old, I wanted a GameCube very badly. For weeks I hounded my dad to buy me one and finally he agreed. But there was a catch. He’d only get me a GameCube if I promised to start reading. Every day I played video games, I would have to pick up a book and read for at least one hour. At that point in my life, reading was just something I had to suffer through for school assignments. To read for pleasure seemed ludicrous. Needless to say, I wasn’t exactly thrilled about this proposed agreement. But I figured anything was worth it to get my hands on that shiny new video game console, so I bit the bullet and shook my dad’s hand. Little did I know that I had just made a life-changing deal.

At first, the required hour of reading was a chore — something I had to do so I could play Mario Kart. But it quickly turned into something more than that. To my complete and utter surprise, I discovered that I actually enjoyed reading. One hour turned into two, two turned into three, and after a while I was spending more time reading than I was playing video games. I found myself captivated by the written word, and I read everything I could get my hands on. Lord of the Rings , Percy Jackson , Goosebumps — you name it. I was falling in love with literature, while my GameCube was accumulating dust in the TV stand.

Soon enough, reading led to writing. I was beginning to come up with my own stories, so I put pen to paper and let my imagination run wild. It started out small. My first effort was a rudimentary picture book about a friendly raccoon who went to the moon. But things progressed. My stories became more intricate, my characters more complex. I wrote a series of science fiction novellas. I tried my hand at poetry. I was amazed at the worlds I could create with the tip of my pen. I had dreams of becoming an author.

Then somewhere along the way my family got a subscription to Netflix, and that completely changed the way I thought about storytelling. My nose had been buried in books up until then, so I hadn’t really seen a lot of movies. That quickly changed. It seemed like every other day a pair of new DVDs would arrive in the mail (this was the early days of Netflix). Dark Knight, The Truman Show, Inception, Memento — all these great films were coming in and out of the house. And I couldn’t get enough of them. Movies brought stories to life in a way that books could not. I was head over heels for visual storytelling.

Suddenly I wasn’t writing novels and short stories anymore. I was writing scripts for movies. Now I wanted to transfer my ideas to the big screen, rather than the pages of a book. But I was still doing the same thing I had always done. I was writing, just in a different format. To help with this process, I read the screenplays of my favorite films and paid attention to the way they were crafted. I kept watching more and more movies. And I hadn’t forgotten about my first love, either. I still cherished books and looked to them for inspiration. By the end of my junior year of high school, I had completed two scripts for short films.

So why am I telling you all this? Because I want to turn my love of storytelling into a career. I’m not totally sure how to do that yet, but I know I have options. Whether it’s film production, creative writing, or even journalism, I want to find a major that suits my ambitions. Writing has taken me a long way, and I know it can take me even further. As I step into this next chapter of my life, I couldn’t be more excited to see how my craft develops. In the meantime, I should probably get rid of that dusty old GameCube.

Feedback from admissions professional Bill Jack

Essays don’t always have to reveal details about the student’s intended career path, but one thing I like about this essay is that it gives the reader a sense of the why. Why do they want to pursue storytelling. It also shows the reader that they are open to how they pursue their interest. Being open to exploration is such a vital part of college, so it’s also showing the reader that they likely will be open to new things in college. And, it’s always fun to learn a little bit more about the student’s family, especially if the reader can learn about how the students interacts with their family.

Prompt 2: “The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?”

I remember my first impression of Irvine: weird. It was foggy, stock-full of greenery and eucalyptus trees, and reminded me of my 5th grade trip to a “science camp” which was located in the San Bernardino mountains. Besides Irvine, that was one of the few places in Southern California where you’d find so many non-palm trees.

Of course, perhaps my initial impression of Irvine was biased, motivated by a desire to stay in my hometown and a fear of the unknown. While that was true to an extent, Irvine was certainly still a little peculiar. The city itself was based on a “master plan” of sorts, with the location of each of its schools, parks, shops, and arguably its trees having been logically “picked” before the foundation was poured. Even the homes all looked roughly the same, with their beige, stucco walls almost serving as a hallmark of the city itself.

Thus, this perfectly structured, perfectly safe city seemed like a paradise of sorts to many outsiders, my parents included. I was a little more hesitant to welcome this. As I saw it, this was a phony city – believing that its uniformity stood for a lack of personality. My hometown, although not as flawlessly safe nor clean as Irvine, was where most of my dearest memories had occurred. From the many sleepovers at Cindie’s house, to trying to avoid my school’s own version of the “infamous” cheese touch, to the many laughs shared with friends and family, I shed a tear at the prospect of leaving my home.

Moving into the foreign city, remnants of the hostility I held towards Irvine remained. Still dwelling in my memories of the past, I was initially unable to see Irvine as a “home.” So, as I walked into my first-ever Irvine class, being greeted by many kind, yet unfamiliar faces around me, I was unable to recognize that some of those new faces would later become some of my dearest friends. Such negative feelings about the city were further reinforced by newer, harder classes, and more complicated homework. Sitting in the discomfort of this unfamiliar environment, it started to seem that “change” was something not only inevitable, but insurmountable.

As the years went on, however, this idea seemed to fade. I got used to my classes and bike racing through Irvine neighborhoods with my friends, watching the trees that once seemed just a “weird” green blob soon transform into one of my favorite parts of the city. While I kept my old, beloved memories stored, I made space for new ones. From carefully making our way over the narrow creek path next to our school, to the laughs we shared during chemistry class, my new memories made with friends seemed to transform a city I once disliked into one I would miss.

Through this transformation, I have come to recognize that change, although sometimes intimidating at first, can open the door to great times and meaningful connections. Although Irvine may have once seemed like a strange, “phony” place that I couldn’t wait to be rid of, the memories and laughs I had grown to share there were very real. As I move onto this next part of my life, I hope I can use this knowledge that I have gained from my time in Irvine to make the most of what’s to come. Even if the change may be frightening at first, I have learned to embrace what’s on the other side, whether green or not.

One huge plus to writing an essay that focuses on a place is that you might have it read by someone who has been there. Yet, what’s really helpful about this essay is that even if someone hasn’t been there, a picture is painted about what the place is like. Admission officers have the hard task of really understanding what the student sees, so the use of adjectives and imagery can really help. It’s also really clever to see that the green that’s mentioned at the beginning is mentioned at the end. It’s a nice way to bookend the essay and tie it all together.

Prompt 6: “Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?”

I like getting lost. Not literally, of course, but figuratively. Whether it be in the story of a love song by Taylor Swift, or in the memories brought back by listening to my favorite childhood video game’s background music, I’ve always appreciated music’s ability to transport me to another place, another time, another feeling.

Alas, I cannot sing, nor have I practiced an instrument since my middle school piano class days. So, perhaps Kurt Vonnegut was right. As he puts it, “Virtually every writer I know would rather be a musician.” While I cannot speak for others, I have certainly not debunked his theory. Writing allows many, including myself, to attempt to mimic the transformative power of music – even if our singing voices aren’t exactly “pleasant.” Just as you can get lost in music, you can do so in a story. Whether it is in George Orwell’s totalitarian Oceania, or Little Women’s Orchard House, the stories outlined in novels can provide an amazing look into the lives and worlds of others, and an escape from the worries and problems of those in your own.

While I am certainly not claiming to have the storytelling abilities of the Orwells or Alcotts before me, I’ve had fun trying to recreate such transformative feelings for others. When I was nine, I attempted to write a story about a little girl who had gotten lost in the woods, only managing to get a couple pages through. As I got older, whenever I was assigned a creative writing assignment in school, I wrote about the same pig, Phil. He was always angry: in my 8th grade science class, Phil was mad at some humans who had harbored his friend captive, and in my 9th grade English class, at a couple who robbed him.

Thus, when I heard about a writing club being opened at my school in 11th grade, I knew I had to join. I wanted to discern whether writing was just a hobby I picked up now and then, or a true passion. If it was a passion, I wanted to learn as much as possible about how I could improve. Although my high school’s writing club certainly wasn’t going to transform me into Shakespeare, I knew I could learn a lot from it – and I did. The club challenged me to do many things, from writing on the spot, to writing poetry, to even writing about myself, something that’s hopefully coming in handy right now.

From then on, I started to expand into different types of writing, storing short ideas, skits, and more in appropriately-labeled Google Drive folders. At around the same time, I became interested in classic literature, which largely stemmed from a project in English class. We had been required to choose and read a classic on our own, then present it to the class in an interesting way. While my book was certainly interesting and unique in its own right, nearly everyone else’s novels seemed more captivating to me. So, I took it upon myself to read as many classics as I could the following summer.

One of the books I read during the summer, funnily enough, was Animal Farm, which starred angry pigs, reminiscent of Phil. I had also started going over different ideas in my head, thinking about how I could translate them into words using the new skills I learned. While the writing club helped reaffirm my interest in writing and allowed me to develop new skills, my newfound affinity for classics gave me inspiration to write. Now, I am actually considering writing as part of my future. In this endeavor, I hope that Phil, and the music I inevitably listen to as I write, will accompany me every step of the way.

Admission officers might read 70 (or more!) essays in one day. It’s not uncommon for them to start to blend together and sound similar. This essay might not make you laugh out loud. But, it might make the reader chuckle while reading it thanks to the subtle humor and levity. Being able to incorporate a little humor into your essay (if it is natural for you to do… do not force it), can really be a great way to shed additional light into who you are. Remember, the essay isn’t merely about proving that you can write, but it should also reveal a little bit about your personality.

Prompt 5: “Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.”

I learned a lot of things during the summer I worked at Tropical Smoothie. I discovered the value of hard work. I figured out how to save money. I even mastered the art of the Mango Magic smoothie (the secret is lots of sugar). But most importantly, I learned the power of perspective. And I have Deja to thank for that.

Deja was my shift supervisor, and one of Tropical Smoothie’s best employees. She was punctual, friendly, and always willing to lend a helping hand. She knew the store from top to bottom, and could handle pretty much any situation thrown her way. She made everyone around her better. On top of all that, she was four months pregnant! I was always impressed by Deja’s work ethic, but I gained an entirely new level of respect for her one day.

It was a Friday night, and Deja and I were working the closing shift together. It was very busy, and Deja and I were the only ones on shift. We managed to get by, but we were exhausted by the end of the evening. After wiping down the counters and mopping the floors, we closed up shop and went our separate ways. I was eager to get home.

I walked a couple blocks to where I had parked my car. Well, it wasn’t my car actually. It was my dad’s ‘98 Chevy pickup truck, and it was in rough shape. It had no heat or A/C, the leather seats were cracked beyond repair, and the driver’s side door was jammed shut. I sighed as I got in through the passenger side and scooted over to the driver’s seat. The whole reason I was working at Tropical Smoothie was to save up enough money to buy my own car. I was hoping to have something more respectable to drive during my senior year of high school.

I cranked the old thing up and started on my way home. But soon enough, I spotted Deja walking on the side of the road. There was no sidewalk here, the light was low, and she was dangerously close to the passing cars. I pulled over and offered her a ride. She got in and explained that she was on her way home. Apparently she didn’t have a car and had been walking to work every day. I couldn’t believe it. Here I was complaining about my set of wheels, while Deja didn’t have any to begin with.

We got to talking, and she confessed that she had been having a tough time. You would never know from the way she was so cheerful at work, but Deja had a lot on her plate. She was taking care of her mother, her boyfriend had just lost his job, and she was worried about making ends meet. And of course, she was expecting a baby in five months. On top of all that, she had been walking nearly a mile to and from work every day. The whole thing was a real eye opener, and made me reconsider some things in my own life.

For one, I didn’t mind driving my dad’s truck anymore. It was banged up, sure, but it was a lot better than nothing. My mindset had changed. I appreciated the truck now. I began to think about other things differently, too. I started making mental notes of all the things in my life I was thankful for — my family, my friends, my health. I became grateful for what I had, instead of obsessing over the things I didn’t.

I also gained more awareness of the world outside my own little bubble. My encounter with Deja had shown me first-hand that everyone is dealing with their own problems, some worse than others. So I started paying more attention to my friends, family members, and coworkers. I started listening more and asking how I could help. I also gave Deja a ride home for the rest of the summer.

These are all small things, of course, but I think they make a difference. I realized I’m at my best when I’m not fixated on my own life, but when I’m considerate of the lives around me. I want to keep this in mind as I continue to grow and develop as a person. I want to continue to search for ways to support the people around me. And most importantly, I want to keep things in perspective.

Too often we can be focused on our own problems that we fail to realize that everyone has their own things going on in their lives, too. This essay showcases how it’s important to put things in perspective, a skill that certainly will prove invaluable in college… and not just in the classroom. Another reason I like this essay is because it provides deeper insight into the student’s life. Sure, you might have mentioned in your activities list that you have a job. But as this essay does, you can show why you have the job in the first place, what your responsibilities are, and more.

A few last tips

We hope these essay examples gave you a bit of inspiration of what to include in your own. However, before you go, we’d like to send you off with a few (personal statement) writing tips to help you make your essays as lovely as the memories and anecdotes they’re based off of. Without further ado, here are some of our best tips for writing your personal statements:

1. Open strong

College admissions officers read many, many essays (think 50+) a day, which can sometimes cause them to start blending together and sounding alike. One way to avoid your essay from simply fading into the background is to start strong. This means opening your essay with something memorable, whether an interesting personal anecdote, a descriptive setting, or anything else that you think would catch a reader’s attention (so long as it’s not inappropriate). Not only might this help college admissions officers better remember your essay, but it will also make them curious about what the rest of your essay will entail.

2. Be authentic

Perhaps most important when it comes to writing personal statement essays is to maintain your authenticity. Ultimately, your essays should reflect your unique stories and quirks that make you who you are, and should help college admissions officers determine whether you’d truly be a good fit for their school or not. So, don’t stress trying to figure out what colleges are looking for. Be yourself, and let the colleges come to you!

3. Strong writing

This one may seem a little obvious, but strong writing will certainly appeal to colleges. Not only will it make your essay more compelling, but it may show colleges that you’re ready for college-level essay writing (that you’ll likely have to do a lot of). Just remember that good writing is not limited to grammar. Using captivating detail and descriptions are a huge part of making your essay seem more like a story than a lecture.

4. Proofread

Last but not least, remember to proofread! Make sure your essay contains no errors in grammar, punctuation, and spelling. When you’re done proofreading your essay yourself, we would also recommend that you ask a teacher, parent, or other grammatically savvy person to proofread your essay as well.

Final thoughts

With those in hand, we hope you now have a better sense of how to write your personal statement. While your grades and test scores are important when it comes to college admissions, it’s really your essays that can “make” or “break” your application.

Although this may make it seem like a daunting task, writing an amazing personal statement essay is all about effort. Thus, so long as you start early, follow the advice listed above, and dedicate your time and effort to it, it’s entirely possible to write an essay that perfectly encapsulates you. Good luck, and happy writing!

Also see: Scholarships360’s free scholarships search tool

Key Takeaways

It may take some people longer than others to know what they want to write about, but remember that everyone, including you, has something unique to write about!
Personal statements should be personal, which means you should avoid being too general and really strive to show off what makes you “you”
Time and effort are two of the most important things you can put into your personal statement to ensure that it is the best representation of yourself
Don’t forget to ask people who know you to read your work before you submit; they should be able to tell you better than anyone if you are truly shining through!

Start your scholarship search

Vetted scholarships custom-matched to your profile
Access exclusive scholarships only available to Scholarships360 members

Frequently asked questions about writing personal statements

How do you write a powerful personal statement, what makes an amazing personal statement, how do you start an amazing personal statement, scholarships360 recommended.

Student sits in a classroom in the 1970's with other students typing on typewriters

10 Tips for Successful College Applications

Female college student leaning over a computer on a desk as she studies coalition vs common app information

Coalition vs. Common App: What is the difference?

Female student wearing headphones seated at desk looking at list of college application deadlines on computer notebook

College Application Deadlines 2024-2025: What You Need to Know

Trending now.

Photo of a student using our GPA converter to calculate her GPA from her grades

How to Convert Your GPA to a 4.0 Scale

Student filling in bubbles on the PSAT, with the words "PSAT > SAT" printed on his pencil

PSAT to SAT Score Conversion: Predict Your Score

Photo of a building on the campus of a Public Ivy which is covered in ivy

What are Public Ivy League Schools?

3 reasons to join scholarships360.

Automatic entry to our $10,000 No-Essay Scholarship
Personalized matching to thousands of vetted scholarships
Quick apply for scholarships exclusive to our platform

By the way...Scholarships360 is 100% free!

Application

Preparing your Chevening application

Facebook facebook
Twitter twitter
Linkedin linkedin
Whatsapp whatsapp
Facebook facebook (opens in a new window)
Twitter twitter (opens in a new window)
Linkedin linkedin (opens in a new window)
Whatsapp whatsapp (opens in a new window)

Follow these steps between now and applications opening on 2 August 2022, and you’ll be ready to ace the Chevening application process.

1. Think back to your proudest achievement in your life so far.

This could be a time where you’ve had to persevere in order to overcome a challenge, or a time that you had to forge new relationships in order to achieve something positive.

We recommend focussing on an achievement that helped you to develop new skills necessary for accomplishing your longer-term goals to create positive change in your home country.

Make sure you can talk about it in detail, including what you did, how you approached it, and what the result was.

“Describing in detail [one or two] examples will generally have a better impact than listing down everything without too much substance. In a nutshell, less is more.” – Roshini Menon, India, 2020 Chevening Alumna from King’s College London

2. Look forward to where you want to be in 2-, 5- and 10-years’ time.

Develop a realistic plan for achieving your goals to create positive change in your home country. We know life doesn’t always go to plan, but we want to know that you’ve put some serious thought into how you’re going to make your dreams a reality.

“It’s not about putting the most beautiful words on the application; it’s about communicating what it is you really want to achieve in your life.” – Syed Farradino Omar, Malaysia, 2018 Chevening Alumnus from Royal Holloway, University of London

“It’s helpful to sit down and really think about what logical steps you will need to take to achieve your goals in the future.” – Roshini Menon

Show us how determined you are to get to where you want to be!

3. Develop a clear sense about how a Chevening Scholarship could help you achieve your goals.

Why are you applying to Chevening? What could you achieve by joining our global community?

“Don’t be afraid to dream. If you dream about going to the best school in the UK and that’s going to make an impact to your life and the people around you, go for it!” – Syed Farradino Omar

“Try to focus on how the post graduate degree will act like a steppingstone and help your career to progress.” – Roshini Menon

Thinking about these questions now will mean that you’ll be ready to apply to Chevening when applications open on 2 August. The best of luck!

Related news

Application advice

To help you when applying for Chevening, we’ve collated some of our independent reading committees best feedback and advice.

Career success: What does it take?

Perseverance, empathy and self-reflection are all qualities that hold you in good stead for a long and happy career. Odonzaya Ayurzana, Principal Advisor HR at Rio Tinto Mongolia, shares why.

5 questions to ponder before your Chevening interview

Answer these questions well at interview and you're sure to succeed!

Graduate School

Personal Statement

Applicants will be required to upload a personal statement with the admission application in the space provided. Prior to submitting, please review file upload requirements .

Requirements

Princeton is strongly committed to welcoming students with diverse experiences. Describe a personal experience that influenced your decision to pursue graduate study. Explain how the lessons from this experience would enrich Princeton’s residential scholarly community.

The essay must be written in English and should not exceed 250 words. No specific formatting is required.

Review your final statement before uploading and submitting the admission application. If you submitted an application and need to revise your essay, you may upload the corrected version through the checklist before the deadline. After the deadline, no revised essays will be accepted.

IMAGES

Crafting A Winning Chevening Personal Statement For Your Scholarship
(DOC) Personal Statement I started studying chemistry
How to prepare your Chevening application, New
FREE 20+ Sample Personal Statement Templates in MS Word
Sample of Personal Statement for Chevening Scholarship get scholarship
FREE 9+ Personal Statement Samples in MS Word

VIDEO

Reading My Personal Statement
How To Answer The “Why This Country Question” Question In Essays/Interviews
Securing your LoA series: Vol. 1 Personal Statement 101 Chevening Buddy 2023
How to Write a Personal Statement for a UK University Master's Application. #studyabroad
How to write a winning motivation letter or personal statement part
Maximize Your TOEFL iBT Score for Study Abroad Success!

COMMENTS

How To Write Personal Statement For Chevening Scholarship
Understanding the Chevening Personal Statement. The Chevening Personal Statement is more than just a few paragraphs about yourself. It's your chance to shine, showcasing why you're the perfect candidate for this scholarship. But before we delve into the art of crafting an outstanding statement, let's lay the groundwork.
Application advice
Assessors know when answers are copied and pasted from a CV, personal statement or reference letter. Make sure you tailor your answers to the question. For your application to be deemed outstanding, make sure you clearly link your chosen course of study to your previous experiences and future vision.
Preparing your UK university application
Click on the expanding arrows to reveal what you need to do at each step of the UK university application process as a Chevening applicant. Step 1 Find and select three UK university courses. Step 2 Check entry requirements and deadlines. Step 3 Apply directly to your chosen universities. Step 4 Secure an unconditional offer.
Sample of Personal Statement for Chevening Scholarship
Here is an example of a personal statement for a Chevening Scholarship: I am extremely passionate about international affairs and the opportunities that travel provides for understanding different cultures. I have traveled extensively throughout Africa and Asia, and I hope to continue exploring new parts of the world through scholarship ...
Chevening application criteria
We break down the four key criteria you will be asked about in your Chevening application: leadership and influence, networking, studying in the UK, and career planning. You will need to submit an essay on each of these four areas in your Chevening application form. Read on to discover how you can effectively showcase your strengths and boost ...
How to Write Personal Statement / Mission Statement for UK ...
Hello! Welcome to your Channel helping you learn the tips and tricks for winning the Chevening Scholarship Program. How to write mission statement, personal ...
Crafting A Winning Chevening Personal Statement For Your Scholarship
Introduction to the Chevening Personal Statement. The Chevening Scholarship, a renowned UK government-funded program, offers a transformative opportunity for ambitious individuals to pursue postgraduate studies in the UK. Integral to the Chevening application is the personal statement, a pivotal document that distinguishes you in a highly ...
Top tips for a strong Chevening application
With places for Chevening scholarships being incredibly competitive, we wanted to share some top tips for writing a strong application to give you the best chance of success! ... Create a strong personal statement: Your personal statement is crucial. Highlight your academic and professional achievements, goals, and the reasons you're an ideal ...
Writing Chevening Essay: Breakdown Those 4 Questions
State this briefly and do the same for the next 4 questions. One of the Chevening events specifically for scholars: Leadership skill workshop with business pitching and social entrepreneurship as the theme. Networking. I would say that the networking question was a bit difficult for me to elaborate.
Crafting A Winning Chevening Personal Statement For Your Scholarship
Craft a winning Chevening personal statement with our expert tips. Elevate your application and secure your scholarship with our proven strategies.
How I Won a Chevening Scholarship
As with all other applications, do not leave anything until the eleventh hour. The online application system can slow down badly as the deadline approaches, so try to get things sorted well ahead of time. This year, the deadline is 1 November 2022. If you need more guidance, I'd suggest you keep an eye out for Chevening workshops.
Personal Statement For Masters (17 PDF Sample Examples)
7. speech and language therapy personal statement. statement of purpose for masters sample: speech and language therapy. 8. business administration personal statement. personal statement for masters in business administration. 9. personal statement for masters in cyber security pdf.
How to prepare your Chevening Scholarship application
Click on the arrows to reveal what to do at each step in the Chevening application process. Step 1 Check your eligibility. Step 2 Choose three UK master's degree courses. Step 3 Prepare your references and education documents. Step 4 Submit your online application. Step 5 Wait for an interview invitation. Step 6 Secure an unconditional offer ...
Tips for writing a winning Chevening Scholarship essay!
Here are a few pointers on how to make your application stand out: Less is More: Writing a Chevening scholarship essay requires a lot of deep self- reflection. For the essays on leadership and networking, think back on your time in school or university or work (whichever is relevant to you) and try to recollect as many experiences as you can ...
My Application for Chevening Scholarship
My Application for Chevening Scholarship. To start my Chevening Scholarship essay, I want to provide samples of my recent experiences. I worked as a program officer on HIV/AIDS program in Nyanza region in 2013. This made me realize that many orphaned children lacked information on sex and sexuality that made them more vulnerable to early sex in ...
How to write a personal statement
Make a start. When it comes to writing your personal statement, just getting started can be the hardest part. One good way to get around writer's block is to just put it all down on the page, like Mayur. First - write down anything and everything. In the first round, I was just dumping everything - whatever I've done, anything close to ...
THE PERSONAL STATEMENT
How to Write a personal statement A Comprehensive Video Course for Students. A seven-part online course designed to gives students and counselors everything they need to figure out (or help someone else figure out) how to write a personal statement for the Common App. Watch the Q&A sessions after each session where I answer important questions about the personal statement-writing process and ...
How to Write a Personal Statement That Wows Colleges
Tips for Writing a Personal Statement for College. 1. Approach this as a creative writing assignment. Personal statements are difficult for many students because they've never had to do this type of writing. High schoolers are used to writing academic reports or analytical papers, but not creative storytelling pieces.
Chevening Scholars share top tips for hopeful applicants
Faith Fao. Master of Public Health, University of Glasgow. 'My top tip is to extend grace to yourself by believing you deserve the award. A positive mindset goes along way during this process!'. Applications for Chevening Scholarships are open until 7 November 2023. Don't wait until the last minute to submit your application - apply today!
How to Write an Amazing Personal Statement (Includes Examples!)
5. Use an authentic voice. Your personal statement reflects who you are, so you should use a tone that represents you. That means you shouldn't try to sound like someone else, and you shouldn't use fancy words just to show off. This isn't an academic paper, so you don't have to adopt a super formal tone.
12 Outstanding Personal Statement Examples + Why They Work 2024
Example #3 - 12. Example #4 - Flying. Example #5 - Arab Spring in Bahrain. Example #6 - Poop, Animals and the Environment. Example #7 - Entoptic Phenomena. Example #8 - The Builder & Problem Solver. Example #10 - The Little Porch and a Dog (With Spanish Translation) Example #10 - Life As an Undocumented Student.
Preparing your Chevening application
2. Look forward to where you want to be in 2-, 5- and 10-years' time. Develop a realistic plan for achieving your goals to create positive change in your home country. We know life doesn't always go to plan, but we want to know that you've put some serious thought into how you're going to make your dreams a reality.
Personal Statement
Personal Statement Applicants will be required to upload a personal statement with the admission application in the space provided. Prior to submitting, please review file upload requirements. Requirements. Princeton is strongly committed to welcoming students from diverse backgrounds and experiences. Applicants are required to submit a ...

How To Write Personal Statement For Chevening Scholarship

Understanding the Chevening Personal Statement

Crafting an Engaging Personal Statement

Telling Your Story

Demonstrating Leadership and Impact

Aligning with Chevening Values

The Writing Process

Pre-writing Steps

Drafting and Revising

Showcasing Skills and Achievements

Academic and Professional Achievements

Leadership and Extracurricular Activities

Language and Communication Skills

Tailoring Your Statement for Chevening

Addressing Chevening’s Values and Objectives

Adapting for Different Course Choices (if Applicable)

Seeking Feedback and Proofreading

How long should my Chevening Personal Statement be?

Can I reuse my personal statement for multiple course choices within the Chevening application?

What should I do if I have limited leadership experience to include in my personal statement?

Blessing Etim

You May Also Like

How To Ask A Girl Out In College

Do Community Colleges Give Scholarships

Are College Scholarships Taxable Income

Can I Get A Scholarship For Community College

What Colleges Offer Nail Technician? Comprehensive List

How Do You Tryout For College Cheerleading

Sample of Personal Statement for Chevening Scholarship

Work Experience

Activities and Hobbies

Community Service

Share this:

Latest Post

Scholarships in Hong Kong without IELTS 2024

York University Scholarships 2024 in Canada | Fully Funded

Fully-Funded Turkish Government Scholarship 2024

GREAT UK Scholarships 2024-2025 | (Fully Funded)

Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships 2024 | Fully Funded

1000+ Denmark Government Scholarships 2024 | Fully Funded

Crafting a Winning Chevening Personal Statement for Your Scholarship Essay

Understanding the Importance of the Personal Statement in the Chevening Application

Demonstrating Leadership and Influence

Aligning Your Career Goals with the Scholarship

Networking and Community Engagement

Telling Your Unique Story

Reflecting on Past Achievements and Future Potential

Understanding the Chevening Criteria

Writing with Clarity and Purpose

How long should my Chevening personal statement be?

Can I apply for the Chevening Scholarship if I have already studied in the UK?

Should I mention specific universities or courses in my personal statement?

Table of Contents

Recent Blogs

How To Write a Film and Media Studies Personal Statement

Good Psychology Books to Read for Personal Statement

Good Economics Books for Personal Statement

Let us make sure you get into the best!

Top tips for a strong Chevening application

Related stories

Chevening - Wales: an amazing place to start my next chapter

Why choosing a Welsh university for your Chevening application might be your best idea ever

Before you start...

Terms and Conditions

Sign up to our newsletter

Writing Chevening Essay: Breakdown Those 4 Questions

Share this:

Published by laurensiairma

61 thoughts on “Writing Chevening Essay: Breakdown Those 4 Questions”

Leave a comment Cancel reply

Crafting a Winning Chevening Personal Statement for Your Scholarship Essay

Understanding the Importance of the Personal Statement in the Chevening Application

Demonstrating Leadership and Influence

Aligning Your Career Goals with the Scholarship

Networking and Community Engagement

Telling Your Unique Story

Reflecting on Past Achievements and Future Potential

Understanding the Chevening Criteria

Writing with Clarity and Purpose

How long should my Chevening personal statement be?