One Month to UCAS Deadline: A Guide for International Students and Families

With just one month remaining until the UCAS application deadline, the clock is ticking for students who aspire to study at universities in the UK. Whether this is your first encounter with UCAS or you’ve guided students through it before, this newsletter will provide an insightful look at what UCAS is, the importance of the personal statement, and how we can support students to put their best foot forward.

What is UCAS?

The Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) is the centralised system for applying to most undergraduate courses in the UK. Through UCAS, students can apply to up to five universities or courses with one application. It simplifies the process but also demands strategic thinking, especially for international applicants.

UCAS isn’t just about submitting grades or test scores. It’s about showcasing a student’s passion, potential, and readiness for the academic journey ahead. At its heart lies the personal statement, a critical component that can set an applicant apart.

Why the Personal Statement Matters

Imagine this. Admissions officers sift through thousands of applications. The personal statement is often the deciding factor in whether a student’s application stands out or blends into the crowd. It’s the student’s chance to tell their story—to explain why they are passionate about their chosen field of study, what experiences have shaped their aspirations, and what unique qualities they bring to the university.

For international students, this is also an opportunity to:

• Highlight their cultural perspective.
• Share unique experiences that illustrate resilience or adaptability.
• Show how their global outlook will enrich the university community.

Top Tips for Writing a Stellar Personal Statement

If you’re working with students who are crafting their statements, here are seven key tips to ensure their essays shine:

1. Start with a Hook: Encourage students to grab the reader’s attention with a compelling story or bold statement.
2. Be Authentic: Admissions officers can tell when a statement lacks sincerity. Authenticity and a genuine tone go a long way.
3. Demonstrate Knowledge and Passion: Students should connect their experiences to their chosen course of study, showing why they are the perfect fit.
4. Choice of Extracurricular Activities Matters: Whether it’s volunteering, a work placement, or independent projects, pick examples that truly showcase your readiness for university.
5. Don't lie: Claiming you participated in an activity you didn’t do—or exaggerating your achievements—won’t help you get into your dream university. Many tutors now ask for evidence of extracurriculars, such as certificates, references, or a detailed description of your role. If they’re not convinced, it could cost you your offer.
6. Authenticity Beyond AI Tools: With AI tools becoming common, tutors can spot when a personal statement lacks authenticity. To ensure your voice shines through, some universities even require students to complete a written task during interviews to verify their skills and align them with their statements.
7. Proofread and Edit: Errors can detract from the message. Reviewing multiple drafts ensures clarity and polish.

How You Can Help

As educational agents and family members, your role in supporting students is invaluable. Here’s how you can make a difference:

• Educate: Explain the importance of UCAS and guide them through the process.
• Motivate: Encourage students to begin early and stay organized.
• Connect: If writing in English is a challenge, recommend resources or professionals who can provide feedback and editing support.

How We Can Help

The journey to studying in the UK begins with UCAS, and the personal statement is the passport to success. With the deadline fast approaching, there’s no time to waste. Together, let’s ensure that international students have the guidance and tools they need to make their dreams a reality.

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