What Universities Really Want to See in Your Applications!

Blog written and edited by the Times Higher Education, in partnership with Millie

To get into your ideal course at your ideal institution, an international student needs more than good grades (although they certainly don’t hurt). The people in charge of reviewing university applications will sift through hundreds – sometimes thousands – of personal statements, so it’s important to make yours stand out.

So how do you create a high-quality personal statement that makes you the obvious choice for your institution?

Your academic achievements should comprise about 70 per cent of your overall statement. That leaves 30 per cent to demonstrate who you are outside of the classroom. Extracurricular activities are a part of this but “super curricular” activities – which highlight how you’ve engaged intellectually with your subject area outside school – are even better. Here are three key areas to focus on if you want to get into your first choice of university.

1. Extra reading

The first thing to do is show that you are interested in your chosen subject beyond what you are learning at college or school.

An excellent way to demonstrate your intellectual curiosity and your willingness to engage with the material on your particular course is to look at the reading lists published online. These will often be available on your target university’s website.

You should also make an effort to read widely discussed works in your chosen field: a would-be evolutionary biologist should aim to read On the Origin of Species; if you’re looking to study modernist literature, you should aim to read Ulysses and To the Lighthouse. Beyond this reading, look for critical perspectives (supporting, opposed, or mixed) on the relevant works to get a sense of the conversations happening in your area of study. It’s helpful to your application, and it gives you a better idea of how you could contribute to them.

Subscribing to relevant magazines and journals can also help. Stay up to date, stay informed, and you can’t go far wrong.

2. Participation and collaboration

Of course, reading is only one part of the equation. Your personal statement should also suggest that you are enthusiastic and willing to participate in your chosen field, not just learn about it.

An excellent way to do that is to visit museums, exhibitions and other points of interest. If you’re looking to study modern foreign languages, you could go to the country where your chosen language is spoken; if you intend to study architecture, you should visit significant buildings and landmarks. Demonstrate your passion: don’t just tell them about it.

Another easy way to do that is to join a society or club relevant to your prospective degree: law students should join the debating team; Model United Nations is great for students looking to enrol in philosophy, politics and economics or international relations.

Equally, attending lectures is another way to stand out at the application stage. Find out if your school or college holds talks or research some in your local area.

3. Self-development

Finally, universities want to see that you’re a self-starter. Taking a massive open online course (MOOC) can highlight that you are serious about studying – and will often come with a certificate once you’ve completed it. This small-time commitment can improve your personal statement.

Otherwise, consider entering competitions to prove your capability against other students. Take part in a Maths Olympiad or an essay competition and you’ll stand out from the rest.

Interested in more tips like this? Connect with us at the THE Student Festival: Study in Europe!

We’re excited to be partnering with THE Student at the Study in Europe Festival, taking place on May 24, 2022! Chat with us on our virtual booth to find out more about the academic and career resources we offer. From subject tutoring to exam preparation, we’ve got you covered!

You can also connect with us by attending one of our sessions. Our co-founder Giuseppe Iademarco will host a session to discuss his own experiences studying abroad and his belief that a global mindset is crucial to success. We’ll also host a Student Panel, in which some of our students currently studying in Europe will share their experiences. Join us and ask any questions you might have!

Secure your free ticket today. We look forward to speaking with you!