How to Write a Personal Statement - Law

How to Write a Good UCAS Personal Statement – Law

Think carefully about applying for Law. If you are applying because you have aspirations to be a lawyer it is worth pointing out that you do not actually need to have a law degree to do the LPC (Legal Practice Course). However, you would need to do a conversion course after your degree which would take a year. But if you are indecisive about Law then it might be a better idea to read a subject with broader horizons. Continue to feed your attraction to Law through reading and work placements and by the time you graduate you will feel more confident in your decision. To pursue a career in Law is something you need to be very sure of. It demands commitment, dedication and hard work. Research the courses that you are applying for in depth. If you feel certain that a degree in Law is right for you then follow these guidelines and write a personal statement that will secure you your place at your desired University.

If you have decided to read Law at university, you will be facing a lot of competition for a place. Law is a very popular course and a large amount of people apply. The admissions tutors will be reading hundreds and hundreds of personal statements so you must insure that yours is good enough to be considered.

The admissions tutor reading your statement will value good grammar, structure and language. Bad writing skills will instantly put you at a huge disadvantage. Even if your grades look good and you tick all the boxes, having good English skills is vital. Think about the essential skills you will need if you want to be a solicitor or a barrister. Good communication is key, written and oral.

You need to display an active, lively interest in law and more importantly, in the course. Remember that you are applying for the degree, not the career. Of course it is important to mention your aspirations but the admissions tutor is primarily looking for students who will be committed to the course.

Give some background on activities you have been a part of that will highlight your virtues and show how you are suitable for the course. A career in law requires professionalism, personal integrity, an ethical approach and the ability to see things from different perspectives. Draw from your own experiences to demonstrate that you have these qualities.

Will you be good at the course? Talk about your A Levels and the transferable skills you can take from them. For instance, if you have studied History then you will have developed research skills and your essay writing will have matured to be balanced and concise.

Finish your statement with a little bit more about yourself. Show the admissions tutor that you are a well-rounded character with a lot to offer to the university and the course. You will be a more attractive candidate if you are part of a sports team or if you can talk about other pastimes you may have such as painting. Try to keep it relevant though, how has being on a sports team made you a better candidate for university?

It is unusual for a University to interview a law applicant so your personal statement, references and your grades are all the admissions tutor will have to look at. Write a draft. Rewrite it. Have your friends, family and tutors read it and give you feedback and criticism. Write it again and keep doing this until it is perfect. Remember the importance of structure. Don’t waffle. Sell yourself.

Find out more about the different courses available and compare universities at www.studentbook.org

Good Luck!

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