Personal statement shows lack of understanding of the programme

You need a strong personal statement for an application to our degree programmes.

What your personal statement should show

For some degree programmes, one of the key factors in the selection process is a strong personal statement. This should clearly demonstrate: 

  • an understanding of the nature of the programme
  • a good understanding of the programme’s aims and objectives
  • how the programme will advance your specific career ambitions 

If your personal statement does not demonstrate the required level of understanding of the degree programme, we may be unable to consider your application further.

We also may not be able to consider a revised personal statement. Contact us to see if we can reconsider your application if you send us a revised personal statement.

Contact futurestudents@ed.ac.uk

How to prepare for your personal statement 

For a personal statement, you should be familiar with the information provided for the degree programme like: 

  • the aims as described on our degree finder
  • the degree programme description
  • the structure of the programme 

Check the programme information on the degree finder 

How to write your personal statement

College of Science and Engineering: if you applied for MSc Food Security

You should not confuse the MSc in Food Security degree programme with an MSc in Food Safety or Food Science. We cannot accept personal statements focused on either of these areas for the MSc in Food Security.

Information about MSc Food Security on the degree finder 

What to do if your application was unsuccessful

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