University applicants will no longer have to face writing a personal statement, amid changes announced by Ucas.
Students hoping to start university in 2026 will now be asked to answer three guided questions on why they want to study their chosen course and how they are prepared for it.
This will replace the 4,000-character statement, which the admissions body Ucas said would level the playing field for disadvantaged students.
The reform comes amid longstanding concerns that the existing personal statement favours advantaged students who can access more support.
The three questions students will be asked from September 2025 are:
- Why do you want to study this course or subject?
- How have your qualifications and studies helped you to prepare for this course or subject?
- What else have you done to prepare outside of education, and why are these experiences helpful?
Ucas said the proportion of people from the most disadvantaged backgrounds who applied to university this year fell in Northern Ireland, England and Wales, but rose in Scotland.
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