format for graduate school personal statement

Writing Your Personal Statements

Your personal statement must demonstrate to the admissions committee that you have considered graduate school and their specific program seriously. It’s your opportunity to summarize your academic and research experiences. You must also communicate how your experiences are relevant to preparing you for the graduate degree that you will be pursuing and explain why a given program is the right one for you.

The personal statement is where you highlight your strengths. Make your strengths absolutely clear to the reviewers, because they will often be reading many other statements. Your self-assessments and honest conversations with peers and advisors should have also revealed your strengths. But you must also address (not blame others for) weaknesses or unusual aspects of your application or academic background.

Your personal statement should focus on two main aspects: your competence and commitment.

1. Identify your strengths in terms of competence that indicate that you will succeed in the grad program and provide examples to support your claims. Start your statement by describing your strengths immediately. Because faculty will be reading many statements, it’s important to start off with your strengths and not “bury your lede.” Consider traits of successful graduate students from your informational interviews, and identify which of these traits you have. These traits could involve research skills and experiences, expertise in working with techniques or instruments, familiarity with professional networks and resources in your field, etc.

Check your responses from the exercises in the self-assessment section. You may wish to consult notes from your informational interviews and your Seven Stories . Write concise summaries and stories that demonstrate your strengths, e.g. how your strengths helped you to achieve certain goals or overcome obstacles.
Summarize your research experience(s). What were the main project goals and the “big picture” questions? What was your role in this project? What did you accomplish? What did you learn, and how did you grow as a result of the experience(s)?

My research examines the interplay between U.S. domestic politics and foreign policy during the Cold War. As a native New Yorker, I saw firsthand how dramatically my city changed after 9/11, which prompted my early interest in U.S. policy at home and abroad. As an undergraduate at the City College of New York, I planned to study international relations with a focus on U.S. foreign affairs. I also quickly became involved in student activist groups that focused on raising awareness about a wide range of human rights issues, from the Syrian refugee crisis to asylum seekers from Central America.

The more I learned about the crises in the present, the more I realized that I needed a deeper understanding of the past to fully grasp them. I decided to pursue a PhD in history in order to gain a clearer understanding of human rights issues in the present and to empower young student-activists like myself.

— Vannessa Velez, PhD candidate in History

Addressing weaknesses or unusual aspects

Identify weaknesses or unusual aspects in your application—e.g., a significant drop in your GPA during a term; weak GRE scores; changes in your academic trajectory, etc. Don’t ignore them, because ignoring them might be interpreted as blind spots for you. If you’re unsure if a particular issue is significant enough to address, seek advice from faculty mentors.
Explain how you’ll improve and strengthen those areas or work around your weakness. Determine how you will address them in a positive light, e.g., by discussing how you overcame obstacles through persistence, what you learned from challenges, and how you grew from failures. Focusing on a growth mindset or grit and this blog on weaknesses might also help.
Deal with any significant unusual aspects later in the statement to allow a positive impression to develop first.
Explain, rather than provide excuses—i.e., address the issue directly and don’t blame others (even if you believe someone else is responsible). Draft it and get feedback from others to see if the explanation is working as you want it to.
Provide supporting empirical evidence if possible. For example, “Adjusting to college was a major step for me, coming from a small high school and as a first-generation college student. My freshman GPA was not up to par with my typical achievements, as demonstrated by my improved GPA of 3.8 during my second and third years in college."
Be concise (don’t dwell on the issues), but also be complete (don’t lead to other potentially unanswered questions). For example, if a drop in grades during a term was due to a health issue, explain whether the health issue is recurring, managed now with medication, resolved, etc.

2. Explain your commitment to research and their graduate program, including your motivation for why you are applying to this graduate program at this university. Be as specific as possible. Identify several faculty members with whom you are interested in working, and explain why their research interests you.

Descriptions of your commitment should explain why you’re passionate about this particular academic field and provide demonstrations of your commitment with stories (e.g., working long hours to solve a problem, overcoming challenges in research, resilience in pursuing problems). Don’t merely assert your commitment.
Explain why you are applying to graduate school, as opposed to seeking a professional degree or a job. Discuss your interest and motivation for grad school, along with your future career aspirations.

I am definitely not your traditional graduate student. As a biracial (Native American and white), first-generation PhD student from a military family, I had very limited guidance on how best to pursue my education, especially when I decided that graduate school was a good idea. I ended up coming to this PhD in a very circuitous manner, stopping first to get a JD and, later, an MFA in Young Adult Literature. With each degree, I took time to work and apply what I’d learned, as a lawyer and as an educator. Each time, I realized that I was circling around questions that I couldn’t let go of—not just because I found them to be fascinating, but because I did (and still do!) feel that my research could help to bridge a gap that desperately needs bridging. Because my work is quite interdisciplinary, I strongly feel that I wouldn’t have been able to pursue this line of research without the degrees and life experience I gained before coming to this program.

— Jamie Fine, PhD candidate in Modern Thought and Literature

Statement of Purpose: subtle aspects

Think in terms of engaging faculty in a conversation rather than pleading with them that you should be admitted. Ask reviewers to read drafts with this concern in mind.
With later drafts, try developing an overall narrative theme. See if one emerges as you work.
Write at least 10 drafts and expect your thinking and the essay to change quite a bit over time.
Read drafts out loud to help you catch errors.
Expect the "you' that emerges in your essay to be incomplete. . . that’s OK.
You’re sharing a professional/scholarly slice of "you."
Avoid humor (do you really know what senior academics find funny?) and flashy openings and closings. Think of pitching the essay to an educated person in the field, but not necessarily in your specialty. Avoid emotionally laden words (such as "love" or "passion"). Remember, your audience is a group of professors! Overly emotional appeals might make them uncomfortable. They are looking for scholarly colleagues.

Graduate school personal statements: Examples and tips for success

Step-by-step guide to crafting a strong personal statement.

Grad student smiling at desk with multiple computer screens

A personal statement, admissions essay or statement of purpose is a written essay that applicants submit when applying to college or graduate school .

Your personal statement is a key part of an application and can help determine whether you get an interview. It's an opportunity to introduce yourself to the selection committee and demonstrate your strengths, values and potential to contribute to the academic community.

In your personal statement you should include:

Opening paragraph : Draw in your reader
Academic background : What you studied, your GPA, any relevant coursework or research
Professional experience : Work, internships or volunteer work related to the field
Motivation for pursuing graduate studie s: Why you want to pursue this specific program and what drives you
Reasons for applying to this particular school/program : What stands out about the program and how does it align with your goals?
Career goals : What you hope to achieve with this degree
Closing paragraph : Pull it all together and share any final thoughts.

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Personal statement examples.

Below are a few personal statement examples for graduate school, each tailored to different fields and specific grad programs. These sample outlines will give you a general idea of structure and tone, but be sure to customize them .

Personal statement example for psychology graduate school

Opening : Ever since I was a child, I’ve been fascinated by the way people think, feel and behave. My curiosity about human behavior led me to major in psychology during my undergraduate years, and over time, this fascination evolved into a commitment to understanding the underlying mechanisms that drive mental health conditions. As I prepare to take the next step in my academic journey, I am eager to contribute to the growing body of research on cognitive-behavioral therapies, and I believe your program at [university] is the ideal environment for me to deepen my expertise in clinical psychology.

Academic background : During my undergraduate studies at [undergrad school], I pursued coursework that ranged from abnormal psychology to research methods, each of which expanded my understanding of the intricacies of the human mind. I took particular interest in cognitive development and later worked on a research project investigating the effects of cognitive-behavioral therapy on adolescents with anxiety disorders. My senior thesis, which focused on how early childhood trauma influences emotional regulation in adulthood, received recognition at the university’s annual psychology symposium.

Research and experience : In addition to my coursework, I gained hands-on experience in a clinical setting, working as a research assistant under [researcher] in a lab focused on the neurological underpinnings of PTSD. My responsibilities included data collection, statistical analysis, and co-authoring a paper on the neural activity involved in trauma-related memory recall, which was later submitted for publication. This experience not only honed my technical research skills but also reinforced my passion for studying the intersection of mental health and neuroscience.

Why this program : The unique opportunity to work with [faculty member] at [university] is one of the key reasons I am drawn to your program. [Name]'s research on the efficacy of cognitive interventions in treating PTSD aligns perfectly with my own interests, and I am eager to contribute to ongoing projects while pursuing my own research in the area of trauma-informed therapy. Additionally, your program’s emphasis on integrating evidence-based practice with clinical training is exactly what I’m looking for as I seek to bridge the gap between research and real-world clinical applications.

Career goals : My long-term goal is to contribute to the development of more effective, accessible mental health treatments, particularly for individuals with trauma-related disorders. I envision myself working in a clinical research setting, where I can continue to study the effectiveness of various psychotherapies, contribute to clinical trials, and ultimately use research findings to guide therapeutic practices that improve the quality of life for people affected by trauma. [University]’s commitment to both rigorous academic training and applied clinical practice makes it the ideal place for me to achieve these goals.

Closing : The opportunity to join [university] would be both a privilege and a challenge, and I am confident that my academic background, research experience and passion for psychology will allow me to contribute meaningfully to the program. I look forward to the possibility of working with esteemed faculty and fellow graduate students who share my commitment to advancing the field of mental health research.

Personal statement example for MBA applications

Opening : I am excited to apply for the MBA program at [university] because I believe it will provide the knowledge, skills and network necessary to fulfill my long-term career aspirations of becoming a transformative leader in [industry/field]. My passion for business, coupled with my background in [your background: e.g., engineering, finance, marketing], has driven me to pursue an MBA to deepen my understanding of strategic decision-making, management and entrepreneurship.

Professional experience : Over the past [X] years, I have gained hands-on experience at [company], where I have contributed to [key projects, achievements or responsibilities]. In my role as [your current position], I have developed expertise in [relevant skills: project management, financial analysis, data-driven decision-making] and have worked with cross-functional teams to [describe key outcomes or contributions]. For instance, I led a team that [specific accomplishment], resulting in [impact: increased revenue, improved operational efficiency, cost savings]. This experience has deepened my understanding of the complexities of business and sharpened my problem-solving abilities.

Why MBA : While I have gained valuable practical experience, I recognize that an MBA will provide the strategic framework and leadership tools required to make more impactful, long-term decisions. I am eager to strengthen my understanding of topics like [finance, marketing, strategy, leadership, operations] and learn from esteemed professors and diverse classmates. The interdisciplinary approach of [university]'s MBA program, with its focus on [key aspects of program: innovation, sustainability, global business], resonates with my career goals and values. I also look forward to the opportunity to engage with the school’s vibrant alumni network and learn from the experiences of business leaders who have navigated similar challenges.

Career goals : Upon completing my MBA, I aim to transition into a leadership role at [company or organization] where I can leverage my skills to drive business growth and innovation. My long-term goal is to [specific career aspiration: manage a business unit, start my own company, lead sustainability initiatives in a multinational corporation]. I am particularly interested in how businesses can balance profitability with social and environmental responsibility, and I hope to be part of a movement that redefines success in business.

Why this program : The reputation of [university]'s MBA program for academic excellence, leadership development, and global perspective is what initially drew me to apply. I am particularly excited about the [specific program element: global immersion programs, consulting labs, entrepreneurial ecosystem] and how it will enable me to apply classroom knowledge to real-world business challenges. I believe that the collaborative, forward-thinking environment at [university] will foster my growth as a leader and allow me to contribute meaningfully to the community.

Closing : In conclusion, I am confident that the MBA program at [university] will equip me with the tools I need to achieve my career aspirations. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to the diversity of thought and experience in the classroom while learning from faculty and peers who share my passion for business leadership. I am committed to leveraging my skills, experiences, and perspectives to make a positive impact in the business world, and I am excited to take this next step in my professional journey.

Personal statement example for Master of Engineering program

Opening : From a young age, I have always been fascinated by how things work — whether it was taking apart my computer to troubleshoot issues or participating in robotics competitions in high school. This natural curiosity evolved into a passion for mechanical engineering during my undergraduate studies at [undergrad school], where I excelled in courses such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics and system design. With a desire to push the boundaries of what is possible in sustainable technology, I am eager to pursue a Master’s in Mechanical Engineering at [university], where I believe I can acquire the advanced skills and knowledge needed to make a meaningful impact in the field.

Academic background : During my time at [undergraduate school], I earned a degree in Mechanical Engineering, graduating with honors. My coursework allowed me to develop a strong foundation in the principles of mechanical design, materials science, and energy systems. One of the most impactful experiences during my undergraduate years was my senior project, which involved designing a low-energy heating system for a small-scale residential building. I worked closely with a team to create a prototype and conducted simulations to test the system's efficiency. This hands-on project taught me how to apply theoretical principles to real-world challenges and further fueled my passion for sustainable engineering solutions.

Professional experience : After graduation, I joined [company], a leading firm in renewable energy systems, where I contributed to the design and optimization of solar panel arrays for commercial properties. My role included conducting energy yield assessments, performing structural analysis, and collaborating with engineers to improve the efficiency of our installations. I also gained experience working with industry-standard software such as AutoCAD, MATLAB, and SolidWorks. My work on optimizing solar panel designs led to a 15% increase in energy efficiency for one of our client projects, which reinforced my interest in advancing renewable energy technologies.

Why this program : The Master’s in Mechanical Engineering program at [university] stands out to me because of its strong emphasis on sustainable energy systems and its cutting-edge research in the areas of thermal energy and energy storage. In particular, the work being done by [faculty member] on advanced thermodynamics and energy-efficient technologies aligns closely with my career aspirations. I am eager to collaborate with [name] and other faculty members to deepen my understanding of energy systems and contribute to projects that have the potential to reduce the carbon footprint of industrial applications.

Career goals : Ultimately, my goal is to develop and implement innovative engineering solutions that promote environmental sustainability while meeting global energy demands. I aspire to work at the forefront of renewable energy technology, designing systems that optimize energy efficiency for large-scale industrial applications. I am confident that the master’s program at [university] will equip me with the tools and knowledge to achieve these goals and make a lasting impact on the field of sustainable engineering.

Closing : The opportunity to pursue a Master’s in Mechanical Engineering at [university] is an exciting step toward achieving my professional goals. With my background in mechanical design, my passion for sustainability, and my professional experience in the renewable energy sector, I am eager to contribute to your program and grow as an engineer. I look forward to the challenge of advancing my expertise and making meaningful contributions to the field.

Personal statement example for Public Health MPH program

Opening : My passion for public health was sparked during a volunteer trip to [country], where I worked alongside local health officials to improve sanitation and nutrition in rural communities. Witnessing firsthand the challenges that underserved populations face in accessing basic healthcare motivated me to pursue a career in public health. With a background in biology and a deep commitment to improving health equity, I am eager to advance my education in public health at [university] and contribute to global efforts in disease prevention, health education and health policy reform.

Academic background : I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Biology from [undergraduate school], where I developed a strong foundation in the life sciences, including microbiology, epidemiology and biostatistics. During my coursework, I became particularly interested in the social determinants of health, which led me to take an independent study course in global health. My academic experience also included internships with local health organizations, where I assisted in health surveys and data collection efforts to identify risk factors in vulnerable populations.

Professional experience : After graduation, I joined [organization], a nonprofit dedicated to improving maternal health in underserved communities. As a program coordinator, I worked on a project aimed at increasing awareness of prenatal care and reducing maternal mortality rates through educational workshops and access to healthcare resources. My responsibilities included developing educational materials, conducting needs assessments, and evaluating program outcomes. This experience highlighted the importance of health policy and community-based interventions, and reinforced my desire to pursue an MPH to develop more effective public health strategies.

Why this program : I am particularly drawn to the MPH program at [university] because of its interdisciplinary approach to public health and its focus on global health, health policy and epidemiology. I am excited about the opportunity to work with [faculty member] and other faculty members whose research on maternal and child health aligns with my interests. The program’s emphasis on practical experience through field placements and internships is another reason why I believe it is the ideal fit for my career goals.

Career goals : My long-term goal is to work with international health organizations to design and implement public health programs that reduce health disparities, particularly in low-income countries. I aim to specialize in global health policy, focusing on how policy reform can improve healthcare access and outcomes for marginalized communities. I believe the MPH program at [university] will provide me with the knowledge and skills I need to make a tangible impact on global public health.

Closing : The opportunity to study public health at [university] is one I approach with enthusiasm and dedication. I am eager to contribute to the program’s community of scholars and practitioners while gaining the expertise necessary to drive meaningful change in global health. I look forward to the opportunity to collaborate with faculty, peers and community partners to create lasting health improvements around the world.

In conclusion

These are just a few examples of different personal statements, and each is tailored to the specific field and career goals of the applicant. Be sure to personalize your statement to your field of interest, experiences and goals to make it more specific and compelling.