How to write a great UCAS
personal statement for a film degree

Each answer requires a minimum of 350 characters, but the overall limit is 4,000 characters (around 700-800 words) so don’t feel the need to stop once you reach the minimum character count. 

The new UCAS personal statement format is a great opportunity to showcase your creativity, inspiration, motivation, and experience in a more focused and authentic way. Universities want to see more than just a list of qualifications. This is your chance to express your passion for film.  

Getting started with your personal statement can often feel like a intimidating task, so we’ve broken down each question to show you how to craft compelling responses that are tailored to film-related courses. 

UCAS Personal Statement Question 1: 
Why do you want to study this course or subject? 

This is your chance to express your passion for film. Think about what drew you to film and what motivates you to study it at university. 

• Reflect on how your passion for film started and how it’s grown over time. 
• Use examples of films or other productions that have inspired you. 
• Pinpoint an areas of film that you have a particular interest in (for example, it could be the cinematography or editing). 
• If you like to learn about film in your spare time explain how you do so (video essays on YouTube perhaps?) and why you feel compelled to do so. 
• Not everyone knows what job they want to do once they finish university, but if you have a career path in mind this is a good opportunity to highlight it. 

After watching Darius Marder's 'Sound of Metal', I became fascinated by the storytelling power of sound. It made me realise how impactful sound design is to the final outcome of a film.
Example answer for question one of the UCAS personal statement

UCAS Personal Statement Question 2: 
How have your qualifications and studies helped you to prepare for this course or subject? 

This section is about your academic preparation for university. How have your school or college experiences helped you build technical skills and knowledge that you will use as part of a film degree? 

• If you’re studying film at college explain what you’ve studied and why you want to explore it in more detail at university 
• You should also highlight other subjects that you can connect to a Film degree. For instance, the production techniques learnt in Media Studies, the screenwriting aspects of English and Drama, and the storytelling techniques of Photography and Art. 
• Mention any coursework or projects you’ve developed that can be linked to. Storytelling or visual analysis. 
• Talk about any technical skills you've developed such as using editing software, cameras, storyboarding or script writing. 
• Also include any online courses you may have taken to improve your relevant skills or knowledge. 

In my Media A-Level, I directed and edited a short documentary. This taught me how to plan a shoot and how to edit the footage to create a compelling narrative.
Example answer for question two of the UCAS personal statement

UCAS Personal Statement Question 3: 
What else have you done to prepare outside of education, and why are these experiences useful? 

This is where you highlight any personal projects, work (paid or voluntary) and other activities that show your initiative, dedication, and creativity. 

• Are you already creating content? Perhaps you post regularly on YouTube, or help your college or a local business with videos for their social media accounts. 
• Mention any other work experience or volunteering you do. 
• Think beyond just film techniques. Highlight any transferable skills that you think will benefit you. This includes things such as time management, working in teams, communication or problem-solving. 

I regularly post film reviews on my YouTube channel. I work on this completely independently, so am responsible for scripting, shooting and editing the review. As well as giving me the opportunity to learn Adobe Premiere, this has taught me how to manage my time to ensure I stick to my production schedule and reviews are released on time.
Example answer for question three of the UCAS personal statement

Final tips for strong answers 

• Be specific: Don’t just say you love film. Explain why you love film. 
• Use examples: Back up every point with a evidence and explain why it’s relevant. 
• Keep it relevant: Focus on experiences that relate clearly to Film. 
• Be yourself: Authenticity matters. Universities want to get to know you, so don’t feel compelled to sound overly formal. 
• Proofread: Read your answers out loud. If you can get feedback from a teacher. 

This new UCAS format for 2026 gives you the chance to break down your personal journey into clear sections. If you’re applying for a Film degree, it means showcasing your creativity and commitment.  

Be honest, be specific and, most of all, be passionate. 

More advice for film applicants

• How to create a perfect university portfolio for Film students

Want more support about UCAS personal statements? Meet the UCA Admissions Team at one of our upcoming Open Days for one-to-one advice. 

Related courses

• Film & Screen Studies BA (Hons)
• Film Production BA (Hons)