How to write a great UCAS personal statement for a business management degree

These three questions are:

1. Why do you want to study this course or subject?
2. How have your qualifications and studies helped you to prepare for this course or subject? 
3. What else have you done to prepare outside of education, and why are these experiences useful?

Each of the three questions has a 350 character minimum (about 70 words), but you're given an overall limit of 4,000 characters. That means you have around 700-800 words for the three questions combined, so make sure to carry on after you reach the minimum character count. 

This UCAS personal statement format is a great opportunity for you to outline your motivations and experience, as well as convey your creativity. Universities want to see more than just a list of your academics qualifications. This is your chance to express your passion for business and inject a personal touch into your UCAS application.

Some people can struggle to get started with their personal statement and that's a completely normal feeling. It can sometimes feel like an intimidating task, so we’ve broken down each question to show you how to craft compelling responses that are tailored to business degrees. 

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

This is your chance to express your interest in the business world. Think about what how your where this interest began and what motivates you to study business management at university.

• Use examples of business people that have inspired you. This could be family members, people you follow online, or perhaps creators of one of your favourite brands.
• Pinpoint an areas of business that you have a particular interest in (for example, it could be marketing, finance or international business).
• If you like to learn about business in your spare time explain how you do so (perhaps podcasts such as Stephen Bartlett's The Diary of a CEO) 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. 

My interest in business developed through following real-world entrepreneurs on social media. Understanding how one person having an idea can grow and evolve into successful global organisations has made me want to study the subject in greater depth.
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 business management degree? 

• If you’re studying business 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 business degree. For instance, the analytical skills developed through maths or science, or how psychology has given you an understanding of consumer behaviour.
• Mention any coursework or projects you’ve worked on that relate to business management.
• Talk about any skills you've developed through studying business.
• Also include any online courses you may have taken to improve your relevant skills or knowledge.

In my Business Studies A-Level, I've had the opportunity to study marketing, finance and human resources. This gave me a strong understanding of what is expected of each department and how they work together within a business.
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 business-savvy. 

• Mention any projects you're involved with that can relate to business. This could be a personal side-hustle or a voluntary position within an organisation. 
• If you have a part-time job, talk about the skills such as time management or team working that you've learnt through the role.
• Think of any transferable skills that you think will benefit you on a business degree. This includes things such as communication or problem-solving. 

I help my dad manage his social media advertising for a small online business he runs. This has taught me how to manage a budget and optimise spend to improve conversion. This has been a great opportunity to get some real-world experience to apply business theory I've learnt at college.
Example answer for question three of the UCAS personal statement

Final tips for strong answers 

• Be specific: Don’t just say you're interested in business. Explain why you're interested in business. 
• 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 business. 
• 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 onwards gives you the chance to break down your personal journey into clear sections. If you’re applying for a Business Management degree, it means showcasing your enthusiasm for the subject.  

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

More advice for Business Management applicants

Want more support about UCAS personal statements?

Meet the UCA Admissions Team at one of our upcoming Open Days for one-to-one advice. 

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