Clearing often happens fast. You may find yourself needing to apply to a new course at the last minute — which means writing a personal statement in a hurry. While normally you’d spend weeks drafting and editing, Clearing requires speed and clarity.
At RevisionDojo, we help IB and A-Level students stay calm under pressure. Here’s how to write a personal statement quickly without sacrificing quality.
Quick Start Checklist
When writing a last-minute personal statement:
- Focus on why you want the course
- Highlight academic strengths clearly
- Show relevant skills and experiences
- Keep sentences clear and concise
- Avoid clichés and unnecessary detail
- Proofread quickly for major errors
Step 1: Get Straight to the Point
Skip lengthy introductions. Instead, start with:
- Why the subject excites you
- One key experience that inspired your interest
Example: “Studying the role of genetics in my IB Biology coursework confirmed my ambition to pursue Biomedical Science.”
Step 2: Emphasize Academics First
Admissions tutors in Clearing want to know quickly if you’re prepared. Highlight:
- IB or A-Level subjects relevant to the course
- Coursework, extended essays, or independent projects
- Skills like research, analysis, or problem-solving
Step 3: Add Relevant Experiences
You won’t have space for long stories. Pick one or two concise examples:
- Work experience (brief but relevant)
- Extracurriculars that show transferable skills
- Volunteering or leadership roles
Example: “Volunteering in a hospital ward developed my communication and empathy skills, preparing me for Medicine.”
Step 4: End with Confidence
Keep your conclusion simple:
- Restate your motivation
- Connect to your future goals
Example: “This course offers the academic challenge and professional preparation I need to contribute meaningfully to my chosen field.”
Step 5: Proofread Quickly
Even in a rush, take a few minutes to:
- Check grammar and spelling
- Cut out repeated or unnecessary words
- Make sure sentences flow logically
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Copying generic online templates (UCAS checks for plagiarism)
- Writing a statement that’s too long — you may miss deadlines
- Forgetting to tailor the statement to the new course
- Leaving in typos or sloppy phrasing
Tips for Success in Clearing
- Draft quickly, then refine once — don’t over-edit
- Stay calm and focus on your strongest points
- Use simple, clear language to save time
- Remember: admissions tutors in Clearing read fast — clarity matters most
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How short can a Clearing personal statement be?
It should still fill most of the 4,000-character limit, but being concise is fine. Quality matters more than word count in Clearing.
2. Can I reuse my original UCAS personal statement?
Yes, but adapt it. If your original statement doesn’t match your new course, update the subject focus so it feels relevant.
3. Do universities expect a weaker statement in Clearing?
They understand you may be rushed, but they still expect clarity, focus, and motivation. A sloppy statement can still harm your chances.
4. Should I focus only on academics in a Clearing statement?
Academics should come first, but short references to extracurriculars or work experience strengthen your case. Keep it brief and relevant.
5. How fast should I submit my Clearing statement?
As soon as possible — Clearing places go quickly. Write your draft in one sitting, proofread once, and submit confidently.
Conclusion
Writing a personal statement in a hurry is challenging, but it’s possible to produce a strong application quickly. By focusing on academics, concise reflection, and clear motivation, you can stand out even under Clearing pressure.
At RevisionDojo, we help students navigate Clearing with confidence, ensuring their applications remain professional and persuasive.
Call to Action
Need help crafting a strong Clearing statement fast? Explore RevisionDojo’s UCAS resources for expert guidance on last-minute applications.
