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

The three questions you have to answer for your personal statement 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 question has a 350 character minimum (about 70 words), but you're given an total limit of 4,000 characters. That means for the three questions combined you have around 700-800 words, so make good use of that character count.

This UCAS personal statement format is a great opportunity for you to outline your motivations and experience. Universities want to see more than just a list of your academics qualifications. This is your chance to express your interest in marketing 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 marketing 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 marketing industry. Think about what how your where this interest began and what motivates you to study marketing at university.

• Use examples of business people or marketing campaigns that have inspired you.
• Pinpoint an areas of marketing that you have a particular interest in (for example, it could be advertising, social media or data analysis).
• If you like to learn about marketing in your spare time explain how and why you 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. 

Seeing marketing campaigns on social media made me realise how important audience targeting and engagement are to a brand’s success, perhaps now more than ever before. I want to study marketing to learn how companies plan these campaigns to ensure they are effectively targeting the correct audiences.
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 marketing degree? 

• If you’re studying business or marketing at college, explain what you’ve studied and why you want to explore the subject in more detail at university.
• You should also highlight other subjects that you can connect to a marketing 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 marketing.
• Talk about any skills you've developed through studying business or marketing.
• Also include any online courses you may have taken to improve relevant skills or knowledge.

I had the chance to learn about market research and consumer behaviour as part of my Business Studies A-Level. This gave me great insights into how marketing strategies and campaigns are developed.
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 marketing. 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 marketing degree. This includes things such as communication, teamwork 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 marketing concepts that I 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 marketing. Explain why you're interested in marketing. 
• 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 marketing and 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 Marketing degree, it means showcasing your enthusiasm for the subject.  

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

More advice for Marketing 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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