How do I sell myself without bragging?

A personal statement must be a positive document that shows off your qualities and suitability for the course you are applying for. But it is also important to come across as honest and realistic.

1. Give evidence: don’t proclaim how good you are or how good other people think you are (teachers, friends…). Be specific about your achievements, academic and extra-curricular. Never state that you have a positive attribute if you cannot provide evidence to support it. And whenever you can, avoid giving opinions about yourself and let the facts do the talking. 

2. Keep it relevant: don’t make a list of every single prize you have won since you were a child. Talk about recent achievements that show your interest for your specific subject or relevant transferrable skills (commitment, hard work, teamwork…). Make sure that whenever you mention something you have done, you also explain what you have learnt from it and how it can help you succeed in your studies.

3. Demonstrate your passion for the subject: examiners are looking for talent AND passion. What is it about your subject that makes it so interesting and worthwhile? There is no one right answer to this question. It all depends on your personality. When you talk about your studies and activities, always remember to explain why you enjoy them and why they are important to you.