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

UCAS personal statements have changed from September 2026 entry onwards. Instead of one long essay, you now have to answer three questions that help make the process clearer and fairer for all applicants.

03 September 2025

The three UCAS personal statement questions you will need to answer 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 these requires at least 350 characters (about 70 words), but overall you have space for 4,000 characters. That means you have around 700-800 words across the three questions. Make sure to aim toward the maximum and not stop at the minimum.

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 jewellery design 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 a Jewellery degree.

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

This is your chance to express your passion for jewellery design. Think about what how your creative journey began and what motivates you to study the craft at university. 

  • Reflect on how your passion for design started and how it’s grown over time. 
  • Use examples of designs or specific pieces that have inspired you. 
  • Pinpoint an areas of jewellery design that you have a particular interest in (for example, it could be silversmithing, polishing or enamelling). 
  • If you like to learn about jewellery or design 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. 
I've always been fascinated by jewellery's unique ability to give intimate, detailed objects a profound personal or cultural meaning. I'm interested in how jewellery combines craftsmanship and storytelling through the medium of wearable art.
Example answer for question one of the UCAS personal statement
Ethan Lacey, BA (Hons) Jewellery & Silversmithing, UCA Farnham

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 Jewellery degree? 

  • If you’re studying design 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 Jewellery degree. For instance, the techniques gained through studying Art or an understanding of material learnt in Textiles.
  • Mention any coursework or projects you’ve worked on that relate to design and creativity.
  • Also include any online courses you may have taken to improve relevant skills or knowledge.
Studying Design & Technology introduced me to manufacturing techniques and safe workshop practices, which are essential for jewellery making. My Art coursework required me to research designers and experiment with processes, which has been invaluable in shaping my own creative process and artistic style.
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. 

  • Mention any jewellery design projects you have worked on.
  • Make reference to any design discussion communities you engage with. Perhaps you post regularly on YouTube, blog about jewellery or are active in online forums. 
  • Mention any other work experience or volunteering you do. 
  • Think beyond just practical techniques. Highlight any transferable skills that you think will benefit you. This includes things such as time management, responding to briefs, communication or problem-solving. 
Outside of school, I create jewellery in my own time using recycled materials. This has helped me improve my own technical knowledge, whilst also developing my eye for intricate detail.
Example answer for question three of the UCAS personal statement
Jiaqi Zhou, BA (Hons) Jewellery & Silversmithing, UCA Farnham

Final tips for strong answers 

  • Be specific: Don’t just say you're passionate about jewellery design. Explain why you're passionate about jewellery design.
  • 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 design and creativity. 
  • 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 Craft degree, it means showcasing your creativity and commitment.  

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

More advice for Jewellery 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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