How to write a great UCAS personal statement for a Product Design degree

These are the three questions you'll need to answer in your personal statement:

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 requires at least 350 characters, which is about 70 words. Don't stick to this lower limit though as you're given an overall limit of 4,000 characters for the three questions combined. Make sure you expand yours answers to make use of that upper limit, which would give you an average of around 250 words per question.

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 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 Product Design 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 design. Think about what how your creative journey began and what motivates you to study Product Design at university. 

• Reflect on how your passion for design started and how it’s grown over time. 
• Use examples of designers of specific products that have inspired you. 
• If you like to learn about design in your spare time explain how and why you do so (perhaps it's reading articles or watching video essays on YouTube perhaps). 
• 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 design began when I realised how frustrated poorly designed products made me feel. I became aware of how vital good design is to a product's success and the importance of testing, iteration and prototyping. This motivated me to pursue Product Design so I can create practical solutions that can improve everyday interactions.
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 an Product Design degree? 

• If you’re studying design at college, explain what you’ve studied so far 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 design degree. For instance, drawing and sketching skills from  an Art A-Level or consumer behaviour learnt through Business or Psychology.
• Mention any coursework or projects you’ve worked on that relate to design and creativity.
• Talk about any skills you've developed through studying design such as problem solving.
• Also include any online courses you may have taken to improve your relevant skills or knowledge.

My Design Technology A-Level has taught me how to take an idea from initial concept through to final prototype. Going through this process helped me to better understand the importance of research and testing, as well as improve my time management.
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 design projects you have worked on.
• Make reference to any design discussion communities you engage with. Perhaps you post regularly on YouTube, blog about product design or are active in online forums. 
• Mention any other work experience or volunteering you do. 
• Think beyond just design techniques. Highlight any transferable skills that you think will benefit you. This includes things such as time management, working in teams, communication or problem-solving. 

Outside of lessons, I regularly spend time sketching product ideas. More specifically, I look at objects around my house and consider how the design could be altered to improve functionality and usability. This has helped me express my creativity and develop a user-focused mindset.
Example answer for question three of the UCAS personal statement

Final tips for strong answers 

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

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

More advice for Product Design applicants

• How to make a perfect product design portfolio for university

Want more support about UCAS personal statements? Meet the UCA Admissions Team at one of our upcoming Open Days for one-to-one advice. 

Related courses

• Product Design BA (Hons)
• Studio Practice (Product Design) (top-up) BA (Hons)