• AI Content Shield
  • AI KW Research
  • AI Assistant
  • SEO Optimizer
  • AI KW Clustering
  • Customer reviews
  • The NLO Revolution
  • Press Center
  • Help Center
  • Content Resources
  • Facebook Group

The Key to Writing Effective NUS Personal Statements

Table of Contents

An  NUS personal statement  is an essay required by an application to the National University of Singapore. It is a brief description of who you are as a student and an overview of the things that matter to you. 

Personal statements are not unique to the National University of Singapore. Students will encounter these assignments throughout their academic life and even when they transition into professional life.

Personal statements are common in job applications, internships, and applications to particular programs. They are a way to introduce yourself to recruiters and admissions board representatives and create a lasting impression.

The Importance of an Effective NUS Personal Statement in the Academe

Personal statements are crucial in the application process. Recruiters will want to gain a deep understanding of applicants they accept into their program or job. This matters greatly because they want to ensure that successful candidates deserve their spot.

Conversely, a personal statement is a golden opportunity to highlight your best qualifications . It showcases your writing ability and your exposition skills. The adaptability of a personal statement allows for a wide range of approaches that let you inject your personality into your content.

The most significant advantage of a personal statement is that  it paints you as a person rather than just another candidate . It’s a potent tool for expressing individuality and setting you and your story apart from other applicants.

If you want to enjoy all these benefits, the ultimate one being a successful application, heed these few tips.

Tips for Writing an Effective NUS Personal Statement

If you’re unsure how to start your personal statement, try a structured approach. Here are some tips you can follow to ensure you provide the information admissions boards need.

  • Showcase your unique personality and background  – focus on experiences, skills, and achievements that make you stand out from other applicants. 
  • Use strong storytelling techniques to keep the reader engaged  – ensure a clear narrative flow with an introduction, body, and conclusion. 
  • Incorporate personal anecdotes  -demonstrate your growth and development over time. 
  • Keep it concise  – highlight critical points without superfluous words. 
  • Avoid clichés and platitudes  – devise creative ways to express yourself and add interesting facts and figures where appropriate.

While following these tips won’t make you a master overnight, they will help you form writing habits applicable to all types of content.

NUS Personal Statement Examples

woman in black and yellow shirt sitting on chair

I have always had a keen interest in the field of technology. As a professional, I have grown into an individual with considerable experience and expertise in this area. I recently attended an event to discuss the latest trends in artificial intelligence, which further fuelled my enthusiasm for innovation and cutting-edge technological solutions. Events like these regularly leave me invigorated and inspired to delve deeper into innovative ideas and contribute my insights where applicable. 

I am proud of my aptitude for problem-solving and finding creative solutions to address issues efficiently. By leveraging my knack for recognizing patterns, I can ascertain resolutions that are unorthodox yet efficient at achieving desired outcomes. My preference for outside-the-box thinking has earned me recognition from peers who consider me a formidable asset. I have a reputation for embracing challenges while utilizing common sense and poise in navigating obstacles. 

A strong work ethic and unwavering ambition drive me. This intense desire to succeed has enabled me to consistently strive toward greater heights despite any tribulations I may encounter. 

I strongly feel I possess the qualities necessary to excel in a fast-paced and constantly evolving environment such as NUS. I look forward to contributing meaningfully towards the University’s goals of fostering a more technically competent future generation.

I have been interested in starting a career related to education since I first read about it. It has been an essential part of my life, so I have devoted many hours of research. With each article or book I read, I learn something new, furthering my understanding and expanding my knowledge base. 

Through these opportunities, I can explain my thoughts and gain even more insight from professionals in the area. 

I look forward to taking this journey further by applying for the scholarship to complete my studies on the topic. As part of this application process, I plan to include relevant evidence and anecdotes demonstrating my commitment and passion for the subject matter. I believe I can help showcase why I should be selected for this opportunity by submitting all necessary documents.

I have been working with Information Technology for the past three years. Throughout my professional career, I have asked myself questions to better understand different aspects of IT, ranging from software development to network security. Over those years, I gained good knowledge in this field and was able to apply it in many of my projects. 

I am now interested in taking an international course to further develop my expertise. Being part of your school would allow me to learn more about current trends and techniques. It can expose me to new applications that can help improve my work or service quality. Furthermore, it will also allow me to build strong connections within the sector. 

I believe that I could be a valuable asset to any organization looking for someone with a comprehensive understanding of the subject. That is why I’m applying for this course – it’s like a necessary step in order to reach my long-term career goals. With my commitment to continuous learning, I’m confident I’ll make a good impression at the National University of Singapore.

I have a long-standing interest in IT. My knowledge of this field has enabled me to successfully know, understand and apply its principles. I have used my subject mastery during job interviews to communicate clearly and coherently with potential employers about their respective needs for my services. 

Additionally, my impressive track record of achievements makes me an ideal candidate for an IT course at the National University of Singapore. My involvement in community service projects has exposed me to a variety of different technologies, which will serve as excellent support for my studies. All these experiences prove to be beneficial in allowing me to develop further and improve my understanding of IT concepts.

 I am an experienced Finance student seeking to apply for a postgraduate course at the National University of Singapore. With my knowledge and experience, I believe that I can contribute to the University’s vibrant academic environment and community. 

 I have been exposed to finance studies since I was in high school, where I studied economics, accounting, and financial management. This gave me a well-rounded understanding of the industry. During my time as a university student, I had the opportunity to participate in several research projects focusing on financial markets. This has enabled me to gain insights into the nuances of investing and trading, allowing me to develop my analytical skills further. 

Moreover, I have taken part in various activities related to financial analysis during my years as a student. For example, I wrote essays on financial topics such as derivatives, capital structure theory, and risk management techniques. Furthermore, I also organized events such as panel discussions with industry professionals, which allowed me to interact with other students and experts alike. These experiences served to hone my problem-solving capabilities and taught me how to think critically about financial matters. 

Overall, I believe that I possess the necessary qualities to excel in a postgraduate program at NUS. My expertise and interest in finance, coupled with my strong communication and critical thinking will make me an ideal candidate for the course.

An  NUS personal statement  is a special essay that candidates submit to the admissions board. These essays showcase an individual’s background and personality. Make sure to remember our simple tips as you write your NUS personal statement. You are more likely to write a potent essay when you know the aspects you need to emphasize. 

Again, keep your statement short, concise, and authentic. We hope these tips give you the know-how and confidence to write a compelling university personal statement. Good luck!

The Key to Writing Effective NUS Personal Statements

Abir Ghenaiet

Abir is a data analyst and researcher. Among her interests are artificial intelligence, machine learning, and natural language processing. As a humanitarian and educator, she actively supports women in tech and promotes diversity.

Explore All Write Personal Statement Articles

How to draft meaningful length of law school personal statement.

Are you confused on how to write a law school personal statement? One of the essential elements of your application…

  • Write Personal Statement

Effective History and International Relations Personal Statement to Try

Are you considering studying history and international relations? Or you may be curious about what a degree in this field…

Guide to Quality Global Management Personal Statement

Are you applying for a global management program and want to stand out from the crowd? A well-written personal statement…

How to Draft Better Examples of Personal Statements for Residency

Achieving a residency can be a massive accomplishment for any aspiring medical professional. To secure your spot in one of…

Tips for Drafting a Free Example of Personal History Statement

A personal history statement can be crucial to many applications, from university admissions to job search processes. This blog will…

Writing Compelling Dietetic Internship Personal Statement

Applying for a dietetic internship is a rigorous process and requires submitting a personal statement, which is an essential part…

ANJIT VS Logo file

  • Graphic Design services

></center></p><h2>Personal Statement</h2><p>Learn to write a powerful nus personal statement – proven writing strategy with examples.</p><ul><li>January 2, 2024</li></ul><h2>Writing Services</h2><ul><li>Academic Writing Service</li><li>SOP Writing Service</li><li>Admission Essay Writing Service</li><li>Personal Statement Writing Service</li><li>LOR Writing Service</li><li>Motivation Letter Writing Service</li><li>Proofreading Service</li><li>Company Profile Service</li><li>Coursework Help</li><li>Thesis Help</li><li>Dissertation Help</li><li>Homework Help</li><li>Term Paper Writing Services</li><li>Essay Writing Services</li></ul><h2>SOP Writing Services In India</h2><ul><li>SOP Writers Near Me</li><li>SOP Writing Service India</li><li>SOP Writing Service Hyderabad</li><li>SOP Writing Service Kerala</li><li>SOP Writing Service Bangalore</li><li>SOP Writing Service Delhi</li><li>SOP Writing Service Pune</li><li>SOP Writing Service Mumbai</li><li>SOP Writing Service Vijayawada</li></ul><h2>Table of Contents</h2><p>Is studying at the National University of Singapore your dream? Your chances of getting admission there depend on a few things like your academic profile and NUS personal statement. Like most of the elite institutes in the world, NUS asks for a personal statement from the applicants. Everything you need to know about this crucial document is discussed in this blog with NUS personal statement samples. </p><p>Reading this blog will enlighten you with: </p><ul><li>Easy Steps for writing an NUS personal statement</li><li>Documents required for NUS admission</li><li>Proven personal statement writing tips from experts</li></ul><h2>Why NUS (National University of Singapore)? Why Does Everyone Want to Join NUS?</h2><p>Statistics show that nearly 36,000 students from 100 plus across the world enroll at NUS for various academic programs each year. The number of applicants is several times more than this figure. In other words, National University of Singapore acceptance rate is pretty low. NUS follows strict screening to ensure that they are admitting the most eligible candidates. The reasons why many students want to join NUS are: </p><ul><li>NUS has one of the most diverse campuses in the world. Students from more than 100 countries, from all the different continents, study there. </li><li>NUS certificates are valued with high respect across the world. </li><li>Quality and standard of education in Singapore have always stood among the top. </li><li>NUS offers a variety of relevant and best advanced study programs. </li><li>Students can apply for a variety of scholarship programs at NUS and halve their educational expenses.</li></ul><h2>Scholarship Programs Available at NUS</h2><p>The hefty fee of studying in a foreign university discourages many aspiring students. With NUS, you can reduce the expenditure significantly by availing any of the various scholarship programs offered there. Whether you are an undergraduate or postgraduate student, there are programs that suit your profile. Here is a list of some of the scholarships you may be eligible to apply to. </p><ul><li>Research Scholarship for Italian Citizens</li><li>NUS-UBC Foundation Student Exchange Award</li><li>ANZ Singapore-New Zealand Scholarship Programme</li><li>DUO-Singapore Exchange Fellowship Awards</li><li>TF-NUS Learn Program & Award</li></ul><h2>How to Make Your Way to NUS?</h2><p>In order to secure your seat at NUS, you need to go through a series of National University of Singapore application procedures. This includes interviews, document verification and tests. </p><ul><li>Prove your proficiency in the English language by achieving a high score on TOEFL or IELTS test. </li><li>Pass the quantitative and course-specific entrance tests conducted prior to admission.</li><li>Pass all the interviews.</li><li>Have documents without any irregularities for your health, education, and financial and judicial status. </li><li>Have a strong personal statement for NUS application.</li></ul><h2>Documents Required</h2><p>You will require the following documents in order to migrate to Singapore and study at NUS. </p><ul><li>A valid passport</li><li>Student visa</li><li>Birth Certificate</li><li>Work Pass if you intend to work part-time</li><li>An outstanding NUS admission personal statement</li><li>Immigration Exemption</li></ul><h2>Why Do You Need an Extraordinary NUS Personal Statement?</h2><p>A personal statement is like a bid you make for securing your admission. As you do, thousands of other students also do it. When it comes to NUS admission, the competition is even higher as it is regarded as the best university in Asia. </p><ul><li>With an above-average NUS personal statement, you can easily catch the attention of the selection committee. </li><li>Personal statement NUS helps you demonstrate what you can contribute as a student to the university. </li><li>By writing your personal statement in good English, you can prove your communication skills. </li><li>In your personal statement, you can give hints about your future plans, which will impress the selectors. </li></ul><h2>How Long Is a Personal Statement for NUS?</h2><p>It is essential to maintain the recommended NUS personal statement word limit when you write it. Generally, an essay which is equivalent to 2000 characters or 500 words is considered to be ideal. </p><h2>How to Write an Exclusive NUS Personal Statement in Just 5 Steps?</h2><p>Follow the below-given instructions to write your personal statement for NUS application.</p><h2>Write a good introduction:</h2><p>Begin your statement with a very personalized introduction that truly represents your personality and helps the reader understand you from a personal angle.</p><h2>Throw light on relevant points:</h2><p>You need to figure out what your relevant skills, experience, and qualification are in the context of your NUS program and link them to the program requirements. </p><h2>Write a powerful conclusion:</h2><p>It is important to conclude your personal statement in a strong and memorable way. Write it as if these are the final words that you expect the selectors to take from your write-up. </p><h2>Proofread and edit:</h2><p>It goes without saying that proofreading and editing are the most essential steps in any kind of writing. In the case of an NUS personal statement, there is no exception either.</p><h2>Get reviewed by an expert:</h2><p>Before finalizing your National University of Singapore personal statement, it is highly advisable to get it reviewed by an expert and get feedback. They could point out the mistakes you may have overlooked. </p><h2>NUS Personal Statement Example</h2><p>The operations of a human body have fascinated me from an early age. I identified the analogy between a machine and the human body in my early teens. Living organisms have so many diverse systems, which one can never produce artificially. This acute interest intrigued me to embrace the medical stream. Coupled with my passion for science, I look forward to a gratifying career in medicine. I believe medicine to be challenging, yet rewarding. During my experience, I have spoken to doctors on a professional level, which significantly shaped my professional insights.</p><p>It was almost a decade ago that I watched my uncle succumb to cancer. It was then that I realized the impact that illness can leave on the patients and their respective families. Under such circumstances, I realized, it would be fulfilling indeed to be a doctor and make a difference in the lives of people. Through my first-hand experiences on the job as a doctor, I got to know that it is far more than performing surgery or prescribing drugs. Compassion and empathy are crucial to succeed as a medical professional. Delivering effective care calls for such personal values.</p><p>In an effort to gain a deeper insight into the medical field, I have participated in several workshops since my Intermediate level. In the process, I gained valuable knowledge on the operations during a surgery. Besides, I capitalized on the opportunity to interact with the doctors, observing their work and drawing motivation to delve into such a fascinating field. Last year, I was at a local hospital during a placement week. This bestowed me with a unique opportunity to observe medicine closely from the perspective of medical practitioners. Eventually, I observed an MRI scan, the ward rounds, an endoscopy clinic and a skin biopsy. As an avid learner, I loved refining my knowledge resources through all these experiences.</p><p>During my internship, I recall spending most of the time with the team working on haematology, as the professionals treated patients suffering from CML (Chronic Myelogenous Leukaemia). Personally, I am deeply interested in haematology. This domain appeals to me more than anything else. Particularly, I am interested in exploring how platelet levels in the body influence the clotting of blood. During this time, I significantly enhanced my communication skills, knowledge and confidence, interacting with doctors and patients.</p><p>My experience during this internship was heart-rendering indeed. I closely observed some of the patients who were terminally ill. I helped them however I could, talking to them with empathy and getting them tea. This would simply build their spirits to a certain extent. Meanwhile, I also volunteered at a local home developed to take care of elderly people. The experience was rewarding enough, and this provided me with the scope to work on my caring skills. I played cards with the residents, and prepared snacks for them. Apart from scoring consistently in my academics, I was active in extracurricular activities as well. Back at school, I was a part of a reading scheme for 5 months. Here, I helped kids to read, listen and read in English. This essence of empathy has significantly shaped my professional profile. At the same time, my fascination with science propelled me closer to a medical career. During my diploma program, I integrated myself into several activities that significantly shaped my managerial and organizational skills. In the process, I learnt to cope up with pressure and stress.</p><p>Studying chemistry and biology during my Intermediates further enhanced my analytical skills. At the same time, I studied mathematics, which enhanced my problem-solving abilities. Channelizing all these skills, I braced up to pursue the MBBS course at NUS. In the past, I was a part of the Duke of Edinburgh award scheme. In the process, I achieved a first aid certificate on cardiopulmonary resuscitation training. Over the last 1.5 years, I have volunteered at one of the local vet hospitals. Besides, I remain engrossed with relevant books and journals during my leisure hours to strengthen my career. Being aware of the demands of the medical profession, I am all set to embrace this course and streamline my profile.</p><p>Use the NUS personal statement example pdf provided here to compare your document with and see if you have missed any important areas.</p><h2>How to Take Full Advantage of Your NUS Personal Statement?</h2><ul><li>Link all the relevant experiences to your chosen course at NUS. </li><li>Substantiate all of your relevant achievements and acquired knowledge.</li><li>Specify your current interest in the particular course you have chosen.</li><li>Objectify your goals under short-term and long-term segments.</li><li>Conclude by saying how your choice of NUS will benefit your career.</li></ul><h2>Expert Tips for Making Your NUS Personal Statement Stand Out</h2><p>We have some bonus tips for you from experts to help you make your NUS admission personal statement flawless and even more convincing. Utilize these tips without fail. </p><ul><li>Be hundred percent honest in your writing. Do not fabricate any information. </li><li>Use simple words to ensure that the messages are rightly communicated. </li><li>Do not write in a hurry. Take your time to write it, review it and make changes. </li><li>Start as early as possible so that you have enough time for corrections. </li><li>Substantiate your points with legible evidence and examples.</li></ul><h2>Final Checklist for Your National University of Singapore Personal Statement</h2><ul><li>Ensure that all NUS personal statement requirements are met. </li><li>Check if the correct format is used. </li><li>Ensure that the required word count is achieved and not exceeded. </li><li>Read one more time with an eye out for mistakes and correct if any. </li></ul><p><center><a href=

Did That Help You?

We hope that this blog has been helpful to you in understanding details about NUS personal statement. 

However, if you think there is anything more to be addressed or clarified, we would like to know from you and help you further. 

Use the comment section below to submit your feedback, doubts or any questions. 

ANJIT V.S

I am Anjit.V.S, a freelance writer, overseas education consultant and an academic documentation expert. Over the years, I have written documents for thousands of students and hundreds of businesses and individuals worldwide. Many of the prominent study abroad counsellors in India refer me to their students for SOP, LOR, admission essays. personal statements and other similar documents. Not just the academic documents but whatever content needs you have, stay assured. Perfectly impeccable services are delivered.

Get in Touch

Share this article.

anjit vs freelance expert content writer

Planning to Hire Professional Writers?

Related blogs.

  • SOP for MS in Computer Science
  • SOP for Industrial Engineering
  • SOP for Scholarship
  • SOP for Law
  • SOP for MBA
  • SOP for Masters
  • SOP for Phd
  • SOP for Graduate school

One Response

Thank you for the sensible critique. Me and my neighbor were just preparing to do some research on this. We got a grab a book from our area library but I think I learned more clear from this post. I am very glad to see such excellent information being shared freely out there.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Anjit VS Content Writer

An experienced and expert content writer in India, I have diverse teams delivering top-notch content writing, branding, and overseas education services customized to my clients. At AnjitVS, the biggest service offering specialty is our customization grounded on quality, creativity, and client-value.

anjit vs 5

Get High Quality SOP Samples

[email protected] +91 9048815031

anjit vs 5

The Lowkey Medic

  • Pre-Clinical Years
  • Clinical Years
  • Med School Resources
  • Must-Read Guides
  • Personal Statement
  • Interviews & MMI
  • Books & Inspiration
  • Applying for University
  • Med Application Notes
  • A-Level Notes
  • O-Level Notes
  • FAQs on Receiving Notes
  • Book Reviews

How to Write Your Medicine Personal Statement (Singapore): The Complete Guide

Hands with blue shirt sleeves typing on silver laptop keyboard on white desk

Both NUS and NTU medical schools require a personal statement as part of the application. Instructions are brief, and no suggested framework is given. This article reviews the requirements of the personal statement when applying to Medicine in Singapore, and guides you through the entire process of writing your own—from planning to proofreading.

Personal Statement Prompts from NUS and NTU Medicine

Nus medicine personal statement instructions.

This is an introduction of yourself to the Admissions committee and the interviewer, who would like to learn about the experiences that have shaped your desire to study medicine . (Word limit: 500 words) (Source: NUS Medicine admissions page )

NTU Medicine Personal Statement Instructions

The personal statement is an essay of not more than 300 words, introducing the applicant including, but not limited to, the reasons for wishing to study medicine and of any experience that may have driven the desire to become a doctor . Leadership experience and teamwork ability should be highlighted. The personal statement must be furnished in the application form, and it may be followed up at the interview stage. (Source: NTU Medicine admissions page )

Key Aspects of Your Personal Statement

Notice that I’ve bolded the keywords in the above two excerpts:

From the above information, we can gather three key aspects to cover in your essay:

In this case, “desirable qualities” refer to personal attributes or skills that make you a good potential candidate for medical school. Importantly, they must be conveyed through concrete examples.

Indeed, overall, your personal statement should be “examples-driven”. It’s like saying “I’m compassionate”, versus telling a compelling story of a personal interaction with an autistic student. Which one is more convincing?

The admissions officers do not know you personally, and they will need proof of your leadership, teamwork, commitment, and so on.

Which Personal Statement to Write First?

(This question is only relevant if you’re applying to both NUS and NTU Medicine. Otherwise, feel free to skip to the next section.)

Note the difference in the word limit set by the two schools: 500 words for NUS versus 300 words for NTU. This means that you will have to submit a different personal statement for NUS and NTU.

There are two ways to go about doing this, and you may choose whichever one suits you:

  • Write the 500-word NUS personal statement first, then shorten and edit it to 300 words for the NTU personal statement.
  • Write a separate personal statement for NUS and NTU.

The “advantage” of the second option is that you can tailor each of your personal statements more to the school’s philosophy and what (you think) they are looking out for. However, the first option is an efficient and solid method.

Even if you’d like to “customise” your NTU personal statement more, you can always write that with your original 500-word essay as the foundation.

Step 1: List Out Your Activities and Achievements

Start by listing out all your activities and achievements in the past two years . This is essentially your portfolio. If you’ve already done one (most schools would ask for it close to graduation), just take that as reference.

It may be helpful to list the activities under the following categories:

  • Academic awards e.g. scholarship
  • Academic contribution e.g. academic competitions, research projects, H3 subjects
  • CCA and leadership positions e.g. CCA exco, student council
  • Community involvement e.g. volunteering, service learning project, OCIP
  • Work experience e.g. attachment or job shadowing, internship
  • Other relevant experiences e.g. long-term illness in the family, others

Next, select the most significant ones to include in your personal statement. To determine which activities to prioritise, look for those that:

  • have impacted you the most (e.g. a self-initiated project you devoted yourself to > a project in which you were not in the core organising committee and did not contribute as much to)
  • shows long-term commitment (e.g. weekly volunteering at a nursing home over two years > an ad hoc stint as a volunteer at an event that you did not organise)
  • demonstrates a desirable quality for medical school (e.g. any leadership experience or effective teamwork, any form of volunteering or service learning, etc)
  • shows your interest in medicine (e.g. work experience, volunteering, healthcare-related events or competitions, etc)

Choose at most three activities as the “keystone activities”. These are the ones you will write about in more detail.

Other activities of some significance can be “lumped” together. The five categories above can serve as a guide. For instance, all your academic awards and/or contributions could be “bundled” together in the same paragraph, without going into the details of each individually (highly unnecessary).

Note: If you have a limited number of items in your portfolio, and would like to include all of them, you may skip the selection/elimination step. However, if you do have many scattered activities, some of which may not be significant (e.g. volunteer at an ad hoc event, certificate of participation at some competition or seminar), eliminate ruthlessly. Do not attempt to cram your JC life into 500 words. Your essay will lose direction and focus.

Step 2: Create an Outline of Your Personal Statement

With the activities and accomplishments you have chosen, think about what each intends to show. Remember, your personal statement should be examples-driven. Each example and every line in your personal statement should contribute to demonstrating either one of these two points:

  • an amazing quality you have that makes you a good candidate for medicine
  • your undying motivation for pursuing medicine

You don’t have to complete the table, but at least think through this:

TLM SG Personal Statement Planner table

In the first column, “ Activity or achievement ”, jot down the name of the activity . If it is a “keystone activity” (i.e. one that you will write about in more detail), also note down poignant moment(s) and/or details that you wish to highlight .

Under the second column, “ Significance ”, answer the question: What does this activity or achievement show about a skill or quality of mine (desirable qualities for medicine) OR about my interest in the course (motivation for medicine)?

A very quick example could look something like this:

TLM SG Personal Statement Planner table example

Here is a list of some key qualities that medical schools are looking out for:

Note: You can also reverse engineer the process, and fill in the second column first (taking ideas from the list of qualities above). For example, write down “leadership”. Then fill in the corresponding row in the first column with experience(s) that demonstrate your leadership capability.

Next, you can think about the flow of your essay and how you want to order the components. There is no fixed way to do this. Just make sure that it is logical and coherent.

A good idea is to have one focus paragraph dedicated to your motivation for pursuing medicine, and to place this as either the first or the last paragraph. In between, you can then bring in your various experiences and qualities.

I have seen an example in which the student opened with his many years of service in the St. John’s Ambulance Brigade (SJAB). His experiences in SJAB formed a huge part of why he decided to do medicine. (It was also one of his “keystone activities”, and thus written about in greater detail.)

For me, I chose to close with my motivation to study medicine, as a culmination of all the preceding paragraphs. There is no “right” way, and both work equally well.

Step 3: Write the First Draft of Your Personal Statement

Create a new document and start writing your essay. The first draft will always be trash, but once you have that absolutely trashy first draft out, you’ve won more than half the battle.

This is a key step. No matter how terrible the words sound, resist the urge to reread and edit every line as you are writing. Just keep on writing the next sentence, the next paragraph. Leave all the refining till later.

Step 4: Get Feedback on Your Personal Statement

Ask someone to read through your essay and give comments. This could be your parents or other family members, your teachers (they may not agree to do this for individual students), your school’s ECG (if they have such a service), your seniors, etc.

Ask specifically for areas in which you can improve. Not everyone you ask may be a “figure of authority” on the subject of personal statements, so you can choose which comments to act upon and which to ignore.

You can also act as your own critic. You might know best which parts of your essay you’d like to improve on, or where the wording doesn’t seem quite right. A personal statement should be “personal” (based on your personal experiences and insights), and therefore if you’re confident of your own writing and your own ideas, you shouldn’t feel obliged to have someone look through it for you.

Step 5: Refine Your Personal Statement

Lastly, keep on refining. As you near the end of your editing and proofreading process, the tweaks should become more and more minor. Importantly, know when to stop and just let that be the final version.

Some quick, self-explanatory pointers:

  • Proofread – check for errors in spelling and grammar
  • Refine sentence structure – vary sentence length and avoid starting sentences with the same word
  • Cut words – look for concise expressions to fit your ideas into the word limit, and delete entire sentences or ideas if you must
  • Check for key aspects – ensure that you have devoted sufficient breadth and depth to each of the three key aspects required in your personal statement
  • Check for focus – every example and every line should convey either a desired quality for the course or your motivation for the course (Medicine)

Free Personal Statement Planner (PDF)

This is a very simple two-page planner to guide you in the ideating and planning process for your own personal statement (Steps 1 and 2 described in this article).

It is deliberately designed to make the planning as quick and painless as possible. All blanks are for you to jot down brief notes in point form (and not to write any full-sentence answers). An example of one section is shown in Step 2 above.

You don’t even have to write in it if you’re lazy (like me), but it could give you a good framework for thinking through and structuring your personal statement.

Download  « SG Medicine Personal Statement Planner »

Check out other articles on medical school applications , or specifically for applying to Medicine in Singapore . If there’s anything you’d like to see, or if you have any questions at all, please leave a comment below, or drop me a message anytime. I read and respond to every message and email.

nus business school personal statement

Writing Your Med School Personal Statement for NUS and NTU (2024)

In this guide, we will provide you with insights, analysis, and a clear approach to help you craft a personal statement that stands out from the crowd.

Icon

Jan 24, 2024

Writing a compelling personal statement for Medicine at NUS and NTU is a pivotal step in securing your spot in med school. While it may appear daunting, breaking down the process step by step can make it more manageable. In this guide, we will provide you with insights, analysis, and a clear approach to help you craft a personal statement that stands out from the crowd.

Understanding the Prompts

Nus medicine.

“This is an introduction of yourself to the Admissions committee and the interviewer, who would like to learn about the experiences that have shaped your values and desire to study medicine. The word limit is 500 words.”

Source: NUS Medicine

NTU Medicine: “The personal statement is an essay of not more than 300 words, introducing the applicant including, but not limited to, the reasons for wishing to study medicine and of any experience that may have driven the desire to become a doctor. Leadership experience and teamwork ability should be highlighted. The personal statement must be furnished in the application form, and it may be followed up at the interview stage.”

Source: NTU Medicine

In essence, you have to answer two critical questions in your personal statement:

  • Why you? Who are you beyond your grades? What have you done outside of class to prove that you have the ability to thrive in medical school and as a future doctor?
  • Why Medicine? Can you convey your passion for serving people and love for science in a compelling way?

Remember, your personal statement should reflect your unique experiences and qualities.

Step-by-Step Guide to Writing Your Personal Statement

Step 1: identify your qualities.

Start by developing a list of qualities you want to demonstrate to the admissions committee. Consider aspects like leadership, teamwork, empathy, and resilience.

Want more resources and steps to think about your personal brand and your qualities? Read our blog here . 

Step 2: Highlight Relevant Experiences

Think of events or situations from your life that showcase these qualities. Focus on experiences that have shaped your journey and made you stand out.

For this step, you don’t need to go in-depth yet. Simply think of highlights from the past two years. It’s important not to go too far back in your timeline—experiences in primary school or more than 2-3 years ago are unlikely to have much significance, unless it still remains a present part of your life and your routine.

Step 3: Qualify and Connect Your Qualities with Experiences

Choose experiences that not only align with your qualities but clearly showcase your unique attributes. It's crucial to move beyond generic statements and delve into the specifics of your actions and contributions.

For instance, if you claim to be a team player, don't merely state it – demonstrate it with precision. In group projects, assess your role critically. Do you find yourself actively listening to everyone's needs and aligning goals? Perhaps you are the one consistently taking notes and ensuring every voice is heard. Alternatively, maybe you naturally assume the role of decision-maker, ensuring a clear direction for the team.

Specificity is your secret weapon to stand out amidst fierce competition. In personal statements, qualities like empathy, teamwork, and leadership are frequently mentioned. To set yourself apart, avoid generalisations and provide concrete examples of how you embody these traits.

Generic: I am James, an ex-student of Raffles Institution, where I played for my hockey team and volunteered. I want to pursue Medicine at NTU, as a life in medicine resonates with me. My experiences have shaped me, and allowed me to be a suitable fit for Medicine. As Hockey Vice-Captain in JC, I learned how to work with a team towards a common goal, and to lead by example. The ability to stay calm even during times of pressure was something I also picked up. Furthermore, Platoon IC during my BMT, I realised the importance of building rapport with your teammates and the idea of “leading by serving”, which will be relevant with regards to serving my patients.

This statement could be written by anyone—it is simply a list of facts of what the student has done, and doesn’t showcase any real specificity on how a life in medicine actually resonates.

More targeted:

As Vice-Captain, I took on a supportive role and encouraged my team when training got tough. Ensuring everyone was coping well strengthened our bond, which made our time more enjoyable. For the latter, being responsible for the 63 men under me and answerable to those above me, I had to give instructions clearly and effectively, as well as stay calm under pressure, while still maintaining rapport with my teammates. These teachings made me a versatile leader and will help me better interact with my seniors, my team and my patients.

Step 4: Putting It All Together

Show, Don't Tell:  Instead of stating your qualities, provide concrete examples that illustrate them. Engage the reader with real-life situations.

Connect Experiences to Qualities: Explicitly connect each experience to the qualities you want to showcase for better understanding.

Balance Emotion and Reflection: Blend emotional aspects with reflective insights to add depth to your narrative. Avoid Generic Statements : Be specific and authentic to make a lasting impression.

Common Questions about NUS and NTU Medicine Personal Statements

Do i need one moment where i knew i wanted to be a doctor.

Many applicants wonder if their personal statement requires a defining moment. We’ve read so many personal statements that start with applicants describing taking care of a family member who got sick or always being really interested in science—while that’s a fine starting point, you cannot base your entire personal statement around that.

Your essay doesn't need a single moment of realization. Instead, concentrate on portraying your path and journey to medicine. It is more compelling and will convince the admissions committee that you’ve done your due diligence, you know what becoming a doctor entails—you’re not simply basing off your motivations off one encounter or scenario.

How do I stand out from the crowd? Won’t everybody have similar experiences?

Rather than stating that you possess leadership qualities or care about people—qualities that most students will write about—avoid generic statements by delving into specific incidents that have shaped you. For instance, if you claim to be service-oriented due to your volunteering experiences, explore a particular interaction or individual that left a lasting impact. Was there a moment that truly touched you or influenced your commitment to service?

I have so many relevant experiences; which one is the "best" to choose?

It's common for applicants to feel overwhelmed with numerous relevant experiences. While it's tempting to list all your achievements, it's more impactful to focus on what you've learned from these experiences. Consider the depth of your understanding and the personal growth each experience has afforded you.

For example, if you've engaged in exciting research, shadowed a family physician, and excelled as a musician, don't merely present a laundry list. Instead, emphasise the key lessons learned.

  • How did your research experience contribute to your understanding of medicine?
  • What insights did shadowing a family physician provide regarding teamwork in healthcare?
  • How has your musical journey instilled discipline and focus, and how does it relate to your desire to be a doctor?

Always connect your experiences back to the fundamental questions: "Why you?" and "Why do you want to be a doctor?" Demonstrate how each experience has shaped your character, skills, and aspirations, making you a compelling candidate for medical school.

In essence, quality often trumps over quantity. Choose experiences that showcase your growth, highlight your qualities, and reinforce your commitment to pursuing medicine at NUS or NTU.

By following these steps and avoiding clichés, you can create a personal statement that reflects your unique journey and captivates the admissions committee. Best of luck on your journey to securing a spot at NUS or NTU med school!

Still at a loss for where to start? We get it; it’s a scary experience looking at a blank page. Download our e-guide for more tips and advice on applying to NUS and NTU Medicine.

Or simply drop us a message to get in touch with us. We work with hundreds of anxious applicants each year, and we know what it feels like to be at a loss. Our focus is always to support students through this time and ensure they have the best guidance and resources possible.

Founded in 1999 to provide comprehensive standardised test preparation and admissions coaching for students embarking on their university education.

Subscribe to our newsletter

stay ahead of the game with the latest trends, tips, and news on university admissions and scholarships.

Latest Articles

Australian Med School Guide for Singaporean Students (2024)

Australian Med School Guide for Singaporean Students (2024)

Which med school in Australia is the best?

Australian Med School Guide for Singaporean Students (2024)

April 09, 2024

Navigating A-Level Subject Requirements for Med School in Singapore

Navigating A-Level Subject Requirements for Med School in Si...

Can you still apply to med school without taking Biology?

Navigating A-Level Subject Requirements for Med School in Singapore

When to start studying for the MCAT?

How long does it take to realistically prepare for the MCAT?

When to start studying for the MCAT?

March 19, 2024

IMAGES

  1. Personal Statement NUS

    nus business school personal statement

  2. Personal Statement NUS

    nus business school personal statement

  3. NUS学长手把手教你怎么写PS个人陈述(Personal Statement附范文!)

    nus business school personal statement

  4. Nus Personal Statement

    nus business school personal statement

  5. Free Business School Personal Statement Example in Word

    nus business school personal statement

  6. NUS, NTU, SMU: Reading our Personal Statements!

    nus business school personal statement

VIDEO

  1. ✅ Can You Send Money to Italy with PayPal? (Send & Receive Money)

  2. Meet the NUS MBA Class of 2025

  3. Asking Undergraduate Students, 'How to get into NUS?'

  4. Life at NUS MBA

  5. What Makes A Good University?

  6. Journey Unveiled: Hear it from National University of Singapore (NUS) MBA student Ridwan Malik

COMMENTS

  1. PDF How to write a personal statement

    Your personal statement is the place to provide such information. The main points that you should elaborate in your statement are: 1) ... goals after graduate school and why do you consider NUS a good place to support you in these goals? When preparing your statement, please be clear and concise.

  2. How to master an MBA personal statement

    Business Analytics Centre; Centre for Governance and Sustainability (CGS) ... NUS Business School. Vision & Mission; Why Study with Us? Rankings; Accreditations; Mochtar Riady Building; Our Mascot; ... How to master an MBA personal statement. February 12, 2020. Mochtar Riady Building 15 Kent Ridge Drive Singapore 119245 +65 6516-3000.

  3. Admission Requirements

    Admissions Requirements. You must have completed or will be completing high school, and have at least 12 years of general education by July in the year of application. Acceptable high school qualifications and respective admissions requirements are as follows. 1. A-Level (AQA, Cambridge, Edexcel, London, OCR, Oxford International AQA, WJEC)

  4. PDF APPLICATION GUIDE

    If you do not have any of the above social accounts, please click to create a NUS Account for . here Undergraduate Admission Application. (3) Students residing in Singapore are encouraged to use the postal code search function so that accurate residential address information such as Block/House Number and Street Name can be pre-loaded in one-click.

  5. PDF (Singapore-Cambridge GCE 'A' Level) SAMPLE

    iv) Personal Statement of 2,000 characters (about 300 words) under 'Section 7 - Outstanding Achievements' - Prepare your draft as MS Word document and copy the final version into this section 4. To 'save' an incomplete form, your Identity Card/ Passport number, email and self-created PIN must be provided to enable the system to retrieve the ...

  6. How to master an MBA personal statement

    How to master an MBA personal statement . February 12, 2020-Min Read-Min Read

  7. How to Get the Best Results Out of Your NUS Personal Statement

    The first step to writing a perfect NUS personal statement example is to point out all previous experience in the field of the desired career. Even so, all previous achievements in this field plus ...

  8. Application Checklist

    GMAT: Please designate "National University of Singapore" (GMAT Code: DRT-MK-56 MSc in Finance) as your score recipient. GRE: Please designate "4642 - NUS Business School MSc Programmes" as your score recipient. 7. TOEFL / IELTS scores (if applicable) Please indicate the institution code - "0677 National University of Singapore".

  9. PDF Graduate Programmes

    Personal statement . Describe your personal, academic and professional history, including significant non-law activities and why you think you will be an asset to the NUS community. There is no fixed format but please keep the length to 750 words. 5) Statement for Scholarships .

  10. NUS Business School

    For more than 50 years, NUS Business School has offered a rigorous, relevant and rewarding business education to outstanding students from across the world.

  11. The NUS MSc in Management

    NUS MSc in Management students can enroll in a double-master degree programme by choosing the additional CEMS Master in International Management (CEMS MIM) degree. Experience and learn cutting-edge business insights that will help to groom you into a cosmopolitan leader. "Our NUS MSc in Management programme provides a solid grounding in key ...

  12. The Key to Writing Effective NUS Personal Statements

    In Summary. An NUS personal statement is an essay required by an application to the National University of Singapore. It is a brief description of who you are as a student and an overview of the things that matter to you. Personal statements are not unique to the National University of Singapore. Students will encounter these assignments ...

  13. About Us

    The NUS Business School's Student Exchange Programmes (SEP) is one of the most vibrant and dynamic facets of student community life, which adds much international flavour to the academic experience. Twice yearly, we send our BBA and MBA students around the world on exchange with our 120+ partner universities and schools offering more than 400 ...

  14. Biz Short Courses

    NUS reserves the right to postpone or cancel a course by giving at least 14 days' notice. Fees stated are net of taxes. All applicable taxes (if any) shall be borne by the applicant. By filling up this registration form, I hereby agree and consent that my personal data provided in this form may be collected, used, processed and disclosed by ...

  15. Department of Finance

    Avinash Daswani, MSc (Finance), the Netherlands. We are dedicated to high-quality teaching and research in finance and investments. With the constant disruption to the evolving financial landscape, we collaborate with public and private organisations to generate impact and provide value to students, businesses, policy-makers and the wider ...

  16. Personal Statement for NUS (Singapore) : r/ApplyingToCollege

    The personal statement should be basically a summary of your achievements, how you developed interest in your major etc. If you really want to look at some samples, take a look at personal statements for UK unis. The one for NUS should be on similar lines. I suggest you post this to r/SGExams .

  17. The NUS MSc in Marketing Analytics and Insights

    GRE: Please designate "4642 - NUS Business School MSc Programmes" as your score recipient. 7. TOEFL / IELTS scores (if applicable) Please indicate the institution code - "0677 National University of Singapore". Upload supporting documents. If you are offered admission, official transcripts must be sent by the institution ...

  18. How to Write an NUS Personal Statement with Examples

    Use simple words to ensure that the messages are rightly communicated. Do not write in a hurry. Take your time to write it, review it and make changes. Start as early as possible so that you have enough time for corrections. Substantiate your points with legible evidence and examples. Media Personal Statement.

  19. Duke-NUS

    Thankfully you have 3-4 more essays to write while you take a break from the personal statement, so revisit it with fresh eyes later. TL;DR: 3 things. 1) Tell a story. Make it personal. 2) Seek feedback. 3) Start thinking and planning early. I wish you all the best in your writing and in applications.

  20. MSc in Supply Chain Management

    The NUS Master of Science in Supply Chain Management (MSc (SCM)) programme is a multi-disciplinary graduate coursework programme for a career in the logistics and supply chain industry. It aims to develop graduates with a comprehensive skillset for planning, designing and managing modern supply chains in Asia with a global context.

  21. How to Write Your Medicine Personal Statement (Singapore)

    Write the 500-word NUS personal statement first, then shorten and edit it to 300 words for the NTU personal statement. Write a separate personal statement for NUS and NTU. The "advantage" of the second option is that you can tailor each of your personal statements more to the school's philosophy and what (you think) they are looking out for.

  22. Vision & Mission

    For more than 50 years, NUS Business School has offered a rigorous, relevant and rewarding business education to outstanding students from across the world. Main Menu. Home; Study. UNDERGRADUATE. ... To be the leading business school in Asia, globally recognised for excellence in education and research. Mission

  23. Writing Your Med School Personal Statement for NUS and NTU (2024)

    Jan 24, 2024. Writing a compelling personal statement for Medicine at NUS and NTU is a pivotal step in securing your spot in med school. While it may appear daunting, breaking down the process step by step can make it more manageable. In this guide, we will provide you with insights, analysis, and a clear approach to help you craft a personal ...