1. Home
  2. Education
  3. Graduate School

What Is an Admissions Essay or Personal Statement?

By Tara Kuther, Ph.D., About.com

Definition: The admissions essay is written by an applicant to graduate school in response to an assignment posed in the graduate application. Graduate programs will often assign specific topics that applicants must address in writing their essay. Sometimes they ask for a generic "autobiographical statement" in which the applicant discusses his or her life, experiences, and goals. The admissions essay is sometimes referred to as a personal statement. The graduate admissions essay is a critical part of the graduate application because it is through this essay that applicants can speak directly to the committee and demonstrate their unique fit to the program.
Also Known As: personal statement, autobiographical statement
Explore Graduate School
About.com Special Features

Tips that will help finance your education, excel in the classroom, and advance your career. More >

Being well prepared is the first step; here are more essential suggestions. More >

  1. Home
  2. Education
  3. Graduate School
  4. Admissions Essay
  5. What Is the Admissions Essay or Personal Statement?

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.