If you’ve ever tried to help a teenager write their UCAS personal statement, you’ll know it can feel a bit like pulling teeth… from someone else’s mouth… underwater.
It’s hard to know what to say. What counts? What will actually stand out in a pile of applications that all mention “a passion for Biology” and “excellent teamwork skills”?
Here’s what many parents and educators don’t realise: admissions tutors aren’t looking for perfection – they’re looking for personality, purpose, and potential.
And that’s where enterprise experience can quietly make a big difference.
It’s not about being the next Elon Musk
Enterprise doesn’t mean launching a tech startup or making millions. For students, it can be as simple as spotting a problem and trying to solve it – with creativity, effort, and a bit of trial and error.
That kind of experience tells admissions teams something really important:
This student takes initiative. They think for themselves. They’ve done something.
In a UCAS personal statement, that’s gold.
What do admissions tutors actually want?
According to UCAS data and feedback from university admissions officers, standout applications often include:
- Examples of independent thinking
- Initiative and self-motivation
- Evidence of problem-solving or creativity
- Real-world learning – outside the classroom
- Reflection – what did they learn, and how did they grow?
Enterprise projects tick every single one of those boxes.
“I started a small business” hits differently
Imagine reading a personal statement that says:
“Last year, I took part in an enterprise programme where I developed an idea for a sustainable clothing swap app. I interviewed potential users, tested a prototype, and pitched it to a panel. It didn’t all go to plan – but I learned how to adapt quickly, listen to feedback, and stay focused on what people actually needed.”
Now that tells a story.
It’s not about flawless success. It’s about showing a mindset – one that universities really value.
It doesn’t hurt that some enterprise programmes come with UCAS points too
For example, students completing the Level 3 Certificate in Applied Entrepreneurship earn 16 UCAS points. That’s a nice academic bonus – but the real value is in the experience they gain and the confidence they build.
In short?
Personal statements aren’t about sounding impressive. They’re about sounding real – and showing you’ve learned something worth learning.
So if you’re supporting a student with their UCAS application, think beyond textbooks. Ask them:
What have you actually done – and what did it teach you?
If the answer is “I took part in an enterprise project”… you’re probably off to a great start.