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CV personal statement examples for students

5 minute read · Updated 30 October 2026

Your personal statement (sometimes called a profile) is the short paragraph at the top of your CV. It is the first thing an employer reads, so it should quickly tell them who you are and why you would be a good fit.

A simple three-part formula

  1. Who you are: your year or course and where you study.
  2. What you offer: two or three strengths, ideally with a hint of proof.
  3. What you want: the type of job or opportunity you are looking for.

Aim for 40 to 80 words. Write in the first person ("I am…"), keep it positive and change it slightly for each job.

Tip: The "Help me write it" button in Free CV Builder asks you three quick questions and writes a first draft using this formula. You can then edit it in your own words.

Examples you can adapt

Year 11 student, first Saturday job

I am a Year 11 student at Oakfield High School, predicted strong GCSE grades in English and Maths. I am friendly, reliable and used to working in a team through my Sunday league football club. I am looking for a weekend role in retail where I can gain customer service experience.

Sixth form student, café or restaurant

I am a Year 12 student studying Biology, Chemistry and Food Science. I enjoy fast-paced environments and have helped serve over 200 guests at school events. I am looking for part-time work in a café or restaurant that fits around my studies.

College student, apprenticeship

I am studying a Level 3 BTEC in Engineering and enjoy solving practical problems, from fixing bikes to building a robot for a regional competition. I am punctual, careful and keen to learn on the job. I am looking for an engineering apprenticeship starting in September.

Student with caring responsibilities

I am a Year 13 student who helps care for a younger brother, which has made me organised, patient and good at managing my time. I am predicted A and B grades in my A levels and I am looking for a flexible evening or weekend role.

University student, part-time job

I am a second-year History student at the University of Worcester with strong research and writing skills. I have two years of retail experience and I am comfortable handling cash and busy queues. I am looking for part-time work of up to 15 hours a week during term time.

Graduate, first career job

I am a recent Marketing graduate (2:1) with hands-on social media experience from running my student society's accounts, where I grew our Instagram following by 60%. I am creative and data-minded, and I am looking for an entry-level marketing role.

Work experience placement

I am a Year 10 student with a strong interest in healthcare, and I volunteer weekly at a local care home. I am caring, calm and a good listener. I am looking for a one-week work experience placement in a hospital or GP surgery.

Summer holiday job

I am a Year 12 student who has just finished my exams and I am available full-time from July to early September. I am hard-working and confident with customers after two years helping at my family's market stall. I am looking for a seasonal role in hospitality or tourism.

What to avoid

  • Clichés with no proof, such as "I am a hard-working team player who thinks outside the box"
  • Writing about yourself as "he" or "she"
  • Long paragraphs. If it is over five lines, cut it down.
  • Saying what you want from the employer without saying what you offer them

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