What are common mistakes to avoid in UCL MiM essays?

Question

Shilpa Patel · Accepted Answer

Writing your UCL Master in Management (MiM) application essays correctly is important, as they help you stand out. Here are some common mistakes students make and how to avoid them:
1. Not Answering the Question Properly &ndash; Many applicants write general answers without directly responding to the essay prompt. Always read the question carefully and ensure your response is specific.2. Lack of Personalization &ndash; Avoid generic statements like &ldquo;I want to study at UCL because it is a top university.&rdquo; Instead, mention specific courses, professors, or resources that interest you. Show that you&rsquo;ve researched the program.3. Repeating Your Resume &ndash; The essay is not just a list of achievements. Instead of simply listing what&rsquo;s on your CV, explain why those experiences were important and how they shaped your career goals.4. Being Too Vague or Using Too Many Fancy Words &ndash; Some applicants use overly complex language or industry jargon to sound impressive. Keep your essay clear, simple, and to the point.5. Ignoring Structure and Flow &ndash; Your essay should have a logical structure with an introduction, body, and conclusion. Each paragraph should connect smoothly to the next.6. Exceeding the Word Limit &ndash; UCL has strict word limits for essays. Writing too much can show poor communication skills. Keep your responses concise and impactful.7. Not Proofreading &ndash; Grammar mistakes and typos can leave a bad impression. Always double-check your essay or ask someone else to review it.8. Lack of Career Clarity &ndash; UCL values applicants who have clear career goals. Explain how the MiM program fits into your long-term plans and what you hope to achieve after graduation.