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  • Aerospace Engineering Personal Statement Examples

We have compiled a selection of personal statements from students who have successfully applied to aerospace engineering programmes at universities in the UK. These aerospace engineering personal statement examples will provide you with inspiration and guidance as you start writing your statement. 

Each personal statement has been carefully written to highlight the student’s interest in aerospace engineering, their relevant experience and qualifications, and their personal qualities that make them strong candidates for the programme. 

As you read through these aerospace engineering personal statement examples, pay attention to the structure, language, and content that is used to make a strong impression on the admissions tutors.

Aerospace Engineering Personal Statement Example

My aspiration to pursue a degree in Aircraft Engineering and to build a career in the aviation industry is driven by my long-standing passion for flight and my deep interest in the laws of physics that make these complex machines function efficiently. During my Physics Higher course, I conducted a case study comparing the efficiency and adaptability of various aircraft propulsion systems, which solidified my perspective on the most suitable engine for each type of aircraft. The engineering of aircraft propulsion units fascinates me and I would take great satisfaction in designing and maintaining the engines of the future. 

I am eager to learn more about aerodynamics , control systems , wing and fuselage design , and potential advancements in physical design to improve efficiency and speed, particularly in light of rising fuel costs. I am also interested in exploring the use of advanced composites in aircraft design, as these materials offer significant advantages in terms of weight and durability, and will play a critical role in making flying more affordable.

I gained some industry experience through a work placement at British Airways in 2017, where I had the opportunity to observe the design and repair of engine components, learn about different engine types and assist mechanics. Additionally, I have also worked as a hotel waiter, which has helped me develop skills in teamwork, reliability, loyalty and leadership. Furthermore, I have been involved in the Global Social Leaders program and was named Student of the Year at my school in 2018.

Apart from aviation, I am passionate about all types of machinery, including cars and motocross, and have even competed as All-Wales Under-16 Champion. I keep myself informed about new developments in my field by following media coverage and reading aviation journals and books on air safety and aircraft design. After graduation, I hope to secure a job with an aerospace company and eventually pursue my own Private Pilot’s License. I am hardworking, determined and clear-sighted in my ambitions. I enjoy collaborating with my peers and will put in all my efforts to complete any task I undertake. My commitment to my goals is unwavering.

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Aeronautical Engineering Personal Statement Example

Engineering is a vital part of our world, shaping the technology and infrastructure that surrounds us. From flying machines to street lamps, the work of engineers can be seen everywhere. This is what inspired me to pursue a career in engineering, specifically, aerospace engineering at university.

My interest in engineering began when I learned about the work of Renaissance engineer Brunelleschi and early engineering concepts. This sparked my curiosity and led me to research more recent developments in the field of aeronautics. I read books such as “Understanding Flight” to gain a deeper understanding of the concepts, theories, and mechanical principles that make flight possible. One topic that particularly interested me was the idea of hypersonic travel and the formation of a sonic boom, which I would love to study in more detail. I am currently working on an Aircraft Singular Project, which explores the evolution of flight and its future possibilities.

My passion for engineering was further reinforced during a 4-week work experience placement at an Aero Engine Tower, where I shadowed an engineer. I was impressed by the precision and attention to detail required in aviation engineering and saw firsthand the importance of eliminating any margin for error. This experience has motivated me to strive for excellence and to become an engineer of the highest calibre.

I have sought out opportunities to gain hands-on experience in engineering, such as through The Engineering Education Scheme (EES). I was part of a team that worked with National Grid to design a cost-effective solution to reduce the environmental impact of waste gas released from pipelines. The experience helped me improve my research and analysis skills and allowed me to present our findings to a board of executive engineers. I also read “Failing Forward” by John C. Maxwell, which helped me understand the mindset and attributes of successful engineers, and how learning from past failures is crucial for future success.

I am currently taking on multiple challenges such as the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) and additional M2 module alongside my A-Level studies. I have demonstrated my ability to manage multiple tasks and achieve goals through my participation in programs such as Envision and EES, for which I have received the Gold Crest Award and v50 awards. I have also found balance through non-academic activities such as badminton and biking.

I am confident that my passion, drive, and experience will enable me to excel in aerospace engineering and make the most of my university experience. I am excited about the opportunities and challenges that this field will offer and look forward to becoming a part of the limitless world of engineering.

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Detailed Guide: Aerospace Engineer Personal Statement

Table of Contents

Being an aerospace engineer is a technically challenging but professionally and personally rewarding career. To have a shot at being an aerospace engineer, you will need a compelling aerospace engineer personal statement .

This personal statement usually reflects the engineer’s interest, work experience, and education. This article focuses on creating unique engineering personal statements and provides examples of solid statements that stand out from others.

How to Draft a Compelling Aerospace Engineering Personal Statement

Here are some pointers for you to consider when you prepare your statement for engineering school. It doesn’t matter what engineering specialty you are applying for; Keep in mind these tips:

1. State the Motivation Behind the Course Choice

Two-thirds of your statement should explain why you choose this program, your qualifications, and your prior experience and interest in the subject matter.

The remaining third should discuss how your non-engineering extracurriculars have benefited your professional development.

2. Mention Work Experiences

Any work experience, from shadowing an employee to a full-time job, is beneficial.

This doesn’t need to be with an engineering firm. Admission tutors will be impressed by any experience that has given you a foundational knowledge of how things are constructed and how they function.

You could work at a garage, computer repair shop, or architectural or surveying firm. Talk about the technical contests you’ve participated in. Activities you’ve taken up for fun, like teaching yourself to code, making an app, or constructing a robot.

3. State Hobbies & Interests

Experience in leadership roles such as prefect, team captain, or student council representative. Experience in part-time employment, such as delivering goods or serving customers at a neighborhood café count.

Activities involving volunteering and collecting donations. Volunteering at a restaurant is just as impressive as working on a project remotely related to engineering.

Activities outside of class that a student enjoys doing, such as bicycling, guitar playing, or participating in a school debate team.

3. Let your statement be tailored to the course

Make sure your statement is suited to the engineering program you’ve chosen and illustrates your enthusiasm for the subject.

For civil engineering schools, your statement should reflect your dedication to the field.

You may have attended an ICE tunnel exhibition or interned at a local construction firm for two weeks. Explain how your insights connect to your objective of entering a university’s civil engineering program.

Include in your aerospace statement if you learn Python or Java in your leisure time. Explain why you chose chemical engineering classes after these experiences.

Thermodynamics, stress analysis, and fluid dynamics knowledge will impress admissions officers.

4. Write your statement once to submit to all five universities

UCAS allows you to submit just one personal statement even if you are applying to five different programs.

Since each admission’s tutor will read your statement with their course in mind, do not make it discipline-specific. Equally, avoid mentioning specific schools or distinguishing features of individual classes.

5. Demonstrate that engineering is your career choice

Show admissions officers that you have researched engineering careers. Also, verify that you have considered which one(s) you might like to pursue after college in your statement.

This is especially important if you want to go into a more specific engineering field, like aerospace or automotive.

Even if you are still determining exactly what you want to do and are interested in many different things, that’s fine. Your degree will give you a chance to learn more about these things. However, you should show that you know what kinds of jobs you can get after finishing the program you’re applying to.

6. Retire the Old Phrases

Avoid writing generic statements that many other applicants will use; admissions officers will get bored reading them. You shouldn’t also use quotations attributed to prominent engineers either. Admissions officers have heard it all before.

Aerospace Engineer Personal Statement Examples

Your aerospace engineering personal statement must show that you have a strong work ethic and drive. Check out these INK samples;

man in black jacket wearing yellow hard hat

Aerospace engineering is my passion, and I’m thrilled to have had the opportunity to contribute over a decade of expertise in this dynamic field. My professional highlights have been developing better rocket propulsion systems and more efficient satellite designs.

I take pride in tackling complicated projects quickly and efficiently due to my extensive knowledge base and creative problem-solving capabilities. For example, I could simplify an aircraft build’s manufacturing process without sacrificing performance.

I thrive on collaboration with colleagues, which is essential for team success. Furthermore, I enjoy communicating complex concepts to non-specialist audiences, utilizing concise language and clear visuals to ensure comprehension. Ultimately, my goal is to help drive progress within aerospace engineering through innovation and quality work.

I have been a passionate Aerospace Engineer for over ten years, using my technical expertise and imaginative thinking to create industry-changing innovations. My youthful love for aircraft and spaceships has grown throughout my career.

I build complex propulsion systems, develop engines for high-altitude commercial airplanes, and calculate tough airframes. I routinely assess these designs through comprehensive testing protocols to ensure they meet strict regulatory requirements. Moreover, during this process, I always strive for efficiency, employing cutting-edge technologies to improve performance parameters such as fuel consumption and noise reduction.

My talent for developing innovative solutions to existing problems distinguishes me from other Aerospace Engineers. Evidence of this was when I conducted experiments on an auto throttle system for civil airplanes that reduced fuel consumption by 15%.

I have also worked with renowned aerospace businesses on various projects, including supersonic flight experiments, demonstrating my ability to work independently and collaboratively.

Overall, my extensive experience and zealous enthusiasm will enable me to make meaningful contributions to the field of Aerospace Engineering.

Wrapping Up

An aerospace engineer personal statement is easy to format and assemble if you follow the guidelines above. All you need to do is narrow down your interests and skills and stick to them.

Make the statement personal and intuitive. Remember to grab the board’s attention in the first 30 seconds and show your motivation, skills, and experience.

Detailed Guide: Aerospace Engineer Personal Statement

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.

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Aerospace Engineering Personal Statement Examples

  • 1 Personal Statement Example Links
  • 2 Career Opportunities
  • 3 UK Admission Requirements
  • 4 UK Earnings Potential For Aerospace Engineers
  • 5 Similar Courses in UK
  • 6 UK Curriculum
  • 7 Alumni Network

Personal Statement Example Links

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Enthralled by the marvels of flight and the boundless possibilities of space exploration? Eager to design and build cutting-edge aircraft and spacecraft that push the boundaries of technology?

Pursuing a course in Aerospace Engineering can launch your career into the stratosphere, equipping you with the skills and knowledge to shape the future of aviation and space travel.

Aerospace engineering is a field of engineering that focuses on the design, construction, and operation of aircraft and spacecraft. It is a highly specialized field that requires a deep understanding of mathematics, physics, and engineering principles. As an aerospace engineer, you will be responsible for designing and building new aircraft, testing and improving existing aircraft, and maintaining and repairing aircraft.

The course overview for aerospace engineering will vary depending on the university. Generally, the course will cover topics such as aerodynamics, propulsion, structures and materials, avionics, and aircraft systems. You will also learn about the principles of flight and the history of aviation. Additionally, you will gain an understanding of the aerospace industry, including the regulations and safety standards that are in place.

👍 When writing a personal statement : Highlight your passion for the course, demonstrating your understanding of it. Use relevant personal experiences, coursework, or work history to showcase how these have fostered your interest and readiness for the course.

Career Opportunities

A degree in Aerospace Engineering can lead to a wide range of career opportunities. Aerospace engineers typically work in the aerospace industry, designing and developing aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and missiles. They also work in related industries such as defense, energy, and transportation.

Careers in the aerospace industry include aircraft design engineers, who design and develop aircraft and their components; aircraft systems engineers, who design and develop aircraft systems such as navigation, communication, and propulsion systems; and aerospace test engineers, who test and evaluate aircraft and their components.

Other career opportunities for aerospace engineers include working in the defense industry, d esigning and developing weapons systems and military aircraft. They may also work in the energy industry, designing and developing wind turbines, solar panels, and other renewable energy sources.

In addition, aerospace engineers may work in the transportation industry, designing and developing advanced transportation systems such as high-speed trains and self-driving cars. They may also work in the space industry, designing and developing spacecraft and satellites.

Finally, aerospace engineers may work in research and development, developing new technologies and materials for use in the aerospace industry. They may also work in academia, teaching and researching aerospace engineering at universities and other institutions.

UK Admission Requirements

To be accepted into the Aerospace Engineering course at a UK university, applicants must have achieved a minimum of 3 A-Levels at grades AAB or higher. In addition to this, applicants must have achieved a minimum of 5 GCSEs at grades A*-C, including Maths, English and Science.

The entry criteria for this course is similar to other engineering courses at UK universities. Most universities require a minimum of 3 A-Levels at grades AAB or higher, as well as a minimum of 5 GCSEs at grades A*-C. However, some universities may require additional qualifications or higher grades for entry into the course.

UK Earnings Potential For Aerospace Engineers

The average earnings for someone with an aerospace engineering degree in the UK can vary significantly depending on the individual’s experience and job role. According to the UK government’s National Careers Service, the median annual salary for aerospace engineers in the UK is £44,719. However, experienced aerospace engineers can earn up to £80,000 per year.

The job market for aerospace engineers in the UK is expected to remain strong in the coming years. The UK government’s Aerospace Technology Institute predicts that the UK aerospace sector will need an additional 10,000 engineers by 2030. This growth is driven by an increasing demand for aircraft and new technologies, such as electric and hybrid aircraft. As a result, aerospace engineers should expect to see an increasing demand for their skills in the coming years.

Similar Courses in UK

Related courses to Aerospace Engineering include Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, and Aeronautical Engineering. Mechanical Engineering focuses on the design, manufacture, and maintenance of mechanical systems, such as engines, machines, and tools.

Automotive Engineering focuses on the design, manufacture, and maintenance of vehicles, such as cars, trucks, and buses. Aeronautical Engineering focuses on the design, manufacture, and maintenance of aircraft, such as airplanes, helicopters, and drones.

The key differences between these courses are the types of systems they focus on. Aerospace Engineering focuses on the design, manufacture, and maintenance of systems related to air and space travel, such as rockets, satellites, and spacecraft.

Mechanical Engineering focuses on the design, manufacture, and maintenance of mechanical systems, such as engines, machines, and tools.

UK Curriculum

The key topics and modules covered in the course of Aerospace Engineering typically include:

  • Aerodynamics: This module covers the study of the forces and moments acting on an aircraft and the principles behind them. It includes topics such as lift, drag, thrust, and stability.
  • Aircraft Structures: This module covers the design and construction of aircraft structures, including materials, structural components, and structural analysis.
  • Flight Mechanics: This module covers the principles of aircraft performance, including topics such as lift and drag, thrust, and stability and control.
  • Propulsion: This module covers the principles of propulsion systems, including topics such as engines, fuel systems, and thrust.
  • Aerospace Systems: This module covers the design and integration of aircraft systems, including topics such as avionics, navigation, and communication systems.
  • Spacecraft Design: This module covers the design and construction of spacecraft, including topics such as propulsion, attitude control, and guidance.

Hands-on experience and practical work are an important part of the Aerospace Engineering course. Students may have the opportunity to participate in lab work, design projects, and flight simulations. The course may also include field trips to aerospace companies or research facilities.

Alumni Network

One notable alumnus from the aerospace engineering course is Elon Musk, founder of SpaceX. Musk graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with a Bachelor of Science in Physics and Economics. He has since gone on to become one of the most influential figures in the aerospace industry, revolutionising the way we access space and revolutionizing the industry as a whole.

Musk is currently working on a variety of projects, including the development of reusable rockets, the development of a new generation of space vehicles, and the development of a global satellite internet network. His work is helping to make space exploration and access more affordable and accessible for everyone.

The University of Pennsylvania offers a variety of alumni events and networking opportunities for aerospace engineering graduates. These include the Aerospace Engineering Alumni Network, which provides alumni with the opportunity to connect with fellow graduates, stay up to date on industry news, and access career resources. Additionally, the University hosts the annual Aerospace Engineering Alumni Symposium, which brings together alumni from around the world to discuss the latest developments in the field.

Finally, the University offers an Aerospace Engineering Career Fair, which provides students and alumni with the opportunity to meet with potential employers and learn more about the industry.

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Aerospace Engineering Personal Statement Example

Sample statement.

My fascination with space and space travel began as a small child when I saw TV programmes showing the exploration of Mars using the remote Rovers. Ever since I can remember, I have wanted to be on the team that is behind the first people-to-Mars expedition.

Growing up, I developed a strong interest in physics from my Dad, who is an engineer. We used to talk a lot and do projects together at home. This interest remained strong going through school and physics is now my strongest and my favourite subject.  I have thought a lot about space travel to Mars and I now want to take my knowledge of the science behind spacecraft to a higher level by studying aerospace engineering at university level.

I am convinced that this will be the right path for me as I enjoy problem solving and maths and I am prepared to work hard to learn more and to tackle more difficult topics.

My school and college have been very supportive and the teachers there, particularly in physics and maths, have encouraged my interests. I have attended and then run the lunch-time engineering club and in my last year, we designed and made a remote-controlled robot. Our first prototype fell apart when it hit a tree, but we did better with the second one.

Last year, the school arranged a work experience trip to Switzerland to an aerospace facility. We had to enter an essay competition to get a place and I was thrilled when I was chosen as one of the 12 students who could go. I had the best time of my life there. We stayed for three weeks and it was hard work but so good. It taught me a lot about working with other people and I had a glimpse of what it would be like to work within such a large organisation.

Being bored is one of the worst things that can happen to me and I like to do sports and have other interests beyond physics. I have played for my local rugby team for four years now, going training twice a week and playing a match most weekends. Rugby is much more fun than football and I have learned a lot about how to play well in a team. I have also got much fitter and I also enjoy swimming at weekends and on holiday. My Dad enjoys hill walking and we have been walking several times in the Lake District and in Wales. I’ve also completed several trips with my Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award group, as well as volunteering at the local cat shelter on a Saturday morning.

Creativity is also important to me and I love to draw and sketch and I’m experimenting with water colours. I think my drawing abilities will be useful for my advanced studies in physics and engineering but I do it because I love it. It’s a great break from studying and doing equations.

It’s my ambition to work in the aerospace industry and to be part of that team that puts people on Mars and studying aerospace engineering at university is going to be my next big step towards that. 

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Aerospace Engineering Personal Statement

Last summer I gained work experience at Rolls Royce in Bristol. The meticulous accuracy and aspects of creativity that we were exposed to during that week confirmed that aerospace engineering is categorically my preferred career.

From when I took my first flight at six years old, I became unconditionally mesmerised by planes and how they work. Over time, this interest has “skyrocketed”, whether it be through watching planes land and take off at airports, or obsessively watching air crash investigation programmes on television. When I saw there was a course specifically designed for the wonder that is aerospace, I knew it was perfect for me. I could learn about everything that has fascinated me for years.

In my mechanics module, I particularly enjoyed learning the relationship between projectile motion and defence aerospace. Here, they have to solve the problem of when to launch weapons from a high altitude to ensure it hits the target. With Physics, I took particular interest in circular motion and how planes can turn mid-flight, using lift on the wings as a centripetal force. History has given me an insight into the development of the aerospace industry over time, especially when learning about the Berlin airlift during the Cold War; without the technological advancements of aerospace at that time, thousands would have perished.

During my work experience at Rolls Royce’s Bristol plant in the Systems Design Technical department, we were assigned a task to redesign a HPC stub shaft to meet a required life of 30000 hours, whilst maintaining interchangeability between the new and current design, and to minimise additional weight and cost of the product. Throughout the week, we used specially designed aerospace technology to complete and test our task, which we then pitched to a group of engineers in the form of a presentation. Overall, the week taught me so much, and to work around chartered aerospace engineers was an incredible experience.

After this I also participated in a broad-based engineering summer school at the University of Salford , at which I chose to focus on aerospace engineering. This introduced me to the upcoming surgence of the use of composite materials, something key to the more recent projects in the aerospace world. We also paid an industrial and educational visit to Airbus Broughton, offering tours of the site factories and tests of their innovative virtual reality headsets.Whilst onwe visited In addition, we one of the remaining Concordes at Manchester Airport. I discovered that part of its failure as a commercial aircraft was due to the 2000 crash of one of its fleet. To overcome the issue, they made several modifications, including adding Kevlar lining to the fuel tanks. It was recognised that several materials used in the fleet caused a series of failures which precipitated such a tragic crash. This understanding led to recent innovations in composite materials used in today’s aircraft, namely the Boeing 787 and Airbus A350.

I am honoured to be Head Girl at my school. I help by supporting and giving speeches at school open evenings, partaking in reconciliation assemblies and organising a mentoring scheme for the first year A-level students, as well as many other tasks given by my head of year and headmistress.

Both in and outside of school I have taken part in many clubs and activities, such as playing in school football tournaments, being a Girl Guide, volunteering at Cancer Research and swimming competitively.

I want to study aerospace engineering at university to further my learning of key aspects in the aerospace industry. The three main topics I am keen to learn about are aerodynamics, materials and structures, as well as flight dynamics and control. In the future, my dream is to work in the Air Accidents Investigation Branch of the Department of Transport and make this world a safer place, especially in one of the most innovative sectors of travel at this time.

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22 September 2023

3 minutes read

Crafting Your Aerospace Engineering Personal Statement

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  • Introduction

Are you aspiring to become an aerospace engineer and seeking admission to a prestigious engineering degree program? Crafting a compelling aerospace engineering personal statement is your ticket to the world of aircraft, spacecraft, propulsion, and innovation.

In this comprehensive guide, we will dive into the essentials of writing an outstanding aerospace engineering personal statement that showcases your passion, ambition, and problem-solving skills.

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  • What is an Aerospace Engineering Personal Statement?

Your aerospace engineering personal statement is more than just a document; it’s your opportunity to introduce yourself to the admissions committee. It’s a concise yet impactful essay that demonstrates your enthusiasm for aerospace engineering and explains why you’re the perfect fit for the program.

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  • How to Begin Your Aerospace Engineering Personal Statement

Start with a Captivating Introduction

Begin your statement with a compelling story or a statement that reflects your passion for aerospace engineering. For example, you could share an experience that sparked your interest in this field or discuss how your fascination with aircraft and spacecraft has remained strong throughout your education.

What to Include in Your Aerospace Engineering Personal Statement

1. personal background and ambition .

Share your personal background and academic journey. Mention how your interest in engineering, particularly aerospace engineering, developed over the years. Highlight your ambition to contribute to the aerospace industry’s growth and evolution.

2. Academic Achievements and Interests 

Discuss your academic achievements, especially in subjects like physics and mathematics, which are crucial for aerospace engineering. Explain how your studies have prepared you for the challenges of this field.

3. Extracurricular Activities 

If you’ve been involved in extracurricular activities related to engineering or aerospace, such as robotics competitions, aviation clubs, or volunteer work, mention them. These experiences show your commitment to the field.

4. Problem-Solving Skills 

Emphasize your problem-solving abilities. Share examples of how you’ve tackled challenging problems or projects and how this skill will benefit you in aerospace engineering.

5. Enthusiasm for Innovation 

Highlight your enthusiasm for innovation in the aerospace industry. Discuss how you aspire to be at the forefront of technological advancements and contribute to groundbreaking projects.

6. University of Southampton and Your Choice

If you’re applying to the University of Southampton or a specific university, explain why you’ve chosen that institution for your engineering degree. Mention any unique programs, facilities, or faculty members that align with your goals.

7. Career Aspirations

Share your long-term career goals in aerospace engineering. Whether it’s working on spacecraft, aircraft, propulsion systems, or cutting-edge research, make it clear how this program will help you achieve those aspirations.

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  • Aerospace Engineering Personal Statement Example 

Since childhood, I’ve been captivated by the skies and the incredible machines that navigate them. This fascination has driven me to pursue a degree in aerospace engineering.

My academic journey has been shaped by a strong affinity for mathematics and physics, the foundation of aerospace engineering. Consistently achieving top grades in these subjects, I’ve honed my analytical skills. Beyond the classroom, I’ve actively sought advanced studies in physics and engineering, deepening my knowledge.

Engaging in extracurricular activities like robotics competitions has taught me teamwork, innovation, and creative problem-solving. These experiences have strengthened my conviction that aerospace engineering is my true calling.

I’m enthusiastic about aerospace innovation, closely following developments in aircraft design, propulsion technologies, and space exploration. The commitment to pushing boundaries in this industry resonates with me.

My choice to apply to the University of Southampton is not arbitrary. It’s the result of careful research. The university’s reputation for excellence in aerospace engineering, state-of-the-art facilities, and distinguished faculty align with my aspirations. I’m eager to be part of this institution and contribute to aerospace engineering’s future.

In the long term, I aspire to work on projects that enhance aerospace sustainability and growth, whether it’s designing eco-friendly aircraft or pioneering space exploration.

In conclusion, my journey is marked by unwavering passion, academic excellence, and a commitment to aerospace innovation. The University of Southampton is my ideal launchpad into this thrilling field, and I eagerly anticipate contributing to the aerospace industry’s advancement.

Writing an aerospace engineering personal statement is a crucial step toward realizing your dream of becoming an aerospace engineer. Craft your statement with enthusiasm, attention to detail, and a focus on what makes you a unique and valuable addition to the aerospace industry. Remember, you’re not just an applicant; you’re a future innovator in the world of aerospace engineering. Good luck!

  • Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What should be the length of my aerospace engineering personal statement?

Most universities have specific word or character limits for personal statements. Make sure to check each institution’s requirements. Generally, a personal statement should be concise, around 500-800 words

Q2: Can I use the same personal statement for multiple universities?

While you can use a general template, it’s essential to tailor your personal statement to each university’s program and specific requirements. Admissions committees appreciate when applicants show genuine interest in their institution.

Q3: Should I include my hobbies and interests unrelated to aerospace engineering?

It’s okay to briefly mention hobbies and interests that demonstrate transferable skills or qualities like teamwork, leadership, or problem-solving. However, focus primarily on your aerospace-related experiences and passion.

Q4: What’s the key to a successful aerospace engineering personal statement?

The key is to convey your genuine passion for aerospace engineering, your suitability for the program, and your potential to contribute to the field. Provide specific examples and anecdotes to support your claims.

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Table of Contents

  • • Introduction
  • • What is an Aerospace Engineering Personal Statement?
  • • How to Begin Your Aerospace Engineering Personal Statement
  • • Aerospace Engineering Personal Statement Example 
  • • Conclusion
  • • Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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Aerospace engineering (MS, PhD)

A nationally ranked program with a focus on innovating how we study, develop and design the future of aircraft and spacecraft. ASU’s aerospace engineering graduate studies put an emphasis on preparing students for doctoral work or stepping into vital roles in the industry.

Whether pursuing master’s studies or doctoral research, all graduate programs are built on a foundation in technical fundamentals, communication and professionalism. Outfitted with the latest tools and resources to better research, test and innovate the future of aerospace, our programs offer broad-based curriculum and support timely research investigations.

Degrees offered

Aerospace engineering, ms.

Following undergraduate studies, students have the option to choose between two Masters of Science tracks: a thesis option and non-thesis option.

  • MS students are admitted by default in the non-thesis option
  • MS students can transfer to the thesis option once they are active in the program and have secured a MS thesis faculty advisor
  • The non-thesis option allows students two experiences including a portfolio and an applied project.

Aerospace engineering, PhD

The Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering take pride in innovation through research, discovery and design of new ideas. The Ph.D. program is directed toward just that with original research and creating and defending a dissertation that describes an original contribution within the chosen discipline.

Graduate resources

  • Course Descriptions
  • Accelerated Master’s programs
  • Class Search/Course Catalog
  • Graduate College FAQs
  • Online Advising Appointments
  • Graduate Forms
  • Fellowships and Funding
  • International Applicants
  • All Graduate Programs

Program information

  • Graduate Course Information
  • Graduate Faculty
  • Research Areas

Application and admission information

Application information.

The following application materials must be submitted directly to Graduate Admission Services:

If your institution sends electronic official transcripts, we accept the following electronic transcript services: E-Scrip, Parchment, Credentials Inc., and National Student Clearinghouse. All E-Scrip, Parchment, and National Student Clearinghouse transcripts must be sent directly to [email protected] from those transcript services or from the institutions that use those services. If you can and choose to use these services, you should apply online to the ASU Graduate Admission Services application prior to having your official e-transcripts sent.

If your institution does not use one of those transcript services, you will need to mail an official transcript. Your six digit application ID should be on the transcript envelope if possible.

Graduate Admission Services Tel: 480-965-6113 Web: students.asu.edu/graduate

Application for Admission

The application can only be accessed online. Click here to go to Application for Admission

Application Priority   Deadline

Fall Semester – December 31 Spring Semester – August 1

A priority deadline means that applications submitted and completed before the priority deadline will receive priority consideration. Applications submitted after the priority deadlines will be reviewed in the order in which they were completed. An application is complete after all materials are received by Graduate Admissions.

Application Fee

US citizens $70 Non-US citizens $115

This is a processing fee assessed by Graduate Admission Services and cannot be waived or deferred: graduate.asu.edu/admissions/how_to_apply

Transcripts and GRE scores

Transcripts.

Only official transcripts are accepted; no photocopies. These must be mailed to Graduate Admissions Services (see address above). For international students, transcripts must be in the original language, along with an official English translation. Also see:

Graduate Admissions Services: students.asu.edu/graduate/apply

Official score sent by ETS only. Guideline for the GRE: verbal 146+, quantitative 159+, analytical 3.5+. Institution code for ASU: 4007; there is no department code. 

GRE Waiver : GRE scores are useful, but not required for MS students.  GRE waivers do not apply to PhD applications. 

Resume, personal statement and letters of recommendation

A resume is useful but not required. Upload a resume in the online application process.

Personal statement

Essay describing your background, academic achievements, research interests, career goals, and why you wish to pursue graduate study in Aerospace Engineering at ASU. You will be asked to upload your personal statement in the online application process. .

Three (3) recommendation letters

The online application will ask you for three names and three email addresses for three recommenders; and the company/school for which they work. Your recommenders will receive an email and must submit their letter of recommendation electronically.

International applicants

Additional admission requirements for international applicants.

Admissions:  students.asu.edu/graduate/international

Visa/Immigration information 

students.asu.edu/international/immigration

English proficiency (for international graduate applicants)

A TOEFL, IELTS or PTE score is required by the graduate Aerospace Engineering program, in order to be considered for admission.

  • Official TOEFL sent by ETS only. Minimum scores: iBT 80; pBT 550. Institution code for ASU: 4007; for department code, applicant may enter 0000
  • Official IELTS sent by issuing institution only. Minimum score: 6.5. No institution code is needed
  • Official PTE sent by Pearson only. Minimum Score: 60

You could qualify for an exemption from this requirement by one of the following two options:

  • This requirement would be met if you successfully complete the highest level at the Global Launch Intensive English Program with grades of B or better; AND in addition, acquire a score of 50 or better on the Speak Test (must be taken at Arizona State University).
  • You successfully complete the highest level at the Global Launch Intensive English Program with grades of B or better  OR
  • Attended in person a regionally accredited college or university in the United States and earned a bachelor’s degree or higher in the U.S.,  OR
  • Attended in person a regionally accredited college or university in the United States and completed at least 12 credit hours of graduate course work with a cumulative GPA of 3.00 on a 4.00 scale or higher (all credits must be earned in the U.S.),  OR
  • Attended in person a regionally accredited college or university in the United States and completed at least 90 credit hours of undergraduate course work with a cumulative GPA of 3.00 on a 4.00 scale or higher (all 90 hours must be earned in the U.S.)

For  more information, visit the Graduate Admission Services English Proficiency Requirement and Exemption website .

Still have a question? Contact Advising

If you still have questions regarding admission requirements and procedures, please contact the SEMTE graduate advising office:

Phone: 480.965.2335 Email:  [email protected]

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How to write a personal statement as a Graduate

  • Early Careers
  • CV and Cover Letter Advice

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Your personal statement is there to give a brief summary about you. It helps grab the employer’s attention and is something we add to CV’s and job applications to stand out from the competition. It’s required for university and apprenticeship applications, so chances are you have written one before. However, when it’s for your first job, the process of writing one is slightly different and can feel very daunting on the first try. This article talks about what why a personal statement can be so important for an application and how to go about writing one for your CV.

Why do graduates struggle with a personal statement?

The idea behind a personal statement is to sell yourself to whoever is reading it. You want to persuade them to keep reading your CV in an easy-to-read paragraph. Overall, the point behind a personal statement is to provide the employer with a summary of your skills and why you are good for the role.

People fresh out of university or college can find it hard to get started on a personal statement. Usually, it’s the first thing you write for your CV, so the pressure from staring at a blank page for too long can get to you.

However, most of the time, graduate engineers struggle because they feel they don’t have enough experience to start telling employers why they should have the role. My main bit of advice is to forget the idea that you have no previous skills. You are qualified, you have experience and whether or not it is experience in a workplace, it’s still relevant and meaningful to employers. Start thinking about why you want the role and what does make you a good candidate.

There are a few questions you should ask yourself before writing a personal statement.

What should you be asking yourself?

Sometimes the hardest part of something is simply starting. Once you get going, the hardest part is over. So, write anything and everything down, you can edit and finesse it later.

Ask yourself

  • What do you want to tell the reader?
  • What skills do you have that set you apart from other candidates?
  • What are your career goals and how did your degree fit into this?
  • What do you know already?
  • What made you want to choose this field of work?
  • Why do you want this job in particular?

There are a lot of points here and it doesn’t have to be limited to this. Personal statements shouldn’t be too long but do need to pack in a lot of different bits of information. You can’t include everything, that’s why the rest of your CV is there. Only worry about adding in the best points and selling yourself.

The best way to get results is to personalise this for the different roles you apply for. You can keep a template and edit is as you apply for roles, but ensure you are taking parts from job specs and working them in. It can really help you stand out as a graduate job seeker.

How to write a personal statement

  • You want to start with a strong opening sentence that gets the readers attention. Introduce yourself and mention where it is you have recently graduated from and what you studied.
  • Next, add in some information about why you want this role. What skills can you bring and what makes your suitable for the job?
  • Highlight skills you have that they have also mentioned in the job description. This will show them that you have taken the time to read it properly and shows you are a possible candidate for the job.
  • Finish your statement with why you want the job. What are your career goals at this point in time and how does this role align with them?

It can feel hard to pack all of the information into one paragraph, but remember this is here to aid your CV. If you do feel like you have a lot more to share, then add this information into a cover letter.

As a graduate it can be nerve wracking to prepare your first CV and nothing is worse than staring at a blank page. Follow these tips and you’ll have a great personal statement ready to send in no time.

Related links

  • How to Write a Graduate Cover Letter
  • The Ultimate Guide to your CV
  • How to tailor your CV to each job application

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aerospace engineering graduate personal statement

Application Process

The application review process for the Department of Aerospace Engineering (AERO) Master’s of Science in Engineering (MSE) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) graduate programs is managed by  Rackham Graduate School  Admissions Office and the department’s graduate office. Applicants interact with both offices during their application process.

Find out more about our  admissions guidelines . The  online application  and  application materials  are submitted to Rackham.

Visit this page for specific information on the Global Aerospace Leadership MEng Program

Application Materials

Online application.

The name used on the application should be your full legal name as it appears on your passport or other legal documents. It is very important to note any other name that appears on prior academic records or test score reports.

UMID Number

An eight-digit UMID (University of Michigan identification) number will be emailed to you within five business days after completing page five of the online application. Please note your UMID number on all your application materials to ensure accurate and timely processing. If you need to submit your application before you receive your UMID number, please note your date of birth and the program’s name (e.g., AERO MSE) on your application materials.

Subplan Selection

Master’s applicants choose one of  five fundamental research areas  as your subplan. The master’s program is a multidisciplinary program with the opportunity to explore all areas. You are able to take courses regardless of your subplan; your choice will not limit your course selection. In addition, you may change your subplan while you’re working on your master’s degree if you choose to do so.

PhD applicants should explore the  research areas  and the  faculty working in each research areas . On page three of the PhD application, choose one of  twenty research areas as your primary subplan . On page nine, indicate your second and third subplan preferences, as well as up to five faculty members with research of interest.

The graduate admissions committee considers the abilities of our faculty to mentor additional PhD students in their research groups. A PhD applicant will only be admitted if there is a match of interest with faculty member(s). You are not required to find a faculty advisor before applying although we recommend that applicants to the PhD program contact faculty whose research is of interest to see if there is a good fit.

Transcripts

For detailed instructions see  Rackham Graduate School’s transcript information .

Official transcript upload

All applicants are required to upload a scanned copy of their official transcript, for each bachelor’s, master’s, professional, or doctoral degree earned or in progress, to the online application portal  by the application deadline .

  • Note: there is no need to mail official documents to Rackham during the application phase (please refer to  Rackham’s updated procedures  for more detail). Plan to submit scanned versions of transcripts to apply.

Additional procedures

Non-U.S. institution  transcripts:

  • For non-U.S. institutions, official transcripts bear the issuing institution’s seal and the official signature of the Registrar or Recorder of Records.
  • Academic credentials required to be submitted from a non-U.S. institution are specified for each country or region by Rackham. See  requirements by country or region  for what to submit.
  • Scan both transcripts and any applicable required academic credentials for the country where your institution is located. Upload documents to complete the application.

For all applicants :

  • Official transcripts are not required to be submitted until  after  a final of admission is made. (Wolverine Access will indicate the transcript as “not received” but this will not affect your application review.)
  • Students who are currently completing a degree at the time of their application to graduate school will receive a conditional admission, and must provide a final, official transcript to Rackham by the end of their first semester at the University of Michigan.

Application Statements and Resume

The academic statement of purpose, personal statement, and curriculum vitae (CV) or resume together give a fuller picture of your interests, motivations, and experiences to the graduate admissions committee.

Academic Statement of Purpose

The academic statement of purpose should be concise, typically no more than two pages. It is a well-written statement about your academic and research background, career goals, and how this graduate program will help you meet your career and educational objectives. You may include information about potential research groups and faculty advisors in this statement.

Personal Statement

The personal statement should answer to this question: how have your background and personal or life experiences, including any cultural, geographical, financial, educational or other opportunities or challenges, motivated your decision to pursue a graduate degree at the University of Michigan?

In this statement, you can note additional information or extenuating circumstances specific to your situation. The statement should be between 500-700 words long.

Resume/Curriculum Vitae

The resume or curriculum vitae is included in your application and should describe your education, work experience, research publications, teaching experience, honors and awards. We recognize that your resume represents a snapshot of your experiences when you submit your application. Although your experiences may change, the application is not updated after it has been submitted.

Letters of Recommendation

A letter of recommendation should be current and written for purpose of the applicant’s program. See Rackham’s  letter of recommendation information .

  • Three recommendations are required for the PhD and MSE applications. Two recommendations are required for the SUGS application.
  • At least two of the three recommendations should be from faculty who can speak to your academic and research experience. One recommendation may be from a non-academic reference, such as an employer, especially if you have been out of school for several years.
  • Register your recommenders on the online application, being careful to correctly spell the recommender’s name and email.

Letters of Recommendation FAQs

Answers to common questions regarding academic references Check out the information below to learn more about the process for submitting reference letters. If anything is unclear, or your questions has not been answered, feel free to contact our Student Services Manager, Ruthie Freeman, for more details.

What if my recommender has not submitted my recommendation yet?

  • Recommenders often need a polite reminder or two in order to submit letters on time.
  • Verify that the emailed invitation was not blocked or filtered into a junk or spam mail folder.
  • Resend the notification email to your recommender using the  ApplyWeb Activity Page if necessary.
  • Applicants may change a recommender if they have not started writing their recommendation.

Will you accept recommendations that arrive after the application deadline date?

Yes, we will accept recommendations that arrive after the deadline. However, a missing recommendation needs to be received to completely review the application. Applications missing a recommendation will be at a competitive disadvantage during the evaluation process.

Can my recommendation be emailed?

All recommendations are submitted electronically using the Rackham application portal. If extenuating circumstances require a letter of recommendation to be submitted by other means, please contact  Ruthie Freeman in the department’s graduate office. She will contact the recommender to request the letter and  recommendation for admission form .

Test Scores

The GRE and TOEFL tests’ reporting code is 1839 (a department code is not required).

GRE scores have been required for the PhD and MSE applications in the past. Those applying for the master’s degree program admission are still required to submit GRE scores, as they will be considered along with other application materials in the admission decision process.

Note that GRE scores up to five years old as of the application deadline may be used.

Applicants to our PhD degree are no longer required to submit GRE scores. PhD applicants are still welcome to do so if they so choose, this information will be considered along with the rest of the application materials. It is not a requirement for anyone applying to the PhD to submit GRE scores in order to be considered for admission.

See  academic background of applicants  for information about the typical test scores of admitted students.

English Proficiency Test Scores

English proficiency must be shown by applicants whose native language is not English. Proficiency is demonstrated by either an  English proficiency examination or qualifying for an exemption. See Rackham’s  English proficiency requirements and exemptions

Track Application Materials

Due to the high volume of applications, the Aerospace Graduate Office does not respond to application status inquiries. Applicants may check the status of their application materials.

  • After submitting both the application and materials, allow 7-10 business days for Rackham to process and log receipt of your application materials.
  • Check the status of your letters of recommendation on the  ApplyWeb Activity Page .
  • Check the status of your application, test score(s) and transcript(s) using your  U-M Friend Account . (Learn how to  Create a U-M Friend Account if you are new to the University ).

Application Tracking FAQs

Answers to common questions regarding application materials

What if my materials have not been received by Rackham? After allowing for processing time (see above), email Rackham [email protected] with the following details:

  • AERO graduate program (e.g., AERO PhD)
  • Information on your application material (a scanned copy of your ETS report for GRE or TOEFL scores, email receipt from Parchment electronic transcript service if applicable
  • Transcript information (names of school, spelling of your name by the school)

After Admission Decision

  • The AERO graduate admissions committee and Rackham Graduate School will notify the applicant of the admission decision via email. See the Aerospace Engineering  Graduate Admissions Decision Timeline .
  • Indicate your decision to accept or decline the offer of admission in  Wolverine Access .
  • Deferral of a master’s admission offer may be granted under  limited circumstances . If your circumstances meet these criteria, please send your deferral request and the reason for deferral to  Ruthie Freeman , Student Services Manager, after your admission has been finalized by Rackham Graduate School.

Apply subsequent term

If an applicant applies again, a new application must be submitted.

Our student services manager is here to help! Send any questions about PhD, SUGS or MSE admissions to Ruthie Freeman. Or reach out with any questions or suggestions related to current students. Ruthie is happy to get you more information, or connect you with your best resource on campus for any inquiry.

Ruthie Freeman

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aerospace engineering graduate personal statement

  • How to Apply
  • Academic Background
  • Application Requirements
  • What's Next After Acceptance?

Successful applicants typically have completed:

  • Undergraduate courses in calculus, linear algebra, and differential equations.
  • Two semesters of undergraduate calculus-based physics.
  • At least two semesters of upper-division undergraduate courses in engineering or physics.
  • An undergraduate degree from an accredited institution in any area of engineering, mathematics, physics, chemistry or other physical sciences.

The following steps apply both to on-campus and off-campus distance student applicants.

All applicants must submit

  • If you have questions or problems with the online application, email technical support at [email protected] . DO NOT contact the department as we are unable to assist you.
  • The GRE is optional for PhD applicants and not accepted for Master's and Professional Master's applicants. Not taking the GRE will not negatively impact your application consideration.
  • Failure to list and submit transcripts from all institutions previously attended is considered to be a violation of academic ethics and may result in the cancellation of your admission or dismissal from the university. Instructions for Uploading Unofficial Transcripts to Your Application
  • Official transcripts will be required upon admission to the program. Do not have official transcripts sent until requested. Note: If you are admitted and do not submit official transcripts, you will be unable to register for classes until official transcripts are received. Detailed instructions for submitting official transcripts are on the admissions website.
  • Secured links are sent directly to recommenders once you add their information and click the 'send to recommender' button in the application. For current students and recent graduates, recommendations from faculty members are particularly important.
  • Upload the Personal Statement. In addition to the question asked in the application, the admission committee finds it helpful to know how your graduate interests fit within our department.

International students must also submit

  • Official TOEFL or IELTS scores, if applicable.

Once You're Admitted

You’ve been accepted to the program and want to know what is next? First, congratulations on a job well done! Complete the steps below to start your master's or PhD at CU Boulder off on the right foot.

  • Follow the instructions on the Graduate School’s Admitted Students page (uploading official transcripts, activating your Identikey, etc.). Questions about these tasks can be directed to Graduate Student Services ( [email protected] ). 
  • Incoming PhD students should also reach out to their faculty advisor, and MS students should reach out to their Focus Area lead, to discuss course selection and registering for classes. Graduate courses fill up quickly, so do this early. 
  • The AES Graduate Student Handbook will be your reference for department guidelines and curricular requirements for your Focus Area. A new handbook is published each summer for the upcoming fall term. The academic year in which you join the department is the Handbook that will apply to you. 
  • You should also begin checking your CU Boulder email as that is the primary method of communication that will be used once you are admitted. 

Orientation

There are mandatory orientations for new students to attend, typically held one week before classes begin in the fall term. More information on each will be provided to you closer to the start of your first semester.

  • This is for any PhD, MS, and ProMS students joining CU Boulder’s Graduate Program.
  • The College of Engineering and Applied Science (CEAS) TA/RA Orientation.
  • PhD students on an RA or TA.
  • PhD, MS, and ProMS students joining AES.
  • Required for all PhD students joining CEAS as an RA or TA.

International students can find additional information on the New Student & Family Programs page .

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  • Frequently Asked Questions
  • Funding Your Master's/PhD
  • Meet our Grad Students

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StandOut CV

Aerospace Engineering Graduate CV example

Andrew Fennell photo

Congratulations! You’ve graduated with a degree in aerospace engineering. Now you’re ready to get your career off the ground.

To do this, you need to carefully craft your CV to showcase your impressive new qualification and skill set.

But if you’re not sure where to start, let us help. Below, we’ll share all our top tips, along with an aerospace engineering graduate CV example to guide you.

CV templates 

Aerospace Engineering Graduate CV example

Aerospace Engineering Graduate CV 1

This CV example showcases the optimal structure and format for your Aerospace Engineering Graduate CV, providing a pleasant reading experience for busy recruiters.

It also demonstrates the skills, experience and qualifications you should emphasize in your own CV to increase your chances of landing job interviews.

CV builder

Aerospace Engineering Graduate CV format and structure

Recruiters and employers are busy, and if they can’t find the information they’re looking for in a few seconds, it could be game over for your application.

You need to format and structure your CV in a way which allows the reader to pick out your key information with ease, even if they’re strapped for time.

It should be clear, easily legible, well-organised and scannable – check out some simple tips and tricks below:

How to write a CV

Tips for formatting your Aerospace Engineering Graduate CV

  • Length: If you want to hold the reader’s attention and ensure your CV isn’t yawn-worthy, it’s best to stick to two sides of A4 or less. This is more than enough room to highlight why you’re a good match for the role – anything more can quickly become tedious!
  • Readability : By formatting your section headings with bold or a different colour font and using bullet points to break up large blocks of text, you can help busy recruiters quickly scan through your CV. This makes it easier for them to find important details without wasting time.
  • Design & format: While it’s okay to add your own spin to your CV, avoid overdoing the design. If you go for something elaborate, you might end up frustrating recruiters who, above anything, value simplicity and clarity.
  • Photos: Recruiters can’t factor in appearance, gender or race into the recruitment process, so a profile photo is not usually needed. However, creative employers do like to see them, so you can choose to include one if you think it will add value to your CV .

Quick tip: Creating a professional CV style can be difficult and time-consuming when using Microsoft Word or Google Docs. To create a winning CV quickly, try our quick-and-easy CV Builder and use one of their eye-catching professional CV templates.

CV formatting tips

CV structure

When writing your CV , it’s important to structure the content into the following key sections to ensure easy digestion by busy recruiters and hiring managers:

  • Contact details: List your contact details at the top of your CV to prevent them from being overlooked.
  • Profile: Begin with an introductory paragraph that captures recruiters’ attention and summarises what you have to offer employers.
  • Work experience/career history: List your relevant work experience in reverse chronological order, starting with your current position.
  • Education: Provide a brief summary of your education and qualifications.
  • Interests and hobbies: An optional section to showcase any hobbies that highlight transferable skills relevant to your target jobs.

Now you understand the basic layout of a CV, here’s what you should include in each section of yours.

Contact Details

Contact details

Tuck your contact details into the corner of your CV, so that they don’t take up too much space. Stick to the basic details, such as:

  • Mobile number
  • Email address – It should sound professional, such as your full name.
  • Location -Just write your rough location, rather than your full address.
  • LinkedIn profile or portfolio URL – If you include these, ensure they’re sleek, professional and up-to-date.

Aerospace Engineering Graduate CV Profile

Grab the reader’s attention by kick-starting your CV with a powerful profile (or personal statement , if you’re a junior applicant).

This is a short introduction paragraph which summarises your skills, knowledge and experience.

It should paint you as the perfect match for the job description and entice recruiters to read through the rest of your CV.

CV profile

How to write a good CV profile:

  • Make it short and sharp: Aim for a short, snappy paragraph of 3-5 lines. This is just enough room to showcase why you’d make the perfect hire, without going into excessive detail and overwhelming busy recruiters.
  • Tailor it: The biggest CV mistake? A generic, mass-produced document which is sent out to tens of employers. If you want to land an interview, you need to tailor your CV profile (and your application as a whole) to the specific roles you’re applying for. So, before you start writing, remember to read over those job descriptions and make a list of the skills, knowledge and experience the employers are looking for.
  • Don’t add an objective: Want to talk about your career goals and objectives? While the profile may seem like a good space to do so, they’re actually much better suited to your cover letter .
  • Avoid generic phrases: If your CV is riddled with clichès like “Dynamic thought-leader”, hit that delete button. Phrases like these are like a broken record to recruiters, who read them countless times per day. Hard facts, skills, knowledge and results are sure to yield far better results.

Example CV profile for Aerospace Engineering Graduate

What to include in your aerospace engineering graduate cv profile.

  • Experience overview: Recruiters will want to know what type of companies you’ve worked for, industries you have knowledge of, and the type of work you’ve carried out in the past, so give them a summary of this in your profile.
  • Targeted skills: Ensure that your profile highlights your key skills that are most relevant to your Aerospace Engineering Graduate, and tailor them to match the specific job you are applying for. To do this, refer to the job description to closely align your skills with their requirements.
  • Important qualifications: Be sure to outline your relevant Aerospace Engineering Graduate qualifications, so that anyone reading the CV can instantly see you are qualified for the jobs you are applying to.

Quick tip: If you are finding it difficult to write an attention-grabbing CV profile, choose from hundreds of pre-written profiles across all industries, and add one to your CV with one click in our quick-and-easy CV Builder . All profiles are written by recruitment experts and easily tailored to suit your unique skillset.

Core skills section

Underneath your profile, write a core skills section to make your most relevant skills jump off the page at readers.

It should be made up of 2-3 columns of bullet points of your relevant skills.

Before you do this, look over the job description and make a list of any specific skills, specialisms or knowledge required.

Then, make sure to use your findings in your list. This will paint you as the perfect match for the role.

Core skills section CV

Important skills for your Aerospace Engineering Graduate CV

Aircraft design and analysis – Designing and analysing aircraft structures, systems, and components using engineering principles and software tools.

Aerodynamics and fluid mechanics – Utilising in-depth knowledge of aerodynamic principles and fluid mechanics to optimise aircraft performance, stability, and efficiency.

Aerospace materials and manufacturing – Utilising knowledge of materials used in aerospace engineering and manufacturing processes to ensure structural integrity and performance.

Aircraft propulsion systems – Utilising expertise in aircraft propulsion systems, including gas turbine engines and alternative propulsion technologies, to ensure efficient and reliable aircraft propulsion.

Avionics and control systems – Utilising knowledge of avionics systems, including navigation, communication, and flight control systems, and their integration with aircraft systems.

Structural analysis and dynamics – Analysing aircraft structures and conducting structural dynamics analysis to ensure structural integrity and safety.

Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) – Utilising CFD software to simulate and analyse fluid flow around aircraft components and optimise aerodynamic performance.

Systems engineering – Utilising knowledge of systems engineering principles to integrate and coordinate various aircraft systems and subsystems for optimal performance.

Aircraft testing and validation – Conducting aircraft testing, data analysis, and validation to ensure compliance with safety regulations and performance requirements.

Project management – Planning, coordinating, and executing aerospace engineering projects, ensuring adherence to timelines, budgets, and quality standards.

Quick tip: Our quick-and-easy CV Builder has thousands of in-demand skills for all industries and professions, that can be added to your CV in seconds – This will save you time and ensure you get noticed by recruiters.

Work experience

Next up is your work experience section, which is normally the longest part of your CV.

Start with your current (or most recent) job and work your way backwards through your experience.

Can’t fit all your roles? Allow more space for your recent career history and shorten down descriptions for your older roles.

Work experience

Structuring each job

Lengthy, unbroken chunks of text is a recruiters worst nightmare, but your work experience section can easily end up looking like that if you are not careful.

To avoid this, use my tried-and-tested 3-step structure, as illustrated below:

Role descriptions

Start with a 1-2 sentence summary of your role as a whole, detailing what the goal of your position was, who you reported to or managed, and the type of organisation you worked for.

Key responsibilities

Next up, you should write a short list of your day-to-day duties within the job.

Recruiters are most interested in your sector-specific skills and knowledge, so highlight these wherever possible.

Key achievements

Finish off by showcasing 1-3 key achievements made within the role.

This could be anything that had a positive effect on your company, clients or customers, such as saving time or money, receiving exemplary feedback or receiving an award.

Sample job description for Aerospace Engineering Graduate CV

Completed my 12-month industry placement working in the systems design and engineering department of Airbus Defence and Space, a global aerospace and defence leader, on the development of satellite systems.

Key Responsibilities

  • Conducted simulations and analyses on satellite subsystems using MATLAB
  • Performed analysis of aerospace structures and machinery for given load scenarios
  • Completed complex calculations and Finite Element Analysis (FEA) for projects
  • Reviewed and applied regulatory standards for aerospace structures, such as FAA

Quick tip: Create impressive job descriptions easily in our quick-and-easy CV Builder by adding pre-written job phrases for every industry and career stage.

Education section

At the bottom of your CV is your full education section. You can list your formal academic qualifications, such as:

  • GCSE’s

As well as any specific Aerospace Engineering Graduate qualifications that are essential to the jobs you are applying for. Note down the name of the qualification, the organisation at which you studied, and the date of completion.

Hobbies and interests

This section is entirely optional, so you’ll have to use your own judgement to figure out if it’s worth including.

If your hobbies and interests could make you appear more suitable for your dream job, then they are definitely worth adding.

Interests which are related to the industry, or hobbies like sports teams or volunteering, which display valuable transferable skills might be worth including.

An interview-winning CV for a Aerospace Engineering Graduate role, needs to be both visually pleasing and packed with targeted content.

Whilst it needs to detail your experience, accomplishments and relevant skills, it also needs to be as clear and easy to read as possible.

Remember to research the role and review the job ad before applying, so you’re able to match yourself up to the requirements.

If you follow these guidelines and keep motivated in your job search, you should land an interview in no time.

Best of luck with your next application!

aerospace engineering graduate personal statement

Aerospace Engineering Personal Statement Examples

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Aerospace Engineering Personal Statement Example

I am fascinated by aircrafts, hence I am submitting this aerospace engineering personal statement to seek admission to your university.

My career in aerospace engineering began when I was a child. Seeing aircraft and machinery always left me puzzled, wondering whether it was a human being who just sat and came up with such an innovation, worked on it, and ensured the result came just as they expected.

I took my first flight when I was thirteen years old and was lucky enough since, at that age, one can tell what their interests are. I was fascinated by how the plane works. This gave me more interest as I started watching stations that aired air crash investigation programs and became a regular visitor of the airports to look at the planes landing and taking off.

Immediately after completing my fourth form, unlike other students, I had a choice of the course I wanted to pursue. I was lucky because I had passed. I had attained the aggregate points required to join an aerospace engineering class. I have been to several engineering conferences. In the most recent one, I represented my team and spoke live on the radio concerning my experiences. These things motivate me to keep pushing and working harder toward attaining my dreams.

Who knows, I might get a selection for an international project – I know it sounds too good to be accurate, but what is impossible under the skies? I have worked with a company where I was part of the team that had a project on analyzing and implementing a whole new system that would help distribute consumable materials to different departments in the company.

The existing system was malfunctioning, so we came up with the idea of coming up with a new system whereby after we presented it to the managers, they approved it and gave us the go-ahead. Implementing ideas is never a simple task. It was challenging but at the same time rewarding. It made a massive difference in my engineering field since I saw engineers at work, and I can now tell the challenges they face in their careers.

During my free time, when not in books and also not working, I have several hobbies. I enjoy taking good photos; most of the time, you’ll find me with my digital camera trying to capture moments. I also enjoy reading fictional books. All my life, inside and out of school, I have been active in club activities such as football tournaments and other volunteers. There is a lot to being an engineer. Apart from leadership skills and communication, teamwork is crucial.

I am hoping that by getting admission to study for my master’s in your institution, I will be in a position to thrive both academically and socially. It is my utmost desire that I will get the required skills. I believe with my experience along with my passion for engineering.

I will enjoy taking a master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, where I will be in a position to grasp critical aspects of the aerospace industry. My dream is to work with the department that deals with air accidents investigation so that I can make this world a safe place.

I look forward to studying at your university. Please, I hope you will accept my aerospace engineering personal statement for admission.

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aerospace engineering graduate personal statement

The Fall 2024 admissions cycle is currently closed. The application will reopen in September 2024 for Fall 2025. The graduate application completion deadline of December 1st at 11:59 PM (Eastern Time, US) for admission the following fall semester (we do not offer spring admission). We offer on line applications only , do not email the department with attachments for us to review. If you have questions regarding AeroAstro graduate admissions that are not answered below, or the Covid-19 and GRE statements below, please email  [email protected] .

As of June 1, 2020, AeroAstro no longer requires or accepts the GRE as part of the admissions process for our SM and PhD programs. If you are applying to the LGO Program , please refer to their application process.

Statement on Graduate Admissions with regard to Covid-19

Each year, we receive a large number of excellent applications from prospective students, and we strive to be as fair as possible when evaluating them for admission into our graduate program. We understand that the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic has caused many schools —including MIT — to implement some version of pass/no record or pass/fail academic grading at this time. Admission to our graduate program is done on a holistic basis, and in accordance with our values and mission. We want to assure you that we will take into account the circumstances surrounding the pandemic as we evaluate your candidacy in our graduate program — we will not hold this unprecedented situation against you when considering your application.

Graduate Program Information Sessions

During the open graduate application cycle, AeroAstro hosts graduate information sessions for prospective students to learn more about our faculty, research, program offerings, and our graduate school application process! The current 2024 cycle has closed. Information sessions will be next offered during the Fall 2024 term.

Admissions Criteria

All graduate applicants to MIT apply to their individual departments , rather than to the Institute as a whole. AeroAstro uses a department-specific online graduate application . For more information on graduate admissions in general, please visit the central MIT Graduate Admissions website . There’s no special formula or secret that guarantees an offer of admission from MIT AeroAstro. The selection process is competitive and follows a holistic approach. Below are some of the metrics used in evaluating graduate admission applications specifically within our department.

Prior Degrees

Students applying with a bachelor’s degree are eligible for admission to our Master’s program. Once accepted to our Master’s program, students can undergo in their second year the Field Evaluations. These evaluations serve as admission to our Ph.D. program. Having passed the Field Evaluations, the students can commence their doctoral studies once their Master’s is completed. Students who already hold a Master’s degree may apply for direct acceptance to our Ph.D. program but still must pass the Field Evaluation to become doctoral candidates. Your undergraduate and graduate degrees need not be in aeronautics or astronautics.

Preparation

Applicants are expected to have a strong background in mathematical and physical sciences and/or engineering. If you are changing fields, you should address your reasons and preparedness for doing so in your Statement of Objectives, a very important part of your graduate application. We ask that you upload your transcripts from each institution from which you have received or will receive a degree. We examine these documents for academic and research/project performance and general grade trends following a holistic approach.

LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION

You are required to submit three letters of recommendation as part of your application. We recommend that all or at least two of these come from faculty members with whom you’ve worked closely, especially in a research capacity. Your research and/or project experience plays an important role in the overall assessment. If you’ve recently completed an internship or have been out of school and working for over one year, you may wish to include an industry recommendation. You may not submit more than three letters, and these letters must be submitted using our online application system.

English as a Foreign Language Testing Requirements

Applicants whose native language is not English are required to submit official TOEFL, IELTS, or Cambridge English Qualification scores with their application. Please note that AeroAstro will accept the TOEFL “at-home” IBT. Unofficial or self-reported scores are required for submission of the application however official scores must be received by MIT for your application to be evaluated. It is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure official score reports are sent to MIT Graduate Admissions. On the TOEFL, you must score a minimum of 100 on the internet-based exam. On the IELTS you must score a minimum of 7.0 total. On the Cambridge English Qualification, you must score a minimum of 185. Applicants who do not meet or exceed these minimums are not eligible for admission. To be eligible for Fall admission, this exam must be taken on or by November 15, so that your score report will reach us by the application completion deadline of December 1 . You can request a waiver in the application if you meet one of the following criteria: 1) Applicant’s main language of instruction was English in their primary and secondary schools (i.e., from age 6 through age 18). 2) Applicant has been residing in the U.S. (or country where English is an official language) for a minimum of three years  and  has earned a degree from an accredited institution where English is the main language of instruction. For further details about  applying as an international student , please visit the Graduate Admissions website.  

Objective Statements

The objective statements are broken up into three main sections: Research & Technical, Professional Experience & Objectives, and Personal Background. Please give your reasons for wishing to do graduate work in the field you have chosen. Prepare your statements and goals in whatever form clearly presents your views. Include as far as you can, your particular interests, be they experimental, theoretical, or issue-oriented. We are interested in your vision of how you want to contribute to the future of aerospace engineering and how your background and MIT’s programs support your perspectives. The statements could be much like a proposal for graduate studies, in the more specific context of your professional objectives. You should set forth the issues and problems you wish to address. Explain your long-term professional goals. The Admissions Committee will welcome any factors you wish to bring to its attention concerning your academic and work experience to date.

ADVISOR AVAILABILITY

Even if you have an outstanding record, vitae, recommendations, and the potential to excel in AeroAstro, we may not be able to offer you admission. We will not admit more students than our faculty can effectively advise. This number varies term-to-term, and specialty-to-specialty, depending on the composition of our applicant pool and our current graduate student population. Learn more about our principal investigators and their research interests.

Admissions Checklist

To apply to the AeroAstro graduate program all of the following items must be received no later than December 1, our application completion deadline.

  • Online graduate application and admissions fee
  • Required Objective Statements addressing your past research and academic experience, your areas of interest in our department and how they can help you realize your goals
  • Transcripts for each school from which you received or will receive a degree, scanned and uploaded to our electronic application where asked – official transcripts preferred, but unofficial are acceptable. (Admitted students will be required to submit hard copies in the spring)
  • Three recommendation letters, submitted via the online application

Additional Item for International students:

  • TOEFL, IELTS, or Cambridge English Qualification official score report, sent directly from ETS or IELTS (unless all schooling since primary school has been completed in English – see Admissions Criteria policy above) *Please note that AeroAstro will accept the TOEFL “at-home” IBT and the IELTS Indicator Test.

Graduate Application Assistance Program (GAAP)

The AeroAstro Graduate Application Assistance Program (GAAP) aims to increase the representation of underrepresented students pursuing graduate study in engineering. Specifically, GAAP strives to increase the diversity of the applicant pool by providing support and mentorship to applicants from underrepresented backgrounds as they navigate the graduate school application process. GAAP mentors, who are current graduate students in AeroAstro, will work with assigned mentees to provide synchronous (e.g., going through an outline of the mentee’s Statement of Objectives) as well as asynchronous (e.g., reading mentee’s drafts off-line) feedback on their application materials. No matter what stage of the application process you’re in, if you think you could benefit from talking through your application with a current grad student at MIT, please submit an application! GAAP applications will be accepted on a rolling basis, and our aim is to accept as many eligible applicants as we have mentors for (we’ll assign mentors periodically throughout the fall term, so there’s still a chance of getting a match if you apply by the November deadline). Our application form is mainly to give us an idea of how we can best help your application, so don’t worry about polishing your responses. Please send any questions to the GAAP student executive team at [email protected] . The application form will open in September 2024.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. when is my application due may i submit it late where can i access the application what other materials are due.

A. The graduate application deadline for September admission is  December 1 a t 11:59 PM (Eastern Time, US). Late applications will not be accepted, nor will late application materials. You must complete your graduate admissions application online. Please note that once you create a login and password for your electronic application, it must be completed for  that  admissions cycle – it will not be accessible during subsequent cycles (e.g. If you start your application in September 2021, it would  only  be usable for the Fall 2022 application cycle, not the Fall 2023 cycle). All supplemental materials, such as transcripts, test scores, and recommendations must also be received by  December 1 at 11:59 PM (Eastern Time, US)  – application materials will not be accepted beyond that date, and our committee is not obligated to review incomplete or late applications. To find out exactly what is needed to apply, please review our Graduate Admissions Checklist above. Please be sure that your recommenders are aware of this hard deadline. If you cannot get your materials in by this date, you are not eligible for admission review. We do not make exceptions to this deadline.

Q. What advice would you give prospective applicants?

A. There are several pieces of advice that we give prospective applicants to our graduate program. 1. Be organized. The admissions cycle starts again fresh every year and things may have changed since you last looked into the application requirements and admission checklist. This also includes knowing when the deadline is and communicating that deadline to your recommenders as this is often the last thing to come in with your application. 2. Do not wait until the last minute to ask questions or start your application. Our application is open for three months. This gives you time to collect the information you need and get started on your application. It is best to make sure your application is where you want it well before the deadline so you do not run into any issues upon submission. 3. Read instructions carefully. There is no reason to rush through your application. We provide resources and clear instructions at every stage, is it important that you read these and follow them carefully to avoid irreversible mistakes in your application.

Q. The status of my English Language Exam says “waived” or “awaiting” but I sent my score report to MIT. Did you receive it?

A. The graduate programs at MIT receive tens of thousands of applications each cycle. In Aero Astro, if an English Language Proficiency exam is required of you in the application, please self-report your most up to date score. When you start your application, it is best to send the official score report as soon as you are able following the completion of your exam. Please follow the instructions laid out for you on the Office of Graduate Education’s website. If you already sent your score and it is still not marked as “verified” in your application, that means we have not yet processed it and matched the score to your application. Due to the high volume of applications MIT receives, this does take time and we implore patience in this process. We will move forward with your application review if it is otherwise complete but will not release a decision if this item remains outstanding.

Q. I made an error in my application, what do I do?

A. Mistakes happen. The best thing to do is not to panic. Most, if not everything, is editable in your application prior to submission. When in doubt, you can email [email protected] and we will help troubleshoot any issues you may have encountered with the application system. DO NOT start a brand new application within your existing account or a new account, this may cause you issues when it is time to submit that we want to avoid.

Q. May I apply using the paper application, and send paper materials?

 No. There is no paper version of our application available. Our system for reviewing applications is completely online, so we must receive all application materials electronically using our electronic application and recommendation service. Emailed materials will also not be accepted nor considered.

Q. May I apply for a fee waiver?

A. Yes. Please visit MIT’s  graduate fee waiver application  site for more information. They are granted on a case-by-case basis. Please submit this well in advance of the application deadline as it can take 5 days or more for Graduate Admissions to review and respond to your request for a fee waiver.

Q. How should I submit my transcripts?

A. Transcripts must be uploaded to your electronic application. You must include one for each college or university you have received or will receive a degree from. Official transcripts are preferred, but unofficial will be accepted as well. Upon admission to our graduate program, you are required to submit an official digital copy of your transcript directly to the AeroAstro Student Services Office at  [email protected] , using the digital delivery system your school provides. If your school does not provide this type of service, please contact us at the email above and we will work with you to get it submitted.

Q. May I apply when my current degree is in progress?

A. Most applicants are in this situation – still finishing up a degree when the December 1 deadline comes. You are still eligible to apply as long as you will be done with your current degree by the September that you are applying to enroll for. Regarding your transcript, you’ll simply upload the most complete version that is available on or by December 1.

Q. May I submit more than three letters of recommendation?

A. No. Please submit only three letters of recommendation using the electronic recommendation service that is part of our online application. Our online service will only allow for the submission of three letters, and our committee will not accept additional letters of recommendations.

Q. I can’t afford the tuition. Is it worth my time to fill out the application?

A. Applicants’ financial resources are not considered as part of admission decisions. Your financial situation will have no bearing on your application.

Q. Will documents that I have published improve my chances?

A. Faculty members do not have the time required to read applicants’ publications – please do not include them with your application. Your Statement of Objectives is much more critical to the review process. Be sure to be clear and concise about your research goals and how they relate to the MIT Aero Astro.

Q. What is the average GPA of accepted graduate students?

Because students from all over the world apply to our graduate program, we deal with many different GPA scales and systems. Because of this, we do not keep an official average GPA for accepted students on file. 

Q. Is the application process different for International Students?

The application process for international students is largely the same. The main difference is that some international students from non-English speaking countries must sit for the TOEFL or IELTS exam.   If required to take this exam, you must do so by November 15. You must at least score a 100 on the internet-based TOEFL in order to be eligible to apply to our program. If you choose to take the IELTS, you must score at least a 7 total to be eligible. Students who score below these minimum scores are not eligible to apply to our graduate program.  Please note that AeroAstro will accept the TOEFL “at-home” IBT. If an applicant has been residing in the U.S. (or country where English is an official language) for a minimum of three years  and  has earned a degree from an accredited institution where English is the main language of instruction, this requirement may be waived. Students where this applies must still must submit the waiver form in the application and obtain approval to waive this requirement from the application process. International students, once admitted, must complete the visa process in order to be eligible to study in the US, but this takes place after the admissions process has been completed and a decision has been received.

Q. Do you offer interviews as part of the admissions process?

No. We do not hold interviews as part of the admissions process.

Q. Do you require or consider the GRE exam?

No, we do not require or consider GRE scores are part of our graduate application.

Q. Are students able to participate and complete the graduate program remotely?

No. Students will need to be on campus for their entire graduate study.

Q. Can students complete the program part-time?

No. The graduate program is full-time.

Q. May I call or email the AeroAstro Department to check the status of my application materials?

A. If you wish to check your application material status, please use the online application portal to do so. However, if you have not submitted your application yet, we ask that instead of contacting us to see if we’ve received your supplemental materials, please go ahead and submit your application instead. Please note that you are free to submit your application before all of your recommendations have been received. If you have any questions regarding graduate admission to Aero Astro that aren’t addressed on our site, please email us at  [email protected] .

For Admitted Students

Once you’re admitted to the Aeronautics and Astronautics Graduate Program, there are some important things to think about to ensure a smooth transition into your studies and life at MIT. We recommend, in addition to reading the material on this page, that you visit the  MIT Incoming Student Resources  website.

Transcripts

Upon admission to our graduate program, you are required to submit an official digital copy of your transcript directly to the AeroAstro Student Services Office at  [email protected] , using the digital delivery system your school provides. If your school does not provide this type of service, please contact us at the email above and we will work with you to get it submitted.

Graduate Open House

Students admitted to our graduate program will receive an invitation to attend the Graduate Open House for AeroAstro, an annual event that takes place during the spring semester, typically in March. This event is invitation-only.

Faculty Profiles and Advising Statements

If you’re eager to learn more about your admitting advisor and other faculty members within AeroAstro, you can visit their faculty profiles to review their Advising Philosophy Statements, which will give you better insight into how it would be to work with them on research.

Many of our graduate students choose to live on campus. To procure on-campus housing, you must participate in the Graduate Housing Assignments Allocation Process. There are five graduate residences for single students and two that accommodate families. To begin the process of procuring housing, visit the MIT  Graduate Housing Web site . You may only begin this process after April 15. Should you choose to live off-campus, you’ll find the MIT  Off-Campus Housing Office  is a helpful resource.

International Students

All new MIT international students must work with the  International Students Office  in order to start the visa process. You’ll also have to schedule an appointment with the ISO for clearance once you arrive on campus, or you won’t be able to register.

English Evaluation Test

Entering graduate students whose native language is not English must take the  English Evaluation Exam , which is administered the in August prior to classes starting.

Medical Report

MIT requires all incoming students to submit a medical history, have a physical examination, and document immunity against certain infectious diseases. You must submit MIT Medical Report Forms to the MIT Medical Center before registering for classes. Visit  MIT Medical  to download these forms and learn more, including information on student health insurance requirements.

Computing at MIT

During the spring you’ll receive information that will help you set up a secure MIT Athena access (Athena is MIT’s computing environment), which includes creating your official MIT email address and password. You will also need to download  MIT Certificates  to your computer to access certain secure areas of the MIT Web site. For other general MIT computer information, visit  MIT IS&T . If you have questions specifically about AeroAstro Department computing, you can email  [email protected] .

Parking and Transportation

MIT campus parking is available for a fee. There are free MIT shuttle buses connecting most areas of the campus, and a fee-based shuttle to Logan Airport just before the Thanksgiving, Winter, and Spring breaks. There’s also an excellent  public transportation pass program , which MIT subsidizes. You can find information on all transportation options at the  MIT Parking and Transportation Web site .

Graduate Writing Exam

AeroAstro requires that all entering graduate students, including those who completed their bachelor’s degree at MIT, demonstrate satisfactory English writing ability by taking the  Graduate Writing Examination  administered by Comparative Media Studies & Writing. The exam is administered once each year electronically, usually in June or July. If you do not pass the exam, will be required to take a writing workshop for credit during your first January IAP period.

Registration

Registration takes place the day before classes begin. There’s no pre-registration for incoming master’s and doctoral students. Once you arrive on campus, you need to arrange a meeting with your academic advisor (who was assigned to you in your acceptance email) between the AeroAstro orientation and the following week. The process of contacting your advisor will be explained during orientation. You and your advisor will decide which subjects you should take, depending on your research and funding situation. Please note that while there are graduate program requirements, there is no specific set of classes graduate students must take.

Graduate Association of Aeronautics and Astronautics (GA^3)

The  Graduate Association of Aeronautics and Astronautics , or GA^3, as it is called, is the AeroAstro Department graduate student organization. It represents our grads within the department, as well as within the Institute. There are a number of other AeroAstro  student groups  that you are welcome to join. If you have questions regarding student life in AeroAstro at MIT, or even in Cambridge/Boston in general, our students are happy to answer your questions! You can contact them at  [email protected] .

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Graduating Engineer Took These Steps to a Career in Greener Energy

Like many students, University of Virginia civil and environmental engineering student Reese Hertel wasn’t sure when he arrived at the University of Virginia which path his career should take. 

He thought he might want to use his Spanish skills. He considered working close to the Earth somehow. But one thing he was sure about.

“One of my core beliefs is that it is my generation’s responsibility to fight climate change and to mitigate its impacts,” he said.

Here’s how Hertel, a fourth-year student, found his way to a job at Equinor, an international company focused on producing cleaner, greener energy.

An Influential Coffee Chat

During the spring of his first year, Hertel signed up for a coffee chat through the Center for Engineering Career Development . 

“Little did I know that this meeting at the Oakhurst Inn Cafe would end up being one of the most influential moments in my UVA career-development journey,” he said. 

Hertel met with Julia Lapan, director of the center. They discussed not just potential paths, “but more importantly, our lives and our values.” 

Since that initial conversation, he has met with Lapan numerous times to discuss career goals, review resumes, conduct mock interviews, and evaluate internships and job offers.

A volunteer with Wellkind Guatemala hands Hertel seedlings to plant.

International Opportunities

Hertel likes to travel and explore, so he spent two of his college summers abroad. 

He worked one summer for the environmental nonprofit Wellkind Guatemala doing reforestation work. The conservation internship allowed him to contribute to the 75,000 new trees the organization has planted since 2019.

Hertel also spent a semester in Valencia, Spain , where he completed his Spanish minor. 

“I knew that UVA had the potential to provide me with international opportunities, and I tried to take advantage of as many of these as possible,” he said. “These experiences were extremely rewarding and reaffirmed my desire to eventually work internationally.”

Hertel conducts point-of-use water treatment in Hammanskraal, South Africa, through professor James A. Smith’s water quality lab.

2 Internships, 2 Possible Paths

Last summer, Hertel split his time away from coursework between a pair of internships. 

The first was assisting professor James A. Smith ’s research in South Africa . Smith is the inventor of the MadiDrop+, a silver-embedded porous ceramic tablet for purification of household drinking water. About a fourth of the world does not have access to safe, clean water. 

The second internship was as a project engineer for renewable energy firm East Point Energy in Charlottesville.

“These experiences represented two directions,” Hertel said. “While I enjoyed some aspects of research, I preferred the work in clean energy and chose to continue on this career path.”

A Pivotal Course

In the fall, Hertel took professor Andrés Clarens ’ Introduction to Green Engineering course. It was good timing. The professor was named an assistant director of the White House’s Office of Science Technology Policy earlier this year.

The introductory course on renewable energy covered a variety of topics, which exposed him to diverse careers within the field, he said.

“We had opportunities to apply engineering knowledge and business principles to real-world situations,” Hertel added. “The course further increased my enthusiasm to work in renewable energy.”

His Capstone Decision

Part of the capstone process for completing the engineering program is refining one’s personal mission statement.

“I defined my philosophy as work that contributes to sustainable progress, improves the resilience of society and the environment, and leads to financial independence without sacrificing happiness or well-being,” the civil and environmental engineer said.

He’s now headed to work for Equinor, East Point’s parent company, which is based in Norway but has locations worldwide. The company prides itself on its low-carbon energy portfolio and its push for net zero carbon emissions by 2050.

Hertel will work in multiple departments, including internationally, as part of the company’s graduate rotational program. 

“The opportunities for continuous learning, contributing to fight climate change and working abroad attracted me to this position, and I could not be more excited,” he said. “One of the biggest lessons that I learned during my time at UVA is that you do not need to know exactly what job you want to do, but it is incredibly important to understand and apply your core values to decisions about your future.”

Julia Lapan

Center For Engineering Career Development

We prepare our students to make smart, strategic career decisions throughout their professional lives. Through professional advising and counseling, students can build their understanding of career self-management processes, identify their strengths and interests, and connect with prospective employers to gain confidence and competence as they plan for their future.

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aerospace engineering graduate personal statement

What is an engineering personal statement?

Your engineering personal statement should tell the university all about your strengths, skills, experience and ambitions.

It should also convey your enthusiasm for engineering (either in general, or for a specific branch such as civil, aeronautical, etc.), and what aspects of the subject you enjoy and why.  

Your engineering personal statement will be used by universities to decide whether you are a good candidate to study engineering, and whether they want to offer you a place on their course.

How do I write an engineering personal statement?

It’s a good idea to start your statement with why you want to study engineering at university. Try to pick one or two specific aspects that you like in particular and why they appeal to you.

Make sure you back up everything with examples (always show, don’t tell). You need to convince the admissions tutors that you they should offer you a place on their engineering course over anyone else.

A successful engineering personal statement should be written clearly and concisely, with a good introduction, middle, and conclusion.

For inspiration on how to write your own unique statement, take a look at some of our engineering personal statement examples above.

What should I include in my engineering personal statement?

It’s important to include skills and experience from all areas of your life and try to relate them to hobbies or extracurricular activities if they helped you to build on certain strengths.

Think about how any work experience has benefitted you, and how it might be useful in your degree. University admissions tutors want to know what you can bring to their department and what value you can add.

Engineering also required you to demonstrate experience in highly practical subjects.

For example, for an electrical engineering personal statement, you could talk about your hands-on skills and interests. Have you repaired a radio or television? How did you do it and what did you learn from it?

Make sure you explain with enthusiasm – tutors want passionate students on their course that are really going to make the most of their time at university.

For more help and advice on what to write in your engineering personal statement, please see:

  • Personal Statement Editing Services
  • Personal Statement Tips From A Teacher
  • Analysis Of A Personal Statement
  • The 15th January UCAS Deadline: 4 Ways To Avoid Missing It
  • Personal Statement FAQs
  • Personal Statement Timeline
  • 10 Top Personal Statement Writing Tips
  • What To Do If You Miss The 15th January UCAS Deadline.

What can I do with an engineering degree?

There are many career options available to those wishing to study engineering. These include:

  • Mechanical / electrical / chemical / aerospace / marine engineer
  • Operations manager
  • Building site inspector
  • Signalling technician
  • Metrologist
  • Technical brewer
  • Boat builder .

However, there are other areas or industries you can choose to work in where an engineering degree would be useful, such as teaching or research. For more information and advice, please see AllAboutCareers and the National Careers Service .

Which are the best UK universities for engineering?

Currently, the best universities in the UK for studying engineering at in 2023 are:

Other top universities for engineering include the University of Strathclyde , University of Manchester and the University of Edinburgh . For more information about UK university engineering rankings, please see The Complete University Guide .

What are the entry requirements for engineering?

If you want to take a degree in engineering you need an A level (or equivalent) in maths. In many cases you also need physics.

Some chemical engineering degrees ask for maths and chemistry instead; some ask for maths and physics; and some ask for all three.

Therefore, it's important to check the entry requirements carefully for any engineering course you are considering applying for.

A level entry requirements range from CCC to A*A*A*, with universities and colleges usually asking for ABB.

Find out more in our engineering subject application guide .

Which is the easiest engineering degree?

Most students would say that although still considered challenging, civil engineering is the easiest engineering degree to obtain.

However, it is still a rigorous course and you will need all the necessary entry requirements to secure a place (as well as a great personal statement !).

What engineering job has the highest salary?

According to the Engineer Salary Survey 2022 , engineers in the manufacturing sector are the highest paid in the UK, with an average salary of £65,340; followed by engineers in the energy, renewables and nuclear sector, who earn an average of £62,709.

The average salary for all engineers in 2022 was £58,108, which compares reasonably well with other professions in the UK, sitting below those in strategy and consultancy, qualified accountants, and those in banking, but above those working in financial services.

Is studying engineering hard?

Engineering ranks among one of the hardest degrees you can do.

The degree requires you to have everything from logic and common sense to a tremendous amount of patience when things don't go your way.

Engineering can be very difficult because you're essentially becoming a “professional problem solver”.

Remember that all engineering fields require a sting grasp of mathematics but some require more than others.

Engineering disciplines like electrical , mechanical , chemical , biomedical , software , aerospace and civil engineering all require very good math skills. However, some disciplines, like industrial engineering require slightly less.

Further resources

For more information on engineering degrees and careers, please see the following:

  • What type of engineering should you study?
  • Engineering and technology subject guide
  • Engineering degrees in the UK
  • Engineering and maintenance careers
  • What are all the different types of engineering jobs?
  • 5 exciting careers in engineering
  • Engineering careers advice for school leavers .

Related resources

Engineering vs medicine.

aerospace engineering graduate personal statement

Find out more

Engineering Personal Statement Guide

aerospace engineering graduate personal statement

Applying For An Engineering Degree

aerospace engineering graduate personal statement

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aerospace engineering graduate personal statement

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COMMENTS

  1. Aerospace Engineering Personal Statement Example 18

    This personal statement was written by Matt0809 for application in 2012. Statement rating: The aerospace industry is at the forefront of innovation, pushing the boundaries of technological advancement at an exponential rate. The design and manufacture of craft that can defy the limits of our world, or go beyond the decree of nature, is arguably ...

  2. Aerospace Engineering Personal Statement Examples

    Dedication can be shown through DofE; organisation can be proved with part-time jobs; passion can be demonstrated through hobby engineering projects. All of this also applies for a personal statement for masters in aerospace engineering, and also try to include what you've learned on your BSc, and what your future goals are. Recommended Course.

  3. Aerospace Engineering Personal Statement Examples

    Aerospace Engineering Personal Statement Example. My aspiration to pursue a degree in Aircraft Engineering and to build a career in the aviation industry is driven by my long-standing passion for flight and my deep interest in the laws of physics that make these complex machines function efficiently. During my Physics Higher course, I conducted a case study comparing the efficiency and ...

  4. Detailed Guide: Aerospace Engineer Personal Statement

    An aerospace engineer personal statement is easy to format and assemble if you follow the guidelines above. All you need to do is narrow down your interests and skills and stick to them. Make the statement personal and intuitive. Remember to grab the board's attention in the first 30 seconds and show your motivation, skills, and experience.

  5. Aerospace Engineering Personal Statement

    Find out everything University of Winchester has to offer at their undergraduate open evening! Join them on the 24th of April 2024 to learn more. Book Event. 1 / 18. Inspire your Aerospace Engineering (with Foundation Year) personal statement with our UCAS examples and learn from previous students who have already applied to university.

  6. Aerospace Engineering Personal Statement Examples

    According to the UK government's National Careers Service, the median annual salary for aerospace engineers in the UK is £44,719. However, experienced aerospace engineers can earn up to £80,000 per year. The job market for aerospace engineers in the UK is expected to remain strong in the coming years.

  7. Aerospace Engineering Personal Statement Example 22

    Aerospace Engineering Personal Statement Example 22. With recent advancements in current projects including SpaceX and Virgin Galactic, the aerospace industry is still very much at the height of technology. With ever more tremendous progress being made every day, this is an industry which I hope to be part of.

  8. Aerospace Engineering Personal Statement Example 6

    Aerospace Engineering Personal Statement Example 6. The rapid developments and achievements in aircraft and aerospace technologies have interested me and motivated me to pursue a career in the field of Aeronautical Engineering. I am passionate about this field as I read literature on a variety of aircraft, their design and roles.

  9. Aerospace Engineering Personal Statement

    Aerospace Engineering Personal Statement Example Sample Statement. My fascination with space and space travel began as a small child when I saw TV programmes showing the exploration of Mars using the remote Rovers. Ever since I can remember, I have wanted to be on the team that is behind the first people-to-Mars expedition.

  10. Aerospace Engineering Personal Statement 2

    Aerospace Engineering Personal Statement. Submitted by Anna. Last summer I gained work experience at Rolls Royce in Bristol. The meticulous accuracy and aspects of creativity that we were exposed to during that week confirmed that aerospace engineering is categorically my preferred career. From when I took my first flight at six years old, I ...

  11. How To Write an Engineering Personal Statement (With Example)

    Related: 6 Tips for Writing a Great Graduate School Personal Statement (With Examples) Example engineering personal statement This is an example engineering personal statement that you can use to inspire your own: As a kid, I decided I would be the person to create the first flying machine. I drew schematics and diagrams reminiscent of da Vinci ...

  12. Crafting Your Aerospace Engineering Personal Statement

    Writing an aerospace engineering personal statement is a crucial step toward realizing your dream of becoming an aerospace engineer. Craft your statement with enthusiasm, attention to detail, and a focus on what makes you a unique and valuable addition to the aerospace industry. Remember, you're not just an applicant; you're a future ...

  13. Aerospace engineering (MS, PhD)

    Personal statement. Essay describing your background, academic achievements, research interests, career goals, and why you wish to pursue graduate study in Aerospace Engineering at ASU. You will be asked to upload your personal statement in the online application process. . Three (3) recommendation letters

  14. How to write a personal statement as a Graduate

    It can really help you stand out as a graduate job seeker. How to write a personal statement. You want to start with a strong opening sentence that gets the readers attention. Introduce yourself and mention where it is you have recently graduated from and what you studied. Next, add in some information about why you want this role.

  15. Aerospace Engineering Personal Statement Example 8

    Aerospace Engineering Personal Statement Example 8. Engineers through time have consistently triumphed over near-impossible odds to achieve some of the most incredible structural and mechanical feats; their pioneering ingenuity has played a central role in the ever-changing face of technological advancement.

  16. Application Process

    The personal statement should answer to this question: how have your background and personal or life experiences, including any cultural, geographical, financial, educational or other opportunities or challenges, ... See the Aerospace Engineering Graduate Admissions Decision Timeline.

  17. How to Apply

    The Graduate School's New Student Orientation: information can be found on the New Student & Family Programs page when it's available for the upcoming term. This is for any PhD, MS, and ProMS students joining CU Boulder's Graduate Program. The College of Engineering and Applied Science (CEAS) TA/RA Orientation. PhD students on an RA or TA.

  18. Aerospace Engineering Graduate CV example & guide [Win jobs]

    Aerospace Engineering Graduate CV Profile. Grab the reader's attention by kick-starting your CV with a powerful profile (or personal statement, if you're a junior applicant). This is a short introduction paragraph which summarises your skills, knowledge and experience.

  19. Aerospace Engineering Personal Statement Examples (2024)

    Aerospace Engineering Personal Statement Example. I am fascinated by aircrafts, hence I am submitting this aerospace engineering personal statement to seek admission to your university. My career in aerospace engineering began when I was a child. Seeing aircraft and machinery always left me puzzled, wondering whether it was a human being who ...

  20. Aerospace Engineering Personal Statement Example 1

    Aerospace Engineering Personal Statement Example 1. Fire, the wheel, boats, book printing, electricity, engines, automobiles, planes, spaceships, wireless information transfer: engineering is determining this progress. Leading engineers are the creators of our future. I find it a challenging aim to become one of them and to design a world for ...

  21. For Prospective Students

    Statement on Graduate Admissions with regard to Covid-19. ... We are interested in your vision of how you want to contribute to the future of aerospace engineering and how your background and MIT's programs support your perspectives. The statements could be much like a proposal for graduate studies, in the more specific context of your ...

  22. Aerospace Engineering Personal Statement Example 21

    Aerospace Engineering Personal Statement Example 21. From the very first fire to planning the colonisation of Mars, the evolution of engineering has shaped the development of humanity; and so too has the development of humanity shaped the evolution of engineering. It is this evolution, wherein humanity sought to reach into and beyond the Earth ...

  23. Graduating Engineer Took These Steps to a Career in Greener Energy

    "We had opportunities to apply engineering knowledge and business principles to real-world situations," Hertel added. "The course further increased my enthusiasm to work in renewable energy." His Capstone Decision. Part of the capstone process for completing the engineering program is refining one's personal mission statement.

  24. Engineering Personal Statement Examples

    Mechanical Engineering Personal Statement Example 3. It is my ambition to work in the engineering industry and gain 'Chartered Engineer' status. Mechanical Engineering Personal Statement Example 4. I am passionate about Engineering and will embrace any opportunity to develop my skills and flourish in my chosen career.