Common English Mistakes in Personal Statements by Arabic Speakers

This page focuses on errors typically made by native Arabic speakers from Saudi Arabia when writing a Personal Statement in English.

Mistake Example #1

Misuse of verb tense (e.g., 'He go to school' instead of 'He goes to school')

I am very excited to apply ftor the Mmaster's program in Ccomputer Sscience at your esteemed university. Since I wams a child, I havehad a passion for technology and innovation. I believe that studying in your program will help me achieve my dreams and contribute to the field of technology in Saudi Arabia.

Text corrected by:
Vince, United States

"Just a few small changes were needed. Great work! "

I am very excited to apply to the master's program in computer science at your esteemed university. Since I was a child, I have had a passion for technology and innovation. I believe that studying in your program will help me achieve my dreams and contribute to the field of technology in Saudi Arabia.

I am very excited to apply for the Master's program in Computer Science at your esteemed university. Since I am a child, I have a passion for technology and innovation. I believe that studying in your program will help me achieve my dreams and contribute to the field of technology in Saudi Arabia.

Mistake Example #2

Confusion between masculine and feminine pronouns

I am excited to apply for the Mmaster's program in Ccomputer Sscience at your esteemed university. My brother is a software engineer, and she has inspired me greatly with his achievements. I believe that with heris guidance and the education I will receive, I can contribute significantly to the field.

Text corrected by:
Miss E., Cyprus, Europe

"Please be mindful of your use of pronouns in this instance (i.e., your brother). "she has inspired me" should be "he has inspired me" and "her guidance" should be "his guidance"."

I am excited to apply for the master's program in computer science at your esteemed university. My brother is a software engineer, and he has inspired me greatly with his achievements. I believe that with his guidance and the education I will receive, I can contribute significantly to the field.

I am excited to apply for the Master's program in Computer Science at your esteemed university. My brother is a software engineer, and she has inspired me greatly with his achievements. I believe that with her guidance and the education I will receive, I can contribute significantly to the field.

Mistake Example #3

Overuse of formal expressions ('I am honored to inform you...')

I am howritinoredg to inform you that I am applying for the Master's program in Computer Science at your esteemed university. It is withgreat privilege that I express my deep admiration for the academic excellence and distinguished faculty that your institution is renowned for. I am sincerelygrateful for the opportunity to present my application and I am hopeful to contribute positively to your prestigiousacademic community.

Text corrected by:
Jennifer, Detroit, Michigan USA

"Nice work! I took out some overly formal expressions that were weighing down your statement, but I retained a professional tone."

I am writing to inform you that I am applying for the Master's program in Computer Science at your esteemed university. I have a deep admiration for the academic excellence and distinguished faculty that your institution is renowned for. I am grateful for the opportunity to present my application and I am hopeful to contribute positively to your academic community.

I am honored to inform you that I am applying for the Master's program in Computer Science at your esteemed university. It is with great privilege that I express my deep admiration for the academic excellence and distinguished faculty that your institution is renowned for. I am sincerely grateful for the opportunity to present my application and I am hopeful to contribute positively to your prestigious academic community.