The motivation letter refers to the document that describes your professional ability and personal inspiration to opt for a specific field in a university abroad. In other words, a motivation letter is a statement of purpose.
A motivation letter holds significance in the overall application process. It may play a decisive role in getting your admission at a particular university, especially when the chances of your application’s disapproval are higher.
How to Draft a Motivation Letter?
You can include interesting and relevant information about your background in a way that it creates a strong impression on the admission officers. In the letter, you have to prove that you are a suitable candidate for the educational institute.
A well-written letter may encourage admission officers to accept you even if you are not an extraordinary student or your grades are not outstanding.
On the contrary, if you are a brilliant student, and have achieved high grades in your academics, but your motivational letter is not up to the mark, you may face rejection.
Your motivation letter reflects your characteristics. It conveys the intellectual aspect of your personality. Make sure you focus on your strengths and abilities that why you are the right candidate for the institute.
Suggestions for Writing a Motivation Letter
Plan carefully before writing your motivation letter. The first step is to plan a concept, then comes the layout followed by structure and the tone.
- The concept refers to your overall approach of why you want to build a career in this particular discipline. The qualities that you can employ in this degree program. Why you consider this specific educational institute as the best option for you.
- The layout means the way you format your document. Also, the layout of your letter indicates your professionalism. If the university does not specify any requirements, it is better that you keep the length up to two pages.
- Does structure mean what the construction of your letter is? It should contain a proper introductory part, followed by the description in the body paragraphs and finally the recap of the main points.
- Tone– You should avoid using complex words or long sentences in your letter as the admission officers may lose interest while reading it. A good letter is the one that keeps the attention of the reader throughout its text. Therefore, include persuasive, smooth and fluent language. Your letter must be free of grammar and spelling errors. To bring perfection, proofread your letter multiple times.
Important Aspects to Consider While Writing the Motivation Letter
Avoid Repetition
Do not state the things again that you have already mentioned in the application form or CV. Admissions officers deal with plenty of notes, and if you become repetitive, they may not like it. Focus on being creative.
Write in Accordance with the University Requirements
When you construct your motivation letter, make sure to prioritize your interests. Relate your letter with the program that the university provided. Consider how you would take advantage of the program you are pursuing.
What motivates you to attend these courses. Generally, the universities display clear and informative specifications on their website. They also mention the characteristics they are looking for in the candidate.
Give a Solid Introduction
Remember, your introductory section is the first thing that admission officers will read. If your introductory part is interesting, the readers will maintain their interest throughout the letter. You need to sound intelligent right from the beginning.
Avoid Making too Many Points
You may want to mention several points about your interests. However, reading too many points may be monotonous for the readers. They want to read concise letters as they have to go through many documents.
Express Yourself in the Letter
Share how you feel when you participate in the activities that are in relation to the program you have applied for. Share an interesting story or the occasion when you have realized the significance of the subject or the program.
Do Not Attempt to Include Unnecessary Humour
You must sound positive throughout your letter. If you try to be humorous in your letter, you may end up making a negative impression on the admission officers. If a particular thing sounds funny or exciting to you, it may not necessarily be catchy for the reader. Keep humour aside, and try to articulate your points effectively.
Be Yourself
Always present yourself in the letter. Be honest to yourself, and state your positive characteristics in the letter. When you adopt an honest approach, your expression will be clear, and it will hold a substance. In this way, you will be in a position to inspire the admission officers.
Do Not Write the Motivational Letter at the Nick of the Time
You must have ample time while writing the letter. If you rush at the last minute, you won’t be able to write effectively. Ideally, you need to start your motivational letter at least a month before.
What Is the Difference Between a Motivation Letter and a Cover Letter?
A cover letter and motivation letter are quite similar in structure, but they serve different purposes. Your write motivation letter to pursue your degree. On the other hand, you use cover letters with CV for your job application.
To a more significant extent, the motivation letter is the third most important aspect in your application after your degree and scores that you have already obtained in your last education.
Universities want to select candidates who possess literary skills. The motivation letter is a great way to demonstrate your literary abilities. Do not consider motivation letter as less important.
Motivation Letter Has No Standardized Format
Do not think to find the format of the motivation letter. A motivation letter does not have any standard or universal format.
Final Word
A motivation letter may serve as a final document in your application for university admission. It is a reflection of your interests and main strengths. Try to write an admission letter at least a month before the submission of the application. Keep in view the main concept, layout, structure and tone.
