In a nutshell, a motivational letter is the academic version of the cover letter you’d submit with a job application. There are letters of motivation for both Master’s and PhD programs, in which you’re expected to discuss why you want to pursue that degree at that particular institution (i e your motive), and why you are an ideal candidate.
- Write down some of the main ideas you want to include, important points you would like to cover in your motivation letter and later build around them, then enrich their content.
- Make your goal clear: provide a short preview of the rest of the letter.
Why is a motivation letter important?
When applying for a masters, motivation letters are crucial because they can inform admissions counselors about your candidacy and any unique qualifications you may have. They offer a special chance to speak directly to the program, unlike transcripts or portfolios, providing important insights into your personality and goals. Your letter can help you stand out from the competition and improve your chances of being accepted into a demanding program.
What is a motivation letter?
A motivation letter describes your qualifications, accomplishments, and desire to pursue a particular field of study. Motivation letters are similar to cover letters, with the exception that they support your application for a scholarship or academic program rather than promoting your candidacy for a paid position.
Normally, applicants submit their motivation letter with other application-related materials like transcripts or a resume. They give you the chance to tell admissions officers more about yourself, your interests, and your enthusiasm for being accepted into their program. They are also referred to as statements of purpose or motivational letters.
Motivation letter for master’s admission template
You can use the following sample to help you structure your letter:
[Your name]
[Your physical address]
[Your phone number]
[Your email]
Dear [admissions leader for your desired program],
I’m writing to express my sincere interest in [program name] at [institution name] under your name. I recently earned a degree in [subject] from [name of your undergraduate institution] and am eager to continue my education there. I graduated from [name of school] with a [grade point average (GPA)] and a [list any awards or special distinctions you received] during my time there. I was very involved in [extracurricular activities or campus involvement] while I was a student at [school], and I hope to carry on that tradition at your institution.
I’m very excited to enroll at your university because [insert goals, interests, and aspirations for the program] [Explain why youd be a great addition to the program]. [Include any additional relevant experience, prowess, or information about yourself that you feel is important]
Thank you for considering my application. Thank you for your time, and I look forward to speaking with you more about my objectives, academic history, and genuine interest in your program.
I look forward to hearing from you,
[Name]
[Signature]
How to write a motivation letter for master’s admission
Here are some steps you can take if you’ve been asked to write a motivation letter for admission to a master’s program:
1. Research the institution or program where youre applying
Its important to make your letter specific and personal. By doing this, you can establish a connection with your audience and help them picture you in their program. Find out who is most likely to read your application by doing some research. It can feel more direct if you can address the letter to a specific person. Studying the curriculum can also make it simpler for your reader to perceive your enthusiasm for being accepted by the school. Researching the opportunity can demonstrate your dedication, zeal, and genuine excitement for it.
2. Include your contact information
List your pertinent contact information before starting the body of your letter so the admissions staff can get in touch with you if they have any questions or if they need to talk to you about being accepted. Include your name, phone number, physical address and email address. If you believe it will benefit your application, you could also include a link to your website or portfolio. Make sure your information is clear and accurate, and don’t forget to include a phone number and email address that you intend to check frequently.
3. Introduce yourself
Introduce yourself and the subject of your undergraduate studies at the start of the letter. You can also mention any particular academic honors, awards, or recognition you’ve received. Tell your reader a little about yourself. Encourage readers to read more of your writing and learn more about you by doing so. It’s crucial to highlight your qualifications as a candidate and position yourself as a benefit to their initiative.
4. Describe your interest in the program
After introducing yourself, elaborate on what admission to the masters program would mean to you. Talk about your research and area of focus. Explain why their program appeals to you specifically. You can demonstrate to admissions committees that you care about the school and are genuinely interested in attending by being direct and personal in your letter.
5. Discuss your value as a candidate
Describe your value as a candidate by mentioning the goals you have for attending their university. It can be simpler for admissions teams to comprehend what you hope to accomplish during your time at their school if you discuss your goals and intentions in the program. Sharing information with the college or university about the research you intend to conduct, the extracurricular activities you want to participate in, or the academic accomplishments you hope to achieve can help them better understand who you are as a candidate.
6. Thank your reader for their consideration
Thank your reader for their time and consideration of your application before closing your letter. Describe your excitement at the prospect of enrolling in their school. Try to keep your motivation letter professional, insightful and genuine. Explain to your reader what you hope to accomplish and how they can support you in achieving that goal.
7. Proofread and send your letter
Check your letter carefully for any grammatical or spelling errors before sending it. You could even request a friend or other trusted individual to proofread your letter for any mistakes you may have missed. Try to keep your letter brief, less than a page long, and make sure your writing is clear and easy to read. Send your letter with any supporting documents the school requires. Make sure to read the instructions carefully so you can submit your application and meet all the requirements by the deadline.
Motivation letter for master’s admission example
Here is an example of a finished letter that you can use as inspiration:
Sharia Ranjakar
1910 Hope Ave. Ballpark, ME, 04103
914-555-5876
[email protected]
Dear Dr. Evans,
My name is Sharia Ranjakar, and I’m writing to express my genuine interest in attending Hudson School of Art to pursue a master’s in fine arts. I recently earned a degree in creative writing from Johnston University, and I’m eager to continue my academic career there. During my time at Johnston, I received a 3. 85 GPA and graduated with honors. I was very active as the literary journal’s editor during my undergraduate studies, and I hope to carry on that tradition at your institution.
I’m very excited to enroll in your school because your writing program might help me realize my writing goals. One of my greatest heroes, Professor Kilgore, is someone I would be thrilled to learn from. Being the first person in my family to graduate from college, obtaining a master’s degree would be a huge accomplishment. I believe that I would be an excellent addition to your program given my commitment to academic excellence and my dedication to it.
Thank you for considering my application. Thank you for your time, and I look forward to speaking with you more about my objectives, academic history, and genuine interest in your program.
I look forward to hearing from you,
Sharia Ranjakar
Tips for writing a successful motivation letter
Here are some additional pointers to make sure your letter is successful:
Do your research
You may need to write several motivation letters if you intend to apply to several programs. It’s crucial to personalize and tailor each letter to the program you’re applying to. You can more effectively convey your genuine enthusiasm and excitement for the school you’re applying to by conducting in-depth research. Depending on your reader and the program’s particular focus, you may choose to change the goals, accomplishments, and personal information you include.
Give yourself enough time to write a quality letter
It might seem simple to put off starting your letter until right before the due date. Try to write your letter early. Giving yourself plenty of time to write your letter will allow you to have it reviewed and edited as necessary. If you have enough time to craft a superb letter, you can make sure your writing is error-free, particular, and effectively addresses your goals.
Follow the directions
The requirements for submitting your motivation letter and supporting documents may vary depending on the school. Make sure your writing contains the correct details, that you have all the necessary documents, and that you are submitting your documents through the proper portals and formats by carefully reading all of the school’s written materials. Make sure you are aware of the application deadline and that you submit all required documentation by that date.
How to write a Personal Statement for university | Motivation Letter | Letter of Intent
FAQ
How do I write a motivation letter for admission?
Determine the top three requirements for the position, then highlight your qualifications as the ideal applicant. Show with a brief story or personal examples that you are exceptionally qualified or that you share the organization’s values. Be specific. Your motivational letter needs to show how much you want to attend.
