5 tips for writing a motivational letter for University Admission

For every student there is a time when he needs to write a motivation letter for application for a course or degree. Here are five tips for writing a motivation letter.

1. KNOW YOURSELF

What we mean by this is that you have to sit down and really take time to understand why you are interested in this specific college, University or degree programme. Write down at least five unique things that make you stand out from everyone else. Those you are going to use in your letter, to prove to the admission panel that you are valuable candidate.

2. RESEARCH THE SUBJECT

Do some research of the University, degree programme or course that you are applying to. Go as in depth as you can. Find out details such as the mission, vision and motto of the University or even the learning outcomes of the degree. These go a long way when you begin to draft your motivational letter. The more specific and detail oriented you are in your letter the better. Also, look at examples of motivational letters online.

3. MAKE A FIRST DRAFT

This is an important part of the process of crafting your letter. In my case, it usually takes about 3-4 drafts to do a motivational letter. In each draft I start with writing down my main ideas and working in sort of sections. This helps the flow of my letter. Check out how I organize my paragraphs when it comes to writing a CV. However, for a motivational letter the paragraphs should flow.

4. READ IT AND CHECH WHETHER YOU HAVE ADDRESSED ALL IMPOTRANT QUESTIONS

Who are you and what are you applying for? How did you find out about the University/Degree/Course? Why do you want to study at/the University/Degree/Course?
What makes you the best candidate to be accepted
In summary, what qualifications, life experiences, work experience and personal qualities have prepared you for the University/degree/course?

5. FINALIZE THE LETTER

Make sure your letter is one page long, in the correct font and you have checked for spelling and grammar. We also advice you to give to a few people to read through and give you comments. This really helps.

A motivation letter is your chance to present yourself as a motivated, bright and highly capable student ready to gain entry into a University/degree/course. Make your letter a shining personal description of your unique self to show admissions who you are and why you want to be accepted.

All the best with your applications!

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