motivation letter for phd in mechanical engineering

Statement of Purpose for Graduate School

Criteria for success.

•   qualified for their program, and
• a good fit for their program’s focus and goals.
• You show a select group of skills and experiences that concisely convey your scientific accomplishments and interests.
• Your experiences are concrete and quantitative .
• Your personal statement is no more than 2 pages (less if you can, or if it is required by the school).

Structure Diagram

The graduate school Personal Statement (≈ Statement of Purpose ≈ Statement of Intent) is a document that complements your resume and application form, describing your profile in a narrative way and convincing the admission committee that you would be a good match for a particular department or program. Take into account that matching goes both ways: they should be interested in you, and you should be interested in them. Your personal statement should make this match clear.

Analyze Your Audience

Your personal statement will be read by a graduate committee – a handful of faculty from the program. They’re trying to determine if you will be a successful graduate student in their department and a successful scientist after you graduate. They are interested in your qualifications as a researcher, your career goals, and how your personality matches their labs and department.

The graduate committee probably reads hundreds of applications every year. To make it easy for them to figure out that you are a good fit, keep in mind the following suggestions:

• Make direct, concrete statements about your accomplishments and qualifications.
• Create a narrative that serves as a personal brand and helps them remember you.
• Give them some unique examples that describe you and make you stand out, and which will make them remember you as “that candidate that was so passionate about…” or “who has a lot of experience in…”, although they might not remember your name.
• Align your academic goals and motivations with specific research projects or research directions of the target department. 

Assessing your match to the target program

A key point on writing your Personal Statement is to demonstrate that you have done previous research about the program to which you’re applying, that you understand its characteristics and objectives, and that you are really interested in joining it and willing to do your best to be successful in it. To do this:

• Read the program’s website. Learn about its faculty members and the projects they are working on. Check what topics and high level goals the department is committed to. Identify the main research areas. 
• Get in contact with faculty and students in your target program. Browse recent publications and presentations but remember lab websites can be outdated and a publication may lag a few years behind the active research in a lab so pay attention to the motivation, direction, and methods of the faculty member over specific results. If you have had a positive discussion with someone at the department, you can include in your essay how those interactions confirmed that you would be a good match for the program.

Reflect before you start

To convince a graduate committee that you are ready for and excited about graduate school, first you need to be able to articulate this to yourself. Earnestly reflect on the following types of questions. A lack of authenticity is easy to detect. 

• Why do I want to go to graduate school? 
• How am I sure?
• Why will I be successful in graduate school?
• What can I do with the help of this degree that I couldn’t do before?
• Where do I want to be in a few years?
• How am I going to get there?

Create a personal narrative

Graduate programs invest in the professional and scientific growth of their students. Get the committee excited about investing in you by opening your essay with a brief portrait of what drives you as a scientist. What research directions are you passionate about, and why? What do you picture yourself doing in 10 years?

• E.g. “Graduate study is the first step towards my goal: I want to improve my ability as a researcher and gain more technical depth and breadth to maximize my impact. In the long term, I hope graduate school will better position me to be a leader in shaping the conversation about what problems can be addressed by mechanical engineers.”

Close your essay with a 2-3 sentence discussion of your long-term career interests. No one will hold you to this; this just helps your committee visualize your potential trajectory.

• E.g. “Above all else, a MIT PhD would help me achieve my long term career goal of becoming a professor, the position in which I can best see myself accomplishing my mission to show others the hidden beauty in everyday life through science.”

Connect your personal narrative to whichever degree you are applying to (be it research-based or course-work-based, or a Master of Science, Master of Engineering, or PhD). Especially in mechanical engineering, each of these degrees will enable different career trajectories and provide different educational opportunities. Articulate clearly why the degree you are applying for helps you achieve your goals. In the same vein, consider mutual benefit: what will you contribute to the academic community over your time at your target school? Remember, it all comes back to “qualified match” , no matter what level of degree you are applying for. 

Describe your experiences

Experiences are the “what” of your essay. They are the most efficient and easiest way to prove your capabilities to the admissions committee.

• What experiences led you to develop your skill set and passions ?
• Where have you demonstrated accomplishment, leadership, and collaboration?
• Show your depth with a range of experiences: research, teaching, relevant extracurriculars and leadership positions.
• State concrete achievements and outcomes like awards, discoveries, or publications, or projects completed.

Achievements need not be limited to research projects or publications. Think about all the experiences that demonstrate your ability to conduct research and succeed within the structure of your target program. (Where have you demonstrated creativity? Self sufficiency? Perseverance? What open ended problems have you tackled? What enabled you to succeed at them?)

Quantify your experiences to show concrete impact. How many people were on your team? How many protocols did you develop? How many people were in competition for an award? As a TA, how often did you meet with your students?

For each experience you include, focus on how the experience affected you. Describe your actions, and always direct the message to highlighting your performance and growth (not how important the company was or how well-known the professor you TAed for is). Remember, it is not an essay about science, it is a personal essay—about you and how you have positioned yourself to succeed in graduate school.

Explain the meaning of your experiences

Your goal in sharing your experiences is to demonstrate that you have the qualifications, qualities, and drive needed to succeed in graduate school. Therefore, you will need to not only choose experiences wisely but also state specifically what they mean within the context of your application.

• Why was this experience important to your growth as a scientist?
• What did you gain from or demonstrate during that experience?
• How will this make you a better grad student?

Even if it feels obvious to you, you need to explicitly answer these questions to your audience. Here are some examples experiences that have been expanded to contain meaning:

Contemplate how disparate activities can be unified into a common narrative about your motivations and achievements. Articulate this clearly to make your statement cohesive.

Demonstrate your match to the target program

Using the research you did to assess your chosen programs, clearly articulate why you are a match . Consider both directions of the match: not only why you want to go to the school, but also why you would fit in well and contribute to the program.

State which professors in the program you would be interested in working with. Demonstrate that you have done your homework regarding the program. Show how their research areas align with your background and your goals. If you have had conversations with students or professors in the program, be sure to include that as well. 

Common Pitfalls

Write about you , not your role models. One of the most common pitfalls we see in the Comm Lab is students writing touching Personal Statements about family members or role models who have inspired them. There is nothing wrong with including personal stories about people who have helped you understand yourself better, or positioned you to succeed in graduate school, but it is important to tread very carefully. Don’t leave the reader wondering why they are reading about someone else in a document that is meant to be about you. If you take time to talk about someone who positively affected you, make sure to be very clear about how that experience with that person molded you into a strong graduate school candidate.

Be judicious with childhood stories. A brief mention of some childhood experience that shaped your interests in STEM is probably okay, but if you talk about it at length (more than ~2 sentences), you are taking up space that should probably be used to talk about who you are today, not who you were over a decade ago.

Don’t simply restate your resume. Your Personal Statement should be a technical document (having evidence, numbers, and supporting facts) with personal outcomes (talking about your motivations, ambitions, and ability to succeed as a graduate student). Of course, you will reiterate parts of your resume in your Personal Statement , but what uniquely makes it a “Personal Statement” is the discussion of how those professional experiences affected you , as a researcher and person well-suited to the graduate program at X University.  

Insufficient quantification of your experiences. We are all scientists and engineers; our line of work is inherently quantitative. Quantification is a quick and easy way to add context, lend credence to your experiences, and impress the reader. Even little quantifications can help: “I spent two semesters working on a project about…” is much better than “I spent some time working on a project about…”. See more examples in the section on Experiences, above.

Being a great student and having an impressive resume is only half the battle when it comes to graduate school applications. You need to be able to communicate and convince the committee that your personality and particular set of skills and experiences are well-suited to the graduate program you are applying for. This extends beyond graduate school applications: as scientists and engineers, we write papers and technical reports to communicate with our peers and convince them that our work is meaningful.

By reading this article, you have recognized the value of communication and are well on your way to crafting an effective and powerful Personal Statement. This is your opportunity to make yourself shine among all the other candidates, so make it count! You can do it!

Acknowledgements : This content was adapted from the NSE and CEE Communication Labs’ CommKits for graduate applications.

Resources and Annotated Examples

Annotated example 1, annotated example 2.

How to Write a PhD Motivation Letter

• Applying to a PhD

A PhD motivation letter is a document that describes your personal motivation and competence for a particular research project. It is usually submitted together with your academic CV to provide admissions staff with more information about you as an individual, to help them decide whether or not you are the ideal candidate for a research project.

A motivation letter has many similarities to a cover letter and a personal statement, and institutions will not ask you to submit all of these. However, it is a unique document and you should treat it as such. In the context of supporting a PhD application, the difference is nuanced; all three documents outline your suitability for PhD study. However, compared to a cover letter and personal statement, a motivation letter places more emphasis on your motivation for wanting to pursue the particular PhD position you are applying for.

Academic cover letters are more common in UK universities, while motivation letters are more common abroad.

A motivation letter can play a key part in the application process . It allows the admission committee to review a group of PhD applicants with similar academic backgrounds and select the ideal candidate based on their motivations for applying.

For admission staff, academic qualifications alone are not enough to indicate whether a student will be successful in their doctorate. In this sense, a motivational letter will allow them to judge your passion for the field of study, commitment to research and suitability for the programme, all of which better enables them to evaluate your potential.

How Should I Structure My Motivation Letter?

A strong motivation letter for PhD applications will include:

• A concise introduction stating which programme you are applying for,
• Your academic background and professional work experience,
• Any key skills you possess and what makes you the ideal candidate,
• Your interest and motivation for applying,
• Concluding remarks and thanks.

This is a simplistic breakdown of what can be a very complicated document.

However, writing to the above structure will ensure you keep your letter of motivation concise and relevant to the position you are applying for. Remember, the aim of your letter is to show your enthusiasm and that you’re committed and well suited for the programme.

To help you write a motivation letter for a PhD application, we have outlined what to include in the start, main body, and closing sections.

How to Start a Motivation Letter

Introduction: Start with a brief introduction in which you clearly state your intention to apply for a particular programme. Think of this as describing what the document is to a stranger.

Education: State what you have studied and where. Your higher education will be your most important educational experience, so focus on this. Highlight any relevant modules you undertook as part of your studies that are relevant to the programme you are applying for. You should also mention how your studies have influenced your decision to pursue a PhD project, especially if it is in the same field you are currently applying to.

Work experience: Next summarise your professional work experience. Remember, you will likely be asked to submit your academic CV along with your motivation letter, so keep this section brief to avoid any unnecessary repetition. Include any other relevant experiences, such as teaching roles, non-academic experience, or charity work which demonstrates skills or shows your suitability for the research project and in becoming a PhD student.

Key skills: Outline your key skills. Remember the admissions committee is considering your suitability for the specific programme you are applying for, so mention skills relevant to the PhD course.

Motivation for applying: Show your enthusiasm and passion for the subject, and describe your long-term aspirations. Start with how you first became interested in the field, and how your interest has grown since. You should also mention anything else you have done which helps demonstrate your interest in your proposed research topic, for example:

• Have you attended any workshops or seminars?
• Do you have any research experience?
• Have you taught yourself any aspects of the subject?
• Have you read any literature within the research area?

Finally, describe what has convinced you to dedicate the next 3-4 years (assuming you are to study full time) of your life to research.

How to End a Motivation Letter

Concluding the motivation letter is where most people struggle. Typically, people can easily describe their academic background and why they want to study, but convincing the reader they are the best candidate for the PhD programme is often more challenging.

The concluding remarks of your motivation letter should highlight the impacts of your proposed research, in particular: the new contributions it will make to your field, the benefits it will have on society and how it fits in with your aspirations.

With this, conclude with your career goals. For example, do you want to pursue an academic career or become a researcher for a private organisation? Doing so will show you have put a lot of thought into your decision.

Remember, admissions into a PhD degree is very competitive, and supervisors invest a lot of time into mentoring their students. Therefore, supervisors naturally favour those who show the most dedication. Your conclusion should remind the reader that you are not only passionate about the research project, but that the university will benefit from having you.

Finally, thank the reader for considering your application.

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Motivation Letter Format

There are some basic rules to follow when writing a successful motivation letter. These will mimic the standard format for report writing that the supervisor will be familiar with:

• Use a sans serif font (e.g. Arial or Times New Roman),
• Use a standard font size (e.g. 12pt) and black font colour,
• Keep your writing professional throughout and avoid the use of informal language,
• Write in the first person,
• Address your motivation letter to a named person such as the project supervisor, however, this could also be the person in charge of research admissions,
• Structure your letter into paragraphs using the guidance above, such as introduction, academic history, motivation for research, and concluding remarks.

How Long Should a Motivation Letter Be?

A good rule of thumb for PhD motivation letters is to keep it to around one side of A4. A little longer than one page is acceptable, but two pages is generally considered too long. This equates to approximately 400-600 words.

Things to Avoid when Writing Your Motivational Letter

Your motivational letter will only be one of the several documents you’ll be asked to submit as part of your PhD application. You will almost certainly be asked to submit an Academic CV as well. Therefore, be careful not to duplicate any of the information.

It is acceptable to repeat the key points, such as what and where you have studied. However, while your CV should outline your academic background, your motivation letter should bring context to it by explaining why you have studied what you have, and where you hope to go with it. The simplest way to do this is to refer to the information in your CV and explain how it has led you to become interested in research.

Don’t try to include everything. A motivation letter should be short, so focus on the information most relevant to the programme and which best illustrates your passion for it. Remember, the academic committee will need to be critical in order to do their jobs effectively , so they will likely interpret an unnecessarily long letter as in indication that you have poor written skills and cannot communicate effectively.

You must be able to back up all of your statements with evidence, so don’t fabricate experiences or overstate your skills. This isn’t only unethical but is likely to be picked up by your proposed PhD supervisor or the admissions committee.

Whilst it is good to show you have an understanding of the field, don’t try to impress the reader with excessive use of technical terms or abbreviations.

PhD Motivation Letter Samples – A Word of Caution

There are many templates and samples of motivation letters for PhDs available online. A word of caution regarding these – although they can prove to be a great source of inspiration, you should refrain from using them as a template for your own motivation letter.

While there are no rules against them, supervisors will likely have seen a similar letter submitted to them in the past. This will not only prevent your application from standing out, but it will also reflect poorly on you by suggesting that you have put minimal effort into your application.

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PhD Admissions

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Instructions for applying to the Stanford ME PhD Program are below.

Note for current Stanford MS students interested in adding a PhD program: please contact the ME Student Services Office about the necessary paperwork and relevant policies. If you are a current master's student in the Stanford Mechanical Engineering department, to apply for the PhD, you must complete paperwork prior to conferring the MS degree. Failure to do so will require an application through the online admissions process along with all other external applicants.

Application Deadlines

• Start Quarter:  Autumn 2024-2025 Application Date:  December 1, 2023
• Start Quarter:  Winter 2023-2024* Application Date:  October 23, 2023
• Start Quarter:  Spring 2023-2024* Application Date: January 29, 2024

*Students wishing to apply to the PhD program to start in Winter or Spring quarter must contact [email protected] directly first. Please do not start or submit a Winter or Spring application without first contacting our office.

Application Requirements

To be eligible for admission to the PhD program, applicants must:

• Have earned, or be in the process of earning, a BS degree in engineering, physics, or comparable science program. 
• Submit all application materials by the application deadline.
• Meet minimum TOEFL requirements, if applicable. Review the information on the Graduate Admissions website for more information. 

All students interested in pursuing a PhD in Mechanical Engineering must use the online Stanford Graduate Admissions Application . Your application must include all of the materials listed below and be received by Stanford by the application deadline. 

Required Application Documents

• Online Application
• Application fee

Statement of Purpose

• PhD Supplementary Information form (within application)
• 3 Letters of Recommendation
• Unofficial transcripts from all colleges and/or universities attended for more than one year
• Official TOEFL scores, if applicable

The GRE will not be accepted for applications received through September 2024.  We ask that you do not submit or reference GRE scores in your application, as they will not be considered. (Updated July 2023)

Your Statement of Purpose should identify personal and professional goals. It should also discuss your development to date and your intentions regarding graduate study and life beyond Stanford. The ME Graduate Admissions Committee reads your Statement of Purpose with interest because, along with the letters of recommendation, it offers insight into who you are as an individual. Your Statement of Purpose should not exceed two pages in length, single spaced. 

PhD Supplementary Information form

The PhD Supplementary Information form within the application asks applicants to briefly address five prompts (1000 characters max):

• List up to three Stanford ME faculty members whose research interests overlap with your research interests and are potential PhD advisors. (Select from list)
• Briefly comment on your motivation for seeking a PhD in Mechanical Engineering.
• Briefly describe an activity (academic or not) that you initiated and involved independent inquiry, e.g. a technical project, or an extracurricular activity that you planned and executed. What did you learn?
• Briefly describe a situation in which you experienced failure, or a situation in which your beliefs were challenged. How did you handle the situation, and what did you learn?
• Briefly describe a time (or ongoing circumstances) that caused you to face a significant obstacle or experience adversity. How did you approach the situation?

Letters of Recommendation

Three letters of recommendation are required -- one letter must come from an academic source, although we prefer at least two. If your background includes industry experience, involvement in leadership, public service, or entrepreneurial activities, you may wish to include one reference who can comment on that aspect of your experience. Recommendations must be submitted online. Please see the "Recommendations" section of the online application for more information. Please do not submit letters of recommendation through Interfolio.

Transcripts

You are required to upload unofficial copies of your transcripts or e-transcripts to the online application for all institutions you have attended for at least a year as a full-time student. Please  do not  send your official transcripts unless we contact you to do so.

TOEFL Scores

TOEFL results must be from an examination taken within 18 months of the application deadline. The Stanford institution code for ETS reporting is 4704. No department code is needed . For more information on TOEFL requirements, please see the Required Exams and Frequently Asked Questions sections on the Graduate Admissions website . 

Application Status Inquiries

After submitting the online application, applicants will have access to an online checklist which will track all required application materials. Due to the volume of applications we receive, we are not able to confirm with individual applicants when documents have been received. All applicants should monitor the online checklist to track individual documents. It is the applicant's responsibility to monitor the checklist and ensure that all documents are received by the deadline. Please allow 2-6 weeks for application materials to be added to your application and appear in the checklist. 

Admission decisions will be released electronically by mid-late March. 

Reapplicants must submit new supporting documents and complete the online application as outlined above in the Graduate Application Checklist.

Knight-Hennessy Scholars

The  Knight-Hennessy Scholars  program cultivates and supports a highly-engaged, multidisciplinary and multicultural community of graduate students from across Stanford University, and delivers a diverse collection of educational experiences, preparing graduates to address complex challenges facing the world. Knight-Hennessy Scholars participate in an experiential leadership development program known as the King Global Leadership Program and receive funding for up to three years of graduate study at Stanford. Two applications must be submitted separately; one to Knight-Hennessy by  October 6, 2021 , 1 pm PST, and one to the Stanford graduate degree program by its deadline. Visit  kh.stanford.edu  to learn more and apply.

The selection of PhD students admitted to the Department of Mechanical Engineering is based on an individualized, holistic review of each application, including (but not limited to) the applicant's academic record, the letters of recommendation, the Statement of Purpose, personal qualities and characteristics, and past accomplishments. 

• Graduate School

How to Write a PhD Motivation Letter with Samples and Expert Tips

Reading over some PhD motivation letter samples will give you an idea of how to make yours a strong, central component of your application to get into grad school . In addition to your grad school CV , a PhD motivation letter is a chance for you to demonstrate objectively why you are an excellent candidate for the faculty to which you are applying. Unlike a personal statement, a PhD motivation letter is distinct in its unique focus on your academic and research background with little mention of your personal story. This article will take you through the significance of the PhD motivation letter, describe what makes a stellar motivation letter, and provide examples. 

>> Want us to help you get accepted? Schedule a free strategy call here . <<

Article Contents 11 min read

Do you need to write a phd motivation letter .

Yes, you must write a PhD motivation letter. It is mandatory for most, if not all, PhD programs, regardless of your field of study. Disciplines ranging from arts and humanities to physics and computer science all consider motivation letters (aka “statement of purpose” in some countries) a major component of your application.

Of course, you will also have to fulfill the other documentation requirements, like submitting your transcripts, CV, personal statement, and letters of recommendation, but a motivation letter has a specific intent: to summarize your academic achievements up to the present and what you plan to achieve in the future at this particular school.

The faculty who ultimately consider your application look for how you and your PhD topic match with the mission and values of their program. Personal details and other motivations are best left to your personal statement or letter of intent because the motivation letter is strictly an academic summary.

A great PhD motivation letter should highlight how and why you are prepared for the rigors of PhD-level work. It should include the details of your academic career that have propelled you further into your field of study, like an inspiring professor or undergraduate course that sparked interest in your field.

The following list will provide more insights, but you should remember that whatever you write must be backed up by a concrete, real-world demonstration. It is not enough to say, “I am interested in XYZ because of XYZ.” You must include specific events in your undergraduate and graduate studies where you excelled.

If you are applying for a PhD, that in itself suggests you have a bevy of academic and extracurricular experience to glean from, be it co-authoring a published paper, your time as a TA, or some type of academic recognition. Many stand-out motivation letters single out specific instances when you showed an outsized passion for your studies.

Dos and Don’ts in a PhD Motivation Letter

1. Gain Skills and Experiences

The track to obtaining a PhD degree is a long one, which is why anyone who wants to become a PhD should commit early on to what it entails. All PhD candidates must have both an undergraduate and a master's degree to even apply, so that means structuring your studies around those requirements.

You should gain as much experience in your field, learn new skills related to your studies (a new language, for example, or technical skills), and participate in as many extracurricular activities as possible. Gathering the necessary skills and experiences to enter a PhD program should be the first step, since they are a reflection of your commitment.

2. Start Writing Early

You should begin drafting your PhD motivation letter at least a few months before the deadline. Because it is one of the most important parts of your application, you want to give yourself time to refine it. Refining means going through multiple drafts, soliciting and receiving feedback from other candidates, getting professional grad school application help, and making changes as you go along.

3. Consider Your Audience

The people who will read your motivation letter are renowned academics who have devoted their lives to one particular subject. Your letter needs to reflect your respect not only for them, but for the field of study that you both share. You should write with genuine verve when talking about your topic. Remind them of why they committed so full-heartedly to their career by demonstrating how enthralled you are with your studies.

4. Use Active Voice

You should put “you” in your story. Avoid using the passive voice and hiding behind your achievements as if they spoke for themselves. The admissions committee members want to read about how you approached your studies and learn about your insights into the future of your field of interest. They do not want a cold recitation of your CV but a spirited defense or explanation of what you value most about your topic.

1. Don’t Forget About the Formatting

PhD admission requirements differ between the many programs out there, so be cognizant of how they ask you to format your paper. If the requirements state a two-page limit, then write two pages. The same goes for other criteria like font size, paragraph spacing, and word length. A rambling, incoherent letter is the last thing you want to submit, so make sure to keep it within the guidelines.

2. Don’t Include Personal Stories

A personal statement is the place for formative stories from the past, not your motivation letter. You can include personal thoughts and opinions about your field of study, even unfavorable ones, to show you have a unique perspective, but steer clear of using personal elements like early childhood experiences or anything unrelated to your program.

3. Don’t Ramble

Keep in mind that your writing and organizational skills are also on display when you submit your motivation letter, along with everything else about you (grades, college letter of intent , transcripts). Again, remember who you are writing for: professors with years of experience researching and writing. They, more than anyone, know what good writing looks like, so be concise and clear in your writing.

4. Don’t Shy Away from Failures

The collected experience of those reading your essay guarantees that they know a thing or two about failure. Whether it was an unpublished paper, or a failed experiment, showing your determination in the face of adversity paints a complete picture of who you are as a researcher and academic.

But, again, setbacks in your personal life should not be mentioned. Limit your story to problems you encountered during your undergrad, graduate, or research fellowships and how you sought to overcome them. Mention a class or subject you struggled with or a drop in your grades and how you improved them.

Structure of Your PhD Motivation Letter

The structure of a great motivation letter is easy to follow because its focus is so narrow. The body of your letter should only mention highlights from your academic career, in a very specific chronology starting with your undergrad and progressing from there. But the structure should also cover three main points:

You can adjust the structure based on the requirements of the PhD program you are applying to, but it should cover the reasons you want to commit yourself to this program, what you plan on achieving, and how you have prepared yourself to accomplish those goals. If you already went to grad school, then you can rework your college statement of purpose to use as a template.

PhD Motivation Letter Sample #1

Dear Members of the PhD Selection Committee,

My name is David White, and I am writing to you to express my interest in pursuing a PhD in the Migration Studies program at X University. I recently completed a Master of Ethnography at Y University with an emphasis on the cultural exchange between migrant communities and their adopted homelands viewed through the lens of shared trauma and memory.

In the media, migration is often described as a “crisis,” a designation that has always made me bristle. I assert that migration is one of the most fundamental aspects of our species, yet it has been flagrantly mislabeled to serve the political and socioeconomic interests of a few.

My research is centered around the ways that migrants form new identities based on their experiences. Conversely, I have also explored how an innate identity based on race, religion, gender, or sexual orientation impacts a migrant’s journey and how those markers expose them to further exploitation or, at the other end, fortify their resolve and inspire perseverance in the face of tremendous odds.

The need for further investigation into identity and the interplay of migration and culture came into focus for me during my second-year undergrad Political Science degree at XYZ University. I was influenced by the work of writers like Franz Fanon and Edward Said, who questioned the foundations of a post-colonial identity and whether it was ever possible for colonized people to form an identity separate from their colonizers. I took an anthropology course, The Nature of Humans, that impacted me greatly. It prompted a Cartesian examination of my own beliefs around identity, as it firmly associated the emergence of human societies with factors such as migration, evolution, adaptability, and diversity.

During my time as a graduate student, I secured a place on a research project headed by Prof. Mohamed Al-Nasseri, a diaspora studies expert. Professor Al-Nasseri's thesis was that policymakers were ignoring the psychological profiles of migrants when assessing their material needs and financial assistance levels.

Our four-person investigative team liaised with a local, non-profit resettlement agency who connected us with volunteer migrant families based in University Town. Under the supervision of Professor Al-Nasseri, we formulated a questionnaire based on the diagnostic criteria of the DSM-V for traumatic events, while taking into account the newly revised definitions.

Mindful of the possible triggering effect our questions could have, we invited a peer, fellow survivor/migrant, and, in some cases, a religious leader before we conducted the interviews or to sit-in on our interviews.

During the interviews, I felt both inspired and indignant. I maintained my composure and objectivity, but the fire within raged. Unfortunately, our findings were inconclusive and what we discovered in our interviews did not wholly support Dr. Al-Nasseri’s thesis. But the experience and motivation I took from the project were enough to fuel my desire to explore the topic of identity formation in migrant communities who have undergone severe trauma.

The Migration Studies program at your institution will provide what I consider the perfect research and support network to further my investigation of these topics. I have followed the work of the esteemed Dr. Ellerman whose research into the treatment of post-traumatic stress has informed the direction of my own research. Dr. Ellerman has opened new pathways for thinking about trauma that I wish to incorporate into my thesis project when the time comes.

Until then, I am grateful for the opportunity to apply to this institution and am ready to discuss my future with you should my candidacy prove successful.

David White

My name is Melanie Hicks, and I am writing this letter to fulfill the admission requirements of the Visual Arts PhD Program at Z University. I have already submitted my audiovisual portfolio, CV, and transcripts, along with three letters of recommendation from, respectively, my master’s degree supervisor, Dr. Dana Redmond, my thesis supervisor, Dr. Allan Lee, and my research colleague, Mark Fowler.

I would like to take this opportunity to expand further on the conceptual themes I have focused on in my artistic output over the past decade, contextualize the pieces I have submitted, and elaborate on the goals I have should my application to this program be successful.

My artistic career, from very early on, has been defined by modes of observation, the interplay of observation and reflection between subjects and objects within a sociopolitical realm, and the harnessing of Blackness as a form of radical self-interpretation – all of it couched within the media of still and moving images.

During my undergrad as a Fine Arts student at X University, I was lucky enough to be showcased at the Kepler Gallery for my series, Painted Faces, a collection of photographs I took while working as a freelance photographer for an independent newspaper in Chicago. My focus in that series was the effort and preparation female congregants of an all-Black church put into readying themselves for Sunday services.

After my undergrad, I traveled to Boston to volunteer in local after-school programs with children from minority backgrounds who had an interest in photography. All of them had grown up with easy access to a phone capable of taking crisp, digital images and had never taken film photographs, so it fell to me to show them how to develop prints in a darkroom.

As part of my portfolio, I have submitted photos I took during that time, along with selections from my Painted Faces series. I never constructed a specific narrative with the photos I took during my volunteer work, but they were informed by the social realist photographers and photojournalists who captured the Civil Rights Movement by participating in protests and documenting the unrest.

Gordon Parks is a major influence and part of the reason I am pursuing my PhD studies at this institution. Prof. Alys is a foremost expert on Parks’ work and curated the Parks Retrospective at the Local Museum. Parks himself said that the subject was always more important than the photographer, and I agreed with that statement for a long time, until I began reading Arthur Danto and his artist-centered philosophy of art. While many disagree with Danto’s definition of art as an elitist utopia, I would argue that he opens the gates to everyone, and that anyone can gain entry to the “artworld.”

There is no better exemplar, I think, of the democratization of the “artworld” first posited by Danto than Basquiat, who was not only “allowed” access to the “artworld” but redefined it, in his indomitable way. Basquiat’s quality of outsider-turned-insider and Danto’s liberating of the parameters of what defined art are central themes of my project to understand whether “outsider” artists still exist, given how new technologies and platforms have pushed Danto’s definitions beyond their logical boundaries, if not obliterated them completely.

I hope this program can help me refine my project while matching my urgency to further expand the definition of art and artists to be more inclusive of not only racial minorities, but non-binary and trans people, who are at the forefront of questioning the validity of assigned identities through the curation of their very genders or lack thereof.

I am grateful to this esteemed panel for considering my application, and I would like to close by expressing my profound admiration for the achievements in art, art theory, and the philosophy of art each of you has contributed to a long, continuing train of thought.

I would be honored to accept a place beside you as a PhD candidate.

Melanie Hicks

Motivation letters are used in areas other than academia, but a PhD motivation letter is different for several reasons. Regardless of your particular field of research, the letter should include important points about your academic achievements, research interests, and why you want to continue your research at the faculty to which you are applying.

Even though PhD motivation letters tend to be short – between 500 and 700 words – their length is often the most vexing thing about them. Because students have a hard time condensing their years of study and research into a few words, we hope this article will help you focus your writing and give you insight into what to include.

No, they are not the same. A motivation letter has many different applications but is primarily a summary of your academic and professional achievements. A personal statement is an essay explaining your personal reasons for wanting to enter a specific profession or academic institution.

You should focus only on concrete, real-world examples of how you performed, learned, or grew as the result of an event in your trajectory toward a PhD and how you plan on contributing something new to your field of study. You should also make sure to have enough material, in the form of experience or academic goals, to write a compelling letter.

PhD motivation letters are important because they let prospective PhD candidates distill their background and experience succinctly, so that selection committees can more easily judge their character, commitment, and potential. 

Some people do find it challenging to write a letter about themselves without rambling or sounding incoherent. But if you prepare ahead of time, think honestly about your answer, and write several drafts, you should be able to write an above-average letter. If you are still struggling you can also get application help from professionals. 

Programs tend to ask for either a one or two-page letter, between 700 and 900 words. 

You can talk about anything that has do to with your past work to get to the PhD level, including aspects of your academic career, internships, independent or supervised research, fieldwork in a specific context, and any work experience you have related to your field of study. 

You should not mention any personal motivations for wanting to pursue a PhD. You can write about your intrinsic motivations to become a doctor of philosophy in your personal statement, if you are asked to submit one with your application. 

PhD programs around the world have various entry requirements that differ among schools. Some institutions ask for a motivation letter, while others ask for a personal statement or letter of recommendation and letter of intent, which has elements of a motivation letter but is not the same. 

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PHD Application cover letter examples

As the highest postgraduate qualification you can achieve, it’s no wonder that most PhD programs require a cover letter as part of the application process.

So, if you’re hoping to complete your doctorate, you need to brush up on your writing skills and prove why you deserve a place in the program.

To help you do that, we’ve put together this comprehensive guide, complete with PhD cover letter examples to support your application.

CV templates 

PHD Application cover letter example 1

PHD Application cover letter example 2

PHD Application cover letter example 3

The example cover letters here should give you a good general idea on how your PHD Application cover letter should be formatted and written.

The rest of this guide gives more specific guidance on how to create your own cover letter in this format, and even includes some templates you can copy and paste.

How to write a PHD Application cover letter

A simple step-by-step guide to writing your very own winning cover letter.

Write your cover letter in the body of an email/message

When writing your PHD Application cover letter, it’s best to type the content into the body of your email (or the job site messaging system) and not to attach the cover letter as a separate document.

This ensures that your cover letter gets seen as soon as a recruiter or employer opens your message.

If you attach the cover letter as a document, you’re making the reader go through an unnecessary step of opening the document before reading it.

If it’s in the body of the message itself, it will be seen instantly, which hugely increases the chances of it being read.

Start with a friendly greeting

Start you cover letter with a greeting that is professional but friendly.

This will build rapport with the recruiter whilst showing your professionalism.

• Hi, hope you’re well
• Hi [insert recruiter name]
• Hi [insert department/team name]

Avoid overly formal greetings like “Dear sir/madam ” unless applying to very traditional companies.

How to find the contact’s name?

Addressing the recruitment contact by name is an excellent way to start building a strong relationship. If it is not listed in the job advert, try these methods to find it.

• Check out the company website and look at their  About page. If you see a hiring manager, HR person or internal recruiter, use their name. You could also try to figure out who would be your manager in the role and use their name.
• Head to LinkedIn , search for the company and scan through the list of employees. Most professionals are on LinkedIn these days, so this is a good bet.

Identify the role you are applying for

Once you’ve opened up the cover letter with a warm greeting to start building a relationship, it is time to identify which role you want to apply for.

Recruiters are often managing multiple vacancies, so you need to ensure you apply to the correct one.

Be very specific and use a reference number if you can find one.

• I am interested in applying for the position of *specialist field PHD Applicant* with your company.
• I would like to apply for the role of Sales assistant (Ref: 406f57393)
• I would like to express my interest in the customer service vacancy within your retail department
• I saw your advert for a junior project manager on Reed and would like to apply for the role.

See also: CV examples – how to write a CV – CV profiles

Highlight your suitability

The main purpose of your cover letter is to excite recruiters and make them eager to open your CV. And you achieve this by quickly demonstrating your suitability to the job you are applying for.

Take a look at the job adverts you are applying for, and make note of the most important skills being asked for.

Then, when you write your cover letter, make your suitability the focal point.

Explain how you meet the candidate requirements fully, and why you are so well suited to carry out the job.

This will give recruiters all the encouragement they need to open your CV and consider your application.

Keep it short and sharp

A good cover letter is short and sharp, getting to the point quickly with just enough information to grab the attention of recruiters.

Ideally your cover letter should be around 4-8 sentences long – anything longer will risk losing the attention of time-strapped recruiters and hiring managers .

Essentially you need to include just enough information to persuade the reader to open up your CV, where the in-depth details will sit.

Sign off professionally

To round of your CV, you should sign off with a professional signature.

This will give your cover letter a slick appearance and also give the recruiter all of the necessary contact information they need to get in touch with you.

The information to add should include:

• A friendly sign off – e.g. “Kindest regards”
• Your full name
• Phone number (one you can answer quickly)
• Email address
• Profession title
• Professional social network –  e.g. LinkedIn

Here is an example signature;

Warm regards,

Jill North IT Project Manager 078837437373 [email protected] LinkedIn

Quick tip: To save yourself from having to write your signature every time you send a job application, you can save it within your email drafts, or on a separate documents that you could copy in.

What to include in your PHD Application cover letter

Here’s what kind of content you should include in your PHD Application cover letter…

The exact info will obviously depend on your industry and experience level, but these are the essentials.

• Your relevant experience – Where have you worked and what type of jobs have you held?
• Your qualifications – Let recruiters know about your highest level of qualification to show them you have the credentials for the job.
• The impact you have made – Show how your actions have made a positive impact on previous employers; perhaps you’ve saved them money or helped them to acquire new customers?
• Your reasons for moving – Hiring managers will want to know why you are leaving your current or previous role, so give them a brief explanation.
• Your availability – When can you start a new job ? Recruiters will want to know how soon they can get you on board.

Don’t forget to tailor these points to the requirements of the job advert for best results.

PHD Application cover letter templates

Copy and paste these PHD Application cover letter templates to get a head start on your own.

Dear Admissions Committee

I am writing to express my strong interest in the Ph.D. in Physics programme at the University of London. As a highly motivated and dedicated individual with a deep fascination with the fundamental principles of physics, I am eager to contribute my academic background and research experience to your faculty.

I hold an MSc in Physics from the University of Birmingham, where I achieved distinctions for quantum mechanics, thermodynamics, and atomic & molecular physics. During this period, I was involved in evaluating quantum phenomena using computational methods, which honed my analytical skills and provided insights into the intricate nature of quantum systems. My passion for research has also led me to publish two peer-reviewed papers in reputable journals.

I am enthusiastic about continuing my journey in addressing challenges in the field of physics and have previously collaborated with renowned experts in securing £10M in funding to support projects, as well as improving experimental efficiency by 40% through implementing state-of-the-art quantum optics equipment. I have also delivered presentations to share research on condensed matter systems.

I am thrilled at the possibility of joining your institution. Thank you for considering me for the programme.

Kind regards

Matt Turner

I am writing to you concerning the Ph.D. program in Chemical Engineering at the University of Oxford. I possess a profound passion for advanced research and innovation in chemical engineering, with an eagerness to contribute my academic background and problem-solving abilities to your institution.

I hold an MSc in Chemical Engineering from Imperial College London and had the opportunity to delve into cutting-edge projects alongside esteemed experts. We focused on sustainable practices in chemical manufacturing, as well as the efficient production, transformation, and transportation of various products. I helped design and conduct experiments to improve chemical operations and reduce environmental impacts, where my findings were published in two peer-reviewed journals.

Some key accomplishments during master’s studies include, obtaining research funding worth £2M to conduct experiments in catalysis and reaction engineering, and playing a role in improving industrial processes by 50%. In addition, I delivered five oral presentations at international conferences to share information on driving sustainable practices.

Thank you for considering my application, and I am available at your convenience for further discussions.

Sable Norris

Dear Members of the Graduate Admissions Committee

I am writing to express my interest in the Ph.D. programme in Archaeology at the University of Cambridge. I possess a profound fascination for uncovering the mysteries of the past, and I am focused on contributing my academic background, fieldwork experience, and research skills to your institution.

I obtained a master’s degree in Archaeology from the University of Manchester, where I had the privilege of working closely with esteemed faculty and engaged in research that ignited my passion for understanding the Sumerian civilisation.

During my studies I conducted original research on the excavation and analysis of burial sites to shed light on their ancient practices and cultural beliefs, completing 95 excavation seasons, which was 30+ more than any other student, co-authoring two research papers published in reputable journals, and securing £500K from the UK government to conduct a 3-month research trip in the Middle East.

My experience coupled with advanced coursework in archaeological methodologies and artefact analysis have equipped me with the skills to excel in the programme. Thank you for considering my application.

Dominic Ferdinand

Writing an impressive cover letter is a crucial step in landing a place on a PHD, so taking the time to perfect it is well worth while.

By following the tips and examples above you will be able to create an eye-catching cover letter that will wow recruiters and ensure your CV gets read – leading to more job interviews for you.

Good luck with your job search!

Mechanical Engineering Cover Letter Example (W/ Templates & Tips for 2024)

The journey from being a curious tinkerer to a professional mechanical engineer with a great career is not without its challenges. 

One significant roadblock many face is creating an impactful cover letter. 

While your passion and skills in mechanical engineering are evident, translating them into a concise, compelling cover letter can feel as complex as solving a sophisticated engineering problem. 

Fortunately, this article is here to help. We will guide you through crafting a mechanical engineering cover letter that not only highlights your expertise but also positions you perfectly for your dream job.

Here’s what we’ll cover:

• An Outstanding Mechanical Engineering Cover Letter Example
• 5 Essential Steps to Writing Your Mechanical Engineering Cover Letter
• 3 Key Mechanical Engineering Cover Letter Tips

...and much more! Let’s dive in!

Mechanical Engineering Cover Letter Example

5 Steps for the Perfect Mechanical Engineering Cover Letter

Now that you've had a glimpse of what a winning cover letter entails, it's your turn to create one that shines. 

Don't worry; we've got your back. Just follow the steps ahead, and you'll be well on your way to writing a cover letter that opens doors to your dream job:

#1. Put Contact Information in the Header

When composing your mechanical engineer cover letter, start by providing your contact details, neatly organized in the header, just like you would on your engineering resume . 

Here's a breakdown of what to include:

• Full Name: Place your complete name at the top of the page.
• Professional Title: Match your professional title with the specific mechanical engineering position you're targeting. So, write “Mechanical Engineer” instead of plain “Engineer.”
• Email Address: Opt for a professional and straightforward email address, ideally a combination of your first and last name. Those quirky high school email addresses won't cut it. (e.g., [email protected] is good, but [email protected], isn't).
• Phone Number: Ensure the contact number you provide is accurate to make sure the hiring manager can reach you. If you're applying for an international role, include the appropriate dialing code.
• Location: Typically, your city and state or country are sufficient. However, if you're pursuing a remote position or contemplating relocation, make this clear in your mechanical engineer cover letter.
• Relevant Links (Optional): Include links to pertinent websites or social media profiles, such as your LinkedIn.

Next, it’s time to include the hiring manager's information:

• Company Name: Specify the name of the company to which you're applying.
• Hiring Manager's Name: If possible, identify the hiring manager for the mechanical engineering department. Check the job listing, their company website, or their LinkedIn page to find this information.
• Hiring Manager's Title: If you find out the hiring manager for the specific job listing is, say, the head of a department, use this title instead of "Hiring Manager."
• Location: Precisely mention the city, state, or country, particularly for globally operating companies. Optionally, you can include the company's exact street address for added specificity.
• Email Address (Optional): If available, include the hiring manager's email address.
• Date of Writing (Optional): Consider adding the precise date of writing for a professional touch.

#2. Address the Hiring Manager

After penning down all the contact details, make sure you address your cover letter to its intended audience.

Remember, how you address your cover letter can make a notable first impression with the hiring professional—provided it's done tastefully.

Your first step? A touch of detective work. Check out the job posting, the company's website, or their LinkedIn to identify who’s hiring for the mechanical engineering role you're pursuing. This little effort can help you get their name and contact details.

When you have their name, greet them in a professional manner (but avoid the age-old "To Whom It May Concern” ). We suggest going with Ms. or Mr., followed by their surname. If you're in doubt about their gender or marital status, opting for their full name works well. For instance:

• Dear Mr. Anderson,
• Dear Taylor Anderson,

If you can't get details about the hiring manager or the head of the mechanical engineering division, no worries! Simply direct your letter towards the specific department or the broader company:

• Dear Engineering Division,
• Dear Mechanical Engineering Recruitment Panel,
• Dear HR Selection Committee,
• Dear Lead Mechanical Engineer,

#3. Write an Eye-Catching Opening Statement

Hiring managers usually spend only a few seconds looking at a candidate’s application before deciding if it’s worth reading from start to finish.

So, when writing a cover letter for a mechanical engineering job, you need to grab their attention right away. This is where your opening paragraph comes in.

Start by formally introducing yourself and why you're interested in this job. Showing your passion for the mechanical field can make the hiring manager want to know more about you.

Researching the company can also make a huge difference. Knowing about the company helps you show how you'd fit into their team and the company culture. This tells the hiring manager you're really interested in this particular job.

If you have experience, highlight a relevant achievement , like a mechanical project you've worked on that was a success, or a particular skill that makes you the right for the role.

Remember to keep it short. Your aim is to get the hiring manager to read the rest of your cover letter.

Here’s a bunch of cover letter examples to check that can further inspire you to craft the perfect cover letter. 

#4. Use the Cover Letter Body for the Details

The main part of your mechanical engineering cover letter lets you explain why you're the best fit for the job.

But don't just repeat what's on your resume. Instead, highlight further your technical skills and achievements by elaborating on what’s on your resume. Make sure the hiring manager sees why you stand out from other applicants, by providing more details about what you bring to the table and how you can help the company. 

Additionally, tailor your letter to the job. For example, if the role is about thermal systems, focus on that instead of other mechanical engineering areas like robotics.

Knowing about the company's past work or industry trends can also make your letter stronger. If you're familiar with the company's projects or innovations, mention that and why they matter to you. This shows you understand their goals and fit their culture.

Finally, let your passion show. Talk about your love for mechanical engineering and how you can bring value to their team with your skills and experience.

Make sure to also avoid these common cover letter mistakes at all costs while you’re at it! 

#5. Wrap It Up and Sign It

Concluding your cover letter with precision is like adding the final gear to a well-designed machine.

It's essential for your conclusion to resonate with the hiring manager, affirming the veracity of what you’ve written so far and showcasing your genuine passion for mechanical engineering.

Your closing lines are the opportune moment to reiterate the specialized skills and engineering experience you bring to the table that distinguishes you from the competition.

Next, include a call to action, subtly nudging the hiring manager to move you forward in the application process. Proposing a deeper conversation about the potential role you could play can be the catalyst for securing that coveted interview slot.

When it's time to sign off, it's crucial to maintain the same level of professionalism you've displayed throughout the letter. Opt for a fitting sign-off, followed by your full name. For instance:

I'd be thrilled to further discuss my engineering experiences and insights. Please feel free to reach out to me via the given email or phone number. I am eager to explore the potential synergies between my background and your team's objectives.

Warm regards,

Alexa Rodriguez

Should "Warm regards" not resonate with your style, here are some alternate closings you might consider:

• Yours faithfully,
• In appreciation,
• With respect,
• Thank you for evaluating my application,

3 Essential Mechanical Engineer Cover Letter Tips

You're now well-versed in the basics of cover letters! Let's take it up a notch and dive into some essential tips specifically tailored for mechanical engineers to make yours shine.

#1. Match Your Resume

Are you really keen on landing that mechanical engineering role? Presentation is crucial.

Your cover letter should visually sync with your resume; it makes you appear meticulous and put-together.

Ensure your details are neatly arranged on the page, and keep a uniform font style and size throughout. While adjusting margins and line distances, always shoot for a one-page cover letter. 

Ready to engineer a great first impression?

Or Use A Cover Letter Template Instead

Feeling pressed for time? 

Save time with our cover letter templates . 

Use our free resume builder to pick the perfect tech-themed resume template and then choose a cover letter that fits it like a glove. 

Crafted in collaboration with hiring managers globally, they ensure your cover letter not only matches your resume but also meets industry standards. Plus, they look fantastic! Dive in and make an impression.

#2. Mention Skills 

We can stress enough how important it is to highlight your skills when you’re writing your mechanical engineering cover letter. 

Sure, your resume has them all listed, but in your cover letter, you've got the opportunity to connect all the dots for the hiring manager. 

By elaborating on your relevant skills, you paint a vivid picture of how you're not just another applicant but the perfect fit for the role. This is about tying your skills directly to the job requirements and showcasing how they've benefited past projects or roles. This proactive approach not only grabs the hiring manager's attention but also instills confidence in your ability to excel in the position. 

So, when drafting, don’t just sprinkle in skills randomly; weave them into your narrative to show you're the right engineer for the job.

#3. Proofread The Final Draft

Let's get real: even the most stellar cover letter can fall flat if it's littered with typos or bad grammar. 

You could be the most qualified mechanical engineer out there, but a few overlooked errors might just send your application to the reject pile. Here's the deal - hiring managers value attention to detail, and rightly so. In a field as precision-focused as mechanical engineering, those tiny mistakes can hint at bigger oversights in work tasks. 

So, before you hit that 'send' button, give your cover letter a thorough read. Better yet, rope in a friend for a fresh perspective. 

And for an added layer of security? Use a spell-checking tool. Tools like Grammarly can be a lifesaver, catching errors that might slip past the human eye. Remember, proofreading isn't just about catching mistakes; it's about showcasing your commitment to excellence.

Key Takeaways

You're on your way to crafting an excellent mechanical engineer cover letter!

Follow our guide and you should feel ready to secure your next role easily

To summarize, here are the key takeaways from this article: :

• Ensure your cover letter starts with a clear header displaying your contact details. Accuracy matters; any errors might mean a missed job chance.
• Do your homework on the company. Personalizing your letter to their values and addressing the hiring manager directly can leave a memorable impression.
• Keep the style of your cover letter consistent with your resume. It presents a cohesive look and helps the hiring manager differentiate your application from others.
• Before hitting send, give your cover letter a thorough check. Mistakes in grammar or spelling can quickly move your application to the reject stack.

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Mechanical Engineer Cover Letter Samples & Examples That Worked in 2024

Nailing your mechanical engineer cover letter is a lot like building a well-oiled machine: a bit of elbow grease and the right tools can make a world of difference.

Our guide will walk you through handy tips, real-life examples, and compelling templates to help you construct a cover letter that won’t end up in the reject pile. 

And so, keep on reading and learn all about:

• Properly formatting your mechanical engineer cover letter
• Creating an effective header for your cover letter
• Crafting a compelling headline for your mechanical engineer cover letter
• Personalizing the greeting of your cover letter
• Writing a catchy introduction for your mechanical engineer cover letter
• Highlighting your engineering skills and achievements 
• Framing a persuasive conclusion for your cover letter
• Avoiding common mistakes in a mechanical engineer cover letter
• Understanding average salary and job outlook for mechanical engineers
• Engineering resources for job seekers

1. How to properly format your mechanical engineer cover letter

Formatting is not unique to CAD systems — your mechanical engineer cover letter needs it too. When your cover letter format is neat, it's smooth to read and easy for the recruiter to navigate.

The key to proper formatting is consistency , clear communication and ease of reading . Here are some handy general formatting tips to keep your cover letter in shape:

• Length: The sweet spot for a cover letter is a single page. Just like efficient machine design, condense your skills, achievements, and motivations into a compact package.
• Margins and spacing: Use standard one-inch margins on all sides. This gives your cover letter a clean, professional look. It's like safety distances in mechanical design: necessary and practical. For spacing, have consistent spaces between sections, typically one line gap.
• Font: Opt for professional, easy-to-read fonts. Your cover letter is no place for fancy typography. Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri in 10-12pt size are safe bets.
• Proper structure: Every cover letter should include the following sections: introduction, body, and conclusion. In the introduction, get right to the point. State why you’re writing the cover letter and what position you’re applying for. The body should highlight your experiences and skills relevant to the job. And in your conclusion, persuade the reviewer why you're the right fit for the role.
• Alignment: Align your text to the left. It helps in easy reading and looks organized.

Remember, your mechanical engineer cover letter should be a well-structured document that demonstrates your attention to detail, just as you would in your professional work.

Let your cover letter write itself — with AI!

2. how to create an effective header for your cover letter.

Your cover letter's header may seem like a small detail, but it actually serves a crucial function. It carries key contact information, and getting it right matters for both you and your potential employer . 

So what exactly should an effective header contain?

• Your address
• Your phone number
• Your email address
• Your LinkedIn profile link (optional)
• The recipient’s name
• Their title
• Company name
• Company address

Doing a bit of research to find out who’s going to read your letter does wonders. Addressing the reader directly adds a personal touch and shows you've genuinely invested time.

Now, let's illustrate with examples tuned for a Mechanical Engineer role.

Bad cover letter header example

John Doe | 123 Apple Lane | [email protected] | 555-555-5555

Why does it fall flat? This header has the basics like name, email, and phone number, but it's falling short on specifics. We don't see any date. More importantly, it lacks the reader’s information which can make your cover letter look more personal and professionally-tailored. This could be perceived as a missed opportunity to show interest and initiative.

Good cover letter header example

John Doe | Chicago, IL 60402 | [email protected] | LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/johndoe | 555-555-5555

November 2, 2022

To: Ms. Jane Smith Hiring Manager Mechanical Systems Inc. Chicago, IL 60403

Why does it work? Now, this is a well-rounded header. Name, address, email, phone number, and even LinkedIn profile — all boxes checked. Moreover, the inclusion of the date and the recipient's details demonstrates a well-thought-out approach. Not only does it look professional, but it also shows respect for the reader's time.

This simple yet crucial part of your cover letter can set the stage for your application. So don't rush it, take your time, make it count.

3. How to craft a compelling headline for your cover letter

The headline of your cover letter is the first thing a hiring manager reads, so making it compelling is crucial. Let's talk about how to pen a punchy headline for a mechanical engineer cover letter.

A solid headline is focused and communicates your career field or goal. As a mechanical engineer, it's recommended to highlight your engineering specialty or expertise, if you have any. 

Bad cover letter headline example

Job Application

Why is it weak? It lacks details and doesn't say anything about you, your profession, or the specific role you're applying for. 

Good cover letter headline example

Experienced Mechanical Engineer Specializing in Robotics

Why does it work? Here, the exact profession is mentioned (Mechanical Engineer), and with the specialization in Robotics, it adds a layer of specificity. It’s informative and targeted, telling the hiring manager precisely what they need to know right from the start.

All in all, your cover letter headline should be a succinct and impactful statement that aligns with the job you're applying for. A quick acknowledgement of your profession and expertise can set you apart from the competition.

4. How to personalized the greeting in cover letter

Finding the right way to address your potential employer is more important than you might realize. A personalized greeting can demonstrate your attention to detail and your respect for the person reading your application .

To save your cover letter from landing in the common pile of "To Whom It May Concern", it's worthwhile doing a bit of detective work. 

The job posting, the company's website , or LinkedIn might hold the key to finding the name of the hiring manager or the person responsible for sorting applications.

Personalized greeting examples

• Dear Mr. Johnson,
• Dear Mr. Jake Johnson,
• Dear Hiring Manager Jake Johnson,

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, you simply can't find a name . Don't fret. Default to using a generic but still professional sounding salutation such as:

• Dear Hiring Manager,
• Dear [Company Name] Team

Either way, the goal remains the same: make your greeting professional and respectful. This is your first chance to shine, don't let it go to waste.

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5. How to write a compelling cover letter introduction

In the introduction of your cover letter , you should introduce yourself in a way that is compelling to employers and keeps them interested in reading further. A strong introduction will often include:

• A brief overview of your professional history
• A statement on why you are enthusiastic about applying to this company
• A mutual acquaintance (when possible)

Mutual acquaintances help to build rapport and credibility immediately, while also providing the employer with a trusted professional reference.

Pro tip: If you don't have any mutual acquaintances, try building your professional network with platforms like LinkedIn . By doing so, you can connect with employees and associates of the companies you are most interested in.

Bad cover letter introduction example

I am writing to apply for the Mechanical Engineer position. I believe I have the necessary qualifications and would like to formally submit my application.

Why is it weak? This example seems very generic. Rather than generalizing about possessing the "necessary qualifications", it would be much more beneficial to highlight specific skills or experiences that make the candidate the perfect fit for the Mechanical Engineer position.

Here's a good example of a mechanical engineer introduction

I am a Mechanical Engineer with 6+ years of experience in industrial manufacturing. As a member of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, I have had the pleasure of meeting and collaborating with your Head Engineer, John Simmons. Mr. Simmons recently contacted me about this opening and recommended I apply, as my professional goals and values are aligned with your company’s.

Why is it effective? This example stands out with its personalized opening and relevant introduction of qualifications. The candidate effectively makes a connection by mentioning their relationship to John Simmons. The only small detail that could perhaps be optimized is the phrase "your company's", which could be replaced with the actual company name for an even more personalized approach.

Writing an impactful introduction to your cover letter requires a thoughtful approach.Highlighting your qualifications early on leaves a strong initial impression and stands you in good stead for consideration. 

6. How to showcase your mechanical engineer accomplishments & skills

The next step is to write the biggest section of your cover letter — the body paragraphs. Most mechanical engineer cover letters will contain between 2 to 4 body paragraphs that answer the following key questions:

• What excites you about working at this company?
• What skills do you possess and how can you apply them at this company?
• What accomplishments or qualifications make you stand out as an applicant?
• How can you contribute to ongoing or future projects the company is involved in?

Focusing on your relevant skills and accomplishments is particularly important. Unlike a resume , a cover letter gives you ample space to provide specificity and context around these qualifications, so use this space wisely.

Here are 6 examples of key mechanical engineer skills for your cover letter

• Manufacturing processes
• Product development & testing
• Mechanical mathematics
• Computer design programs
• Creative problem-solving
• Clear communication

Remember, don’t just list these skills, but integrate them within the fabric of your narrative.

Here's an example of how to describe accomplishments

During my tenure at XYZ Engineering, I led a team in designing and developing a cutting-edge automotive component that improved fuel efficiency by 15%, resulting in substantial cost savings for our clients. Additionally, I successfully implemented a streamlined manufacturing process, reducing production time by 20% and saving the company $100,000 annually. My innovative approach and attention to detail have resulted in three patents for novel mechanical designs. I am eager to bring this same level of excellence and ingenuity to further enhance your organization's engineering capabilities.

7. How to conclude your cover letter persuasively 

Always finish a cover letter off strong with an effective closing statement that includes:

• An enthusiastic sentence saying you are looking forward to hearing from them
• An additional sentence stating you will follow up, including how you will contact them or how they can contact you
• A formal sign-off

Here are two contrasting examples portraying an ineffective and a more effective way to conclude your cover letter:

Bad cover letter conclusion example

Can't wait to hear from you! I've always dreamed about working at your company, so fingers crossed. You guys are just awesome. Don't forget to call me, okay?

[Your Name]

Here's what makes it less effective:

• The tone is far too casual. While it's helpful to be personable and friendly, this crosses over into being unprofessional. 
• The statement, "You guys are just awesome," lacks specifics about why you're interested in the company. It feels generic and vague. 
• The last sentence comes off as not merely friendly, but borderline intrusive, which might not be taken well by a recruiter or hiring manager. 
• A professional sign off is missing and "TTYL" (Talk To You Later) might not be understood by everyone, particularly in a global work context. 

Good cover letter conclusion example

I am beyond excited to be considered for this opportunity and greatly look forward to further discussing my skills and qualifications as a Mechanical Engineer. I am eager to speak with you and am available to meet any weekday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., and I plan to reach back out if I have not heard back by next Monday. The best way to reach me is at (123) 456-7890.

Best Wishes,

Why does it work? The candidate’s enthusiasm resonates well, conveying genuine interest. Declaring one’s availability for any weekday demonstrates flexibility and eagerness to move forward. What’s more, the assertiveness with their promise to follow up reflects initiative.

In a nutshell, keeping professionalism intact goes a long way in leaving a positive impression on recruiters.

8. How to avoid common mistakes on a mechanical engineer cover letter

Avoiding some of the most common mistakes can help your cover letter stand out. Here are a few pitfalls to steer clear from:

• Vague language
• Mistake: "I have extensive experience in mechanical engineering."
• Fix: Use concrete examples to back up your claims, e.g., "In my 5-year tenure with ABC Corp, I led a team of engineers to redesign production processes, reducing mechanical failures by 30%."
• Skip the one-size-fits-all approach
• Error: Using the same cover letter for all job applications.
• Fix: Instead, tailor your cover letter for each job application. Identify the specific needs of the role and discuss explicitly how your skills and experiences relate to them.
• Evade overstatements
• Regular fumble: "I am the best Mechanical Engineer you will ever find."
• Fix: Rather than overly exaggerating your skills or qualifications, focus on factually presenting your key achievements and abilities. Modesty sprinkled with confidence is attractive.
• Beware of typos and grammatical errors
• Typical mistake: "I'm good at detail-oriented tasks," typed as "I'm good at detial-oriented tasks."
• Fix: Attention to detail is critical. Proofread your cover letter multiple times and consider having a trusted friend or mentor review it as well. Tools like Grammarly can also be helpful in catching errors. 
• Don't oversell or undersell
• Frequent slip: Either focusing too much on what you can gain from the role, or underselling by not adequately highlighting your skills.
• Fix: Strike a balance. While it's vital to show how the role aligns with your career goals, it's equally important to demonstrate how you can add value to the company. 

Remember, every touchpoint with a potential employer, including your mechanical engineer cover letter, shapes their perception of you. Making these minor adjustments can make a major difference.

9. Average salary and job outlook for mechanical engineers

The most recent data provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics , BLS, in May 2022, indicated that the mean annual wage for mechanical engineers was $96,310 . 

This figure, however, can swing higher or lower depending on several factors like levels of experience, skills, and location.

As for the job outlook, mechanical engineering remains a solidly growing field. The BLS projects a substantial 10% employment growth within the mechanical engineering sector from 2022 to 2032. This rate is significantly faster compared to the average growth rate for all occupations. 

Looking at the bigger picture, this translates into approximately 19,200 job openings for mechanical engineers projected every year, on average, over this ten-year period. 

What this means for individuals in or entering the mechanical engineering industry is clear — there are continually expanding opportunities and a healthy paycheck within this field.

10. Mechanical engineer resources for job seekers

Navigating the job market as a mechanical engineer can feel like solving a complex thermodynamics problem without the right resources at hand. Here are some pointers to guide you:

• Tap into industry-specific learning resources: Whether you're a budding mechanical engineer or an experienced practitioner, upskilling by delving into specialized subjects within your industry can catapult your career. Platforms such as Coursera , edX , and Udemy can be your academic haven. Get certified in applicable courses to add value to your resume and garner an edge over your peers.
• Join professional organizations: Groups such as the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) and the National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE) offer networking, continuing education, and job listings.
• Leverage LinkedIn: LinkedIn can be a goldmine of job opportunities. Keep your profile up-to-date and engage with posts within your field. Consider joining industry-specific groups on LinkedIn for the latest trends and job postings.
• Attend job fairs and industry events: Such events give you the chance to meet potential employers face-to-face, making them more likely to remember you when a job opportunity comes up.
• Enhance your skills: Continued learning is crucial in an ever-evolving field like mechanical engineering. Platforms like Coursera , edX , and Udemy offer profession-specific courses. 
• Use career-specific job sites: Websites such as Engineer Jobs , Engineering.com job board, and ASME job board focus solely on engineering opportunities and often feature more niche jobs than general employment websites.
• Cultivate your online presence: Start a professional blog, join relevant conversations online, or contribute to open source projects — these efforts showcase your passion and knowledge to prospective employers. 

Navigating your career path is significantly easier with the right tools and resources. Engaging robustly with the industry helps not only in job landing but also in staying abreast of emerging trends in your field.

Mechanical Engineer Cover Letter FAQ

Absolutely. A bespoke cover letter signals to the employer that you understand their specific needs and can articulate how your skills and experiences align to meet those requirements. It also shows commitment and readiness to put in the effort, traits that are always in demand.

Enormously relevant. Although your skills and qualifications are essential, networking helps to expand your reach and can open up opportunities that might not be readily visible. Professional organizations, LinkedIn groups, industry events, and job fairs are excellent places to network.

Identify transferable skills from your previous experience and draw parallels to the job you're applying for. For example, if your previous role involved complex problem-solving, this skill can be highlighted in your cover letter as it's an integral aspect of mechanical engineering.

Yes, experience can significantly influence your compensation in mechanical engineering. The BLS data typically represents a mean salary across various experience levels. As an engineer gains more experience and possibly specializations, they can command higher salaries than an entry-level engineer.

Certainly. Online courses are a fantastic way to broaden your abilities and keep up with the cutting-edge developments in the field. Whether you're expanding on foundational knowledge or delving into a new sub-discipline, online learning platforms can be a valuable resource.

Julia Gergelova

Julia is a professional writer, translator and graphic designer. She holds degrees in translation and interpretation, and has international work experience from a number of different countries in Europe as well as China and Panama. Julia formerly taught academic writing and as a graphic designer contributed to outlets such as  The Business of Business . She has a passion for lifelong learning and good coffee.

All engineering cover letter examples

• Aerospace Engineer
• CAD Designer
• Chemical Engineer
• Civil Engineer
• Electrical Engineer
• Production Manager
• QA Engineer (Quality Assurance)
• Quality Engineer

All mechanical engineer cover letter examples

Related mechanical engineer resume examples

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How to Write an Engineering Motivation Letter for a PhD

Read a summary or generate practice questions using the INOMICS AI tool

Ok, so the time has come to write your engineering PhD motivation letter. The cursor is blinking on the blank page. Your mind races. What do I write? How do I start? How do I phrase it? It can be a challenge, especially for us engineers who may not enjoy the written word as much as other academics do. But competition for some PhD places can be fierce, especially at good universities. Getting the motivation letter right is one of the most important parts of your application, so don't leave it until the last minute.

Check out our PhD program listings here

Basic Structure and Style

The first thing to realise is there's a big difference between the PhD motivation letter you should write for universities in North America and European universities. Typically, American universities expect to hear more about your general life, whereas European ones prefer to keep things mainly focused on your academic and work achievements. As a general rule of thumb:

• America – 70% life skills, accomplishments, 30% academic/practical/work
• Europe – 30% life skills, accomplishments, 70% academic/practical/work

Your letter should follow a standard formal letter format and should:

• be no more than 500 words (approx. one typed page of A4)
• be written in a clear font such as Arial or Calibri
• have a font size of 11 or 12
• consist of short easy-to-read and understand paragraphs
• use sub-headings and bullet points to break up the text
• be polite and formal, but not too wordy

Readability is a key factor in writing a successful motivation letter. Even though you're addressing academics, it's best to keep the language as simple as possible. Remember, this is a letter, not an essay. The professors may have to read dozens of these letters and want to find out about you as easily as possible, without having to wade through waffle, clichés or pompous-sounding sentences. Microsoft Word has a handy built-in readability checker (based on the Flesch-Kincaid test) and you want the "reading ease" score to be between 60 and 70 points to hit the right spot.

The structure

A recommended overall structure for the letter is as follows:

• A brief (1 or 2 sentences) introduction
• Your motivation for applying to do a PhD (personal statement)
• Your academic achievements and relevant life experiences
• The impact you hope to make with your research
• Your future career plans

Before we move on to looking at the actual content of your letter, just a quick note that should really go without saying – stick to the facts. Never be tempted to make things up or "embroider the truth". It's not only unethical but if you're accepted on the course and your dishonesty is revealed at a later date, you could waste all that time and effort, not to mention your reputation will be in tatters. It's not worth it.

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Content of the engineering motivation letter, don't underestimate practical experience.

Let's face it, engineering is a hands-on subject, no matter which branch you specialise in. The single biggest mistake that graduates make when applying for an engineering PhD, is focussing entirely on their academic achievements and neglecting any practical or "in-the-field" experience. Make a list of any relevant work experience, field trips, projects, etc. Anything that had an engineering element to it can be included. A good tip is to go back as far as possible. Joined a robotics club in secondary school? Write it down. Helped a neighbour build their house extension? Write it down. Had a summer job with a construction company? You get the picture. Even if you decide not to use half of it, listing all of these things out will give you some ideas of relevant skills you can mention.

Be specific

Another mistake people commonly make is to list their skills without providing any evidence, or just generally making vague statements. Don't simply state: “I work well in a team”. Give an example: “During my time at XYZ Construction Ltd, I worked closely with various team members to plan and build a gherkin-shaped tower block”. Don't say: “I enjoyed my Environmental Engineering undergraduate degree”. Be very specific about what you enjoyed: “As part of my degree course, I studied the spread and effect of subsoil pollution, which I found really interesting. So interesting in fact, that I spent my summer working for a soil remediation company.”

Show a bit of personality

It's ok to add a bit of character to the letter. Avoid jokes and sarcasm, but you can phrase things in a way that adds some sparkle. Include some "insider" references that only a fellow engineer would understand, for example. A great way to get your letter to stand out from the crowd is to highlight how your personality has helped you to overcome difficulties or achieve things related to engineering. A good example of this could be if you have worked on any relevant community or voluntary projects.

Show them that you're perfectly suited to the rigours of a PhD

A PhD is very different from undergraduate and postgraduate studies and requires different skills . You need to be self-motivated, disciplined, industrious, resourceful and focussed. Try to think of events in your life that demonstrate these qualities and make sure to mention them.

Talk about your plans

Towards the end of your letter, make sure you mention what your long-term plans are. This shows that you are focused on engineering as a career and that you’ll work hard to achieve results. Talk about any relevant work experience you’ve had to date – paid or unpaid. Also, mention any engineering societies or institutions that you’re a member of or plan to join.

Gentle Persuasion Techniques

We're not going to go in-depth into the psychology of persuasion here, but there are some little-known copywriting (i.e. advertising) "secrets" that you can employ to influence them to accept you. First of all, come up with a concrete idea of what they are looking for in a student. Once you have this fixed in your mind, include a sentence or two that shows you understand this and that you're the person they've been waiting for. For example, if you think they're looking for somebody creative with good design skills and also demonstrates people skills, you could include something like this in your introduction: “You're looking for a high-calibre student with a keen interest in design. During my undergraduate studies, I took part in several extracurricular design projects which involved coordinating and working with a small team of engineers.”

Another copywriting "trick" is to use powerful verbs to inspire or evoke an emotional response – think Nike’s slogan "Just Do It". We’re not suggesting you include a cheesy slogan, but try to use powerful verbs such as:

• I made sure…
• I focused...
• I endeavoured…
• I innovated...

Also, if you remember your school English lessons, they may have mentioned passive and active voice. Make sure that the majority of your phrases use the active voice. Here’s an example:

• Passive voice: “I was able to make a difference.”
• Active voice: “I made a difference.”

Finally, try to end with an upbeat message. In advertising, this is known as a call to action – a rousing final pitch that encourages the person to take a specific action. In a motivation letter, it’s a good idea to summarise the key things that make you suitable for the course, then close with something like: “Please don’t hesitate to contact me if you need any more information and I look forward to your response.”

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Scholarship Motivation Letter: MSc. Mechanical Engineering

Scholarship Motivation Letter: MSc. Mechanical Engineering for students. While, Motivation Letter Example provides help to get admission or scholarship. Therefore, Motivation Letter Examples are presented by Ask Scholars. So, For more Examples, Just subscribe to our Blog and you will not miss all important notifications.

While, A  Motivation letter  is an important document for students who want to apply for admission to any course. Meanwhile, Many universities ask for a Motivation letter along with other documents.

How to Study Effectively like a Top Student?

You can present your case in front of the admission department through Motivation letter. So, What are your chances to get Admission to a University, clearly depends upon how well the Motivation letter is written.

Hence, We bring for you an example of a Motivation Letter to enhance chances to get admission and scholarship in M.Sc. Mechanical Engineering.

So, Read the below Example on writing a Motivation letter for admission and scholarship in M.Sc. Mechanical Engineering and review your Motivation Letter. However, We wish you a lot of success with your application.

………………………………………………………….

Scholarship Motivation Letter: M.Sc. Mechanical Engineering

Dear Sir/Madam

My name is ——————- and I am writing to request you please consider me for admission in M.Sc. Mechanical Engineering at ——- University, UK. Meanwhile, I consider myself a suitable candidate to secure admission and scholarship for M.Sc. Mechanical Engineering. While, I have enclosed the completed application and additional materials (including cover letter) required by the university.

I have been awarded a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering and are looking for further qualification. While, I am creative, flexible and are looking for new challenges. I am tempted by international studies and willing to implement that into this study program. M.Sc. Mechanical Engineering provides a wide range of career opportunities. Therefore, I want to graduate from this course with the internationally acknowledged degree (Master of Science).

The central focus for the Master of Science Program is new and different. The course structure has two parts. The profile “Design and Systems Engineering” focuses on the development and design of products and solutions using the latest technologies and methods in Mechanical Engineering. While, The second profile “Materials Science and Engineering’’ focuses on contemporary engineering materials, with emphasis on polymers, composite materials and metals. It is the strong intention of this study program to involve companies in the process of education and research. Furthermore, students get encouragement to take over responsibility for their own studying.

Therefore, the majority of Master’s thesis projects are written in industry. I would like to apply for an external thesis topic and benefit from these company contacts. Therefore, this degree program would prepare me in the best possible way to achieve my personal objectives. So, please consider me for admission in this course, as I am excited to be part of this M.Sc. Programme. Thanks for your precious time.

Best Regards

10 Important Life Lessons to Learn Early on in Life

Hence, Motivation Letter examples can help you to write a better Letter for your admission to University. So, Please make sure with too many Motivation Letter examples don’t remove the originality, which is a necessity, and be patient. Practice as much as you can.

So, Write Your questions about ” Scholarship Motivation Letter: M.Sc. Mechanical Engineering ” in comment box.

If you want to get a Motivation Letter for yourself, just click  here  and secure admission and scholarship.

Finally, You can approach  Consult Studies Abroad   for Guidance about scholarships, University admissions, and much more useful information. Because, We prepare a strong Scholarship Application by emphasizing Personal statements and Motivation letters. Meanwhile, We Prepare Scholarship Applications for all countries.

So, Don’t forget to subscribe our blog by entering your email. Because, It really motivates us.

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Motivation Letter

Samples and templates

Motivation letter sample for Bachelor of mechanical engineering

Today we bring you a genuine sample motivation letter for bachelor of mechanical engineering sent last year for University Admission. As you know letter of motivation is essential part of application package for undergraduate studies so make sure to invest enough time in preparing the letter, because it is likely that admission panel will make decision on regarding your application based on the motivation letter.

Motivation letter for Bachelor of mechanical engineering

Dear Sir, Madam,

I am writing to apply for a Bachelor of Science degree program in Mechanical engineering offered by The Engineering Institute of Technology in Perth, Australia . I would like to enrol in Autumn session of 2020.

Since I was a child, I was always eager to understand, how a mechanism operates in a synchronous way to execute a particular function. Moreover, I was consistently thrilled by the challenge of disassembling a device, then reassembling it again. In fact, since my early childhood, building an engine or a robot was a both a dream and career goal. During high school, I enjoyed the idea of utilising math and physics to design practically utilized mechanisms. I was further stimulated when I began to read about hydraulics and thermodynamics system. That led me to realize that I have always wanted to study things that involve movement and coordination, in order to make practical utilization in development of various things. Therefore, choosing mechanical engineering is a decision based both on passion and on interests.

I already have an academic background in engineering because I am studying life sciences in my high school. At this point I would like to develop my career in Automation engineering or Mechatronics, because I did several high school projects related to automation. I am type of person who likes to invent and develop innovative products which are more energy efficient and environmentally sustainable, and therefore mechatronics would be an appropriate specialization for me.

I am confident that the Engineering Institute of Technology in Perth would be an excellent start of an exciting engineering career. For improving my education in engineering and preparing to start a career with confidence, Engineering Institute of Technology in Perth is the most appropriate choice for me. Moreover, your institution has a good ranking which makes it even more attractive as a choice for undergraduate studies. Insomuch I am amazed by the facilities and I believe in you and your program.

I consider myself to be a good candidate because of my thirst for knowledge. I also have a flexible and tolerant personality and can easily adapt to any environment. I believe that I should follow my dream while I am still young because now, I believe I can achieve anything. Thus, I am quite sure that I would like to apply for Engineering Institute of Technology in Perth program in order to achieve my goals. I do well under pressure but motivating environment can stimulate me to perform even better. 

In conclusion, I would like to reconfirm that I am eager to gain new experiences, improve my skills and Broaden my understanding of the dynamic engineering world.

Thank you very much for considering my application.

Yours faithfully,

[Name Surname]

Download Motivation letter for Bachelor in Mechanical Engineering in PDF

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Motivation letter samples and templates

Letter of motivation sample for a Master in Mechanical Engineering

Today we bring you a genuine sample motivation letter for masters degree in engineering sent last year for University Admission. As you know letter of motivation is essential part of application package for Master program so make sure to invest enough time in preparing the letter, because it is likely that admission panel will make decision on regarding your application based on the motivation letter.

Motivation letter for Master in Mechanical Engineering

Name and Surname of the applicant

Applicant’s address

E-mail of the applicant

University [Name]

[School / faculty name]

Admission office

Subject: Motivation letter for a Master program in Mechanical Engineering

Dear Sirs, Madams,

I was very glad when I saw this particular opportunity to apply for a Master program in Mechanical Engineering and with this letter I would like to express my strong motivation for this master course. I am a graduate of the University Of Szeged, Hungary holding BSc degree in Mechanical engineering.

I have graduated with honors at University of Szeged where I was able to get a solid knowledge in the field. At the moment I am doing my internship in Big Corp, where I am learning in practice how to apply methods for advanced component and structure dimensioning, which was the topic of my Bachelor thesis. Thanks to this particular experience I was able to perceive the complexity of this field, and to realize that I would like to develop my career in this area. Beside application of structure dimensioning, I hold especial interest in the digital design – both Computer aided design and computer aided engineering, and I would like to do specialization in this particular area.

After careful overview of the master program you are offering with at your University, I believe that curricula fully suits my intentions, and therefore I would like to get an opportunity to attend this program.

Due to my financial situation I was able to continue my studies in my country or abroad, since I am not in a position to finance my studies. Therefore, I will be very grateful to be provided with scholarship to improve my education and incent my career prospects. Knowledge gained on the studies at your University I see as an extraordinary career opportunity, and therefore I would be very glad if you could support my education with scholarship and to further inform me about any scholarship opportunity that may appear.

At the end I would like to point out that I am determined to make the most of this opportunity. I believe that being a student in your department would not only empower my career development, but would give me the framework to utilize my full potentials. Moreover I feel that as a Masters student at your University, I can benefit from the numerous challenging career opportunities.

Once again I am grateful for considering my application and I look forward to a favorable reply.

Name Surname

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Home » Motivation Letter For Bachelor Degree In Engineering: 5 Sample

Motivation Letter For Bachelor Degree In Engineering: 5 Sample

Want to write a Motivation Letter For Bachelor Degree In Engineering Enrolling in a Bachelor of Engineering degree program is a big decision. It’s important to make sure you’re fully committed and motivated to see it through. These five sample motivation letters for Bachelor of Engineering degree programs should help give you an idea on how to articulate why you want to study engineering and what your goals are. Good luck!

Table of Contents

How To Write a Motivation Letter For Bachelor Degree In Engineering?

When applying to a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, you will often be asked to submit a motivation letter as a part of your application. This letter is your opportunity to introduce yourself to the admissions committee and explain why you are interested in studying engineering. In order to stand out from the crowd, it is important to write a well-organized and engaging letter. Here are a few tips on how to write a motivation letter for Bachelor degree in engineering:

• Start by introducing yourself and explain why you are interested in studying engineering.
• Describe your academic achievements and highlight any relevant experience or extracurricular activities that have helped to prepare you for this field of study.
• Explain what you hope to gain from your studies and how you plan to use your education to contribute to the engineering community.
• Conclusion by reinforcing your interest in the program and thank the admissions committee for their time and consideration.

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Motivation Letter For Bachelor Degree In Engineering

To Whom It May Concern,

I am writing to apply for the Bachelor Degree in Engineering at XYZ University. Also, I have always been interested in the engineering field and I believe that this program will allow me to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue a career in this field.

I am a hardworking and motivated individual who is eager to learn. So, I am confident that I have the ability to succeed in this program and I am committed to working hard to achieve my goals.

Also, would appreciate if you could consider my application and I look forward to hearing from you.

Related: 7+ Sample Motivation Letter for Masters Degree

Motivation Letter For Bachelor Degree In Electrical Engineering

I am writing to apply for the Bachelor Degree in Electrical Engineering at XYZ University. Also, I have this interested in electrical engineering and believe that this is the right programme for me to pursue my interests.

So, I have consistently achieved excellent academic results and played football (soccer) for my school and club team since I was a young child. My involvement in sport has developed my teamwork skills as well as my discipline, both of which I believe will be beneficial in studying electrical engineering.

I am confident that I have what it takes to succeed in this programme and would be grateful if you could consider my application. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me at ___________.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

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Motivation Letter For Bachelor Degree In Mechanical Engineering

Also, I am writing this letter to apply for the Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering degree at your esteemed university. So, I have always been passionate about machines and how they work and this has been a driving force behind my decision to pursue a career in engineering.

I believe that I have the necessary skills and knowledge to be successful in this field, as evidenced by my excellent academic record. Also, I am hardworking and motivated. And I am confident that I will be able to contribute to the university and the engineering department.

I look forward to the opportunity to study at your university and to develop my skills further. I am eager to learn and grow as an engineer. And I believe that your program will provide me with the necessary foundation to do so.

Thank you for your consideration, and I look forward to hearing from you.

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Motivation Letter For Bachelor Degree In Civil Engineering

I am writing in regards to my interest in studying civil engineering at the bachelor level. Also, I have always been fascinated by the way that humans can take natural resources and create something so functional and beautiful from them, and I want to love be the part of that process.

I believe that I have the necessary skills and qualities to succeed in this field. so, I am an excellent problem solver and have a knack for coming up with creative solutions. I am also very detail oriented and have superb organizational skills.

In addition to my technical skills, I have the personal qualities that are essential for success in this field. I am a very hard worker and am always willing to put in the extra effort to get the job done right. So, I am also a team player and work well with others.

I am confident that I have what it takes to be a successful civil engineer. And I am eager to begin my studies. I would greatly appreciate being given the opportunity to study at your esteemed university. Thank you for your time and consideration.

(Your name)

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Short Motivation Letter For Bachelor Degree In Engineering

I am writing to apply for the Bachelor of Engineering program at your esteemed university.

As someone with a keen interest in mathematics and physics. I believe that studying engineering would allow me to develop a strong understanding of the underlying principles that govern our world. I am excited to learn about the various applications of engineering in fields such as construction, aerospace and automotive engineering.

In addition to my academic merits. Also, I am also athletic and outgoing, having been captain of my school’s soccer team for two years. So, I am confident that I would be an asset to your university and would take full advantage of the opportunities available to me.

So, I look forward to discussing my application further with you and thank you for your time and consideration.

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5 Things To Include In a Motivation Letter For Bachelor Degree In Engineering

When applying for a bachelor’s degree in engineering, your motivation letter is one of the most important components of your application. In it. You’ll need to demonstrate your interest in and commitment to the field. As well as your ability to think critically and solve problems. Here are five things to include in your motivation letter to make sure you stand out from the rest:

• Why you have interest in engineering. What about the field intrigues you? What kind of problems do you want to solve? Be specific about what drew you to the field and what keeps you excited about it.
• Your experience with engineering. If you have any direct experience with engineering, whether through coursework, internships, or research projects, be sure to highlight it. This will show that you have a foundation on which to build your future studies.
• Your problem-solving skills. As an engineer, you’ll be expects to solve complex problems on a daily basis. Use your motivation letter to demonstrate your ability to think critically and find creative solutions.
• Your commitment to the field. Engineering is a demanding field, both intellectually and emotionally. Show that you prepar for the challenges by demonstrating your dedication and determination.
• Your long-term goals. Where do you see yourself after completing your degree? What kind of impact do you want to make in the field? Share your ambitions for the future to show that you’re planning on making a career in engineering.

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I hope you found this blog helpful in your search for the best motivation letter for a Bachelor degree in Engineering. Writing a great motivation letter is essential. And I wish you all the best as you work to make your dream of becoming an engineer a reality!

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