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

PhD Motivation Letter Sample

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. 

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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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Home » Catchy Motivation Letter for PHD Scholarship : 7 Examples

Catchy Motivation Letter for PHD Scholarship : 7 Examples

Catchy Motivation Letter for PHD Scholarship Examples

A motivation letter for a PhD scholarship is your opportunity to state your case as to why you should be the one who is awarded the scholarship. There are endless forms to fill out and documents to supply, and the stakes are high. However, one of the most important elements of your application is the motivation letter. It is your chance to sell yourself and to demonstrate your commitment and passion for your chosen field of study. This letter should be well-written and persuasive, and it should highlight your unique qualifications and achievements. In addition, this letter should be specific to the scholarship you are applying for, and it should address the selection criteria of the award in detail. Ultimately, your goal is to convince the selection committee that you are the most deserving candidate for the scholarship and that you will make an excellent contribution to their program.

Table of Contents

How To Write Motivation Letter for PHD Scholarship?

A motivation letter is a piece of writing that explains your goals, experiences, and skills. It gives the scholarship committee a sense of who you are and what you have to offer. A well-written motivation letter can make the difference between getting accepted into your dream school and being rejected. When writing a motivation letter for a PhD scholarship, there are a few things to keep in mind.

First, be sure to clearly state your goals. What do you hope to accomplish with your degree? Why does this particular program appeal to you? Be specific and passionate about your reasons for wanting to pursue a PhD.

Next, describe your previous academic experiences and highlight any achievements or awards you have earned. Has your research been published in any journals? What kind of practical experience do you have in your field of study? Again, be as specific as possible. The more the committee knows about your background and qualifications, the more they will be impressed by your application.

Also, don’t forget to mention any financial need you may have. Many scholarships are awarded based on financial need, so this is an important part of your letter. Be honest about your circumstances and explain how the scholarship would help you reach your goals. Finally, conclude by restating your interest in the scholarship and reiterating why you believe you are the best candidate for it.

By following these tips, you can write a strong motivation letter that will increase your chances of being accepted into a PhD program. Take the time to craft a well-written and persuasive letter, and you’ll be one step closer to achieving your academic aspirations.

Related: How To Write a Cover Letter (And Get Hired in 2022!)

Motivation Letter for PHD Scholarship

Motivation Letter for PHD Scholarship

Respected: Scholarship Committee,

Also, I am (name) and I am writing to apply for the PHD scholarship that your committee is offering. So, I am currently a student at (university name) and I am planning on continuing my education by pursuing a PHD in (field of study).

Also, I am extremely passionate about my field of study and I believe that pursuing a PHD will allow me to contribute to the advancement of knowledge in this area. So, I am confident that I have the ability to successfully complete a PHD program and I am eager to put my skills and knowledge to use in order to make a positive impact on the world.

So, I would be grateful for the opportunity to receive this scholarship and I am confident that I would make great use of it. And I am committed to pursuing my studies and I believe that receiving this scholarship would be a major step towards achieving my long-term goals.

Thank you for your time and consideration,

(Your name)

Related: Cover Letter for PhD Application: 05 Templets ideas

Sample motivation letter for PHD scholarship application

Also, I am writing to apply for the PHD scholarship offered by your institute. I have completed my masters in XYZ from ABC university and wish to pursue further studies in the field of XYZ.

Also, I am confident that I have the necessary skills and knowledge to successfully complete a PHD program. My research interests include XYZ and I am keen to contribute to the body of knowledge in this area.

So, I am aware of the high reputation of your institute and I am confident that I will be able to benefit from the excellent facilities and resources available. And I am also keen to interact with other scholars and researchers working in my field of interest.

So, I am confident that I will be able to meet the requirements of the PHD program and I am eager to begin my research. And I am committed to completing my studies within the stipulated time frame.

Also, I would be grateful if you could consider my application for the PHD scholarship. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Sincerely, XYZ

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PHD scholarship motivation letter

Hello Scholarship Committee,

My name is ____________ and So, I am writing to apply for the PHD scholarship.

I am currently a ___________ at ___________ and I am passionate about continuing my education in order to become a ___________. Also, I believe that receiving this scholarship would allow me to further my education and reach my goals.

So, I am a hard worker and I am dedicated to ___________. I have experience in ___________ and I am confident that I can be an asset to your program. I am eager to learn and I believe that a PHD degree would allow me to contribute to the field of ___________.

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

Sincerely, Your name

Related: Motivational letter for university: 12 Examples & Sample Included

Application letter for PHD scholarship

Dear Scholarship Committee,

Also, I am writing to apply for the PHD scholarship. I am currently a student at XYZ University studying ABC. And I am passionate about my research and hope to continue my studies at the doctoral level.

So, I have been involved in several research projects during my time at university and have presented my findings at national conferences. And I have also published several papers in peer-reviewed journals. My academic achievements have been recognized with several awards, including the XYZ University prize for academic excellence.

I believe that I have the potential to be a successful researcher and would be grateful for the opportunity to continue my studies at the doctoral level. I am confident that I will make a significant contribution to the field of XYZ and would be proud to represent your institution.

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Motivation letter for PHD scholarship sample

Dear Sir/Madam,

Also, I am writing to apply for the PhD scholarship in your esteemed university.

I have completed my Master’s degree in X from Y University and am currently working as a lecturer in the Department of Z. So, I am extremely passionate about research and teaching, and have been involved in several research projects during my time as a lecturer. My areas of interest include X, Y and Z, and I am confident that I have the necessary skills and knowledge to pursue a PhD in these areas.

I am confident that I will be able to contribute significantly to your university’s research program. And I look forward to the opportunity to develop my skills and knowledge further. I am eager to learn and grow as a researcher, and I believe that your university will provide me with the perfect environment to do so.

Thank you for your time and consideration, and It look forward to hearing from you soon.

Related: Generic Cover Letter: 09 Samples & Examples

Example of motivation letter for PHD scholarship

So, I am writing to apply for the PhD scholarship offered by your esteemed organization. Also, I am immensely interested in pursuing a career in research, and I believe that this opportunity will allow me to develop my skills and knowledge in the field.

Also, I have completed my Masters degree in XYZ from ABC University. And my research during this time has been focused on understanding the mechanisms of XYZ. I have developed a strong foundation in the theory and practice of research. And I am now eager to apply my skills to a new area of study.

I believe that I have the potential to be an excellent researcher. And I am committed to pursuing a career in this field. I would be grateful for the opportunity to develop my skills further by undertaking a PhD,. And I am confident that I would be able to make a valuable contribution to your organization.

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Best motivation letter for PHD scholarship

Hello Sir/Madam,

I am immensely proud to have been admitted to the PhD program at scholarships University and am eager to begin my studies.

I am confident that I have the ability to successfully complete the program and make significant contributions to my field of study. My long-term goal is to become a professor at a research university, and I believe that this program will provide me with the necessary skills and knowledge to achieve this goal.

In addition, I am committed to conducted research that will have a positive impact on society. I am confident that I can make significant contributions to the field of scholarship and am excited to begin my studies. thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely, Your Name,

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5 Things To Include Motivation Letter for PHD Scholarship

A motivation letter for a PHD scholarship is an important part of your application. In this letter, you need to explain why you are applying for the scholarship and what your goals are. Here are five things that you should include in your motivation letter:

  • Your academic achievements: Include information about your grades. Test scores, and any awards that you have received. demonstrate that you have the academic ability to succeed in a PhD program.
  • Your research interests: Explain why you are interested in the research area that you are applying for. What are your goals for your research? How do you think that you can contribute to the field?
  • Your experience: Describe any relevant experience that you have, such as internships, jobs, or volunteer work. This will show that you have the practical skills to complete a PhD program.
  • Your motivation: Why do you want to pursue a PhD? What are your long-term career goals? Explain how earning a PhD will help you to achieve these goals.
  • Your commitment: A PhD program is a major commitment of time and energy. Demonstrate that you are prepared to make this commitment by discussing your ability to handle challenging coursework and research projects.

Related: What is Cover Letter? Complete Guide To Get any Job.

I hope you found this blog helpful in understanding how to write a motivation letter for your PHD scholarship. It is important to be passionate and excited when writing this type of letter. As it will show the selection committee that you are committed to their program and will thrive in the academic environment. Thank you for reading and good luck with your application!

PHD scholarship motivation letter

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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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  • Applying For Scholarships

How to Write a Scholarship Motivation Letter in 2023

Jennifer Finetti Sep 26, 2022

How to Write a Scholarship Motivation Letter in 2023

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A scholarship motivation letter can make or break your application. This is your opportunity to showcase your knowledge before an in-person interview. Motivation letters are not required for every application. Yet when they are necessary, they are critical. In this guide, we will provide tips for writing a scholarship motivation letter.

What is a scholarship motivation letter?

A motivation letter is like a cover letter you may include with a job application and resume. The goal of the letter is to explain:

  • Why you are a good candidate for the scholarship
  • What you plan to do with the education you receive.

Review committees often use motivation letters to narrow down their pool of applicants. Then they assess the rest of the application from the candidates they like best.

Motivation letters are usually required for graduate-level scholarships. Sometimes, you may need to write one for specialty programs at a bachelor’s level too. If you have the option to include a motivation letter with your scholarship application, take it. This may be the only chance you have to wow the review committee.

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Motivation letter for scholarship applications – general guidelines

Usually, the application will not specify how long your motivation letter should be. You will need to use your best judgment to write a concise motivation letter. The letter should include:

  • The most important elements of your resume
  • Your education
  • Your professional experiences and plans for the future.

Motivation letters are usually around 500-1,000 words. Split them into paragraphs for easy reading.

tailor motivational letter concept

Tailor your motivation letter to fit the sholarship

Your motivation letter should link your future plans with the goals of the scholarship . How will you benefit from continued education in this field? How will you use this knowledge to support the mission of the scholarship provider?

Say that the scholarship is from an agency that supports wildlife preservation. Your letter should explain how you plan to apply your education towards a career in that field.

You also need to establish why you deserve this application more than other applicants. What specific experiences do you have now that set you apart from the rest? What specific plans do you have that will address a current issue in the world? Even if you currently have limited knowledge about the issue, use that to your advantage. Explain how you could thrive with more education and solve even more problems in the future.

The structure of a scholarship motivation letter

Scholarship motivation letters vary by award, but they usually consist of three elements:

  • An introduction
  • Three body paragraphs
  • A conclusion

Your introduction should include your name, level of education and the degree program.

Your first body paragraph should include any work-related experience you have. This can include both paid and unpaid internships. You should show the growth of your career in chronological order. Finally, suggest where your career will go with continued education.

Your second body paragraph should explain what you hope to gain from your education. Think of which problems you aim to solve or uncover.

Your final body paragraph should explain your holistic plans for the future. Some ideas for inspiration:

  • You can include extra education you plan to pursue after education.
  • You can write about companies or agencies you’d like to work for after graduation.
  • You can talk about programs or organizations you would like to develop.

Finally, your conclusion should re-emphasize why you are a good candidate for the scholarship.

writing motivational letter

What NOT to include when writing a scholarship motivation letter

Your scholarship motivation letter should be well-written with no grammar or spelling errors. Use a professional tone and advanced phrasing (no slang). Provide specific examples about your past, present and future. Stay away from vague generalizations. Vagueness suggests a lack of care or knowledge. Neither of  these are impressive to a scholarship review committee.

Some final tips

Writing a motivation letter for scholarship applications takes time and commitment. Plan what you will say in advance, and allow at least three days to write the letter, review it, step away from it and edit it. This extra time will provide the best chance of success with your application.

A Sample Scholarship Motivation Letter

Julie Moore 9876 Smith St. Stillwater, OK 74074The Scholarship Committee 123 Learning Rd. Suite 4A Oklahoma City, OK 73127

To Whom It May Concern:

My name is Julie Moore and I am a third year student at Oklahoma State University. I am currently pursuing a five-year Bachelor of Architecture Degree. My plan is to follow up with a one-year master’s degree after I graduate.

In high school, I worked extensively with my local Habitat for Humanity branch to help build homes for low income families. I learned about the construction process from the ground up, and I discovered the importance of function in architectural design. The homes we built during my four years as a volunteer were never extravagant. They served their purpose and became a beacon of hope for their owners.

My education has been focused on this mindset: function over form, stability over showmanship. I have enrolled in several classes that crossover to the Architectural Engineering major. My goal is to have a comprehensive view of how design meets structure. I have worked on three extra-credit residential design projects under the supervision of my architecture professors (Dr. X and Dr. Y). This helped speed up my research and education.

My goal is to become an architect to create accessible, affordable housing opportunities in underprivileged communities. Living in a college town, I have seen countless rental properties available. Yet there are few homes for sale that are affordable enough for college students and first-time buyers. This is the case in many towns throughout America, especially areas with a low standard of living. I want to create neighborhoods that include affordable starter homes. This would enable low and middle-class families to build equity, avoid excessive debt, and create financial stability for their futures.

This summer, I will intern with  LMNOP Architects. Upon completion of my master’s degree, I hope to continue there as I further develop my skills. After working under acclaimed residential architects Suzan Craft and Peter Wood, I would like to open my own architectural firm focused on developing inexpensive, high-quality housing. I also would like to work with Habitat for Humanity again, this time as an architect instead of a general laborer. I believe firmly in their mission to build “a world where everyone has a decent place to live.” I appreciate your consideration. With your help, I can continue my schooling in architecture and design to bring accessible homes to those in need.

Sincerely, Julie Moore

  • Scholarship Essay

Jennifer Finetti

Jennifer Finetti

As a parent who recently helped her own kids embark on their college journeys, Jennifer approaches the transition from high school to college from a unique perspective. She truly enjoys engaging with students – helping them to build the confidence, knowledge, and insight needed to pursue their educational and career goals, while also empowering them with the strategies and skills needed to access scholarships and financial aid that can help limit college costs. She understands the importance of ensuring access to the edtech tools and resources that can make this process easier and more equitable - this drive to support underserved populations is what drew her to ScholarshipOwl. Jennifer has coached students from around the world, as well as in-person with local students in her own community. Her areas of focus include career exploration, major selection, college search and selection, college application assistance, financial aid and scholarship consultation, essay review and feedback, and more. She works with students who are at the top of their class, as well as those who are struggling. She firmly believes that all students, regardless of their circumstances, can succeed if they stay focused and work hard in school. Jennifer earned her MA in Counseling Psychology from National University, and her BA in Psychology from University of California, Santa Cruz.

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Tips for Writing a Successful Motivation Letter for Ph.D. [+Sample]

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How To Write a Motivation Letter For Ph.D. Application [+Sample]

Ph.D. applications are not just sorted out in the same way as any other random application. There are processes involved without which your chances of getting in might be truncated.

If you’ve been considering applying for a Ph.D. then this post is especially directed at you. A motivation letter as used in the case of a Ph.D. application can be much likened to a Personal statement.

There is a need to know if you’re truly qualified to do a Ph.D. while writing an application to a school, so the motivation letter is the perfect insight into who you really are and they expect you to do it justice.   

  • An introduction which should state in clear terms which program you are applying for.
  • A Summary of your Academic Background.
  • Why do you want to do a Ph.D.?
  • The significance of your research on society.
  • Your career plans.

Avoid Making Spurious Claims

It is quite easy to get lost while writing a motivation letter and forget that motivation cannot be achieved without the necessary evidence to back it up.

Nobody’s really interested in how awesome you are while writing a motivation letter, no offense but anybody can look good on paper but without the proper evidence to back it up, they wouldn’t be any motivation.

For Example, it is very common to see people write; “I work well with other people, or I am an expert at working under pressure”. Well, it is not a cover letter , it’s a motivation letter and you need to give realistic scenarios such as; “my leadership ability was demonstrated when I had to be in charge of a group of colleagues during my internship which required intense marketing management skills.”

Try As Much As Possible to Be Specific

It is equally very important to avoid being vague while writing your motivation letter. The reason why you’re required to write a motivation letter is that someone or some people have to know, if not you wouldn’t have to attempt one.

Saying that your undergraduate days in Marketing was very interesting is too vague to fit into a motivational letter, it sounds like something that should rather be written to a pen friend. You should be more specific about the courses you took as an undergraduate, why you love them and what you learned from them.

Show How Much Skill or Work Experience You Have

While writing a motivational letter, it is very important to concisely include how much skill and/or working experience you possess. A Ph.D. is about more than just a sequel to your past academic endeavors, it is a true test of education and education is more than just owning degrees.

They will be interested in the skills and/or work experience you’ve gathered over the years, skills which are strong enough to make you qualified to bag a Ph.D. That research, data analysis, etc. skills you thought you’d never have to flaunt, well I think this would be a perfect opportunity to talk about them.

Be Professional

It is equally quite important that you are very professional while writing a motivation letter for a Ph.D. application . It will be in your own best interest to ensure that you present your motivation letter with professional grammar, font and the appropriate writing style in which you’d rather prefer to be accepted.

Your professionalism sends a good message about your personality and would go a long way into helping you get accepted. 

Sample Motivation Letter for a Ph.D. Application

motivation letter phd application

Suggested Reading:

  • Cover Letter Examples
  • 2024 Letter of Interest - Example & Writing Guide
  • Students and Graduates Resume Example

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Motivation Letter

How to Write a Powerful Motivation Letter for PhD Program

An effective motivation letter assists the admissions board in distinguishing exceptional students from the rest of the pack. A motivation letter for a Ph.D. program helps the admissions board get a better sense of you than they will from your application. Hence, the design of the letter, its tone, and the level of interest suggested in the letter serve a crucial role.  Your goal is to stand out from other applicants.

When applying for a Postdoc or a Ph.D. program, you need to write a research proposal and a motivation letter. A motivation letter is a must for Ph.D. candidates. The letter elaborates on why you are the perfect candidate. We are going to give you some tips and structures to use as you write the motivation letter for your Ph.D. application.

At the end of the post, we will provide you with a sample to help guide you for your own motivation letter.

How to Write a Brilliant Motivation Letter for a Ph.D. Application

A motivation letter is very similar to a personal statement and a cover letter . All three documents explain and highlight your suitability for Ph.D. study when you are applying for a Ph.D. program. Typically, a cover letter would be for a job.  A motivation letter serves to show why you want to be part of the Ph.D. program and why you are a good candidate for it.

A motivation letter serves a fundamental role in the application process. It enables the admission board to evaluate several Ph.D. applicants with identical academic credentials and choose the perfect candidate and understand their inspiration for applying.

For the admission committee, academic credentials alone aren’t sufficient to showcase whether a learner will succeed in their doctorate program. A motivational letter enables them to understand an applicant’s enthusiasm, commitment, and appropriateness to the program, which better allows them to assess your capabilities.

How Should I Structure My Motivation Letter for a PhD

An outstanding motivation letter for Ph.D. admission will entail:

  • A concise introduction disclosing which Ph.D. program you seek
  • Your professional experience and educational background
  • Major skills, experiences, and interests that you have and what makes you an outstanding candidate
  • What drove you to apply
  • Final remarks and thanks.

This is the most straightforward itemization of a complex document.

The above framework will ensure that you keep your motivation letter for the Ph.D. brief and pertinent to the position you are seeking. Bear in mind that the letter’s purpose showcases your zeal and commitment and that you are well-suited for the program.

To simplify writing down a motivation letter for a Ph.D. application, we have defined what your introduction, main body, and closing segments should entail.

Starting Your Motivation Letter

Introduction: Open with a concise introduction where you openly declare your intention of applying for a given program. Picture it as explaining to a stranger what the document is all about.

Education: Describe what you studied and give the institution’s name, your program of study, and the research that you have done.

You want to provide the admissions team with an understanding of your course of study to date.  Ideally, you can include any research, including publications that you have been a part of.  This will show that you have the experience, interest, and tenacity needed for a Ph.D. program and the research that goes with it.

Work Experience: Condense your professional experience. Bear in mind that you will probably be requested to present your motivational letter alongside your academic résumé. Hence, you are advised to keep the section brief to eradicate potential redundancy. Make sure you include any other important experiences, such as charity work, teaching roles, or non-academic ones that showcase your skills and eligibility to become a Ph.D. scholar.

Key Skills: Highlight your major skills. Keep in mind that the admissions board considers your eligibility for the given program you are seeking; thus, state skills important to the Ph.D. program.

Motivation for Applying: Display your zeal for the program, the research involved, and why you want it.  Elaborate on your long-term ambitions. Begin by stating how that particular course caught your eyes and how your hunger to learn more about the topic has increased. Don’t forget to state all the other things you have done that showcase your curiosity in your suggested study topic, for instance:

  • Are you an experienced researcher?
  • Have you taken part in any seminars or workshops?
  • Are you conversant with the research field?
  • Are there any aspects of the topic which you have taught yourself?
  • Why this research?

Lastly, paint a picture for the admission board to help them understand what convinced you to commit the next half a decade to the program.

How to Conclude a Motivation Letter

Many people struggle with how to end a motivation letter . Normally, people can account for their academic credentials and why they desire to become part of the program.

A good way to conclude is with a summary of why you are a great candidate and an offer to discuss your candidacy.  It’s a good idea to provide your contact details so that a reader has them available.

Remember, getting admitted into a Ph.D. program is extremely competitive, and professors put a lot of work into mentoring their learners. Professors are naturally inclined to favor those who demonstrate the highest level of dedication. The conclusion must remind the admissions board that you are not only committed to the course, but the institution will greatly benefit from having you on board.

And lastly, thank the board for taking into account your application.

Motivation Letter for Ph.D. Admission Format

It is important to follow some basic guidelines when writing a motivation letter. The format mimics the report writing formats, which the professors are conversant with:

  • Use a sans serif font, for example, Arial or Times New Roman.  It should look professional.  Nothing fancy. 
  • Utilize a black standard font size. A 12-point font should work.  This makes it easy to read without being too large.
  • Adhere to professionalism all the way through and avoid the use of informal language or colloquialisms.
  • Write in the first person.
  • Address the motivation letter for Ph.D. to a named individual.  If in doubt, you can use the person in charge of admissions.

The Length of a Motivation Letter for Ph.D. Admission

For Ph.D. motivation letters, the standard recommendation is to keep them to one page. These are busy people and they won’t spend a lot of time reading information. You want to make it as easy on them as possible. Keep your letter to one page, usually 3-5 paragraphs.

Tips for Writing a Motivation Letter for Ph.D. Admission

opened book on textile

Below, we’ve stated the greatest tips for effectively writing a Ph.D. Motivation Letter. You want to keep these in mind as you write, review and edit your motivation letter:

Compose the Motivational Letter using a Professional Tone

It is crucial to add information in a motivation letter for a Ph.D. application professionally. It is in your best interest to write a letter with the right font, style, and grammar. Plus, doing this raises your odds of getting accepted into the program. Professionalism serves a crucial role in directing a great insight into your personality and lets you get acceptance.

Be Specific, Truthful, and Show Results

Where you can, the most powerful message is to show specific accomplishments, responsibilities and results.  This is true for research, academic achievements, or work or volunteer achievements.  Showing results demonstrates that you understand the impact of your effort and that the program can expect results from your work. 

This can be a powerful message.

Make sure that you can back up any accomplishments or experiences that you highlight.  It’s great to show accomplishments but the last thing you want to do is to create doubt about your honesty or your application. 

If you lack prior experience in carrying out Ph.D. tasks, this is alright – you are not expected to understand everything before you kick start the program. Nonetheless, you have to prove in your motivation letter for a Ph.D. that you can carry out this work. To achieve this, we advise that you concentrate on the expertise you possess – for example, writing, presentation, data analysis, etc. Attempt to illustrate how you have deployed these abilities in the past to indicate that you are well-prepared for the Ph.D. program.

Show Personality

The motivation letter must remain professional. Hence, steer clear of jokes and sarcasm. At the same time, it can be much more interesting to read, and much more powerful to show who you are in your writing.

Discuss your Future Plans and Your Interest s

Showing your passion and interest in the field of study can really make a difference in your admission.  Professors want someone who is interested in the work and the research.  You want to show how your background, goals, and passions fit into the work that you will be doing.

A great way to do this is to show why you are passionate about the research. Perhaps it means something to you personally or it’s a way that you can make a difference. Maybe you are just fascinated by the topic. Passion goes a long way if it’s genuine.

Check Your Spelling and Grammar

You are applying for an academic position.  You want a letter that doesn’t have any grammatical or spelling mistakes.  Even minor mistakes can make an admissions officer question your candidacy. Of course, use a spell checker. For something this important, a more robust spelling and grammar checker like Grammarly can be invaluable.

Additional Resources

We offer an editable version of the sample motivation letter for PhD program. You can download that here . It works with both Word and Google Docs and can help get you started on your own letter. 

If you need help writing your motivation letter, there is experienced help out there to help you.  Fiverr is a great resource for finding someone to help you write your motivation letter for your Ph.D. program.  There are a number of great freelancers there with experience writing motivational letters.  There are also freelancers on Fiverr who can help you with your research proposal. We’ve written a guide to help you get started using Fiverr.

If you decide that’s a good route for you, we’ve put together a guide to help you find the right freelancer for your needs.  They will help you get the motivation letter you need for that Ph.D. program.

Another great resource is Grammarly .  Grammarly is a spell-checking and grammar-checking tool that goes beyond anything you will find in Microsoft Word or Google Docs.  It will help you find misused words and common grammar mistakes.  That’s the free version!

The paid version of Grammarly is much richer and an amazing resource if you aren’t a natural writer or applying in a language that isn’t your primary language.  Grammarly will help you strike the right tone for your letter.  It points out grammar and stylistic problems and will often suggest improvements for your writing.  It’s a great resource for you when writing something as important as a motivation letter or application. 

A Sample Motivation Letter for a Ph.D. Program Application

Below is a sample motivation letter you can use to get started. Remember that this is to give you some ideas and the proper formatting. Do not use this letter or even change it for your information. It’s here to give you some ideas, but you must write your letter. You can download an editable version of this letter here .

Thank you and Good Luck!!!!

Motivation Letter for PhD

You can also download an Adobe Acrobat (pdf) version of the Motivation letter for Ph. D.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can my future plans and interests make a difference in a motivation letter for a ph.d..

Attitude is often as important as aptitude. Showing your passion for the area of research or having a personal tie can make a big difference in your selection.

Related posts:

  • Crafting the Perfect Motivation Letter for Study Abroad
  • Motivation Letter for Internship with Example
  • Motivation Letter For Scholarship With Example
  • Motivation Letter for University, College & School With Example

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How to Write an Exceptional Research Scholarship Motivation Letter

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Haven’t heard from the scholarship committee yet? Another email of rejection? Numerous drafts, constant search for an ideal template, and yet couldn’t receive the scholarship? What could be the reason? The time and effort you put in writing personal statement and creating a powerful academic CV may have gone to vain, if the scholarship review committee never even saw it. And what do you think must have kept them from doing so? Yes, it is the scholarship motivation letter that you either didn’t care to write or if you did, it wasn’t compelling enough.

In today’s age, lack of financial ability must not serve as a hindrance in attaining higher education. With rising competition, your key to winning that scholarship is by drafting an exceptional letter of motivation to make you stand out from other applicants.

Table of Contents

What is a Scholarship Motivation Letter?

A scholarship motivation letter is an opportunity to display your knowledge to the recruiter before you are called for an in-person interview. It speaks out some of the important aspects of your  research proposal  that connects it with your academic competence and personality. It is a crucial part that can make or break your application. Rather, it can be a deciding factor for the recruiters if you are eligible to be called for an interview.

A scholarship motivation letter  is similar to a cover letter; it is not needed for every application; however, critical if mentioned specifically. Moreover, motivation letters are used to narrow down review committee’s pool of applicants.

Your scholarship motivation letter must answer the following questions:

  • Why are you the ideal fit for the scholarship?
  • How do your skills and abilities contribute to the university or your research field?
  • How you plan to execute your education?

General Guidelines to Follow While Writing a Scholarship Motivation Letter

Generally, the application does not specify how long your motivation letter should be. However, you must use your best judgment to write a concise yet impactful scholarship motivation letter.

  • It should usually range from 500 to 1,000 words.
  • Divide them into 3 paragraphs for easy comprehension and better readability. This eases the job of the review committee members.
  • Ensure the font is universally used, such as Times New Roman, Calibri, or Arial in a font size not smaller than 12.

What Should a Scholarship Motivation Letter Include?

Scholarship Motivation Letter

What is the Scholarship Motivation Letter Format?

Since there is no standard structure for writing a motivation letter for scholarship, it has been a challenge to structure a convincing one. While the motivation letters may vary by universities and scholarship awards, the 3 consistent elements are an introduction, three content paragraphs, and a conclusion.

1. Introduction

  • The introduction of your scholarship motivation letter should include a brief introduction specifying the program you would like to apply for and the reason for choosing it.
  • It must clearly state objective of your future projects and career.
  • Most importantly, your introduction must include your name and highest educational qualification so far.

2. Three Content Paragraphs

  • The first paragraph of the main body of the motivation letter should include information about your academic and professional experience. Your professional experience may not only include academic related work such as teaching and research experience, but also work outside academic sector such as volunteering that demonstrates relevant skills and knowledge. Furthermore, this paragraph must showcase your career growth in chronological order. Finally, mention your professional ambitions you plan to achieve with education from this program.
  • The second paragraph should explain what you hope to gain from your education. Furthermore, how you plan to contribute to the society and the problems you aim to solve with the help of your education. Emphasize on your willingness to improve career prospects and aspiration to discover and learn new things.
  • The third paragraph should demonstrate your plans for the future. This could include additional knowledge or corresponding course you plan to pursue. You need to clearly describe what motivates you and what you would like to achieve as a result of your studies. Additionally, it should provide facts of your published work. Finally, display your soft skills and explain how they could be considered beneficial for your research conduction and for your field of study in general.

3. Conclusion

  • While concluding, mention the impact your study/studies may have in your life, research area, and society at large.
  • Explain how the scientific community and university can benefit from selecting you as a candidate for the program.
  • Furthermore, state that you are aware of the competitive nature of the program and how you will be an asset to it.
  • More importantly, it must reinstate how you are an ideal candidate and why must the selection committee choose you over other applicants.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing a Scholarship Motivation Letter

Your scholarship motivation letter will probably be the first thing you are judged by. Hence, you should be scrupulous while writing and eventually submitting it. Beware of the common mistakes to avoid in the letter:

  • It should be well-written with no grammar or spelling errors .
  • Use a professional tone throughout the letter.
  • Avoid slangs, clichés, colloquialisms, or jargon.
  • Use of vague generalizations should be avoided.
  • Avoid irrelevant information.
  • Do not include false achievements .
  • Avoid praising the university too much.

Key Takeaways

Since a scholarship motivation letter is your way to get through the review committee and convince them how you are an ideal candidate for the position, it must be written with a plan. Allow at least three days to write the letter. Get it reviewed from your colleagues or professors. Be your critic and edit it attentively.

Now it’s your turn to draft an award winning scholarship motivation letter. Refer to the scholarship motivation letter sample below and write one yourself. Let us know how these tips helped you.

Scholarship Motivation Letter Sample

The Scholarship Committee Department of Biological Sciences Stanford University United States of America

To Whom It May Concern:

My name is Steve Boult and I am a third year student at Oklahoma State University. I am currently pursuing a four-year Bachelor of Engineering Degree, and I plan to follow up with a one-year master’s degree after I graduate.

While in high school, I interned with a reputable chemical plant in the Research and Development department. I learned about the construction process of refineries from the ground up, and I discovered the importance of its function. I worked closely to develop and optimize the machinery to increase the output at the plant. Additionally, I volunteered at an NGO to design and implement new technologies in the water supply mechanism of the town.

My education is largely focused on this mindset: function over form, stability over showmanship. I have enrolled in several classes that amalgamates Chemical Sciences with Engineering in order to have a comprehensive view of how design meets structure. I have worked on four extra-credit chemical plant and oil refinery design projects under the supervision of my professors (Dr. A and Dr. B) to accelerate my research and education.

I believe in avoiding accidents than fixing the loss it causes. Thus, as an engineer, I want to create accessible, cost-effective, productive, and durable AI-based operational systems that inform us about the potential malfunctions in advance. Coming from a mechanical background, I believe that there is a need for an operational system that is reliable.

I appreciate your consideration. With your assistance, I can continue my schooling in engineering and design to put an end to uncalled for accidents in plants and other industries.

Sincerely, Steve Boult

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How To Write A Good Motivation Letter For Scholarship (4 PDF Sample Examples)

Published: 19 Sep 2020 Scholarship Application 41,848 views

How To Write A Good Motivation Letter For Scholarship (4 PDF Sample Examples)

Are you looking for how to write a motivational letter for university scholarship or a motivation letter for masters scholarship? Don't worry any further. Today, we are going to deliberate on how to write the best motivation letter for scholarship.

Particularly, we will discuss the following;

  • What is scholarship motivation letter?
  • Difference between scholarship application letter and scholarships motivation letter.
  • Parts of a scholarship motivation letter.
  • What to do in scholarship motivation letter.
  • What not to do in a scholarship motivation letter.
  • Letter Formatting for scholarship motivation letter.
  • Sample Scholarship Motivation Letter.
  • Sample Scholarship Motivation Letter pdf.
  • Various Scholarship Motivation Letter samples.
  • Motivation letter for PhD
  • Motivation letter for Master's Degree
  • Motivation letter for Undergraduate / Bachelor

Before you start reading, checkout; ongoing scholarships for international students - study abroad scholarships

WHAT IS A SCHOLARSHIP MOTIVATION LETTER

A scholarship motivation letter is a statement that aims at convincing a scholarship committee that you are a perfect candidate for the scholarship. You are expected to express why you should be chosen for the award with reasonable arguments. Like in a bursary motivation letter template, you are also expected to incorporate your goals as to how you will utilise the education you receive. How important is this scholarship motivation letter?  Very important.

You see, the university board usually employs the method of requesting a scholarship motivational letter to abridge the number of people applying for the award. In essence, in order to be confident that you would continue with the application process, your motivation letter has to be smashing.

DIFFERENCE BETWEEN SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION LETTER AND SCHOLARSHIP MOTIVATION LETTER

Now in this previous article, we learnt about the features of an application letter. And you may surmise that the application letter and motivation letter are identical. Well, you are not necessarily wrong. Some sources find these two documents as interchangeable. However, these two letters serve different purposes.

A scholarship application letter is written to indicate one's interest in a scholarship award with proven examples. A motivational letter is meant to convince the committee that the author is a perfect fit for scholarship. The latter appeals to the committee's sense of empathy, compassion while the formal appeals to logic and rational evidence. Therefore, the structure, formatting and guidelines of writing a motivational letter would quite different. So follow along as we proceed with the parts of a scholarship motivation letter.

PARTS OF A SCHOLARSHIP MOTIVATION LETTER.

When composing a motivation letter for study assistance, there are a number of factors to consider. Your motivation letter for scholarship will entail pivotal elements of your resume, your work experience and past education. With the information fetched from these sources, you are expected to compose a 500 - 1000 words content. Lastly, your letter should be flexible and fit into the goal, values and aspirations of the sponsor of the scholarship. So let's see the structure of the sample motivation letter for fellowship program.

  • Paragraph one : Introduction
  • Paragraph two  : Work experience
  • Paragraph three : Education
  • Paragraph four  : Conclusion ( future aspirations)

Introduction

Start with a mouthwatering sentence and proceed with vital information. This would include your name, education and the degree program you are hoping to attain.

Work Experience

In this paragraph, you will discuss about your professional experience. Don't leave unpaid internships and volunteering out. They are equally important and they reflect your wealth of experience. You are also advised to explain your job responsibilities in detail as the reader can get full grasp of your content.

In this education section, you can briefly explain the skills you acquired and the knowledge you have so far. Then, quickly proceed with the degree you want to pursue and why. Restate the institution's goals and values and prove how you can contribute to their actualization by granting you the scholarship.

Is there any extent you wish toreach after completing the scholarship program? Perhaps a PhD? Are there companies you want to work for in the future? Are there any organizations you would like to develop? In these concluding remarks, you are allowed to incorporate all of these and end with a smashing farewell sentence.

WHAT TO DO IN A SCHOLARSHIP MOTIVATION LETTER

While writing the scholarship motivation letter, there are few facets to consider and there are other things you should exclude. Let's proceed with "what to do".

Include the core values, vision and mission of the university

The institution must have been long established them. Thus, there must be a well - structured organizational culture. It's your duty as a scholarship candidate to recognize that.

Include volunteering work and community service.

Have you served a particular community or volunteered for a non - governmental organization? This is ace in your sleeve. This would reflect team spirit, problem solving and collaboration skills on your part.

Include future plans and aspirations

Don't be oblivious of your reasons for taking up a scholarship application. Express how far your scholarship application can take you and how it may even contribute to the improvement of your community.

Don't fail to research on past scholarship .

The institution you are interested in may have initiated the scholarship application process many sessions ago. It would be very prudent on your part to take your time and research on the winning scholarship.

Don't submit without be proofreading .

Time and again in other articles , we have reiterated the importance of cross checking your work. This is equally be essential in this case. Convincing the committee of your eligibility should be error - free.

LETTER FORMAT FOR SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION

Let's reiterate a point here. The content of the letter is as important as the structure of the letter. This means the motivation letter for scholarship format has to be set in a way that makes the content edible and appealing. It can also serve as a scholarship letter format for school. So how about you follow the few guidelines below:

  • Use the correct spacing: 1 or 1.5.
  • Don't be tempted to use justification. Left side align is easy on the eye.
  • There should be one - inch margins for some white space and friendly impression.
  • When it comes to the paragraph, there should be double spacing between them.
  • Fonts like Calibri, Arial and Times New Roman are welcome.

SAMPLE MOTIVATION LETTER FOR SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION

Here is a letter of motivation for scholarship sample that would be of great help in grasping the above steps fully.

Gregory Lions

45, Walkway, Queensland,

Michigan, USA,

P.O. 56789.

University of St Hector's,

60, Samson street,

Texas, Pennsylvania,

My name is Gregory Lions. I am a graduate of Accounting and Finance from the University of Michigan. I have passion in assisting clients with giving their shots in the stock market and real estate. My academic record and professional experience can clearly testify to the smooth path I am trying to pave in my career. Therefore, I am applying for the scholarship award for Masters in Investment Management.

I have been working as an investment banker in one of the top notch wealth management companies in the state. My job entails developing different types of financial models to value debt and equity, develop recommendations for product offering and create presentations for client portfolios. In time, I have been able to develop strong communication and networking skills.

As an intern in a commercial bank, I was opportune to practice impeccable research and quantitative analysis and learnt to explain market events. My supervisors were all proud of my ability to organize and track overlapping tasks and assingnment.

As earlier mentioned, I studied Accounting and Finance. Throughout my courseworks, I learnt to analyze and utilize financial information in order to evaluate a business financial position. I was trained in handling basic book - keeping and managing balance sheets and income statements. However, I want to take my career a step further.  That's why I would love to study investment management because I will be able to professionally determine the optimal strategy for achieving a clients' goal, perform portfolio allocation between bonds and stocks and issue buy and sell recommendations.

I understand that the values of St' Hectors University consists of consistency, commitment and efficiency. This is one of my major reasons for applying. Your core values resonate with me as they have guided me through my academic progress and work experience. I strongly believe that I can contribute to the accomplishment of the institution's mission. I am looking forward to discussing how the Department of Investment Management fosters learning for its students and how it plans to research on Investment Management.

SAMPLE SCHOLARSHIP MOTIVATION LETTER PDF

The above sample is on a motivation letter for scholarship application pdf version for faster accessibility and assistance in drafting your own motivational letter. Kindly download the sample motivation letter for scholarship pdf version

VARIOUS SAMPLE SCHOLARSHIP MOTIVATION LETTERS

So now we will proceed with manifold sample motivation letters for scholarship examples. There are various samples to look up to. Let's take a look at each purpose and back it up with a sample from various sources.

Sample Motivation Letter for Undergraduate scholarship.

What if you just jumped be out of high school want to get a bachelor's degree. Unlike a motivation letter for phd scholarship , a motivation letter for scholarship bachelor is a lot different for other degrees.

Download motivation letter for undergraduate scholarship

Sample Scholarship Motivation Letter for PhD

You may want to apply to a  University for a PhD  but might be clueless on how to wow the committee. This example of motivation letter for scholarship application  would be a perfect fit for you. Check out the following statement of motivation for scholarship.

Download motivation letter for Ph.D Scholarship

Sample Motivation Letter for Masters Degree

You may want to further your education through Masters Degree. The following example shares some very important features to consider when writing a motivation letter for scholarship master’s degree. Check this motivation letter for master scholarship out.

The above motivation letters samples are a great guide for you to proceed with your application process. It is most likely to be required by the institution or sponsor you are applying to. So being fully equipped is an amazing asset. And we have it all with a platter of gold. A successful motivation letter for scholarship, if properly composed is a tool that sets you apart from others. Before you embark on the scholarship interview ,or presentation of your resume , a motivation letter is a great opportunity to show the committee that you are the real deal

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How to write a Motivation Letter for Scholarship (5 Examples)

The motivation letter is what sets you apart from the rest when applying for a scholarship. A winning motivation letter has not only helped us win scholarships (academic and professional practice) but also to find employment with large companies. Now we want to tell you everything you have to keep in mind while writing a motivation letter for scholarship. Here we will teach you to develop your own template so that you can apply to multiple calls and increasing your chances of winning scholarships abroad.

Motivation letter for scholarship should include your academic achievements. It should explain: Why are you the ideal candidate? How do your skills and abilities contribute to the university or country? You should show the desire that you want to learn and contribute new knowledge.

Note: This does not mean that academic performance, experience and recognition do not matter and that just having an attractive and clear motivation letter will be enough to get the scholarship. Your achievements and skills make you the right candidate for the scholarship and the motivation letter helps you excel as indicated.

Also Check How to write an Impressive Academic CV for Scholarship along with Template

Before Writing your Motivation Letter for Scholarship

Investigate the institution and the country you want to travel to and study. What profile does the institution or the scholarship provider looking for? Browse its official page, review the sections: About, Our Culture, Philosophy, among others, and analyze the institution. Do they value leadership more or the ability to work as a team? Are they socially responsible and concerned about the environment? What is the role of ethics? Or are they more focused on numbers and concrete results?

This research will not only help you shape your motivation letter according to the interests of the institution but also to find out if this opportunity suits your interests.

Strategy 1: Review the Mission and Vision of the institutions and analyze profiles of faculty members. Use synonyms of the words they use in the motivation letter.

Strategy 2: Check the section of testimonies of students (scholars or not) or employees of the institution. Sometimes they have official videos and what they say also helps you to analyze and find out if you like the program and then address your motivation letter accordingly.

Also Check How to Write a Winning Statement of Purpose for Scholarship

How to write a winning motivation letter for Scholarship?

Now that you have made the respective analysis, it is time to write a winning motivation letter for scholarship. The letter of motivation must have the following points:

(1)  Title and header:

Title: “Letter of motivation for [scholarship to which you are applying]”

  • Address + postal code
  • Optional: Skype and social networks
  • Header position : I recommend upper right but upper left can also be.

(2)  Introduction:

Start with formal greeting and to the point, mention the reason for this letter. “Through this I want … apply to the scholarship … published in …. “. Also answer briefly: why are you applying to this scholarship, what motivated you from the program? In this way, you can write concisely about what you like about the institution and / or country to which you are applying for scholarship. And finally, do not forget to mention your objective and how it relates to the objectives of the program to which you are applying. Example: “… I’ve been looking for an international experience for … And I trust that the study program X in the institution can help me …. “

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(3)  Who are you?

This is the second paragraph of the motivation letter where you should write:

  • Your academic achievements.
  • Why are you the ideal candidate?

Tip: No matter what kind of achievements you have had, write them down in a way that demonstrates the value they bring to the institution or country to which you apply.

(4)  How do you contribute?

Just as you really want to learn and travel, how do your skills and abilities contribute to the university or country? You can place things like “increase the knowledge of my colleagues about my country, participate in sports or art activities etc.”

(5)  Demonstrate in advance that you know who you are addressing (institution and / or country):

You mentioned it in the introduction but here you must give more details of your motivation. According to the previous research: Why does the program mean so much to you? How the research projects and facilities of the institution and country will help you to achieve your goals?

(6)  Final words:

You and I know that you really want to do this, prove it! Show the desire that you want to learn and contribute new knowledge. Here are words like “I am very motivated by …” “it would be an honor and the beginning of a road full of …” etc

(7)  Acknowledgments and dismissal:

Again, time is supremely valuable, so we must thank the reader for giving attention and make it clear that you are looking forward to work with them. Finish with “Cordially” or “Cordial Greetings” is more than good.

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Motivation Letter for Scholarship Template

I know that you want to apply for several scholarships but you do not have to write a different motivation letter for each application. Develop a template that allows you to adapt the content to the specific situation. But how do you do this? Once you have carried out the 7 steps of the previous section, you already have a template that you can edit so that your motivation letter corresponds to the scholarship you want to apply for. However I have provided motivation letter template below.

Tips on writing a Brilliant Motivation Letter for Scholarship

Structured: If your ideas are not clear and the letter does not have a natural flow of reading, it will be very difficult for the examiners to continue reading. Identify your strengths and show them in a concrete and coherent way with the program to which you are applying. Write convincing and results-oriented sentences.

Clear: Easy to read, avoid complex words and separate the paragraphs by the sections about which you speak.

Short: If you are clear, you do not have to extend more than 1 page. In fact, it is often necessary for the motivation letter to meet this requirement. If not, a page and a half is enough … remember that time is the most important resource we all have, even those that examine your application

PDF: Although you write it in Word, you must save it and present it as a  PDF  document, unless otherwise specified.

Formal: The letter should be formal, but this does not mean you should write words that you cannot even pronounce, be practical, be yourself.

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Deadline: Remember the deadline to send the application and do not miss the opportunity of your life.

Review: Do not forget to correct spelling and writing. Someone in your family or a good friend can help you with that if you’re not very good … my spelling has been terrible since school, but I’ve had to put the batteries

Correct Title: Also make sure that it is addressed to who it should be … I am looking for work, for the efforts I sent a letter of motivation to a company with the title addressed to another. Hahahaha! That is really embarrassing and unprofessional and should not happen to you.

Language: In case you apply in another language, make sure you make proper use of the language, the writing and the translation.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing a Motivation Letter for Scholarship

As we already know, the motivation letter is the most important document when it comes to winning a scholarship in another country. In addition, a well written motivation letter also facilitates the attainment of employment and even volunteering.

However, the motivation letter for scholarship is not only about mentioning your desires to obtain new opportunities, but about defending the idea of ​​why it should be you and not one of the other very capable candidates.

(1) Less Words and More Facts

It is easy to express your desires to travel or study in a certain country but it is difficult to express the reasons why they should choose you. Many of us want to travel, expand our vision of the world, improve other languages ​​and improve our quality of life, but in reality what you should do to make you worthy of that prize.

It begins to replace phrases like “my dream has always been xyz” because “my achievements have been …” to “I consider I am the ideal candidate because …” and / or “my work is characterized by …” Remember that the prize does not go to the one who most want it, but the one that correctly demonstrates deserving it

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(2) Take Ownership and Demonstrate Deep Knowledge

In the above paragraph, I do not mean that your wishes are not taken into account. These are important to the extent that you prove, you clearly know what you want and why you deserve it. As an example I want to show you an excerpt from one of the motivation letters for scholarship which come to me recently to be corrected:

“What particularly attracted me to the program is the broad spectrum of skills to be developed that it offers, the quality of the faculty and the internship program; all these aspects will make it possible to win different opportunities at the time of employment …”

Here the applicant is staying in the basics. Underlined words can be explained to demonstrate ownership and mastery of the topic because: knowledge = motivation. An alternative is:

“What particularly attracted me to the Modern Art program is the possibility of specializing in lighting and sound, as well as the teaching staff, which has world-renowned professors. Another reason why I prefer this program is the opportunity to have direct contact with exhibitions in one of the capitals of modern art in the world through the professional practices that are offered in the last semester.”

Another of my tips to demonstrate knowledge is that you replace words like ‘I believe’ with ‘I know’ or ‘I’m sure that …’

(3) It matters more what you will do for them

That your reasons should not be limited to the comfort of living in a developed country. The study scholarship providers expect you to be genuinely interested in the study program and the positive impact you will make with what you learn. To make it more clear: they do not care a whistle that you feel safer, happier, richer or healthier living in the country offering the scholarship. What they want to know is how the hell you will return to society the investment they will make in you. Tranquil! They do not want money. Count the contribution you will make in terms of cultural exchange, what you can teach the other students or teachers, the extracurricular clubs you can contribute to and other cooperation projects that you have in mind.

Tip: If the scholarship requires you to return to your country of origin upon completion of the study program, it is important that you mention how you will apply in your country what you intend to learn.

(4) The rules are the rules

Finally, limit the letter of motivation to what it is and what they ask you. If they tell you 1 sheet, send a sheet. Please, do not expect that the scholarship provider will exempt you from some of the requirements for the motivation letter. If they ask you for IELTS band 7, it is 7 and not 6.5, the same with certified work experience: two years are 24 months and not 22 and a half, etc. However it is beautiful to show that you deserve the scholarship and not to convince them that you have worked hard but have not been able to meet the other requirements. If you do not comply with all the requirements, give yourself time because there are always new application dates and scholarship opportunities.

Also Check How to find job in Japan after graduation

Motivation Letter for Scholarship Samples

ScholarshipRoar.com has compiled a list of motivation letter for scholarship samples from world top university websites. We hope this list will help you in writing effective and winning motivation letter for scholarship.

  • University of Washington Motivation Letter (Cover Letter) Guide and Samples
  • University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Motivation Letter Samples
  • University of Mississippi Cover Letter Tips and Sample
  • UC Davis Motivation Letter Guide and Samples

February 21, 2020

Ms. Liza Wideman Recruiting Coordinator Great Strategy Consulting Firm 200 Shell Fish Blvd, Suite 199 San Francisco, CA 94080

Dear Ms. Wideman:

I am writing to express my interest in securing an Associate position at Great Strategy Consulting Firm. I am a Master of Liberal Arts degree candidate at Harvard Extension School, specializing in Information Technology. I come from a solid technical background with a strong interest in business and a passion towards strategy. My area of focus and interest varies from quantitative analysis to project management. I have maintained a 3.95 GPA through a well-balanced program of study, which is not only very analytical and technical by nature but also helps to build leadership and team building qualities. I am extremely impressed with Great Strategy’s approach to strategy consulting, especially within the Business Development and Innovation practice areas. I believe my academic background, business knowledge and industry experiences have provided me with the credentials needed to thrive as an Associate.

Prior to Harvard, I worked as a technology professional, primarily resolving strategic issues related to technology process improvement. I gained solid research, analytical and problem solving skills while working in Fortune 500 companies. My background in generating innovative ideas and strategies to improve processes has provided me with a deeper understanding of multifaceted problems that companies encounter in their daily operations. Moreover, because of my work experiences, I fully understand how important it is to have great team dynamics in today’s multi-disciplinary business environment.

To date, my experience as an IT professional has been extremely rewarding and productive. However, it is through strategy consulting that I can use my analytical aptitude and creative problem solving skills to their fullest. I strongly believe that consulting is a discipline that will force me to view problems not only from the client’s standpoint but also from a marketplace, best practices and “think out of the box” point of views.

I would appreciate the opportunity to interview with Great Strategy Consulting Firm for the Associate position. Please find enclosed my resume for your review. I can be reached via email at [email protected] or by phone at (617) 555-3456. I enthusiastically look forward to hearing from you soon.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Jacob A. McLean

Now its your turn!

I hope these tips and examples will help you to prepare an impressive Motivation Letter for Scholarship and to win scholarships. If you have some tips that worked for you, let us know in the comment section.

Thanks for reading and wishing you success with everything!

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motivation letter for phd scholarship sample doc

How to Write a Motivation Letter for PhD, Postdoc, or Any Position: Sample Motivation Letter

How to Write a Motivation Letter for PhD, Postdoc, or Any Position: Sample Motivation Letter

A Successful motivation letter helps the admissions board or Professor to compare outstanding students and impressive ones. With help of  motivation letter, they can prosper in ending up choosing worthy research students. But Still, admission boards will surely think of this as the classification to significantly find a suitable candidate for his research group. Showing you are preferred depending on what you write, however much more on just how you design, particularly the tone you use and the level of interest you receive in your writing that matters a lot.

While applying for a Ph.D. or Postdoc or any research position, you will need to write a research proposal and a Motivation Letter. Especially, a motivation letter is more required for Ph.D. candidates. This defines why you wish to embark on that position and why you would be appropriate for studying there. Yet what requires to go in this, and what tone is suitable for it? To give you some suggestions, today, we’re sharing all about motivation letters, so you can see what your motivation letter needs to include or correct.

How to write a Postdoc Job Application or Email

How to write a phd motivation letter.

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.

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.

Polite Follow-Up Email to Professor : When and How You should Write

Steps for writing research motivation letter.

1. The first step to writing a good motivation letter is to read the job ad carefully 2. The second step is to try to understand the researchers and the kind of research they do 3. The third step is to carefully read a previous motivation letter and try to understand why the letter was successful 4. The fourth step is to make sure that you address the letter to the right people 5. The fifth step is to explain why you choose to apply to this position and this lab. 6. The sixth step is to explain how your research interests align with the research of the lab 7. The seventh step is to explain how your previous research background relates to the position 8. The eighth step is to explain why you are applying for that position

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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 summarize 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.

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How Write Main Body of Motivation

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

In the closing of your Motivation Letter, including a couple of sentences on your research’s impact on your life, research location, and experience generally. This will certainly aid you in showing the value of your research study in the context of a bigger photo. Mostly, demonstrate how the research community and also college can benefit from having you as a pupil.

Finally, thank the reader for considering your application.

Motivational letter for PhD, Postdoc, Scholarship etc.

It should be noted that a European-style motivation letter focuses on academic background and research history, avoiding too much personal information. The US-style personal statement, on the other hand, is much more ‘life experience’ based. Here, we focus on the European-style.

What is the Difference Between a Motivational Letter and Cover Letter?

Students frequently misunderstand the difference between a motivational letter and a cover letter. It’s crucial to remember that a cover letter’s objective is to highlight specific information from your CV and match it with the job criteria and company profile. To put it simply, a motivating letter is primarily used to highlight how your interests, goals, and objectives complement the academic program you want to study or a job profile you want to apply for, whereas a cover letter is more of an introduction to your resume to the hiring authority. Every one of the top firms is looking for someone who could be a valuable addition to their corporation. As a result, it must to convey your eagerness and intent while driving home the main point. 

Each document that a recruiter or university requests has a specific function. Most of the time, candidates are unsure of the difference between a motivation letter and a cover letter. A professional letter sent with a CV or resume to an employer or recruiter is called a cover letter. While motivation letters are utilized by internships, educational institutions, and university entrance offices, cover letters are typically used by businesses, employers, and recruiters. These letters provide candidates the opportunity to elaborate in detail about their motivation, interests, accomplishments, and career/academic future, as well as to tell the recruiter or educational officer why they are the ideal choice.

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2 thoughts on “How to Write a Motivation Letter for PhD, Postdoc, or Any Position: Sample Motivation Letter”

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This is outstanding website for PhD aspirants to prepare an ideal and promising motivation letter. You are requested to post an motivation letter for PhD in plant genetics. It would be grateful to me. I would appreciate your kindness.

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Motivation Letter for Ph.D.

Updated on 30 october, 2023.

upGrad Abroad Team

upGrad Abroad Team

Upgrad abroad editorial team.

upGrad Abroad Team

A motivation letter for Ph.D. is crucial since it is a way to convey the candidate’s personality, motivations, interests, and commitment to the admissions authorities. It is a vital part of the Ph.D. application process and should not be neglected. 

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Table of Contents

  • Format of a Motivation Letter for Ph.D.

Tips for Writing a Successful Motivation Letter for Ph.D. Programs

Ph.d. motivation letter sample, format of a motivation letter for ph.d. .

There is no fixed format for a motivation letter for Ph.D. applications. However, here are some points that you must keep in mind. 

  • Introduction- This should mention your purpose and the program being applied for. 
  • Main Body- This should contain a summary of your educational background, your reasons for doing your PhD, and the importance of your research work. It should also include information on your future goals. 
  • Conclusion- Sign off by reiterating your admission goals while thanking the admissions authorities for their time and consideration. 

You can check out a Ph.D. motivation letter sample PDF for more insights. Here are a few tips that can be of immense help: 

  • Make genuine statements about your application and documents. 
  • Be specific and avoid vague or abstract statements. 
  • Discuss your research experience, professional experience, skill sets, and academic credentials. 
  • Maintain a professional tone throughout the motivation letter without being casual or too personal. 

A motivation letter for a Ph.D. sample will help you get a better idea. 

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To Whom It May Concern, 

I am writing this letter to express my interest in applying for the Ph.D. project available in the (group name) under the project (project name) at the (institution name). I graduated with a master’s degree in civil engineering in (year) from the (institution name) in (location, city, country).

I have been drawn to 3D modeling and simulation technologies since my undergraduate years, which gave me a solid foundation in the subject. I learned the basic concepts of structural analysis, CAD, mechanics , and programming and data structures simultaneously. My master’s program helped me enhance these skill sets further, giving me an in-depth glimpse of building materials, earthquake engineering, construction management , using technologies for 3D modeling, and more such areas. 

I have also been associated with a research project at the institution, successfully enabling VR/AR-enabled digital walkthroughs for buildings. This was the inception of my interest in deploying artificial and augmented reality, virtual reality, and 3D simulation for building digital counterparts of physical environments, applying this knowledge to real estate projects, infrastructural projects, and other ventures which are mainstays in the world of civil engineering. It naturally prompted me to apply for the Ph.D. position at your institution, which has an enviable track record in terms of global rankings, research opportunities, infrastructure, partnerships with leading research firms, and reputed faculty. 

I believe my foundational knowledge of these core concepts and research experiences will contribute towards making me a good fit for the doctoral program at your institution. I am aware of the perseverance and commitment expected of doctoral students pursuing research in this intellectually stimulating yet challenging arena of study. I will do my best to meet the high standards of your institution on this count. It is a great opportunity to demonstrate my skill sets while acquiring invaluable knowledge and research exposure if I am chosen for your Ph.D. program. I remain at your disposal for any additional information. 

Thank you for your time and consideration. 

Sincerely, 

How do I start a motivational letter for my PhD?

You should begin by talking about the program you are applying for and mentioning your purpose explicitly. You should also briefly introduce yourself, i.e., your last qualification and so on. You can then move on to the main body and discuss the reasons for choosing the course, institution, research interests, and other aspects.

How do I write a letter of Ph.D. request?

You should include details without going overboard and demonstrate your research approach, outlook, and methods. Justify these methods while ensuring they are viable. Also, mention whether any ethical aspects are connected to your field of research and how you wish to address them.

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Scholarships for Italy for International Students

Scholarships for Italy for International Students

motivation letter for phd scholarship sample doc

How to write Motivation Letter for Scholarship

From, Madeline Gregory 4841 Ut Ave Walla Walla Michigan 82776 (304) 506-7575

To, Xyla Cash 969-1762 Tincidunt Rd. Boise CT 35282

Subject-(-----------------------------)

Dear Xyla Cash,

The first or the introductory paragraph is usually an introduction of yourself. It should contain information like which program you are applying to and in what university. It should also say something about your current status. You can also describe why you think taking this course will be beneficial, according to you.

The second paragraph is more elaborate on personal details. Here you can write about your academic career, what your teachers and professors think about you and your inspiration on coming into this field of study. You can also describe how you collected all the relevant information about all your possible choices of universities for the course you want to take and why you think getting admitted into this particular institution matters the most.

In the following paragraph, you can continue with your aim for the future and what you have planned during the study time and after achieving your desired degree. You can also say what have you done till now for making a dream come true like possible internships and workshops.

This is the last or the concluding paragraph where you need to bring the whole build up f the letter to a proper end. The above letter has established your dreams and passions, and this paragraph justifies why it is a good choice to give this scholarship to you. The tone here has to be neutral. Mention how other candidates are also deserving, but how you can make the changes in the world and how your passion is unmatched. End the letter with a grateful sentence.

Sincerely, (Signature) Madeline Gregory

Sample Motivation Letter for Scholarship Example

Writing a scholarship motivation letter can be stressful. It is a lot of pressure. All the tips and guidelines are not enough for anyone to form a proper and attractive letter. That is why we have examples and samples for you to guide you through the process.

Below is an Example of this letter:

Motivation Letter Sample for Scholarship

From, David Mathews 2222 Malesuada Road Moscow Kentucky 77382 (357) 778-5755

To, Hedley Ingram 80 At Street Independence Texas 87535

Dear Sir/Madam,

My Name is [Name], and currently, I am a student of [course] at the [college]. After completing my degree course, I plan to follow up with a 1-year course in [course name].

While in High School, I worked for many hours with my [committee name] to help with the [work details]. I learned about [process] from beginning to result. Being a part of the process made me realize how much I love [field]. Whatever be the situation and time, I never tired of doing [project details]. During those years, I realized that this is what I want to do my whole life, not just as a helper but as a professional.

Once my mind was set, I started seeing the entire process in a different light. Even my teachers think that I am a natural at it. My educational mindset is simple: stability and function. I have the determination to study comprehensively, and I hate shortcuts. A trait that has given me a vast knowledge spectrum. I have even enrolled in many classes that give me a crossover of [subject] significant and a comprehensive view of how things are done. I have also worked for three extra credits under my professor of [subject] to gain a research perspective.

I want to become a [profession] so that I can provide [service] to my community. Living in [place] I have seen a lot of houses go through tough times. I want to help families like my friend’s family. I have seen homes break under [problems]. I aim to help in all the way I can.

I have decided all of this not just by feeling, but also by practicality. I have interned under [Name] who runs the [company] in my neighborhood to get the practical experience needed for this field.

I want to thank you for considering me and am hopeful that you will find me right for the scholarship . With your assistance, I can make a change, though small.

Your Truly, (Signature) David Mathews

Motivation Letter for PhD Scholarship

From, Raymond Levy Ap 7078 Risus St. Beaumont New Mexico 73585 (715) 75575-5757

03-January-2019

To, Harrison Mcguire 757-75 Arcu Street San Fernando ID 77373

I am writing this letter to express my interest in the doctoral program at [university] in the [department].

I currently hold a [degree] from [university]. I am keen on applying for the doctoral program at [university] because the research interests of the [department] are an excellent match for my academic background. While studying for the [degree], I developed a special interest in [branch]. Also, my BA thesis on [topic] further deepened my interests in the complex working of [field]. While doing my thesis under [professor name], I came in contact with [professor/expert], an expert on [topic] and was completely drawn towards the study.

I now wish to further my academic career in [field] and what better place than [university]? If given a chance, I would particularly like to work with [professor] because who better than her for this field of research?

With [problem], I think I can contribute a lot to the world with my study of [topic]. I have proposed an experimental study on [topic] at my current university, and my mentor thinks that it can work. I believe that the study will help develop my skills and experience and make me the perfect candidate for this scholarship.

After completing my Ph.D., I plan to pursue further research on my own on [topic]. I believe my knowledge and research will be my biggest contribution to this field.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely, (Signature) Raymond Levy

Motivation Letter Template for Scholarship in PDF & Word Format

Motivation Letter for Scholarship

Getting a scholarship is a big help for talented students with financial problems. But basing your chances on the formation of a scholarship motivation letter is a lot of pressure. Just be factual, precise and truthful.

Related Articles:

3+ Sample of Motivation Letter for Study Abroad Free Sample of Motivation Letter for Masters 2+ Example of Motivation Letter for Internship Free Sample of Motivation Letter for Scholarship Free Sample of Motivation Letter for Job

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motivation letter for phd scholarship sample doc

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Cover Letter for PhD Application: Guide for Writing One & Example From a Real PhD Student

  • Klara Cervenanska , 
  • Updated March 27, 2023 9 min read

When applying for a PhD research position, you usually need to submit certain documents, including an academic CV and a cover letter for PhD application .

A PhD cover letter, also referred to as an academic cover letter, should be carefully crafted, well-formatted, and contain specific sections.

We'll show you how to do exactly that, along with a sample of an academic cover letter from a real person admitted to a PhD program at Lyon University in France.

And if you're not sure how to go about writing your PhD CV, check out this article: CV for PhD Application: How to Write One Like a True Scholar (+CV Example) .

Table of Contents

Click on a section to skip

What is an academic cover letter?

What to include in a cover letter for phd application, how to write a cover letter for phd application, how to format an academic cover letter, phd cover letter sample.

An academic cover letter is a document that PhD candidates submit alongside their academic CV when applying for a PhD. 

Essentially, it's a cover letter for a PhD application.

It's not exactly the same as your regular business cover letter. Nor is it the same as a personal statement or a motivation letter .

The purpose of a cover letter for PhD application is to explain to the reader, who's likely a researcher or a professor, what you can contribute to their institution and/or field.

Moreover, in a PhD application cover letter, you should explain why you're a good match for the research position on the program.

Differences between academic cover letter and business cover letter

Both these documents serve different purposes and people use them in different settings:

  • Academic cover letter is used when applying for positions in academia — most often for a PhD. More emphasis should be on education, research background and scholarly accomplishments. Moreover, it should explain what your contribution to the institution or field could be. It should also point the reader to your academic CV.
  • Regular (business) cover letter is normally used when applying for any kind of job . Hence, more emphasis should be on skills and past experience while being tailored to a specific job position. You should also explain why you're a good fit for the position at the given company. It should point the reader to your resume.

There are also other documents people often mistake for an academic cover letter. These include:

  • Motivation letter is especially relevant for fresh graduates when applying to a university, a non-profit organization, or voluntary work. A motivation letter focuses more on your interests and motives for applying.
  • Personal statement. Also used in an academic setting. It's always written by an applicant, often a prospective student, applying to college, university, or graduate school. You explain why you've chosen a particular course and why you'd be good at it. Other names include a statement of purpose or a letter of intent .

Like every cover letter, an academic one also needs to include specific elements and content sections. These are:

  • Header. Here, provide your contact information, such as your name, address, phone number, and email in the header of the document.
  • Formal salutation. In an official letter like this one, you should address the reader in a professional and formal way. If you know who'll be reading your cover letter, go with Dear Dr. [Surname] or Dear Professor [Surname] . If you don't, go with Dear Sir/Madam .
  • The specific PhD program or position. Clearly state in your letter which research position you're applying for or the name of the PhD program. A cover letter is usually read before a CV, so you need to make sure everything is clear.
  • Your motivation. Explain why you're interested in the specific PhD position — it's one of the key elements you should include.
  • Your academic background. Now, we don't mean you should list in detail every single university course you ever took. Instead, focus on the most relevant course for the PhD and describe in detail what you learned, any projects you worked on, why it was interesting (and optionally, what knowledge gap you identified). In this way, you also show a certain level of understanding of the field.
  • Your ambition. Briefly mention what your ambitions, intentions, and plans are regarding your contribution to the field when securing your PhD position. How is your research going to enrich the field? How will the institution benefit from it?
  • Conclusion. Keep the conclusion short. Contrary to a regular cover letter ending , there's no place for reiterating everything here. Simply thank the reader for your consideration and prompt them to read your academic CV.
  • Formal sign-off. Just pick from the usual: Sincerely, Respectfully, Regards... Then throw in your full name in the following line.

And that's all you need to include!

Now, let's take a look at how to write your cover letter step-by-step.

Applying for a PhD will be a lot less stressful if you follow these tips on how to write a cover letter for a research position:

Consider researching the background of the organization, department, ongoing research projects, and their past and current projects. All that before you start writing your cover letter. Knowing these things will help you tailor your letter to the specific PhD opening.

Before you actually start writing, try to sit down and take a moment to think first. Assess how your past experiences helped you prepare for the PhD position and scribble down those that are most relevant and significant for the specific program. These include any research experiences, research projects, courses, or internships.

In the first few sentences of your letter, you need to convey some basic information about yourself and what specific position you're applying for. The opening should also state firmly why you're a strong candidate for the position/program, by using a persuasive and convincing wording. Here's an example: "As an MChem Chemistry graduate with a narrow focus on the sustainable synthesis of biologically active molecules from the University of Dundee, I am excited to apply to a "Synthesis Of Small Molecule Inhibitors Using Enzymes" PhD programme at an institution with such a strong foundation and numerous research groups in this field."

This is the place where you may explore more extensively on the educational journey that brought you here. Set the foundation for demonstrating how your Master's degree and research experience seamlessly translate into the next phase — the PhD program. Emphasize how your thesis contributes to the field's body of knowledge. Mention any other publications that support your thesis. And, if you can, identify any knowledge gaps or topics that can be explored further.

This paragraph provides the opportunity to neatly tie in together everything the reader has learned about you so far. You can show how your previous experience, coupled with what you'll learn during the PhD program, will come together to produce something novel to enrich the field. First, identify the courses or topics within the PhD program that interest you the most and how they relate to you developing your research further. Second, introduce your future research aspirations and goals. Third, point out how this future work will enrich the field and what will the intellectual merit be.

When ending your PhD cover letter, briefly refer your reader to your academic CV and encourage them to examine all of the remaining projects, courses, publications, or references . Finally, thank the reader for their time and consideration and let them know you look forward to hearing from them. Sign off.

Put the letter in a drawer and don't think about it for a day or two. Then, when you read it again, you'll have a fresh pair of eyes to see the cover letter in a new light. Maybe you decide some things are redundant, or you think of something that's more relevant. Or you know, find a typo here and there.

Just like an academic cover letter needs to contain certain content components, the formatting should also align with the structural expectations for this type of document.

How long should a cover letter be? How to finish a cover letter? And what about the cover letter font and spacing?

Here's a recommended academic cover letter format:

  • Length. While STEM PhD candidates should aim for half a page to one page, humanities candidates can do 1–2 pages.
  • Font. Use one of the classics: Times New Roman, Calibri, or Arial. Just no Comic Sans, we beg you. Keep the size between 10–12 points. Also remember to keep the text clean — no underlining, no bolding, and no color. However, you can use italics if appropriate.
  • Spacing. Cover letter spacing isn't complicated. Just single-space your text, make sure there's a space between each paragraph, and leave a space between the concluding paragraph and your formal sign-off.
  • Margins. The only rule here is that the margins on your cover letter should match those on your CV.
  • Consistence with your CV. Your academic cover letter should match your academic CV in all formatting aspects — including the cover letter font and spacing. For example, Kickresume lets you choose a matching template for your CV and your cover letter, so no need to worry about this.

If the institution provided any instructions for formatting your academic cover letter, don’t get creative and follow their guidelines.

Finally, to help you tie everything we talked about together, here's a cover letter sample from a real person admitted to a PhD program at Lyon University in France.

These things ensured Herrera's cover letter was successful:

  • She clearly states her motivation in the opening. In the first two paragraphs, Herrera introduces herself and her motivation to apply for the given PhD program.
  • She describes educational and research background thoroughly. The main body of the letter is dedicated to describing Herrera's educational background, research projects, internships, and skills acquired throughout the way.
  • She presents research aspirations in the letter. Herrera writes: "I have a history of proven results and profound findings. Given opportunity, I’m confident in my abilities to earn similar ground-breaking results while being part of your team."

Even though this example lacks some of the key elements, such as mentioning the specific PhD program or identifying the topics within the PhD program that interest her the most, this PhD cover letter still managed to impress the University of Lyon.

Lyon University PhD Student Cover Letter Sample

Klara graduated from the University of St Andrews in Scotland. After having written resumes for many of her fellow students, she began writing full-time for Kickresume. Klara is our go-to person for all things related to student or 'no experience resumes'. At the same time, she has written some of the most popular resume advice articles on this blog. Her pieces were featured in multiple CNBC articles. When she's not writing, you'll probably find her chasing dogs or people-watching while sipping on a cup of coffee.

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motivation letter for phd scholarship sample doc

Motivation Letter For Scholarship Sample Doc

How to draft a scholarship motivation letter, step by step.

  • Introduce yourself.
  • Express your excitement for being enrolled to the college.
  • Talk about your financial situation and the difficulties that you are facing.
  • Provide a list of reasons that qualify you for a scholarship.

Sample Letter

Motivation Letter For Scholarship Sample Doc

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Motivation Letter For Scholarship Complete Guide To Writing

Do you find writing a motivation letter writer for scholarship application challenging? Stop right there! Letter of Motivation is necessary for a student to get his desired scholarship.  We will guide you to write a compelling motivation letter by providing detailed instructions and a real-world sample.

learn how to write letter of recommendation for scholarship

Table of Contents

what is motivation letter for scholarship

What Is A Motivation Letter For Scholarship?

statement of purpose

Motivation Letter for Scholarship Format: Crafting Your Path to Success

motivation letter for scholarship sample

Motivation Letter For Scholarship Sample

expert tips for writing a strong motivation letter for scholarship

Expert Tips for Writing a Strong Motivation Letter for Scholarship

best scholarships which you can apply with motivation letter

Scholarships Which You Can Apply With A Motivation Letter

A motivation letter for master scholarship or motivation letter for scholarship for undergraduate is a document that details your motive for applying and displays your credentials, accomplishments, and goals. A motivation letter for scholarship is a tool for selling yourself as the best possible candidate for a scholarship, helping you earn more money for school.

How To Write A Motivational Letter For A Scholarship

Follow these steps to write a motivation letter for scholarship doc that will get attention:

  • Start with an excellent first sentence

Share a personal story or a strong statement about your passions or successes to get the reader’s attention.

  • Give your contact details

Start your letter with a clear title and opening that includes your full name, address, and phone number.

“Letter of Motivation for [Name of Scholarship]” is the title.

Name, Address, and Phone Number

  • Start with a strong introduction

Grab the reader’s attention by sharing a personal story or a powerful statement about your passion or achievements.

  • Tell them about yourself and what you've done
  • Briefly discuss where you went to school, what you learned, and any related extracurricular events or awards you have won.
  • Write down your goals and dreams:
  • Tell the committee your long-term goals and how getting the grant will help you get there.
  • Show how passionate and driven you are

Share specific events or problems that have made you more determined and committed to succeeding in your field.

  • Find out more about the scholarship

Tell them why you should get the (for example) motivation letter for Turkish scholarship and how it fits your goals and values.

  • Show that you're serious about giving back:
  • Showcase any volunteer work, community service, or leadership jobs that show you want to make a big difference.
  • Give your personal information and say thank you at the end of your letter.

Now that you know all the steps, let’s look at each part in more depth so you can write a convincing scholarship motivation letter for masters application.

  • LOM For Scholarship
  • LOM For Volunteer
  • LOM For Leadership
  • LOM For MBA
  • LOM For Germany
  • LOM For PhD
  • LOM For Job
  • LOM For Learnership
  • LOM For Stipendium Hungaricum

Introduction:

  • Start with a polite greeting and say who you are.
  • Name the scholarship for which you are applying ( Example motivation letter for erasmus mundus scholarship, motivation letter for phd scholarship and motivation letter for stipendium hungaricum scholarship)

Paragraph 1: Background and Achievements

  • Emphasis on where you went for education and what you did well in school.
  • Show off any hobbies outside of school, leadership roles, or work in the community.

Paragraph 2: Goals and Aspirations

  • Emphasis on your plans for the future and how this scholarship will help you reach those goals.
  • Explain how the assignment fits in with your plans for school and work.

Paragraph 3: Passion and Motivation

  • Share what you love about your chosen field of study and any important events.
  • Tell how your interest drives you to make a difference in your area.

Paragraph 4: Alignment with the Scholarship

  • Talk about how the criteria for the scholarship match up with your values, goals, and accomplishments.
  • Explain why you deserve the scholarship.
  • Acknowledge the people who gave you the chance to apply for the scholarship.
  • Remind them that you are committed and determined to do well in school.
  • Thank the committee for taking your application into account.

Letter of motivation for scholarship - guide - step by step

Crafting an Effective Motivation Letter for Scholarship

Here Are Key Points to Have in Your Scholarship Motivation Letter:

Personal introduction:

Start with a short introduction that includes your name, where you went to school, and the scholarship you want.

Doing well in school:

Showcase your academic achievements, like good grades, awards, and honors.

Goals and aspirations:

Explain how the scholarship will help you reach your career goals.

Relevance of the scholarship:

Show that you’re interested in the chosen area and explain how it fits with your plans for the future.

Extracurricular actions:

Mention any related activities outside of school, such as being a leader, doing community work, or joining clubs or organizations.

Unique experiences:

Talk about any unusual things you’ve done or problems you’ve had to solve and how they’ve made you who you are and given you strength.

Here is a motivation letter for scholarship template for you to understand the format and tone to write an ideal Letter: 

Dear Members of the Scholarship Committee,

I’m applying for your respected organization’s [Scholarship Name]. As a motivated student, this Scholarship will allow me to achieve my academic and professional objectives.

I will introduce myself. I’m [Your Name] and a [Year Level] student at [University/College Name] studying in [Your Field]. I have always loved learning and strived for greatness in school. My scholastic accomplishments include a [Your GPA] GPA and top-class rankings.

Because of its potential for good change and creativity, [Your Field of Study] interests me. I want to become a [Your Desired Career] and use my abilities to help society. With this Scholarship, I may study advanced topics in [ Field of Study] and make a significant impact.

My extracurricular activities have improved my leadership and personal abilities. I served as [Your Position] in [Name of Clubs/Organizations] and worked with a broad group to produce significant events and activities. These experiences have taught me responsibility, collaboration, and communication.

I also volunteer at local NGOs and organize fundraisers for poor kids. These experiences have strengthened my conviction in community service and impacted my empathy and social responsibility.

Higher schooling is expensive for my family. The Scholarship would free me to study and improve.

In conclusion, I am dedicated to academic success, personal growth, and professional influence. The [Name of the Scholarship] would help me with my education and allow me to achieve my goals. I appreciate you considering my application.

Thank you. I want to get the [Scholarship]. Attached are the application guidelines-required papers.

Yours sincerely,

[Your Name]

Mistakes To Avoid In Your Motivation Letter For Scholarship

Applicants make several common blunders while writing scholarship motivation letters. Some common errors and how to prevent them are listed below.

  • Make your intentions and desired outcome very clear.
  • Get your goals in line with what the scholarship is trying to accomplish.

Generalized, devoid of character:

  • Personalize your cover letter for the institution and the scholarship you’re applying for.
  • Focus on your unique skills.

Disorganized and unbalanced:

  • Make sure your letter is well organized.
  • Make your message easier to read by dividing it into headers and paragraphs.

Mistakes in grammar and spelling:

  • Make sure your letter is correct by giving it thorough proofreading.
  • Get opinions from people you trust to be sure you’re right.

Overly lengthy:

  • Follow the specified page or word count recommendation.

Lack of authenticity and sincerity:

  • Be genuine and honest while discussing your goals and desires.
  • Brief stories from your life that illustrate why you care deeply about the subject.
  • Find out what the grant is for, what it stands for, and what it requires.
  • Grab the reader’s attention from the beginning by sharing a compelling personal story or a strong statement.
  • Showcase your school achievements and related work skills.
  • Elaborate on your schooling and job goals.
  • Get people excited about the subject or cause.
  • Show off your unique skills, experiences, or points of view.
  • Use real-world cases and proof to back up your claims.
  • Stick to the word count and layout rules.

Do's and Don'ts of Writing Motivation Letter for Scholarship

  • Do provide clear examples and proof to support your claims and show your ability.
  • Do keep the tone of the letter professional and polite the whole time.
  • Do reread and edit your letter to ensure it is well-written and has no mistakes.
  • Do follow the rules and standards that the scholarship program gives you.
  • Make your letter personal and authentic by telling your story and explaining why you want to study abroad.
  • Show gratitude to the committee for considering you for the grant.
  • Don’t rely solely on clichés or generic statements.
  • Don’t mislead and write the scholarship motivation letter for masters.
  • Don’t concentrate on money. Emphasize your qualifications and objectives together with your circumstances.
  • Avoid slang and be courteous and professional.
  • Avoid lengthy motivational letter for scholarship application and focus on critical points.
  • Don’t forget to address any specific requirements or questions asked in the scholarship application.

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  • Fulbright Scholarship: A prominent award for overseas students studying in the US. It promotes cultural interaction and intellectual success.
  • Rhodes Scholarship: A competitive award that permits excellent international students to study a postgraduate program at Oxford University. It promotes leadership, academic excellence, and global citizenship.
  • Chevening Scholarship: The UK government’s Chevening Scholarship funds master’s degrees for excellent leaders. It wants people who will improve their country.
  • Erasmus Mundus Scholarship: A European Union-funded initiative for international master’s and doctorate students. It fosters European-non-European student interaction and understanding.
  • Gates Cambridge Scholarship: The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation funds this scholarship for top international students to study full-time at Cambridge.
  • We hope this complete guide on writing an inspirational letter for a scholarship has benefited you.
  • We wish you success in your future scholarship.
  • We want you to tell other people who might find this blog helpful.
  • We’d value your thoughts and ideas, so please don’t be shy about sharing them.
  • Remember that a well-written letter of inspiration can make a big difference in your entry for a scholarship.
  • We admire you taking the time to read this guide. Good luck on your way to getting a scholarship!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a letter of motivation for a scholarship.

A letter of inspiration for a scholarship is a document that goes with a scholarship application and describes the applicant’s personal and academic successes, goals, and reasons for wanting financial help. It allows the application to show the scholarship committee how passionate, dedicated, and talented they are.

How important is a well-written letter of motivation for a scholarship?

For a scholarship application, a well-written letter of motivation is crucial. It allows the individual to stand out from the other applicants and show why they should get the scholarship. A strong motivation letter can significantly increase the chances of receiving the scholarship by highlighting the applicant’s skills, goals, and dedication.

What should be included in a letter of motivation for a scholarship?

  • Grab the reader’s attention in the introduction.
  • Explain your schooling and accomplishments.
  • Explain how this scholarship will allow you to reach your objectives.
  • Link the scholarship to your academic, professional, or personal goals.
  • Showcase your devotion, extracurriculars, community service, and related experiences.

Are there specific guidelines or formats for writing a letter of motivation for a scholarship?

Even though there might not be a standard style or set of rules for a scholarship motivation letter for masters, it is essential to follow the directions given by the scholarship source. Most of the time, the motivation letter format for scholarship should be well-organised, short, and written in a professional tone. To effectively communicate your motivation, use precise, convincing wording.

Is it necessary to address any potential weaknesses or challenges in the letter?

It is only sometimes necessary to address weaknesses or challenges directly in the motivation letter for scholarship doc. However, you may quickly discuss particular situations or hurdles that have influenced your academic achievement or other characteristics pertinent to the scholarship. Focus on how you overcame or learnt from these problems and showcase your skills and persistence. Remember to personalise each scholarship application’s letter of motivation and customise it to the scholarship provider’s standards and criteria.

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Motivation Letter

  • Admission Motivation Letter Template

Sample Motivation Letter Template for Students

  • Sample Motivation Letter Template for Students

How to write Motivation Letter/Email

  • How to write Motivation Letter/Email

Sample Motivation Letter Template for Mortgage

  • Sample Motivation Letter Template for Mortgage

Sample Motivational Speech for Youth with Templates

  • Sample Motivational Speech for Youth with Templates

Motivation Letter Sample for Postdoc

  • Motivation Letter Sample for Postdoc

Motivation Letter

5+ Free Motivation Letter For Scholarship Sample in PDF & Doc

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If you are searching for a motivation letter for a scholarship sample then you are at the right place below we provide many examples you can take help and write it easily. If you don’t know just scroll down and go through it on How to write a Letter of Motivation for scholarship.

It is important for all of us thinking about the future which we need have to keep in mind the importance of Motivational letters which helps in the development of an individuals personality. Today I am here with important aspects which briefly describes Motivational Letter for the scholarship. We people need have to choose our own path in life, it can be related to education, jobs, etc. Check out for various categories of motivation, then click here .

Motivation Letter For Scholarship Sample

One thing that always comes in my mind that ” What for you are a good and best candidate for this scholarship program ” which helps in continuing benefit for this education system. All these things clearly defined in keeping a healthy lifestyle and extra benefits at the time of education. Most of the time I prefer writing Motivational Letter which contributes to development supports and acquires specialized knowledge but one can also find numerous types of motivational letter in which the most important and helpful is a letter of Motivation for organization.

motivation letter for phd scholarship sample doc

Letter of Motivation For Scholarship Sample PDF & Doc

Up to the point,if you are college aspirant and want to know about master degree sample motivation letter ,then I know this  will provide great help to you and your loved one and I am glad to say that I too have gone through dozens of activities and found myself up to this place while going through this content. With respect to all your future career and goals if you want to develop yourself and your skills then choose the best field of education which provides you return back.

Things that you need have to cover up in your Motivational Letter: 1. Focus on the education plans which you need have to pursue. 2. Be a Professional writer who will help in determining your future. 3. Do research on the field which you have kept for your future. 4. And be Presently in front of all and problem solver. 5. Focus on the Some Final Tips that you will cover up at the last.

Sample Motivation Letter for Scholarship PDF & Doc

Letter of Motivation For Scholarship Format

If we talk about the education system in a country which is increasing day by day which needs to be and many of us cannot afford the fees of various colleges and institutes. But you all need not have to worry, our government provides various scholarship schemes for those students who have a financial problem in their home and it is required for everyone to get through it. No matter what challenges come to us, the thing is we need have to solve those problems in an effective way. So here it is a Letter of motivation for a job which will help you in building your confidence level.

Motivation Letter For Scholarship Format

Motivation Letter For Scholarship Example

Motivation Letter for Scholarship Example

How To Write Motivation Letter For Scholarship

So the biggest question for college students is how to write the best Letter of motivation for a scholarship ? Below are the important points which will be very helpful for you to understand the method of writing and make them available in PDF, Word and Excel formats so you can easily edit and print them

  • Your name and contact details.
  • Name of university and address where you are applying.
  • Respected Sir/Madam
  • Content of the letter
  • Yours Sincerely

S ample Letter of Motivation For Scholarship Application

In conclusion, I would say become the best student at your university or institute and if you want to share important facts and though with us then you can connect with us through the comment section. Below are the examples of the scholarship motivation letter .

Sample Motivation Letter For Scholarship Application

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COMMENTS

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

    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.

  2. Catchy Motivation Letter for PHD Scholarship : 7 Examples

    Example of motivation letter for PHD scholarship. Hello , So, I am writing to apply for the PhD scholarship offered by your esteemed organization. Also, I am immensely interested in pursuing a career in research, and I believe that this opportunity will allow me to develop my skills and knowledge in the field.

  3. How to Write a PhD 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.

  4. How to Write Motivation Letter for PhD

    The 1st Paragraph. A motivation letter should start with the statement of purpose along with the introduction of the applicant. You can write it like this - I, {your name}, is a 0000-year 0000 graduate from QWERTY University. I am writing this letter to apply to XXXX PhD. In the last line of the introduction, you can include a summary of your ...

  5. Write A Killer Scholarship Motivation Letter (With Example)

    Motivation letters are usually required for graduate-level scholarships. Sometimes, you may need to write one for specialty programs at a bachelor's level too. ... A Sample Scholarship Motivation Letter. Date. Julie Moore 9876 Smith St. Stillwater, OK 74074The Scholarship Committee 123 Learning Rd. Suite 4A Oklahoma City, OK 73127. To Whom It ...

  6. Tips for Writing a Successful Motivation Letter for Ph.D. [+Sample]

    While writing a motivational letter, it is very important to concisely include how much skill and/or working experience you possess. A Ph.D. is about more than just a sequel to your past academic endeavors, it is a true test of education and education is more than just owning degrees. They will be interested in the skills and/or work experience ...

  7. How to Write a Motivation Letter for a Scholarship

    Your relevant work experience. Don't make your motivation letter simply a copy of your CV. Describe specific situations and give examples that show your growth and holistic potential. Your educational background. Highlight any academic achievements related to the scholarship or organisation you are applying to.

  8. How to Write a Powerful Motivation Letter for PhD Program

    An outstanding motivation letter for Ph.D. admission will entail: A concise introduction disclosing which Ph.D. program you seek. Your professional experience and educational background. Major skills, experiences, and interests that you have and what makes you an outstanding candidate. What drove you to apply.

  9. How to Write a Successful PhD Motivation Letter

    Any letter of motivation should include a brief introduction specifying the programme you would like to apply for. First, state a clear career objective of your future project and the reasons for choosing this particular PhD programme. Provide the information about your previous academic and professional experience.

  10. How to Write an Exceptional Research Scholarship Motivation Letter

    However, you must use your best judgment to write a concise yet impactful scholarship motivation letter. It should usually range from 500 to 1,000 words. Divide them into 3 paragraphs for easy comprehension and better readability. This eases the job of the review committee members.

  11. How To Write A Good Motivation Letter For Scholarship (4 PDF Sample

    This means the motivation letter for scholarship format has to be set in a way that makes the content edible and appealing. It can also serve as a scholarship letter format for school. So how about you follow the few guidelines below: Use the correct spacing: 1 or 1.5. Don't be tempted to use justification.

  12. How to write a Motivation Letter for Scholarship (5 Examples)

    Strategy 1: Review the Mission and Vision of the institutions and analyze profiles of faculty members. Use synonyms of the words they use in the motivation letter. Strategy 2: Check the section of testimonies of students (scholars or not) or employees of the institution.

  13. How to Write a Motivation Letter for PhD, Postdoc, or Any Position

    Motivational letter for PhD, Postdoc, Scholarship etc. It should be noted that a European-style motivation letter focuses on academic background and research history, avoiding too much personal information. The US-style personal statement, on the other hand, is much more 'life experience' based. Here, we focus on the European-style.

  14. Motivation Letter for Ph.D.

    Ph.D. Motivation Letter Sample. To Whom It May Concern, I am writing this letter to express my interest in applying for the Ph.D. project available in the (group name) under the project (project name) at the (institution name). I graduated with a master's degree in civil engineering in (year) from the (institution name) in (location, city ...

  15. 3+ Sample of Motivation Letter For PHD in PDF

    So Sample Letter of Motivation for Ph.D. scholarship application is provided to enhance and to help you out in writing scholarship applications. You can list down a few major career perspectives in this part, as to what you are looking forward to achieving from this P.hd Program in the coming years. As per the latest research, the candidates ...

  16. Motivation Letter For PHD Scholarship

    Motivation Letter for Phd Scholarship - Free download as PDF File (.pdf), Text File (.txt) or read online for free.

  17. How to Write Motivation Letter for Scholarship

    This letter can answer the questions: why select you? And why give you this scholarship? Check the motivation letter format for scholarship. Similar Post:-Motivation Letter for Masters; Motivation letter for Ph.D. Sample Motivation Letter; How to write Motivation Letter for Scholarship. From, Madeline Gregory 4841 Ut Ave Walla Walla Michigan ...

  18. Cover Letter for PhD Application: Example From a PhD Student

    Formal salutation. In an official letter like this one, you should address the reader in a professional and formal way. If you know who'll be reading your cover letter, go with Dear Dr. [Surname] or Dear Professor [Surname]. If you don't, go with Dear Sir/Madam. The specific PhD program or position.

  19. Motivation Letter For Scholarship Sample Doc

    Below is a list of reasons that make me an excellent fit candidate for the scholarship program: • My GPA is 4.9, which is considered to be among the best and fits easily into the 99% percentile end of the spectrum. • My entrance exam average score was 98 over 100. • The list of undergraduate projects that I completed or was part of is ...

  20. Motivation Letter Sample For PHD Scholarship

    Motivation Letter Sample for PHD Scholarship - Free download as PDF File (.pdf), Text File (.txt) or read online for free.

  21. Motivation Letter For Scholarship

    Start your letter with a clear title and opening that includes your full name, address, and phone number. Example: "Letter of Motivation for [Name of Scholarship]" is the title. Header: Name, Address, and Phone Number. Start with a strong introduction. Grab the reader's attention by sharing a personal story or a powerful statement about ...

  22. 5+ Free Motivation Letter For Scholarship Sample in PDF & Doc

    Focus on the education plans which you need have to pursue. 2. Be a Professional writer who will help in determining your future. 3. Do research on the field which you have kept for your future. 4. And be Presently in front of all and problem solver. 5. Focus on the Some Final Tips that you will cover up at the last.