7 Motivation Letter Tips

A motivation letter is a document that explains why you want to pursue a master's degree in a specific field and at a particular institution. It also showcases your academic achievements, personal qualities, and career goals. A motivation letter can make a difference between getting accepted or rejected by your desired program, so it is vital to write it well. In this blog post, I will share 7 tips to help you write an impressive motivation letter for admission to a master's degree program.

1. Research the program and the institution

Before writing your motivation letter, research the program and the institution you are applying to. You should find out their mission, vision, values, goals, strengths, and expectations. You should also learn about the program's curriculum, faculty, facilities, research areas, and alumni network. This will help you tailor your letter to the specific program and institution and show that you have done your homework and are genuinely interested in it.

2. Start with a strong introduction

The introduction is the first part of your motivation letter, and it should capture the reader's attention and make them want to read more. You should start with a hook, such as a personal anecdote, a quote, a question, or a statistic, that relates to your motivation and goals. You should also briefly introduce yourself, your background, and your main reason for applying to the program. You should also state your thesis, which is your letter's main point or argument.

3. Highlight your academic achievements

The main body of your motivation letter should highlight your academic achievements that are relevant to the program you are applying to. You should mention your previous degree, grade point average (GPA), awards, publications, projects, and research interests. You should also explain how your academic background has prepared you for the master's program and how it aligns with the program's objectives and requirements. You should provide specific examples and evidence to support your claims and avoid vague or general statements.

4. Emphasize your motivation

Another important aspect of your motivation letter is to emphasize your motivation for pursuing a master's degree in your chosen field and at your chosen institution. You should explain why you are passionate about the subject, your short-term and long-term goals, and how the program will help you achieve them. You should also demonstrate your enthusiasm, curiosity, and commitment to the field and show that you have a clear vision and direction for your future.

5. Explain how the program will benefit you

Besides explaining how you will benefit from the program; you should also explain how the program will help you. You should mention the specific aspects of the program that attract you, such as the courses, the faculty, the research opportunities, the facilities, the reputation, and the network. You should also explain how the program will enhance your knowledge, skills, and competencies and how it will advance your academic and professional development.

6. Highlight your strengths.

In addition to your academic achievements and motivation, you should highlight the strengths that make you a suitable and competitive candidate for the program. You should mention your personal qualities, such as your creativity, leadership, teamwork, communication, problem-solving, or critical thinking, that are relevant to the field and the program. You should also mention your extracurricular activities, such as volunteer work, internships, hobbies, or interests, that showcase your personality and potential. You should provide specific examples and evidence to illustrate your strengths and avoid boasting or exaggerating.

7. Conclude with a strong closing

The conclusion is the last part of your motivation letter, and it should summarize your main points and restate your thesis. You should also express your gratitude for the opportunity and the consideration and reiterate your interest and enthusiasm for the program and the institution. You should also include a call to action, such as requesting an interview, a meeting, or a follow-up, and indicate your availability and contact information. You should end your letter with a polite and professional salutation, such as "Sincerely", "Best regards", or "Yours faithfully", and your name and signature.