what is the difference between motivation letter and personal statement

Cover Letter vs Personal Statement [With Examples]

When it comes to applying for a job or a graduate program, you may come across two common requirements: a cover letter and a personal statement. While they may seem similar, there are key differences between the two that every applicant should be aware of. In this article, we'll explore what a personal statement and a cover letter are, when they are used, their similarities and differences, and provide examples of each.

What is a Personal Statement?

A personal statement is a brief essay that highlights your skills, experiences, and goals. It is usually required for graduate school applications, but it can also be requested by employers. The purpose of a personal statement is to demonstrate your fit for a program or a position by showcasing your unique qualifications and motivations.

A personal statement should be well-crafted and tailored to the specific program or position you are applying for. It should showcase your strengths and demonstrate your passion for your field. Your personal statement should also highlight any relevant experiences, such as research projects or internships, that have prepared you for the program or position you are applying for.

What is a Cover Letter?

A cover letter is a one-page document that accompanies your resume when applying for a job. It is a formal letter that introduces you to a potential employer and explains why you are interested in the job and how your skills and experiences make you a good fit for the position.

A cover letter should be personalized for each job application and should not simply restate your resume. It should highlight your skills and experiences that are most relevant to the job, and explain how you will add value to the organization. A well-crafted cover letter can help you stand out from other applicants and can increase your chances of getting an interview.

When is Each Used?

A personal statement is typically used for graduate school applications, while a cover letter is used for job applications. However, there may be some overlap in certain situations, such as when applying for a job in academia or research, where a personal statement may be requested instead of a cover letter.

Similarities

Both a personal statement and a cover letter are used to showcase your qualifications and explain why you are a good fit for a program or a position. They are both formal documents that require careful attention to detail and should be tailored to the specific program or position you are applying for.

Differences

The main difference between a personal statement and a cover letter is their purpose. A personal statement is meant to demonstrate your fit for a program and showcase your unique qualifications and motivations, while a cover letter is meant to introduce you to a potential employer and explain why you are interested in the job and how your skills and experiences make you a good fit for the position.

Another key difference is their length. A personal statement is typically longer than a cover letter and may be several pages, while a cover letter is usually one page or less.

Cover Letter Examples

Example 1: marketing coordinator cover letter.

Why this works: This cover letter is tailored to the specific job and company, highlighting the candidate's relevant experience and achievements. The tone is professional and enthusiastic, showing the candidate's passion for the industry and desire to contribute to the company's success.

Example 2: Sales Representative Cover Letter

Why this works: This cover letter focuses on the candidate's sales experience and achievements, emphasizing their ability to meet and exceed targets and build strong relationships with clients. The language is confident and persuasive, showing the candidate's ability to sell themselves and their skills.

Example 3: Human Resources Manager Cover Letter

Why this works: This cover letter highlights the candidate's extensive HR experience and achievements, showing their ability to lead and innovate in the field. The tone is professional and confident, demonstrating the candidate's ability to establish credibility and build relationships with stakeholders.

Example 4: Graphic Designer Cover Letter

Why this works: This cover letter showcases the candidate's design skills and experience, emphasizing their ability to create compelling visuals and drive user engagement. The tone is enthusiastic and passionate, conveying the candidate's love for design and eagerness to contribute to the company's creative vision.

Personal Statement Examples

Example 1: medical school personal statement.

Why this works: This personal statement is focused on the candidate's motivation and passion for medicine, demonstrating their commitment to the field and their desire to make a difference. The language is clear and concise, showing the candidate's ability to communicate their ideas effectively.

Example 2: Law School Personal Statement

Why this works: This personal statement is focused on the candidate's motivation and passion for law, demonstrating their commitment to social justice and their desire to use the law as a tool for positive change. The language is clear and persuasive, showing the candidate's ability to make a compelling argument.

Example 3: MBA Personal Statement

Why this works: This personal statement is focused on the candidate's professional experience and goals, demonstrating their commitment to business leadership and their desire to use the MBA program as a platform for growth and development. The language is clear and results-oriented, showing the candidate's ability to apply their skills and knowledge to real-world problems.

Example 4: Education Personal Statement

Why this works: This personal statement is focused on the candidate's experience and goals as an educator, showing their commitment to teaching, learning, and innovation. The language is clear and enthusiastic, demonstrating the candidate's ability to inspire and motivate both students and colleagues.

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11 December 2023

6 minutes read

Understanding the Difference Between a Motivation Letter and Personal Statement

Dirghayu Kaushik

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• Introduction

Navigating through college admissions and scholarship applications can be a challenging journey, especially when it comes to articulating your aspirations and qualifications.

Two critical elements in this process are the personal statement and motivation letter. Although they may seem similar, understanding their distinct purposes and crafting them effectively can significantly influence the success of your application.

This comprehensive guide aims to demystify these documents, providing insights and tips on how to effectively articulate your story and ambitions.

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• The Essence of a Personal Statement

Crafting Your Narrative

A personal statement is your canvas to paint a picture of who you are beyond grades and test scores. It is an opportunity to narrate your journey, highlighting personal experiences, challenges, and triumphs.

This document should reflect your personality, values, and the driving forces behind your aspirations. To begin, brainstorm key moments in your life that have shaped your identity and perspective.

These could include pivotal experiences, influential relationships, or significant achievements. The goal is to provide the admissions committee with a holistic view of your character and potential.

Beyond Academics: Showcasing Personal Growth

While academic achievements are important, a personal statement should also delve into personal growth and development. Reflect on how your experiences have cultivated resilience, empathy, creativity, or leadership skills.

These attributes are invaluable in an academic setting and demonstrate your readiness to contribute to a university community.

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• Decoding the Motivation Letter

Aligning with Academic and Career Goals

The motivation letter, often referred to as a statement of purpose or SOP , is a more targeted document. It’s your platform to articulate why you are drawn to a specific program or opportunity.

This letter should align your academic background, research interests, and career objectives with the offerings and ethos of the program you are applying to.

In this letter, specificity is key. Discuss particular courses, faculty members, or research opportunities within the program that resonate with your interests.

Explain how these align with your long-term goals and how your previous experiences have laid the foundation for your future pursuits.

Demonstrating Research and Professional Aspirations

Your motivation letter should also reflect your understanding of the field or industry you wish to enter. Discuss current trends, challenges, and innovations, and how you aspire to contribute to the field.

This not only shows your passion and knowledge but also your potential to make meaningful contributions.

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• The Art of Personalization in Application Documents

Tailoring Your Story to Each Application

One key aspect of writing effective personal statements and motivation letters is personalization. Each application should be crafted with the specific institution and program in mind.

Research the university’s values, mission, and what they look for in a candidate. This research will guide you in tailoring your narrative to resonate with the admissions committee.

Reflecting Institutional Values and Culture

Your documents should reflect an understanding of the institution’s culture and values. For instance, if a university is known for its commitment to community service, highlight your involvement in similar activities.

This demonstrates not only your alignment with the university’s values but also your ability to contribute to its community.

• Addressing Challenges and Overcoming Obstacles

In your journey towards academic and professional success, addressing challenges and overcoming obstacles is crucial. Here’s how to effectively incorporate these elements into your personal statement or motivation letter:

• Identify Key Challenges: Begin by identifying the significant challenges you’ve faced. These could be personal, academic, or professional obstacles that have had a profound impact on your journey. It’s important to choose challenges that have contributed meaningfully to your growth and development.
• Describe the Obstacle Clearly: Provide a clear and concise description of the obstacle. This helps the reader understand the context and the gravity of the challenge you faced. Be specific about the nature of the obstacle, whether it was a personal hardship, an academic setback, or a professional hurdle.
• Emphasize Your Response: Focus on how you responded to the challenge. Describe the actions you took to overcome the obstacle. This might include seeking help, developing new strategies, or pushing yourself out of your comfort zone. The goal is to highlight your resilience, adaptability, and problem-solving skills.
• Reflect on Personal Growth: Discuss the personal growth that resulted from overcoming these challenges. This could be in the form of newfound resilience, improved problem-solving skills, increased empathy, or a better understanding of your own strengths and weaknesses.
• Connect to Your Goals: Make a clear connection between the challenges you’ve overcome and your academic or career goals. Explain how these experiences have prepared you for the future challenges you might face in the program or career you are pursuing.
• Showcase Development of Skills: If applicable, highlight any skills or knowledge you gained as a result of overcoming these obstacles. For example, overcoming a personal challenge might have improved your communication skills, while overcoming an academic challenge might have enhanced your research or analytical abilities.
• Demonstrate Your Resilience: Use your experiences to demonstrate your resilience. Show the admission committee that you are capable of bouncing back from setbacks and that you have the tenacity to persevere in the face of adversity.
• Inspire with Optimism: Convey a sense of optimism and a positive outlook. Even when discussing challenges, it’s important to maintain a tone that is hopeful and forward-looking. This shows that you are not deterred by difficulties but are instead motivated by them.
• Avoid Over-Dramatization: While it’s important to be honest about the challenges you’ve faced, avoid over-dramatizing them. Stick to the facts and focus on the positive outcomes and lessons learned rather than dwelling excessively on the negative aspects.
• End with a Forward-Looking Statement: Conclude this section by looking towards the future. Discuss how these experiences have equipped you to handle future challenges and how they have influenced your career or academic aspirations.

By effectively addressing challenges and obstacles in your personal statement or motivation letter, you not only showcase your resilience and growth but also demonstrate your preparedness for the rigors of higher education or the professional world.

Remember, it’s not just about the challenges themselves, but how you’ve overcome them and what you’ve learned in the process that counts.

Balancing Personal Anecdotes and Professional Aspirations

The interplay of the personal and professional.

In both your personal statement and motivation letter, there’s a delicate balance to be struck between personal anecdotes and professional aspirations.

While personal stories provide a glimpse into your character, they should also tie back to your academic and career goals.

Connecting Personal Experiences to Future Goals

Link your personal experiences to your future goals. For instance, if you’re applying to a medical program, a personal story about a healthcare challenge in your family could be connected to your aspiration to improve healthcare systems.

This creates a cohesive narrative that underscores the continuity between your past experiences and future objectives.

For your Astronomy personal statement, click here

Concluding with Impact: Leaving a Lasting Impression

Crafting a memorable conclusion.

The conclusion of your personal statement or motivation letter is your final opportunity to leave a lasting impression. Reinforce your enthusiasm for the program and your readiness to take on the challenges it presents.

Express your eagerness to contribute to the university community and your confidence in your ability to succeed.

The Future Vision

End with a forward-looking statement. Share your vision for how the program will shape your future and how you, in turn, plan to contribute to your field.

A strong conclusion not only reiterates your fit for the program but also leaves the reader with a clear understanding of your aspirations and potential impact.

Crafting a compelling personal statement and motivation letter is a critical step in the journey toward academic and professional advancement. These documents are more than mere formalities; they are reflections of your personality, aspirations, and potential.

By understanding their distinct purposes and effectively articulating your story and goals, you can enhance the impact of your application and move closer to achieving your academic and career objectives.

Remember, each document is a unique opportunity to showcase different facets of your journey and how they align with your future aspirations.

With careful thought and a clear strategy, you can create powerful narratives that resonate with admissions committees and pave your way to success.

What is the main difference between a personal statement and a motivation letter?

A personal statement is a broader document that describes your overall personality, experiences, and goals, while a motivation letter is more focused on how a specific program or opportunity aligns with your academic and professional aspirations.

Can the same document be used as both a personal statement and a motivation letter?

While there might be some overlap in content, it’s important to tailor each document to its specific purpose. A personal statement should be more about you as an individual, whereas a motivation letter should be closely aligned with the specific program or opportunity.

How long should these documents be?

Both documents should be concise and to the point. Typically, they should not exceed one page, ensuring clarity and focus on the most relevant aspects.

What should be included in a motivation letter?

Your motivation letter should include your specific academic and professional interests, how they align with the program you’re applying to, and how your past experiences have prepared you for this next step.

Is it necessary to include personal anecdotes in a personal statement?

Yes, personal anecdotes can be very effective in a personal statement as they provide a more intimate glimpse into your life, making your application more memorable.

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Table of Contents

• • Introduction
• • The Essence of a Personal Statement
• • Decoding the Motivation Letter
• • The Art of Personalization in Application Documents
• • Addressing Challenges and Overcoming Obstacles
• • Conclusion

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Statement of Purpose (SoP) vs Personal Statement vs Letter of Motivation (LoM)

• December 3, 2020
• Study Abroad

Statement of Purpose (SOP), Personal Statement, and Letter of Motivation (or Letter of Intent) are the three things that people often struggle to differentiate between, or rather they just confuse one with another. No worries. We are here to put each one of them into their respective perspectives so as to give you a clear understanding SOP vs Personal Statement vs Letter of Motivation, and how one of them is different from the other.

SOP vs Personal Statement vs Letter of Motivation

Co-authored by Parinita Gupta

Statement of Purpose (SoP) vs Personal Statement

The majority of US and UK universities ask for a statement of purpose (aka SOP) or a Personal Statement. However, sometimes the US schools ask for both an SOP and a Personal Statement (popular for schools like UC Berkeley, UCLA, University of Michigan, etc.).

In simple words, the Statement of purpose defines what you want to do, in contradiction with the Personal statement which defines you and who you are as a person. Both of them have a unique role to play in the enrollment in the grad college program that you are applying for.

When it comes to a Statement of purpose vs a personal statement for grad/ug school, the two are very different yet very alike. While both of them cater to the same purpose of making the grad admission committee believe in you, each of them contains quite different information.

The statement of purpose lies on a little more of a formal end in contrast to a personal statement. A personal statement is rather less formal and focuses more on who you are as a person and a student.

A statement of purpose showcases your academic background and your skills relevant to the program you are applying for. It specifically lists your career goals and exactly what you are aiming for, maybe a year down the line or five. It lets the college know what your research and extra curriculum interests are and helps it decide whether you are a complete fit for the program that you are enrolling in or not.

A personal statement on the other hand highlights more on what motivates you personally, what truly drives you to pursue a grad/undergrad program, and brags about all the major accomplishments you have or any major challenges that you have faced along the way and have successfully overcome.

Here is an example, where applicants need to submit both SoP and Personal Statement:

Similar Objectives of SOP and Personal Statement

Even though a personal statement and Statement of purpose are completely different from each other, both of them essentially have the same overarching purpose, of making the admission committee believe that you are the best fit for their institution and the selected program and that you’ll be successful in completing the program with flying colors. Assuring them of the things mentioned above is your goal, bear that in mind.

What is the statement of purpose, and what is it used for?

The statement of purpose (SoP) is an integral part of your application for graduate admission and consideration for merit-based financial support.

It is used to understand your academic interests, and to evaluate your aptitude and preparation for graduate work, as well as your fit with the proposed program of study. It is also used to assess your ability to write coherent and convincing prose.

What to Write in a Statement of Purpose (SOP )?

• What is your purpose in applying for graduate study in your specified degree program? Describe your area(s) of interest, including any subfield(s) or interdisciplinary interests.  
• What experiences have prepared you for advanced study or research in this degree program? What relevant skills have you gained from these experiences? Have your experiences led to specific or tangible outcomes that would support your potential to contribute to this field (examples: performances, publications, presentations, awards or recognitions)?  
• What additional information about your past experience may aid the selection committee in evaluating your preparation and aptitude for graduate study at the particular university? For example, you may wish to describe research, employment, teaching, service, artistic or international experiences through which you have developed skills in leadership, communication, project management, teamwork, or other areas.  
• Why is this graduate program to which you are applying is the best place for you to pursue your academic goals? If you are applying for a research master’s or doctoral program, we encourage you to indicate specific research interests and potential faculty mentors.  
• What are your plans for your career after earning this degree?

What is a Personal Statement and what is it used for?

The Personal Statement is an opportunity for you to provide additional information that may aid the selection committee in evaluating your preparation and aptitude for graduate study at a particular school. It will also be used to consider candidates for specific scholarship or fellowship schemes.

What to Include in a Personal Statement?

• Are there educational, personal, cultural, economic, or social experiences, not described in your Statement of Purpose, that have shaped your academic journey? If so, how? Have any of these experiences provided a unique perspective(s) that you would contribute to your program, field, or profession?  
• Describe the challenge(s) or barriers that you have faced in your pursuit of higher education. What motivated you to persist, and how did you overcome them? What is the evidence of your persistence, progress, or success?  
• How have your life experiences and educational background informed your understanding of the barriers facing groups that are underrepresented in higher education?  
• How have you been actively engaged (e.g., through participation, employment, service, teaching, or other activities) in programs or activities focused on increasing participation by groups that have been historically underrepresented in higher education?  
• How do you intend to engage in scholarly discourse, research, teaching, creative efforts, and/or community engagement during your graduate program that has the potential to advance diversity and equal opportunity in higher education?  
• How do you see yourself contributing to diversity in your profession after you earn your advanced degree at a particular university?

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Tips for Writing SoP and Personal Statement for a Single Application

Since a statement of purpose (SOP) is different from a personal statement , your approach toward each statement in these essays also has to be different.

To quickly summarize, here are a few things to keep in mind while writing a statement of purpose (SOP):

• Take your future goals into consideration
• Research well about the program and the faculties
• Explain how both of these two points mentioned above are a good match
• Emphasize your accomplishments and all the challenges which you’ve overcome

And, here are a few things to keep in mind before writing a Personal statement:

• Make it sound like you’re telling a story
• Emphasize more what your personal motivations are
• Explain in detail your weaknesses and the challenges that you’ve overcome.

Finally, keep these things in mind for either of these essays:

• Use specific details
• Edit and proofread
• Be authentic

Statement of Purpose (SoP) vs Letter of Motivation

On the other hand, one might get confused between a Statement of purpose and a Letter of Motivation. Generally, European universities (Germany, Sweden, Switzerland, Norway, etc.) ask for a letter of motivation.

So, there’s a fine line between both of them. Letter of motivation vitally focuses on the future aspects, and your career goals, specifically how your presence in the college/ grad program is going to affect you, your skills, or any professional work or internship experience that you have.

However, a statement of purpose, apart from focusing on all of these things mentioned above, in a LOM, also allows you to focus on, or rather brag about your past qualifications, grades, internships, work experience, volunteering experience, and other activities. A statement of purpose must explain how you are in your academic field of study, how your choice of subject affects you, and how your previous experiences have influenced your career choices, etc.

Even though a statement of purpose (SOP) and a Letter of motivation are used interchangeably, an SOP is more of something to write to an employer while applying for a job whereas a letter of motivation is something more of an application letter to write to a university or a college when applying. It’s pretty common to find universities, colleges, and employers to use these 3 terms interchangeably, you may also find them referring to LOM (letter of motivation) as a personal statement, but a letter of motivation is not alike a personal statement or statement of purpose (SOP).

How is a Letter of Motivation Different from SoP or Personal Statement?

The difference lies in the fact that how long each of these letters is supposed to be and what intention it serves. Generally, personal statements tend to get more personal, and in-depth with the candidate’s personal life, enigmas, strengths, weaknesses, etc., and even past achievements and failures, whereas letters of motivation have personal elements to it.

However, LOMs are much more focused on the applicant’s future plans and aspirations. A letter of motivation, allows the candidates to refer to their past achievements only as proof of their commitment to their future aspirations.

Before you start writing your letter of motivation, make sure that you have enough time to complete it. Important and crucial letters such as this one cannot be written in a hurry.

Therefore, make sure that you reserve some time beforehand. Also, make sure that you research well your university and its program in-depth and what their requirements and expectations are from their future pupils.

Knowing a little more about their main activities, projects, personal philosophy, and interests will help you figure out what the letter should contain and how you can frame your letter in a way that can make you look like a perfect fit for their institution.

Related Articles:

How to Write a Statement of Purpose (SOP) for Graduate School (MS/MBA)?

How to Write an MS SOP for Ivy League Schools?

What do Admission Officers and Universities Look for in SOP and Personal Statements?

About Parinita Gupta:

Parinita is a full-time banking professional. Additionally, she is also a passionate blogger and digital marketer.

She mostly writes about the Banking & Finance, Technology, and FinTech sector. But, she also enjoys writing on other topics as well.  You can follow her on  Twitter .

References: 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 , 6 .

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Sat / act prep online guides and tips, what is a personal statement everything you need to know about the college essay.

College Admissions , College Essays

In addition to standardized test scores and transcripts, a personal statement or essay is a required part of many college applications. The personal statement can be one of the most stressful parts of the application process because it's the most open ended.

In this guide, I'll answer the question, "What is a personal statement?" I'll talk through common college essay topics and what makes for an effective personal statement.

College Essay Glossary

Even the terminology can be confusing if you aren't familiar with it, so let's start by defining some terms:

Personal statement —an essay you write to show a college admissions committee who you are and why you deserve to be admitted to their school. It's worth noting that, unlike "college essay," this term is used for application essays for graduate school as well.

College essay —basically the same as a personal statement (I'll be using the terms interchangeably).

Essay prompt —a question or statement that your college essay is meant to respond to.

Supplemental essay —an extra school or program-specific essay beyond the basic personal statement.

Many colleges ask for only one essay. However, some schools do ask you to respond to multiple prompts or to provide supplemental essays in addition to a primary personal statement.

Either way, don't let it stress you out! This guide will cover everything you need to know about the different types of college essays and get you started thinking about how to write a great one:

• Why colleges ask for an essay
• What kinds of essay questions you'll see
• What sets great essays apart
• Tips for writing your own essay

Why Do Colleges Ask For an Essay?

There are a couple of reasons that colleges ask applicants to submit an essay, but the basic idea is that it gives them more information about you, especially who you are beyond grades and test scores.

#1: Insight Into Your Personality

The most important role of the essay is to give admissions committees a sense of your personality and what kind of addition you'd be to their school's community . Are you inquisitive? Ambitious? Caring? These kinds of qualities will have a profound impact on your college experience, but they're hard to determine based on a high school transcript.

Basically, the essay contextualizes your application and shows what kind of person you are outside of your grades and test scores . Imagine two students, Jane and Tim: they both have 3.5 GPAs and 1200s on the SAT. Jane lives in Colorado and is the captain of her track team; Tim lives in Vermont and regularly contributes to the school paper. They both want to be doctors, and they both volunteer at the local hospital.

As similar as Jane and Tim seem on paper, in reality, they're actually quite different, and their unique perspectives come through in their essays. Jane writes about how looking into her family history for a school project made her realize how the discovery of modern medical treatments like antibiotics and vaccines had changed the world and drove her to pursue a career as a medical researcher. Tim, meanwhile, recounts a story about how a kind doctor helped him overcome his fear of needles, an interaction that reminded him of the value of empathy and inspired him to become a family practitioner. These two students may seem outwardly similar but their motivations and personalities are very different.

Without an essay, your application is essentially a series of numbers: a GPA, SAT scores, the number of hours spent preparing for quiz bowl competitions. The personal statement is your chance to stand out as an individual.

#2: Evidence of Writing Skills

A secondary purpose of the essay is to serve as a writing sample and help colleges see that you have the skills needed to succeed in college classes. The personal statement is your best chance to show off your writing , so take the time to craft a piece you're really proud of.

That said, don't panic if you aren't a strong writer. Admissions officers aren't expecting you to write like Joan Didion; they just want to see that you can express your ideas clearly.

No matter what, your essay should absolutely not include any errors or typos .

#3: Explanation of Extenuating Circumstances

For some students, the essay is also a chance to explain factors affecting their high school record. Did your grades drop sophomore year because you were dealing with a family emergency? Did you miss out on extracurriculars junior year because of an extended medical absence? Colleges want to know if you struggled with a serious issue that affected your high school record , so make sure to indicate any relevant circumstances on your application.

Keep in mind that in some cases there will be a separate section for you to address these types of issues, as well as any black marks on your record like expulsions or criminal charges.

#4: Your Reasons for Applying to the School

Many colleges ask you to write an essay or paragraph about why you're applying to their school specifically . In asking these questions, admissions officers are trying to determine if you're genuinely excited about the school and whether you're likely to attend if accepted .

I'll talk more about this type of essay below.

What Kind of Questions Do Colleges Ask?

Thankfully, applications don't simply say, "Please include an essay about yourself"; they include a question or prompt that you're asked to respond to . These prompts are generally pretty open-ended and can be approached in a lot of different ways .

Nonetheless, most questions fall into a few main categories. Let's go through each common type of prompt, with examples from the Common Application, the University of California application, and a few individual schools.

Prompt Type 1: Your Personal History

This sort of question asks you to write about a formative experience, important event, or key relationship from your life . Admissions officers want to understand what is important to you and how your background has shaped you as a person.

These questions are both common and tricky. The most common pit students fall into is trying to tell their entire life stories. It's better to focus in on a very specific point in time and explain why it was meaningful to you.

Common App 1

Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.

Common App 5

Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.

University of California 2

Every person has a creative side, and it can be expressed in many ways: problem solving, original and innovative thinking, and artistically, to name a few. Describe how you express your creative side.

University of California 6

Think about an academic subject that inspires you. Describe how you have furthered this interest inside and/or outside of the classroom.

Prompt Type 2: Facing a Problem

A lot of prompts deal with how you solve problems, how you cope with failure, and how you respond to conflict. College can be difficult, both personally and academically, and admissions committees want to see that you're equipped to face those challenges .

The key to these types of questions is to identify a real problem, failure, or conflict ( not a success in disguise) and show how you adapted and grew from addressing the issue.

Common App 2

The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?

Harvard University 7

The Harvard College Honor Code declares that we “hold honesty as the foundation of our community.” As you consider entering this community that is committed to honesty, please reflect on a time when you or someone you observed had to make a choice about whether to act with integrity and honesty.

Prompt Type 3: Diversity

Most colleges are pretty diverse, with students from a wide range of backgrounds. Essay questions about diversity are designed to help admissions committees understand how you interact with people who are different from you .

In addressing these prompts, you want to show that you're capable of engaging with new ideas and relating to people who may have different beliefs than you.

Common App 3

Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?

Johns Hopkins University

Tell us about an aspect of your identity (e.g., race, gender, sexuality, religion, community) or a life experience that has shaped you as an individual and how that influenced what you’d like to pursue in college at Hopkins.  This can be a future goal or experience that is either [sic] academic, extracurricular, or social.

Duke University Optional 1

We believe a wide range of personal perspectives, beliefs, and lived experiences are essential to making Duke a vibrant and meaningful living and learning community. Feel free to share with us anything in this context that might help us better understand you and what you might bring to our community. 

Prompt Type 4: Your Future Goals

This type of prompt asks about what you want to do in the future: sometimes simply what you'd like to study, sometimes longer-term career goals. Colleges want to understand what you're interested in and how you plan to work towards your goals.

You'll mostly see these prompts if you're applying for a specialized program (like pre-med or engineering) or applying as a transfer student. Some schools also ask for supplementary essays along these lines. 

University of Southern California (Architecture)

Princeton Supplement 1

Prompt Type 5: Why This School

The most common style of supplemental essay is the "why us?" essay, although a few schools with their own application use this type of question as their main prompt. In these essays, you're meant to address the specific reasons you want to go to the school you're applying to .

Whatever you do, don't ever recycle these essays for more than one school.

Chapman University

There are thousands of universities and colleges. Why are you interested in attending Chapman?

Columbia University

Why are you interested in attending Columbia University? We encourage you to consider the aspect(s) that you find unique and compelling about Columbia.

Rice University

Based upon your exploration of Rice University, what elements of the Rice experience appeal to you?

Princeton University

Princeton has a longstanding commitment to understanding our responsibility to society through service and civic engagement. How does your own story intersect with these ideals?

Prompt Type 6: Creative Prompts

More selective schools often have supplemental essays with stranger or more unique questions. University of Chicago is notorious for its weird prompts, but it's not the only school that will ask you to think outside the box in addressing its questions.

University of Chicago

“Vlog,” “Labradoodle,” and “Fauxmage.” Language is filled with portmanteaus. Create a new portmanteau and explain why those two things are a “patch” (perfect match).

University of Vermont

Established in Burlington, VT, Ben & Jerry’s is synonymous with both ice cream and social change. The “Save Our Swirled” flavor raises awareness of climate change, and “I Dough, I Dough” celebrates marriage equality. If you worked alongside Ben & Jerry, what charitable flavor would you develop and why?

What Makes a Strong Personal Statement?

OK , so you're clear on what a college essay is, but you're still not sure how to write a good one . To help you get started, I'm going to explain the main things admissions officers look for in students' essays: an engaging perspective, genuine moments, and lively writing .

I've touched on these ideas already, but here, I'll go into more depth about how the best essays stand out from the pack.

Showing Who You Are

A lot of students panic about finding a unique topic, and certainly writing about something unusual like a successful dating app you developed with your friends or your time working as a mall Santa can't hurt you. But what's really important isn't so much what you write about as how you write about it . You need to use your subject to show something deeper about yourself.

Look at the prompts above: you'll notice that they almost all ask you what you learned or how the experience affected you. Whatever topic you pick, you must be able to specifically address how or why it matters to you .

Say a student, Will, was writing about the mall Santa in response to Common App prompt number 2 (the one about failure): Will was a terrible mall Santa. He was way too skinny to be convincing and the kids would always step on his feet. He could easily write 600 very entertaining words describing this experience, but they wouldn't necessarily add up to an effective college essay.

To do that, he'll need to talk about his motivations and his feelings: why he took such a job in the first place and what he did (and didn't) get out of it. Maybe Will took the job because he needed to make some money to go on a school trip and it was the only one he could find. Despite his lack of enthusiasm for screaming children, he kept doing it because he knew if he persevered through the whole holiday season he would have enough money for his trip. Would you rather read "I failed at being a mall Santa" or "Failing as a mall Santa taught me how to persevere no matter what"? Admissions officers definitely prefer the latter.

Ultimately, the best topics are ones that allow you to explain something surprising about yourself .

Since the main point of the essay is to give schools a sense of who you are, you have to open up enough to let them see your personality . Writing a good college essay means being honest about your feelings and experiences even when they aren't entirely positive.

In this context, honesty doesn't mean going on at length about the time you broke into the local pool at night and nearly got arrested, but it does mean acknowledging when something was difficult or upsetting for you. Think about the mall Santa example above. The essay won't work unless the writer genuinely acknowledges that he was a bad Santa and explains why.

Eloquent Writing

As I mentioned above, colleges want to know that you are a strong enough writer to survive in college classes . Can you express your ideas clearly and concisely? Can you employ specific details appropriately and avoid clichés and generalizations? These kinds of skills will serve you well in college (and in life!).

Nonetheless, admissions officers recognize that different students have different strengths. They aren't looking for a poetic magnum opus from someone who wants to be a math major. (Honestly, they aren't expecting a masterwork from anyone , but the basic point stands.) Focus on making sure that your thoughts and personality come through, and don't worry about using fancy vocabulary or complex rhetorical devices.

Above all, make sure that you have zero grammar or spelling errors . Typos indicate carelessness, which will hurt your cause with admissions officers.

Top Five Essay-Writing Tips

Now that you have a sense of what colleges are looking for, let's talk about how you can put this new knowledge into practice as you approach your own essay. Below, I've collected my five best tips from years as a college essay counselor.

#1: Start Early!

No matter how much you want to avoid writing your essay, don't leave it until the last minute . One of the most important parts of the essay writing process is editing, and editing takes a lot of time. You want to be able to put your draft in a drawer for a week and come back to it with fresh eyes. You don't want to be stuck with an essay you don't really like because you have to submit your application tomorrow.

You need plenty of time to experiment and rewrite, so I would recommend starting your essays at least two months before the application deadline . For most students, that means starting around Halloween, but if you're applying early, you'll need to get going closer to Labor Day.

Of course, it's even better to get a head start and begin your planning earlier. Many students like to work on their essays over the summer, when they have more free time, but you should keep in mind that each year's application isn't usually released until August or September. Essay questions often stay the same from year to year, however. If you are looking to get a jump on writing, you can try to confirm with the school (or the Common App) whether the essay questions will be the same as the previous year's.

#2: Pick a Topic You're Genuinely Excited About

One of the biggest mistakes students make is trying to write what they think the committee wants to hear. The truth is that there's no "right answer" when it comes to college essays . T he best topics aren't limited to specific categories like volunteer experiences or winning a tournament. Instead, they're topics that actually matter to the writer .

"OK," you're thinking, "but what does she mean by 'a topic that matters to you'? Because to be perfectly honest, right now, what really matters to me is that fall TV starts up this week, and I have a feeling I shouldn't write about that."

You're not wrong (although some great essays have been written about television ). A great topic isn't just something that you're excited about or that you talk to your friends about; it's something that has had a real, describable effect on your perspective .

This doesn't mean that you should overemphasize how something absolutely changed your life , especially if it really didn't. Instead, try to be as specific and honest as you can about how the experience affected you, what it taught you, or what you got out of it.

Let's go back to the TV idea. Sure, writing an essay about how excited you are for the new season of Stranger Things  probably isn't the quickest way to get yourself into college, but you could write a solid essay (in response to the first type of prompt) about how SpongeBob SquarePants was an integral part of your childhood. However, it's not enough to just explain how much you loved SpongeBob—you must also explain why and how watching the show every day after school affected your life. For example, maybe it was a ritual you shared with your brother, which showed you how even seemingly silly pieces of pop culture can bring people together. Dig beneath the surface to show who you are and how you see the world.

When you write about something you don't really care about, your writing will come out clichéd and uninteresting, and you'll likely struggle to motivate yourself. When you instead write about something that is genuinely important to you, you can make even the most ordinary experiences—learning to swim, eating a meal, or watching TV—engaging .

#3: Focus on Specifics

But how do you write an interesting essay? Focus.

Don't try to tell your entire life story or even the story of an entire weekend; 500–650 words may seem like a lot, but you'll reach that limit quickly if you try to pack every single thing that has happened to you into your essay. If, however, you just touch on a wide range of topics, you'll end up with an essay that reads more like a résumé.

Instead, narrow in on one specific event or idea, and talk about it in more depth . The narrower your topic, the better. For example, writing about your role as Mercutio in your school's production of Romeo and Juliet is too general, but writing about opening night, when everything went wrong, could be a great topic.

Whatever your topic, use details to help draw the reader in and express your unique perspective. But keep in mind that you don't have to include every detail of what you did or thought; stick to the important and illustrative ones.

#4: Use Your Own Voice

College essays aren't academic assignments; you don't need to be super formal. Instead, try to be yourself. The best writing sounds like a more eloquent version of the way you talk .

Focus on using clear, simple language that effectively explains a point or evokes a feeling. To do so, avoid the urge to use fancy-sounding synonyms when you don't really know what they mean. Contractions are fine; slang, generally, is not. Don't hesitate to write in the first person.

A final note: you don't need to be relentlessly positive. It's OK to acknowledge that sometimes things don't go how you want—just show how you grew from that.

#5: Be Ruthless

Many students want to call it a day after writing a first draft, but editing is a key part of writing a truly great essay. To be clear, editing doesn't mean just making a few minor wording tweaks and cleaning up typos; it means reading your essay carefully and objectively and thinking about how you could improve it .

Ask yourself questions as you read: is the progression of the essay clear? Do you make a lot of vague, sweeping statements that could be replaced with more interesting specifics? Do your sentences flow together nicely? Do you show something about yourself beyond the surface level?

You will have to delete and rewrite (potentially large) parts of your essay, and no matter how attached you feel to something you wrote, you might have to let it go . If you've ever heard the phrase "kill your darlings," know that it is 100% applicable to college essay writing.

At some point, you might even need to rewrite the whole essay. Even though it's annoying, starting over is sometimes the best way to get an essay that you're really proud of.

What's Next?

Make sure to check out our other posts on college essays , including our step-by-step guide to how to write your college essay , our analysis of the Common App Prompts , and our collection of example essays .

If you're in need of guidance on other parts of the application process , take a look at our guides to choosing the right college for you , writing about extracurriculars , deciding to double major , and requesting teacher recommendations .

Last but not least, if you're planning on taking the SAT one last time , check out our ultimate guide to studying for the SAT and make sure you're as prepared as possible.

Alex is an experienced tutor and writer. Over the past five years, she has worked with almost a hundred students and written about pop culture for a wide range of publications. She graduated with honors from University of Chicago, receiving a BA in English and Anthropology, and then went on to earn an MA at NYU in Cultural Reporting and Criticism. In high school, she was a National Merit Scholar, took 12 AP tests and scored 99 percentile scores on the SAT and ACT.

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Motivational Letter Writing Guide + Examples for 2024

You’re about to apply for the job opportunity of your dreams.

You’ve worked hard, and you can’t wait to take the next step in your career.

All that’s left for you to do is write a motivational letter.

But writing a motivational letter can be nerve-wracking.

Two hours and three coffees in, you’ve scrolled through your Facebook newsfeed (twice), watched one episode of the last season of Game of Thrones, sent angry tweets to its creators, and donated for the knee surgery of two dogs. 

You go back to your open Word doc, and all you’ve managed to write is, “This program seems like fun” or “I’ll totally be a great fit for your organization.”

Don’t worry! We’re here to help.

In this article, we’re going to cover:

• How to Write a Motivational Letter, Step-by-Step
• A Great Example of a Motivational Letter
• Useful Motivational Letter Tips

What Is a Motivational Letter?

A motivational letter, sometimes also called a letter of motivation, is a formal letter that you might have to submit when applying for an educational program or a job. Its goal is to show the hiring manager or admissions officer why you’re the perfect candidate for the position.

Motivational letters are typically submitted alongside your CV or resume . Unlike a cover letter, which gives practical examples of how your skills and experience match the opening, a motivational letter focuses more on your personality, interests, and motivation to apply.

When Do You Need a Motivational Letter?

A motivational letter is usually required when an organization wants to gauge your enthusiasm, cultural fit, and motivations for a particular opportunity.

There are a few situations when you might need to submit a motivational letter, such as:

• You’re applying for an educational program.
• You’re applying to work at a non-profit organization or mission-driven company.
• You’re applying for an internship in a competitive field.
• You’re applying for a volunteer position at a charity or non-government organization.
• You’re applying for a grant, fellowship, or some sort of scholarship .

No matter the situation, a motivational letter serves to express your distinct driving forces and convey your enthusiasm for that specific role, program, or opportunity. That’s why, done right, a motivational letter can convince the reader to go through your application in detail.

However, if the specific position doesn’t explicitly require a motivational letter or other written statement, you might be better off learning how to write a cover letter instead. Cover letters can be a great addition to your application and help you stand out from other candidates who are only relying on their resumes.

How to Write a Motivational Letter

Now that you know what a motivational letter is, it’s time to write your own.

Just follow the steps we’ve outlined, and you’ll be done in no time:

#1. Address Your Letter Appropriately

Your motivational letter should include a header with all the necessary contact details.

For starters, this means you should include your contact information , such as your full name, email address, phone number, and any other details that might be necessary for your application.

Additionally, you should include your intended audience’s contact details. Depending on where and what you’re applying for, this might be either a hiring manager or an admissions officer.

To establish a connection with the reader, include a personalized greeting instead of the generic “To Whom It May Concern.” To do that, you have to find out who the hiring manager or admissions officer is.

Start by doing a bit of research. Review the job listing, the program’s official page, or the application instructions. If you can’t find their name there, check the organization’s website and look for a staff directory.

Once you have their name, address your motivational letter professionally . We recommend using an identifier followed by their last name. But if you’re not sure about their title or gender, you can just use their full name, too. For example:

• Dear Mr. Smith,
• Dear Dr. Singh,
• Dear Cameron Smith,

Just avoid informal greetings like "Hey, John!" – your motivational letter is still meant to be a formal document.

#2. Stick to the Program Requirements

Writing a captivating motivational letter is all about showing the hiring manager or admissions officer how you meet the requirements for the position.

To help get the ball rolling as you start drafting your motivational letter, ask yourself: 

• What kind of applicants are usually admitted to the program? 
• How do you fulfill the requirements?

First, you need to know the exact program requirements and explain how your background and strengths align with the outlined criteria.

Comb through the details the organization has provided about the ideal skills, experiences, qualifications, or personal qualities they’re looking for in a candidate. Maybe they want someone proficient in data analysis , or they’re prioritizing candidates who are passionate about the industry.

Just remember –  you don’t have to highlight how you meet all the listed requirements if your application already includes a detailed academic CV . Just identify the top three to five requirements and give concrete examples of how you meet each.

Here’s an example:

Requirement: Minimum 2 years of volunteer experience

“I was a medical volunteer in Namibia for three years. It’s one of my most fulfilling adventures and transformative experiences so far since I am passionate about helping others. I believe it broadened my horizons and made me more resilient.”

#3. Align with Their Values

Your motivational letter should explain what drives you and show the reader how you share their organization’s values.

Take time to thoroughly research the organization , its culture, objectives, and driving forces. Find what resonates with your own beliefs and goals and mention it in your motivational letter.

But don’t just randomly sprinkle keywords into your letter. Instead, thoughtfully use your passion to build a narrative that shows how your values align with the institution’s mission. 

Be sure to give concrete examples. For instance, if the company values sustainability, you might want to share an anecdotal example, such as:

Values: Sustainability, Climate Action, Nature Conservation

I have a deep passion for nature conservation, and I have volunteered extensively with environmental organizations, especially in restoring local wetland habitats. I also practice eco-friendly habits in my professional life by advocating for reducing workplace waste and single-use plastics.

#4. Express Genuine Interest

Above all, your motivational letter should demonstrate that you really want to be there.

That said, there is a fine line between pleading and showing intelligent interest while also selling yourself. Generic statements can come across as insincere and unmotivated. Instead, write about what really attracted you to the opportunity.

Be as specific as possible and express your passion without necessarily begging them for a chance. For example:

• I would love to live in Aberdeen because I’m fascinated by Highlander culture, and I’m excited to dive into the city’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant community dedicated to the arts, music, and preserving Scottish traditions.
• It is my dream to be part of the Environmental Science Master's program because of its cutting-edge research in sustainable energy solutions and marine conservation efforts, which align with my passion for protecting our planet's ecosystems.

Specific examples and details show you've invested time learning about the organization, which helps your genuine passion shine through your motivational letter.

#5. Personalize It

While showcasing how you meet requirements is crucial, don't be afraid to let some of your personality and voice shine through.

Use descriptive adjectives to paint a fuller picture of who you are beyond just your credentials. Are you an endlessly curious, lifelong learner? A creative problem-solver? Passionate about how technological advancements can be used to increase sustainability?

Let your distinct character and values shine through to make your motivational letter more memorable and help differentiate you from other applicants. This can convey important soft skills and give the reader a glimpse of the person behind the qualifications.

Just make sure you’re still presenting a polished bit of personality and keeping it relevant to the opportunity. For example, if you’re applying for an MA in mathematics, don’t mention your passion for historical re-enactment.

Are you applying for an academic program? Learn how to write an academic personal statement here.

#6. Don’t Just Recap Your CV

Using your motivational letter to simply summarize your CV is a wasted opportunity. If the application requires a motivational letter, they’re looking to get to know you beyond the required stats and qualifications. 

The person reading your motivational letter is looking for the context around your motivations, passions, and aspirations. So, instead of just listing credentials, expand on the driving forces behind your experiences and decisions.

If you’re applying for a master's program, for example, mention your relevant undergraduate coursework, but also explain what sparked your interest in this specialization and why this path is personally meaningful. So, if you’re a History undergrad, elaborate on how volunteering at the archaeology museum made you pursue a graduate degree in Museum Studies and Curatorship.

Here’s a practical example of how that might look:

As a History undergraduate, my passion for preserving and sharing our cultural narratives was sparked by a semester-long museum internship. Working alongside curators as they brought ancient artifacts and stories to life through compelling exhibits opened my eyes to the vital role museums play in education and connecting communities to their roots.

This experience solidified my drive to pursue museum studies at the graduate level, where I can develop professional expertise in responsible collection stewardship, thoughtful exhibition development, and engaging public programming that keeps our shared histories vibrant and accessible for all.

Getting your documents ready for that application? Learn how to write a resume with our detailed guide.

#7. Convey Your Ambitions

Your motivational letter should express your ambitions and aspirations just as much as your relevant achievements . Admissions committees and employers who ask for motivational letters want to clearly understand both your goals and how this opportunity aligns with them.

Share your vision for how you plan to apply the knowledge, essential skills, or experience you'll gain. If it's a job, explain how it will prepare you for further career growth and impact in that field. For an academic program, discuss how you aim to contribute to cutting-edge research or become a leader and mentor.

Don't be afraid to think big - motivated candidates often have big goals of driving innovation, making a difference, or pushing boundaries in their discipline. Just make sure your aspirations are realistic and show that you have a plan and are truly invested in this path for the long term.

Here’s an example of how you can convey your ambitions in your motivational letter:

My long-term goal is to become a leader in sustainable urban design and planning that seamlessly integrates green infrastructure into the built environment. This master's program will equip me with the interdisciplinary skills to develop eco-friendly architectural solutions and climate-resilient city policies that prioritize environmental conservation alongside economic growth and social equity.

#8. Don’t Lie

One of the biggest mistakes you could make while writing your motivational letter is lying.

If you write anything remotely false, the reader will likely sense it. When you lie, you’re likely to unconsciously exaggerate your feelings and ideas. If you tell a fake story or inflate your excitement or achievements, you won’t get anywhere.

Your dishonesty is likely to be exposed and severely damage your credibility, leading to an immediate rejection.

Honesty and integrity are essential to writing an effective motivational letter. The goal of this document is to truly reflect who you are, why you’re the best match for this opportunity, and what you hope to achieve.

Don’t worry if you think your life so far just isn’t impressive enough to write a captivating story. No matter where you’re coming from, you can show the reader your unique perspective, personal growth, and unwavering determination to pursue your passions.

#9. Use a Motivational Letter Template

If you want your motivational letter to make a striking first impression, presentation matters.

A basic black-and-white document from a text editor will hardly stand out. Instead, try one of our professionally designed motivational letter templates for an attention-grabbing solution!

Novoresume offers modern, eye-catching templates that can give your motivational letter a polished look. You can even use the resume builder to match your motivational letter to one of our sleek resume templates for a coherent application.

Save precious time on formatting and create a visually flawless application in no time!

How to Structure a Motivational Letter

You’ve got the gist of how to write a motivational letter down, but it’s just as important to know how to structure it.

If your motivational letter is a messy, haphazard series of unrelated paragraphs, it simply won’t make the cut. You need your motivational letter to tell a coherent story, and this is where the structure comes in.

The whole process will probably require a few drafts until you get to the perfect, polished motivational letter. You might have to move around paragraphs or sentences until you have the ideal story that compliments your application, so don’t worry if you don’t get it right the first time.

Let’s look at what each motivational letter looks like and includes:

#1. Contact Details

Start by adding all the relevant contact information at the top of your motivational letter.

Here’s what to include:

• Full Name. Place your first and last name at the top of the page.
• Professional Title. Match your professional title to the specific position you're aiming for. E.g.: if you’re applying for a Ph.D., write “Ph.D. candidate”.
• Email Address. Include a professional and straightforward email address. We recommend sticking to something that combines your first and last name.
• Phone Number. Include your phone number and add the dialing code in front if you’re applying overseas.
• Location. Adding your city and state/country is more than enough.
• Relevant Links. Optionally, you can include links to any relevant websites or social media profiles, such as a portfolio, a blog, a LinkedIn profile , etc.

Then, add the contact information of the admissions officer or hiring manager reading your motivational letter, such as:

• Organization’s Name. Start with the name of the organization to which you're sending your application.
• Recipient’s Name. If possible, find the name of the exact person who's going to be viewing your application, such as the hiring manager or the admissions officer for the department you're interested in. Check the organization’s website to get a head start.
• Recipient’s Title. Always address the reader professionally. For example, if they’re a professor or doctor in their field, use the appropriate identifier.
• Location. Provide the exact address of the organization you’re applying to. Include the city, state, country, and street number, and even specify the building if necessary.

#2. Introduction

Begin your motivational letter with a strong introduction.

The first few sentences need to be attention-grabbing – do this through a short, engaging pitch about yourself and why you are applying.

Here’s what you can include:

• A summary of who you are and what you do.
• Details about what you’re applying for and where.
• A prelude to the bulk of your motivational letter.

Remember - this part only needs to include the general reasons behind your application, since you’ll have the opportunity to make a deep dive later on in the body of your motivational letter.

Let’s look at an example of what your introduction could look like:

Dear Dr. Octavio,

My name is Jane Doe, and I would like to express my interest in applying for the Ph.D. Robotics program at Columbia University. I’ve always dreamed of becoming a robotics engineer and contributing to advancement in the field, and I believe that a Ph.D. in Robotics from this university would set me miles ahead of reaching my goal.

The body of your motivational letter is where you get to really sell yourself.

It’s also where the bulk of your text is going to be, so it determines your motivational letter as a whole.

There are two things you should keep in mind when writing this section of your motivational letter: the paragraph structure and the paragraph contents.

Generally, there are two main paragraph-based structures for your motivational letter.

First is the classic, three-main-paragraph structure, where each paragraph accounts for your introduction, body, and conclusion. If you’re using a storytelling approach for your motivational letter, we recommend sticking to this one.

However, if you want to be more factual and to the point, we recommend trying the seven-paragraph structure. It divides the main body of your motivational letter into smaller paragraphs according to your main points, where each discusses a specific achievement, experience, or aspiration.

Use the body of your motivational letter to mention the stories behind your achievements, essential skills , and passion for whatever you’re applying for.

This is the right place to be as detailed and factual as possible. Give concrete examples of what motivated you to apply for this position, and show how that directly relates to what the organization is looking for in a candidate.

Here are some sentences you can paraphrase and use to help you write the body of your motivational letter:

• My passion for [field] started when [experience] . 
• I want to [join this organization] because [ motivation] . 
• I have been part of [relevant organization or field] for [amount of time] . It’s the best thing for me because [reason] .
• I remember once when I [experience] , which made me realize that I [gained interest in the specific field] .
• [Organization or program] resonates with me because [specific reason] .
• What distinguishes me from my peers is [something you’re proud of] .

Let’s look at a brief example of how this is put into practice.

I developed my passion for digital marketing during my internship at XYZ Inc. Working for a small startup allowed me to gain surface-level experience in most digital marketing channels. Now, I would like to deep-dive and gain advanced know-how by attending the Buffalo College Marketing program.

#4. Conclusion

After finishing the body of your motivational letter, it’s time to wrap it up and send it in.

Use this section to briefly summarize your main points and remind the reader why you’d be a great fit for the organization or program you’re interested in.

Then, mention your overarching career goal and how that aligns with their organization’s mission.

Finally, thank the reader for their time and sign off on your motivational letter. Here’s an example:

Therefore, I believe that my strong academic foundation in environmental studies and hands-on fieldwork experience are qualifications that position me to make outstanding contributions to your master's program. I believe that the knowledge I gain in the Sustainability and International Relations program will play a pivotal role in my mission of shaping innovative policies and scientific solutions to combat climate change and protect our planet's biodiversity for future generations.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to join UCLA in the fall semester.

George Maxton

How to Format a Motivational Letter

Always review your motivation letter carefully and stick to any stated requirements or guidelines for your application.

Organizations will sometimes include formatting specifications, like word count or page limits, or even questions they want you to answer in your motivational letter.

If you’re writing a motivational letter for an academic program, you can usually find this information on the admissions requirements webpage or within the provided application materials. 

For job applications, these details are usually listed on the job ad or in the company's job application portal.

Always follow these rules exactly as stated. Going off script could get your application immediately rejected since it shows you’re either not attentive or you’re not taking the opportunity seriously.

If, on the other hand, there aren’t any guidelines for your motivational letter, we recommend you follow these tips:

• Keep your motivational letter one page long.
• Use a clear structure with concise paragraphs to make your letter easy to skim.
• Choose a professional font like Lora or Roboto and make sure it’s sized 11-12 pt.
• Set your page margins to one inch on all sides so your page doesn’t look too cluttered or too empty.
• Include the date you wrote your motivational letter for an extra professional touch.
• Use powerful words and action verbs (“designed” and “conceptualized”) instead of cliched phrases (“helped with” and “managed”).
• Smoothly connect your thoughts through transition words.
• Proofread carefully for any spelling or grammatical errors.
• Include a professional closing line like "Sincerely" at the end of your text.
• Print your motivational letter out and sign it, or send it as a PDF to preserve your formatting.

Motivational Letter Example

Let’s look at an example of a great motivational letter for a Ph.D. program at Harvard University and go through just what this candidate does right:

The candidate’s letter to Harvard University’s Department of Political Science starts by addressing the person in charge of admissions for the Ph.D. program they’re interested in.

The general requirements for the Political Science program are:

• Being research inclined
• Having a demonstrated passion for politics
• Showing above-average performance during undergraduate studies 

The values of the university they’re applying to are integrity, education, respect, and accountability.

The candidate’s motivational letter is neatly divided into a total of five paragraphs, of which three make up the body of the text.

Here’s how they highlight their motivation:

• They know the history of the university and share the same values.
• They’re genuinely excited and passionate about the program and the school.
• They show what their qualifications are and how they’ll be a great fit for the program.
• They explain what they hope to achieve if they get the opportunity to study at Harvard.

Essentially, the candidate has listed all their qualifications through a personal story. After reading this letter, the admissions officer will feel like they know the candidate adequately, especially since they have communicated who they are by highlighting how they match everything the Ph.D. program is looking for in an applicant.

Need more inspiration? Check out our 60+ cover letter examples for different professions.

Key Takeaways

You’ve made it to the end of our guide!

Now, you know everything there is to know about motivational letters. We’re confident you’re a shoo-in for that position you have your sights set on!

But before we go, let’s quickly sum up what we’ve covered so far:

• A motivational letter is a formal document that’s usually required when applying for university admissions, a non-profit organization, or a volunteer position.
• Motivational letters are different from cover letters since they focus more on your interests, passions, and ambitions than on your skills and achievements.
• Generally, there are two ways to structure your motivational letter, depending on whether you want to tell a story or factually go through all the points that make you an ideal candidate.
• The introduction of your motivational letter should be brief and immediately grab the reader’s attention. Use it to tell them who you are and why you’re interested in applying for the specific opportunity.
• Always do your research on the specific program or organization. This can help you show genuine interest and convey your aspirations for the future in this field.
• Make your motivational letter stand out by using one of Novorésumé’s templates and giving the admissions officer or hiring manager a gorgeous first impression.

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• How to Write a Letter of Motivation? A Complete Guide with Example

Meridean Overseas

Updated On 11 May 2024 & Read Time 13 minutes

Share this post

Whether looking for international education or a part-time job while studying abroad, you must fulfil some requirements. There are many requirements, one of them is a letter of motivation. You might require a letter of motivation as a part of university admissions, awarding scholarships, or applying for part-time jobs while studying. You need a strong motivation letter to increase your chances of admission.

Today, we will walk you through the definition of a motivation letter, its structure, the letter of motivation format, and some examples. So, let’s take a deeper look at it.

Table of Contents

Understanding of a motivation letter, when do you need a motivational letter, the difference between a motivation letter and a personal statement, how to write a motivation letter, how to structure a motivational letter, how to format a motivational letter, letter of motivation example.

• Call To Action

Before you start writing your motivation letter for universities or companies abroad, you must understand what the motivation letter is.

What is a Motivation Letter?

A letter of motivation (motivation letter) is a formal letter you must require while applying to universities abroad or jobs. A motivation letter is a personal narrative for the academic admission process or job applications. It not only highlights your skills but also your personality and commitment. Hence, you must present your cultural background, prospective contributions, and your distinctive opinions, as it enhances your credibility among other candidates.

Despite your educational qualifications, some admission officers wish to understand your personal interests in your academics. This letter shows your dedication to the program or the job. 

Why do you need a Letter of Motivation?

You usually need a letter of motivation for work or for pursuing master's or doctoral degrees, especially when you are an Indian student. It’s just a way to articulate your goals, objectives, and academic accomplishments, which provide context beyond grades or qualifications.

The main aim behind this letter is to show off your skills and commitment to pursue that course or career to the admissions committee or to hiring managers and explain why you’re a perfect candidate.

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Now that you know that a letter of motivation is required when a university’s admission committee or organisation wishes to assess your cultural fit, enthusiasm, and reasons to apply to a specific opportunity. Let’s have a look at the instances where you might find yourself needing to submit this letter:

Applying for an educational program.

Seeking a job at a non-profit organisation or mission-driven company.

Competing for an internship in a sought-after field.

Pursuing a volunteer position at a charity or non-government organisation.

Applying for a grant, fellowship, or scholarship.

A situation can be different, but this letter lets you express your distinct driving forces or convey your willingness for that program or opportunity. Thus, it mainly convinces your reader to thoroughly review your application.

While a letter of motivation and a personal statement may appear similar, focus is a key distinguishing point between them. A motivation letter expresses your desire to pursue a specific degree or shows eligibility for a scholarship. Whereas a personal statement seeks to present yourself to the university with a multifaceted image.

A letter of motivation is commonly needed for job applications, graduate programs, and scholarships, although personal statements are usually required for undergraduate programs. The motivation letter focuses on the specific goal of studying or getting a scholarship, while the personal statement provides a broader picture of your general traits and goals.

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After learning about the motivation letter, you must understand how to write it. You can follow the below-mentioned tips for developing an impressive letter of motivation:

Address Your Letter Appropriately: Your motivation letter must include a header with your and the recipient’s contact number, such as the admission committee or hiring manager. Personalise your greeting by addressing them professionally by name or title. Avoid using informal greetings to retain the document's seriousness.

Stick to the Program Requirements: Creating an appealing motivation letter involves aligning with the program’s needs. You must consider the qualities desired in the candidates and how you fulfil them. 

Align with Their Values: You must research the organisation’s values and objectives before preparing your letter of motivation and align your views with them. To show your dedication, you can use real-life instances.

Express Genuine Interest: A letter of motivation must show your eagerness without sounding generic or desperate. Instead, explain why you're interested in something specific. A genuine passion supported by specific examples shows them how invested and sincere you are.

Personalisation: To show your personality, you can use descriptive adjectives to picture your qualities and character, adding depth to your letter while making it more memorable and distinguished from other applicants. 

Don’t Just Recap Your CV: Do not just summarise your CV into a letter of motivation! If your university or company asks for a motivation letter, it just means they are asking for more about you, like your motivations, passions, and goals, than your qualifications. 

Convey Your Ambitions: You must discuss both your goals and relevant accomplishments. Express how the opportunity aligns with your goals, including plans for applying newly acquired knowledge or skills to career advancement or academic contribution.

Maintain Authenticity: You must maintain honesty, as exaggeration and falsehoods can undermine your credibility. Reflect on your true self and goals to make a compelling case.

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In order to make your letter of motivation more effective, you must organise it appropriately. Each part must fit correctly and prove you are a suitable candidate. You can begin your motivation letter by describing why you are interested and discussing your skills. And keep adjusting it until it seems correct.

Head over to the points explaining what it actually includes:

Contact Details - Start by adding your full name, title, email, phone number, location, and relevant links. Following that, add the contact information of the admissions officer or hiring manager, including the organisation’s name, recipient’s name and title, and location. 

Introduction - Your letter of motivation must begin with a strong introduction, and the first few lines should give a unique glimpse of yourself. Keep in mind that these are the general reasons. You must elaborate more on yourself in the body. 

Body - This is the part where you must sell yourself in bulk. But there are two things which you must keep in mind - the paragraph structure and the paragraph contents.

Structure - Motivational letters come in two-paragraph structures: the standard three-paragraph style for storytelling and the seven-paragraph structure for a more factual approach. Both of these structures focus on certain issues.

Contents - In the body, describe how you became interested in the field, why you wish to join, and your relevant experiences. You must explain what distinguishes you and how you align with the organisation's desired outcomes.

• Conclusion - After finishing the body, summarise your main points, emphasise your suitability for the position, align your career goals with the organisation's mission, express gratitude, and sign off.

Before submitting your motivational letter, double-check it and ensure it follows any guidelines or requirements. Many organisations often specify formatting details, like word count or questions to answer.

You can check the university admission page for academic programs and the job or application portal for job requirements. You must follow those rules precisely as mentioned. Moving away from these rules indicates carelessness, which can result in rejection. Even if no guidelines exist, you can follow below suggestions: 

Keep it one page long

Use clear structure with short paragraphs to make it easy to read

Pick a professional font

Set page margins 1 inch from all sides

Include the date with an extra touch

Use powerful words and action verbs instead of cliche phrases

Utilise transition words

Ensure you don’t make grammatical and spelling mistakes

Professional closing line

Read More: Letter of Recommendation

Emily Johnson

PhD Candidate

[email protected]

123-456-7890

Los Angeles, CA

linkedin.com/in/emilyjohnson

emilyjohnson.com

@emily.johnson

Dr. Sarah Thompson

[email protected]

Department of Sociology at

Stanford University

Stanford, CA 94305, USA

Dear Dr. Thompson,

I am writing to express my keen interest in the Stanford University doctoral program in the Department of Sociology. My ultimate goal is to become a top researcher in the sphere of social inequality.

Throughout my academic career, I've developed a strong interest in understanding the intricacies of social institutions and their effects on individuals and communities. Pursuing a PhD in Sociology at Stanford University would allow me to explore these interests further and contribute meaningfully to the field.

During my undergraduate studies in Sociology at UCLA, I was captivated by the intersections of race, class, and gender in shaping social dynamics. This passion drove me to pursue a Master's in Social Policy at UC Berkeley, where I studied access to healthcare in underserved communities.

I am particularly drawn to Stanford University's interdisciplinary approach to sociology and the opportunity to engage with renowned faculty members whose research aligns with my interests. Courses such as Social Stratification, Globalization and Development, and Qualitative Research Methods resonate deeply with my academic and professional goals.

My academic record reflects my dedication and commitment to excellence. I have consistently demonstrated strong analytical skills and a drive for rigorous research. In addition, I have actively participated in extracurricular activities such as volunteering at local community organisations and conducting research projects.

Studying Sociology at Stanford University would not only provide me with invaluable academic resources but also immerse me in a vibrant intellectual community. I am excited to collaborate with other scholars and contribute to the university's research initiatives.

Based on my academic achievements and research interests, I am confident I would be a valuable addition to Stanford University's doctoral program. I am excited about the prospect of furthering my education and making meaningful contributions to the field of Sociology.

Thank you for considering my application.

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To conclude, a letter of motivation is a formal document required for university admissions and job applications. This letter is different from your CV. There are two ways how to structure a motivation letter, depending on whether you want to tell your story or factual information. Thus, you must do your research and show genuine interest and passion for the program. 

If you want to know more about the letter of motivation or want to study abroad, we encourage you to speak with our team of expert counsellors at Meridean Overseas Education Consultants (MOEC) . Our counsellors will provide you with guidance throughout your study abroad. Get help with the application process, SOPs , and filing for a visa. Visit us and get one-to-one counselling, or avail yourself of free video counselling via our website. We will be happy to help you, so please do not hesitate to contact us at [email protected] or 1800-1230-00011 .

Q1. How do you start a motivational letter for university?

Answer: You must craft a compelling introduction to begin your motivational letter for university. Begin with a brief but engaging introduction to yourself and why you're applying. To capture the reader's attention, briefly summarise who you are and what you do in the first few sentences.

Q2. How long should a motivation letter be?

Answer: A good length for a motivation letter is usually between 500 and 700 words, or as advised by the institution you are applying to. However, before you worry about length, complete your draft. You can then trim it to the appropriate size while retaining all necessary information.

Q3. What should I include in a motivational letter for university?

Answer: Your motivational letter for university should include your contact information, a powerful introduction showcasing your interest, a detailed body detailing your qualifications and experiences, and a persuasive conclusion summarising your main points and thanking you.

Q4. Should I mention my weaknesses in a motivational letter?

Answer: Well, it's up to you, but nobody is asking you to point out your flaws. Instead, emphasise your abilities, experiences, and accomplishments that are relevant to the program or position you are applying for. Use the letter as a chance to emphasise your qualifications.

Q5. How do I make my motivational letter shine through?

Answer: To make your motivation letter stand out, tailor it to specific parts of the school or position that match your interests and aspirations. You must provide particular accomplishments and experiences to demonstrate your excitement and dedication.

Q6. Is writing a motivation letter longer than the suggested word count acceptable?

Answer: You must stick to the specified word count for a motivation letter. Exceeding the word limit may suggest a lack of attention to detail or an unwillingness to follow directions, which could reduce the effect of your application.

Q7. Is it okay to use bullet points in my letter of motivation?

Answer: While bullet points can assist in organising material, it's usually best to utilise entire phrases and paragraphs in a motivation letter. This creates a more unified story and lets you communicate your thoughts and feelings in greater detail.

Q8. Can I use the same motivational letter for many applications?

Answer: You must submit a different motivation letter for several applications because each program or position may have different needs and expectations. Tailoring your motivation letter to the relevant institution or organisation shows genuine interest and boosts your chances of success.

Q9. Should I mention my academic achievements in a motivation letter?

Answer: Yes, you can mention important academic achievements in your motivation letter, primarily if they reflect your qualifications and dedication to your chosen field of study or career path. However, highlight achievements that are directly related to the program or position for which you are seeking.

Q10. Can I take professional help to write my motivation letter?

Answer: While it is okay to seek advice or comments from mentors, professors, or professional advisers when writing your motivation letter, the final document must reflect your unique voice, experiences, and motivations. Avoid plagiarism and remain authentic throughout the writing process.

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   Personal Statement vs Cover Letter

What's the difference between a cover letter, a motivation letter, and a personal statement? Depending on the situation and the request, you might find that you need one or any of these letters. While they seem similar on the surface, there are subtle differences that make the distinctions important.

Cover Letter : A cover letter is the most common type of letter you'll find for applications. It introduces you, your experiences, and your skills. A typical cover letter is the best way to introduce a resume, job application, or bid proposal. It always has the same rough structure: Tell the recipient who you are and what you want. Tell them why you like them and why they should like you. Briefly touch on, contextualize, or expand some of the qualities found in your resume. You're selling your qualifications and your image, and establishing your voice in a way that they will (ideally) remember.

Motivation Letter : A motivation letter is a lot like a cover letter, and can be used as a cover letter in most scenarios. The subtle difference with a motivation letter is that it's more about you explaining why you're motivated to do something and what's driving you to do it. A motivation letter is mostly used to get into a university, receive a scholarship, be approved for a mortgage loan, or apply for a volunteer position. It's less about your previous experience or qualifications and more about what you're looking for and why. Passion and dedication factor heavily in a motivation letter.

Personal Statement : A personal statement is not about selling your image; it's about telling your story. A personal statement is a place for you to talk about your experiences, but not just as they relate to the job/scholarship/school to which you're applying. You can talk about the most important people or events in your life, how they changed your perspective, and how they motivate you. You can discuss your goals and hopes and plans for the future. You can outline what makes you unique. Personal statements are almost always used for graduate programs, and are usually requested alongside a traditional cover letter.

No matter what seems best to you, always remember to format your letter to fit your recipient's prompt or request as closely as possible.

Index of Cover Letter Examples

Statement of Purpose Vs. Personal Statement – A Guide for Early Career Researchers

You were busy gathering information on how to apply for PhD programs abroad and you came across terms like Statement of Purpose (SOP), personal statement, letter of recommendation, etc. You are aware of these documents but how is one different from another, is still confusing. Your peers did mention how important these documents are while seeking admissions!

Among the researchers there always was confusion in understanding the difference between these academic documents . Moreover, many have a notion that statement of purpose and personal statement are the same. In this article, we will discuss statement of purpose vs. personal statement , why they are important, and which one to write when?

What is a Statement of Purpose (SOP)?

The statement of purpose is a letter that explains your rationale for applying to a graduate program and why an early career researcher is good for the program. The admission panel is interested to know why the candidate is interested in the program. This statement acts as a bridge to a possible candidate’s past and future in academics.

The early career researcher should have a substantial amount of experience in the field of research they are applying for. However, the program one applies to defines whether the early career research must mention their past experiences in the field of study. For example, it does not solve the purpose to mention the research experience in detail if they are applying for an MBA program.

Writing a statement of purpose requires understanding the academic journey. It is good to observe all the past events and life-changing turns in the career. This will help the candidate create strong reasoning for wanting to apply to the necessary program. Furthermore, once the candidate understands the academic past and possible future and does thorough background research, he/she must focus on how to create an original story.

A Well-Written Statement of Purpose

A well-written Statement of Purpose (SOP) could convince the admission panel to accept your application. The statement of purpose should have believable responses to questions such as –

• Why did you choose this school/university?
• Which field of research you are passionate about?
• Why you can’t pursue it in your country?
• Which Professor(s) is pursuing this field? And how does their work align with your interest?
• What do you want to gain from this academic experience?
• How has your background prepared you to develop this interest?
• What are your career goals?
• Why did you not score well on certain tests and what did you learn from that failure?
• And finally, what is special about you, and how does it set you apart from the rest?

What is a Personal Statement?

The personal statement is a personal note wherein the applicant writes about the personal as well as the academic background. The essay lets you share personal and professional experiences along with your academic experiences. However, there is less emphasis on research or future intent as compared to statement of purpose, in a personal statement.

In a personal statement, you are promoting yourself based on your skills as to why you are the right applicant for the particular course. Furthermore, it is essential to mention your readiness for the course and enthusiasm for the field you are applying for.

A candidate should add the following details while writing a personal statement –

• Candidates’ goals and values
• A personal story based on acquired skillset
• Discussion over what motivates the candidate
• Importance of the chosen course in today’s world.

Difference Between Statement of Purpose and Personal Statement

A statement of purpose explains why you want to study a given subject topic (it could be for a program) and a personal statement explains why you are a right candidate for a program. Furthermore, the statement of purpose discusses the area of interest while a personal statement discusses your motivation for applying.

An SOP focuses on highlighting the early career researcher’s credentials and qualifications. A personal statement focuses on the candidate’s acquired skills. Finally, a statement of purpose discusses how the candidate plans to achieve academic or professional goals. While a personal statement focuses on candidate’s relevant experiences, challenges, or accomplishments.

Statement of Purpose Vs. Personal Statement – Which One to Choose?

Choosing the right essay depends on the requirements of the universities because some institutions ask for a statement of purpose while others instruct for writing a personal statement . Some global graduation institutes would ask for separate statements and during admission they combine the qualities of both essays and may ask applicants to write a comprehensive essay. To find out which essay to write, it is good to check the university website, the requirement page will give details on the program.

Tips for Statement of Purpose Vs. Personal Statement

For statement of purpose –.

• Help the admission committee to analyze your aptitude and motive for taking admission to their university. Thus, write what the admission committee wants to know.
• Admission officers read hundreds of SOPs in each academic session. Then can find flaws quite efficiently. However, a genuine statement of purpose that talks about realistic achievements and thoughts of the future will intrigue their interest.
• All applicants are equally worthy. For your application to stand out, you must write a statement that stands out from the others. Start with an interesting introduction to capture the admission officer’s attention. Starting with an incident or a real-life experience would be the best way to write an introduction for your statement of purpose.
• Introduce your career goals. Be specific about how the program will help you attain your career objective. Mention your objectives related to the program you are applying to.
• Don’t be boastful but mention your academic and professional achievements. Try to be precise about the achievements and your decision in choosing the particular program.

For Personal Statement –

• Create an outline before you start writing the personal statement . Write down your thoughts in an organized manner and ensure that your essay is coherent and flows smoothly.
• You need to find personal reasons that motivate you to apply for the particular program. Spend some time to check what motivated you and apply for the course specifically.
• Talk to your friends and family members to find out about your unique qualities. You could also ask for an honest opinion from your siblings, they will be a better judge of your qualities.
• Discuss your weaknesses or challenges that you overcame in recent years. Also, mention your struggles during school or college. In the end, conclude on a positive note, this will tell the admission committee that you can tackle any challenges and succeed in any field.

When it comes to statement of purpose vs. personal statement , they are written to influence the admission committee by presenting the most important information about your life in words. A statement of purpose is more formal, highlighting your academic or professional background. Meanwhile, a personal statement is a bit informal and focuses on your qualities as a person.

Did you know the difference between statement of purpose vs. personal statement ? Did you write a statement of purpose or a personal statement? What ways did you follow to write these essays? Do write to us or leave a comment below!

great article to read

Your website provided alot of insight into the two keywords which are not found in many websites,however it will do good to include examples to further highlight the differences in the two words.Thanks

Great read. Thanks. It’d be perfect to add some samples to further highlight the application of the differences.

Very well received with thanks.

I loved the information and I am willing to learn more

What is the difference between a Statement of Purpose (SOP) and a Personal Statement when applying for PhD programs abroad?

This is really a good guide. Thank you

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Statement of purpose vs. personal statement: knowing the difference

If you’re applying to graduate school, then you might remember the headaches of that application process that you encountered many years ago. Maybe you struggled to decide on a topic for the personal statement, maybe you debated which extracurriculars were worth listing, or maybe you were torn between taking the ACT or SAT. But for all the anxieties induced by college applications, at least those applications (especially, if you remember, those sent through the Common App) spoke the same language: that is, most schools needed the same essential materials, asked the same kinds of questions, and expected the same kinds of answers.

Graduate school applications, by contrast, are far less universal. Since many programs are highly specialized, you may be applying to several programs that each require their own unique statements and supporting materials. Even if you are applying to seemingly identical programs, one school may ask for a one-page statement while another asks for three pages, one school may ask for five recommendations while another asks for three; the variations are endless! Just wrapping your head around the different application requirements can be tiring. 

In this post, I want to de-mystify one difference that I found particularly disorienting when I applied to graduate school: the distinction between the “statement of purpose” and the “personal statement.” Most graduate schools will ask for a statement of purpose, and only some will ask for a personal statement, so in the majority of cases, the statement of purpose is considerably more important. But pointing out the difference between the two statements also emphasizes what exactly a statement of purpose is (and what it is not!).

As I mentioned earlier, the confusing lack of common terms across graduate school applications means that the following distinction might not even hold for all applications. You may, for example, come across a program that asks for a “personal statement,” but the actual essay prompt essentially describes the more standard “statement of purpose.” Or you might encounter a request for a very specific kind of personal statement--one that, for example, only focuses on your ethnic background. Be sure to fully read each application and any accompanying resources so that you address exactly what each application requires. With that important caveat aside, here are the distinctions for what are most commonly called the “statement of purpose” and the “personal statement:”

Statement of Purpose

Think of the statement of purpose like a cover letter. You might start off with something autobiographical or anecdotal, but most of the essay should be about your relevant training and technical career goals.

A strong statement of purpose should:

• Focus on your specific research interests within a particular field
• Detail how your academic and professional experiences have developed those research interests and prepared you to pursue them at a higher academic level
• Explain how those research interests can be pursued at this particular institution in this particular program

Here are some tips for writing an effective statement of purpose:

• Spend at least a paragraph discussing your interest in the specific program to which you’re applying. List specific professors whose work aligns with your own academic experience or research interests (and explain that connection). List specific institutions, programs, and opportunities associated with the program and explain how you would utilize them.
• Be as specific as possible about your research interests. This doesn’t mean you should know exactly what your dissertation topic will be in five years, but you should be able to identify a specific field within the department and professors who work in that field. Often admissions decisions are based on specialties (an English department probably doesn’t want an entire class studying Victorian literature and a biology department probably doesn’t want an entire class researching genetics), so narrowing your field can be essential.
• Anecdotes and autobiography can be effective in your introduction, but make sure the bulk of your statement is technical and academic. Only include extra-curriculars if they directly relate to your research interests. In all likelihood, your personal history has shaped your research interests, and your statement of purpose shouldn’t sound like a generic, lifeless script. But you primarily want to prove to the committee that you can succeed in coursework, excel in lab, finish a dissertation, or teach an undergraduate class.

Personal Statement

Think of the personal statement, by contrast, as more of a bio. You still want to mention your research interests and the specific program you’re applying to, but you also have an opportunity to flesh out your personal history. 

A strong personal statement should:

• Focus on the intersection of your personal, academic, and professional lives
• Detail various life experiences that have developed your character, work-ethic, and perspective
• Explain how your background particularly suits your for this program and/or will allow you to contribute a unique perspective to the community 

Some tips for writing an effective personal statement:

• Some institutions use the personal statement to assign various fellowships based on students’ backgrounds. If you’ve overcome or still face any barriers to education, this is an opportunity to explain those experiences.
• If you haven’t overcome any significant barriers, don’t stretch the truth. Instead, you might talk about how certain experiences have shaped your perspective or widened your understanding of the barriers that others face. Maybe you haven’t experienced any significant hardships but are still driven to help others who do, and you can discuss how this program will help you to achieve that goal. Or you might explain how you look forward to learning from a diverse and dynamic academic community.
• Though the personal statement is an opportunity to share information about yourself that might not directly map onto your academic career, you should still explain how your personal experiences ultimately make you a stronger student, colleague, and/or teacher.

Hopefully these distinctions have helped to clarify some key terms you’ll encounter while applying to graduate school. While these essays are usually the hardest part of applications, they can also be the most rewarding. If you think carefully about why exactly you want to apply to a program, what exactly you would study while there, and how that experience fits into your larger personal history, you’ll be both a stronger candidate and graduate student.

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Motivation Letter vs Cover Letter: What Are the Key Differences? (+Examples)

• Klara Cervenanska , 
• Updated May 10, 2023 4 min read

If you've ever found yourself scratching your head and wondering about the difference between a motivation letter vs. cover letter, you're not alone. 

These two documents, while similar, have distinct uses and contexts that set them apart. 

In a nutshell, the main difference between cover letter and a motivational letter lies in the fact that a cover letter is typically used in career settings , while a motivation letter is more common in academic settings .

In this article, we'll dive into the specifics of each document and provide examples to help guide you on when to use which.

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Motivation letter vs. cover letter 

What is a cover letter, how to write a cover letter, cover letter example, what is a motivation letter, how to write a motivation letter, motivation letter example, motivation letter vs. cover letter our final piece of advice.

What's the difference between a cover letter and a motivation letter?

Let's sum it up:

Now, let's have a closer look at each of these documents, together with an example of both a cover letter and a motivation letter.

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A cover letter is a document that serves as your introduction to a potential employer, showcasing your background and explaining why you would be a good fit for the position they're offering. 

It should accompany your resume and should complement the information in it.

In essence, it's your chance to present yourself, let your personality shine through, and provide additional details that might not fit within the limited space of your resume. 

Even if you lack previous experience in the field, a well-crafted cover letter can help you stand out by highlighting your enthusiasm and positive qualities. 

When it comes to writing a cover letter, the structure is just as important as the content. Here's a simple breakdown of the key components to include:

• Opening paragraph : Start with a brief introduction, saying who you are and the position you're applying for. This is your opportunity to grab the reader's attention and encourage them to read on.
• Body paragraphs: Use this section to showcase your relevant skills, experiences, and achievements. Be sure to provide concrete examples and explain how they directly relate to the job you're applying for. This is your chance to demonstrate why you're the ideal candidate for the position and how your background aligns with the company's needs and values.
• Closing paragraphs : In your closing paragraphs, restate your interest in the position and summarize your qualifications. This is also an excellent opportunity to express your enthusiasm and eagerness to contribute to the company's success. Don't forget to thank the reader for considering your application and provide any necessary contact information.

Now that you have a better understanding of what a cover letter entails and how to write one, let's take a look at an example to help illustrate the key concepts.

Marketing and Brand Manager Cover Letter Sample

This cover letter sample was provided by a real person who got hired with Kickresume’s help.

While cover letters are designed for job applications, motivation letters serve a different purpose. 

Motivation letter is typically used when applying for academic opportunities such as scholarships, internships, or postgraduate programs, but also when applying for a non-profit organization or voluntary work.

A motivation letter aims to convey your passion for the subject, your personal goals , and how the program or opportunity aligns with those aspirations. 

It's an opportunity to showcase your drive, commitment, and enthusiasm for the field, setting you apart from other applicants. 

When crafting a motivation letter, it's essential to convey your genuine interest in the program or opportunity and provide a clear explanation of your motivations. 

Here's a simple outline to follow:

• Opening paragraph: Begin with an introduction, stating who you are and expressing your interest in the program or opportunity. This is the perfect chance to capture the reader's curiosity and set the tone for the rest of the letter.
• Body paragraphs: In this section, delve into your motivation for pursuing this opportunity, your long-term goals, and how the program aligns with those objectives. Be specific and provide examples, such as relevant experiences or accomplishments, that demonstrate your commitment to the field.
• Closing paragraphs: Wrap up your motivation letter by reiterating your interest in the program or opportunity and expressing your enthusiasm for the potential it offers. Thank the reader for considering your application and provide your contact information.

Now that we've covered the purpose and structure of a motivation letter, let's take a look at an example to help bring these concepts to life. 

This sample motivation letter will demonstrate how to effectively introduce yourself, share your motivations and goals, and express your enthusiasm for the academic opportunity:

University Motivation Letter Example

Throughout this article, we've explored the key differences between motivation letters and cover letters.

In a nutshell, a cover letter focuses on your qualifications and suitability for a specific job, while a motivation letter expresses your enthusiasm and reasons for pursuing a particular opportunity, often in educational or volunteering contexts.

Furthermore:

• Cover letter typically includes your contact information, addresses the hiring manager, and is tailored to a specific job posting or company.
• Motivation letter is more general, often used for educational or volunteer programs, and emphasizes your passion, personal goals, and reasons for choosing the opportunity.

By understanding these distinctions, you can confidently craft the right document for your specific needs, be it an academic opportunity or a job application.

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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What’s the Difference Between a Motivation Letter and a Cover Letter

If you’re thinking about applying to college or a new job and want to quickly show how motivated you are, you might looking for the best way to get that done. 

Don’t worry, that’s normal, but you need a solution. 

After all, when planning to apply for something, it’s essential to make a great first impression . 

That’s why many applicants send in a cover letter or a motivation letter . 

However, you might be wondering if there’s any difference at all between a motivation and a cover letter, and which one is better for the job you want to land ?

In this article, we’ll explain:

• Cover letter and motivation letter differences
• Benefits of each type of letter
• When to use one letter or the other

Once you understand which is best to include with your application, use our AI-powered resume builder to easily win over employers. 

Keep reading to find out the best way to show off your career goals to employers.

Motivation vs. Cover Letter: Key Differences

Employers want to find and hire applicants who are highly motivated as it leads to a number of benefits for the company such as guaranteeing a great company culture and keeping the employee long term.

However, choosing between a cover letter or writing a motivation letter will depend on the type of program or company .

That’s because each letter focuses on different aspects of your qualifications and experience.

Take a look at the differences between the 2 types of letters :

Motivation Letter

• Centers on personal goals and passion for the field and is more personal and reflective, while discussing long-term aspirations.

Cover Letter

• Highlights professional skills and job suitability and is used for professional positions as it showcases relevant achievements and qualifications.

By picking the letter that best fits the position you want , you’ll guarantee that the hiring manager notices your best qualifications and goals. 

Cover Letter vs. Motivation Letter: When to Use Them

There are a number of unique motivation letter and cover letter differences and strengths. 

This means it’s critical to understand when to use those strengths , or you’ll end up explaining information that isn’t important. 

For example, when applying for college or graduate school programs , you should use a motivation letter as it will help you show your passion for your field of study. 

Here are other examples of when to use a motivational letter:

• Scholarship applications . Share how the scholarship will help you achieve your educational and career goals.
• Internships : Explain how you want to learn from experienced employees, especially in fields where your academic knowledge is essential.
• Volunteer positions : Mention your commitment and reasons for volunteering to an NGO or other organization that you would like to work with.

When to Write a Cover Letter

Cover letters focus more on your professional qualifications , so they should be used when sending your application to a company or business. 

Here are some specific examples: 

• When applying to a job : Use your cover letter to connect your experience and skills to the job’s requirements.
• Changing careers : Explain how your existing skills can transfer to the new role in your cover letter.

Even if it’s optional to send in a cover letter with your application, you should do so anyway.  

It’s been proven that cover letters help candidates when applying for a position. 

Between 2017 and 2021, there has been an 18% growth in the importance of including a cover letter with an application. 

Cover Letter and Motivation Letter Differences in Format

Both cover letters and motivation letters differ a bit when it comes to their format. One is a bit longer, while the other is a bit more formal. 

However, each letter will have an intro, body, and conclusion . 

Cover letter format

If you’re writing a cover letter, you’ll want to keep it to 1 page and keep the vocabulary formal. 

Your cover letter should cover the following in the different sections:

• Introduction : Briefly mention your current role or recent job and the position you’re applying for.
• Body : Mention your skills and achievements relevant to the job. Use examples to demonstrate your achievements and how they apply to the new role.
• Conclusion : Restate your interest in the position and invite the employer to review your resume or contact you for further discussion.

Here’s an example of a well written cover letter that mentions a candidate’s skills, accomplishments and more , so that you can better understand the format and style:

Dear [Employer’s Name],

I am writing to express my interest in the Accountant position listed on [Where You Found the Job Posting]. With a strong background in accounting principles and a commitment to accuracy and detail, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to [Company Name].

In my current role at [Your Current Company], I have successfully managed a diverse range of accounting tasks, including ledger operations, financial reporting, and budgeting. 

I am particularly proud of leading a project that streamlined our budgeting process, resulting in a 20% reduction in processing time.

I am eager to bring my expertise in financial management and my proactive approach to problem-solving to your team. 

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my skills and experience align with the needs of your team. I am available at your convenience for an interview and can be reached at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email].

[Your Name]

Motivation Letter Format

A motivation letter on the other hand can be a bit longer and more related to personal goals rather than professional ones. 

Here’s what the different sections should go over:

• Introduction : Start with a personal statement or story that reflects your passion for the field or program.
• Body : Discuss your personal journey, long-term goals, and why the program or opportunity excites you. Include relevant personal achievements as well.
• Conclusion : Summarize your ambitions and how the opportunity aligns with your goals, expressing your desire to contribute and learn.

Here’s how your motivation letter can be formatted to show you are the best candidate for an internship position .

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

I am writing to express my enthusiasm for the [Specific Internship Position] at [Company/Organization Name]. My academic background in [Your Major/Field of Study] and my active involvement in [relevant clubs or activities] have fueled my interest in [specific aspect of the field or industry], making this internship an ideal opportunity for my professional growth.

During my studies at [Your University/College], I have developed [mention specific skills or knowledge relevant to the internship], which I am eager to apply in a practical setting

I am particularly attracted to this internship at [Company/Organization Name] because of your commitment to [mention something notable about the company or its values]. The chance to learn from and contribute to your team, especially in [mention a specific area or project of the company], is an exciting prospect for me.

Thank you for considering my application. I am looking forward to the opportunity to discuss how my background and enthusiasm make me a great fit for this internship.

When you write a cover letter or motivation letter, you’ll need to ensure your relevant qualifications and long-term goals shine . 

You can do that if you remember the following:

• Motivation letters should be written for internships, organizations, and academic programs.
• Cover letters are more professional and should accompany a job application.
• Motivation letters are a bit more personal. 

By using our handy cover letter builder , you can easily create a letter that will prove you are motivated and ready to take on your next challenge. 

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Motivational Interviewing Versus Motivational Speaking

Therapy must honor people's defenses to reduce resistance to change..

Posted May 8, 2024 | Reviewed by Davia Sills

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• Clinicians too often conflate motivational speaking and motivational interviewing.
• Motivational interviewing never attempts to instill motivation.
• Motivational interviewing honors people's defenses while clarifying and deepening their ultimate goals.

I was recently asked while a panelist at a cannabis education conference, “What is the most common mistake clinicians make when using motivational interviewing?” My immediate answer was that too many fail to understand the difference between motivational speaking and motivational interviewing. The following explains and illustrates the difference.

Many fine motivational speakers have made a name for themselves by using the force of their personalities and emotionally charged images to increase people’s confidence that they can achieve their dreams . Much like a pep rally, motivational speakers are skilled at increasing their audience’s hopes for success and enthusiasm for making the effort needed to reach their goals. While this infusion of motivation is usually temporary, for those on the verge of a breakthrough or who are stymied by barriers that have been blown out of proportion, the boost in confidence and hopefulness provided by a motivational speaker can get them over some internal hump and alter the course of their lives.

I acted as a motivational speaker in the 1980s during the upwelling of awareness among adult children of alcoholics. It was a powerful experience to instill confidence and hope that examining the lasting impacts of childhood with an alcoholic parent can often unlock deep self-understanding acceptance. However, my training in psychodynamic psychotherapy discomforted me about playing the role of expert. At the same time, I felt a pull in the direction of increasing my work in this arena, which also added to my discomfort. The narcissistic hit that motivational speaking provided was too alluring. Instead, I began focusing more on the practice of individual and couples psychotherapy.

Motivational speaking has several shortcomings. One of the biggest is that it inevitably elevates speakers to the level of experts, which necessarily relegates audience members to the status of followers. Secondly, motivational speaking generally does not change the basic strategies people use in their striving for success.

This is especially true when motivational speakers stimulate people to ratchet up their intentionality and willpower without examining whether this is the best strategy for achieving one’s goals. For example, motivational speakers who promise increases in wealth misguide people who falsely believe wealth is the path toward happiness . I’ve treated too many millionaires and a few billionaires to understand that wealth and happiness are often unrelated.

Motivational speaking comes in many lesser forms.

Many family members of alcoholics and other drug addicts practice motivational speaking, constantly encouraging their addicted family members to try harder to abstain from using. But “trying harder” only encourages people to increase their willpower, to push harder against a disease that never yields to such an apparently reasonable strategy. Like diabetes, addiction does not get cured by willpower. Acceptance of the disease must come first. This principle is embodied in AA’s step one (see AA’s Step One: Confrontation With Reality )—believing we are powerless to push addiction out of our lives by an act of will.

This brings me to my main point: Even subtle efforts by therapists to encourage addicted people to “try harder” to get sober are counterproductive if they come before first exploring an individual’s motives for using alcohol or other drugs. Nonjudgmental exploration of why people enjoy getting high, what they believe getting high does for them, and what they are seeking has nothing to do with instilling motivation to get sober. Instead, motivational interviewing respectfully listens to and accepts whatever currently motivates people’s behavior, even their self-destructive behavior.

Few addicted people are motivated to destroy themselves. They are doing what makes sense to them at the moment. Exploring these motivations gives therapists an opportunity to also explore whether alcohol and drug use is ultimately the best strategy for achieving what they want, be it enjoyment, relaxation, destressing, distancing from the sequellae of trauma , or simply doing the best they know to survive the pain of existence.

Motivational interviewing never attempts to motivate.

It explores individuals’ motivations to deepen and clarify their true nature and eventually to uncover ambivalence regarding strategies used to satisfy these deeper motivations. For example, a client may come into therapy because a partner is frustrated with the amount of their cannabis use. The surface conflict is about cannabis and in exploring the reasons for continued cannabis use a therapist might find several motivations. Maybe the individual wants to destress at the end of the day, just relax and feel some pleasure with their partner. Cannabis works to help your client feel free, and they resent being criticized and controlled.

Rather than trying to increase this client’s motivation to abstain from cannabis, motivational interviewing explores whether the strategy of using cannabis is achieving the underlying goal of happiness and freedom. In brief—how’s it working? In other words, motivational interviewing allies with the client’s motivation to be happy in their relationship and not feel controlled. By allying with these normal motivations, resistance to exploring whether the strategy being used to achieve these feelings could be improved.

Personally, I don’t like the name “motivational interviewing,” although I understand its origin and didactic usefulness. MI has essentially repackaged the psychoanalytic principle of honoring the defense in a currently more acceptable language before analyzing the underlying impulse. It is much harder to deepen therapy when you start with “attacking” a person’s defense (i.e., trying to increase motivation for abstinence) or increasing motivation to continue flawed strategies (i.e., encouraging more willpower to not be addicted). Motivational interviewing understands that the only way to reduce clients’ resistance to change is to genuinely ally with their motivations, deepen and clarify their understanding of these motivations, and then help explore alternate strategies for getting what they ultimately want.

Timmen L. Cermak, MD, is a psychiatrist who specializes in addiction medicine. He is the author of numerous books, including From Bud to Brain and Marijuana on My Mind.

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