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Home » Catchy Motivation Letter for PHD Scholarship : 7 Examples

Catchy Motivation Letter for PHD Scholarship : 7 Examples

Catchy Motivation Letter for PHD Scholarship Examples

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

Table of Contents

How To Write Motivation Letter for PHD Scholarship?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Motivation Letter for PHD Scholarship

Motivation Letter for PHD Scholarship

Respected: Scholarship Committee,

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

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

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

Thank you for your time and consideration,

(Your name)

Related: Cover Letter for PhD Application: 05 Templets ideas

Sample motivation letter for PHD scholarship application

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

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

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

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

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

Sincerely, XYZ

Related: 115+ Unique Career Objective for Assistant Professor Ideas & Examples

PHD scholarship motivation letter

Hello Scholarship Committee,

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

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

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

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

Sincerely, Your name

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

Application letter for PHD scholarship

Dear Scholarship Committee,

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

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

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

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Motivation letter for PHD scholarship sample

Dear Sir/Madam,

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

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

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

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

Related: Generic Cover Letter: 09 Samples & Examples

Example of motivation letter for PHD scholarship

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

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

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

Related: Indeed Cover Letter: 07 Templates and Samples

Best motivation letter for PHD scholarship

Hello Sir/Madam,

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

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

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

Sincerely, Your Name,

Related: Marketing Cover Letter: 09 Samples & Examples

5 Things To Include Motivation Letter for PHD Scholarship

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

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

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

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

PHD scholarship motivation letter

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  • Graduate School

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

PhD Motivation Letter Sample

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

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

Article Contents 11 min read

Do you need to write a phd motivation letter .

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dos and Don’ts in a PhD Motivation Letter

1. Gain Skills and Experiences

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

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

2. Start Writing Early

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

3. Consider Your Audience

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

4. Use Active Voice

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

1. Don’t Forget About the Formatting

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

2. Don’t Include Personal Stories

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

3. Don’t Ramble

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

4. Don’t Shy Away from Failures

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

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

Structure of Your PhD Motivation Letter

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

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

PhD Motivation Letter Sample #1

Dear Members of the PhD Selection Committee,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

David White

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Melanie Hicks

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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motivation letter for scholarship sample for phd

  • Applying For Scholarships

How to Write a Scholarship Motivation Letter in 2023

Jennifer Finetti Sep 26, 2022

How to Write a Scholarship Motivation Letter in 2023

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

What is a scholarship motivation letter?

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

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

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

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

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Motivation letter for scholarship applications – general guidelines

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

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

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

tailor motivational letter concept

Tailor your motivation letter to fit the sholarship

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

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

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

The structure of a scholarship motivation letter

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

  • An introduction
  • Three body paragraphs
  • A conclusion

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

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

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

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

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

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

writing motivational letter

What NOT to include when writing a scholarship motivation letter

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

Some final tips

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

A Sample Scholarship Motivation Letter

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

To Whom It May Concern:

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

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

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

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

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

Sincerely, Julie Moore

  • Scholarship Essay

Jennifer Finetti

Jennifer Finetti

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

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motivation letter for scholarship sample for phd

How to Write a PhD Motivation Letter

  • Applying to a PhD

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

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

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

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

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

How Should I Structure My Motivation Letter?

A strong motivation letter for PhD applications will include:

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

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

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

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

How to Start a Motivation Letter

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to End a Motivation Letter

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

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

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

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

Finally, thank the reader for considering your application.

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Motivation Letter Format

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

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

How Long Should a Motivation Letter Be?

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

Things to Avoid when Writing Your Motivational Letter

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

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

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

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

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

PhD Motivation Letter Samples – A Word of Caution

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

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

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How to Write a Scholarship Motivation Letter (With 3 Samples)

Views: 56     Date Posted: 05 Apr, 2023

How to Write a Scholarship Motivation Letter (With 3 Samples)

A scholarship motivation letter is an essential part of applying for scholarships. Though it may not always be required when applying for scholarships, whenever it is required, it is an important factor to determine the outcome of your application. 

Writing a motivation letter can be intimidating, especially when you have to decide what would be in it or not. This article is going to guide you on how to write a great motivation letter to go with your scholarship application. 

In this article, you would learn: 

What a motivation letter is.

The difference between a scholarship motivation letter and a scholarship application letter. 

What should be included in your scholarship motivation letter? 

How to Prepare Your Scholarship Motivation Letter

10 important tips and guidelines for writing a killer scholarship motivation letter. 

What NOT to Include When Writing a Scholarship Motivation Letter 

Mistakes to Avoid When Writing a Scholarship Motivation Letter

How to revise a scholarship motivation letter.

So, let’s get started!

What is a scholarship motivation letter?

A motivation letter is usually like a cover letter that you submit alongside your CV for a job, but this time, for a scholarship. It is an essay that explains your academic interest in a particular programme or scholarship to the scholarship committee. With this document, you introduce yourself, your background and your future plans to the committee. You also highlight your strengths, relevant experiences, your goals, and what you intend to achieve and show your potential overall. With this information, the scholarship committee then decides if you are the right person for the scholarship. 

A motivation letter is best written within 500-1000 words. The idea is to keep it at a good length, not too short that you don’t have enough space to present your argument, but also not too long that you include unnecessary details that won’t help you get the scholarship. At the end of the day, the most important thing about a motivation letter is to craft the content to fit into the institution’s requirements. 

Difference between a scholarship application letter and a scholarship motivation letter.

While both a scholarship application letter and a motivation letter are geared towards helping you gain a scholarship from an institution, they are not the same thing and do not cover the same function. This is why some schools still demand a motivation letter to come with your scholarship application letter. 

A scholarship application letter is simply a document that carries your application for a scholarship. It contains your academic achievements and background and focuses on how the scholarship will contribute to your academic pursuit and endeavours. A motivation letter on the other hand explains your personality, interests and strengths to the scholarship committee. The goal of the motivation letter is to explain to them why you are applying for the scholarship, that is, your motive, and why you are the best candidate for the scholarship. 

With a well-written application letter and motivation letter, it is quite easy to get into any scholarship program of any institution. 

What should be included in your motivation letter?

To have a complete and amazing motivation letter, three main sections should be included in your letter; the introduction, the body and the conclusion. 

Introduction 

Just as the name implies, the introduction is the part of your motivation letter where you give a first and formal presentation of who you are and what your letter is about. So, the introduction part of your letter will contain your details which include your name, contact details, and your previous academic qualifications. 

Also, your introduction is expected to contain the academic programme you have been accepted into and how it relates to the scholarship you are applying for. This then helps you begin to establish why you are writing the letter and also why you are the best candidate to receive the scholarship program. 

The body of your motivation letter is the one place you have to convince the committee on why you should be given the scholarship. This is the section of your letter that carries the most weight. Here are the details that should be carefully crafted into the body of your letter.

Detailed information about your professional experiences. Your professional experience may not only be about academic-related work like teaching and research experience. It could also contain work outside the academic field such as volunteering experience that shows the relevant skills and knowledge required. In this paragraph, it is also important to include your career growth in chronological order if there is any.

Your academic experiences, background and achievements. It is necessary to highlight academic achievements that are relevant to the school you are applying for. Also, to make this section of your letter authentic, do not just rely on the transcript to communicate your academic achievements. You can describe challenges you overcame in the course of your study that show your education and best qualities. 

An insight into what you hope to gain from your education and the scholarship program. Taking time to explain what you would get from the education and how it will be impactful to not just you but society as well goes a long way to prove to the committee that you are the right person for the scholarship. It shows that you are initiative, and creative and you are not just interested in their money. 

Conclusion 

To end your motivation letter, reiterate the valid points you have mentioned about yourself, your academic pursuit and the difference you would make if given the opportunity with the scholarship. Affirm that you are the right candidate for the scholarship and they would not be making a mistake by picking you. Sign off by appreciating the board and any other person involved for the opportunity. 

Here are the steps to take if you are preparing to write your scholarship motivation letter: 

1. Research thoroughly and Understand the Scholarship

a. Deep Dive into the Details

Before you start writing your motivation letter, thoroughly research the scholarship program. Have a basic understanding of the scholarship's goal, the values it upholds, and the kind of student it generally supports.

b. Align Your Aspirations

How do your academic goals and future aspirations align with the scholarship's purpose and mission? Indicate this alignment in your motivation letter.

2. Gather Your Materials and Achievements

c. Academic Transcript

Although your academic transcript provides a solid foundation, remember that the motivation letter should include more than grades.

d. Activities and Awards

Mention some extracurricular activities, volunteer work, awards, leadership experiences, or special skills that prove your uniqueness and well-roundedness.

e. Mention Your Experiences

Highlight experiences that indicate your devotion to your field of study or your capacity to overcome challenges.

3. Structure Your Letter for Impact

f. Compelling Introduction

Catch the reader's attention with a compelling opening that presents yourself and speaks of the exact scholarship you're applying for. Also, briefly state a major goal or achievement that represents the values of the scholarship program.

g. Create Body Paragraphs with a Clear Focus

Dedicate different paragraphs to state your academic achievements, relevant experiences, and future goals.

Academic Achievements: Don't just state your m grades. Mention some challenging courses, research topics, or academic awards that prove your intellectual curiosity and prospect.

Experiences: Talk about your involvement in different extracurricular activities, leadership roles, volunteer work, or any other unique skills that make you stand out. 

Future Goals: Explain how your academic goals resonate with the scholarship's mission. 

h. Conclusion with a Call to Action

Thank the scholarship committee for their time and consideration. Also, briefly repeat your enthusiasm for the scholarship program. Conclude your letter with a solid call to action, inviting them to learn more about you through your other application materials.

4. Write with Confidence and Clarity

i. Professional Tone

Always maintain a formal tone at all times. Also, you should avoid slang or informal expressions in the letter.

j. Conciseness is Key

Aim for a clear, concise, readable and impactful letter that doesn't exceed the stipulated word limit.

k. Proofread Meticulously

Make sure your motivation letter is completely free of typos and grammatical errors. This way, you’d create a positive impression on your audience. 

5. Tailor Your Letter for Each Scholarship

l. Avoid Generic Applications

Don't send a generic letter. Ensure that you adapt and structure your letter to highlight how your qualifications align with each of the scholarship's specific criteria.

Tips and Guidelines to write your motivation letter

Apart from understanding how to structure your motivation letter and the different sections you need, there are guidelines and tips you should keep in mind when writing your letter.

a. Do proper research on the institution and possibly the members of the deciding committee

While this may sound somewhat cliche to people, it has proven over time to be a very helpful tip while preparing your scholarship motivation letter. Before you start working on the letter, be sure to research the institution. Find out their values, the system they operate and what the institution is known for. Also knowing tiny details about those deciding on the scholarship would be very helpful. These are some tiny details you may find yourself subtly including or highlighting while getting your letter ready. 

b. Plan out your letter from the beginning and start early

Having a plan of what your letter would look like would help you to have a direction for writing your letter. It would also help you determine on time what details are necessary and what details are not necessary. Finally, it would save you from doing rush work. Take time and plan out your letter, highlighting what you want or don’t want. That way, you do better and more thorough work. 

c. State facts and not just dreams 

In as much as you believe that the scholarship is going to help you achieve your dreams, the deciding officers want to see as many facts as possible. Do not just talk about what you hope to achieve, also spend time talking about your experiences in fields relevant to the study you are applying for. The idea is not just to show your enthusiasm to them, it is also to show that you are deserving of the scholarship and you can only do that by stating facts and not just dreams. 

d. Include the contributions you would make 

Every institution wants to know what they will gain by giving you a scholarship. You are not the only one applying, however, if you are able to let them know what they stand to gain, then you up your chances of being selected. What extracurricular activities would you be involved in? What projects would you likely carry out during your stay? These are some of the things that you should include in your letter if you are going to get selected. It’s a win-win program, and your letter has to explicitly show that too. 

e. Be as concise as possible 

If you’re going to have a killer motivation letter, you must be concise with it. Don’t say the same thing in ten ways. You’d end up boring the reviewer and he may just pass over your letter. As much as you want to detail the necessary achievements and points in your letter, be concise about them. If not, you may unknowingly include unnecessary details in your letter and miss your chance. 

f. Keep your tone as formal as possible 

Keep in mind that your scholarship motivation letter is a formal document, so your tone should be formal. You could be addressing professors, management staff and a lot of other people you may not know. So, as much as you can, keep your tone professional. There should not be a playing around with your motivation letter. 

g. Keep your words simple, and your letter short

When writing your letter, avoid using complex words. You are not trying to show off, you are trying to persuade the school to pick you. To achieve that, keep your words simple and ensure your letter is short. Ideally, you shouldn’t have a letter that is beyond a page, but if you must, a page and a half are completely enough to communicate clearly why you should be considered for the scholarship. 

h. Say the truth and do not exaggerate 

Your motivation letter should have a plethora of your achievements, strengths and abilities, but do not exaggerate in your letter. Don’t try to twist the truth or say something that isn’t true in your letter. In the long run, if the things you say don’t check out, you’d likely lose the scholarship. Be honest about who you are, what you can do and where you are headed in life. 

i. Be careful to follow their requirements 

In most cases, when a motivation letter is required, certain requirements are put out. It would be a huge mistake to neglect those requirements while writing your letter. Keep to the number of words if any is specified and keep to the deadlines given. Every institution is not the same and may have some requirements peculiar to them. You must be careful to take note of that and follow them. 

j. Proofread your letter properly before submitting 

There is never an end to how many times you can proofread your motivation letter before you finally submit it. This is one of the advantages of beginning your letter early. Proofread it properly to ensure there are no errors. Also, avoid slang and cliches in your letter. You can take an extra step by giving it to a professional to proofread it for you. This will help you ensure that there are no errors in your letter and it is top-notch in every sense. 

What NOT to Include When Writing a Scholarship Motivation Letter

Your scholarship motivation letter must be well-written and free of typographical or grammatical errors. Ensure you use a professional tone and advanced phrasing (no slang) throughout the letter. Also, highlight specific instances about your past, present, and future that align with the value of the scholarship programme. Avoid vague generalisations. Vagueness indicates a lack of knowledge of care.  

Below, we’ve listed some common mistakes to avoid while drafting your scholarship motivational letter:

1. Using Generic Greetings and Introductions

Avoid using the "Dear Sir or Madam" and impersonal openings. Research the admissions officer or sponsor’s committee if possible, and write a more suitable introduction.

2. Repeating the Scholarship Description

Don't just repeat the scholarship details. Explain how your goals align with the scholarship’s mission and values.

3. Focusing on Just Grades and Scores

While your academics are important, your motivation letter should be about more than your academic achievement. Mention your unique passions, hobbies, experiences, and goals that go beyond the classroom.

 4. Grammatical Errors and Typos

Grammatical errors, typos, and unclear sentences can negatively impact your audience. To ensure that your motivation letter is polished, concise, and error-free, proofread it meticulously! 

5. Bragging and Exaggeration

Avoid heinous self-promotion or magnifying your accomplishments. Let your well-documented achievements speak for themselves. 

6. Rambling and Repetitive Content

Communicate your achievements and goals to the sponsors within the stipulated word limit. Avoid unwarranted repetition and make sure your assertions are well-structured.

7. Lack of Clarity on Financial Need (if applicable)

If financial need applies to the programme (for need-based scholarships), be honest and realistic. Exaggerating your financial situation can ruin your credibility.

8. Negativity and Dwelling on Challenges

Focus on the positive! Emphasise your strengths and persistence, but avoid dwelling on hardships, negative experiences, or past failures.

9. Ignoring Specific Requirements

Some scholarships provide specific instructions for their motivation letter. Ensure that you pay attention to these specific details and tailor your letter accordingly.

10. Forgetting the Call to Action

Conclude with a powerful closing that regurgitates your enthusiasm for the scholarship. Thank the scholarship committee for their time and consideration. You can also subtly state your interest in an interview (if applicable).

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can craft a compelling scholarship motivation letter to increase your chances of securing the funding. 

Here's a guide on how to review your motivation letter after writing:

1. Take a Break and Gain Perspective

After writing the first draft of your letter, take some time off from it. This mental break lets you come back to it with fresh eyes, allowing you to give a more objective review.

2. Self-Evaluation and Refinement

Carefully examine if your letter effectively communicates your key message. Ensure that it highlights your strengths, experiences, and future goals in a way that resonates with the scholarship's criteria. Also, remove unnecessary information or redundancies.

3. Proofreading and Polishing

Double-check for grammatical errors, typos, and punctuation mistakes. This would boost the impression your letter has on the readers. Also, read your letter aloud to find awkward phrasing or bulky sentences. Seek a letter with a smooth and natural flow. This makes it very easy to understand.

4. Seeking Feedback is Key

Ask a trusted friend, teacher, advisor, or mentor to review your letter and give constructive feedback. You can also use online grammar tools to help you identify technical errors and suggest improvement in clarity and conciseness.

Samples of scholarship motivation letter

Here are some samples scholarship motivation letters with word templates you can download and tailor for your own use. 

Sample scholarship motivation letter word 

Motivation letter for Undergraduate/Bachelor

Motivation Letter for Master’s Degree

Motivation Letter for PhD

Sample scholarship motivation letter pdf 

With these guidelines, you would be able to write your scholarship motivation letter and apply for a scholarship in any institution of your choice. Feel free to ask questions in the common section and we’d be sure to reply to you. 

All the best in your next application!

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

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

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

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

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

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

Avoid Making Spurious Claims

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

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

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

Try As Much As Possible to Be Specific

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

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

Show How Much Skill or Work Experience You Have

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

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

Be Professional

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

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

Sample Motivation Letter for a Ph.D. Application

motivation letter phd application

Suggested Reading:

  • Cover Letter Examples
  • 2024 Letter of Interest - Example & Writing Guide
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How to Write an Exceptional Research Scholarship Motivation Letter

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

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

Table of Contents

What is a Scholarship Motivation Letter?

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

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

Your scholarship motivation letter must answer the following questions:

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

General Guidelines to Follow While Writing a Scholarship Motivation Letter

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

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

What Should a Scholarship Motivation Letter Include?

Scholarship Motivation Letter

What is the Scholarship Motivation Letter Format?

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

1. Introduction

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

2. Three Content Paragraphs

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

3. Conclusion

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

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing a Scholarship Motivation Letter

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

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

Key Takeaways

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

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

Scholarship Motivation Letter Sample

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

To Whom It May Concern:

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

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

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

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

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

Sincerely, Steve Boult

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

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

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

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

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

Before Writing your Motivation Letter for Scholarship

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

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

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

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

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

How to write a winning motivation letter for Scholarship?

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

(1)  Title and header:

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

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

(2)  Introduction:

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

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(3)  Who are you?

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

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

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

(4)  How do you contribute?

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

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

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

(6)  Final words:

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

(7)  Acknowledgments and dismissal:

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

Please also check Netherlands Government Scholarship and get Free costs of living, Free tuition fee, Free visa, Free roundtrip travel tickets and Free Health insurance

Motivation Letter for Scholarship Template

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

Tips on writing a Brilliant Motivation Letter for Scholarship

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

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

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

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

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

Also Apply for Fully Funded MEXT Scholarship

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

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

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

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

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing a Motivation Letter for Scholarship

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

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

(1) Less Words and More Facts

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

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

Also Apply for  DAAD Scholarship and get a  monthly payments of 850 euros for graduates or 1,200 euros for doctoral candidates.

(2) Take Ownership and Demonstrate Deep Knowledge

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

(4) The rules are the rules

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

Also Check How to find job in Japan after graduation

Motivation Letter for Scholarship Samples

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

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

February 21, 2020

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

Dear Ms. Wideman:

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

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

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

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

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Jacob A. McLean

Now its your turn!

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

Thanks for reading and wishing you success with everything!

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How to Write a Motivation Letter for a Scholarship: Tips and Examples

motivation letter for scholarship sample for phd

Motivational letters are sometimes treated the same way as cover letters by scholarship applicants, which is not unusual. Both are commonly confused with one another even though each has a clear difference.

For example, a motivational letter might explain how one’s academic background, extracurricular activities, and other factors make them an ideal candidate for a particular scholarship or course program. To write a compelling letter of motivation, you need to do extensive study on a university’s academic atmosphere and the programs it offers.

Motivation Letter for Scholarship with Examples

If you are looking for a motivation letter for a scholarship program, we will show you how to write a great one. Before we continue, let us find out what a motivation letter is.

Learn More About What a Motivational letter is

A motivational letter is just like a CV for a job or a cover letter for a scholarship. You have to explain why you are the best fit for this particular scholarship/program in a motivational letter along with some of your best performances.

In order to qualify for graduate-level scholarships, applicants must submit a motivational letter. Sometimes you will need to create one for a bachelor’s degree program in a particular field. It is always a good idea to add a motivation letter to your scholarship application. There is a reasonable probability that this is your last chance to impress the reviewer. 

You are more likely to have success with an excellent motivation letter if you have that motivation. Ultimately, you must believe in yourself and give it a shot. So, do not give up on your dreams if you fail the first time.

Motivational Letter Format

You must add the following things in your motivational letter.

  • Intro : This will have your introduction, including your background (This portion is all about you excluding your academia). The intro should be 100 words lengthy.
  • Body : This part of your letter should have 3-5 paragraphs. Do not write more than five paragraphs. The body will have everything, including complete details of your education, your future goals, why you are the best fit for this post, and what you can do for the organization. The body should be 300 words in length.
  • Outro : Tell the jury that you’re available if they want further information about you. Outro will have your end like your name, contact information, and address. You can keep the outro around 100 words.

Pro tip : Keep your motivational letter compact, unidirectional, and between 300-500 words. Never exceed 500 words count.

How to Write a Motivational Letter Guide

Write about yourself.

Truth and integrity are other key aspects of a letter of motivation that should not be overlooked. It would be best if you are honest about your strengths and flaws without inflating or omitting any of them from your writing. 

Is there anything about you that sets you apart from other candidates and makes you deserving of consideration? Jot it down. However, describe how you plan to overcome these flaws and become a better person.

Look for Grammatical Errors

To prepare a compelling letter, it is essential to utilize proper grammar. In your writing, you should stick to typical academic vocabulary and punctuation. Using complex vocabulary will do nothing but bore the readers Avoid seeming conceited and arrogant at the same time.

Expert Advice : A motivational letter is not like a cover letter. Admission committees take these letters seriously—Reserve time to craft an excellent motivational letter. Be available for at least three days to write a motivational letter.

Want to know?  How to Write a Fabulous Cover Letter !

Write about your Goals

The interviewer wants to know whether you have any future goals or ambitions that you want to attain. Tell us about your goals and why you believe this scholarship program will help you reach them. Look for inspiration factors in your life, things that led you to where you are now. Write about them. Keep it natural, but don’t make it too long on it.

Proofread / Get a feedback

It is advisable to seek guidance from your friends, an instructor, or someone who is already/currently enrolled in the program you are applying for. Give your 2-3 revisions before submitting it. These revisions will not only omit grammatical errors, but these can help you to sound clearer and better.

A Few Extra Tips on How to Write Best Motivational Letter

  • Before going to write a motivational letter, do your homework . Outline the ideas that you want to cover in your letter. Support your content with examples and evidence.
  • Use clear and concise language. Do not fluff your letter with wordiness and out-of-the-topic things. Keep it between 300-500 words, and it should not utilize more than 1 page.
  • Organize the body of the letter. Please don’t write it in a hurry. Give it proper time, at least 2-3 days.
  • What are your goals for the future? What do you want to do in the future? Discuss your plan. Think bigger and have some excellent plans.
  • Your motivational letter should be well-written. Take care of font style, font size, and formatting. Use a suitable style and maintain positive thinking throughout the letter.

Download PDF Guide about How to Write a Motivational Letter by Radboud University Nijmegen

Motivation letter sample.

My name is [name], and I’m writing to apply for [program name] in [university name]. This degree, offered by one of the world’s top universities, is an opportunity for me to broaden my knowledge and develop professionally. In so doing, I’ll contribute to the development of humanity and human rights. Studying here, I’ll get a chance to promote world peace by assisting in developing politics both in my home country and around the world.

Because of [list of excellent traits], I believe I would be a valuable contribution to your organization. In addition, I am proficient in [number of accomplishments talents], which I acquired from [experiences or programs that taught you skills]. Hence, I’ll be a valuable addition to your Hall of Fame.

Aside from that, this scholarship will offer me a chance to make a major impact in the community. I hope to be known for my inventions in the future. Our job as humans, who share this globe, is to improve our future since the future belongs to everyone. Our children will be grateful to us when they see how tirelessly we worked to improve the world. In my opinion, my qualifications and your requirements are a perfect match.

A leader’s prestige and credibility play an enormous influence in promoting social programs, especially at the national and worldwide levels. Defined as a result of the institution’s performance, my personal standing will give extra chances to my society.

I have a strong desire to learn and accept new technology. In order to better grasp diverse [subject] concepts and their applicability to more complicated real-life circumstances, I’m eagerly looking forward to enrolling in the [subject] program at [university name]. Please contact me if you need any more information or papers.

I’m looking forward to hearing from you. Thank you for taking the time to read this.

Warm Regards,

Your complete information + contact details]

Frequently Asked Questions

A motivation letter for a scholarship is a letter that explains why you are the best candidate for a scholarship and how receiving the scholarship will benefit you and your future goals. It is typically written as part of the application process for a scholarship and should be tailored to the specific scholarship and organization offering the scholarship.

A motivation letter is an important part of a scholarship application because it allows you to showcase your unique strengths, achievements, and goals to the scholarship committee. It helps the committee understand your background, your motivation for applying for the scholarship, and how receiving the scholarship will impact your future.

A motivation letter for a scholarship should include information about your academic achievements, your career goals, and your motivation for applying for the scholarship. It should also include details about your personal background, any relevant work or volunteer experience, and any leadership or community service activities you have participated in. It is important to be specific and to tailor your letter to the specific scholarship and organization offering the scholarship.

To start a motivation letter for a scholarship, begin by introducing yourself and explaining your interest in the scholarship. Next, outline your academic achievements and any relevant work or volunteer experience you have. Then, explain your career goals and how receiving the scholarship will help you achieve those goals. Finally, conclude your letter by reiterating your motivation for applying for the scholarship and expressing your gratitude for the opportunity.

A motivation letter for a scholarship should typically be one to two pages long. It is important to be concise and to focus on the most relevant information. Avoid including unnecessary or unrelated details and be sure to proofread your letter for spelling and grammar errors.

The tone of a motivation letter for a scholarship should be professional and respectful. Avoid using overly casual language or slang and strive for a formal, yet personal, tone.

There may be specific formatting guidelines for a motivation letter for a scholarship depending on the organization offering the scholarship. It is important to follow any guidelines provided and to use a professional font and layout.

A motivation letter for a scholarship can often be used as a template for other applications, such as job applications or graduate school applications. However, it is important to tailor the letter to the specific application and to highlight the relevant experiences and achievements for that specific opportunity.

motivation letter for scholarship sample for phd

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How to Write a Motivation Letter for a Scholarship (With Example)

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Whether you’re a Bachelor’s or Master’s student vying for a scholarship, crafting a compelling motivation letter is a pivotal step. In the competitive landscape of scholarship applications, this document holds immense importance, acting as your initial introduction and setting you apart from a sea of applicants. Effectively articulating your aspirations and aligning them with the scholarship’s values can be a game-changer, making the difference between acceptance and rejection.

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The significance of a well-crafted motivation letter cannot be overstated in the scholarship application process. While not universally required, when requested, it becomes a critical tool for presenting your qualifications before a face-to-face interview. In this comprehensive guide, we offer valuable insights and practical tips on composing a scholarship motivation letter, ensuring that your application not only meets but exceeds expectations.

Navigating the intricacies of writing a motivation letter for a scholarship may seem daunting, especially if you’re grappling with the structure and content. Fear not! Opportunities Circle presents an in-depth article, demystifying the art of crafting a persuasive motivation letter. As your gateway to international scholarships, we provide a comprehensive resource to empower you in showcasing your unique qualities and enhancing your chances of securing coveted opportunities.

Your motivation letter is more than just a formality; it’s a narrative that introduces you to the scholarship committee. Understanding the purpose behind this requirement is crucial. Scholarship committees seek these letters to gain insights into your persona and motivations. It’s your chance to weave a compelling story, sharing your journey, aspirations, and driving forces behind pursuing advanced education in your chosen field. A meticulously written motivation letter serves as a powerful tool, illuminating why you’re an ideal fit for the scholarship program and deserving of selection.

What Is a Motivation Letter?

A motivation letter is essentially your formal pitch for a scholarship or academic program. It’s not just a list of achievements; it’s a strategic presentation to convince the decision-makers that you’re the ideal candidate.

Consider it a persuasive essay where you delve into your background, aspirations, and the reasons you’re a standout applicant. Your aim? To leave the selection committee thinking, “This is the person we’ve been looking for.”

Keep it concise, roughly 400 to 700 words, organized into a polished introduction, a couple of informative body paragraphs, and a strong conclusion. It’s a delicate balance—enough detail to make your case, but not so much that it becomes overwhelming. Each paragraph should contribute to the overall narrative, building a solid case for why you’re the perfect fit. Ready to craft your compelling story? Let’s get started.

Before writing a scholarship motivation letter:

  • Recognize the Unique Nature:  Understand that a motivation letter for scholarship stands apart from other types. Tailor your writing specifically to the purpose of securing funding for your educational aspirations.
  • Seize the Opportunity:  Acknowledge that this letter is a shared opportunity for all candidates. Recognize its significance as the committee’s initial tool for assessing applicants. Invest the necessary time to ensure your letter makes a lasting impression.
  • Individuality Matters:  While exploring scholarship motivation letter examples can be insightful, resist the temptation to duplicate. Instead, narrate your story authentically in your own voice. Honesty enhances your chances of resonating with the selection committee.
  • Personalization is Key:  Tailor your presentation to the audience—those who will be reading your letter. Showcase genuine interest in the organization’s mission and elucidate how their scholarship aligns with your goals, demonstrating a clear understanding of the opportunity at hand.

Key Points While Writing a Motivation Letter for Scholarship:

1# Tailor to the Scholarship:

Customize your motivation letter for each scholarship application. Highlight how your goals align with the specific values and objectives of the scholarship program. This shows dedication and genuine interest.

2# Showcase Relevance:

Focus on experiences, achievements, and skills that directly relate to the scholarship criteria. Provide concrete examples to demonstrate your capabilities and how they make you a deserving candidate.

3# Personalize Your Story:

Make it personal. Share anecdotes or challenges you’ve overcome, connecting them to your academic and career aspirations. This helps create a compelling and authentic narrative that sets you apart.

4# Be Clear and Concise:

Keep your letter clear, concise, and to the point. Adhere to word limits, and avoid unnecessary details. Every sentence should contribute to showcasing your qualifications and motivation.

5# Research the Institution:

Demonstrate your knowledge of the institution offering the scholarship. Mention specific programs, faculty, or initiatives that align with your interests. This reflects thorough research and genuine enthusiasm.

6# Highlight Academic Achievements:

Emphasize your academic accomplishments, but go beyond grades. Discuss relevant projects, research, or coursework that showcase your passion and competence in the chosen field of study.

7# Address Weaknesses Positively:

If there are gaps in your academic or extracurricular record, address them positively. Explain what you learned from any challenges and how they shaped your determination and resilience.

8# Express Future Goals:

Clearly outline your future goals and how the scholarship will contribute to achieving them. This demonstrates foresight and a well-thought-out plan, reinforcing your commitment to making the most of the opportunity.

9# Professional Tone:

Maintain a professional and respectful tone throughout your letter. Use formal language and structure, addressing the selection committee with courtesy and gratitude for considering your application.

10# Proofread and Edit:

Eliminate typos, grammatical errors, and awkward phrasing. A well-polished letter reflects your attention to detail and dedication to presenting the best possible application.

What’s a good scholarship motivation letter structure?

Crafting an effective scholarship motivation letter requires adhering to a well-defined structure while infusing it with your unique voice. Here’s a refined breakdown:

Introduction:

Initiate with a concise introduction introducing yourself, your goals, and the purpose behind seeking the scholarship. Capture attention by expressing your aspirations genuinely.

Academic and Professional Profile:

Provide a snapshot of your academic achievements and professional journey. Showcase the milestones that illustrate your competence and dedication to your chosen field.

Financial Aid Justification:

Articulate the core of your motivation letter—why you seek financial aid. Outline how the scholarship will be transformative for you, the institution, and the broader community. Emphasize the symbiotic relationship.

Future Plans:

Dedicate a section to your future plans post-scholarship success. Briefly outline your ambitions and how the scholarship will propel you towards achieving them.

Conclusion:

Summarize the key points, reiterating why you are the deserving candidate for financial aid. Conclude with a compelling emphasis on how the scholarship aligns with your goals and the positive impact it can facilitate.

While the structure may seem straightforward, the challenge lies in infusing sincerity and conviction into each section. Remember, your task is not just to follow the structure but to make your motivation letter resonate as the most heartfelt and persuasive among the competition.

Scholarship motivation letter – Sample

[Your Full Name]

[Your Address]

[City, State, Zip Code]

[Email Address]

[Scholarship Committee Name]

[Scholarship Name]

[Institution or Organization Name]

Dear [Scholarship Committee Name],

I am writing to express my sincere gratitude for considering my application for the [Scholarship Name]. As a dedicated student passionate about [Your Field of Study], I am eager to convey why I am a deserving candidate for this esteemed scholarship.

Allow me to introduce myself—I am [Your Full Name], currently pursuing a [Your Current Degree] at [Your Current University/College]. My passion for [Your Field of Study] has been the driving force behind my academic journey, leading me to achieve [Highlight Any Noteworthy Academic Achievements].

My academic journey has been marked by [Any Relevant Achievements or Projects], illustrating my commitment to excellence. Furthermore, I have gained practical experience through [Internships, Research Projects, or Relevant Work Experience], honing my skills in [Highlight Relevant Skills].

The [Scholarship Name] holds immense significance for me as it aligns seamlessly with my academic and career goals. With this financial support, I aspire to [Your Aspirations and How the Scholarship Will Facilitate Them]. This scholarship is not just an investment in my education but a commitment to fostering positive change in [Specify Any Relevant Community or Field].

Upon successful completion of my studies, I am dedicated to [Briefly Outline Your Post-Scholarship Aspirations]. I am confident that the skills and knowledge acquired through this scholarship will empower me to contribute meaningfully to [Your Field] and make a lasting impact.

In conclusion, I am deeply committed to leveraging this opportunity to its fullest potential. I sincerely believe that my passion for [Your Field] and my dedication to academic excellence make me a fitting candidate for the [Scholarship Name]. I am eager to contribute positively to your institution and the broader community.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to further discuss my candidacy.

Feel free to customize this template to align with your personal experiences and the specific requirements of the scholarship you are applying for.

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motivation letter for scholarship sample for phd

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Motivation Letter

How to Write a Powerful Motivation Letter for PhD Program

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How Should I Structure My Motivation Letter for a PhD

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

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

This is the most straightforward itemization of a complex document.

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

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

Starting Your Motivation Letter

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to Conclude a Motivation Letter

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

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

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

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

Motivation Letter for Ph.D. Admission Format

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

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

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

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

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

opened book on textile

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

Compose the Motivational Letter using a Professional Tone

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

Be Specific, Truthful, and Show Results

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

This can be a powerful message.

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

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

Show Personality

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

Discuss your Future Plans and Your Interest s

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

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

Check Your Spelling and Grammar

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

Additional Resources

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you and Good Luck!!!!

Motivation Letter for PhD

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

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

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  • Motivation Letter For Scholarship With Example
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motivation letter for scholarship sample for phd

Opportunities Circle1

How to write a motivation letter for scholarship application [with sample].

  • December 12, 2023
  • by Opportunities Circle1

Motivation Letter for Scholarship

A motivation letter for scholarship, also known as a personal statement or statement of purpose, is an essential part of a scholarship application. However, writing a motivation letter for scholarship can be intimidating, especially if you are still determining what to include or how to structure it. But don’t worry! In this article, Opportunities Circle will explain everything you need to know while writing a letter of motivation for scholarship to increase your chances of winning international scholarships .

It is your chance to explain to the scholarship committee why you are a goo d fit for their program and why you deserve to be selected. So first, let’s start by understanding the purpose of a motivation letter for scholarship. Why do scholarship committees ask for this type of letter? The purpose of a scholarship motivation letter is to give the scholarship committee a sense of who you are as a person and what drives you. It’s an opportunity for you to share your story, goals, and motivation for pursuing higher education in the field of your interest. A well-written motivation letter can help the committee understand why you are a good fit for scholarship program and why you deserve to be selected.

Things to Remember When Writing a Motivation Letter for Scholarship

1. start by understanding the scholarship program.

Before you write your motivational letter for scholarship, it is important to understand the scholarship program and its requirements. Make sure you know the deadline, the eligibility criteria, and any other specific requirements that the scholarship committee is looking for. This will help you write your motivation letter for the specific scholarship program and show that you are a good fit. Furthermore, review the aim and vision of the university or host body and analyze profiles of faculty members. 

2. Brainstorm before writing

Your motivation letter should have a clear and concise idea about your goals and motivations for pursuing higher education. This could be “Why I want to study computer science” or “How I plan to use my degree to make a difference in my community.” Brainstorm the topic that reflects your passions and interests and can help the scholarship committee understand why you are a good fit for their program. Moreover, students can check testimonies and success stories. They usually share their journey and guide that can help write a winning letter of motivation.

3. Use a professional and formal tone

A motivation letter for scholarship is a formal document, so it’s essential to use a professional and formal tone. Avoid using slang or colloquial language, and proofread your letter for spelling and grammar errors. Use proper punctuation and avoid using contractions.

4. Keep it concise and to the point

A motivation letter should be concise and to the point. Aim for around 500-700 words, and make sure to stay focused on the topic you have chosen. Avoid repeating information or going off on tangents. However, you must check the word count requirements and write accordingly.

5. Use concrete examples to illustrate your points

To make your motivation letter more effective, use concrete examples to illustrate your points. This could be a specific experience or project you worked on that demonstrates your passions and interests.

How to write a winning Motivation Letter for Scholarship?

You must be thinking about how to write motivation letter for scholarship. Don’t worry. We are here to help you. Start your motivation letter for the scholarship with an introduction that grabs the attention of the scholarship committee. This could be a quote, a question, or a statement about your goals and motivation for pursuing higher education in a specific field.

The body of your motivation letter for the scholarship should consist of multiple paragraphs that expand the information provided in the introduction and explain why you are a good fit for the scholarship program. Use concrete examples to illustrate your points. For example, if you want to add about your leadership skills, do not write long paragraphs on leadership; instead, share examples about any project or event you led and demonstrated leadership skills.

After the analysis, it is time to write a winning motivation letter for the scholarship. The letter of motivation must be structured as follow:

1. Title and Header

The position of the header must be on the top left; however, it can be placed on the right side too. You must add a title: “Letter of motivation for [name of scholarship where you want to apply].”

Then write the header; it must include the following:

  • Applicant’s full name
  • Applicant’s address and postal code
  • The phone number

Providing skype id and social network links are optional.

2. Introduction

Start the motivation letter with formal greetings, get to the point, and write the purpose of this letter. For example, “Through this scholarship, I want to …..” You must briefly answer: why you want to apply for this XYZ scholarship and what motivates you to apply for the program. In the next paragraph, you must concisely explain what attracted you to study in that institution or country offering the scholarship. The next step includes writing about your objective and how it relates to the program’s mission to which you are applying. For example: “I am looking for an international experience for XYZ purpose… I am sure that this program in this institution can help me achieve my …. goal.”

3. Explain Who are you?

This is the second part of the motivation letter for scholarship; it must contain details about your academic achievements and why you think you are an ideal candidate. You must mention all your accomplishments, no matter what. It will demonstrate the value you will bring to the institute and your contribution to society.

4. How would you contribute?

In this section, you must explain by examples how your skills and abilities will contribute to the university and country you are applying to. You can place things like exchange cultural values and knowledge with colleagues, and participate in sports, cultural or art activities and events.

5. Demonstrate how it will be helpful

A part of it is covered in the introduction, but here you must give detailed insight into your motivation. Furthermore, you must explain why does the program of study mean so much to you? How the program, research projects and facilities of the institute or country will help you to achieve your goals? And how this achievement will help your country to step forward toward sustainability.

6. Conclude well

You need to prove that you are a suitable candidate and badly need this opportunity; you are a good fit for it! Show the desire that you want to learn, contribute and use the knowledge. Phrases like “it would be an honor and the beginning of a road full of …” will be helpful.

Tips on Writing a Good Motivation Letter for Scholarship

Before you submit your motivation letter for scholarship, make sure to proofread and revise it carefully. Check for spelling and grammar errors, and ensure that your letter is well-organized and easy to read.

When writing a motivation letter for a scholarship, you shall not extend it to more than 1 page. It is often necessary to meet this requirement. If the details are incomplete and need more space, a page and a half is enough. Once you write the letter and proofread it to omit any errors, save it in PDF format.

Another important thing is to ensure that the letter of motivation is addressed to whom it should be. Do not make the mistake of addressing one institution and sending it to the other. It is not only embarrassing but also unprofessional. This will have a bad impact on the selection committee.

Mistakes to Avoid When Writing a Motivation Letter for Scholarship

The motivation letter is a crucial document when it comes to applying for an international scholarship. However, the purpose of the motivation letter for a scholarship is not only about telling your desire to get an opportunity to study abroad but rather about defending the reason ​​why it should be you and not other capable and competitive candidates.

1. State More Facts

It is difficult to put forward why the selection committee should select you when there are more capable and eligible candidates. A large number of students want to travel abroad for academic purpose, expand their horizons, and work for the improvement of their countries, but in reality, they do not know what to write to make themselves perfect candidates for the scholarship award.

Do not write phrases like “my dream from the start was to study in XYZ country” or “my achievements are”; instead, use words like I am an ideal candidate because of my work in a relevant field… Do not make the motivation letter too wordy and do not write long paragraphs; give examples to demonstrate that you are an ideal candidate.

2. Contributions

One mistake most students make while writing scholarship motivation letter is that they write about personal development, such as I wanted to study this course because I was always interested in this field, I want to pursue research in this country or XYZ institute is renowned worldwide. Instead, the scholarship providers expect applicants to share their interests and plan for positive impact and development on a greater scale and how the scholarship will help them achieve the greater good.

They want to know how applicants will use this opportunity and contribute during the scholarship duration, such as extracurricular activities, volunteer work, cultural exchange events and other activities and how they will contribute to the development and sustainability after returning to their country. 

3. Provide What They Require

Finally, only provide what they asked for. If the requirement is 250 words, keep it under consideration. Furthermore, delivering a good motivation letter will not exempt other requirements. Moreover, you must start writing the letter of motivation early because there’s always a deadline. 

Motivation Letter for Scholarship Template

Dear Scholarship Committee,

I am writing to express my genuine interest in the [Name of Scholarship] and to apply for this esteemed opportunity. As a [Your Major/Field of Study], I constantly seek ways to further my education and advance my career goals. I believe that the [Name of Scholarship] would provide me with the financial support I need to continue my studies and offer me the chance to be a part of a global community of like-minded individuals dedicated to making a positive impact in the world.

My passion for [Your Major/Field of Study] began at a young age and grew stronger. I have been fascinated by the way [Your Major/Field of Study] can be used to solve complex problems and improve the lives of others [explain how]. This passion has driven me to excel academically, and I am proud to have maintained a [Your GPA] GPA while also participating in numerous extracurricular activities and volunteering opportunities.

In addition to my academic achievements, I have gained knowledge and valuable experience through internships and part-time jobs in my field [add examples here to demonstrate your skills]. I have learned firsthand the importance of [your field], and I am eager to use these skills to make a positive impact in the world.

I am confident that the [Name of Scholarship] would provide me with the resources and support I need to continue pursuing my dreams and positively impact my community. I look forward to contributing to the [Name of Scholarship] community and making the most of this exciting opportunity.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

We hope this guide will help you write an effective motivation letter for a scholarship and that this motivation letter sample will be beneficial for you. If you are writing a personal statement, check the guide to write a personal statement before starting.  Thanks for reading, wishing you success in securing your desired scholarship!

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Click on a section to skip

What is an academic cover letter?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Differences between academic cover letter and business cover letter

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

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

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

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

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

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

And that's all you need to include!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here's a recommended academic cover letter format:

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

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

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

These things ensured Herrera's cover letter was successful:

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

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

Lyon University PhD Student Cover Letter Sample

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

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How to Write a Scholarship Motivation Letter (with Examples)

SPA

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

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

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

Before Writing your Motivation Letter for Scholarship | How to Write a Scholarship Motivation Letter

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

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

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

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

Also Check this : Study in UK : Mastercard Foundation AfOx Scholarships for African Students 2023/2024

How to write a winning motivation letter for Scholarship?

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

(1)  Title and header:

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

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

(2)  Introduction:

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

(3)  Who are you?

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

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

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

(4)  How do you contribute?

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

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

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

(6)  Final words:

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

(7)  Acknowledgments and dismissal:

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

Also check this : How to Write a Winning Scholarship Statement of Purpose (Examples)

Motivation Letter for Scholarship Template

I understand that you want to apply for multiple scholarships, but you do not need to write a different motivation letter for each one. Create a template that allows you to customize the content based on the situation. But how do you go about doing this? After completing the previous section’s seven steps, you will have a template that you can edit to match your motivation letter to the scholarship you wish to apply for. I have, however, included a motivation letter template below.

Tips on writing a Brilliant Motivation Letter for Scholarship

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing a Motivation Letter for Scholarship

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

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

(1) Less Words and More Facts

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

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

Also check this Top High Acceptance Rate Universities in USA

(2) Take Ownership and Demonstrate Deep Knowledge

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

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

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

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

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

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

That your reasons should not be limited to the comfort of living in a developed country. The study scholarship providers expect you to be genuinely interested in the study program and the positive impact you will make with what you learn.

To make it more clear: they do not care a whistle that you feel safer, happier, richer or healthier living in the country offering the scholarship. What they want to know is how the hell you will return to society the investment they will make in you. Tranquil! They do not want money. Count the contribution you will make in terms of cultural exchange, what you can teach the other students or teachers, the extracurricular clubs you can contribute to and other cooperation projects that you have in mind.

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

(4) The rules are the rules

Finally, limit the letter of motivation to what it is and what they ask you. If they tell you 1 sheet, send a sheet. Please, do not expect that the scholarship provider will exempt you from some of the requirements for the motivation letter. If they ask you for IELTS band 7, it is 7 and not 6.5, the same with certified work experience: two years are 24 months and not 22 and a half, etc.

However it is beautiful to show that you deserve the scholarship and not to convince them that you have worked hard but have not been able to meet the other requirements. If you do not comply with all the requirements, give yourself time because there are always new application dates and scholarship opportunities.

Also Check this : How to Write an Academic CV for a Scholarship

Motivation Letter for Scholarship Samples

ScholarshipAvenue.com has compiled a list of scholarship motivation letter samples from the world’s top university websites. We hope that this list will assist you in writing an effective and winning scholarship motivation letter.

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

February 21, 2020

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

Dear Ms. Wideman:

I am writing to express my interest in securing an Associate position at Great Strategy Consulting Firm. I am a Master of Liberal Arts degree candidate at Harvard Extension School, specializing in Information Technology. I come from a solid technical background with a strong interest in business and a passion towards strategy. My area of focus and interest varies from quantitative analysis to project management. I have maintained a 3.95 GPA through a well-balanced program of study, which is not only very analytical and technical by nature but also helps to build leadership and team building qualities.

I am extremely impressed with Great Strategy’s approach to strategy consulting, especially within the Business Development and Innovation practice areas. I believe my academic background, business knowledge and industry experiences have provided me with the credentials needed to thrive as an Associate.

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

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

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

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Jacob A. McLean

SPA

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How to Write Motivational Letter for PhD Application: Top 10 Tips and Tricks

Applying for a PhD program can be daunting, especially when writing a motivational letter that effectively showcases your skills, achievements, and motivations.

Your motivational letter is an essential part of your application and can make or break your chances of getting accepted into the program of your choice. In this blog post, we’ll provide you with some tips and tricks on how to write a motivational letter for PhD application that will grab the attention of the admissions committee.

Suggested Reads: Phd Scholarship in Politecnico di Torino University

How-to-Write-a-Motivational-Letter-for-PhD-Application: Tips-and-Tricks

Steps to Write a Motivational Letter

A motivational Letter is a document that explains why you are applying for a specific job, scholarship, or program. It is an opportunity to showcase your personal and professional accomplishments, highlight your strengths, and explain why you are the best candidate for the position. This can be challenging to write a motivational letter that is compelling and grab the attention of the selection committee challenging task; this activity requires a balance of enthusiasm and professionalism.

However, with the right approach and some helpful tips, you can create a letter that will impress your potential employer or academic institution and help you stand out from the crowd.

Follow the below 10 steps to write a motivational letter to win a scholarship:

Understand the Purpose of a Motivational Letter

Before you start writing your motivational letter, it’s essential to understand its purpose. A motivational letter is a document that explains why you’re the best candidate for the program. It should highlight your skills, achievements, and motivation to pursue a PhD degree. It’s your chance to showcase your unique qualities and convince the admissions committee that you’re the right fit for the program.

Research the Program and Faculty

It’s important to research the program and faculty before you start writing your motivational letter. This will help you tailor your letter to the program’s values, goals, and expectations. Look at the program’s website, read research papers published by the faculty members, and try to understand their research interests. This will help you show your interest in the program and demonstrate how your research aligns with the program’s goals.

Use a Professional Format

Your letter of motivation should have a professional format. Use a clear and readable font, such as Times New Roman or Arial, and keep the font size between 10 and 12 points. Use single spacing and leave a space between each paragraph. Use a formal tone and avoid using slang or colloquial language.

Start with an Engaging Introduction

Your introduction should be engaging and capture the reader’s attention. Start with a brief overview of your background and qualifications, and then transition to your motivation for pursuing a PhD degree. Explain why you’re interested in the program and what you hope to achieve.

Highlight Your Academic Achievements and Relevant Experience

In the body of your motivational letter, highlight your academic achievements and relevant experience. This includes your undergraduate and graduate degrees, research projects, internships, and other academic or professional experience. Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills and achievements and show how they relate to the program.

Showcase Your Passion for the Field of Study

Your letter of motivation should demonstrate your passion for the field of study. Explain why you’re interested in the program and how your research interests align with the program’s goals. Show your enthusiasm for the field and your desire to make a significant contribution to the research community.

Demonstrate Your Dedication and Work Ethic

In addition to highlighting your skills and achievements, your motivational letter should demonstrate your dedication and work ethic. Explain how you’ve overcome challenges and obstacles in your academic or professional career and how you’ve demonstrated resilience and perseverance.

Include Leadership Roles and Volunteer Work

If you’ve held leadership roles or participated in volunteer work, make sure to include them in your motivational letter. These experiences demonstrate your leadership skills, your ability to work in a team, and your commitment to giving back to the community.

Write a Scholarship-Winning Letter

If you’re applying for a scholarship, it’s essential to write a scholarship-winning letter. This means demonstrating your financial need, your academic excellence, and your potential to contribute to the research community. Be specific about how the scholarship will help you achieve your academic and career goals and demonstrate your gratitude for the opportunity.

Suggested Reads: PhD Scholarship in Computer Science

Final Words!

In conclusion, writing a motivational letter for a PhD application can be a challenging task, but it’s also an opportunity to showcase your skills, achievements, and motivation to pursue a higher degree.

By following the tips and tricks outlined in this blog post, you can write a compelling motivational letter that grabs the attention of the admissions committee and increases your chances of getting accepted into your desired program.

Remember to understand the purpose of a letter of motivation, research the program and faculty, use a professional format, start with an engaging introduction, highlight your academic achievements and relevant experience, showcase your passion for the field of study, demonstrate your dedication and work ethic, including leadership roles and volunteer work, write a scholarship-winning letter (if applicable), and end with a strong call to action.

By putting in the time and effort to write a strong motivational letter, you can set yourself apart from other applicants and achieve your academic and career goals.

What is the purpose of a motivational letter for a PhD scholarship application?

The purpose of a motivational letter is to persuade the scholarship committee to choose you as a recipient of their scholarship. It is an opportunity for you to showcase your academic background, research interests, and goals for pursuing a PhD program.

How long should my motivational letter be?

The length of a motivational letter can vary depending on the requirements of the scholarship program. However, it is generally recommended to keep it concise and to the point, typically around 1-2 pages.

What should I include in my motivational letter?

Your motivational letter should include an introduction, your research interests, academic achievements, relevant experience, career goals, research experience, publications, passion for your field of study, dedication, work ethic, leadership roles, and volunteer work. It would be best if you also highlighted how the scholarship program aligns with your career goals and why you are a good fit for the program.

How should I format my motivational letter?

Your motivational letter should be formatted in a professional and organized manner. You should use a clear font, standard margins, and single spacing. Use subheadings to break up your content into easy-to-read sections.

How can I make my motivational letter stand out?

You can make your motivational letter stand out by showcasing your unique experiences and perspectives. Be specific and provide concrete examples of how you have excelled in your academic and professional pursuits. Also, be sure to highlight how you can contribute to the scholarship program and the broader academic community.

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Motivation Letter

3+ Sample of Motivation Letter For PHD in PDF

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Letter of Motivation for Ph.D. or  P.hd which stands for the doctor of philosophy is the highest degree which can be granted by any University after completion of all the prior academic degrees. There are various requirements for getting the P.hd degree, which is awarded by the highest educational body which governs all the Universities in the country. The requirements of getting this degree vary from one country to the other, but writing the motivation letter for P.hd is almost the same across the world. Click here for more motivational templates free for you. 

In case you are focused forward in drafting the template of motivation for P.hd but feeling too nervous and clueless then don’t be panic. Hereby we will be serving you with these written letters in the finest attainable form, which will enhance your chances of getting shortlisted for the P.hd program in that institution. We are going to split the various parts of the motivation letter for P.hd into different sections so that you can easily understand the respective parts. 

Motivation Letter For PhD Sample

A Letter of motivation for P.hd is the one which is the one which is addressed by a candidate to the educational body from where the candidate is willing to pursue the P.hd program. This is why a letter for P.hd is always a very significant letter since it can decide the fate of candidate that whether the candidate is going to get admission into that particular institution. If you want to know more information about the letter of motivation for university then please read on the further article.

motivation letter for scholarship sample for phd

Motivation Letter For PhD Application PDF

Motivation Letter for PHD Application PDF

You need to mention the main purpose of the letter in clear words so that it can be comfortably presumed by the officials of the University. Next, you need to anticipate your instructive framework so that it can be appraised by the concerned educational institution. Letter of Motivation for the Ph.D. format is provided with the sample so that an aspirant can easily understand it. You can also attach your teaching or the research experience in the letter if you are having any, as may be required by the institution.

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This is the second part of the letter and since you have already provided your objective of writing this letter along with the educational background in the first part of the letter. In this section, you required to provide the clear factors, which have motivated you to pursue the P.hd program and here keep in mind that those factors must be satisfactory enough to let you be chosen as the competent candidate. So Sample Letter of Motivation for Ph.D. scholarship application is provided to enhance and to help you out in writing scholarship applications.

You can list down a few major career perspectives in this part, as to what you are looking forward to achieving from this P.hd Program in the coming years.

As per the latest research, the candidates who are having the following ambitions from their P.hd program are considered the favorite for the P.hd program.

  • Candidates who are willing to improve their career prospects in the field of teaching and research work.
  • Candidates who are adaptable to embrace the new changes and the challenges of the society and the nation.

It would be better if you choose any of the above factors as the motivating factor and mention it in this part.

Motivation Letter for PHD Scholarship Sample PDF

How To Write Letter of Motivation For PhD

Well, in the third and the bottom section of the letters you just need to summarise the whole letter in a way, that why you are the competent candidate for the P.hd program of the institution and letter of motivation for Ph.D. in computer science subject is also available, one can also take reference from that.

You can end the letter by explaining the impacts that the P.hd program will have in your studies and research work, and how you can help the research work in the national domain.

You need to justify all the facts that how your contribution in the scientific field is going to help the nation, and mention that you understand the significance of each P.hd seat which is allowed to the candidates.  Finally, just end off the letter with your greetings and paying thanks to the officials for their time. We would like to suggest you keep your letter as short as it can be. Attach only the authentic documents in your letter, since if you attach any false document then it is going to make the adverse impact on your selection in that educational institution, and also later in your overall career. 

Related Article,

Letter of Motivation for Internship. 

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  • International Service for Human Rights (ISHR) Africa Programme Fellowship 2024

Published: 22 Apr 2024 75 views

International Service for Human Rights (ISHR) Africa Programme Fellowship 2024

International Service for Human Rights (ISHR)  is an independent, non-profit organisation with offices in Geneva and New York. This fellowship offers a unique opportunity to view the international and regional human rights systems at work. It provides hands-on experience working for an international non-governmental organisation (NGO) as well as the opportunity to contribute to our work supporting human rights defenders, strengthening human rights systems, legal frameworks, building and leading human rights coalitions, and responding to significant and systemic human rights concerns.

ISHR seeks to host a postgraduate Fellow to support the work within the Africa Programme.Working in a small team, the Fellow will have the opportunity to learn at close hand what it means to work for an international human rights advocacy organization.

The Fellow will also have the opportunity to collaborate with ISHR staff in all locations. In a year’s work with ISHR, the Fellow will gain experience monitoring a number of deliberations and negotiations of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR) and lobbying and advocating in those fora in line with ISHR’s mandate and priorities. The Fellow will gain hands-on experience on the application of international and regional human rights law in a multilateral human rights system, including advocacy on normative and policy advances for the protection of human rights defenders in Africa.

  • Table of Content

About International Service for Human Rights (ISHR)

Africa programme fellowship, aim and benefits of africa programme fellowship, requirements for africa programme fellowship qualification, application deadline, how to apply.

The International Service for Human Rights is an independent, non-profit organisation promoting and protecting human rights. Founded in 1984, ISHR has offices in Geneva (Switzerland) and New York (United States), as well as a permanent presence on Abidjan (Côte d'Ivoire). 

International Service for Human Rights (ISHR)

  • The Fellowship is expected to be a full-time (37.5 hours per week) position and will take place remotely / in Abidjan (if eligible) for a duration of a year.
  • Remuneration: 1000-2000€ / month (depending on location, qualifications and experience).

The successful Fellow must:

  • Be a recent Master or LL.M graduate in human rights law, international public law or equivalent. Recent graduates from other relevant graduate-level programs will be considered as well;
  • Have working knowledge of international and regional human rights law;
  • Demonstrate familiarity with the African Union and the ACHPR mechanisms, as well as issues faced by human rights defenders in Africa; familiarity with the UN system is also an advantage.
  • Have strong drafting and research skills;
  • Be able to report thoroughly and accurately on meetings;
  • Be flexible and self-motivated;  Be able to work as a member of an international and multicultural team and willing to participate in a variety of tasks, as required;
  • Ability to effectively work remotely and independently;
  • Have excellent written and oral communication skills in French and English, both languages being mandatory for this position;
  • Knowledge of official ACHPR languages, especially Arabic and Portuguese is an advantage.
  • Please submit your application by filling out this form and attaching a cover letter, a CV (maximum 2 pages with no profile photo), 1 relevant writing sample (no more than 5 pages including bibliographies).
  • In their cover letter, candidates should demonstrate their commitment to human rights and social change.

For more details, visit  ISHR website.

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motivation letter for scholarship sample for phd

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To P h D candidates who need to apply for the scholarship extension,                April 19 , 202 4

In accordance with the requirements of the Notification on The Scholarship Extension For PhD Candidates in 202 4 issued by the China Scholarship Council (No. [202 4 ]1 3 ), the arrangements of the scholarship extension for PhD candidates in 202 4 are as follows:

I. Applicants

1. Only for PhD candidates sponsored by the Chinese government scholarship and the ASEAN-China Young Leaders Scholarship ;

2. Other types of scholarship and MOFCOM scholarship are NOT INCLUDED;

3. PhD candidates who are expected to graduate in July 202 4 (Do not enjoy scholarship extension before), including those who are supposed to graduate before January 202 5 due to suspension.

II. Application C onditions (All conditions must be met)

PhD candidates who apply for the scholarship extension must meet the following conditions:

1. Students with good academic attitude and performance;

2. Study period extension has been approved by their professors and departments;

3. The annual review of scholarship for 202 4 approved by HUST, completed the thesis proposal and passed the mid-term assessments.

4. Do not enjoy scholarship extension before. (Application for scholarship extension is limited to only once and the extension period should no longer than one academic year.)

III. Application P rocedures

1. PhD candidate submit the online application.

a. L og in the ‘ Online Application and Service System for International Students ’ http://admission.hust.edu.cn/apply/login and fill in the reason to apply for the scholarship extension and their status of the thesis proposal, mid-term assessment and length to apply for extension based on the reality. Upload supporting documents and submit the application before 30 April , 202 4 .

b. L og in the ‘ Chinese Government Scholarship Information System ’ https://studyinchina.csc.edu.cn/ with their CSC number and fill in the reason to apply for the extension and choose their status of the thesis proposal, mid-term assessment and length to apply for extension based on the reality. Submit the application before 30 April , 202 4 .

c. Students are required to log in BOTH the http://admission.hust.edu.cn/apply/login and https://studyinchina.csc.edu.cn/ to submit their applications before 30 April , 202 4 . Those who failed to submit the application for scholarship extension in the above two system before the due dat e will be regarded as abandoning the qualification of the scholarship extension.

2. The relevant professors and Schools will review the application in https://admission.hust.edu.cn/a/login . Professors and Schools will confirm and review students ’ application based on the reality of their status and performance. Then submit the result to the International Student Office before 8 May, 202 4 .

3. School of International Education will organize experts for further review and then submit the opinion to the University for approval before submitting to China Scholarship Council and Ministry of Education for the final review. The final result of scholarship extension will be announced at School of International Education website ( iso.hust.edu.cn ) .

Those who failed to submit the extension application before the due date or the application materials do not meet the requirements will be regarded as abandoning the qualification of scholarship extension, so the subsequent problems it brings will be borne by the students themselves.

IV. Contacts

Main campus :

Ms. Wu , Tel. 87559551, E -mail : yuqingwu @hust.edu.cn

Tongji campus :

Ms. Z hou , Tel. 83692920, E -mail: [email protected]

School of International Education

Huazhong University of Science and Technology

关于开展 202 4 年博士生申请延长奖学金资助期限工作的通知

各 申请奖学金期限延长的博士生 :

按照国家留学基金管理委员会《关于 202 4 年博士生申请延长奖学金资助期限有关工作的通知》 (留金来管〔202 4 〕 1 3 号 )文件要求,结合我校实际,经研究,我校202 4 年博士生申请延长奖学金资助期限工作安排如下:

仅限 202 4 年应届中国政府奖学金 和中国 —东盟菁英奖学金 博士研究生(含 因 休学预计 202 5 年 1月之前毕业的学生) ( 商务部奖学金生不可申请延长 )。

申请奖学金资助期限延期的博士生应满足以下所有条件:

1. 学习态度认真、表现良好;

2. 已获批学习期限延长;

3. 已完成开题报告、通过中期考核,并通过202 4 奖学金年度评审;

4. 在读期间仅可申请延期一次, 且延长期限不超过一个学年 , 对已办理过延期的,不再受理申请。

1. 申请延期博士生提交申请。学生登录“国际学生在线申请与服务系统” http://admission.hust.edu.cn/apply/login 和 “ 来华留学管理信息系统 ” https://studyinchina.csc.edu.cn/ ,根据个人实际情况填写个人自述、论文开题、中期考核情况以及申请延长的期限,并上传支撑材料,于 202 4 年 4 月 30 日前 提交申请,待导师及院(系)审核。

2. 院(系)及导师组织开展评审。导师及院(系)登录“国际学生招生与管理服务系统” https://admission.hust.edu.cn/a/login ,根据学生学习情况和日常表现在系统中填写初审意见,详细说明申请学生在校学习情况和研究课题中期考核及开题报告通过等情况,并明确国际学生需要继续在校学习的期限,于 202 4 年 5 月 8 日前 提交至国际教育学院。

3. 国际教育学院组织专家评审复核,报学校审批后,上报国家留学基金管理委员会统一报教育部审批,结果将在国际教育学院网站(iso.hust.edu.cn)公示。

逾期未按要求提交奖学金延期申请或申请材料不符合要求的,将视为放弃申请和无效申请,因此产生的后果将由学生本人承担。

吴 老师,电话 : 87559551 , 邮箱: yuqingwu @hust.edu.cn

周老师,电话 : 83692920 , 邮箱: [email protected]

华中科技大学国际教育学院

202 4 年 4月 19 日

motivation letter for scholarship sample for phd

International Student Office Huazhong University of Science and Technology

Copyright ©  2013 ISO HUST. All rights reserved.

Address:1037 Luoyu Road, Hongshan District, Wuhan 430074, P.R.China

Telphone:0086-27-87542457 Fax:0086-27-87547833

IMAGES

  1. How to Write Motivation Letter for Scholarship

    motivation letter for scholarship sample for phd

  2. Motivation Letter For Phd Scholarship Sample Pdf

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  3. Tips to Write a Successful Motivation Letter for PhD

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  4. 5+ Free Motivation Letter For Scholarship Sample in PDF & Doc

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  5. How to Write a Motivation Letter for PhD Programs?

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  6. Letter of Motivation For Scholarship

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COMMENTS

  1. Catchy Motivation Letter for PHD Scholarship : 7 Examples

    Related: Application Letter for Employment: 07 Samples & Examples. Motivation letter for PHD scholarship sample. Dear Sir/Madam, Also, I am writing to apply for the PhD scholarship in your esteemed university. I have completed my Master's degree in X from Y University and am currently working as a lecturer in the Department of Z.

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

    1. Don't Forget About the Formatting. PhD admission requirements differ between the many programs out there, so be cognizant of how they ask you to format your paper. If the requirements state a two-page limit, then write two pages. The same goes for other criteria like font size, paragraph spacing, and word length.

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

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

  4. How to Write a PhD Motivation Letter

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

  5. How to Write a Scholarship Motivation Letter (With 3 Samples)

    Motivation Letter for PhD. Sample scholarship motivation letter pdf . Motivation letter for Undergraduate/Bachelor. Motivation Letter for Master's Degree. Motivation Letter for PhD . With these guidelines, you would be able to write your scholarship motivation letter and apply for a scholarship in any institution of your choice.

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

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

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

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

  8. How to Write a Successful PhD Motivation Letter

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

  9. How to Write an Exceptional Research Scholarship Motivation Letter

    Refer to the scholarship motivation letter sample below and write one yourself. Let us know how these tips helped you. Scholarship Motivation Letter Sample. Steve Boult 9876 Boulevard St. ... and I plan to follow up with a one-year master's degree after I graduate. While in high school, I interned with a reputable chemical plant in the ...

  10. How to Write a Convincing Scholarship Motivation Letter (with Examples

    To understand how we found these elements, think about the purpose of your motivation letter. In the letter, you're using your past to paint an image of your future. With your achievements, life story, and traits of your personality, you construct a snapshot of a future other people want to be a part of.

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

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

  12. How to Write a Motivation Letter for a Scholarship with Examples

    Outline the ideas that you want to cover in your letter. Support your content with examples and evidence. Use clear and concise language. Do not fluff your letter with wordiness and out-of-the-topic things. Keep it between 300-500 words, and it should not utilize more than 1 page. Organize the body of the letter.

  13. How to Write a Motivation Letter for a Scholarship (With Example)

    Key Points While Writing a Motivation Letter for Scholarship: 1# Tailor to the Scholarship: Customize your motivation letter for each scholarship application. Highlight how your goals align with the specific values and objectives of the scholarship program. This shows dedication and genuine interest. 2# Showcase Relevance: Focus on experiences ...

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

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

  15. How to write a Motivation Letter for Scholarship Application [With Sample]

    4. Keep it concise and to the point. A motivation letter should be concise and to the point. Aim for around 500-700 words, and make sure to stay focused on the topic you have chosen. Avoid repeating information or going off on tangents. However, you must check the word count requirements and write accordingly. 5.

  16. Motivation Letter for Ph.D.

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

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

    If you don't, go with Dear Sir/Madam. The specific PhD program or position. Clearly state in your letter which research position you're applying for or the name of the PhD program. A cover letter is usually read before a CV, so you need to make sure everything is clear. Your motivation.

  18. How to Write a Scholarship Motivation Letter (with Examples)

    4 Tips on writing a Brilliant Motivation Letter for Scholarship. 5 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing a Motivation Letter for Scholarship. 5.1 (1) Less Words and More Facts. 5.2 (2) Take Ownership and Demonstrate Deep Knowledge. 5.3 (3) It matters more what you will do for them. 5.4 (4) The rules are the rules.

  19. How to Write Motivational Letter for PhD Application: Top 10 Tips and

    Your letter of motivation should have a professional format. Use a clear and readable font, such as Times New Roman or Arial, and keep the font size between 10 and 12 points. Use single spacing and leave a space between each paragraph. Use a formal tone and avoid using slang or colloquial language.

  20. 3+ Sample of Motivation Letter For PHD in PDF

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

  21. Motivation Letter Sample For PHD Scholarship

    Motivation Letter Sample for PHD Scholarship - Free download as PDF File (.pdf), Text File (.txt) or read online for free. Scribd is the world's largest social reading and publishing site.

  22. International Service for Human Rights (ISHR) 2024 ...

    Please submit your application by filling out this form and attaching a cover letter, a CV (maximum 2 pages with no profile photo), 1 relevant writing sample (no more than 5 pages including bibliographies). In their cover letter, candidates should demonstrate their commitment to human rights and social change. For more details, visit ISHR website.

  23. Notice on Scholarship Extension Application for PhD candidates in 2024

    To P h D candidates who need to apply for the scholarship extension, April 19, 202 4. In accordance with the requirements of the Notification on The Scholarship Extension For PhD Candidates in 202 4 issued by the China Scholarship Council (No. [202 4]1 3), the arrangements of the scholarship extension for PhD candidates in 202 4 are as follows:. I. Applicants