How to Write a Successful PhD Motivation Letter?

It is a relatively demanding process to write a motivation letter for PhD studies; however, never be disappointed! If you know some essential tips and principles, you will get through the process quickly.

The significance of a motivation letter is in the fact that it allows the admission committee to differentiate between outstanding scholars and excellent students. Both will be successful in becoming the best research scholars; however, the admission committee will think about the exceptional students will bring a significant contribution to the university’s research community.

Demonstrating that you are an outstanding student does not essentially depend on what you write; however, more on the way of your writing, particularly the tone you use and the enthusiasm level you express in the letter.

All About Motivation Letter

A motivation letter must include a short introduction explaining the program you like to apply for.

First, explain a clear career goal of your impending research and the reasons for preferring this specific PhD program.

This letter must include all the information about your prior professional and academic experience. Besides, you can provide the research and teaching experience, work outside the educational place, and volunteer, given that all are related, regarding knowledge and skills you learned. All the expertise must link to your preferred PhD program, as you need to explain how your professional and academic achievements make you an ideal candidate for the PhD program you are applying for.

What has Driven You to Do a PhD? Main Text of Motivation Letter

Depending on the background knowledge you provide, you need to demonstrate 3 to 4 essential factors that drive you to go for a PhD.

A recent piece of research reveals that the PhD application can be motivated by numerous factors, like:

• The aspiration to learn and discover new stuff
• Passion for teaching and research work
• Readiness to improve career opportunities

You should clearly explain what drives you and what you want to achieve due to this PhD.

If you have any academic journal publications, you must mention them and give evidence or details of your published content.

Write some of your qualities and focus on how they can be considered valuable for your research topic and your study field in general.

Closing of Motivation Letter

At the end of the motivation letter, write some sentences on your research impact on your life, study area, and society. It will assist you in explaining the significance of your study in the context of a significant picture. Mostly, show how the university and scientific community can get an advantage from taking you as a scholar.

Besides, you must state that you know that PhD programs they offer attract numerous competitive and prospective candidates.

Usually, a motivation letter must not go more than one page. The ability to show the impact and value of your research project, passion for the research topic, and a clear structure is all you need to succeed.

Statements and Details, You Must Avoid in the Motivation Letter

You must not include fake achievements, facts and must not try to use pompous metaphors and make an overstatement. The team from the admission committee will find out if the motivation letter is real or fake.

Do not use cliché such as “I am always fascinated by scientific research,” my ambition is to take scientific research to the top level,” “I am motivated to study ABC,” or “It is my childhood dream.”

Do not try to appreciate the institution too much, and never close your motivation letter with something such as “it will be an honor to get enrolled for a PhD in this university.”

Essential Things to Remember While Writing a Motivation Letter

Essential details you must focus on throughout the motivation letter include your interest in the PhD program and the field you choose to study and the experience you had. Don’t forget to keep a serious and professional tone; however, at the same time, be enthusiastic and positive.

For more content, visit our website. Especially, we recommend 10 Tips to Prepare Your PhD Application. I wish you the best of luck!