How to write a letter of Motivation to win a Scholarship | award winning tips

Summary

In this video, Eugene, a Dad scholar in Germany with a fully funded scholarship, shares essential tips on how to write an impactful Letter of Motivation (LoM) for scholarships. He provides a step-by-step guide, including advice on structuring the letter, highlighting academic achievements, demonstrating passion, and aligning your goals with the course and country you’re applying to. Eugene also emphasizes the importance of being concise and confident, and offers a bonus tip about connecting with the scholarship committee via email. This video is a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their chances of securing a scholarship.

Takeaways

• 😀 Start your letter of motivation by introducing yourself, expressing interest in the program, and briefly outlining your educational background.
• 😀 Clearly align your letter with the goals of the scholarship or university program you're applying for.
• 😀 Use a professional and readable format, including your address, the university's address, and proper spacing (1.1 to 1.5 line spacing). Keep the letter concise and no longer than two pages.
• 😀 In the second paragraph, immediately convince the committee why you're a strong candidate by highlighting your academic achievements, skills, and passion for the field.
• 😀 Include specific skills you've acquired that are relevant to your chosen field, but avoid exaggeration; be honest and precise.
• 😀 The third paragraph should explain how the program will help you advance in your field, enhance your skills, and achieve your career goals.
• 😀 Discuss a problem faced by your country or community in the fourth paragraph, and explain how the program will help you contribute to solving that problem.
• 😀 In the next paragraph, link your future career plans with the skills you'll gain from the program, showing how you intend to continue your education or contribute to your field long-term.
• 😀 In the penultimate paragraph, explain why you chose the country and university, emphasizing the opportunities for growth and learning in an international environment.
• 😀 Conclude your letter on a confident note, reinforcing your dedication, qualifications, and commitment to succeed in the program.
• 😀 A bonus tip: Engage with the scholarship committee by sending a thoughtful email to establish a relationship and help make your name familiar to them.

Q & A

What is the main purpose of the letter of motivation?

The main purpose of the letter of motivation is to express your interest in the program, showcase your academic background, skills, and passion, and convince the scholarship or admission committee that you are a strong candidate for the opportunity.

What should be included in the first paragraph of the letter of motivation?

In the first paragraph, you should introduce yourself, state your interest in the program, and briefly mention your educational background, including your degree and any notable achievements, such as honors or distinctions.

How long should the letter of motivation be?

The letter of motivation should be concise, typically between one to two pages long, with line spacing of 1.1 to 1.5.

Why is it important to tailor the letter to the scholarship or university’s goals?

Tailoring the letter to the scholarship or university's goals is important because it demonstrates your understanding of the program and how your academic and career aspirations align with what the institution values. It helps show that you're genuinely interested and well-suited for the opportunity.

What should the second paragraph of the letter focus on?

The second paragraph should focus on convincing the committee why you are a strong candidate. Highlight your academic performance, skills, and passion for the field. It's important to emphasize what sets you apart from other applicants.

What is the purpose of the third paragraph in the letter of motivation?

In the third paragraph, you should discuss a problem or challenge that exists in your country or community and explain how the program will equip you with the skills necessary to contribute to solving this issue. It links the program to real-world impact.

How should you address your future career plans in the motivation letter?

You should address your future career plans by explaining how the program will help you build the necessary skills and knowledge to achieve those plans. Mention how the program fits into your long-term academic and professional goals, such as pursuing further studies or contributing to a particular field.

Why is it important to explain why you chose the specific country for your studies?

Explaining why you chose the country adds a personal touch and shows that you have thoughtfully considered the cultural, academic, and professional benefits of studying abroad. It demonstrates your commitment and understanding of the international nature of the program.

What should be included in the final paragraph of the letter?

The final paragraph should be a strong, confident conclusion. Reiterate your qualifications, your passion for the program, and your commitment to succeeding. It should leave a lasting positive impression on the committee.

How can emailing the university or scholarship body help your application?

Emailing the university or scholarship body can help build a relationship with the institution and its staff. By asking thoughtful questions about the program, you may make your name familiar to those reviewing applications, which can give you an advantage in the selection process.