When writing my letter of motivation for a university, what structure should I follow?
22 Oct 2026 · Answered by Sumit Singh Chauhan · 1 min read
Quick Answer
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A university letter of motivation usually has a salutation, an introduction, two body sections and a conclusion, kept to one page. Use either a three-paragraph layout or a five to seven paragraph layout. Check the university's official instructions, since formats vary.
An academic letter of motivation goes to the university's faculty as proof of your interest in the program. A clear structure keeps it focused and easy to read.
Parts of a Letter of Motivation
| Part | What to include |
|---|---|
| Salutation | Use the professor's details if given, otherwise 'Dear Sir/Madam' |
| Introduction | Show your personality, avoid a 'Myself' style opening, and briefly cover your background, the program and why |
| Body 1 | How you became interested in the field, and how your studies and work shaped you |
| Body 2 | Why this course or university, how it fits your goals, and the qualifications that make you suitable |
| Conclusion | Reaffirm your commitment and thank the reader for their time |
Length and Layout
- Keep the letter to one page.
- Choose a traditional 3-paragraph layout, or a 5 to 7 paragraph layout to highlight each achievement.
- Do not mix up academic and professional motivation letters, as they serve different purposes.
My Advice
Open with something engaging about your purpose instead of a generic self-introduction. Tailor each letter to the program, and check the university's official page for any format or word-limit rules.
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