Introduction
The most crucial element of your application for an Erasmus Mundus Scholarship is the Motivation Letter. Let’s talk about it. A motivation letter is a generally one-page piece of paper containing your story and aspiration for the program to which you want to apply. It usually has a 30% to 40% weightage towards your selection or rejection for the scholarship. Moreover, it is your initial chance to present yourself to the admissions committee, so it is critical to catch their attention from the very first line of your motivation letter.
Tips for Writing an Impressive Motivation Letter
1. Understand the Program Requirements:
Read the program’s website thoroughly and outline all the skills and qualities they are seeking in an ideal applicant before you begin writing your motivation letter. Do not rush the process; instead, carefully consider the program’s goals and compile a list of your relevant attributes, abilities, and experiences.
2. Stick to the Recommended Length:
Most programs demand a motivation letter that is one page long. However, it is always a good idea to double-check the specific requirements listed on the program’s website. Certain programs might specify a word or page limit. Nonetheless, aiming for a brief one-page letter is generally the best practice.
3. Avoid Repetition:
In your motivation letter, you shouldn’t restate details that are already on your resume or in your transcript. Make sure to highlight the specifics that make you stand out from other applicants.
4. Be Authentic and Original:
If you want to be successful, you should avoid copying your motivation letter from other sources. Because it is a reflection of you, this document should include your personal views, goals, and experiences. Keep your writing genuine and unique.
5. Keep it Engaging and Simple:
Your motivation letter must be engaging to read so that people don’t get bored. It is important to use simple, easy-to-understand language because the people on the selection committee may not speak English as their first language. Don’t use complicated or technical language that might make it harder to understand.
After writing your initial draft, it’s time to edit and proofread it. If you want someone else’s opinion on your work, ask a friend or teacher for input, or use a tool like Grammarly to make sure that your motivation letter is error-free.
A Golden Opportunity to Study in France on a Full Scholarship
The Structure of a Motivation Letter
If your motivation letter is limited to one page, it is recommended to structure it into five to six paragraphs:
1. Opening Paragraph:
The opening paragraph must leave an outstanding impression. You may begin with a quotation that speaks to your topic of study or you can emphasize some of your special talents. For instance, an individual with a passion for chemical engineering might express their eagerness to address worldwide challenges such as pollution.
2. Undergraduate Journey:
Talk about your undergraduate experience, including projects, extracurricular activities, and volunteer work, in the second paragraph. Highlight how these experiences have shaped your skill set and how they relate to the program for which you are applying.
3. Work Experience or Internship:
If you have relevant work experience, talk about what you did and what skills you learned. Draw attention to any important projects or assignments you completed on your own. If you don’t have any work experience, you can focus on internships or relevant educational assignments instead.
4. Program Fit and Future Plans:
The most important part of your motivation letter is the third paragraph. If you already have a job, explain why you want to quit and join the program. Talk about how the program will help you solve the global problems that are listed in the program’s objectives. You should also describe your plans for the future and what you hope to accomplish after finishing the Erasmus Mundus Master.
5. University Preferences:
Express your interest in the universities involved in the program in the fourth paragraph. Explain your preference. Highlight aspects of the university that are relevant to your academic and personal objectives.
6. Personal Hobbies and Interests:
Mention your hobbies and interests in the final paragraph. For example, if you enjoy traveling and interacting with people from various cultures, share your excitement about it. You can also use examples from your previous experiences to demonstrate your enthusiasm. Finish your motivation letter with one or two sentences emphasizing how well the program fits your life goals.
Fully Funded PhD Scholarships in Austria 2024 for International Students
Conclusion
A compelling motivation letter is essential to win the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship. You can create a unique and engaging letter that captures the selection committee’s attention by following the tips mentioned in this blog. Always keep your writing genuine, to the point, and interesting. Best wishes with your application!
If you need further assistance to write this letter, check out the following YouTube video.
