How to structure a strong motivation letter
2026-05-11 20:43:12
Framework, pitfalls and two-draft practice with advisors.
A motivation letter is the narrative spine of your application. Strong letters connect academic history, programme-specific curiosity and career goals in one coherent arc.
Suggested structure: (1) concise opening — who you are and which programme you target; (2) academic and professional evidence linking to the curriculum; (3) what you expect from labs, courses or partnerships; (4) closing tone aligned with institutional values.
Avoid: copy-pasting the same essay everywhere, exaggerated claims or facts that contradict your CV. Respect word limits; add portfolio links only when allowed.
We typically iterate two structured drafts with advisors, then a final consistency and fluency pass.
Suggested structure: (1) concise opening — who you are and which programme you target; (2) academic and professional evidence linking to the curriculum; (3) what you expect from labs, courses or partnerships; (4) closing tone aligned with institutional values.
Avoid: copy-pasting the same essay everywhere, exaggerated claims or facts that contradict your CV. Respect word limits; add portfolio links only when allowed.
We typically iterate two structured drafts with advisors, then a final consistency and fluency pass.