How To Write Motivation Letter For Scholarships, Jobs & More

A motivation letter is a document that introduces you and describes your personality. This type of inspirational letter can be used to support a job application or a college/university program.

The letter of motivation should be written in a professional but personable tone to show your motivation to apply for a specific position or degree. You should also express your enthusiasm for the opportunity and explain what led you to apply.

The main goal of the motivation statement is to get the reader to look at your CV or resume.

An effectively written letter of motivation can leave a notable impression on prospective employers or admission counselors. It often can be the deciding factor for the “yes” or “no”. Devote enough time to produce a unique, intriguing letter that will aid you to be noticed among the others!

Motivation Letter for Scholarship Samples

You may apply for multiple scholarships, but you do not have to write a different motivation letter for each application. Create a template that will allow you to tailor the content to the specific situation. But how do you do it? Once you have completed the seven steps in the previous section, you will have a template that you can edit to ensure that your motivation letter is appropriate for the scholarship you wish to apply for.

The motivation letter distinguishes scholarship applicants. A winning motivation letter has helped us win academic and professional scholarships and get jobs at big companies. We’ll cover everything you need to know when writing a scholarship motivation letter. We will teach you how to create a template to apply to multiple calls and increase your chances of winning international scholarships.

Scholarship motivation letters should mention academic achievements. Explain: Why are you the best candidate? How does your expertise benefit the university or country? Show your desire to learn and contribute.

Not that academic performance, experience, and recognition don’t matter or that an attractive and clear motivation letter will get you the scholarship. Your achievements and skills qualify you for the scholarship, and the motivation letter helps you succeed.

Investigate the institution and country to which you intend to travel and study. What characteristics are the institution or scholarship provider looking for? Browse its official page, including the sections About, Our Culture, and Philosophy, and analyze the institution. Do they place a greater value on leadership or teamwork? Are they socially responsible and environmentally conscious? What exactly is the role of ethics? Or are they more concerned with numbers and concrete results?

A) Dear Ms. Campbell,

My name is Alex Throssell. I am writing to you to support my application for admission to Jackson State University. I am enthusiastic about obtaining a degree in Computer Science. I am confident that your school will give me the ideal opportunity to realize my goals.

I have been interested in the informatics field since I was a child. I have been coding ever since I was 12 years old. I love solving problems and developing new applications. In high school, I completed courses in computer programming and web development, which sparked my interest in software engineering.

In college, I plan to continue to explore the world of computer science. I want to learn more about Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, two topics that fascinate me. Additionally, I plan to become involved with research projects related to these topics as well as other areas of computer science.

I am confident that Jackson State University can provide me with the best education to help me achieve my goals. Not only does it have excellent faculty members and research opportunities, but also offers a stimulating environment where I can grow both academically and personally.

Appreciation for your thoughtfulness in reviewing my application. I anticipate your reply!

Best regards,
Alex T

B) February 21, 2020

Ms. Liza Wideman
Recruiting Coordinator
Great Strategy Consulting Firm
200 Shell Fish Blvd, Suite 199
San Francisco, CA 94080

Dear Ms. Wideman:

I am writing to express my interest in securing an Associate position at Great Strategy Consulting Firm. I am a Master of Liberal Arts degree candidate at Harvard Extension School, specializing in Information Technology. I come from a solid technical background with a strong interest in business and a passion towards strategy. My area of focus and interest varies from quantitative analysis to project management. I have maintained a 3.95 GPA through a well-balanced program of study, which is not only very analytical and technical by nature but also helps to build leadership and team building qualities. I am extremely impressed with Great Strategy’s approach to strategy consulting, especially within the Business Development and Innovation practice areas. I believe my academic background, business knowledge and industry experiences have provided me with the credentials needed to thrive as an Associate.

Prior to Harvard, I worked as a technology professional, primarily resolving strategic issues related to technology process improvement. I gained solid research, analytical and problem solving skills while working in Fortune 500 companies. My background in generating innovative ideas and strategies to improve processes has provided me with a deeper understanding of multifaceted problems that companies encounter in their daily operations. Moreover, because of my work experiences, I fully understand how important it is to have great team dynamics in today’s multi-disciplinary business environment.

To date, my experience as an IT professional has been extremely rewarding and productive. However, it is through strategy consulting that I can use my analytical aptitude and creative problem solving skills to their fullest. I strongly believe that consulting is a discipline that will force me to view problems not only from the client’s standpoint but also from a marketplace, best practices and “think out of the box” point of views.

I would appreciate the opportunity to interview with Great Strategy Consulting Firm for the Associate position. Please find enclosed my resume for your review. I can be reached via email at jacob.mclean@post.harvard.edu or by phone at (617) 555-3456. I enthusiastically look forward to hearing from you soon.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

Jacob A. McLean

A motivation letter example for a job application:

Dear Mr. Watts,

I am writing to apply for the Landscape Architect role at EcoDesign Studios. I have 5 years of experience in the field. I am confident that I possess the necessary skills and qualifications to make an immediate impact on your team.

I am passionate about architecture and have worked hard to develop a deep understanding of the industry. At my previous company, I led the “Urban Harmony Plaza” project, transforming an underutilized urban space into a vibrant, green hub. Collaborating closely with local stakeholders, I applied my architectural skills to address real-world challenges, highlighting the importance of sustainable practices in enhancing community well-being.

I am highly motivated and eager to contribute to the success of the EcoDesign Studios. I have a proven track record of meeting deadlines, exceeding expectations, and delivering high-quality results. I am also highly organized and take pride in ensuring that projects are completed according to set deadlines and standards.

Furthermore, I have excellent interpersonal skills and enjoy working as part of a team. I am comfortable working with people from diverse backgrounds and cultures and collaborating seamlessly with colleagues at all levels.

I would be delighted to put my skills and experience to work for your organization. I believe my qualifications render me a perfect fit for the role and would welcome the opportunity to discuss this further in an interview. Thank you for considering my application.

Sincerely,
Matthew M. Ferrell

A motivational letter example for joining an organization:

Dear Ms. Ruben,

I am thrilled to express my fervent interest in joining Community Empowerment Hub, captivated by its commitment to fostering social and economic justice. The impactful strides your team has taken in improving lives resonate deeply with my personal mission.

For quite some time, I have closely followed and been inspired by your organization’s dedication to ensuring universal access to quality education, healthcare, housing, and other fundamental needs. I firmly believe in the transformative power of collective action to institute enduring change.

My educational background, including a degree in political science, coupled with my experience in the public sector, positions me well for this role. Through my involvement in a recent legislative initiative on climate change, I honed my understanding of policy issues and effective strategies for driving social change.

My passion lies in utilizing my skills to contribute to a better world, and I am enthusiastic about the prospect of bringing my expertise to your team. Eager to contribute meaningfully, I am confident in my ability to aid your organization in advancing its goals and objectives.

Thank you for considering my application to join Community Empowerment Hub. I am eager to delve deeper into how I can actively contribute to your mission and make a lasting impact on the world.

Sincerely,
Paul Brown

A motivation letter sample for funding application:

Dear selection committee,

I am writing to seek funding for my project, “SustainVisions,” which aims to produce a series of educational videos promoting sustainability in our community.

The “SustainVisions” project will showcase individuals from our community who are passionate about sustainability, highlighting their impactful work. These videos will be strategically shared on various social media platforms, with the overarching goal of inspiring viewers to take positive actions towards a more sustainable lifestyle.

The requested funding will be allocated to cover essential aspects such as equipment, production costs, and associated travel expenses. With this support, I envision creating a unique video series that not only educates our community but also has the potential to resonate beyond our local borders. This endeavor is crucial in raising awareness about sustainable practices and encouraging tangible actions that can positively impact our environment and the lives of many.

Beyond my passion for this cause, my experience demonstrates a proven ability to execute impactful projects. I have collaborated with non-profits, government agencies, foundations, and various organizations to develop sustainable initiatives with lasting effects. My skill set includes conducting thorough research, designing effective programs, and establishing valuable relationships with key stakeholders.

I am committed to ensuring that any funding received will be utilized efficiently, meeting deadlines, and staying within budget while delivering top-tier results. With a track record of successful projects, I am confident that “SustainVisions” can make a tangible difference with your support.

I sincerely believe in the merit of this project and hope for your consideration and support. Thank you for your time and thoughtful consideration.

All the best,
Nichole Fisher

Examples of a motivation letter for an internship:

Dear Mr. Miller,

I am excited to submit my application for the Social Work Intern position at Compassionate Care Services. With a solid academic foundation, I am confident in my ability to contribute meaningfully to your team.

Currently pursuing a degree in Social Work at Towson University, I actively engage in projects that enhance my practical knowledge. Notably, I led the “Youth Empowerment Program” at my university, overseeing skill-building workshops, mentorship programs, and career guidance. This experience sharpened my research, collaboration, and leadership skills, further deepening my understanding of the field.

Beyond my academic endeavors, my strong customer service skills and effective communication make me a valuable addition to your team. My passion for Social Work drives my commitment to community betterment. I am eager to apply my skills to contribute to the mission of Compassionate Care Services.

Thank you for considering my application. I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to discuss how my background, skills, and dedication align with the goals of your organization. Please feel free to contact me for any additional information.

Sincerely,
Elizabeth Tucker

What is a motivation letter?

• A motivation letter elaborates on why the candidate is passionate about a job or course. It needs to focus on their goals, skills, and qualifications, as well as their enthusiasm for the role.

What is a cover letter?

• A cover letter is more formal, providing an overview of the applicant’s skills and experience. It needs to illustrate their suitability for the position and give reasons why the employer should consider them for it.

Dos:

• Write clearly and concisely.
• Make sure your letter is tailored to the specific job or program you are applying for.
• Use powerful language that exudes confidence.
• Incorporate relevant examples or reasons behind your motivation.
• Highlight any special aspects that make your application unique.

Don’ts:

• Don’t copy and paste from other letters or applications.
• Don’t use weak phrases like “I think” or “I believe”. Instead, use stronger words like “I am confident”.
• Don’t be too general with your statements. Be specific about what you can bring to the table.
• Don’t leave out any important details. There should not be questions left for the reader.
• Writing a motivational letter: conclusion
• Constructing a letter of motivation can be laborious. Yet, it does not have to. Follow the provided guidelines and the motivation statement examples to build yours.

Tips For writing Motivation Letters

• Structured: If your ideas are unclear and the letter does not flow naturally, examiners will find it difficult to continue reading. Identify your strengths and show them in a concrete and consistent manner with the program for which you are applying. Create convincing and result-oriented sentences.
• Clear: Easy to read, avoid complex words and separate the paragraphs by the sections about which you speak.
• Short: If you are clear, you do not have to extend more than 1 page. In fact, it is often necessary for the motivation letter to meet this requirement. If not, a page and a half is enough … remember that time is the most important resource we all have, even those that examine your application
• PDF: Although you write it in Word, you must save it and present it as a PDF document, unless otherwise specified.
• Formal: The letter should be formal, but this does not mean you should write words that you cannot even pronounce, be practical, be yourself.
• Deadline: Remember the deadline to send the application and do not miss the opportunity of your life.
• Review: Remember to spell and write correctly. If you’re not very good at it, seek assistance from a family member or friend.
• Correct Title: Ensure that it is addressed to who it should be.
• Language: In case you apply in another language, make sure you make proper use of the language, the writing and the translation.
• Prepare for writing: Think about what you want to say and why you are writing it. Ensure that you are prepared to explain your interest in the letter.
• Start with a captivating introduction: [Introduce yourself](/blog/tell-me-about-yourself.html, your goals, and your reason for applying.
• Use compelling language: Be clear and concise so your motivational statement is easy to read and understand. Keep your sentences short and to the point.
• Demonstrate your enthusiasm: Tell about your passion for the position, the program, or the project you are applying for.
• Describe your goals and objectives: Explain what you hope to gain from this opportunity and how it fits into your long-term goals.
• Show your commitment: Speak about how you will contribute to the company/university and its mission.
• End your letter with an emphatic declaration: Illustrate your eagerness for the discussed matter and express gratitude for the reader’s consideration.
• Proofread and edit carefully: Ensure that there are no grammar, spelling, or formatting errors in your motivational letter before sending it.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing a Motivation Letter for Scholarship

As we all know, the motivation letter is the most important document for winning a scholarship in another country. Furthermore, a well-written motivation letter can help you get a job or volunteer.

The motivation letter for a scholarship should not only express your desire to pursue new opportunities, but also justify why you should be chosen over other qualified candidates.

(1) Less Words and More Facts

It is simple to express your desire to travel or study in a specific country, but it is difficult to explain why they should choose you. Many of us want to travel, expand our vision of the world, improve other languages, and improve our quality of life. However, what should you do to be worthy of that prize?

It begins to replace phrases like “my dream has always been xyz” because “my achievements have been …” to “I consider I am the ideal candidate because …” and / or “my work is characterized by …” Remember that the prize does not go to the one who most want it, but the one that correctly demonstrates deserving it

(2) Take Ownership and Demonstrate Deep Knowledge

The above paragraph does not imply that your wishes are ignored. These are important if you can show that you understand what you want and why you deserve it. For example:

“What particularly attracted me to the program is the broad spectrum of skills to be developed that it offers, the quality of the faculty and the internship program; all these aspects will make it possible to win different opportunities at the time of employment …”

Here, the applicant is sticking to the basics. Underlined words can be used to demonstrate topic ownership and mastery because knowledge equals motivation. An alternative is:

“What particularly attracted me to the Modern Art program is the possibility of specializing in lighting and sound, as well as the teaching staff, which has world-renowned professors. Another reason why I prefer this program is the opportunity to have direct contact with exhibitions in one of the capitals of modern art in the world through the professional practices that are offered in the last semester.”

Another of my tips to demonstrate knowledge is that you replace words like ‘I believe’ with ‘I know’ or ‘I’m sure that …’

(3) It matters more what you will do for them

That your reasons should go beyond living in a developed country. Study scholarship providers expect you to be passionate about the program and the positive impact you will make with what you learn. To clarify, they don’t care if you’re safer, happier, richer, or healthier in the scholarship country. They want to know how you’ll repay society’s investment. Tranquil! Their goal is not money. Consider cultural exchange, teaching other students or teachers, extracurricular clubs, and other cooperation projects.

Tip: If the scholarship requires you to return to your country of origin upon completion of the study program, it is important that you mention how you will apply in your country what you intend to learn.

(4) The rules are the rules

Finally, write only what they ask in the motivation letter. Send a sheet if they say 1. Please do not expect the scholarship provider to waive some motivation letter requirements. They use 7 instead of 6.5 for IELTS band 7, 24 months for certified work experience, etc. However, it is beautiful to show that you deserve the scholarship, not that you worked hard but failed to meet the other requirements. Give yourself time if you don’t meet all the requirements—there are always new application dates and scholarship opportunities.

Key takeaways:

• It is essential to be clear and concise in your writing, as well as to make use of effective language.
• Highlight your enthusiasm and illustrate why you are the most suitable person for the opportunity.
• Ensure that the letter is adapted to the specific employer or school you are applying for.
• Demonstrate your passion and devotion.
• Proofread and edit your letter for any errors.
• Don’t forget to include a professional signature at the end.

Now its your turn!

I hope these tips and examples will help you to prepare an impressive Motivation Letter for Scholarship and to win scholarships. If you have some tips that worked for you, let us know in the comment section.

Thanks for reading and wishing you success with everything!