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How to Write a Statement of Purpose | Example

Published on February 13, 2019 by Shona McCombes . Revised on June 1, 2023.

When you apply for graduate programs or scholarships, the admissions committee is looking for more than just a list of grades. The statement of purpose (also known as a statement of intent or motivation letter) is your chance to stand out from the crowd and showcase your motivation, skills and potential. It should:

• Outline your academic or professional interests and goals
• Discuss relevant skills, experience and achievements
• Demonstrate why you’d be a good fit for the program

Table of contents

Successful statement of purpose example, requirements and prompts, personal introduction, experience and achievements, goals and motivations, fit with the program, tips for an effective statement of purpose, other interesting articles.

The torment of the Founding Fathers is responsible for my interest in Classics. My desire to learn Latin stemmed from reading American Revolutionary-era history during junior high and high school, and particularly from the countless Latin quotations I found in John Adams’ writings. Always eager for a challenge, I was intrigued by the American founders’ accounts of the torture of learning such a difficult language. In my first semester at university, I started learning Latin and thoroughly loved it. As I learned more and more about classical civilization through the language, I realized that I was passionately interested in many aspects of the field of Classics. I have since taken courses on mythology, art and archaeology, and religion, on ancient history, and on the classical tradition. I have also learned Greek, of course, starting with an intensive two-semester course at the university’s summer school. My experience studying abroad in Florence and traveling through Italy and Greece intensified my zeal for the field and, in particular, fueled my ambition to specialize in classical archaeology.

My personal philosophy of life is that everything is connected, and this conviction drives my desire to study Classics. The most rewarding moments for me are discovering and investigating connections – both broad ones, between fields and disciplines, and more specific ones, like the relationship between a piece of literature and an object of material culture. My liberal arts education has equipped me with a broad base of knowledge in the sciences, social sciences, humanities, and arts, and in the honors program I pursued independent projects exploring academic and personal connections, including a paper on ancient Mayan astronomy, a self-observation study on the effects of nutrition and hydration on exercise performance, and a paper on the influence of political context on the changing artistic representations of John Adams. By seeking out connections between seemingly unrelated areas of academia, I have acquired a well-rounded outlook which helps me approach new ideas with both a range of prior experiences and a mind always open to different interpretations.

In accordance with my personal philosophy, I have also continued to explore connections within Classics and between Classics and other fields. In 2007, I published an article in my university’s undergraduate humanities journal; inspired by my studies in Florence, I compared representations of the birth of Venus in ancient and Renaissance literature and art. My major academic achievement to date, however, has been my senior honor thesis on John Adams’ connection to the Classics. Funded by a Hilldale Research Fellowship, I conducted research in the Adams Papers at the Massachusetts Historical Society and in John Adams’ personal library at the Boston Public Library on the influence of the classical tradition on Adams’ worldview and how he consciously modeled himself on classical ideals. It was particularly fulfilling to connect historical and classical research in writing about the figure most responsible for instigating my study of the Classics.

As well as my research skills, I have demonstrated proficiency in the classical languages, winning prizes for both Latin and Greek translation from the Classics Department, as well as receiving an enthusiastic nomination from the department for the Pearson Fellowship from the American Philological Association. I am also the president of the undergraduate Classics Society, which allows me to share my enthusiasm for Classics with other students and the larger community.

One of the most appealing aspects of studying Classics is the vast range of topics encompassed by the field. Because my interests are broad and I value an interdisciplinary approach, I would like to pursue graduate study ultimately leading to a PhD in Classical Archaeology. Archaeology in itself is, of course, a multi-faceted field, requiring knowledge of history, language, anthropology, and various scientific and technological methods. I have already started building my skills in this area: I participated in a microartifact analysis from the excavation of a Maya site in Belize as part of an honors project, and this summer I will take part in two archaeological projects in Turkey after working as a research assistant on related material in the spring semester. This PhD program includes many other opportunities I am eager to explore, such as palaeography and papyrology courses, and especially the variety of fieldwork and museum experiences available. I believe that my strong background in the classical languages and wide range of courses on classical civilization and archaeological methods have prepared me well for this program, and I am convinced that, guided by my philosophy of interconnectedness, I will flourish in this program.

The first step is to read the application instructions. These should include the length of the document (usually 1-2 pages), any formatting requirements, and often a question or prompt that indicates what you should focus on.

In some cases, you might also be asked to submit a personal statement . Similar advice applies to both of these documents—both should give a sense of who you are, what you’ve done and what you want to do. But a statement of purpose is often more formal, tightly focused on your academic background and your suitability for the program.

If you are working on multiple applications, don’t try to write a one-size-fits-all text—tailor your statement of purpose to each program. Make sure to respond to the prompt and include all the information you’re asked for. A typical statement of purpose prompt looks like this:

Your focus will be slightly different depending on whether you’re applying for research-based academic programs (such as a PhD ) or professional qualifications (such as an MBA). But all statements of purpose should contain the following elements.

This is your chance to introduce yourself to the admissions committee and let them hear your voice. The statement of purpose shouldn’t tell your life story, but it should give a glimpse into who you are.

Academic and personal background

Give an overview of your academic background, and show what drives your interest in this field or profession. You might want to include some personal background too—your family history, social circumstances, personal relationships and life experiences have all shaped your trajectory and perspective. What unique insights will you bring with you?

Characteristics and personality

Think about aspects of your character that make you well-suited for graduate school. Don’t just list generic adjectives—give examples that demonstrate your strengths and show why they’re relevant.

• Are you organized enough to handle a high-pressure workload?
• Do you have the creativity needed to develop original ideas, or a systematic mindset perfect for problem-solving?
• Do you have strong leadership skills, or are you great at working collaboratively?

Avoid including irrelevant autobiographical detail in the statement of purpose. Everything you include should be aimed at showing why you’d be a strong candidate for the program.

Your experience shows that you have the necessary skills to succeed in graduate school. Don’t just summarize everything you’ve done—pick out some highlights to build a clear picture of your strengths and priorities, illustrating how you’ve learned and developed along the way.

Academic experience

If you’re applying for a research-focused program, such as a PhD, show your knowledge of the field and outline your research experience. This might include:

• A brief summary of your thesis or final project
• Courses that you found particularly valuable
• Projects you contributed to
• Publications
• Presentations
• Extracurriculars that gave you relevant skills or experience

Professional experience

If you’re applying for a professional program, such as an MBA, outline your experience so far and show how it relates to your career plans. This might include:

• Past or current job roles
• Projects you led or participated in
• Internships
• Voluntary work
• Training courses

In all cases, give specific examples with details of what you worked on, what you achieved, and what you got out of the experience.

As well as showing that you’re prepared for the program, explain what you expect to get out of it. What are your motivations for applying? How do you plan to make the most of its opportunities, and how will it help you achieve your goals?

Academic motivations

For academic programs, indicate your research interests, showing how they follow from and build upon what you have studied so far. This might include:

• A subfield that you want to strengthen your expertise in
• A specific problem or question that you’d like to address
• An initial idea for a research project
• A theoretical or methodological approach that you want to develop

This isn’t the place for an in-depth research plan, but it’s a chance to show your enthusiasm and knowledge of your field.

Professional motivations

For professional programs, outline your career aspirations and show how your experience informs your goals. This might include:

• The next step you want to take in your career. What position are you aiming for and how will the program help you achieve it?
• Your motivations for a career change. Can you make a link between your previous experience and your new direction?
• Your long-term goals. Where do you want to be in five or ten years, and how do you see yourself getting there?

The admissions committee wants to know that you’re genuinely motivated to complete the program, and the clearer your plans, the more convincing your commitment.

It’s important to show not only why you want to study this subject, but also why you want to do it in this particular institution and department.

• Do your research, and mention particular classes, specialisms or faculty that attracted you.
• Show why you’re a good fit. Do your priorities align with the values and culture of the institution? What will you contribute to the department?
• Discuss the specific skills, knowledge and experience you expect to get from the program.

The statement of purpose isn’t only about selling yourself—it’s about illustrating an ideal match between you and the program.

Once you’ve made sure to cover all the key elements, you can work on strengthening and polishing the text. Follow these tips to make your application the best it can be.

Stay focused

It can be tempting to try to cram in everything you’ve done, but a good statement of purpose requires careful selection to craft a focused narrative. One way to do this is by building your text around a central theme—for example, a character trait, an intellectual interest, or a career goal.

This strategy helps structure your text and puts your priorities centre stage. Link each paragraph back to the central idea, making it clear how everything fits together.

Think about your structure

The structure of a statement of purpose is somewhat flexible, as long as you include all the relevant information in an order that makes sense.

For example, you might start with a chronological story of where your interests began, or you might open with your goals and then select a series of examples that show your capacity to achieve them. If you’re desperate to study in this specific program, you could lead with a summary of why it’s your ideal choice, and then elaborate on each aspect to show why you’re a perfect fit.

The important thing is that the text showcases your strengths and motivations in a compelling, coherent way. As in any other piece of academic writing, make sure each paragraph communicates one main idea, and that each sentence flows smoothly and logically from the last. Use transition words and topic sentences to move between paragraphs.

Add meaning to your resume

The bare facts of your achievements—grades, prizes, work experience—are already included in your graduate school resume and transcripts. Use the statement of purpose not to repeat yourself, but to add personal meaning and texture to these facts.

If you got top marks for your thesis, describe the research process and demonstrate your enthusiasm for the topic. If you completed an internship or participated in a project, explain what new skills you learned and which aspects you found most valuable. If you already have lots of experience in the field, show how each step developed your skills and shaped your current plans.

Revise, edit, proofread

Your statement of purpose isn’t only about the content—it’s also a chance to show that you can express yourself fluently, confidently and coherently in writing. Spend plenty of time revising, editing and proofreading your text before you submit.

Make sure you stay within the recommended length, and check if there are any specific formatting requirements. If not, use a standard 12pt font, 1-inch margins and 1.5 line spacing.

When you have a final draft, our professional statement of purpose proofreading service can offer an extra pair of eyes to make sure every sentence is perfect.

Proofread my statement of purpose

Checklist: Statement of purpose

My statement of purpose clearly responds to the prompt.

I have introduced my academic, professional and/or personal background.

I have described any relevant experience and shown my development over time.

I have highlighted key achievements that demonstrate my talents.

There is a clear connection between my previous experience and my future plans.

I have explained how the program will help me achieve my goals.

I have mentioned specific aspects of the program, department and institution that appeal to me.

Every paragraph focuses on one central idea.

The paragraphs are organized in a logical order and tell a clear, coherent story.

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Stanford Online

How to write a compelling statement of purpose for graduate school.

A statement of purpose (SOP) is a critical component of most graduate school applications, and are often required for various types of graduate level programs, including Graduate Certificates and Master’s Degrees .

An SOP offers you the opportunity to showcase your motivations, qualifications, and aspirations to a school’s Office of Admissions. Crafting an effective SOP requires careful planning and attention to detail. Whether you're applying to Stanford or any other institution, here's a guide on how to write a standout statement of purpose that shows how your goals align with the program's expectations.

Understanding the Prompt

A prompt's comprehensive nature offers you the chance to provide a holistic view of your journey, motivations, and aspirations. Be sure to check the websites of any programs you’re applying to, as they often have additional information or suggested frameworks to get you started.

Stanford Master’s Degree

If you are applying to a Stanford master’s degree program , the recommended maximum length for your SOP is 1,000 words and the prompt for the statement of purpose emphasizes several key elements:

• Reasons for applying
• Preparation for the field of study
• Research interests
• Future career plans
• Relevant aspects of your background

Stanford Graduate Certificate

If you are applying to take individual graduate courses or pursue a graduate certificate through Stanford Online, the prompt contains less elements than for the master’s program. This statement of purpose should be brief, as you’re limited to 4000 characters. You should summarize:

• Specific course work on your transcript that meets the course and or certificate prerequisites
• Relevant aspects of your professional experience

Tips for Writing your Statement of Purpose

After you fully understand the prompt for the program you’re applying to, use these tips to guide your writing:

• Be Concise and Focused Most institutions have maximum lengths for words or characters. With limited space, it's important to be concise and focused. Use each word purposefully to convey your message. Ensure that every paragraph adds value and contributes to your overall narrative.
• Start Strong Your opening should be attention-grabbing. Consider sharing a personal anecdote, a relevant quote, or a thought-provoking question that sets the tone for your SOP. Engaging the reader from the beginning can make your statement more memorable.
• Address the Prompt Thoroughly Cover each aspect of the prompt thoroughly, addressing your reasons for applying, your background preparation, your research interests, and your future career plans. Use specific examples to illustrate your points. For instance, if you're applying to a computer science program, discuss projects, coursework, or experiences that highlight your passion and readiness for further study in this field.
• Showcase Fit with the Program Demonstrate a clear understanding of the program you're applying to and explain why it's an ideal fit for your academic and career goals. Highlight specific courses, professors, research opportunities, or unique features of the program that attracted you. This showcases your commitment to the program and demonstrates that you've done your research. You may consider including reasons your presence will benefit the program as your uniqueness may help set you apart from other applicants.
• Highlight Research Interests Discuss your research interests in detail. Explain how your past experiences have shaped your interests and how the program's resources can help you further develop them. Share any relevant research projects you've been a part of and explain their impact on your academic journey. If your program includes a capstone, you may want to include more actionable, compelling examples.
• Connect to Your Future Career Articulate your future career plans and explain how the program will prepare you for success. Whether you plan to pursue academia, industry, or another path, convey how the skills and knowledge gained from the program will contribute to your career trajectory.
• Weave in Personal Background Share aspects of your personal background that are relevant to your journey. This could include challenges you've overcome, experiences that have shaped your perspective, or unique qualities that set you apart. Ensure that these details contribute to your overall narrative and that adding them showcases your qualifications.
• Edit and Proofread After writing your SOP, review it meticulously for grammar, punctuation, and clarity. Typos and errors can detract from the impact of your statement. Consider seeking feedback from mentors, professors, or peers to ensure your SOP effectively conveys your message.
• Tailor for Specific Programs If you're applying to multiple programs, make sure to customize each SOP to align with the specific program's offerings and requirements. Avoid using a generic SOP for all applications, this tends to be very noticeable to admissions.
• Seek Inspiration from Examples If you’re applying to a Stanford Master’s program, the Stanford Graduate Admissions website provides specific guidance on the statement of purpose. Review your program’s recommendations and, if available, consider reading sample SOPs from successful applicants to gather inspiration and insights.

Writing a compelling statement of purpose for graduate school requires thoughtful reflection, careful planning, and clear communication. By addressing the prompt comprehensively, showcasing your fit with the program, and demonstrating your passion and readiness, you can craft an SOP that stands out and may even increase your chances of admission to your desired program. Although it’s far from the only criteria that will be considered in the admissions process, your SOP is your chance to tell your unique story and show why you are a perfect candidate for graduate study. We hope you find this guide useful as you write your statement of purpose, please know that following this guide does not guarantee your admission to any program.

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How to Write a Winning Statement of Purpose for Scholarship (Examples)

The Statement of Purpose (often called “letter of intent” or “application essay” or “graduate statement”) is one of the most important components of your application process.

Statement of Purpose provides the admissions committee with information that allows them to become more acquainted with who you are; what you want to study at graduate school and why; your aptitude and motivation for graduate study in your area of specialization, including your preparation for this field of study, your academic plans or research interests in your chosen area of study, and your future career goals.

A thoughtful and well-written statement often makes the difference between admission and denial, irrespective of other qualifications. But applicants frequently fail to do justice to themselves in statements of purpose. In what follows, I offer a few tips to help you to make your best effort. You may also like to read about Writing an Impressive Academic CV for Scholarship .

How to make your Statement of Purpose for Scholarship stand out from others?

Most ‘statements of purpose’ or ‘letters of intent’ are fine. However, unless you have a funded project and a supervisor lined up, or the rest of your application is impeccable and remarkable, then put substantive efforts into this letter. It really is your only chance to present some personal insights and life beyond the dry numbers provided by your transcripts, GREs, and other such documents.

Nowhere else can you directly demonstrate personality, motivation, maturity, interest, enthusiasm, diligence, commitment, and so on. The importance of this letter and its personal attributes become amplified in an application that is in any way ‘marginal’, or that has no specific faculty supporting or justifying it. Your letter must then be even more able to stand out, and be noticed, on its own. Most reviewers are unfortunately (and perhaps understandably) not going to work hard at finding reasons to accept you.

Statements of purpose is also your opportunity to account for anything about your ‘data’ that would benefit from further explanation. You can assist reviewers in their interpretations of your ‘record’ by highlighting your strongest and most relevant points, especially any not well covered elsewhere in your application.

Similarly, you can work to prevent reviewers’ misinterpretations or oversimplifications by being candid about any minor shortcomings and by indicating how you are, or will be, addressing those. Basically, be clever in, and work at, presenting yourself favorably, but also always remain honest and never promote yourself beyond reasonable reality. Remember that there is the proverbial fine line between saying too much and not saying enough.

What is the difference between Personal Statement and Statement of Purpose?

One way to think about Personal Statement is that, in general, undergraduate programs are interested in you as a person and what you may offer to enrich their overall university community.

Statement of Purpose describes your “brain,” the scientist you have become and will grow to be. You are now the scientist and any personal information should be related to your scientific approach and how you will enrich the scientific world.

What is the difference between SOP for Doctoral and Master’s Programs?

A statement of purpose for a doctoral program is different than one for a master’s program. A master’s program is not inferior to a doctoral program; it is merely different. Therefore, it would be wrong to infer that standards for a statement of purpose in an application to a doctoral program are higher than the standards applicable to master’s applications. But the standards are certainly different.

For example, in a statement of application to master’s in the Social Sciences, an excellent statement of purpose might or might not indicate any particular research topic that the student wishes to pursue in the program. Being unclear about these matters is not inappropriate when one is applying to a broadly focused master’s program. But being unclear about them would certainly be a liability in a doctoral application.

Academic programs are more intensively specialized at the doctoral level, and a corresponding degree of specialization and precision in the way, applicants specify their academic purposes is reasonably expected. Evidence of your familiarity with the educational research currently under way at the university is probably a good thing to see in any statement of purpose, even at the master’s level.

But in a doctoral application, it is extremely important to show that your interests converge closely with the current research of faculty who work in the program to which you are applying. Therefore the doctoral applicants should certainly do this, and they don’t, they will forfeit an important competitive advantage to those who take care of the above described points.

Tips on Writing an Impressive Statement of Purpose for Scholarship:

(1)  do your homework:.

• Browse through the websites of the schools/departments/programs of interest to you. Obtain brochures and booklets and read through them carefully. Highlight the aspects of the programs that appeal to you.
• Read up on the research interests and projects of the faculty in the schools/departments/programs. Read publications from a faculty of interest.
• Browse through recent articles from the research field of interest and try to get a general understanding of how the field developed and what are its current problems and challenges.

(2)  Reflect and Brainstorm (on paper):

• What and when were the major moments in your life that have led you to your current research interest(s) and school/department/program?
• What or who influenced your decision or interest (i.e. role models)? What quality about them appealed to you?
• What personal characteristics (for example, integrity, compassion, and/or persistence) do you possess that would improve your prospects for success in the field or profession? Is there a way to demonstrate or document that you have these characteristics?
• What skills (for example, leadership, communicative, analytical) do you possess?
• Why did you choose your research topic(s)/field/school?
• Why did you choose your undergraduate major?
• Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
• What do you hope to accomplish?
• What drives you? What motivates you?

(3)  Outline your Statement of Purpose:

• From the results of Stage II, determine a central theme/topic that stands out or dominates your reflections and brainstorm.
• Concentrate on your life experiences and give specific examples.
• Put down only those things that excite you
• Do not make things up!
• What aspects of the school/department/program appeals to you?
• What are your research interest(s)?
• How did you become interested in your current research topic/area?
• How did you prepare or are preparing to address the issues in this research area/topic (i.e. research experiences, courses, etc.)?
• What are your future goals for graduate school (i.e. Ph.D.)?
• What are your career goals (i.e. professorship)?
• What characteristics of the school/department/program can help you accomplish your goals?
• What positive aspects do you bring to the school/department/program?

(4)  Write Draft of Statement of Purpose:

When writing your statement of purpose:

• Be Yourself. Be mindful that you are seeking a program that is a good match for you. Do not disguise who you are or second-guess what the committee is looking for. Always use positive language when referring to yourself. What the admissions committee will read between the lines: self-motivation, competence, potential as a graduate student.
• Write a Strong Opening and closing paragraph. You want to stand out from the multitude of other applicants. Write an opening that grabs the reader’s attention.
• Use transition words, sentences and paragraphs. Your statement must read smoothly.
• Frame the points you wish to make in a positive light. You do not want to reveal weaknesses in your personality.
• Describe an important experience that is relevant to the program of interest. It is usually good to place this portion of the essay towards the opening. This experience may have contributed to the person that you are today. Make a point to note that in your writing.
• Demonstrate everything by example; don’t say directly that you’re a persistent person, show it.
• Be Specific, Concise, Honest and Unique.
• Describe why you are a good match for their program. Tell the committee about your skills and interest in that particular program. Be specific and thoughtful.
• Talk about your goals. Explain how a graduate degree will help you accomplish those goals.
• Explain any shortcomings in your background. (i.e. You had a poor GPA during your freshman year in college. Put a positive spin on this explanation and illuminate how your GPA has improved as you matured.)
• Thank the admissions committee for their time at the end of your statement of purpose.
• Unless the specific program says otherwise, be concise; an ideal essay should say everything it needs to with brevity. Approximately 500 to 1000 well-selected words (1-2 single space pages in 12 point font) is better than more words with less clarity and poor organization.

(5)  Do not Stress:

If you find that you are still having difficulties completing your Statement of Purpose, do not stress. Take a few days and put this task aside. You will find that other activities will jog your mind and creativity, providing you with ideas and content to incorporate into your paper.

A Statement of Purpose requires time and thoughtfulness. You want to sell yourself to the committee and in order to do that you need to put your best foot forward. Be honest. Most importantly, be yourself. Keep working on the statement of purpose, even after you have already sent it to school(s) with earlier deadline(s).

(6)  Ask for Critique, Revise and Edit:

• When you are finished with your draft statement of purpose, read it out loud to yourself and make corrections.
• Ask friends, colleagues and professors to read your edited draft. Taking their comments into consideration, revise and edit your draft.

Things to Avoid When Writing a Statement of Purpose for Scholarship:

• Errors, misspellings, poor English.
• Submit a handwritten essay (unless requested).
• “Talk down” to your audience. Your audience does not need to have basic terminology defined for them. Be mindful that they are already experts in the program that you are applying for.
• Be too personal in your essay. Do not focus on deep personal problems or excuses for past performances or experiences.
• Be repetitive or too general in your statements.
• Criticize other school programs.
• Use uncommon words that look like they came from a thesaurus.
• Write an autobiography. You want to give the committee a sense of who you are but they do not want to hear about your entire life story. Be specific and mindful of your personal details.
• Submit untruthful or irrelevant information in your essay.
• You do not want to copy and submit another student’s letter of intent.
• Be overly informal.

How to organize Statement of Purpose for Scholarship?

• A “hook” that demonstrates your passion for the field
• Segue to your background in the field
• Specific classes you have taken, given by name
• Specific professors you have had, especially if well-known in that field
• Extracurricular activities in the field
• Publications or other professional accomplishments in the field (perhaps conference presentations or public readings)
• Explanations about problems in background (if needed)
• Mention one or two professors in that school and what you know of and appreciate about their work.
• Specific features of the grad program which attract you.

Now Start Writing Your Statement of Purpose for Scholarship:

Now its your turn to start writing your impressive statement of purpose by following the tips and strategies explained above. If you follow all the steps and strategies, you will definitely ace the admission process and will be studying in the university of your dreams just like me and my friends. Do you have any tips and strategies that worked for you in winning an admission? Please let us know in the comment section to help others. Happy Writing!

The doctoral program will provide me with an opportunity to learn more about higher education and prepare me to be a senior-level college administrator. I have had several educational and life-fulfilling opportunities to work with many administrators to help contribute to the field. Due to the nature of this program, I believe it will provide me with a chance to continue to be a catalyst not only within higher education but also in my community. In addition, this program will help me further my understanding of first-generation African American college students’ expectations and knowledge about college before enrolling in their respective institutions by participating in pre-college programs.

My professional goals are to learn as much as I can about higher education that would strengthen my awareness about trends within the field and how I can contribute to the overall mission and purpose of the profession. I would like to someday become a dean of students or vice president for student services or student affairs, as well as a faculty member. I believe my past and current experiences have prepared me tremendously to serve as a senior-level administrator.

As a graduate student at American Justice University (AJU), I studied and worked in many capacities, i.e., graduate assistant, supervisor, advisor, and practitioner within an urban environment. Located in Detroit, AJU challenged me to think critically and provided me with the skills to work with many different cultures, lifestyles, beliefs, and backgrounds. Classes such as College Student Development, Higher Education Law, Finance, and Administration, and my study abroad experience to England, Scotland, and Ireland deepened my understanding of the field and how colleges and universities operate. These experiences provided me with an opportunity to enhance my knowledge of higher education and apply theory to practice.

As an active member within several different organizations that work to improve the lives of others, I believe I have not only been a catalyst for change but have instilled a “sense of hope” for many students. Currently, I serve as an advisor to the Gamma Club (GC) of Detroit, Michigan, which is a youth auxiliary of Beta Beta Beta Sorority, Inc. This youth auxiliary was established in 1970 and designed to assist young females between the ages of 8 – 18, providing them with opportunities to regularly work with college and professional women, expose sorority national programs and services, and prepare them for academic and career success. Many of the young women who participate in this program are raised by single parents/guardians (predominately women); therefore, my colleagues and I work extremely hard to ensure these students are provided with the necessary skills to be successful and influenced by positive female role models.

In addition, I serve as a committee member for the MLK Weekend Celebration in Detroit, Michigan. Last year, the committee implemented an essay competition to encourage high school students to think critically and display their creative writing abilities. With access to college becoming more burdensome and stressful for many college students, I worked with university officials at NASPA University, which is located in Denver, Colorado, to establish a scholarship (Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Scholarship) for the first, second, and third place winners of the essay competition. The university agreed to support this initiative to help offset costs during their first semester of study at the university.

In my current role as a Residence Hall Director at NASPA University, I strive to educate the campus community about diversity, multiculturalism, and inclusion and how it plays an essential role within our society. Part of my responsibility includes monitoring minority students’ academic and career success and preparing them for graduate or professional schools through the Graduate Recruitment Program (GRP). As an advisor to GRP, I believe I have been influential in empowering these students through seminars, workshops, and programs that encourage them to continue seeking higher education.

I believe my experiences have exceptionally prepared me for the EdD program at NASPAUniversity. I am confident that this program will continue to enhance my understanding of higher education and prepare me to help my colleagues and future colleagues be catalysts within the profession.

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Statement of purpose (SOP) done right! [with Samples]

Statement of Purpose (SOP) or Personal Statement forms a crucial element of the graduate school application process. For the uninitiated, a Statement of Purpose is an essay that introduces YOU to the Admissions Review Committee (AdCom). It contains your accomplishments, career plans, and reasoning of why you think a particular graduate program is the ‘right fit’ for you. 

Nearly every respectable graduate program in the world, be it a Master of Science, Engineering Management, MiM or MBA requires applicants to submit a Statement of Purpose while applying.

The AdComs put a lot of value on a candidate’s SOP, evaluating their ‘intent for applying to that program’ and whether it resonates with the University’s mission and objectives.

Jared Pierce, associate director of enrollment services at Northeastern University, says a strong statement of purpose can be the deciding factor in a graduate student’s admission.

“Your statement of purpose is where you tell your story about who you are and why you deserve to be a part of the [university’s] community. It gives the admissions committee the chance to get to know you and understand how you’ll add value to the classroom,” he says.

Clearly then, you will have to construct your statement of purpose which tells your “story” rather than list out your “achievements”

So, how do the applicants go about writing the SOP? Which experiences are viewed favorably by the AdCom, and what should be avoided. In this blogpost, I touch upon the effective strategies that if adopted, can transform your SOP into your story.

STEP – I: Decoding the types

Let’s start by clearing out a few things about the Statement of Purpose. They go by different names — Personal statement, letter of intent, letter of motivation, mission statement, elevator pitch, video sop…. The list is too long! Each of them serves a different purpose and should be written within the frameworks of the university guidelines.

Perhaps the first step you should do before you start writing your SOP is to prepare an outline and use it as a roadmap.

To be honest, this is not a very popular step with most of the students. They imagine that this “extra” step will add time and complicate their application process when in fact, creating an outline can not only help streamline one’s essay writing but can also go a long way in boosting the resulting essays’ effectiveness.

By organizing your thoughts in the form of short phrases and key terms, you will observe that your story unfolds more easily. Moreover, it also ensures that there are no gaps of information in what you are trying to convey. This translates to a more persuasive final SOP and, in most cases, fewer rounds of editing and revision.

Sample Outline A

• Passion for chess – coaching and playing
• Volunteer activities with Greenpeace 
• Love of Shah Rukh Khan films
• Managing literature conference at IIT, Mumbai
• Love of biking – Sunday bike rides with “team”
• Semester exchange in France 
• Travel to 21 countries – Iceland, Russia and Peru highlights
• Close relationship with grandma
• Budding love of cooking
• Love of Mumbai

Once a sample outline has been prepared, it is now easier to construct a structure for the statement of purpose.  

STEP – II: Break it down

Building upon the outline, each SOP needs to be structured so that it logically fits in the narrative.

Many clients that we have encountered confuse ‘structure’ with ‘chronology’. When asked to write a draft of the essay, they present their achievements in chronological order, thinking that this will give the essay a proper structure.

However, your experiences and how they have translated and shaped you into what you are today, may or may not be chronological. Thus, you have to start your essay with the most significant one and connect the dots from there.

The Admissions Review Committee is looking out for very specific things in your application. Unless you break it down, it will be an arduous task to explain them your story. And no one wants a confused AdCom guy in their life.

What is the Admission Committee looking for?

The simple answer would be – what makes you, YOU.

But if only things were so simple. What they are really looking for is how you fit into the overall scheme of things at the University.

Broadly, there are 5 factors they are trying to evaluate you on:

– Why have you applied for that particular program?

– What kind of skills do you have to succeed in that program?

– How do you want to leverage your university connections to network and contribute to the school community?

– How are your professional goals aligned with the program outcomes?

– Why are you the ‘best fit’ for the university?

Your statement of purpose or letter of motivation should talk in brief about all these points.

Even for the most practiced of writers, crafting a successful application essay can be an uphill task. So, trust us on this – Most of the SOPs that we read make us go….

Ideating and then organizing thoughts into outlines for essays will facilitate this process, as we illustrated in Part 1 of this guide, and now we will offer a few basic steps that will help you create and refine your drafts.

STEP- III: Tell your story

As we discussed it earlier, your statement of purpose is not merely an instrument to present facts from your life to the AdCom. Infact, it’s a platform to tell your story. Of who you are, and how has your experiences shaped you. You should therefore focus on narrative writing (which primarily describes) rather than expository writing (which primarily explains). In a narrative, the central facts about a situation are not just bluntly introduced, but are presented in a way that lets them speak for themselves and paint a rounded picture of an experience.

Consider the following examples:

My upbringing in a family full of entrepreneurs made me acquainted to data analytics early in life. When I supported my father’s organization, where they manually used to analyze data and predict delivery date & raw material ordering, I helped them develop an automated system with the use of pivot tables and slicers, that can be used together to visualize data and create easy to use dashboards.

Coming from a business background and having an undergrad degree in Information Technology, it was only natural for me to have a formidable combination of – entrepreneurial streak and technical expertise. My formative years were spent engaging in insightful dining table discussions with my father, pertaining to our business-related products and services. As a result, I was presented with several opportunities to understand the legal, commercial and technical aspects of our business. However, the opportunities that I loved most were the technically challenging ones that had the potential to impact our business positively. One such opportunity that I got was to review and remodel our existing data management system, which had severe limitations in terms of performance and scalability.

Which one of the above example do you think creates a more compelling image of the person you are reading about?

While example A is vague in terms of details, example B has a lot of specifics. It creates a holistic picture of the candidate and evokes imagery for the reader, which is more compelling. Thus, leaving out important details is detrimental to the health of the essay.

STEP – IV: Connect the dots

A good story is as good as its parts. Details, which are crucial to the development of the story, if left out does not reveal the entire picture and leaves the readers confused.

As you write your essay drafts, check each sentence to make sure that it includes a key part of the story you are telling. If you can remove a sentence and your essay still makes sense, that line is unnecessary and should remain deleted. However, if your narrative suddenly becomes unclear, that is your proof that the sentence in question is not superfluous and that you are on your way to creating a profoundly connected narrative.

Having a keen interest in operations research motivated me to work on my bachelor’s thesis: Efficient utilization of weight and volume capacity of a fleet of goods containers. The objective here is to build an algorithmic model for transportation of goods, cargoes, and shipments by utilizing the maximum load and volume capacity of the containers. The study is being carried out with a view to enabling the freight companies in reducing cost and enhancing operational efficiency. I have identified the constraints posed such as categorization of goods according to their suitability, shortest route according to the consignments, delivery of goods within the prescribed time, maximizing the profit and providing customer satisfaction, and successfully developed a mathematical model for the intercity transport, using shortest route and minimum cost per volume using traveling salesman and transportation concepts. Moreover, I am also trying to implement algorithm theory and computational complexity theory to solve the combinatorial problem considering the constraints faced.

Notice how the dots are getting connected.

1st sentence – Having a keen …. – Provides a justification to work on the bachelor’s thesis in Operations Research based on the interest of the applicant.

2nd sentence – The objective here is to build an algorithmic model…. – Clears the aim of the the project and gives idea to the AdCom about the scope of the project.

3rd sentence – The study is being carried out …. – End goal of the project is described.

4th sentence – I have identified the constraints… – talks about problem/constraint identification that the student is trying to resolve

… and successfully developed a mathematical model… -highlights the solution to the given constraints.

Leaving out any sentence written in this paragraph would be eliminating a key detail, and thus will confuse the reader about the project. In short, the story will be difficult to follow.

STEP – V: Create a ‘hook’ in the Introduction paragraph

Sometimes the most difficult part of writing a strong essay is determining the best way to start it. Even when you have a strong outline in hand, crafting those first few words or phrases can be challenging. To help you over this hurdle, we offer a few strategies for beginning your essays.

Maintaining a mystery

This is one of the best ways to grab the attention of the AdCom.

There are only a few rare moments in life, interspersed within our chaotic daily routines, during which we find our true calling. And those moments generally come like a blitzkrieg, inspiring us to make choices which define who we eventually become. I encountered one such moment, as a part of my internship with Bless Foundation, an NGO which strives to alleviate the sufferings of the underprivileged.

(Selected at University of South California, MS in Computer Science).

Do people shape cities or do cities shape people? Irrespective of the order of transformation, I am of the belief that city landscapes impact our daily lives in a significant way.

(Selected at TU Delft, MS in Architecture)

While watching the digitally remastered and coloured version of 1960 Bollywood classic ‘Mughal-e-Azam’, then shot in monochrome, I realised that I was less concerned about the cinematic brilliance but more about certain stats I read about the movie.

(Selected at Cornell University, MPS program in Applied Statistics)

The main stage was set while I enthusiastically waited in the crowd for Guns N’ Roses to surface from behind the spotlight. It was an absolute dream for me to witness the band live in concert, after having grown up and getting inspired by Slash and his musical eccentricities. As they emerged on stage and plucked the first strings, I was transported in a trance of hedonistic pleasure. Surprisingly, it was not the music that had the greatest influence that night.

(Selected at Stanford, MS in Computer Science)

In all of the above examples, the first few lines draw the reader into the essay and make him ask the question, what happens next? This approach is a sure shot way to indulge the AdCom into reading your application in full.

Strictly avoid: Clichés

Let’s be honest here. The AdCom knows when clichés are coming. And no one likes them. Consider this for example:

Being an ardent fan of the Marvel Universe, I believe that if we have the thirst for knowledge, ability to rectify the errors and better our skillset like Ironman and if we have grit, perseverance and will to do good for the mankind like Captain America, then we can win any battle and achieve something great. I tried to follow these ideologies while working on all my projects and technical papers.

My profound interest in mathematics, computers, and problem-solving became the basis for furthering a career in Computer science. In order to broaden my horizons of technical acumen, I joined Oracle after completing my undergrad. This allowed me to develop a clearer vision about pursuing a career in my field of Software Engineering.

It’s safe to say that introductions like these should be avoided at all costs as they have been read by the AdCom a million times. You don’t want to be the million plus one candidate.

Lead with your best

When you are pitching your application to the AdCom, it is highly recommended that you start your essays with your most compelling experience. Do not follow a template of chronological detailing of your academic records and professional achievements. Show your best foot forward. You do not always have to outline your history to create context for your narrative.

Example A (Student Version of her internship)

Due to these rewarding experiences and key learnings acquired from projects, I secured a position as a Developer at Barclays India, which has been exhilarating from the onset. In a span of four months, I underwent intensive training in several technologies like Java, JavaScript, Embedded JavaScript, Spring Framework, Servlets etc.

Example B (Gradsmiths version)

At Barcalays, internship not only meant exposition to multimillion-dollar client portfolio, but also getting intensive training in tools like Java, JavaScript, Embedded JavaScript, Spring Framework, and Servlets.

Example A exhibits significant backstory, but the most important parts that she learned new technologies was mentioned after the third line. In example B, this happens right in the second line, and is smartly packaged for the reader.

This introduction—just one sentence long, rather than four—introduces the reader to the individual’s high- level position right away and is therefore much more compelling and effective.

Step – VI: Don’t put extra information in your essays

Although it seems to be a no brainer, most students end up doing this. They provide irrelevant information in their essay, which makes it a boring read.

Consider this:

My final year project was ‘Analysis and Design of a high rise building with R.C Shear wall’. This project was done by 4 undergrads. In the initial phase, a 3-storied building is designed in ETABS software using Dead and Live load. In the next phase a 15-storied building with shear walls considering Earthquake and wind load is designed under G. A. Bhilare Consultants Pvt. Ltd., Pune. Seismic design parameters like story drift, lateral displacement was studied and shear forces, axial forces, bending moment were interpreted. This project increased my understanding of ETABS and improved my skills .

In the example above, there are too many details like the no. of storey of the building and name of the consultants, which are not required. It adds on to the word count and makes it a slow-developing paragraph.

Revised version

To gain more understanding of structures and the mechanics of forces at play, my final year project focused on the analysis and design of a high rise building with R.C Shear wall. In association with three other undergrads, we worked to design a 3-storied building, followed by its higher version in ETABS software using Dead and Live load. Carefully monitoring the shear walls considering Earthquake and wind load, we studied Seismic design parameters like story drift, lateral displacement. All this culminated under a sponsored industry project in collaboration with top architects of the city. This experience helped me to analyse complex structural models with loads, and design them in the most sustainable way, a skill which I am confident will prove beneficial during my graduate studies.

Step VII: Honour the word limit

Although we can assure you that no one will toss your application in the trash if your essays exceed the school’s stated word limits a little, in general, sticking as closely as possible to these limits is the best plan. Doing so indicates to the admissions committee not only that you pay attention to and can follow directions (which reflects positively on you as a potential student who will be required to follow numerous guidelines throughout the course of the MS program) but also that you are willing to put in the work required to convey your story effectively within the stated parameters. Also, you show respect for the school as well as for the admissions readers, who must sort through thousands of essays each week. A good rule of thumb is to not surpass the school’s requested word count by more than 5%, though of course, the fewer extra words you include, the better—and minimizing any risk of a negative impression resulting from exceeding the set word count is best.

Step VIII: Answer the question

This is our most obvious rule yet, but one that must be stated nonetheless: make sure that you answer the question the school is asking. Sometimes candidates possess a great story and really want to “spin” it for a particular essay prompt. Other times, applicants work and rework an essay so much that when they are done, they do not realize that they have changed their initial story entirely and the resulting essay no longer addresses the school’s question. Not answering the question is one of the admissions committees’ biggest peeves. In addition to indicating an ability to follow directions on your part (if not an outright attempt to withhold information), not answering the question asked means that you have not provided the information the admissions committee is specifically seeking and needs. So, regularly revisit the essay prompts as you revise your essays, ensuring that you are on track and providing a topical response.

Step IX: Customize your responses

It cannot be stressed enough how important it is to customize your essays for your choice of University. Many a times, we have seen that one SOP is sent to 5 different universities, with just a few line changes.

To us, this is a very easy and a lazy approach to essay drafting. Moreover, the AdCom through their years of experience of reading SOPs figure out whether you have followed a template or not.

Your short and long term goals should be aligned with the research areas and expertise of the University. AdCom loves to see how the university can help you realize your personal and professional milestones.

A common point of contention among students is whether or not to include the names of professors. In our opinion, you should go beyond name-dropping and identify key research areas where you would like to work. This creates a better representation of your academic interest and underlines your motivation to apply for the program.

It is important to understand that the AdCom is looking for unique and interesting candidates, who contribute to the campus and community. Thus, desire to work in student clubs, campus organizations, or community service is viewed positively. It shows that you have a multi-dimensional personality and go beyond your academic interests. Another quirky thing to add is why the location of the college is important to you and your goals. It can be the vibrant startup culture of the place, proximity to tech centers or Silicon Valley, or even the music vibe of the place.

Step X: Read, Re-read, Proofread. Repeat.

If you have followed all the steps above, and drafted your statement of purpose, great work done! Now will be a good time to send it to your friends, relatives, colleagues, and anywould who would care to read it.

You will amazed at how many grammatical errors get discovered. And we don’t even want to get started on the formatting bits.

Your goal, before sending out your statement of purpose should be to make it as error-proof as possible. This can be achieved by proofreading it multiple times to check for nasty little bits of flaws that hides furtively behind the pompous words and achievements.

The Statement of Purpose is perhaps the hardest thing you will encounter during your application stage.

The good news is that the process does not seem so overwhelming when you break it down into simple, actionable steps as described above.

At Gradsmiths, we have come across more than a thousand essays and SOPs, some brilliant while some total disasters. What really saddened us was that the same mistakes were being repeated in every other document, which motivated us to compile these steps that we follow into this post to draft an awesome statement of purpose.

Statement of Purpose (Samples and formats)

Statement of Purpose that got accepted to UPenn MS in Computer Science

Sample Statement of Purpose that got accepted to MS in Mechanical Engineering, Arizona State University

Statement of Purpose that got accepted to Cornell University’s Engineering Management program

Enjoyed the blog? Why not drop in your e-mail address below, and we send more such tips and strategies straight to your mailbox.

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If you have got the time, do check out our FREE E-book on ‘Biggest Mistakes you make in your resume’. It contains some super pointers on how to modify your resume and make it fit for a graduate school application.

Interested in talking to a Gradsmiths expert on how to go about your essays? Book your calendar here.

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Statement of Purpose for Grad School – Examples & Advice

July 8, 2023

A statement of purpose is a key component of any graduate school application. While graduate programs and their application processes vary wildly, there are a number of common factors that admission committees will be looking for in a statement of purpose. As opposed to an undergraduate personal essay, a statement of purpose for grad school should prioritize academic interests over a personal story. Select personal details, as they relate to your academic interests, however, can also be an important piece of your statement. If this integration sounds challenging, don’t worry! We’ll look at samples from statement of purpose for grad school examples in the article that follows.

With this central focus in mind, a statement of purpose for graduate school should engage specifically with the program to which you are applying. here it is important to thoroughly research the schools and programs you are applying to, as well as faculty members whose research or academic interests align with your own. You will want to demonstrate these common interests in your statement of purpose, offering a clear sense of what you would contribute to the department and how you would fit into the conversation.

Along these lines, for many programs, it will be helpful to reach out to faculty members who could potentially serve as mentors or collaborators. For some programs, this is an essential component of the application. For others it is merely helpful, both to get a sense of the program for yourself and for the sake of your application. It is a way of demonstrating interest beyond the page and it can provide great material to include in your statement of purpose. As you will see in the following excerpts of a sample statement of purpose from graduate school, leaning into specificity is almost always a smart move.

Things to Include in a Statement of Purpose for Graduate School

1) In regards to your scholarly past, how have you arrived at this point? What are the classes, ideas, jobs, internships, research, publications, etc. that have brought you to where you are? What are your academic accomplishments?

2) What questions, interests, or ideas continue to push you forward? What are the trajectories you can see your studies taking? And towards what ends?

Statement of Purpose Grad School Examples (Continued)

3) What are your goals and what is the larger purpose towards which you are working? Are there issues you hope to “solve” (or at least contribute to solving), people or communities you strive to help, areas of research you would like to push forward?

4) How do you plan on doing these things and why is this program, with these faculty members, the right place for you?

Structuring the Essay

While there are no set-in-stone rules about how you should structure a statement of purpose for graduate school, a good way to get started is by thinking in terms of an introduction, a main body, and a conclusion. The role of the introduction is to give a sense of the person behind the statement. You might do this with a few prescient details or an anecdote that catches the reader’s attention. This is also a nice place to touch upon an image or idea that will be returned to and further developed later in the statement. The introduction should offer context that sets up a discussion of academic interests. Here is an introductory excerpt of a sample statement of purpose from graduate school from a student applying to a Master of Arts program in psychology.

1) Introduction

I entered college convinced that I wanted to be a doctor. My grandfather, who passed away when I was thirteen, had been a rural practitioner and someone I looked up to. I admired his calm, caring demeanor when I was a child, and, after his passing, through the adoring stories I heard about him, my admiration only grew. At his funeral, in Western Massachusetts where his practice was located, many of the people he had helped, families spanning multiple generations, expressed their gratitude in a way that was new to me. I saw how much good a person could do and from this moment I decided that I wanted to follow in my grandfather’s footsteps.

So, I entered the University of Chicago on a pre-med track, planning to major in biology. I arrived at school as a naïve eighteen-year-old, thinking I could chart out the next ten years of my life. By sophomore year I was already having doubts. Organic Chemistry was a slog and I felt like I was losing the ambition to help people that had motivated my studies thus far.

This same semester, I took Introduction to Psychology and found myself more engaged than I’d been in any class so far. There was a discussion group component of the course in which we attempted to think in accordance with the patterns of various personality types and psychological disorders. In these discussions, I learned a lot about myself and came to recognize what a powerful tool talking could be. I realized there was more than one way to follow in my grandfather’s footsteps and that psychology was a field that kept me enthusiastic and fit my temperament.

Commentary:

This sample statement of purpose from graduate school does a good job of establishing the applicant’s academic trajectory while also giving a sense of the emotional underpinnings. It demonstrates a motivation that offers a sense of continuity without precluding discovery. This is a good thing to establish in a statement of purpose for graduate school because it demonstrates a commitment to critical, evolving thought. While admissions committees want to see that you are seriously engaged in the field in which you are applying for graduate studies, they also don’t expect you to have everything locked into place. Graduate school is a place to grapple with new concepts.

This introduction does a good job of leaning into specificity, but there are also places where it can go deeper. For example, it could be interesting to recount a particular exchange that occurred in the Introduction to Psychology discussion group. Mentioning particular classes and ideas or conversations that came up in those classes can lend your essay a refreshing touch of personality. When it comes to details such as these you can ask yourself, is this a story that only I could tell? If so, you’re likely on the right track. The introduction sets us up to delve into academic interests, bringing us to the main body. The following is an excerpt from a sample statement of purpose from graduate school from a student applying to a PhD program in art history.

2) Main Body

A turning point in my academic career came when I was a sophomore, following a discussion of Velázquez’s Las Meninas that continued for hours after class let out. This was right around the time I decided, albeit gradually, to major in art history and it involved the discovery of a new way of looking at paintings—a way that reached beyond the limits of the canvas, balancing aesthetic sentiments with critical ones. For the first time, I began to think about the politics of viewership and how a viewer’s gaze is constructed by their social context and the technologies through which they encounter a work of art.

These concerns, which have reshaped and shifted focus over the years, represent a thread that I continue to return to in my studies. It is for this reason that I’ve set my sights on Columbia for my PhD. I first encountered Jonathan Crary’s Techniques of the Observer in my senior year of undergrad and it is a work that I felt an immediate kinship with. In Techniques of the Observer, I had the sense that Crary was developing ideas that I understood on some deep level and yet had not been able to articulate. Considering the historical construction of the observer as a process inseparable from economics and social power offered a new perspective through which I could engage with questions of politics and aesthetics.

Further, I am very intrigued by the course that Professor Crary’s thought has followed over the years. 24/7: Late Capitalism and the Ends of Sleep is another book of his that has had a major impact on my thinking. I am interested, in particular, in how the contemporary assault on sleep in favor of hypervisibility relates to modern visual culture as discussed in Techniques of the Observer . This is to say that I am not only interested in the ideas but also the trajectory they have taken over a number of years. I would be absolutely thrilled, perhaps even star-struck, to be able to study with and in the same department as Professor Crary.

This sample statement of purpose from the graduate does a good job of demonstrating fluency in the language of the contemporary field of art history. Rather than talking about or around their interest, the applicant conveys it by inhabiting this particular register. This section of the essay also blends the personal with the academic, evoking an intimate (rather than detached) connection to the material. This is something that selection committees like to see—an indication of long-term investment rather than fleeting interest.

One place where this section of the essay could move further is in its engagement with the ideas it discusses. Rather than merely reciting Crary’s ideas, this sample statement of purpose from graduate school could offer a reflection on them and, perhaps, new ideas that emerge in their wake. You should, of course, make sure that you’re adequately familiar with the work of a faculty member if you are citing them in your statement of purpose for graduate school. This doesn’t mean you can’t mention areas that you are interested in learning more about, but it’s best to be transparent when doing so. It’s a risky approach to try to fool an admissions committee into thinking you know more than you do. They look at many applications and will generally be able to see right through this.

3) Conclusion

The conclusion to your statement of purpose for graduate school is a space to leave your reader with an impression of how you will fit into the department and how you envision your studies moving forward. This is a place to weave things together and bring your statement to a natural close. Instead of summarizing what you have already said, think of this as shedding new light on the prior material.

Further, a statement of purpose is generally most effective when the weaving process occurs throughout the essay rather than being merely tacked on at the end. When this is the case there is less pressure to clarify things, which will allow you the freedom to end with an evocative image, anecdote, or idea that will stay with the reader. It can also be a place to share gratitude and convey a sense of self-awareness or humility. Here is a conclusory excerpt of a sample statement of purpose from graduate school from a student applying to a two-year Master of Fine Arts program in poetry.

Here, again, I return to a conviction in the importance of poetry, in the need to expand the realm of possibility and to a belief in the communities, no matter how large or small, that poetry builds and sustains. With these thoughts in mind, my poems look for moments in which the mundane gains an illuminated, suspended quality—when, as Wordsworth writes, “We see into the life of things.” These moments gesture beyond the contemporary system and through them I attempt to counter othering narratives, such as that of exoticism. Upon completing my MFA I plan to teach and to continue on this trajectory, as I work to deepen the role of poetry in our ongoing political struggles.

It is my hope that Brown University will be the place in which my life as a poet, student, and teacher moves forward. I am excited to collaborate in a workshop environment and I am at a point in my writing where the support and criticism of an intimate group would be of great benefit. I will share as much of myself as I can, while doing my best to strengthen the artistic community in Providence. Thank you for your consideration.

Sample Statement of Purpose for Graduate School – Final Thoughts

We hope you found our sample statement of purpose for graduate school to be a useful tool in your grad school admissions journey. For PhD candidates in particular, this article from The Chronicle of Higher Education will make for worthwhile follow-up reading.

• Graduate School Admissions

Emmett Lewis

Emmett holds a BA in Philosophy from Vassar College and is currently completing an MFA in Writing at Columbia University. Previously, he served as a writing instructor within the Columbia Artists/Teachers community as well as a Creative Writing Teaching Fellow at Columbia, where he taught poetry workshops. In addition, Emmett is a member of the Poetry Board at the Columbia Journal , and his work has been published in HAD , Otoliths , and Some Kind of Opening , among others.

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How to Write a Statement of Intent: A Step-by-Step Guide

Are you planning to apply to a university or graduate school, or for a scholarship or fellowship program? One of the most important components of your application will be your statement of intent. This critical document provides the admissions committee with a window into who you are, what you hope to achieve, and how you plan to contribute to the program. In this step-by-step guide, we'll help you craft a compelling statement of intent that showcases your strengths and sets you apart from the competition.

Understanding the Purpose of a Statement of Intent

Before you start writing your statement of intent, it's important to understand what this document is and why it matters. Essentially, your statement of intent is a brief essay in which you introduce yourself, describe your background and experience, and articulate your academic and professional goals. It's an opportunity for you to showcase your strengths, demonstrate your fit for the program, and convince the admissions committee that you're the best candidate for the position.

What is a Statement of Intent?

A statement of intent is a document that accompanies your application and provides information about your goals, objectives, and motivations for pursuing further education or a particular accomplishment. It is usually a one to two-page essay in which applicants provide information about themselves and their past experiences as well as their future goals and plans.

When writing a statement of intent, it's important to keep in mind that this document is not just a summary of your resume or CV. It should be a well-crafted essay that tells a story about who you are, what motivates you, and why you are passionate about your chosen field of study or career path.

One way to approach writing a statement of intent is to think about it as a personal statement. This means that you should write in the first person and use your own voice to convey your ideas and experiences. Be sure to include specific examples of your achievements, skills, and experiences that are relevant to the program or position you are applying for.

Why is it Important?

Admissions committees use your statement of intent to get a sense of who you are beyond your grades and test scores. This document allows them to understand your background, experience, and goals, and determine if you are a good fit for the program. A well-written statement of intent can help you stand out from other candidates and increase your chances of being accepted.

It's important to remember that your statement of intent is not just a formality. It's an opportunity for you to make a case for why you are the best candidate for the program or position. Take the time to research the program or position you are applying for and tailor your statement of intent to demonstrate your fit and enthusiasm for the opportunity.

Remember to proofread your statement of intent carefully and have someone else read it over as well. A well-crafted and error-free statement of intent can make a strong impression on the admissions committee and help you achieve your academic and professional goals.

Preparing to Write Your Statement of Intent

Before you start writing, take some time to prepare and gather information. Here are some key steps you should keep in mind:

Research the Institution or Program

Before you begin writing, it's important to have a thorough understanding of the institution or program you're applying to. You should research the program, learn about its mission, and have a sense of what the admissions committee is looking for in candidates. Make sure you know the key values and goals of the program and that you tie your ambitions back to them in your statement.

Identify Your Goals and Objectives

Take some time to reflect on your own career and academic goals. Consider the reasons why you want to attend the program or receive funding. Make a list of your professional objectives and what you hope to achieve from the program. These goals should be specific and measurable.

Gather Relevant Information and Experiences

Take some time to gather information about your own background and experience that is relevant to the program. Highlight any relevant coursework, internships, or work experience that you have that can help you achieve your goals.

Crafting a Strong Introduction

Your introduction is the first impression that the admissions committee will have of you, so it's essential to make it memorable and engaging. Here are some tips to help you create an attention-grabbing introduction:

Grab the Reader's Attention

Your introduction should be attention-grabbing and memorable. Begin with a statement or anecdote that draws the readers' attention and sets the tone for the rest of your essay.

Introduce Your Main Goals

Your introduction should also set the stage for the rest of your essay and introduce your main goals. Be clear and concise about what you hope to achieve, and how it aligns with the program's mission.

Outlining Your Academic and Professional Background

The bulk of your statement of intent should focus on your academic and professional background. This is your opportunity to showcase your strengths and accomplishments, and explain how your experience has prepared you for the program.

Highlight Your Educational Achievements

Be sure to discuss your academic record and any relevant coursework and research experience. Highlight any awards or accolades you have received, as well as any relevant coursework and research experience.

Showcase Relevant Work Experience

Demonstrate how your professional experience has helped you develop the skills and knowledge required to succeed in the program. Highlight your work experience and explain how it has helped you prepare for future academic and professional opportunities.

Discuss Skills and Qualifications

Identify the skills and qualifications that make you a strong candidate and explain how they will help you succeed in the program.

Demonstrating Your Interest and Fit for the Program

The final section of your statement of intent should demonstrate how your goals and interests align with the program.

Explain Your Motivation for Applying

Show the admissions committee your passion for the program by discussing your personal motivation for applying. Write about your hopes and dreams and why the program is the perfect fit for you.

Connect Your Goals to the Program's Offerings

Provide examples of how the program aligns with your goals and objectives. Show that you have done your research and that you understand and appreciate the program's goals and offerings.

Show How You Will Contribute to the Program

Lastly, it's important to show the admissions committee how you will contribute to the program, both academically and through your unique personal experience and skills. Discuss the unique perspective you will bring to the program and how it will contribute to the program's community.

ChatGPT Prompt for Writing a Statement of Intent

Chatgpt prompt.

Please draft a clear and detailed document that outlines your intentions, goals, and objectives regarding a specific matter or project. This statement should provide a comprehensive overview of your plans, strategies, and expected outcomes, and should be written in a detailed and precise manner that accurately conveys your intentions.

[ADD ADDITIONAL CONTEXT. CAN USE BULLET POINTS.]

A statement of intent is a critical component of your application. By following these steps, you can craft a compelling document that showcases your strengths and sets you apart from the competition. Remember to research the program, identify your goals and experiences, craft a strong introduction, outline your academic and professional background, and demonstrate your fit for the program. With this guide in hand, you can write a winning statement of intent that will help you achieve your academic and professional goals.

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How To Write a Statement of Purpose for Graduate School

Congratulations! You’ve chosen a graduate program , read up on tips for applying to grad school , and even written a focused grad school resumé . But if you’re like many students, you’ve left the most daunting part of the application process for last—writing a statement of purpose. The good news is that the task doesn’t have to feel so overwhelming, as long as you break the process down into simple, actionable steps. Below, learn how to write a strong, unique statement of purpose that will impress admissions committees and increase your chances of getting into your dream school.

What is a statement of purpose?

A statement of purpose (SOP), sometimes referred to as a personal statement, is a critical piece of a graduate school application that tells admissions committees who you are, what your academic and professional interests are, and how you’ll add value to the graduate program you’re applying to.

Jared Pierce, former associate director of enrollment services at Northeastern University, says a strong statement of purpose can be the deciding factor in a graduate student’s admission.  

“Your statement of purpose is where you tell your story about who you are and why you deserve to be a part of the [university’s] community. It gives the admissions committee the chance to get to know you and understand how you’ll add value to the classroom,” he says.

How long should a statement of purpose be? “A statement of purpose should be between 500 and 1,000 words,” Pierce says, noting that it should typically not exceed a single page. He advises that students use a traditional font at a readable size (11 or 12 points) and leave enough white space in the margins to make the statement easy to read. Make sure to double-space the statement if the university has requested it, he adds. 

How to write a statement of purpose: a step-by-step guide

Now that you understand how to format a statement of purpose, you can begin drafting your own. Getting started can feel daunting, but Pierce suggests making the process more manageable by breaking down the writing process into four easy steps.

1. Brainstorm your ideas.

First, he says, try to reframe the task at hand and get excited for the opportunity to write your statement of purpose. 

“Throughout the application process, you’re afforded few opportunities to address the committee directly,” he explains. “Here is your chance to truly speak directly to them. Each student arrives at this process with a unique story, including prior jobs, volunteer experience, or undergraduate studies. Think about what makes you you and start outlining.”

When writing your statement of purpose, Pierce suggests asking yourself these key questions:

• Why do I want this degree?
• What are my expectations for this degree?
• What courses or program features excite me the most?
• Where do I want this degree to take me, professionally and personally?
• How will my unique professional and personal experiences add value to the program?

Jot these responses down to get your initial thoughts on paper. This will act as your starting point for creating an outline and writing your first draft.

2. Develop an outline.

Next, you’ll want to take the ideas that you’ve identified during the brainstorming process and plug them into an outline that will guide your writing. 

An effective outline for your statement of purpose might look something like this:

• An attention-grabbing hook
• A brief introduction of yourself and your background as it relates to your motivation behind applying to graduate school 
• Your professional goals as they relate to the program
• Why you’re interested in the specific school and what you can bring to the table
• A brief summary of the information presented in the body that emphasizes your qualifications and compatibility with the school

An outline like the one above will give you a roadmap to follow so that your statement of purpose is well organized and concise. 

3. Write the first draft.

Your statement of purpose should communicate who you are and why you are interested in a particular program, but it also needs to be positioned in a way that differentiates you from other applicants. 

Admissions professionals already have your transcripts, resumé, and test scores; the statement of purpose is your chance to tell your story in your own words.

When you begin drafting content, make sure to:

• Provide insight into what drives you , whether that’s professional advancement, personal growth, or both.
• Demonstrate your interest in the school by addressing the unique features of the program that interest you most. For Northeastern, he says, maybe it’s experiential learning; you’re excited to tackle real-world projects in your desired industry. Or perhaps it’s learning from faculty who are experts in your field of study.
• Be yourself. It helps to keep your audience in mind while writing, but don’t forget to let your personality shine through. It’s important to be authentic when writing your statement to show the admissions committee who you are and why your unique perspective will add value to the program.

4. Edit and refine your work.

Before you submit your statement of purpose:

• Make sure you’ve followed all directions thoroughly , including requirements about margins, spacing, and font size.
• Proofread carefully for grammar, spelling, and punctuation.
• Remember that a statement of purpose should be between 500 and 1,000 words. If you’ve written far more than this, read through your statement again and edit for clarity and conciseness. Less is often more; articulate your main points strongly and get rid of any “clutter.”
• Walk away and come back later with a fresh set of eyes. Sometimes your best ideas come when you’re not sitting and staring at your computer.
• Ask someone you trust to read your statement before you submit it.

Making a lasting impression

Your statement of purpose can leave a lasting impression if done well, Pierce says. It provides you with the opportunity to highlight your unique background and skills so that admissions professionals understand why you’re the ideal candidate for the program that you’re applying to. If nothing else, stay focused on what you uniquely bring to the classroom, the program, and the campus community. If you do that, you’ll excel.

To learn more tricks and tips for submitting an impressive graduate school application, explore our related grad school success articles .

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Editor’s note: This article was originally published in March 2017. It has since been updated for thoroughness and accuracy.

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Need to write a graduate school statement of purpose, but not sure where to start? Let us guide you through how to write a statement of purpose for grad school!

We’ll go over what a statement of purpose, or letter of intent, for grad school is and how it’s different from other admissions essays like personal statements. Then we’ll discuss what schools are looking for in a statement of purpose for graduate school. Finally, we’ll give advice on how to write one!

What Is a Grad School Statement of Purpose?

If you’re on this page, you probably know that a statement of purpose (AKA a letter of intent) is an essay requested by lots of graduate programs as part of their application process. But there’s more to it than that.

A statement of purpose is where you tell the admissions committee why you’re interested in a particular graduate program, the kind of work you plan on doing when you’re there, and why you in particular should be doing that work.  At more research-focused programs, like PhDs, the graduate school statement of purpose will be focused on your research skills and interests. At more professionally-focused programs, like MPPs and MBAs, the statement will more closely address your professional skills and goals.

It’s important to note that a statement of purpose is not the same thing as a personal statement. What’s the difference? Well, a grad school statement of purpose is more closely focused on your academic/professional qualities, accomplishments, and goals, while a personal statement is more concerned with you as an overall person. Personal statements allow for you to be more personal. There’s definitely some overlap in that both will expect you to address your goals and interests in the field, but a statement of purpose generally has a slightly tighter focus.

Of course, the demarcation between a statement of a purpose and a personal statement won’t always be hard-and-fast. Some programs will call the essay that they want a personal statement, but most of the questions they offer to guide you are academic/professional. Others will ask for a statement of purpose but provide sample essays laden with personal anecdotes and experiences. Still others will ask for a “personal statement/statement of purpose.” Graduate school admissions processes are, alas, not totally consistent across programs even within the same field.

You can allow the information available on the admissions website to guide the direction of your graduate school statement of purpose. However, if they don’t provide further specifications, the general scheme holds: A statement of purpose = tight focus on academic work/research and a personal statement = broader picture of you as a person (including academic goals).

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Some programs ask for a graduate school letter of intent instead of an essay. A letter of intent for graduate school is very similar to a statement of purpose in content and focus. You’ll just structure it a little more like an actual letter by addressing your writing to the admissions committee and signing your name.

What Are Schools Looking for in a Statement of Purpose?

Now that we’ve provided a brief overview of what a statement of purpose is, let’s consider what programs are looking for in a statement of purpose or grad school letter of intent more specifically. There may be some small variation in what different programs are looking for; you should consult any available guidelines for each program. However, here are the specific elements that most graduate programs will be looking for in a statement of purpose:

Your Research and Professional Interests

One of the main things programs will be looking for in your graduate school statement of purpose is a description of the research and/or professional interests you want to develop in their program. For a research-focused program (like pretty much all PhDs and some master’s programs), you’ll target this more specifically to the research projects you would like to do while you there.

For more professionally-focused graduate programs, there may not be much a built-in research component. In this case, focus more on your specific interests within the degree field and what related skills you’re trying to build through the program.

It’s best to be as specific as possible in discussing what interests you. Don’t be vague or say that everything in the field appeals to you. This will make you seem both unfocused and boring. Instead, use particular examples of situations or phenomena that you find exciting. You want everything about your grad school statement of purpose to be intriguing and memorable!

Don’t worry that your statement of purpose will box you into a particular research area. Admissions committees understand that interests change, especially as you become more immersed in a field. However, having a focused plan helps reassure admissions committees that you are motivated and will actually be able to complete the program.

How Your Background Qualifies You

The next essential component admissions offices will be looking for is evidence of how your background qualifies you to pursue this particular field and area of interest (and research area if applicable). What brought you to these particular interests? You can describe your undergraduate studies, relevant professional experience, any major projects you’ve worked on, papers you’ve written, talks you’ve given, mentors you’ve worked with, and so on. Don’t just tell the admissions committees what makes you particularly suited to what you’re pursuing—show it with specific, vivid examples.

A Track Record of Success

Admissions committees will also be looking for a proven record of academic and personal success. Your accomplishments will almost certainly overlap with your background and qualifications. Just keep in mind that you’ll want to emphasize major accomplishments that highlight your ability to succeed in the rigorous graduate school environment!

What Interests You in the Program

At every program you’re applying to, you should be able to speak to particular things about that program that appeal to you. Are there specific professors you want to work with? Does the department have a specific focus that gels well with yours? Is there something special or particular about the curriculum you’re excited to take advantage of?

You should also demonstrate how you (and your research/work) fit in with the program. Why is it a match? What do you bring? Again, admissions committees will want you to show, not tell.

Your Passion for the Field

Admissions officers will also be looking for you to show genuine passion for your field and research/professional area of interest. Why are you planning on devoting your life to this thing? Remain professional, but communicate your excitement!

It’s become a common refrain, but be specific. You won’t stand out—at least not in a good way—if you write things that are vague, cliche, and/or grandiose. Stay away from things like “I love engineering,” or “Ever since I was a child I knew I wanted to be a lawyer.”

And don’t just say that you’re interested in disease pathology because you want to help people or save the world. It’s fine to mention an altruistic motive, but you should be specific and particular when articulating what you’re passionate about within your field. So instead, say something like “Volunteering with HIV-positive individuals in a community program impressed upon me the critical importance of improving our understanding of HIV. I feel driven to work towards improved treatments with fewer side effects.”

Your Writing Skills

Graduate school invariably involves writing, and usually lots of it. Admissions committees will be looking to your statement of purpose (and any other writing you submit with your application) to make sure you have the writing skills necessarily to succeed in a graduate program. So you want your statement to be well-organized and clearly communicate your ideas. Admissions committees will also be looking for your statement of purpose to be descriptive but concise; a statement of purpose for graduate school shouldn’t be longer than two pages even if there’s no hard word limit. You also want your writing style to stand out. While you shouldn’t use an overly familiar tone, you also don’t want to be too staid and buttoned-up. You definitely don’t want to bore anyone reading your essay!

How to Write a Statement of Purpose for Grad School

When you sit down to write your statement of purpose, there are two major components to consider: content (what you’re going to say) and style (how you’re going to say it). Content is what makes up the underlying bones of your statement of purpose/letter of intent. Graduate schools care about both content and style, but during the writing process, it makes sense to focus first on content and then consider style more closely when you know what you want to say.

This nine-step guide will walk you through how to write a statement of purpose for grad school.

Step 1: Brainstorming

The first step is to generate ideas for what to include in your grad school statement of purpose. This should include many of the elements we addressed in the previous section. As you brainstorm, it’s fine to start with more general statements and ideas and then hone in on more specific examples to include in your statement. But thinking of specific examples in advance will make writing the actual statement of purpose much easier!

There are many brainstorming methods you could consider. Some people like making lists while others prefer to just free-write paragraphs. Some would rather draw a mind map or even make voice memos. Just so long as it helps you record the information and get your brain going, any method is fine.

Here are some things to consider in your brainstorming session, with brainstorming questions for each:

Your research/professional interests in the field

• What interests you most in your field? Consider what you’ve researched/done before, and how closely you want your future interests to hew to what you’ve done in the past.
• Are there particular themes, methods, theories, etc. that interest you?
• What problems are you hoping to solve or address through your work/future career?

Your research/professional background and qualifications

• What major projects have you worked on? Did you write a thesis? Do an amazing internship? Work on a research project? Build an app? Create a curriculum? Have clinical experience?
• Have you presented at any conferences? Do you have any papers published?
• If you have work experience, how is it relevant to your program? What competencies and skills did you build there that carry over to your planned research/work?

Your major accomplishments

• Any major accomplishments not covered in your background/qualifications? Try to tie them back to your ability to succeed in graduate school and your specific research/professional endeavors.

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What’s appealing about the specific programs you’re applying to

• Are there specific professors you want to work with?
• Do they have resources especially suited to your research/professional interests? Like particular classes or special programs?
• How will your work fit there?

Why you’re passionate about the field

• What made you initially interested?
• What goals are you passionate about accomplishing?
• What do you find particularly fascinating or intriguing in your field?

Weaknesses to address

Are there any weaknesses in your application you need to address? If you have a semester with very low grades or another “hole” in your application, you can address it directly in your statement of purpose. Graduate schools won’t want excuses, but it’s fine to provide some kind of explanation: were you dealing with a family emergency or chronic illness? Did you need to work full-time and go to school full-time? Whatever you write, try to frame it in positive terms, to emphasize your ultimate success in the face of setbacks.

If you find yourself struggling to generate ideas for any of the above areas, there are a few things you could do. You could look at old papers and projects you’ve turned in. You could also speak to mentors and friends. They’ll remember amazing things you’ve done and should talk about in your application.

It’s also a good idea to discuss your graduate school statement of purpose with a professor in your field of interest. They are likely to have a good idea what graduate programs and looking for and can help you generate and hone ideas.

Step 2: Outline

Next, you’ll want to select your most impactful ideas and examples from your brainstorming session and arrange them into an outline. Highlight the overall points you want to make and the examples that go with each of those points. Try to arrange your points in an order that flows logically.

However, don’t get too hung up on the details for your initial outline. It’s better to keep moving with a rough plan than to be paralyzed early in the process!

Step 3: First Draft

Next, with the help of your outline, you’ll write your first draft. Don’t feel like your first draft has to be application-ready. In fact, your very first draft doesn’t have to be ready for anyone’s eyes but your own. The purpose of this draft is to get your initial thoughts on paper. It’s fine to focus more on content than style. Hammer out your main points, and don’t worry too much about word limit yet (although you will have to cut down to 1-2 pages at most for your final statement of purpose).

Step 4: Initial Edit

Once you have a first draft, you’ll want to make a first editing pass through yourself to tighten things up. Try to make sure that your writing flows logically and start to cut points that seem less relevant. You don’t need to make your statement of purpose perfect right now on your first editing pass, but try to refine it into something you’re comfortable sharing with others.

Make sure that the following critical points are coming through clearly:

• Your research/professional interests
• Your qualifications and accomplishments
• Why you’re interested in the particular program

If you’re feeling lost or stuck, it’s fine to move on to step 5 and solicit some feedback from others.

Step 5: Get Feedback

Now that you have a workable draft, it’s time to get feedback from other people—preferably people familiar with the graduate school admissions process. They can read your statement of purpose and give you advice on the clarity and organization of your ideas. They can help you figure out if you’ve framed your examples correctly and advise where you need to further develop ideas.

It’s a good idea to have several people look at your draft. You don’t necessarily need to accept every piece of writing advice from every person who looks at your essay. However, if multiple people give a similar piece of feedback, you should probably take that advice.

Step 6: Edit Again

Next, you’ll revise your graduate school statement of purpose again based on the feedback you received from others. Now you should try to really tighten things up and think about how the final product will be received by the admissions committee. Make sure all of your examples and points are well-organized, concise, and impactful. Bring your statement under the word limit.

Step 7: Make It Sparkle

As you work on finishing up your statement of purpose for graduate school, you want to really go the extra mile on making your statement stand out. So make the following stylistic tweaks:

Make sure your opening sentences are attention-grabbing (in a good way)! Starting with a cliche, a generalization or another boring statement will disengage your readers right from the start, which is the last thing you want. Here are some cliches to avoid:

• Don’t start with a quote unless it’s somehow very directly linked to your research interests. Admissions committees are interested in your thoughts and insights; borrowing the insights of others can make you seem intellectually lazy.
• Don’t start with “Ever since I was a child, I wanted to…” This is a hugely overused beginning and also says nothing about you as a person now, which is what programs are interested in.
• Avoid starting with an overly broad or vague statement, like “I love science” or “I was born to be a lawyer.” You want to engage readers from the very first sentence, and since everyone applying to the program presumably loves science or wants to be a lawyer (etc), you’ll make yourself seem generic.

Of course, you should avoid platitudes and cliches throughout your writing, not just in the introduction. Try to replace cliche phrases like “Achilles heel,” “wake-up call,” “right up my alley,” and so on with more vivid and memorable language.

Make sure you’re using active voice instead of passive voice in your writing. So instead of “I was told by my professor…” try “My professor told me…”

Avoid overly informal language, contractions, and slang.

The first time you use an acronym, spell out what it is.

Step 8: Get Feedback Again

Now that you have a fairly polished second draft, hand it around for another round of feedback. You can ask more specifically for writing-style based feedback at this point if you would like.

Step 9: Final Tweaks

After you get your last round of comments from your readers, it’s time for the final tweaks. Incorporate any comments you want to address. Fix any punctuation, grammar, or spelling mistakes. Reading your entire essay out loud is a good technique as it will allow you to catch mistakes more easily and point to places where the text may sound awkward.

Once you’ve put on the final finishing touches, you’re ready to submit your graduate school statement of purpose!

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The Keys to a Great Graduate School Statement of Purpose

A graduate school statement of purpose serves to introduce your research/professional skills and interests to the programs you’re applying for. It’s more tightly focused on your academic and professional life than you as an overall person.

Here are the key ingredients committees will be looking for in your graduate school statement of purpose:

• A clear articulation of your research and/or professional interests (whichever is more applicable to the program)
• What qualifies you for the program (and for any proposed research)
• Examples of your professional/academic success
• Your interest in the features of a particular department/program
• A deep level of passion for the field
• Skillful writing!

And here’s a nine-step process to writing one:

• Brainstorm: Brainstorm ideas and examples for all of the essential ingredients mentioned above
• Outline: Arrange the best ideas from your brainstorm into a loose outline
• First draft: Write a rough first draft. Focus on getting ideas onto paper.
• First edit: Make a pass through to clean up your thoughts and ideas.
• Ask for feedback: Ask mentors and people you trust to look over your draft and give feedback.
• Second edit: Incorporate feedback and tighten everything up into a more cohesive piece of writing.
• Make it sparkle: Hone in on writing style concerns. Make sure your language is lively, concise, and effective.
• Get feedback again: Get a final round of feedback. This can focus more on style issues if you’d like.
• Make final tweaks: Address any comments from your readers and make sure your statement is error-free!

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• Graduate School

How to Write an Effective Statement of Intent

While most students have heard of a personal statement or statement of purpose, not many can accurately describe what a statement of intent is. This grad school admissions requirement is subtly different from the other “statement” essays you may be familiar with. It is most often requested as an application component for research intensive master’s programs. It typically centers around a cohesive narrative of the applicant’s research interests, experiences, long-term goals, and what they intend to study in grad school. You’ll need to tailor your essay to ensure you meet the unique requirements for this application component.

In this blog, our grad school essay tutors reveal what a statement of intent is, how it differs from a statement of purpose for graduate school , and how to write and structure your statement of intent. You can also check out a sample statement of intent for graduate school.

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Article Contents 16 min read

What is a statement of intent.

A statement of intent, sometimes called statement of interest, is one of the many written essay-style components requested during the higher education admissions process to help admissions committees understand the applicant better. Specifically, a statement of intent is something you’ll need to write to get into grad school . Not all master’s programs ask for it. It is typically requested in addition to the statement of purpose or as an alternative to the statement of purpose. Research-intensive programs most often favor this type of statement. In this essay, they are looking for applicants to expand on their research skills, research experience, and specialized interests.

A statement of intent is, at its core, a functional document with an implicit argument. It serves a very specific purpose and has a singular theme: explaining how your research or career interests align with the features of the program you’re applying to.

It’s important to understand the difference between a statement of purpose and a statement of intent, especially if you need to submit both during a single application cycle. It’s easy to mix up these two essay components! They have a lot of overlap in terms of their content, presentation, and format. Both ask applicants to focus on their research interests, describe why they are interested in a specific field, expand on relevant past academic/professional experiences, and explain their long-term career goals. Admissions committees evaluate both of these statements to assess specific skills and qualities: communication skills, research skills, scientific literacy, problem solving, intellectual curiosity, teamwork, and leadership potential.

Despite these similarities, there are certain factors that differentiate a statement of intent and statement of purpose. The key difference is the scope. A statement of purpose is more general, focused on your overall suitability for the program. A statement of intent is more specific and detailed, focused on your intention to make use of actual features of the program. Statement of intent prompts often ask you to talk about which faculty members you want to work with, what program faculties you wish to use, etc.

The way you discuss your experiences is also different in each of these essays. In a statement of purpose, you can discuss your overall research vision, and connect your past experiences to your long-term career goals. While you can certainly do this in a statement of intent as well, you need to take it one step further. Programs actually expect you to use this essay to expand on the specific skills you gained through past research experiences and connect them with program details like curriculum, preferred departments or modules, faculty members, on-going projects, etc.

The statement of intent actually works as a base template for your research proposal. Many students opt to use their statement of intent to develop their research proposals later in their career. As it’s extremely detailed, some programs even opt to use it in lieu of an interview. On the other hand, some programs refer to your statement of intent as a kind of blueprint to structure your graduate school interview questions . You can expect questions that directly reference the ideas and experiences you’ve discussed in your statement of intent. That’s why it’s so important to be confident about and committed to the ideas you discuss in your statement of intent.

Are you working on your statement of purpose and looking for tips? Check this out:

The structure of your statement of intent is very important as it serves to build a coherent progression of experiences. In this type of essay, you need to provide specific, technical details related to your research interests and experiences, while also telling an engaging narrative that logically builds to the conclusion of you applying to grad school. The key to achieving this balance is creating an effective essay structure.

Start by creating an outline of your essay that is centered around your basic thesis or main point. Return to this thesis periodically to ensure you’re not straying from it as you structure your essay.

Add the following paragraphs:

Introduction:

The first paragraph should immediately grab the reader’s attention and set up a clear framework for the rest of the statement. Unlike, say, a medical school personal statement , or college essays , we don’t recommend starting with an “anchor” story or incident. Since this is a more functional document, including dramatic personal details or childhood memories would only end up clouding the key message of your statement. It’s better to go with a more straightforward introduction that succinctly sets up the main thesis. You can opt to make your introduction more engaging by adding a quote or referencing a specific book or mentor who inspired you; having said that, make sure any external references are always relevant to your actual research interest and further your central argument. Critically, make sure you don’t forget to introduce your research topic, the name of the school you’re applying to, as well as the name of the specific program/department in the very first paragraph.

Body Paragraph 1/2/3/4/5

Next, you can add 1 to 5 main body paragraphs (depending on your word count) where you build a foundation of your research work, interests, experiences, and goals. Each paragraph should be clear, concise and informative. There are certain critical content targets you should keep in mind as you write these paragraphs:

Address the prompt and talk about the specific aspects of the program you\u2019re interested in, such as faculty members you\u2019d love to work with. "}]">

Your conclusion should include a concise statement of your key qualifications and unique suitability for the program. Touch upon how you’ll make use of your time at this school, and how that will help you in your long-term career goals. Reiterate your interest in their specific program.

The word count for a statement of intent can vary from school to school, but it generally ranges between 250 to 1000 words. You should tailor your statement as per your specific word count requirements.

Top Tips for Writing Your Statement of Intent

Keep these tips in mind to write an outstanding statement of intent that effectively communicates your research strengths.

Develop your central research thesis

If you’re applying to grad school, then you probably already have some idea about the kind of research you want to specialize in. If you’re having trouble formulating this idea or condensing it down for your statement of intent, try using the following strategy to structure your thinking and organize your thoughts in a more logical flow. Break down your research interest into three levels, as follows:

Are you solving any specific problem or addressing an existing issue via this research? ","label":"Problem","title":"Problem"}]" code="tab1" template="BlogArticle">

As we mentioned above, your statement of intent needs to be very specific and must reference the programs you’re applying to. Some schools even provide a specific prompt asking you to talk about which faculty members you want to work with, what sub-department you want to study under, and so on. Make sure you do the required research about what the school and the program have to offer so you can accurately reference this information in your statement. To begin with, you should check the program websites. If they don’t provide enough information, we recommend you reach out to alumni, professors, and current students to learn more.

Find out about the credentials of faculty members, their previous published work, their on-going projects, etc. Check the range of facilities that the school is offering, such as equipment, labs, and academic resources, as well as unique research or clinical experience opportunities. Don’t neglect the extracurriculars such as student support groups, prestigious clubs, and other opportunities that you won’t get on any other campus.

While you’re doing this research, make notes about how your own strengths connect to the unique features of the program. Do you have skills that could be particularly useful for an on-going research project? Do you have past research experience in the same topics that a faculty member is an expert in? When you’re actually writing the statement, these notes will help you to explain not only what you have to offer to the program, but also how you can use this program to further your long-term professional or academic goals.

Looking for a summary of our top tips for writing an effective statement of intent? Check out this infographic:

Follow the guidelines

As you begin your writing, ensure that you review all the guidelines that the school has provided and are closely adhering to then. For example, if there’s a prompt, go through it a few times, and make sure you are responding to the spirit as well as the letter of the prompt. Other considerations you should keep in mind include the maximum and minimum word count, the specific format, and “recommended” stylistic guidelines. For example, some schools ask you to write a formal statement that includes academic citations of works to support each of your research arguments along with references to works that have inspired you. You’ll have to customize the presentation, format, and content of each statement of intent to meet these kinds of specific requirements.

Tell a story with your experiences

It’s very important to remember that your statement of intent, though it is a more technical and functional essay, should not be merely a dry summary of facts, similar to a CV for grad school . Instead, you should write a logical and engaging narrative of the achievements and experiences that led you to your research goals, and how they connect to the program you’re applying to. Add details of your skills and commendable qualities backed up by actual experiences that demonstrate your passion and enthusiasm for the subject. Admissions committees are always more impressed by “proof” of abilities i.e., they want applicants to show them their journey, not merely tell them about it. For example, instead of merely saying that you have an extensive knowledge of bio-chemical reactions in banana enzymes, identify the specific research experience where you honed this knowledge, and explain the circumstances in your essay. If it was a research project, then provide details about the project name and supervisor, as well as your own role in the project and the daily tasks you performed.

Check out this video for tips on writing your CV for Grad School:

Don’t clutter your statement of intent with too many experiences and achievements. Always keep referencing your central thesis and evaluating if a specific experience will add to your overall narrative or not. After you’ve worked out your central thesis, spend some time analyzing all your academic, research, volunteer, extracurricular, employment, and life experiences. Select 2 to 5 of the most suitable experiences that align with both your research interests and the program admissions criteria and add only those. If you have numerous such experiences to choose from, we suggest prioritizing current or recent experiences.

As you’re discussing each experience or achievement, be specific and detailed, and provide all the relevant information including the names of supervisors, a detailed list of your duties, and so on. You can also make your statement of intent more robust by referring to a wide variety of sources as your research “inspiration”, including classes, academic conversations, workshops, lectures, seminars, books, as well as the more typical experiences of volunteering, work, or research.

A useful tip: make sure you’re adding transitory statements at the end and beginning of each paragraph, to build that logical flow and connect one experience or idea to the next. If you think your essay is looking too dry or CV-like, this is one quick fix you can try in order to narrativize your experiences.

Since a statement of intent is a more formal document written for a very specific purpose, ensure you are using professional/academic and formal language and, if required, you can use technical terms to explain your research ideas. Your evaluators will most likely be professionals from the same field, and they actually expect you to show your expertise in that specific area.

At the same time, avoid using long, complicated sentences. Make sure you use your authentic voice and keep your tone as natural as possible. Thoroughly check your essays for grammar, spelling, clarity of thought, logical flow, and coherence.

Remember that your statement of intent is very different from a personal statement. As we mentioned previously, it’s more formal and has a very specific focus. The admissions committee is expecting to see a coherent autobiography of your academic or professional interests and experiences. That should be your focus – you should only refer to personal information as it relates to the larger context of your academic experiences. For example, avoid telling stories from your childhood about your early interests or including details about life events that shaped you, unless they are strictly relevant to your research journey.

This isn’t the right platform to expand upon excessively personal issues such as an illness or major life changes. You can briefly touch upon these topics or weave them into your professional narrative, if it makes sense. For example, if your grades took a serious dip in a specific period due to personal circumstances, you could choose to briefly address that. But don’t make such incidents the central thesis of your statement of intent. Focus on skills, abilities and contributions, and your inspiration and motivation to pursue research. Rather than expanding on irrelevant childhood details, expand on your professional, academic, and personal connections to the program and school you’re applying to.

Avoid cliches and focus on facts

You don’t need a high-level research “break-through” or nationally recognized academic or research award to make your statement of intent stand out. Many students turn to cliches such as “I want to make the world a better place” or “I just want to help people” to hide what they perceive as insufficiently impressive experiences. In fact, no matter what your past experiences, it’s much better to focus on covering the facts, rather than evoking sentimental cliches to make your experiences seem grander than they actually are. Admissions committees aren’t expecting you to have advanced achievements beyond your level – the whole point of applying to grad school is to get the opportunity to do that level of work.

So instead of worrying about the “quality” of your experiences, focus on ensuring that your essay effectively discussed your best skills and true capabilities. Spend some time self-reflecting about what you learned from your academic, professional, and extracurricular experiences, how they contributed to your journey to grad school, what new skills you developed, what obstacles you overcame, and so on.

Write multiple drafts and seek feedback from experts

A statement of intent requires a little more intensive writing and editing than your typical admissions essays and statements. We suggest sharing your essay with subject matter experts such as research supervisors, faculty members, and other academic mentors who can give you their detailed feedback about the technical aspects of your statement. Their suggestions can help you refine your essay and identify ways to differentiate your thesis from others.

If you’re sure about the technical content of your essay, but need help with the writing, flow, coherence, grammar, and other such stylistic elements, consider getting expert help from a graduate school admissions consultant . These consultants have worked with numerous other students and can help you improve your written communication skills with proven strategies that work.

Whether or not you engage the help of experts, make sure you ask at least 1 other person to review your statement of intent once, even if they’re just a friend or family member. Remember, after going over the same content over and over again for days and weeks, visual fatigue sets in. A fresh pair of eyes can spot small errors and mistakes that you might have missed.

Sample Statement of Intent

Here’s a sample statement of intent for your reference:

Program/School : Clinical Psychology Masters at Ryerson University

Prompt : Describe your reasons for pursuing graduate study in the Psychology program, your research interests, how your previous studies and experiences have prepared you for the program, as well as your career objectives and how the graduate degree will advance them. (500-1000 words)

Statement of Intent:

“What is the ticking mechanism of the human mind? How can we truly know it?”

Professor Donaldson’s words from my very first Intro to Psychology class sparked my interest in the world of clinical psychology. Following my curiosity rewarded me with the discovery of my central academic passion in life – developmental psychology and its applications for adolescent females. Today, I hope to enroll in Ryerson University’s Clinical Psychology program so I can further explore my research interests and channel them towards my long-term goals of becoming a research-psychologist, combining clinical psychology practice with research experience to make new discoveries in this area. I believe my undergraduate education has prepared me to undertake advanced research projects and I would be an excellent candidate for your program.

My initial interest in psychology at the beginning of my freshman year soon led me to take on advanced psychology coursework, targeted personal reading, and extra credit projects. I soon built up a strong foundational base in the concepts of General Psychology, Behavioral Psychology, Social Psychology, Cognitive Psychology, Abnormal Psychology, and Psychology of Gender Roles. When completing the last course during my sophomore year, I found that I had a strong academic interest in the intersections of gender theory and clinical psychology. I was simultaneously completing a Psychological Assessment Tools course to hone my clinical lab skills. The confluence of these two courses helped me synthesize my special interest in understanding and addressing the biases in classic psychological assessment tools and analyzing their impact on incorrect diagnosis, failed treatments, and rate of relapse in impacted patients, especially women. That was when I decided that I wanted to improve my research skills so I could eventually complete advanced studies in this area.

A statement of intent is an autobiographical summary of your research interests and experiences, with an emphasis on how the program you’re applying to can help you achieve your goals. Some schools provide specific prompts for their statement of intent, asking students to describe aspects of their program they would most benefit from. A statement of intent is a more formal and functional document than your typical admissions essays, and usually only research-intensive master’s courses request this type of essay in your application.

While these two admissions essays have a lot in common – for example, they are both research-focused and help admissions committees evaluate your academic and professional credentials for their program. However, a key difference between them is the scope. A statement of purpose is more general, focused on your overall academic, professional and/or extracurricular experiences and your long-term career goals. A statement of intent is more targeted and detailed, with a clear focus on your specific research interests. In your statement of intent, you must reference the programs you’re applying to, and explain at length how you can contribute to them and which of their offerings most attract you.

This depends on the specific requirements of the program you’re applying to. Generally, a statement of intent has a prescribed word count ranging from 250 to 1000 words. Even if there’s no maximum word count provided, we recommend not exceeding 900 words. While you need to explain your research interests in detail, remember that this essay is not a research thesis and doesn’t need that level of scientific enquiry.

Your statement of intent should have the following structure:

• Introduction : This should clearly set out your central thesis and reference your research interests and the name of the program/school you’re applying to.
• Main body paragraphs : You can add 1 to 5 body paragraphs to discuss the details of relevant experiences and achievements, key skills and qualities, and your specific interest in the program you’re applying to.
• Conclusion : Here, make sure you reiterate your research thesis, and call back to the program/college name. Provide a clear statement of why you think you are a uniquely well-suited candidate for their program.

To write an impressive statement of intent, you’ll have to spend sufficient time researching the facilities and features of the program and school you’re applying to, analyzing your own research interests and skills, and coming up with a central “thesis” that aligns the two. Include details of multiple experiences, achievements, awards, and activities to support your claims and prove your passion and suitability for a specific research area. Avoid including irrelevant personal details or cliches, and instead focus on creating a logical flow of experiences leading to your current application.

No, your statement of intent must be tailored for each program you’re applying to. That’s the whole point of a statement of intent – it explains why you’re well-suited to a particular program, and how you intend to use their resources to further your research interests. If you don’t refer to their unique offerings and instead just provide a general summary of your research interests, admissions committees will not be able to gauge why you’re a good fit for their program.

No, not all graduate programs ask for a statement of intent. Some ask for an additional statement of intent along with a personal statement and/or statement of purpose, while others only require the statement of intent. You should check the admissions websites of the schools you’re applying to learn more.

We recommend that you spend at least 6 weeks writing your statement of intent. This will give you sufficient time to refine your central “research thesis”, analyze your history of experiences to identify the most suitable ones, write and edit multiple drafts, and seek out feedback from expert reviewers.

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ITABANA, BLESSING EFFIONG

Absolutely loved reading this. Great job!!!

BeMo Academic Consulting

Hello and thank you very much for your comment! So glad you enjoyed this article!

Do you have any research statement of intent for Master's in Physics?

Hello Saba! Thanks for your comment. We will try to include one when we update the blog :)

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Statement of Purpose Examples

When applying for admission to a higher education institution, your reference letters and academic transcripts provide the admissions committee with crucial information about your academic achievements. However, a statement of purpose delves deeper, presenting you in a holistic manner by highlighting what distinguishes you from other applicants and why you’re an ideal fit for their program. Including a well-crafted statement of purpose in your application could be the pivotal factor that secures your spot at your desired institution. In this article, we’ll explore the intricacies of this essential document and offer some statement of purpose examples for reference.

Statement of Purpose Examples & Templates

Statement of purpose examples are illustrative documents often used as a reference by aspiring students and professionals alike. When applying to an educational institution, job, or internship, these statements accompany the main application to provide a comprehensive perspective on the applicant, encompassing not just their academic credentials but also their motivations, experiences, aspirations, and suitability for the program or position . Here are some useful examples to help guide you in crafting your own.

Academic Statement of Purpose Example

An Academic Statement of Purpose (SOP) is a formal document often required by universities or research institutions during the admissions process. It provides insight into an applicant's academic background, motivations for pursuing a particular course or research area, and their long-term goals. This statement serves as a written representation of the candidate's aspirations and suitability for the program, helping the admissions committee assess the applicant's fit and potential contribution to their institution.

Phd Statement of Purpose Example

A PhD Statement of Purpose is a formal document submitted by applicants to graduate schools, primarily to express their intentions, motivations, and qualifications for pursuing a doctoral degree in a specific field. It provides the admissions committee insights into the applicant's academic background, research interests, professional experiences, and aspirations, aiding in evaluating the candidate's suitability for the program. Typically, it's used during the admissions process for PhD programs at universities and institutions.

Statement of Purpose Grad School Example

A Statement of Purpose for Graduate School is a document that outlines an applicant's academic background, professional experiences, research interests, and future goals as they apply to a specific graduate program. It serves as a written testament of an individual's motivation and suitability for advanced study, offering the admissions committee insight into the candidate's fit for the program. Typically submitted as part of a graduate school application, this statement provides context for the applicant's achievements and aspirations, helping universities evaluate their potential for success in their chosen field of study.

Statement of Purpose Example

A statement of purpose example provides the reader with a clear and concise framework of how to effectively communicate their intentions, goals, and motivations for pursuing a particular course, program, or position. By analyzing a well-crafted example, the reader can discern the essential components, structure, and tone appropriate for their intended audience, thus aiding in the creation of a compelling and personalized narrative. Furthermore, such examples can offer insights into the specific experiences, achievements, or aspirations that can be highlighted, ensuring that the statement not only fulfills its basic requirements but also stands out in a competitive pool. This statement of purpose example is available in Word and PDF.

What Is a Statement of Purpose?

A statement of purpose is a crucial component of both academic and professional applications. It serves as a detailed narrative that presents an applicant’s motivations, aspirations, qualifications, and suitability for a specific program, role, or institution. This document goes beyond merely listing educational backgrounds and interests; it delves deeply into the applicant’s unique experiences, achievements, and any relevant professional endeavors that reinforce their candidacy. In an academic context, the SOP offers insights into the applicant’s passion for their chosen field and their aspirations within the program and their future career.

Meanwhile, in a professional setting, it can highlight one’s drive, career trajectory, and alignment with a particular role or organization. Given its importance, it’s paramount to note that institutions and companies might have distinct guidelines for these statements. Therefore, before drafting, it’s essential to review any provided instructions to ensure alignment with the desired length and content expectations.

Why Is a Statement of Purpose Important?

As already mentioned, a statement of purpose sets you apart from the other applicants. If you are all applying to the same program, chances are you have pretty much the same qualifications. A statement of purpose is more personal. It gives you the opportunity to explain why you are the ideal candidate. Here is what your statement of purpose tells the admissions committee:

• Your inspiration: Why are you applying to this particular program? Why have you chosen this institution as the place where you will pursue the program?
• Your background: How have your experiences prepared you to pursue this program? What are your plans if you get accepted?

Subject: Statement of Purpose – [Your Full Name]

Dear [Recipient’s Full Name],

I am writing to express my strong interest in [Applying for the position, Admission in the academic program, Grant Application, etc.] at [Name of the University/Company/Organization]. I believe my academic background, professional experiences, and personal skills make me a strong candidate for this [Job/Program/Opportunity].

I am a [Your Current Occupation, or Status like Student, Job Title, etc.] with a major in [Your Major or Area of Study/Expertise]. Throughout my academic journey and professional career, I have developed a deep interest in [The specific field/area that you are applying for]. My interest in [this field] was triggered by [mention an experience, event, or aspect that sparked your interest in this field]. Since then, I have been committed to deepen my knowledge and skills in this domain.

At [Your current university/organization/job], I [describe a project or responsibility you undertook, emphasizing the skills you used or developed and any significant achievements]. This experience not only enhanced my knowledge in the area of [specific field/area] but also equipped me with the practical skills necessary to excel in a professional setting.

One of the most impactful experiences during my academic/professional journey was when I [describe another significant project or role and the impact it had on you]. This reinforced my passion for [specific field] and my commitment to contributing meaningfully to this field.

In addition to my academic/professional experiences, I have also honed essential skills such as [mention a set of soft skills, e.g., leadership, teamwork, communication, problem-solving, etc.]. I believe these skills will be beneficial in contributing to [the university/organization/company] and will further assist me in achieving my long-term career goals.

As for my future aspirations, I aim to [mention your long-term goals and how you plan to achieve them]. I am confident that being a part of [university/organization/company] will provide me with the right mentorship and learning environment to make significant strides towards these goals.

I am particularly attracted to [university/company/organization] because of [mention specific features, resources, or opportunities offered by the institution that attract you]. I believe that with its [mention specifics such as curriculum, culture, approach, reputation, etc.], I can grow both professionally and personally.

In conclusion, I am excited about the prospect of joining [the university/company/organization] and am eager to contribute my knowledge, skills, and enthusiasm to your prestigious [institution/company/organization]. I am confident that this [job/program/opportunity] will be a stepping stone to fulfill my career goals and aspirations. I look forward to the possibility of discussing my application with you further.

Thank you for considering my application.

Sincerely, [Your Full Name] [Your Contact Information]

Statement of Purpose Example for Graduate School

Dear Admissions Committee,

I was standing over the open hood of my grandfather’s Series 490 Chevrolet when I realized that I wanted to commit my life to Mechanical Engineering. Watching the jumble of parts I did not yet understand and realizing they made the car move intrigued me beyond anything I had ever experienced until then. Since then, I have dedicated my academic and social pursuits to becoming an engineer.

I joined Berkley High School in 2025 and maintained a 4.0 GPA during my four years there. I took on advanced Math, Science, and Engineering classes, clearing them with high scores. Outside of school, I worked weekends and holidays at O’Neal Motor Works, where I continued to learn more about cars.

Getting into MIT has been a lifelong dream, and I believe it will help me realize my fullest potential as an aspiring engineer. Besides being the best engineering school in the country, it has a comprehensive research program that will quest my thirst for information and discovery.

As an engineer, I plan to focus on developing intelligent, environmental-friendly, and renewable auto parts. I believe engineering should be used to preserve the earth and move us toward development. If I am chosen to join your program, I will pursue this plan fearlessly.

Statement of Purpose Writing Service

Subject: Statement of Purpose for [Your Full Name]

My name is [Your Full Name], a [current role or position] at [current company/university/organization], and I am writing to express my interest in [apply for a job, pursuing a particular course of study, joining a particular organization, etc.]. With a deep passion for [specific field of interest], it is my ambition to [explain what you wish to achieve].

I am motivated to [apply for this job/course/etc.] due to [explain your reasons and how it aligns with your goals]. My passion for [specific field of interest] was ignited during [mention a particular event or experience]. This led me to pursue my [degree, career, or other relevant achievements] in [specific field], which further solidified my interest and resolve.

During my tenure at [past or present job, academic institution, or volunteer experience], I [provide specific examples of your responsibilities and accomplishments]. These experiences not only refined my skills in [mention specific skills] but also provided a practical exposure that underscored the importance of [explain what you learned or how it impacted you].

Furthermore, I have also been involved in [additional activities such as research projects, volunteer work, etc.], where I [explain what you did and what you achieved]. I believe these experiences have prepared me well for [the position or course you are applying for] by [explain how your past experiences make you a good fit].

What particularly attracts me to [the position/course/organization you are applying for] is [mention specific aspects that attracted you]. I am impressed by [mention something specific about the position/course/organization that impressed you], and I believe that [how you think you can contribute or benefit].

My long-term goal is to [explain your long-term goal], and I am convinced that [the position/course/organization] will provide an excellent stepping stone towards achieving this objective. I bring with me [specific qualities, traits, or experiences] and a strong commitment to [explain your commitment in relation to the position/course/organization].

In conclusion, I am eager to contribute my skills and experiences to [the position/course/organization] and grow both professionally and personally. I am confident that my background, passion, and dedication make me a strong candidate, and I am excited about the possibility of bringing my unique contributions to your esteemed [team/department/university/organization].

Thank you very much for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to further discuss how my background and skills would make me a valuable addition to your [team/department/university/organization].

Statement of Purpose for Editing Service

[Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State, Zip] [Your Email] [Today’s Date]

Subject: Request for Professional Editing Service

Dear [Editor’s Full Name or Editing Company’s Name],

I am writing this letter to express my interest in employing your professional editing services for [Type of Document – Manuscript, Thesis, Dissertation, Essay, etc.] entitled “[Title of Your Work]”.

I have chosen [Editor’s Name or Editing Company’s Name] specifically because [provide reason(s) why you have selected them – their reputation, a recommendation, their specialist knowledge in your subject area, etc.] I am confident that your professional assistance will significantly enhance the quality of my work.

The main objectives I wish to achieve through this editing service are as follows:

• Clarity: Ensuring the [document/essay/report/thesis, etc.] is clear and unambiguous.
• Consistency: Checking that the style and tone remain consistent throughout the [document/essay/report/thesis, etc.]
• Accuracy: Correcting any grammatical, punctuation, and spelling errors.
• Structure: Ensuring the content is logically organized.
• Syntax and Language: Enhancing the sentence construction and improving the vocabulary used.

The [Type of Document] is about [Briefly describe the content or the subject of the document. This helps the editor understand what your work is about and how best to approach it.]

The [Type of Document] is approximately [Number of Words or Pages in Your Document] and is intended for [Describe the intended audience of your work, e.g., general public, academics, professionals in your field, etc.]

The timeline I am working within for this editing service is [Your Preferred Timeline or Deadline]. I believe this timeframe will be sufficient for your team to thoroughly review my work.

Enclosed with this letter are [Specify what you’re sending along with the request – e.g., part of the manuscript, table of contents, style guide, etc.]

I kindly request a quotation for your services based on the requirements stated above. Also, please provide details about your terms of service, confidentiality agreement, and any other necessary protocols or procedures.

I look forward to a favorable reply and a rewarding collaboration with [Editor’s Name or Editing Company’s Name]. I am confident that your expertise will greatly improve the quality and impact of my [Type of Document].

Thank you for considering my request.

Best regards,

[Your Name] [Your Contact Information]

Statement of Purpose for MBA

[Your Full Name] [Your Mailing Address] [City, State, ZIP] [Your Email Address] [Today’s Date]

[Recipient’s Full Name] [Recipient’s Title] [University/College Name] [University/College Mailing Address] [City, State, ZIP]

I hope this letter finds you well. My name is [Your Full Name], and I am writing to express my sincere interest in the Master of Business Administration (MBA) program at [University/College Name]. With a deep passion for [mention your specific interest areas in business, such as finance, entrepreneurship, marketing, etc.] and a profound interest in [mention any specialized aspects of the MBA program that attracted you, like strategic management, international business, digital transformation, etc.], I believe that an MBA degree from your esteemed institution will provide an unparalleled boost to my career.

Over the years, I have developed a strong inclination toward the business field through my experiences in [mention your past job roles, internship roles, projects, etc.]. I graduated from [Your Undergraduate University] with a degree in [Your Undergraduate Major], where I not only honed my understanding of [mention any relevant courses or skills related to business], but also developed an interest in [mention a specific aspect of your undergraduate study that sparked your interest in business].

My professional journey began at [Your First Job/Internship Company], where I worked as [Your First Job Title]. Here, I [mention any significant contributions or achievements you made during your job role that demonstrate your skills and strengths]. Following this, I joined [Your Second Job/Internship Company], where I took on the role of [Your Second Job Title]. In this position, I [mention what responsibilities you undertook, the projects you worked on, and what you achieved during your tenure]. These experiences solidified my interest in the business field and underscored the importance of an MBA degree to advance my career.

However, I have always believed in the continuous expansion of knowledge, and so, after [number of years in your profession], I have decided to further enhance my skills and broaden my global perspective through your MBA program. I am particularly attracted to [mention specific resources, opportunities, or aspects of the MBA program at the university/college that you find appealing, like faculty, curriculum, case study approach, etc.]. Moreover, the diverse and international cohort of the MBA program at [University/College Name] will give me the opportunity to learn from various perspectives, which I am incredibly excited about.

Upon graduation, my goal is to [describe your short-term and long-term career goals. Be specific and realistic about what you want to achieve after obtaining your MBA degree]. I am confident that your program will equip me with the comprehensive understanding and practical skills necessary to achieve these goals.

I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to your prestigious program and am excited about the possibilities that lie ahead. Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to further discuss my candidacy and am available at your earliest convenience.

Yours sincerely, [Your Full Name]

Statement of Purpose for PHD

[Your Full Name] [Your Current Address] [City, State, Zip] [Your Email Address] [Today’s Date]

Admissions Office [University Name] [University Address] [City, State, Zip]

Dear Members of the Admissions Committee,

I am writing to apply for the Ph.D. program in [Specific Field of Study] at [University Name]. With an unwavering dedication to research and a commitment to the advancement of [Field of Study], my academic and professional experiences have provided a strong foundation for my Ph.D. journey.

Growing up in [Your Hometown/Country], I was [a relevant childhood experience that led to your interest in your chosen field]. From then on, I was certain that I wanted to contribute to [the field of study/its specific area]. My desire to pursue advanced research in this field has only grown stronger with time, prompting me to apply for a Ph.D. program.

As an undergraduate at [Undergraduate University Name], I studied [Major] and undertook projects in [Specific Areas]. My academic performance resulted in [Honors/Awards/Recognitions]. My interest in [Field of Study] was sparked due to [Specific Events/Projects]. I believe that these experiences have given me a broad understanding of the field and its various nuances.

Following my undergraduate studies, I pursued a Master’s degree in [Field] at [University Name]. My thesis, “[Thesis Title]”, focused on [brief explanation about your thesis]. This research experience, under the guidance of [Advisor’s Name], allowed me to delve deep into [specific topic] and solidified my resolve to further my research in this area.

In terms of professional experience, I worked as [Job Title] at [Company Name] for [Number of Years], where I [explain briefly about your job role and any specific accomplishments]. This professional stint enhanced my practical understanding of [Field of Study] and enabled me to apply the theoretical knowledge gained during my academic years.

The reasons why I am particularly interested in [University Name] include [mention specific faculty members, resources, or research areas that drew you to the institution]. I am keen to work with [Professor’s Name] given their outstanding work in [Specific Area]. I believe that joining your esteemed program will allow me to collaborate with top-notch faculty and fellow students, further expanding my knowledge and research capabilities.

Going forward, my research goal for the Ph.D. program at [University Name] is to [Describe the proposed research plan, potential research question(s), and possible implications of the intended research]. I am confident that my academic background and passion for research make me a suitable candidate to achieve these objectives.

Lastly, I want to express that my dedication to [Field of Study] extends beyond personal aspiration. I aim to leverage my research and contribute significantly to our understanding of [Specific Area]. I am excited about the opportunities that a Ph.D. from [University Name] will offer and look forward to potentially contributing to your academic community.

Thank you for considering my application. I hope for the opportunity to further discuss my suitability for the Ph.D. program during an interview.

[Your Full Name]

Social Work Statement of Purpose

[Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State, ZIP] [Your Email] [Today’s Date]

[Admissions Committee or Name of the person (if known)] [University or Organization’s Name] [University or Organization’s Address] [City, State, ZIP]

Dear [Admissions Committee or Name of the person],

I am writing to express my interest in applying for the [specific Social Work program’s name] at [University or Organization’s name]. With my extensive background in [mention relevant work, academic background, or personal experience], I believe that I am well-equipped to contribute meaningfully to your prestigious program.

Ever since I was [a specific age or event], I have been deeply moved by the potential of social work to transform individuals and communities. My passion for social work was sparked by [describe an event, person, or experience that influenced your interest in social work]. This experience left an indelible mark on me, and it has motivated me to devote my professional life to helping others.

My academic studies in [your major or related field] at [your University or College’s name] provided a strong foundation in [mention specific skills, theories, or areas of knowledge that are relevant to social work]. Notably, my coursework in [specific courses or projects] has allowed me to explore [describe what you have learned or achieved]. I graduated [mention graduation year] with a GPA of [your GPA], which I believe reflects my commitment to academic excellence and continuous learning.

In addition to my academic achievements, I have honed my practical skills through [describe any internships, volunteer experiences, or work experiences relevant to social work]. For instance, during my tenure at [organization’s name], I was able to [mention a specific achievement or experience and how it contributed to your development as a social work professional].

I am particularly drawn to the [specific Social Work program’s name] at [University or Organization’s name] because of its commitment to [mention a specific aspect of the program that appeals to you – this could be their teaching philosophy, the research interests of the faculty, the structure of the program, opportunities for fieldwork, etc.]. I am confident that this program will equip me with the advanced skills and knowledge needed to make a significant impact in the field of social work.

In the long term, I aspire to [describe your career goals and how this program will help you achieve them]. I am eager to bring my unique perspectives and experiences to your program, and I am convinced that I will add value to my classmates’ learning experiences and the broader academic community.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of contributing to [University or Organization’s name] and to the many communities that your graduates serve.

Sincerely, [Your Full Name]

Business Statement of Purpose

[Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State, ZIP Code] [Email Address] [Phone Number] [Today’s Date]

[Recipient’s Name] [Recipient’s Position] [Recipient’s Company Name] [Recipient’s Address] [City, State, ZIP Code]

Subject: Statement of Purpose for [Business Name]

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

I am writing to express my intention to [state the specific purpose such as establish, expand, or collaborate on] [business name]. I am [Your Name], [Your Role/Position] at [Your Current Organization/Company Name or mention if you’re an entrepreneur or a startup founder].

The business industry I wish to penetrate is [Industry name] and my business will [describe briefly what your business will do]. Having meticulously studied the market trends, customer needs, and competition in [target location], I have observed a viable opportunity for [describe the unique selling proposition or key differentiators of your business].

With the rise in [mention the trends or needs that your business is capitalizing on], our proposed solution is to [mention how your business plans to serve this need or capitalize on this trend]. The proposed name for our business is [Business Name], reflecting our core values and commitment to [describe what the business name represents].

Our target market primarily comprises [describe your target audience, their age, gender, profession, interests, etc.]. The demand for our services/products is influenced by factors such as [mention factors like seasonality, market trends, economic performance, etc.].

The purpose of this venture is not solely profit-oriented. We aim to contribute to the [industry name] industry by [describe how you aim to contribute to the industry or solve a particular problem in the industry]. We also strive to create employment opportunities and foster an innovative and inclusive work environment.

Our short-term goals include [mention short-term goals]. In the long run, we envision [mention long-term goals]. Our financial projections indicate that [give an overview of financial projections].

To turn this vision into a reality, we are seeking [mention what you’re seeking – could be support, partnership, investment, etc.] from your esteemed [organization/company]. We strongly believe that your [mention what the recipient can offer e.g. expertise, network, financial resources, etc.] can significantly contribute to the success of our business.

Attached is a comprehensive business plan which further details our vision, operational plan, marketing strategy, competitive analysis, and financial projections. I would be glad to provide any additional information you might need or meet in person to discuss the proposal in more detail.

Thank you for considering our proposal. I look forward to the possibility of working together to make [Business Name] a success.

[Your Name] [Your Position] [Your Contact Information]

Statement of Purpose Outline Template

• Introduction 1.1 Briefly introduce yourself: [Your Name, Your Profession or Current Status] 1.2 Indicate why you are writing this statement of purpose: [Specific Purpose, e.g. applying for a job, graduate program, research grant, etc.] 1.3 Highlight what motivated you towards this opportunity: [Short Narrative or Incident that Sparked your Interest]
• Background 2.1 Detail your educational background: [Your Schools, Major(s), Relevant Courses, Academic Achievements] 2.2 Discuss your professional background if applicable: [Your Previous Job Titles, Workplaces, Duties, Achievements] 2.3 Any additional skills or experiences that make you a strong candidate: [Certifications, Languages, Soft/Hard Skills]
• Your Interest 3.1 Elaborate on your specific interest in this opportunity: [What About this Job/Program/Grant Attracts You] 3.2 Discuss how this opportunity aligns with your future goals: [Your Career Goals, Long-Term Vision] 3.3 Talk about the specific components of the opportunity that resonate with you: [Any Specific Course, Research Area, Job Responsibility etc.]
• Why You? 4.1 Discuss why you believe you are a good fit: [Your Unique Traits, Skills, Experiences] 4.2 Highlight how you can contribute to the job/program/institution: [What You Can Bring to the Table] 4.3 Share any accomplishments or experiences that exemplify your suitability: [Specific Achievements or Experiences that Prove Your Point]
• Your Plan and Vision 5.1 Detail your short-term goals if you get the opportunity: [What You Plan to Achieve/Contribute in the Immediate Future] 5.2 Discuss your long-term vision relating to this opportunity: [Your Long-Term Goals, Where You See Yourself] 5.3 Talk about how you plan to achieve these goals: [Specific Steps or Strategies]
• Closing 6.1 Summarize why you believe you’re the best fit for the opportunity: [Recap of Your Main Points] 6.2 Express your enthusiasm for the potential to join the program/job/institution: [Personal Statement on Your Excitement] 6.3 Thank the reader for their consideration and time: [Gratitude Statement]

Please Note: Each section should be written in a coherent and logical manner, ensuring a smooth transition between the sections. Remember to keep the overall tone professional and make sure to proofread the statement for clarity, grammar, and punctuation. Ensure the statement authentically represents your goals, experiences, and personality.

Before You Begin

You only have one opportunity to impress the admissions committee, which means you should get your statement of purpose right the first time. To do this, you must start preparing early by:

• Researching the institution to which you are applying (through the school website) and familiarizing yourself with their vision, mission, and values.
• Going through the statement of purpose requirements and instructions and noting down the recommended length, content, and due date.
• Contacting the appropriate school authority to ask for clarification on the instructions you don’t understand.
• Identifying possible mentors from the school faculty page and contacting them.
• Begin working on your statement of purpose 6 to 8 weeks before the due date so you can write, edit, and re-edit it until it is perfect.
• Preparing a list of the qualifications and experiences you will highlight in your statement.
• Making copies of all relevant documentation.

How to Write a Statement of Purpose

A statement of purpose holds the same format as an academic structure. The information should be presented in an easy-to-follow manner and divided into the following segments:

Introduction

The introduction should capture the reader’s attention and convince them to keep reading. It should briefly introduce you to them and layout the basis of what you will cover in the body.

The body should go into detail about the preview provided in the introduction. Try to focus on 2 or 3 experiences and explain how they have informed your decision to join the program. As you outline these points, address the following four elements:

• Your interest in the program and institution
• Your academic preparation and professional experience (e.g., internships)
• Your qualities, strengths, and weaknesses
• Your career plans

Remember to be specific, providing examples where they apply.

Lastly, your conclusion should summarize everything you have written and tie it in with the impact joining the institution will have on your personal and professional life. It should also leave the reader intrigued and wanting to learn more about you.

Statement of Purpose Do’s & Don’ts

• Start early
• Maintain notes of the experiences and achievements you will use in your statement.
• Provide a summary of your achievements
• Be specific to the program and institution
• Write honestly
• Avoid grammatical and spelling errors
• Present an image of yourself with which you are comfortable
• Be interesting, passionate, and unique
• Elaborate possible areas of concern such as a failed test
• Proofread, edit, and re-write your statement until you are satisfied with the draft.
• Have two or three people read your statement
• Read your statement before the interview so you remember the content.

Don’t:

• Overlook the statement of purpose
• Let someone else write it for you
• Wait too long to start writing it
• Highlight achievements that are not relevant to your application
• Go off-topic
• Be too general in a statement being sent to a particular institution.

The typical statement of purpose is between 500 to 1,000 words long. However, many institutions provide specific instructions about the preferred length of the statement of purpose. Check the provided requirements and adhere to them.

Technically, no. Your statement of purpose is part of your application which has your name. However, you can include your name if the program instructions call for it.

It is not necessary to sign the statement of purpose because it will be attached to your application letter, which will bear your signature. Nonetheless, there is no law against it.

Some things you should keep out of your statement of purpose include: Contractions (mustn’t, shouldn’t, isn’t, don’t) Slang and colloquial expressions that are not used in formal writing. Statements you would not repeat in a one-on-one interview Exaggerated accounts of your role during an internship program Controversial opinions (unless they are directly related to your area of study)

Final Thoughts

A statement of purpose is a personal essay that should set you apart from the crowd of applicants. It should offer a view of your full range of achievements and experience, explaining how getting into the school will help you achieve your dreams. Finally, it should be entirely about you, to the point, and written per the school’s instructions.

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Statement of purpose

The statement of purpose is a short essay that should be customized for each program you apply to. it will be evaluated by the graduate program faculty, so present yourself as someone who will be a good fit for the program., crafting a strong statement of purpose.

Your statement of purpose is an important part of your UC graduate school application. Be sure to write a polished essay so you'll make a good first impression when you apply. Each application is different, but a good Statement of Purpose shouuld contain the following elements: 

• Introduction: Indicate the degree you want to earn and the topic you want to study. Describe your research and how graduate school will help you reach your career goals, as well as the contribution you will make to the program.
• Accomplishments: Summarize your achievements, including research projects, classes or work that stimulated your desire for graduate studies during your undergraduate or master’s career.
• Referrals: If you've received encouragement from professors in the program you would like to enter, mention that as well.
• Format: Modify your statement of purpose for each application you submit, carefully following the guidelines and instructions, which may vary from program to program. Typically, your essay should be one to two pages, single-spaced, using a 12-point font that's easy to read; but make sure to confirm the institutions formatting requirements. Proofread to make sure there are no typos or grammatical errors.

A few writing helpful tips

Writing a statement of purpose can be intimidating, but the following tips can help you create a strong statment that highlights your readiness to begin your graduate education. 

• Address your audience: Your primary audience is the faculty in the program to which you are applying. Treat your statement of purpose as an application to work with a specific professor in that department or scholarly field. Be compelling and clear.
• Provide specific examples: Rather than simply saying you are a high achiever, for example, describe a project on which you exceeded a professor’s expectations. If your grades suffered because of a misfortune, such as an illness, explain how you persevered. You can describe a mistake that taught you a valuable lesson — but don’t make excuses. Be positive and concise.

“I want to ensure that we have nutritious food to eat now and in the future. Studying in California and at UC Davis, I am able to work at the forefront of technology, science and service to the community.”

• TemplateLab
• Statement Of Purpose

50 Statement Of Purpose Examples (Graduate School, MBA, PhD)

Many students applying for a graduate school course are usually requested to write an essay about who they are, their purpose of applying, the reasons why they consider themselves as qualified candidates and their aspirations for the future. This application essay is also known as a Statement of Purpose letter. There are several statement of purpose examples available if you need a reference.

Table of Contents

• 1 Statement Of Purpose Examples
• 2 Purpose and format of statement of purpose
• 3 Statement Of Purpose Formats
• 4 Tips for writing statement of purpose
• 5 Statement Of Purpose Templates
• 6 How to prepare effective content for the statement of purpose?
• 7 Statement Of Purpose Vs Personal Statement
• 8 Statement Of Purpose Samples

Statement Of Purpose Examples

Purpose and format of statement of purpose

Statement of Purpose examples don’t just present you as an aspiring contender. They also showcase your writing skills. Graduate school and college entail a lot of serious writing. It’s not remarkable for students at this level to write reports and papers that can be 10-20 pages long.

Bearing this requirement in mind, you will need to show in your statement of purpose format that you’re truly an able writer. Here are some tips you may consider when composing your statement of purpose template:

• Check your document for any grammatical or spelling errors.
• Use clear, succinct, and strong language.
• Avoid using repetitive language and clichés.
• Keep formality in your language.
• Always maintain a confident and positive tone

The general statement of purpose format is a lot like any other type of academic document. You must use:

• Times New Roman font with 12-point size.
• 1-inch margins on all sides of the document.
• 1.5-inch line spacing throughout the document.

This general format makes your writing more readable and is also an expected format in letters of this type. Unfortunately, an applicant won’t get extra points for rendering a letter with standing visual formats. It is, therefore, more important to concentrate on impressing the reader with the actual substance of your statement of purpose template.

Statement Of Purpose Formats

Tips for writing statement of purpose

Often, you might get confronted with the issue on what to include in your statement of purpose letter. You may look at different statement of purpose examples to get inspiration and to know exactly how to go about writing the document. To guide you further, here are some tips for for writing an effective statement of purpose examples

• First paragraph: all about you Start by introducing yourself with a short background, then state your current career objective or goal . Make sure that this introduction relates to the program you’re aspiring for. When comparing statement of purpose vs personal statement, this is the main difference. For instance, you don’t talk about how much you love animals when you plan to apply to medical school. All the information contained in the introduction should have something to do with the specific aspect of the program you’re applying for. This means that you have to do thorough research on the program. This ensures that anything you include on the document relates directly to the details included in the program.
• Second paragraph: your reasons for applying The next thing to include in your statement of purpose template is an explanation of the reasons why you became interested in this specific field of study. In the first section, you stated your goal and background related to the program. Here, you provide an explanation of your interest. This is the reason why you’re writing a statement of purpose, to inform the admission officers the reasons you’re applying. Avoid giving reasons that are too general as this only confuses admission officers on your purpose. Furthermore, they won’t see you as a good candidate but just as part of a group who just provides too many reasons. If you understand your own reasons for applying and you specify them as much as you can, you can easily convince admission officers that you’re the correct choice.
• Third and fourth paragraphs: why you’re the best candidate In the third section, you can open up on your personal experiences that have relevance to the area of study you want. Take these from your past jobs, projects , internships, and so on. However, some people may not be able to come up with such applicable experiences. If this was your case, talk to other people, friends, and relatives who know you very well. They may help in ferreting out some significant experiences you’ve had. You can describe in the fourth paragraph any other experience you’ve had which helped you decide on the field of study or have helped you in preparing for graduate studies. But be as concise as possible in expounding on this topic as the letter is not the right forum to narrate long stories.
• Closing paragraph: future plans In the final section of the letter, take time to concisely explain your long-term objectives, career-wise. Be very specific and clear when writing about this topic. You may notice the objective here is very different from your current goal in the first paragraph. In the beginning, you talked about your present desires or actions and the goal in this final paragraph refers to what you’re planning to achieve. In the concluding paragraph, you discuss what you want in the future.

Statement Of Purpose Templates

How to prepare effective content for the statement of purpose?

Never take for granted the value of statement of purpose examples. You have to compose this document perfectly and in conformity with the statement of purpose format. Most students think it’s just another essay assignment where they talk about themselves. But as aforementioned, when considering a statement of purpose vs personal statement, the former is more important.

Statement Of Purpose Vs Personal Statement

An effective letter gives the impression that you’re interested in letting the recipient know how much you want to study in their institution.

• Write stories instead of statements Most people would rather read a novel than a newspaper. While the latter can only offer you news and an eye-catching headline, the former tells a story which you can relate to. This applies as well to statement of purpose letters. Given a storyline, you can imagine yourself in place of the narrator or character. You then understand why he had made such decisions in his life. Moreover, stories are better remembered than statements.
• Quantify the stories you write As you write these stories, they should serve as a source of information about you. When it comes to information, it comes down to a game of numbers. This means that your narration should contain measurable quantities instead of just stories. This way, the reader understands you better if you add more depth to your statement of purpose.
• Be specific Everything you say in your statement of purpose should be specific. Don’t include irrelevant stuff just to impress the admissions committee. Whatever you say must have supporting details. Be as introspective as possible but also, explain things clearly. Be direct and straightforward with your explanations without having to sound arrogant. As for your reasons, make sure to word them properly by finding a memorable way to say it.
• Customize your document One of the worst mistakes when sending out statement of purpose examples is preparing a basic template and sending the same to multiple recipients. All you change are the relevant names and details. Aside from these, the rest of the document remains the same. This is never a recommended idea for the simple reason that you will send the statement to different places which are very different from one another.
• Use a formal but conversational tone Don’t be too formal and stiff with the language of your statement of purpose. As mentioned earlier, it should read like a story using a slightly formal language. Add a tinge of fun and uniqueness. Write it with a conversational tone, like when you’re talking to someone, but remember to avoid using casual language.
• Don’t invent information about yourself A statement of purpose should serve as a medium that communicates your personality, attitude, and character to the admissions committee. Although it’s a good idea to make your statement in the form of a story, this doesn’t mean you should create one. Never inject lies in your statement. Only write stories that have factual bases. If you have something great to write, then do so. If you don’t have anything, don’t.
• Talk about the problems you have faced in the past The statement also affords you the opportunity to focus on some problems you’ve faced. Share your shortcomings like issues with your academic background, a gap in your career or any other issues that you can talk about to reassure the admissions committee. Not everyone has a clean background, so it’s best to be as honest and straightforward as possible. Explain these issues in a mature way. Indicate the reasons which led to your issues. This is better than constantly defending yourself about the same. More importantly, though, talk about how you overcame these predicaments and what you have learned from these experiences. You should highlight these in your statement.
• Ask your family and friends to proofread and make suggestions to your essay Get your family and friends involved by requesting them to proofread, or maybe even critique, your work. Remember that your statement of purpose speaks about you as one person. The close people around may not be as adept on technical lingo but one thing is for sure. They’re all experts on “you.” This is the exact reason why you should seek their assistance.

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WTO / Business / Statements / 24 Best Statement of Purpose (SOP) Examples

24 Best Statement of Purpose (SOP) Examples

A Statement of Purpose is an essay written by an individual applying for university or graduate school as part of their application.

The statement of purpose helps to provide the admissions committee with more details about the writer of the essay, why they are applying, why they think they are great applicants, and their future professional goals.

These titles also sometimes refer to it:

• Statement of intent
• Application essay
• Personal background
• Objectives for graduate study
• Cover letter

It is a critical essay. It acts as the deciding factor for universities as they go through the many applications they receive from potential students. With a properly written SOP letter, an applicant can stand a chance to get into the university or graduate school of their choice.

Free Templates

Statement of Purpose Vs. Personal Statement

There is a difference between a statement of purpose and a personal statement . A well-written statement of purpose, for example, addresses the writer’s intentions for their future endeavors, while a personal statement reviews their previous activities and successes.

Both writings usually describe the individual’s skills, knowledge, and experience. However, an effective personal statement example should focus on details about the ‘who’ aspect, while the statement of purpose should focus on the individual’s ‘what’ side.

The personal statement is written in a more personal tone as it focuses on the person compared to a statement of purpose, which is more formal and addresses the reasons why the person wants to study and what they want to do after earning their education.

Essential Writing Considerations

To craft a proper one and stand out among other applicants, the writer should observe the following essential considerations:

Write stories, not statements

The writer should focus on telling a story instead of just placing statements throughout the essay. Telling a story is more exciting and will grab the admissions committee’s attention. The essay should be well-crafted and beautiful to read.

Stories are more memorable than statements, which is why the writer should describe themselves like a narrator would describe a character in a story. The reasons for applying to a university or graduate school will help the writer craft a great story.

The writer should focus on the reason as to why they want to study and powerfully write this reason. The reason could be emotional, economic, or of any other type.

The important thing that the writer should focus on is creating a connection between their desire to study and the reason behind it.

Quantify your stories

The perfect one should be crafted like a story with qualitative and quantitative information. The story should contain measurable quantities like the actual grades or the number of years spent doing something. With such numbers in the story, the reader will be able to have an in-depth understanding.

Also, such information makes the story more believable and authentic. Quantifying the story gives it more authority and makes it unforgettable.

Be specific

Even though the perfect one should be crafted like a story, the writer should avoid making it sound like story-time with friends; therefore, be specific. Everything that is mentioned in the essay should have an objective. That means that the content of the SOP letter should be written in detail and with a particular intention.

Being straightforward will help the committee understand all the reasons the writer has for making such a big decision : applying to college, university, or graduate school. However, the writer should also be reflective by explaining why they to study.

This can be accomplished by listing the skills and objectives they hope to achieve by studying that particular course. The applicant should be straightforward by avoiding ideal or cheesy sentences, as they would when talking to their friends.

Being specific also involves sharing a memorable and distinctive reason why the applicant wishes to pursue that particular field. The admissions officer will be more pleased with a statement of purpose that highlights the applicant’s dream and amazes them with their way of thinking when it comes to making such a life-changing decision.

Customize your essay

Students usually fail to customize the template. That means they prefer to attain one template/example and then change the relevant details to match their application. This will reduce your chances of being considered as a potential student.

Most universities are different and customizing an example will place the writer at an advantage. The applicant can write an essay that fits the university or college’s specific culture, values, vision, mission, and even motto with a customized one. Potential students should do their research and customize each essay example based on their application instead of copying and pasting.

Use a formal but conversational tone

The essay should neither be super formal nor super friendly. It is not a letter to an individual in the military or a text to a friend. It should, however, have a formal yet conversational tone. The essay should respectfully address the recipient while still presenting its content in a relaxed tone.

The writer should avoid too much humor, causal language, and jokes. The tone should be severe in a way that does not put the reader off due to boredom. This can be achieved by using a conversational tone that makes the essay sound warm, funny, and welcoming to read.

Portray yourself indirectly

The candidate writing this essay should learn how to portray themselves and do it indirectly. Being too obvious will make the recipient view you as arrogant and being too shy or polite will make you seem less confident. Therefore, the recipient will not only focus on the content of the essay but also on how the writing was done.

A few criteria will be observed when gauging who the writer is, and some of them include being remarkable, being successful, having potential, and being responsible. Again, using already prepared examples in such a situation will help to portray the student clearly but indirectly.

Don’t lie; be yourself 

The stories being crafted should be truthful, not created ones. If the writer lacks excellent stories, they should write their everyday stories creatively instead of coming up with non-existent experiences.

If the committee detects that the writer is lying and pretending in their essay, this might affect the whole application. A false applicant can be spotted, and even though the essay is excellent, it will not impress the admissions committee. In addition, evidence is always required for any given story in the essay, which means creating stories will negatively affect the application.

Address your problems

Another important factor to consider when writing a statement of purpose is acknowledging and addressing any problems or challenges experienced. Whether academic or work-related, it shows a level of humility and honesty if the writer addresses their problems. This way, the potential student can convince the admissions committee of their problem-solving abilities.

Writers should not try to defend themselves when making mistakes. Instead, they should highlight all the lessons learned while resolving the issues they faced. Addressing the problems also makes the potential student seem mature and adaptive to different situations.

Writing an Effective Statement of Purpose

A truly effective statement of purpose maximizes the chances of being shortlisted for admission. In addition, with a well-written one, the potential student can increase their chances of joining grad school, pursuing their dream, and accomplishing their goals.

With the essential considerations of writing it in mind, here are steps that an applicant should follow to craft an effective essay:

Introduce your interests and motivations

The first part of the SOP letter should introduce the applicant, his/her interests, and motivations. This section should be brief and straight to the point. The student should give details of their background, their goals, and what encourages them to pursue their goals. All this should be in line with the course they are applying for.

Summarize your career in the past

The next part should provide information about the student’s academic and work achievements. The student should have details of any research they conducted , their thesis projects, and the work experience they gathered after completing their undergraduate studies.

These details should relate to the university, college, or graduate school program they want to study. The student should also show a relationship between their academic and work experience and their current study choice. Finally, they should highlight how their experience influenced their interest in the field they want to study.

Explain why you are the right fit

The student should explain why they are the right candidate for the program and how it will benefit the learning institution to choose them. This can be done by listing all academic accomplishments, jobs, and internships in line with the field.

Also, adding other relevant experiences and examples will help convince the admissions committee. The student should expound on the interests and motivations mentioned in the beginning as part of the reasons that make them qualified and suitable candidates for the program.

Relate your recent and current activities

The potential student should then mention all their recent activities and achievements that align with the area of study they have applied for. Any career adventures and further studies they have undertaken recently should be well highlighted and discussed.

The writer should not forget to indicate how all those activities they were involved in recently helped prepare them for their university or college studies.

Elaborate on academic interests

The final part is to focus on their academic interests. The statement of purpose is meant to increase an applicant’s chances of being selected for the program they have applied for. That is why the potential student should elaborate more on their academic interests at the end to leave the recipient with a positive impression.

Information such as potential student’s areas of interest, like research they would like to conduct, and details about their prospective department, like the professors and the program.

The student should always end it in a positive way that indicates their excitement and expectations to join the institution.

Statement of Purpose Example

Here is a sample of a statement of purpose that students can use when preparing their essays.

I am (full name) from (place), born in (year). I am a candidate interested in studying (mention the program) at your (name of university) for a bachelor’s degree (name the level of program) as from (mention the semester and year). I have always been amazed by the way journalists are always first at getting and sharing information.

My interest in media and journalism first emerged from watching the news and reading books. Sitting with my family at home, watching the news while we ate dinner and told each other about our day, propelled the dream I sought to pursue. I am eager to pursue this field so as to fulfill my ambition of being able to gather truthful and objective news in a timely manner. Being able to give another family, just like mine, the same satisfaction would be a dream come true.

I graduated from high school with honors with a GPA of 3.6 and I am now ready to start my bachelor’s degree. After graduating, I spent most of my time completing some important short courses that I believed would better my mission to pursue media and journalism. For 3 months, I completed a computer course and also learned how to articulate properly. I took another short course to improve my Math skills for a period of 2 months. I also spent about 6 months learning and becoming fluent in about 14 foreign languages. I had to juggle between helping my father run his business and still succeeding in all these short courses. The art of time management was a great aspect that I learned during this period.

I applied to this university since I believe that here is where dreams come true. I believe that I am the right candidate for the program based on my passion, qualifications, and interests. I plan to share the knowledge I gather with other interested parties and even guide others like me to enroll in the program. I desire to further my education as I continue working while gaining practical skills and experiences from my internships.

With the subjects I studied in high school and the short courses I took as I waited for the right time to apply for the program, I believe that all that I experienced helped shape me for this opportunity. From having to learn new languages and even focusing on improving my math skills, I know now how essential it is to not give up. My improved fluency, articulation skills, and even writing skills that I have learned have prepared me for this program.

Once selected for the program, my plan is to focus on gathering both theoretical and practical knowledge regarding (your chosen field). After completing my Bbachelors degree, getting a Master’s degree is the top of my priority. I would like to venture on the subject of how the best journalists can report objectively even in the midst of the emotions that result from their human nature. I believe that your university will offer me the best chance of succeeding in my research.

My hope is that you will consider me and make a favorable decision regarding my application to join this esteemed university in order for me to pursue the fields of (your chosen field). I am confident that a positive response will be the first step towards a bright future for both my academic and work experience.

Tips for Writing an Effective Statement of Purpose

When writing a statement of purpose, here are some tips a writer can use to format their essay to make it perfect and effective:

Formal language

Observe formal language. The language should not be stiff but official yet welcoming. In addition, the formal language should be crafted in a way that makes the essay unique.

Do your homework

Potential students should do their homework before they write the essay. They should research everything they need to know about the universities or graduate schools they are applying to. They should also have information about their program and the facilities and professors available for that program.

Take advice

If the potential student knows any professors from the grad school they are applying to, they should reach out to them. This way, they can gather more information about the best way to craft the essay. Also, the professors are likely to offer them appropriate advice that will benefit their application.

Continuity and focus           

The student should ensure that their essay does not sound like an ending. However, it should be formatted to highlight the continuity and focus of what will be achieved after the student gets selected for the program at the particular learning institution.

Demonstrate everything by example

Showing examples is the best way to sell academic successes, work achievements, and even personal character. Therefore, a student should not only state them but also give examples for everything. This adds more authenticity and honesty, which also makes the essay outstanding and unforgettable.

Positive perspective

The applicant should ensure their essay is written from a positive perspective. That means, even when highlighting challenges or problems, a positive perspective should be maintained. Such a student is likely to stand out from the rest due to their optimistic nature.

Use active voice, not passive

Since a statement of purpose is best crafted like a story, it is advisable to use an active voice. Using the active voice instead of the passive voice will help the student have a more concise and straight-to-the-point essay. Also, active voice makes reading the essay more straightforward and faster and gives it a more narrative feel than passive voice.

Proofread, edit, and re-edit

After completing the essay, it is best to proofread, edit, and even re-edit it. A different perspective is important in identifying and correcting any hidden mistakes. That means that they should ask their friends and family to grade their essays. Also, these people can help the applicant with more examples that they might not remember; hence, they will better the statement of purpose.

Do’s and Don’ts of a Statement of Purpose

Here is a list of what an applicant should do when dealing with this essay:

• Format the essay It is important to format the essay using the tips provided above.          
• Formal language – the essay should be written in a formal language. The student should avoid making the language stiff but should maintain an official and conversational tone.
• Check grammar and spelling- proofreading is important. This way, the potential student will avoid any spelling and grammar mistakes.      
• Space the text – while writing the essay’s content, spacing the text is necessary. It will make the essay neat and readable.
• Use readable font – to ensure the recipient goes through the whole statement of purpose, the writer should use a readable font. This is the first impression, and it should be positive.
• Use a beautiful or awkward font – while trying to impress the admissions committee, using a beautiful or awkward font will not help. Instead, it will only make them cringe and fail to read it.
• Submit half-backed paper – since this essay is an important part of the application process, a candidate should only submit a well-written one and not a half-backed paper.
• Pretend as you write a message to your buddy – the statement of purpose should not contain anything fabricated or made-up of the stories people share with their friends. Every story should be truthful since evidence will be needed for all of it.
• Use overcomplicated language and sentence constructions – a student should use simple and easy-to-understand language. There are many applications that the admissions committee is going through. Writing the essay using overcomplicated language and sentence constructions may prevent the recipient from reading it.
• Apply colorful and vivid background – a colorful and vivid background is not advisable as it is distractive and will not allow the recipient to focus on the essay’s importance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Since the statement of purpose is part of a more significant application for grad school, there is no need to add your name. However, if there are instructions for writing the SOP letter and the name is required, it should be written.

You should not title it since there is no need for it; unless asked by the provided requirements from the learning institution, you are applying to.

It should be between one and a half to two pages, which makes 500 words enough.

Any information, details, facts, or data that do not make sense and are just there to fill the essay should not be included when writing the SOP letter.

It should be written in about five paragraphs, with two of these paragraphs being the introduction and the closing paragraph.

It should not be longer than two pages.

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Statement of Purpose for Graduate School

Criteria for success.

•   qualified for their program, and
• a good fit for their program’s focus and goals.
• You show a select group of skills and experiences that concisely convey your scientific accomplishments and interests.
• Your experiences are concrete and quantitative .
• Your personal statement is no more than 2 pages (less if you can, or if it is required by the school).

Structure Diagram

The graduate school Personal Statement (≈ Statement of Purpose ≈ Statement of Intent) is a document that complements your resume and application form, describing your profile in a narrative way and convincing the admission committee that you would be a good match for a particular department or program. Take into account that matching goes both ways: they should be interested in you, and you should be interested in them. Your personal statement should make this match clear.

Analyze Your Audience

Your personal statement will be read by a graduate committee – a handful of faculty from the program. They’re trying to determine if you will be a successful graduate student in their department and a successful scientist after you graduate. They are interested in your qualifications as a researcher, your career goals, and how your personality matches their labs and department.

The graduate committee probably reads hundreds of applications every year. To make it easy for them to figure out that you are a good fit, keep in mind the following suggestions:

• Make direct, concrete statements about your accomplishments and qualifications.
• Create a narrative that serves as a personal brand and helps them remember you.
• Give them some unique examples that describe you and make you stand out, and which will make them remember you as “that candidate that was so passionate about…” or “who has a lot of experience in…”, although they might not remember your name.
• Align your academic goals and motivations with specific research projects or research directions of the target department. 

Assessing your match to the target program

A key point on writing your Personal Statement is to demonstrate that you have done previous research about the program to which you’re applying, that you understand its characteristics and objectives, and that you are really interested in joining it and willing to do your best to be successful in it. To do this:

• Read the program’s website. Learn about its faculty members and the projects they are working on. Check what topics and high level goals the department is committed to. Identify the main research areas. 
• Get in contact with faculty and students in your target program. Browse recent publications and presentations but remember lab websites can be outdated and a publication may lag a few years behind the active research in a lab so pay attention to the motivation, direction, and methods of the faculty member over specific results. If you have had a positive discussion with someone at the department, you can include in your essay how those interactions confirmed that you would be a good match for the program.

Reflect before you start

To convince a graduate committee that you are ready for and excited about graduate school, first you need to be able to articulate this to yourself. Earnestly reflect on the following types of questions. A lack of authenticity is easy to detect. 

• Why do I want to go to graduate school? 
• How am I sure?
• Why will I be successful in graduate school?
• What can I do with the help of this degree that I couldn’t do before?
• Where do I want to be in a few years?
• How am I going to get there?

Create a personal narrative

Graduate programs invest in the professional and scientific growth of their students. Get the committee excited about investing in you by opening your essay with a brief portrait of what drives you as a scientist. What research directions are you passionate about, and why? What do you picture yourself doing in 10 years?

• E.g. “Graduate study is the first step towards my goal: I want to improve my ability as a researcher and gain more technical depth and breadth to maximize my impact. In the long term, I hope graduate school will better position me to be a leader in shaping the conversation about what problems can be addressed by mechanical engineers.”

Close your essay with a 2-3 sentence discussion of your long-term career interests. No one will hold you to this; this just helps your committee visualize your potential trajectory.

• E.g. “Above all else, a MIT PhD would help me achieve my long term career goal of becoming a professor, the position in which I can best see myself accomplishing my mission to show others the hidden beauty in everyday life through science.”

Connect your personal narrative to whichever degree you are applying to (be it research-based or course-work-based, or a Master of Science, Master of Engineering, or PhD). Especially in mechanical engineering, each of these degrees will enable different career trajectories and provide different educational opportunities. Articulate clearly why the degree you are applying for helps you achieve your goals. In the same vein, consider mutual benefit: what will you contribute to the academic community over your time at your target school? Remember, it all comes back to “qualified match” , no matter what level of degree you are applying for. 

Describe your experiences

Experiences are the “what” of your essay. They are the most efficient and easiest way to prove your capabilities to the admissions committee.

• What experiences led you to develop your skill set and passions ?
• Where have you demonstrated accomplishment, leadership, and collaboration?
• Show your depth with a range of experiences: research, teaching, relevant extracurriculars and leadership positions.
• State concrete achievements and outcomes like awards, discoveries, or publications, or projects completed.

Achievements need not be limited to research projects or publications. Think about all the experiences that demonstrate your ability to conduct research and succeed within the structure of your target program. (Where have you demonstrated creativity? Self sufficiency? Perseverance? What open ended problems have you tackled? What enabled you to succeed at them?)

Quantify your experiences to show concrete impact. How many people were on your team? How many protocols did you develop? How many people were in competition for an award? As a TA, how often did you meet with your students?

For each experience you include, focus on how the experience affected you. Describe your actions, and always direct the message to highlighting your performance and growth (not how important the company was or how well-known the professor you TAed for is). Remember, it is not an essay about science, it is a personal essay—about you and how you have positioned yourself to succeed in graduate school.

Explain the meaning of your experiences

Your goal in sharing your experiences is to demonstrate that you have the qualifications, qualities, and drive needed to succeed in graduate school. Therefore, you will need to not only choose experiences wisely but also state specifically what they mean within the context of your application.

• Why was this experience important to your growth as a scientist?
• What did you gain from or demonstrate during that experience?
• How will this make you a better grad student?

Even if it feels obvious to you, you need to explicitly answer these questions to your audience. Here are some examples experiences that have been expanded to contain meaning:

Contemplate how disparate activities can be unified into a common narrative about your motivations and achievements. Articulate this clearly to make your statement cohesive.

Demonstrate your match to the target program

Using the research you did to assess your chosen programs, clearly articulate why you are a match . Consider both directions of the match: not only why you want to go to the school, but also why you would fit in well and contribute to the program.

State which professors in the program you would be interested in working with. Demonstrate that you have done your homework regarding the program. Show how their research areas align with your background and your goals. If you have had conversations with students or professors in the program, be sure to include that as well. 

Common Pitfalls

Write about you , not your role models. One of the most common pitfalls we see in the Comm Lab is students writing touching Personal Statements about family members or role models who have inspired them. There is nothing wrong with including personal stories about people who have helped you understand yourself better, or positioned you to succeed in graduate school, but it is important to tread very carefully. Don’t leave the reader wondering why they are reading about someone else in a document that is meant to be about you. If you take time to talk about someone who positively affected you, make sure to be very clear about how that experience with that person molded you into a strong graduate school candidate.

Be judicious with childhood stories. A brief mention of some childhood experience that shaped your interests in STEM is probably okay, but if you talk about it at length (more than ~2 sentences), you are taking up space that should probably be used to talk about who you are today, not who you were over a decade ago.

Don’t simply restate your resume. Your Personal Statement should be a technical document (having evidence, numbers, and supporting facts) with personal outcomes (talking about your motivations, ambitions, and ability to succeed as a graduate student). Of course, you will reiterate parts of your resume in your Personal Statement , but what uniquely makes it a “Personal Statement” is the discussion of how those professional experiences affected you , as a researcher and person well-suited to the graduate program at X University.  

Insufficient quantification of your experiences. We are all scientists and engineers; our line of work is inherently quantitative. Quantification is a quick and easy way to add context, lend credence to your experiences, and impress the reader. Even little quantifications can help: “I spent two semesters working on a project about…” is much better than “I spent some time working on a project about…”. See more examples in the section on Experiences, above.

Being a great student and having an impressive resume is only half the battle when it comes to graduate school applications. You need to be able to communicate and convince the committee that your personality and particular set of skills and experiences are well-suited to the graduate program you are applying for. This extends beyond graduate school applications: as scientists and engineers, we write papers and technical reports to communicate with our peers and convince them that our work is meaningful.

By reading this article, you have recognized the value of communication and are well on your way to crafting an effective and powerful Personal Statement. This is your opportunity to make yourself shine among all the other candidates, so make it count! You can do it!

Acknowledgements : This content was adapted from the NSE and CEE Communication Labs’ CommKits for graduate applications.

Resources and Annotated Examples

Annotated example 1, annotated example 2.

Writing an Outstanding Statement of Purpose

Previously: Revising your Resume, CV, or Biosketch

By Dr.  William Wittels , Program Manager, The Leadership Alliance

The statement of purpose is one of the most important elements of your application. This article offers a framework for thinking about your statement that should help you write a memorable and effective one.

Your statement of purpose is your only opportunity to tell application reviewers your story in your own words. Knowing your story makes your application much more memorable and, as a result, helps you stand out from the larger application pool. Moreover, it is your best opportunity to tell the application reviewers why you are a good fit for their program. They are planning to invest significant resources in the graduate students that they admit. Knowing that you are applying to their programs for compelling reasons is a central motivation for every decision to accept.

Focus on articulating three kinds of fit:

• The fit between you and your chosen field (i.e., why you want to get a PhD in your chosen field and are likely to excel in it).
• The fit between you and the program to which you are applying (i.e., why this particular program will be the best place for you to go).
• The fit between the program and your plans after graduate school (i.e., why this particular program will be the best launching pad for your research and teaching career).

Think of the statement of purpose as a narrative, with you as the protagonist. Part of that narrative is your story of who you are, why you want to get a PhD in your chosen field, and the experiences that led to and deepened your desire for getting a PhD. The other part of the narrative describes why going to the program to which you are applying will result in your becoming a thriving scholar in your chosen field.

To the end of telling that narrative,  many statements of purpose  follow a similar, four-part structure.

• Introduce yourself and your motivations. Articulate your fascination with the questions that bring you to your field of study and root that fascination in an experience or set of experiences. You are the protagonist of this narrative. You need to show your readers what motivates you on this journey.
• Develop your backstory. Here you should summarize your previous academic, work, and volunteer experiences. For PhD programs, be sure to highlight any research experiences you have. This section should not read like a laundry list of the items already on your resume. Pick the most important experiences and highlight them.
• Connect your backstory to your next chapter. Elaborate upon your experiences to show why they are relevant to graduate school. If you are highlighting your accomplishments as an undergraduate, focus on why they have put you in a position to thrive in graduate school. If you have taken time off for work or a post-baccalaureate course of study, explain how those experiences have prepared you for graduate school, particularly if you are changing fields.
• Preview your next chapter. Describe what, if admitted, you plan to study. Be specific both about the questions you would like to research and why the program is a good fit for that. Carefully study the current research of the faculty and be sure to highlight the research interests of three of them in your statement.

Throughout this narrative, be as specific as possible about your experiences and intentions. Use a formal, but conversational tone. Do not try to impress with technical jargon or disciplinary vocabulary. Be selective in your choices of what to highlight. You will not have enough space to follow a “more is better” strategy when choosing experiences and interests to emphasize. If you have a poor grade or two on your transcript, feel empowered to explain the reasons behind that grade if it reinforces your overall narrative as a researcher. For example, particularly intense volunteering may have distracted you from your coursework while also sparking the research interest that has led you to apply to grad school. If the explanation for the grade is personal, such as an illness or a death in the family, try to address it in an addendum to your application.

Be sure to proofread multiple times and have multiple people review your statement. Ask roommates, friends, or coworkers to read for clarity and grammar. Ask one of your undergraduate mentors to give you feedback on how you are describing the three kinds of fit discussed above. Above all, be true to who you are, what you have done, and what you want to do. If you get accepted on the basis of an inauthentic statement, you will likely find yourself in a graduate program that is a poor fit for you and will stifle your growth as a scholar. You want to join a program in which you will thrive. A compelling, authentic statement of purpose will help you toward that goal.

Action Items

• Focus on writing a narrative of how your experiences shaped your interests.
• Connect this narrative to the program. Cite the research interests of three of them in your statement.
• Proofread multiple times and ask multiple people to read your statement.

Up next: Getting your Writing Sample Right

• Mail to someone

9 Examples: How to Write a Purpose Statement

By Status.net Editorial Team on September 30, 2023 — 15 minutes to read

• Key Elements of a Purpose Statement Part 1
• How to Write a Purpose Statement Step-by-Step Part 2
• Identifying Your Goals Part 3
• Defining Your Audience Part 4
• Outlining Your Methods Part 5
• Stating the Expected Outcomes Part 6
• Purpose Statement Example for a Research Paper Part 7
• Purpose Statement Example For Personal Goals Part 8
• Purpose Statement Example For Business Objectives Part 9
• Purpose Statement Example For an Essay Part 10
• Purpose Statement Example For a Proposal Part 11
• Purpose Statement Example For a Report Part 12
• Purpose Statement Example For a Project Part 13
• Purpose Statement Templates Part 14

A purpose statement is a vital component of any project, as it sets the tone for the entire piece of work. It tells the reader what the project is about, why it’s important, and what the writer hopes to achieve.

Part 1 Key Elements of a Purpose Statement

When writing a purpose statement, there are several key elements that you should keep in mind. These elements will help you to create a clear, concise, and effective statement that accurately reflects your goals and objectives.

1. The Problem or Opportunity

The first element of a purpose statement is the problem or opportunity that you are addressing. This should be a clear and specific description of the issue that you are trying to solve or the opportunity that you are pursuing.

2. The Target Audience

The second element is the target audience for your purpose statement. This should be a clear and specific description of the group of people who will benefit from your work.

3. The Solution

The third element is the solution that you are proposing. This should be a clear and specific description of the action that you will take to address the problem or pursue the opportunity.

4. The Benefits

The fourth element is the benefits that your solution will provide. This should be a clear and specific description of the positive outcomes that your work will achieve.

5. The Action Plan

The fifth element is the action plan that you will follow to implement your solution. This should be a clear and specific description of the steps that you will take to achieve your goals.

Part 2 How to Write a Purpose Statement Step-by-Step

Writing a purpose statement is an essential part of any research project. It helps to clarify the purpose of your study and provides direction for your research. Here are some steps to follow when writing a purpose statement:

• Start with a clear research question: The first step in writing a purpose statement is to have a clear research question. This question should be specific and focused on the topic you want to research.
• Identify the scope of your study: Once you have a clear research question, you need to identify the scope of your study. This involves determining what you will and will not include in your research.
• Define your research objectives: Your research objectives should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. They should also be aligned with your research question and the scope of your study.
• Determine your research design: Your research design will depend on the nature of your research question and the scope of your study. You may choose to use a qualitative, quantitative, or mixed-methods approach.
• Write your purpose statement: Your purpose statement should be a clear and concise statement that summarizes the purpose of your study. It should include your research question, the scope of your study, your research objectives, and your research design.

Research question: What are the effects of social media on teenage mental health?

Scope of study: This study will focus on teenagers aged 13-18 in the United States.

Research objectives: To determine the prevalence of social media use among teenagers, to identify the types of social media used by teenagers, to explore the relationship between social media use and mental health, and to provide recommendations for parents, educators, and mental health professionals.

Research design: This study will use a mixed-methods approach, including a survey and interviews with teenagers and mental health professionals.

Purpose statement: The purpose of this study is to examine the effects of social media on teenage mental health among teenagers aged 13-18 in the United States. The study will use a mixed-methods approach, including a survey and interviews with teenagers and mental health professionals. The research objectives are to determine the prevalence of social media use among teenagers, to identify the types of social media used by teenagers, to explore the relationship between social media use and mental health, and to provide recommendations for parents, educators, and mental health professionals.

Part 3 Section 1: Identifying Your Goals

Before you start writing your purpose statement, it’s important to identify your goals. To do this, ask yourself the following questions:

• What do I want to achieve?
• What problem do I want to solve?
• What impact do I want to make?

Once you have a clear idea of your goals, you can start crafting your purpose statement. Your purpose statement should be a clear and concise statement that outlines the purpose of your work.

For example, if you’re writing a purpose statement for a business, your statement might look something like this:

“Our purpose is to provide high-quality products and services that improve the lives of our customers and contribute to the growth and success of our company.”

If you’re writing a purpose statement for a non-profit organization, your statement might look something like this:

“Our purpose is to improve the lives of underserved communities by providing access to education, healthcare, and other essential services.”

Remember, your purpose statement should be specific, measurable, and achievable. It should also be aligned with your values and goals, and it should inspire and motivate you to take action.

Part 4 Section 2: Defining Your Audience

Once you have established the purpose of your statement, it’s important to consider who your audience is. The audience for your purpose statement will depend on the context in which it will be used. For example, if you’re writing a purpose statement for a research paper, your audience will likely be your professor or academic peers. If you’re writing a purpose statement for a business proposal, your audience may be potential investors or clients.

Defining your audience is important because it will help you tailor your purpose statement to the specific needs and interests of your readers. You want to make sure that your statement is clear, concise, and relevant to your audience.

To define your audience, consider the following questions:

• Who will be reading your purpose statement?
• What is their level of knowledge or expertise on the topic?
• What are their needs and interests?
• What do they hope to gain from reading your purpose statement?

Once you have a clear understanding of your audience, you can begin to craft your purpose statement with their needs and interests in mind. This will help ensure that your statement is effective in communicating your goals and objectives to your readers.

For example, if you’re writing a purpose statement for a research paper on the effects of climate change on agriculture, your audience may be fellow researchers in the field of environmental science. In this case, you would want to make sure that your purpose statement is written in a way that is clear and concise, using technical language that is familiar to your audience.

Or, if you’re writing a purpose statement for a business proposal to potential investors, your audience may be less familiar with the technical aspects of your project. In this case, you would want to make sure that your purpose statement is written in a way that is easy to understand, using clear and concise language that highlights the benefits of your proposal.

The key to defining your audience is to put yourself in their shoes and consider what they need and want from your purpose statement.

Part 5 Section 3: Outlining Your Methods

After you have identified the purpose of your statement, it is time to outline your methods. This section should describe how you plan to achieve your goal and the steps you will take to get there. Here are a few tips to help you outline your methods effectively:

• Start with a general overview: Begin by providing a brief overview of the methods you plan to use. This will give your readers a sense of what to expect in the following paragraphs.
• Break down your methods: Break your methods down into smaller, more manageable steps. This will make it easier for you to stay organized and for your readers to follow along.
• Use bullet points: Bullet points can help you organize your ideas and make your methods easier to read. Use them to list the steps you will take to achieve your goal.
• Be specific: Make sure you are specific about the methods you plan to use. This will help your readers understand exactly what you are doing and why.
• Provide examples: Use examples to illustrate your methods. This will make it easier for your readers to understand what you are trying to accomplish.

Part 6 Section 4: Stating the Expected Outcomes

After defining the problem and the purpose of your research, it’s time to state the expected outcomes. This is where you describe what you hope to achieve by conducting your research. The expected outcomes should be specific and measurable, so you can determine if you have achieved your goals.

It’s important to be realistic when stating your expected outcomes. Don’t make exaggerated or false claims, and don’t promise something that you can’t deliver. Your expected outcomes should be based on your research question and the purpose of your study.

Here are some examples of expected outcomes:

• To identify the factors that contribute to employee turnover in the company.
• To develop a new marketing strategy that will increase sales by 20% within the next year.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of a new training program for improving customer service.
• To determine the impact of social media on consumer behavior.

When stating your expected outcomes, make sure they align with your research question and purpose statement. This will help you stay focused on your goals and ensure that your research is relevant and meaningful.

In addition to stating your expected outcomes, you should also describe how you will measure them. This could involve collecting data through surveys, interviews, or experiments, or analyzing existing data from sources such as government reports or industry publications.

Part 7 Purpose Statement Example for a Research Paper

If you are writing a research paper, your purpose statement should clearly state the objective of your study. Here is an example of a purpose statement for a research paper:

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of social media on the mental health of teenagers in the United States.

This purpose statement clearly states the objective of the study and provides a specific focus for the research.

Part 8 Purpose Statement Example For Personal Goals

When writing a purpose statement for your personal goals, it’s important to clearly define what you want to achieve and why. Here’s a template that can help you get started:

“I want to [goal] so that [reason]. I will achieve this by [action].”

Example: “I want to lose 10 pounds so that I can feel more confident in my body. I will achieve this by going to the gym three times a week and cutting out sugary snacks.”

Remember to be specific and realistic when setting your goals and actions, and to regularly review and adjust your purpose statement as needed.

Part 9 Purpose Statement Example For Business Objectives

If you’re writing a purpose statement for a business objective, this template can help you get started:

[Objective] [Action verb] [Target audience] [Outcome or benefit]

Here’s an example using this template:

Increase online sales by creating a more user-friendly website for millennial shoppers.

This purpose statement is clear and concise. It identifies the objective (increase online sales), the action verb (creating), the target audience (millennial shoppers), and the outcome or benefit (a more user-friendly website).

Part 10 Purpose Statement Example For an Essay

“The purpose of this essay is to examine the causes and consequences of climate change, with a focus on the role of human activities, and to propose solutions that can mitigate its impact on the environment and future generations.”

This purpose statement clearly states the subject of the essay (climate change), what aspects will be explored (causes, consequences, human activities), and the intended outcome (proposing solutions). It provides a clear roadmap for the reader and sets the direction for the essay.

Part 11 Purpose Statement Example For a Proposal

“The purpose of this proposal is to secure funding and support for the establishment of a community garden in [Location], aimed at promoting sustainable urban agriculture, fostering community engagement, and improving local access to fresh, healthy produce.”

Why this purpose statement is effective:

• The subject of the proposal is clear: the establishment of a community garden.
• The specific goals of the project are outlined: promoting sustainable urban agriculture, fostering community engagement, and improving local access to fresh produce.
• The overall objective of the proposal is evident: securing funding and support.

Part 12 Purpose Statement Example For a Report

“The purpose of this report is to analyze current market trends in the electric vehicle (EV) industry, assess consumer preferences and buying behaviors, and provide strategic recommendations to guide [Company Name] in entering this growing market segment.”

• The subject of the report is provided: market trends in the electric vehicle industry.
• The specific goals of the report are analysis of market trends, assessment of consumer preferences, and strategic recommendations.
• The overall objective of the report is clear: providing guidance for the company’s entry into the EV market.

Part 13 Purpose Statement Example For a Project

“The purpose of this project is to design and implement a new employee wellness program that promotes physical and mental wellbeing in the workplace.”

This purpose statement clearly outlines the objective of the project, which is to create a new employee wellness program. The program is designed to promote physical and mental wellbeing in the workplace, which is a key concern for many employers. By implementing this program, the company aims to improve employee health, reduce absenteeism, and increase productivity. The purpose statement is concise and specific, providing a clear direction for the project team to follow. It highlights the importance of the project and its potential benefits for the company and its employees.

Part 14 Purpose Statement Templates

When writing a purpose statement, it can be helpful to use a template to ensure that you cover all the necessary components:

Template 1: To [action] [target audience] in order to [outcome]

This template is a straightforward way to outline your purpose statement. Simply fill in the blanks with the appropriate information:

• The purpose of […] is
• To [action]: What action do you want to take?
• [Target audience]: Who is your target audience?
• In order to [outcome]: What outcome do you hope to achieve?

For example:

• The purpose of our marketing campaign is to increase brand awareness among young adults in urban areas, in order to drive sales and revenue growth.
• The purpose of our employee training program is to improve customer service skills among our frontline staff, in order to enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty.
• The purpose of our new product launch is to expand our market share in the healthcare industry, by offering a unique solution to the needs of elderly patients with chronic conditions.

Template 2: This [project/product] is designed to [action] [target audience] by [method] in order to [outcome].

This template is useful for purpose statements that involve a specific project or product. Fill in the blanks with the appropriate information:

• This [project/product]: What is your project or product?
• Is designed to [action]: What action do you want to take?
• By [method]: What method will you use to achieve your goal?
• This app is designed to provide personalized nutrition advice to athletes by analyzing their training data in order to optimize performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key elements of a purpose statement.

A purpose statement should clearly communicate the main goal or objective of your writing. It should be concise and specific, providing a clear direction for your work. The key elements of a purpose statement include the topic or subject matter, the intended audience, and the overall goal or objective of your writing.

How can a purpose statement benefit your writing?

A purpose statement can help you stay focused and on track when writing. It can also help you to avoid going off-topic or getting bogged down in unnecessary details. By clearly identifying the main goal or objective of your writing, a purpose statement can help you to stay organized and ensure that your writing is effective and impactful.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when writing a purpose statement?

One common mistake is being too vague or general in your purpose statement. Another mistake is making your purpose statement too long or complex, which can make it difficult to understand. Additionally, it’s important to avoid including unnecessary information or details that are not directly relevant to your main goal or objective.

How can you tailor your purpose statement to your audience?

When writing a purpose statement, it’s important to consider your audience and their needs. You should tailor your purpose statement to your audience by using language and terminology that they will understand. You should also consider their level of knowledge or expertise on the subject matter and adjust your purpose statement accordingly.

What are some effective templates for writing a purpose statement?

There are many effective templates for writing a purpose statement, but one common approach is to use the following structure: “The purpose of this writing is to [insert goal or objective] for [insert audience] regarding [insert topic or subject matter].”

Can you provide examples of successful purpose statements?

• “The purpose of this report is to provide an analysis of the current market trends and make recommendations for future growth strategies for our company.”
• “The purpose of this essay is to explore the impact of social media on modern communication and its implications for society.”
• “The purpose of this proposal is to secure funding for a new community center that will provide educational and recreational opportunities for local residents.”
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Statement of Purpose 

The statement of purpose is very important to programs when deciding whether to admit a candidate. Your statement should be focused, informative, and convey your research interests and qualifications. You should describe your reasons and motivations for pursuing a graduate degree in your chosen degree program, noting the experiences that shaped your research ambitions, indicating briefly your career objectives, and concisely stating your past work in your intended field of study and in related fields. Your degree program of interest may have specific guidance or requirements for the statement of purpose, so be sure to review the degree program page for more information. Unless otherwise noted, your statement should not exceed 1,000 words. 

Personal Statement

Please describe the personal experiences that led you to pursue graduate education and how these experiences will contribute to the academic environment and/or community in your program or Harvard Griffin GSAS. These may include social and cultural experiences, leadership positions, community engagement, equity and inclusion efforts, other opportunities, or challenges. Your statement should be no longer than 500 words.

Please note that there is no expectation to share detailed sensitive information and you should refrain from including anything that you would not feel at ease sharing. Please also note that the Personal Statement should complement rather than duplicate the content provided in the Statement of Purpose. 

Visit Degree Programs and navigate to your degree program of interest to determine if a Personal Statement is required. The degree program pages will be updated by early September indicating if the Personal Statement is required for your program.

Writing Sample 

Please visit Degree Programs and navigate to your degree program of interest to determine if a writing sample is required. When preparing your writing sample, be sure to follow program requirements, which may include format, topic, or length. 

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