Tuesday, March 5, 2013

Tips On Writing Application Letters

Having a great applicaton letter means better chances of acceptance.


A college admissions essay that stands out from the pack can boost your chances of getting into the school of your dreams. Even if your grades and extra-curriculars are less than stellar, a well-written and crafted essay can convince a college admissions team that you're vibrant, unique and serious about your education. There are a number of ways you can make a lasting impression with your essay.


Stick to the College's Guidelines


The application essay shoud follow all guidelines.








The first thing to remember in writing an effective application essay is to stick to the college or university's guidelines. The admissions team reads hundreds of applications each year, and they don't want to see an application that ignores their requirements. So follow length and format requirements--600 words doesn't mean 1,500 words. If you're asked to write on something specific, be sure to stay on topic.


Make Your Essay Unique


Provide a clear main idea in the essay.


Your letter should have a theme--you. Craft it to show your eagerness to learn, your goal-driven personality and desire to succeed in college. A good personal touch is to be specific about why you want an education. For example, write how you have always wanted to help people (it doesn't hurt to cite examples) and explain how a degree in psychology will help fulfill this goal. If you've overcome some object, include that in your letter. Just remember to be personable and professional, and tell a story that is unique and memorable.


Do Your Homework


Research the program thoroughly.


Always research the school and the program you want to pursue--and use your research when you write you admissions essay. It can propel you into "acceptance" status. Read the program's course descriptions and faculty bio's carefully. And don't be afraid to mention some of these details in your essay. It will let the admissions team know what you're serious about studying at their college or university.


Editing


Editing the essay properly is necessary.








Edit your essay and be ruthless. Even typos can affect your chances of being accepted because admission teams see them, fairly or unfairly, as laziness. Check your work for spelling, grammar and structural errors. Proof it and have another "set of eyes" look at it to catch anything you may have missed.

Tags: admissions team, your essay, admissions essay, application essay, college admissions