Study Abroad: Write An Effective “Purpose For Admission”

Abroad study programmes/international education has gained high popularity among Indian students in recent years for a multitude of reasons. And for most students, the appeal is most likely to be a combination of high-quality education, immersion into a new culture which will gain them a global mindset to expand their future employment prospects.
But one of the essential aspects of the application process while applying to an International University is the ‘Statement of Purpose (SOP), which allows the applicant to define themselves beyond the transcripts and documents that are also submitted alongside it.
The university uses the SOP as a description of the applicant and a reflection of who they are. Yet, the purpose of the SOP itself is lost in the abject inability to narrow down the essential pointers to writing it.
Frequently, the statement of purpose written by an applicant with the intention of being unique deviates from the already set expectations. For an applicant, it is a dilemma to write an SOP that has an impact.

So here are 10 tips for writing an effective statement of purpose-

• 1. Conversational but professional tone – It is imperative that the SOP remains formal in tone. Maintaining professionalism, however, should not be mistaken for a lack of creativity. The SOP must keep the story interesting while presenting facts in an orderly manner.
• 2. Adhering to a word limit – Conforming to a word limit restricts the applicant and elaborates the correct story in a concise yet apt manner.
• 3. Reviewing the given prompt – Often, universities offer guidelines or tips for writing the SOP. The applicant must always focus on the points given and ensure they are effectively stated in the SOP.
• 4. Doing the research – Before beginning to write, the applicant must conduct thorough research. It includes going over other sample write-ups, the university’s values, and motto, and understanding the country-based structure.
• 5. Establishing a format – While the applicant might have all the essential points needed in the SOP, remember that presentation makes a difference. Thus, focus on the alignment and display of facts and figures.
• 6. Building a story – The SOP is in the desired format but does it tell the applicant’s story, or i
• 7. Plagiarism free – This is a point that should go without saying. However, students often cover each other’s style of writing sentences. Universities are always on the lookout for plagiarism. In a personal story, plagiarism must always be 0%.
• 8. Avoiding vague attributes – Discuss and establish specific interests, modules, activities, and achievements with strong descriptions. The applicant must always state their interest in the subject through anecdotes and examples. Otherwise, the statement is mundane and vague.
• 9. Introspection and reflection – Merely stating facts of accomplishments and experiences is not enough to motivate the admissions committee to accept an applicant. Describing and drawing unique learnings from life experiences, extracurricular activities, and involvement in activities contributes to a robust Statement of Purpose.
• 10. Proofreading – Ensure that the copy being sent forward to the university is free from errors of any kind, be it factual, grammatical or structural errors. Edit and proofread the SOP to eliminate such mistakes.

Ensuring all the essential information necessary for the knowledge of the institution makes a remarkable impression and boosts the chances of achieving institutional dreams.