Writing a Motivation Letter

When you begin writing your motivation letter, it is very similar to the cover letter format. You need to remain professional and formal, both in your language and your presentation of the letter. This is your chance to show yourself off in a positive way before actually meeting anyone in person. Remember, this letter is an opprtunity for you to better your future!

Your motivation letter will determine whether you get an interview for the internship or voluntary job, whether you get through to the next stage for applying to a scholarship, or whether the university or school you are applying to want to then meet you in person as well.

Motivation Letter Format

Motivation Letter Format

The motivation letter structure is very similar to the structure of a cover letter with the main difference being to do with the content you include. Writing a cover letter for a job will require you to give details on previous work history, which could be applicable if your motivation letter is for an internship. However if you are writing a motivation letter for university, you will be more likely to talk about your academic achievements and personal skills.


  • Details: always layout your motivation letter with your address and contact details at the top (left) and the recipient address details (right)
  • Salutation: formal greetings are important, know specifically who you are writing to and what department they might be in
  • Main body: include skills, achievments, working past (optional), personal qualities, relevant experiences
  • Conclusion: be persuasive and enthusiastic, wanting to follow up, eager to hear back, signing-off

Look at some tips and advice for writing a cover letter to help with any other questions unanswered here. You also might want to view some of our cover letter examples that include sample motivation letter.

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