How to Write a Good Admission Letter:
A Guide for High School Students
Writing a compelling admission letter is an important step in the college application process. Whether you're applying through the Common App or individually to multiple universities, this guide will help you craft a letter that stands out.
What to Include in Your Admission Letter
1. Introduction:
Begin with a strong opening that captures the reader's attention.
Mention the specific program or major you are interested in and why it appeals to you.
Briefly introduce yourself, including your current school and any relevant background.
2. Personal Story:
Share a meaningful personal story or experience that highlights your character, values, and why you're passionate about your chosen field.
Explain how this experience has shaped your goals and aspirations.
3. Academic Achievements:
Highlight your academic strengths, focusing on courses and projects that are relevant to your intended major.
Mention any honors, awards, or special recognitions you've received.
4. Extracurricular Involvement:
Discuss your involvement in extracurricular activities, leadership roles, volunteer work, or jobs.
Emphasize how these experiences have prepared you for college and align with the values of the university.
5. Why This University?
Research each university and explain why you're interested in attending.
Mention specific programs, professors, or opportunities that attract you to the school.
Demonstrate how the university’s values and offerings align with your goals.
6. Conclusion:
End with a strong closing statement that reiterates your interest and excitement about the possibility of attending the university.
Thank the admissions committee for considering your application.
What to Avoid in Your Admission Letter
Generic Statements: Avoid using clichés or generic phrases that could apply to any applicant.
Overly Formal Language: Be professional, but don’t sound too stiff. Let your personality shine through.
Repetition: Don’t repeat information already found in other parts of your application.
Negativity: Focus on the positive aspects of your journey. Avoid dwelling on hardships without showing how you overcame them.
Irrelevant Details: Stick to what matters most to your application. Don’t include unnecessary personal information.
Advice for Students Submitting Through Common App
Customize Your Responses: Even if you're applying to multiple schools through the Common App, make sure each letter is tailored to the specific university. Mention unique aspects of each school.
Be Concise: The Common App has word limits, so be clear and concise. Make every word count.
Consistent Formatting: Ensure that your formatting is consistent across all documents you submit through the Common App.
Advice for Students Applying Individually to Universities
Follow Each University’s Guidelines: Pay close attention to each school’s specific requirements for the admission letter, such as word count or format.
Personalize Each Letter: Since you’re applying individually, take the time to personalize each letter to reflect your genuine interest in each university.
Maintain Professionalism: Even though you’re applying individually, ensure your letters are polished and professional.
Basic Template for an Admission Letter
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]
[Admission Committee’s Name]
[University Name]
[University Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
Dear [Admission Committee’s Name],
Introduction: Start with an engaging sentence that introduces yourself and your interest in the specific program or major at the university.
Body Paragraph 1: Share a personal story that highlights your passion for the field and how it has influenced your goals.
Body Paragraph 2: Discuss your academic achievements, focusing on relevant courses and projects, and mention any awards or recognitions.
Body Paragraph 3: Talk about your extracurricular involvement, leadership roles, and how these experiences have prepared you for college.
Body Paragraph 4: Explain why you’re interested in this specific university. Mention programs, professors, or opportunities that align with your aspirations.
Conclusion: End with a strong closing statement, reiterating your excitement about the possibility of attending and thanking the committee for their consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
Sentence Starters
"Ever since I can remember, I have been passionate about…"
"My journey toward pursuing a degree in [major] began when…"
"One of the most impactful experiences in my life has been…"
"I believe that [University Name] offers the perfect environment for me to…"
"I am particularly drawn to the [specific program] because…"
Paragraph Transitions
"Furthermore, my academic journey has been marked by…"
"In addition to my academic achievements, I have also been involved in…"
"Another aspect of [University Name] that excites me is…"
"Moreover, I believe that the experiences I have gained through…"
"Finally, I would like to express my sincere interest in…"
Other Suggestions
Proofread Carefully: Errors in grammar, spelling, or punctuation can detract from your letter’s effectiveness. Proofread multiple times or ask someone else to review your letter.
Be Authentic: Your voice and personality should come through in your writing. Don’t try to be someone you’re not.
Start Early: Give yourself plenty of time to write, revise, and polish your letter. Starting early reduces stress and allows you to refine your ideas.
By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to write an admission letter that effectively communicates your strengths, passions, and fit for the universities to which you are applying.
Good luck!
