How to write a strong motivation letter?

Year after year the committee reads hundreds of motivation letters and already knows how to tell good ones from not so good 🙂.
Yes, the content of the letters is always different, but there are universal recommendations that will help make your letter more convincing and appealing to those who make the decision.

1. Choose an academic and formal style

Start with the correct greeting and use neutral vocabulary:

• proper salutation (Dear Members of the Selection Committee);

• avoid informal contractions: write do not instead of don't.

2. The first paragraph — hook from the very first lines

Immediately state your interest in studying abroad at a particular university and briefly explain why you should be chosen. If it is difficult to start with this, write this paragraph at the end when the rest of the letter is ready.

Here it is important to show:

• your enthusiasm and proactivity;

• how exactly this exchange program will help you in your studies, career, or personal growth.

3. The second paragraph — describe your academic experience

Describe:

• what you are currently studying;

• what projects you have participated in;

• what results you have achieved so far (for example, developed a product, application, or run your own project).

If you have done research, taken part in conferences, or already know the topic of your term paper or thesis and see a connection with the courses at the partner university — be sure to write about it. It is especially important to show how this relates to the courses at the partner institution.

4. Beyond academics — about personal and extracurricular life

Dedicate the next paragraph to what goes beyond studies:

• why you are attracted to the country or city (for example, you study German or are interested in Asian culture);

• how a semester abroad will help you grow personally: new acquaintances, student activities, cultural exchange;

• your extracurricular interests: volunteering, sports, creativity.

For example, if you volunteer at a nursing home and the host country is known for its respect for the elderly, you can link this with plans to participate in local social projects.

5. The final paragraph — summing up

At the end of the letter briefly recall the main ideas, but in different words:

• emphasize how important participation in the program is for you;

• explain how you will apply the knowledge and experience gained in the future;

• you may mention how you plan to use these new competencies upon returning to GSB.

6. End the letter with a proper closing and your name — in line with business correspondence standards.

We also recommend watching the video master class on writing a motivation letter from our colleagues.

And, of course, it is very noticeable when someone has written a motivation letter with the help of AI. Use this tool in moderation so that it does not drown out your own voice and does not make your letter impersonal.

✍️ Good luck, and we look forward to your exchange applications!