But wait! Before we come back to any of that, you need to make that all-important application to ensure you get into the university – and the programme – you’ve set your heart on. That’s why we’ve teamed up with Narmina Guseinova, an international student at Stockholm University and digital ambassador for Study in Sweden, to bring you seven simple tips for writing a successful application letter. Not all programmes require such a letter – also known as a motivational letter, personal statement or application essay – but for those that do it’s important to get it right.
1. Introductions: Be brave (but not boastful)
The thing about first impressions is that, well, you only get one shot at it. That’s as true of an application as it is of a first date. If you really want that university place, don’t make the mistake of being instantly forgettable.
“There are hundreds of motivation letters that the admissions team needs to read,” says Narmina, originally from Georgia, who is studying the two-year Master’s in Sociology programme at Stockholm University. “Having an interesting introduction will make the reader more interested in the rest of the letter. You need to be creative – I know you are, just show it!”
So, ask yourself what makes you stand out – or ask your friends! You don’t need to boast. But you do need to make your best qualities leap off the page!
2. Do your homework!
Think homework is only for school kids? Wrong! Universities want highly motivated students. You need to research the university and the programme you’re applying for, advises Narmina, and then be specific about what interests you and why.
“I’m not telling you this because I’m a sociologist!” she says. If you do your homework, you’ll avoid writing the kind of banal sentences those poor admissions officers have seen a million times before.
“Instead of saying that the programme offers interesting, relevant courses, try to find out why,” adds Narmina. Go to the programme’s web page, read the syllabus, and find out who’ll be teaching you and what skills you’ll learn. Then get writing. Explain precisely why your preferred choice is the perfect fit for you – and vice-versa!
A group of students on a university campus using their smartphones. Photo: Getty Images
3. And some research on Sverige!
If you’re applying from outside Sweden, remember to research the country as well! Still wondering about those questions above? Well, learning Swedish can be fun but the locals speak excellent English, so you’ll be fine without it – plus there are a huge range of programmes in English at Stockholm University. We hope you at least understand the word Sverige, though? (that’s Swedish for Sweden).
And, yes, international students often find the relationship between professors and students much more informal than in most countries. Now what about the nattliv (nightlife?) Perhaps you can take care of that one once you’ve finished your application. Who said homework is boring?
4. Be specific: show don’t tell
So, you’ve made a good first impression and done your homework. Well done! There are only a certain number of places, however, and the competition to fill them can be stiff. You’ve still got more to do before you can celebrate clinching your spot. “Why do they need to admit you and not other applicants?” says Narmina. “It’s time to show that you deserve this place!”
Keep in mind the ‘show don’t tell’ rule. Don’t put the admissions officer to sleep by telling them you’re ‘hard-working’. Do show them exactly how your hard work turned around a challenging situation – whether in your school studies, a job, or another area of life. Now, you’re taking shape as a real person in their eyes!
Stockholm University’s Frescati campus in the snow. Photo: Stockholm University
5. Focus on the future
Going to university is the biggest investment in your future you can make. So, don’t write only about what you’ve already done. You also need to give a clear picture of your future intentions. Making a clear connection between the degree or Master’s you wish to study and your personal and professional ambitions will ensure you stand out as someone with the energy to pursue your life goals.
6. Highlight how you’ll help others
This being Sweden, you don’t want to talk only about yourself – and risk breaking Jantelagen (the Law of Jante) before you even know what it is! If you’ve already done some volunteering or fundraising work, be sure to mention that.
When writing about your future, ask yourself how you’ll use your university education and new skills to benefit other people. “Don’t forget society and others,” says Narmina. “Try to include some details where you show that this particular programme, by being helpful for you and your plans, will in turn be helpful for others.”
7. Be your authentic self
You’ve heard stories of people exaggerating (or outright lying) in applications. But untruths can spiral out of control. Start as you mean to go on – as your authentic self. You’re applying for a coveted university spot because you’re brilliant, right?
“If you want to be creative, outstanding, and interesting, you need to be yourself,” says Narmina. “Nobody else can be you.”
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