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Motivation Letter for a University Application

A university motivation letter should stay to one page and name the programme's actual modules. European admissions teams read for fit with the curriculum, not for the drama of the personal story.

Other motivation letter formats

Common questions

How is a motivation letter different from a cover letter?

A cover letter targets a specific job and its requirements. A motivation letter targets a programme or opportunity and focuses on your reasons and goals rather than your qualifications alone.

How long should it be?

One page — around 400 to 600 words. European admissions teams generally expect brevity, and exceeding a stated limit counts against you.

Should I repeat my CV?

No. The CV lists what you did. The motivation letter explains why it matters and where it is leading.

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