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How to write a successful statement of purpose_2020

How to write a successful statement of purpose_2020

A successful statement of purpose is the most important document when you are applying for an admission or a scholarship. The Statement of Purpose Sample commonly abbreviated as SOP is as important as a Curriculum Vitae (CV). Interestingly, many believe that a Statement of Purpose (SOP) is the same as a Letter of Motivation. Well, up to some extent they are, but they are somehow different as well. The difference mainly comes from the name, as explained below:





  • A Statement of Purpose (SOP) is normally a one-to-two page document (size depends upon the requirements of its final destination). It is actually more focused on ‘The Purpose’ of a specific application.
  • A Letter of Motivation, on the other hand, is more focused on ‘Applicant’s Motivation’ to apply for a specific position, scholarship, or admission.
  • There only exists a thin line difference between these two, with both sometimes serving the same purpose.
  • Interestingly, it is being treated same if one is applying in a non-English-Speaking country.

This blog focuses on Five important parts of a one-page long Statement of Purpose (SOP). The generic structure presented here is almost acceptable in most of the institutions of the world.

  1. Paragraph 1: Your Introduction and Academics / Professionals Experience (3-4 Lines)
  2. Step 2: Your achievements in Academics or professional expertise (3-4 Lines)
  3. Paragraph 3: Your interest and knowledge about your field of interest. And how it is related to your academic or professional background. (5-10 Lines)
  4. Paragraph 4: Why are you interested to conduct your MS/PhD research with any specific professor (or Lab)  and in this University (e.g .KAIST)?  (3-4 Lines)
  5. Paragraph 5: Conclude with your future ambitions, aim. Explain what you want to achieve after conducting research in your field of interest. (3-4 Lines)

How to make your SOP more improved?

Following important parameters must be considered while you are designing/developing a Statement of Purpose (SOP):

  • A SOP should be very concise and clear.
  • It should reflect the most important parts of your academic and professional background.
  • Do not make repetitive statements.
  • The statement of purpose should strictly be free of grammatical mistakes.

See Sample SOP: Sample Outline for the Statement of Purpose

Best Regards

ISST Team members