How to write a statement of purpose

A statement of purpose (SOP) or (application essay, personal background,  or cover letter) is an academic essay in which you simply tell about yourself to the reader.

In this article, I’ll guide you through the writing process with interactive examples.

What is a statement of purpose (SOP)?

While applying for a scholarship or to a graduate program, there is a number of documents that are asked from the applicants, and statement of purpose (SOP) is one of them. 

A statement of purpose is literally you. You need to introduce and reflect on yourself. Overall, your SOP should indirectly respond to these questions below.

  • Who are you? = Introduce yourself
  • Why do you want to enroll in this program/institution?
  • Why are you a good candidate?
  • What is your aim for the future?​

To visualize what to include in statement of purpose papers, simply have a look at the outline below. 

Statement of purpose outline example

  1. Introduction
    1. Introduce yourself and state your purpose for applying to the program.

  2. Paragraph 1: Academic and Professional Background
    1. Summarize your academic background and relevant professional experience.

  3. Paragraph 2: Reasons for Applying
    1. Explain why you have chosen to apply to this particular program and what you hope to gain from it.

  4. Paragraph 3: Fit with Program
    1. Demonstrate how your academic and professional background aligns with the program and why you are a strong candidate.

  5. Conclusion: Future Goals and Contributions
    1. Describe your future goals and how your participation in the program will help you achieve them. Also, explain how you plan to contribute to the program and university community.

In the next steps, you’ll see how this outline becomes a whole ready-to-go statement of purpose. 

Some pro tips before you start writing

The academic writing process is overall a challenging task itself. However, it is easier than it looks if you know the basic tricks and essential points.  

  • Do complete research on your instructions.
  • Review other statements and write more than one draft for yourself.
  • Don't be monotonous with repetitive narration, copy/paste, clichés.
  • Don't sound informal: use formal language and stay in the essay format.

Writing the introduction

First of all, think of your statement of purpose as an explanation of your resume. In the introduction, simply introduce yourself and state the purpose of your application. 

Let’s have a look at the example below. 

Statement of purpose introduction example

Introduction

As a highly motivated and passionate individual, I am applying for admission to the Master's program in Computer Science at Oxford Universty. Through this program, I hope to gain the skills, knowledge, and experience necessary to pursue a career in Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence. Introduce yourself and state your purpose for applying to the program.

Writing the body paragraphs

This is the part that you concentrate on your skills and advertise them to the admission committee.

  • Summarize your academic background and relevant professional experience.
  • Explain why you have chosen to apply to this particular program and what you hope to gain from it.
  • Demonstrate how your academic and professional background aligns with the program and why you are a strong candidate.

Statement of purpose body paragraphs example

Body Paragraphs

My academic background includes a Computer Engineering Degree from Purdue University, where I excelled in my coursework and was recognized for my exceptional critical thinking and research skills. Since then, I have been working in Cloud Computing and have gained valuable experience in Machine Leaning principles. However, I have come to realize that in order to achieve my long-term career goals and make a significant impact in my field, I need to further my education. Academic and Professional Background: Summarize your academic background and relevant professional experience.

I am particularly drawn to Computer Science at Oxford because of its exceptional reputation, rigorous curriculum, and outstanding faculty. In my research, I have been impressed by the program's emphasis on Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Alghoritms, which align closely with my interests and career goals. I am eager to delve deeper into these topics and explore new areas of inquiry with the guidance and mentorship of the program's esteemed faculty. Reasons for Applying Explain why you have chosen to apply to this particular program and what you hope to gain from it.

In addition to the program's academic offerings, I am excited about the opportunities for professional development and networking that Oxford University provides. I look forward to participating in digital marketing and artificial intelligence community and engaging with other students and professionals in my field. I believe that this will not only enhance my learning experience, but also help me build a strong network of contacts that will be invaluable throughout my career. Fit with Program Demonstrate how your academic and professional background aligns with the program and why you are a strong candidate.

One-to-three paragraphs long body part would be okay. Don’t forget this is the part that you detail your qualifications and professional abilities. 

State your interest in body paragraphs

This part of your statement of purpose moves the focus from applicant to the institution and the program that you apply to. That’s why, this part requires a good deal of research.
  • Conduct a thorough research about the school/institution/program to be able to claim you have a similar aim/philosophy/point of view
  • Rationalize the academic, personal, and physical reasons why you think you should be enrolled

Once again, this is the part of your SOP that you focus on the institution and your motivation.

Writing the conclusion paragraph

As you’ve introduced yourself and explained the reasons why you are interested in the institution and the program, it’s time to paint the picture of a possible future. 

In this last paragraph of your statement, you are expected to summarize your main points until now.

Statement of purpose conclusion example

Conclusion

Overall, I am confident that Computer Science at Oxford University is the perfect place for me to continue my education and achieve my professional goals. I am committed to working hard, contributing to the program and university community, and making the most of the opportunities available to me. Thank you for your time and consideration, and I look forward to the opportunity to join the Oxford community. Future Goals and Contributions Describe your future goals and how your participation in the program will help you achieve them. Also, explain how you plan to contribute to the program and university community.

Proofreading your paper

The last, and maybe the most underestimated part of a successful statement of purpose is to check and proofread your paper.  

As long as you aren’t applying to a Ph.D. program in literature or linguistics, your main focus is to create smooth and understandable statements (see common academic words).

  • Re-read your statements for probable mistakes
  • Use a grammar checking software
  • Ask for other’s opinions

Final tips on statement of purposes

  • Be specific: Keep your paper simple and brief.
  • Advertise your strengths and rationalize your aim.
  • Don't use too casual language or overly complicated sentences or structure.
  • Don't overstate the institution​: Overpolishing may backfire by the committee, they know who they are.

Key takeaways

  • A statement of purpose is a document that describes your academic and professional background, your interests, and your goals for graduate school or other academic programs.
  • When writing a statement of purpose, you should focus on communicating your unique qualities and experiences that make you a strong candidate for the program.
  • Begin your statement with a clear and engaging introduction that grabs the reader's attention and provides a roadmap for the rest of the document.
  • Use specific examples and details to demonstrate your qualifications, and connect your experiences and goals to the program you are applying to.
  • End your statement with a strong conclusion that summarizes your main points and emphasizes your enthusiasm for the program.
Picture of Deniz Akcaoglu
Deniz Akcaoglu
Content editor and writer. Probably out there trying to get into an obscure band she actually hates the sound of.

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