application letter for studying abroad

How to Write a Letter of Intent for Studying Abroad

If you want to study abroad, many programs require an official application and letter of intent.

This is usually a one-page letter that unveils reason you wish to study in a different country and what is your aim of this opportunity. An appropriately written and convincing motivation letter can help begin a new exciting journey.

If you are wondering how you can make a strong introductory letter for studying abroad check out our tips and example letter.

1. Is This Oppportunity for You?

Before applying, you need to research all opportunities to see if this experience is right for you. Sometimes the idea of going to study abroad can seem exotic but it might not be beneficial to you or your studies. You will need to also find the right course / study abroad destination to match your interests.

2. What is a Study Abroad Application

A normal application and letter of intent for studying abroad will usually just look like a normal college application form. Make sure you include key sections like a personal statement, potential colleges/courses/destinations and also general information about yourself. You should also try to include anything to support your application for example letters of recommendation.

3. General Information Section

Usually you will need to complete a generic form including information about yourself e.g. name, address, age, study location, courses, emergency contacts etc.

4. Health Clearance Forms

If you are applying to study abroad from the USA you will usually need to get medical complete with a doctor who will be able to confirm you are okay to go overseas. He will also be able to check you have all the necessary vaccinations. Try to get this done as soon as possible and don't leave it till the last minute.

5. Course Selections

You will need include your potential course selections on any application so you can be matched to the right destination. See what appeals to you or what you think would be interesting and beneficial to your studies.

6. Letters of Recommendation

Some agencies and overseas instutions sometimes require study abroad applicants to include letters of recommendation. This can be personal or professional and so you will need to ask them e.g. your teachers to see if they would be able to write a letter recommending you for this experience.

7. Letter of Intent

The letter doesn't have to be complex or long, it just needs to be to the point and address a few key issues.

To start with, you need to have an idea of who you are addressing the letter to, and also why you want to jump at the experience of studying abroad. The person who is going to read your application has probably read hundreds of previous letters and so you should try to make it sound as fun/interesting as possible. Try to divide your application into small paragraphs rather than a big block of text. Each passage should be relevant to the topic and be to the point.

Provide the reader with a sense of your personality. Give some details about your life and be honest about you aim and reasons regarding studying abroad. If your deepest passion is traveling, for instance, then note it. Describe your interests and your excitement in some activities that correlate with the program in question.

8. Example Study Abroad Letter of Intent

This is a example for how your letter of intent should be structured:

My name is @ and I am very keen on studying abroad...
I currently study @
At my current college I ...
I am very interested in @ and integrating into the local culture
I am an outgoing person who is ideal for this opportunity
I am very open to the idea of living abroad, I really enjoy to travel and meet new people
This experience would give me a chance to...
I would be very keen to experience a different culture
The courses offered by @ sound perfect for me to develop and learn
I look forward to hearing from you
Yours sincerly, name

9. Before Sending

Before sending make sure you check for any errors in spelling, grammar and try to use clear-cut language.

Most application and letters of intent for studying abroad are only one page in length so there is not need to go overboard with information.

If you feel you are having difficulties with the application and structure of the text, there are online services, which can help you to cope with documentation. Some websites help students all over the world by offering advice and assistance for finishing academic projects on time.

Proofreading is also necessary and this is important to make sure you application makes sense. Ask your parents, teachers, friends, whoever it may be, to go over your application. It is always good to get someone with fresh/different perspective to have a look.