Statement of Purpose
A statement of purpose is a self-introductory essay in which an applicant introduces her/himself –in
this case to the Admissions Committee – and states why she/he intends to pursue a particular
course.
Reasons for your interest in attending a specific program at a particular institution
Statement is tailored for the program & institution
It is a key factor determining admission in combination with academic performance, GPA, GRE,
Letters of Recommendation, Personal Interview, etc.
A statement of purpose:
Gives an idea of research/study interests
Provides a sample of ability to write
Is an opportunity to showcase potential
Can mark the difference between candidates
Using the three-step writing process for persuasive messages:
Step 1: Planning a persuasive message
Analyzing the situation
Gathering information
Selecting the right medium
Organizing your information
Step 2: Writing a persuasive message
Using simple language
Supporting your message with facts
Identifying your sources
Establishing common ground
Being objective
Displaying your good intentions
Avoiding the “hard sell”
Step 3: Completing a persuasive message
Self-review the draft in an objective manner
If possible ask an experienced person to also review the content
Make sure your design elements complement your persuasive argument
Proofread meticulously to avoid weakening your persuasive potential
Layout
Paragraph 1:
Attract attention
Should be in the form of a story/anecdote
o Passion
o Self-discovery
All information included should be relatable to career goal or program applied for
Reason for applying to this particular institute
o Placements
o Pedagogy
o Research
o Faculty
You need to clearly state your purpose
Your purpose should be linked to your story
Cohesion will help you be a unique applicant
Paragraph 2:
Strictly focus on academic records
o Academic achievements
o Honors
Do not mention GPA
Instead focus on subjects, assignments, workshops, guest lectures – your exposure
You can share your future research agenda and link it to the purpose mentioned in the first
paragraph (cohesion)
Paragraph 3:
Personality, traits, calibre is the focus in this paragraph
What defines you (besides academics)
o Extra-curricular activities
o Social work
o Any other associations
Tell the reader about you being a balanced individual
The aim is to become a desirable candidate
Paragraph 4:
Brings the earlier paragraphs together
Be future oriented
State how this degree will help you
Re-assert your aim / purpose
The aspiration – should lead to a personal interaction
Points to be noted
Word limit: 500-750
Font: Times New Roman
Font Size: 12
All the paragraphs should be linked well
Justified Content
One should go through the guidelines listed on the website of the University that one is applying to
in order to gain a better understanding of expectations. For instance:
https://grad.berkeley.edu/admissions/apply/statement-purpose/
