An PhD cover letter is one of the documents you may be required to submit as part of a PhD application. It should complement your academic CV and explain why you are applying. PhD cover letters offer you the chance to write with greater flexibility and personality than in other parts of the PhD application. This page will take you through what a PhD cover letter actually is and how to write one, along with some top tips on what to include (and what not to!).
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A PhD cover letter is a counterpart to a CV submitted as part of an application for a PhD programme. It is a short essay addressed to a specific individual and written in prose. It should explain your PhD application in your own words, demonstrating what you can offer and why you should be selected.
There are several reasons why the PhD cover letter is important for university admission. It is an opportunity to:
Many universities require an academic cover letter as part of the PhD application. It is therefore highly likely that you'll have to write at least one. If you're applying for multiple PhD projects then you will need to make sure you tailor your cover letter for each application.
Although there are similarities between a motivation or cover letter and a personal statement, they are different. A cover letter is more functional - it unites and presents your application. A personal statement is more useful for providing detail on your experience, interests and ambitions. If you are submitting both, you may need to keep this in mind and adjust the detail in each.
Although a PhD cover letter is a good place to expand on any research experience and publications you may have, as Bachelors or Masters students you will not be expected to have lots of this.
It’s more important to write with enthusiasm and show your commitment for research. Fortunately, the academic covering letter is an ideal place to show this!
The first thing you should include in your cover or motivation letter is a few introductory sentences. Outline who you are, what you are currently doing, whether it be a Masters or a job, and what PhD position you’re applying for. Make sure to include the PhD project reference number if one is provided in the description.
Next, you’re going to want to explain why you are applying for the PhD position. It’s a good idea to put your best, most compelling, or most relevant argument first. The earlier that you can make an impact, the more likely the addressee will read further.
Make sure you’re to the point and concise. An academic cover letter may be there to help illustrate your personality and passion but academics do not have the time to read elongated essays.
After detailing why you want to apply for the project, you need to explain why you’re eligible. Present you relevant skills and achievements in a brief and precise manner. Additionally, make sure to back up your claims with evidence.
An important tip is to demonstrate that you have done your research about the PhD project, supervisor and department. Be specific about why you would be a good fit for the this project in particular.
You should also detail clear understanding of the potential research impact the PhD project could have, and your enthusiasm for it. But, make sure your passion is routed in some research. Just discovering the unknown or novel may not be a compelling reason to research your subject.
Overall, the academic cover letter should show a clear identity and personality, while remaining professional. You need to demonstrate why you are a better and more interesting candidate than other applicants for a PhD.