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Cover Letter for PhD Application: Guide for Writing One & Example From a Real PhD Student

• Klara Cervenanska , 
• November 29, 2022 9 min read

Last edit November 29, 2022

When applying for a PhD research position, you usually need to submit certain documents, including an academic CV and a cover letter for PhD application .

A PhD cover letter, also referred to as an academic cover letter, should be carefully crafted, well-formatted, and contain specific sections.

We'll show you how to do exactly that, along with a sample of an academic cover letter from a real person admitted to a PhD program at Lyon University in France.

And if you're not sure how to go about writing your PhD CV, check out this article: CV for PhD Application: How to Write One Like a True Scholar (+CV Example) .

Table of Contents

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What is an academic cover letter?

What to include in a cover letter for phd application, how to write a cover letter for phd application, how to format an academic cover letter, phd cover letter sample.

An academic cover letter is a document that PhD candidates submit alongside their academic CV when applying for a PhD. 

Essentially, it's a cover letter for a PhD application.

It's not exactly the same as your regular business cover letter. Nor is it the same as a personal statement or a motivation letter .

The purpose of a cover letter for PhD application is to explain to the reader, who's likely a researcher or a professor, what you can contribute to their institution and/or field.

Moreover, in a PhD application cover letter, you should explain why you're a good match for the research position on the program.

Differences between academic cover letter and business cover letter

Both these documents serve different purposes and people use them in different settings:

• Academic cover letter is used when applying for positions in academia — most often for a PhD. More emphasis should be on education, research background and scholarly accomplishments. Moreover, it should explain what your contribution to the institution or field could be. It should also point the reader to your academic CV.
• Regular (business) cover letter is normally used when applying for any kind of job . Hence, more emphasis should be on skills and past experience while being tailored to a specific job position. You should also explain why you're a good fit for the position at the given company. It should point the reader to your resume.

There are also other documents people often mistake for an academic cover letter. These include:

• Motivation letter is especially relevant for fresh graduates when applying to a university, a non-profit organization, or voluntary work. A motivation letter focuses more on your interests and motives for applying.
• Personal statement. Also used in an academic setting. It's always written by an applicant, often a prospective student, applying to college, university, or graduate school. You explain why you've chosen a particular course and why you'd be good at it. Other names include a statement of purpose or a letter of intent .

Like every cover letter, an academic one also needs to include specific elements and content sections. These are:

• Header. Here, provide your contact information, such as your name, address, phone number, and email in the header of the document.
• Formal salutation. In an official letter like this one, you should address the reader in a professional and formal way. If you know who'll be reading your cover letter, go with Dear Dr. [Surname] or Dear Professor [Surname] . If you don't, go with Dear Sir/Madam .
• The specific PhD program or position. Clearly state in your letter which research position you're applying for or the name of the PhD program. A cover letter is usually read before a CV, so you need to make sure everything is clear.
• Your motivation. Explain why you're interested in the specific PhD position — it's one of the key elements you should include.
• Your academic background. Now, we don't mean you should list in detail every single university course you ever took. Instead, focus on the most relevant course for the PhD and describe in detail what you learned, any projects you worked on, why it was interesting (and optionally, what knowledge gap you identified). In this way, you also show a certain level of understanding of the field.
• Your ambition. Briefly mention what your ambitions, intentions, and plans are regarding your contribution to the field when securing your PhD position. How is your research going to enrich the field? How will the institution benefit from it?
• Conclusion. Keep the conclusion short. Contrary to a regular cover letter ending , there's no place for reiterating everything here. Simply thank the reader for your consideration and prompt them to read your academic CV.
• Formal sign-off. Just pick from the usual: Sincerely, Respectfully, Regards... Then throw in your full name in the following line.

And that's all you need to include!

Now, let's take a look at how to write your cover letter step-by-step.

Applying for a PhD will be a lot less stressful if you follow these tips on how to write a cover letter for a research position:

Consider researching the background of the organization, department, ongoing research projects, and their past and current projects. All that before you start writing your cover letter. Knowing these things will help you tailor your letter to the specific PhD opening.

Before you actually start writing, try to sit down and take a moment to think first. Assess how your past experiences helped you prepare for the PhD position and scribble down those that are most relevant and significant for the specific program. These include any research experiences, research projects, courses, or internships.

In the first few sentences of your letter, you need to convey some basic information about yourself and what specific position you're applying for. The opening should also state firmly why you're a strong candidate for the position/program, by using a persuasive and convincing wording. Here's an example: "As an MChem Chemistry graduate with a narrow focus on the sustainable synthesis of biologically active molecules from the University of Dundee, I am excited to apply to a "Synthesis Of Small Molecule Inhibitors Using Enzymes" PhD programme at an institution with such a strong foundation and numerous research groups in this field."

This is the place where you may explore more extensively on the educational journey that brought you here. Set the foundation for demonstrating how your Master's degree and research experience seamlessly translate into the next phase — the PhD program. Emphasize how your thesis contributes to the field's body of knowledge. Mention any other publications that support your thesis. And, if you can, identify any knowledge gaps or topics that can be explored further.

This paragraph provides the opportunity to neatly tie in together everything the reader has learned about you so far. You can show how your previous experience, coupled with what you'll learn during the PhD program, will come together to produce something novel to enrich the field. First, identify the courses or topics within the PhD program that interest you the most and how they relate to you developing your research further. Second, introduce your future research aspirations and goals. Third, point out how this future work will enrich the field and what will the intellectual merit be.

When ending your PhD cover letter, briefly refer your reader to your academic CV and encourage them to examine all of the remaining projects, courses, publications, or references . Finally, thank the reader for their time and consideration and let them know you look forward to hearing from them. Sign off.

Put the letter in a drawer and don't think about it for a day or two. Then, when you read it again, you'll have a fresh pair of eyes to see the cover letter in a new light. Maybe you decide some things are redundant, or you think of something that's more relevant. Or you know, find a typo here and there.

Just like an academic cover letter needs to contain certain content components, the formatting should also align with the structural expectations for this type of document.

How long should a cover letter be? How to finish a cover letter? And what about the cover letter font and spacing?

Here's a recommended academic cover letter format:

• Length. While STEM PhD candidates should aim for half a page to one page, humanities candidates can do 1–2 pages.
• Font. Use one of the classics: Times New Roman, Calibri, or Arial. Just no Comic Sans, we beg you. Keep the size between 10–12 points. Also remember to keep the text clean — no underlining, no bolding, and no color. However, you can use italics if appropriate.
• Spacing. Cover letter spacing isn't complicated. Just single-space your text, make sure there's a space between each paragraph, and leave a space between the concluding paragraph and your formal sign-off.
• Margins. The only rule here is that the margins on your cover letter should match those on your CV.
• Consistence with your CV. Your academic cover letter should match your academic CV in all formatting aspects — including the cover letter font and spacing. For example, Kickresume lets you choose a matching template for your CV and your cover letter, so no need to worry about this.

If the institution provided any instructions for formatting your academic cover letter, don’t get creative and follow their guidelines.

Finally, to help you tie everything we talked about together, here's a cover letter sample from a real person admitted to a PhD program at Lyon University in France.

These things ensured Herrera's cover letter was successful:

• She clearly states her motivation in the opening. In the first two paragraphs, Herrera introduces herself and her motivation to apply for the given PhD program.
• She describes educational and research background thoroughly. The main body of the letter is dedicated to describing Herrera's educational background, research projects, internships, and skills acquired throughout the way.
• She presents research aspirations in the letter. Herrera writes: "I have a history of proven results and profound findings. Given opportunity, I’m confident in my abilities to earn similar ground-breaking results while being part of your team."

Even though this example lacks some of the key elements, such as mentioning the specific PhD program or identifying the topics within the PhD program that interest her the most, this PhD cover letter still managed to impress the University of Lyon.

Lyon University PhD Student Cover Letter Sample

Klara recently graduated from the University of St Andrews in Scotland. After having written resumes for many of her fellow students, she got an opportunity to write full-time for Kickresume. Klara is our go-to person for all things related to student or 'no experience resumes'. At the same time, she has written some of the most popular resume advice articles on this blog. When she's not writing, you'll probably find her chasing dogs or people-watching while sipping on a cup of coffee.

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• Writing an Academic Cover Letter for a PhD Application
• Applying to a PhD
• The aim of an  academic cover letter  is to convince the supervisor that you are a strong candidate for the PhD position on offer.
• Your cover letter should be  half a page to a full page  in length; it should be concise and to the point.
• Your PhD cover letter should include your  personal details , the position you’re applying for, your  motivation  for applying, what you know about the project, what  relevant experience  you have and what makes you suited for the position.

The two documents crucial to get right when  applying to a PhD  are your CV and covering letter.

In this article, we’ll set out the core guidelines you should follow to create an effective academic cover letter.

What Is An Academic Cover Letter?

An academic cover letter is a written document that accompanies your CV and application form when applying for a PhD.

It’s different from a CV as instead of being a structured summary of your skills and experience, it is a summary of why you believe you are suited for a particular PhD programme. As a result, all academic covering letters should be tailored for the specific position you are applying for and addressed to the supervisor who is overseeing the project. They also shouldn’t repeat what is already stated in your CV, but rather expand on the details most related to the position you are applying to.

Note:  An academic cover letter is sometimes referred to as a PhD application letter, but never a motivation letter. The latter is different in that it concerns the reasons as to why you want to undertake research, while a cover letter focuses on demonstrating your suitability for a programme. This is an important distinction to note.

What Is the Purpose of An Academic Cover Letter?

The aim of an academic cover letter is to convince the PhD supervisor that you are the perfect candidate for the PhD project.

Academic cover letters should complement your CV and sell you as a person – will your potential supervisor be excited to work with you after having read your cover letter?

What Should I Include in My Academic Cover Letter?

You should demonstrate that you have the skills which make you suited for research. It is essential that you recognise these skills in you and that you use them to promote yourself.

1. Your Personal Details

Include your name, address, email address and phone number in the top right corner of the letter. This is so the supervisor can reach you should they have questions or require any further information.

2. The Position You’re Applying For

Help the supervisor establish exactly which PhD position you are applying for as there may be several positions being advertised at one time. If they provide a reference number as part of the project description, it would be a good idea to include it in brackets.

3. Why You’re Interested in The Position

Use this section to explain your motivations for applying to the specific PhD and where your research interests stem from. Is it related to the dissertation you produced as part of your final year undergraduate dissertation, etc?

Whatever your motivation for applying to the PhD, make sure that your enthusiasm comes across clearly. The supervisor will appreciate how great a role self-drive plays in completing PhD projects and you will want to convince them you have the level of drive required to be successful.

4. What You Understand About the Project

Besides explaining your motivations for undertaking the project, show that you possess a basic understanding of it. In doing so, make sure you reinforce each point with some level of evidence; avoid making general statements or talking loosely around the research subject. This will show the PhD supervisor that you’ve taken the time to research the background to the project.

5. What Relevant Experience You Have

In this section, briefly discuss your academic background and any relevant experience you have within the field of research. Don’t worry if you have little experience in this area as this will be the case for most applicants. If this the case, then use this section to explain how you will be committed to the PhD research project. If you have experience in conducting research, explain what your role was, the analytical methods you used and any other aspects of your work which may be relevant. Similarly, discuss any teaching experience if you happen to have it.

6. Closing Statement

Keep this short and concise. Thank the supervisor for taking the time to read your application and let them know that you’re looking forward to hearing from them.

How Long Should My Academic Cover Letter Be?

Your academic cover letter should be between half a page to one full page .

To keep it effective, make it as concise as possible and only discuss points which are either relevant to the project or the aspect of being a doctoral research student. This may feel difficult to do, especially if you have much you want to include, but keep in mind that your cover letter can also be used as evidence of your communication skills, more specifically, whether you can convey important information in a clear and logical manner. As this will be a key skill of any research candidate, the prospective supervisor will take it into account when evaluating your capabilities.

How to Format an Academic Cover Letter for A PhD Application

Your cover letter should be written in paragraph format, with bullet points only reserved for situations where a list would improve clarity. This is because a cover letter is one of the few places where you are expected to show your personality, so using too many bullet points will diminish your ability to do this. The best way to approach writing your application letter is to see it as a very short personal essay.

Use a common font like Times New Roman or Calibri, and if possible, avoid the use of highlighting, underlining and tables as they become too distracting. Keep your font size between 10 to 12 points and your margins to at least 0.5 inches around all edges. Try to match the font size, type, line spacing and margin size to your academic CV for neat and consistent presentation.

Your cover letter should be addressed to the PhD supervisor, starting with a “Dear [academic title] [surname]”, for example, “Dear Professor Williams”.

Hopefully, you now know what it takes to write a successful cover letter for a PhD application. While a strong cover letter will go a long way to helping you stand out, you will need to learn how to create an equally strong CV if you really want your application form to excel. To this effect, we recommend you next read our step-by-step guide for creating effective academic CVs .

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How to write a Cover Letter for applying to a PhD programme

I am applying for a PhD programme in Europe. For that I need to write a cover letter. It will be more like a SOP (technical but shorter version, as it's one page) or it can be more general stuff, as in why I want to do a PhD, what I like about this particular field, what background I have. Any suggestions welcome.

• graduate-admissions
• application-cover-letter

2 Answers 2

There's plenty of examples on the Web of the basic format a cover letter should take. There's a good template here on page 23 from Harvard. (Make sure to do it in TeX if applying for a math or comp. sci. PhD.)

Otherwise, my own personal advice ...

What not to do

The most common mistake I have found in cover letters is that they are too generic. Either they could have been written by anyone (" I have a keen interest in science. I was always curious as a ... ") or could have been written for any programme (" I want to do a PhD as I believe I would be well-suited to a career in academia ... "). Keep such generic sentences to a minimum: the more of these a cover letter has, the more impersonal and unremarkable it is, and the more it leaves the suspicion that the same cover letter has been recycled for multiple applications and/or by multiple students.

Also, avoid hyperbole (" I am the best candidate for this position because ... "). You cannot know that you are the best candidate.

Make your cover letter personal, remarkable (i.e., stands out from other cover letters), specific to you and specific to the position at hand. Be enthusiastic. Be specific. Show that you've put thought into the position and why you are applying.

Relate your specific skill sets and previous experience to the programme you are applying for. Relate the content of specific aspects of your CV to the programme:

" During my masters, I enjoyed working on the topic of A, which relates to your programme [in this way]"

" I worked three summers at company B, where I gained experience in topic C ... "

" I visited your university in March last year and was impressed by ... "

" I read paper entitled 'D' published by your group at 'E' and was interested in ... "

" I recently published a paper 'F', which I believe complements work by 'G' in your department on 'H' ... "

... and so forth.

In addition to all the advice above, there are two more Europe-specific issues you might want to keep in mind:

Many European universities and funding agencies expect a very specific and advanced research proposal. It might be more important than the cover letter itself.

In Europe, you often know beforehand who your supervisor will be, and you will have likely met them. Feel free to ask them (or the admissions office, departmental secretaries etc.) what exactly is expected from each of the application documents - expectations vary between universities, and Europe is a different academic landscape than America.

Good luck with your applications!

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What Is a PhD Cover Letter?

What key points should i include within my phd application letter, tips to improve your phd application letter, example phd cover letter, final thoughts, phd cover letters.

Updated October 23, 2022

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A PhD cover letter is an important part of your PhD application. Your cover letter (which may also be referred to as a motivational letter) focuses upon what makes you a great candidate and why you should be invited for interview.

This article will cover what a PhD cover letter is, when it would be used and how you can write a notable cover letter for your PhD application.

Your cover letter is your first opportunity to explain to the committee why you should be selected to study for your postgraduate doctorate. It not only demonstrates your personality, but it can also explain in your own words why the hiring panel should choose you as a PhD student.

Like most cover letters , your PhD application letter should complement, but not repeat, your CV. It should explain and expand on the details referenced within your CV or application form .

You should tailor the content to your chosen PhD topic – this will enable you to focus your specific expertise and academic achievements on your learning capabilities.

It should be noted that when it comes to submitting your application to study for a PhD, you may be required to submit a personal statement as well as a cover letter. Each university will have its own criteria, but note that a cover letter is different from a personal statement.

Your personal statement will focus upon your interests and your ambitions, whilst your PhD cover letter will be looking at your tangible achievements , such as your academic and professional experience.

If you are required to draft both statements, then try to keep this in mind during the writing process.

There are no rules for what to include within your PhD cover letter but, broadly speaking, your submission should include references to the following:

Who you are – what your personality is and what sets you apart from other potential PhD candidates. Your cover letter should be a sales tool that should make any committee want to choose you to join their team.

Your skills and achievements (along with any evidence to substantiate your claims).

Your research into the specific academic institution (why you want to attend that specific school and what makes it a good fit for you).

Your understanding of your research project and what you believe its impact may be upon your sector (this will demonstrate not just your knowledge of the research but will showcase your passion and motivation for the project).

How your specific skills are relevant to the application. Have you undertaken any work experience relevant to that field? Have you been inspired by what previous alumni have achieved?

As with all applications, writing a great cover letter is a skill. It requires you to tread the balance between explaining in detail who you are and why you should be chosen, while remaining concise. It needs to showcase your personality while remaining professional.

It’s a difficult writing skill and one which shouldn’t be rushed. You should take your time to craft your application letter – the more time that is spent on it, the greater your chance of success.

A practical tip is to use the ‘top-down’ approach . This is a writing skill often used by marketers and PR professionals whereby you incorporate the strongest arguments/details at the top and work your way down.

You need to ensure that if a committee member stops reading your cover letter at any point, then they have already noted the most pressing details.

How Do I Write My PhD Cover Letter?

An easy way to focus your thoughts when writing your application letter is to consider it as a way of telling your story, at least in relation to the PhD you are applying for. By this, we mean that your letter should have a clear beginning, middle and end.

Using this format as a guide, here are some examples of how to start writing your PhD cover letter.

Starting Your Cover Letter

As with any form of professional correspondence, do your due diligence and be confident that you know who to send your application to.

As previously mentioned, each school will have its own application criteria – for some, it may need to be addressed to a specific professor, whilst others may direct you to a department or someone responsible for all recruitment.

Make sure you find out their name – along with correct spellings and titles. This is your first chance to make a good impression, so you must pay attention to the details.

Introducing Yourself

A good place to start is to introduce yourself first. Ask yourself, who are you and why should the committee continue to read your application letter?

This is your opportunity to explain what PhD you are applying for and why you want to study further. You may want to start your storytelling in this section.

For example:

I became interested in this subject when I met [name], who is one of your alumni. They inspired me to want to continue my learning and further my knowledge, which has been developed through my professional experience at [company name].

As you can see from this example, the letter is starting to explain why the candidate wants to apply for the application, what inspires them to continue their learning and gives a look into their achievements. The result is that it makes the reader want to continue reading the letter.

Showcasing Your Skills and Achievements

The middle section is where you talk about what you have achieved and how you want to further your development and make an impact on your field of study.

This section should refer to your CV and provide greater insights into what you already know and why you would be a great candidate for the PhD programme.

You could use this section to briefly introduce what topic you believe would make a great research project.

As you can see from my enclosed CV, I have an extensive professional history within my sector. From my experience at [company name], I was able to focus upon my key specialisms, which led me to develop an interest in [project]. I believe that, due to the ever-changing nature of the profession, there is scope to continue the research into [subject] and I’m keen to combine my practical and theoretical knowledge in my research. I believe this is of value to not just myself and my peers but also my wider profession because of [detail].

Again, this is demonstrating a level of professionalism while starting to showcase exactly why you should be chosen to join the PhD programme. It shows that you’re not just thinking of yourself, you’re also considering the wider implications that your research may have upon your field of study.

Ending Your Cover Letter

As you draw towards the end of your cover letter, you may wish to reiterate why you want to study at this specific institution. Showing you have researched the university’s research reputation can go a long way to impressing hiring panels.

It may be globally renowned, or perhaps it’s a good fit for your specific area of interest. Maybe there’s a specific professor you would like to work alongside or maybe you’ve seen the career advancement of previous alumni. If you have a personal reason why you are a good fit for the school, then state it here.

Additionally, we would also recommend explaining what you plan to do with your research upon its completion. Hiring panels will be keen to find out how you plan to use your expertise and what your long term ambitions are.

I am particularly interested in joining the PhD programme at [school] because of your reputation as global research leaders. Throughout my career, I have strived to work alongside the best because I believe in the importance of peer learning. I am keen to work alongside your distinguished professors to carry out my research in [subject]. I believe that I am the right fit for your institution because of [x,y,z] and through my correspondence with [named contact of the previous alumni], I am aware of the help and support that you provide to your PhD applicants. Following on from the completion of my doctorate, I plan to use my knowledge to do [x,y,z].

As you sign off your cover letter, make sure you include a call to action. Encourage the panel to get in touch with you to arrange a formal interview or direct them to your CV so that they can be reminded of your experience.

You need to end the letter with no doubt that you are a good fit for the PhD programme and that you are an ideal candidate that they need to snap up.

I hope that this letter has given you some insight into my dedication to my learning and that you will consider my application. I would like to draw your attention back to my CV which is enclosed with this letter, which demonstrates my professional and academic history. I look forward to hearing from you in due course.

If you have addressed the letter to a named contact, use ‘Yours sincerely’. If you have been directed to address your letter to a general department, then formalities suggest that you should use the sign off ‘Yours faithfully’.

Keep it concise . Where possible, it shouldn’t exceed two pages of A4. They can find out more detail about who you are during the interview stage; this is merely to whet their appetite and excite them to want to find out more about you.

Don’t reiterate what has already been written on your CV . Instead, they want to know how the experience on your CV has made you a more rounded individual. How has it shaped your interest in your chosen study and what is compelling you to continue to further your learning?

Provide evidence . If you are highly regarded within your professional sector, then demonstrate this – are you involved in any sector groups or have you been recognised with any awards? The whole purpose of your potential research project is to provide evidentiary proof of your hypothesis so if you are going to make bold statements about your career history, then the first thing any PhD supervisor will want to know, is 'Where is the evidence?'.

Check for errors . Remember that your letter is a professional representation of who you are. Before submitting your PhD application, make sure that your cover letter is free from grammatical errors and spelling mistakes. It’s a sister document to your CV so try to ensure consistency between the two documents – use similar formatting, a professional font (Ariel or Calibri are good choices) and ensure that your margins are coherent.

Below, is an example of a cover letter for your PhD application. We hope that it inspires you and helps you to understand more about what you should be including when it comes to writing your own letter.

Remember that this is an example only and your cover letter should be tailored to your circumstances.

Recipient Name Recipient Job Title Recipient Address Date Dear [name] Cover letter for application to join the PhD programme at [school]. I am writing to you to showcase my interest in continuing my academic study through the PhD programme in [subject] at [University]. I am keen to join the doctoral programme within your [department] because I believe that its rich history of academic research is a perfect match for my academic aptitude and my extensive career history. I’ve long been interested in [subject] and I recently met with [name], who is one of your alumni. They inspired me to take the leap and submit this application because I’ve long been interested in developing my knowledge honed through my professional experience at [company name]. I studied [subject] at [university] and throughout my academic history and work experience, I’ve developed a strong interest in the niche field of [topic]. My BA thesis was based upon [subject] and since completing my undergraduate studies, I’ve been able to put my theoretical knowledge into practice through my work at [company name]. As you can see from my enclosed CV, I’ve been able to hone my skills into key specialisms which have led me to develop an interest in [project]. I believe that there is scope to continue the research into [subject] due to the ever-changing nature of the profession and I’m keen to combine my practical and theoretical knowledge with my research. I believe this is of value to not just myself and my peers but also my wider profession, since it could help others to understand the importance of [subject]. I wish to continue my academic career by completing my doctorate, which has always been a long-term ambition of mine. I cannot imagine a better place to study than [university]. I have always been inspired by the achievements of this academic institution and I wish to work alongside your teaching staff to research my hypothesis which is [details]. In particular, I would like to work alongside Professor [name], who was highly regarded by our mutual acquaintance [alumni name]. With my theoretical knowledge and my professional expertise, I am confident that I can complete my chosen research project to a high standard. I am a dedicated hard worker and have long been regarded within my sector through my involvement with [professional bodies]. I have also been recognised along with my peers for our work through the achievements of many industry awards including [details]. Following on from the completion of my doctorate, I plan to use my knowledge to help educate fellow professionals, and thus improve awareness and understanding of our sector. I hope that this letter has given you some insight into my dedication to my learning and that you will consider my application. I would like to draw your attention back to my CV which is enclosed with this letter, which will demonstrate my professional and academic history. I look forward to hearing from you in due course. Yours sincerely, [Signature] [Name] Encl. Curriculum Vitae

This article has been designed to give you some insights into what to expect from your PhD application.

To read more about PhDs, we recommend that you read our postgraduate pages , which contain numerous articles about PhDs, MBAs and further study.

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Cover Letter For Graduate School Application—Examples & Tips

I had an interview yesterday and the first thing they said on the phone was: “Wow! I love your cover letter.” Patrick I love the variety of templates. Good job guys, keep up the good work! Dylan  My previous cover letter was really weak and I used to spend hours adjusting it in Word. Now, I can introduce any changes within minutes. Absolutely wonderful! George

1. Graduate School Cover Letter Sample

Cover letter for graduate school, cover letter for graduate school—text version, 2. write a top of the class graduate school cover letter, 1. use a professional cover letter format , 2. address your grad school cover letter, graduate school cover letter header , 3. identify the program you’re applying to and introduce yourself, graduate school cover letter example: introduction, 4. show that you’re the best candidate, sample cover letter for graduate school: middle paragraph, 5. close the grad school cover letter with the formalities, graduate school cover letter sample: the closing, 6. sign off & list attachments, graduate school cover letter sample: sign off, was it interesting here are similar articles.

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• Cover Letter Examples
• Cover Letter for Graduate School: Sample & How to Write It

Cover Letter for Graduate School: Sample & How to Write It

You’ve found the graduate program you’ve been searching for. Everything else is ready and in order. Last thing to do before sending it off—a perfect graduate school cover letter.

As seen in:

Maybe it’s Africana studies, molecular genetics, or environmental management.

Whatever the focus, you need a cover letter great enough to get you a meeting with the grad school admissions committee.

No problem.

This grad school cover letter guide will show you:

• A graduate school cover letter sample perfect for grad school applications.
• Examples of the ideal components on a cover letter for graduate school applications.
• Tips for using the small space in a grad program cover letter most effectively.
• How to write a cover letter for grad school sure to appease the admissions committee.

Want to write your cover letter fast? Use our cover letter builder. Choose from  20+ professional cover letter templates  that match your resume. See actionable examples and get expert tips along the way.

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Sample cover letter for a resume— See more cover letter examples and create your cover letter here .

Do you always need a cover letter for graduate school?

Many schools don’t require it, opting for a statement of purpose instead. But—

Always check your prospective school’s webpage for the required graduate application materials. Sometimes a grad school cover letter might be compulsory — just like a graduate school resume .

Writing a different academia-related cover letter? Check out these dedicated guides:

• Academic Cover Letter Sample
• Academic Advisor Cover Letter Sample
• Education Advisor Cover Letter Sample
• Research Assistant Cover Letter Sample
• Postdoc Cover Letter Sample
• Teacher Cover Letter Sample
• Teaching Assistant Cover Letter Sample
• Biology Cover Letter Sample
• Formal Cover Letter Sample

Want to explore your options further? See our full selection of cover letter examples for every career:  Best Cover Letter Examples.

To start things off, here’s Zety’s example of a grad school cover letter:

Graduate School Cover Letter Sample

Gabrielle Fernandes Costa

1505 Southern Street

Long Island City, NY 11101

June 30, 2019

Dr. Isabelle Holmes

Department of Physical Sciences

The State University of New York at Stony Brook

100 Nicolls Rd.

Stony Brook, NY 11794

Dear Dr. Holmes,

With great pleasure, I would like to submit my application for the Master of Science In Geography program at the Department of Physical Sciences at SUNY Stony Brook. After recently completing my bachelor’s studies, this graduate program is the perfect path forward for me towards my goal of joining the Arctic Research Institute.

As a graduate of Brown University’s Bachelor of Science in Geological & Earth Sciences program, I was fortunate enough to be mentored by some of the greatest minds in these fields. Under their tutelage, I’ve honed my observational and analytical skills, as well as my knowledge of report-taking and reading measurements. I also had the life-changing experience of working with the preeminent polar explorer, Dr. Gilford, on her summer quantifying the rapidly receding coastline of the Queen Elizabeth Islands.

Below my signature, you’ll find the application documents requested from me from the university website. If there is anything further from me you need, please give me a call, and I’ll get to it right away. Thank you very much for your time and consideration of my graduate school application.

• Graduate Admission Application
• Undergraduate Transcripts
• Statement of Purpose
• Standardized Test Scores
• Personal Statement / Essay
• 2x Reference Letters

That was our sample cover letter for graduate school programs.

Here’s how to write your cover letter for graduate school:

1. Address Your Grad School Cover Letter Correctly

A cover letter for grad school may not be identical to one for job applications. 

However— 

They still follow a similar format, which means you begin at the top with a formal header and address.

Here’s how to address a cover letter for grad programs the right way:

Jason J. Davenport

832 Chatham Way

Washington, MD 20008

June 15, 2019

Dr. Margaret J. Waller

Department of Psychology

Golden Gate University

536 Mission St.

San Francisco, CA 94105

Simple, right?

You list your name and address first, leave a space, then follow it by the date you’re writing or submitting this grad school cover letter.

Then, leave a space again before addressing the graduate program director or other person who will decide on your admittance. 

Use their name and title, then the academic department they’re in, and finally the university name and address.

The address on a graduate school program cover letter is probably the easiest portion of the whole writing process. 

But— 

If you don’t add it correctly, you might turn the admissions committee member off before they even start reading!

Pro Tip : We told you to check your school’s specific requirements to see if you need a cover letter at all. However, if you do need one, they could have a particular way to format it or ask you to include a special statement ( here’s an example from Drexel ). Always read carefully!

Looking for more strategies for formatting a cover letter? Read this guide: Cover Letter Format

2. Introduce Yourself First on a Graduate School Cover Letter

Before we get to the good stuff, segue into the cover letter intro with a simple cover letter salutation.

Here are two grad school cover letter greeting examples:

As you can guess, the wrong one is because it doesn’t address someone specifically.

One look at it, and they’ll toss your graduate school application out with window.

Always address the person directly!

Pro Tip : Scour the university’s website to find the graduate program administrator. Another option is to use LinkedIn—it doesn’t have to be only for job seekers. 

We continue with your introduction paragraph.

On a cover letter for graduate school admission, the first paragraph should:

• briefly introduce you and state your interest in applying, 
• list the graduate program you’re aiming to take part in, and 
• give a few basic details about your academic background thus far.

Here are two cover letter examples for graduate school opening statements:

The first example does seem captivating, at first, but a graduate school application is not a place to be informal. On top of that, it doesn’t specify the program you’re applying to.

In the second example, all that changes.

It’s short, tailored, direct, and it is academically professional— 

Just the kind of intro they want.

Pro Tip : Another option, if you’re stuck on content for your intro, is to explain how you found out about this graduate certificate or master’s program. Did a professor recommend you? Perhaps it was promoted at a conference? They’d be interested to find out!

Want more examples of cover letter openings? See this guide: How to Start a Cover Letter: 20+ Great Opening Lines & Paragraphs

3. Explain Your Purpose for Applying to This Particular Graduate Program

You’ve explained your interest in a particular program, and they see that you can see yourself there.

Now— 

Make it clear to the supervisor or admissions board member that you belong there.

The body of a cover letter for graduate program applications should include:

• More information on your undergraduate academic studies.
• A few examples of skills you’ve acquired relevant to this grad program.
• Any experience gained which is applicable to your graduate program.

Here are two sample cover letters for graduate schools (body section):

How about that?

The first one: 

• is way too short 
• lists irrelevant skills (we’re applying for a geography program here), and 
• doesn’t give appropriate experience.

The second example is a winner, and it shows you are, as well.

Pro Tip : Name-dropping on a grad school cover letter can be risky business. While it’s more than appropriate to name one or two professors or other academics, don’t exceed that. Too many names dropped drops your chances. Also, only mention people relevant to your program.

Need more tips for cover letter greatness? Check this post out: 35+ Successful Cover Letter Tips, Advice & Guidelines (With Examples)

4. Close the Cover Letter for Graduate School Succinctly

You’re just about there.

You’ve explained to them what makes you a great candidate for this particular grad program, and you’ve given skills and experience to support it.

Now, let’s wrap it up.

Here are two grad school cover letter examples of closing statements:

Here, though you’re excited for the opportunity, remain professional. It’s a graduate school, so lose the exclamation marks and ditch the informalty.

Pro Tip : Don’t use the last paragraph to include any more points which support your application. If they’re crucial, add them in the previous paragraph. Save this one for a simple thank you and conclusion.

Want to see more great examples of cover letter endings? Check out this article: How to End a Cover Letter [20+ Examples of Great Closing Paragraphs]

5. Sign Off With a List of Enclosed Grad Program Application Documents

To close it off, simply add a valediction (or complimentary close) and your name:

If you will hand-sign this document, add additional spacing to allow for your signature.

And, finally— 

The list of enclosed documents:

That’s it!

Some grad school applicants choose to add a sentence detailing their enclosed documents in the closing paragraph. That’s fine, as well, as long as you include it.

Pro Tip : List your enclosed materials in descending order of importance, usually the way they list it on the university or graduate school’s website.

Looking for a perfect template for your reference pages? Have a look at this article: How to List References on a Resume

But remember—

A cover letter without a strong graduate school resume (or CV) won’t mean a thing.

When making a resume in our builder, drag & drop bullet points, skills, and auto-fill the boring stuff. Spell check? Check . Start building a  professional resume template here for free .

When you’re done, our online resume builder will score your resume and our resume checker will tell you exactly how to make it better.

Key Takeaway

So, there you have it—

Here’s what you need to include on a cover letter for graduate school:

• Your name and full mailing address.
• The date of the cover letter’s writing.
• The name of the professor you’re writing to.
• The department, school, and school’s address.
• A brief introduction paragraph proclaiming your interest.
• A quick background of your education and experience.
• Skills and other factors which support your application.
• A thank you and a short ending paragraph.
• A list of all your enclosed documents for their convenience.

Do you have a specific grad school cover letter scenario not mentioned here? Need help on your cover letter for graduate school applications? Raise your hand by shooting us over a comment in the space below. Thanks for reading!

About Zety’s Editorial Process

This article has been reviewed by our editorial team to make sure it follows Zety's editorial guidelines . We’re committed to sharing our expertise and giving you trustworthy career advice tailored to your needs. High-quality content is what brings over 40 million readers to our site every year. But we don't stop there. Our team conducts original research to understand the job market better, and we pride ourselves on being quoted by top universities and prime media outlets from around the world.

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Tips for Writing a Successful Motivation Letter for Ph.D. [+Sample]

How To Write a Motivation Letter For Ph.D. Application [+Sample]

Ph.D. applications are not just sorted out in the same way as any other random application. There are processes involved without which your chances of getting in might be truncated.

If you’ve been considering applying for a Ph.D. then this post is especially directed at you. A motivation letter as used in the case of a Ph.D. application can be much likened to a Personal statement.

There is a need to know if you’re truly qualified to do a Ph.D. while writing an application to a school, so the motivation letter is the perfect insight into who you really are and they expect you to do it justice.   

• An introduction which should state in clear terms which program you are applying for.
• A Summary of your Academic Background.
• Why do you want to do a Ph.D.?
• The significance of your research on society.
• Your career plans.

Avoid Making Spurious Claims

It is quite easy to get lost while writing a motivation letter and forget that motivation cannot be achieved without the necessary evidence to back it up.

Nobody’s really interested in how awesome you are while writing a motivation letter, no offense but anybody can look good on paper but without the proper evidence to back it up, they wouldn’t be any motivation.

For Example, it is very common to see people write; “I work well with other people, or I am an expert at working under pressure”. Well, it is not a cover letter , it’s a motivation letter and you need to give realistic scenarios such as; “my leadership ability was demonstrated when I had to be in charge of a group of colleagues during my internship which required intense marketing management skills.”

Try As Much As Possible to Be Specific

It is equally very important to avoid being vague while writing your motivation letter. The reason why you’re required to write a motivation letter is that someone or some people have to know, if not you wouldn’t have to attempt one.

Saying that your undergraduate days in Marketing was very interesting is too vague to fit into a motivational letter, it sounds like something that should rather be written to a pen friend. You should be more specific about the courses you took as an undergraduate, why you love them and what you learned from them.

Show How Much Skill or Work Experience You Have

While writing a motivational letter, it is very important to concisely include how much skill and/or working experience you possess. A Ph.D. is about more than just a sequel to your past academic endeavors, it is a true test of education and education is more than just owning degrees.

They will be interested in the skills and/or work experience you’ve gathered over the years, skills which are strong enough to make you qualified to bag a Ph.D. That research, data analysis, etc. skills you thought you’d never have to flaunt, well I think this would be a perfect opportunity to talk about them.

Be Professional

It is equally quite important that you are very professional while writing a motivation letter for a Ph.D. application . It will be in your own best interest to ensure that you present your motivation letter with professional grammar, font and the appropriate writing style in which you’d rather prefer to be accepted.

Your professionalism sends a good message about your personality and would go a long way into helping you get accepted. 

Sample Motivation Letter for a Ph.D. Application

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• 2023 Letter of Interest - Example & Writing Guide
• Students and Graduates Resume Example

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Home » Cover Letter for Ph.D. Application: 5 Template ideas

Cover Letter for Ph.D. Application: 5 Template ideas

Do you need some help writing your PhD application cover letter? Are you struggling to find the right words to show off your skills and experience? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through how to write a cover letter for a job with a Ph.D. We’ll provide tips and advice on what to include and share some examples of successful Cover Letters for Ph.D. Application.

So whether you’re just starting out in your job search or you’ve been at it for a while, read on for tips on how to beat the competition! Check out these tips! A well-written cover letter is a great opportunity to introduce yourself and explain why you are interested in the position. It can also highlight your qualifications and demonstrate your knowledge of the field. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Start by introducing yourself and explaining why you are interest in the position.
• Highlight your qualifications and explain how they match the requirements of the position.
• Demonstrate your knowledge of the field by discussing your research interests or relevant experience.
• Make sure to thank the reader for their time and consideration.
• Close with another brief introduction, highlighting any other

For More: 107+ Attractive Career Objective for PhD Resume Ideas

Table of Contents

PhD cover letter sample

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am please to be able to submit this application for the above post. I believe that my qualifications and experience will make me an ideal candidate for this position; that is why I would like to ask you to consider me as one of your possible aspirants.

From my resume, you can see that I have engaged in teaching experiences at the university level. As a part of this, So I have even helped students to prepare their dissertation work by acting for them as an advisor.

This has given me tremendous confidence in my potential to succeed in any academic environment, so much so that I do not hesitate in saying that it is within your means to get the best out of me if you decide to choose me.

I am very keen on this job and will like to join you in your endeavor of developing the next generation of educationalists. As I see it, there is no better place than an institution like yours to help me achieve my ambitions; therefore, I make myself available for an interview at your earliest convenience.

I hope to hear from you soon. Thank You.

Yours faithfully, Name:_______, Email:___________, Address:__________Contact#____________

Related: Best Motivation Letter for Phd: 07 + Samples

Cover letter for PhD application sample

I am writing to apply for the open research position posted on your website. I have my bachelor’s degree in Petroleum Engineering from ________________ and working as a petroleum Engineer at ___________ Oil company since last two years. However throughout my academic career, it has been my dream to pursue higher studies such as PhD and contribute to knowledge based society.

During my bachelor’s I studied Petroleum Geophysics and ___________ Research Methodology in depth which has given me a sound knowledge of ___________ research area. In addition to my course work, I have been actively involved in volunteer activities for the welfare of society. These experiences have helped develop __________ skills and traits and given me a novel insight to address ___________ issues.

I am aware that pursuing further studies is not an easy task and I will try my best to contribute as much as I can towards your research projects and help you in achieving your goals and vision.

Please find the attached resume for your kind consideration. Thank you very much for your time and consideration.

Yours Sincerely, Name:_______, Email:___________, Address:__________Contact#____________

Related: Best Motivation Letter for PhD In Microbiology: 09+ Samples

Cover letter sample for phd position

I am writing to apply for the post of_______at your esteemed university. My experience in the field of ________ has provided me with insight into the areas you are looking for. I have recently completed my PhD at ___________(University) on ______. The topic is based around research which I had undertaken during my undergraduate degree, where I came to understand how it can be applied to real-life situations across a range of industry sectors. I am an enthusiastic and dedicated individual who would relish the opportunity to join your staff at _________.

Please find attached my CV, which provides you with further details about my skills and experience. Thank you for taking the time to consider me for this role, it would be a huge privilege to represent your university; I look forward to hearing from you.

Related: Motivation Letter For Phd In Chemistry: 5 Samples

PhD Cover Letter Example

Respected Sir,

I am interested in working with your organization, because I feel it is a perfect fit for me and well-aligned with my interests and career aspirations. Have enclosed my resume along with this letter as further information on who I am and why you should hire me.

I am very interested in your organization, and I believe that my skills are a good match for the company’s needs. So I have enclosed my resume with this letter to provide relevant details about my qualifications, but please find below some additional information on why you should consider hiring me as Doctoral Researcher.

As I was studying at your prestigious university, I increasingly became interested in the issues that concern your organization. My passion for this subject has made me a strong researcher with vast knowledge of this area, which I believe is reflected in my thesis, its presentation and the references I chose to use (please see my attached CV).

As I read about the company’s goals and plans for the future, it occurred to me that now would be a perfect time for me as well as an opportunity that should not be missed; I possess the knowledge and experience that would allow me to take an active role in the company’s future plans.

I am confident that my professional abilities, personal traits, and educational background make me an excellent candidate for this position. Moreover, my previous work experience (please refer to my CV) shows that I can handle tasks of a similar nature. which makes me a valuable asset for any corporation.

I would be more than happy to answer any questions you may have. Thank you for your time and consideration. I hope to meet with you in person soon.

Sincerely, Name:_______, Email:___________, Address:__________Contact#____________

For More: CV Objective for PhD Application

Cover letter for PhD application example

In this letter, I will explain my purpose for applying to your doctoral program and highlight my qualifications that make me a good candidate for graduate school.

I am writing to you because I have a strong interest in the field of Psychology and want to pursue a career in research. My research interests include Sleep, Memory Processes, Learning & Cognition. The focus of my dissertation will examine the functional impact of sleep on memory processes. Sleep is an important yet overlooked area of research, and I am very interested in studying this topic further.

Prior to applying to your program, I researched your faculty members’ publications in order learn more about their specific interests within psychology (see attached CV for reference). I noticed that Dr. Smith’s work in the field of ” memory processes” would be a good match for my research interests, so I decided to send her a copy of my CV and letter of intent.

I have an undergraduate degree in Psychology from [University Name] where I graduated with High Distinction. My GPA was 3.8 and I also graduated at the top of my class.

I would like to pursue a career in scientific research , where I can continue learning and building on my past experiences. Your program is ranked among the top programs in [field] and I would like to be a candidate for your doctoral program.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I hope that we can discuss my qualifications in greater detail. Please don’t hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or require additional information.

So, what do you think? Let us know in the comments section below. And if you’re still curious about how to write a Cover Letter for PhD Application or are looking for more information on academic cover letters in general, be sure to check out our other blog posts and resources pages. We have all the info you need to make your application stand out from the rest! So do you have any questions about how to write one or where to start? Let us know in the comments section below – we’d love to hear from you! And if you found this article helpful, please share it with your friends and followers.

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PhD Cover Letter: PhD Application Example in the UK

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It’s not important whether you are trying to keep your student discounts long into your 30s or answer some questions nobody could in the history of humanity. It can all be achieved with a properly crafted PhD application. 

The places are very limited, and there are dozens of equally good candidates. This guide about PhD cover letter will focus on some important steps that you need to think about when crafting the letter.

The first thing you ought to do is check the requirements of the institution that you’re applying to, firstly to make sure they require a cover letter, and secondly to see what sections they’d like you to cover. They differ from school to school, course to course.

Save time and have a cover letter ready in no time. Pick a cover letter template , use pre-written suggestions, and have your cover letter ready in minutes.

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Below, you'll find a tailored PhD cover letter example:

PhD Cover Letter Example

Mohammed Whittaker

97 Castledore Road

Twyford 

07873254992

[email protected]

Dean of Philosophy

Nottingham Trent University

50 Shakespeare Street

June 1, 2021

RE: PhD Philosophy and Public Policy Programme

As an MA Philosophy Distinction graduate from UCL with a narrow focus on the Right to Privacy and the way surveillance, crime prevention and other governmental acts violate it, I am excited to apply to a PhD Philosophy and Public Policy programme at an institution so focused on evaluating global surveillance policy and influencing real, positive change. 

I completed my MA writing on the philosophical and moral basis of modern human rights, with a focus on the right to privacy in the digital world to assert whether the Declaration of Human Rights and other conventions could be being violated by national internet privacy laws such as the Investigatory Powers Act. During this time, I also worked as a Teaching Assistant, which allowed me constant feedback from the new generation of philosophers on these themes, which really helped guiding the process when I was selected to assist on interdisciplinary research with Sociology and Psychology colleagues:  ‘I Have Nothing To Hide: Understanding and Perceptions of Privacy, Rights to Privacy, and Surveillance in the UK’.  Having surveyed a sample of 3,800 subjects, we probed how strong innate feelings of rights are, and how easily apathy towards pursuing one’s rights can be affected by highlighting violations and abuses against the subjects. The results of the study are due to be published in the Journal of British Philosophy.

I am especially interested in the Evidence and Policy part of the course, as I am a firm believer that not only do certain regulations violate our human rights, they do not bring about the outcome that is touted as the justification for them. I am conscious of my need to expand my skill set and approach in the light of my ambition to advocate and advise non-governmental and governmental bodies on necessary concessions and compromises. 

When dealing with issues of global technology, it seems like the law and public policy are always playing catch-up. However, an approach based on classic philosophical themes seems to suggest that these measures are misguided and harmful to all. During my PhD study, I would like to stop focusing on the past and theory, and further explore the possible practical consequences of a world without privacy which we seem to be sliding towards, drawing on the body of knowledge in behavioural sciences My previous publications spanned from the root of the rights discussed, through their applications to modern situations, to analysis of the moral and rational shortcomings and violations. By delving into the exploration of possible behavioural consequences, which will no doubt have deep imprints on the future of mankind, I believe this publication will become a comprehensive treatise on the subject.

In the future, I hope there will be a government interested in listening to these concerns, but until then, there are a number of non-governmental organisations working to make a change, as well as some legal challenges that could use the assistance of an extensive authority on the subject. By allowing me to study the possible future consequences of this line of public policy, we will be able to better influence the imagination of future decision makers, as well as all citizens.

I invite you to find the publications listed in my CV and see the strong base, committed continuity and passion I devoted to the subject so far. I would love to discuss any finer or broad points with you.

Best Regards,

For sure you have already written your academic CV . Now you'll see how to write a top-of-the-class PhD cover letter. Follow these cover letter tips and craft your own, step by step.

1. Begin your PhD cover letter with a professional header and salutation

What to include in your cover letter for PhD ? Let's start from the beginning. Most likely you will be applying through an automated system and pasting this cover letter into a box, but if not, compose the header like in any other business letter: 

• Right-align your contact details (including email and phone)
• Left-align your hiring manager’s details
• Put down the date
• State the subject of your PhD cover letter

If possible, try to address the cover letter directly to the person dealing with it. In this profession, surname may be better than first name, initially. Reference against this PhD cover letter example:

PhD cover letter example—header

Professor John Smith

Dear Professor Smith,

You can adjust every cover letter created in the builder to meet the job requirements. Choose the name of your profession and the company to which you’re applying, and the builder will automatically adapt the content for you. Create a cover letter faster than you ever thought possible and apply for the job in record time.

2. Open the PhD cover letter with your motivation

Open your cover letter by stating clearly what position you are applying to and why. Quickly summarise your academic qualifications up to now, and show that you know exactly why you’re applying here, and not somewhere else. 

Show how your path has naturally led you here, and you will be off to a winning start.

PhD cover letter example—opening paragraph

As an MA Philosophy Distinction graduate from UCL with a narrow focus on the Right to Privacy and the way surveillance, crime prevention and other governmental acts violate it, I am excited to apply to a PhD Philosophy and Public Policy programme at an institution so focused on evaluating global surveillance policy and influencing real, positive change.

3. State your academic interests and background in your PhD cover letter example

Here is the space to evaluate more on the educational path that has led you here, and to set the stage for showing your Master’s education segues perfectly into this next step. Show how your findings situate themselves in the body of knowledge on the subject.

Highlight what is original about your thesis or approach, and how it expands the body of knowledge on the subject. Mention any other publications that supplement your thesis, even the ones that are planned or due to be published. 

PhD cover letter example—academic background

You don’t have to create any content yourself. The LiveCareer cover letter maker will automatically suggest the best content for your cover letter with ready-made examples and expert tips.

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4. Explain the areas of interest in the PhD programme

Highlight your specific interests within the course programme and how they relate to you developing your research further. This will show you have done in-depth research into the course programme and chosen wisely.

PhD cover letter example—programme interest

I am especially interested in the Evidence and Policy part of the course, as I am a firm believer that not only do certain regulations violate our human rights, they do not bring about the outcome that is touted as the justification for them. I am conscious of my need to expand my skill set and approach in the light of my ambition to advocate and advise non-governmental and governmental bodies on necessary concessions and compromises.

5. Show research / thesis aspirations in your PhD cover letter

It’s time to start tying up all the ends and showing how your previous background and research, combined with the teaching you will receive on this programme, and your own efforts, will combine to spawn something new, novel, and useful to the discipline.

Balance your track record with your future plans, and try to be specific about what you expect to get from your research. Make sure it is realistic, as well as interesting.

PhD cover letter example—research goals

6. prove your professional aspirations and close your cover letter for phd.

If you have specific professional plans, highlight them and how your PhD will allow you to pursue them. Once again, be realistic, but bold. 

Once you are done rounding out your professional aspirations, close your cover letter out with a call to action—a request for some attention to your previous work, and perhaps a more in-depth discussion of how you imagine it. 

PhD cover letter example—closing

6. format your phd cover letter properly.

An PhD cover letter is one of the documents you'll submit as part of a PhD application, and most likely you want to sound professional and mature. Clear formatting lays at the core of a professionally-written document. Follow these tips for a well-formatted cover letter :

PhD cover letter length

Consult your university resources for the length and type of the cover letter they expect. Sometimes, there is no cover letter required.

Use the CV format

Your PhD CV and cover letter must have the same style. They are two parts of one document. You won’t be allowed to continue your research if you can’t continue an application neatly.

Use an elegant font

Choose a font size between 10 and 12 . Pick a readable, but elegant font that matches your CV font —think Arial, Calibri, Noto, Garamond.

Use even margins and white space

Pick a simple cover letter template without fancy graphics. Use white space between sections and paragraphs to guide the reader’s eyes. Center your PhD cover letter on all sides using even, 1-inch margins. If your university has a word limit for cover letters and you are running out of space, consider pulling out some bullet points.

Target each PhD cover letter

Tailoring your PhD cover letter is key . This should go without saying. There will be only a few places where you can reasonably apply, and you ought to find out as much as you can about all of them before you even start writing the first cover letter for PhD.

A cover letter alone simply won’t be enough—you need an impactful CV, too. Create your CV in minutes. Choose a professional CV template and quickly fill in every CV section using ready-made content and expert advice.

Create your CV now

Does this answer how to write a cover letter for PhD application? Got any more questions on what to include? Did you find the PhD cover letter example helpful? Let us know in a comment!

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Cover Letter For PhD Application | Samples and Templates

Would you like to see a sample cover letter of application for PhD position? Here are some professionally designed patterns and also a sample cover letter for PhD application.

It doesn’t matter if you’re trying to keep your student discounts up to age 30 or answering questions that no one in the history of mankind has ever answered. All this is possible with a well-designed PhD application.

There are very few vacancies, and there are dozens of equally qualified candidates. This guide to writing a PhD admission letter or motivational letter will go over some of the important steps to consider when writing a letter.

The first thing you should do is check the requirements of the institution you are applying to, first make sure a cover letter is required, and then see which sections they would like you to cover.

They differ from one institute to another and from one course to another. A sample academic cover letter of application for a PhD position is your best chance of being accepted.

This article is a complete guide on how to write application letters for PhD positions. It also contains a sample PhD application letter and templates to help you write the best.

What is a PhD Admission Letter?

The letter of application is your first chance to tell the committee why you should be selected for graduate studies. Not only does this show your personality, but it can also explain why a recruiting board should choose you as a PhD student in his own words.

Your PhD application letter, like most others, should complement, not duplicate, your resume. It should explain and expand on the information on your resume or application form. You must adapt the content to your chosen PhD thesis. A theme that allows you to focus your specific experience and academic achievement on your learning abilities.

It should be noted that when applying for a PhD, you may be required to submit a personal statement as well as a cover letter. Each university will have its own set of requirements, but keep in mind that a cover letter is not the same as a personal statement.

Your statement will highlight your interests and goals while your PhD the cover letter will highlight your material accomplishments such as academic and professional experience.

If you need to prepare both statements, try to keep this in mind when writing. Having a sample PhD application letter is also another way to make sure you’re writing something compelling.

What are the key points I should include in my PhD admission letter?

There are no rules about what we must include in your PhD cover letter, but in general, your application must include references to the following:

Who you are – your personality and what sets you apart from other potential PhDs. Your cover letter should be a sales tool that will encourage any committee to select you for their team. The successful cover letter should contain the following

• Your abilities and accomplishments (along with any evidence to support your claims).
• In addition, your study of a particular institution for your doctoral program(why you want to attend this particular institution and what makes it suitable for you).
• Your understanding of your research project and your expectations regarding its impact on your industry (this will show not only your knowledge of the research but also your passion and motivation for the project).
• How do your specific skills apply to the post? Have you gained any relevant experience in this area? Have you been inspired by the achievements of previous bachelor’s degree and master’s degree?

Writing a great motivation letter is a skill, just like any other part of the application process. This requires you to explain in a balanced way who you are and why you should be selected, in detail while remaining concise.

While remaining professional, it should reflect your personality. This is a difficult writing skill that should not be rushed.

Don’t rush into writing your application letter; the more time you spend on it, the higher your chances of you becoming a successful PhD student. Use the top-down approach as a practical tip.

You can use a sample PhD cover letter to make sure you don’t make mistakes and are on the right track. Continue reading to learn more about Cover Letter Sample and Templates for PhD application. This will help you write a cover letter for PhD application.

What is the purpose of a PhD Statement?

If you are a PhD candidate, an academic letter of the application allows you to explain to the reader, who is likely the professor or director in charge of reviewing PhD applicants, what you can offer to the program and why they should select you for a place.

You can use your cover letter to fill in any gaps on your resume (CV), tailor your application to a specific program, and showcase your communication skills and passion.

This is your chance to impress a PhD program director with your identity and the assets you will bring to their institution.

How to write a PhD Statement?

Follow these steps to write a PhD statement:

1. Learn the details of the program and organization

Review the information you have about the program you are applying for before writing your application letter. Use a different application letter for each organization because they may be looking for unique qualities in candidates.

Analyze your qualities, as well as those of the ideal candidate, and tailor your application letter to the areas where they overlap.

2. Create a formal letter of application.

A STEM-focused application letter should be one page, while a liberal arts-focused application letter can be two pages. Always check with the organization and adhere to any formatting rules they may have for the application material.

Use a professional font and font size, pay attention to clear formatting, and avoid adding extra elements such as pictures or frames.

3. Provide your most recent contact information.

It is especially important to provide up-to-date and correct contact information when contacting several organizations at once. If the organization needs more information or wants to schedule an interview, you should make sure they can contact you.

The presence of up-to-date and accurate information indicates professionalism and reliability.

4. Create an introduction

Write an introduction after you’ve completed the body of your cover letter. The introduction should clearly state what you are applying for. You can also use this space to briefly mention future ambitions or goals.

5. In the first paragraph of the main body, highlight your strengths and experience.

Write the first paragraph of your cover letter highlighting your education, strengths, and experience. This paragraph should describe who you are academically and what you hope to achieve while participating in the program. Tell us about your specific interests in this area, what sparked your interest, and any research you’ve done on those specific interests.

6. In the second main paragraph, describe your distinctive features.

Focus on your passion, drive, and unique qualities that set you apart from other candidates in the second paragraph of your cover letter. You want to show not only how the program can help you, but also how you can improve the program if accepted. Consider overlaps between your qualifications and what the program is looking for in an ideal candidate.

7. Complete your application letter.

End the application letter by thanking the reader for their time and expressing appreciation for the opportunity. The conclusion should complement the rest of your application letter, demonstrating your enthusiasm for your field and commitment to the organization.

Your conclusion should also encourage the reader to contact you for more information, discussion, or to schedule an interview.

8. Include a formal closure and signature.

Your closing and signature are the final elements of your academic cover letter. In most cases, you may not need to physically sign the document; a printed name will suffice.

Avoid using intimate closing phrases and use more professional ones instead. Here are some examples of professional closing statements. The sample PhD application letter written below will serve as a great guide to make sure you get it right.

Tips for writing an effective PhD thesis Statement

You can use the following guidelines to write your PhD statement:

Start at the very beginning of the process. Preparing an application for graduate school requires careful planning. Set aside enough time to write, edit, and proofread your cover letter.

Take a break between writing and editing. When you’ve finished writing your application letter, save it and wait a few days before editing to make sure you notice ways to improve or correct your work.

Make the most of your resources. If you are still in college, you can use the writing or career centers to craft an effective cover letter. Talk to your favorite professors or lecturers, ask them questions and listen to their advice.

Carefully review your PhD thesis. statement. You want to present yourself professionally in your application letter because this is one of your first points of contact with a potential school. Use proofreading software, read your cover letter aloud, and ask friends and colleagues to read it for you to create a flawless application letter.

Make your points clear. You must provide evidence for every claim you make about yourself. Tell us as much as possible about your achievements and hobbies.

Focus on your true self. Demonstrate why you are the best candidate for your chosen school by emphasizing how your uniqueness will benefit the program. Concentrate on articulating your important accomplishments.

Samples and Templates Of Academic Cover Letters for PhD Statement

Academic Cover Letter Sample for PhD Position

Receiver name

Recipient’s position

Address of the recipient

Dear [name]

Cover letter for the PhD program at [institution name].

I am writing to express my research interests in continuing my academic studies at [university] through a PhD program in [topic].

I am very eager to join your [Faculty Postgraduate] program because I consider that its prosperous history of academic research is an ideal match for my academic abilities and extensive career experience. I have been interested in [the topic] for a long time and recently met with [name], one of your alumni. And they inspired me to take a chance and submit this letter because I have long wanted to expand on the knowledge I gained through my experience at [your company name].

I studied [mention subject] at [mention university], and throughout my academic history and work experience, I grew a strong interest in this niche area [your topic]. My thesis was on [subject], and I was able to put my academic knowledge into practice while working at [your company name where you work/worked] since graduating from my undergraduate studies.

As you can see from my attached academic CV, I was able to sharpen my skills in key specializations, which led to my interest in [the project]. Because of the ever-changing nature of my profession, I believe there are opportunities for further study [of the subject] and I am eager to combine my theoretical and practical knowledge with my research PhD project.

I believe that this is valuable not only for me and my colleagues but for my profession as a whole because it can help others understand the meaning [of the subject].

I hope to continue my academic career with a PhD, which has long been my goal. I can’t think of a better university to study than [the university you are wishing to complete your PhD from]. I’ve always been motivated by the accomplishments of this institution and would like to collaborate with your teaching staff to explore my hypothesis, namely [details]. I would especially like to work with Professor [mention name], who was admiringly regarded by our mutual understanding [name of alumnus].

Thus, I am sure that with my theoretical knowledge and professional experience I will be able to complete the research project I have chosen at a high level. I am a dedicated, hardworking individual who has long been respected in my industry through my involvement in [professional organizations]. I have also been recognized for my work, along with my peers, through many industry awards, including [details].

After completing my PhD, I intend to use my knowledge to educate fellow professionals, thereby increasing awareness and understanding of our industry.

I hope this letter has given you some idea of ​​my commitment to my education and that you will consider my application.

I would like to once again draw your attention to my CV, which is attached to this letter and describes in detail my professional and academic background.

I look forward to hearing from you shortly.

[Signature]

FINAL WORDS

Your cover letter for PhD application should contain a brief introduction to the program you want to apply for in the text of the application. This should be included in any cover letter. You need to write down the letter to the PhD supervisor.

First, state a clear career goal for your future project, as well as the reasons why you chose this particular PhD program. Mention in detail your previous professional and academic history. Also mention if you are applying for professional scientific research or anything else.

Q. How do I write a cover letter for a PhD admission?

A. Your cover letter for PhD application should contain a brief introduction to the program you want to apply for in the text of the application. This should be included in any cover letter. You need to write down the letter to the PhD supervisor.

Q. How do I write a good PhD application?

A. First, state a clear career goal for your future project, as well as the reasons why you chose this particular PhD program. Mention in detail your previous professional and academic history. Also mention if you are applying for professional scientific research or anything else.

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Table of Contents

Cover letter for Ph.D(5 samples)

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The Optimistminds editorial team is made up of psychologists, psychiatrists and mental health professionals. Each article is written by a team member with exposure to and experience in the subject matter.  The article then gets reviewed by a more senior editorial member. This is someone with extensive knowledge of the subject matter and highly cited published material.

This blog post will show samples of “Ph.D. cover letters.”

Samples of Ph.D. cover letters

When applying for a postgraduate program, you need a well-written cover letter that showcases your passion for and dedication to your course. When writing the cover letter, these are some of the essential things to include in your letter:

• Address your recipient with a formal salutation. For example, “Dear/Hello (name of the recipient).”
• introduction and a big achievement fitting the program.
• Key information about you and why you fit the postgraduate program. 
• Highlight your strengths: Why do your strengths make you a good match for the program? 
• Express what your plans are for the future: How will this particular program help get you there?
• Conclude your letter with a forward-looking statement. For example, “I look forward to discussing the position further.”

Sample 1: “Ph.D. cover letters”

“Dear Dr. Jahns,

I am writing in reference to my application to carry out my doctorate research at Avon University, exploring the sociophonetic perception of second-generation immigrants. Since my undergraduate, I have been aware of the ground-breaking research in the field of linguistics that is carried out at Avon. I believe that the institution would be an excellent fit for my profile and this research project.

Since early on in my academic studies, I have leaned towards the psychology of linguistics. This is evidenced through the subject matter of my undergraduate dissertation, which explored early language development in bilingual children. My tutor expressed that they were impressed by my supporting research which was recognised by the university when I received the Grant Hughes Prize for Exceptional Research at my BSc graduation.

While my PhD research proposal centres on questions of bilingualism, the topic first became of particular interest to me through my research into monolingualism. I studied the accents of immigrants who in adolescence spoke only the language of their country of residence. It was during the completion of my Master of Research (MRes) that I noticed the relationship between the monolingual members of these communities and the wider questions and consequences raised from their sociophonetic perception. Much of the existing research that I referenced during my MRes came from Avon University. 

I believe that my background in the psychology surrounding polyglotism in sociophonetics could further enrichen the department and field. I hope to be able to discuss my research proposal further with you soon.

Yasmin Kirtzman”

Sample 2: “Ph.D. cover letters”

“Gary Zhang

100 Baker Avenue Clairesville, WY

(838)-556-9092

[email protected]

Dear Dr. Morales,

I am writing to express my interest in the doctoral program for the Department of Biochemical Engineering at Agosto University. Using my current and future research, I plan to develop prototypes for breakthrough neurogenic mechanisms that may help to treat a variety of degenerative neurological conditions.

While earning my Bachelor in biochemistry and chemical engineering at New Pine University, I developed an interest in neurological conditions with a focus on degenerative factors. As a research assistant with Smithson Labs, I aided in developing alternative testing methods, resulting in 40% more accurate results during the clinical study. I earned my Master’s degree in Biochemical Engineering at Coleridge University, during which I published two articles focusing on memory retention in neurologically compromised patients. I believe pursuing my Ph.D. with Agosto University will allow me to further my understanding of biochemical principles and enhance my current research.

Agosto’s advanced research facilities would allow me the technology and equipment to advance my research and begin building prototypes. I admire Agosto faculty members such as Jeremy Johnson and Maureen Hinh for their studies on rebuilding neurotransmitter proteins and reconstruction of neurological pathways. I believe that under their tutelage my research may one day be of equal importance and positively impact the lives of many people. Additionally, I appreciate that Agosto University takes measures to ensure diversity and inclusion on campus, and I feel I will thrive in the educational atmosphere.

Thank you for taking the time to read this letter. If you need any further information from me or wish to plan an interview, please don’t hesitate to contact me. I look forward to joining the program and becoming an official Agosto University Pronghorn.

Respectfully,

Gary Zhang”

Sample 3: “Ph.D. cover letters”

“Recipient Name

Recipient Job Title

Recipient Address

Dear [name]

Cover letter for application to join the PhD programme at [school].

I am writing to you to showcase my interest in continuing my academic study through the PhD programme in [subject] at [University].

I am keen to join the doctoral programme within your [department] because I believe that its rich history of academic research is a perfect match for my academic aptitude and my extensive career history.

I’ve long been interested in [subject] and I recently met with [name], who is one of your alumni. They inspired me to take the leap and submit this application because I’ve long been interested in developing my knowledge honed through my professional experience at [company name].

I studied [subject] at [university] and throughout my academic history and work experience, I’ve developed a strong interest in the niche field of [topic]. My BA thesis was based upon [subject] and since completing my undergraduate studies, I’ve been able to put my theoretical knowledge into practice through my work at [company name].

As you can see from my enclosed CV, I’ve been able to hone my skills into key specialisms which have led me to develop an interest in [project]. I believe that there is scope to continue the research into [subject] due to the ever-changing nature of the profession and I’m keen to combine my practical and theoretical knowledge with my research. I believe this is of value to not just myself and my peers but also my wider profession, since it could help others to understand the importance of [subject].

I wish to continue my academic career by completing my doctorate, which has always been a long-term ambition of mine. I cannot imagine a better place to study than [university]. I have always been inspired by the achievements of this academic institution and I wish to work alongside your teaching staff to research my hypothesis which is [details]. In particular, I would like to work alongside Professor [name], who was highly regarded by our mutual acquaintance [alumni name].

With my theoretical knowledge and my professional expertise, I am confident that I can complete my chosen research project to a high standard. I am a dedicated hard worker and have long been regarded within my sector through my involvement with [professional bodies]. I have also been recognised along with my peers for our work through the achievements of many industry awards including [details].

Following on from the completion of my doctorate, I plan to use my knowledge to help educate fellow professionals, and thus improve awareness and understanding of our sector.

I hope that this letter has given you some insight into my dedication to my learning and that you will consider my application.

I would like to draw your attention back to my CV which is enclosed with this letter, which will demonstrate my professional and academic history.

I look forward to hearing from you in due course.

Yours sincerely,

[Signature]

Encl. Curriculum Vitae”

Sample 4: “Ph.D. cover letters”

“John Smith

Dean of Philosophy

Nottingham Trent University

50 Shakespeare Street

June 1, 2021

RE: PhD Philosophy and Public Policy Programme

As an MA Philosophy Distinction graduate from UCL with a narrow focus on the Right to Privacy and the way surveillance, crime prevention and other governmental acts violate it, I am excited to apply to a PhD Philosophy and Public Policy programme at an institution so focused on evaluating global surveillance policy and influencing real, positive change. 

I completed my MA writing on the philosophical and moral basis of modern human rights, with a focus on the right to privacy in the digital world to assert whether the Declaration of Human Rights and other conventions could be being violated by national internet privacy laws such as the Investigatory Powers Act. During this time, I also worked as a Teaching Assistant, which allowed me constant feedback from the new generation of philosophers on these themes, which really helped guiding the process when I was selected to assist on interdisciplinary research with Sociology and Psychology colleagues: ‘I Have Nothing To Hide: Understanding and Perceptions of Privacy, Rights to Privacy, and Surveillance in the UK’. Having surveyed a sample of 3,800 subjects, we probed how strong innate feelings of rights are, and how easily apathy towards pursuing one’s rights can be affected by highlighting violations and abuses against the subjects. The results of the study are due to be published in the Journal of British Philosophy.

I am especially interested in the Evidence and Policy part of the course, as I am a firm believer that not only do certain regulations violate our human rights, they do not bring about the outcome that is touted as the justification for them. I am conscious of my need to expand my skill set and approach in the light of my ambition to advocate and advise non-governmental and governmental bodies on necessary concessions and compromises. 

When dealing with issues of global technology, it seems like the law and public policy are always playing catch-up. However, an approach based on classic philosophical themes seems to suggest that these measures are misguided and harmful to all. During my PhD study, I would like to stop focusing on the past and theory, and further explore the possible practical consequences of a world without privacy which we seem to be sliding towards, drawing on the body of knowledge in behavioural sciences My previous publications spanned from the root of the rights discussed, through their applications to modern situations, to analysis of the moral and rational shortcomings and violations. By delving into the exploration of possible behavioural consequences, which will no doubt have deep imprints on the future of mankind, I believe this publication will become a comprehensive treatise on the subject.

In the future, I hope there will be a government interested in listening to these concerns, but until then, there are a number of non-governmental organisations working to make a change, as well as some legal challenges that could use the assistance of an extensive authority on the subject. By allowing me to study the possible future consequences of this line of public policy, we will be able to better influence the imagination of future decision makers, as well as all citizens.

I invite you to find the publications listed in my CV and see the strong base, committed continuity and passion I devoted to the subject so far. I would love to discuss any finer or broad points with you.

Best Regards,

Mohammed Whittaker”

Frequently Asked Questions: Samples of Ph.D. cover letters

How do you end a cover letter for an award.

Always be polite when signing off from a cover letter. Acceptable closing salutations include “Best regards,” Thank you for your consideration,” “Respectfully” and “Sincerely.”

How do you close a cover letter example?

How to Close a Cover Letter

• Best regards,
• Kind regards,
• With best regards,
• Thank you for your consideration,

If you like this blog post, please leave your comments and questions below.

Writing an Academic Cover Letter for a PhD Application

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Cover Letter For PHD Application In 2021(With Samples)

Hi there, how are you guys doing, today in this article we are going to discuss about you to write a cover letter for phd application in 2021. So we are going to share few samples as well so that you get an idea about how to write cover letters for getting your phd application selected.

The most important part of your PhD application is your PhD cover letter . Your cover letter should tell the interviewer why you are a perfect fit and why you should be invited for an interview.

So this article will tell you exactly what a phd cover letter is and what are the benefits of it. We will also tell you a few pre-written cover letter for phd application.

What Is PHD Cover Letter?

A cover letter is nothing but just a piece of paper that tells the interviewer why you should be selected for your postgraduate doctorate. It should reflect your actual personality in your own words and convey the hiring panel to select you as a phd student.

While writing the phd cover letter just keep one thing in mind that do not repeat the information that is already written in your cv. Instead of repeating the information you can expand it and make it more clear to the hiring panel. It should not sound boring.

You should highlight your specific expertise and academic achievements that you have earned in past. This will make you stand out from the crowd.

Keep in mind that while submitting your phd cover letter you may be asked to submit a personal statement along with your cover letter. This totally depends upon the university that you are applying to. Some may ask some may not. For your information, a personal statement is different from a cover letter .

A personal statement is more focused on your interests, goals and your ambitions in life, on the other hand, your cover letter will focus on your achievements such as your academic and professional experience if any.

You may be asked to draft both statements, then try to keep this in mind during the writing process.

Important Points To Include In PHD Application Letter

First of all, there are no specific rules and regulations that you have to follow while writing your phd application letter but here are some important points htat you should include in your cover letter.

• About Yourself – Always start the letter by introducing yourself, who you actually are, what’s your personality, etc. Imagine yourself as a product and your cover letter as a marketing tool for yourself, you have to convey to the hiring committee to select you in their team.
• Achievements And Skills – If you have any past achievements then that should be included in your cover letter along with the skills you have.
• Your Research about that particular institution and why you want to join that particular academic institution
• Your Projects – If you have worked on any projects in the past then you should include that as well, maybe that particular project gonna impress the hiring committee and you end up getting selected.
• Why You Are Perfect – Every academic institution is different and looking for different candidates, do your proper research about the institution before applying and include all the key point about why you are a perfect fit for them.

Take your time to craft your application letter as you are writing it on a professional level. The more time you spend on your cover letter the better you’ll able to write.

Use the ‘ top-down ‘ approach to include the more relevant and important information at the top of the letter and then work your way down to the end. You have no surety when will the hiring member stop reading your cover letter, that’s why the top-down approach ensures that they have all the necessary information even if they stop reading your cover letter in the middle. Do not make the introduction too long as they are more interested in your skills.

Cover Letter For PhD Application Samples

Now we will see how to write a perfect cover letter for PhD application step by step.

Introduce Yourself

The first thing you have to do in your cover letter is to properly introduce yourself for eg. who you are, what’s your academic background, why the hiring committee should consider your application, etc.

This is the right place to tell them what PhD you are applying for and why you have taken this decision to study further. You can start your storytelling in this section as well.

 “ I developed my interested in this subject when I met [name], who is one of your alumni. They inspired me to want to continue my learning and further my knowledge, which has been developed through my professional experience at [company name]. ”

Here you can clearly see that the candidate is explaining why he wants to apply and what inspires him to continue their studies. He is also telling about his professional experience with a company. This creates an interest in the reader’s mind.

Showcasing Your Achievements and Skills

After the introduction, you have to tell them about your previous achievements and skills that you have. You have to tell them how your skills can help them in the projects and commercial sectors.

You can also refer to your CV for better insights about your achievements and skills. You could use this section to briefly introduce what topic you believe would make a great research project.

“ As already mentioned in my CV, I have an extensive professional history within my sector. From my experience at [company name], I was able to focus upon my key specialisms, which led me to develop an interest in [project]. “As you know, the profession have ever-changing nature and due to that there is always a scope to continue the research into [Subject] and i am ready to combine my skills and experience in my research. I believe this is of value to not just myself and my peers but also my wider profession because of [detail]. “

This is how you can write a cover letter for PhD application . You can always experiment in your own way or you can use our references as well to write a perfect cover letter for phd applications.

I hope you have enjoyed reading this article, If Yes? then do comment below your thoughts and share this article with your friends and family.

If you have any doubts and questions regarding anything then you can contact us or leave the comment below, we will get back to you asap.

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