How to Write School Application Letters

A school application process doesn't have to be daunting—if taken step by step, you will achieve your goal and receive admission. The application letter, often called the essay or statement, is one facet of the application. It is open-ended for some colleges, which gives you the opportunity to show who you are as an academic and as a person. The letter can drastically help an application by allowing you to explain any gaps in high grades, limited extracurricular activities or personal issues that may have gotten in the way of schooling. An application letter should be personable and revealing. It should also maintain a level of professionalism.

Write down notes about some proud academic or personal moments. Choose one or two experiences you can elaborate upon in the essay. Do not rehash your resume points or brag about every award, high grade or internship. Select one or two isolated events. These events may be changes to your personal belief system or something less literal than an actual incident. Make notes about how you felt, what these experiences meant to you and why they relate to your decision to attend the college to which you are applying.

Write your name and contact information on the upper left-hand side of the page. Write the name of the school and the admissions department contact information beneath your name. Type clearly and check for errors.

Write an interesting introduction. Create some intrigue; this will entice the reader. Start by describing the event, personal change or idea that you will discuss. Write the introduction with clear, vivid sentences. Be descriptive and detailed.

Discuss next how this event or idea made you feel from an academic and personal point of view. Make a case about hard times that you went through or point out any legitimate reasons for low grades or other issues. Note that these issues will not continue.

Note your research and discuss why the school is a good fit. Point out a reason the institution appeals to you and how they may help you. Be honest and personable. Select reasons that are specific to you. Thank the admissions reader for his time and consideration and end the letter.

Step away from the draft and read it a few days later to make sure it sounds as you intended. Make any changes necessary and show it to a professional or teacher who can make suggestions or point out any errors. Correct the errors as needed and send the application in on time.