How to write your Erasmus motivation letter

Benefits of writing your motivation letter properly

Studying abroad is an option chosen by many students at some point in their education. To do so, it’s very common to have to write a motivation letter to the university you wish to attend. It’s not an easy task, but when writing it you have to be aware of a number of formal expressions and essential features to include.

Writing your letter properly will always open more doors, ensuring the letter is processed more quickly by the university where you want to complete your Erasmus placement and making it easier for them to give you a positive response.

You have to convey to them how taking part in Erasmus will help you in your future career. You also have to sound like a motivated person but without being overly emotional, structure your letter well and bring it to a good close. For guidance, you can always research template Erasmus motivation letters online.

These models will give you the basis from which to start writing your Erasmus motivation letter, the first step to a unique experience which will enrich your life in every way.

Writing your Erasmus motivation letter: step by step

• Step 1: Format
  This first step perhaps seems to go without saying, but it should be taken into account. The format of the paper is important and it’s the first decision you have to make. As it’s a formal application letter the paper should be A4 in size or, if you want to give it a slightly more personal touch, you could opt for letter size, but never go for anything other than these two options.
• Step 2: Structure
  Having chosen the paper format, we have to start thinking about the structure of the letter. At the top we should include our personal details (name, address, telephone number and email address), enough to tell the reader who is writing the letter and how to get in touch with them.
• Step 3: Addressee
  Just underneath our personal information, we should name the people or person we are writing to, in this case the university where we want to do our Erasmus placement.
• Step 4: Beginning
  Once you’ve finished the first three steps, you start writing the letter, beginning with a formal greeting to the addressee.
• Step 5: Body of the letter
  Introduce yourself in the first paragraph. Explain who you are, say that you are interested in taking part in the programme and tell them what you’re studying to give the addressee a clear picture of you and your interests.

In the second paragraph explain why you want to take part in the programme. Give the reasons you feel are necessary, explaining your goals and how Erasmus would help you achieve them. Add your academic and any professional achievements which could enhance your motivation letter.

It’s also important that you focus on the future and your aspirations, talking about how Erasmus will influence your decisions and play a part in them.

Finally, close by thanking the addressee for their time and telling them you’re attaching your CV for their information.

At micampus Residencias we want to stress the importance of sending a well-written motivation letter. This is why we encourage you to take note of our advice when writing your motivation letter.