How to Write a Letter of Motivation to the Faculty of Business

How to write a letter of motivation for a business department is asked of us by those wishing to study in business schools. In addition to excellent grades on exams, show a deep understanding of the subject and breadth of thought.

In any university, the competition among applicants to business and management departments is one of the highest. The top universities will only consider an application if you have taken three high-stakes examinations[*] for the maximum grade (A in the British educational system). So a motivation letter is a chance to show what you do better than other excellent students.

In the essay, it's worth talking about what you've learned in school. For example, for finance and accounting departments, you need to take an advanced level math course. If you took it, list the skills you learned. Peter Corvey, associate dean at the University of Warwick Business School (University of Warwick) confirms, "We expect applicants with good math skills."

The ability to think critically, reflect and put your thoughts into text is also important for a business student, Corvey notes, so be sure to mention that you studied literature, history or economics, which involve essay-writing skills. Warwick University gives preference to students who are able to argue their point of view and transfer it to paper in a coherent and logical manner. "Some applicants with good knowledge lack that skill," Corvey says. The essay must be clear, well-structured and easy to read.

Corvey says there are far more applicants who meet his department's requirements year after year than there are seats. Additional extracurricular activities can help make them stand out. But just describing them isn't enough - you need examples that explain how those experiences relate to your future studies, and why they give you an advantage over other candidates.

The University of Bath School of Management (University of Bath) agrees. Deputy Dean Nick Kinney advises prospective students to give due consideration to participation in programs such as Young Enterprise, the Duke of Edinburgh Award and athletic achievement. "We want to see why an applicant chose this class, what they learned and how it will come in handy at university."

The London School of Economics (London School of Economics, LSE) requires curiosity and hard work, the very qualities applicants should possess first and foremost. Will Brear-Hall supervises the recruitment of students, including international students. He says LSE wants to see "the ability to think and act independently, understand complex chains of reasoning, demonstrate logical thinking, solve problems and speak accurately and concisely."

Bath University's business education programs are built on the relationship of theory and practice, so the motivation letter must show the ability to evaluate your own experiences and explain how they relate to higher education.

The admissions committee reviews the motivation letters after Standing out is important, but don't overdo it - an overly unusual essay may not play in your favor. "I once had an application whose author wrote that his mother knew he was going to be an accountant while she was still carrying him under her heart. But that's rare," Corvey shares. He advises applicants to ask someone close to them to read the written essay aloud to see how it is perceived from the outside.

"Describe your positive aspects, but don't exaggerate," the expert continues. The curricula at the University of Bath, like those at many other universities, place a great deal of emphasis on the international aspect of business and management. Kinney says he wants to see applicants who not only talk about their interest in working in a multinational company, but also realize that they will have to study with students from different countries and backgrounds.

Admissions officials advise not to disregard the essay writing advice given in school, but at the same time want your own voice heard. "The headline should capture the essence," Kinney emphasizes. - "Let the motivational letter be natural and reflect your authentic self. Taking responsibility for your own learning and development is the first step toward university life."

Translated by Alyona Mahneva

[*] General Certificate of Education Advanced Level is an Advanced Placement (as opposed to basic) high school diploma exam that entitles you to apply to college