Cover letters are an important part of any Master’s Program application. They help ensure that the recipient really knows who you are and what makes you qualified for the position. That's why it's important to write a cover letter when applying for anything related to work or school.

How do I write a cover letter for a Master’s Degree Application?

Cover letters are typically used to introduce yourself and highlight your skills, particularly those relevant to the position you are applying for. When applying for a Master’s program, it is important to include some basic information in your letter.

how to write a cover letter for masters degree

The first part of the cover letter should include:

  • Your contact details (name, address and telephone number)
  • The name of the department you are applying to
  • The name of the course or program that you would like to complete your studies in

The second part of this section should discuss basic information about your academic record and past accomplishments as well as any experience that might be relevant to the topic.

State your interest in the study program

The cover letter should also provide information about your thesis ideas and a description of your interest in studying in the program. This description should be short but informative enough to convince the reader that you understand what is required of you and that you are capable of doing a good job.

Furthermore, if you have gaps in your academic record, including an explanation for these can help demonstrate that you have taken steps to improve yourself since those points in time.

Make the cover letter about them

In order to do that, you'll need to know who they are and how they like to be addressed. This is where research comes in handy.

Using their name and title is always a good move—and it's an easy way to make your cover letter more personal and memorable. If you're still not sure what their name or title actually is, try searching through the website of the institution (or even just Google) to find out more information on them. You'll likely find that information included in bios or other publications online where the institution has mentioned its staff members in writing before.

If it is possible, reference the organization or some project associated with it – especially if there is something distinct about what your research will add that is not already mentioned in your CV/resume (ie: if it is something particularly noteworthy).

Include a strong greeting and identifiers

Include a strong greeting and identifiers. The first paragraph of your letter should be written in a friendly tone, and it's crucial that you include an introduction that is personal but brief. 

In your introductory paragraph, state how you learned of the programme—whether it was through an alumni network or through word-of-mouth. Be specific and highlight what drew your interest toward this opportunity over others that might have also been advertised at around the same time period. You can also bring up any other details regarding why this particular programme appeals to you; perhaps there are qualities within this study that align with several interests on your resume (such as education) or perhaps there are certain aspects which differ from previous positions held throughout schooling (such as responsibilities).

Tips to writing a better cover letter for Master’s Applications

Now, we move onto certain tips that will make your cover letter stand out from the crowd. Follow these steps to add some flair into your cover letter.

cover letter for master programs

Highlight Your Skills, Past Experiences and How They Can Bring Value

This is one of the most important parts of your letter, as it will tell the reader what you can bring to their institution and how you plan to excel in your studies. 

Be specific about your skills and mention how they will help you excel in this particular Master’s degree by citing examples from past academic experience that demonstrate those skills. Make sure you are talking about the company and its goals, not just yourself. Show that you have done research on them by mentioning something unique or interesting about them in your cover letter.

Do your research about the institution

Investigating the school, its alumni, teachers, and their work can give you insight into how to utilize them in an advantageous way in your cover letter. To make your cover letter stand out from the multitude of others, you must include important specifics that are associated with your statement.

If they also happen to have some interview process after the applications, these details and your research will be helpful at those stages.

Include details that shows you have done your research

If you are hoping to be admitted to the Master’s program, then making sure your cover letter is detailed with the information on your prior research is important. This is because the admissions committee will be looking for qualities that match their institution, and the more detail you can provide, the easier it will be for them to see that you put actual effort into your cover letter.

Additionally, providing specific examples of your accomplishments or experiences will make your application more memorable and help you stand out from the rest. So be sure to include as many relevant details as possible in your cover letter!

How you should conclude your cover letter

You should close your cover letter with a call to action and express appreciation for their time. Thank them again for taking the time to read your application, and let them know that you look forward to hearing from them soon.

Cover Letter Examples for Master’s Degree Applications

Here are some of our selections of cover letter templates for master's program applications. Feel free to use them and make edits on them according to your needs.

cover letter examples for masters degree applications

Example 1

[Your first name] [your last name]

[Your street address]

[City], [state] [zip code]

[Date]

[First and last name of the head of admissions]

[University Name]

[College address]

[City], [state] [zip code]

Dear [Mr. or Ms.] [last name of the head of admissions],

I am writing to apply to [University Name & Master’s program name].
I have been a student at [Your previous degree] for the past [X] years and I am very excited to continue my education at the postgraduate level.

[University name] has always been my top choice for several reasons. First and foremost, the school has an excellent academic reputation. I have always been a very good student and I know that I will be able to thrive in the challenging environment of your institution.

My education has allowed me to have first-hand experience with the field I am interested in and the challenges that come with it: [examples].

I am currently looking to begin my studies in [field] in order to complete a program that will allow me to pursue my goal of becoming a [job title]. I believe that [University Name] can provide me with the best education and opportunity to reach my objectives.

I am an ambitious individual who is always looking to learn and grow in my field of interest. I am very passionate about my work, and I believe that by continuing to expand my knowledge and skills, I can make a significant impact on [field] in a positive way.

I am grateful for the opportunity to apply to be a part of your student body and I will work diligently to uphold the standards of your school. If admitted, I pledge to be a respectful and contributing member of the community and I promise to take advantage of all that your school has to offer and make the most of my time here.

I have included all of the required documentation and my application form. If you have any further questions, I would be happy to provide additional information.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,
[Your first name] [your last name]

Example 2

[Your first name] [your last name]

[Your street address]

[City], [state] [zip code]

[Date]

[First and last name of the head of admissions]

[University Name]

[College address]

[City], [state] [zip code]

Dear [Mr. or Ms.] [last name of the head of admissions],

This letter is a formal request for admission to [name of the university & master’s degree]. 

I am a recent [Your previous University name & degree name] graduate and I am interested in studying [subject area] in [postgraduate degree program] with the hope of obtaining a [job title] after graduation. 

I have always enjoyed [activity] and am confident that I would excel in [Master’s program] at [University Name]. I am passionate about [topic] and believe that I would be a valuable asset to your [University Name] community.

I am enclosing my transcripts, test scores, and letters of recommendation. I would be happy to answer any questions you may have about my qualifications.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

[Your first name] [your last name]

Example 3

[Your first name] [your last name]

[Your street address]

[City], [state] [zip code]

[Date]

[First and last name of the head of admissions]

[College name]

[College address]

[City], [state] [zip code]

Dear [Mr. or Ms.] [last name of the head of admissions],

I am applying to the [season] semester of the [university name] Master's program. I am very proud of the [program name] and believe that I would be a great fit for it. Thank you for considering me!

Over the past few years, I've researched many universities that offer a Master’s degree in [program name], but have ultimately chosen [institution] because of [reasons].

The opportunity to join your top-level institution and become part of its alumni is one of my greatest goals. I am confident that my education in [subject area] and [work/volunteer experience] make me a valuable asset and an ideal candidate for admission into the program. My educational experience has given me the opportunity to [insert your previous experiences] and face the challenges that come with [field name]. 

I am currently looking to begin my Master’s degree, with a goal of completing the [program] at [institution]. Upon graduation, I wish to become [job title] to [career goals]. I believe the [college name] can provide me with the best education and opportunity to pursue my objectives.

I have enclosed all of the necessary documentation and application form for your consideration. If you have any further questions, I will be happy to provide you with more information. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

[Your first name] [your last name]

Conclusion

We trust that this article has given you some thoughts concerning composing a cover letter for your master's program application. Bear in mind, the most significant thing is to stay positive and sure of what you have accomplished so far, as well as what will drive you enough to keep on working on this project.