Writing a curriculum vitae and application form are only part of a good application. You also need a convincing motivation letter and personal statement. Seng Pyseth, the author of the book Win Scholarships Abroad, gives Lift some useful tips.

“When the committees read the motivation letter or personal statement, they expect to see something rare, unique and different,” says Pyseth, adding this is what the committees want from the applicants. “If what we write is unique, then it is interesting.

If you want your personal statement or motivation letter to be considered, you have to have meaningful writing.”

He explained the writing needs to show logic and clear reasoning, and applicants need to realise that the committees will be judging how the applicants portray all aspects of their life, study and experiences.

“One more important point is whether their future goal fits with what they want to study . . . especially, the committees want to know what the applicants will do to contribute to their country after they get the scholarship,” said Pyseth.

Pyseth said in order to write the letter well, the students or the applicants should (1) know yourself well, (2) know the reason for applying for the scholarship, (3) don’t make false claims or brag too much, (4) don’t procrastinate and wait to write it just before the deadline, (5) don’t plagiarise, and (6) write and re-edit until you’re completely satisfied.