Guidance for SOP
SOP, an abbreviation of Statement of Purpose, is the most essential document necessary for lodging application for abroad studies.
SOP generally consists of 6 paragraphs:
Introduction:
- Start by introducing the academic field of your interest
- Explain why and how it interests you
- Be specific about what aspired you in this domain
Background:
- Academic information about the previous school or college
- Any industrial exposure and training experience
- Professional experience if there is any
Reasons behind choosing the specific course:
- Mention why you want to pursue this particular course
- Discuss the course curriculum
- Explain the skills you would want to enhance throughout the course
Career Goals:
- Clearly specify your goals
- Write about your long-term plans (around 10-15 lines)
- Include convincing statements that reflect you will return to your home country after the completion of your study
Reasons behind choosing the specific University:
Conclusion:
- Sum up what you have written
Some Important Tips to Consider while writing SOP:
- Introduce yourself in a unique way and show your enthusiasm for the field.
- Describe your experience or background in the field you've selected.
- Describe your academic background in the chosen field.
- Mention any specific classes or special courses linked to your subject of interest.
- Discuss additional and co-curricular activities in your area of studies.
- Mention about any community service or leadership experience that you hold.
- Explain why you choose this particular university out of different available options.
- Mention what you like about the chosen university: talk about location, amenities, infrastructure, and so on.
- Seek advice from a number of experts, professors, family members, and close friends. Proofread and make necessary changes.
Things to Avoid When Writing a Statement of Purpose (SOP):
If you want to study abroad and want to write a strong statement of purpose for the university you want to attend, here are some typical pitfalls to avoid while writing an SOP:
- Do not write the SOP without a plan of action or a roadmap, at the last minute.
- Avoid writing an introduction and conclusion that are both poor and unclear.
- Do not use informal language, slang, and short forms.
- Do not exceed the word limit and fail to meet the correct word limit
- Do not forget to proofread your SOP.