SOP Samples: Format and Structure
SOP (Statement of Purpose) samples give applicants a good idea of what they should work at. The primary features that you should keep in mind while planning your SOP are format, structure, and relevance. Overall, working with a lot of information and presenting it precisely in an interesting manner.
A good SOP structure should have the following attributes:
- Follows SOP guidelines of the particular institution.
- A strong writing style that clearly projects the merits and goals of the applicant.
- Steady flow and common theme uniformly distributed throughout the essay.
- No abrupt sentences/irrelevant information.
SOP SAMPLES: STRUCTURE SAMPLE
| ACADEMIC BACKGROUND | MOTIVATIONS | EXPERIENCE | GOALS |
| Present academic/professional role.Relevant info on dissertations/projects/lab work in the recent past.Summary of special coursework and interests in the relevant field of study. | Interest in the course you’re applying to.Why this particular college? | Academic achievements.Professional training.Additional qualifications.Awards, internships, voluntary work, etc. | Connect your experience with your long-term and short-term goals.What are the new things you will learn from the course? How will the course benefit your career path? |
SOP Samples: Framework
Sample 1 (Introduction)
“As a student of literature, I have always been passionate about the sociocultural dynamics that affect literature of a particular time in history. During my undergraduate study at James College, I took a special course on ‘History and Literature.’ Later, during a seminar on ‘A Social History of Literature’, I worked on a paper that studied the role of global capitalism on the evolution of ‘creativity’ and the idiom of art. These experiences have helped me develop an enthusiasm for studying literature, history, and social change through an interdisciplinary lens. Further, I aim to work on this area in my academic career struggle in the future.
The Department of Humanities at Southern University offers a perfect academic environment with an international research focus. The interdisciplinary nature of study at the department alongside pioneering researchers working as faculty here makes the university world-ranking. The various training programs for research scholars and postgraduate scholars will help me learn the various skills required for further study in this area.
Sample 2 (Background)
I was a student at the Department of Social Science at James College for three years and completed my Undergraduate Degree in 2021. I am currently completing a research internship at The Society for Literary Research, in New Delhi, India. Here, my key responsibilities include secondary research and writing research assignments. Additionally, I have completed a course on editing and publishing from my previous University in 2020-21. My postgraduate research will chiefly include……….
During my undergraduate course at James College, I was a part of the literary and social clubs where I helped organize events and cultural competitions. These experiences have helped me learn about various new research themes, methods, and gaps in the Indian postcolonial context. From my learnings, I wish to move forward with a postgraduate research degree that will allow me to contribute meaningfully to the broader field of study in this area.
Sample 3 (How to Conclude?)
Based on my experience and knowledge, I am prepared to go forward in learning more about research applications in this field. More importantly, Dr. Andrew Waters has brilliant research in the area of my interests, and his guidance will most suitably complement my project and add value to it. With the various training and development opportunities that NU offers, I believe that I can enhance my project further, and work towards a new and radical understanding of this area.
