What is Statement of Purpose (SOP) : Samples, Format & Tips

When applying to a foreign university, you must submit a Statement of Purpose (SOP). SOP reflects your personality to the Admissions Committee (Ad Com) highlighting core competencies that are not reflected in your academic scorecards. Check out what an SOP is and how to write one along with a sample in this article..

What is a Statement of Purpose?

SOP is an essay which highlights academic and professional achievements along with future goals and reasons for choosing a course or university. This is written in an essay format and is required for admission abroad. A statement of purpose is also a specialised essay. It includes the applicant's characteristics, such as their educational background, goals, aspirations, and reasons for pursuing a degree at the chosen university or course at the undergraduate or graduate level. Plus forms as an essential part of the application process to study abroad.

Importance of a Statement of Purpose

Given that an SOP shows an applicant’s qualifications for the program and distinguishes applicants from other applicants, a Statement of Purpose is one of the most significant application materials for admissions to programs abroad. Some reasons why an SOP is an essential document for admissions abroad to get a letter of enrollment are as follows:

• SOP helps Ad Coms understand a candidate's goals, motivations for selecting a specific professional path, academic background, previous curricular and extracurricular activities, present activities, and plans.
• A candidate's selection for admission is based on several variables, and a strong SOP is one of them. A compelling and engaging statement of purpose not only keeps the Ad Coms hooked but also gives them a sneak peek into the applicant's skills and experiences.  
• Those with low GPA scores can acknowledge it straightforwardly on their SOP and increase admission chance by briefly stating the reasons and circumstances.
• Transcripts and mark sheets are for formal checks. Whereas, an SOP is where the applicants write about their achievements and aspirations. This is why the statement of purpose is essential. 
• The Statement of Purpose allows applicants to pen down their future goals and aspirations, in turn this helps Ad Coms determine if applicants are suitable for admission to the chosen program.

How to Write a Statement of Purpose?

Where is Academic Statement of Purpose Required?

SOPs are required for specific courses, and some countries abroad mandatorily accept them. The cases where SOPs are needed are as follows: 

Academic SOPs for Courses Abroad 

International students applying for admission abroad typically require a statement of purpose, which comes in various types. Depending on level of study and type of course of application, the format of the statement of purpose remains the same, but the intent changes based on the course of application. 

1. Statement of Purpose for UG Courses

The first type of statement of purpose is designed for international applicants seeking undergraduate courses. When writing an SOP for undergraduate admissions, applicants must reflect on their personal growth, curiosity about learning, extracurricular involvement, and reasons for admission. Applicants can check out the Sample SOP for UG Courses.

2. Statement of Purpose for Master’s

The next type is writing a statement of purpose for Master’s courses, which include MS and MBA. Here is how to tackle a statement of purpose for master’s courses:

• Applicants will have to highlight their research and projects undertaken in their bachelor’s while writing an SOP for MS admissions abroad. 
• On the other hand, the SOP for MBA must demonstrate applicants’ leadership skills and their impact on previous workplaces or educational institutions through these skills. 

The requirements may be narrowed down for SOP writing based on the type of course applied for. Applicants must look at the specifications list before starting their SOPs. 

3. Statement of Purpose for PhD

The third type is curating a statement of purpose for PhD courses. Admissions abroad for a PhD also require SOPs. The SOP for PhD abroad must include details of previous research projects, breakthroughs, or outcomes. Networking with professors is critical, and it is worth mentioning if you have received a response from their faculty. The SOP for a PhD must include how the applicant fits the PhD course they have applied for at the specific department and university. Applicants can check out here the complete format for writing an SOP for PhD.

Countries That Commonly Require Academic SOPs for Admissions

While most countries require an SOP for admission, here are the top five countries to study abroad and what their universities’ expectations are through SOPs:

These are some of the best countries to study abroad; many applicants apply to universities in these countries. A statement of purpose is essential to get through the admission process of these countries. However, applicants must note that these are general requirements; the statement of purpose layout may vary as per the university-specific application/SOP guidelines and requirements.

Structure of a Statement of Purpose

A perfect statement of purpose consists of 8 to 9 paragraphs (unless university mentions). Each paragraph has one intent based on which applicants write. They are about academics, goals, achievements and other aspects. Here is SOP format accepted by majority universities.

What should you include in each paragraph? How long should each paragraph be and what are key points for creating an exemplary SOP?

Download Shiksha’s Sample Guideline for SOP and curate your SOPs like a pro!

How to Draft a Statement of Purpose?

While drafting a statement of purpose you may find the process challenging. To ease the process, you should adhere to suggested SOP template. Applicants must prepare a structure and check what all will be included in their SOP. To make it easier for you here are some expert tips to draft a statement of purpose:

• Both professional and personal background along with personal interests should be included in your statement of purpose. 
• Relevance of the course choice and University is equally important part of your statement of purpose,
• The statement of purpose must flow consistently and must have a logical connection.
• Your SOP should show how you would like to contribute towards the University and student community through your involvement in social gatherings or workshops.
• You must also explain how your short-term goals will effectively contribute towards achieving your long-term career goals in your statement of purpose. 
• You should not finalise your SOP in one go. Take sufficient time to write and have multiple checks. Ensure you first proofread, then get peer or guide review and then finalise. 

How to Start a Statement of Purpose?

Once you are drafting your statement of purpose you have to be careful with what you write. To give you more confidence and help you write an outstanding essay follow these SOP tips for academic writing:

When writing SOP you must know what SOP's meaning is and this will help you get admission. Check out, What Not to Include in SOP?

Statement of Purpose Sample

Most universities worldwide have a standard SOP format/ template they accept. However, as mentioned above, the content of the statement of purpose varies for different courses. Here are some statement of purpose sample formats for students selected from other universities.

Statement of Purpose Example

Shiksha has curated a sample statement of purpose format that encompasses all the above aspects and outlines the content of each paragraph in the SOP. Here is a good statement of purpose sample from a student, who got through the admission process at a university abroad:

"In the ever-evolving technological landscape, where breakthroughs in AI and ML are redefining possibilities, I encountered an experience that prompted my decision to pursue a Master’s degree in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning. As a Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET), I was in the middle of a critical testing phase for my company’s innovative job recommendation engine. Monitoring the performance of our AI-driven recommendation system, I encountered an unexpected anomaly, a disruption in the seamless flow of job recommendations as per our users’ unique skill-sets and preferences. Identifying the urgency, I deep dived into the system’s functionality, unravelling the intricate pathways of data flows and algorithmic decision-making. As the system swiftly realigned itself to deliver targeted job recommendations with unparalleled accuracy, it revealed the potential of AI/ML to revolutionize societies and economies, which propelled me to specialize in these areas. 

During my Bachelor of Technology (Honours) in Computer Science and Engineering, I studied Data Structures and Algorithms, which ignited my interest in deciphering complex systems and algorithms. Further, Database Management Systems unveiled the power of organizing and querying vast datasets, while Computer Networks exposed me to the intricate web of interconnected systems, laying a foundation for understanding the networked nature of AI applications. However, my foray into the world of Artificial Intelligence captivated me. Learning about knowledge representation, search algorithms, and the burgeoning field of neural networks fuelled my fascination for intelligent systems. 

Besides academics, I engaged in a variety of projects and activities in my Bachelor’s to gain exposure into AI/ML. In the first year itself, I had created a Python keylogger that allowed me to explore the nuances of cybersecurity. As the sole architect of this project, I meticulously orchestrated every aspect, from conceptualization to implementation, by leveraging my proficiency in Python programming and cybersecurity fundamentals. One of my standout projects was the development of Fitistic, a dynamic fitness website. Applying my expertise in HTML5, CSS3 and Bootstrap, I crafted the front-end interface, focusing on user experience and visual appeal. Additionally, I ensured compatibility with various devices, including smartphones, tablets and desktop computers.  

In my final year project, I led a team of three to develop a ‘Fake News Detection’ system using LSTM and Logistic Regression. It equipped me with hands-on experience in data preprocessing, model development, deployment and performance optimization. The system produced an impressive accuracy of 99.42%; however, I also identified its limitations. This experience not only sharpened my technical skills, but also instilled in me a desire to contribute to the field’s advancements. 

My exposure into AI/ML was not limited to just one project; I actively participated in virtual AI meetups, such as the Microsoft AI Classroom and Pie & AI meet in fifth semester. Additionally, my coding prowess was recognized when I won the prestigious Knight Rank on LeetCode as a top-performing coder. I also secured the second and third positions in the college coding competitions, namely, KICCS-D-HACK 21.1 and 21.3 respectively. 

Upon completing my undergraduate studies, I joined XXX, as an SDET in July of 2023. In this role, I leverage my expertise in test automation frameworks such as Selenium and Appium to streamline testing process and enhance efficiency. I have also led the development of an automated regression testing suite for our flagship product, leveraging Python scripting and Selenium WebDriver. It reduced manual testing efforts and also bolstered the overall quality and stability of the product. Besides test automation, I delve into AI and ML to explore ways to integrate intelligent automation into our testing processes. Beyond technical skills, my professional life has helped me develop effective communication skills, ability to work in a team and adapt accordingly. 

The decision to pursue a Master’s degree is driven by my desire to deepen my understanding of AI and ML in order to remain at the forefront of technological innovation. In my graduation, I anticipate mastering advanced ML algorithms like deep learning and reinforcement learning. I will also explore cutting-edge techniques in Natural Language Processing and Computer Vision, and hone my skills in data mining and big data analytics. Having gained valuable industrial exposure, I believe that furthering my technical competencies through an MS program will turn me into a well-rounded professional, ready to navigate the multifaceted landscape of AI and ML with confidence and integrity. 

Upon completing my Master’s degree, I aspire to work in the R&D department of top-tier companies like XXX, XXX or XXX. My aim is to contribute to cutting-edge research in the development of autonomous vehicles, advancing healthcare technologies and enhancing personalized recommendations. In the next 10-15 years, I am determined to apply AI/ML solutions to real-world problems across various industries as a Lead ML Engineer with a renowned company like XXX. I am also committed to contributing to open-source projects for responsible AI development to support various sectors, including healthcare, finance and education. 

Pursuing the Master’s program in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning at XXX will take me one step closer to my goals. The program’s structure offers unique electives like Deep Learning, Reinforcement Learning, and Natural Language Processing for the Web, which align perfectly with my career aspirations in leveraging AI for technological advancements. Further, I am particularly inspired by Professor XXX, who leads the ‘XXX’ department. His paper ‘XXX’, showcases innovative approaches in integrating deep learning with computational chess. His expertise aligns closely with my interests, and I am eager to learn from his pioneering work in machine learning architectures.  

Overall, I look forward to the opportunity of immersing myself in cutting-edge research and collaborating with renowned faculty as well as diverse cohort of fellow students at your illustrious institution. I believe that my academic foundation, combined with my industry exposure will enable me to bring a unique perspective to contribute to your Master’s program."

The SOP sample shared above will help applicants understand how to draft an SOP and what format they should ideally follow for their overseas university applications. The above-mentioned sample for SOP is for MS applications; download the samples for SOP for UG and MBA as well. Download:

What is the Word Limit for a Statement of Purpose?

SOP should not be longer than 800 words and in most exceptional case not beyond 1000 words. SOP should be written on two one sided A4 page, unless otherwise specified. Applicants must ensure SOP is in a standard font size and formatting. Not all fonts are permitted, there will be restrictions for use here. Along with the word limit an SOP should be typed in: 

• Serif fonts like TNR, Ariel or Calibri, 11 point font
• Normal margins
• A4 page
• Single spaced
• Use correct punctuation (check the importance of punctuation in your essays)

Dos & Don’ts to Write a Powerful and Convincing SOP

In a strong and compelling Statement of Purpose, each point is related to the next by reason and logic. Check out the dos and don’ts while writing a statement of purpose:

Everything must logically connect, starting with your educational and professional history and ending with your desired career path. Follow these dos and don’ts while writing an SOP. Applicants can refer to the Shiksha Guidelines for SOP to learn about the correct formatting and context of an SOP.

What do Colleges Look for in a Statement of Purpose?

Admissions committee reviews thousands of SOPs at the same time for the same course. Thus, your SOP must stand out. It should be written precisely, which reflects the uniqueness of your overall profile. Here are a few things that the college review committees generally look for in a student’s SOP:

• Academic background and overall academic trajectory help understand how capable the applicant is.
• How applicants wish to fulfil their career goals and post-study plans after studying abroad at a specific university.
• Ad coms through SOPs try to understand the applicant's personal experiences and how they wish to use them to contribute to a bigger community while studying.
• The ad coms also assess the extent to which the applicant can align with the university’s goals and mission.
• Additionally, colleges critically read the applicant's SOP writing, communication skills, and thought processes to gain insight into their perspective. 

Based on these aspects, colleges look for in a statement of purpose how the applicant will ultimately fit into their institution. Also, check out the Top SOP Questions That Must Be Answered!

What to Include in an SOP (Statement of Purpose)?

What you write in your SOP will depend on what your university demands. Mantra for a perfect SOP is simple. Just closely follow the question given by the university and fulfil their expectation with your answer. Essays that focus on specific questions or just a mission statement are can also be acceptable to universities.

Checklist for Statement of Purpose

• Cover short and long-term goals
• Job route chosen thus far
• Academic progress. 
• Reasons for selecting the course or university 
• Plan to use skills after graduation to accomplish personal objectives
• Applicant's background
• Academic achievements
• Professional experiences
• Also include details about the extracurricular activities (if involved)
• Research involvement
• Research papers written and published 
• Exclusive projects they have worked on (research/non-research)

While understanding how to write an SOP, we encounter various questions. Summarising your entire life and career in 1,000 words can be quite a task. But you still need to stick to given guidelines to avoid losing the Ad Coms interest in reading your SOPs. 

Mistakes to Avoid in Statement of Purpose

Any kind of mistake must be avoided when writing SOP for admission. To write a winning SOP avoid these common mistakes:

• Reflect, research and then start drafting your statement of purpose. Keep all requirements in check.
• Be specific, write within the word limit and avoid giving too much information.
• Avoid self boasting anywhere in your SOP. Be subtle when crafting your statement of purpose. Ad Coms may reject application because of overconfidence.
• Do not use slang, abbreviations or contractions in your SOP. This is formally written and read by admission scrutiny team so you should try to keep it formal.
• Absolutely avoid using AI. Check you SOP for AI generated content once you finish writing. Try to write in your own words.
• Plagiarism in SOPs is a big mistake and should be avoided. Check for plagiarism once done writing.

These mistakes can happen with anyone especially if you are negligent. You should keep checking that your writing aligns with the shared guidelines frequently.

Can SOPs Help with Scholarships?

If you are eligible for college offered scholarships, you may have to write a separate scholarship essay or SOP with the application. You will be given a question with word limit to write an essay. Addition SOP may be required to show your credibility for the applied scholarship. A generic SOP is different from a scholarship SOP. In a scholarship essay you must highlight your accomplishments, key qualities or skills that makes you different from other candidates. You can read more about writing a scholarship essay here.

Statement of Purpose vs Personal Statement

Personal statement and SOP are comparable but with a few exceptions. Let us understand the difference between statement of purpose and personal statement below:

SOP is a much more detailed version of the Personal Statement. Additionally, a personal statement can be a part of the SOP whenever personal details are required. In rare cases, SOP and personal statements are required separately. For a detailed information check out SOP vs Personal Statement.

Key Takeaways Before Finalising SOP Format

Before drafting your final statement of purpose create a checklist. Based on that cross each item when they have been included. Here is the checklist to keep handy:

1. Adhere to SOP format as per requirements
2. Each paragraph includes what it should 
3. Tone should be formal and not conversational
4. SOP includes only academic and professional aspects
5. Ensure the word limit is not crossed
6. Formatting is on point
7. Proofread for grammatical errors and typos
8. Statement of purpose is authentic and does not match any previously approved SOP
9. Ensure SOP has zero AI content percentage
10. Goals and motivations are included properly

Students seeking to study abroad can contact our Shiksha Study Abroad Counsellors for help with their university applications. The comments section below also allows candidates to reach out to us.