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How to write a Statement of Purpose (SOP)

The Statement of Purpose is indeed a crucial part of the visa application process. Not every applicant may be called to appear for a visa interview. The Letter of Explanation or SOP should strongly speak on your behalf, highlighting one’s background aligned with the goals, expectations and financial capability to support one’s self while studying in Canada. Applications will be accepted or rejected on the basis of how well the Letter of Explanation or SOP communicates and justifies the student’s plans.

Here is a simple guide to help you write and refine your SOP.

1. Prepare a theme and use it to start with a strong introduction

• Make it clear and simple
• The theme will set the tone and flow of your entire statement

2. Know and get familiar with your Program and Institution

• Why did you choose the program, how it relates to your education and work experience
• How will a Post Grad Degree or Diploma impact your future career plans
• How did you choose the school, is the program not available in Philippine institutions

3. Just start writing

• Follow an outline for the standard SOP to make sure important aspects are covered.
• May it be in one sitting or several installments, just let your thoughts flow. Refine later.

4. Review and re-review your Statement of Purpose (SOP)

• Is it clear in explaining your plans and highlighting your academic and professional excellence?
• Is it free from typos or grammatical errors? Is sentence construction simple and easy to understand? Are there repetitive phrases or words?
• Is the message concise and not rambling? Is it within the acceptable 3000 to 4000 word limit?
• Use words you know. You can confidently speak about your SOP if called for an interview.

5. Ask someone else to read it

• Does it sound like you and not off a template?
• Did they clearly understand your message?

What are the different parts of a standard Statement of Purpose (SOP)?

I. Introduction

This paragraph should briefly and clearly state why you wish to pursue studies in Canada and what you hope to gain from it aligned with your future plans. Setting the tone for the entire letter, this opening paragraph should be compelling enough to make the visa officer want to read the whole statement.

II. Background

This is the part to highlight your academic and professional background, providing the foundation to support your choice of program and future plans later on in the SOP. Any changes in career path in relation to your education or previous work experience should also be addressed here, especially if it relates to the choice of program.

In addition, gap years in education or employment must be explained in detail by stating what you did during those years.

III. Your Career Goals and Plans

Justify how pursuing an education in Canada will contribute to your career advancement or future plans. Here you must not only address why you want to pursue higher education in Canada, but also why you are choosing Canada over other popular countries for international education like the USA, New Zealand, UK, Australia, etc.

IV. Reasons For Taking Your Chosen Program

State which program you wish to study and why. Discuss the motivation behind your choice and how it supports your career goals. Here you can mention how you have been actively pursuing higher learning from various sources if any. Also disclose if a similar program is available in any Philippine educational institution and explain why you chose to pursue it abroad.

V. Reason For Choosing Your Preferred Educational Institution

Without focusing on the DLI’s track record or ranking, explain why your chosen Canadian institution is the most suitable match for you in terms of program curriculum, facilities, cost, location, environment etc.

VI. Plans After Graduating

Strongly emphasize why you plan to come back to the Philippines after graduation. Discuss your long term plans and state other supporting reasons that would convince the visa officer. This is also where you can establish home ties, mention family to take care of, properties or business that you need to resume handling or will establish.

VII. Financial Capability

Mention in detail how you intend to fund your studies in Canada.  If funds shall be coming from anyone other than yourself or your spouse, such as your parents, relatives or other third party, disclose any scholarship or sponsorship in detail. Include any attachments such as bank statements or official letters or affidavits that refer to financial support.

Professional CV Writing

Equally as important, the Curriculum Vitae is a snapshot of your career experiences. It should be able to clearly highlight your achievements and qualifications, aligning with your program of choice and envisioned career path.

Here are some helpful tips in writing an impressive Curriculum Vitae:

• Be Truthful
• Have Clear Contact Details
• Choose a Clear Layout on your CV
• Keep it Short
• Pick a Great CV Design
• Do Not Make It About You
• Update Your Work Experience
• List Your Educational Qualifications
• Research Your Employers
• Double Check Everything!

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