Letters of Intent
What is a Letter of Intent?
A letter of intent is a document that expresses your interest in completing a specific program, such as a residency or fellowship. Its differs from a cover letter in that it focuses on how the residency will help you develop as a professional, whereas a cover letter focuses on existing training, skills, and experience that will benefit an organization.
Your letter should answer the following questions.
- Why are you pursing this opportunity?
- Why is this specific program your top choice?
- What are your goals during this opportunity?
- Which of your skills and experiences will help you succeed in the program?
- What are your plans after completing this opportunity?
- How will this opportunity help you with your future plans?
Format
Business letter format with one-inch margins and font size of 11 or 12 is best. The letter should not exceed two pages and should include the following information:
- Date
- Program address and director’s name (Dr. Joe Smith)
- Opening salutation (Dear Dr. Smith)
- Three to five paragraphs that answer the questions listed above
- Closing salutation
- Your name and signature
Other General Tips
- Do not write a generic letter of intent and send it to multiple programs. Each letter should be tailored to the individual program and should explain why you are interested in that specific program.
- Do not use slang, conversational grammar, or passive voice.
- Don’t self-proclaim. Rather than saying you are smart, savvy, a leader, etc.,
- show the committee that you are smart, savvy, and so forth by giving specific examples of applying your key strengths or attributes to positive effect.
- Check your spelling, but don’t rely solely on spell-check tools.
- Have your letter reviewed by a career advisor and/or faculty member before sending it.