10 Common SOP Mistakes That Can Cost Your Dream University

Rushing your SOP  Rushing your SOP is the most common mistake in SOP writing, an applicant can make. An SOP is a reflection of you as a person, your achievements, and your future plan. Give yourself ample time to write, research, brainstorm ideas, and properly articulate your purpose and aim. Edit the document multiple times before submitting it to make sure you are not repeating yourself or dwelling on unnecessary details.  

Writing without a Structure  Don’t be overambitious and try to wing it! A common mistake in SOP writing students make is writing without a structure in mind. It’s always better to jot down a proper structure before you start writing. Try to think about extracurriculars or hobbies that stand out in your personal history and are also relevant to your future and in line with your course.

Adding False Information  Adding false information is a big no. Do not try to oversell yourself or lie about your achievements because this can get you in serious trouble. Admission offices at universities verify every claim you make in your application, statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation so omitting information or lying about your CGPA, or hiding backlogs will simply get you debarred from the university.    

Bragging about Your Achievements  It is extremely important to strike the right balance between sounding humble and braggy while writing an SOP.  While your achievements are crucial in making your SOP stand out, they have to be broached in an organic manner and in a proper context. Including your accomplishments is necessary but try not to include every single accomplishment; you do not have to include your past time and hobbies when applying for an MBA. 

Focusing on Insignificant Details   Universities receive thousands of SOPs every year for every course and they do not have the time to filter through your document. That is why it is vital to get to the point immediately. You can easily circumvent this problem by developing a proper structure and jotting down the points you hope to cover. You should avoid rambling, using flowery language, abbreviations, and childhood fantasies or inane hobbies.

Not respecting word limits  This is easily the most common mistake among applicants in soap writing. To appear smart or accomplished, applicants go the extra mile and cross the word limit. Which everyone should avoid. SOPs which are more than word count do not make the applicant good rather they can reduce your chances. So follow the decorum and choose your words carefully.

Not Focusing on the Negatives  This can be a slippery slope while it is important to acknowledge your failures, it is equally important not to stress about them. You must find a healthy way to introduce your failures so that the reader knows that you have the capacity to overcome defeat and rally on.

Using the Same SOP   On average, students apply to multiple universities simultaneously and make the error of using the same SOP for all of them. It is best to curate a different SOP for every university to which you’re applying. This way you will be able to address the specific university, its program, and what you hope to achieve there, and the document will look well-researched.  

Not Proofreading the Document   Proofreading your SOP is the most essential thing. You must read it multiple times to make sure you get the correct spelling, grammar, and consistency. Proofreading also helps in eliminating bland, repetitive sentences that don’t add value to your piece. Use free writing tools available online to filter out errors and read the document manually so you don’t miss out on any mistakes. Make someone you trust read it before actually submitting it.     

Plagiarism  Plagiarism is a serious offense and universities will reject your application if you have plagiarized material. There are several ways to avoid this mistake, first, write your statement and personalize it. Use the plagiarism tools available on the Internet to make sure your document is original and give credit, if any, for a quote in your piece.

Download Best Higher Education Books, Study Notes & More..