thank you letter for phd admission

Thank You Letter For Graduate School Acceptance: How To, Templates & Examples

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You’ve registered to research universities and hey presto, you’ve gotten admitted into your perfect class. However, there is one more step you must implement to keep that your place at the college. It will be ready and available for you until you start arriving. You will need to send a letter of approval. Prospective students must be certain that they are prepared to attend. Else, your seat would most likely be given to some other candidate.

What is a thank you letter for graduate school acceptance?

A thank you note for a letter of recommendation is a courtesy note sent to someone who has taken the time to include a referral on an applicant’s behalf. Expressing your thanks in this manner show your gratitude for their referral. It would also increase the odds of receiving a second letter should the need happen in the workplace.

A good thank-you note could be easily sent as a short email, but a handwritten one would have a stronger positive effect. Below you’ll find a quick guide to writing this message, along with some model letters to help you get started.

How should you reply with a thank-you letter for graduate school acceptance?

Most graduate programs send acceptance—or rejection—letters via email or phone, but a few send confirmation emails via mail. Don’t say yes right away, no matter if you are prompted. It is particularly crucial if the positive news leads to the formation of a telephone conversation.

Applaud the recipient, who is most certainly a teacher, and say you will phone back shortly. Do not stress: if you wait a few minutes, your admission will not be withdrawn. Most programs grant admitted participants few other weeks, perhaps another week—to make their decision.

It’s necessary to publish your graduate school acceptance letter after you’ve had a chance to process the positive news and weigh your choices. You have two options for responding: writing a letter and mailing it, or responding by web. In any case, your answer should be succinct, polite, and express your opinion directly.

Why should you sent a thank-you letter for graduate school acceptance?

The admission process for graduate school was just the first step. Perhaps you had a few packages of entry, maybe you did not. In any case, note to tell your friends and acquaintances next. Do not even neglect to express gratitude to your advisors and those who wrote letters of recommendation on your behalf. If your college path continues, you’ll continue to keep in touch with your educational and professional connections.

Communications to schools are statements made to educational establishments which have a learning atmosphere and spaces for learners and students. You might feel tempted to write to the school authorities on several occasions. Perhaps you’d want to suggest a student, maybe an employee, or you’d like to qualify for a degree program.

Attempting to put the feelings on paper, regardless of the problem, prevents misunderstanding. You can do this by providing yourself and the receiver with a record of your submission. As a result, keeping a replica of every document you deliver is critical.

How to write a thank-you letter for graduate school acceptance?

A thank-you note is not always a lengthy-expression of gratitude- a couple of well-written paragraphs would suffice. The document must detail your success like if you’ve been hired, admitted into a program, whatever the situation might be. Very specifically, express your thanks and appreciation for their recommendation in your message.

Your message, like these acceptance letter examples, should address the following issues: 

• State the obvious truths- you, the place you’ve accepted, and your target date, as well as your company’s destination. You should also reiterate your wages and job conditions in the manner in which you comprehend them.
• Any letter to a school must be written in the normal business letter format. Begin the message with the appropriate greetings and signature. Initiate yourself and your message’s purpose straightforwardly and succinctly. 
• Include any documents that provide the receiver a guide to the event or affirms your questions, based on the composition of the message.
• Maintain a courteous, friendly, and polite tone. Finish by acknowledging the receiver for their efforts and expressing hope for constructive reviews. Before submitting the final copy, add your signature and proofread it.
• Begin with technical details:

It is a crucial step. Mistakes are common during this point of a career interaction, and these occur more frequently than you might think. Ensure that you and your receiver are all on the same level on what will happen on the first day (and the day you receive your first paycheck).

• Heartfelt gratitude: 

Feel free to express gratitude several times. You may not know it, but your bosses have encountered some difficulties and long nights in the process of selecting an applicant for this position. It means a lot to them that they choose you, so show them that it means everything to you anyway well. Express thanks for the opportunity. Recognize that the letter should set the tone for a bright future.

• Show enthusiasm and positivity: 

A bleak approval letter may be strangely unsettling for future bosses. Then, they’re ecstatic to have you aboard, so meet their enthusiasm! Recognize their good energies and reciprocate them.

• Remind them of the reasons they choose you: 

You wouldn’t have to mention any of your credentials again, so you should show your audiences that you’re still the versatile professional you are.

How to mention the recipient in a thank-you letter for graduate school acceptance?

Your letter must have an official name, an outline, a structure, and a conclusion, much like these approval letter specimens. Simply type your name and contact details in the heading, then add the name of your current boss and their mailing address. Submit the document to your point of touch, taking into account your correspondence dynamics.

Your message’s presentation must start with a general declaration stating the message’s intent. Thank your boss and show some good emotions you have in the body of your message. Discuss any issues you have of the specifics, and mention in your letter that you have yet to discuss any of the terms of your jobs. Use the inference to send a pleasant and sincere message.

What are the tips to keep in mind while writing a thank-you letter for graduate school acceptance?

Keep these basic errors in mind when you study these acceptance letter examples and draft your own. 

• Don’t ever be ambiguous or nebulous: 

Even if you’ve never made the decision yet, please do not write your message. Please take some time. Never write an offer letter that is riddled with ambiguous qualifiers.

• Don’t overlook firmly shut concerns: 

If you have any tightly closed issues affecting your approval, let us know about them though.

• Speak out your feelings with transparency:

Don’t be shy about expressing your passion, excitement, and genuine interest in the job in your acceptance letter. It would be comforting to the bosses.

What are some samples thank you letter for graduate school acceptance?

Harley Spectre

23234 Street Road

Oklahoma, 33304

31 October 2020

Tyson Gonsalves

23, University Office

State High College

Oklahoma, 44934

Dear Tyson,

I am overjoyed that you have approved my request to your well-known and prestigious graduate school. I am grateful for the chance you gave me by recommending my name.

This coming Fall, I am looking forward to studying a lot about the world of psychology and putting my knowledge to good use in my research. Thank you again for allowing me to attend your classes.

Please accept my vote of thanks for the same. Also, please reach out to me whenever you need help. 

Kylie Dallas

38279 Street View

Texas 28403

14 June 2019

39223 Campus Ward

Texas Univ, Texas, 34105

Dear Professor Winsel,

I would like to express my gratitude for the letter of recommendation you submitted to FSU in support of my graduate program proposal. Your assistance has been invaluable in the whole operation. A recommendation by a well-respected representative of a scholarly institution, such as yourself, was extremely helpful, and I am grateful for your support.

You will be pleased to hear that I have been admitted into the school’s business marketing program, and I am excited to begin this new chapter in my life. I will keep you posted on my growth, and I will visit you whenever I can.

Thank you once again for your recommendation.

Your friend,

Jannet Rogers

123 Fake Street

Bloomfield, New Jersey, 07003

28 February 2018

Marley Rogers

Principal Chambers

Bloomfield College, 43495

Dear Mrs. Rogers,

Although I have yet to hear from the graduation program about the status of my research work, I wanted to express my gratitude for the letter of recommendation you sent to Director Smith. The meeting went much smoother than intended, thanks in large part to your kind letter of recommendation.

I believe that if it had not been for your endorsement, I would have not reached out as much among the several candidates. It is because all of the others were much more suitable for the role. I am convinced because your support for my personality has set me ahead of the competition.

Once again, pleased to write this letter of approval. I understand you have a hectic life, but it means a lot to me that you took the time to compose such a powerful message. And do not hesitate to get in touch with me if there is any way I can assist you in the future.

Ben Mascotte

Derek Domino

453, Dorm Colony

New Orleans, 49656

27 August 2019

Stanley Cooper

23 College Hall

New Orleans, 34554 

Dear Mr. Cooper,

I am writing to share my sincere appreciation for your recommendation letter. Your remarks enthused the management group at John Smith College, and I was selected for their graduate program as an outcome.

I firmly agree that your recommendation helped me stand out from the crowd and opened the path for my fruitful performance. And please do not hesitate to inquire if there is something I can do to repay your kindness.

Once again, I thank you from the bottom of my heart for your kind help and support.

Tara Samuels

284, Girls Colony

New York, 49656

13 March 2019

Nigella Watson

23 University Road

New York, 24233 

Dear Dr. Watson,

I am writing to consider your invitation to enroll in your university’s undergraduate Biology program in the fall. With tremendous excitement, I look forward to starting my studies at your university, and I am overjoyed to be writing this thanks you for the acceptance letter.

I am overwhelmed to thank you for your kind support and help in fulfilling my dream of joining the college. As a student, I believed in my determination and a guide to help me reach my zenith. 

I sincerely thank you for your support. Please reach out to me in case there could be any way to repay this kindness in the future. Again I thank you for your time and cannot wait to begin my studies at your university in the fall.

Leslie Harleans

38401 Magic Apartments

14 January 2019

Tom Hollins

Ohio, 14804

Dear Professor Hollins,

I would like to thank you for the letter of recommendation you sent to FSU in favor of my graduate program application. Your help has been indispensable throughout the entire process. A referral from a well-known leader of a scholarly organization, such as you, was highly beneficial, and I appreciate your assistance.

You will be happy to learn that I have been accepted into the technology consulting program at the university, and I am looking forward to starting this new chapter of my life. I will update you as soon on my success, and I will pay you a visit whenever I can.

Once again, thank you for your recommendation.

Your friend, Leslie Harleans

Thank You Letter For Graduation Money: How To, Templates & Examples

Thank You Letter for a Post Residency Interview: How to, Templates & Examples

© 2023 Mail To Self

Writing a Grad School Interview Thank You Email

• Early Career

So you’ve decided to embark on a new and exciting journey in your education by applying to a graduate school program. You join the ranks of many other scholars who seek to advance their education.

Low and behold, with an exceptional grad school application, you have moved forward in the process of completing an interview with the university. What comes next? You may think that all that is left is to wait and see if you are accepted into your chosen program. However, you may be missing the extra step of sending a grad school interview thank you email.

Why You Should Send a Thank You Email After Your Grad School Interview

Many prospective students do not follow up with the university they interview with either because they don’t believe it is necessary or because they don’t know to. With this extra step of sending a friendly thank you letter after your graduate school interview, you will be on the interviewer’s radar as an enthusiastic candidate. Also, the interviewer will see that you are genuinely interested in their graduate school and take the process seriously. Going that extra mile might mean the difference between acceptance and denial.

Best Time To Send Your Post-grad School Interview Thank You Email

The best time to email your grad school interview thank you is within 24–48 hours after completing your interview.

A grad school interviewer will often interview several candidates in anticipation for the upcoming semester. Email them any later and your email may be out of context from the interview haze. Or worse, the interviewer may get the impression that you are inconsiderate or forgetful.

The clock starts ticking as soon as you leave the interview, but don’t let this timeframe rush you to send a poorly written email. Take some time to evaluate your performance, and make notes on interesting talking points. The following list is a good starting point for compiling ideas.

• What interested you about the degree program
• Some of the strongest answers you had given
• Any information the interviewer provided that stuck with you

This isn’t all of the information that you should put in your thank you email. Keep reading to learn about essential thank you email components.

Information to Include in Your Thank You Email

The point of your post-grad school interview email is to thank the interviewer.

A generic thank you email is inauthentic and won’t cut it, here. Grad school interviewers will often interview several candidates in a small period of time. You must insert unique identifiers that’ll make your interview memorable.

In addition to the notes that you took post-interview, consider adding the following notes to your grad school interview thank you email.

• Elaborate on why you are thankful for the interview
• Show appreciation for the interviewer’s time
• Restate your interest in their grad school program
• Give one fact about why you would make a good candidate

You’re well on your way to writing a thank you email. Review the samples below to guide your writing process.

Winning Grad School Interview Thank You Email Samples

Once you’ve compiled a few talking points, you’re ready to write your thank you email. Don’t be overwhelmed by the task! The email doesn’t have to be a thesis—a few short paragraphs will do. Below we have listed some examples that you can personalize instead of simply copy and pasting.

Sample Grad School Interview Thank You Email #1

Dear Dr. LaCroix,

I wanted to reach out and thank you for taking the time out of your busy schedule to interview me for the Creative Writing Program at Northwestern Arizona University. I appreciate that you were able to go over some of the aspects of the program which make it unique. The most appealing part of the Creative Writing Program that you shared with me is working with publishing houses based in NYC.

Your advice on having me submit more of my creative writing to larger publications helped motivate me to get my work to a wider audience. I enjoyed your feedback on my writing style, and I believe that I would be an ideal candidate for Northwestern Arizona University’s program due to my dedication to the art of storytelling. I look forward to hearing from you once final decisions are made. Once again, thank you for the opportunity to interview with you.

The beginning of this letter starts with thanking the interviewer, then explains specifically what the student was thankful for. The student also touched on specific aspects of the interview so that the recipient would remember the student. The email ends with a call to action and restates the thank you.

Sample Grad School Interview Thank You Email #2

Dear Dr. Scheibel,

I wanted to thank you for generously considering me for the Masters of Biology program at MIT. I know that you have a busy schedule, and I appreciate your time interviewing me and sharing some of what makes MIT unique.

The interview with you shed some light on what I can expect in the program. I especially like how MIT has biology research labs on-site and opportunities for internships. I believe that my background in working in a biomedical research lab for the past two years has prepared me for the next step in my career, which is obtaining my graduate degree to study microbial diseases.

Again, thank you for your consideration, and I look forward to hearing from you on your final decision.

Again, the sample grad school thank you email opens with a thank you. The opening also acknowledges that the interviewer has a busy schedule and is doing you a favor by taking the time to interview you. The email further mentions a specific program detail that the interviewee likes and why. The letter ends with why they would be a good candidate and thanking the interviewer. The call to action motivates the interviewer to maintain contact with the writer.

Sample Grad School Interview Thank You Email #3

Dear Dr. Roderick,

I hoped to reach out and thank you for talking with me about the opportunity to study mathematics at UCLA’s Mathematics Graduate Program. Your dedication to interviewing me with your busy schedule shows me how concerned UCLA is with considering candidates for their graduate programs.

Thank you for explaining how the library at UCLA has its own collection of mathematic resources that I could use while studying. Because of my experience in tutoring math at the undergraduate level, I think that I would be able to accomplish my dream of teaching mathematics at a university.

I am happy to have learned more about the program and hope to hear from you when final decisions are made.

The opening paragraph is focused on thanking the interviewer and why the writer is thankful. The second paragraph details a few of the interviewer’s talking points to show that the writer was paying attention during the interview. The author then writes a background sentence on why they should be admitted to the graduate program. The last paragraph summarizes the grad school interview thank you in just one sentence.

Connect with the Best Resources for Grad School Interviews

Whether you are at the point of sending out that professional thank you letter after your grad school interview or still going through the process of interviewing, InterviewFocus has the tools you need to make the best impression possible.

Future graduate students already know the definition of hard work and dedication. This also translates to how much effort and preparation you put into an upcoming grad school interview. With InterviewFocus, you can take advantage of their mock interviews , which give you personalized feedback on your eye contact, filler words and even facial expressions.

Get interview ready for graduate school with InterviewFocus !

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How to Write a Great Graduate School Acceptance Letter

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You've  applied to graduate schools , and lo and behold, you've been accepted to the program of your dreams. You may think you're all set and you need only pack your bags, book a flight or load your car, and head out to grad school. But, you need to take one more step to ensure your position at the school will be open and ready for you when you arrive: You'll need to write an acceptance letter. Admissions officers have to be sure that you are ready to attend; otherwise, they will likely give your spot to another candidate.

Before Writing Your Letter or Email

Your graduate school applications were just the first step. Maybe you received several  offers of admission , maybe not. Either way, remember to share the good news with friends and family first. Don't forget to thank your mentors and people who wrote recommendation letters on your behalf. You want to maintain your educational and professional contacts as your academic career progresses.

Writing Your Reply

Most grad programs notify applicants of their acceptance—or rejection—by email or phone, although a few still send formal letters by mail. Regardless of how you're notified, don't immediately say yes. This is especially important if the good news comes in a phone call.

Thank the caller, likely a professor, and explain that you will reply soon. Don't worry: You won't suddenly have your acceptance revoked if you briefly delay. Most programs give accepted students a window of a few days—or even up to a week or two—to decide.

Once you've had a chance to digest the good news and consider your options, it's time to write your graduate school acceptance letter. You can respond via a letter that you send through the mail or you can reply by email. In either case, your response should be short, respectful, and clearly indicate your decision.

Sample Acceptance Letter or Email

Feel free to use the sample letter or email below. Simply replace the name of the professor, admissions officer, or admissions committee of the school as appropriate:

Dear Dr. Smith (or Admissions Committee ):

I am writing to accept your offer to enroll in the X program at [graduate university]. Thank you, and I appreciate your time and consideration during the admissions process. I look forward to attending your program this fall and am excited by the opportunities that await.

Rebecca R. Student

Though your correspondence seemingly states the obvious, it is very important that you make it clear that you intend to enroll in the graduate program. And, being polite—such as saying "thank you"—is always important in any official correspondence.

Before You Send the Letter or Email

As you would with any important correspondence, take the time to reread your letter or email before you send it. Ensure that it doesn't have any misspellings or grammatical errors. Once you're satisfied with your acceptance letter, send it.

If you've been accepted into more than one grad program, you've still got some homework to do. You'll need to write a letter declining an offer of admissions  to each of the programs you rejected. As with your acceptance letter, make it short, direct, and respectful.

• Timeline for Applying to Graduate School
• Writing a Graduate School Rejection Letter
• Don'ts for Getting Letters of Recommendation for Grad School
• How to Get a Recommendation Letter for Graduate School
• Dos and Don'ts for Requesting a Grad School Recommendation Letter
• Thanking a Professor for Writing a Recommendation Letter
• How to Write a Letter of Continued Interest
• When Your Grad School Recommendation Letter Doesn't Arrive
• Applying to Graduate School: What You Need to Know
• How to Get Recommendation Letters for Grad School
• How to Write a Letter of Continued Interest for Law School
• Wait-Listed for Grad School Admission, Now What?
• How to Write the Graduate Admissions Essay
• How to Choose Between Grad Schools
• How to Write Your Graduate School Admissions Essay
• Self Assessment and Writing a Graduate Admissions Essay

7 Best PhD Acceptance Letter Templates for Grad School Applicants

Are you eagerly awaiting your acceptance letter to a PhD program? Are you feeling overwhelmed about creating the perfect acceptance letter? Well, fret not! We have the solution for you: a PhD acceptance letter template. This template will not only save you time and effort, but it will also ensure that your acceptance letter is professional and effective. But don’t just take our word for it, you can easily find examples of these templates online and edit them as needed. With this simple tool, you can put your mind at ease and focus on the exciting journey that lies ahead. So why wait? Start downloading those templates and let’s get this acceptance process rolling!

The Best Structure for a PhD Acceptance Letter Template

Are you wondering how to structure your acceptance letter for a PhD program? Look no further! The following template will provide you with a clear and concise structure to ensure that your acceptance letter stands out from the rest.

First and foremost, make sure to begin your letter with a formal greeting and address the recipient appropriately. A simple “Dear [name]” will suffice, followed by a brief introduction of yourself. In this introduction, mention your full name, the department you will be joining, and any relevant academic or professional achievements.

Next, express your gratitude for being accepted into the program. It is important to convey your excitement and enthusiasm about the opportunity that has been presented to you. This can be achieved by highlighting specific aspects of the program that really appeal to you. For example, you may mention the department’s reputation for excellence or the opportunity to work with renowned scholars in your field.

Following this, be sure to outline any important information that the recipient may need to know. This could include the date by which you must confirm your acceptance, any housing or financial aid options, and any other pertinent details. It is important to be as clear and straightforward as possible, as the recipient will likely receive numerous acceptance letters and may not have time to sift through lengthy and convoluted explanations.

Finally, conclude your letter with a warm and professional closing. This may include a simple “sincerely” followed by your full name and contact information. Be sure to double-check your spelling and grammar before hitting “send,” as careless mistakes can detract from the overall impact of your letter.

In summary, a successful acceptance letter for a PhD program should consist of a formal greeting, an introduction that highlights your achievements, expressions of gratitude and enthusiasm, clear and concise information about important program details, and a closing that is professional and personable. By following this structure and honoring the recipient’s time and attention, you will increase your chances of making a positive impression and securing your spot in the program of your dreams. Good luck!

Sample PhD Acceptance Letter Templates

Acceptance letter for phd program.

Dear [Applicant Name],

Congratulations on being accepted into our PhD program at [University Name]. We were impressed by your academic achievements, research experience and your potential to contribute to the field. Our program offers a rigorous curriculum, exceptional research opportunities and a supportive community of scholars. We believe that you will thrive in this environment and make valuable contributions to our academic community.

We look forward to welcoming you to our program and working with you during your studies. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you need any assistance or have any questions.

Best regards,

[Professor Name]

Acceptance Letter for PhD Fellowship

It is our pleasure to inform you that you have been awarded the [Fellowship Name] for your PhD studies at [University Name]. This fellowship is highly competitive and recognizes your outstanding academic achievements, research experience and potential to contribute to the field. As a fellow, you will have access to additional research funding, academic resources and professional development opportunities.

We are excited to have you join us and contribute to the vibrant academic community at [University Name]. We look forward to your arrival and the contributions you will make to our department and research efforts.

Acceptance Letter for PhD Research Position

We are pleased to offer you the research position for your PhD studies at [University Name]. Your research experience, skills, and interests align with our current research projects, and we believe that you will make significant contributions to our team. We are committed to providing a supportive and collaborative environment that fosters creativity and innovation in research.

You will be joining a team of talented and accomplished researchers who will provide you with mentorship, guidance and opportunities to grow professionally. We believe that your skills and insights will complement our team and advance our research goals.

Acceptance Letter for PhD Program with Scholarship

We are thrilled to inform you that you have been accepted into our PhD program at [University Name] with a scholarship. This scholarship recognizes your academic achievements, research potential and provides financial support to offset the costs of tuition, books and living expenses during your studies.

Our program offers a rigorous academic curriculum, exceptional research opportunities, and a supportive community of scholars. We believe that you will thrive in this environment and make valuable contributions to our academic community. We look forward to seeing your potential realized and the contributions you will make to your field.

Acceptance Letter for PhD Program with Teaching Assistantship

We are pleased to offer you a teaching assistantship as part of your acceptance into our PhD program at [University Name]. Your qualifications, academic achievements and teaching experience demonstrate your potential to contribute to our teaching efforts and benefit our undergraduate students.

As a teaching assistant, you will receive training, mentorship and guidance to further develop your teaching skills. You will be supported by a team of experienced faculty members who will work with you to design, deliver and evaluate your teaching. We believe that your skills and expertise will enhance our curriculum and enrich the learning experience of our students.

Best wishes,

Acceptance Letter for PhD Program with Research Assistantship

We are delighted to offer you a research assistantship as part of your acceptance into our PhD program at [University Name]. Your research experience, skills and interests align with our research projects, and we believe that you will make significant contributions to our team.

As a research assistant, you will receive training, mentorship and guidance to further develop your research skills. You will work alongside a team of talented researchers who will support you in carrying out your research projects. We believe that your skills and insights will complement our team and advance our research goals.

We look forward to having you join us for your PhD studies and the contributions you will make to our department and research efforts.

Acceptance Letter for PhD Program – International Applicant

It gives us great pleasure to inform you that you have been accepted into our PhD program at [University Name]. Your application stood out among a highly competitive pool of international applicants, and we are impressed by your academic achievements, research experience, and potential to contribute to the field. We are excited to welcome you to our vibrant academic community at [University Name].

We understand that moving to a new country can be daunting, and we are committed to supporting you during this transition. We have a dedicated team of staff who will provide you with guidance and assistance regarding visas, accommodation, healthcare and other support services. You will also have access to a community of international students who will share their experiences and provide you with support throughout your studies.

We look forward to seeing your potential realized and the contributions you will make to your field of study and our academic community.

Tips for Writing an Effective PhD Acceptance Letter Template

If you have been accepted to pursue a PhD, congratulations! However, the process is not yet over. You still need to write an acceptance letter to the institution that has accepted you. This acceptance letter is not just a formality; it is an opportunity to communicate your excitement and dedication to your field of study. Here are some tips on how to write an effective PhD acceptance letter template:

1. Keep it concise: Your letter should be short and to the point. Avoid using flowery language and stick to the important details.

2. Be specific: Provide details about your research interests, academic accomplishments, and why you chose this institution. This will show the acceptance committee that you are a dedicated and focused student.

3. Show enthusiasm: Express your excitement about the opportunity to pursue a PhD at this institution. Show that you are passionate about your field of study and eager to begin your research.

4. Use a professional tone: Remember that this letter is a formal communication with the acceptance committee. Use a professional and respectful tone throughout the letter.

5. Proofread and edit: Before sending your letter, make sure to proofread for grammar and spelling errors. It is also important to edit for clarity and coherence.

By following these tips, you can write an effective PhD acceptance letter template that demonstrates your enthusiasm, dedication, and professionalism to the acceptance committee. Congratulations again on this exciting opportunity!

FAQs Related to PhD Acceptance Letter Template What is a PhD acceptance letter?

A PhD acceptance letter is a formal document that confirms a student’s acceptance into a doctoral program at a university or academic institution.

Why do I need a PhD acceptance letter?

You need a PhD acceptance letter for documentation purposes, as well as to officially confirm your admission into a PhD program.

What should my PhD acceptance letter contain?

Your PhD acceptance letter should contain your name, the program to which you have been accepted, the date of acceptance, and any relevant details related to registration and enrollment.

Do I need to include any additional information besides my acceptance in my PhD acceptance letter?

You may want to include any specific details related to financial aid, scholarships, or other funding sources, as well as any other information required by the university or academic institution.

Can I customize my PhD acceptance letter template?

Yes, you can customize your PhD acceptance letter template to fit your specific needs and requirements.

What format should my PhD acceptance letter be in?

Your PhD acceptance letter should be in a formal letter format, with a clear and concise tone and appropriate language and formatting.

How should I address my PhD acceptance letter?

You should address your PhD acceptance letter to the appropriate department or individual at the university or academic institution where you have been accepted.

Sending You Off with Excitement Awaiting

So, that’s the comprehensive guide to creating your very own perfect PhD acceptance letter. We sincerely hope that you have found this article helpful and are now confident enough to start your letter with ease. Remember that your acceptance letter is your ticket to the world of academia, and therefore, it should be crafted to perfection. All the best in your academic journey! Thanks for reading and please do visit again for more amazing tips.

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How to Handle Different Grad School Admission Decisions

The three grad school admission decisions typically offered are acceptance, denial, or placement on a waiting list. Here's what you should do in each situation.

by Donald C. Martin Author, Enrollment Expert

Last Updated: Mar 16, 2023

Originally Posted: Feb 3, 2017

After submitting your materials and paying the application fees, it's now that time in the grad school admission process where you have to wait to hear from the admission committee. The three grad school admission decisions typically rendered are acceptance, denial, or placement on a waiting list. On rare occasions an applicant will be admitted conditionally; this usually entails being asked to do some additional work (writing more essays, retaking a standardized test, enrolling in a course or two)—the successful completion of which automatically means admission. So what should you do if your grad school application is waitlisted, denied, or accepted? Well, it varies. Below are some detailed suggestions for responding to each of the three major grad school admission decisions, starting with the one I believe can be the most difficult: the waiting list.

What to do if you’re waitlisted

In some ways, this is the hardest grad school admission decision—in that it’s not an actual decision. You just don’t know how things are going to unfold. But don’t despair. If you’ve been waitlisted for grad school, consider doing the following:

• Don’t take it personally. Of course, this is easier said than done. No one likes being on a waiting list. Unfortunately, your application was not as competitive as those being offered admission; however, you still have some very strong credentials. The good news is you were not denied. There's still a chance you will be admitted. In fact, from my experience, it’s a very good one.
• Make sure you follow instructions. After receiving a waitlist decision , be professional and do what's suggested or asked of you. If you're given specific instructions on what you can do next, follow them to the letter . If you don't receive any information about next steps, ask. Don’t demand, complain, or argue; just see if there is anything you can do. If you are told no, accept that and don't do anything. (It may also tell you something about the graduate institution if they don't provide you an opportunity to further address your interest in their program.)
• If feedback is offered, take it. And simply listen. Don't become defensive or angry. Thank the provider of the information, and confirm if and how you are to respond. For example, if the graduate program will accept a written response, write a formal letter or email as soon as you can. Address each issue head on and explain why and how you believe you can “overcome” the concern.
• Mount a letter of recommendation campaign. If you can get two or three additional individuals to write recommendation letters for you , this is the time. You may even want some of your original recommenders to write another letter, if they have anything to add. However, do not send more than three or four letters of recommendation at this point. More than this is overkill.
• Request a campus interview. And if your interview request is granted, do not pass it up. If a campus interview isn't made available to you but you conducted an interview with an alumnus during the application process, contact them and ask for a recommendation letter. This person might even be willing to call the graduate admission committee on your behalf.
• Send a hand-written thank-you note to the person who signed your notification letter a few weeks before a final admission decision is supposed to be made. Indicate your sincere interest in this graduate program. Mention that you've responded as requested to your waitlist status. End the note by thanking this person for the time and attention they've given and will give to your application.
• Be cautiously creative. If you are certain you can add some appropriate personality to your graduate admission file, you might send a photo album, card, “Top 10 Reasons Why I Should Be Admitted” list, etc. But do not do all of these for the same institution! Just choose one.
• Exude patience and professionalism. There are several reasons for placing students on an admission wait list—but deliberately trying to frustrate you is not one of them. If you appear offended, inconvenienced, angry, resentful, argumentative, or arrogant, you'll almost certainly determine the outcome of your waitlisted graduate application: you will be denied. Stay calm, confident, and patient. Try to go with the flow. The right attitude can work wonders toward reaching your goals, not to mention impressing graduate admission folks.
• Prepare for either admission or denial. While one decision might be preferable to the other, be ready for either response. (Keep reading for tips on how to do just that.)

Related:  How to Escape Your Dream College's Waitlist

What to do if you’re denied

A grad school denial is never easy. After all the time and work you put into your application, it can feel like a real slap in the face. If you're upset by the admission decision, don't react by phone or in writing right away. Give yourself a few days to cool down. As you reflect, consider the following:

• Don’t take it personally. Remember, most graduate admission committees are faced with a very difficult task: admitting a limited number of students from a very large—and often very qualified—applicant pool. Admission folks are doing the best they can. Believe me, they are not personally against you in any way.
• Write a thank-you note. Send it to the person who signed your notification letter. This displays impressive tact and maturity and can place you in good stead should you decide to reapply in the future. 
• If you believe something was overlooked, ask about it. Ideally, you'd have confirmed that all your materials (test scores, transcripts, recommendation letters, etc.) were up-to-date and accounted for before the application deadline. But if not, or if important information was transmitted after the deadline for whatever reason, check to make sure your grad school application was complete when it was read. If something was overlooked, most graduate admission committees will provide another complete evaluation of your application . If they're unwilling to do so—or worse, not even willing to check—it might be a sign that this isn’t the grad school for you.
• Request feedback and honor what you are told. Some admission personnel will offer feedback for denied applicants in person, over the phone, or in writing. If they do, take advantage—just be gracious. Don't become defensive when you receive the feedback. Make sure you understand what was communicated, and be sure to thank the person for their time.
• Consider reapplying and ask about that process. You may find your chances of being admitted are higher the second time around (a lot can change in a year). You could also try asking if additional information from you could result in a second look.
• Practice patience and professionalism. If you decide to respond to the graduate admission committee after being denied, please remember this: a mature, thoughtful attitude makes a huge and positive impression.
• Accept the decision. At this point, you cannot change it. Remember: this is a temporary disappointment, not a final blow. Whether you reapply to the graduate program that denied you, apply elsewhere, or reconfigure your plans, you will succeed if you work hard and are thoughtful and determined.

Related:  7 Big Mistakes Graduate School Applicants Should Avoid

What to do if you’re admitted

You did it! Your hard work has paid off, and you should take some time to celebrate. But once your euphoria subsides, keep in mind you still have a lot of decisions ahead. Here are some next steps to consider after being accepted to the graduate program(s) of your choice.

• Thank those who helped you (such as family, friends, recommenders, interviewer, etc.). While you did the lion’s share of the work, others likely helped with your application and/or gave you lots of encouragement and support along the way. This may be especially true if you were initially waitlisted. Be sure to thank these individuals in the graduate admission office too. Speaking of which…
• Send a thank-you note specifically to the person who signed your notification letter. This gesture goes a long way. You certainly worked hard to complete your application, but the graduate admission committee works hard too!
• Take admitted student information seriously . Not long after receiving your grad school acceptance, you’ll start receiving important updates about your enrollment deposit, financial aid , graduate housing (if applicable), admitted student visit programs, course scheduling, new student orientation, student life, and much more. Hold on to this information and read it carefully.
• Start (or continue) talking with other students . By now you may have established contact with current or former graduate students from your program. You may even know others who were just admitted too. Reach out to these individuals (social media can be great for this). You can learn a lot from them all, and knowing some of your student colleagues before you enroll will be helpful too.
• Try to schedule a campus visit. Whether or not you have done so already, now is a great time to visit your future campus . Many graduate institutions offer admitted student programs. This provides a great opportunity for you to meet the “family” you may decide to join for the next few years. You may also choose to visit on your own at another time. And if you want an unadulterated look at the graduate institution, make an unannounced visit! When no one knows you’re coming, you can experience things as they really are. Just keep in mind that you won't be able to schedule appointments you might want ahead of time, like visits with professors.
• Evaluate how you are treated post-admission/deposit . As a prospective student, you were in the driver’s seat when deciding where you would apply. Once you submitted your grad school application, you turned the wheel over to the admission committee. Now that you've been accepted, you are once again in control. You get to decide whether to accept the offer of admission. It can be helpful to evaluate how you are treated. Does the admitted student follow-up process make you feel wanted, included, and informed? If so, great. If not, perhaps you need to think more seriously about enrollment in this particular program.
• Do some “comparison shopping.” Remember the spreadsheet you created  at the beginning of your grad school search? Now is the time to review all the research you did to enroll in the right graduate program for you while factoring in any financial aid you’ve received as well as anything you’ve learned since applying. Revisit things like academics (program reputation, research opportunities, length of program, average class size, etc.), costs (total projected costs minus financial aid, savings, etc.), and general factors (distance from home, extracurricular opportunities, etc.). At the end of the day, use the information you’ve so painstakingly gathered to make the most informed grad school decision possible.   
• Start working on your financial plan. For most grad students, this takes time. Even if you aren't relocating geographically, there's a lot to consider. Be sure to read the fine print about every scholarship, fellowship, assistantship, and/or stipend you're offered. If you need student loan assistance, be careful to educate yourself before signing on the dotted line . One common oversight among admitted grad students is keeping track of just how long awarded funds will last. Be sure you know whether a scholarship/fellowship/assistantship is good for one year, two years, etc. You don’t want any financial surprises after you enroll!
• If you're relocating, start preparing. Most graduate institutions can help, but you'll need to do a lot on your own. If campus housing is available to grad students, don't wait until the last minute to inquire and apply. Hopefully, you already looked into this during the application process. Nonetheless, carefully read and follow housing instructions as you receive them.

Related:  How to Pay for Grad School: Plan Ahead to Get Ahead

Whether you're accepted, denied, or placed on a wait list, your grad school admission journey isn't over. Take these tips for each situation and continue working until you're where you want to be. Everything happens for a reason, and you have a lot of options as you pursue your educational goals. Best of luck!

Learn more graduate admission tips and tricks from Don at his website GradSchoolRoadMap.com , or keep browsing the articles and advice in our Graduate School section. 

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About Donald C. Martin

Dr. Donald C. Martin is an expert in the fields of enrollment management, student affairs, and higher education administration. From 1980–2008, he managed divisions including admission, financial aid, student development, registration/advising, and career, disabled, and international services. He has been employed by some of the best colleges and universities in the United States, including  Columbia University (Teachers College) , University of Chicago (Booth School of Business), Northwestern University (Medill School of Journalism), and Wheaton College (in Illinois). Along with a team of dedicated professionals, Dr. Martin grew both the applicant pool and the enrollment yield at each institution he served. In addition, students’ ratings of their experience at those institutions improved dramatically during his tenure.

Having visited over 60 countries on every continent, Dr. Martin has worked with thousands of prospective and current students of varying nationalities, backgrounds, beliefs, interests, and goals. He continues his work with students and educational organizations worldwide, speaking on college and university campuses and also at graduate school fairs, forums, and education conferences. Dr. Martin's focus is on the value of education and negotiating the graduate school experience from start to finish, dispelling the myths that hold many back from earning a graduate degree and financing their graduate education. In addition, he provides one-on-one coaching services for graduate/business school applicants. Learn more at GradSchoolRoadMap.com . 

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Accepted Admissions Blog

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June 1, 2023

Deciding Who Should Write Your Letters of Recommendation – PhD

Letters of recommendation (LORs) are a key part of your application. Strong ones provide meaningful support, while a lukewarm one can really hurt your chances for admission. In this post, we’ll answer two questions: Who should write in support of your PhD application? How can you make sure your LORs are as good as they can be?

How to choose the best LOR writers

It is important to select LOR writers who know you well and, ideally, for a reasonably long period of time. Select individuals who can comment specifically and knowledgeably about your abilities. It is helpful if you have stayed in touch with your recommenders since you studied or worked with them.

Select writers who can address your research experience and potential. The more closely the writer’s background aligns with your field of study, the better. You should select faculty members to write the majority of your LORs for PhD programs.

If you have relevant work experience, you can also ask a current or previous employer. The employer should focus on your research potential. You can ask internship supervisors if the type of work you did as an intern is related to your intended field of study.

When you ask your recommenders if they would be willing to write  in support of your application, ask whether they feel they can write a strong, positive letter. This provides a gentle way for a hesitant recommender to decline – they can admit that they don’t think they know you well enough to do so (or you might sense their hesitation), and you can move on to someone else who can and will.

How to help your recommenders write strong LORs

It is important to provide information to your recommenders that will help them write the strongest letter possible. This can include your resume, copies of work you produced for their class (for faculty members), and a list of job accomplishments (for supervisors). Also provide a list of the schools you are applying to and the specific degree programs. Include a link with instructions as to what to include in the letter. Provide all these materials at one time in an organized manner.

Offer to meet with your recommender to discuss your plans and goals. You can also send them a link to Accepted’s  10 Tips for Writers of Letters of Recommendation .

Agree on a timeline of at least several weeks for them to complete their letter. Be aware of the academic calendar if you are asking a faculty member; the final weeks of the semester are often very busy. Remember that professors go on sabbatical and might not be available at all times.

A few days before the agreed-upon deadline, send a reminder to your letter writer.

Say thank you!

Always remember to follow up with a thank you note. (Ideally, you can write another thank you note after you get in, sharing the good news!)

You need to choose your PhD letter of recommendation writers wisely and then present them with the right materials to assist them in constructing strong letters that will represent your greatest strengths. We can help you with this and with any other element of your PhD application. Check out our catalog of  Graduate School Admissions Services , and let us know how we can help you achieve PhD admissions success!

By Alice Diamond , former associate dean for career and community service at Lesley University. Alice has a BA from Colgate University, an MA from Bryn Mawr College, and an MS from Cornell University. She has more than 35 years of experience in career and admissions advising for undergraduate and graduate candidates. Alice’s clients have been accepted to top programs in a wide range of fields. Want an admissions expert to help you get accepted? Click here to get in touch!

Related Resources:

• Choosing the Best PhD Programs , a free guide • An Admitted Johns Hopkins MD/PhD Candidate Reflects on His Journey • Lining Up Letters of Recommendation and Searching for Fellowships

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Thank You Letter For Admission Acceptance

Write a Thank You Letter For Admission Acceptance

Write a clear and to-the-point thank you letter for admission acceptance with the help of an AI Letter Writer in minutes. Focus on the message and let AI handle the formatting, tone, and language.

Use Case Example

Dear Admissions Committee,

I am writing to express my sincerest gratitude for accepting my admission to [Name of Institution]. I am truly thrilled to have been selected for this opportunity to pursue my academic goals and grow as an individual.I am honored to have been recognized as a valuable addition to the student body, and I am excited to contribute to the intellectual diversity and cultural richness of your institution.I promise to work hard, take advantage of the resources and opportunities available, and make the most of my time at [Name of Institution].Once again, thank you for this incredible opportunity. I look forward to starting this new chapter in my academic journey.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

[Your Name] [Address] [City, State ZIP Code] [Email Address] [Today’s Date] [Admission Committee Name] [University Name or College Name] [Address] [City, State ZIP Code]

Dear [Admission Committee Name],

I am writing to express my sincere gratitude for the acceptance into the [Name of Program] at [University or College Name]. I am thrilled and honored to have been selected for this opportunity and look forward to joining the [University or College Name] community.I appreciate the effort, time, and consideration that the admission committee has given me throughout the application process. I assure you that I will take this responsibility seriously and strive to make the most of the resources that [University or College Name] has to offer.Once again, thank you for this incredible opportunity. Please let me know the next steps in the process and how I can prepare myself for the upcoming semester.

Sincerely, [Your Signature] [Your Name]

How to write a Thank You Letter For Admission Acceptance

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Respond to an offer.

On or before your decision date, you should verbally inform the employer of your decision. Follow up with a well-written confirmation letter.

Accepting an Offer

Express your enthusiasm to be joining the organization, and reiterate salary, start date, and position title. Specify when you will meet any conditions of employment, such as completing a medical exam or providing required documents.

Sample Acceptance Letter

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Peggy Hayward, Director of Marketing Associated Shops 312 Fifth Avenue New York, New York 10122

Dear Ms. Hayward:

I am pleased to confirm my acceptance of your offer to join Associated Shops as Assistant Product Manager. As we discussed in our telephone conversation yesterday, I will begin work on June 15 at an annual salary of $58,750 and will complete a medical examination before the start date. I look forward to receiving a written confirmation of the offer and benefits package.

In the event that you need to contact me before June 15, please note that I can be reached at 914-555-3210 from May 30 through June 14.

Thank you again for your consideration and help during the interview process. I greatly appreciated your informative and personal approach.

Sincerely yours,

(SIGNATURE) Marla Linsky

Declining an Offer

Thank the employer for extending you an offer. Explain that you are accepting an offer that better matches your needs or desires at this time. Keep the door open for future associations with the firm.

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Barry Boscone Research and Development Director Triton Industries 1234 Eastman Avenue Rochester, New York 13688

Dear Mr. Boscone:

Thank you very much for offering me the position of Researcher at Triton Industries. After considering this opportunity carefully, I have made a difficult decision not to accept your offer. I believe that at this point in my career another position I have been offered fits more closely with my career interests and goals.

It was a pleasure meeting you and members of your staff. I appreciate the time you spent with me and the consideration you extended to me.

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How to Write the Perfect Interview Thank You (with Examples!)

Lisa Freedland is a Scholarships360 writer with personal experience in psychological research and content writing. She has written content for an online fact-checking organization and has conducted research at the University of Southern California as well as the University of California, Irvine. Lisa graduated from the University of Southern California in Fall 2021 with a degree in Psychology.

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Cece Gilmore is a Content Writer at Scholarships360. Cece earned her undergraduate degree in Journalism and Mass Communications from Arizona State University. While at ASU, she was the education editor as well as a published staff reporter at Downtown Devil. Cece was also the co-host of her own radio show on Blaze Radio ASU.

Bill Jack has over a decade of experience in college admissions and financial aid. Since 2008, he has worked at Colby College, Wesleyan University, University of Maine at Farmington, and Bates College.

Maria Geiger is Director of Content at Scholarships360. She is a former online educational technology instructor and adjunct writing instructor. In addition to education reform, Maria’s interests include viewpoint diversity, blended/flipped learning, digital communication, and integrating media/web tools into the curriculum to better facilitate student engagement. Maria earned both a B.A. and an M.A. in English Literature from Monmouth University, an M. Ed. in Education from Monmouth University, and a Virtual Online Teaching Certificate (VOLT) from the University of Pennsylvania.

Had an interview that went well? That’s great, but you’re not quite done yet. Following an interview, it’s of utmost importance to send a thank-you email or letter to those who interviewed you. These not only show that you truly want the position, but also indicate that you’re organized and diligent. Both are qualities that employers look for in new hires. To learn how to write that perfect interview thank-you, keep on reading!

Related: Scholarships360’s free scholarship search tool

Why should you write a thank-you letter after an interview?

Not only are thank-you letters a show of an applicant’s interest in the position, good manners, and organization, but some employers even expect them. Ultimately, they are another chance to influence your employer’s decision before they actually make one, and they typically work in your favor. 

Advice from a hiring manager

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In fact, approximately 68% of U.S. hiring professionals found thank-you emails to take on a greater importance when evaluating a candidate. Considering that most candidates tend to not send them out after interviews, sending a thank you will make you stand out from the crowd!

Although handwritten letters are certainly more personal, they take much longer to write and send out than emails. Thus, by the time your letter finally reaches your interviewers, they may have already decided on a hiring candidate.  So, even if you’re planning on sending a handwritten letter, we highly recommend also sending a thank-you email within 24 hours of your interview. This will reach your interviewers far quicker, and they will likely still appreciate the gesture.

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How to write an interview thank-you letter.

Writing the perfect post-interview thank-you letter (or email) is all about knowing the steps (or, generally, what to include in it). What are these steps, and what should be included in the email?

Take a look at our outlined steps below to find out how to write the best possible interview thank-you letter and secure your new position.

1. Write a clear subject line

The first thing that employers (or anyone) see before opening an email is the sender and, more importantly, the subject line. Thus, it’s best to choose a subject line that clearly conveys your message. If you want to go with something a little more formal, consider something like:

• “Thank you for your time”
• “Thanks for the interview yesterday” (or today, depending on when it was)
• “I enjoyed learning more about [ Company name ]”

Alternatively, if you want to go with something a little more casual, feel free to choose one of these options:

• “Thank you, [ Interviewer’s Name ]!” 
• “Great meeting you [ yesterday/today ]!”
• “Thank you!”

And that’s it for the subject line! What’s next?

2. Start with a greeting

Once you’ve gotten your subject line down, it’s time to get into the actual content of the email. Wondering about the best way to do that? Start off with a personal greeting!

There are a few common ways of doing this, including “ Hello [Interviewer Name] ” or “ Dear [Interviewer Name] .” When greeting your interviewers, remember to address them with the name they provided to you, which is typically either their first name or title.

If you were interviewed by more than one person, it’s best to send thank-you notes to each of them (each with their own, unique personal greetings).

3. Show that you’re appreciative

After your greeting, it’s always best to start with an expression of gratitude. Thank your interviewer(s) for taking the time to meet with you, and for considering you for the position. Remember to be genuine and include the specific job title, as employers or hiring managers may be assessing applicants for multiple positions at once.

And, if you have anything else you want to thank your interviewer(s) for, you can do that here too.

4. Re-emphasize your interest in the position

While it’s important for your employer to know that you’re qualified and ready for the position, they also want candidates who are eager and enthusiastic about joining the company. So, when writing your thank-you email (or letter), be sure to re-emphasize your interest in the position.

Alternatively, if the interview helped you realize that you’re actually not as interested in the position as you thought you would be, make sure to state that in your email instead! This will help employers narrow down candidates, and your honesty will certainly be appreciated.

5. Mention something specific you discussed in the interview

Thank-you emails are written for many reasons. Most of all, though, they are written to stand out from other applicants. So, how can you make sure your email does just that?

Well, one way is by personalizing your thank-you email. This can, and ideally should, extend beyond the greeting. To make your email as individualized as possible, mention something specific that was discussed in the interview. This may be something that was particularly interesting to you about the position or the company itself, but be sure to explain why it stood out to you. If possible, elaborate on how your skills and experiences can help the employer reach company goals (especially if they’re relevant to what you just mentioned!).

6. Let them know that they can contact you for further information

Close off your thank-you letter by prompting your interviewer(s) to take the next step and let them know that they can contact you for further information (or a reference, another interview, etc.). Something along these lines will do the trick:

“ Please feel free to contact me should you need any additional information that could assist with the decision-making process. ”

7. Sign-off, professionally

Finish off your thank-you email by once again thanking your interviewers. Then, sign off with a “Sincerely,” (or “Best,” “Warmly,” “Thank you for your time,” etc.) followed by your full name. 

Be sure to list your basic contact details (i.e. email address and phone number) below your name, to make it easier for the hiring team to contact you if any further information is needed. 

And with that, you’re done! Let’s take a look at what such emails should look like when each step is completed.

Related: 15 scholarship interview questions (and how you should answer them)

Sample thank-you email examples

Thank-you emails typically come in one of three forms: short and sweet, formal, and informal. Whichever you decide to do is up to you, but choose wisely! To help you figure out which type may be best for your circumstances, take a look at our examples down below.

Remember: Do NOT simply copy and paste these into your email! The more individualized your thank-you email is, the better. In addition, you don’t want your potential employer to think that you are prone to plagiarism. Without further ado, let’s get into the examples!

1. Short and sweet thank-you email

Subject Line: Thank you [Interviewer’s Name]! Hello [Interviewer’s Name], Thank you so much for taking the time to meet with me to discuss the [position name] position today. It was a pleasure to learn more about the position and about working with the consulting team. Our discussion made me even more excited to join [Company name]. I was particularly interested in [something you discussed during the interview]. Considering this, I think that my [relevant skills and experiences] would make me an excellent candidate for this role. I look forward to discussing this position with you more in the future. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you need any additional information. Thanks again for your time! Best, [Your name] [Your email address] [Your phone number]

2. A more formal thank-you email

Subject Line: Thank you for meeting with me Dear Mr./Ms. [Interviewer’s Last Name], I just wanted to take a moment to thank you for taking the time to meet with me to discuss the [position name] position with [Company name] earlier today. It was incredibly meaningful to have such a conversation with someone who took the same path as I did and who holds the same business beliefs that [mention something specific you discussed]. Our conversation convinced me that this position would be a perfect fit for me, considering my [relevant skills and experiences]. The [mention something you discussed] that was mentioned is very similar to work I excelled at my previous company. Thus, I deeply believe that I could make a valuable contribution in this position, if given the opportunity.  I look forward to discussing this opportunity with you more. Please don’t hesitate to contact me should you need any further information. Thank you, [Your name] [Your email address] [Your phone number]

3. An informal thank-you email

Subject Line: Thank you for the opportunity! Hi [Interviewer’s Name], I really enjoyed talking with you yesterday and learning more about the [position name] position at [Company name]. Our conversation about the [position name] was inspiring and made me even more excited to join the team and help [increase profits/attract new customers/anything else you’d be doing]. The [mention something discussed in the interview] you mentioned was very similar to work I did at my previous role. Thus, I think this position would be a perfect fit for me, considering my [relevant skills and experience]. Please don’t hesitate to contact me should you need any further information. Thanks so much again! Best, [Your name] [Your email address] [Your phone number]

Additional resources

We offer plenty of resources for students who seek advice on how to get internships and also how to turn an internship into a job after you have one. Read our step-by-step networking guide so that you make the most of your college connections. Maybe you recently earned your degree and need some tips on how to find a job after graduation ? We can help with that as well! Thinking of going to grad school for a master’s degree? Weigh out the pros and cons first, and if you do attend, make sure that you apply for all the graduate scholarships you qualify for! We wish you the best of luck on your journey! 

Frequently asked questions about writing an interview thank you 

When should you send a thank-you email after an interview, what happens if you do not send a thank you email after an interview, how late is too late to send a thank you email after an interview, scholarships360 recommended, trending now.

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• Medical School Interview

Thank You Letter After a Medical School Interview: Your Guide

Most applicants like to send a thank you letter after a medical school interview. They represent an additional opportunity to remind the medical school admissions committee of your candidacy. You’ve had enough time to figure out how to prepare for a medical school interview , and have been given the chance to introduce yourself and expose the reasons why you think you should be selected and that is an excellent reason to be thankful. After having taken the time out of their day, the interviewer is most likely going to be expecting one, so you better choose your words wisely. But how do thank you letters work? Should you wait before sending it? What happens next? In this article we show you the structure of a thank you letter, what to include in it, tips, samples, and what to expect after sending it. We tell you everything there is to know about them so that you can make the best impression after your medical school interview!

>> Want us to help you get accepted? Schedule a free strategy call here . <<

Article Contents 10 min read

What is a thank you letter .

Thank you letters are an excellent way to remind the admissions committee of your candidacy and intentions after an interview. If you create a great impression with your interview and thank you letter, you may be able to improve your chances of getting accepted to your dream medical school. Especially after a one-on-one interview, expressing your gratitude and your enthusiasm for being given that opportunity is a gesture anyone would appreciate.

Even if your interview was an MMI , you should send a thank you letter to the dean or admission officers of the medical school where you interviewed.

Additionally, sending a handwritten note or an email will guarantee that you will stay on the interviewer’s radar, thus improving your chances of success. 

You should send your thank you letter soon after the interview, ideally within 24 hours, when the interviewer hasn’t had time to discuss your profile with the admission committee or write a formal evaluation. Receiving a thank you letter might influence their perception of you, so reminding them of your candidacy, strengths, and personality might further positively affect your chances for acceptance. 

How Long Should My Thank You Letter Be? 

A thank you letter is not a cover letter or a recommendation letter. Its purpose is merely to express gratitude, enthusiasm, and to leave a good impression on the interviewer. Remember that you don’t want to steal any more of their time, so cut to the chase and make it elegant and memorable.

The perfect thank you letter should be 100 to 200 words long or take less than a minute to read. Structure it like you would structure any email or formal letter, with a polite greeting, a concise body, and a closing. If you choose to write an email, make sure your subject line is concise and conservative. There are no extra points for creativity here. Something like “thank you for the interview” is more than enough. 

Email vs Handwritten Letter 

Nowadays, everything takes place online. It is even possible that you had a video interview . But even if you did not, an email thank you letter will never be the wrong choice. However, keep in mind that handwritten letters tend to be more personal. Among hundreds of identical emails, your handwritten letter will definitely stand out. Many interviewers will really appreciate you taking the time to write a thank you note by hand and you will most likely be remembered for this gesture. But it’s important to remember that an email thank you is just as good of an opportunity to make an impression.

If you're prepping for a video interview and looking for tips, take a look at this video:

If you choose to send a handwritten letter, make sure to find an elegant card and a nice envelope. If you don’t trust your handwriting skills, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to practice writing out your thank you letter on a separate piece of paper beforehand.

Although a handwritten letter does sound like the winner option here, there are some clear disadvantages to keep in mind. First of all, emails are fast and reliable. You can rest assured that your email will always reach its destination and you will most likely get an answer, even if it is an automatic one. Everyone in academic medicine is connected via email and checks their inboxes several times a day. Letters can take days to arrive or get lost or misplaced, or even end up in the garbage, and you won’t find out about the interviewer’s impression until you hear back from them.

While a handwritten letter may be more memorable, we would advise sending an email. This way, you can be certain that your thank you was received and has a chance to affect your profile review. 

You will most likely attend several interviews, not just for medical school but in your life in general. Writing thank you emails or letters after any kind of interview is an excellent habit. For this reason, creating a general thank you template will make things slightly easier for you. It will prevent you from staring at a blank page for 20 minutes before you can come up with what to say. Any quality thank you letter includes the following items: 

Respectful Greeting 

Less is more, there is no need to think outside the box here. A simple “Dear Dr. X” will do the trick. Make sure to include their title and avoid calling them by their first name. Conservative, appropriate, and polite. You can’t go wrong!  

Show Gratitude 

Keep in mind that the person who conducted your interview has most likely spent a considerable amount of time reviewing your application, and also took time out of their busy agendas to give you the opportunity to introduce yourself. Appreciating this dedication is the very least you can do after your interview. Although it might seem like a simple act of politeness, a thank you letter after a medical school interview can say a lot about its sender. It demonstrates respect and thoughtfulness and will make you more memorable to the interviewer, who will most likely have interviewed many other candidates as well. 

Bring Up Something Mentioned in the Interview 

Show them that you were genuinely engaged in the conversation and by mentioning something that was discussed in the interview. The interviewer will note that you paid attention and that you truly are an invested candidate. It will also prove that you took the time to write a personalized letter and didn’t just use a generic template.

Be specific. Include details of a specific moment or topic in the interview that makes you easier to identify. Make sure it is something positive and relevant in order for the interviewer to remember your conversation, like a research topic you found interesting, a publication, or an event you plan on attending. However, depending on how the interview went, it could be something slightly more informal as well, like a reference to something you and the interviewer found out you have in common, like a hobby or your hometown. 

Express Interest in That School 

Another way to personalize your letter to prevent it from sounding generic is to mention what interested you about that specific program, or what excites you about the idea of being accepted at that specific school. Interviewers want candidates to show enthusiasm, initiative and determination. Convince them that you didn’t just pick that school randomly. A good idea is to mention a particular aspect of the program and link it to a professional goal of yours.

However, at this stage there is no need to overdo it. You probably had enough time to talk about this during the interview, so a quick mention of it in your thank you letter will serve as a confirmation. 

Offer to Provide Additional Info 

Express that you are open and available to provide any additional information or documentation they might require in order to reach a final decision regarding your application. It always helps to know that the candidate is easily accessible and willing to do everything in their power to meet the school’s requirements. Something short and simple such as “please let me know if there’s anything else you need to review my candidacy” will go a long way. 

Polite Closing 

The closing of your letter should match the style of the greeting. Make a brief comment restating your gratitude and enthusiasm, like “I would be honored to become a part of this institution and learn from the best professionals in my chosen field” and finish with a simple “sincerely” or “best regards”. 

Dear [Interviewer],

I want to thank you for your time during our interview yesterday. I enjoyed touring the campus and getting to discuss my potential future at this university. After carefully reading the program description several times, I realized it would give me the opportunity to achieve my professional goals, and I sincerely believe I have the potential to make an important contribution as a student in [a certain aspect of the program].

I greatly appreciated the opportunity to listen to your experiences in this school, which remains my top choice amid all the medical schools I applied to. It was especially encouraging to find someone from [a certain town in common] with such an impressive career in this university, and it would be an honor for me to become part of it.

Please let me know if there’s anything else you need to evaluate my candidacy.

[Applicant's full name]  

Thank you very much for the interview with me earlier today. I found our conversation enlightening and informative. I especially enjoyed discussing ______ [a certain aspect of the program], since one of my goals if I happen to be granted the honor of becoming a part of this school is to participate in _______ [a certain academic activity] and develop further knowledge in _______ [a certain area].

I was also highly impressed by the campus and fascinated to hear more about all that ______ [name of the school] has to offer. I was thrilled to find out it will suit my learning style and my academic interests perfectly.

I am looking forward to hearing from the admissions office regarding my application.

Best regards,

[Applicant’s full name] 

Tips for Writing the Best Thank You Letter 

Make it unique .

You will not be the only candidate sending a thank you letter after a medical school interview. Medical school admissions involve a very competitive process and you must do everything in your power to stand out. Generic letters are not just boring, but also disappointing and forgettable. If you stick to a template and don’t add your personal touch to it, you will hardly be remembered as an outstanding candidate. 

Add What You Forgot to Mention 

Before the interview, you probably went over practice medical school interview questions in your head over and over again. You probably fantasized about what to say even in your sleep. Even if you thoroughly prepared for the interview, by the time you write your thank you will likely realize you left out something important. If that’s the case, don’t hesitate to add any missing information briefly. Add anything that you consider relevant for the interviewer to make a final decision, or that has to do with something that was discussed during the interview. It is also valid to provide updates on something that might have been taking place during the interview process, like the result of an exam, or your attendance at an academic event. 

Be Formal 

It is common to be nervous before an interview and expect the situation to be extremely serious and formal, although sometimes the interviewer turns out to be much more casual and relaxed than what you had pictured in your head. Those cases are the best, since you can feel free to be yourself and release some of the pressure that you were carrying prior to the interview. A good interviewer can play a big role in your own performance and make you feel like you aced the interview.

However, even if you felt like you had good chemistry with the interviewer and really hit it off, your thank you letter should always convey a formal tone. 

Double Check Format and Grammar 

Typos, spelling and grammar mistakes lower the quality of absolutely any kind of writing automatically. No decent academic note should contain such errors. Double or even triple check your letter before you send it. It would also be smart to run your text through an online grammar assistant, which may highlight things that would typically go under the radar of the average writer. If you have that possibility, you could use a second pair of eyes as well, maybe someone you know who has great writing skills and good judgment. They can proofread your letter and point out any issues with grammar and syntax. 

What to Expect After a Med School Interview 

So, you had your interview and you felt quite good about it. You might be still replaying some of your answers in your head, wondering if they were the right thing to say, and remembering stuff you forgot to mention. But when do you hear back from medical schools after an interview ? Just like when you were waiting to hear back from them after sending your application, the wait can be long.

There are three possible outcomes to the interview: you can be accepted, waitlisted or rejected. If you get a medical school rejection there is not much else to do except moving on. Your interview performance for this particular school might not have been strong enough, which is something that can happen to anyone. The smartest move is not to panic and shift your energy to other schools you applied to. 

However, if you are contacted saying that you have been put on the medical school waitlist , which is a common outcome, there is still hope. One of the options here is to write a medical school letter of intent . Use this letter to express your desire to become a part of that school. Mention the reasons why you should be given a second chance and why you feel so enthusiastic about their program.

Do you need to write a letter of intent? Check out the tips in this infographic:

The answer might take weeks to arrive, which can make most applicants anxious, and it is understandable. No matter how long it takes for them to give you a response, don’t bug them with constant check-ups. They did not just forget your application. Insisting several times will give you a bad image.

Conclusion 

Don’t underestimate the importance of sending a well-written thank you letter after a medical school interview. Even though they might seem unnecessary or annoying, they have the potential to play a major role in how the admissions committee perceives you as a candidate. Send your letter promptly, respect the format, check your grammar and make it formal. Don’t overthink it. By keeping it simple and following our tips you will be able to write the best thank you letter in the future and highly increase your chances of succeeding in your chosen program! 

They have 3 main purposes:

• To genuinely express your gratitude as a sign of respect and politeness.
• To add some piece of information you might have forgotten to mention.
• To make yourself more memorable and stay on their radar.

Address your letter directly to the interviewer. Refer to them using their title and last name, and be formal even if you hit it off during the interview. If you had an MMI interview or were interviewed by a panel, you can always address your letter to the admission committee or whoever sent you the interview invitation.

Asking your interviewer for a business card before you finish the interview is a smart move. Send your thank you letter to the email address that appears on the card. If you forget to do this, you can always get in touch with the school by phone or email.

A thank you letter is a brief note with the purpose of thanking the interviewer for having taken the time out of their day to interview you, while a letter of intent is meant to express your determination to attend that school should you get accepted. A letter of intent is usually sent after getting waitlisted.

It should be short and concise. The perfect length is between 100 and 200 words. It usually consists of one or two short paragraphs and should take less than a minute to read.

Try to send it within the first 24 hours after your interview. If you wait too long, it is not going to make you look good. If you decide to write the letter by hand, keep in mind that it will not be sent instantly like an email. It should take around 2 days to be delivered by post, which is still fine, as the interviewer will also consider this and appreciate the fact that you went the extra mile.

Keep it short and conservative. A simple “Thank you for the interview” will be more than enough.

It is more likely to receive an answer if you choose to send an email instead of a written letter. Emails open dialogues, and they only take seconds to write. Some people even have automatic responses, so you will at least know they received your letter. However, don’t panic if you don’t get any response at all, as it is not an indicator of a rejection.

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• MBA Interview Thank-You Email: 6 Tips for MBA Interview Follow-Up

MBA Interview Thank You Email: 6 Tips for MBA Interview Follow-Up

Scott Edinburgh - Personal MBA Coach

Scott Edinburgh is an mba.com Featured Contributor and the founder of Personal MBA Coach , a boutique MBA admissions consulting and tutoring firm.

“What should I do after my MBA interview is over?” is a common question we hear at Personal MBA Coach . Unfortunately, after you hang up the phone, log off Zoom or walk out the door, your work is not quite done! While unlike the Harvard Business School interview reflection essay, most MBA programs do have a formal post-MBA interview process, Personal MBA Coach recommends that all applicants take the time to send a thoughtful thank-you email.

6 best practices for MBA interview follow-up

Below, Personal MBA Coach shares our top six best practices for handling the MBA interview thank-you email.

1. Do not wait too long to send your thank-you note

When sending a thank-you note, the sooner the better! You want your interviewer to receive the note while the interview is still fresh in their mind.

While a handwritten note sounds like a nice touch, we recommend sending an email, for efficiency. It can take a few days (or more) for a note to reach the right person, diminishing the note’s effectiveness.

✔ Pro tip: While the general rule is to send your email within 24 hours, we advise that you hit submit as soon as possible after the interview.

2. Be specific and tie your thoughts back to the interview

A strong thank-you note will mention something specific that you enjoyed about the interview. Discuss a particular aspect of the conversation that resonated with you.

Below is an example from Personal MBA Coach’s Nicole Shay, former Columbia Business School admissions director on how a candidate might make this connection:

"Thank you very much for telling me about Columbia’s Women’s Circle. This program aligns well with what I am looking for in an MBA program in x, y, z ways."

✔ Pro tip: You might also consider recalling a joke you shared or a funny aspect of the conversation. Not only will this help the interviewer remember who you are, it also will show that you were listening closely during the conversation.

3. Use the thank-you note to reiterate your interest in the program and share how it fits with your goals

Your thank-you note is often your last chance to tell the interviewer or admissions committee that you want to attend their school and that it is a good fit for you. Be sure to say this explicitly in your note.

✔ Pro tip: Share a specific aspect of the program or culture that excited you, tying this back to the conversation and your goals where possible.

4. Do not use the thank-you note to add information about your candidacy

Avoid the temptation to cover something unrelated to the interview in the conversation (unless you’re answering the HBS reflection). This will send the message that you did not represent yourself adequately in the interview and the application; this is not the time to cast doubt on your performance!

5. Watch your length: Less is more

Thank-you notes are not essays! A strong thank-you note will be five sentences, max!

6. Do not ask questions in the thank-you note.

The thank-you note is the not the place to ask questions about the MBA application process or your candidacy. The former admissions committee members and admissions interviewers on our team shared this as a key pet peeve to avoid.

Founded by a Wharton MBA and MIT Sloan graduate who sits on the Association of International Graduate Admissions Consultants Board of Directors, Personal MBA Coach has been guiding clients for 14 years and is consistently ranked #1 or #2, currently holding the #1 ranking in the US on Poets&Quants.

We help clients with all aspects of the MBA application process including early planning, GMAT/GRE/EA tutoring, application strategy, school selection, essay editing and mock interviews. Our team includes a former M7 admissions director and former M7 admissions interviewers.

Last year, our clients earned more than $6M in scholarships!