LOI (Letter of Intent): Meaning, Template, and Samples

Majorly used in business transactions, a Letter of Intent (LOI) is a document that declares the preliminary commitment to do something, such as applying for an educational course in a college or university, a business deal, or a job. This document is written in the form of a letter and comprises of signature of the writer. All those students, willing to draft a Letter of Intent for their dream school or university must know the correct way of drafting it. Here is a blog that aims to guide you with tips and tricks, format and samples of the letter. 

What is an LOI?

Say, you’re browsing through a website and come across a job or business that you might be interested in. You are planning to send a letter where you express your desire to work or do business. As in the name, a Letter of Intent (LOI) is an expression of interest to an employer for being regarded for an opening they have to offer. A letter of intent can also be offered to organizations that do not have openings for a particular job. It includes a 3–4 paragraph description of why you are fit for the job. The letter starts with a hook followed by examples of your achievements and interests.

Importance of a LOI

Often, companies and institutes face difficulty to hire a fitting person for a specific vacancy. A letter of intent alerts the hiring managers and employers with details about your qualifications and skills to be considered for a suitable position. Also, some companies might have multiple job openings and a letter of intent helps to shortlist candidates who the organisation sees fit and can be considered for the next round. Based on the qualifications, experience and skills one states in the LOI, recruiters may find a job position for you that wasn’t available or planned earlier. Unlike established firms, startups and non-profit organisations often favour a letter of intent. If a company asks you to submit a letter of intent, it could be that the company is new and looking for candidates to expand and introduce newer positions.

Tips to Write a Perfect LOI 

Being an essential part of your application for overseas education, it is important to put your best foot forward through the letter and convey the right thoughts. While drafting your LOI, do not target to keep in mind these essential tips and tricks. 

• Stick to the format: It is important that your letter is laid out correctly. This makes it easier for the reader to know your strengths, achievements, etc. at a glance.
• Do your Research: Make sure you research thoroughly about the company you are applying for. It shows dedication and can also impress the reader. Know the company’s mission statement, website and fundamental services.
• Have a powerful start. Hook the reader in the beginning for better impact.
• Add at least 3 Reasons stating why you are fit for the position. Use numbers and add the best reasons that are relevant to the job.
• Avoid exaggeration and try to keep the entire letter crisp and to the point. 
• Always proofread your letter or get it examined by a professional.

Letter of Intent (LOI) Template

Like the other formal documents, LOI also has a prescribed format to follow. Regardless of the intention of your letter, the format of it remains the same. Have a look at the format mentioned below-

[Sender’s Name] [Sender’s Address] [E-mail] [Reciever’s Name] [Reciever’s Designation] [Reciever’s Address} Dear ______ [Body] Your’s Sincerely [Sender’s Name]

LOI Sample 1

Aisha Kapoor  12/26 Shalimar Bagh New Delhi-88 [email protected]  Dr Steven Johson Dean of the College of Social Science and Humanities University of California 23-Z Central Avenue California- 556637 Dear Dean Johnson, I am applying to your master’s course in Elementary Education for the winter intake of 2021. After securing my bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Boston University, I worked for 3 years as a full-time teacher for 3rd class at the St. Marry Elementary School in New Delhi.  I have always wanted to be a teacher since the eighth class as I was inspired by my own experiences with my maths teacher. While I was in school, I struggled to understand the basic concept of division. My maths teacher identified my weakness and helped by tutoring me in the subjects even after school. My teacher dealt with me with great patience and one day it clicked. After weeks of practice, I understood what I was doing.  Inspired by the hardship of my teacher, I decided to pursue my career along the same lines. Hence, I have applied to your esteemed university to pursue a master’s degree in Elementary Education. The institution’s reputation, as well as remarkable teaching in the domain of educational programs, is the foremost reason for my decision to attend the University of California. I have applied for the New Teaching Models track as it aligns best with my topic of the thesis. Thank you for considering my application. I would be obliged to continue my studies and pursue my passion at the University of California.  Yours Sincerely Ayesha Kapoor

LOI Sample 2

LOI Sample 3

Anukriti Gupta AK-56/ Shalimar Bagh New Delhi-110078 [email protected] Mr Harshit Khandelwal Dean of the University of Essex 24-Central Avenue Dear Mr Khandelwal I am writing this letter to inform you of my interest in the Masters of Science in Environmental Management Program at the University of Essex. I have duly submitted my entire application form along with all the required documents. I have secured an undergraduate degree in Environmental Engineering from the University of Texas, where I secure a GPA of 4.02.  When I was in high school, I got influenced by waste management and went on a field trip to the local landfill. There I learned that it takes ample time for many common waste materials to decompose, hence, I realised I wanted to pursue a career in this field and was eager to generate more useful ways of waste management. Thus, I earned a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Engineering. During my coursework, I worked for several waste management companies. I have been awarded a financial bonus as I created a device for disposing of plastic waste and recycling newspapers, broken toys etc. I believe that my academic and professional journey makes me a worthy addition to the list of students at your esteemed university. I am looking forward to learning through your interesting program of Masters of Science in Environmental Management as it will equip me with the right knowledge of the field.  Yours Sincerely Anukriti Gupta

FAQs

Hopefully, this blog on Letter of Intent (LOI) has helped you in drafting your own letter. Get your documents like LOR, SOP, Motivation Letter, etc drafted by our experts at Leverage Edu and pave your way into your dream university.