Clarify exactly why you want to write to the dean before you put pen to paper or fingers to keyboard. Make a list of key points you want to raise in your letter.
Use letterhead, if possible, and type or write in the date in the upper left corner of your letter. If you don't have letterhead, type in your return address, telephone number and e-mail address across the top of the page and then write or type in the date below that. Leave two spaces after the date -- for both letterhead and non-letterhead -- and add the inside address, which is the same address that goes on the envelope.
Begin with the salutation: title and the dean's last name followed by a colon. For example, write "Dear Dean Davis:".
Use the block or modified block format. This means that all of the lines start on the left-hand margin and there is one line space between paragraphs. This is considered the proper format when composing a business letter.
Introduce yourself if you haven't met the dean in person. Start off with something like "My name is Alice Jeffrey, a former education student from Nebraska State University who is interested in applying for admission into your institution's graduate studies program." This will give the dean an indication of who you are and what you want.
Explain exactly why are writing to the dean. Use phrases like "I am writing to request a meeting with you about being re-admitted to the university." Stick to the issue and keep your tone professional and direct. Educators tend to skim their letters and they don't want to have to wade through unnecessary details.
Remember that when you change ideas, you change paragraphs. Write in easy-to-understand English. Don't use a big word when a small one will do, and avoid run-on sentences.
Start a new paragraph for your conclusion and indicate what action you want taken or if it is an information only letter. If you want to schedule a meeting, ask when a convenient time would be.
End your letter with "Sincerely" or "Sincerely Yours." Writing to a dean is a formal letter, so phrases such as "talk soon" or "see you" are not acceptable. Leave three or four spaces for your signature.
Leave your letter to the dean for a day or so and then go back and review it for tone and spelling or typing mistakes. Also check it against your original list to make sure you included all the points you wanted to raise. Read it aloud and put yourself in the dean's place as you listen to the tone. Edit as required.