Format your letter of application in the standard business letter format. This requires you to place your name and personal address in the upper right of the letter. Below that and on the left side of the letter, type the date. Directly below that, type the name of the institution to which you are applying and that institution's address.
Open your letter with a formal salutation. If the institution provides the name of an admissions manager who handles incoming applications, address her directly. If there is no clearly identified manager, address the letter to "Dear Admissions Department."
Begin your letter by listing the program to which you are applying and the date on which you hope to begin your studies. For example: "I wish to submit my application for the Kinematics program at XYZ University for the term beginning September 12, 2011."
Describe attractive or inspirational qualities of the program to which you are applying, and identify specific research projects and faculty within the department. For example: "Dr. XYZ's work on simulated automobile accidents aligns with my interest in researching automobile modeling."
List and describe your personal skills and accomplishments and connect them with current research or faculty interest within the department to which you are applying. For example: "My work with AutoCAD in developing green structures can benefit greatly from the work Dr. XYZ does with Green Buildings, Inc."
Thank the admissions board or manager for their time and consideration. Reiterate your enthusiasm for the program and indicate your intention to follow-up your application packet in several weeks.
Close the letter with a formal sign-off, such as "Sincerely" or "Respectfully," before printing your name several lines below that sign-off. Sign your name between the sign-off and your printed name.