Job Discussion Forums

[thelmadatter]

I teach advanced English in Mexico and lately I have helped a few students with applications to colleges and exchange programs like Gap Year and Bridging Year in countries other than mine (US). Got me to wondering what I should know (if anything) is different about writing business letters and personal statements to British institutions. OK, spelling changes is one of course, but Im wondering if letters are formatted differently, or are there different expressions preferred in the salutation and other parts? So can anyone tell me if there are any significant differences for England (and Australia/New Zealand for that matter) in respect to style and if so, what resources I should get to help me help my students?

Im a big promoter of getting as many of my students to spend time out of the country as possible, no matter where they choose to go.

[Stephen Jones]

There are differences in formatting, and in the terms of address, but both the UK and the US view clarity as being all important in a business letter.

[acwilliams]

Don't worry about the spelling differences. Brits are used to seeing American spellings, and it wouldn't bother a British business or institution at all if a Mexican student chose to spell things the American way.

For formatting and salutations, here's an article that would provide a useful summary handout for your students:

http://www.macmillandictionary.com/MED-Magazine/November2002/02-language-awareness-business-letters-UK.htm

For personal statements, flowery language, padding and unsubstantiated claims are the biggest no-nos. Here's some good advice for students from the Durham University website:

http://www.dur.ac.uk/undergraduate/apply/personalstatement/

[Lady Penelope]

[Super Frank]

I always used
Dear Sirs, when addressing unknown recipients, (male or female)
ending yours faithfully in this case. Yours sincerely if you use a name (obviously).
Also, not to write in the passive, be as direct as possible and not to use words over three sylables unless necessary (excluding necessary I supposse )