Common English Mistakes in Transfer Essays by Arabic Speakers

This page focuses on errors typically made by native Arabic speakers from Saudi Arabia when writing a Transfer Essay in English.

Mistake Example #1

Confusion between masculine and feminine pronouns

I am writing this essay to explain why I want to transfer to your university. My brother is currently studying there, and she has told me many great things about the programs and thecampus life. I believe that heris experience will help me adjust quickly and make the most of my time at your institution.

Text corrected by:
Gregg, Los Angeles, CA

"This needed some corrections for the proper use of masculine pronouns."

I am writing this essay to explain why I want to transfer to your university. My brother is currently studying there, and he has told me many great things about the programs and campus life. I believe his experience will help me adjust quickly and make the most of my time at your institution.

I am writing this essay to explain why I want to transfer to your university. My brother is currently studying there, and she has told me many great things about the programs and the campus life. I believe that her experience will help me adjust quickly and make the most of my time at your institution.

Mistake Example #2

Misuse of verb tense (e.g., 'He go to school' instead of 'He goes to school')

I am writing to explain why I want to transfer to your university. I amstudying computer science at my current school, but I feel I need more opportunities to grow. I believe your program offers the best courses thato help me achieve my goals.

Text corrected by:
Jennifer, Detroit, Michigan USA

"Nice job! I just made some adjustments to the verb tense."

I am writing to explain why I want to transfer to your university. I am studying computer science at my current school, but I feel I need more opportunities to grow. I believe your program offers the best courses to help me achieve my goals.

I am writing to explain why I want to transfer to your university. I study computer science at my current school, but I feel I need more opportunities to grow. I believe your program offer the best courses that help me achieve my goals.

Mistake Example #3

Overuse of formal expressions ('I am honored to inform you...')

I am honored to inform you thatI am seeking to transfer to your esteemed university.as It is with great respect that I express my admiration fore the academic excellence and distinguished faculty that your institution is renowned for. I am sincerely grateful for the opportunity to present my humblerequest and I am hopeful for your kind consideration.

Text corrected by:
Miss E., Cyprus, Europe

"I made some edits to tone down on the use of formal expressions."

I am seeking to transfer to your esteemed university as I admire the academic excellence and distinguished faculty that your institution is renowned for. I am sincerely grateful for the opportunity to present my request and I am hopeful for your kind consideration.

I am honored to inform you that I am seeking to transfer to your esteemed university. It is with great respect that I express my admiration for the academic excellence and distinguished faculty that your institution is renowned for. I am sincerely grateful for the opportunity to present my humble request and I am hopeful for your kind consideration.