I looked all over the internet for a template, but couldn't find one. Try this one: Dear Prof./Mr./Mrs./Ms. <last name> [Get the title right!] My name is <name> and I am currently a *-year student at <university>, majoring in <major subject>. I am very interested in your program/class for/on <subject of program/class>. I would like to be considered for acceptance in the program/class. I would like to speak with you in detail about this, if possible, at a time convenient for you. My contact information is as follows: <Your name> Phone: email: <email address> I can supply references on request. [Only include this one if you CAN, in fact, supply positive references] Best regards <your name> [It may not be perfect, but it's a start] Remember: - Don't use phonetic words ('wanna', 'gonna', 'U' instead of 'you') - Don't use informal terms. - Get the person's title right! - Don't use emoticons (;-))

Dear Professor XXXXXX, Please excuse me for writing to you directly without an invitation. My name is XXXXX and I am contacting you because....... blah blah blah... Thank you in advance. Your sincerely, XXXXXX I hope that helps