A formal letter is written in an official context: applying for a job, writing to an authority, making a complaint or a request. 🔹 Structure of a formal letter : 1. Sender's address (top right) 2. Date (below sender's address) 3. Recipient's name and address (top left) 4. Subject line (optional but useful): Re: ... 5. Salutation: • Dear Sir/Madam, (unknown person) • Dear Mr. Diallo, / Dear Ms. Fall, (known person) 6. Body (introduction + development + conclusion) 7. Closing formula: • Yours faithfully, (when you wrote 'Dear Sir/Madam') • Yours sincerely, (when you used the person's name) 8. Signature + printed name 🔹 Formal language rules : • No contractions: I am (not I'm), I would (not I'd) • Polite and professional tone • No slang or informal expressions • Clear, organised paragraphs 🔹 Useful phrases : • I am writing to inform you that... / request... / complain about... • I would be grateful if you could... • I look forward to hearing from you. • Please find enclosed... / I have attached... • Should you require further information, please do not hesitate to contact me.

📝 Model formal letter — Application for a scholarship : Dakar, 15 January 2025 The Director National Scholarship Office Dakar Dear Sir/Madam, Re: Application for the 2025 National Excellence Scholarship I am writing to apply for the National Excellence Scholarship for the academic year 2025-2026. I am currently a student in the 4e class at Lycée Thierno Mamadou Sall in Dakar, where I have consistently achieved top results in all subjects. I believe that this scholarship would enable me to continue my studies under the best possible conditions. My ambition is to become a medical doctor in order to serve my community. I would be grateful if you could consider my application. I have enclosed my school report and a recommendation letter from my principal. I look forward to hearing from you. Yours faithfully, Aminata Diallo