how to write application 2022

• South Africa
• Apply for Scholarship

How to Write an Application Letter

How do you write an application letter that can get you the job you desire?

Many job seekers don’t always see the reason why they should write an application letter when they are applying for a job because they feel they can just send their CVs.

Your CV indeed contains all the necessary information that the recruiter needs to know about you, but sometimes your CV alone may not be able to do the job of helping you land the job of your dreams.

Your CV may do a great job of showing that you have the skills and education required to excel in a particular position, but it may not be great at telling your prospective employer that you are the best person for the job.

This is what an application letter does for you. An application letter expresses your interest in a job and shows the employer why you are the best person for the position. Writing an application letter is one of the hidden job search hacks that help you  apply for fewer jobs, but land more interviews .

If you are tired of getting  rejected every time you apply for a job vacancy , then you should consider writing an application letter that will help you express your sincere interest in the job of your dreams. In this article, we will be looking at:

• What is an application letter
• Importance of an application letter
• Difference between an application letter and a resume letter
• How to write an application letter
• Application letter examples

OPTIMIZE YOUR JOB SEARCH WITH FREE CV BUILDING 

What is an Application Letter?

A job application letter is a formal document that is sent to a prospective employer to express your interest in a position. An application letter is usually sent alone and not attached alongside another document.

Most times, an application letter is not sent after you must have seen an advertised position but sent whether or not a vacancy was advertised. The application letter serves a purpose that is similar to that of the CV.

Read:   How to Write an Application Letter in Nigeria for a Teaching Job

When You Should Write an Application Letter.

Yes, it is true that you should write an application letter when you are interested in a job, but that is not all you consider before you decide to write an application letter.

When you see a job advert that you are interested in, you send your CV and cover letter, right? But this does not quite work for application letters. Employers will not replace the CV and cover letter with an application letter.

The approach of an application letter is different from the CV and the cover letter. You should write an application letter when the employer does not solicit your interest in the position. This simply means when there is no job advertisement or posting.

For example, if you are searching for a job and you have a list of top companies that you would love to work for, you don’t necessarily have to wait for a job posting to declare your interest in that particular job. You can simply email an application to different companies.

This is a way for you to extensively and formally introduce yourself to the prospective employer of the companies that you would love to work for.

Why You Should Write an Application Letter for a Job

Just like we have discussed earlier, there are many reasons why people write application letters. If you are actively searching for a job, then this is why you should consider writing an application letter:

• It serves as a formal introduction between you and your prospective employer.
• It can help you access hidden jobs.
• It can help you to be a step ahead of other job seekers.
• It puts you in a less competitive circle in comparison with what happens when jobs are advertised with thousands of applicants showing interest.
• It can help you boycott the process of applying for a job online, and writing a resume letter because most times application letters stand alone.

Difference between a Job Application Letter and a Cover Letter

Many people use the terms application letter and resume letter interchangeably because they think that they mean the same thing. Even though the application letter and the cover letter perform almost the same function, they are different.

• An application letter is intended to stand alone, while a cover letter is usually accompanied by a CV or resume.
• A resume/cover letter will contain a brief introduction that consists of three to four sentences about the job seekers' experience, education, accomplishment and why the job seeker feels he/she is the best candidate for the job. On the other hand, an application letter may have a more extensive introduction because it is meant to stand alone just like the CV.
• An application letter often can substitute for a resume and, therefore, requires that the job seeker include specific information about her work history and professional competencies. A cover letter, on the other hand, should not contain too much information about the job seekers because it is merely an introduction to the resume.
• A cover letter is like an elevator pitch. It is intended to capture the reader's attention enough to make the recruiter or hiring manager want to review the CV.
• A cover letter is usually used by a job seeker to show interest in a job vacancy after which the job seeker will attach a detailed document (which is usually a CV). An application letter is mostly used by a job seeker to show interest in an unsolicited job.

Learn  how to write a stunning cover letter  now.

How to Write An Application Letter in 10 Easy Steps

These tips will guide you on how you can write an application letter:

• Write an Outline
• Write your first draft
• Use a friendly tone
• Make it concise
• Tailor the job application letter to the job specification and company requirement
• Use typed and not handwritten documents
• Use quality paper
• Write a mind blowing ending

Are you applying for a security job, but don't know how to write an application letter? Read how to write an application letter for a security job in Nigeria

1. Write an Outline : Just like you write an outline when you want to write an essay, it is also important that you write an outline when you want to write your application letter. The outline is the structure of what you want to write in your actual application letter. It is good that you make clear what you want to achieve, and all the things that you want your prospective employer to know.

An outline of your application letter will make it easy for you to write your application letter because you have the structure planned out already.

2. Write a Draft : After you must have done a structure for your application letter, then it is good for you to do a rough draft of the application letter before writing the original one.

When you are drafting your application letter, you can make use of the outline that you did earlier to serve as a guide for your application letter. At this point, you may not worry about grammatical mistakes and punctuation errors. This is to help you develop a prototype application letter.

3. Salutation : Salutation is one aspect of the application letter that is obvious. Most times that is what the employer will likely see first as soon as they open the letter. Since this is an important aspect of the application letter, you need to be careful.

It is important for you to know some tips on salutation before you start writing your application letter:

• You should put a comma at the end of your salutation
• If you are addressing more than one recipient, you should address the recipient as ‘Dear Sirs/Madams’.
• If you don’t know the name of the recipient, you should address the person as ‘Dear Sir/Madam’.
• If the recipient's gender is not known, you should address the person with the full name. Like; ‘Dear David Houston’.

 4.  Tone : Employers can sense your tone from the way that you write. When you are writing your application letter, you must treat the recipient with respect. Be polite and use formal language when you are writing. Be careful not to use slang or ambiguous words.

5. Be Brief : As much as you need to give your prospective employers reasons why you think you are the best person for the job, it is equally important for you to as brief as possible.

Employers are very busy and may not be able to spend time reading your application letter. Mention the purpose of your letter in the first paragraph because this is where the employer will likely look at first.

6. Tailor the letter to the job and the company : Tailoring your application to the job that you are applying for and the company will give your prospective employer the mindset that you are passionate about the job and the company.

Employers look forward to hiring people that are passionate about the job. Tailoring your application letter may be all you need to land the job of your dreams.

7. Use typed and not handwritten documents : Unless a handwritten letter is requested, you should send a typed and computer-generated document. Typing your document will help you present a well-aligned, clear, and easy to read the document.

8. Use a high quality Paper: If you are sending a hard copy application letter, make sure you use a good and quality paper. Don’t tear out a sheet of paper from your notepad and use that paper to write your application letter. If you do that, your application letter will look scrappy and rough.

9. Proof-reading : proof-reading your application letter will help you see errors that you would need to fix before you send your application letter. You can read your application letter out loud to yourself to see some errors.

Check the spellings on your application letter and punctuation errors. You can use Grammarly.com to check your spellings and edit your errors.

 10.  Ending your application letter : When you are sending your application letter, you should make sure that your tone matches the tone of the letter. A formal letter closing is polite, courteous, and respectful.

These are common closing that you can use to end your application letter:

• ‘Sincerely’ or your ‘faithfully’
• ‘Your Truly’
• ‘Faithfully Yours’

Application Letter Example for Any Job Vacant Position

Writing an application letter can be easy and straight forward if you follow some rules. From salutation, closing, to the overall organization of your letter some rules makes your application letter appear good.

Your application letter should begin with the contact information. The contact information should include your contact and that of the employer.

The contact information should include; name, address, phone number, email, and date. If it is an email application letter, you can put your contact at the end of the letter after your signature.

The heading of your application letter includes the contact information and the salutation.

Contact information

(Your contact information)

City, State Zip Code

Phone Number

Email Address

(The employer’s contact information)

Dear Mr./Ms. Last Name,

(Salutation)

Salutation is the polite greeting that is usually at the beginning of the application after the contact information of the. The common salutation format is ‘Dear Mr./Ms’ followed by the person’s last name.

The body of the application letter

The body of your application letter lets your prospective employer know the position that you are applying for, why they should consider your application and how they would finally follow you up if they consider you for the position.

The body of your application letter is made up of different paragraphs leading up to the conclusion. Here we are going to look at the different paragraphs.

First paragraph

The first paragraph of your application letter will include information about why you are writing the letter in the first place. It is in this paragraph that you will mention the job that you are applying for and where you saw the job application.

It is in the first paragraph that you create a lasting impression on the employer. This is where you sell yourself to your prospective employer.

Second and third paragraph

The second and the third paragraph of your application letter should tell your prospective employer what you have to offer the company and what you have to offer performing the job.

These paragraphs are the most important in your application letter because this is where you have to prove to the employer that you meet the need of what the employer is looking for.

This is where you would have to share the experience, skills and accomplishments that suggest you as the best person for the job.

Remember to state how your qualification makes you the best person for the job.

Note : You should research the company and find out some information that will help you emphasize that you are the best person for the position. You can research the role that you would love to fill to find out the company’s expectation for the role, and then tailor your application in that regards.

You should also not forget to make use of specific example where possible. If you say that you are a skilled at marketing products, you should be able to give examples that would emphasize that.

Last paragraph

The last paragraph of your application letter should summarize your application letter. You should also thank your employer in this part of your application letter. You should conclude this paragraph by thanking your employer for considering you for the position.

You can also include information on how the employer or the company will follow you up.

Complimentary close

You should sign off your letter with a polite close. For example;

Signature (for a hard copy letter)

Typed Signature

Job Application Letter   Example for an Experienced Job Candidate

Writing an application letter for a job may not be an easy thing to do especially when you are writing one for the first time.

Looking at an application letter example will help write your own without much stress. This application letter example will guide you to write your application letter.

David Emmanuel

11 South Street

Ocean View Estate, Lekki,

Lagos, Nigeria.

555-555-5555

[email protected]

November 13th, 2019.

Judith Peterson

Human Resources Director

Capital Solutions, Inc.

101 Admiralty Way

Lekki, Lagos,

Dear Mr. Judith,

I was very happy when my friend, Daine James, told me that Capital Solutions are searching for a Human Resources Specialist with a minimum of two years experience.

From my research on the company, I learned that Capital Solutions see team work as an important aspect of performance that can help the company reach its goals, and how much the company needs a Human Resources specialist that would join the team and start performing at once. I believe that I am that ideal candidate for your team.

I am David Emmanuel, a graduate of Human Resources and Personnel Management from the University of Lagos. My 5 years of experience in Human Resources practices has made me become a Human Resources specialist.

In my current as the Human Resources Manager, I manage a team of 20 staff members, organize on-boarding program for new staff, and prepare pay role for the company. I also have experience in:

• Data entry and data reporting on HRM software
• Recruiting and hiring processes (which includes; creating job descriptions, posting job vacancies, creating candidate awareness on available job vacancies, screening CVs and scheduling interviews).
• Organizing company event. (Organizing end of the year party and team bonding events).

I would love to speak with you about my qualifications and what I can do for your team. Thank you for your consideration.

(Signature)

David Emmanuel.

Job Application Letter   Example for Job Candidates with No Experience

Jane Aderinsola

11 Ajayi Close,

111-333-4444

John Samuel

Dear Mr Emmanuel,

I was extremely excited when a friend mentioned the opening for the role of a customer service intern. I recently graduated from the University of Lagos, where I studied Mass Communication. I am very passionate about customer service, which is why I am excited about this position.

As a first-class graduate of Mass Communication, and as a one-time public relations officer for the students’ Union. I have learned how to effectively communicate and manage relationships with diverse people.

Asides from my graduate program, I have also taken different certificate courses and training in customer service practices and public relations. I recently attended a 2-weeks customer service training where I learned: The ethics of customer services, telephone etiquette, and I improved my written communication skills.

From my education, training and experience, I have been able to build the following skills:

· Excellent communication skills

· Good listening skills

· Improve my writing skills

· People management skills

· Interpersonal skills

· MS Office

I believe that my education, experience, and training in Mass communication and customer service practices has prepared me for this internship role.

Considering the great milestone that ABC company has achieved over time, I am certain that this company will be a great environment for me to grow my career as well as contribute to the success of the organization.

I look forward to a scheduled time where we can discuss my qualification as regards the internship.

Thank you for your consideration .

Application Letter FAQ

1: should my cv be accompanied by an application letter .

The answer is yes, your CV or résumé should always be accompanied by an application letter. It's an important self-marketing tool which you shouldn't fail to utilize.

2:  How Should I Format My Application Letter?

Your application letter should be formatted the following way: ●    Heading (hard copy) or Subject (Email) ●    Salutation Check this post for more infomration on how to format your application letter

3:  What Should I Include In My Application Letter?

Your application letter should include relevant work history and skills, the significant role you played in your previous job which matches the job you are now applying for, why you would be a  good fit for the role, achievements, and any industry certifications you possess

4: How Long Should My Application Letter Be?

Typical, a cover letter should be half a page, or one full page in length. Break it into paragraphs, so that the information can be easily and quickly absorbed by the recruiter.

Having a professional application letter can help you land the job of your dreams without having to wait for years. Companies receive loads of application letters daily, but learning how to write an effective application letter can help stand out from other job seekers.

Looking to land your dream job? See  100 interview questions and answers  to get you prepared for the big day.

Staff Writer

18 comment(s).

You explain it very well because your way of explanation is lovely. I am a social person, and I read many blogs from different websites. is one of them. He can also provide us with good information. I appreciate it. Keep it up.

Thank you very much Meave for your comment. 

You have explained well. But what if the person doesn't have any working experience? 

Thank you Ozuu for your comment. The post has been updated, so you can look at the application letter example for job seekers with no experience.

It is the section before the application letter FAQ.

thanks it has helped me

I love yr explanation but  what if the person is not a graduate ,and have no experience, if the person is an ssce holder , how we the person write the application Letter

I appreciate your work,good explanation.It really helped me

I really appreciate your explanation,it was very helpful

You explained very well... Thanks so much

Thank you for your explanation  but what about shs graduate 

Thanks alots your explanation helps.

Thanks for your vivid insight on this subject. I actually benefited alot. Keep it up. 

Best regards from;

EMMANUEL SUNDAY

Wow! Never knew that there's a difference between application letter and CV cover letter.  Thanks for your explanation, was really helpful.

The lecture is very educative. 

What if you are writing an application letter for a job that isn't related to your specialty. 

Example, you studied banking and finance but wanting to write for a position of a human resource and you don't have any experience on that. How will you go about it? 

I love this question, can someone answer this

This article is fantastic and I got some good information by reading this. 

Nice comment, <a href=";>check this out also.</a>

Leave a Comment

• Indemand Jobs That Employers Find Hard to Fill in 2024
• Jobs That Will Likely Be Replaced By AI
• The Most In-Demand Jobs in Nigeria Right Now
• 2023 Job Search Report by MyJobMag
• Data Entry Work From Home Jobs
• Nursing Student Resume: Tips and Examples On How to Create One
• Best CV Format For Freshers or Your First Job (+ Free Template)
• #Cover Letter Writing
• Top 100 Job Interview Questions and Answers
• Top Skills Employers Want in 2023
• How to Select a Suitable Recruitment Agency in Nigeria
• 100 Job Search Mistakes to Avoid in 2024
• Top Categories
• Scholarships/News
• Interview Tips
• Job Hunting
• Career Development
• Competitions
• Career Videos

60+ Cover Letter Examples in 2024 [For All Professions]

No matter where you are in your career, or what job you’re applying for, submitting a cover letter with your resume is a must . 

Done right, a cover letter will effectively complement your resume and explain to the hiring manager in more detail why you’re the right person for the job.

Writing a cover letter, however, is easier said than done. 

You have to effectively demonstrate that you’ll be able to perform the responsibilities listed in the job description and that you’d be a better fit for the company compared to other candidates. 

And unless you’re a professional writer, this can be a very hard task.

Fortunately, we created these cover letter examples to inspire you and help you get started with your own cover letter!

Let’s dive in!

21 Cover Letter Examples 

#1. career change cover letter example .

Here’s what this cover letter does right:

• Has an ideal length. This cover letter includes all the relevant information for the hiring manager without getting into too much detail.
• Relevant introduction. The candidate explains that they’re changing careers and why they want to work in this new field from the get-go.
• Explains their related experience. The candidate explains how their previous experience in retail sales can help them succeed in PR.

Check out our guide video guide to learn how to write a Cover Letter that gets you HIRED!

#2. Recent Graduate Cover Letter Example 

• Personally greets the hiring manager. The candidate has taken the time to find the hiring manager’s name and address them by it, which makes the opening of the cover letter much more personal.
• Wraps up with a call to action. The candidate wraps up the cover letter by suggesting a meeting with the hiring manager, which makes them more memorable.
• Explains why the candidate is the right person for the internship. In this cover letter for an internship , the candidate explains how they’ve previously interned in a different firm, which gives them the experience to succeed in this role.

Have you just graduated from college? Make sure to check out our guide on writing an entry-level cover letter from start to finish! 

#3. Middle Management Cover Letter Example

• Use of bullet points. The candidate presents the information in a concise and reader-friendly way, making it easy for the hiring manager to find their key achievements. 
• Formal closing. The candidate has used a formal and polite tone to conclude their cover letter, which combined with a call to action makes them look professional and passionate about getting the job. 
• Explains how the company would benefit from hiring them. The candidate outlines exactly what they could do for the company, which not only highlights their skills but also shows they’ve done their research on the company’s needs. 

#4. Business Manager Cover Letter Example

• Detailed header. In addition to the must-have contact details, this candidate has also included their professional Twitter and LinkedIn profiles, making it easy for the hiring manager to look more closely into their career. 
• Concise and to the point. This candidate has used short paragraphs and bullet points to make the cover letter easy to skim through. 
• Wraps up with a call to action. By letting the hiring manager know they’ll be contacting them soon, they’re more likely to make an impression.

Check out this article for a complete writing guide and an inspiring business manager resume sample. 

#5. Ph.D. Cover Letter Example

Here’s what this cover letter does right: 

• Attention-grabbing introduction. In the opening paragraph, this candidate explains why they’re passionate about pursuing a Ph.D. in great detail. 
• Explains the candidate’s qualifications in detail. The candidate builds on their passion by explaining how they’re also qualified for the degree because of their education history and academic achievements. 

#6. Senior Executive Cover Letter Example

• Professional and minimalistic template. This senior executive has used a professional but minimalistic template that lets their work experience do the talking. 
• Achievement-oriented opening paragraph. Right from the get-go, this candidate explains what makes them so good at their job, effectively grabbing the hiring manager’s attention.  
• Wraps up with a call to action. By suggesting to have a meeting and discussing how they can help the company meet its goals, the candidate stands more chance to make a positive lasting impression. 

#7. Architect Cover Letter Example 

• Modern resume template. This architect has picked a template that perfectly matches his industry, as it is professional and modern at the same time. 
• A personal greeting to the HR. They address the hiring manager by their first name, which helps make a better first impression. 
• Measurable achievements. By quantifying their achievements, the candidate proves their achievements instead of just claiming them.

Struggling with your architect resume ? Check out our full guide!

#8. Business Analyst Cover Letter Example 

• Detailed contact information. The candidate has listed both their LinkedIn and Twitter profiles, providing the HR manager an opportunity to learn more about the candidate.  
• Mentions what the candidate can do for the company. This cover letter doesn’t just explain why the job would be great for the candidate, but also how the candidate would benefit the company. Win-win, right? 
• Error-free and reader-friendly. It’s super important for the cover letter to have no spelling or grammatical errors and be reader-friendly. This candidate made sure they did both.

Need a resume alongside your cover letter? Check out our guide on how to write a business analyst resume . 

#9. Consultant Cover Letter Example 

• Professional cover letter template. Being an experienced consultant, this candidate has picked a professional template that doesn’t steal the spotlight from their achievements. 
• Experience and achievement-oriented. The candidate has effectively elaborated on their top achievements relevant to the job. 
• Highlights the candidate’s passion. To show they want the job, this candidate has also explained how passionate they are about their profession.

For more advice on landing a job as a consultant, check out our guide to writing a consultant resume .

#10. Digital Marketing Cover Letter Example

• Creative cover letter template. This digital marketer highlights their originality by picking a creative cover letter template. 
• Lists the candidate’s awards. The candidate has taken advantage of the cover letter to list their most noteworthy awards in the industry. 
• Concludes with a call to action. As they used a call to action to conclude their cover letter, the HR manager will be more likely to remember them.

Want to take your digital marketing resume to the next level? Check out our guide!

#11. Graphic Designer Cover Letter Example 

• Detailed contact information. The candidate has included additional contact information such as their website link, as well as their LinkedIn and Twitter profiles.  
• Ideal length. This cover letter is concise, which means that the HR manager is more likely to read it from start to finish.  
• Draws attention to the candidate’s strong points. Although this candidate is a recent college graduate, they’ve managed to effectively show that they have enough knowledge and experience to do the job right.

Read this guide to write a graphic designer resume that’s just as good as your cover letter!

#12. Administrative Assistant Cover Letter Example

• Minimalistic cover letter template. The candidate picked a well-designed but minimalistic template for their cover letter. 
• Focused on skills and achievements. This cover letter is packed with the candidate’s skills and achievements, proving he can be an excellent employee. 
• Formal closing. Politeness can go a long way and the candidate has used this to their advantage to make an impression. 

Our article on how to write an administrative assistant resume can help you take your job application to the next level.

#13. Front Desk Cover Letter Example

• Modern cover letter template. This template incorporates memorable colors and clear lines, which make the cover letter very visually appealing. 
• Attention-grabbing introduction. Using an attention-grabbing intro, the candidate is more likely to make an impression. 
• Calls the HR to action. By including a call to action, the candidate is reminding the HR of their immediate availability. 

#14. Human Resources Cover Letter Example

• It is concise and to the point. The candidate doesn’t dwell on unimportant details the HR won’t be interested in. 
• Uses a traditional cover letter template. The cover letter design is more on the conventional side, which fits the industry better. 
• Highlights the candidate’s strong points. The candidate has rich work experience and they use the cover letter to elaborate on it. 

This HR resume guide can help you get your resume just right.

#15. Sales Agent Cover Letter Example 

• Attention-grabbing cover letter template. As a salesperson, this candidate knows how important first impressions are, so they’ve picked a catchy cover letter template. 
• Has an ideal length. At the same time, they’ve also made sure to keep their cover letter at just the right length. 
• Lists the candidate’s career highlights. The candidate has made perfect use of the space by mentioning their most impressive professional achievements. 

Check out this sales agent resume guide to create an attention-grabbing sales resume .

#16. Receptionist Cover Letter Example

• Modern but minimalistic cover letter template. The template’s design hints the candidate is creative but professional at the same time. 
• Uses a catchy introduction. The candidate has used an attention-grabbing opening paragraph to catch HR’s attention. 
• Concludes the cover letter formally. The candidate proves that they’re polite and well-spoken, a quality very much important for the role they’re applying for. 

Take your receptionist resume to the next level with this receptionist resume guide .

#17. Information Technology Cover Letter Example

• Mentions measurable achievements. Numbers make an impact, which is why this candidate has included measurable achievements. 
• Lists both soft and hard skills. The candidate has mentioned a great mix of soft and hard skills, showing how well-rounded they are. 
• Contains relevant contact information. The candidate’s GitHub, website name, LinkedIn, and Twitter profiles are all great additions to the resume. 

Looking for tips to help you write a great IT resume ? Check out our guide!

#18. Real Estate Cover Letter Example

• Ideal length. Short and to the point, this cover letter is bound to get noticed by the HR manager. 
• Wraps up with a call to action. This candidate reinforces the HR to call them back through a final call to action. 
• Mentions the right skills. On top of their sales accomplishments, the candidate touch upon important soft skills such as customer service and communication . 

This real estate resume guide will help you take your resume from good to great.

#19. Teacher Cover Letter Example

• Mentions relevant contact information details. This candidate has included optional (but relevant) contact information details, such as their LinkedIn, Quora, and Medium profiles. 
• Achievement-oriented. The candidate has elaborated on their achievements in more detail throughout their cover letter. 
• Highlights the candidate’s passion. For some jobs, being passionate is much more important than for others. Teaching is one of these jobs, which is why this candidate explains their passion for the job. 

Our guide on how to write a teacher resume has all the tips you need to land the job.

#20. Project Manager Cover Letter Example

• Leverages a catchy introduction. Through a catchy introductory paragraph, this candidate is sure to grab the HR’s attention and get them to read the rest of their cover letter.
• Lists measurable accomplishments. This candidate explains exactly what they’ve achieved using numbers and hard data. 
• Personally greets the HR. A personal greeting sounds much better than “Dear Sir/Madam,” and the candidate knows this. 

This guide on how to write a project manager resume can help you perfect your appication.

#21. Paralegal Cover Letter Example

• Minimalistic cover letter template. This cover letter design looks good but doesn’t steal the show from the candidate’s abilities.
• Mentions the candidate’s academic achievements and extracurricular activities. Although the candidate is a recent graduate, they’ve used the cover letter to explain they have enough skills and achievements to do the job.
• Lists measurable achievements. The candidate proves they did well in their internship by mentioning quantifiable achievements.

Check out this paralegal resume guide to perfect yours.

40+ More Cover Letter Examples and Guides 

Couldn’t find a cover letter example for your field? Do not worry.

Below you can find a number of other cover letter examples for different fields and industries:

• Acting Cover Letter Examples
• Accounting Cover Letter Examples
• Administrative Assistant Cover Letter Examples
• Architecture Cover Letter Examples
• Attorney Cover Letter Examples
• Barista Cover Letter Examples
• Bartender Cover Letter Examples
• Business Cover Letter Examples
• Business Analyst Cover Letter Examples
• College Student Cover Letter Examples
• Computer Science Cover Letter Examples
• Construction Cover Letter Examples
• Consultant Cover Letter Examples
• Customer Service Cover Letter Examples
• Data Analyst Cover Letter Examples
• Data Entry Cover Letter Examples
• Dental Assistant Cover Letter Examples
• Digital Marketing Cover Letter Examples
• Elementary Teacher Cover Letter Examples
• Engineering Cover Letter Examples
• Executive Assistant Cover Letter Examples
• Finance Cover Letter Examples
• Graphic Design Cover Letter Examples
• Healthcare Cover Letter Examples
• Human Resources Cover Letter Examples
• IT Cover Letter Examples
• Law Cover Letter Examples
• Management Cover Letter Examples
• Marketing Cover Letter Examples
• Mechanical Engineering Cover Letter Examples
• Medical Assistant Cover Letter Examples
• Nurse Practitioner Cover Letter Examples
• Physician Cover Letter Examples
• Project Manager Cover Letter Examples
• Receptionist Cover Letter Examples
• Retail Cover Letter Examples
• Sales Cover Letter Examples
• Social Work Cover Letter Examples
• Software Engineer Cover Letter Examples
• Substitute Teacher Cover Letter Examples
• Teacher Assistant Cover Letter Examples
• Team Leader Cover Letter Example

What is a Cover Letter? 

A cover letter is a one-page document that you submit as part of your job application, alongside your resume . 

Its purpose is to introduce you and briefly summarize your professional background. On average, your cover letter should be from 250 to 400 words long .

A good cover letter can give the hiring manager more insight into what makes you a good candidate and help them make up their mind about whether they should invite you for an interview. A bad cover letter, though, will get ignored (at best) and lose you the job (at worst).

So, to make sure this doesn’t happen, it’s essential to know how to write a convincing cover letter.

The first thing to remember is that a cover letter is a supplement to your resume, not a replacement. Meaning, you shouldn’t just repeat whatever is mentioned in your resume and call it a day. 

Optimally, you should use your cover letter to shed more light on your skills and qualifications, as well as explain anything you didn’t have space for in your resume (e.g. a career gap or why you’re changing careers).

If you’re writing a cover letter for the first time, though, putting all this together might seem pretty tough. 

Fortunately, you can follow our tried-and-tested format to make the experience much easier:

• Header - Input your contact information.
• Greeting the hiring manager - Open the cover letter with a “Dear Sir or Madam,” or use the hiring manager’s name if you know what that is.
• Opening paragraph - Grab the hiring manager’s attention by getting straight to the point. Mention what your professional experiences are, and what role you’re applying for.
• The second paragraph - Explain why you’re the perfect candidate for the job. Mention your top 2-3 achievements, your top skills, why you want to work in that specific industry, and whatever else is relevant.
• The third paragraph - End your cover letter with a call to action. E.g. “I would love to meet personally and discuss how I can help Company X.”
• Formal closing - Something like this: “Thank you for your consideration. Best, John Doe.”

Here’s what this looks like in practice:

9 Tips to Write a Cover Letter (the Right Way)

Now that we've covered the basics, let's talk about cover letter tips . Below, we'll give you all the knowledge you need to take your cover letter from "OK" to "great."

#1. Pick the right template

A good cover letter is all about leaving the right first impression.

And what’s a better way to leave a good impression than through a professional, well-formatted, and visual template?

You can simply pick one of our tried-and-tested cover letter templates and you’ll be all set!

#2. Add your contact details on the header

The best way to start your cover letter is through a header. 

Here’s what you want to include there:

• Phone Number
• Name of the hiring manager / their professional title
• Name of the company you’re applying to

Optionally, you can also include the following:

• Social Media Profiles - Any type of profile that’s relevant to your field. Social Profiles on websites like LinkedIn, GitHub (for developers), Medium (for writers), etc.
• Personal Website - If you have a personal website that somehow adds value to your application, you can mention it. Let’s say you’re a professional writer. In that case, you’d want to link to your content portfolio site or blog.

#3. Greet the hiring manager the right way

Once you’ve listed all your relevant contact information, it’s time to address the hiring manager reading your cover letter. 

A good practice here is to find the hiring manager’s name and address them directly instead of using the traditional “dear sir or madam.” This shows that you’re really invested in the company and that you took your time to do some research about the job.

So, how can you find out the hiring manager’s name?

One way to do this is by looking up the head of the company’s relevant department on LinkedIn. Let’s say you’re applying for the position of Communication Specialist at Novoresume. The hiring manager is probably the Head of Communications or the Chief Communications Office.

Or let’s say you’re applying for the position of server at a restaurant. In that case, you’d be looking to find out who the restaurant manager is.

If this doesn’t work, you can also check out the “Team” page on the company website; there’s a good chance you’ll at least find the right person there.

If you still can’t find out the hiring manager’s name, here are several other greetings you can use:

• Dear [Department] Hiring Manager
• Dear Hiring Manager
• To whom it may concern
• Dear [Department] Team

#4. Create an attention-grabbing introduction

Recruiters get hundreds, sometimes even thousands, of applications. Chances are, they’re not going to be reading every single cover letter end-to-end.

So, it’s essential to catch their attention from the very first paragraph.

The problem with most cover letter opening paragraphs, though, is that they’re usually extremely generic, often looking something like this: 

Hey, my name is Jonathan and I’d like to work as a Sales Manager at XYZ Inc. I’ve worked as a sales manager at MadeUpCompany Inc. for 5+ years, so I believe that I’d be a good fit for the position.

As you can probably tell, this opening paragraph doesn’t tell the hiring manager anything other than that you’ve worked the job before - and that’s not really helpful in setting you apart from other candidates. 

What you want to do, instead, is start off with 2-3 of your top achievements to really grab the reader’s attention. Preferably, the achievements should be as relevant as possible to the position. 

For example:

My name’s Michael and I’d like to help XYZ Inc. hit and exceed its sales goals as a Sales Manager. I’ve worked with Company X, a fin-tech company, for 3+ years. As a Sales Representative, I generated an average of $30,000+ in sales per month (beating the KPIs by around 40%). I believe that my previous industry experience, as well as my excellence in sales, makes me the right candidate for the role of X at Company Y.

The second example shows how the candidate is a top performer. The first just shows that they’ve worked a sales job before.

Which one are YOU more likely to invite for an interview?

#5. Show you’re the perfect person for the job

One great thing about cover letters is that they allow you to expand more on the top achievements from your resume and really show the hiring manager that you’re the right person for the job. 

A good way to do that is to first read the job ad and really understand what skills/experiences are required, and then to ensure that your cover letter touches upon the said skills or experiences.

In my previous role as a Facebook Marketing Expert at XYZ Inc. I handled customer acquisition through ads, managing a monthly Facebook ad budget of $20,000+. As the sole digital marketer at the company, I managed the ad creation and management process end-to-end. This means I created the ad copy and images, as well as picked the targeting, ran optimization trials, and so on.

Other than Facebook advertising, I’ve also delved into other online PPC channels, including:

• Google Search

#6. Explain why you’re a great company fit

The HR manager doesn’t only look at whether you’ll be good at the job or not. They’re looking for someone that’s also a good fit for the company culture.

After all, employees that don’t fit in are bound to quit, sooner or later. This ends up costing the company a ton of money, up to 50% of the employee’s annual salary . 

To convince the hiring manager that you’re a great company fit, do some research on the company and find out what it is you like about them, or about working there. You want to know things like:

• What’s the company’s business model?
• What’s the company's product or service? Have you used it?
• What’s the culture like? Will someone micro-manage your work, or will you have autonomy on how you get things done?

Then, turn your top reasons for liking to work there into text and add them to your cover letter! 

#7. Wrap up with a call to action

To make the end of your cover letter as memorable as possible, you want to:

• Wrap up any points you couldn't in the previous paragraphs. Mention anything you’ve left out that you think could help the hiring manager make up your mind.
• Thank the hiring manager for their time. After all, it never hurts to be polite. 
• Finish the cover letter with a call to action. A call to action is a great way to make your cover letter ending as memorable as possible. 

#8. Write a formal closing

Once you’re done with the final paragraph, all you have to do is write down a formal “goodbye” and you’re good to go.

Feel free to use one of the most popular conclusions in a cover letter:

• Best Regards,
• Kind Regards,

#9. Proofread your cover letter

Last but not least, make sure to always proofread each and every document that you’ll be including in your job application - cover letter included. 

The last thing you want is to be claiming you’re a great candidate for the job with a cover letter full of typos! 

For an even more comprehensive guide on how to write an impactful cover letter , check out our article ! 

Cover Letter Writing Checklist 

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you still have some questions about cover letters? Check out the answers below:

1. How do I write a simple cover letter? 

To write a cover letter that’s simple but also professional, make sure to include a header with your personal information, a formal greeting to the hiring manager, an attention-grabbing opening paragraph, a second paragraph explaining why you’re a good candidate for the job, and a formal closing (preferably with a call to action). 

2. What are the 3 parts of a cover letter? 

The three parts of a cover letter are: 

• The introduction , namely the header, the greeting to the hiring manager, and the opening paragraph. 
• The sales pitch is usually the body of the cover letter. 
• The conclusion involves a formal closing and a signature line.

3. What makes a great cover letter?

A great cover letter should be personalized for each job you’re applying for, instead of being overly generic. It’s also preferable to address the hiring manager by their name and not use the overly-used “Dear Sir/Madam.”

To make a great first impression, you should mention 1-2 of your top achievements in your opening paragraph - the more job-specific they are, the better. Also, don’t stop at showing the hiring manager why you’re a great candidate for the job. Make sure to also talk about how you’re a good culture fit for the company.

Last but not least, wrap up your closing paragraph with a call to action to give the hiring manager a little extra something to remember you by. 

4. When is a cover letter necessary?

Unless the job ad specifically states otherwise, you should always include a cover letter with your job application .

Even if the hiring manager doesn’t read it, you will look more professional simply by including one.

And that’s a wrap! We hope our cover letter examples and writing tips will inspire you to write a cover letter that will land you your next job.

If you’re looking for more invaluable career advice and articles, make sure to check out our career blog , or any of these related articles: 

• How to Write a Resume
• Cover Letter Mistakes to Avoid at All Costs
• Cover Letter Format (w/ Examples & Free Templates)

To provide a safer experience, the best content and great communication, we use cookies. Learn how we use them for non-authenticated users.

View Premium CV Package

How to Write a Cover Letter in 2022 (With 6 Cover Letter Examples)

Posted by CV Nation on Dec 11, 2021

The ultimate guide to writing a cover letter to land jobs in 2022, with 6 cover letter examples and everything you need to know to impress recruiters.

When applying for jobs, you will usually be required to submit a cover letter. Recruiters use cover letters to assess your suitability for jobs and learn about your experiences, skills and achievements.

An effective cover letter can help you stand out from the crowd and make a positive impression on recruiters.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to prepare a cover letter for any job that does exactly that. We’ll also show you six great cover letter examples.

What is a Cover Letter?

Cover letters, often referred to as motivation letters, are introductory letters that usually accompany your CV when applying for jobs.

Cover letter are usually one-page in length, expressing why you’re applying for the job and highlighting your skills, experiences and achievements.

How to Structure Your Cover Letter

When writing your cover letter, follow our six-step process to ensure you cover all the key points and sell yourself as effectively as possible.

Take a look at the cover letter examples in this guide to see how we have used this formula to create engaging, effective cover letters.

Here is our six-step cover letter writing process:

1. Introduction

2. overview of knowledge and expertise, 3. unique value proposition (uvp), 4. why you want to work for the company, 5. key skills, 6. polite ending and call to action.

Let’s take a look at these steps in detail:

Start your cover letter with a concise introduction that explains who you are and why you’re applying for the job.

Provide a brief overview of your knowledge, experience and expertise. Use this paragraph to draw attention to what you bring to the table.

Your Unique Value Proposition (UVP) is what makes you unique. Demonstrating your UVP can set you apart from other candidates and convince recruiters you’re the right person for the job.

Identify your UVP by thinking about what makes you unique, then convey this in your cover letter.

Convey why you want to work for the company. This is where you can use your research to show how you are aligned with the company’s values and culture.

Showcase a few of your key skills to show what you can bring to the table.

Bring your cover letter to a close by thanking the reader for their time and including a concise call to action. This will usually be for the recruiter to get in touch with you to discuss your application in more detail.

Cover Letter Example

One of the keys to writing a great cover letter is research. By researching the company you’re applying to work for, you’ll be able to tailor your cover letter and show how you’re aligned with the company’s culture and values.

How do you conduct research into companies?

To conduct research into the company you’re applying to work for, examine the company’s website. You may want to take a look at their ‘About Us’ or ‘Careers’ pages. This will help you learn about their culture and what it’s like to work for them.

Additionally, you could view the company’s social media accounts and the job description to learn more about their culture and values.

Email Cover Letters

If you’re submitting a cover letter in the body of an email, you will need to format it slightly different to cover letters that are attached to emails or submitted as a document.

Email cover letters do not need to include the address of the company you’re applying to work for. You also do not need to include your name at the top of the cover letter, as is demonstrated in some of the cover letter examples in this guide.

Here is an example of an email cover letter:

Email Cover Letter Example

How to Write a Cover Letter with No Experience

If you’ve got no experience in the profession that you’re pursuing a job in, focus on your transferable skills and experiences.

For example, if you’re applying for a customer service job but have no customer service experience, you could focus on your communication skills and your experiences working with customers.

Here is an example cover letter for someone with no experience:

Cover Letter Example - No Experience

How to Professionally Format Your Cover Letter

Line spacing.

Using appropriate line spacing between paragraphs ensures your cover letter is professional in appearance and easy to read.

Letters that don’t use line spacing often appear as one huge block of text. Most recruiters won’t even read these letters, so make sure to utilise your word processor’s line spacing feature.

To add spacing to your cover letter in Microsoft Word, highlight the text, click ‘Layout’, then add 8 pt. spacing in the ‘After’ section.

This will ensure your paragraphs are easily distinguished from each other. It will also optimise your recruiter’s reading experience, which can only be a positive thing!

Margins are the blank spaces at the edges of your cover letter. The size of your margins will depend on the amount of content in your cover letter.

If you have a lot of content to include, your margins should be narrower, which would give you more space. If you have a shorter cover letter, your margins should be wider.

Ideally, you should be aiming for margin sizes of between 1.7 cm (0.66”) and 2.5 cm (0.98”).

3. Fonts & Fonts Sizes

Select a common, easy to read font, such as Calibri, Times New Roman and Arial. Avoid using overly creative fonts. Such fonts will make your cover letter look unprofessional and difficult to read.

For most fonts, including Times New Roman, Calibri and Arial, you should choose a font size of between 10.5 pt. and 12 pt.

Further Cover Letter Tips

Don't exceed one page.

Unless you’ve been specifically asked to submit a longer cover letter, don’t exceed one page in length. Long cover letters make for a poorer reading experience and recruiters may not read your cover letter if it’s too long.

Proofread your cover letter

Ensure to proofread your cover letter to iron out any spelling and grammatical errors. Errors in your cover letter can make you look unprofessional and have a negative impact on your job applications.

Give your document a professional title

When saving your cover letter, make sure to give it a simple, professional title. Examples of professional titles for your cover letter include ‘Cover Letter’ or ‘My Cover Letter’.

Avoid unprofessional titles such as ‘coverletter023432’. When recruiters see such titles on documents, they may instantly see you as unprofessional.

State that your CV is attached/enclosed

If you’re submitting your CV along with your cover letter, state that you’ve enclosed the CV. To do this, include the abbreviation ‘Enc.: CV’ at the bottom of your cover letter, as demonstrated in the cover letter samples in this guide.

Share this post

← Older Post Newer Post →

• Search Search Please fill out this field.
• Career Planning
• Finding a Job
• Cover Letters

How To Write a Job Application Letter (With Examples)

What is a Job Application Letter?

Tips for writing a job application letter, how to get started.

• Writing Guidelines
• What to Include in Each Section

Simple Formatting Using a Template

Tips for writing an effective letter, sample job application letter, sending an email application, review more letter examples.

Do you need to write a letter to apply for a job? Most of the time, the answer is yes. Even when employers don’t require a job application letter , writing one will help you highlight your skills and achievements and get the hiring manager’s attention. The only time not to send one is when the job listing says not to do so. It can help, and it definitely won't hurt to include an application letter with your resume.

A job application letter, also known as a cover letter , should be sent or uploaded with your resume when applying for jobs. While your resume offers a history of your work experience and an outline of your skills and accomplishments, the job application letter you send to an employer explains why you are qualified for the position and should be selected for an interview.

Writing this letter can seem like a challenging task. However, if you take it one step at a time, you'll soon be an expert at writing application letters to send with your resume.

Melissa Ling / The Balance

Before you begin writing your job application letter, do some groundwork. Consider what information you want to include (keeping in mind that space is limited).

Remember, this letter is making a case for your candidacy for the position. But you can do better than just regurgitating your resume—instead, highlight your most relevant skills, experiences, and abilities.

Analyze the Job Posting

To include the most convincing, relevant details in your letter, you'll need to know what the employer wants.

The biggest clues are within the job advertisement, so spend some time decoding the job ad . Next, match your qualifications with the employer's wants and needs .

Include Your Most Relevant Qualifications

Make a list of your relevant experience and skills. For instance, if the job ad calls for a strong leader, think of examples of when you've successfully led a team. Once you've jotted down some notes, and have a sense of what you want to highlight in your letter, you're ready to get started writing.

Writing Guidelines for Job Application Letters

Writing a job application letter is very different from a quick email to a friend or a thank-you note to a relative. Hiring managers and potential interviewers have certain expectations when it comes to the letter's presentation and appearance, from length (no more than a page) to font size and style to letter spacing :

Length: A letter of application should be no more than one page long. Three to four paragraphs is typical.

Format and Page Margins: A letter of application should be single-spaced with a space between each paragraph. Use about 1" margins and align your text to the left, which is the standard alignment for most documents.

Font: Use a traditional font such as Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri. The font size should be between 10 and 12 points.

What To Include in Each Section of the Letter

There are also set rules for the sections included in the letter, from salutation to sign-off, and how the letter is organized. Here's a quick lowdown on the main sections included in a job application letter:

Heading: A letter of application should begin with both your and the employer's contact information (name, address, phone number, email) followed by the date. If this is an email rather than an actual letter, include your contact information at the end of the letter, after your signature.

•   Header Examples

Salutation: This is your polite greeting. The most common salutation is "Dear Mr./Ms." followed by the person's last name. Find out more about appropriate cover letter salutations , including what to do if you don't know the person's name, or are unsure of a contact's gender.

Body of the letter: Think of this section as being three distinct parts.

In the first paragraph , you'll want to mention the job you are applying for and where you saw the job listing.

The next paragraph(s) are the most important part of your letter. Remember how you gathered all that information about what employers were seeking, and how you could meet their needs? This is where you'll share those relevant details on your experience and accomplishments.

The third and last part of the body of the letter will be your thank you to the employer; you can also offer follow-up information.

Complimentary Close: Sign off your email with a polite close, such as "Best" or "Sincerely," followed by your name.

• Closing Examples

Signature: When you're sending or uploading a printed letter, end with your signature, handwritten, followed by your typed name. If this is an email, simply include your typed name, followed by your contact information.

• Signature Examples

Overwhelmed by all these formatting and organization requirements? One way to make the process of writing a job application easier is to use a job application letter template to create your own personalized job application letters for applying for a job. Having a template can help save you time if you are sending a lot of application letters.

Be sure that each letter you send is personalized to the company and position; do not send the same letter to different companies.

• Always write one. Unless a job posting specifically says not to send a letter of application or cover letter, you should always send one. Even if the company does not request a letter of application, it never hurts to include one. If they do ask you to send a letter, make sure to follow the directions exactly (for example, they might ask you to send the letter as an email attachment, or type it directly into their online application system).
• Use business letter format. Use a formal business letter format when writing your letter. Include your contact information at the top, the date, and the employer’s contact information. Be sure to provide a salutation at the beginning, and your signature at the end.
• Sell yourself. Throughout the letter, focus on how you would benefit the company. Provide specific examples of times when you demonstrated skills or abilities that would be useful for the job, especially those listed in the job posting or description. If possible, include examples of times when you added value to a company.

Numerical values offer concrete evidence of your skills and accomplishments.

• Use keywords. Reread the job listing, circling any keywords (such as skills or abilities that are emphasized in the listing). Try to include some of those words in your cover letter. This will help the employer see that you are a strong fit for the job.
• Keep it brief. Keep your letter under a page long, with no more than about four paragraphs. An employer is more likely to read a concise letter.
• Proofread and edit. Employers are likely to overlook an application with a lot of errors. Read through your cover letter, and if possible, ask a friend or career counselor to review the letter. Proofread for any grammar or spelling errors.

This is a job application letter sample.  Download the letter template (compatible with Google Docs or Word Online) or read the example below.

Sample Job Application Letter (Text Version)

Elizabeth Johnson 12 Jones Street Portland, Maine 04101 555-555-5555 elizabethjohnson@emailaddress.com

August 11, 2020

Mark Smith Human Resources Manager Veggies to Go 238 Main Street Portland, Maine 04101

Dear Mr. Smith,

I was so excited when my former coworker, Jay Lopez, told me about your opening for an administrative assistant in your Portland offices. A long-time Veggies to Go customer and an experienced admin, I would love to help the company achieve its mission of making healthy produce as available as takeout.

I’ve worked for small companies for my entire career, and I relish the opportunity to wear many hats and work with the team to succeed. In my latest role as an administrative assistant at Beauty Corp, I saved my employer thousands of dollars in temp workers by implementing a self-scheduling system for the customer service reps that cut down on canceled shifts. I also learned web design, time sheet coding, and perfected my Excel skills. 

I’ve attached my resume for your consideration and hope to speak with you soon about your needs for the role.

Best Regards,

Elizabeth Johnson (signature hard copy letter)

Elizabeth Johnson

When you are sending your letter via email include the reason you are writing in the subject line of your message:

Subject Line Example

Subject: Elizabeth Johnson – Administrative Assistant Position

List your contact information in your signature, rather than in the body of the letter:

Email Signature Example

Elizabeth Johnson 555-555-5555 email@emailaddress.com

Review more examples of professionally written cover letters for a variety of circumstances, occupations, and types of jobs.

CareerOneStop. " How Do I Write a Cover Letter ?" Accessed July 14, 2021.

University of Maryland Global Campus. " Frequently Asked Questions ." Accessed July 14, 2021.

• Job Search Tips
• The Powerful CV
• Interviews and Offers
• Grow Your Career
• Market Knowledge
• Employer Corner
• Press Releases

How to Write a Cover Letter for 2022: a Beginner's Guide

It's a new dawn, and with the coronavirus pandemic still lurking, you're looking to switch up your career or apply for a new job entirely. You will have to do more than just fill out a job application or send a resume for most professional positions. At the very least, hiring managers will need you to curate a customized resume and targeted cover letter that shows why you're the most eligible candidate for the position.

However, it won't be enough to send in your cover letter. In 2022 you'll have to ensure that your resume and cover letter are written in a way that'll land you an interview. After all, landing an interview is the primary goal of applying for any job.

So, are you ready to get started? If yes, below is a detailed guide on how to write a perfectly curated cover letter that'll get your application noticed. Check out all the tips on what to include, the different types of cover letters, and how to format them.

But first…

What is a cover letter?

A cover letter is a document you send with your resume to offer additional information on your skills and expertise. It serves as a sales pitch in which you market your credentials in the hope of landing an interview.

According to a recent study, 85% of recruiters pay close attention to cover letters since they help determine whether you'll be called for an interview. Therefore, understanding how best to write a cover letter is essential to impress your interviewer.

Types of cover letters

Before you leap onto writing a cover letter, you need to ensure you've chosen the correct type of letter. The style will differ depending on whether you're writing one to inquire about a job opening, mentioning a referral, or uploading your resume.

There are generally three types of cover letters:

• The application letter – also known as the cover letter and it responds to a specific job opening
• The networking letter – this type requests information and assistance in your job application
• The prospecting letter – also known as an inquiry letter and it inquiries about possible job openings

Pro tip: When applying for a job posted by a firm looking to hire new staff, you'll be using the application letter style, which we will elaborate on below.

Tips for writing an interview-landing cover letter

Here is an outline of the items you need to include in your cover letter in 2022:

Yup, the basics first. Application letters need to begin with your and the employer's contact information. This includes the name, address, phone number, and email). You should follow this with the date.

If it's an email, include your contact details at the end of the letter after your signature.

And remember to keep it professional by using an email address that includes your official names. [email protected] or [email protected] won't up your chances. Additionally, avoid using your current work address to send a cover letter – it's impolite to your current and potential future employer.

Bonus tip: If you're writing a cover letter and don't know the hiring manager's name, in the address section, include only the department's name. For instance, 'Digital Marketing Department.'

Don't know who to address your cover letter to?

Well, according to career experts, it should be directed to the hiring manager who'll read it.

What's more, the greeting might be the first thing the hiring manager grades you on, making it one of the most crucial parts of any cover letter. And, there's one foolproof way of ensuring your salutation snatches your recruiter's attention:

Dear Michael

That's right. Using their name.

According to a slew of studies , when people hear or see their name, they react. Therefore, once the hiring manager sees their name in the salutation, they're going to feel like the cover letter is specifically tailored for them, giving you an edge over other applicants.

If you don't know their name, check the firm's website, LinkedIn Profile, and other social media platforms where the staff is listed.

After exhausting all the resources, opt for a simple ' Dear Hiring Manager .' Avoid starting your application letter with a ' to whom it may concern .' It feels impersonal and obnoxious.

Introduction

Let's cut to the chase.

The first few sentences in your cover letter will determine if the hiring manager will keep reading it. Studies show that hiring managers skim through cover letters for an average of 7.4 seconds, and the introduction is one of the most determining factors.

So, rather than stating the obvious details in your resume, offer a quick window into your relevant skills and expertise, highlight a contact (perhaps your referral), and emphasize a critical accomplishment that would make you an asset to the firm.

Your objective is to capture the recruiter's attention.

You might also want to include some keywords used in the job listing. For instance, you can mention that your track history of successfully leading national online campaigns with budgets of less than $250,000 makes you an excellent fit for the role.

Body of the letter

In the second paragraph, explain why you're interested in the position and why you're the best fit. Mention relevant qualifications listed in the job posting and explain how you effortlessly meet those requirements. Don't restate your resume, but offer specific qualities that will help satisfy the firm's needs.

Remember, actions speak louder than words, so don't just state your qualifications. Instead, use tangible examples from your work experience that show the hiring manager these traits in action.

A sample script:

In my current role at XYZ, I have supervised every phase of the online marketing initiative, creative and technical . Last year, my primary challenge was designing and optimizing ten-product websites for XYZ's most strategic products, boosting the SEO results, and enhancing the UX . Here we are, six months later:

• Nine of the ten websites I optimized have attained and secured their spot in the top three results on Google – these are organic, non-paid outcomes for 10+ search terms.
• All ten websites' incoming search engine traffic features 50% of the total organic traffic for key terms and phrases.

So far, so good.

Your cover letter offers a quick rundown of your relevant skills and expertise. What could go wrong?

According to career coaches, a lot.

You need to write the ending, and it's a crucial decisive part.

It should amplify the impression you've made with previous paragraphs. Therefore, you need to restate how your skills make you the perfect fit for the position. You can also discuss why you'd like to work with the firm if you have room.

You should also state that you'd be elated at the opportunity to interview or discuss employment opportunities. Discuss what you'll do to follow up and when you'll do this.

Sample script:

I'd welcome a chance to discuss your digital marketing goals further and demonstrate how my success at XYZ can translate into the online marketing growth of ABC.

Once you've written your conclusion, you need to put a formal closing at the very end with phrases such as:

• Yours sincerely
• Best regards
• Kind regards
• Thanks for your consideration
• With best regards
• Respectfully yours

Afterward, you can input your signature, handwritten, followed by your typed name. If it's an email, include your typed name and contact information after the complimentary close.

How to format your cover letter

Before sending off your perfectly written cover letter, you need to review the format used. This includes:

A cover letter shouldn't be more than six paragraphs are plenty, and it shouldn't be longer than one page. If it's too long, don't use a smaller font. Instead, edit it and ensure it's a single page long.

Your application letter should be formatted professionally. The font needs to match the font you used on your resume. It needs to be also simple to skim through. Pick fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman.

The Font Size

Yes, size is an essential element too – make the text small, and the recruiter might not want to continue reading it. Based on the font type, somewhere between 10- and 12-point is recommended for readability.

Letter Spacing

Ensure to include a space between the header and salutation before every paragraph, the closing, and your signature.

Reviewing your cover letter

Apart from the cover letter format, you also need to:

Check for grammatical errors

Don't just click and upload your letter before checking for typos and grammatical errors. Read it aloud and see if you made any mistakes. If it's an email, you can use tools such as Grammarly to make the relevant edits.

Heed to instructions 

An advert will indicate that a more substantial letter is needed in exceptional cases. Therefore, be sure to follow the stated instructions and include specifically requested information.

For example, some firms might ask you to include your current salary or desired remuneration range.

Include an email signature

When you email an application letter, ensure to include a signature with your name, email address, phone number, and LinkedIn profile (this is an essential inclusion for your 2022 cover letter). This will make it easier for the hiring manager to contact you.

• Posted by Mohammad Omara - ‏23/12/2021
• Last updated: 03/12/2022

What are your chances of acceptance?

Calculate for all schools, your chance of acceptance.

Your chancing factors

Extracurriculars.

How to Write the Common Application Essays 2023-2024 (With Examples)

The Common App essay is one of the most important parts of your application, but it can be extremely daunting if you’re not familiar with creative writing or what admissions officers are looking for.

In this blog post, we’ll provide advice on how to break down these prompts, organize your thoughts, and craft a strong, meaningful response that admissions officers will notice. If you’d like more free personalized help, you can get your essays reviewed and explore school-by-school essay help on CollegeVine.

Why the Common App Essay Matters

Admissions is a human process. While admissions committees look at grades, test scores, and extracurriculars, there are five students that have great qualifications in those areas for every spot in a university’s class. As an applicant, you need an admissions counselor to choose you over everyone else — to advocate specifically for you. 

This is where essays come in; they are an opportunity for you to turn an admissions counselor into an advocate for your application! Of your essays, the Common App is the most important since it is seen by most of the colleges to which you apply. It is also your longest essay, which gives you more space to craft a narrative and share your personality, feelings, and perspective.

It’s not hyperbole to say that getting the Common App essay right is the single most important thing you can do to improve your chances of admission as a senior. 

Overview of the Common App

The Common App essay is the best way for admissions committees to get to know you. While SAT scores, your past course load, and your grades provide a quantitative picture of you as a student, the Common App essay offers adcoms a refreshing glimpse into your identity and personality. For this reason, try to treat the essay as an opportunity to tell colleges why you are unique and what matters to you.

Since your Common App essay will be seen by numerous colleges, you will want to paint a portrait of yourself that is accessible to a breadth of institutions and admissions officers (for example, if you are only applying to engineering programs at some schools, don’t focus your Common App on STEM at the expense of your other applications — save that for your supplemental essays).

In short, be open and willing to write about a topic you love, whether it is sports, music, politics, food, or watching movies. The Common App essay is more of a conversation than a job interview.

What Makes a Great Common App Essay?

A great Common App essay is, first and foremost, deeply personal. You are relying on the admissions committee to choose you over someone else, which they are more likely to do if they feel a personal connection to you. In your essay, you should delve into your feelings, how you think about situations/problems, and how you make decisions.

Good essays also usually avoid cliche topics . A couple overdone themes include an immigrant’s journey (particularly if you’re Asian American), and a sports accomplishment or injury. It’s not that these topics are bad, but rather that many students write about these subjects, so they don’t stand out as much. Of course, some students are able to write a genuine and unique essay about one of these topics, but it’s hard to pull off. You’re better off writing about more nuanced aspects of your identity!

You should also, of course, pay close attention to your grammar and spelling, use varied sentence structure and word choice, and be consistent with your tone/writing style. Take full advantage of the available 650 words, as writing less tends to mean missed opportunities.

Finally, it’s a good practice to be aware of your audience – know who you are writing for! For example, admissions officers at BYU will probably be very religious, while those at Oberlin will be deeply committed to social justice.

See some examples of great Common App essays to get a better idea of what makes a strong essay.

How your Common App Essay Fits with Your Other Essays

The Common App is one part of a portfolio of essays that you send to colleges, along with supplemental essays at individual colleges. With all of your essays for a particular college, you want to create a narrative and tell different parts of your story. So, the topics you write about should be cohesive and complementary, but not repetitive or overlapping. 

Before jumping in to write your Common App essay, you should think about the other schools that you’re writing essays for and make sure that you have a strategy for your entire portfolio of essays and cover different topics for each. If you have strong qualifications on paper for the colleges you are targeting, the best narratives tend to humanize you. If you have weaker qualifications on paper for your colleges, the best narratives tend to draw out your passion for the topics or fields of study that are of interest to you and magnify your accomplishments. 

Strategy for Writing the Common App Essays

Because the Common App essay is 650 words long and has few formal directions, organizing a response might seem daunting. Fortunately, at CollegeVine, we’ve developed a straightforward approach to formulating strong, unique responses.

This section outlines how to: 1) Brainstorm , 2) Organize , and 3) Write a Common App essay.

Before reading the prompts, brainstorming is a critical exercise to develop high-level ideas. One way to construct a high-level idea would be to delve into a passion and focus on how you interact with the concept or activity. For example, using “creative writing” as a high-level idea, one could stress their love of world-building, conveying complex emotions, and depicting character interactions, emphasizing how writing stems from real-life experiences.

A different idea that doesn’t involve an activity would be to discuss how your personality has developed in relation to your family; maybe one sibling is hot-headed, the other quiet, and you’re in the middle as the voice of reason (or maybe you’re the hot-head). These are simply two examples of infinitely many ideas you could come up with.

To begin developing your own high-level ideas, you can address these Core Four questions that all good Common App essays should answer:

• “Who Am I?”
• “Why Am I Here?”
• “What is Unique About Me?”
• “What Matters to Me?”

The first question focuses on your personality traits — who you are. The second question targets your progression throughout high school (an arc or journey). The third question is more difficult to grasp, but it involves showing why your personality traits, methods of thinking, areas of interest, and tangible skills form a unique combination. The fourth question is a concluding point that can be answered simply, normally in the conclusion paragraph, i.e., “Running matters to me” or “Ethical fashion matters to me.”

You can brainstorm freeform or start with a specific prompt in mind.

Sometimes, it can be helpful to start by jotting down the 3-5 aspects of your personality or experiences you’ve had on a piece of paper. Play around with narratives that are constructed out of different combinations of these essential attributes before settling on a prompt. 

For example, you might note that you are fascinated by environmental justice, have had success in Model Congress, and are now working with a local politician to create a recycling program in your school district. You may also have tried previous initiatives that failed. These experiences could be constructed and applied to a number of Common App prompts. You could address a specific identity or interest you have associated with public advocacy, discuss what you learned from your failed initiatives, explore how you challenged the lack of recycling at your school, fantasize about solving waste management issues, etc. 

Selecting a prompt that you identify with

For example, consider the following prompt: The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?

Perhaps you had been a dedicated and active member of your school’s debate team until one of your parents lost their jobs, leaving you unable to afford the high membership and travel dues. You decided to help out by getting a job after school, and responded to your familial hardship with grace and understanding (as opposed to anger). A few months later, and after speaking with your former debate coach and your parents, you set up a system to save up for your own trips so that you could still participate in debate!

In general, the most common mistake CollegeVine sees with Common App essays is that they aren’t deeply personal. Your essay should be specific enough that it could be identified as yours even if your name wasn’t attached. 

If you get stuck, don’t worry! This is very common as the Common App is often the first personal essay college applicants have ever written. One way of getting unstuck if you feel like you aren’t getting creative or personal enough is to keep asking yourself “why”

For example: I love basketball…

• Because I like having to think on the fly and be creative while running our offense.

It can often help to work with someone and bounce ideas off them. Teachers are often a bad idea – they tend to think of essays in an academic sense, which is to say they often fail to apply the admissions context. Further, it is unlikely that they know you well enough to provide valuable insight. Friends in your own year can be a good idea because they know you, but you should be careful about competitive pressures applying within the same high school. Older friends, siblings, or neighbors who have successfully navigated the admissions process at your target universities (or good universities) strike that medium between no longer being competitive with you for admissions but still being able to help you brainstorm well because they know you.

Overall, there is no single “correct” topic. Your essay will be strong as long as you are comfortable and passionate about your idea and it answers the Core Four questions.

Common App essays are not traditional five-paragraph essays. You are free to be creative in structure, employ dialogue, and use vivid descriptions—and you should! Make sure that context and logic are inherent in your essay, however. From paragraph to paragraph, sentence to sentence, your ideas should be clear and flow naturally. Great ways to ensure this are using a story arc following a few major points, or focusing on cause and effect.

The traditional approach

This involves constructing a narrative out of your experiences and writing a classic personal essay. You are free to be creative in structure, employ dialogue, and use vivid descriptions—and you should! Make sure that context and logic are inherent in your essay, however. From paragraph to paragraph, sentence to sentence, your ideas should be clear and flow naturally. Great ways to ensure this are using a story arc following a few major points, or focusing on cause and effect.

The creative approach

Some students prefer to experiment with an entirely new approach to the personal essay. For example, a student who is passionate about programming could write their essay in alternating lines of Binary and English. A hopeful Literature major could reimagine a moment in their life as a chapter of War and Peace, adopting Tolstoy’s writing style. Or, you could write about a fight with your friend in the form of a third person sports recap to both highlight your interest in journalism and reveal a personal story. Creative essays are incredibly risky and difficult to pull off. However, a creative essay that is well executed may also have the potential for high reward.

Your Common App essay must display excellent writing in terms of grammar and sentence structure. The essay doesn’t need to be a Shakespearean masterpiece, but it should be well-written and clear.

A few tips to accomplish this are:

• Show, don’t tell
• Be specific
• Choose active voice, not passive voice
• Avoid clichés
• Write in a tone that aligns with your goals for the essay. For example, if you are a heavy STEM applicant hoping to use your Common App essay to humanize your application, you will be undermined by writing in a brusque, harsh tone.

“Show, don’t tell” is vital to writing an engaging essay, and this is the point students struggle with most.  Instead of saying, “I struggled to make friends when I transferred schools,” you can show your emotions by writing, “I scanned the bustling school cafeteria, feeling more and more forlorn with each unfamiliar face. I found an empty table and ate my lunch alone.”

In many cases, writing can include more specific word choice . For example, “As a kid, I always played basketball,” can be improved to be “Every day after school as a kid, I ran home, laced up my sneakers, and shot a basketball in my driveway until the sun went down and I could barely see.”

To use active voice over passive voice , be sure that your sentence’s subject performs the action indicated by the verb, rather than the action performing onto the subject. Instead of writing “this project was built by my own hands,” you would say “I built this project with my own hands.”

Finally, avoid clichés like adages, sayings, and quotes that do not bring value to your essay. Examples include phrases like “Be the change you wish to see in the world” (it’s also important to know that sayings like these are often seriously misquoted—Gandhi did not actually utter these words) and lavish claims like “it was the greatest experience of my life.”

A few tips for the writing (and re-writing!) process

• If you have enough time, write a 950 word version of your personal statement first and then cut it down to the official word limit of 650. In many cases, the extra writing you do for this draft will contain compelling content. Using this, you can carve out the various sections and information that allow you to tell your story best. 
• Revise your draft 3-5 times. Any more, you are probably overthinking and overanalyzing. Any less, you are not putting in the work necessary to optimize your Common App essay.
• It can be easy for you to get lost in your words after reading and rereading, writing and rewriting. It is best to have someone else do your final proofread to help you identify typos or sentences that are unclear.

Deciding on a Prompt

This section provides insights and examples for each of the 7 Common App essay prompts for the 2023-2024 cycle. Each of these prompts lends itself to distinct topics and strategies, so selecting the prompt that best aligns with your idea is essential to writing an effective Common App essay.

Here are this year’s prompts (click the link to jump to the specific prompt):

Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.

The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. how did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience, reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. what prompted your thinking what was the outcome, reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. how has this gratitude affected or motivated you, discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others., describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. why does it captivate you what or who do you turn to when you want to learn more, share an essay on any topic of your choice. it can be one you’ve already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design..

This prompt offers an opportunity to engage with your favorite extracurricular or academic subject, and it allows you to weave a narrative that displays personal growth in that area. An essay that displays your personality and a unique interest can be attention-grabbing, particularly if you have an unconventional passion, such as blogging about Chinese basketball or unicycling.

Don’t feel intimidated if you don’t have a passion that is immediately “unique,” however. Even an interest like “arctic scuba diving” will fail as an essay topic if it’s not written with insight and personality. Instead of attempting to impress the Admissions Officer by making up unusual or shocking things, think about how you spend your free time and ask yourself why you spend it that way. Also think about your upbringing, identity, and experiences and ask yourself, “What has impacted me in a meaningful way?”

Here Are A Few Response Examples:

Background – A person’s background includes experiences, training, education, and culture. You can discuss the experience of growing up, interacting with family, and how relationships have molded who you are. A background can include long-term interactions with arts, music, sciences, sports, writing, and many other learned skills. Background also includes your social environments and how they’ve influenced your perception. In addition, you can highlight intersections between multiple backgrounds and show how each is integral to you.

One student wrote about how growing up in a poor Vietnamese immigrant family inspired her to seize big opportunities, even if they were risky or challenging. She describes the emotional demand of opening and running a family grocery store. (Note: Names have been changed to protect the identity of the author and subjects in all the examples.)

The callouses on my mother’s hands formed during the years spent scaling fish at the  market in Go Noi, Vietnam. My mother never finished her formal education because she  labored on the streets to help six others survive. Her calloused hands not only scaled fish, they  also slaved over the stove, mustering a meal from the few items in the pantry. This image  resurfaces as I watch my mother’s calloused hands wipe her sweat-beaded forehead while she  manages the family business, compiling resources to provide for the family. 

Living in an impoverished region of Vietnam pushed my parents to emigrate. My two  year-old memory fails me, but my mother vividly recounts my frightened eyes staring up at her on my first plane ride. With life packed into a single suitcase, my mother’s heart, though,  trembled more than mine. Knowing only a few words of English, my mother embarked on a  journey shrouded in a haze of uncertainty. 

Our initial year in America bore an uncanny resemblance to Vietnam – from making one  meal last the entire day to wearing the same four shirts over and over again. Through thin walls, I  heard my parents debating their decision to come to the United States, a land where they knew  no one. My grandparents’ support came in half-hearted whispers cracking through long-distance  phone calls. My dad’s scanty income barely kept food on the table. We lived on soup and rice for  what seemed an interminable time. 

However, an opportunity knocked on my parents’ door: a grocery store in the town of  Decatur, Mississippi, was up for rent. My parents took the chance, risking all of their savings.  To help my parents, I spent most of my adolescent afternoons stocking shelves, mopping floors,  and even translating. My parents’ voices wavered when speaking English; through every attempt to communicate with their customers, a language barrier forged a palpable presence in each  transaction. My parents’ spirits faltered as customers grew impatient. A life of poverty awaited us in Vietnam if the business was not successful. 

On the first day, the business brought in only twenty dollars. Twenty dollars. My mother and my father wept after they closed the shop. Seeing the business as a failure, my mom commenced her packing that night; returning to Vietnam seemed inevitable. 

The next business day, however, sales increased ten-fold. More and more customers  came each successive day. My mom’s tears turned into—well, more tears, but they were tears of  joy. My mother unpacked a bag each night. 

Fifteen years later, my parents now own Blue Bear Grocery. My parents work, work,  work to keep the shelves stocked and the customers coming. The grocery store holds a special  place in my heart: it is the catalyst for my success. My parents serve as my role-models, teaching  me a new lesson with every can placed on the shelf. One lesson that resurfaces is the importance  of pursuing a formal education, something that my parents never had the chance of. 

When the opportunity to attend the Mississippi School for Mathematics and Science  (MSMS) presented itself, I took it and ran, as did my parents by leaving Vietnam and by buying  the store. Although I am not managing hundreds of products, I am managing hundreds of  assignments at MSMS – from Mu Alpha Theta tutoring to lab reports to student government to British literature. 

Had I not immigrated, my hands would be calloused from the tight grip of the knife  scaling fish rather than from the tight grip on my pencil. My hands would be calloused from scrubbing my clothes covered in fish scales rather than from long hours spent typing a research paper. 

Although the opportunities that my parents and I pursued are different, our journey is  essentially the same: we walk a road paved with uncertainty and doubt with the prospect of success fortified by our hearts and our hands.

Identity – this can mean racial identity, sexual orientation, gender, or simply one’s place within a specific community (even communities as unique as, say, players of World of Warcraft). With the topic of racial identity, it’s important to remember the audience (college admissions counselors often lean progressive politically), so this might not be the best place to make sweeping claims about today’s state of race relations. However, reflecting on how your culture has shaped your experiences can make for a compelling essay. Alternatively, focusing on a dominant personality trait can also make for a compelling theme. For example, if you’re extremely outgoing, you could explain how your adventurousness has allowed you to learn from a diverse group of friends and the random situations you find yourself in. One important thing to note: the topic of identity can easily lack originality if you cover a common experience such as feeling divided between cultures, or coming out. If such experiences are integral to who you are, you should still write about them, but be sure to show us your unique introspection and reflection.

One student detailed how growing up as an American in Germany led to feelings of displacement. Moving to America in high school only exacerbated her feelings of rootlessness. Her transcultural experiences, however, allowed her to relate to other “New Americans,” particularly refugees. Helping a young refugee girl settle into the US eventually helped the writer find home in America as well:

Growing up, I always wanted to eat, play, visit, watch, and be it all: sloppy joes and spaetzle, Beanie Babies and Steiff, Cape Cod and the Baltic Sea, football and fussball, American and German. 

My American parents relocated our young family to Berlin when I was three years old. My exposure to America was limited to holidays spent stateside and awfully dubbed Disney Channel broadcasts. As the few memories I had of living in the US faded, my affinity for Germany grew. I began to identify as “Germerican,” an ideal marriage of the two cultures. As a child, I viewed my biculturalism as a blessing. I possessed a native fluency in “Denglisch” and my family’s Halloween parties were legendary at a time when the holiday was just starting to gain popularity outside of the American Sector. 

Insidiously, the magic I once felt in loving two homes was replaced by a deep­rooted sense of rootlessness. I stopped feeling American when, while discussing World War II with my grandmother, I said “the US won.” She corrected me, insisting I use “we” when referring to the US’s actions. Before then, I hadn’t realized how directly people associated themselves with their countries. I stopped feeling German during the World Cup when my friends labeled me a “bandwagon fan” for rooting for Germany. Until that moment, my cheers had felt sincere. I wasn’t part of the “we” who won World Wars or World Cups. Caught in a twilight of foreign and familiar, I felt emotionally and psychologically disconnected from the two cultures most familiar to me. 

After moving from Berlin to New York state at age fifteen, my feelings of cultural homelessness thrived in my new environment. Looking and sounding American furthered my feelings of dislocation. Border patrol agents, teachers, classmates, neighbors, and relatives all “welcomed me home” to a land they could not understand was foreign to me. Americans confused me as I relied on Urban Dictionary to understand my peers, the Pledge of Allegiance seemed nationalistic, and the only thing familiar about Fahrenheit was the German after whom it was named. Too German for America and too American for Germany, I felt alienated from both. I wanted desperately to be a member of one, if not both, cultures. 

During my first weeks in Buffalo, I spent my free time googling “Berlin Family Seeks Teen” and “New Americans in Buffalo.” The latter search proved most fruitful: I discovered New Hope, a nonprofit that empowers resettled refugees, or “New Americans,” to thrive. I started volunteering with New Hope’s children’s programs, playing with and tutoring young refugees. 

It was there that I met Leila, a twelve-­year-­old Iraqi girl who lived next to Hopeprint. In between games and snacks, Leila would ask me questions about American life, touching on everything from Halloween to President Obama. Gradually, my confidence in my American identity grew as I recognized my ability to answer most of her questions. American culture was no longer completely foreign to me. I found myself especially qualified to work with young refugees; my experience growing up in a country other than that of my parents’ was similar enough to that of the refugee children New Hope served that I could empathize with them and offer advice. Together, we worked through conflicting allegiances, homesickness, and stretched belonging. 

Forging a special, personal bond with young refugees proved a cathartic outlet for my insecurities as it taught me to value my past. My transculturalism allowed me to help young refugees integrate into American life, and, in doing so, I was able to adjust myself. Now, I have an appreciation of myself that I never felt before. “Home” isn’t the digits in a passport or ZIP code but a sense of contentedness. By helping a young refugee find comfort, happiness, and home in America, I was finally able to find those same things for myself.

The above essay was written by Lydia Schooler, a graduate of Yale University and one of our CollegeVine advisors. If you enjoyed this essay and are looking for expert college essay and admissions advice, consider booking a session with Lydia .

Interests – Interest are basically synonymous to activities, but slightly broader (you could say that interests encompass activities); participation in an interest is often less organized than in an activity. For instance, you might consider cross country an activity, but cooking an interest. Writing about an interest is a way to highlight passions that may not come across in the rest of your application. If you’re a wrestler for example, writing about your interest in stand-up comedy would be a refreshing addition to your application. You should also feel free to use this topic to show what an important activity on your application really means to you. Keep in mind, however, that many schools will ask you to describe one of your activities in their supplemental essays (usually about 250 words), so choose strategically—you don’t want to write twice on the same thing.

Read a successful essay answering this prompt.

This prompt lends itself to consideration of what facets of your personality allow you to overcome adversity. While it’s okay to choose a relatively mundane “failure” such as not winning an award at a Model UN conference, another (perhaps more powerful) tactic is to write about a foundational failure and assess its impact on your development thereafter.

There are times in life when your foundation is uprooted. There are times when you experience failure and you want to give up since you don’t see a solution. This essay is about your response when you are destabilized and your actions when you don’t see an immediate answer.

For example, if you lost a friend due to an argument, you can analyze the positions from both sides, evaluate your decisions, and identify why you were wrong. The key is explaining your thought process and growth following the event to highlight how your thinking has changed. Did you ever admit your fault and seek to fix the problem? Have you treated others differently since then? How has the setback changed the way you view arguments and fights now? Framing the prompt in this way allows you to tackle heavier questions about ethics and demonstrate your self-awareness.

If you haven’t experienced a “big” failure, another angle to take would be to discuss smaller, repeated failures that are either linked or similar thematically. For example, if you used to stutter or get nervous in large social groups, you could discuss the steps you took to find a solution. Even if you don’t have a massive foundational challenge to write about, a recurring challenge can translate to a powerful essay topic, especially if the steps you took to overcome this repeated failure help expose your character.

One student described his ignorance of his brother’s challenges — the writer assumed that because his brother Sam was sociable, Sam  was adjusting fine to their family’s move. After an angry outburst from Sam  and a long late-night conversation, the writer realizes his need to develop greater sensitivity and empathy. He now strives to recognize and understand others’ struggles, even if they’re not immediately apparent.

“You ruined my life!” After months of quiet anger, my brother finally confronted me. To my shame, I had been appallingly ignorant of his pain.

Despite being twins, Max and I are profoundly different. Having intellectual interests from a young age that, well, interested very few of my peers, I often felt out of step in comparison with my highly-social brother. Everything appeared to come effortlessly for Max and, while we share an extremely tight bond, his frequent time away with friends left me feeling more and more alone as we grew older.

When my parents learned about The Green Academy, we hoped it would be an opportunity for me to find not only an academically challenging environment, but also – perhaps more importantly – a community. This meant transferring the family from Drumfield to Kingston. And while there was concern about Max, we all believed that given his sociable nature, moving would be far less impactful on him than staying put might be on me.

As it turned out, Green Academy was everything I’d hoped for. I was ecstatic to discover a group of students with whom I shared interests and could truly engage. Preoccupied with new friends and a rigorous course load, I failed to notice that the tables had turned. Max, lost in the fray and grappling with how to make connections in his enormous new high school, had become withdrawn and lonely. It took me until Christmas time – and a massive argument – to recognize how difficult the transition had been for my brother, let alone that he blamed me for it.

Through my own journey of searching for academic peers, in addition to coming out as gay when I was 12, I had developed deep empathy for those who had trouble fitting in. It was a pain I knew well and could easily relate to. Yet after Max’s outburst, my first response was to protest that our parents – not I – had chosen to move us here. In my heart, though, I knew that regardless of who had made the decision, we ended up in Kingston for my benefit. I was ashamed that, while I saw myself as genuinely compassionate, I had been oblivious to the heartache of the person closest to me. I could no longer ignore it – and I didn’t want to.

We stayed up half the night talking, and the conversation took an unexpected turn. Max opened up and shared that it wasn’t just about the move. He told me how challenging school had always been for him, due to his dyslexia, and that the ever-present comparison to me had only deepened his pain.

We had been in parallel battles the whole time and, yet, I only saw that Max was in distress once he experienced problems with which I directly identified. I’d long thought Max had it so easy – all because he had friends. The truth was, he didn’t need to experience my personal brand of sorrow in order for me to relate – he had felt plenty of his own.

My failure to recognize Max’s suffering brought home for me the profound universality and diversity of personal struggle; everyone has insecurities, everyone has woes, and everyone – most certainly – has pain. I am acutely grateful for the conversations he and I shared around all of this, because I believe our relationship has been fundamentally strengthened by a deeper understanding of one another. Further, this experience has reinforced the value of constantly striving for deeper sensitivity to the hidden struggles of those around me. I won’t make the mistake again of assuming that the surface of someone’s life reflects their underlying story.

This prompt is difficult to answer because most high schoolers haven’t participated in the types of iconoclastic protests against societal ills that lend themselves to an awe-inspiring response. A more tenable alternative here could be to discuss a time that you went against social norms, whether it was by becoming friends with someone who seemed like an outcast or by proudly showing off a geeky passion.

And if you ever participated in a situation in tandem with adults and found some success (i.e., by blogging, starting a tutoring organization, or participating in political campaigns), you could discuss your experiences as a young person without a college degree in professional circles. However, avoid sounding morally superior (as if you’re the only person who went against this convention, or that you’re better than your peers for doing so).

Another way to answer this prompt is to discuss a time when you noticed a need for change. For example, if you wondered why medical records are often handwritten, or why a doctor’s visit can be long and awkward, maybe you challenged the norm in healthcare by brainstorming an electronic-recording smartphone app or a telemedicine system. In a similar way, if you led a fundraiser and recognized that advertising on social media would be more effective than the traditional use of printed flyers, you could write about a topic along those lines as well. Focus on what action or experience caused you to recognize the need for change and follow with your actions and resulting outcome.

As a whole, this prompt lends itself to reflective writing, and more specifically, talking the reader through your thought processes. In many cases, the exploration of your thought processes and decision-making is more important than the actual outcome or concept in question. In short, this essay is very much about “thinking,” rumination, and inquisition. A good brainstorming exercise for this prompt would be to write your problem on a sheet of paper and then develop various solutions to the problem, including a brief reason for justification. The more thorough you are in justifying and explaining your solutions in the essay, the more compelling your response will be.

While this prompt may seem to be asking a simple question, your answer has the potential to provide deep insights about who you are to the admissions committee. Explaining what you are grateful for can show them your culture, your community, your philosophical outlook on the world, and what makes you tick. 

The first step to writing this essay is to think about the “something” and “someone” of your story. It is imperative to talk about a unique moment in your life, as the prompt asks for gratitude that came about in a surprising way. You will want to write about a story that you are certain no one else would have. To brainstorm, ask yourself: “if I told a stranger that I was grateful for what happened to me without any context, would they be surprised?” 

Note that the most common answers to this prompt involve a family member, teacher, or sports coach giving the narrator an arduous task ─ which, by the end of the story, the narrator becomes grateful for because of the lessons they learned through their hard work. Try to avoid writing an essay along these lines unless you feel that your take on it will be truly original.

Begin your essay by telling a creative story about the “something” that your “someone” did that made you thankful. Paint a picture with words here ─ establish who you were in the context of your story and make the character development of your “someone” thorough. Show the admissions committee that you have a clear understanding of yourself and the details of your world. 

Keep in mind, however, that the essay is ultimately about you and your growth. While you should set the scene clearly, don’t spend too much time talking about the “something” and “someone.”

Your story should then transition into a part about your unexpected epiphany, e.g. “Six months after Leonard gave me that pogo stick, I started to be grateful for the silly thing…” Explain the why of your gratitude as thoroughly as you can before you begin to talk about how your gratitude affected or motivated you. Have a Socratic seminar with yourself in your head ─ ask yourself, “why am I grateful for the pogo stick?” and continue asking why until you arrive at a philosophical conclusion. Perhaps your reason could be that you eventually got used to the odd looks that people gave you as you were pogoing and gained more self-confidence. 

Finally, think about how learning to be grateful for something you would not expect to bring you joy and thankfulness has had a positive impact on your life. Gaining more self-confidence, for example, could motivate you to do an infinite number of things that you were not able to attempt in the past. Try to make a conclusion by connecting this part to your story from the beginning of the essay. You want to ultimately show that had [reference to a snippet of your introduction, ideally an absurd part] never have happened, you would not be who you are today.

Remember to express these lessons implicitly through the experiences in your essay, and not explicitly. Show us your growth through the changes in your life rather than simply stating that you gained confidence. For instance, maybe the pogo stick gift led you to start a pogo dance team at your school, and the team went on to perform at large venues to raise money for charity. But before your pogo days, you had crippling stage fright and hated even giving speeches in your English class. These are the kinds of details that make your essay more engaging. 

This prompt is expansive in that you can choose any accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked personal growth or new understanding.

One option is to discuss a formal accomplishment or event (whether it is a religious ritual or social rite of passage) that reflects personal growth. If you go this route, make sure to discuss why the ritual was meaningful and how specific aspects of said ritual contributed to your personal growth. An example of this could be the meaning of becoming an Eagle Scout to you, the accomplishment of being elected to Senior Leadership, or completing a Confirmation. In the case of religious topics, however, be sure to not get carried away with details, and focus on the nature of your personal growth and new understanding — know your audience.

Alternatively, a more relaxed way to address this prompt is using an informal event or realization, which would allow you to show more personality and creativity. An example of this could be learning how to bake with your mother, thus sparking a newfound connection with her, allowing you to learn about her past. Having a long discussion about life or philosophy with your father could also suffice, thus sparking more thoughts about your identity. You could write about a realization that caused you to join a new organization or quit an activity you did not think you would enjoy, as doing so would force you to grow out of your comfort zone to try new things.

The key to answering this prompt is clearly defining what it is that sparked your growth, and then describing in detail the nature of this growth and how it related to your perception of yourself and others. This part of the essay is crucial, as you must dedicate sufficient time to not undersell the description of how you grew instead of simply explaining the experience and then saying, “I grew.” This description of how you grew must be specific, in-depth, and it does not have to be simple. Your growth can also be left open-ended if you are still learning from your experiences today.

One student wrote about how her single mother’s health crisis prompted her to quickly assume greater responsibility as a fourteen-year-old. This essay describes the new tasks she undertook, as well as how the writer now more greatly cherishes her time with her mother.

Tears streamed down my face and my mind was paralyzed with fear. Sirens blared, but the silent panic in my own head was deafening. I was muted by shock. A few hours earlier, I had anticipated a vacation in Washington, D.C., but unexpectedly, I was rushing to the hospital behind an ambulance carrying my mother. As a fourteen-year-old from a single mother household, without a driver’s license, and seven hours from home, I was distraught over the prospect of losing the only parent I had. My fear turned into action as I made some of the bravest decisions of my life. 

Three blood transfusions later, my mother’s condition was stable, but we were still states away from home, so I coordinated with my mother’s doctors in North Carolina to schedule the emergency operation that would save her life. Throughout her surgery, I anxiously awaited any word from her surgeon, but each time I asked, I was told that there had been another complication or delay. Relying on my faith and positive attitude, I remained optimistic that my mother would survive and that I could embrace new responsibilities.

My mother had been a source of strength for me, and now I would be strong for her through her long recovery ahead. As I started high school, everyone thought the crisis was over, but it had really just started to impact my life. My mother was often fatigued, so I assumed more responsibility, juggling family duties, school, athletics, and work. I made countless trips to the neighborhood pharmacy, cooked dinner, biked to the grocery store, supported my concerned sister, and provided the loving care my mother needed to recover. I didn’t know I was capable of such maturity and resourcefulness until it was called upon. Each day was a stage in my gradual transformation from dependence to relative independence.

Throughout my mother’s health crisis, I matured by learning to put others’ needs before my own. As I worried about my mother’s health, I took nothing for granted, cherished what I had, and used my daily activities as motivation to move forward. I now take ownership over small decisions such as scheduling daily appointments and managing my time but also over major decisions involving my future, including the college admissions process. Although I have become more independent, my mother and I are inseparably close, and the realization that I almost lost her affects me daily. Each morning, I wake up ten minutes early simply to eat breakfast with my mother and spend time with her before our busy days begin. I am aware of how quickly life can change. My mother remains a guiding force in my life, but the feeling of empowerment I discovered within myself is the ultimate form of my independence. Though I thought the summer before my freshman year would be a transition from middle school to high school, it was a transformation from childhood to adulthood.

This prompt allows you to expand and deepen a seemingly small or simple idea, topic, or concept. One example could be “stars,” in that you could describe stargazing as a child, counting them, recognizing constellations, and then transforming that initial captivation into a deeper appreciation of the cosmos as a whole, spurring a love of astronomy and physics.

Another example could be “language,” discussing how it has evolved and changed over the course of history, how it allows you to look deeper into different cultures, and how learning different languages stretches the mind. A tip for expanding on these topics and achieving specificity is to select particular details of the topic that you find intriguing and explain why.

For example, if you’re passionate about cooking or baking, you could use specific details by explaining, in depth, the intricate attention and artistry necessary to make a dish or dessert. You can delve into why certain spices or garnishes are superior in different situations, how flavors blend well together and can be mixed creatively, or even the chemistry differences between steaming, searing, and grilling.

Regardless of your topic, this prompt provides a great opportunity to display writing prowess through elegant, specific descriptions that leverage sensory details. Describing the beauty of the night sky, the rhythms and sounds of different languages, or the scent of a crème brûlée shows passion and captivation in a very direct, evocative way.

The key to writing this essay is answering the question of why something captivates you instead of simply ending with “I love surfing.” A tip would be to play off your senses (for applicable topics), think about what you see, feel, smell, hear, and taste.

In the case of surfing, the salty water, weightlessness of bobbing over the waves, and fresh air could cater to senses. Alternatively, for less physical topics, you can use a train of thought and descriptions to show how deeply and vividly your mind dwells on the topic.

Well-executed trains of thought or similar tactics are successful ways to convey passion for a certain topic. To answer what or who you turn to when you want to learn more, you can be authentic and honest—if it’s Wikipedia, a teacher, friend, YouTube Channel, etc., you simply have to show how you interact with the medium.

When brainstorming this particular essay, a tip would be to use a web diagram, placing the topic in the middle and thinking about branching characteristics, themes, or concepts related to the topic that are directly engaging and captivating to you. In doing so, you’ll be able to gauge the depth of the topic and whether it will suffice for this prompt.

In the following example, a student shares their journey as they learn to appreciate a piece of their culture’s cuisine.

As a wide-eyed, naive seven-year-old, I watched my grandmother’s rough, wrinkled hands pull and knead mercilessly at white dough until the countertop was dusted in flour. She steamed small buns in bamboo baskets, and a light sweetness lingered in the air. Although the mantou looked delicious, their papery, flat taste was always an unpleasant surprise. My grandmother scolded me for failing to finish even one, and when I complained about the lack of flavor she would simply say that I would find it as I grew older. How did my adult relatives seem to enjoy this Taiwanese culinary delight while I found it so plain?

During my journey to discover the essence of mantou, I began to see myself the same way I saw the steamed bun. I believed that my writing would never evolve beyond a hobby and that my quiet nature crippled my ambitions. Ultimately, I thought I had little to offer the world. In middle school, it was easy for me to hide behind the large personalities of my friends, blending into the background and keeping my thoughts company. Although writing had become my emotional outlet, no matter how well I wrote essays, poetry, or fiction, I could not stand out in a sea of talented students. When I finally gained the confidence to submit my poetry to literary journals but was promptly rejected, I stepped back from my work to begin reading from Whitman to Dickinson, Li-Young Lee to Ocean Vuong. It was then that I realized I had been holding back a crucial ingredient–my distinct voice. 

Over time, my taste buds began to mature, as did I. Mantou can be flavored with pork and eggplant, sweetened in condensed milk, and moistened or dried by the steam’s temperature. After I ate the mantou with each of these factors in mind, I noticed its environment enhanced a delicately woven strand of sweetness beneath the taste of side dishes: the sugar I had often watched my grandmother sift into the flour. The taste was nearly untraceable, but once I grasped it I could truly begin to cherish mantou. In the same way the taste had been lost to me for years, my writer’s voice had struggled to shine through because of my self-doubt and fear of vulnerability.

As I acquired a taste for mantou, I also began to strengthen my voice through my surrounding environment. With the support of my parents, peer poets, and the guidance of Amy Tan and the Brontё sisters, I worked tirelessly to uncover my voice: a subtle strand of sweetness. Once I stopped trying to fit into a publishing material mold and infused my uninhibited passion for my Taiwanese heritage into my writing, my poem was published in a literary journal. I wrote about the blatant racism Asians endured during coronavirus, and the editor of Skipping Stones Magazine was touched by both my poem and my heartfelt letter. I opened up about being ridiculed for bringing Asian food to school at Youth Leadership Forum, providing support to younger Asian-American students who reached out with the relief of finding someone they could relate to. I embraced writing as a way to convey my struggle with cultural identity. I joined the school’s creative writing club and read my pieces in front of an audience, honing my voice into one that flourishes out loud as well.

Now, I write and speak unapologetically, falling in love with a voice that I never knew I had. It inspires passion within my communities and imparts tenacity to Asian-American youth, rooting itself deeply into everything I write. Today, my grandmother would say that I have finally unearthed the taste of mantou as I savor every bite with a newfound appreciation. I can imagine her hands shaping the dough that has become my voice, and I am eager to share it with the world.

Your GPA and SAT don’t tell the full admissions story

We’ll let you know what your chances are at your dream schools!

This prompt allows you to express what you want to express if it doesn’t align directly with the other prompts. While this prompt is very open-ended, it doesn’t mean you can adapt any essay you’ve written and think it will suffice. Always refer back to the Strategy section of this article and make sure the topic and essay of your choice addresses the Core Four questions necessary for a good Common App essay.

This prompt, more than the others, poses a high risk but also a high-potential reward. Writing your own question allows you to demonstrate individuality and confidence. Here, you can craft an innovative essay that tackles a difficult topic (for example, whether to raise or lower taxes) or presents information with a unique format (such as a conversation with an historical figure).

We encourage you to try something unconventional for this prompt, like comparing your personality to a Picasso painting, using an extended philosophical metaphor to describe your four years of high school, or writing in a poetic style to display your love of poetry. If you are extremely passionate about a topic or an expert in a certain area, for example Renaissance technology or journalism during World War II, you can use this prompt to show your authority on a subject by discussing it at a high level.

Be careful to frame the essay in a way that is accessible to the average reader while still incorporating quality evidence and content that would qualify you as an expert. As always, exercise caution in writing about controversial social or political topics, and always make sure to consider your audience and what they’re looking for in a student.

Sometimes an unconventional essay can capture Admissions Officers’ attention and move them in a profound way; other times, the concept can fly completely over their heads. Be sure to execute the essay clearly and justify your decision by seeking high-quality feedback from reliable sources. As always, the essay should demonstrate something meaningful about you, whether it is your personality, thought process, or values.

Here’s what the experts have to say about this prompt…

This prompt, like the others, is really asking you to tell the story of who you are. Your essay should be personal and should talk about something significant that has shaped your identity.

Here are a few broad themes that can work well: academic interest; culture, values, and diversity; extracurricular interests; and your impact on the community. You should highlight one of these themes using creative, vividly descriptive narrative. Make sure to not fall into the common pitfall of talking about something else -- an extracurricular activity, for example -- more than yourself.

A student I advised had a great idea to respond to this prompt -- an essay about how they do their best thinking while sitting on a tree branch near their home. Not only was it unique and personal, but it allowed the student to show what they think about, dream about, and value. That's the main goal for any applicant responding to prompt 7.

Alex Oddo Advisor on CollegeVine

All of the Common App prompts are broad in scope, but this one really takes the cake! I typically advise using the first six prompts as guardrails for your brainstorm, but in doing so, you may come up with a topic that doesn’t cleanly fit with any of the first six prompts. That’s where this prompt can come in handy.

Or, you might have an idea that’s really out there (like writing about your love of sonnets as a series of sonnets). Essentially, this prompt is a good fit for essays that are anywhere from slightly unconventional to extremely atypical.

If this all feels a bit confusing - don’t worry! How you write your story is much more important than what prompt you end up choosing. At the end of the day, these are just guides to help you cultivate a topic and are not meant to stress you out.

Priya Desai Advisor on CollegeVine

Students who want to complete the CommonApp’s seventh prompt need to have already gone through the other prompts and determined that their story cannot fit with those. Thus, generally speaking, I advise my students to not use the final prompt unless it is absolutely necessary.

If an admission officer believes that your essay could have been used with one of the other prompts, this may lead them to have a perception about you as a student that might not be accurate.

Nevertheless, as my colleagues have pointed out, what matters is the essay the most and not necessarily the prompt. That being said, the test of whether or not you as a student can follow directions is part of the prompt selection and how well you answer it. If you choose the final prompt and yet your answer could work with another available prompt, this will not put you in your best light.

In conclusion, only use this prompt when absolutely necessary, and remember that the purpose of the personal statement is to give the admissions officers a glimpse into who you are as a person, so you want to use this space to showcase beautiful you.

Veronica Prout Advisor on CollegeVine

Where to get your common app essay edited.

At selective schools, your essays account for around 25% of your admissions decision. That’s more than grades (20%) and test scores (15%), and almost as much as extracurriculars (30%). Why is this? Most students applying to top schools will have stellar academics and extracurriculars. Your essays are your chance to stand out and humanize your application. That’s why it’s vital that your essays are engaging, and present you as someone who would enrich the campus community.

Before submitting your application, you should have someone else review your essays. That’s why we created our free  Peer Essay Review tool , where you can get a free review of your essay from another student. You can also improve your own writing skills by reviewing other students’ essays. 

If you want a college admissions expert to review your essay, advisors on CollegeVine have helped students refine their writing and submit successful applications to top schools.  Find the right advisor for you  to improve your chances of getting into your dream school!

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

The 2021-2022 Common App Essay: How to Write a Great Essay That Will Get You Accepted

If you’re reading this, then you’ve probably started the very exciting process of applying to college—and chances are you may be a little overwhelmed at times. That’s OK! The key to getting into the right college for you is taking each step of the application process in stride, and one of those steps is completing the Common App and the Common App essay.

In this post, you’ll learn what the Common Application essay is, how to write one (including a free checklist to help you with the process), example essays, and much more. Let’s get started!

Table of Contents

What is the Common App, and More Importantly, What is the Common App Essay? Quick Facts on the 2021-2022 Common App Essay How Do You Write a Common App Essay?

What Should I Avoid in My Common App Essay? What Are Some Good Common App Essay Examples?

Common Application Essay FAQs

What is the common app, and more importantly, what is the common app essay.

The “Common App,” short for the Common Application , is a general application used to apply to multiple college undergraduate programs at once. It’s accepted by hundreds of colleges in the United States as well as some colleges internationally.

The idea is that the Common App is a “one-stop shop” so you don’t have to complete a million separate applications. That said, plenty of colleges still require their own application components, and the Common App, as user-friendly as it aims to be, can still feel like a bit of a challenge to complete.

Part of the reason the Common App can seem intimidating is because of the Common App essay component, which is required of all students who submit a college application this way. But never fear! In reality, the Common App essay is easy to ace if you know how to approach it and you give it your best.

So without further ado, let’s take a look at anything and everything you need to know about the 2021-2022 Common App essay in order to help you get into the school of your dreams. We’ve also created a downloadable quick guide to writing a great Common Application essay.

Quick Facts on the 2021-2022 Common App Essay

Below are just a few of the short and sweet things you need to know about the 2021-2022 Common App essay, but we’ll elaborate on some of this content later in this post.

How Do You Write a Common App Essay?

The million dollar question about the Common App essay is obviously, “How do I actually write it?!”

Now there’s something to keep in mind before exploring how to compose the Common App essay, and that’s the purpose of this task. You may be wondering:

• What are college admissions boards actually looking for?
• Why are you being asked to write this essay?

College admissions boards want to see that you can compose a compelling, well-crafted essay. After four years of high school, you’re expected to be able to craft a clear and concise piece of writing that addresses a specific subject.

So yes, you’re actually being evaluated on your essay writing skills, but the purpose of the Common Application essay is deeper than that—it’s to present the type of person and thinker that you are.

Regardless of which prompt you choose, colleges are trying to get a sense of how thoughtfully and critically you can reflect on your life and the world around you .

And furthermore, they want to get a sense of who you are—your interests, your personality, your values—the dimensional aspects of you as an applicant that simply can’t be expressed in transcripts and test scores . In short, you want to stand out and be memorable.

That said, there is no exact formula for “cracking the case” of the Common App essay, but there are plenty of useful steps and tips that can help you write a great essay.

(In a hurry? Download our quick and concise handout that sums up some of the keys to the Common App essay!)

1) Familiarize Yourself With the Common App Prompts and How to Approach Them

The Common App recently released the 2021-2022 essay prompts , which are almost the same as last year’s prompts, but with one BIG difference.

The prompt about problem solving (formerly prompt #4) has been replaced with a prompt about gratitude and how it has motivated you. According to Common App President and CEO Jenny Rickard, this change was inspired by new scientific research on the benefits of writing about gratitude and the positive impact others have had on our lives.

Additionally, the Common App now includes an optional Covid-19 prompt where you can discuss how you’ve personally been affected by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Now, let’s take a look at each 2021-2022 Common App prompt individually. You’ll notice that every prompt really has two parts to it:

• share, explain and describe a narrative, and
• reflect on, analyze, and draw meaning from it.

Let’s take a look.

  Prompt #1: A snapshot of your story

Prompt: Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.

• Discuss a background, identity, or interest that you feel is meaningful to who you are and/or that or sets you apart from others.
• Reflect on why this attribute is meaningful and how it has shaped you as a person.

  Prompt #2: An obstacle you overcame

Prompt: The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?

• Recount a time you faced a challenge, setback, or failure.
• Reflect on how this affected you, what you learned from it, and if it led to any successes later down the line.

  Prompt #3: A belief or idea you questioned or challenged

Prompt: Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome?

• Explain a time that you questioned a particular belief or way of thinking.
• Elaborate on what prompted this questioning, what the outcome was, and why this outcome was significant.

  Prompt #4: An experience of gratitude that has motivated you

Prompt: Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you?

• Describe the specific experience or interaction that made you feel a sense of gratitude. Make sure to explain who did something nice for you and why it was surprising or unexpected.
• Explain, as specifically as possible, how this feeling of gratitude changed or motivated you. What actions did you take a result? How did your mindset change?

  Prompt #5: An accomplishment or event that sparked personal growth

Prompt: Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others.

• Describe an accomplishment or event that sparked personal growth for you.
• Reflect on the nature of this growth and/or a new understanding you gained in the process.

  Prompt #6: An interest so engaging you lose track of time

Prompt: Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?

• Discuss a topic, idea, or interest that is so engaging to you that you lose track of time when focused on it.
• Reflect on and explain why this interest is so important to you, and your method of learning more about it.

  Prompt #7: An essay topic of your choice

Prompt: Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you’ve already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.

• Discuss any subject matter or philosophical question of interest to you.
• Reflect on the implications of this subject or question, and how it has shaped you, transformed you, impacted your life, etc.

  Now keep in mind that to some degree, it doesn’t actually matter which prompt you choose to answer, so long as you write and present yourself well. But you obviously want to pick whichever Common App essay prompt speaks to you most, and the one you think will provide you the meatiest and most meaningful material.

This is an outstanding guide to choosing the right Common App essay prompt, but as a rule of thumb, the “right” prompt will probably stand out to you. If you have to rack your brain, for example, to think of a challenge you’ve overcome and how the experience has shaped you, then that prompt probably isn’t the right one.

Authenticity is key, so choose the prompt you can answer thoroughly.

2) Brainstorm

Whether you know immediately which prompt you’re going to choose or not, do yourself a huge favor and brainstorm . Take out a notebook and jot down or free write all of the ideas that spring to your mind for as many of the prompts that you’re considering. You might be surprised what ideas you generate as you start doing this, and you might be surprised which ideas seem to have the most content and examples to elaborate on.

Also, it’s important to note that your subject matter doesn’t have to be highly dramatic or spectacular. You don’t have to recount a near-death experience, an epic overseas adventure, a 180-degree turn of faith, etc. Your ordinary life, when reflected upon thoughtfully, is interesting and profound.

3) Answer the Question (and Stay on Topic!)

This may sound painfully obvious, but for some of us, it can be hard to stay on topic. Each prompt is posed as a question , so don’t lose sight of that and let your essay devolve into a story about yourself that never really gets at the heart of the prompt.

As you’re drafting your essay—say after each paragraph—pause and refer back to the question, making sure each paragraph plays some part in actually responding to the prompt.

4) Structure and Organize Your Essay Effectively

The Common App essay isn’t like many of the other argumentative essays you’ve been taught to write in school. It is argumentative in that you are essentially arguing for why you are a good candidate for a particular college, using your personal experience as support, but it’s more than that.

The Common Application essay is essentially a narrative essay that is reflective and analytical by nature. This means that regardless of which prompt you select, you’ll be sharing something personal about yourself, and then reflecting on and analyzing why what you shared is important.

And even if this isn’t an essay format that you’re accustomed to writing, you can still rely on your knowledge of basic essay structures to help you. You’ll still need a clear introduction, body, and conclusion.

Let’s talk about those three pieces now.

Introduction

The purpose of an introduction is 1) to grab the reader’s attention and compel them to continue reading, and 2) to introduce the reader to the general subject at hand.

So the most important part of the introduction is a unique attention-getter that establishes your personal voice and tone while piquing the reader’s interest. An example of a good hook could be a brief illustrative anecdote, a quote, a rhetorical question, and so on.

Now, you may be wondering, “Do I need a thesis statement?” This is a great question and the simple answer is no.

This is because some students prefer to hook their reader with a bit of mystery and let their story unfold organically without a thesis sentence “spoiling” what is to come. This doesn’t mean you can’t have a thesis sentence, it just means you don’t need one. It just depends on how you want to build your personal narrative, and what serves you best.

That said, your essay does need a greater message or lesson in it, which is another way of saying a thesis . You just don’t necessarily have to write it out in the introduction paragraph.

It might help you to keep a thesis in mind or even write it down just for your own sake, even if you don’t explicitly use it in your introduction. Doing so can help you stay on track and help you build up to a stronger reflection.

Here are some examples of narrative thesis statements:

• I moved a lot as a child on account of having a parent in the military, which led me to become highly adaptable to change.
• The greatest obstacle I’ve overcome is my battle with leukemia, which has taught me both incredible resilience and reverence for the present.
• An accomplishment that I achieved was making the varsity volleyball team, which has made me grow tremendously as a person, specifically in the areas of self-confidence and collaboration.

As discussed earlier, there are two parts to each prompt: explanation and reflection . Each part should be addressed throughout the essay, but how you organize your content is up to you.

A good rule of thumb for structuring the body of your essay is as follows:

• Situate your reader: provide context for your story by focusing in on a particular setting, subject matter, or set of details. For example, you may frame an essay about an internship at the zoo with the phrase, “Elephants make the best friends.” Your reader knows immediately that the subject matter involves your interaction with animals, specifically elephants.
• Explain more about your topic and how it affected you, using specific examples and key details.
• Go deeper. Elaborate and reflect on the message at hand and how this particular topic shaped the person you are today.

Note that while there are no set rules for how many paragraphs you should use for your essay, be mindful of breaking paragraphs whenever you naturally shift gears, and be mindful of too-long paragraphs that just feel like walls of text for the reader.

Your conclusion should flow nicely from your elaboration, really driving home your message or what you learned. Be careful not to just dead-end your essay abruptly.

This is a great place to speculate on how you see the subject matter informing your future, especially as a college student and beyond. For example, what might you want to continue to learn about? What problems do you anticipate being able to solve given your experience?

5) Write Honestly, Specifically, and Vividly

It may go without saying, but tell your own story, without borrowing from someone else’s or embellishing. Profound reflection, insight, and wisdom can be gleaned from the seemingly simplest experiences, so don’t feel the need to stray from the truth of your unique personal experiences.

Also, make sure to laser in on a highly specific event, obstacle, interest, etc. It is better to go “narrower and deeper” than to go “wider and shallower,” because the more specific you are, the more vivid and engrossing your essay will naturally be.

For example, if you were a camp counselor every summer for the last few years, avoid sharing several summers’ worth of content in your essay. Focus instead on one summer , and even better, on one incident during that summer at camp.

And on that note, remember to be vivid! Follow the cardinal rule of writing: show and don’t tell . Provide specific details, examples, and images in order to create a clear and captivating narrative for your readers.

6) Be Mindful of Voice and Tone

Unlike in most academic essays, you can sound a bit less stuffy and a bit more like yourself in the Common App essay. Your essay should be professional, but can be conversational. Try reading it aloud; does it sound like you? That’s good!

Be mindful, however, of not getting too casual or colloquial in it. This means avoiding slang, contractions, or “text speak” abbreviations (e.g. “lol”), at least without deliberate context in your story (for example, if you’re recounting dialogue).

You’re still appealing to academic institutions here, so avoid profanity at all costs, and make sure you’re still upholding all the rules for proper style, grammar, and punctuation.

7) Revise and Proofread

This one is a biggie. Give yourself time during your application process to revise, rework, and even rewrite your essay several times. Let it grow and change and become the best version it can be. After you write your first draft, walk away from it for a couple days, and return to it with fresh eyes. You may be surprised by what you feel like adding, removing, or changing.

And of course, make sure your essay is pristine before you submit it. Triple and quadruple check for spelling and usage errors, typos, etc. Since this isn’t a timed essay you have to sit for (like the ACT essay test , for example), the college admissions readers will expect your essay to be polished and sparkling.

A tried and true method for both ensuring flow and catching errors is reading your essay aloud. You may sound a little silly, but it really works!

What Should I Avoid in My Common App Essay?

Resume Material

Your Common App essay is your chance to provide a deeper insight into you as a person, so avoid just repeating what you’d put on a resume. This is not to say you can’t discuss something mentioned briefly on your resume in greater depth, but the best essays offer something new that helps round out the whole college application.

Controversy

Okay, now this one is a bit tricky. On the one hand, you should write boldly and honestly, and some of the prompts (the one about challenging a particular belief, for example) are appropriate for addressing potentially contentious topics.

But that said, avoid being controversial or edgy for the sake of being controversial or edgy. Be steadfast in your beliefs for the greater sake of the narrative and your essay will be naturally compelling without being alienating to your readers.

Vague Stories

If you have a personal story that you’re not entirely comfortable sharing, avoid it, even if it would make a great essay topic in theory. This is because if you’re not comfortable writing on the subject matter, you’ll end up being too vague, which won’t do your story or overall application justice. So choose a subject matter you’re familiar with and comfortable discussing in specifics.

Unless they really, truly serve your essay, avoid general platitudes and cliches in your language. It is definitely encouraged to have an essay with a moral, lesson, or greater takeaway, but try to avoid summing up what you’ve learned with reductive phrases like “slow and steady wins the race,” “good things come in small packages,” “actions speak louder than words,” “you can’t judge a book by its cover,” and so on.

What Are Some Good Common App Essay Examples?

There are tons of Common App essays out there, including these Common App essay examples accepted at Connecticut College, which include explanations from admissions readers about why they were chosen.

But let’s take a look here at two versions of an example essay, one that is just okay and one that is great.

Both Common App essay examples are crafted in response to prompt #2, which is:

Essay Version #1, Satisfactory Essay:

During my sophomore year of high school, I tore my ACL, which stands for “anterior cruciate ligament,” and is the kiss of death for most athletic careers. This injury ended up being one of the greatest obstacles of my life. It was also, however, a turning point that taught me to see opportunity amidst adversity.

It was particularly awful that I was just about to score a winning goal during a championship hockey game when I was checked by a guy on the opposing team and came crashing down on my knee. It was pain unlike anything I’d ever felt before, and I knew immediately that this was going to be bad.

For the few months that followed the accident, I was lost, not really knowing what to do with myself. I didn’t know who I was anymore because hockey had been my whole world and sense of identity. Between working out, attending practice, playing home and away games, and watching games to learn more, it was my lifeblood. Losing my ability to play took a toll on me physically and emotionally and I grew lethargic and depressed.

And then one day I heard my school would be adding an advanced multimedia art class for those students who wanted to continue studying art beyond what was already offered. I had taken the handful of art classes my school offered and really enjoyed and excelled at them—though I had never considered them more than just fun electives to fill my scheduled, as required.

After a couple of weeks of the class, I began feeling better. Suddenly I wanted to draw or paint everything I looked at. I wanted to share the world around me as I saw it with others, to connect with people in a way I’d never done before. I met and made friends with many new people in that art class, people I would have never known if I hadn’t taken it, which also opened me up to all kinds of new mindsets and experiences.

We’re all familiar with the common adage, “When one door closes, another opens,” and this is exactly what happened for me. I might never have pursued art more seriously if I hadn’t been taken out of hockey. This has served as a great reminder for me to stay open to new opportunities. We never know what will unexpectedly bring us joy and make us more well-rounded people.

Areas for Improvement in Version #1:

• It lacks a compelling hook.
• The discussion of the obstacle and reflection upon it are both a bit rushed.
• It could use more vivid and evocative language.
• It uses a cliche (“one door closes”).
• It is somewhat vague at times (e.g. what kinds of “new mindsets and experiences” did the writer experience? In what ways are they now more “well-rounded”?).

Now let’s apply this feedback and revise the essay.

Essay Version #2, Excellent Essay:

My body was splayed out on the ice and I was simultaneously right there, in searing pain, and watching everything from above, outside of myself. It wasn’t actually a “near death” experience, but it was certainly disorienting, considering that just seconds before, I was flying down the ice in possession of the puck, about to score the winning goal of our championship game.

Instead, I had taken a check from an opposing team member, and had torn my ACL (or anterior cruciate ligament), which is the kiss of death for most athletic careers.

My road to recovery included two major surgeries, a couple months on crutches, a year of physical therapy, and absolutely zero athletic activity. I would heal, thankfully, and regain movement in my knee and leg, but I was told by doctors that I may never play hockey again, which was devastating to me. Hockey wasn’t just my passion—it was my life’s goal to play professionally.

For the few months that followed the accident, I was lost, feeling like a ghost haunting my own life, watching everything but unable to participate. I didn’t know who I was anymore because hockey had been my whole world and sense of identity. Between working out, attending practice, playing home and away games, and watching games to learn more, it was my lifeblood. Losing my ability to play took a toll on me physically and emotionally, and I grew lethargic and depressed.

And then one day I heard my school would be adding an advanced multimedia art class after school for those students who wanted to study art more seriously. I had already taken the handful of art classes my school offered and really enjoyed them—though I had never considered them more than just fun electives to fill my schedule, as required. And, because of hockey, I certainly had never had afternoons open.

After a couple of weeks of the class, I began to feel alive again, like “myself” but renewed, more awake and aware of everything around me. Suddenly I wanted to draw or paint everything I looked at, to bring everything I saw to life. It wasn’t just that I’d adopted a new hobby or passion, it was that I began looking more closely and critically at the world around me. I wanted to share what I saw with others, to connect with people in a way I’d never done before.

My art teacher selected a charcoal portrait of mine to be showcased in a local art show and I’ve never been more proud of myself for anything. Many of my friends, family members, and teammates came to see the show, which blew me away, but also I realized then just how much of my own self worth had been attached to people’s perception of me as a successful athlete. I learned how much better it feels to gain self worth from within. Unlike hockey, which I’d trained to be good at since I was a toddler, art is something that made me much more vulnerable. I didn’t do it to try to be the best, I did it because it felt good. And getting out of my comfort zone in this way gave me a sense of confidence I had never known prior, despite all my time on the ice during high-stakes games.

Today, I’m back in skates and able to play hockey, but will probably not play professionally; while I am disappointed, I’m also at peace with it. We make plans in life, and sometimes life has other plans for us that we have to adapt to and embrace, which is the more profound lesson I’ve learned in the healing process. We can crumple in the face of obstacles, or we can look for a silver lining and allow ourselves to grow into more complex, dynamic, well-rounded people. I don’t know what the rest of life holds for me, but I do know that I’m going to keep making art, and I’m going to keep opening myself up to new opportunities and experiences.

Strengths of Version #2:

• It has a compelling hook that draws the reader in.
• It has a clear beginning, middle, and end (expressed as an introduction, body, and conclusion).
• It directly addresses the prompt at hand and sticks to it.
• It focuses on one specific incident.
• It is well balanced in its explanation of and reflection on a given experience.
• It uses a clear, unique voice and tone as well as vivid, evocative language.
• It has a logical and cohesive flow.
• It is highly personal while also polished and professional.

Hopefully these examples have given you ideas of how you can take your Common App essay from good to great. If you have more questions about how to write a Common App essay, keep reading our FAQs below.

How much do I actually have to write for the Common App essay?

Last year, the Common App essay was capped at 650 words with a minimum of 250 words required. The best essays tend to range between 500-650 words.

Think of it this way as you start to draft: 500 words is one single-spaced page (250 words is one double-spaced page), so you should write roughly a page to page and half of typed, single-spaced content.

Where can I find the official Common App essay prompts?

Here are the 2021-2022 Common App essay prompts , which are the same as last year’s, with the exception of a new prompt #4 and the addition of a Covid-19 Common App prompt .

Do I need a title for the Common App essay?

A title is not required for the Common App essay, but you are, of course, more than welcome to include one if you’d like.

Where can I go for more information about the Common App essay?

All of the necessary information for the Common App and the Common App essay can be found on the Common Application home page.

For further reading, here are some posts that tackle and dispel common myths about the Common App essay:

Myth: The Common App essay must sound professional. Myth: Colleges can’t tell if someone helps write a common app essay.

If you haven’t already, you can download our free Common App essay checklist .

Happy Writing!

There you have it! The Common App essay can actually be quite rewarding to write if you give yourself enough time to prepare for it thoroughly. Remember, it’s all about you, and you’re the authority on that! So hunker down and don’t forget to have fun in the writing process.

We’d also love to hear from you! What questions or concerns do you still have about the Common Application essay? What are you thinking about writing on?

Comment below, and good luck!

Nadyja von Ebers is one of Magoosh’s Content Creators. Nadyja holds an MA in English from DePaul University and has taught English and at the high school and college levels for twelve years. She has a decade of experience teaching preparation for the AP exams, the SAT, and the ACT, among other tests. Additionally, Nadyja has worked as an academic advisor at college level and considers herself an expert in all things related to college-prep. She’s applied her college expertise to posts such as UCLA Admissions: The SAT Scores, ACT Scores, and GPA You Need to Get in and A Family Guide to College Admissions . Nadyja loves helping students reach their maximum potential and thrives in both literal and virtual classrooms. When she’s not teaching, she enjoys reading and writing for pleasure and loves spending time in or near the ocean. You can connect with her on LinkedIn !

View all posts

More from Magoosh

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

How to Write and Send a Job Application Email (2022)

Want to crush your interview.

Learn how to ace your interview with superior confidence.

A job application email is the email message and body that accompanies your job application. While it's more common for a job application to happen through a corporate portal. Or through the company website. Sometimes employers ask you to submit your application through an email address.

When do you need to email an application?

You should email a job application (your resume, cover letter, and references), when the job description lists an email address to submit your resume.

In the job description, usually toward the bottom of the job ad or job posting, you'll see instructions that tell you to submit your job application to a hiring manager or email.

Here is what that message might look like at the bottom of the job description:

To submit your resume, please send your resume and cover letter to [email protected] .

Remember, most job applications will ask you to apply for a job through their company hiring portal. Important! If they ask you to do that, do not submit your job application to another email.

For example, do not think that it will make you stand out by emailing the hiring manager directly with your job application.

What to include in your email application

Hiring managers want to see a short job application message along with your application attachments. Your application attachments should include the one or more of the following:

• Your resume.
• Cover letter.
• References.
• Or recommendation letters.

Is it okay to paste your cover letter?

In some cases, it's okay to make your cover letter the job application email. How do you know? If your cover letter is short, less than a few paragraphs. And is extremely targeted to the business.

If that is the case, then copying and pasting your cover letter into the email body is okay. Though, it may still be beneficial to include your cover letter as an attachment within the email, too.

How to email your job application

Here's how to email your job application.

Check your application attachments

The attachments within the email are the most important. First check that the attachments are present.

Second, check that the attachments are the correct files and versions of the file.

Lastly, check that the attachments are named properly. Use this file format:

first-last-resume-job-title.pdf

first-last-cover-letter-job-title.pdf

This format helps the hiring manager. Hiring managers receive thousands of applications. And when they download or view these files, if they aren't named properly, they could get lost.

Make sure to read the job application requirements. And ensure that the proper assets are included. This could be reference letters, links to projects, or other requirements of the application.

Write your email

Always address the hiring manager by name. Usually, on the job description, the hiring manager's name is going to be mentioned.

When the hiring manager's name is mentioned, start your email like the following:

Dear Mr. Smith,

When the hiring manager's name is not mentioned, it's okay to address the letter like the following:

Dear Hiring Manager,

In the first part of your email, mention the job title you're applying for. And why you'd be a strong fit for the role.

This is the first introduction of yourself that hiring manager's and recruiters are going to see. Key points to discuss could be the following:

• Career achievements that fit the job description.
• The years of experience you have in the job.
• Technical skills and soft skills that make you a good fit for the job opening.

Here is a good example of a job application emails body/message:

I'm applying for the position of Software Engineer. When I came across the job opening, I was immediately drawn to the opportunity. After reading the job description, I noticed there was reference to working cross functionally with marketing teams and sales teams. With my 10 years of professional experience in the software industry, I've worked cross-functionally in 8 of those years. I'm attaching my resume and cover letter below.

I'm including my contact information below. And I'm available to interview as soon as possible.

Pick a clear subject line

Picking a clear and concise email subject line is very important. Although, it's best not to use a subject line that seems too unique. It's best to keep this subject line functional.

For example, don't make the subject line a sales pitch. Like the following:

Increase your sales by 4X

Use a clear subject line like this, instead:

John Henry applying for Software Engineer

Here's a simple template to use for your subject line:

[First and Last Name] applying for [Job Title]

Sign the email

Ending the email is important. A professional signature and salutation is a great way to ensure proper business correspondence is made. Remember, anyone reading the email is going to judge your written communication skills.

Sign the email professionally, using your full name at the end.

Don't forget to include application attachments

Triple check that the proper attachments are included in the job application. Failure to include the attachments could result in the hiring manager having to contact you to send them again.

Proofread and send

Proofread the email once more before sending. And double check that the cover letter and resume don't have any spelling or grammar issues.

Send the email to the email address mentioned in the job posting. Remember, never send a job application email to an unsolicited email address.

How to write a job application email

Here's how to put it all together.

Email format

Your job application email should contain three paragraphs. An introduction paragraph, a body paragraph (your "sales pitch"), and a closing paragraph.

Subject line

Choose a very clear subject line that lists your full name and the job you're applying for.

Here is what that should look like:

John Smith applying for Software Engineer

Address the hiring manager by name. Make sure your cover letter and job application email addresses the hiring manager properly .

Use Mr/Ms as the primary prefixes for addressing the manager.

It will be more common that you don't know the marital status and gender preference of the recipient. Then you can use "Mx" as a gender-neutral prefix.

First paragraph

The first paragraph of the email should suggest why you're applying for the position. And what makes you a unique fit for the role.

Consider this a type of "sales pitch," where the manager is enticed to wanting to open your resume and cover letter.

Body of the email

The body of the email should reinforce the reasons for why you applied. Use career achievements, soft skills, technical skills, or other experiences to help suggest why you're passionate for the job.

If applying to an internship

When sending an internship application by email, it's okay to suggest what skills you have learned from other jobs that might fit the job requirements.

In addition, it's okay to mention what skills you'll gain from the opportunity, too.

Job application email template

Dear Mr/Ms Hiring Manager's Name —

I'm submitting my application for the role of [Job Title]. I have a strong history of helping businesses of this nature achieve the goals mentioned in the job description. And the company ethics resonate with my personal passions, which is my reason for applying for a job at [Company].

In the past 12 years I have achieved [Metric], [Metric], [Metric]. And I look forward to walking you through those achievements.

I look forward to hearing from you soon regarding this opportunity. I can be reached at [Phone Number] at your earliest convenience. I've attached my resume and cover letter for your review.

(630) 777-8746

[email protected]

Job application email sample

Dear [Name / Hiring Manager] —

I’m applying for the position of Sales Associate because I noticed your software tools fill a need in the market that I haven’t seen before. Your social media monitoring tools are something special and need the right Sales Associates to sell it. I have a strong track record of driving 4X sales per year for 3 companies.

I look forward to speaking with you,

Tips for Writing a Job Application Email

Tips for sending a job application via email.

Proofread the email

Read the email for any spelling errors, grammar errors, and general tone. Make sure not to use any unique font styles or font sizes in the email. This is not an area where you want to stand out for creativity.

A job application email is entirely functional. And should suggest why the manager should open any of the attachments included in the email.

Make the email impactful

Consider why the manager should open the email to begin with. Is there something unique that you can bring to the company? Something unique you can bring to the role? What do you do well? And what do other candidates not do well.

The email should be a type of sales pitch.

Don't make it too long

Your email shouldn't be too long. Try to make the email include three paragraphs. A short opening paragraph, a body paragraph, and a closing statement that provides your contact information and availability.

Related Hiring Resources

• Job Application Email Templates for All Jobs (8+ to Use!)

About the author

Patrick Algrim is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW), NCDA Certified Career Counselor (CCC), and general career expert. Patrick has completed the NACE Coaching Certification Program (CCP). And has been published as a career expert on Forbes , Glassdoor , American Express , Reader's Digest , LiveCareer , Zety , Yahoo , Recruiter.com , SparkHire , SHRM.org , Process.st , FairyGodBoss , HRCI.org , St. Edwards University , NC State University , IBTimes.com , Thrive Global , TMCnet.com , Work It Daily , Workology , Career Guide , MyPerfectResume , College Career Life , The HR Digest , WorkWise , Career Cast , Elite Staffing , Women in HR , All About Careers , Upstart HR , The Street , Monster , The Ladders , Introvert Whisperer , and many more. Find him on LinkedIn .

Fact checked: Our small and dedicated team rigorously evaluates every article, guide, and reference to ensure the information is accurate and factual. Learn more .

Popular Resources

35+ Phone Interview Questions & Best Sample Answers

Phone interviews have become a core part of the process when attempting to find a secured placement for an open position. Companies receive massive responses from potential candidates for any..

12+ Best Questions To Ask A Recruiter

Concerning a job search, you might receive numerous offers from your recruiters. Before you choose one, you need to assess all the conditions, for which it is vital that you know everything associated with the offered position..

Answering "What Makes You Unique" In A Job Interview

Answering this question during a job interview requires more than knowing why you are unique as an individual. Yes, the true scientific answer is made up of two main components: your..

250+ Ice Breaker Questions for Life

An ice breaker question is a question that’s asked from one person to another person in order to act as a conversation starter. It brings a connection...

10 Best Answers to "What Motivates You?"

Open-ended questions like “What motivates you?” can elicit a deer-in-the-headlights reaction from job candidates if they are unprepared. It’s a broad question and can leave the interviewer..

Answering "How Did You Hear About This Position" In An Interview

A lot of interviewers ask this question - how did you hear about this position? This way they can judge you if you are a passive or an active job seeker..

8 Best Thank You Emails After an Interview (Samples, Free Templates)

Writing a thank you note after an interview says a lot about you as a potential employee. Most notably, it says that you care about the opportunities presented..

Writing a Resignation Letter (How To Write It, Samples)

Writing the perfect letter of resignation is more of an art than it is a science. And we’re going to cover how to master that art form in this full guide..

How to End a Letter (Example Salutations, Sign Off's)

Knowing how to end a business note or email is an important skill to develop. It helps portray a sense of confidence, respect and tone to your message..

Help us by spreading the word

• Internships
• All Resources
• Cover Letters
• Job Descriptions
• Interview Questions
• Most popular
• Trivia Questions
• Trivia Questions for Kids
• 555 Meaning
• 333 Angel Number Meaning
• Most Likely To Questions
• Good Pick Up Lines
• Cute Names to Call Your Boyfriend
• Funny Insults
• Paranoia Questions
• 777 Angel Number Meaning
• Bad Pick Up Lines
• Funny Names

© Copyright 2024, algrim.co - Terms & Conditions - Privacy Policy - Illustrations

Ultimate Guide to Writing Your College Essay

Tips for writing an effective college essay.

College admissions essays are an important part of your college application and gives you the chance to show colleges and universities your character and experiences. This guide will give you tips to write an effective college essay.

Want free help with your college essay?

UPchieve connects you with knowledgeable and friendly college advisors—online, 24/7, and completely free. Get 1:1 help brainstorming topics, outlining your essay, revising a draft, or editing grammar.

Writing a strong college admissions essay

Learn about the elements of a solid admissions essay.

Avoiding common admissions essay mistakes

Learn some of the most common mistakes made on college essays

Brainstorming tips for your college essay

Stuck on what to write your college essay about? Here are some exercises to help you get started.

How formal should the tone of your college essay be?

Learn how formal your college essay should be and get tips on how to bring out your natural voice.

Taking your college essay to the next level

Hear an admissions expert discuss the appropriate level of depth necessary in your college essay.

Student Stories

Student Story: Admissions essay about a formative experience

Get the perspective of a current college student on how he approached the admissions essay.

Student Story: Admissions essay about personal identity

Get the perspective of a current college student on how she approached the admissions essay.

Student Story: Admissions essay about community impact

Student story: admissions essay about a past mistake, how to write a college application essay, tips for writing an effective application essay, sample college essay 1 with feedback, sample college essay 2 with feedback.

This content is licensed by Khan Academy and is available for free at www.khanacademy.org.

This browser is no longer supported.

Upgrade to Microsoft Edge to take advantage of the latest features, security updates, and technical support.

Tutorial: Create a Windows Forms app in Visual Studio with C#

• 12 contributors

In this tutorial, you create a simple C# application that has a Windows-based user interface (UI). The app has a button that changes the text of a label. This simple app has all the components used for more complicated Forms programs.

• Create a C# project in Visual Studio
• Create an application
• Run your application

Prerequisites

• If you don't have Visual Studio, go to the Visual Studio downloads page to install it for free.
• The .NET desktop development workload. To verify or install this workload in Visual Studio, select Tools > Get Tools and Features . For more information, see Change workloads or individual components .
• If you don't have Visual Studio, go to the Visual Studio 2022 downloads page to install it for free.

Create a project

First, create a C# application project. The project type comes with all the template files you need to create your application.

Open Visual Studio.

On the start window, choose Create a new project .

In Create a new project , choose the Windows Forms App (.NET Framework) template for C#.

You can refine your search to quickly get to the template you want. For example, enter Windows Forms App in the search box. Next, choose C# from the language list, and then choose Windows from the platform list.

In Configure your new project , for Project name , enter HelloWorld and select Create .

Visual Studio opens your new project.

On the start window, select Create a new project .

In Create a new project , select the Windows Forms App (.NET Framework) template for C#.

You can refine your search to quickly get to the template you want. For example, type Windows Forms App in the search box. Next, select C# from the language list, and then select Windows from the platform list.

In the Configure your new project window, in Project name , enter HelloWorld , and select Create .

Create the application

After you select your C# project template and name your project, Visual Studio opens a form for you. A form is a Windows user interface. Create a Hello World application by adding controls to the form. Then run the app .

Add a button to the form

Choose Toolbox to open the Toolbox flyout window.

If you don't see the Toolbox option, you can open it from the menu bar. Select View > Toolbox or Ctrl + Alt + X .

Choose the Pin icon to dock the Toolbox window.

Choose the Button control and then drag it onto the form.

In the Properties window, locate Text , change the name from Button1 to Click this , and then select Enter .

If you don't see the Properties window, you can open it from the menu bar. Select View > Properties Window or F4 .

In the Design section of the Properties window, change the name from Button1 to btnClickThis , and then select Enter .

If you alphabetized the list in the Properties window, Button1 appears in the (DataBindings) section, instead.

Add a label to the form

After you add a button control to create an action, add a label control to send text to.

Select the Label control from the Toolbox . Then drag it onto the form and drop it beneath the Click this button.

In either the Design section or the (DataBindings) section of the Properties window, change the name of Label1 to lblHelloWorld . Then select Enter .

Add code to the form

In the Form1.cs [Design] window, double-click the Click this button to open the Form1.cs window.

Alternatively, you can expand Form1.cs in Solution Explorer , and then choose View Code or select F7 from the shortcut menu on Form1.cs .

In the Form1.cs window, after the private void line, type or enter lblHelloWorld.Text = "Hello World!"; as shown in the following screenshot.

Select Toolbox to open the Toolbox flyout window.

Expand Common Controls and select the Pin icon to dock the Toolbox window.

Select the Button control and then drag it onto the form.

In the Properties window, locate Text . Change the name from button1 to Click this , and then select Enter .

In the Design section of the Properties window, change the name from button1 to btnClickThis , and then select Enter .

If you alphabetized the list in the Properties window, button1 appears in the (DataBindings) section, instead.

In either the Design section or the (DataBindings) section of the Properties window, change the name of label1 to lblHelloWorld . Then select Enter .

Alternatively, you can expand Form1.cs in Solution Explorer , and then choose Form1 .

Run the application

Select the Start button to run the application.

Several things happen. In the Visual Studio IDE, the Diagnostics Tools window opens, and an Output window opens, too. But outside of the IDE, a Form1 dialog box appears. It includes your Click this button and text that says Label1 .

Choose the Click this button in the Form1 dialog box. Notice that the Label1 text changes to Hello World! .

Close the Form1 dialog box to stop running the app.

Several things happen. In the Visual Studio IDE, the Diagnostics Tools window opens, and an Output window opens, too. But outside of the IDE, a Form1 dialog box appears. It includes your Click this button and text that says label1 .

Select the Click this button in the Form1 dialog box. Notice that the label1 text changes to Hello World! .

Related content

Congratulations on completing this tutorial. To learn more, continue with the following tutorial:

Tutorial: Create a picture viewer

Or try these other tutorials:

• C# tutorials
• Visual Basic tutorials
• C++ tutorials

Was this page helpful?

Coming soon: Throughout 2024 we will be phasing out GitHub Issues as the feedback mechanism for content and replacing it with a new feedback system. For more information see: https://aka.ms/ContentUserFeedback .

Submit and view feedback for

Additional resources

How to write an application letter for a job in 2022

Are you looking for the right way to write an ideal application letter to land the best-suited job? You are in the right place. Read our article on how to write a job application in 2022 to land your dream job.

An application letter is a standalone document you submit to your potential employer to show an interest in a vacant job position. An application letter for a job paints a clear picture of your skills and genuine interest in a specific job to an employer. It contains more information about your professional skills and work experiences.

It is a separate document from a resume or CV that gives more information about your professional skills, work experience, and personal qualities. In other words, an application letter serves as a complement to a resume or CV.

To get a good job, you need to write an interesting application letter that will catch the attention of your potential employer and make them want to call you for an interview.

If you are applying for a job with or without experience, our article on how to write an application letter for a job in 2022 will help you on your way to success.

To write an ideal application letter or cover letter for a job in 2022, follow the procedures below:

  1. Write an informative header

Every ideal application letter starts with a header. The header of your application letter covers everything about your contacts, including your name, residential address, phone number, and email address.

You must include all of the above information in the header of your application letter. This gives the hiring manager information about you and a way to get in touch with you for an interview. Below your contact details, write the location and date of your letter.

In this digital age, some people send application letters via email. In that case, you can attach your name and contact information at the bottom of the email instead.

  2. Include the recruiter's details

After writing your contact details, you are to follow up with the name of the hiring manager, the position of the hiring manager, the company's name, and the company's address.

You can address the hiring manager by name if you know it, but if you don't, you can address them by title, such as "dear hiring manager" or "dear recruiter." But it's usually a good idea to look up the hiring manager's name so you can address them by name. This makes your application sound more personal. LinkedIn is a great professional space for obtaining such information.

  3. Write a proper introduction

A proper introduction in your application letter determines whether the reader will continue reading your application. Your choice of words in the opening of your application letter must pique the reader's interest so that they continue reading.

Express your interest in the job and mention where you heard about it. If you were referred by a company employee or someone with a high profile, make sure to include their name.

  4. Explain why you are the best candidate for the job

In another paragraph, tell the hiring manager how your skills make you a good fit for the job. Talk about the company's problems and how you would help fix them. This will show the recruiter that you are genuinely interested in their company and have conducted in-depth research about them.

Elaborate more on your key qualifications and what you have accomplished in the past few years. Include your position and job experience with your previous company.

Keep in mind that an ideal application letter should show potential employers why you should work for them or why you are the best candidate for the job. It must set you apart from the hundreds of other applicants for the same position.

  5. Write what motivates you to join the company

Every future employer wants to know why you want to join them and what interests you in their projects. They want to know you will be ready to work with them for a long time.

Your potential recruiter would want to hear about your passion for the job that made you apply for it and what you intend to achieve with them in the future. You could also briefly talk about your personality.

  6. Show your eagerness to advance in the hiring process

Focus on discussing the job rather than expressing gratitude. You could conclude by expressing your eagerness to discuss further the company's project, which requires your expertise.

Focusing on the job would make the hiring manager understand you have a lot more to say about the job.

  7. Add a formal closing salutation

At the end of your application letter, in your salutation, close it formally using words like "thank you, best regards, kind regards, respectfully yours, with best regards, and sincerely."

  What makes a good application letter?

To write an application letter that will make you stand out among other applicants, you must pay attention to the way you structure your writing. What makes an application letter stand out is its ability to:

• Demonstrate your interest in the role you are applying for
• Highlight your key strengths
• Show the positive impacts you've made in your previous roles
• Show your passion for the company
• Communicate what you plan to achieve if given the position

  More tips for writing a good application letter

A well-written application letter takes little time to be recognized among others. When writing an application letter, there are tips that can help you gain the attention of the hiring manager, such as:

  1. Pay attention to job openings

Have you applied for a hundred jobs and not been called in for an interview? Maybe you are applying for the wrong job.

Every job vacancy requires specific skills, which you must confirm before applying. Only send a job application letter to companies that require a skill you are familiar with.

  2. Research the company

You should research the company you are applying to before writing an application letter. In your application letter, let the hiring manager know you are familiar with their company, how their project aligns with your dream, and how you intend to contribute to their growth.

Every company has flaws or issues they are tackling, and each hiring manager wants to know how you can help them improve in those areas. In your application letter, you could talk about a time when you faced similar problems and how you dealt with them.

Also, research the name of the company's hiring manager for which you are applying for a position.

  3. Keep it brief

When writing an application letter, keep it to two pages or less. Make your cover letter as brief as possible. A hiring manager may have a hundred application letters to review and only need to spend a little time on them.

  4. Proofread your application letter

Proofread your application letter to catch any mistakes after you have finished writing it. Proofreading entails checking for misspellings and places where punctuation marks must be added.

Check to see if your sentences are well-structured, then refine them to a standard level.

  Application letter template

Follow our application letter template below to guide you in creating an ideal application letter.

  1. Heading

Your Address

Your Phone number

Your Email Address

  2. Details and salutation of hiring manager

Name of the hiring manager

Hiring manager's title

Company name

Company address

Dear (Name of the hiring manager),

  3. Body of the application letter

Paragraph 1: Introduction

Paragraph 2: Description of your key qualification and abilities

Paragraph 3: State your motivation

Paragraph 4: End your application letter strongly to help you move to the next chapter of the hiring process.

  4. Closing

Close formally with a closing remark that goes like this

"Sincerely,

Your surname and first name."

If you want more tips on how to wow your potential employers, read this exclusive piece on how to write a captivating CV.

• 4 Best Project Management Certifications for Beginners with Top Salary
• 2024 PMP Exam and PMP Certification-What You Must Know
• PMP Certification Success Roadmap in 9 Steps
• PMP Certification Cost – The Complete Guide
• Is PMP Worth It, PMP Salary, and 10 PMP Certification Benefits
• CAPM vs PMP: Which Certification Is Right For You?
• PMP vs PRINCE2 Certification – What’s the Difference?

How to Fill in Your PMP Application (Examples, Tips, Steps)

Complete guide for pmp project description.

• PMP Project Description Reference Sheet
• PMP Audit Preparation
• How to complete PMP Application without project manager job title
• PMP Project vs Operation Demystify
• Process Group and Knowledge Area Mapping Game
• PMP Flashcards
• PMP ITTO Review
• PMP ITTO Game
• Org Structure Game
• Top 9 PMP Study Tips to Ace PMP Exam in 2024
• PMP Online Proctored Exam Definitive Guide: Tips, Checklist, and More
• 5 TIPS for Surviving PMP Exam at Pearson VUE Testing Center
• PMP Formulas Cheat Sheet
• Must-Know for PMP Exam Change in 2020/2021
• Project Charter vs Project Plan (Example, Template)
• What Is WBS?
• PERT Chart vs Gantt Chart: Pros, Cons, Comparison, Examples
• What Is a Risk Register: Example, Free Template & Tips
• What is an Affinity Diagram: Example, Tips for Creating One
• Complete PMP Resources & Free Exam Questions
• Best PMP Boot Camp Online Reviews
• Best PMP Exam Simulators

Best PMP Study Guide Reviews and PMP Exam Prep Books

• PM-Prepcast Review

PM Prepcast Coupon Code [April 2024]

• Project Management Academy Review & Coupon
• Velociteach Review & Coupon
• PMTraining Review
• Edureka Review
• Master of Project Academy Review
• KnowledgeHut PMP Review
• Simplilearn Review
• About PMAspirant
• How You Can Help

• Helping PMP candidates with application and exam
• Application

Last Updated on April 1, 2024 by andrewshih

Are you looking for PMP application examples or tips and tricks for completing the PMP application?

Completing the application can be daunting and confusing, especially when going through the process for the first (and hopefully the only) time. This article will provide you with PMP application assistance and walk you through the PMP application process step by step.

There are several pieces to the application that you will need to complete before you can submit it for PMI’s approval. We will go over the process and provide you with tips and real PMP experience examples to help you complete the application.

Let’s get started!

Process Overview

Process faq, pmp application changes in 2020/2021, atp program rollout in 2021, pmp application requirements faq, access pmp application form, filling out the pmp application, pmp application academic education, pmp application professional education, pmp application experience, pmp application exam detail, review & submit pmp application, pmp application review time, how to check pmp application status, pmp application audit, pm prepcast exam simulator, lastly – if you need more help.

Disclaimer :  PMAspirant is affiliated with PM-Prepcast, Udemy, and other project management training providers. I f you choose to make a purchase, we may earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you. Please review the full  affiliate disclaimer . 

PMP Application Process

The chart below from PMP PMP Handbook shows the overall flow of the PMP Certification process:

Completing the PMP application is the first step in the PMP Certification process. We will go over the PMP application process step by step below, but in a nutshell, this is what we will cover:

• What are the PMP application requirements? You need to make sure you meet the minimum requirements before committing time and resources to PMP certification.
• Complete the PMP application : You will learn the tips, resources, and find PMP experience examples to show you how to fill out the application easily.
• Submit, review, check status, and audit the PMP application : We will cover things to watch for during the final steps of the application process.

Is there a PMP application fee?

Unlike other certifications, there is no PMP application fee. Yes, the PMP application costs nothing to get started. You will only need to pay PMP Exam fee once your PMP application is approved.

One money-saving tip I would recommend is you should consider joining PMP membership before you pay for the PMP exam. The discount you get for paying for the PMP Exam and books is well worth it.

Is PMP worth it?

It takes time and resources to earn the PMP Certification, so make sure you are ready to commit. If you are not sure, check out this article where you will find the PMP Average salary from PMI’s most recent survey and 9 benefits of PMP certification.

What Are the PMP Application Requirements?

PMI requires all candidates to satisfy the requirements before taking the PMP exam. 

In summary, here are the minimum requirements, depending on if you have a 4-year college degree or not.

*Leading and directing the project as identified with the tasks, knowledge, and skills specifically in the Project Management Professional Examination Content Outline .

Most of the PMP candidates have a 4-year college degree and thus require 3-year project management experience and completion of 35-contact hours.

Please be aware that PMI made a few important changes to the PMI application in June 2020. You will be glad to know that PMI actually simplified the application. Here are a few key changes:

• PMI removed the 4500 (or 7500 without a 4-year college degree) hours of project management experience as part of the requirement.
• PMI no longer restricts project descriptions to 550 characters.
• PMI allowed CAPM holders to waive the 35 contact hour requirement.
• PMI introduced a new path for PMP candidates with GAC accredited programs with only 2-year work experience.

In 2021, there is also a change in how PMP aspirants can earn the 35 contact hours required for PMP certification.

PMI rolled out Authorized Training Partner (A.T.P.) in 2021. Many of the most reputable training providers are now ATP. The A.T.P. can no longer provide their on-demand course as a result of this change.

PMI will be the official provider of the on-demand PMP course, and ATP will provide live classes to teach the course material provided by PMI.

Learn more about the PMP exam change in 2020/2021 .

What is GAC Accredited Program?

The Global Accreditation Center (GAC) for Project Management Education Programs is an independent academic accreditation body with project management and related programs at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels.

You can access the directory of GAC .

If you graduate from a GAC-accredited degree program, you will receive a 12-month credit toward the work experience requirement. Also, you can use the GAC coursework to fulfill the 35 education contact hour requirement.

Learn more about PMI GAC for Project Management Education Program .

Do I need to have a project management job title?

One of the common work experience questions is whether you need to have a project management job title in order to qualify for the work experience.

What really matters is whether you have spent time leading, managing, or directing projects, and  you do not need to have a Project Management job title  in order to qualify for the work experience;  it is what you do that matters. 

If you have PMP experience, but do not have a Project Management title,  this article  may help.

What qualifies as PMP experience?

While the job title doesn’t matter, you will need to be able to demonstrate the following with your work experience.  According to PMBOK guide:

• Perform their duties under general supervision and are responsible for all aspects of the project for the life of the project.
• Lead and direct cross-functional teams to deliver projects within the constraints of schedule, budget, and resources.
• Demonstrate sufficient knowledge and experience to appropriately apply a methodology to projects that have reasonably well-defined project requirements and deliverables.

The work experience can be any of the process groups (Initiate, Plan, Execute, Monitor/Control, Close).

For example, you can negotiate and be closing a sales contract and use various techniques outlined in the PMBOK guide.  One project does not have to cover all the domain areas, but PMI does expect that you have project-leading or management experience that covers all 5 process groups.

How to Complete PMP Application

To get started with your application, simply navigate to Project Management Professional (PMP) page, and you will be greeted with “Apply for PMP Certification.”

You will need to complete and submit the PMP application online.

Keep in mind that once you begin the PMP online application, you will have  90 days  to complete it.

There are 3-parts to filling out the application

• Academic & Professional Education
• Work Experience
• Exam Details

We will go over each of the sections in order. However, I will focus my attention on the PMP Application Experience section.

The most challenging part for most PMP aspirants is the work experience section, where I will

• Take a deep dive to provide tips
• Share PMI-approved PMP application examples provided by PMP aspirants
• Show how you can write the project description easily

Academic Education is straightforward. Simply complete it with the school you attended. The school you attended will dictate the number of years of project management experience needed to complete the application.

What is Professional Education for PMP Application?

As one of the PMP application requirements, the PMP aspirant must complete relevant professional education in project management. A total of 35 contact hours of project management training must be completed and verified.

What are 35 contact hours for PMP?

One contact hour is equivalent to 60 minutes of qualified project management training.  Completing 35 contact hours is required for completing the application and applying for PMP certification.

You may also be aware of the Professional Development Unit (PDU).  PMI delineates the professional management learning before and after PMP certification; the project management training before the PMP certification is called the contact hour, and PDU after earning the PMP certification.

How to get 35 contact hours for PMP Application Professional Education?

Unless you have prior project management training that satisfies the 35 contract hour requirement, PMP aspirants will follow one of the four paths to earn 35 contact hours and prepare for the PMP Exam:

PATH #1: Take PMI’s on-demand course

If you prefer the official on-demand course, PMI is the provider that offers the  official on-demand PMP course .  The cost of the on-demand course is $699 for PMI members and $799 for non-members.

To accompany the on-demand learning, you will need to invest in a quality PMP exam simulator such as PM-Prepcast , which is highly recommended on Reddit by PMP aspirants who pass the PMP Exam. Make sure you check out the latest PM-Prepcast  coupon code .

You may need a study guide to help you prepare for the PMP exam. You can find the review for the popular PMP study guides and a list of PMI’s published book references with this  PMP book resource.

The total cost for the on-demand course, PMP Exam Simulator, and a study guide will be around $950, not too far off from taking the boot camp course. This is the least popular path because it’s pricy with the least value.

PATH #2: Take ATP’s live virtual training course

Alternatively, you can opt for live PMP boot camp online training with a live instructor and a supportive learning environment.  The PMP boot camp training will typically cost between $1000 to $2000.  A few popular ATP include  PMTraining , Project Management Academy , and  GreyCampus .  Or you can check out the  PMP boot camp comparison chart  side by side.

Once you complete the 35 contact hours of training, you will receive the certificate of completion from your training provider, and you can enter your training information.

Most ATP may sweeten the boot camp training package by including the PMP exam simulator, study material, PMP application assistance, or exam-pass guarantee.

While it is a bit pricier than PMI’s on-demand course, you are getting a lot more value from the boot camp online training.

PATH #3: Take non-ATP on-demand course

If your company is not going to sponsor your PMP certification and you have a limited budget, you can still opt for non-ATP courses and still earn 35-contact hours. Also, i f you are not sure if you have accumulated enough contact hours from schools and employment training, this affordable course can be a great “Plan B” option.

By far, this is the most popular option amongst PMP aspirants, and Udemy offers top-rated courses at a very affordable price from amazing instructors. Udemy often offers deep discounts, and the prices do fluctuate frequently without notice, please use the link to find the latest discount price.

PMP Certification Exam Prep by Andrew Ramdayal

Price: 94.99

Andrew Ramdayal’s PMP course has emerged as the favorite Udemy course amongst PMP aspirants.

The students find the “project manager mindset” section very helpful for learning to pick the right choice on the exam. The training style is engaging and easy to understand. The course also included 400 exam-like questions.

PMP Exam Prep Seminar by Joseph Phillips

PRICE: 109.99

Joseph Phillips Exam Prep course is another course that is highly recommended among PMP aspirants. The instructor is knowledgeable and the course is well organized.

PATH #4: Take non-ATP on-demand course with an exam simulator discount package

Another popular option is to take advantage of the discount when buying the on-demand course and the PMP exam simulator together. PM Prepcast has the most highly rated PMP Exam simulator when you get savings when you buy its Elite or Elite PLUS courses and the exam simulator together.

PM PrepCast Basic

The PrepCast Basic is a self-paced set of recorded video lessons that satisfies 35 contact hour requirements and can be accessed online or downloaded to a mobile device such as laptops, tablets, or smartphones using a podcast app. Learn More .

PM PrepCast Elite

In addition to the on-demand training lessons, this package gives you 90-day access to the highly-rated PM Exam Simulator so you can practice what you have learned. You will get a $79 bundle savings with the Elite package. Learn More .

PM PrepCast Elite PLUS

The PM PrepCast Elite Plus includes everything in the Elite package, plus the PM StudyCoach Guidebooks, and the PM Formula Guides. You will get a $117 bundle savings with the Elite PLUS package. Learn More .

Once you complete the academic & professional education, the next step is to complete the experience section.

If you have a 4-year college degree, you will need to demonstrate you have at least 3 years of project management experience. Most of the PMP aspirants will write up several projects to meet the 3-year project management experience qualification.

This is the most difficult part of the application, so take the time necessary to carefully and thoroughly complete the experience section.

PMP application experience field description

• Project Title : it should be concise and unique.
• Organization : Where the project was carried out.
• Job Title : Your job title at the organization.
• Functional Reporting Area : Pick a functional area that most resembles your team.
• Organization Primary Focus : Industry that best fits your organization.
• Approach/Methodology : Choose from Traditional (Waterfall), Agile, or Hybrid
• Project Team Size : Pick the range of team members involved in the project.
• Project Budget (in USD) : Give your best estimate of the budget.
• Project Dates : Provide the start and end date of the project. You can also select “In Progress” if the project is ongoing.
• Project Description :  Provide a high-level description that summarizes your experience and includes the project objective, role, responsibilities, and outcome.  A typical response is 200 to 500 words.

Writing the PMP application project description is where most PMP aspirants struggle and looking for assistance. To help you write your own project description, I will organize the information as follows:

• Show you the PMP application examples .
• Offer PMP application tips
• Help you pick the projects and with a few more tips
• Give you a PMP Application template
• The resource to help you write the PMP application project description.

PMP application experience FAQ

Pmp application examples.

Here are two PMP experience examples graciously provided by PMP aspirants whose application was approved by PMI. The samples are only meant to provide guidance, and you should not copy word for word from the samples.

It may look a bit overwhelming writing such a long project description for each of your PMP application experiences. Don’t worry, it’s not as hard as it seems, and you will be writing like a pro shortly.

PMP application example #1

PMP application example #2

If you need more inspiration and samples, you can find more PMP application experience examples under the comment section of the Complete Guide for PMP Project Description .

PMP application tips

In this video, I shared the tips for PMP application and laid out the foundation on how you can write your PMP project description experience easily:

In a nutshell:

• Prioritize and write the longest project first . It will minimize the number of projects you have to write.
• Utilizing the checklist and tips provided by PMI . PMI offers PMP application tips and a checklist to help you complete the application.
• Leverage the verbiage of project methodologies and other sources that PMI already provided . I collected the verbiage in the PMP project description reference sheet in one place to make it easier for you.

Step 1: Pick the projects to write

The first step is to organize your projects and timeline as shown in the video and decide which projects to document on the application.

You know about prioritizing and picking the longer projects first. Here are additional considerations when you pick the projects:

• Make sure what you write is a projec t, not an operation . Make sure you understand the difference between a project and an operation . PMI defines a project as “a temporary endeavor to create a product, service, or result.”
• Pick projects that you manage and lead the project . You should select projects in that you took a leadership role and managed the project, not just a participant or coordinator role.

PMP Application Overlapping Projects

If you have projects that overlap the timeline, you should still write a separate PMP application experience for each project. PMI will automatically discount the overlap when aggregating the month of your work experience.

Prepare for PMP Application Audit (just in case)

While the application no longer asks you to include who will review your application when your application is audited, it will be a good idea to plan ahead. You can have a different reviewer per project.

You want to avoid the situation when no one can validate your application if your application is selected for a random audit.

• Designate a reviewer per project . It would be best to choose someone familiar with your project, and mostly this person will be your direct manager or your colleague.  It is also a good idea to have a backup person in mind. You will need to obtain the contact information if they are no longer working for the company.
• Contact and inform your reviewer ahead of time . Give your contact a heads up that you are working on PMP certification, and you may need him or her to validate your project(s). It’s a good idea to make sure your contact information is still valid.

Project Selection Checklist

Before we wrap up this step, here is the checklist:

• You have a list of projects enough to cover the minimum work experience requirements, discounting the months for overlapping projects.
• You have validated contact information for your reviewers, and give your reviews a heads up.
• The projects are not operations.

Step 2: Create your PMP application template

PMI provided the PMP application tips and stated the following:

Project descriptions should consist of the following:

• A brief, one-sentence project objective
• Project deliverables summarized by process areas (Initiating, Planning, Executing, Monitoring and Controlling, and Closing – abbreviations are acceptable IN, PL, EX, MC & CL)
• A brief, one-sentence project outcome

PMP Application Template :

You may also include your “Role” (typically placed under the “Objective”) for the project. The role may be useful if your job title and function do not appear to be project management-related and you want to offer a brief explanation.

If you prefer to keep all the key information in one place, you may also include the title of the project, organization, start/end month/year, a reviewer for the project, etc.

The purpose is to craft a template that works for you and includes key information to help you identify the project description, avoiding cut & paste errors when you transfer the information to the PMP online application.

We will use this template for each of your PMP application experiences. Don’t worry; you can always come back and make adjustments.

For the next step, we will just use the PMP application template above – those are the essential elements for each of the project descriptions.

PMP Application Template Checklist

• The template must have at the minimum: Obj, IN/PL/EX/MC/CL, Outcome
• Add any optional field that works for you, such as Role.

Step 3: Write the PMP application project description

Step 3.1: write the objective and outcome first..

Write a brief statement for your project objective and its outcome. Keep it concise and to the point.

Step 3.2: Write IN/PL/EX/MC/CL.

This is the core of your project description. To help you write this, you can extract the project methodologies from the PMP project description reference sheet .

Simply extract the methodologies that are applicable to your project and place them under the appropriate domain group in the template you created. Just focus on gathering the relevant methodologies, and don’t worry about editing yet.

Step 3.3: Write the objective and outcome.

Now it is time to read what you have put together and to do the editing. Make the necessary adjustment to make your PMP application project description flow better and reflects your project. However, you should avoid using technical jargon and abbreviations only known to experts in your industry or company.

Congratulations! You just completed your first project description for your application.

If you have similar projects, you can take what you completed, make a copy, and adjust accordingly. If not, you can always go back and repeat the steps to write another project description.

Here are a few commonly asked questions about how to fill out the PMP application experience.

What’s the minimum number of projects that should be included in the PMP application?

You will need to have at least one project that covers all 5 domain groups, or you can have multiple projects to complete the coverage of 5 domain groups.  PMI wants to see you have experience from initiating to closing the project, regardless of the number of projects you do.  You also need to have enough project experience to satisfy the minimum requirement.

The status shows I am eligible to take the PMP exam, but I didn’t receive an email about passing the PMP application.

This appears to be a common issue that impacts quite a few PMP aspirants. If your status shows you are eligible to take the PMP exam and the clock starts ticking from the 1-year mark, it’s almost certain you pass the PMP application process. However, to be absolutely sure, you should contact PMI to verify the status.

On the third and final step of your PMP application, you will need to provide your personal details, contact information, and exam preference. Very simple.

You put in a lot of effort in filling out the PMP application and probably cannot wait to submit the application.

I would suggest that you take a break to free up your mind and then download and review your entire application. Check for accuracy and make sure there are no cut & paste errors before you click on the Submit button.

Once you submit the application, you will not be able to change it at all.  If you want to change it after you submit the application, the only thing the audit team can do is reject your application, and you will need to complete the whole application again.

PMI provided this checklist that you use to validate your application.

Check PMP Application Status

After you submit the application, you will find out within a few minutes if your application is selected for a random audit. If not, it will take up to 5 business days for PMI to review your application.

You can check your latest PMP application status from your dashboard on PMI.

The majority of the applicants will not have to do the audit, so I will not include this information here. If your application is audited, please refer to the PMP audit preparation , where I answer commonly asked questions and help you get through the audit.

Next – Prepare for the PMP Exam

Once you complete the application, you will need to ramp up your effort in preparing for the PMP exam.

The key to success for most PMP aspirants is plenty of practice to get comfortable with the PMP exam questions. Among all the tools and resource out there, the number one tool I would strongly recommend is getting a Premium Exam Simulator to help you prepare for the exam.

For most people, including myself, plenty of practice is the best way to retain the learning and understand “PMI-ism.” PM-Prepcast exam simulator is the leader and is highly rated among PMP aspirants.

There are many useful features and also a dashboard to help you track progress and spot weakness. Read the full PM-Prepcast review .    

PM-Prepcast introduced 3-tier pricing model for its flagship exam simulator to accommodate different student preferences:

If you are still stuck or want me to review your project description or have specific questions, you can reach out to me with your project description.  Please use the  contact form .

If you are willing to share your project description or have a general question related to the PMP application that may benefit other PMP aspirants, feel free to comment below.   Good luck!

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

4 Best PMP Exam Simulators to Help You Ace the Test

2024 Best PMP Boot Camp Online Reviews and Comparison

POPULAR POSTS

2024 Complete PMP Resources with Free PMP Exam Questions

POPULAR CATEGORY

• Resources 17
• Application 6
• Privacy Policy
• Terms and Conditions
• Affiliate Disclaimer

• Jul 16, 2021
• 18 min read

How to fill your PMP application form like a pro? (with examples)

Updated: Mar 29

Filling out the PMP application form and getting approved by PMI is one of the first hurdles you must cross to become a PMP. Hence, it's imperative to understand how to correctly fill out the PMP application to enhance your chances of approval. In the article below, I've explained how to write your PMP application step by step and provided multiple PMP experience examples so that you are able to get your application approved on the first attempt.

Additionally, we offer a full PMP application review and rewrite service if you're feeling anxious or unsure about how to write the PMP application in 2023. We've written PMP applications for hundreds of PMP exam applicants and helped all of them get approved on the first try.

Getting to the application form

To get to the application form, first, visit pmi.org and register on their website. The registration process is pretty simple and is similar to registering with an email address and password on any other website. Once you have completed registration and logged into your dashboard under the 'myPMI' section, you need to navigate to the 'PMP application' home page and click on "Apply now for your PMP" . Once you do this, you will be directed to the page where you must start documenting your project management education and experience details.

How many sections does the PMP application have?

The PMP application primarily has four sections that should be completed: Academic Education, Professional Education, Experience, and Exam details.

#1 Completing the Academic Education Information section

The first section to complete is the academic education information section.

This is the first section where your PMP exam eligibility is reviewed . Hence, you must review the criteria for your eligibility for the PMP exam.

You must enter the highest level of education you have attained (e.g., Master's or Bachelor's degree), the starting and ending years of your education, the country, and the institution's name in which you received your education.

#2 Completing the Professional Education section

The Professional Education section is where you need to demonstrate your Project Management education, i.e., provide evidence of 35 contact hours you would've acquired from your PMP training provider.

Here are all the different ways you can earn the 35 contact hours required for your PMP exam application:

A. Physical/Virtual or self-paced courses from training companies offering project management courses.

B. PMP Blended Programme offered by CareerSprints.co m

C. PMI Authorized training partners (ATPs)

D. PMI Chapters

E. Employer-sponsored programs.

F. University or college programs related to project management/PMP.

To fill this section, you must document the course title, the name of the training provider, the start and end dates of the course, and the qualifying hours (typically, this will be 35 hours) . Make sure you have these details with you when you get to this section. When you complete a course with a training provider, they will provide you with a contact hours certificate. However, you don't have to upload your training certificates in this section but they will be needed if your application is selected for an audit.

#3 Completing PMP Project Experience section

The PMP application experience section is the hardest to fill for the majority of the candidates . PMI will scrutinize your PMP project descriptions very carefully prior to approval. Therefore, you must expect to spend the maximum time filling out this section since getting this right is your doorway to application approval.

Here are the sections you need to fill out in the PMP application:

Project Title

Organization where the project was carried out

Functional Reporting Area; the organizational department where the project was carried out.

The primary focus area of the organization.

The project approach used (Traditional, Agile, or Hybrid).

Project Team size

Project Budget

Project Start and End dates

Project Description; A high-level summary of your experience includes the project objective, outcome, role on the project, and responsibilities and deliverables. The standard response, according to PMI is between 200 to 500 words, although people have written more than 500 words of description. Be as concise as you can since someone will read your application.

While filling out the application, you cannot have overlapping months of experience. This means that if you've been working on two projects simultaneously, you can only count experience towards one project for the months they were overlapping.

For example, if Project 1 lasted from Jan 2020 to April 2020 and Project 2 from Feb 2020 to June 2020, you can count Project 1 experience from January–April, a total of 4 months, and Project 2 experience only from May and June, a total of 2 months. Adding the experience of Project 1 and 2 sums up to 6 months of total experience.

Here are some tips to consider while documenting your project management work experience:

Understand what PMI considers a project and how it differs from operational activities.

Use project management terminology as provided in the PMBOK while writing your project descriptions.

Include projects where you've played the role of a Project or Program Manager or led and directed.

Focus more on what you did on the project. Make sure to highlight what you did on the project from a leading and directing perspective. See PMP project description examples below.

Start from the current project and work backward until you've reached the total months required.

Demonstrate your project management experience and skills across a wide range of domains and activities from the PMBOK. For example, you can write specific actions you performed across the five process groups: initiating, planning, executing, monitoring and controlling, and closing a project .

Note that project management experience is required in each process area when all projects are totalled, but not necessarily on each project.

Check spelling and grammar using an app like grammarly.com .

Stick to the PMI suggested word limit.

Let's try to see two PMP experience examples written by one of the candidates. This PMP project description example contains elements of both waterfall and agile.

Project Objective: To research, design, and deliver a new IT training course to the marketing and sales teams for a global launch.

Project Outcome: An IT training product ready for global launch by the company.

Role on the Project: My role on the project was that of a Project Manager.

Responsibilities: I evaluated the feasibility of the new course and, based on the results, created a Project charter along with the sponsor. I identified major stakeholders whose involvement would have an impact on the project and vice versa. Since the project used an agile approach for product development, I gathered high-level requirements from the stakeholders, determined the 'must have' and 'should have' user stories that the IT training product must contain, and created a release schedule and project budget. I set up a risk register, identified high-level risks that we might encounter during the iterations, and a risk management plan to deal with them. I acquired the team and the resources to execute the project, facilitated the various agile meetings for the teams, removed impediments that obstructed the team, and resolved team conflicts. I closely monitored the project's progress to keep it within project timelines and budget. I also worked with stakeholders and the team to incorporate any changes required to the product during the project. I worked with the sponsor and the subject matter experts to get formal acceptance of the IT training product and handed over the product to the sales and marketing teams for the global launch.

PMP application project description example for a Predictive Project.

Project Objective: Design, Deployment, and deliver a Learning Management System (LMS) across various internal organizational departments.

Project Outcome: Provide a more user-centric and engaging learning experience for the employees of the organization.

Role on the Project: I led the successful creation and delivery of the Learning Management System (LMS)

Responsibilities: Created a business case to justify the investment in developing a Learning Management System (LMS) for the organization. Created measurable success criteria for the project and a benefits measurement plan. Identified vital project stakeholders and documented their expectations in a stakeholder register. Determined the scope, time, cost, quality, and risks affecting the project and created the project management plan with its components plans. Got the plan formally approved by the project sponsor and held a kick-off meeting before the project execution. During execution, delegated work packages to various teams, evaluated individual and team performance, and led team-building activities. Evaluated and mitigated the risks affecting the project. Provided regular project progress reports to sponsor and senior stakeholders and facilitated product approval meetings with reviewers and customer representatives. Continuously monitored the project against its performance baselines and managed the change control process in collaboration with teams and stakeholders. Gained final acceptance of the end product from the customers and solicited feedback about project quality and performance. Consolidated lessons learned into an organizational knowledge base. Archived project documents and records.

#4 Completing the exam section

The final section of the PMP application online form is the exam details section. In this section, you'll need to complete all the information related to the PMP exam and provide your contact information.

You'll need to enter the following information:

Your address

Your name in the form as it appears on your ID

Your name exactly as you want it to appear on your certificate.

Your email address

Your phone number

The country where you want to take the exam.

You'll also be asked to state if you wish to request any exam accommodations, for example, due to disability and/or other conditions that may impair your ability to take the exam.

#5 Commonly asked PMP application questions

Here is a list of commonly asked questions we encounter from candidates working on their PMP applications. We've categorized the questions under different categories such as PMP application process, 35 contact hours, project descriptions, project experience, and rejected and audited application questions.

PMP Application Process and Approval Questions

Within how many days should i finish my application once started.

Once you start the PMP application, you have 90 days to complete the online application form. You cannot cancel the application once begun.

Can I edit my PMP application?

PMP applications can be edited as often as needed before submission to PMI. Once submitted, the submission is final, and no edits are allowed.

How long does PMP application approval take?

PMI needs a maximum of five business days to review the contents of your application and provide their decision. PMI may randomly select PMP applications for audit. Should that happen, you will have 90 days to respond to PMI with the requested documents and references.

PMP 35 contact hours questions

What exactly are 35 contact hours for pmp.

PMI has mandated that students accumulate 35 contact hours to apply for the PMP certification exam. Therefore, PMP applications can't be submitted without the contact hours.

Generally, 1 hour of project management training equals 1 contact hour. Contact hours are different from Professional development units (PDUs). PDUs are required after passing the PMP to maintain your PMP designation. Contact hours must be accumulated before applying for the PMP certification exam.

How to get 35 contact hours for the PMP application professional education requirements?

If you've undergone project management training in university or college, in that case, you can use the training received to fulfil the 35 contact hours requirement. Other ways to obtain contact hours are as follows:

1. Get a PMP e-learning course .

2. Go through a PMP classroom course (usually sold as PMP boot camps of 4-5 days).

3. Register for CareerSprints.com PMP Blended course (includes application review, rewrite and help with PMP preparation)

PMP Project Description Questions

How should i write my project descriptions for the pmp application.

In general, PMP application project descriptions must contain the project's objective, a project outcome, your role on the project, your responsibilities and a short description of the project deliverables produced. However, these must be expressed in PMI language, increasing your chances of application approval. We've helped several PMP exam candidates write their PMP project descriptions and get their PMP applications approved from all industries.

Can I have similar project descriptions on my PMP application? Would it be perceived as operational work and not project work?

A project is a unique endeavour undertaken to fulfil an objective. Going by this definition, each project must be unique in some way reflected in the project objective. Showing similar projects might also indicate to PMI that most of your project work was, instead, operational work. PMI rejects applications that cannot demonstrate project work and come across as operational work.

Our application writing services include multiple PMP application project description examples from various industries, a comprehensive PMP Application Review and Rewrite and exceptional support until PMI approves your application. We've had extremely high success rates with various types of PMP applications from several industries.

PMP Project Experience Questions

How do i very if i meet pmp eligibility requirements before investing my time and money to get 35 hours of education.

A common question among PMP exam candidates is, 'Am I eligible for the PMP certification?'. There are 2 parts when it comes to answering this question.

The first thing to check is your overall experience . Do you have at least 3 or 5 years of work experience? If you have anything less than a 4 years Bachelor's Degree, then you need to have worked for at least 5 years. If you have the 4 years Bachelor's Degree or anything higher such as a Master's Degree, then you need 3 years of work experience.

The second part is to check how much of your experience is project management experience. In summary, Project Management experience involves working on a project collaborating with teams and stakeholders, making decisions and giving the project some direction. Therefore, it's critical to determine how much of your work is related to a project vs. operations. As long as you can justify that the work you did was in a 'project environment' and your 'managed' the project, you can apply for the PMP.

As part of our PMP application review service, we've helped many students determine what part of their work can qualify as a project and how much of it can be justified as project management work. If you are worried about meeting the PMP certification requirements , then feel free to reach out to us and we would be happy to help you out.

How many projects must be shown on the PMP application? Is there a minimum and maximum number?

As a minimum, at least one project must be shown on the application where you've worked across all process groups. There's no maximum limit. The sum total of the time spent on all projects shown must add up to the total project management time required for your application. As general advice, try not to show too many projects on the application because it can get repetitive and tiresome for the person reading and approving your application.

Can I have multiple projects on my PMP application? For example, would several 1, 2 or 3 months projects work?

When submitting your PMP application, you'll need to show that you've worked across all process groups in your projects. In a project that lasted just 1 month, you must ask yourself how much work you did and if you have substantial information to show for the project. Multiple projects are not a problem, but it would be better to combine related projects into a single project to show on your PMP application. There's always a possibility that too many similar projects may be perceived as operational work rather than projects. If this is a concern, we've helped several PMP aspirants evaluate their projects and combine related ones into a single project.

How do I get 4500 hours of project management work experience for PMP?

We meet several PMP exam candidates who need help to prove their 4500 hours of project management experience. Assuming all you did was project management in a calendar year, with average working hours of 2000 hours per year, you will be able to show 4500 hours within two years and a quarter. However, most candidates may not be fully involved in project management and would be spending time on operational work. Also, PMI only considers project experience accumulated within the last 8 years, not before that. Thus, you can look at all the projects you did within the previous 8 years and the time you spent managing them. Your total project experience must add up to 4500 hours of leading, directing or managing projects.

Do I need to be a project manager to apply for PMP?

No, You do not need a project manager job or project management title to apply for PMP, but you must have project management experience. For example, you could be called a 'Marketing Manager' in your company, but as long as you've managed marketing projects and can articulate that information on your application, it would qualify towards your PM experience.

Can I use industry jargon or technical terms in my PMP application?

Using general, easy-to-understand, business-like language on your application is better than technical or industry jargon. This is because your application reviewer may not know or understand a specific industry jargon commonly used in your sector. So, for example, instead of using 'Amazon EC2', it might be better to write 'virtual server.'

Would personal work experience qualify for PMP? Should it only be employment-related experience?

The PMP handbook describes qualifying project management experience as: "The experience does not necessarily have to be paid work, but it does need to be in a professional setting. Activities such as school projects or planning personal events would not qualify.'

Simply stated, personal work not done in a professional setting would not qualify. For example, organizing a party or building a deck in your home would not qualify as professional work.

Will volunteer experience or charity work qualify as projects on the PMP application?

As stated earlier, PMI accepts any work done in a professional setting. A professional setting would mean that you were responsible for various project aspects such as defining requirements, determining scope, scheduling, budgeting, team management, deliverable production, resource management, stakeholder management etc. For example, this could work such as research projects, community services, or work done for non-profits.

Since PMI is unclear in explaining what would qualify as work in a professional setting, we recommend running your application through us using our PMP application review and rewrite service to avoid audits and rejections.

Where can I get a PMP Application template for writing my PMP application?

While writing your application, it's a good idea to use a PMP application template that you can fill in before submitting your final version to PMI. As part of our PMP application review and rewrite service, we provide you with a PMP application template which you can use to document your project experience and calculate your project months. Additionally, our template contains helpful advice on the Dos and Don'ts to follow when writing your PMP application which helps you to avoid mistakes commonly made by several aspiring PMP candidates.

How can I prove my work experience as a self-employed individual on my PMP application?

As a self-employed individual who runs a small business or you're an owner/operator, you can still apply for the PMP certification. You will need to ensure that you document the projects you've either done internally within your company or the ones you've done for your clients. Internal projects could be setting up processes, improving processes, carrying out marketing or sales initiatives, product development etc. External projects could be from any industry for single or multiple clients. As a self-employed individual, you can pick up a wide range of projects you executed to run your business successfully.

Many self-employed individuals have applied for the PMP and have had their applications approved on the first try.

How can I get PMP Application examples for military work?

To qualify your military leadership experience for the PMP application, you need to translate your military project management experience into PMI language. While serving in the military, you may have worked in different areas, and therefore, you must ensure that your military project management experience is articulated properly and shows that you led and directed projects. Further, the information must be presented in an easy-to-understand language and should not seem too technical. We provide several military PMP Application examples as part of our PMP Application review and rewrite service and can also assist with writing your entire application.

How to fill out the PMP Application with teaching experience?

Like any other professional, teachers also execute projects as part of their job. For example, developing a course curriculum or improving a course curriculum is an example of a project. Teaching experience can qualify as project management experience as long as it involves using project management principles and concepts. Examples of project management work in teaching include developing plans, monitoring project progress, managing project teams, etc., and you must be able to elucidate this in your application. Kindly note that this applies to teachers, trainers, coaches or people involved in any instructional work. If you are unsure about how to translate your teaching experience into PMI language or need help with it, then you can reach out to us, and we can help you with it.

Can I include projects which haven't gone through project closure in the experience section of the PMP application? Will it affect my application negatively?

Yes, you can mention projects that are yet to be closed or haven't gone through the closing a project process on your PMP application. In this case, you wouldn't mention any responsibilities or tasks related to closing a project. However, it's important also to consider that while the entire project may not have been closed, you may have closed a major phase of the project. Therefore, you can mention tasks and activities related to closing a phase, such as releasing phase-end deliverables or other formal activities carried out to close the project.

How does PMI verify work experience on my PMP application?

For PMI to verify your work experience, PMI conducts a PMP application audit. The application audit involves contacting your references via email and asking them to confirm the project management experience shown on your application. You can list anyone as a reference on your application, such as your manager, supervisor, colleague, or anyone intimately familiar with your project management experience. Once your references validate your work experience and PMI is satisfied with the verification, they will inform you via email that you have successfully passed the audit, and you proceed to book your PMP exam.

Does an expired CAPM certification meet the exam requirements for the PMP? Do I still need 35 hours of project management education/training, or can I use my expired CAPM?

Once your CAPM credential expires, you will need to complete the training for 35 contact hours. Only if you have an active Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)® certification, the requirement for 35 contact hours of project management education or training is waived.

Since the CAPM course typically provides 23 contact hours, you would still need to accumulate the remaining 12 contact hours. However, it would make sense to enroll in a full PMP prep course or program because the PMP exam content outline differs from the CAPM exam syllabus, and PMP prep courses typically offer the full 35 contact hours in one comprehensive package.

PMP Application Rejected Questions

I was provided with a pmp application rejected response by pmi. how do i get my pmp application approved.

PMP application rejections are pretty common. For example, they may get rejected because your work experience seems more operational than project work. Here's a video that explains the ‘ 6 reasons why your PMP might get rejected '. We’ve worked with various PMP application rejected candidates and gotten their PMP application approved through our PMP application review and rewrite service. Our success rates with PMP application approvals are incredibly high.

What happens if my PMP application is rejected? Can I reapply immediately?

If your PMP application is rejected, you can reapply immediately with new project descriptions and related information. However, it's important to note that once your PMP application is denied, it will be selected by PMI for an audit and thoroughly scrutinized after you resubmit your project information. In this case, you must follow the audit process, which we've explained in answer to the question below.

PMP Application Audit Questions

Do all pmp applications get audited.

No, not all PMP applications get audited. A PMP application audit aims to verify if your educational and work experience credentials are authentic. Although all PMP applications are subject to an audit, only a minor percentage of applications may be selected for an audit. PMP application audits are generally random, but specific scenarios exist where your application may get selected for an audit. For example, if PMI is doubtful about your project management work experience, they may choose your application for an audit. In our experience, several PMP applications were rejected after an audit because PMI wasn't convinced about the candidate's work experience. In such cases, it is best to get your PMP application reviewed and rewritten by experts to avoid audits or rejections.

What happens during a PMP applicant audit?

Amongst the plethora of PMP applications received by PMI, a handful may be selected for PMI audit.

PMI does not disclose how it selects applications for audit, and the application selections are mostly random. PMP applications selected for audit are informed immediately upon application submission on the next screen and via email.

Since anyone's PMP application can be selected for audit, it's best to know what you should do if your application is chosen for an audit.

You will need to submit the following documents to complete the audit process:

Copies of your education qualifications (e.g., degree/diploma certificates).

Signatures from your supervisor(s)/references for the project(s) are recorded in the experience section.

A copy of your contact hours certificate from the training institute.

You have 90 days to provide all the documentation to PMI. The audit itself takes only 5-7 business days to complete. Ask your references to send you their signed copies of the project management experience verification, and you can pack all the documents in a single envelope and send it to PMI at this address:

PMI Attn: Certification Audit

14 Campus Blvd.

Newtown Square, PA 19073-3299

What are my references supposed to do once PMI reaches out to them for a PMP application audit?

When your application is selected for a PMI audit, your references will receive an email from PMI asking them to verify your project experience. Your references will need to click the link sent via email by PMI . They will be directed to DocuSign to digitally sign off the documents containing your work experience information . Once your references verify your PMP application experience description, PMI will approve your application within a maximum period of 2-3 business days.

What should I do if my PMP application has expired? Can I reopen my closed PMP application?

If the PMI dashboard indicates that your PMP application has expired, then you can just initiate a fresh application and enter your details all over again. PMI encourages you to complete filling out your PMP application within the 90 days window. Reopening your expired PMP application will not have a negative impact on your application but it is still recommended that you complete it before your PMP application is closed. Additionally, you can capture the information in a separate Word document, and once you are satisfied, you can later on move it to the PMI portal.

In conclusion, filling out the PMP application can simultaneously be exciting and daunting. It is exciting because you now have the opportunity to demonstrate your body of PM work, which you have accumulated over the years, and daunting because you might feel overwhelmed about how to effectively capture and document all of your valuable experience and achievements.

If you are feeling stuck while writing the PMP application, feel free to reach out to us via our PMP Application writing service . We will be happy to provide our expert guidance and support so that you can breeze through the application process and make your project management dream a reality.

With our PMP Blended Programme , the application review and rewrite are included as a free service. Additionally, we provide 35 contact hours you need for the application, all necessary materials, videos and tests and fully personalized PMP coaching until you are completely ready for the exam. The PMP Blended programme is our flagship program that has helped hundreds of students pass the PMP certification exam on the first try.

If you have further questions about PMP application reviews or the PMP Blended Programme, you can also email us at [email protected] .

Recent Posts

Key Differences Between PMBOK 7 vs PMBOK 6: PMBOK 7th Edition Insights Incl.

How to Meet PMP Certification Requirements? All your questions answered

PMP Application Audit: The Ultimate Passing Guide

Comentarios