Writing Cover Letters for University Applications [2023 Guide]
Applying to university can be a daunting experience, especially when it comes to crafting the perfect cover letter for your application. A well-written cover letter can be the deciding factor between getting accepted into your dream program or receiving a rejection letter. In this guide, we will explore the importance of a strong cover letter, its purpose, format, content, and provide tips and examples to help you craft a compelling cover letter for your university application.
A cover letter for a university application is an essential document that can make or break your chances of getting admitted to your dream program. The importance of a strong cover letter in the application process cannot be understated, as it serves to introduce you, showcase your achievements, and demonstrate your passion for the chosen program or course.
In this article, we will cover:
- The purpose of a cover letter for university applications
- The format and structure of a cover letter
- The content and elements of an effective cover letter
- Tips for writing a compelling cover letter
- Common cover letter mistakes to avoid
- Sample cover letters for university applications
By following the advice and guidance provided in this article, you will be well-equipped to create a cover letter that stands out from the competition and increases your chances of admission. So, let's dive in and learn how to craft the perfect cover letter for your university application!
Purpose of a Cover Letter for University Applications
The primary purpose of a cover letter is to introduce the applicant, showcase their achievements, and demonstrate their passion for the chosen program or course. A cover letter complements other application materials, such as your resume and transcripts, by highlighting your unique qualities and strengths that may not be evident in those documents.
An effective cover letter can also demonstrate your motivation and commitment to the program, which can influence the admissions committee's decision. For example, MIT's Career Advising & Professional Development office explains that a well-crafted cover letter can help set you apart from other applicants by providing context and a personal touch to your application.
Format and Structure of a Cover Letter
A proper format and structure are crucial for creating a professional and effective cover letter for a university application. A standard cover letter typically includes:
- Header (with your contact information and the date)
- Salutation (addressing the recipient)
- Introduction (capturing the reader's attention)
- Body (highlighting your qualifications, achievements, and passion)
- Conclusion (leaving a lasting impression)
- Complimentary close (e.g., "Sincerely," followed by your name)
Proper formatting, such as using an appropriate font, font size, and margin settings, is essential for creating a polished and professional appearance. Keep your language clear and concise, and make sure to proofread and edit your letter to ensure it is error-free.
Content and Elements of a Cover Letter
A successful cover letter for a university application should contain specific elements that demonstrate the applicant's qualifications, achievements, and passion for the program. These elements include:
- Addressing the letter to the appropriate recipient
- Crafting an engaging introduction that captures the reader's attention
- Including essential elements in the body of the letter, such as academic interests, extracurricular activities, and relevant experiences
- Writing a compelling conclusion that leaves a lasting impression
Tailoring the content to the specific university or program is crucial, as demonstrated by Seattle Pacific University's Career Services . They advise that telling stories about your skills and experiences that are relevant to the specific program can help make your cover letter more effective.
Tips for Writing an Effective Cover Letter
Following certain tips and best practices can significantly improve the quality and impact of a cover letter for a university application:
- Research the university and program before writing the letter to better understand their values and expectations.
- Showcase your unique qualities and strengths by providing specific examples and details.
- Use strong action verbs and avoid clichés or overused phrases, as suggested by Freesumes .
- Seek feedback from teachers, counselors, or peers to ensure your cover letter is polished and compelling.
- Revise and refine your letter until it accurately represents your passion and qualifications for the program.
Common Cover Letter Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common cover letter mistakes is essential for creating a strong and effective university application:
- Address the letter to the correct recipient to show your attention to detail and professionalism.
- Avoid using generic or overly broad language, which can make your letter less impactful.
- Submit a well-formatted and professional-looking letter to convey your seriousness and commitment.
- Refrain from including irrelevant or excessive information that distracts from your main strengths.
- Proofread and edit your letter to eliminate typos, grammatical errors, and other mistakes that can undermine its impact.
Sample Cover Letters for University Applications
Examining sample cover letters can provide valuable insights and inspiration for crafting a successful university application. We recommend:
- Analyzing high-quality sample cover letters for various university programs or courses
- Identifying the strengths and weaknesses of each sample
- Adapting the samples to your specific situation and application
- Using the samples as a starting point for creating your unique cover letter
- Remembering to tailor your letter to the specific university or program
With proper research, planning, and execution, a well-crafted cover letter can significantly enhance a university application and increase the chances of admission. By applying the tips and guidance provided in this article, you will be well-prepared to create a compelling cover letter that showcases your passion, achievements, and qualifications for your dream program.
As a final piece of advice, remember that persistence and dedication are key to success in the university application process. Keep refining your cover letter and learning from feedback until you have a polished and impactful document that truly represents you. Good luck on your university application journey!
Guide On How To Write A Cover Letter For A University
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Cover It Up
It's the time of year again; you have made a list of your selected colleges and will apply to them. You are about to apply, but one hurdle remains in your path; the dreaded cover letter. Many students still are unsure of how to write a good cover letter for a university. In this blog, we will tell you how to write a great cover letter for a university. We will discuss the basic template, tips, and things to remember while writing a university application letter. So let us not waste any time and dive straight into it.
What is a cover letter for a university, and why is it important?
Many of us thought of this question when we first encountered the need for a cover letter when applying for universities. A cover letter for a university is basically a one-page application that you submit alongside your CV or resume when applying to a university or college. Many universities ask for a cover letter nowadays since it provides the admissions officer with further detail on how your skill set aligns with the university, what you can bring to the institution and why you want a seat. It also shows the admissions officer your passion and suitability for the course. In addition, a university application letter is more personal than a resume and builds a relationship with the officer.
How to write a cover letter for a university?
Since we have discussed why a university application letter is important, let us now see how to write one. The structure and text volume of a cover letter for a university is determined by its five major features. In most circumstances, a university application letter should be no more than one page long and no more than 300 words long. However, those words must be carefully picked and stick to a well-defined structure. The five major features of a cover letter for a university are:
The officer will see the header first, which is precisely where you can wow them. The header is the only place of a university application letter where you can have some design choices instead of the entire letter being in black text boxes. It will help your letter look as good as it reads. The header usually includes your name , occupation , address , phone number and email .Â
2. Greeting
The greeting line of a university application letter, also known as a salutation, is where you say your greetings. In a university application letter, don't go too inventive. A simple "Hey" is obviously ineffective. Try to learn the name of the individual to whom you should address your university application letter. People enjoy reading their names , demonstrating your attention to detail and interest in this officer, showing that you've gone out of your way to determine who is processing applications!
3. Introduction
The first paragraph of your cover letter for a university introduction should include your prestigious alma mater ( the school or college you have attended ). Another possibility is that you have experience in your field. Lead with your abilities, and aim to produce a paragraph that makes the admissions officer want to keep reading.
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The heart of your pitch should be in the body of your cover letter for a university. Given the one-page limit, you have a lot of work to perform in a limited time. In this section, you must mention your top qualifications for the course you wish to apply for. Also, attempt to include the name of the university you're applying to and explain why you want to study there. Remind the admissions officer that you aren't merely sending out study applications to random colleges but want to study at this one.
5. Conclusion
A call to action (CTA) should be included at the end of your cover letter for a university, in which you urge that the admissions officers take some action as a result of your letter. You can state you're looking forward to hearing back, that you'd be happy to follow up with a phone call, or that you'd be honoured to be invited to an interview, either in person or remotely. Your desire to receive a response should indicate to the officer that you are serious about attending this university. You don't want to come across as desperate or overconfident, but you want to express your genuine desire.
If you need more in-depth understanding on how to write your cover letter, our ultimate guide to writing a cover letter will surely help you out!
Documents you will need while submitting your university application letter?
You will need to submit a few documents while submitting your cover letter for a university! The documents include the following:
- A CV/Resume
- Previous academic transcripts
- Portfolio (if required)
- A personal statement
You need to submit these basic documents, but it would be best if you verified the required documents on the university site! As you know, you have to submit your CV or resume alongside your cover letter. Many students still face problems while creating a good resume, don't worry; we will show you how to create your first resume !
Tips on writing your cover letter for a university
There are a few tips that can help you make a great cover letter for a university that can wow the admissions officer:
- Â Try to sound more human in your letter.
- Beware of the cliches almost everyone uses, so you need to think "outside the box" for this one.
- Keep an eye on your tone and ensure it's friendly , professional , and confident , but never arrogant or condescending.
- Keep your cover letter brief ; keep it point to point so the reader doesn't get bored reading it.
- Â It's a good idea to divide your introduction into the past, present, and future portions to stay organised while talking about yourself.
- Prove everything you say in your cover letter for a university by keeping the tone friendly and not arrogant!Â
- Don't just list everything you have achieved since it is already in your CV! Try to mention what new things you would achieve!
University application letter format
Your university application letter must say the appropriate things and look the right way. Choose the appropriate layout and design for your cover letter, and don't waste your golden prose on a poorly designed letter that sounds wonderful but looks horrible. You must use a legible font â nothing grand or unusual. You should use a font size of 10 to 12 points, which is large enough to read but not so large that it looks like you're creating a kid's story. Use 1-inch margins on your letter's top, bottom, right, and left sides. You must include a space between paragraphs that are not indented and keep all paragraphs to a decent length.Â
Things to keep in mind when writing a cover letter for a university
There are a few things to keep when writing your cover letter; these include the likes of spelling mistakes, grammar, poorly designed cover letters and much more. Here are a few things to remember:
-  Words are wasted. Irrelevant information, clichés, and fluff will clutter your page with unnecessary language. Use the limited space you have to write in your own words what makes you a good candidate.
- Â One of the most typical mistakes students make is wasting their cover letter by transforming their resume into paragraph form . This repetition does not help the admissions officer assess your qualifications or persuade them that you are enthusiastic about the chance.
- Â A solid cover letter might be improved by including facts about the university that you've learnt about. Learn about the university's culture and goals , and tailor your cover letter to reflect how you would be a good fit.
- Â A cover letter is not the place to give bad information about your qualifications. An interview allows the admissions officer to learn about your weaknesses. Concentrate on your strengths !
These were the ways to create a good cover letter for a university. It will take you a bit of time and practice to perfect your cover letter. Once you submit your application, you might get called upon for a university interview. If the interview is going to scare you, then don't worry our blog about university interview questions will help you run that scare away. If you are going to apply to universities in the Uk, we can help you do exactly that. Our blog on applying to universities in the UK will do that.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should a university application letter be, how do you end a cover letter for university, does a cover letter for a university improve your chances, can you be too confident in a university application letter, does a university application letter have to be perfect.
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University Student Cover Letter Samples & Examples That Worked in 2024
Embarking on the career path, the first step to success is creating a compelling university student cover letter . This powerful tool can unlock doors to internships, jobs, and exciting opportunities within your field of study.
And so, in this guide, we'll equip you with useful tips, real-life examples, and compelling templates, that'll help you get closer to your dream job. Read on and learn about:
- Creating a visually appealing header for your university cover letter
- Researching employers to craft a personalized cover letter
- Writing a compelling introduction as a university student
- Showcasing your best skills and accomplishments as a university student
- Completing your university student cover letter with a strong conclusion
- Finding the best job search resources for university students
1. How to create a visually appealing header for your university cover letter
To begin writing your university student cover letter, your first key step is to create a header.
A cover letter header serves two main purposes: to introduce you to the employer and to give your cover letter an appealing visual structure .
Within your header, you should include:
- Your name and professional title (if you do not have a professional title yet, you can use the title of the job you are applying for and add âStudentâ at the end)
- Your professional contact information
- The name of the company or organization you are applying to
Here is an example of a well-formatted university student cover letter header
Mason Wilds , Hospitality Management Student (123) 456-7890 | [email protected] | linkedin.com/in/mason-wilds
To: Hilton Head Hotels 1234 Street Address New York, NY
2. How to personalize your university student cover letter
One crucial step to take before beginning to write the body text of your cover letter is to research the employer beforehand. This gives you the opportunity to learn more about them and uncover key details about the company that you can reference throughout your cover letter .
Important information to look for during your research includes:
- Major projects, partnerships, or programs the company is involved in
- The companyâs goals, values, and requirements for staff
- The person at the company responsible for hiring and reviewing applications
Using the third piece of information, you can create a personalized greeting that addresses this specific person by name. This lets them know immediately the effort you have put into researching and tailoring your cover letter for them specifically.
Here are 3 examples of personalized cover letter greetings
- Dear Mr. John Applewood,
Dear Hiring Manager John Applewood,
- Dear Mr. John Applewood & the Hiring Department,
3. How to write a compelling introduction as a university student
Next up, you need to begin the body text of your cover letter with a compelling introduction .
To write a strong introduction as a university student, make sure to include:
- A brief overview of your academic experience (most students will have minimal professional experience, making academic experience highly important to describe in a cover letter)
- Your specialized area of expertise (such as the degree you are working toward)
- A concise statement on why you are a great fit for the position
Here is an example of a great introduction from a university studentâs cover letter
I am a junior at the University of South Carolina, with two semesters left to complete my degree in Business and Hospitality Management. As I approach my final year of school, I am seeking an internship opportunity with a major hotel chain to hone my hospitality skills and build industry connections. Having earned a spot on my universityâs Deanâs List for three consecutive years, I will bring an exceptional work ethic and commitment to excellent service to this position.
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4. How to showcase your best skills and accomplishments as a university student
Once your introduction is written and you are satisfied with it, you can move on to writing the remaining body paragraphs of your university student cover letter.
In these body paragraphs, your main goal is to showcase your top skills or accomplishments that are relevant to the job you are applying for. As well as describing these qualifications , you can also use the research you did earlier to reference specific needs of the company and how your skills meet those needs.
Here are 6 examples of skills to describe in a university student cover letter
- Communication (always describe your style of communication)
- Collaboration and teamwork
- Critical thinking
- Time management
- Responsibility
Here is an example of how to describe an accomplishment in a cover letter
As a student at the University of South Carolina, I have served as an Orientation Leader for two years, helping to bring new undergraduate students into the fold and get comfortable in their new surroundings. I recently earned the position of Head Orientation Leader thanks to my overwhelming positive reviews from new students I have mentored. Of the 300+ students I have worked with, 95% gave me a five out of five-star rating at the end of their Orientations.
5. How to complete your university student cover letter with a strong conclusion
The last step to writing your university student cover letter is to craft a strong conclusion . In this conclusion, you should include:
- The best times and days of the week to contact you
- When you are anticipating a response from the employer
- When you plan to follow up with the employer
- A formal sign-off
Here is an example of a strong conclusion from a university student's cover letter
I am honored to be considered for this position and hope to hear from you within the next week regarding this opportunity. You may best reach me at (123) 456-7890 on Mondays through Fridays from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. As I am excited to learn more about this opportunity, I do plan to follow up next Monday morning if I have not heard back about this position.
Many Thanks,
[Applicant Name]
6. Useful resources for job-seeking university students
As a university student standing at the threshold of a professional career, having the right set of resources can truly empower your job hunt. Let's explore the must-haves in your arsenal:
- University career services: Your own university is a potent resource. Career Services offices often provide resume and cover letter reviews, interview preparation, and job placement assistance. Don't overlook these gems.
- Job search platforms: From LinkedIn to Indeed , these platforms teem with job opportunities perfect for recent graduates. They also offer search filters to streamline the hunt and make it less daunting.
- Field-specific job boards: Niche job boards like Idealist (for non-profits) or Dice (for tech) cater to specific fields, making your job search more focused and productive.
- Online portfolios: Platforms like Behance or GitHub , depending on your field of study, allow you to create an online portfolio showcasing your work. This can be a powerful supplement to your university student cover letter and resume.
- Networking events: Attend career fairs, industry conferences, or university alumni events to build your professional network. You never know which connection might lead to a promising opportunity.
- Internship websites: Websites like Chegg Internships or WayUp specifically cater to students seeking internships, often the stepping stone to a full-time job.Â
Armed with these resources, you're ready to embark on the exciting and rewarding journey of your job search. Happy hunting!
University Student Cover Letter FAQ
Draw attention to your academic achievements, any relevant coursework, and transferrable skills youâve developed throughout your academic career. If you have undertaken internships or projects, summarize what youâve learned from these experiences and how they can bring value to the prospective role.
Aim to keep it concise and engaging. Typically, a cover letter should not exceed one page. Remember, it's about the quality of your words, not the quantity.
While it's fine to have a standard outline, your cover letter should always be tailored to each job application. Personalizing your cover letter for each role can show the hiring manager your genuine interest in their specific opportunity.
It's generally a good idea to include a cover letter when applying for a job. It gives you another platform to sell your skills and show your enthusiasm for the role and company.
Yes, definitely. Extracurricular activities can highlight your team skills, leadership qualities, and dedication. Remember to connect them back to the skills or qualities the job posting is seeking.
Julia Gergelova
Julia is a professional writer, translator and graphic designer. She holds degrees in translation and interpretation, and has international work experience from a number of different countries in Europe as well as China and Panama. Julia formerly taught academic writing and as a graphic designer contributed to outlets such as The Business of Business . She has a passion for lifelong learning and good coffee.
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Academic Cover Letters
What is this handout about.
The long list of application materials required for many academic teaching jobs can be daunting. This handout will help you tackle one of the most important components: the cover letter or letter of interest. Here you will learn about writing and revising cover letters for academic teaching jobs in the United States of America.
What is an academic cover letter?
An academic cover letter describes your experiences and interest as a candidate for a specific position. It introduces you to the hiring committee and demonstrates how your academic background fits with the description of the position.
What do cover letters for academic teaching jobs typically contain?
At their most basic level, academic cover letters accomplish three things: one, they express your interest in the job; two, they provide a brief synopsis of your research and teaching; and three, they summarize your past experiences and achievements to illustrate your competence for the job. For early-career scholars, cover letters are typically no more than two pages (up to four pages for senior scholars). Occasionally, a third page may make sense for an early-career scholar if the application does not require a separate teaching statement and/or research statement. Digital versions of cover letters often contain hyperlinks to your CV or portfolio page. For some fields, cover letters may also include examples of your work, including music, popular articles, and other multimedia related to your research, service, or teaching available online. Typically, letters appear on departmental or university letterhead and include your signature. Above all, a strong cover letter presents your accomplishments and your familiarity with the institution and with the position.
How should I prepare to write my academic cover letter?
Like all writing, composing a cover letter is a process. The process may be as short as a few hours or as long as several weeks, but at the end the letter should present you as a strong candidate for the job. The following section has tips and questions for thinking through each stage of this writing process. You donât need to answer all of these questions to write the letter; they are meant to help you brainstorm ideas.
Before you begin writing your cover letter, consider researching the institution, the department, and the student population. Incorporating all three aspects in your letter will help convey your interest in the position.
Get to know the institution. When crafting your cover letter, be aware of the type of institution to which you are applying. Knowing how the institution presents itself can help you tailor your letter and make it more specific.
- Where is the institution located?
- Is it on a quarter-system or semester-system?
- What type of institution is it? Is it an R1? Is it an R2? Is it a liberal arts college? Is it an HBCU? Is it a community college? A private high school?
- What is the institutionâs culture? Is it teaching-focused or research-focused? Does it privilege experiential learning? Does it value faculty involvement outside the classroom? Is it affiliated with a specific religious tradition?
- Does it have any specific institutional commitments?
- How does the institution advocate for involvement in its local community?
- What are the professional development opportunities for new and junior faculty?
Learn about the department. Knowing the specific culture and needs of the department can help you reach your audience: the department members who will be reading your documents and vetting you as a candidate.
- Who is on the search committee? Who is the search committee chair?
- What is the official name of the department?
- Which different subfields make up the department?
- Is it a dual appointment or a position in a dual department?
- How does the department participate in specific types of student outreach?
- Does the department have graduate students? Does it offer a terminal Masterâs degree, Ph.D., or both? How large are the cohorts? How are they funded?
- Does the department encourage or engage in interdisciplinary work?
- Does the majority of the department favor certain theoretical or methodological approaches?
- Does the department have partnerships with local institutions? If so, which ones?
- Is the department attempting to fill a specific vacancy, or is it an entirely new position?
- What are the typical course offerings in the department? Which courses might you be expected to teach? What courses might you be able to provide that are not currently available?
Consider the students. The search committee will often consider how you approach instructing and mentoring the student body. Sometimes committees will even reserve a position for a student or solicit student feedback on a candidate:
- What populations constitute the majority of the undergraduate population?
- Have there been any shifts in the student population recently?
- Do students largely come from in-state or out-of-state?
- Is there an international student population? If so, from which countries?
- Is the university recruiting students from traditionally underrepresented populations?
- Are students particularly active on campus? If so, how?
Many answers to these questions can be found both in the job description and on the institutionâs website. If possible, consider contacting someone you know at the institution to ask about the culture directly. You can also use the institutionâs course catalog, recruitment materials, alumni magazine, and other materials to get answers to these questions. The key is to understand the sort of institution to which you are applying, its immediate needs, and its future trajectory.
Remember, there is a resource that can help you with all three aspectsâpeople. Reach out to your advisor, committee members, faculty mentors, and other contacts for insight into the prospective departmentâs culture and faculty. They might even help you revise your letter based on their expertise. Think of your job search as an opportunity to cultivate these relationships.
After you have done some initial research, think about how your experiences have prepared you for the job and identify the ones that seem the most relevant. Consider your previous research, internships, graduate teaching, and summer experiences. Here are some topics and questions to get you started thinking about what you might include.
Research Experiences. Consider how your research has prepared you for an academic career. Since the letter is a relatively short document, select examples of your research that really highlight who you are as a scholar, the direction you see your work going, and how your scholarship will contribute to the institutionâs research community.
- What are your current research interests?
- What topics would you like to examine in the future?
- How have you pursued those research interests?
- Have you traveled for your research?
- Have you published any of your research? Have you presented it at a conference, symposium, or elsewhere?
- Have you worked or collaborated with scholars at different institutions on projects? If so, what did these collaborations produce?
- Have you made your research accessible to your local community?
- Have you received funding or merit-based fellowships for your research?
- What other research contributions have you made? This may include opinion articles, book chapters, or participating as a journal reviewer.
- How do your research interests relate to those of other faculty in the department or fill a gap?
Teaching Experience. Think about any teaching experience you may have. Perhaps you led recitations as a teaching assistant, taught your own course, or guest lectured. Pick a few experiences to discuss in your letter that demonstrate something about your teaching style or your interest in teaching.
- What courses are you interested in teaching for the department? What courses have you taught that discussed similar topics or themes?
- What new courses can you imagine offering the department that align with their aim and mission?
- Have you used specific strategies that were helpful in your instruction?
- What sort of resources do you typically use in the classroom?
- Do you have anecdotes that demonstrate your teaching style?
- What is your teaching philosophy?
- When have you successfully navigated a difficult concept or topic in the classroom, and what did you learn?
- What other opportunities could you provide to students?
Internships/Summer/Other Experiences. Brainstorm a list of any conferences, colloquiums, and workshops you have attended, as well as any ways you have served your department, university, or local community. This section will highlight how you participate in your university and scholarly community. Here are some examples of things you might discuss:
- Professional development opportunities you may have pursued over the summer or during your studies
- International travel for research or presentations
- Any research youâve done in a non-academic setting
- Presentations at conferences
- Participation in symposia, reading groups, working groups, etc.
- Internships in which you may have implemented your research or practical skills related to your discipline
- Participation in community engagement projects
- Participation in or leadership of any scholarly and/or university organizations
In answering these questions, create a list of the experiences that you think best reflect you as a scholar and teacher. In choosing which experiences to highlight, consider your audience and what they would find valuable or relevant. Taking the time to really think about your reader will help you present yourself as an applicant well-qualified for the position.
Writing a draft
Remember that the job letter is an opportunity to introduce yourself and your accomplishments and to communicate why you would be a good fit for the position. Typically, search committees will want to know whether you are a capable job candidate, familiar with the institution, and a great future addition to the departmentâs faculty. As such, be aware of how the letterâs structure and content reflect your preparedness for the position.
The structure of your cover letter should reflect the typical standards for letter writing in the country in which the position is located (the list below reflects the standards for US letter writing). This usually includes a salutation, body, and closing, as well as proper contact information. If you are affiliated with a department, institution, or organization, the letter should be on letterhead.
- Use a simple, readable font in a standard size, such as 10-12pt. Some examples of fonts that may be conventional in your field include Arial, Garamond, Times New Roman, and Verdana, among other similar fonts.
- Do not indent paragraphs.
- Separate all paragraphs by a line and justify them to the left.
- Make sure that any included hyperlinks work.
- Include your signature in the closing.
Before you send in your letter, make sure you proofread and look for formatting mistakes. Youâll read more about proofreading and revising later in this handout!
The second most important aspect of your letter is its content. Since the letter is the first chance to provide an in-depth introduction, it should expand on who you are as a scholar and possible faculty member. Below are some elements to consider including when composing your letter.
Identify the position you are applying to and introduce yourself. Traditionally, the first sentence of a job letter includes the full name of the position and where you discovered the job posting. This is also the place to introduce yourself and describe why you are applying for this position. Since the goal of a job letter is to persuade the search committee to include you on the list of candidates for further review, you may want to include an initial claim as to why you are a strong candidate for the position. Some questions you might consider:
- What is your current status (ABD, assistant professor, post-doc, etc.)?
- If you are ABD, have you defended your dissertation? If not, when will you defend?
- Why are you interested in this position?
- Why are you a strong candidate for this position?
Describe your research experience and interests. For research-centered positions, such as positions at R1 or other types of research-centered universities, include information about your research experience and current work early in the letter. For many applicants, current work will be the dissertation project. If this is the case, some suggest calling your âdissertation researchâ your âcurrent projectâ or âwork,â as this may help you present yourself as an emerging scholar rather than a graduate student. Some questions about your research that you might consider:
- What research experiences have you had?
- What does your current project investigate?
- What are some of the important methods you applied?
- Have you collaborated with others in your research?
- Have you acquired specific skills that will be useful for the future?
- Have you received special funding? If so, what kind?
- Has your research received any accolades or rewards?
- What does your current project contribute to the field?
- Where have you presented your research?
- Have you published your research? If so, where? Or are you working on publishing your work?
- How does your current project fit the job description?
Present your plans for future research. This section presents your research agenda and usually includes a description of your plans for future projects and research publications. Detailing your future research demonstrates to the search committee that youâve thought about a research trajectory and can work independently. If you are applying to a teaching-intensive position, you may want to minimize this section and/or consider including a sentence or two on how this research connects to undergraduate and/or graduate research opportunities. Some questions to get you started:
- What is your next research project/s?
- How does this connect to your current and past work?
- What major theories/methods will you use?
- How will this project contribute to the field?
- Where do you see your specialty area or subfield going in the next ten years and how does your research contribute to or reflect this?
- Will you be collaborating with anyone? If so, with whom?
- How will this future project encourage academic discourse?
- Do you already have funding? If so, from whom? If not, what plans do you have for obtaining funding?
- How does your future research expand upon the departmentâs strengths while simultaneously diversifying the universityâs research portfolio? (For example, does your future research involve emerging research fields, state-of-the-art technologies, or novel applications?)
Describe your teaching experience and highlight teaching strategies. This section allows you to describe your teaching philosophy and how you apply this philosophy in your classroom. Start by briefly addressing your teaching goals and values. Here, you can provide specific examples of your teaching methods by describing activities and projects you assign students. Try to link your teaching and research together. For example, if you research the rise of feminism in the 19th century, consider how you bring either the methodology or the content of your research into the classroom. For a teaching-centered institution, such as a small liberal arts college or community college, you may want to emphasize your teaching more than your research. If you do not have any teaching experience, you could describe a training, mentoring, or coaching situation that was similar to teaching and how you would apply what you learned in a classroom.
- What is your teaching philosophy? How is your philosophy a good fit for the department in which you are applying to work?
- What sort of teaching strategies do you use in the classroom?
- What is your teaching style? Do you lecture? Do you emphasize discussion? Do you use specific forms of interactive learning?
- What courses have you taught?
- What departmental courses are you prepared to teach?
- Will you be able to fill in any gaps in the departmental course offerings?
- What important teaching and/or mentoring experiences have you had?
- How would you describe yourself in the classroom?
- What type of feedback have you gotten from students?
- Have you received any awards or recognition for your teaching?
Talk about your service work. Service is often an important component of an academic job description. This can include things like serving on committees or funding panels, providing reviews, and doing community outreach. The cover letter gives you an opportunity to explain how you have involved yourself in university life outside the classroom. For instance, you could include descriptions of volunteer work, participation in initiatives, or your role in professional organizations. This section should demonstrate ways in which you have served your department, university, and/or scholarly community. Here are some additional examples you could discuss:
- Participating in graduate student or junior faculty governance
- Sitting on committees, departmental or university-wide
- Partnerships with other university offices or departments
- Participating in community-partnerships
- Participating in public scholarship initiatives
- Founding or participating in any university initiatives or programs
- Creating extra-curricular resources or presentations
Present yourself as a future faculty member. This section demonstrates who you will be as a colleague. It gives you the opportunity to explain how you will collaborate with faculty members with similar interests; take part in departmental and/or institution wide initiatives or centers; and participate in departmental service. This shows your familiarity with the role of faculty outside the classroom and your ability to add to the departmental and/or institutional strengths or fill in any gaps.
- What excites you about this job?
- What faculty would you like to collaborate with and why? (This answer may be slightly tricky. See the section on name dropping below.)
- Are there any partnerships in the university or outside of it that you wish to participate in?
- Are there any centers associated with the university or in the community that you want to be involved in?
- Are there faculty initiatives that you are passionate about?
- Do you have experience collaborating across various departments or within your own department?
- In what areas will you be able to contribute?
- Why would you make an excellent addition to the faculty at this institution?
Compose a strong closing. This short section should acknowledge that you have sent in all other application documents and include a brief thank you for the readerâs time and/or consideration. It should also state your willingness to forward additional materials and indicate what you would like to see as next steps (e.g., a statement that you look forward to speaking with the search committee). End with a professional closing such as âSincerelyâ or âKind Regardsâ followed by your full name.
If you are finding it difficult to write the different sections of your cover letter, consider composing the other academic job application documents (the research statement, teaching philosophy, and diversity statement) first and then summarizing them in your job letter.
Different kinds of letters may be required for different types of jobs. For example, some jobs may focus on research. In this case, emphasize your research experiences and current project/s. Other jobs may be more focused on teaching. In this case, highlight your teaching background and skills. Below are two models for how you could change your letterâs organization based on the job description and the institution. The models offer a guide for you to consider how changing the order of information and the amount of space dedicated to a particular topic changes the emphasis of the letter.
Research-Based Position Job Letter Example:
Teaching-based position job letter example:.
Remember your first draft does not have to be your last. Try to get feedback from different readers, especially if it is one of your first applications. It is not uncommon to go through several stages of revisions. Check out the Writing Centerâs handout on editing and proofreading and video on proofreading to help with this last stage of writing.
Potential pitfalls
Using the word dissertation. Some search committee members may see the word âdissertationâ as a red flag that an applicant is too focused on their role as a graduate student rather than as a prospective faculty member. It may be advantageous, then, to describe your dissertation as current research, a current research project, current work, or some other phrase that demonstrates you are aware that your dissertation is the beginning of a larger scholarly career.
Too much jargon. While you may be writing to a specific department, people on the search committee might be unfamiliar with the details of your subfield. In fact, many committees have at least one member from outside their department. Use terminology that can easily be understood by non-experts. If you want to use a specific term that is crucial to your research, then you should define it. Aim for clarity for your reader, which may mean simplification in lieu of complete precision.
Overselling yourself. While your job letter should sell you as a great candidate, saying so (e.g., “Iâm the ideal candidate”) in your letter may come off to some search committee members as presumptuous. Remember that although you have an idea about the type of colleague a department is searching for, ultimately you do not know exactly what they want. Try to avoid phrases or sentences where you state you are the ideal or the only candidate right for the position.
Paying too much attention to the job description. Job descriptions are the result of a lot of debate and compromise. If you have skills or research interests outside the job description, consider including them in your letter. It may be that your extra research interests; your outside skills; and/or your extracurricular involvements make you an attractive candidate. For example, if you are a Latin Americanist who also happens to be well-versed in the Spanish Revolution, it could be worth mentioning the expanse of your research interests because a department might find you could fill in other gaps in the curriculum or add an additional or complementary perspective to the department.
Improper sendoff. The closing of your letter is just as important as the beginning. The end of the letter should reflect the professionalism of the document. There should be a thank-you and the word sincerely or a formal equivalent. Remember, it is the very last place in your letter where you present yourself as a capable future colleague.
Small oversights. Make sure to proofread your letter not just for grammar but also for content. For example, if you use material from another letter, make sure you do not include the names of another school, department, or unassociated faculty! Or, if the school is in Chicago, make sure you do not accidentally reference it as located in the Twin Cities.
Name dropping. You rarely know the internal politics of the department or institution to which you are applying. So be cautious about the names you insert in your cover letters. You do not want to unintentionally insert yourself into a departmental squabble or add fire to an interdepartmental conflict. Instead, focus on the actions you will undertake and the initiatives you are passionate about.
Works consulted
We consulted these works while writing this handout. This is not a comprehensive list of resources on the handoutâs topic, and we encourage you to do your own research to find additional publications. Please do not use this list as a model for the format of your own reference list, as it may not match the citation style you are using. For guidance on formatting citations, please see the UNC Libraries citation tutorial . We revise these tips periodically and welcome feedback.
Ball, Cheryl E. 2013. âUnderstanding Cover Letters.â Inside Higher Ed , November 3, 2013. https://www.insidehighered.com/advice/2013/11/04/essay-cover-letter-academic-jobs .
Borchardt, John. 2014. âWriting a Winning Cover Letter.â Science Magazine , August 6, 2014. https://www.sciencemag.org/careers/2014/08/writing-winning-cover-letter# .
Helmreich, William. 2013. âYour First Academic Job.â Inside Higher Ed , June 17, 2013. https://www.insidehighered.com/advice/2013/06/17/essay-how-land-first-academic-job .
Kelsky, Karen. 2013. âHow To Write a Journal Article Submission Cover Letter.â The Professor Is In (blog), April 26, 2013. https://theprofessorisin.com/2013/04/26/how-to-write-a-journal-article-submission-cover-letter/ .
Tomaska, Lubomir, and Josef Nosek. 2008. âTen Simple Rules for Writing a Cover Letter to Accompany a Job Application for an Academic Position.â PLoS Computational Biology 14(5). https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pcbi.1006132 .
You may reproduce it for non-commercial use if you use the entire handout and attribute the source: The Writing Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
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College Application Letters: Cover Letters & Letters of Continued Interest
College Application Letters
College application cover letters support your college applications, college resume, and college application essay prompts. In combination with the other elements of your college applications, particularly your college entrance essay, college application letters help establish your âwhy.â In short, a college application letter is a cover letter for your college applications that describes your background, skills, and interest in the school. When looking at college application cover letter examples, pay attention to the values that they express. College application letters and college entrance essays are similar in that they are exercises in personal branding. When reading college application cover letter examples, pay attention to the messages they convey.
If youâre wondering how to write a college application letter, CollegeAdvisor.com has advisors who can walk you through every part of the process. If your goal is to get into top colleges, CollegeAdvisor.com can help. Weâll analyze examples of college application letters and discuss the letter of continued interest to help you craft successful applications.
In this guide, weâll break down the different kinds of college application letters you may encounter when completing your college applications. Weâll discuss the college application letter and the letter of continued interest, as well as teacher recommendation letters.
If you want to read college application cover letter samples, youâve come to the right place!
What is a college application letter?
To learn how to write a college application letter, you must first understand its purpose. Do this by checking out college application cover letter examples. College application letters and college resumes serve as introductions for your college applications. Unlike college application essay prompts, there are no specific questions to answer in your cover letter. Instead, include the essential elements of university application letters: your background, what makes you unique, and your reasons for wanting to attend that particular college. In short, what makes you, you .
As youâll see when reading example college application letters, college application cover letters are not all that different from what you would write in a cover letter when applying for a job or graduate school. The purpose of college application cover letters, college entrance essays, and college resumes is to persuade colleges that you are the strongest candidate for admissions.
College application cover letters are not the time to be shy, but theyâre not the time to be pretentious either. When reading college application cover letter examples, youâll see that thereâs a fine line. Your tone matters. In your university application letters, show your experiences and accomplishments while portraying character traits that colleges value. To get into top colleges, find a balance between being proud of your accomplishments and being humble.
College application letters â Who requires them?
Unlike college entrance essays, college application letters are required by very few colleges. However, the skills youâll develop by writing university application letters will serve you well as you approach your college application essay prompts. When researching college application examples, youâll notice that there are optional materials to submit. If youâre serious about your college applications, submit university application letters to show your interest.
College application cover letters are particularly effective if the college does not have college application essay prompts that ask you to explain why you want to attend the school and/or why you want to study your major. They are even more strongly recommended when applying to colleges that donât have any supplemental essays. Youâll see many college application cover letter examples that focus primarily on academics, but you can include so much more.
Though university application letters are rarely required, they provide an ideal way to introduce yourself. After all, youâll notice when reading college application cover letter samples that the goal is to help the admissions committee get to know you as a person. You are more than just your grades and scores.
If you want to get into top colleges that donât allow you to submit a college resume or donât provide interviews, you need to take extra steps to earn acceptance. Often, you can repurpose content from college application essay prompts that ask why you want to study your major! The college application essay format differs from that of a college application letter, but they serve a very similar purpose.
What is a letter of continued interest?
A letter of continued interest (LOCI) is a letter you send to a college when you are deferred or placed on the waitlist. So, not everyone will need to write a college application letter of continued interest.
Your letter of continued interest has three primary goals:
- Reaffirm your interest in the school.
- Provide additional context for your application.
- Discuss accomplishments on your college resume that have occurred since you submitted your application.
In this guide on how to write a college application letter, we discuss all forms of college application letters in detail. Weâll expand on the above goals to explain the strategies for writing effective letters.
Explaining teacher recommendation letters
In addition to submitting a college application cover letter and, potentially, a letter of continued interest, your application will also include recommendation letters . These letters enhance your college application entrance essay and build on answers to supplemental college application essay prompts.
Due to the shift away from standardized testing, other parts of your college applications are inevitably getting more attention in the evaluation process. When assessing your college applications, admissions committees will often rely on letters from your teachers and counselor in place of interviews.
When reading sample college application letters of recommendation, youâll observe that some are better than others. But, it can be a bit harder to find example teacher recommendations than it is to find college application cover letter examples. To ensure high-quality letters, create a plan well in advance of your senior year. Youâll want to ask teachers to write your recommendations who know you best beyond your grades. The strongest sample college application letters of recommendation speak to both your personal and academic strengths.
College application sample recommendation letters with the biggest impact typically come from teachers from your core junior year courses â math, science, English, and social studies. If thereâs a teacher from your junior year who taught you during your sophomore or senior year too, even better! Teachers who know you through multiple environments â clubs, classes, sports, or other areas â can often do the best job speaking to your growth and achievement over time.
Choose teachers who know you best
Ultimately, the most effective sample college application letters of recommendation are written by the teachers who know you best. Pay attention to the college application requirements for each school on your list. Note when reading example college application letters of recommendation who the intended audience is. Some schools require math or science teachers for STEM and business majors , while others require English or social studies teachers for humanities majors .
For example, when looking at college application sample requirements, MIT writes âOne recommendation should be from a math or science teacher, and one should be from a humanities, social science, or language teacher.â Caltech also requires one math or science teacher evaluation and one humanities or social sciences teacher evaluation.
Some applicants are tempted to send more letters than the college applications require. However, aim for quality over quantity. If you want to ask another teacher to write a recommendation letter for you, ask yourself what perspective they will bring to your college applications that isnât already covered in your college entrance essay or other recommendation letters.
Donât hesitate to provide materials to help your teachers and guidance counselor write their letters of recommendation for you. In fact, you should! When reading college application sample letters of recommendation, youâll note that they are specific and provide examples where possible. Some teachers will even have you fill out a standard form to gather information from you. So, by having additional information already prepared, you are helping them tremendously.
Here are some materials you can provide to help your recommendations augment your college applications:
- College entrance essay
- College resume or a list of your extracurricular activities and awards
- Responses to college application essay prompts.
- A sample college application letter that youâre sending to one of your colleges.
- A few paragraphs about why you want to study your major or pursue your intended career.
- Key elements of the course you took with them, such as a favorite project or unit.
When preparing materials to give to teachers, read the instructions given to recommenders by MIT. Even if you arenât applying to MIT, the information can still be helpful to know. By understanding the process of writing recommendation letters on the teacher’s side, you can see what information will help them write a strong letter for you.
Donât wait until youâre submitting your college applications to ask your teachers for recommendations. Some teachers limit the number that they will write, and you want them to have plenty of time to write a quality recommendation. To make sure you have the best recommendations , ask teachers late in your junior year or early in your senior year.
The College Application Letter
As we’ve mentioned, a college application letter is a cover letter for your college applications. It describes your background, skills, and interest in the school. Itâs different from both the college application essay format and the letter of continued interest. When reviewing college application samples, youâll see that your cover letter works together with your college resume and college entrance essay to help admissions officers get to know you.
Below, weâll discuss how to write a college application letter and walk through a sample college application letter. But remember, you want your letter to be original! Donât feel limited by whatâs in any examples of college application letters.
Do all schools require a college application letter?
No â few schools actually require college application letters. However, learning to write a strong college application letter can help you in other aspects of the college admissions process. Reading college application cover letter examples can also help you learn how to write for the admissions committee audience.
One of the ways to learn how to write a college application letter is to read sample college application letters. For instance, the same skills that help you write a strong and concise college application letter will help you in the college essay format, too.
The college application letter â What should I include?
So, you know the purpose of college application letters, but what should you include in them? Reading college application cover letter samples can help you determine this. While the college application essay format lends itself to focusing on one topic or story, college application cover letter examples highlight the importance of covering several different topics.
College application letters should contain the following elements:
1. school name and address.
You college application letter should follow formal letter formatting guidelines, which include writing the full name of the college or university you are applying to in the upper left hand corner of the letter. Try to be as specific as possible with the address you choose to use.
2. Salutation
A standard salutation is suitable for your college application letter. However, it is a great idea to do your research and use the full name of the admissions officer assigned to your region.
3. Introduction
The best examples of college application letters open strong. Thank the admissions committee for reviewing your application, and introduce yourself. Do you have a unique connection to the school? Can you hook the reader in some way to make them want to keep reading?
4. Explanation of academic interests
Your primary purpose in college is to earn a degree, so notice that in example college application letters most of the space is often devoted to discussing academic plans. Include your intended major and career path, as well as interdisciplinary interests.
5. Discussion of extracurricular interests
The college application essay format may be a place for you to discuss extracurricular involvement, so use this space to elaborate or discuss additional interests. These could be connected to your academic plans, but they donât have to be.
6. Conclusion
Express your interest in the school! Impactful example college application letters have a clear and brief conclusion that reaffirms your desire to attend and enthusiasm for the opportunity to join the next class of undergraduates. Point to specific classes, professors, programs, organizations, and aspects of the college that pique your interest. No one is going to hold you to your plan, but colleges want to see that you have one.
8. Complimentary Close
Lastly, every good college application letter should include an expression of gratitude alongside your close and your signature.
In the example of a college application letter above, there are a few key details to highlight. The letter is essentially a five-paragraph essay, with one paragraph for each of the five elements. This differs significantly from the college application essay format. In this college application example, the college application letter has clear and distinct sections, and this is very common in college application cover letter samples.
Depending on your interests and plans, you could take a more integrated approach. Youâll read some examples of college application letters that center around a theme or broad plan rather than separated into individual paragraphs.
This sample college application letter is a narrative. The applicantâs goal is to tell her story to the admissions committee. The best sample college application letters paint a picture for the reader and draw the reader into the storyline. Though it can feel like being vivid and descriptive is a waste of your space, âshowing instead of telling makes for stronger college applications.
How to format your college application letter?
When reading sample college application letters, youâll observe that they are formatted very similarly to professional cover letters. Your university application letters should be one page single-spaced. The heading should also be consistent across college application letters.
- Your full address
- The date you will send the letter
- The admission officerâs name
- The college name
- The college address
Then, open your letter with a salutation. Many examples of college application letters open with âDearâ and are addressed to the admission officer. If you cannot find your regional admissions officer, it is fine to address the letter to the admissions office as was done in the sample college application letter above. Once you write the body of your letter, donât forget your closing salutation â âSincerely,â and then your name.
Once you read several sample college application letters, youâll understand the best practices. After writing a university application letter for one school, you donât need to start from scratch for additional schools. Adapt what you have to fit the next collegeâs context and your specific interests on their campus.
Being concise is key. Your university application letter should not be redundant. If it exceeds one page, see where information you mention is repeated elsewhere in your application. In your cover letter, focus on the content that makes you as original and unique as possible. Most importantly, donât forget to proofread your university application letters!
Can a college application letter help me with other parts of my application?
Think of the college application cover letter as the glue that holds your college applications together. When writing it, think about it as your opportunity to show your best self. After brainstorming the content, youâll be better equipped to craft your candidate profile into a cohesive narrative and articulate why you want to attend the college.
Though many parts of your college applications will be out of your control by the time you reach your senior fall, the college application cover letter is one that you can control. Use it to elevate your college applications, show interest in your top schools , and make yourself stand out among other applicants!
The Letter of Continued Interest
Another form of college application letter is a letter of continued interest . In sample college application letters of continued interest, youâll see that the primary purpose is to reaffirm your candidacy for a spot in the next incoming class of undergraduates.
Though it can feel like a waiting game, the waitlist should not be passive. As soon as you are waitlisted or deferred, begin crafting a letter of continued interest. The best college application sample LOCIs are submitted promptly. Put in the effort to show youâre serious about attending.
College application example LOCIs should focus on recent updates. Likely, a lot has happened since you submitted your application, particularly if you applied by the early deadlines. Strong college application sample LOCIs convey accomplishments and experiences that either add to previously mentioned ones or provide another dimension to your application.
Letter of continued interest â When and where to submit?
Learn as much as you can by reading college application example LOCIs, but know that each schoolâs process for when and how to submit them is different. Additionally, the process may vary based on whether you were deferred to the regular decision round of admissions or waitlisted after the regular decision round. Itâs important to follow each universityâs directions.
Many schools will request that you upload your letter of continued interest to a portal. Some will request that you email it to an address â typically the admissions office. Others wonât allow you to submit any additional materials. If youâre in doubt, call or email the admissions office and ask.
What to include in your letter of continued interest?
Youâll notice common trends when reading college application sample LOCIs. Effective college application example LOCIs convey a tone of sincerity, gratitude, and enthusiasm for an opportunity to attend. A strong sample college application letter of continued interest includes four elements.
First, reaffirm your interest in attending the school if offered the chance to matriculate. Then, discuss relevant developments to your application, such as additional extracurricular accolades and continued academic successes. Sometimes, youâll see a sample college application letter of continued interest that mentions how a student improved a lower mid-year grade or discusses a new leadership role.
When reading a sample college application letter of continued interest, remember that colleges are looking for reasons to admit you, so donât be shy! Offer to answer any questions they have and provide additional info in the conclusion of your letter.
Itâs important to back up your claims with supporting evidence. Strong college application sample LOCIs provide examples and specific details, just as you would in a cover letter or essay. Be vivid and descriptive as you share your story!
However, college application example LOCIs that include overly emotional appeals or merely complement the university are unlikely to be effective. Your letter of continued interest should be all about you. Though it can be difficult to realize this when reading college application example LOCIs, recognize that the content of your letter should fit within the context of the rest of your application.
The many types of college application letters â Final Thoughts
In this guide, we covered several types of letters associated with your college process â college application cover letters, teacher recommendation letters, and letters of continued interest. Reading sample college application letters, whether they are college application cover letter samples or LOCIs, can help you do your best work. But, remember that every applicantâs college application process is unique.
Our final tips for writing college application letters:
- Proofread. College application letters with typos or grammatical errors reflect poorly on your effort and candidacy. Use a polished and professional tone in everything you write for your college applications.
- Be yourself. Though this goal can get lost in the requirements, scores, and grades, you should focus on helping the colleges on your list get to know who you are .
- Follow the requirements. Each college has their own requirements for how they want you to submit materials. Pay close attention to the details for each college as you go through the admissions process.
CollegeAdvisor.com can help guide you through every step of the college application process. Check out our blog , webinars , or register with CollegeAdvisor.com today. Good luck!
This guide to college application letters and letters of continued interest was written by Caroline Marapese, Notre Dame â22. At CollegeAdvisor, we have built our reputation by providing comprehensive information that offers real assistance to students. If you want to get help with your college applications from CollegeAdvisor.com Admissions Experts , click here to schedule a free meeting with one of our Admissions Specialists. During your meeting, our team will discuss your profile and help you find targeted ways to increase your admissions odds at top schools. Weâll also answer any questions and discuss how CollegeAdvisor.com can support you in the college application process.
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University Application Letter Example: Free & Effective
In this article, I’ll share my personal experiences and provide a step-by-step guide to help you craft a successful university application.
Key Takeaways
- Understand the University’s Requirements: Each university has unique criteria and values. Tailor your application to reflect these.
- Start with a Strong Opening: Your opening statement should be engaging and reflective of your personality.
- Highlight Your Academic Achievements: Showcase your academic strengths and relevant accomplishments.
- Include Extracurricular Activities: Universities look for well-rounded individuals. Highlight your extracurricular involvements.
- Showcase Your Goals and Aspirations: Clearly articulate your future goals and how the university can help you achieve them.
- Proofread and Edit: Ensure your application is free from errors and well-structured.
- Seek Feedback: Before submission, get feedback from mentors or peers.
- Use the Provided Template: Adapt the template provided at the end of this article to suit your needs.
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: research and understand the university’s criteria.
Before you start writing, research the university and the specific program you’re applying to. Understand what they value in their studentsâis it leadership, community involvement, or academic excellence? This will help you tailor your application to resonate with the admissions committee.
Real-Life Example: When I applied to the University of XYZ for their journalism program, I noticed their emphasis on real-world experience. So, I highlighted my internship at a local newspaper and my role as an editor for my school’s magazine.
Step 2: Crafting a Strong Opening
Your opening paragraph should grab the reader’s attention. Start with a personal anecdote, a unique insight, or a compelling fact about your field of interest. This sets the tone for the rest of your application and gives the admissions committee a glimpse of your personality.
Table: Example Openings for Different Fields
Step 3: Highlighting Academic Achievements and Skills
In this section, focus on your academic strengths. Mention awards, high grades, or any unique academic projects. Also, include skills relevant to your field of study.
List: Items to Include
- GPA (if it’s a strong point)
- Awards or honors
- Significant projects or research
- Relevant skills (e.g., coding, lab techniques)
Step 4: Extracurricular Involvements
Universities seek well-rounded individuals. Discuss your involvement in sports, clubs, volunteer work, or any other extracurricular activities. Explain how these experiences have shaped you.
Chart: Extracurricular Activity and Its Impact
Step 5: Articulating Your Goals and Aspirations
Explain why you’re applying to this program and how it aligns with your career goals. Be specific about how this university, in particular, can help you achieve these goals.
Step 6: Proofreading and Editing
A well-written application is free from grammatical errors and is well-structured. Take time to proofread your application or use tools like Grammarly. Also, getting a second opinion can be invaluable.
Step 7: Seeking Feedback
Before finalizing your application, get feedback from a teacher, mentor, or someone who has been through the process. They can provide insights and suggestions for improvement.
University Application Letter Example Template
[Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State, Zip] [Email Address] [Phone Number] [Date]
[Admissions Office] [University Name] [University Address] [City, State, Zip]
Dear Admissions Committee,
Introduction: Your Passion and Purpose I am writing to express my enthusiastic application for the [Program Name] at [University Name].
My interest in [Subject or Field of Study] was sparked by [brief personal anecdote or experience that ignited your passion in the field].
This program, renowned for its [mention specific attributes of the program or faculty], resonates deeply with my academic interests and career aspirations.
Academic Background: Showcasing Your Achievements My academic journey thus far has been a blend of diligence and curiosity. At [Your Current or Previous School], I achieved [mention any notable academic achievements, honors, or GPA if relevant].
Particularly, I found my experience in [mention any significant project or research experience], which further solidified my desire to pursue [mention the field of study or research interests]. This experience has equipped me with [mention relevant skills or knowledge gained].
Extracurricular Involvements: Demonstrating a Well-Rounded Profile Beyond academics, I have engaged in [mention significant extracurricular activities], where I developed [mention skills or experiences gained].
For instance, my involvement in [mention a specific activity] helped me hone my skills in [mention relevant skills like leadership, teamwork, etc.].
These experiences have not only enriched my understanding of [mention how these activities tie into your chosen field or personal growth] but also prepared me for the collaborative and diverse environment at [University Name].
Career Aspirations: Connecting Your Goals with the University My goal is to [mention your career or research goals]. I am particularly drawn to [University Name] because of [mention specific courses, faculty members, research opportunities, or campus resources that align with your goals].
I am eager to contribute to [mention any specific university clubs, groups, or activities you plan to engage in] and immerse myself in the vibrant community at [University Name].
Conclusion: Reinforcing Your Commitment and Fit I am excited about the prospect of joining [University Name] and am confident that my background and aspirations align well with the ethos of your institution.
I am eager to bring my passion for [Subject or Field of Study] to your esteemed program and look forward to the opportunity to contribute to and learn from the diverse and talented community at [University Name].
Thank you for considering my application. I am looking forward to the possibility of contributing to and growing within the [University Name] community.
[Your Name]
NOTE: This template is a starting point. Adapt it to suit your style and the specific requirements of the university and program you are applying to.
Writing a university application can be a transformative journey of self-discovery and reflection. By following these steps and using the provided template, you’re well on your way to creating an application that not only stands out but also truly represents who you are.
Your Feedback Matters!
Did you find this guide helpful? Do you have any specific strategies that worked for you in your university applications?
Share your experiences and suggestions in the comments below â your insights could be invaluable to others embarking on their application journey!
Related Posts
- Sample Letter Of Interest For University Admission: Free & Effective
- Email To University Asking For Admission Status: The Easy Way!
- Appeal Letter for University Rejection Sample: Free & Effective
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)
1. what should be included in a university application letter.
- Your personal information (name, address, contact information)
- The name of the university and the program you are applying for
- A statement of your qualifications, including your academic background and any relevant experience
- A statement of your reasons for applying to the program and how it aligns with your goals
- A closing statement expressing your enthusiasm for the program and requesting an interview or further consideration
2. How long should a university application letter be?
- A university application letter should typically be between one and two pages long.
3. How formal should a university application letter be?
- A university application letter should be formal and professional. Use a business letter format and avoid using casual or informal language.
4. Can I use a pre-written template for my university application letter?
- While it may be helpful to use a template as a guide, it is important to personalize and customize your letter for the specific university and program you are applying to.
5. How can I make my university application letter stand out?
- Tailor your letter to the specific university and program you are applying to. Highlight your relevant qualifications and experiences, and demonstrate your passion and enthusiasm for the program. Show them how you will be a great fit for their institution.
6. What should I do if I have a low GPA?
- If you have a low GPA, it’s important to acknowledge it in your letter and provide context or an explanation for why your grades may not be as high as they could be. Also, highlight your strengths and achievements in other areas, such as relevant work experience, extracurricular activities, or volunteer work.
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- Schools & departments
How to write your cover letter
Advice on what to include in your cover letter and how to structure it.
Cover letters are not an exact science, but you need to sound like you want the job and you can show why you would be a good fit for it. Employers can tell when you haven't given much thought to why you are applying. This is your opportunity to show your motivation and suitability - so take it!Â
What to includeÂ
Your cover letter complements your CV and gives you the chance to demonstrate your motivation and suitability for the job. Your cover letter should answer three questions:Â
why do you want this job?Â
why do you want to work for this organisation?Â
why are you right for the role?Â
Use the cover letter to highlight information you need the employer to know, and to explain anything such as extenuating circumstances which you want them to take into account. Â
You should:Â
demonstrate that you have researched the organisation Â
evidence how you have the skills and experience listed in the vacancyÂ
aim for one page in length with about three to five concise paragraphs.
Watch the recording above to find out more about how to write your cover letter.
To explore examples of cover letters, access Careers Service Plus (University of Edinburgh login required):
Cover letters examples Â
Using generative AI to create your cover letter
Technologies such as ChatGPT can provide a reasonable basic structure for you to build upon, but what they give you is unlikely to be tailored convincingly and will be bland and generic, and unlikely to impress employers. Use them as a support and starting point if you like - but edit their product to make the end result your own. Â
Remember these points:
- adapt the content generated, to make it more closely related to you -otherwise it will lack impact
- be cautious about submitting any personal data, as whatever you put in could be in the public domainÂ
- you may be risking plagiarism, as these systems incorporate, in their output, content produced by other people without acknowledging or referencing themÂ
Guidance on using AI has been produced by the Bayes Centre at the University of Edinburgh.Â
AI guidance for staff and students Â
University Admission Application Letter (with Samples & PDFs)
I have listed sample templates to help you craft an effective and professional university admission application letter.
Also, I would like to point out that you can also download a PDF containing all the samples at the end of this post.
Successful Application Letter for University Admission
First, find the sample template for university admission application letter below.
To, The Admissions Committee, [Name of the University], [Address of the University], [City], [State], [Postal Code]
Subject: Application for Admission to [Name of the Course]
Respected Sir/Madam,
I, [Your Full Name], resident of [Your Address], am writing this letter to show my keen interest in applying for the [Name of the Course] at your esteemed university for the academic year [Year].
I have recently completed my [last educational qualification] from [Name of School/College] with an aggregate of [Your Percentage/CGPA], and I am eager to further my studies in the field of [Field of Study]. I believe that studying at [Name of the University] will provide me the right knowledge, skills, and exposure to excel in this field.
I am particularly drawn to the [Name of the Course] at [Name of the University] because of its reputation for providing high-quality education and its focus on practical learning. I am confident that this course will help me achieve my academic and career goals.
Enclosed with this letter are my mark sheets, certificates, and other required documents. I kindly request you to consider my application and provide me with an opportunity to prove my potential and contribute to the university.
I am looking forward to being a part of your esteemed institution and assure you that I will put in my best efforts in all my endeavours.
Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to hear from you soon.
Yours sincerely,
[Your Full Name] [Your Contact Information] [Your Email Address]
Below I have listed 5 different sample applications for âuniversity admission application letterâ that you will certainly find useful for specific scenarios:
Crafting a Persuasive University Application Letter to Showcase Leadership Skills
To, The Admissions Committee, [University Name], [University Address].
Subject: Application for Admission to [Desired Course Name]
I, [Your Full Name], a student of Class XII from [Your School Name], am writing to express my keen interest in applying for the [Desired Course Name] at your esteemed university. I believe that my strong leadership skills, coupled with my academic accomplishments, make me an ideal candidate for this course.
I have consistently excelled in my studies, but more importantly, I have taken the initiative to lead and guide my peers through various activities. As the Head Boy/Girl of my school, Iâve learned to inspire and motivate my fellow students, organize events, and address issues efficiently. These experiences have honed my leadership abilities and have taught me how to balance my academic commitments with extracurricular responsibilities.
I played a pivotal role in initiating a âClean Campus Driveâ in my school, where I led a team of students to maintain cleanliness and fostered a sense of responsibility among them. This initiative not only improved the school environment but also instilled a sense of community and teamwork among the students.
Moreover, I represented my school at the [Local/State/National] Leadership Summit, where I had the opportunity to interact with other young leaders and share innovative ideas to improve our communities. This experience broadened my perspective and reinforced my desire to lead and make a difference.
If given the opportunity to join [University Name], I assure you that I will bring these leadership qualities to contribute positively to the university community. I am eager to leverage my experiences to participate actively in student-led initiatives and further develop my leadership skills.
I am confident that [University Name] is the perfect platform for me to grow not just acadically but also as a leader. I humbly request you to consider my application favorably. I look forward to the opportunity to be a part of your esteemed institution.
Thank you for considering my application.
Yours Sincerely, [Your Full Name], [Your Contact Information].
Writing a Compelling University Application Letter Highlighting Athletic Achievements
To, The Admissions Committee, [Name of the University], [Address of the University]
Subject: Application for Admission and Highlighting Athletic Achievements
I hope this letter finds you in the best of health and spirits. I am [Your Name], a student from [Your School Name], [Your City], intending to apply for the [Course Name] at your esteemed university.
Academically, I have consistently performed well, securing a GPA of [Your GPA] in the previous year. However, I am not just a diligent student in the classroom, but also a passionate sportsperson. I believe my athletic achievements will contribute to the vibrant sports culture at your university.
Over the last few years, I have been an active participant in athletics and have had the honour of representing my school at various district, state, and national level competitions. In the recent [Name of Sports Event], I clinched the gold medal in [Name of the Sport], making my school and family immensely proud. Additionally, I was also the recipient of the prestigious [Name of the Award] given for outstanding performance in sports.
My commitment to sports has not only honed my physical abilities but has also helped me develop leadership skills, team spirit, and resilience. I believe that these qualities will not only aid me in my academic pursuit but also contribute to the overall diversity and vitality of your universityâs student community.
I am enthusiastic about bringing the same dedication and spirit to your esteemed university and contributing to its athletic teams. I am certain that the comprehensive education and diverse opportunities provided by your university will help me grow, both acadically and athletically.
I am hopeful that you will consider my application favourably. Thank you for considering my application. I am looking forward to the possibility of becoming a part of your prestigious university.
Yours sincerely, [Your Name] [Your Contact Information]
Articulating Academic Excellence in a University Admission Application Letter
The Dean of Admissions, [University Name], [University Address], [City], [State], [Pin Code]
Subject: Application for Admission
Dear Sir/Madam,
I, [Your Name], am writing this letter seeking admission to the [Course Name] course at your prestigious institution for the academic year [Year]. I have recently completed my [last academic degree/course] from [Your School/College Name] in [City, State].
I have always been passionate about [subject(s) related to the course], and I am confident that my academic achievements reflect this. I have consistently maintained a high academic standing in my schooling years, ranking in the top [percentage/rank] of my class. My teachers have commended me for my dedication and commitment to learning, which is evident from my grades and participation in various academic competitions.
Moreover, I have been an active participant in various extracurricular activities that have helped me develop a holistic understanding of the world. I have led [mention some leadership roles], worked on [mention any projects or initiatives], and engaged in [mention any community service or volunteer work]. These experiences have taught me the importance of teamwork, leadership, and responsibility, and have fuelled my desire to further my learning.
Your institution, with its exemplary faculty and state-of-the-art facilities, stands as the ideal platform for me to deepen my knowledge and broaden my horizon. I am particularly drawn to the [mention specific aspects of the course or university that attract you], and I am confident that these will provide the right environment to nurture my academic and personal growth.
I am committed to maintaining my academic excellence and contributing positively to the university community. I am hopeful that I will be given the opportunity to bring my passion, dedication, and academic prowess to your esteemed institution.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of contributing to and learning from the [University Name] community.
Yours Sincerely, [Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State, Pin Code] [Email Address] [Phone Number]
Tailoring a University Application Letter to Highlight Community Service Experiences
The Admission Committee, [University Name], [University Address], [City, State, Zip Code]
I hope this letter finds you in good health. I am [Your Name], a student of [Your School Name], seeking admission to your esteemed university for the upcoming academic year.
I am writing this letter to express my keen interest in the [Course Name] program at your prestigious institution. I have always been intrigued by [Subject Name], and I am eager to explore this field under the guidance of the accomplished faculty at [University Name].
During my time at high school, I have actively participated in various community service programs that have not only enriched my life but have also enhanced my understanding of society and its needs. I was a part of the âClean-Up Driveâ in my local community, where we focused on maintaining cleanliness and educating people about the importance of hygiene.
In addition, I volunteered in the âJoy of Givingâ initiative, aimed at providing essential supplies to underprivileged children. This experience truly humbled me and made me realize the value of giving back to society. I believe these experiences have shaped me as an individual and have taught me the importance of empathy, teamwork, and leadership.
I am certain that these experiences will enable me to contribute to the diverse community at [University Name]. I am eager to bring my commitment to service and dedication to learning to your campus, and I look forward to the possibility of contributing my skills and experiences to your distinguished institution.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of discussing my application with you further.
Yours faithfully,
[Your Name] [Your Contact Information]
Penning a University Application Letter Expressing a Deep Passion for a Specific Field of Study
To, The Admissions Office, [University Name], [University Address],
Subject: Application for Admission in [Specific Field of Study]
I, [Your Full Name], a resident of [Your City Name], am writing this letter to express my deep interest in applying for the [Specific Field of Study] program at your esteemed university for the academic year [Year of Admission].
My passion for [Specific Field of Study] was kindled during my school years, when I found myself fascinated by [Mention something specific about the field that fascinated you]. Since then, my curiosity and interest in this field have only grown. I have spent countless hours learning and honing my skills, and now I aspire to take this passion forward and delve deeper into this field at a university level.
Your esteemed university, with its excellent faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and a rich history of producing exceptional talent in the field of [Specific Field of Study], is my dream institution. I am especially drawn to the [mention a specific aspect/feature of the universityâs program that appeals to you], which I believe would greatly enhance my learning experience and provide me with a holistic understanding of the subject.
I have consistently excelled in this field during my school years [mention any achievements, awards, or recognition received]. I am confident that my dedication, coupled with the guidance of the exceptional faculty at [University Name], will equip me with the necessary skills and knowledge to contribute positively to this field.
I assure you of my utmost commitment and dedication towards my studies, and I am eager to make the most of the opportunities offered at your prestigious institution. I am hopeful that you will consider my application favorably.
Thank you for considering my application. I am looking forward to the opportunity of being a part of [University Name].
Yours Sincerely,
[Your Full Name] [Your Contact Information]
How to Write University Admission Application Letter
Some writing tips to help you craft a better application:
- Start with your personal information including your full name, address, the date, and the recipientâs address.
- Open the letter with a formal salutation, addressing the admissions committee or specific admission officer, if known.
- Introduce yourself, your current educational status and the program youâre applying to.
- Describe your academic interests, why you chose this university, and how it aligns with your career goals.
- Highlight your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and any relevant work or volunteer experience.
- Explain any gaps or anomalies in your academic record, if applicable.
- State how you could contribute to the university and its community.
- End with a strong closing statement expressing your enthusiasm and gratitude for being considered.
- Include a formal sign-off, your full name and signature.
- Proofread your letter multiple times for any grammatical errors, spelling mistakes or typos.
Related Topics:
- University Admission Application Fee Payment Slip
- Application for Address Change
- SBI Bank Address Change Application
View all topics â
I am sure you will get some insights from here on how to write âuniversity admission application letterâ. And to help further, you can also download all the above application samples as PDFs by clicking here .
And if you have any related queries, kindly feel free to let me know in the comments below.
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How and Why to Write a Great Cover Letter
A cover letter is a one-page business letter that you submit when applying to a job, along with your resume. As a piece of persuasive writing, your cover letter will aim to convey to the employer why you’re a great candidate for the role.
What is the purpose of a cover letter?
Your cover letter complements your resume by making it easy for the employer to see how your experience and interest connect to the position. Your goal is to convince the employer to interview you.
With your cover letter, you’ll aim to:
- Highlight your qualifications:  You’ll show how your skills and experience relate to the employerâs needs for a specific position.
- Showcase your motivation: You’ll demonstrate your enthusiasm for the specific position and the organization.
- Reflect your voice and written communication skills: You’ll give the employer a sense of your personality and writing style.
When should I write a cover letter?
Not all jobs require cover letters. So, how do you decide whether to submit one?
Submit a Cover Letter whenâŠ
- The posting explicitly requests that you do so
- Youâre applying to an opportunity at a mission-driven organization
- You think that doing so could provide important information to the employer that they wouldnât get from your resume
Consider Submitting a Cover Letter whenâŠ
- Itâs marked âoptionalâ in an application, and you have the bandwidth to do so
- You have content that you can easily recycle or repurpose into a tailored cover letter
No Need to Submit a Cover Letter whenâŠ
- A posting specifically tells you not to submit one
- Thereâs no way to submit one in an application portal, and doing so would require a serious workaround
If youâre applying to several similar opportunities, creating a draft cover letter in advance, geared toward that type of opportunity, can be a helpful way to save time in your actual application process.
How do I write a cover letter?
Your cover letter should articulate your qualifications and motivation for the position. Read the job description closely and research the organization. As you craft your cover letter, use examples that demonstrate your relevant skills, knowledge, and interests. The cover letter should be concise, clear, and well-organized.
Before Writing
Research the employer.
Learn enough about the organization to articulate why you are a strong fit for that firm.Â
- Review the firm’s website and LinkedIn page.
- Speak with current or previous employees.
- Read articles and social media for current news.
Analyze the job description
Look for skills, duties, and qualifications of the job so you can design your letter to match these as much as possible.
Reflect on your experience and motivation
Identify skills and personal qualities you have developed which will be useful in this role. Ask yourself:
- What attracts you about this role/company/industry?
- What have you have done in your work experiences, classes, internships, activities, projects, volunteer work, travel, etc., that is similar to the duties required of the job?Â
Cover Letter Structure
As a business letter, the cover letter should include:
- Heading: Include your name and contact information in the same format as your resume
- Salutation: Address your letter to the specific individual who can hire you, if this is known. If the name is not included in the job description, address the letter to the Hiring Manager or title mentioned in the job description.
- Body Paragraphs: Â Discuss your experiences, interests, and skills to show the employer how you can add value to their team. See the section below for more guidance.
- Signature Line: Include a closing and your name.
The cover letter should be one page, about three or four paragraphs, and single spaced. Use 10-12 point font and one inch margins.Â
When applying online, upload your cover letter as a PDF file, unless another format is specified. When sending your resume and cover letter by email, you may write a short note or paste your cover letter in the body of your email (without the address header) and also attach the PDF file.
Cover Letter Content
Your cover letter should answer who, what, when, where and why you are applying for the opportunity.Â
Introduction
State the position for which you are applying. If you have a referral or spoke with someone from the company, you can mention it in the introduction. Provide some basic information about yourself; this can include your class year and what you’re studying at Columbia. Briefly outline why you’re interested in the organization and what you bring in terms of relevant experience and skills.Â
Body Paragraphs
These paragraphs will highlight your qualifications and strengths that are most relevant to the organization and position. Use the job posting and your research as clues to determine what the employer is seeking in a candidate. Have your resume beside you and reflect on what you want the employer to know about you. Are there experiences you want to expand upon that demonstrate your understanding of the role and ability to do the job requirements?
Structure the paragraphs based on relevance, not chronology. Lead with your most relevant skill or strongest experience.
Start each body paragraph with a clear topic sentence. This can highlight a key skill set, a transferable experience, or a core area of knowledge youâve built through your studies. Walk the reader through a project or experience, integrating the relevant skills you used and qualities you demonstrated. Provide details about your accomplishments and impact. Connect how these experiences have prepared you for this role and why you are motivated to do this job. There is no need to apologize if you feel you lack experience; focus on the accomplishments that you have.
Recap what you would bring to the organization and your interest in the position. Thank the employer for their consideration. Keep your tone positive and enthusiastic.Â
Check out our example of how to structure your cover letter content .Â
Editing Tips
Use our Cover Letter Checklist to make sure your format and content is in line with best practices.Â
- Ensure that the content reflects the requirements in the job description
- Keep the cover letter concise, at one page or less
- Correct any errors in grammar, sentence structure, and spelling
- Use the active voice
- Avoid beginning too many sentences with âIâ
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Academic Cover Letters
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Media File: Academic Cover Letters
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When you're applying for a faculty position with a college or university, the cover letter is your first chance to make a strong impression as a promising researcher and teacher. Below you'll find some strategies for presenting your qualifications effectively in an academic context.
Distinctions between Academic and Business Cover Letters
A cover letter for an academic job has a function similar to one for a business job, but the content differs significantly in quantity and kind. While the general advice for business cover letters—such as tailoring your letter for the specific job and selling your strengths—still applies, a cover letter for an academic position should be long enough to highlight in some detail your accomplishments during your graduate education in research, teaching, departmental service, and so on. The typical letter is thus usually one and a half to two pages long, but not more than two—roughly five to eight paragraphs.
The First Paragraph
In the opening of your letter you need to convey some basic information, such as what specific position you are applying for (using the title given in the job notice) and where you learned of the opening. Since a cover letter is a kind of persuasive writing (persuading a hiring committee to include you on a list of candidates for further review), the first paragraph of your letter should also make the initial claim as to why you are a strong candidate for the position.
Tailoring for Your Audience
In an academic context knowing your audience means reading the job notice carefully and knowing the type of institution to which you are applying. Most graduate students have studied a broad range of material within their discipline before specializing in a narrow field for the dissertation project. Since it is rare to find a job notice specifying your exact qualifications, you need to emphasize those aspects of your graduate training that seem particularly relevant to the position advertised.
- Job notice: If you've written a political science dissertation on populism in early twentieth-century US national politics, you probably won't respond to a notice seeking a specialist in international politics during the Cold War. But you may wish to apply for a position teaching twentieth-century US political parties and movements. In this case you would want to stress the relevance of your dissertation to the broad context of twentieth-century US politics, even though the study focuses narrowly on the pre-World War I period. You might also highlight courses taken, presentations given, or other evidence of your expertise that corresponds to the job notice.
- Type of institution: Often the job notice will provide a brief description of the college or university, indicating such factors as size, ownership (public, private), affiliation (religious, nonsectarian), geography (urban, suburban, rural), and so on. These factors will influence the kind of information emphasized in your letter. For example, for a job at a small liberal arts college that focuses on undergraduate teaching, you would emphasize your teaching experience and pedagogical philosophy early in the letter before mentioning your dissertation. On the other hand, for a job at a large research university you would provide at least one detailed paragraph describing your dissertation early in the letter, even indicating your plans for future research, before mentioning your teaching and other experience.
Other Advice
If you're still working on your dissertation, you should mention somewhere in the letter when you expect to be awarded the Ph.D., even being as specific as to mention how many chapters have been completed and accepted, how many are in draft version, and what your schedule for completion is. Last-paragraph tips include the following:
- Mention your contact information, including a phone number where you can be reached if you will be away during a holiday break.
- If you will be attending an upcoming major professional conference in your field, such as the MLA convention for language and literature professionals, indicate that you will be available for an interview there. Be sure to mention that you are available for telephone or campus-visit interviews as well.
- If you have some special connection to the school, type of institution, or region, such as having attended the school as an undergraduate or having grown up in the area, you may wish to mention that information briefly at some point.
- Mention your willingness to forward upon request additional materials such as writing samples, teaching evaluations, and letters of recommendation.
Job seekers at Purdue University may find value in the Purdue Career Wiki.
How to Write a Cover Letter in 2024 + Examples
After weeks of heavy job search, youâre almost there!
Youâve perfected your resume.Â
Youâve short-listed the coolest jobs you want to apply for.
Youâve even had a friend train you for every single interview question out there.
But then, before you can send your application and call it a day, you remember that the job ad requires a cover letter.
Now youâre stuck wondering how to write a cover letter ...
Donât panic! Weâve got you covered. Writing a cover letter is a lot simpler than you might think.Â
In this guide, weâre going to teach you how to write a cover letter that gets you the job you deserve.
- Whatâs a cover letter & why itâs important for your job search
- How to write a convincing cover letter that gets you the job (step-by-step!)
- How to perfect your cover letter with the Novoresume free checklist
- What excellent cover letter examples look like
New to cover letter writing? Give our resumes 101 video a watch before diving into the article!
So, letâs get started with the basics!
What is a Cover Letter? (and Why Itâs Important)
A cover letter is a one-page document that you submit as part of your job application (alongside your CV or Resume).Â
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 spark the HR managerâs interest and get them to read your resume.Â
A bad cover letter, on the other hand, might mean that your application is going directly to the paper shredder. So, to make sure this doesnât happen, itâs essential to know how to write a convincing cover letter.
How does a good cover letter look, you might ask. Well, hereâs an example:
Keep in mind, though, that a cover letter is a supplement to your resume, not a replacement. Meaning, you donât just repeat whatever is mentioned in your resume.
If youâre writing a cover letter for the first time, writing all this might seem pretty tough. After all, youâre probably not a professional writer.
The thing is, though, you donât need to be creative, or even any good at writing. All you have to do is follow a tried-and-tested format:
- Header - Input contact information
- Greeting the hiring manager
- Opening paragraph - Grab the readerâs attention with 2-3 of your top achievements
- Second paragraph - Explain why youâre the perfect candidate for the job
- Third paragraph - Explain why youâre a good match for the company
- Formal closing
Or, hereâs what this looks like in practice:
How to Write the Perfect Cover Letter (And Get Hired!)
Now that weâve got the basics out of the way, weâre going to guide you through the process of writing a cover letter step by step.Â
Step #1 - Pick the Right Cover Letter Template
A good cover letter is all about leaving the right first impression.
So, whatâs a better way to leave a good impression than a well-formatted, visual template?
You can simply pick one of our hand-picked cover letter templates , and youâll be all set in a jiffy!
As a bonus, our AI will even give you suggestions on how to improve your cover letter on the go.
Step #2 - Start the Cover Letter with a Header
As with a resume, itâs important to start your cover letter with a Contact Information section:
Here, you want to include all essential information, including:
- Phone Number
- Name of the hiring manager / their professional title
- Name of the company youâre applying to
In certain cases, you might also consider adding:
- Social Media Profiles - Any type of profile thatâs 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. Letâs say youâre a professional writer. In that case, youâd want to link to your blog.
And hereâs what you shouldnât mention in your header:
- Your Full AddressÂ
- Unprofessional Email - Make sure your email is presentable. Itâs pretty hard for a hiring manager to take you seriously if your email address is â[email protected].â Whenever applying for jobs, stick to the â[first name] + [last name] @ email provider.comâ format.
Step #3 - Greet the Hiring Manager
Once youâve properly listed your contact information, you need to start writing the cover letter contents.
The first thing to do here is to address the cover letter to the hiring manager .
Thatâs right, the hiring manager! Not the overly popular âDear Sir or Madam.â You want to show your future boss that you did your research and are really passionate about working with their team.
No one wants to hire a job seeker who just spams 20+ companies and hopes to get hired in any of them.
So, how do you find out whoâs the hiring manager? There are several ways to do this.Â
The simplest option is to look up the head of the relevant department on LinkedIn. Letâs say youâre applying for the position of a Communication Specialist at Novoresume. The hiring manager is probably Head of Communications or Chief Communications Office.
So, you do a quick lookup on LinkedIn:
And voila! You have your hiring manager.
Or letâs say youâre applying for the position of a server. In that case, youâd be looking for the ârestaurant manager.â
If this doesnât work, you can also check out the âTeamâ page on the company website; thereâs a good chance youâll at least find the right person there.
Here are several other greetings you could use:
- Dear [Department] Hiring Manager
- Dear Hiring Manager
- To whom it may concern
- Dear [Department] Team
Step #4 - Write an Attention-Grabbing Introduction
First impressions matter, especially when it comes to your job search.
Recruiters get hundreds, sometimes even thousands, of applications. Chances are, theyâre not going to be reading every single cover letter end-to-end.
So, itâs essential to catch their attention from the very first paragraph .
The #1 problem we see with most cover letter opening paragraphs is that theyâre usually extremely generic. Most of them look something like this..
- Hey, my name is Jonathan and Iâd like to work as a Sales Manager at XYZ Inc. Iâve worked as a sales manager at MadeUpCompany Inc. for 5+ years, so I believe that Iâd be a good fit for the position.
See the issue here? This opening paragraph doesnât say pretty much anything except the fact that youâve worked the job before.
Do you know who else has similar work experience? All the other applicants youâre competing with.
Instead, you want to start off with 2-3 of your top achievements to really grab the readerâs attention. Preferably, the achievements should be as relevant as possible to the position.
So now, letâs make our previous example shine:
My nameâs Michael and Iâd like to help XYZ Inc. hit and exceed their sales goals as a Sales Manager. Iâve 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 excellence in sales, makes me the right candidate for the job.
See the difference between the two examples? If you were the hiring manager, which sales manager would you hire, Jonathan or Michael?
Now that weâve covered the introduction, letâs talk about the body of your cover letter. This part is split into two paragraphs: the first is for explaining why youâre the perfect person for the job, and the latter is for proving that youâre a good fit for the company.
So, letâs get started...
Step #5 - Explain why youâre the perfect person for the job
This is where you show off your professional skills and convince the HR manager that youâre a better fit for the job than all the other applicants.
But first things first - before you even write anything, you need to learn what the most important requirements for the role are. So, open up the job ad and identify which of the responsibilities are the most critical.
For the sake of the example, letâs say youâre applying for the position of a Facebook Advertiser. You scan the job ad and see that the top requirements are:
- Experience managing a Facebook ad budget of $10,000+ / month
- Some skills in advertising on other platforms (Google Search + Twitter)
- Excellent copywriting skills
Now, in this section, you need to discuss how you fulfill these requirements. So, hereâs how that would look for our example:
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 & management process end-to-end. Meaning, I created the ad copy , images, picked the targeting, ran optimization trials, and so on.
Other than Facebook advertising, Iâve also delved into other online PPC channels, including:
- Google Search
Are you a student applying for your first internship? You probably donât have a lot of work experience to show off in this section. Learn how to write an internship cover letter here.
Step #6 - Explain why youâre a good fit for the company
Once youâve written the last paragraph, you might be thinking - Iâm a shoo-in for the job! What else do I need to write? Iâll just wrap up the cover letter and hit that sweet SEND button.
Well, no. Youâre not quite there yet.
The HR manager doesnât only look at whether youâll be good at the job or not. Theyâre looking for someone thatâs also a good fit for the company culture.
After all, employees that donât fit in are bound to quit, sooner or later. This ends up costing the company a ton of money, up to 50% of the employeeâs annual salary .Â
Meaning, you also need to convince the HR manager that youâre really passionate about working with them.
How do you do this? Well, as a start, you want to do some research about the company. You want to know things like:
- Whatâs the companyâs business model?
- Whatâs the company product or service? Have you used it?
- Whatâs the culture like? Will someone micro-manage your work, or will you have autonomy on how you get things done?
So, get to Googling. Chances are, youâll find all the information you need either on the company website or somewhere around the web.
Then, you need to figure out what you like about the company and turn that into text.
Letâs say, for example, youâre passionate about their product and you like the culture of innovation / independent work in the organization.
Youâd write something like:
Iâve personally used the XYZ Smartphone, and I believe that itâs the most innovative tech Iâve used in years. The features such as Made-Up-Feature #1 and Made-Up-Feature #2 were real game changers for the device.Â
I really admire how Company XYZ thrives for excellence for all its product lines, creating market-leading tech. As someone that thrives in a self-driven environment, I truly believe that I and Company XYZ will be a great match.
What you donât want to do here is be super generic for the sake of having something to write. Most job seekers tend to mess this one up. Letâs take a look at a very common example we tend to see (way too often):
Iâd love to work for Company XYZ because of its culture of innovation. I believe that since Iâm super creative, Iâd be a good fit for the company. The company values of integrity and transparency really vibe with me.
See whatâs wrong here? The example doesnât really say anything about the company. âCulture of Innovationâ is something most companies claim to have.Â
The same goes for âvalues of integrity and transparencyâ - the writer just googled what the values for the organization are, and said that they like them.
Any hiring manager that reads this will see through the fluff.
So, make sure to do a lot of research and come up with good reasons why you're applying.
Step #7 - Wrap up with a call to action
Finally, itâs time to finish up your cover letter and write the conclusion.
In the final paragraph, you want to:
- Wrap up any points you couldn't in the previous paragraphs. Do you have anything left to say? Any other information that could help the hiring manager make their decision? Mention it here.
- Thank the hiring manager for their time. It never hurts to be courteous, as long as you donât come off as too needy.
- Finish the cover letter with a call to action. The very last sentence in your cover letter should be a call to action. You should ask the hiring manager to take some sort of action.
And now, letâs turn this into a practical example:
So to wrap it all up, thanks for looking into my application. I hope I can help Company X make the most out of their Facebook marketing initiatives. I'd love to further discuss how my previous success at XYZ Inc. can help you achieve your facebook marketing goals.
Step #8 - Use the right formal closing
Once youâre done with the final paragraph, all you have to do is write down a formal âgoodbyeâ and youâre good to go.
Feel free to use one of the most popular conclusions to a cover letter:
- Best Regards,
- Kind Regards,
And weâre finally done! Before sending off the cover letter, make sure to proofread it with software like Grammarly, or maybe even get a friend to review it for you.
Does your cover letter heading include all essential information?
- Professional email
- Relevant Social Media Profiles
Do you address the right person? I.e. hiring manager in the company / your future direct supervisor
Does your introductory paragraph grab the reader's attention?
- Did you mention 2-3 of your top achievements?
- Did you use numbers and facts to back up your experience?
Do you successfully convey that youâre the right pro for the job?
- Did you identify the core requirements?
- Did you successfully convey how your experiences help you fit the requirements perfectly?
Do you convince the hiring manager that youâre passionate about the company youâre applying to?
- Did you identify the top 3 things that you like about the company?
- Did you avoid generic reasons for explaining your interest in the company?
Did you finalize the conclusion with a call to action?
Did you use the right formal closure for the cover letter?
5+ Cover Letter Examples
Need some inspiration? Read on to learn about some of the best cover letter examples weâve seen (for different fields).
College Student Cover Letter Example
Middle Management Cover Letter Example
Career Change Cover Letter Example
Management Cover Letter Example
Senior Executive Cover Letter Example
Want to discover more examples AND learn what makes them stand out? Check out our guide to cover letter examples .
Next Steps in Your Job Search - Creating a Killer Resume
Your cover letter is only as good as your resume. If either one is weak, your entire application is for naught.Â
After all, a cover letter is just an introduction. Imagine going through all this effort to leave an amazing first impression, but flopping at the end because of a mediocre resume.
...But donât you worry, weâve got you covered on that end, too.
If you want to learn more about Resumes & CVs, we have a dedicated FREE guide for that. Check out our complete guide on how to make a resume , as well as how to write a CV - our experts will teach you everything you need to know in order to land your dream job.
Or, if youâre already an expert, just pick one of our resume templates and get started.
Key Takeaways
Now that weâve walked you through all the steps of writing a cover letter, letâs summarize everything weâve learned:
- A cover letter is a 250 - 400 word document that convinces the hiring manager of your competence
- A cover letter goes in your job application alongside your resume
- Your introduction to the cover letter should grab the hiring managerâs attention and keep it all the way until the conclusion
- There are 2 main topics you need to include in your cover letter: why youâre the perfect candidate for the job & why youâre passionate about working in the company youâre applying to
- Most of the content of your cover letter should be factual , without any fluff or generalizations
At NovorĂ©sumĂ©, weâre committed to helping you get the job you deserve, every step of the way! Follow our blog to stay up to date with the industry-leading advice. Or, check out some of our top guidesâŠ
- How to Write a Motivational Letter
- How to Write a Resume with No Work Experience
- Most Common Interview Questions and Answers
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Do You Still Need to Write a Cover Letter?
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This article emphasizes the importance of including a cover letter when applying for jobs, despite conflicting information online. It highlights employers’ expectations and perceptions of cover letters.
How to Write a Cover Letter That Will Get You a Job
I âve read thousands, maybe tens of thousands, of cover letters in my career. If youâre thinking that sounds like really boring reading, youâre right. What I can tell you from enduring that experience is that most cover letters are terrible â and not only that, but squandered opportunities. When a cover letter is done well, it can significantly increase your chances of getting an interview, but the vast majority fail that test.
So letâs talk about how to do cover letters right.
First, understand the point of a cover letter.
The whole idea of a cover letter is that it can help the employer see you as more than just your rĂ©sumĂ©. Managers generally arenât hiring based solely on your work history; your experience is crucial, yes, but theyâre also looking for someone who will be easy to work with, shows good judgment, communicates well, possesses strong critical thinking skills and a drive to get things done, complements their current team, and all the other things you yourself probably want from your co-workers. Itâs tough to learn much about those things from job history alone, and thatâs where your cover letter comes in.
Because of that âŠ
Whatever you do, donât just summarize your rĂ©sumĂ©.
The No. 1 mistake people make with cover letters is that they simply use them to summarize their rĂ©sumĂ©. This makes no sense â hiring managers donât need a summary of your rĂ©sumĂ©! Itâs on the very next page! Theyâre about to see it as soon as they scroll down. And if you think about it, your entire application is only a few pages (in most cases, a one- or two-page rĂ©sumĂ© and a one-page cover letter) â why would you squander one of those pages by repeating the content of the others? And yet, probably 95 percent of the cover letters I see donât add anything new beyond the rĂ©sumĂ© itself (and thatâs a conservative estimate).
Instead, your cover letter should go beyond your work history to talk about things that make you especially well-suited for the job. For example, if youâre applying for an assistant job that requires being highly organized and you neurotically track your household finances in a detailed, color-coded spreadsheet, most hiring managers would love to know that because it says something about the kind of attention to detail youâd bring to the job. Thatâs not something you could put on your rĂ©sumĂ©, but it can go in your cover letter.
Or maybe your last boss told you that you were the most accurate data processor sheâd ever seen, or came to rely on you as her go-to person whenever a lightning-fast rewrite was needed. Maybe your co-workers called you âthe client whispererâ because of your skill in calming upset clients. Maybe youâre regularly sought out by more senior staff to help problem-solve, or you find immense satisfaction in bringing order to chaos. Those sorts of details illustrate what you bring to the job in a different way than your rĂ©sumĂ© does, and they belong in your cover letter.
If youâre still stumped, pretend youâre writing an email to a friend about why youâd be great at the job. You probably wouldnât do that by stiffly reciting your work history, right? Youâd talk about what youâre good at and how youâd approach the work. Thatâs what you want here.
You donât need a creative opening line.
If you think you need to open the letter with something creative or catchy, I am here to tell you that you donât. Just be simple and straightforward:
âą âIâm writing to apply for your X position.â
âą âIâd love to be considered for your X position.â
âą âIâm interested in your X position because âŠâ
âą âIâm excited to apply for your X position.â
Thatâs it! Straightforward is fine â better, even, if the alternative is sounding like an aggressive salesperson.
Show, donât tell.
A lot of cover letters assert that the person who wrote it would excel at the job or announce that the applicant is a skillful engineer or a great communicator or all sorts of other subjective superlatives. Thatâs wasted space â the hiring manager has no reason to believe it, and so many candidates claim those things about themselves that most managers ignore that sort of self-assessment entirely. So instead of simply declaring that youâre great at X (whatever X is), your letter should demonstrate that. And the way you do that is by describing accomplishments and experiences that illustrate it.
Hereâs a concrete example taken from one extraordinarily effective cover-letter makeover that I saw. The candidate had originally written, âI offer exceptional attention to detail, highly developed communication skills, and a talent for managing complex projects with a demonstrated ability to prioritize and multitask.â Thatâs pretty boring and not especially convincing, right? (This is also exactly how most peopleâs cover letters read.)
In her revised version, she wrote this instead:
âIn addition to being flexible and responsive, Iâm also a fanatic for details â particularly when it comes to presentation. One of my recent projects involved coordinating a 200-page grant proposal: I proofed and edited the narratives provided by the division head, formatted spreadsheets, and generally made sure that every line was letter-perfect and that the entire finished product conformed to the specific guidelines of the RFP. (The result? A five-year, $1.5 million grant award.) I believe in applying this same level of attention to detail to tasks as visible as prepping the materials for a top-level meeting and as mundane as making sure the copier never runs out of paper.â
That second version is so much more compelling and interesting â and makes me believe that she really is great with details.
If thereâs anything unusual or confusing about your candidacy, address it in the letter.
Your cover letter is your chance to provide context for things that otherwise might seem confusing or less than ideal to a hiring manager. For example, if youâre overqualified for the position but are excited about it anyway, or if youâre a bit underqualified but have reason to think you could excel at the job, address that up front. Or if your background is in a different field but youâre actively working to move into this one, say so, talk about why, and explain how your experience will translate. Or if youâre applying for a job across the country from where you live because youâre hoping to relocate to be closer to your family, let them know that.
If you donât provide that kind of context, itâs too easy for a hiring manager to decide youâre the wrong fit or applying to everything you see or donât understand the job description and put you in the ânoâ pile. A cover letter gives you a chance to say, âNo, wait â hereâs why this could be a good match.â
Keep the tone warm and conversational.
While there are some industries that prize formal-sounding cover letters â like law â in most fields, yours will stand out if itâs warm and conversational. Aim for the tone youâd use if you were writing to a co-worker whom you liked a lot but didnât know especially well. Itâs okay to show some personality or even use humor; as long as you donât go overboard, your letter will be stronger for it.
Donât use a form letter.
You donât need to write every cover letter completely from scratch, but if youâre not customizing it to each job, youâre doing it wrong. Form letters tend to read like form letters, and they waste the chance to speak to the specifics of what this employer is looking for and what it will take to thrive in this particular job.
If youâre applying for a lot of similar jobs, of course youâll end up reusing language from one letter to the next. But you shouldnât have a single cover letter that you wrote once and then use every time you apply; whatever you send should sound like you wrote it with the nuances of this one job in mind.
A good litmus test is this: Could you imagine other applicants for this job sending in the same letter? If so, thatâs a sign that you havenât made it individualized enough to you and are probably leaning too heavily on reciting your work history.
No, you donât need to hunt down the hiring managerâs name.
If you read much job-search advice, at some point youâll come across the idea that you need to do Woodward and Bernsteinâlevel research to hunt down the hiring managerâs name in order to open your letter with âDear Matilda Jones.â You donât need to do this; no reasonable hiring manager will care. If the name is easily available, by all means, feel free to use it, but otherwise âDear Hiring Managerâ is absolutely fine. Take the hour you just freed up and do something more enjoyable with it.
Keep it under one page.
If your cover letters are longer than a page, youâre writing too much, and you risk annoying hiring managers who are likely sifting through hundreds of applications and donât have time to read lengthy tomes. On the other hand, if you only write one paragraph, itâs unlikely that youâre making a compelling case for yourself as a candidate â not impossible, but unlikely. For most people, something close to a page is about right.
Donât agonize over the small details.
What matters most about your cover letter is its content. You should of course ensure that itâs well-written and thoroughly proofread, but many job seekers agonize over elements of the letter that really donât matter. I get tons of questions from job seekers about whether they should attach their cover letter or put it in the body of the email (answer: No one cares, but attaching it makes it easier to share and will preserve your formatting), or what to name the file (again, no one really cares as long as itâs reasonably professional, but when people are dealing with hundreds of files named âresume,â itâs courteous to name it with your full name).
Approaching your cover letter like this can make a huge difference in your job search. It can be the thing that moves your application from the âmaybeâ pile (or even the ânoâ pile) to the âyesâ pile. Of course, writing cover letters like this will take more time than sending out the same templated letter summarizing your rĂ©sumĂ© â but 10 personalized, compelling cover letters are likely to get you more interview invitations than 50 generic ones will.
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How to Write a Cover Letter for a Job?: The Ultimate 2024 Guide
Imagine a scenario where you are able to find that one perfect job role that checks all your boxes but when you scroll down to apply you find the two words that fill you with instant dread, a cover letter. If you can relate to this scenario then donât worry, you are not alone. Or even if you are new to the term and donât understand what it means let alone know how to write a cover letter for a job, this blog is for you. In this blog, we will walk you through all the essential elements necessary for writing a cover letter. So, buckle up and get ready to explore all the sections that will help you write a cover letter to ace the application process effortlessly.
Table of Contents
How to Write a Cover Letter for a Job
A cover letter for job is a document that helps you explain your intent and motive for applying to a specific job role. It covers your extracurricular activities, skills, achievements, and experiences in the field.
Follow the cover letter format given below to get an idea about what you should include while writing an introduction of a cover letter:
1. Mention Your Name and Address
Imagine writing the perfect cover letter but never finding out whether they liked it because you forgot your contact details. So, write your name, email address, contact number, and date at the top left of the document. Make sure that your email address isnât unprofessional.
Meena Joshi JD Colony, Vasant Vihar New Delhi (+91) 9867895046 [email protected]
2. Mention the Date
After you have written your personal details like name and address, it is important to mention the date.
3. List the Recipientâs Name and Address
It is the first essential step that must not be skipped under any circumstances. Who will the letter get to if it does not have the name and address of the recipient? Hence, it is mandatory to fill out this section by carefully examining the details through the job description or the website of that particular organization.
To Hiring Managerâs Full Name XYZ Pvt. Ltd. B-000, Business Zone West Country, New City 2, Delhi, India – 110076
Remember: If you have to write a cover letter by mail then you do not need to mention the recipientâs address, date, or your name and address.
4. Greeting
When you are starting a cover letter try addressing it to a specific individual. You can do this by scouring the official website of the company to find the name of the head of the department or the hiring manager. If the powers of the internet fail you, address it to the department you are applying to. Do not write âTo Whom It May Concernâ unless you want to come off as a robot. Use âDear ABCâ or simply start with âHello ABC.â
5. Cover Letter Body
After adding all the relevant information, itâs time to move on to the main body of the letter. This section comprises the opening paragraph and the main body of the letter. Letâs understand them further.
Opening Paragraph
There are three ways you can approach the beginning of a cover letter. They are as mentioned below:
- I am thrilled to apply for the position of content writer at Buzzfeed India. Having completed a bachelorâs degree in Journalism and an internship of six months at The Indian Express, I am confident that I will bring valuable skills to the organization.
- At the age of 10, I went to the World Book Fair with my brother for the first time. While he was spending time reading the synopsis of books, I was picking up one book after another lured by the attractive covers. I finally settled on Harry Potter and the Philosopherâs Stone then ended up devouring all books in the series. I followed this interest in judging a book by its cover by pursuing a bachelor’s in Design. I am applying for the position of graphic designer at Scholastic following the creative side of mine which I have decided to pursue as my career.
- During my last internship in social media marketing at Otter Pvt. Limited, I conceptualized three marketing campaigns, which increased the engagement rate by 25% and led to a spike of 15% in website traffic. I believe that the skills I have gained in this role make me the right fit for the position of Social Media Marketing Associate at Orange. Make sure to change the tone according to the company that you apply to. If the company is more on the conservative side such as an accounting firm, maintain a formal tone. If you are applying to a startup, you can have some fun, and use the language that they have used in the job description.
6. Main Body
This is the part where you explain more about the roles you have mentioned in your resume. Always read the job description attentively and see if you have the key skills that the role requires. Now that you have a fair idea of the key requirements, think of your main accomplishments that demonstrate your skills. Letâs find out how we can make it less exhausting.
- I was a content writer at Times Tech and during my tenure, I experimented with various types of content like articles, blogs, FAQs, Q&As, and videos. I analyzed the performance of each type and made the required changes that brought about a 25% increase in readership and website engagement.
- As the Vice President for Enactus, I oversaw the annual inter-college meet. This included getting in touch with leaders in the social entrepreneurship industry for the speakerâs session, ideating competition ideas, marketing the event on social media, and making arrangements for 20 Enactus teams from across the state.
- As a content writer at your company, I would use my writing and researching skills to produce more interactive content. It will bring traffic to your website and increase engagement.
Now that you have told the hiring manager why the job should be yours, letâs learn about writing the parting note.
7. Conclusion
In this section, try to keep your content concise and straightforward. Do not include anything new, try summarizing what you have already talked about. You can also thank them for taking the time to review your application.
I would welcome the chance to speak more about this opportunity and share how I can contribute.
Thank you for your time. Sincerely/Best regards, Your Name
Also Read: How to Write Cover Letter for Internship
Cover Letter Example s
If you are required to write a cover letter for a job, you will have to read the job description attentively. After that, you will have to form the outline of your letter according to the components that are necessarily included in it. Based on those points, you will have to highlight your relevant skills and experience to shine brighter than the other candidates. Here are some best cover letter examples to help you understand how to do this better.
Example 1: Brand Copywriter Cover Letter Sample
Letâs take a look at a generic cover letter example for your reference:
Explore the latest copywriting jobs .
Example 2: Full-Stack Developer Cover Letter Sample
If you wish to apply for a full-stack developer job, you can refer to this resume sample.
Now that you know how to write a cover letter, apply for full-stack developer jobs .
Example 3: Mental Health Counselor Cover Letter Sample
Here is a cover letter sample to apply for a mental health counselor job:
Check out the top jobs for psychologists .
Example 4: Graphic Designer Cover Letter Sample
Refer to this cover letter sample if you wish to apply for a graphic designer job.
Looking to work in the graphic design sector? Check out the best graphic designer jobs .
Tips for Writing a Cover Letter
There are a lot of points that need to be kept in mind when writing a cover letter. The following section explains all the components as well as some cover letter writing tips:
- Call To Action (CTA)- While ending the cover letter, tell the hiring manager what you want them to do. You can request an interview or a meeting.
- Enthusiasm for the Job/Organizationâ Mention what aspects of the job make you feel eager to join. You may have all the requisite skills, but so might the other candidates. What can set you apart is your enthusiasm for the role or company.
- Customizationâ Each job description comes with a different set of requirements and each company has a different culture, so make sure you customize your cover letter. Try to avoid sending generic cover letters.
- Concisenessâ Once you have written your cover letter, take some time to edit. Eliminate everything repetitive. Make sure that your cover letter length does not exceed one page and 250-300 words.
Things to Skip in the Cover Letter
It is equally important to know what not to write in a cover letter. It is good to know these things before you start writing one to reduce your chances of rejection. Some of these points are mentioned below:
- ClichĂ©d Phrasesâ Avoid writing overused phrases like âfast learnerâ and âhard-working.â Instead use action words such as led, designed, developed, conceptualized, etc. that show these qualities in action.
- Overly Formal Toneâ A very formal tone can give the impression that you picked out a cover sample off the internet. It can also make it difficult to read your letter. To find out which words or sentences can be rewritten for easier readability, you can use the Hemingway Editor.
- Narrating Your Resumeâ Make sure that your cover letter isnât a longer version of your resume. Think about the highlights during your jobs, internships, or extracurricular activities that relate to the job and give insights about them.
- Improper Formattingâ Use consistent formatting throughout the letter, and use a font thatâs easy to read such as Arial size 12 or Calibri size 12.
- Typos and Common Grammatical Errorsâ Once you have done the lionâs share of the work by writing the letter, make sure that typos or bad grammar donât ruin your masterpiece. Even if all seems in order, proofread it yourself or ask a friend to review it for you.
Now that we have covered how to write a cover letter for a job, go write one! If you are still looking for jobs, then you can check out fresher jobs on Internshala. You can also check out our blog on top cover letter examples .
Related Cover Letter for Different Job Roles:
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Kriti heads the content team at Internshala. She got her first writing job when she was 17 and has 8+ years of experience in the field. She has a passion for crafting engaging and impactful narratives. With a background in writing and digital marketing, Kriti excels at creating compelling content strategies and optimizing online platforms. Her expertise lies in driving audience engagement and brand awareness through powerful storytelling.
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A successful cover letter for a university application should contain specific elements that demonstrate the applicant's qualifications, achievements, and passion for the program. These elements include: Addressing the letter to the appropriate recipient. Crafting an engaging introduction that captures the reader's attention.
Use this University cover letter example to finish your application and get hired fast - no frustration, no guesswork. This cover letter example is specifically designed for University positions in 2024. Take advantage of our sample sentences + expert guides to download the perfect cover letter in just minutes. 4.8.
Use a proper salutation. Begin your college application letter with a formal salutation. The standard, in this case, is "Dear". Be sure to avoid informal salutations such as "Hey", "Hi", and "Hello". đĄ Tip: Do your best to personalize your university application letter in every way that you can.
1. Write your name and street address. At the top of your cover letter, write your first and last name. On a separate line include your street address, followed by your city, state and zip code on another line. 2. Include the date. Below your contact information, write the date you plan on sending the cover letter.
The header usually includes your name, occupation, address, phone number and email . 2. Greeting. The greeting line of a university application letter, also known as a salutation, is where you say your greetings. In a university application letter, don't go too inventive. A simple "Hey" is obviously ineffective.
Here are 3 examples of personalized cover letter greetings. Dear Mr. John Applewood, Dear Hiring Manager John Applewood, Dear Mr. John Applewood & the Hiring Department, 3. How to write a compelling introduction as a university student. Next up, you need to begin the body text of your cover letter with a compelling introduction.
1. Start with your address. The first part of your cover letter includes your mailing address. This informs the admissions officer where to send your acceptance letter. As most colleges now use email, this might be unnecessary in some instances. To write your address, start with your full name.
2. Format the page. As with most other documents, your academic cover letter contains a heading with your name, contact information and location at the top, followed by the date and the organization's name. Set your page margins to one inch, and use a professional font like Times New Roman, Calibri or Garamond.
At their most basic level, academic cover letters accomplish three things: one, they express your interest in the job; two, they provide a brief synopsis of your research and teaching; and three, they summarize your past experiences and achievements to illustrate your competence for the job. For early-career scholars, cover letters are ...
1. School Name and Address. You college application letter should follow formal letter formatting guidelines, which include writing the full name of the college or university you are applying to in the upper left hand corner of the letter. Try to be as specific as possible with the address you choose to use. 2.
A cover letter must accompany and be tailored to any application you submit. STEM letters ... Search Committee." The cover letter is a writing sample. It must be good. Proofread and spell check! TIPS Articulate your fit and focus on potential contributions to this institutionânot why you ... University of Texas at Austin ox 19308 Austin, TX ...
University Application Letter Example Template. Dear Admissions Committee, I am writing to express my enthusiastic application for the [Program Name] at [University Name]. My interest in [Subject or Field of Study] was sparked by [brief personal anecdote or experience that ignited your passion in the field].
A cover letter is more than a resume in paragraph form. 3 The format, content and purpose of a cover letter are highly individualized. âą Follow basic professional writing standards, paying special attention to differences in uploading a cover letter into an online application or using your letter as the body of an email message.
Use the cover letter to highlight information you need the employer to know, and to explain anything such as extenuating circumstances which you want them to take into account. You should: aim for one page in length with about three to five concise paragraphs. Watch the recording above to find out more about how to write your cover letter.
Content. Top â College Student Cover Letter Example 5 Steps for the Perfect College Student Cover Letter #1. Put Contact Information in the Header #2. Address the Hiring Manager #3. Write an Eye-Catching Opening Statement #4. Use the Cover Letter Body for the Details #5.
1. Research the company. Visit the company's website and pay close attention to the "About Us" section. If the company has a careers section, read over any information about workplace culture. Consider what interests youâeither about what the company does or how it does itâand note it to include in your letter. 2.
You will have a maximum number of words, so the secret is not to try to cover everything in your essay. Create a plan before you actually start writing, organize your essay in three parts (introduction, body and conclusion), and decide on the main ideas you want to express. 7. Ask someone to proofread your work.
How to Write University Admission Application Letter. Some writing tips to help you craft a better application: Start with your personal information including your full name, address, the date, and the recipient's address. Open the letter with a formal salutation, addressing the admissions committee or specific admission officer, if known.
With your cover letter, you'll aim to: Highlight your qualifications: You'll show how your skills and experience relate to the employer's needs for a specific position. Showcase your motivation: You'll demonstrate your enthusiasm for the specific position and the organization. Reflect your voice and written communication skills: You ...
The First Paragraph. In the opening of your letter you need to convey some basic information, such as what specific position you are applying for (using the title given in the job notice) and where you learned of the opening. Since a cover letter is a kind of persuasive writing (persuading a hiring committee to include you on a list of ...
How to write a college student cover letter. You can follow these steps to write your college student cover letter: 1. Do some research. Start by finding out what the employer is looking for. Read the job description carefully to identify the qualities the employer wants in a candidate.
Student cover letter example Here is a sample cover letter for a student that you can use as a guide to write an impressive cover letter of your own: Kellen Daniels 555-555-5555 [email protected] December 10, 2020 Dear Hiring Manager, I am a sophomore business major at Houston University writing to express my interest in the Online Advertising Intern opportunity at Blueprint Digital.
Header - Input contact information. Greeting the hiring manager. Opening paragraph - Grab the reader's attention with 2-3 of your top achievements. Second paragraph - Explain why you're the perfect candidate for the job. Third paragraph - Explain why you're a good match for the company.
This article emphasizes the importance of including a cover letter when applying for jobs, despite conflicting information online. It highlights employers' expectations and perceptions of cover letters.
You don't need a creative opening line. , If you think you need to open the letter with something creative or catchy, I am here to tell you that you don't. Just be simple and straightforward ...
1. Mention Your Name and Address. Imagine writing the perfect cover letter but never finding out whether they liked it because you forgot your contact details. So, write your name, email address, contact number, and date at the top left of the document. Make sure that your email address isn't unprofessional.
Middle paragraph (s) Closing paragraph. Letter ending and signature. Your cover letter should be one page long and use a simple, professional font, such as Arial or Helvetica, 10 to 12 points in size. Your letter should be left-aligned with single spacing and one-inch margins. Show Transcript.