Why Your Cover Letter Matters
Think of your cover letter as your handshake with a potential employer. It’s your chance to say hello, introduce yourself, and explain why you’re the right person for the job. A well-written cover letter can make you stand out from a pile of resumes. It’s more than just a formality; it's a powerful tool that shows you've taken the time to understand the role and the company. Here's what goes into a great cover letter:- It's personalized: You're not sending the same letter to everyone.
- It highlights your relevant skills: Even if you don't have tons of work experience, you have skills from classes, projects, and volunteer work.
- It shows enthusiasm: Employers want to see that you're genuinely excited about the opportunity.
- Your contact information (name, phone, email).
- The date.
- The employer's contact information (name, title, company, address).
- A friendly salutation (like "Dear Mr./Ms. [Last Name]").
- An introduction stating which job you're applying for and where you saw it.
- Body paragraphs explaining why you're a good fit.
- A concluding paragraph reiterating your interest and suggesting next steps.
- A professional closing (like "Sincerely" or "Best regards").
| Section | What to Include |
|---|---|
| Introduction | State the purpose clearly. |
| Body | Connect your skills to the job. |
| Conclusion | Reiterate interest and call to action. |
Cover Letter Sample University Student: Internship Application
Cover Letter Sample University Student: Internship Application
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name (if known), or "Hiring Team"]
[Hiring Manager Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Mr./Ms. Last Name, or Hiring Team],
I am writing to express my enthusiastic interest in the [Internship Position Name] internship at [Company Name], as advertised on [Platform where you saw the advertisement, e.g., LinkedIn, university career portal]. As a [Your Major] student at [Your University] with a strong passion for [Industry/Field], I am eager to apply my academic knowledge and develop practical skills in a dynamic professional environment.
Throughout my studies, I have developed a solid understanding of [mention 2-3 relevant skills or subjects from your studies, e.g., data analysis, marketing principles, project management basics]. For instance, in my [Course Name] course, I successfully [mention a specific project or achievement, e.g., led a team project to develop a comprehensive market research report, achieving an A grade]. I am proficient in [mention relevant software or tools, e.g., Microsoft Office Suite, basic coding languages, social media platforms] and am a quick learner, always seeking opportunities to expand my skillset.
I am particularly drawn to [Company Name]'s commitment to [mention something specific about the company that interests you, e.g., sustainable practices, innovative product development, community engagement]. I am confident that my proactive attitude, strong work ethic, and dedication to learning would make me a valuable asset to your team. I am eager to contribute to [mention a specific goal or project of the company if you know it, or a general area of contribution, e.g., your marketing campaigns, your ongoing research projects].
Thank you for considering my application. I have attached my resume for your review and welcome the opportunity to discuss how my skills and enthusiasm can benefit [Company Name]. I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name (if known), or "Hiring Team"]
[Hiring Manager Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Mr./Ms. Last Name, or Hiring Team],
I am writing to express my enthusiastic interest in the [Internship Position Name] internship at [Company Name], as advertised on [Platform where you saw the advertisement, e.g., LinkedIn, university career portal]. As a [Your Major] student at [Your University] with a strong passion for [Industry/Field], I am eager to apply my academic knowledge and develop practical skills in a dynamic professional environment.
Throughout my studies, I have developed a solid understanding of [mention 2-3 relevant skills or subjects from your studies, e.g., data analysis, marketing principles, project management basics]. For instance, in my [Course Name] course, I successfully [mention a specific project or achievement, e.g., led a team project to develop a comprehensive market research report, achieving an A grade]. I am proficient in [mention relevant software or tools, e.g., Microsoft Office Suite, basic coding languages, social media platforms] and am a quick learner, always seeking opportunities to expand my skillset.
I am particularly drawn to [Company Name]'s commitment to [mention something specific about the company that interests you, e.g., sustainable practices, innovative product development, community engagement]. I am confident that my proactive attitude, strong work ethic, and dedication to learning would make me a valuable asset to your team. I am eager to contribute to [mention a specific goal or project of the company if you know it, or a general area of contribution, e.g., your marketing campaigns, your ongoing research projects].
Thank you for considering my application. I have attached my resume for your review and welcome the opportunity to discuss how my skills and enthusiasm can benefit [Company Name]. I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Cover Letter Sample University Student: Part-Time Job Application
Cover Letter Sample University Student: Part-Time Job Application
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name (if known), or "Hiring Manager"]
[Hiring Manager Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Mr./Ms. Last Name, or Hiring Manager],
I am writing to express my keen interest in the [Part-Time Job Title] position at [Company Name], as advertised on [Platform where you saw the advertisement]. As a dedicated and responsible [Your Year of Study, e.g., second-year] student at [Your University], I am seeking a part-time opportunity where I can apply my [mention 1-2 relevant soft skills, e.g., customer service skills, organizational abilities] and contribute to a positive work environment.
While I am early in my career, I have developed valuable skills through my academic work and extracurricular activities. For example, in my role as [mention a role from a club, volunteer work, or previous part-time job, e.g., treasurer for the university chess club, volunteer at the local animal shelter], I was responsible for [mention a key responsibility, e.g., managing a small budget, assisting customers, organizing events]. These experiences have taught me the importance of reliability, teamwork, and effective communication.
I am particularly impressed by [Company Name]'s reputation for [mention something positive about the company, e.g., excellent customer service, welcoming atmosphere, commitment to quality]. I am a fast learner and am confident that I can quickly master the duties required for the [Part-Time Job Title] role. I am available to work [mention your general availability, e.g., evenings and weekends], and I am eager to become a contributing member of your team.
Thank you for your time and consideration. My resume, which provides further detail on my qualifications, is attached. I look forward to hearing from you soon and discussing this exciting opportunity.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name (if known), or "Hiring Manager"]
[Hiring Manager Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Mr./Ms. Last Name, or Hiring Manager],
I am writing to express my keen interest in the [Part-Time Job Title] position at [Company Name], as advertised on [Platform where you saw the advertisement]. As a dedicated and responsible [Your Year of Study, e.g., second-year] student at [Your University], I am seeking a part-time opportunity where I can apply my [mention 1-2 relevant soft skills, e.g., customer service skills, organizational abilities] and contribute to a positive work environment.
While I am early in my career, I have developed valuable skills through my academic work and extracurricular activities. For example, in my role as [mention a role from a club, volunteer work, or previous part-time job, e.g., treasurer for the university chess club, volunteer at the local animal shelter], I was responsible for [mention a key responsibility, e.g., managing a small budget, assisting customers, organizing events]. These experiences have taught me the importance of reliability, teamwork, and effective communication.
I am particularly impressed by [Company Name]'s reputation for [mention something positive about the company, e.g., excellent customer service, welcoming atmosphere, commitment to quality]. I am a fast learner and am confident that I can quickly master the duties required for the [Part-Time Job Title] role. I am available to work [mention your general availability, e.g., evenings and weekends], and I am eager to become a contributing member of your team.
Thank you for your time and consideration. My resume, which provides further detail on my qualifications, is attached. I look forward to hearing from you soon and discussing this exciting opportunity.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Cover Letter Sample University Student: Volunteer Position
Cover Letter Sample University Student: Volunteer Position
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Volunteer Coordinator Name (if known), or "Volunteer Coordinator"]
[Organization Name]
[Organization Address]
Dear [Mr./Ms. Last Name, or Volunteer Coordinator],
I am writing to express my strong interest in volunteering with [Organization Name] as a [Specific Volunteer Role, if known] or in any capacity where my skills and enthusiasm can be of service. As a passionate [mention your major or a relevant interest, e.g., environmental science student, advocate for literacy], I deeply admire [Organization Name]'s mission to [mention the organization's mission, e.g., protect our local wildlife, promote educational access for all].
My academic pursuits in [mention a relevant field of study, e.g., biology, education, sociology] have provided me with a foundational understanding of [mention a relevant concept, e.g., conservation efforts, childhood development, community needs]. I am eager to translate this knowledge into practical action and contribute to your impactful work. I am a diligent and organized individual, and I am proficient in [mention 1-2 skills that could be useful, e.g., research, event support, public speaking].
I am particularly drawn to [mention a specific project or initiative of the organization, e.g., your recent tree-planting drive, your after-school tutoring program]. I believe my [mention a relevant personal quality, e.g., positive attitude, strong work ethic, willingness to learn] would allow me to effectively support your team and contribute to achieving your goals. I am available to volunteer [mention your general availability, e.g., a few hours each week, on weekends].
Thank you for the opportunity to express my interest in supporting [Organization Name]. I have attached my resume for your reference. I am excited about the possibility of contributing to your important cause and look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Volunteer Coordinator Name (if known), or "Volunteer Coordinator"]
[Organization Name]
[Organization Address]
Dear [Mr./Ms. Last Name, or Volunteer Coordinator],
I am writing to express my strong interest in volunteering with [Organization Name] as a [Specific Volunteer Role, if known] or in any capacity where my skills and enthusiasm can be of service. As a passionate [mention your major or a relevant interest, e.g., environmental science student, advocate for literacy], I deeply admire [Organization Name]'s mission to [mention the organization's mission, e.g., protect our local wildlife, promote educational access for all].
My academic pursuits in [mention a relevant field of study, e.g., biology, education, sociology] have provided me with a foundational understanding of [mention a relevant concept, e.g., conservation efforts, childhood development, community needs]. I am eager to translate this knowledge into practical action and contribute to your impactful work. I am a diligent and organized individual, and I am proficient in [mention 1-2 skills that could be useful, e.g., research, event support, public speaking].
I am particularly drawn to [mention a specific project or initiative of the organization, e.g., your recent tree-planting drive, your after-school tutoring program]. I believe my [mention a relevant personal quality, e.g., positive attitude, strong work ethic, willingness to learn] would allow me to effectively support your team and contribute to achieving your goals. I am available to volunteer [mention your general availability, e.g., a few hours each week, on weekends].
Thank you for the opportunity to express my interest in supporting [Organization Name]. I have attached my resume for your reference. I am excited about the possibility of contributing to your important cause and look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Cover Letter Sample University Student: Research Assistant Application
Cover Letter Sample University Student: Research Assistant Application
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Professor's Name]
[Professor's Title]
[Department]
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Professor [Professor's Last Name],
I am writing to express my strong interest in the Research Assistant position advertised on [Platform where you saw the advertisement, e.g., departmental bulletin board, university website]. As a [Your Year of Study] [Your Major] student with a deep fascination for [Professor's Area of Research], I have been following your work on [mention a specific research project or publication of the professor] with great admiration.
My coursework in [mention relevant courses, e.g., Research Methods, Statistics, Advanced [Subject]] has equipped me with a solid understanding of [mention relevant research skills or concepts, e.g., experimental design, qualitative analysis, literature review]. In my [Course Name] project, I had the opportunity to [describe a relevant research task you performed, e.g., conduct a literature review on [topic], collect and analyze data using [software], prepare a research presentation]. I am proficient in [mention relevant software, e.g., SPSS, R, Excel, specific lab equipment].
I am particularly intrigued by your research into [mention a specific aspect of their research that interests you] because [explain your interest]. I am a meticulous and dedicated student, eager to gain hands-on experience in academic research and contribute to meaningful discoveries. I am confident that my analytical skills and enthusiasm for learning would allow me to be a valuable asset to your research team.
Thank you for considering my application. I have attached my resume and academic transcript for your review. I am available for an interview at your convenience and would be thrilled to discuss how I can contribute to your ongoing research.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Professor's Name]
[Professor's Title]
[Department]
[University Name]
[University Address]
Dear Professor [Professor's Last Name],
I am writing to express my strong interest in the Research Assistant position advertised on [Platform where you saw the advertisement, e.g., departmental bulletin board, university website]. As a [Your Year of Study] [Your Major] student with a deep fascination for [Professor's Area of Research], I have been following your work on [mention a specific research project or publication of the professor] with great admiration.
My coursework in [mention relevant courses, e.g., Research Methods, Statistics, Advanced [Subject]] has equipped me with a solid understanding of [mention relevant research skills or concepts, e.g., experimental design, qualitative analysis, literature review]. In my [Course Name] project, I had the opportunity to [describe a relevant research task you performed, e.g., conduct a literature review on [topic], collect and analyze data using [software], prepare a research presentation]. I am proficient in [mention relevant software, e.g., SPSS, R, Excel, specific lab equipment].
I am particularly intrigued by your research into [mention a specific aspect of their research that interests you] because [explain your interest]. I am a meticulous and dedicated student, eager to gain hands-on experience in academic research and contribute to meaningful discoveries. I am confident that my analytical skills and enthusiasm for learning would allow me to be a valuable asset to your research team.
Thank you for considering my application. I have attached my resume and academic transcript for your review. I am available for an interview at your convenience and would be thrilled to discuss how I can contribute to your ongoing research.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Cover Letter Sample University Student: Application for a Scholarship
Cover Letter Sample University Student: Application for a Scholarship
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Scholarship Committee Name (if known), or "Scholarship Committee"]
[Name of Scholarship Program/Organization]
[Organization Address]
Dear Scholarship Committee,
I am writing to humbly apply for the [Name of Scholarship] scholarship. As a [Your Year of Study] [Your Major] student at [Your University], I am deeply committed to my academic pursuits and my future career in [Your Field of Study]. This scholarship would be instrumental in allowing me to continue my education without the undue financial burden that many students face.
Throughout my university career, I have strived for academic excellence, maintaining a GPA of [Your GPA] and actively engaging in coursework relevant to my chosen field. Beyond my studies, I am passionate about [mention a relevant passion or extracurricular activity, e.g., contributing to my community through volunteer work, developing my leadership skills as president of the debate club]. For example, [provide a brief example of an achievement or contribution, e.g., I have dedicated over 100 hours to tutoring underprivileged students in mathematics, or I successfully organized a campus-wide event that raised funds for a local charity].
Receiving the [Name of Scholarship] would not only alleviate financial stress but also serve as a powerful encouragement to continue my dedication to [mention your field of study or a related goal]. I am confident that I will make the most of this opportunity and contribute positively to my field and society in the future. I am particularly drawn to this scholarship because of [mention a specific reason related to the scholarship's criteria or focus, e.g., its emphasis on leadership potential, its support for students in STEM fields].
Thank you for considering my application. My resume and academic transcripts are attached for your review. I am eager to continue my academic journey and am grateful for your consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Scholarship Committee Name (if known), or "Scholarship Committee"]
[Name of Scholarship Program/Organization]
[Organization Address]
Dear Scholarship Committee,
I am writing to humbly apply for the [Name of Scholarship] scholarship. As a [Your Year of Study] [Your Major] student at [Your University], I am deeply committed to my academic pursuits and my future career in [Your Field of Study]. This scholarship would be instrumental in allowing me to continue my education without the undue financial burden that many students face.
Throughout my university career, I have strived for academic excellence, maintaining a GPA of [Your GPA] and actively engaging in coursework relevant to my chosen field. Beyond my studies, I am passionate about [mention a relevant passion or extracurricular activity, e.g., contributing to my community through volunteer work, developing my leadership skills as president of the debate club]. For example, [provide a brief example of an achievement or contribution, e.g., I have dedicated over 100 hours to tutoring underprivileged students in mathematics, or I successfully organized a campus-wide event that raised funds for a local charity].
Receiving the [Name of Scholarship] would not only alleviate financial stress but also serve as a powerful encouragement to continue my dedication to [mention your field of study or a related goal]. I am confident that I will make the most of this opportunity and contribute positively to my field and society in the future. I am particularly drawn to this scholarship because of [mention a specific reason related to the scholarship's criteria or focus, e.g., its emphasis on leadership potential, its support for students in STEM fields].
Thank you for considering my application. My resume and academic transcripts are attached for your review. I am eager to continue my academic journey and am grateful for your consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Cover Letter Sample University Student: Responding to a Cold Outreach
Cover Letter Sample University Student: Responding to a Cold Outreach
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Name of Person who reached out]
[Their Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Mr./Ms. Last Name],
Thank you for reaching out and for your interest in my profile. I was very pleased to receive your message regarding potential opportunities at [Company Name]. Your [mention something specific about their company or the role they hinted at, e.g., innovative approach to [industry], recent project in [area]] caught my attention.
As a [Your Year of Study] [Your Major] student at [Your University], I am always eager to explore exciting career paths. My academic background in [mention relevant areas] has provided me with a strong foundation in [mention 1-2 key skills or knowledge areas]. I am particularly interested in learning more about [mention a specific aspect of the company or the role that interests you, e.g., how [Company Name] leverages [technology], the day-to-day responsibilities of a [potential role]].
I have attached my resume for your convenience, which provides a more detailed overview of my skills and experiences. I am confident that my [mention a relevant skill or trait, e.g., problem-solving abilities, eagerness to learn] could be a valuable asset to your team.
I would be delighted to schedule a brief call at your convenience to discuss potential synergies and learn more about how I might contribute to [Company Name]. Thank you again for this opportunity.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Name of Person who reached out]
[Their Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Mr./Ms. Last Name],
Thank you for reaching out and for your interest in my profile. I was very pleased to receive your message regarding potential opportunities at [Company Name]. Your [mention something specific about their company or the role they hinted at, e.g., innovative approach to [industry], recent project in [area]] caught my attention.
As a [Your Year of Study] [Your Major] student at [Your University], I am always eager to explore exciting career paths. My academic background in [mention relevant areas] has provided me with a strong foundation in [mention 1-2 key skills or knowledge areas]. I am particularly interested in learning more about [mention a specific aspect of the company or the role that interests you, e.g., how [Company Name] leverages [technology], the day-to-day responsibilities of a [potential role]].
I have attached my resume for your convenience, which provides a more detailed overview of my skills and experiences. I am confident that my [mention a relevant skill or trait, e.g., problem-solving abilities, eagerness to learn] could be a valuable asset to your team.
I would be delighted to schedule a brief call at your convenience to discuss potential synergies and learn more about how I might contribute to [Company Name]. Thank you again for this opportunity.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Cover Letter Sample University Student: Follow-Up After an Informational Interview
Cover Letter Sample University Student: Follow-Up After an Informational Interview
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Name of Person you interviewed with]
[Their Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Mr./Ms. Last Name],
It was a pleasure speaking with you today. Thank you so much for taking the time to share your insights into [mention something specific you discussed, e.g., your career path in marketing, the day-to-day operations at [Company Name], the skills most valued in the [industry]]. I truly enjoyed learning more about your experiences and the opportunities available in the [industry/field].
Our conversation has further solidified my interest in [mention a specific area or role discussed, e.g., pursuing a career in project management, exploring roles within your company]. I found your advice on [mention a specific piece of advice that resonated with you, e.g., the importance of networking, how to tailor your resume for specific roles] particularly valuable. I have already begun to [mention an action you've taken based on their advice, e.g., research the professional organizations you recommended, reach out to a contact you mentioned].
I have attached my resume for your reference. Should any opportunities arise where my skills in [mention 1-2 key skills] might be a good fit, I would be very grateful if you would keep me in mind. Thank you once again for your generosity with your time and expertise.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Name of Person you interviewed with]
[Their Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Mr./Ms. Last Name],
It was a pleasure speaking with you today. Thank you so much for taking the time to share your insights into [mention something specific you discussed, e.g., your career path in marketing, the day-to-day operations at [Company Name], the skills most valued in the [industry]]. I truly enjoyed learning more about your experiences and the opportunities available in the [industry/field].
Our conversation has further solidified my interest in [mention a specific area or role discussed, e.g., pursuing a career in project management, exploring roles within your company]. I found your advice on [mention a specific piece of advice that resonated with you, e.g., the importance of networking, how to tailor your resume for specific roles] particularly valuable. I have already begun to [mention an action you've taken based on their advice, e.g., research the professional organizations you recommended, reach out to a contact you mentioned].
I have attached my resume for your reference. Should any opportunities arise where my skills in [mention 1-2 key skills] might be a good fit, I would be very grateful if you would keep me in mind. Thank you once again for your generosity with your time and expertise.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]