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Sample Cover Letter for a Recent College Graduate

college job application cover letter

What to Include in Your Cover Letter

  • Tips for Writing a Cover Letter
  • Recent Graduate Cover Letter Example

How to Send an Email Cover Letter

Emilie Dunphy © The Balance 

Writing a cover letter as a recent college graduate can seem complicated because you have limited work experience. However, there are ways to show the employer that you are an ideal candidate for the job.

Read below for advice on writing a cover letter for an entry-level position as a college graduate, as well as an example letter.

Introductory Paragraph: In the first paragraph of your cover letter, express your interest in both the job and the employer, mentioning the company by name. Cite the source where you discovered the job announcement. If you have a connection at the company who you know would support your candidacy, mention their name here .

Do not use a generic cover letter for all of your job applications. Each one should be reworked to speak directly to the identity and needs of the employer to whom it is sent.

Body Paragraphs:  Use two or three short paragraphs in the body of your cover letter to “sell” your candidacy to the employer. While you should definitely mention the name of your college and your major (especially if this is directly related to the job), your cover letter shouldn’t be a simple biography of your academic history.

Instead, try to persuasively demonstrate how your college studies, internships, temporary / seasonal work experiences, and / or extracurricular experiences have given you the primary qualifications listed on the employer’s job posting.

Closing Paragraph: In your closing paragraph, reiterate your enthusiasm for the job opportunity and thank the employer for their consideration. This is the best place to request a personal interview and to explain how you intend to follow up on your application .

Tips for Writing a Recent College Graduate Cover Letter

Use keywords.  Take a careful look at the job description, noting any skills or experiences that the description indicates. Try to include some of those  keywords  in your cover letter. This will show the employer a connection between your experiences and the job.

Focus on activities and responsibilities.  In the body of your cover letter, emphasize the skills and experiences that make you a good candidate. Avoid focusing on your GPA or grades, or other metrics related to college. Instead, focus on activities you did, and the responsibilities you held. Maybe you had an internship or were a leader in a school organization. These examples go beyond showing that you were a good student. They show you have what it takes to be a good employee.

Sell yourself.  Avoid talking about how much you want the job; instead, focus on how you will help out the company. Emphasize ways that you can add value at the company, and why you are a good fit for them.

Show your knowledge of the company.   Research the company  before writing the cover letter. If possible, explain what you know about the company (or the department the job is in). Perhaps you’ve read an article about the company’s recent successes, or you’ve read and believed in the company’s mission statement.

Knowledge of the company will put you a step above the competition.

Edit, edit, edit.  Make sure you thoroughly read through your letter, editing any typos or grammar errors. Keep your message short and to-the-point, using language that is easy to understand. Ask a friend or career coach to read it for you as well.

Recent College Graduate Cover Letter Example

You can use this cover letter sample as a model. Download the template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online), or read the text version below.

Recent College Graduate Cover Letter Example (Text Version)

Your Name Address City, State Zip Code Phone Number Email

Name Title Company Address City, State Zip Code

Dear Mr./Ms. LastName,

I am writing to apply for the position of Media Relations Assistant Manager, which I saw advertised on MediaJobs.com. ABCD is a fast-moving global institution and an outstanding communications pioneer, now poised to guide the direction of print journalism. I believe that my extensive experience in media makes me an ideal candidate for this position at your company.

As a recent graduate of the State University, I have a significant background in media. As a media major, I held multiple internships, including Media Relations Coordinator Intern at XYZ Company. I also served as president of the Media and Marketing Club at school. We successfully developed and pitched an advertisement campaign for a local nonprofit, which helped increase donations to the nonprofit by 22 percent.

You state in your job listing that you are looking for someone with strong writing skills and an attention to detail. Throughout all four years of college, I worked part-time as a copy editor for an online journal. This job required great attention to detail in writing and editing. I would love to bring my editing skills to a position with your company.

These strengths, combined with deep and varied academic, internship, and employment experience, have prepared me to make a strong and immediate impact at ABCD.

I am excited about the opportunity to join the ABCD team as it moves to the center of the print media conversation. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Your Signature  (hard copy letter)

Your Typed Name

If you're sending your cover  letter via email , list your name and the job title in the subject line of the email message. Include your contact information in your email signature, and don't list the employer contact information. Start your email message with the salutation.

Key Takeaways

YOUR COVER LETTER IS YOUR “SALES PITCH”: Your cover letter is far more than an expression of your interest in a job opening. Ideally, it should be a powerful marketing document that summarizes the unique qualifications that you could bring to the employer.

FOCUS ON THE EMPLOYER: Every statement you make in your cover letter should serve to respond to the needs of the employer (as these are expressed in their job announcement). Don’t write extensive biography here. Instead, highlight the skills you offer.

MAKE YOUR COVER LETTER LETTER-PERFECT: Most hiring managers view carelessly written, generic cover letters as a red flag. Carefully edit your letter to eliminate all grammatical, spelling, and formatting errors. Ask a grammar-savvy friend to proofread it for you as well.

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How To Write A College Student Cover Letter (With Examples)

  • Cover Letter Examples
  • Best Cover Letters
  • Cover Letter For Internship
  • General Cover Letter Templates
  • Career Change Cover Letter
  • Promotion Cover Letter
  • College Student Cover Letter
  • Entry Level Cover Letter
  • Legal Cover Letter
  • Creative Cover Letter
  • Cover Letter For Government Job
  • Cover Letter With No Experience
  • Short Cover Letter Examples
  • How To Send An Email Cover Letter
  • How To Write A Cover Letter For A Job With No Experience In That Field

Find a Job You Really Want In

Writing a cover letter can be difficult, especially if you’re a college student who may not have written one in the past. An excellent cover letter can help convince a hiring manager that you are the best person for the job. This is why you should know how to write a college student cover letter.

If you’re a college student who needs to write the best cover letter, stick around. In this article, we’ll go over how to write a college cover letter, provide some student cover letter examples, and give you some tips to keep in mind when writing your letter.

Key Takeaways

Your cover letter should include an achievement-driven introduction, your key skills and qualifications, and a call to action.

Research the company you’re applying to so you can tailor your cover letter to them and follow any guidelines they lay out.

Include your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, honors, and soft skills in your cover letter.

How to Write a College Student Cover Letter

How to write a cover letter as a college student

What to include in your cover letter, cover letter examples for college students, 7 tips for writing your college student cover letter, how to write a college student cover letter faq.

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When writing a cover letter as a college student, you should start by greeting the recipient of the letter by name and give an achievement-driven introduction. The formatting for both a resume and a cover letter is quite similar. Here is an overview of how to lay out your letter:

Add your contact information in a header. At the top of your letter, you want to list out your contact information . This should include your name, phone number, and email address. Including your home address is also an option.

Maria Smith 215-888-5252 [email protected] 16 West Street New York, NY , 10001 9/1/2020

Add the company’s contact information. Up next you should add the contact details for the company . You should put the hiring manager’s name, company address, and phone number. Typically, this information can be found within the job posting or by doing some digging on the website.

Tim Cook Apple, Inc. One Apple Park Way Cupertino, CA 95014

Include a greeting. Your salutation should be tailored to the hiring manager, i.e. “Dear Mr. Smith”. You want to avoid saying phrases such as “To whom it may concern” which are not as personal. If you cannot find the correct hiring manager to address the letter to , it is also acceptable to use “Dear Hiring Manager” as your greeting.

Dear Mr. Cook ,

Give an achievement-driven introduction. The introduction to your cover letter should be a way for the recruiter to get to know you right away. Discuss how your education has made you a strong candidate and what you have learned. Lead with a special accomplishment that relates to the position that you are applying for. This gives the hiring manager an immediate sense of who you are and is a great segue into the next component of your letter.

My name is Maria Smith and I’m pleased to submit my application for Marketing Research Intern at Apple, Inc. I was thrilled to read this job description on Indeed and feel as though my education and skills are a perfect fit for this exciting team.

Cover key skills and why you fit the job. With your introduction setting the tone, the next section of your letter should dive deeper into your relevant qualifications. As a college student this is where you can describe experiences or organizations that you were involved in that helped you to acquire certain skills. These experiences and transferable skills should align with some of the key duties that were outlined in the description of the job. Show your passion and why you want the role.

This area of your cover letter should speak directly to why you want to work for the organization. You should express enthusiasm and a knowledge of the company. A tip is to research any notable accomplishments of the company, such as philanthropic work that you would also be interested in. Let the employer know that your personal values and goals align with those of the company.

As a senior at Penn State University in the Marketing department planning to graduate in May with a 3.6 GPA, I have accumulated a broad range of skills in market research and spent over 150 hours compiling reports of various findings on different subjects. I recently conducted a significant focus group for the university, where we gathered feedback regarding the perception and satisfaction of campus life.

Provide a call-to-action (CTA). One of the first rules of advertising is to always have a call to action, and when marketing yourself to a prospective employer the same rule applies. Be direct in that you know you are a good fit and that you would like to move forward. You can request a follow-up to further discuss your credentials and learn more about the role. This will be the conclusion paragraph of your letter, tying everything mentioned earlier together.

As an individual who fights for inclusion and diversity, I can say that not only do your values align with my own personal ones, but I feel as though I could make a significant difference through the value of research on this team if given the opportunity. Enclosed, please find my resume with further details about my education and previous experience. Thank you for the opportunity to apply for this exciting new position and I look forward to hearing from you soon. Please reach me by email at [email protected] or via phone at 215-888-5252.

Give your best regards and add your name. End your cover letter with a farewell statement such as “Best regards” or “Sincerely” followed by your first and last name underneath.

Best regards, Maria Smith

When writing your cover letter as a college student, you should include your academic achievements, any extracurricular activities, or your high GPA. Here is a more detailed list of the things to include in your cover letter:

Academic achievements. If your senior project earned the award for the best in your graduating class, say so. If you worked on a project that was successfully implemented in the real world, talk about that too.

Extracurricular activities. Talking about the clubs you were a part of (or led), the volunteer work you did, or the other activities you participated in can help give hiring managers a better idea of all that you bring to the table.

Honors or high GPA. If you graduated with honors or with a GPA higher than 3.5, mention that in your cover letter. While grades certainly aren’t everything when it comes to getting a job, if you have good ones, they’re worth mentioning.

Soft skills. Being a college student requires many of the same skills that being an employee does, especially when it comes to soft skills like communication, time management, and problem-solving. Highlight these in your cover letter by giving examples of how you’ve used them.

Student cover letter example

John Brown 123 Brook Ln. Towne, MD 123-456-7890 [email protected] 08/24/2020 Ashley Smith Senior Analyst 456 Technology Way Landon, MD Dear Ms. Smith, As a senior sports management student at Roothers State College, I was excited to see your posting for equipment interns. Within my degree program, I have been able to gain experience working with athletes across football, basketball, and baseball. I have been one of only four students to successfully complete rotations in all three sports in four semesters. I have maintained a 3.8 cumulative GPA throughout my academic career, while also being active in several campus recreational leagues. I have found that participating in sports gives operations staff a unique perspective when it comes to working with athletes. This has also helped me to interact with diverse groups of people and maintain a working knowledge of each sport. I know how to organize, coordinate, and assist with all aspects of equipment management due to my experience. It has been a dream to work for a professional sports team, but the Maryland Tigers is a franchise that I truly believe in. I have watched as the organization supports young players and always gives back to the local community. Being that I have also volunteered with Little League teams, I know that the core values of the organization align with my own. I am confident that I would make an ideal candidate for the equipment intern role. Whether assisting coaches with drills or maintaining inventory, I can be an asset to the team. I look forward to learning more about the internship and discussing my qualifications in detail. I have provided my contact details for your convenience. Best regards, John Brown

Email cover letter example

Subject Line: Social Media Manager Application — Sam Smith Dear Mr. Williams, My name is Sam Smith and I believe I would be an excellent for your Social Media Manager position. As a recent Yune University graduate with a Bachelor of Arts in social media management and a member of the Media Communications Society, I am an expert across several major platforms. During my time as a board chairman, I successfully increased engagement by 86% on Facebook during my final campaign to increase enrollment. During my four years at Yune University, I maintained a 3.9 GPA while holding leadership positions across several campus organizations. Being involved in multiple groups taught me how to not only lead but also how to communicate effectively. During the time period that I managed the Instagram and LinkedIn accounts for the university’s English department, I led a team of six other students. I know that at Social Ink, collaboration, creativity, and social awareness are highly valued. Last year, the company ran a Pets Go Social campaign that raised more than $75,000 for dog shelters. This reminds me of an initiative I led across Instagram, Pinterest, and YouTube that resulted in an increase of 250 followers and 25 pets getting adopted within 48 hours. I am passionate about getting involved in the community, and Social Ink would give me the opportunity to use my social media skills for that purpose. I believe that my academic history as well as my experience running successful social media campaigns would make me an ideal candidate. I would like to further discuss my resume and overall qualifications in more detail. Please reach out at your earliest convenience regarding the Social Media Manager position with Social Ink. Sincerely, Sam Smith

College student cover letter template

[Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State, ZIP Code] [Your Email Address] [Your Phone Number] [Date] [Employer’s Name] [Company Name] [Company Address] [City, State, ZIP Code] Dear [Employer’s Name] I am writing to express my interest in the [job title] at [company name] as advertised on [job posting] and to share my enthusiasm for joining your team. As a highly motivated and adaptable college student studying [your major] at [University name], I am eager to contribute my skills and learn from the amazing opportunities your organization offers. Throughout my academic journey, I have developed a solid foundation in [relevant skills or qualifications] which I believe make me a great fit for this role. During my time at [University name], I developed abilities in [mention a few key skills relevant to the position]. I am particularly drawn to [company name] because of its impressive track record and for the diverse group of professionals who share my passion for [industry or field]. Your company’s emphasis on [company’s focus] and its commitment to innovation make it an ideal environment for a proactive learner like me. Enclosed is my resume which provides more details about my academic achievements and relevant experiences. I welcome the opportunity to discuss in more detail how my background aligns with your needs. Please feel free to reach out to me at [your phone number] or [your email address] to schedule an interview or discuss my application further. Thank you for considering my application Sincerely, [Your name]

Before writing your letter, do your research on the prospective employer and find out their name and contact information. You should also follow any guidelines the company may have for their cover letters. Here are some more tips to keep in mind when writing your letter:

Do your research. Before you begin writing your cover letter, start researching the prospective employer. This goes beyond knowing when the company was first founded or the name of the current CEO. Find out what the work culture is like, what initiatives the organization has spearheaded, and what some of the current goals are. LinkedIn is one of the best resources for digging deeper when it comes to doing your homework on a company.

Follow the guidelines . Sometimes we can get wrapped up in the overall picture and overlook the small details. When it comes to applying for a job , you want to ensure that you are following the instructions exactly as they are given. If the internship or job posting asks for the cover letter to be saved in a certain format for email or be addressed to a specific person, make sure to follow the guidelines.

Provide up-to-date contact details. Make sure that you give the hiring manager your current contact information. This is a more common issue when the same cover letter template is reused, but this also is another reason why tailoring your letter is important. Clearly articulate to the hiring manager that they can reach you at any of the provided contact methods.

Confirm the recipient’s contact information. We already covered including the hiring manager’s contact information at the top of your letter but want to reiterate that you should verify these details. You should also confirm the email address when submitting electronically. If you send your resume and cover letter to the wrong recipient, you will miss out on the opportunity. You can always find the proper contact information within the job listing.

Add a subject line. This is a tip specifically for emailing your college cover letter. Every proper email needs a subject line that informs the intended recipient of what the message will be regarding. For your subject line, keep it simple with the position or internship that you are applying for, and your name.

Perfect your cover letter. Look at your cover letter and make sure that you have covered all of the basic structural elements . Did you start with a strong introduction to who you are? Did you highlight your education and how it has prepared you for the position? Will the reader be able to see your passion for their organization? Ask yourself if the hiring manager can get a definite sense of why you would be the best fit for the job.

It is always a good idea to reread your cover letter several times and have at least one other person look it over. Many students and alumni will have access to career service professionals or counselors who can assist with feedback. If not, having a trusted friend or family member with a strong sense of detail is also an excellent option.

Remember to show gratitude. It’s important to show your gratitude at the end of your letter. It shows that you are professional and appreciative of the hiring manager’s time.

Do college students need a cover letter?

Yes, college students should write a cover letter because it can be just as important as your resume. Your cover letter should address the recipient and show off your academic achievements. It’s also a great way to introduce yourself to potential employers.

What is a college student’s cover letter?

A college student’s cover letter is a cover letter that accompanies your resume when you apply for positions. This is similar to a regular cover letter, but you will include any academic achievements, GPA, or extracurriculars you are involved in that would be relevant to the job.

Harvard Extension School – Resume and Cover Letters

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Caitlin Mazur is a freelance writer at Zippia. Caitlin is passionate about helping Zippia’s readers land the jobs of their dreams by offering content that discusses job-seeking advice based on experience and extensive research. Caitlin holds a degree in English from Saint Joseph’s University in Philadelphia, PA.

Matt Warzel a President of a resume writing firm (MJW Careers, LLC) with 15+ years of recruitment, outplacement, career coaching and resume writing experience. Matt is also a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) and Certified Internet Recruiter (CIR) with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (Marketing Focus) from John Carroll University.

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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.

College Student Cover Letter Example (w/ Tips for 2024)

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Navigating college, you've aced your exams, written A++ research papers, and delivered exciting presentations.

Your academic journey has shaped you into a specialist in your domain, and the world is eager to see what you bring...

Yet, the challenge of writing a college student cover letter feels more daunting than that trigonometry class you dreaded in your sophomore year.

Here's the good news: We've got your back!

By the end of this article, you'll know exactly what you have to do to write your student cover letter. Here’s what we’re going to cover:

  • A Perfect College Student Cover Letter Example (to Inspire You to Write Yours)
  • 5 Steps to Writing an Effective Student Cover Letter
  • 3 Tips to Take Your Cover Letter from “Good” to “Great”

Let's dive in!

College Student Cover Letter Example

College Student Cover Letter Example

5 Steps for the Perfect College Student Cover Letter

You've just witnessed what a job-winning cover letter looks like. Now, it's your turn to craft one!

Just follow these 5 steps, and you’ll be as good as gold!

#1. Put Contact Information in the Header

When crafting your college student cover letter, it's essential to kick things off with your contact details . Just like on your resume, these should sit in the header of your cover letter.

Here's a breakdown of what to include:

  • Full Name. Your first and last name should proudly sit at the top of the page.
  • Intended Job Title. Match the job title on your cover letter to the specific position you're seeking. (E.g.: If you’re applying for the job of “Junior Marketing Manager,” use those exact words and not “Marketing Specialist" or “Advertising Executive.”)
  • Email Address. Choose an email address that's professional and straightforward. A combination of your first and last name is a safe bet. (e.g.: [email protected] is good but [email protected] is not.)
  • Phone Number. Ensure your provided phone number is accurate so that the hiring manager can reach you. If you're applying for a job in another country, add the international dial code.
  • Location. Your city and state will suffice, no need to mention the address. However, if you're seeking a remote position or planning to relocate, be sure to mention it.
  • Relevant Links (optional). If you have any relevant websites or social media profiles, such as LinkedIn, feel free to include them.

Once your own contact information is in place, it's time to add the hiring manager's details:

  • Company Name. Clearly state the company you're applying to.
  • Hiring Manager's Name. If you can find the name of the hiring manager for the specific department you're interested in, include it.
  • Location. Specify the city and state or country of the company, especially if it's a global organization.
  • Email Address (optional). If you manage to find the hiring manager's email address, it's a nice touch to include it.

#2. Address the Hiring Manager

Once you've got all your college student cover letter's contact info in place, the next step is addressing your letter properly.

You can always go for something generic like "To Whom It May Concern,” but if you want to stand out, you’re better off addressing the hiring manager directly .

Start by doing a bit of research. Take a look at the job listing, the company's website, or even their LinkedIn profiles. This will help you find the name and email address of the person who'll be reading your cover letter.

Next, address them in a formal but friendly way. You can use "Ms." or "Mr." followed by their last name. If you're unsure about their gender or marital status, just use their full name. Here are some examples:

  • Dear Ms. Rodriguez
  • Dear Alex Rodriguez

If you can't find any specific info about the hiring manager or the department head, it's okay to address your letter to the department or the company in general. Just keep it friendly and professional:

  • Dear Marketing Department
  • Dear Marketing Team
  • Dear Human Resources
  • Dear Hiring Team

#3. Write an Eye-Catching Opening Statement

Hiring managers typically spend around seven seconds evaluating a college student's application before deciding whether to read it thoroughly. So, making a strong first impression in your cover letter is vital.

In the opening paragraph, be sure to introduce yourself and explain why you're interested in the position. Expressing your enthusiasm for the industry or the specific job can grab the hiring manager's attention.

Doing a bit of research on the company can be very helpful here. The more you know about the employer, the better you can emphasize how well you'd fit into their work culture. This demonstrates that you're not just applying to random companies but are genuinely interested in this particular role.

You can also kick off your cover letter by mentioning a noteworthy achievement or showcasing the skills that make you an ideal candidate. Keep this paragraph short, though. The goal is to spark the hiring manager's interest and encourage them to read into your cover letter's details.

#4. Use the Cover Letter Body for the Details

The body of your college student cover letter is your chance to provide in-depth details that truly showcase why you're a perfect fit for the job.

Discuss courses, projects, or experiences that have given you skills relevant to the role. Additionally, share any extracurricular activities, volunteer work, or internships that align with the position.

For instance, if you're applying for a marketing role and you managed a social media campaign for a college club, that would be perfect to mention. It's also beneficial to highlight any soft skills, such as communication or teamwork, and give examples of when you've put them to use.

Next, demonstrate that you've done your research by mentioning something specific about the company that resonates with you, whether it's their mission, a product, or a recent accomplishment. 

It's important to show how the company’s values or goals align with your experiences or aspirations. Every cover letter should be tailor-made for the job you're applying for, so make sure to emphasize experiences and skills that match the job description. 

It can also be helpful to incorporate keywords from the job posting, especially if the company uses applicant scanning software for initial screening.That said, avoid the temptation to simply rehash your college resume - your cover letter should be a supplementary document, not a copy-paste.

Want to learn what a great cover letter looks like in different fields? Check out our cover letter examples !

#5. Wrap It Up and Sign It

Wrapping up your college student cover letter is the final touch that can leave a lasting impression.

It's essential to conclude on a strong note, ensuring that your conclusion reinforces why you're an excellent fit for the role.

In your conclusion, confidently recap your qualifications and the skills that set you apart from other candidates in the college student industry. Reiterate how your experiences align perfectly with the job.

Following your conclusion, it's time to include a call to action. Encourage the hiring manager to take the next step, such as initiating a discussion about your application. This proactive approach can significantly increase your chances of securing an interview.

Finally, select an appropriate closing line and follow it with your full name to end your letter like a pro. 

Please feel free to contact me at the provided email or phone number to arrange an interview. I eagerly await the opportunity to discuss my application at your earliest convenience.

Warm regards,

Jodie Sawkins

And finally, if you prefer to explore alternative sign-offs to "Warm regards," here are some options:

  • Best regards,
  • Respectfully,
  • Thank you for your consideration,

college student cover letter structure

3 Essential College Student Cover Letter Tips

You've got the basics of cover letters down, and now it's time to take your college student cover letter to the next level with some essential tips . 

#1. Match Your Resume

When you're a college student applying for a job, it's important to maintain a consistent application style.

Make sure your cover letter's format and layout closely mirror your resume template to create a professional and organized impression. 

Align your text and contact details neatly on the page, keep font styles and sizes uniform, and set appropriate margins and line spacing. 

By doing this, you'll present a polished and cohesive application while ensuring your cover letter stays on a single page.

Or Use A Cover Letter Template Instead

Don't want the hassle of starting from scratch? We've got you covered! Our cover letter templates are designed to save you time and ensure your cover letter pairs perfectly with your resume. 

Crafted with insights from the world’s leading hiring managers, our templates meet industry standards and look fantastic.

#2. Focus on Extracurricular Activities & Internships

Chances are, as a student, you don’t have a lot of hands-on professional work experience.

That doesn’t mean you lack valuable experience that can impress potential employers.

Extracurricular activities and internships can play a pivotal role in showcasing your skills, dedication, leadership, and adaptability.

Participating in clubs, organizations, or sports can demonstrate skills like teamwork, leadership, time management, and problem-solving. For instance, if you were the captain of a sports team, it suggests leadership and dedication. If you were part of a debate club, it shows strong communication and critical thinking skills.

#3. Proofread the Final Draft

Proofreading your final draft is a crucial step when polishing your college student cover letter. Typos and bad grammar can quickly sabotage a great first impression. 

First off, run your cover letter through Grammarly or any other online tool to find any mechanical errors.

Then, re-read it yourself carefully to make sure that the tool didn’t miss something important.

Finally, get a friend to give it a final review to make sure the cover letter is objectively good.

Key Takeaways

Hopefully, by now, you know all you need in order to create an effective college student cover letter.

Before you go and start applying for jobs, here’s a quick recap of everything we’ve covered in this article:

  • Your cover letter is often the first introduction to a potential employer. Ensure it's polished, professional, and captures your qualifications effectively.
  • Extracurricular activities, internships, and academic achievements can be valuable assets. Don't shy away from showcasing these experiences.
  • One size doesn't fit all. Customize your cover letter for each position, emphasizing how your skills align with the job requirements.
  • Hiring managers often skim through applications due to volume. Aim for clarity and brevity, getting straight to the point.
  • Minor errors can be detrimental. Use online tools, seek feedback, and meticulously review your content before submission.
  • Let your passion shine through. Employers value candidates who are not only qualified but also genuinely interested in the role and the company.

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College Application Letters: Cover Letters & Letters of Continued Interest

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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 “why.” 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 you’re 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. We’ll analyze examples of college application letters and discuss the letter of continued interest to help you craft successful applications. 

In this guide, we’ll break down the different kinds of college application letters you may encounter when completing your college applications. We’ll 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, you’ve 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 you’ll 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 they’re not the time to be pretentious either. When reading college application cover letter examples, you’ll see that there’s 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 – Who requires them?

Unlike college entrance essays, college application letters are required by very few colleges. However, the skills you’ll develop by writing university application letters will serve you well as you approach your college application essay prompts. When researching college application examples, you’ll notice that there are optional materials to submit. If you’re 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 don’t have any supplemental essays. You’ll 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, you’ll 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 don’t allow you to submit a college resume or don’t 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. We’ll 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, you’ll 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. You’ll 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 – math, science, English, and social studies. If there’s 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 – clubs, classes, sports, or other areas – 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 “One recommendation should be from a math or science teacher, and one should be from a humanities, social science, or language teacher.” 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 isn’t already covered in your college entrance essay or other recommendation letters. 

Don’t 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, you’ll 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 you’re 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 aren’t 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. 

Don’t wait until you’re 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. It’s different from both the college application essay format and the letter of continued interest. When reviewing college application samples, you’ll see that your cover letter works together with your college resume and college entrance essay to help admissions officers get to know you. 

Below, we’ll 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! Don’t feel limited by what’s in any examples of college application letters.

Do all schools require a college application letter?

No — 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 – 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 don’t 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.

college application letter

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. You’ll 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 applicant’s 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, “showing instead of telling makes for stronger college applications.

How to format your college application letter?

When reading sample college application letters, you’ll 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 officer’s name
  • The college name
  • The college address

Then, open your letter with a salutation. Many examples of college application letters open with “Dear” 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, don’t forget your closing salutation – “Sincerely,” and then your name. 

Once you read several sample college application letters, you’ll understand the best practices. After writing a university application letter for one school, you don’t need to start from scratch for additional schools. Adapt what you have to fit the next college’s 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, don’t 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, you’ll 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!

college application letters

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, you’ll 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 you’re 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 – When and where to submit?

Learn as much as you can by reading college application example LOCIs, but know that each school’s 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. It’s important to follow each university’s 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 – typically the admissions office. Others won’t allow you to submit any additional materials. If you’re in doubt, call or email the admissions office and ask. 

What to include in your letter of continued interest?

You’ll 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, you’ll 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 don’t be shy! Offer to answer any questions they have and provide additional info in the conclusion of your letter. 

It’s 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 – Final Thoughts

In this guide, we covered several types of letters associated with your college process – 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 applicant’s 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!

college application letters

This guide to college application letters and letters of continued interest was written by Caroline Marapese, Notre Dame ‘22. 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. We’ll also answer any questions and discuss how CollegeAdvisor.com can support you in the college application process.

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Career Advice for Job Seekers

How to write a standout cover letter

college job application cover letter

When applying for jobs, cover letters are an easy way to set yourself apart from the crowd and help you move on to the next round of consideration. This doesn’t mean, however, that you should write your cover letter in the same way everyone else does it.

To stand out, you need to give employers something that they can’t find in everyone else’s application —and that means putting together a cover letter that’s tailored to the specific position you’re applying for.

Take a look at this article on how to write a standout cover letter and get started creating your own letter today!

The importance of a cover letter

When looking for jobs, first impressions matter. And sure enough, a professional resume builder can help you create a resume that leaves a lasting impression. But a compelling and well-crafted cover letter will take your application to the next level, giving you an edge against the tough competition. That is why recruiters suggest that, in your cover letter, immediately highlight your strengths and sell yourself. This will grab the reader’s attention and increase the chances of moving to the next round.

While it is true that cover letters aren’t always required, they are still an essential part of the job application process. In today’s job market, a great cover letter is more important than ever. It is your first chance to make a good impression on a potential employer – so it’s worth taking the time to make sure it’s perfect.

7 Main parts of a standout cover letter

Cover letters may have different content, but they all need to have some important elements to serve their purpose. Ideally, they must follow a certain format to keep information organized and easy to identify by employers.

Below are seven sections that cover letters should have to meet employer expectations:

All cover letters have a header that includes your contact details. Applicants usually follow the same header for cover letters to ensure consistency. Regardless of the format, it must include your name, phone number, address, and email address. You may also include links to your social media profiles or portfolio that contain information relevant to the position you are applying for.

2. Greeting

This is the first part of the cover letter that allows you to stand out from other applicants. So, if possible, research the name of the hiring manager to show them that you are serious about your application and that you have put thought and effort into it. You can easily find this information within the job post or on the company website.

3. Introduction

This is the first paragraph of your cover letter. It should contain basic information about yourself and why you want to apply for the role. Mention the job title you are interested in and give an overview of why you are best for the position. You can also mention where you found out about the job posting and why you decided to apply.

4. Qualifications

In this part, you can highlight your work history, skills, and qualifications. This gives the employers an idea of how you can be beneficial to the team. Give some relevant details from your resume, and emphasize your job experience. You can even include stories about relevant scenarios or projects that demonstrate your skills.

5. Goals and values

Here, you may show that you have understood the company’s mission and demonstrate how your goals are aligned with theirs. Share that you aren’t just perfect for the job, but you can also blend in with the team, bringing a positive vibe to the entire workplace.

6. Call to action

This paragraph summarizes your interests and skills. It should also suggest the next steps on how to proceed with your application. Don’t forget to thank the hiring manager for reviewing your application.

7. Signature

Finally, end your cover letter with a professional closing sentence and your signature. Some appropriate phrases to include are best regards, respectfully, with thanks, and sincerely.

Top qualities and skills to include in your cover letter

No matter what industry you’re trying to break into, it helps to have all your bases covered when it comes to your cover letter. The cover letter is one of the most important parts of your job application, as it’s the first thing hiring managers will see in your application package and the only part that’s guaranteed to get a read. Including these qualities and skills in your cover letter will help make sure you stand out from the competition:

1. Leadership

When it comes to qualities and skills to include in your cover letter, leadership is always a great choice. Employers love seeing that you have the ability to take charge and motivate others. To show that you have leadership skills, discuss a time when you led a team or took on a leadership role. Give specific examples of what you did and how your actions made an impact.

2. Time management

If you want to get ahead in today’s business world, time management is essential. No matter what job you have, being able to manage your time well will make you more productive, efficient, and successful. To be a strong candidate for any position, you should mention that you are great at prioritizing tasks and working efficiently to meet deadlines.

3. Teamwork

Whatever industry you’re in or what job you’re applying for, teamwork is always an important skill to highlight in your cover letter. Being a team player shows that you can work well with others and that you’re not afraid to take on new challenges. It also helps when it comes time to working out problems together as a group.

4. Communication

Strong communication skills are essential for any job but especially important for a customer service role. You’ll need to be able to communicate clearly and effectively with customers, answering their questions and addressing their concerns. Good communication skills also come in handy when you are faced with difficult situations. You’ll need to be able to stay calm and professional when things get heated and clearly explain the situation to the customer.

5. Flexibility

One of the most important qualities employers look for in a candidate is flexibility. Being able to adapt to change and handle unexpected challenges is a critical skill in today’s ever-changing workplace. Describe how you have adapted to changing circumstances at work, including changes in workflow, team members, deadlines, or instructions from management. Here are some questions to guide you in showing that you are a flexible team member:

  • Have an internship that required you to wear many hats? Talk about what skills you gained through this experience (think creativity, problem-solving, time management).
  • Did you take on projects that required new skills? Did these projects allow you to expand your knowledge of an industry or topic?

6. Initiative

One of the most important qualities to highlight in your cover letter is initiative. Hiring managers want to see that you’re the type of person who takes the initiative and doesn’t wait for someone else to tell you what to do.

Here are a few examples of how you can show initiative:

  • Volunteering on an office project,
  • Arranging a company dinner,
  • Proposing ideas at meetings,
  • Organizing conferences, or
  • Managing projects independently.

Honesty begins when you’re writing a cover letter. It’s important to be honest about your qualifications and skills. After all, you’re trying to convince a potential employer that you’re the best person for the job.

Honesty shows that you’re confident in your abilities and that you have nothing to hide. Plus, it’ll help build trust between you and your potential employer. After all, if you were dishonest in your resume or if you lied during an interview, what’s stopping them from catching on?

It may seem like honesty is a natural part of any profession, but not many people practice it. Don’t be afraid to list every quality and skill that makes you perfect for the position!

Common mistakes when writing a cover letter

One of the most important pieces of your job application is your cover letter. It’s your chance to make a lasting first impression and convince the hiring manager that you’re the right person for the job. But writing a great cover letter isn’t always easy.

To help you get started, here are some tips on how to avoid common mistakes:

Depending on the job you are applying for, being too formal can make or break your application. For instance, if you are writing a cover letter for a renowned firm, then formality is of the essence. But if it is a creative agency you are going for, it may be worth trying to take an informal approach.

Too informal

On the contrary, being too informal can also be perilous. Being too casual or personal may give the recruiters a message that you are not serious about your application. Of course, a conversational tone is ideal, but if you choose to go this way, be sure that you stay professional in some aspects.

Using a template

Using a cover letter template can be efficient and quick. It also allows you to apply to different jobs quickly. But using a template cover letter may suggest laziness or imply that you are not giving effort for that role.

Talking a lot

Unless what you are talking about is necessary for the role you are applying for, there are things that you just have to leave out. Recruiters are often in a hurry, and they want to get an overview of who you are. Yes, it is good to include interests or hobbies. But if you feel they won’t get you the job, just skip them.

Nobody likes people who keep on bragging, not even hiring managers. And the challenge with writing a cover letter is that you need to sell yourself and show off what you can do to land your dream job. However, there is a fine line between confidence and bragging. If you are confident in your HTML skills, simply say you know HTML. As much as possible, avoid making claims that you are an expert in Java or that you have unparalleled leadership skills.

Writing an essay

Keep it short and sweet; they don’t need your life story. Also, avoid phrases like I’m desperate to work with you! and You can count on me.

Not proofreading

Proofread, proofread, proofread! Spelling errors and typos can cost you an interview.

7 Tips to consider to create a cover letter that will land you your dream job

When you’re applying for a new job, your cover letter is your chance to make a great first impression. Here are some tips on how to write a cover letter that will get you noticed.

  • Start by introducing yourself and briefly mentioning what you are currently doing, the company or organization you work for, and any other pertinent information.
  • Think about what type of position you’re applying for and tailor your cover letter accordingly. If you’re applying for an administrative assistant position, then mention in your cover letter that you have experience with administrative tasks like answering phones and booking flights. If the company needs someone who can work weekends, mention in your cover letter that you have availability during those times and can come in early or stay late if needed to work around the office schedule.
  • Share something specific about the position and explain why it interests you.
  • Outline your most relevant skills and qualifications in bullet points.
  • Be enthusiastic about the company and role—again, be specific about why this particular opportunity interests you more than others out there right now.
  • Include a paragraph detailing what makes you unique as an applicant: Maybe it’s because of your excellent communication skills, or maybe it’s because of the customer service training courses that you have taken in the past.
  • Customize your application materials to each company: The hiring manager doesn’t know who else might be applying for this position, so they need information about why they should hire YOU specifically. Include what makes YOU stand out from other candidates and why they should invest their time into interviewing YOU as opposed to just anyone else who applied.

A well-written cover letter can be the difference between landing an interview and getting your resume tossed in the trash. Your cover letter should not only showcase your strengths, but it should also explain why you are the right fit for the job and why you deserve to be invited to an interview.

A cover letter accompanies your professional resume when you apply for jobs, so it’s essential that you include only the best information about yourself and your work history in order to snag an interview. However, there are some common mistakes that job seekers make when writing their cover letters, and if you’re making them too, then you’re missing out on opportunities to get the job offer you want. Also, you have to ensure that you include some important qualities and skills in your cover letter to increase your chances of getting called back.

–Dahlia Keen is a certified professional resume writer with over 20 years of experience in the field. Dahlia specializes in career coaching, job search assistance, and professional resume writing. Dahlia is a regular contributor to Resumekit.com , a site dedicated to helping job seekers build an attractive resume.

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Cover Letters

Crafting an effective cover letter.

Using the strong communication skills you’re developing through your liberal arts education, along with the information that you acquire from conducting employer research, make a compelling case to employers that you have the skills they are seeking.

An effective cover letter communicates to an employer which specific skills and experience you would bring to their specific position and always addresses why you’re interested in their organization. Your cover letter should not be a restatement of the entire résumé. Rather, using full paragraphs, it allows you to provide a comprehensive view of yourself as it relates to the position that you’re applying for.

Cover letters should be tailored for every position to which you apply .  Cover letters take a good deal of thought and time to achieve the right level of professionalism and confidence that will appeal to employers.

Should You Send A Cover Letter?

The answer is very simple.  Always send a cover letter with your résumé even when it’s optional, because it conveys your enthusiasm for the position and that you aim to exceed expectations.   The one exception is if/when the instructions specifically state: “Do not include a cover letter.” If you’re applying for the position via email, copy and paste the cover letter in the body of your email and include the résumé as an attachment.

Cover Letter Help

Check out our Cover Letter Guide for more helpful tips and to view samples. But don’t be afraid to ask for help in the Career Center! And/or: have your cover letter reviewed by a  Writing Center  consultant or your roommate. The bottom line: It’s always better to have another pair of eyes look it over before you submit your application.

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15 Higher Education Cover Letter Tips to Get a College Job

15 Higher Education Cover Letter Tips to Get a University or College Job

Writing a higher education cover letter using these expert tips will help you secure an interview and a top job offer in a competitive job market. Whether you are applying to become the next Dean of Students, Campus Coordinator, Director of Alumni Relations, College Adjunct Instructor, or University Professor, ensure you are the individual getting an interview and that dream job.  

When reviewing job postings, you will discover the advert could request a cover letter, application letter, letter of intent, or letter of introduction. These are just different ways to refer to the letter they expect to see accompanying the resume or CV . Implement these tried and true higher education cover letter writing tips to showcase your best value.

A well-written cover letter can be just as impressive as an adequately  designed resume ; a cover letter, a.k.a. the application letter, should always accompany a resume or CV. This is the opportunity to fine-tune your storytelling abilities and speak to the institution specifically by tailoring your accomplishments and personal traits to a particular job.

Describe your abilities, competencies, skills, knowledge, and expertise, and illustrate them with concrete, institution-specific examples. This is the prime time to tell a hiring committee why you are the perfect candidate whose values, expertise, and skills match the department’s mission and needs. Implementing this post’s strategies will help you make a career transition into a university or college confidently . 

Top Higher Education Cover Letter Writing Tips

Research the institution – college or university faculty.

The more you know about the institution you are applying for, the easier it will be to tailor your higher education cover letter to the college or university’s specific needs, goals, and mission. Whether targeting an Executive Director position or applying for an Adjunct Professor posting, directly relating your skills and expertise to the institution’s needs will go a long way when your application is assessed.

Even if some of your research does not come through in your cover letter, this is excellent preparation for the interview you are setting yourself up for with a professionally written cover letter. You will be better equipped to answer questions such as “Why this job?” and “How are you qualified?” if you thoroughly understand what the position requires.

Check the College or University’s Website

Dive into the college or university’s website to find vital institutional characteristics, strategic goals, needs, and educational missions. This is also where you will discover the institution’s “language.” Try to mimic the wording in your cover letter to the website and job description. This may set you apart from other applicants. You have put in that extra effort to understand better what the position entails and how it positions itself in the educational world.  

Tailor Your Cover Letter for the Position

Because you may be sending out your resume and cover letter to multiple institutions, do not inform the faculties by submitting a generic template cover letter. If you have diligently learned the position, you should tailor your cover letter to the job. The easiest way is to include the college or university name in your letter.

Additionally, ensure you address the college’s particular needs with your accomplishments; this will show the hiring committee that you are familiar with their goals and have the experience to back up your self-marketing.

Suppose you take the extra time to tailor your cover letter to the position you are applying for, be it the Dean of Students or Director of Communications. In that case, you increase your chances of being selected for an interview.

Be Specific by Targeting the Cover Letter

When highlighting your capabilities and achievements, it is vital to illustrate how your competencies will meet the objectives of the position you aim to fill. Whether you list your powers in bullet or paragraph form, do it concisely so the hiring committee can see and read how you are the right candidate for the position.  

List Accomplishments to Match Higher Education Position

When applying for higher education positions such as Chief Technology Officer, Campus Coordinator, or Executive Director, you want to ensure the accomplishments and experiences you add to your cover letter are relevant to the specific position and institution you are targeting.

A good rule of thumb is to highlight the job description and any other documents with the general position expectations with keywords that pertain to your expertise and achievements. This will enable you to specify what you bring to your letter.

As you progress in your career, an idea would be to create a document listing all your accomplishments. After cleaning it up, you would word them for a cover letter in paragraph form and insert them into your cover letters for new employment opportunities.

This way, you always have the sense of a tailored cover letter, although you may have copied and pasted the middle section, and you don’t have to spend hours creating a brand new note each time you want to apply somewhere.

Quantify Career Results

Whenever possible, take a cue from your resume and quantify your accomplishments. If you have “increased student enrolment by 15%” in your tenure, then say so. Take that achievement, develop it into something the hiring committee can see you taking on in their company, and specify that in your cover letter.

These may seem like tedious details, but sometimes the numbers stand out in a sea of words, so take advantage of the opportunity to market yourself in a way that the competition may not.  

Include Keywords

The job posting should provide you with a wealth of information about the employer and the type of person they want to hire. You want your cover letter to engage the reader, so speak to the responsibilities and job description without repeating it word for word. Also, make sure you use keywords that apply to your career and your competencies.

Utilizing keywords will also help your higher education cover letter and resume or curriculum vitae pass the Applicant Tracking Systems. Look below for some examples of keywords to include based on the position you are applying for:

Dean of Students : analytical thinking, leadership, and managerial competencies; organized, self-motivated, humanitarian, technologically competent, approachable.

Adjunct Professor: syllabus creation, student performance monitoring, collaboration and coordination, organizational skills, teamwork, computer competencies.

Director of Admissions: application assessment, institution promotion, management abilities, administrative competencies, attention to detail, enrollment assistance.

Chief Technology Officer: computer proficiency, technical expertise, leadership, analytical, communication and interpersonal skills, and teamwork.

You should format your higher education cover letter to be read easily if sent over email. A PDF is the best as it can be opened and viewed precisely how you created it. Remembering this is a good rule if you intend to attach it to the email or application website.

It may be best practice to copy and paste your cover letter into the email body to ensure the hiring manager reads it. They may not open the cover letter as an attachment and instead go straight to the resume.

The overall layout should follow the suggestions below:  

A cover letter allows you to be more personal and speak as if you were having a conversation; however, do not make it too lengthy. Ensure you keep your resume to one page in length. This page encompasses three to four paragraphs describing your intention, qualifications, accomplishments, and a closing.  

Address to Hiring Manager

While researching information about the position and the institution, note who may be reading your application whenever possible. Some hiring managers may not care that the letter is explicitly addressed to them.

Why take the chance and leave their name out when it could be critical to the person reading your cover letter? If the name is not listed in the job description, contact the Department of Human Resources to determine to whom it should be addressed.  

First Paragraph / Opening Sentence

The first paragraph of your cover letter should state the position you are applying for, the institution you are applying to, and why you are the right candidate for the job. Add your applicable educational background if the job description requires a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree.

The example below uses strong language and markets the professional for the Dean of Students position. This is the opportunity to briefly display what you can offer the college or university regarding its mission.

“As an experienced leader in the academic sector for over 30 years, I welcome the opportunity to apply for the Dean of Students position with ABC University. As an alumnus of ABC University, I would love the chance to return and become a member of the faculty. I am well prepared to significantly contribute to the goals and objectives of the institution as I have honed my operational, planning, and program development skills to serve your community better.”  

Middle Paragraphs – Include Achievements

The 2nd and 3rd paragraphs should describe your relevant qualifications and highlight your accomplishments. Make sure they pertain to the desired position. This is where examples of how your skills, experience, or research directly correlate with what the employer is looking for.

For instance:

Over the last two years at State College, I have increased donations by more than 80%, bringing over $1 million to the college”.

Each middle paragraph should describe why you are uniquely qualified for the position using keywords from the job posting. There are two options to fulfill this opportunity: bullet point and narrative.

Bullet points are great if you want to catch the reader’s eye quickly and concisely; describe your accomplishments in about four bullet points. Using a narrative is another approach if you wish the hiring committee to remember a story. Either option is acceptable; it depends on how you describe your experiences.

Example Accomplishments and Paragraph

  • Established innovative and successful academic programs to attract and retain students, reinforced educational offerings, and enhanced intellectual professional development.  
  • Spearheaded an academic growth program, enhanced curriculum development, and organized grant and funding initiatives.

  “My experience in the English Department has enabled me to become a skilled writer by concentrating in literature for both my undergraduate and graduate programs. I am excited to incorporate the technologies I have utilized in my teaching and am eager to work with new systems. Organization and leadership are vital to balance multiple projects and demands successfully, and this expertise has made my career much more rewarding.”

When writing your achievements in paragraph form, think of them using the CAR analogy: CHALLENGE-ACTION-RESULT.  

Final Paragraph / Closing / Thank You

In the final paragraph, you thank the reader for their consideration and request the opportunity to meet in person. This is also the place for that final push, the last opportunity to tell the reader that you are the right candidate.

“As a passionate, innovative, and dedicated teaching professional, I am confident that my skills in academic oversight and directional leadership will directly translate to Taylor University’s mission. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to connecting with you soon to offer more insight into my qualifications.”  

Call to Action/Ask for the Interview

A more direct way to ask for the interview is to be proactive in your approach to closing the cover letter. For example:

“ I will call in one week to follow up and find out if I can clarify any questions you may have, ” or “I will contact you within the next few days to set up a time to speak more specifically about how my skills will directly benefit your academic community .”

If you decide to go with this closing, connect with the institution.  

Match Your Resume

Consistency is critical when submitting several documents with your application. Your paperwork must reflect a polished and professional personality. Ensure your cover letter matches the formatting you used for your resume.

They all have the same look if you are sending thank you letters or recruiting/networking letters. Copy and paste your heading, thus ensuring that the same font, size, and borders are present on everything. Double-check to make sure all documents look the same before you submit them.

Proofreading may seem obvious, but it is a step that should not be missed. If your cover letter has grammatical or spelling errors, it could automatically disqualify you from the position. It may also not pass the Applicant Tracking Systems.

Your capacity to communicate on your higher education cover letter will reflect your ability. Whether you lead a department, teach a graduate class, or recruit and retain students. Read over your cover letter, print it off, reread it, set it aside, and read it a third time. Always proofread and, when possible, have a friend do it for you.

The cover letter is the opportunity to market yourself and your skills in a much less structured way than a resume. Make sure that your cover letter is engaging. Ensure it reflects your skills specific to the position and shows your passion for the job you wish to secure.

An excellent letter will highlight the best parts of your resume without copying it word for word. The goal is to explain why you are the ideal person for the job. Why your experiences are relevant, and how you will use your well-tuned skills in this new role. Take these higher education cover-level tips to heart, and you will land that new job as the next Director of Academic Programs!

If you need help writing your job search documents, connect with me (Candace) via phone at 1 877 738 8052 or send an email .

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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 don’t 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 institution’s 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 Master’s 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 institution’s website. If possible, consider contacting someone you know at the institution to ask about the culture directly. You can also use the institution’s 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 aspects—people. Reach out to your advisor, committee members, faculty mentors, and other contacts for insight into the prospective department’s 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 institution’s 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 you’ve 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 department’s faculty. As such, be aware of how the letter’s 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. You’ll 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 “dissertation research” your “current project” or “work,” 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 you’ve 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 department’s strengths while simultaneously diversifying the university’s 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 reader’s 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 “Sincerely” or “Kind Regards” 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 letter’s 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 Center’s 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 “dissertation” 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., “I’m 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 handout’s 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. “Understanding Cover Letters.” Inside Higher Ed , November 3, 2013. https://www.insidehighered.com/advice/2013/11/04/essay-cover-letter-academic-jobs .

Borchardt, John. 2014. “Writing a Winning Cover Letter.” Science Magazine , August 6, 2014. https://www.sciencemag.org/careers/2014/08/writing-winning-cover-letter# .

Helmreich, William. 2013. “Your First Academic Job.” Inside Higher Ed , June 17, 2013. https://www.insidehighered.com/advice/2013/06/17/essay-how-land-first-academic-job .

Kelsky, Karen. 2013. “How To Write a Journal Article Submission Cover Letter.” 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. “Ten Simple Rules for Writing a Cover Letter to Accompany a Job Application for an Academic Position.” 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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  1. How To Write a College Student Cover Letter (With Template)

    A college student cover letter is a document that accompanies your resume when you apply for a position. It is the first impression you will give to your future employer. The objective of the cover letter is to demonstrate that you could be an asset to the company.

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    The best college cover letters have five main elements: 1. Heading. This is where you list your name, title, and contact details. It should also include the addressee's details and the date the letter was written. Use a professional template, so the information stands out. 2.

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    Body Paragraphs: Use two or three short paragraphs in the body of your cover letter to "sell" your candidacy to the employer. While you should definitely mention the name of your college and your major (especially if this is directly related to the job), your cover letter shouldn't be a simple biography of your academic history.

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    Adaptable cover letter introduction example. Dear Mr. Vallant, As a student of organizational behavior and occupational psychology, I relish any opportunity to explore the human condition. Working as a research associate in your HR consultancy would offer a fascinating real-life perspective to my studies. Copied!

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    When writing a cover letter as a college student, you should start by greeting the recipient of the letter by name and give an achievement-driven introduction. The formatting for both a resume and a cover letter is quite similar. Here is an overview of how to lay out your letter: Add your contact information in a header.

  9. Academic Cover Letters

    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

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    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.

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    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.

  13. How to write a standout cover letter

    The cover letter is one of the most important parts of your job application, as it's the first thing hiring managers will see in your application package and the only part that's guaranteed to get a read. Including these qualities and skills in your cover letter will help make sure you stand out from the competition: 1. Leadership

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    Always send a cover letter with your résumé even when it's optional, because it conveys your enthusiasm for the position and that you aim to exceed expectations. The one exception is if/when the instructions specifically state: "Do not include a cover letter.". If you're applying for the position via email, copy and paste the cover ...

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    A cover letter is more than a resume in paragraph form. 3 The format, content and purpose of a cover letter are highly individualized. • 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.

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    The cover letter should include a few paragraphs that introduce who you are and explain why you are the best person for the role. If you have job experience, you can reference it here, but the cover letter should focus on qualifications that don't fit in on your resume. This can include many different activities and experiences, including:

  17. 15 Higher Education Cover Letter Tips to Get a College Job

    Writing a higher education cover letter using these expert tips will help you secure an interview and a top job offer in a competitive job market. Whether you are applying to become the next Dean of Students, Campus Coordinator, Director of Alumni Relations, College Adjunct Instructor, or University Professor, ensure you are the individual getting an interview and that dream job. When ...

  18. Writing a Cover Letter for a Community College Job

    1. Explicitly match the description of your skills to the requirements of the job as it is posted. That match-up will distinguish your letter from the pack because screening committees read many generic letters from applicants who fancy they can teach everything.

  19. Academic Cover Letters

    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.

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    Finally, it's clear the writer of this cover letter is committed to the new job. They even worked on their skills to prepare for this change in profession. Taking a 150-hour course and volunteering are both great signs our candidate is dedicated to switching industries. 6. Cover letter for promotion example.

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    Sample Cover Letters For College Application. Here are two college application letter examples that can help you draft your cover letter and distinguish your application from other candidates: Example 1. Here is a sample cover letter if you are aware of the name of the head of the admissions department: Shamya Dasgupta 128/1, Raja Marg New ...

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