Writing a good cover letter is a key part of getting a job or internship as a student. This letter is your chance to show why you're a great fit for the position you want. It goes with your resume and helps explain your skills and experiences in more detail.
A cover letter does several important things. First, it introduces you to the employer. It also shows that you're really interested in the job. Most importantly, it explains why you would be good at the job.
Many students find it hard to write a cover letter. They might not know what to include or how to make it sound professional. But don't worry - with some practice and the right tips, anyone can write a strong cover letter.
In this article, we'll walk you through the steps of writing a student cover letter. We'll explain what to put in each part of the letter. We'll also give you an example to help you understand better. By the end, you'll have the knowledge to write your own great cover letter.
Remember, a cover letter is your chance to stand out from other applicants. It's where you can show your personality and enthusiasm for the job. So, let's get started on learning how to write a cover letter that will help you get noticed by employers.
Student Cover Letter Example
Dear Mr. Tyrone Mills,
I am writing to express my keen interest in pursuing educational opportunities as a student. As a dedicated and enthusiastic learner, I am excited about the prospect of furthering my academic journey and contributing to a vibrant learning community.
Throughout my academic career, I have consistently demonstrated a passion for knowledge acquisition and a commitment to personal growth. My diverse interests and curiosity have driven me to excel in various subjects, fostering a well-rounded educational background. I am eager to bring this enthusiasm and adaptability to a new academic environment.
Some key attributes that I believe make me an ideal candidate for any educational institution include:
- Strong work ethic and self-motivation
- Excellent time management and organizational skills
- Ability to collaborate effectively in group settings
- Critical thinking and problem-solving capabilities
- Open-mindedness to new ideas and perspectives
I am particularly drawn to the opportunity to engage with challenging coursework, participate in extracurricular activities, and contribute to a diverse and inclusive campus community. My goal is not only to excel academically but also to grow as an individual and make meaningful contributions to the student body and broader community.
While I understand that the position of 'student' is not typically associated with a specific company, I am eager to learn more about educational institutions that align with my academic goals and values. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my skills, experiences, and aspirations could contribute to your academic community.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of further discussing how I can contribute to and benefit from your educational programs.
Sincerely,
Teresa Ryan
How to Write & Format a Cover Letter Header
The header of your student cover letter is the first thing a potential employer will see, making it crucial to get right. This section sets the tone for your entire letter and provides essential contact information. A well-crafted header ensures your letter looks professional and makes it easy for employers to reach out to you.
Include Your Contact Information
Start by listing your full name, address, phone number, and email address. Make sure your email address is professional – ideally, use your name rather than a nickname or quirky handle.
Add the Date
Include the current date when you're sending the letter. This helps keep your application timeline clear for both you and the employer.
Employer's Information
Next, add the recipient's details. Include the name of the person you're addressing the letter to, their job title, the company name, and the company's address. If you don't know the name of the specific person, try to find out through research or by calling the company. As a last resort, you can use "Dear Hiring Manager" or "Dear [Department] Team."
Use a Professional Format
Align all this information to the left side of the page. Use a clear, readable font like Arial or Calibri, and keep the font size between 10 and 12 points. Ensure there's adequate spacing between each element for easy readability.
By following these guidelines, you'll create a polished and informative header that sets the right tone for your student cover letter. Remember, attention to detail in this section demonstrates your professionalism and care in presentation – qualities that employers value highly.
Greeting Your Potential Employer
After crafting a professional header, the next crucial element of your student cover letter is the greeting. This section sets the tone for your letter and demonstrates your attention to detail and professionalism.
Research the recipient
Whenever possible, address your letter to a specific person. Take the time to research the company's website or LinkedIn to find the name of the hiring manager or department head. If you can't find a specific name, consider calling the company to inquire.
Use a formal salutation
Begin your letter with a formal salutation, such as "Dear [Name]" or "Dear [Title]." If you couldn't find a specific name, use "Dear Hiring Manager" or "Dear [Department] Team."
Avoid generic greetings
Steer clear of outdated or overly casual greetings like "To Whom It May Concern" or "Hello." These can make your letter feel impersonal and less engaging.
Double-check spelling
Ensure you spell the recipient's name correctly. A misspelled name can create a negative first impression and suggest a lack of attention to detail.
By following these guidelines, you'll create a strong, personalized greeting that sets the stage for a compelling cover letter. Remember, this small but significant detail can make a big difference in how your application is received.
Introducing Yourself in a Cover Letter
The introduction of your cover letter sets the tone for the entire document and serves as your first chance to capture the reader's attention. This crucial section should immediately convey your enthusiasm for the position and highlight your most relevant qualifications.
To craft an effective cover letter introduction, begin by clearly stating the purpose of your letter and the specific position you're applying for. This helps the reader quickly understand your intent and ensures your application is directed to the appropriate department.
Next, briefly mention how you learned about the opportunity. Whether it was through a job board, career fair, or personal recommendation, this information can provide context and demonstrate your proactive approach to job searching.
Follow this with a concise statement about why you're interested in the position and the company. Show that you've done your research by mentioning a specific aspect of the organization that appeals to you, such as their mission, recent achievements, or company culture.
Finally, include a strong thesis statement that summarizes your key qualifications and how they align with the job requirements. This serves as a preview of what the reader can expect in the body of your cover letter.
Remember to keep your introduction concise, typically no more than 3-4 sentences. Your goal is to pique the employer's interest and encourage them to continue reading your cover letter and resume.
Key Components of a Strong Introduction
• State the position you're applying for • Mention how you learned about the opportunity • Express enthusiasm for the role and company • Highlight your most relevant qualifications • Keep it concise and engaging
Strong Example
Dear Hiring Manager,
As a passionate and highly motivated third-year Computer Science student at XYZ University, I am thrilled to apply for the Software Engineering Internship position at TechInnovate Inc. With a strong foundation in programming languages such as Java and Python, coupled with hands-on experience in developing web applications through academic projects, I am eager to contribute my skills and learn from your innovative team. Your company's commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology aligns perfectly with my career aspirations, and I am excited about the opportunity to be part of your groundbreaking work in artificial intelligence and machine learning.
Why is this a strong example?
This is a strong cover letter introduction for several reasons. First, it immediately identifies the applicant as a relevant candidate by mentioning their field of study and year, which is crucial for a student application. The introduction also specifically names the position and company, showing that it's tailored and not a generic letter. The applicant highlights relevant skills and experiences, demonstrating their qualifications for the role. Moreover, they show enthusiasm and knowledge about the company by mentioning its focus areas (AI and machine learning), which indicates research and genuine interest. The tone is professional yet eager, striking a good balance for a student applicant. Overall, this introduction effectively captures attention, establishes relevance, and sets a positive tone for the rest of the letter.
Weak Example
To whom it may concern,
I am writing this letter to apply for any available position at your company. As a recent graduate, I am eager to start my career and believe I would be a good fit for your organization. I have attached my resume for your review.
Why is this a weak example?
This is a weak cover letter introduction for several reasons. First, it's addressed generically, showing no effort to research the specific recipient or company. The applicant doesn't mention a particular position, instead asking for 'any available position,' which suggests a lack of focus or direction. There's no compelling hook to grab the reader's attention, and the statement about being a 'good fit' is vague and unsupported. The introduction fails to showcase any specific skills, achievements, or relevant experiences that would make the applicant stand out. It also doesn't demonstrate knowledge of the company or enthusiasm for the industry. Overall, this introduction is too generic, lacks personalization, and fails to make a strong first impression, which is crucial in a competitive job market.
Writing the Body of Your Cover Letter
The body of your student cover letter is where you can showcase your relevant skills, experiences, and enthusiasm for the position. This section typically consists of two to three paragraphs that highlight your qualifications and demonstrate why you're an excellent fit for the role.
Highlight Your Relevant Skills and Experience
In the first paragraph of the body, focus on your most relevant skills and experiences. Even if you don't have extensive work history, you can draw from academic projects, internships, volunteer work, or extracurricular activities. Emphasize how these experiences have prepared you for the position you're applying for.
Demonstrate Your Knowledge of the Company
Use the second paragraph to show that you've researched the company and understand its values, mission, and recent achievements. Explain why you're interested in working for them specifically and how your goals align with theirs. This demonstrates your genuine interest and initiative.
Express Your Enthusiasm and Fit
In the final paragraph, reiterate your enthusiasm for the position and briefly summarize why you believe you're an excellent candidate. Highlight any unique qualities or experiences that set you apart from other applicants. This is your last chance to make a strong impression before your closing statement.
Strong Example
As a recent graduate from XYZ University with a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, I am excited to apply for the Software Developer Intern position at ABC Tech. Throughout my academic career, I have developed a strong foundation in programming languages such as Java, Python, and C++, and have completed several relevant projects that demonstrate my ability to apply these skills in real-world scenarios.
During my time at university, I led a team of four in developing a mobile application for campus event management, which improved student engagement by 30%. This experience not only honed my technical skills but also enhanced my ability to work collaboratively and manage projects effectively. Additionally, I completed a summer internship at DEF Software, where I contributed to the development of a cloud-based inventory management system, gaining valuable experience in agile methodologies and version control using Git.
I am particularly drawn to ABC Tech's commitment to innovation and your focus on developing cutting-edge solutions for the healthcare industry. Your recent project on AI-driven diagnostic tools aligns perfectly with my interest in machine learning and its applications in improving patient care. I am eager to bring my passion for technology, strong problem-solving skills, and dedication to continuous learning to your team.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my skills and enthusiasm can contribute to ABC Tech's mission.
Why is this a strong example?
This is a strong example of a cover letter body for several reasons. First, it clearly states the applicant's relevant qualifications, including their degree and specific technical skills. It then provides concrete examples of projects and experiences that demonstrate these skills in action, such as leading a team to develop a mobile application and completing an internship where they worked on a real-world software project. The letter also quantifies achievements (e.g., improving student engagement by 30%), which adds credibility and impact. Furthermore, it shows that the applicant has researched the company by mentioning ABC Tech's focus on healthcare innovation and a specific project. This demonstrates genuine interest and initiative. Finally, the letter maintains a professional tone while conveying enthusiasm for the position and the company's mission. It effectively bridges the applicant's background with the company's needs, making a compelling case for why they would be a valuable addition to the team.
Weak Example
I am writing to apply for the internship position at your company. I am a student at XYZ University and I think I would be a good fit for this role. I have taken some classes related to this field and I am eager to learn more. I am hardworking and a quick learner. Please consider me for this position.
Why is this a weak example?
This is a weak example of a cover letter body for several reasons. First, it lacks specificity and fails to demonstrate knowledge about the company or position. The writer doesn't mention the company name or specific role, making it seem generic and unpersonalized. Second, it doesn't provide concrete examples of relevant skills or experiences, relying instead on vague statements like 'I have taken some classes' without elaborating on what was learned or how it applies to the internship. Third, the language is passive and unengaging, failing to convey enthusiasm or unique value. Phrases like 'I think I would be a good fit' lack confidence and fail to persuade. Finally, it doesn't explain why the student is interested in this particular internship or company, missing an opportunity to show genuine interest and alignment with the organization's goals.
How to Close Your Cover Letter
After crafting a compelling body for your student cover letter, it's crucial to end on a strong note with an effective closing. The closing paragraph serves as your final opportunity to make a lasting impression and prompt the reader to take action.
Express Gratitude
Begin your closing by thanking the reader for their time and consideration. This simple gesture demonstrates professionalism and courtesy.
Reiterate Your Interest
Briefly restate your enthusiasm for the position and the company. This reinforces your motivation and dedication to the opportunity.
Call to Action
Clearly express your desire for further communication. Indicate your availability for an interview and provide your contact information.
Professional Sign-off
Choose an appropriate closing salutation, such as "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by your full name.
Follow-up
Mention that you'll follow up on your application if you haven't heard back within a specified timeframe. This shows initiative and genuine interest in the position.
By following these guidelines, you'll create a strong closing that leaves a positive impression and increases your chances of securing an interview. Remember to keep your tone professional yet enthusiastic throughout the entire letter.
Strong Example
Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to [Company Name]'s innovative projects and further develop my skills in [relevant field]. I look forward to the possibility of discussing how my academic background and enthusiasm for [industry/field] can benefit your team. Please feel free to contact me at [phone number] or [email address] to arrange an interview at your convenience.
Why is this a strong example?
This is a strong cover letter closing for several reasons. First, it expresses gratitude for the reader's time and consideration, which is professional and courteous. Second, it reiterates the applicant's enthusiasm for the specific company and position, showing genuine interest. Third, it subtly reinforces the applicant's qualifications by mentioning their academic background and relevant skills. Fourth, it includes a clear call-to-action by inviting the employer to arrange an interview. Finally, it provides multiple contact methods, making it easy for the employer to reach out. The tone is confident yet respectful, striking a good balance for a student applicant. This closing leaves a positive final impression and encourages further communication.
Weak Example
Thanks for your time. I hope to hear back from you soon. Have a nice day!
Why is this a weak example?
This closing is weak for several reasons. First, it lacks enthusiasm and fails to reiterate interest in the position. The phrase 'Thanks for your time' sounds perfunctory rather than genuinely appreciative. Secondly, it doesn't include any call to action or next steps, which is a missed opportunity to demonstrate initiative. The closing 'Have a nice day!' is too casual for a professional cover letter, especially for a student seeking to make a strong first impression. Lastly, it doesn't include the student's full name or contact information, which are crucial for follow-up. A stronger closing would express sincere gratitude, reaffirm interest in the position, indicate readiness for next steps, and include proper sign-off with full name and contact details.
Cover Letter FAQs for Student
What is the ideal format and length for a student cover letter?
A student cover letter should typically be one page long, consisting of 3-4 paragraphs. Use a professional font like Arial or Calibri, 11-12 point size, with 1-inch margins. Start with your contact information, followed by the date and employer's details. Include a salutation, opening paragraph, 1-2 body paragraphs, and a closing paragraph with a call to action.
How do I start a cover letter if I have no work experience?
Begin by highlighting your academic achievements, relevant coursework, volunteer work, internships, or extracurricular activities. Focus on transferable skills you've gained from these experiences that relate to the job you're applying for. Emphasize your enthusiasm for the position and explain why you're interested in the company.
What should I include in the body paragraphs of my student cover letter?
In the body paragraphs, showcase your relevant skills, experiences, and achievements. Relate these to the job requirements mentioned in the posting. Use specific examples to demonstrate how your abilities align with what the employer is seeking. Highlight any academic projects, leadership roles, or volunteer work that showcase your potential value to the company.
How do I address the cover letter if I don't know the hiring manager's name?
If you can't find the hiring manager's name after thorough research, use a general professional salutation such as 'Dear Hiring Manager,' 'Dear [Department] Team,' or 'Dear Human Resources Director.' Avoid outdated phrases like 'To Whom It May Concern' as they can seem impersonal.
Should I mention my GPA in my cover letter?
Only mention your GPA if it's impressive (typically 3.5 or higher) and if it's relevant to the position. If the job posting specifically requests GPA information, include it. Otherwise, focus on highlighting skills, experiences, and achievements that directly relate to the job requirements.
How can I make my student cover letter stand out?
To make your cover letter stand out, tailor it specifically to each job application. Research the company thoroughly and show genuine interest in the role. Use strong, action-oriented language and provide specific examples of your achievements. Demonstrate how your unique combination of skills and experiences makes you an ideal candidate. Finally, proofread carefully to ensure there are no errors or typos.