how to write cover letter for teaching position

• Grades 6-12
• School Leaders

Have you gotten your free poster delivered? ✨

25 Teacher Cover Letters Examples To Help You Get Hired

Your guide to a killer cover letter that will get you that interview.

Whether you are sending out resumes hoping to land your first teaching job or looking to shift to a new school or district, one fact remains the same: All the best credentials, experience, and passion will go unnoticed without a strong cover letter. The main rule? Sell yourself the way a publicist would. Cover letters aren’t a time for modesty. They’re a time to highlight your accomplishments and make your passion for teaching known. Below you’ll find our tips for creating the best cover letter possible and our top teacher cover letter and CV examples.

3 top tips for crafting a teacher CV or cover letter:

Keep it short and sweet..

You’ve only got about 30 seconds to capture a hiring director’s attention, so start with what we call “the elevator pitch.” Imagine you have the time between the elevators closing on one floor and opening again on another floor to sell yourself. Instead of rehashing everything on your resume, use the space to craft a paragraph or two that will convince them you are a standout candidate and are worth moving on to the next step.

Emphasize why you’re a great match.

Read the job description and find the overlap between the skills you bring to the table and the skills they need. If the job description calls for certain qualities or uses specific language, repeat them in your cover letter! The ultimate goal for your cover letter is to say, “You’ve got a problem? I’m the ideal person to solve it.” Be professional and use concrete examples.

Individualize!

Tailor each and every cover letter to fit the specific school, district, and job for which you’re applying. Research the school and its culture. That way, you can address their expectations and also use specific examples of achievements in your history to show why you’re the right candidate for the position.

Top teacher cover letter examples:

1. first-time teacher.

This letter is friendly and enthusiastic. It uses concrete examples and experiences related to student teaching while showcasing exactly why the applicant wants to become a teacher.

Learn more: First-time teacher at LiveAbout

2. Another first-time teacher example

This version of a cover letter calls out the specific skills the applicant has and hopes to bring to the table.

Learn more: Another first-time teacher example at OLAS

3. Experienced elementary teacher

Not every teacher stays in their job until retirement. If you’re looking for a new position, your cover letter should clearly state your experience. This example also makes it obvious that the candidate researched the new district and discusses why she would be excited to join. The candidate also includes references at the bottom of the cover letter.

Learn more: Experienced elementary teacher at Monster ADVERTISEMENT

4. Another experienced elementary teacher example

It doesn’t hurt to have additional examples! This teacher cover letter clearly showcases the school’s goals and addresses how this teacher specifically can help. She did her research!

Learn more: Another experienced elementary teacher at LiveAbout

5. Summer school teacher

As school lets out for summer, many teachers still need to earn an income. With competition tight, this cover letter stands out as the candidate states her qualifications as well as her ability to train other staff members.

Learn more: Summer school teacher at Cover Letters and Resume

6. Assistant teacher

With this letter, the applicant took a slightly different approach. The letter breaks down the most relevant accomplishments into bullet points. Those will jump out at the hiring manager, who will likely scan through a ton of applications.

Learn more: Assistant teacher at LiveCareer

7. Special education teacher

This letter is similar to a standard teacher cover letter, yet it also stresses the specific qualifications and experiences of a special ed teacher. For example, this candidate included how they modified the curriculum to meet the needs of a wide range of learners. In this particular cover letter example, the teacher was looking to move into a leadership role, so this serves as a template for someone looking to transition into management as well.

Learn more: Special education teacher at JobHero

8. School guidance counselor

This cover letter emphasizes the applicant’s academic achievements, especially with regard to the psychology education required for many counselor positions. It also talks about the characteristics that make this person the ideal candidate for this position.

Learn more: School guidance counselor at Great Sample Resume

9. Another school guidance counselor example

We liked this cover letter because it pulls specific metrics that are not in the resume—including the number of students the candidate worked with and the funding obtained for special needs programs.

Learn more: School guidance counselor at Zety

10. Library media specialist

This cover letter oozes confidence! As with any specialist position, the candidate hones in on how her specific skills and background make her qualified for this role.

Learn more: Library media specialist at LiveCareer

11. High school English teacher

This cover letter covers a lot of ground. It points out the candidate’s strengths for teaching and assessing knowledge in the specific subject. It also presents the special techniques the candidate uses to teach students at the high school level.

Learn more: High school English teacher at Great Sample Resume

12. Technology teacher

Taking a very professional approach to writing a cover letter shows that the contender is serious. This letter points out the specific skills that best prove why this candidate is a great fit for the position.

Learn more: Technology teacher at LiveCareer

13. Music teacher

A music teacher requires knowledge of multiple instruments and a love of music and music theory. This cover letter showcases the candidate’s background and why they feel music is an important part of the education experience.

Learn more: Music teacher at Best Sample Resume

14. Drama teacher

Drama teachers often go above and beyond just teaching a class. They host auditions and rehearsals for after-school productions. This cover letter shows the candidate’s knowledge of curriculum, directing a show, and even marketing efforts.

Learn more: Drama teacher at Great Sample Resume

15. Foreign language teacher

Foreign language teachers need to display their knowledge of the particular language as well as showcase how well they can immerse students in the culture. This cover letter discusses the teacher’s plans to incorporate curriculum as well as help facilitate the induction of students into the German Honor Society.

Learn more: Foreign language teacher at JobHero

16. Sports coach

This cover letter has a terrific opening line that sets the candidate apart from the get-go. It also clearly covers the candidate’s qualifications, from knowledge and experience to attitude and philosophy. This cover letter example also works well for PE teachers.

Learn more: Sports coach at JobHero

17. ESL teacher

Teaching English as a second language obviously requires a distinct skill set. This cover letter showcases key communication skills and lets the hiring director know the specific language fluency.

Learn more: ESL teacher at LiveCareer

18. Math teacher

Touching on the highlights of their resume without rehashing it completely (who wants to read something twice?), this candidate points out their qualifications and certifications as well as their versatility in teaching different types of students.

Learn more: Math teacher at A+ Resumes for Teachers

19. Pre-K teacher

Teaching pre-K takes patience, creativity, and flexibility. This cover letter effectively highlights the candidate’s communication and problem-solving skills as well as the personal qualities that make them great at their job.

Learn more: Pre-K teacher at LiveCareer

20. Business teacher

This cover letter provides excellent background about the teacher in a way that’s appropriate for business. It shares the necessary information clearly and concisely.

Learn more: Business teacher at LiveCareer

21. International school teacher

Working at an international school requires a certain skill set, and this letter highlights the teacher’s language skills as well as their ability to create effective lessons on relevant topics while providing students with the support they need to succeed.

Learn more: International school teacher at LiveCareer

22. Head teacher cover letter

Serving as a head teacher involves a unique blend of leadership and innovation. This cover letter showcases the candidate’s exceptional communication and leadership skills, essential for coordinating with staff, students, and stakeholders to cultivate a thriving educational environment.

Learn more: Head teacher cover letter example at QwikResume

23. Kindergarten teacher

A kindergarten teacher plays a foundational role in a child’s educational journey, blending creativity with core educational principles. This cover letter highlights the candidate’s proficiency in developing engaging lesson plans and materials tailored to young learners, ensuring the fundamentals of various subjects are delivered in a manner that is both enjoyable and educational.

Learn more: Kindergarten teacher at Kickresume

24. Secondary teacher

Secondary teachers help shape the young minds of students as they transition into adulthood. This cover letter exemplifies the candidate’s adeptness in crafting comprehensive lesson plans and teaching materials that cater to the diverse needs of teens, ensuring that the curriculum resonates with their evolving interests and capabilities.

Learn more: Secondary teacher at Resumaker

25. Art teacher

An art teacher embodies the intersection of creativity and education, nurturing students’ artistic talents and encouraging their expressive capabilities. This cover letter highlights the candidate’s proficiency in designing stimulating lesson plans that explore a wide range of artistic mediums and techniques, from traditional painting and drawing to digital art forms.

Learn more: Art teacher at Resume Genius

Do you have more great teacher cover letter examples? Share them in our We Are Teachers HELPLINE group on Facebook.

Plus, check out the most common teacher interview questions and suggestions for how to answer them., you might also like.

Free Teacher Resume Template and Tips, Plus 21 Teacher Resume Examples

Make a great first impression! Continue Reading

Copyright © 2024. All rights reserved. 5335 Gate Parkway, Jacksonville, FL 32256

Build my resume

• Build a better resume in minutes
• Resume examples
• 2,000+ examples that work in 2024
• Resume templates
• Free templates for all levels
• Cover letters
• Cover letter generator
• It's like magic, we promise
• Cover letter examples
• Free downloads in Word & Docs

5 Teacher Cover Letter Examples & Templates for 2024

• Teacher Cover Letter
• Elementary Teacher
• Art Teacher
• Special Education Teacher
• AP English Teacher
• Writing Your Teacher Cover Letter 101

Teachers’ duties extend far beyond the 8 to 4 school day, encompassing lesson planning, grading, parent communication, faculty meetings, and guiding student extracurriculars. 

The challenge of finding a new teaching position and the requirement to write a cover letter in addition to your teacher resume can seem daunting given your already full schedule.

We’re here to assist you in your job hunt with five teacher cover letter examples and a comprehensive guide. While it’s impossible to highlight every accomplishment, our resources, which include a free cover letter generator , are designed to help you effectively showcase your strengths and demonstrate to principals and departments why you’re the ideal candidate for the position.

Teacher Cover Letter Example

USE THIS TEMPLATE

Microsoft Word

Google Docs

Block Format

Copy this text for your Teacher cover letter!

123 Pretend Lane Belleville, MI 48111 (123) 456-7890

January 12, 2023

Shaunna Li Belleville High School Principal 501 West Columbia Avenue Belleville, MI 48111

Dear Ms. Li: Belleville High School’s call for teachers who can relate to the pain points of students is why I am motivated to establish a welcoming classroom, foster healthy relationships with students, and lead by example in the geometry teacher position. While a 2014 study cites that only 16 percent of students graduate with proficiency in math, my unique methodology has seen 34 percent of my students master proficiency, and of that number, 17 percent have pursued STEM careers.

My methodology revolves around one central point—showing students why they should care about math. My personal love for math grew out of the recognition that math could be used to solve real-world problems; it is the same for students today. Once they recognize that math is foundational to many fields, including trades, finance, engineering, and so many others, students get excited with the possibilities of the doors math can open for them.

Math can be tedious and frustrating, and the subject does not register easily for many students; this is why you may see me collaborating with the chemistry teacher to lead our classes through a NASA-inspired rocket project or partnering with shop classes to witness students enjoying the reward of their hard work and creations. It is often that students do not actually realize they have relied on math until we debrief in class.

Solving students’ pain points is more than acknowledging their existence. To me, pain points are a starting point to discovery. I firmly believe that some of the most challenging endeavors have the power to yield the most fruitful results. If these results speak to you, I am eager to share more of what my non-traditional classroom looks like and what you can expect from Belleville’s students and from me as their geometry instructor.

Thank you for your consideration,

Marcus DeWitt

Enclosures: Resume Application Transcripts

Level up your cover letter game

Relax! We’ll do the heavy lifting to write your cover letter in seconds.

Elementary Teacher Cover Letter Example

Copy this text for your Elementary Teacher cover letter!

123 Pretend Lane Newark, NJ 07103 (123) 456-7890

Bryson Thatcher KIPP Rise Academy Principal 21 Ashland Street Newark, NJ 07103

• Dear Mr. Thatcher:

Responding to KIPP’s core belief that knowledge is power, I am inspired to join the ranks of creative and out-of-the-box thinkers as your next fifth-grade teacher at Rise Academy. I welcome the opportunity to team-teach with another innovative instructor and learning specialists as I value the high-level learning that results when multiple ideas connect and unite for a common cause.

I have served as the reading department head for the past six years, which has equipped me to coach as well as learn from my fellow teachers. The success we have celebrated as a result of our combined efforts—students reading an average of 26 books per year, raising their reading level by a grade or more, etc. —will only soar with the ability to share a classroom with passionate educators.

Additionally, if you look at my track record, you will find me wherever students are. From volunteering to sponsor grade-level field trips and activities to working beside parents for fundraisers, student advocacy is a responsibility I take seriously. Shaping tomorrow’s leaders is only possible when students and families believe that teachers are on their side; together, we are unified and strong.

With over 50 percent of your student population entering Rise below grade level, I am impressed by the academy’s ability to transform young minds so profoundly that by the time they reach high school, they perform just as well as peers statewide. I am sincerely excited about the potential to be part of this transformation process, and I welcome the opportunity to discuss my experience and qualifications with you further. Thank you for your time, and I look forward to our next conversation.

Best regards,

Clayton Reid

Enclosures: Resume Application

Art Teacher Cover Letter Example

Copy this text for your Art Teacher cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85001 (123) 456-7890

November 20, 2023

Ava Davis Scottsdale Unified School District 123 Fictional Lane Phoenix, AZ 85001

Dear Ms. Davis:

I’m inspired by Scottsdale Unified School District’s steadfast commitment to fostering creativity and providing a diverse artistic education for students. Witnessing young minds grasp artistic skills and express their vibrant personalities through art is what truly drives me. Today, I can’t wait to bring my passion, creativity, and teaching prowess to your district as an art teacher.

Over the last four years, I’ve taught drawing and sketching at Phoenix Center for the Arts to students aged 6 to 18. My guidance led to a 32% increase in program enrollment, inviting a whole new lot of budding artists. Using tools like Procreate, SketchBook, and various drawing media, I helped students build diverse skill sets and boost their artistic confidence.

Before that, I worked as a printmaker at Creative Printing & Packaging. I mastered printmaking, applying it to custom designs for clients and increasing the center’s clientele by 17% through workshops and events. My expertise grew in multiple printing techniques, such as etching, relief, and screen printing, where I took on expansive projects in lithography and silkscreen art.

My artistic journey kicked off as a mural painter, where I poured my heart into designing and painting commissioned murals across Phoenix. This wasn’t just about livening up buildings; it involved closely collaborating with local businesses and communities to create public art that resonated with Phoenix’s cultural spirit. These mural projects transformed mundane, overlooked spaces into vibrant, inspiring landmarks, leading to an average increase in foot traffic by 12%.

My diverse artistic talents, complemented by my dedication to fostering creativity, align perfectly with Scottsdale Unified School District’s vision for art education. I’m eager to discuss how my expertise can help inspire your students to discover and express their artistic abilities.

Kaito Yamamoto

Why this cover letter works

• Metrics bring your accomplishments to life, painting a vivid picture of your effectiveness for the role. For instance, Kaito reports a 12% increase in foot traffic to his mural projects.

Special Education Teacher Cover Letter Example

Copy this text for your Special Education Teacher cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue Houston, TX 77001 (123) 456-7890

Olivia Jones The Monarch School and Institute 123 Fictional Lane Houston, TX 77001

Dear Ms. Jones:

Being part of a special education classroom and seeing the profound, positive changes in the students sparked my passion for special education. Like the energetic pace of a volleyball match and the infectious spirit of the athletes, I’ve wanted to be part of this transformative journey, and I’ve successfully done so during the past five years. Today, I’m eager to bring my zeal, skills, and experiences to The Monarch School and Institute as a special education teacher.

In my latest senior role as a behavior analyst at Cypresswood Therapy & Counseling in Houston, TX, I used applied behavior analysis to design plans for 34 clients who exhibited challenging behaviors. The strategies, tailored for each client, alleviated problem behaviors and increased skill acquisition by an average of 38%. Here, data collection and analysis were crucial in assessing progress and adjusting interventions.

Previously, as a special education teacher at Crossroads School, I was responsible for leading 19 students, focussing on conducting functional behavior assessments. We devised customized interventions that fostered a significant reduction in disruptive classroom behaviors. During this time, I utilized resources such as Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and progress monitoring tools like DreamClass to gather data and track student progression.

I began my journey in special education as a teaching assistant at Westchester Academy for International Studies. As part of a team, we improved students’ academic performance by 16% within a year. This experience gave me valuable insights into designing a curriculum accommodating diverse needs, reinforcing my passion for this field.

I strongly believe my theoretical knowledge and hands-on experiences, combined with my dedication to inclusive education, position me uniquely for an engaging role at The Monarch School and Institute. I’m eager to discuss how my expertise can contribute to the growth and progress of the students at your esteemed institution.

• Passion equals commitment and even success. Not only does this align with the role she seeks, but it’s also an excellent trick to captivate the recruiter reading your piece.

AP English Teacher Cover Letter Example

Copy this text for your AP English Teacher cover letter!

123 Pretend Lane Denton, TX 75065 (123) 456-7890

Kyndra Marque Ryan High School Principal 5101 E McKinney St Denton, TX 76208

Dear Ms. Marque:

With 12 percent of Ryan High’s student population slotted to graduate with honors, I am eager to lead the initiation of the English Advanced Placement program as stated in the job description. With seven years of experience teaching AP courses, I am confident that Ryan High’s students will excel in my classroom and beyond.

Through frequent collaboration with the English department, mentoring and assessing honors students in the National Honor’s Society, honors-level courses, and other honors associations, I have developed strategic methodologies that both determine a student’s ability and willingness to tackle the demanding coursework. While AP standards are rigorous, 92 percent of students who have taken my class have passed the AP English Language and Composition Exam.

Furthermore, I am inspired by Ryan High School’s mission to build lifelong learners who will contribute to society by seeking answers and sharing those answers with the next generation. As a lover of literature, this is why I choose to teach uncomfortable texts, such as Elie Wiesel’s Night, Arthur Miller’s The Crucible, and Carl Sandburg’s poem “Grass.” By building relationships with my students, I successfully facilitate meaningful and real-world connections with them through American and world literature. What students discover in my classroom will impact them for the rest of their lives.

Ultimately, education is much more to me than just teaching the objectives. I believe in cultivating relationships and working with excellence in every area; based on my conversations with the English department head, Ryan High School is just as passionate about education. I look forward to discussing how my skills and qualifications can better serve Ryan High’s honors and AP students. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Stacie Solis

Enclosures: Resume Application 2 letters of recommendation

AP English Teacher Resume

Need a resume to pair with your AP English teacher cover letter?

or download as PDF

How to Write a Cover Letter for a Teaching Job

The key to writing your teacher cover letter can be distilled into two main points: don’t be generic and don’t let it become a repeat of your resume. 

Step 1: Don’t skimp on researching the teaching role

Just as you want to tailor your resume to the school where you want to work and to its accompanying  teacher job description , you should do the same with your cover letter. Sure, this requires extra research, but what’re 20 or 30 minutes when this effort can pay off in dividends? Not only will research ensure your cover letter is relevant—not vague and generic—it’ll also prepare you well for common  teacher interview questions .

Additionally, leverage your research to demonstrate a real interest in the role you’re applying for as well as in the school itself.

• Discuss how your commitment to standardized testing has improved students’ performance at other schools.
• Share how Google Classroom has transformed your STEM projects.

Step 2: Go beyond your teaching resume

Addressing the specific needs and concerns mentioned in the job description will have the desired effect  as long as you go beyond what you included in your resume . Mentioning that you’re a rock star at using Google Classroom isn’t enough; principals have  already  gathered that from your resume bullet points and  skills section .  

This is your opportunity to specifically share what you’ve done with Google Classroom. Many teachers set up Google Classroom for their students but don’t get around to using it. What have you done that sets the standard for every teacher following you? This is when quantifying your experience becomes exceptionally valuable. 

• Demonstrate how this resource has decreased late submissions by 53 percent.
• What did you do exactly to accomplish such a feat? One-on-one tutoring, an after-school club, unique teaching methodologies?

Step 3: Convey the right message

Beyond specific and descriptive paragraphs in your teacher cover letter, keep your document  at  or less than a page. Eliminate wordiness and avoid pleasantries. Be sincere and gracious, but, really, no one likes a teacher’s pet.   

So, consider your tone of voice. Be professional, avoiding clichés, contractions, colloquialisms, and the like. Remember you’re applying for a teaching position, not a quirky tech startup.

Consider your tone. Remember you’re applying for a teaching role, not a quirky tech startup.

And when you think your cover letter is ready to go, hold up! You’re, indeed, almost at the finish line, but what is it you tell your students to do before they submit an essay (which they inevitably  never  do)? 

Yep—it’s time to practice what you preach. Invite a few people you trust to review your cover letter and offer constructive criticism while your eyes and brain rest. Then, return to your work, consider the feedback, and scour for any last content issues and spelling and grammar errors. Make revisions, save your document, and send your best teacher cover letter to the principal and hiring department with your resume, application, and any other requested materials.

Your Teacher Cover Letter Format & Outline

Now, if you’re staring at a blinking cursor on a blank document, not sure how to make the examples and steps work for you, don’t fret. It’ll come together beautifully like a perfectly executed lesson plan.

You just need a comprehensive outline that breaks the cover letter for a teaching position into distinct sections, making it easy to understand what to include in each part.

How to start a teacher cover letter

Your contact info: If you’re using a template, fill in the letterhead to suit your needs. Just ensure you replace all filler text and don’t accidentally exclude critical information like your name, email, and phone number. 

• Formatting:  If you write a block business letter rather than use a template, including your address is standard. Additionally, while your name will be prominently displayed on a letterhead on a template, a basic but professional block letter should omit your name (the principal will find your name easily in your signature line).

Date:  If you write your cover letter today but don’t submit it until next week, edit the date, to reflect the day you submit the letter and other career documents for the specific teaching role. 

• Formatting:  Write out the full date, e.g. January 12, 2023.

Inside address:  This is the contact information for the principal or hiring department at the school. Name the specific person; then, include the school and position title, e.g., Ryan High School Principal. Complete this section with the school’s address.

• Formatting:  Each piece of the inside address should be on a new line. You’ll want a double space between the inside address and the greeting. 

Kyndra Marque Ryan High School Principal  5101 E McKinney St Denton, TX 76208

Greeting:  Your goal is to start on the right foot with your principal, so avoid issuing a generic greeting, also known as a salutation, like:

• Dear Principal,
• Dear Hiring Department,
• To Whom it May Concern:

While it can take some sleuth skills to track down the name of the hiring manager for some jobs,  most, if not all,  schools have staff listings on their website. You’re already researching the school to help you write an amazing cover letter, so take a couple of extra minutes to put a real name to the greeting:

• Dear Ms. Li:
• Formatting:  Err on the side of caution and use a colon at the end of the greeting. A comma is more casual while a colon denotes professionalism, which will likely serve you best for a teaching role.  

How to write your teacher cover letter

Body:  The body of your teacher cover letter should be three to four brief paragraphs that state your interest, demonstrate your teaching credentials, and convey enthusiasm for further discussion. Let’s break it down further: 

• Formatting:  The body of your teaching cover letter should be single-spaced although you’ll need to double-space between paragraphs.

Opening paragraph:  The goal is simple—state your interest in the position and your overarching credentials that reflect your research for the specific role. While the goal is simple, the execution often leaves little to be desired. Too many teacher cover letters start the same way.

I found your posting online and am interested in filling the English III position. 

No. Just no. Bore the principal and the English department right out of the gate, and they’ll wonder whether you’ll hold the attention of your students. Instead, try:

Not only does this signal that you’ve done your homework and researched the school’s unique standing and areas for growth, this opening paragraph hooks the reader. Clearly, you’re interested in the role, offer valuable experience, and with phrases like “lead the initiation” and “excel in my classroom,” there’s no doubt you’re confident and capable.

Paragraphs 2-3:  If you can squeeze in the third paragraph, we recommend it as each paragraph is an opportunity to demonstrate indisputable evidence of the credentials and qualifications you boldly state in your opening paragraph. 

Each paragraph should not be a repeat of your resume; rather, each paragraph should hone in on  one  clear accomplishment, be it the results of your teaching methodology, values, or something else. Don’t try to tackle multiple topics in a paragraph. Be detailed, specific, and quantify your results when possible. 

Closing paragraph:  Clench an interview with this final paragraph. Now’s not the time to lay your head on your desk and call it a day. Don’t let this be your closing paragraph:

I believe I am the perfect candidate for this teaching position, and I look forward to hearing back from you soon. 

At best, it exudes laziness. At worst, no one will believe you’re actually interested in the job but just need something to put beans on the table. 

Instead, demonstrate that your unique values and qualifications align with the school’s needs, which will indicate a genuine interest in the role— even if you are  desperate to put beans on the table.

Finally, add a call to action that anticipates a follow-up or interview. With the following closing paragraph, it’s clear that teaching is far more to you than just a job:

Solving students’ pain points is more than acknowledging their existence. To me, pain points are a starting point to discovery. I firmly believe that some of the most challenging endeavors have the power to yield the most fruitful results. If these results speak to you, I am eager to share more of what my non-traditional classroom looks like and what you can expect from Belleville’s students and from me as their geometry instructor.  

How to end a teacher cover letter

Signature:  While you can include your gratitude at the end of the closing paragraph, you can also express thanks when you sign off. Keep it professional, and use your real name here just as you will on your resume and application form. 

• Formatting:  Typically, you’ll send your cover letter to the principal’s email; however, if you deliver your career docs in person or—gasp—by mail, be sure to quadruple space and sign your name in blue or black ink between your closing line and typed name.

Marcus DeWitt 

Enclosure(s):  This is important, and most job seekers, including teachers, fail to include it. “Enclosure(s)” means that more documents follow your cover letter.

What information would that be? Well, hopefully, your  teacher resume , likely the school’s application, potentially your teaching license, also your college transcripts, and maybe even a reference letter or two, depending on the requirements detailed in the  teacher job ad . 

After your signature, you’ll include “Enclosure(s),” followed by the exact documents in order of appearance. 

• Formatting:  Use the singular form of “enclosure” if you’re only including one document. Also, include each additional document on a new line. 

See, including this final section is literally easier than writing your own address. Include it, and automatically set yourself apart from other teachers vying for the same role. 

Finish Strong with Your Teacher Resume

Now, that you’ve got the tools to confidently wow principals and departmental heads with your teacher cover letter, have you considered the current state of your resume? Maybe you’ve already updated and polished it, and if that’s you, kudos to you—you’re ahead of the game! 

If you’re blowing out an exaggerated breath because you’ve relegated your resume to the nether regions of your mind, we get it. But teacher resumes are judged more harshly than most. Hiring teams don’t cut a lot of slack when they’re looking for talent who will teach their students to communicate, read, and write well.   

So, if it’s time to think seriously about re-writing or, let’s face it,  writing  your resume  from scratch, take a page from us (literally) and get inspired with our  free resume templates  and  teacher resume examples  like the one below.

Elementary Teacher Resume

Need a resume to pair with your elementary teacher cover letter?

Your career documents are a pain in the tush, we know, but think of us as your biggest cheerleaders. With our  AI resume builder ,  Google resume templates ,  Word resume templates , and expert-approved guidance, your teacher resume and cover letter are sure to win you interviews and secure your next role, where you just might earn Teacher of the Year at your next school. 

Every school you apply to will likely have slightly different teaching styles, cultures, and objectives they would like to achieve throughout the year. You can use your cover letter to connect your previous experiences to their mission and goals. For instance, if you volunteered for an early-age reading program, that would be a great experience to connect when applying to a K-5 position where the school wants to improve student reading scores.

Ideally, you want to match your tone to the feel of each school’s job description. Does the school have a very formal and knowledgeable tone in the description? Then being more formal and factual about your knowledge and experiences in different teaching styles they emphasize would be a great idea. For example, citing factual information about how you used hybrid learning to create 75% higher material retention in math subjects would work well in this instance.

Try to address your cover letter to a specific person in the school. Typically, this will be a principal, superintendent, or human resources hiring manager that would be reviewing teacher resumes . Check through the job description to see if a specific name is listed who will be reviewing applications, or review the school’s website for this information. If you can’t find anything, you can simply address it to “[Name of school] hiring staff” or something similar.

• Get Unlimited Access

• See All Courses >
• SUCCESS STORIES

• GET YOUR FREE LINKEDIN HEADLINE SCORE >>

• GET YOUR FREE RESUME SCORE >>

• GENERATE YOUR JOB-WINNING COVER LETTER >>

• FIND ANY CONTACT’S EMAIL ADDRESS >>

• ResyMatch.io Scan and score your resume vs. any target job.
• ResyBuild.io Build a job-winning resume using proven templates and advice.
• CoverBuild.io Have AI generate a personalized, job-winning cover letter in
• HeadlineAnalyzer.io Transform your LinkedIn headline into a job-generating machine.
• ResyBullet.io Scan, score, and upgrade your resume bullets.
• Mailscoop.io Find anyone’s professional email address in seconds.
• The Job Search Email Playbook Our 100+ page guide to writing job-winning emails.
• Value Validation Project Starter Kit Everything you need to create a job-winning VVP.
• No Experience, No Problem Learn how to change careers with no experience.
• The Interview Preparation System A proven system for job-winning interview prep.
• The LinkedIn Launch Formula A proven system for six-figure success on LinkedIn.
• See All Blog Posts Check out all of our job search articles & posts.
• HeadlineAnalyzer.io Scan your LinkedIn Headline and turn it into a job-generating machine.
• LinkedIn Profile Optimization Our comprehensive guide to optimizing your LinkedIn profile.
• LinkedIn Headlines Learn how to write a crazy-effective LinkedIn headline.
• LinkedIn Profile Picture Learn how to create a job-winning LinkedIn profile picture.
• LinkedIn About Section Write a job-winning About section (with examples!)
• LinkedIn Cover Photos Learn how to create a job-winning LinkedIn cover photo.
• GET YOUR FREE LINKEDIN HEADLINE SCORE >>
• ResyMatch.io Scan your resume and turn it into a job-generating machine.
• ResyBuild.io Build a beautiful, job-winning resume using recruiter-approved templates.
• Resume Examples Check out example resumes for a range of job titles and industries.
• How To Write A Resume Learn how to write a resume that actually wins job offers.
• Resume Summaries Our guide on writing a job-winning resume summary.
• Resume Tips & Action Words 175+ tips & examples to supercharge your resume.
• GET YOUR FREE RESUME SCORE >>
• CoverBuild.io Use our tool to generate a personalized, job-winning cover letter in
• Cover Letter Examples Check out example cover letters for a range of job titles and industries.
• How To Write A Cover Letter Learn how to write a cover letter that actually wins job offers.
• Cover Letter Templates Check out our proven, job-winning cover letter templates.
• Addressing A Cover Letter Learn how to start a cover letter the right way.
• GENERATE YOUR JOB-WINNING COVER LETTER >>
• Mailscoop.io A tool to help you find anyone’s professional email in seconds.
• How To Get A Job Without Applying Online Our flagship guide for effective job searching in today’s market.
• How To Network Our comprehensive guide on learning how to network.
• Tips For Better Networking Emails 6 tips for writing networking emails that actually get results.
• What To Ask In An Informational Interview 10 great questions to ask during a networking conversation.
• FIND ANY CONTACT’S EMAIL ADDRESS >>
• How To Prepare For Interviews Our proven preparation framework for turning more interviews into offers.
• How To Create A Job-Winning Interview Presentation Learn our “silver bullet” Value Validation Project presentation strategy.
• Interview Questions & Answer Examples Job-winning example answers for common interview questions.
• What To Wear To An Interview A simple guide to dressing for the job you want.
• How To Write A Job-Winning Thank You Note Learn how to write a post-interview thank you that wins job offers.

Teacher Cover Letter Examples For 2024 (20+ Skills & Templates)

• Pinterest 0

Looking to land more job offers as a Teacher?

Crafting a strong cover letter is key. This comprehensive guide is packed with everything you need to know in order to write a job-winning Teacher cover letter , complete with effective strategies, essential skills, helpful templates, and real-life examples.

You can trust that all the insights and tips in this guide are based on data from coaching thousands of job seekers, just like you, who have gone on to secure positions at some of the world's most reputable companies.

Whether you're a seasoned Teacher or just starting out, reading this guide from start to finish can help you land your dream role. But if you're short on time and looking for specific information, here's a breakdown of what's included:

• What To Know About Writing A Job-Winning Teacher Cover Letter
• The Best Skills To Include On An Teacher Cover Letter

How To Address A Teacher Cover Letter

• 3 Teacher Cover Letter Examples

The 8 Best Teacher Cover Letter Templates

3 tips for writing a job-winning teacher cover letter.

Here's the step-by-step breakdown:

Teacher Cover Letter Overview: What To Know To Write A Cover Letter That Wins More Job Offers

Wondering what school districts are looking for when they're hiring a teacher?

Districts want knowledgeable, skilled, and dedicated teachers that are highly qualified. That means they have the proper education, certifications, and experience along with mastery of their subject, strong classroom management, communication, flexibility, and commitment to student learning.  Professionalism, reliability, and punctuality are also key qualities.

Your resume should show the district that the your experience and personality combined encompass all of these things.

Additionally, there are a few best practices you want to follow to write a job-winning Teacher resume:

• Highlight your education and certifications:  emphasizing any relevant coursework or specialized training.
• Emphasize your teaching experience:  providing specific examples of your accomplishments and contributions to student learning.
• Include keywords from the job description:  ensure your resume is optimized for applicant tracking systems (ATS).
• Showcase your skills and achievements:  including examples of your ability to manage a classroom, communicate effectively, and use technology.
• Provide references from colleagues:  or supervisors who can speak to your teaching abilities
• Proofread: Make sure to thoroughly proofread your cover letter for any grammatical errors or typos. A well-written, error-free letter can make a strong first impression. I recommend using Hemingway App to do this.

Let's dive deeper into each of these so you have the exact blueprint you need to see success.

The Best Teacher Skills To Include On Your Cover Letter

Keywords are one of the most important factors in your cover letter. They show employers that your skills align with the role and they also help format your cover letter for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).

If you're not familiar with ATS systems, they are pieces of software used by employers to manage job applications. They scan cover letters for keywords and qualifications and make it easier for the employers to filter and search for candidates whose qualifications match the role.

If you want to win more Teacher interviews and job offers, you need to have a keyword-optimized cover letter. There are two ways to find the right keywords:

1. Leverage The 20 Best Teacher Keywords

The first way to find the right keywords is to leverage our list of the best keywords and skills for an Teacher cover letter.

These keywords were selected from an analysis of  real Teacher  job descriptions sourced from actual job boards. Here they are:

• Communication
• Collaborative
• Development
• Flexibility
• Performance
• Instruction
• Regulations

2. Use ResyMatch.io To Find The Best Keywords That Are Specific To Your Cover Letter And Target Role

The second method is the one I recommend because it's personalized to your specific cover letter and target job.

This process lets you find the exact keywords that your cover letter is missing when compared to the individual role you're applying for.

Here's how it works:

• Open a copy of your target Teacher job description
• Head over to  ResyMatch.io
• Select the “Job Description Scan” from the scan type selector in the upper right corner of the tool
• Copy and paste the Teacher job description into the field on the left
• Hit scan and review the results

ResyMatch is going to scan the target job description and show you the exact keywords and skills that are relevant for the role and that you should weave into your cover letter.

Here's a video walking through this whole process:

Personalization is what makes a cover letter stand out. That starts from the very first sentence where you greet the person reading your cover letter! There are two ways to do this well:

1. Use The Campus Principal's Name

The first, and best, is by including the campus principal's name. Let's say that you discovered the campus principal's name from a post on LinkedIn or via an informational interview.

This is the jackpot! All you need to do is use their name in the introduction, like this:

2. Use This Formula: To The [Department] Team at [Organization]

If you don't have the campus principal's name, no problem! You can address your cover letter to the team that you're applying to.

For example, if you're applying to for a Product Marketing Manager role at Discovery Education, you might start you cover letter like this:

This shows the reader that this letter has been written specifically for them and the content inside of it will support that.

It's much more relevant and personal than  “To Whom It May Concern!”

For more advice on writing a strong opening to your cover letter, check out this guide.

3 Teacher Cover Letter Examples For 2023

Now let's take a look at all of these best practices in action. Here are three cover letter examples for different situations from people with different backgrounds that are all applying for Teacher roles:

Teacher Cover Letter Example #1: A Traditional Background

Our first example is a cover letter written by a candidate with traditional Teacher experience. Here is what an example of their cover letter might look like:

Teacher Cover Letter Example #2: A Non-Traditional Background

Our second cover letter example comes from a candidate looking to transition from the healthcare industry into a teacher role. This cover letter illustrates how they identify and speak to their transferable skills:

Teacher Cover Letter Example #3: Landing An Elementary Teacher Role Despite Majority Experience in Upper Grade Levels

Our third example highlights a candidate with extensive teaching experience in middle and high school grades, looking to transition to the elementary classroom.

At this point, you know all of the basics you'll need to write a Teacher cover letter that wins you more interviews and offers. The only thing left is to take all of that information and apply it to a template that's going to help you get results.

We made that easy with  our CoverBuild tool . It has 8 proven templates that were created with the help of recruiters and hiring managers at the world's best companies. These templates also bake in thousands of data points we have from the job seekers in our audience who have used them to land job offers.

You're off to a strong start! But I've got a few more tips to help you take your cover letter to the next level:

1. Use ChatGPT To Write Your Cover Letter In <30 Seconds

All of these tips and best practices work, but you still have to implement them. Normally, that'd mean you sitting down and spending hours brainstorming ideas, typing, deleting, and typing again, and then feeling absolutely drained.

Now there's a way to work around all of that so you save your best energy for the writing and edits that matter most. Here's how it works:

• Head to ChatGPT (you'll need to create an account – it's free)
• Ask ChatGPT,  “Please write me a cover letter for an Teacher role. The role I'm applying for is [Job Title] role at [School District]. Here is the job description: [Paste Job Description]. And here is my resume: [Paste Resume].
• Watch ChatGPT write up a pretty darn good cover letter base!

Here's a video of me doing this with a real cover letter if you want to see the steps in action:

Note:  I  do not recommend or advise that you simply copy and paste the content from ChatGPT into your cover letter and submit your application. ChatGPT is great for doing 80% of the baseline work, but you still need to review, revise, and personalize the content yourself.

2. Include Measurable Metrics And Outcomes

Too many job seekers only focus on the actions that they took and not the outcomes that resulted from those actions. As a campus principal, it's impossible to differentiate between a dozen candidates who were all “Responsible For Creating a Safe Learning Environment.” 

If you want to win, your cover letter should speak to the specific outcomes that you drove in previous roles. That could be:

• The percentage by which your students' content mastery increased
• The average reduction in behavioral issues
• The average parent satisfaction rate
• The rate at which your student engagement increased from year to year

These numbers will show hiring teams what you're capable of and make your value crystal clear!

3. Match Your Cover Letter And Resume Design

They're the exact same car, down to the year, make, and model. The only difference is the way the product was presented. Like I said, quality impacts perceived value.

One of the best ways to boost the quality of your cover letter is to make it look clean, professional, and have it match your resume. That's why the resume templates in our resume builder tool match the cover letter templates in our cover letter builder:

If you use both tools to create your cover letter and your resume, your entire application is going to be top notch.

Key Takeaways To Wrap Up Your Job-Winning Cover Letter

You made it! We packed a lot of information into this post so I wanted to distill the key points for you and lay out next steps so you know exactly where to from here.

Here are the 5 steps for writing a job-winning Teacher cover letter:

• Start with a proven cover letter template from CoverBuild.io
• Use  ResyMatch.io to find the right keywords and optimize your cover letter for each Teacher role you apply to
• Start your teacher cover letter with a personalized greeting for the campus principal or Human Resources representative.
• Emphasize the measurable outcomes and value you drove in previous roles (include metrics!)
• Compare the draft of your teacher cover letter to the examples on this page to make sure you're on the right path
• Use a tool like  Hemingway App to proofread your cover letter before you submit it

If you follow those steps, you're going to be well on your way to landing more Teacher interviews and job offers.

Now that your cover letter is taken care of, be sure to check out my guide on how to write a job-winning Teacher resume (with examples!)

Laura Lorta

Laura is an Editor at Cultivated Culture. She transitioned from teaching into the world of content so she's no stranger to career pivots. She also has a bachelors in Entrepreneurship and a Masters in Curriculum & Instruction / Bilingual Education. She currently shares job search advice to help people like you land jobs they love without applying online.

LEAVE A REPLY Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Most Popular Posts

YOU’VE SEEN AUSTIN IN

WHAT CAN I HELP WITH?

Welcome Back To Cultivated Culture!

Log into your Cultivated Culture account using one of the options below:

You have exceeded the maximum number of phone messages in a 24 hour period. We limit the number of times you can request security codes in order to protect your security. Please try again later or /contact">contact us for assistance with accessing your account.

Forgot your password? Click here to reset.

Need a free acount? Click Here To Sign Up

By logging in, you agree to Cultivated Culture's Terms of Use , Privacy Policy , and agree to receive email updates.

One Free Account, Four Job-Winning Tools

Sign up for a free Cultivated Culture account and get access to all of our job search tools:

Your Bullet Score is:

Sign up for a free Cultivated Culture account to get the full breakdown of your bullet along with suggestions for improving it:

Sign Up To Save & Export Your Resume

Sign up to create, save, and export your resume and get access to our suite of job search tools!

Sign Up To Get More Free Email Searches

Create a free account to unlock more email searches and get access to all four of our job-winning tools:

Your Headline Score is:

Sign up for a free Cultivated Culture account to get the full breakdown of your headline along with suggestions for improving it:

Already have an acount? Click Here To Log In

We Just Need You To Verify Your Email.

We just emailed you a 6-digit code. Please check your email and enter it below.

Note: Your progress will not be saved until your email is verified. Closing this pop up or window might cause you to lose your progress.

Invalid Code

Choose one of the options below to get the verification code we sent you!

We'll need you to verify your email address before you're able to unlock free scans.

We'll need you to verify your email address before you're able to unlock free templates, saves, and exports.

We'll need you to verify your email address before you're able to unlock free email searches.

We sent a verification code to your email, all you have to do is paste that code here and submit to get full access!

Looks Like You Still Need To Verify Your Email Address!

Whoops! Looks like you still haven't verified your email address. We'll need you to do that before granting free, unlimited access to our tools.

If you can't find the original verification email, click the link below and we'll send a new one:

Sent! Please check your email.

Oops you've hit your credit limit..

Looks like you've used all 10 of your free credits for the month. Your credit limit will refresh in days. You can learn more about your credit limit here.

Want to stop worrying about credits?

Sign up for our Unlimited plan to get instance unlimited access to all of our jon search tools for one low price. Click below to learn more:

Go Unlimited!

Change plan.

Upgrade to get unlimited access to our full suite of tools to help you craft personalized job application materials in 15 minutes (or less!).

Go Unlimited (& Save 10%)!

Upgrade to get unlimited access to our full suite of tools to help you craft personalized job application materials in 15 minutes (or less!), and 10% off our regular pricing thanks to your friend :

Your Unlimited plan comes with...

Unlimited access to 6 of our job search tools

Unlimited AI optimizations and generations

200 Mailscoop searches per week

No obligations - cancel any time

By clicking "Upgrade My Plan," you agree to Cultivated Culture's Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

By clicking "Change Plan," you agree to Cultivated Culture's Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Confirm Your Plan Change

Here is a summary of your plan change:

Current Plan:

Please note the following for plan changes:

Your new plan and rebill date will be effective immediately

The number above depict retail plan pricing, any adjustments or credits will be available in the Invoices section of your Billing tab

If you're moving to a lower cost plan, the difference will be credited to your account and applied towards your next payment

By clicking "Confirm Plan Change," you agree to Cultivated Culture's Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Unlimited Plan Upgrade

Change payment method.

Promo code has been applied to your purchase!

Note: This is a monthly subscription, your card will be automatically charged every month until you cancel your plan.

Terms of Use | Privacy Policy

(C) 2024 Cultivated Culture

Note: You will not be charged for updating your credit card using this form. After your new card is added, you will be billed on the date of your next billing cycle.

Upgrade Complete!

You are officially a

Unlimited Member

Invoice Details

Paid Today:

Start Date:

Subscription:

Next Bill Date (Est.):

Note: This receipt and future invoices will be available in the Billing Tab of your Account Dashboard .

Do You Want To Secure Your Account?

Increase your account security with one of our multi-factor authentication options:

Choose An Authentication Method

Awesome! Let's make your account more secure.

Choose your preferred authentication method:

Text Message Authentication

Enter the phone number that you want to use to set up text-based authentication for your account:

Text Message Verification Code Sent!

Please check your phone for verification code and enter below:

Email Verification Code Sent!

Please check your email for verification code and enter below:

No problem, we'll skip this for now. Do you want us to remind you to secure your account?

It's great to have you. We just have a few questions so we can personalize your experience with our tools:

• I haven't applied to any jobs yet and I am not sure where to start
• I know what types of jobs I am looking for and I have started applying or I plan to start soon
• I have been applying to jobs for 3 months or longer, but haven't gotten the results I'd hoped for
• Get a job in the same industry I currently work in
• Switch careers and get a job in a new industry
• Get promoted at my current company
• Improve my resume
• Improve my cover letter
• Enhance my LinkedIn presence
• Find jobs that I am compatible with

Teacher Cover Letter Examples and Templates for 2024

• Cover Letter Examples
• Cover Letter Text Examples

How To Write a Teacher Cover Letter

To write an engaging teacher cover letter, emphasize your knowledge and experience with modern learning techniques. Feature professional achievements that demonstrate your ability to help your students excel academically and grow on a personal level. We’ll provide tips and insights to showcase your expertise as an educator and land your next big job opportunity.

Teacher Cover Letter Templates and Examples

• Entry-Level
• Senior-Level

Teacher Text-Only Cover Letter Templates and Examples

John Bergsen  Elementary Teacher | [email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | Detroit, MI 12345 | LinkedIn

January 1, 2024

Hideo Araki Hiring Manager Grayson Elementary (987) 654-3210 [email protected]

Dear Mr. Araki:

I’m interested in applying for the elementary school teaching position at Grayson Elementary. As a student teacher at Carlson Elementary, I taught reading, math, and science lessons to classes of 18 to 25 fifth-grade students. I also utilized differentiated instruction and student-centered learning techniques to maximize academic growth. My secondary education background will help me excel as an educator in your organization.

Grayson Elementary’s reputation for experiential learning methodologies is what draws me to apply for this opportunity. As a secondary education teacher, I have a passion for incorporating cutting-edge learning techniques to help my students grow both emotionally and academically. I can be an asset to your team based on my student teaching experience:

• Planned and delivered lessons to classes of over 18 fifth-grade students, evaluated student performance, and tailored instruction toward individual needs
• Utilized differentiated instruction techniques and student-centered learning techniques, which increased goal attainment by 10% for reading comprehension
• Resolved conflicts among students and taught emotional coping skills to aid personal growth and development

I look forward to telling you more about my knowledge of experiential teaching methods that can benefit your students and organization. Feel free to contact me via phone or email for any additional questions you may have about my background. Thank you for your time and consideration.

John Bergsen

Allison Rosenberg Special Education Teacher | [email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | Nashville, TN 12345 | LinkedIn

Ms. Lori Taylor Hiring Manager Corbin Elementary School (987) 654-3210 [email protected]

Dear Ms. Taylor:

I’m reaching out regarding the special education teacher role with Corbin Elementary School. As you can see from my attached resume, I have five years of experience supporting students with a wide range of learning disabilities. My expertise in special education would benefit your students and team.

Corbin Elementary School’s reputation for its devotion to special education draws me to apply for this position. At Branson Charter School, I implemented research-based interventions for students with autism spectrum disorders, dyslexia, and behavioral disorders. I can bring similar results to your learning institution based on my previous accomplishments:

• Delivered small group and individual instruction to students ranging from second grade to eighth grade, developed individualized education plans (IEPs), and evaluated student progress
• Coordinated with psychologists, parents, and multidisciplinary teams to ensure safe learning environments and provide appropriate resources for students
• Provided training to over 15 team members on teaching strategies for special needs students

I would like to schedule an interview to provide more insights into how my expertise in special education can benefit your organization. You may contact me via phone or email at your convenience. I appreciate your time and consideration.

Allison Rosenberg

Jasmine Brown  Lead Elementary Teacher | [email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | Philadelphia, PA 12345 | LinkedIn

Mr. Matthew Johnson Hiring Manager Edison Elementary (987) 654-3210 [email protected]

Dear Mr. Johnson:

I’m interested in applying for the lead elementary teacher position with Edison High School that I found on LinkedIn. As an educator with over 10 years of teaching experience, I’ve served in various leadership roles and spearheaded initiatives to enhance the quality of secondary education. I can achieve similar results for your students, teachers, and organization.

Edison Elementary’s reputation for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) is what draws me to apply for this opportunity. As the fifth-grade lead elementary teacher, I worked proactively to build safe and inclusive learning environments for students of all backgrounds. I can have a positive impact on your school community based on my career achievements:

• Deliver engaging lessons to classes of up to 25 fifth-grade students using a variety of teaching methodologies, including holistic learning and cooperative learning techniques
• Served as Grade Level Chair for four consecutive years, managed and developed a team of eight teachers, and provided coaching and mentorship to facilitate professional growth
• Conducted curriculum mapping, evaluated student performance data, and collaborated with faculty to ensure alignment with Common Core State Standards

I hope to speak with you further to provide more insights into how my experience as a lead elementary teacher can benefit your organization. You may contact me via phone or email at your convenience. I appreciate your time and consideration.

Jasmine Brown

Writing a great teacher cover letter that stands out in today’s competitive market can be challenging. To truly make a lasting impression on the hiring manager, craft quality content that encapsulates the most compelling aspects of your teaching career. Demonstrate how your instructional approach has helped your students excel. Below, we’ll provide additional tips to guide you through each section of your teacher cover letter:

1. Contact information and salutation

List all essential contact information at the top of your teacher cover letter, including your name, phone number, email, and LinkedIn URL. Greet the hiring manager by name — Mr. or Ms. [Last Name]. If you can’t find the hiring manager’s name, use a variation of “Dear Hiring Manager.” Avoid greetings such as “To Whom It May Concern,” as your greeting should be direct and personalized for each job application.

2. Introduction

Lead with an eye-catching introduction to grab the hiring manager’s attention at the start of your teacher cover letter. Highlight your years of teaching experience and specific learning modalities that match the school you’re applying to. Emphasize your ability to make a positive impact on student’s lives and create value for the organization.

In the example below, the candidate draws attention to their expertise in both student-centered learning and differentiated instruction. By showcasing teaching methodologies that align with the organization’s education standards, the applicant immediately shows they have the qualifications the school is looking for. Using a similar approach will go a long way in bolstering the impact of your teacher cover letter.

3. Body paragraphs

Feature your most compelling achievements, accolades, and qualifications in the body paragraphs of your teacher cover letter. The first paragraph should mention something specific about the school’s reputation or mission statement and why this entices you to apply for the role. Subsequently, create a list of bullet points that reinforce your strongest teaching accomplishments.

Notice how, in the example below, the applicant focuses on tailoring their cover letter to the school they’re targeting. They begin by showing how their passion for experiential learning makes them an ideal fit for the position. The candidate also substantiates the impact of their cutting-edge teaching strategies by incorporating student data. As you build your teacher cover letter, tell a compelling story that captures your unique journey within the education field.

Grayson Elementary’s reputation for experiential learning methodologies draws me to apply for this opportunity. As a secondary education teacher, I have a passion for incorporating cutting-edge learning techniques to help my students grow emotionally and academically. I can be an asset to your team based on my student teaching experience:

• Utilized differentiated instruction methods and student-centered learning techniques, which increased goal attainment by 10% for reading comprehension

4. Teacher skills and qualifications

Rather than simply listing skills on your teacher cover letter, tactically integrate key terms that match the job description. Provide examples of you utilizing specific teaching strategies and methodologies to enhance the quality of education. Below, we’ve compiled a list of potential keywords to consider highlighting on your teacher cover letter:

5. Closing section

Think of the closing paragraph of your teacher cover letter as a call to action (CTA) inviting the hiring manager to interview you. Showcase how your knowledge of cutting-edge teaching methodologies and leadership capabilities can positively impact students and faculty. Be sure to thank the hiring manager for their time and consideration in the last sentence.

Teacher Cover Letter Tips

1. emphasize your impact on student development.

The most important aspect of being an educator is facilitating student learning and development. Incorporating academic metrics and data is one way to accomplish this, as it adds to your credibility as an education professional. Also, display how you helped your students grow emotionally, as this aspect of education is equally important for helping children succeed.

2. Feature specific teaching strategies and methodologies

To demonstrate your knowledge as an educator, be sure to mention specific teaching strategies and methodologies that align with the organization you’re applying to. For example, if a school prides itself on its commitment to student-centered learning, make this a focal point of your cover letter using tangible examples from your career.

3. Demonstrate your teaching and interpersonal skills

To interface effectively with your students and colleagues, you need to communicate effectively and build positive relationships. Emphasize your ability to connect with diverse student populations and collaborate with multidisciplinary education teams. Provide examples of you interfacing with parents, students, and fellow educators to improve the quality of education and create safe learning environments.

Teacher Cover Letter FAQs

1. why should i write a teacher cover letter -.

The cover letter carries less weight in some industries but can be incredibly important for professionals within the education field. Principals and school administrators want to gain a better understanding of your values as an educator, and the cover letter lets you show these aspects in a way you can’t on a resume.

2. How do I make my teacher cover letter stand out? -

Featuring specific teaching achievements, learning modalities, and strategies is the best way to help your cover letter stand out during the job search. Rather than only mentioning that you delivered lessons in various subjects, show potential employers examples of you integrating contemporary teaching strategies to maximize student success and academic performance.

3. Align your teacher cover letter with the job opportunity -

Demonstrating how your teaching background aligns with the needs of the school you’re applying to is the best way to differentiate yourself from the competition. Mentioning something specific about the institution’s reputation and mission statement shows hiring managers you’ve done your homework and are the ideal culture fit for their team. For example, if a school is focused on experiential learning methodologies, demonstrate your expertise in social-emotional learning and lesson internalization.

Craft a new cover letter in minutes

Get the attention of hiring managers with a cover letter tailored to every job application.

Frank Hackett

Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW)

Frank Hackett is a professional resume writer and career consultant with over eight years of experience. As the lead editor at a boutique career consulting firm, Frank developed an innovative approach to resume writing that empowers job seekers to tell their professional stories. His approach involves creating accomplishment-driven documents that balance keyword optimization with personal branding. Frank is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) with the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches (PAWRCC).

Check Out Related Examples

Elementary Teacher Cover Letter Examples and Templates

Substitute Teacher Cover Letter Examples and Templates

Special Education Teacher Cover Letter Examples and Templates

Build a resume to enhance your career.

• How To Become a Teacher (The Elementary and Secondary School Teaching Career Ladder) Learn More
• How To Include Licenses and Certifications on Your Resume Learn More
• Top 10 Soft Skills Employers Love Learn More

Essential Guides for Your Job Search

• How to Write a Resume Learn More
• How to Write a Cover Letter Learn More
• Thank You Note Examples Learn More
• Resignation Letter Examples Learn More

Your favourite senior outside college

Home » Job Tips » Resume Writing Tips » Cover Letter for Teaching Job

Cover Letter for a Teacher Position-  A Complete Guide

Are you ready to take the first step towards landing your dream teaching job? Crafting a standout cover letter is your key to making a positive and lasting impression on potential employers in the competitive field of academics. In this blog, we’ll delve into the essential components of a compelling cover letter for teaching job, along with some valuable tips and a template to help you land the job of your dreams. So, sharpen your pencils, and let’s get started!

Table of Contents

How to Write a Cover Letter for Teaching Job?

Crafting a cover letter is essential because it acts as the first mode of communication with your potential recruiter. It gives the recruiter an idea about your profile and your expertise. Here are effective guidelines to write a professional cover letter for teaching job:

1. Customize Introductory Section

The introduction of your teacher application cover letter is crucial as it sets the tone for the rest of the document. When applying for a teaching job, you need to tailor your cover letter to the specific school and address it to the relevant person. 

If you can’t find a name, don’t worry, you can always use a more general salutation. Additionally, aim to write in a personalized and professional style to leave a positive impression on the employer. Some examples of suitable salutations for a teaching job application are:

• Greetings Principal Arjun
• To Principal Arjun
• Dear Principal Arjun
• Dear Madam/Sir

2. Include Educational Background

Highlighting your educational background can prove to potential employers that you have completed the required coursework to succeed as an educator. In your teacher application cover letter mention the highest level of education you have achieved and briefly highlight any other relevant coursework. 

As a new teacher, highlighting what you learned during your academic studies is an effective method for showcasing your expertise and abilities. Additionally, it would be beneficial to showcase any teaching certifications acquired.

3. Highlight Work Experience

In your cover letter, take the opportunity to elaborate on your work experience:

• Explain specific responsibilities and duties you have performed in previous or current teaching positions. 
• Add relevant quantitative data such as numbers, statistics, and concrete facts. For instance, if you have successfully implemented an after-school tutoring program that resulted in a significant improvement in students’ test scores.
• Mention volunteer work and internships that are related to teaching careers.

3. Keyword Optimization

When browsing through teacher job listings, it is important to take note of the keywords used in each listing. These are typically skills or specific responsibilities that are important to the role being advertised. 

Incorporating these keywords into your teacher cover letter can greatly enhance your application and showcase to school administrators that you possess all the necessary abilities they are seeking in a candidate.

4. Mention Your Professional Goal

Explain the reason why you are interested in working at the school you are applying to and express enthusiasm towards the job role. Share your values as a teacher and emphasize how they align with the institution’s mission or reputation. 

By showcasing how this career opportunity fits into your aspirations as an educator. You can establish a deeper connection with hiring managers and potentially increase your likelihood of being selected for employment.

5. Conclude & Add CTA

In the final paragraph, of your teacher application cover letter, you can conclude by briefly summarizing your interest in the position and reiterating your excitement for the chance to contribute to the organization or school. You can also highlight how you can add value to this role and briefly mention key qualifications or unique strengths. 

Further, mention any additional materials included, such as references or a portfolio, and add a clear call to action by indicating availability for an interview.

Also Read:   How to write Cover Letter for a Job

Cover Letter Template for Teaching Jobs

Here is a descriptive template to guide you in crafting a professional teacher cover letter:

Explore our comprehensive guide on  cover letter formats  and craft a winning application today!”

Sample Cover Letter for Teaching Jobs

Here is a example cover letter for an English teacher’s job role that you can customize as per your profile.

Explore our collection of  cover letter examples  and elevate your job application today!

Tips for Crafting an Effective Cover Letter for Teachers

Here are practical tips for crafting an effective cover letter while applying for teaching jobs:  

1. Research the Organization:

Before writing the cover letter, conduct thorough research on the organization you are applying for. This will give you a better understanding of its culture and values, and familiarize you with the hiring process. Understanding the organization’s atmosphere will also help you determine if it aligns with your career goals and values.

2. Highlight Relevant Requirements:

Create an outline for your cover letter that includes all the skills, experiences, and achievements that are relevant to the teaching position. Arrange the information logically and refer back to it while writing your letter to ensure that you include all essential information.

3. Proofread and Evaluate:

After writing your cover letter, carefully proofread it multiple times to check for errors and ensure that it is professional and well-written. Using a writing tool can help you spot potential grammar or spelling mistakes. You can also seek feedback from someone you trust, such as a friend or family member, to ensure that your cover letter is polished and effective.

A well-crafted teacher cover letter should highlight your qualifications and experience. It should be tailored specifically for the teaching position you are applying for, highlighting key achievements and skills that make you an ideal candidate. The cover letter should also reflect your passion for education and dedication to students’ success. By following these tips on crafting a strong teacher cover letter, you can increase your chances of landing an interview and ultimately securing the desired job opportunity.

If this has been helpful to you, let us know in the comment section below. Also, consider checking out this quick guide on the 13 best ways to search for jobs to enhance your job search process.

Answer: This is the most effective way to start a cover letter, “Dear [First Name], I was thrilled to discover the opportunity for [Job Title] at [Company Name]. With [ XX Years] years as a proficient [Current Job Title], I have honed my skills in handling tasks such as [Relevant Skills & Job-Related Abilities].”

Answer: The proper way to open a cover letter is with a salutation like, “Dear Hiring Manager” or “Dear ABC”.

Answer: The characteristics of a well-written cover letter are as follows: 1. It should showcase your abilities, background, and accomplishments that are relevant to the desired position.  2. Cover letters offer an opportunity to elaborate on your work history beyond what is included in your resume. 3. It should demonstrate how you would excel in both the job and the organization.

Answer: The primary objective of a cover letter is to introduce you to an employer. It provides an overview of your qualifications and interest in a specific job opportunity. Unlike a resume that highlights technical details about your abilities and work history, a cover letter showcases your soft skills and motivations.

• ← Previous
• Next →

Harshita is an English Literature graduate from the University of Delhi with 3 years of experience in Content Writing and Editing. Dedicated to her craft, she loves creating magic with words. She is a big fan of hoarding cute planners and journals and can be seen watching FRIENDS (almost EVERYTIME) in her spare time. Her meticulous attention to detail makes her stand out from the crowd. A typo epidemic is her worst nightmare!

Related Post

How to Add Internship Experience to Resume?

According to research, approximately 63% of hiring managers prefer receiving resumes tailored to the specific job role. Therefore, when applying for an entry position, endeavor to structure and tailor your

How to Upload a Resume on Internshala? A Quick & Easy Guide

If you are a job-seeker looking for job or internship opportunities on Internshala, you can add your resume to the website and apply for jobs easily. Uploading a well-crafted resume

Cover Letter For Finance Interns [with Template & Samples]

Securing a finance internship can be a crucial step in launching a successful career in the financial industry. However, getting hired for these positions can be tough, but having an

Cover Letters for Legal Interns: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you are a law student aspiring for the position of a legal intern, it is important to craft an effective cover letter. A cover letter allows you to highlight

Teacher Cover Letter Example and Writing Tips

Theresa Chiechi / The Balance

• Cover Letters
• Skills & Keywords
• Salary & Benefits
• Letters & Emails
• Job Listings
• Job Interviews
• Career Advice
• Work-From-Home Jobs
• Internships

How to Write a Cover Letter for a Teaching Position

Cover letter writing tips for teachers, cover letter example for a teacher, tips for using a cover letter template, more education-related cover letter examples.

Wondering how to get hired as a teacher? An outstanding and personalized cover letter for a teaching position can mean the difference between getting an interview and not getting a response to your application.

Use your cover letter to highlight relevant experience and past achievements. Your priority in this letter is to connect your work history and accomplishments to the job description. You’re not trying to recreate your resume here. Instead, you want to show the employer, at a glance, how you're qualified for the position.

The goal is to introduce yourself and showcase the skills and qualifications that make you stand out from the competition.

Whether you’re fresh out of college or an experienced teacher, these tips and cover letter examples will help you convince the hiring committee that you’re the best candidate for the job. 

Emphasize your achievements.  Include examples of your accomplishments in past jobs as a teacher. For example, if your students earned high state test scores, or if you received a teaching award, mention these successes. 

Describe your experience. While you do not want to copy your resume, it's helpful to include details on your experience. Quantifying them can help—for example, mention how many years you've taught. If you're new to the career, include details on your student-teaching experience.  

Mention any training or certifications.  Many teaching jobs have specific training and certification requirements. Use your cover letter to demonstrate that you have what’s required for the job.

Include related work outside the classroom.  If you have non-teaching work or volunteer experience that involves working with children, you can highlight this in your cover letter as well. You especially might want to do this if you have limited teaching experience.

Customize your cover letter.  Be sure to tailor each cover letter to fit the specific school and job listing. One way to do this is to research the school and mention why you think you’d be a good fit for that specific location. 

Take your time.  Many job seekers treat cover letters as an afterthought, but these letters are so much more than a cover sheet for your application. A boring, slapdash letter won’t help your candidacy, and it could hurt your chances.

Proofread and edit. Quality is also important: a cover letter filled with typos and grammatical errors will not inspire the hiring committee to give you a call. Proofread your letter carefully before you send or upload it.

This is an example of a cover letter for a teacher.  Download the teacher cover letter template  (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online).

The Balance

Cover Letter Example for a Teacher (Text Version)

Alissa McIntire 87 Washington Street Smithfield, CA 08055 555-555-5555 (h) 123-123-1234 (c) alissa.mcintire@email.com

May 17, 2022

Mr. John Doe Smithfield Elementary School Main Street Smithfield, CA 08055

Dear Mr. Doe,

I am interested in applying for an elementary-level teaching position in your school district. As a 2022 graduate of Amplesmith College, I have student teaching experience on the third- fourth-, and sixth-grade level, in both suburban and urban school districts. I believe my teaching experience and passion for community engagement make me an ideal candidate for a teaching position at your school.

I have experience teaching elementary-level students in a variety of settings. I am currently teaching third-grade children at an inner-city charter school. As a former education coordinator at a local museum, I also have experience teaching fourth-grade students in a small suburban school system. Your school emphasizes its unique position as a school that caters to both inner-city and suburban students, so I think my varied experiences would make me an asset to your program.

Your school also strives to engage students in the larger community. I have lots of experience incorporating community service projects into my classrooms. For example, as a student teacher, I led a unit for third-graders on plant life, and we volunteered at a local community garden. I would love to find ways to integrate service learning into my lesson plans.

It is my goal to combine my range of experience with my ability to be a compassionate, enthusiastic, intelligent teacher who will make a positive contribution to your school district and larger community. I would welcome an interview and hope to hear from you at your earliest convenience.

Signature (hard copy letter)

Alissa McIntire

A cover letter example helps you with the layout of your letter and what elements you need to include, such as introductions and body paragraphs.

Along with helping with your layout, cover letter examples can show you what kind of content you should include in your document and what type of language to use. For example, a sample might show you the action words you should utilize in your own cover letter.

Use a cover letter example as a guide to your own letter, but do not simply copy the text provided.

You should tailor your cover letter to fit your own work history and the job for which you are applying.

Review cover letter examples for many different types of education jobs and get templates you can use to write your own letters.

Also review resume examples and resume writing advice for teachers.

Key Takeaways

• A well-written cover letter will highlight your relevant experience and past achievements, and connect them to the job for which you're applying.
• It's important to tailor each cover letter you write to fit the specific school and job listing.
• If you don't have teaching experience, mention volunteering or non-work activities that are related to working with children.
• Teaching Assistant Cover Letter Samples
• Cover Letter Samples for Teachers
• How to Write an Academic Cover Letter With Examples
• Administrative Assistant Cover Letter Examples
• Sample Cover Letter for a Job in the Arts
• Cover Letter Example - Ecommerce Technology
• Receptionist Cover Letter Examples and Writing Tips
• Director of Operations Cover Letter Example
• Sample Job Cover Letter for a College Summer Assistant Job
• Transportation Planning Cover Letter Example and Writing Tips
• Sample Cover Letter for an Entry-Level Position
• Research Technician Cover Letter Examples
• Athletic Director Cover Letter and Resume Examples
• Sample Cover Letter for a School Position
• Summer Sales Associate Cover Letter Example
• Write Interview Winning Resumes and Cover Letters

WTO / Letters and Emails / Cover Letters / 12 Cover Letter Templates For Teaching Position (Examples)

12 Cover Letter Templates For Teaching Position (Examples)

A teaching cover letter is a document that helps the principal employ a teacher who inspires and elevates pupils on a topic and the critical life skills necessary to lead meaningful lives.

Of course, a resume will describe your prior job experience and qualifications, but a cover letter serves as a means of letting your potential employers get to know you personally.

Given that teaching aids in students’ learning and development, it may be a challenging yet gratifying occupation, and when applying for a teaching position, you need a teacher cover letter. These letters allow you to stand out from other candidates by highlighting your experience, education, and accomplishments so that the hiring manager can immediately see how well your qualifications and personality suit the job vacancy.

Is getting a teaching job a priority for you? Well, then, by now, you must realize how important such a letter for a teaching position is to getting you there. But don’t worry; this article covers the following points to help you write a winning letter for a teaching position:

• How to structure a cover letter for a teaching position
• What not to include in this letter
• A sample of a cover letter for a teaching position
• Tips for writing a winning teacher cover letter

How to Write a Cover Letter for a Teaching Position?

A cover letter layout is crucial since it regularly serves as the hiring manager’s first impression of you. In addition, a suitable format for a teaching position is crucial for a cover letter since it clarifies your resume, aids reader understanding, and can assist in highlighting your qualifications.

Your name, the hiring manager’s information, a greeting, three body paragraphs, and a closing are all required in an appropriate letter for a teaching position

1. Address your teaching cover letter

The opening begins with proper addressing. Addressing your cover letter appropriately helps make an excellent first impression of how you pay attention to detail.

Write your details

The letter starts with a bit about you. Then, at the top left corner, put the following information at the start of your cover letter:

• Your full name.
• Phone number with your area or country code (if you’re applying to a school in a different city, state, or country).
• A professional email address.
• Links to any social media platforms pertinent to you as a teacher.

Include date

Just below your personal information, you should include the date of application.

Write the details of the school/recipient

Do some research to find information about the addressee. Most times, the addressee is the superintendent or principal. Write down the name and follow up with the address of the college or institution you’re applying to.

Richard Gray 603-890-1264 [email protected] linkedin.com/in/richardgray June 12, 2022 Sarah Swanson Principal, Imperial Baptist College, 1704 EASTWEST FLEMING ISLAND, FL 32003-6402 USA

2. Start the cover letter

To get one foot through the classroom door, the start of a well-written cover letter would include the following:

Write a greeting/ salutation

It’s only polite to address your cover letter adequately to the school’s principal. Look for their name in the job description or on the school website. Try calling the school and requesting the principal’s name if you still have trouble finding it. When you get the name of the principal, make sure you write an appropriate greeting, such as, Dear Susan Swanson

If none of these tactics is successful, refrain from using a generic salutation like “To Whom It May Concern.” Instead, use a greeting specific to the school you’re applying to, such as “Dear Principal” or “Dear Superintendent.”

Write an introductory statement

Your cover letter’s introductory line should capture the principal’s attention, introduce yourself , state the teaching job position you are applying for, and tell them how you discovered the job offer.

The introductory statement is a chance for you to communicate your enthusiasm for the position and highlight the value you would bring to the school. In addition, your positive vibes provide the principal with crucial information about your personality and the qualities that might benefit the school.

Dear Richard Harrison,

I am humbled by the opportunity to contribute my ten years of qualified Mathematics teaching experience to the academic brilliance of Landmark College in the role of an Algebra teacher advertised on the Landmark College website.

In the introductory paragraph, personalizing the paragraph with a mention of the school’s name indicates to the principal that this job applicant pays attention to detail and is enthusiastic about working with the school.

3. Write the middle paragraphs adequately

The middle paragraph of your cover letter lets you further describe your qualifications and successes to impress the principal. As you compose this section of your letter, use the skills, experience, and necessary qualifications given in the job description as inspiration.

Explain why you are perfect for them

Any principal reading a teacher’s cover letter job application will scrutinize why a candidate is perfect for this job. Your description of why that job is for you must portray an honest account of your skills and qualifications. The cover letter is an opportunity to tell the story of skills, qualifications, accomplishments, and strengths your resume holds. In this way, you will be able to convince the reader that you are perfect for this job opportunity.

Why are they perfect for you?

Another way to have a principal highly interested in you is to describe how you think the job role will help you. Then, you can expand on how the job position will further train you and aid you in growing, as this reflects a willingness to learn and grow on the school board.

Teaching anyone is an opportunity to inspire and impact their knowledge. Working with Citadel College puts me on the front lines of utilizing my skills in art teaching, communication, time management, and patience to further give meaning to the students’ lives.

A massive contribution to my success at Hillcrest High was the various teacher training workshops where I earned my Standard Professional 1 (SP1) Professional Educator’s License and Standard Professional 2 (SP2) Professional Educator License. In addition, with inspiration and patience, I helped my students at Hillcrest High win the North Carolina State art competition. This success was possible through personalized, fun teaching-learning activities with feedback loops for students and colleagues to convey complaints and reinforce good attributes. I’m confident I can apply such learning models to Citadel College to champion new art projects and raise our future Picassos.

Using keywords helps tailor your resume and cover letter to appear concentric. Also, ensure you use the best font type, similar color codes, and formatting to improve readability.

4. Add a compelling closing

End on a high note. The closure of your letter for teaching must show gratitude, reinforce your interest in the job, and be a call to action for the hiring principal. Then, after crafting a leading closing paragraph, you can sign off with your name and details.

Working with Citadel’s brilliant young minds would be an incredible experience I’d love to have, so feel free to call anytime for a virtual or offline interview, as I look forward to discussing innovative educational methods with you. Thank you for taking the time to go through my letter.

Best regards

Richard Gray

A P.S. (postscript) can come in handy when trying to swing the odds of getting the job in your favor. Using the P.S. to indicate an attached document demonstrates your ability to convey information clearly, reinforcing your ability to pass on information to students.

Cover Letter Template for a Teaching Position

[Your Name]

[Your Address]

[City, State, Zip Code]

[Your Email Address]

[Your Phone Number]

[Today’s Date]

[Hiring Manager’s Name or School Principal’s Name]

[School Name]

[School Address]

Subject: Application for [Specific Teaching Position] – [Your Name]

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name or School Principal’s Name],

I am writing to express my interest in the [specific teaching position, e.g., 5th-grade teacher, High School English Teacher] at [School Name], as advertised on [where you found the job listing]. With a [degree in education or specific subject area, e.g., Bachelor of Science in Education, Master’s in English Literature], and [number] years of teaching experience, I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to contribute to your academic team and foster a positive learning environment for your students.

Throughout my teaching career at [Previous School/Institution], I have developed a comprehensive skill set that includes [mention key teaching skills, e.g., curriculum development, classroom management, student engagement techniques]. I pride myself on my ability to [mention a teaching achievement or methodology, e.g., adapt curriculum to diverse learning styles, integrate technology into lesson plans]. In [year or specific situation], my approach led to [mention a specific outcome, e.g., a 20% improvement in state test scores, successful integration of a new learning management system].

I am particularly drawn to [School Name] because of [mention something you admire about the school, such as its educational philosophy, commitment to inclusivity, extracurricular programs, etc.]. I share your school’s commitment to [mention a shared value or goal, e.g., high academic standards, fostering a sense of community, holistic education], and I am eager to bring my expertise in [mention specific skills or areas] to contribute to the continued success and growth of your students and school community.

In addition to my teaching responsibilities, I have [mention any extracurricular involvement, e.g., coached sports, led student clubs, coordinated community service projects], which underscores my dedication to enriching students’ school experience beyond the classroom. I believe in creating a supportive and inclusive environment that encourages students’ personal and academic growth.

I am excited about the prospect of joining [School Name] and would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my education, experience, and passion for teaching can support your academic objectives. Enclosed is my resume for your review. I am looking forward to the possibility of contributing to your team and making a positive impact in the lives of your students.

Thank you for considering my application. I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience and can be reached at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address]. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Sample of Cover Letter for Teaching Position

Subject: Application for High School English Teacher Position – Alexandra Freeman

Dear Mr. Wallace,

I am writing to express my keen interest in the High School English Teacher position at Westview High School, as advertised on the New Jersey Department of Education Job Portal. With a Master’s Degree in English Literature from Columbia University and over five years of teaching experience at the secondary level, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your English department and enrich the academic lives of your students.

During my tenure at Jefferson High School, I spearheaded the redesign of the 10th-grade English curriculum to incorporate a more diverse range of literary voices and mediums, resulting in a 30% increase in student engagement as measured by class participation and performance. My commitment to fostering a love for literature is matched by my dedication to developing critical thinking and analytical skills in my students. I have consistently implemented innovative teaching methods, including digital storytelling and project-based learning, to enhance learning outcomes and student interest in literary analysis and creative writing.

I am particularly drawn to Westview High School because of its reputation for encouraging academic excellence and its commitment to preparing students for college and career success. I admire your school’s initiative to integrate technology in the classroom, and I am eager to bring my experience in leveraging digital resources to create an engaging and inclusive learning environment.

In addition to my classroom duties, I have been actively involved in extracurricular activities, including serving as the faculty advisor for the student-run literary magazine at Jefferson High School. This role has allowed me to nurture students’ creative talents and foster a community of young writers. I am enthusiastic about the prospect of bringing similar initiatives to Westview High School to support students’ holistic development.

I am excited about the opportunity to meet with you and discuss how my background, skills, and passions align with the needs of Westview High School. Enclosed with this letter is my resume, which provides further detail about my professional achievements. I am looking forward to the possibility of joining your team and making a positive impact on your students’ educational journey.

Thank you for considering my application. I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience and can be reached at (555) 987-6543 or via email at [email protected]. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Alexandra Freeman

The letter effectively conveys the candidate’s interest in the High School English Teacher position at Westview High School. It begins by stating the candidate’s qualifications, including a Master’s Degree in English Literature and over five years of teaching experience, establishing their suitability for the role. Specific achievements, such as redesigning the curriculum to increase student engagement, demonstrate the candidate’s effectiveness as an educator. By expressing admiration for Westview High School’s commitment to academic excellence and technology integration, the candidate aligns themselves with the school’s values. Mention of innovative teaching methods like digital storytelling and project-based learning further showcases the candidate’s readiness to adapt to evolving educational practices. Additionally, highlighting involvement in extracurricular activities, such as advising a student literary magazine, underscores the candidate’s commitment to holistic education. The letter closes with a proactive invitation for an interview, indicating the candidate’s eagerness to discuss their qualifications further. Overall, the letter presents the candidate as a qualified and enthusiastic applicant, likely making them a strong contender for the position.

Free Templates

Following are the free templates:

Tips for Writing Teaching Cover Letters

After such an extensive guide on the structure of a letter for a teaching position, let’s look at some tips that will trim off the excesses and keep your letter brief, which will give you an edge over other job applicants.

These tips include the following:

Customize your letter

Every job listing in a particular school is different, and a way to increase your job acceptance rate is to mold your cover letter for teaching to fit the specific school and job listing. A way of doing this is to research the school and describe why you think you are the right fit for that school.

Keep the letter brief

Nothing sparks interest like a short, simple story. Write your cover letter like you are making an elevator pitch for a great idea. This approach reminds you to write salient points about yourself that will capture the hiring manager’s attention in 30 seconds. Also, instead of repeating everything on your resume, use the cover letter to detail why you are a great candidate in one or two paragraphs.

Read job description

Sounds obvious, right? But most applicants fail to understand that a job description is like a flashlight into their skill arsenal. Reading the job description and overlapping the required skills with your skills is the best way to say I am the best person to hire boldly. If the job requests certain qualities or uses a specific tone or language, repeat them in your cover letter.

Individualize your cover letter

Before applying to a school job listing, you should research the school and its culture, as this will help tailor each cover letter to fit the school, school area, and job. This approach helps you address their expectations while leveraging your achievements to show why you are the best candidate for the job. 

Honesty is the best virtue that couldn’t be said any better. No matter how overboard you’d like to go with a description of your skill set in your letter for teaching, keep it simple and accurate, as only time will tell if you are dishonest.

Emphasize your versatility

Education is a dynamic area, and schools are always willing to hire candidates with versatility and adaptability. Therefore, in your cover letter, you must reinforce or show glimpses of how versatile you are based on your past employment opportunities.

The brevity of your letter cannot be overemphasized. Yes, there’s always that temptation to go overboard with descriptions of who you are and what you have achieved. However, it is essential to remember that you can only capture the attention span of the principal, as you are not the only one applying.

Proofread and edit 

There is nothing like poorly edited content or a cover letter containing grammatical errors that puts off a reader. Be sure to run your letter through a grammar checker, as plenty of them are online.

Key Takeaways

• An excellent cover letter will draw attention to your relevant experience and prior accomplishments and connect them with the position you’re applying for.
• Properly addressing your cover letter sets the stage for how the hiring principal perceives your letter. Be sure to correctly write your contact details, date, and principal’s details.
• Start your cover letter with a polite or formal greeting by mentioning the hiring principal’s name. This greeting shows the reader that you pay attention to tiny details.
• The tone and vibe of your letter tell the principal vital details about your character and the types of qualities that can help the institution.
• Describing why the school needs you can be made simple by overlapping the required job skills with your skills and highlighting achievements that the school is looking for in your letter.
• Use the right font size, font color, and spacing, as a well-formatted cover letter is more accessible to read.

About This Article

Was this helpful?

Great! Tell us more about your experience

Not up to par help us fix it, keep reading.

Letters and Emails

25 best graphic designer cover letter examples.

15 Sample Cover Letters for Legal Jobs (Word, PDF)

Cover Letters

12 best engineering cover letter templates + how to write.

Cover Letters , Letters and Emails

Sample cover letters for job application (writing tips).

Cover Letter for an Internal Position (Examples & Tips)

6 Best Library Assistant Cover Letter Examples

Part-Time Job Cover Letters (22 Free Templates)

Human Resources Cover Letter (Free Templates)

Cover Letter for Internship: Format & Examples

Journalism Cover Letter Examples

Best Sales Cover Letter Examples | How to Write

Thank you for your feedback.

Your Voice, Our Progress. Your feedback matters a lot to us.

• Resume Templates Simple Professional Modern Creative View all
• Resume Examples Nurse Student Internship Teacher Accountant View all
• Resume Builder
• Cover Letter Templates Simple Professional Modern Creative View all
• Cover Letter Examples Nursing Administrative Assistant Internship Graduate Teacher View all
• Cover Letter Builder
• ESL Teacher

ESL Teacher cover letter example

Introduction of an ESL teacher cover letter

Esl teacher cover letter body.

ESL teachers need to command the English language not just in the classroom, but also in their cover letters. They must demonstrate their fluency and teaching prowess, ensuring that every word they write reflects their ability to effectively communicate and educate.

Crafting a cover letter as an ESL teacher is a bit like crafting a lesson plan. both require clarity and a strong understanding of language to truly engage and inspire.

To make your cover letter stand out, highlight your language skills, creative teaching methods, and passion for connecting cultures through language. Show how you can make a difference in your students' lives by helping them understand and use English confidently.

ESL teacher full text-only cover letter example

Dear Ms. Allen,

I am writing to apply for the ESL Teacher position at ELS Language Centers in Seattle, Washington, as advertised on your website. With my TEFL certification and three years of experience teaching English to non-native speakers, I am confident in my ability to contribute to your esteemed language program.

During my time at The Language Company in Boston, Massachusetts, I developed and implemented engaging curriculum for students ranging from beginners to advanced learners. I also gained valuable experience in adapting teaching methods to suit various learning styles and cultural backgrounds.

I am particularly drawn to ELS Language Centers' comprehensive approach to language instruction and your commitment to preparing international students for success in American universities. My experience working with diverse student populations has given me a deep appreciation for cultural exchange, which I believe is essential in language education.

I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my skills and passion for teaching can benefit your students at ELS Language Centers. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely, 

Sections of an ESL teacher cover letter

Your ESL teacher cover letter is an opportunity to demonstrate why you’re the best teacher for the job. Make sure each section builds your case for why you deserve the role.

• Header . Start by listing your contact details and the date to establish a professional impression.
• Greeting . If you can, address the hiring manager by name to show your effort in personalizing your application.
• Introduction . Begin with enthusiasm for the ESL teaching position and briefly outline why you’re interested.
• Body . Emphasize your teaching expertise and pertinent experiences. Provide examples of accomplishments that align with the school's needs.
• Conclusion . Summarize your qualifications and express your continued excitement about the role.
• Signature . End with a courteous sign-off and your full name.

Using no more than one page , keep your cover letter brief and concise. Talk about your teaching expertise and passion so it aligns with the school’s mission. Leverage your cover letter to showcase your command of the English language while communicating why you’re the ideal teacher for the classroom.

Need more inspiration? View our other related cover letter examples from the education field.

• Teacher cover letter example
• Teaching assistant cover letter sample
• Substitute teacher cover letter example
• Elementary teacher cover letter sample
• High school teacher cover letter example
• Adjunct professor cover letter sample
• Special education teacher cover letter example

For more general information and details that cover every section, view our article on how to write a cover letter .

When opening your cover letter, highlight some compelling aspects of your experience to immediately build credibility and position you for the role. For example, if you have specialized experience or well-respected certifications, mention it right away.

The last thing you want is a boring cover letter that sounds like everyone else’s. Be specific about what you bring to the role and be direct about your interest. Focus on demonstrating how your work delivers real, impactful results aligned with the school’s needs.

To Whom It May Concern.

I am writing to apply for the ESL teacher position at your school. I believe I have the necessary qualifications and experience for the role. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to your team.

In the body of your cover letter, follow a clear template.

• Emphasize your teaching skills and relevant experiences.
• Demonstrate how your teaching style aligns with the school's values and culture.
• Conclude with a memorable statement that reinforces your enthusiasm for the role.
• Finish with an engaging call to action that encourages the hiring manager to reach out to you.

First body paragraph: your suitability for the role (skills & experience)

Start your cover letter with a strong introduction by highlighting your teaching skills and relevant experience that match the needs of the ESL role.

Here’s how to showcase your expertise in your cover letter.

• Educational background . Emphasize how your degrees or certifications have enhanced your teaching abilities and understanding of language acquisition.
• Teaching experience . Share significant teaching experiences and collaborations, focusing on your adaptability and problem-solving skills in the classroom.
• Language skills . Discuss your proficiency in English and any innovative teaching methods you’ve used.
• Achievements . Highlight specific accomplishments or successful projects that demonstrate your impact as an ESL teacher.

Second body paragraph(s): alignment with the organization

To effectively incorporate a company's values and mission into your ESL teacher cover letter, start by researching the organization's core principles and goals. Reflect on how your own teaching philosophy and experiences align with these values.

For instance, if a school emphasizes fostering global citizenship and cultural exchange, you might highlight how your experience with diverse student groups has deepened your appreciation for cultural diversity and how you actively integrate this into your lessons.

This demonstrates your alignment with the school's mission and shows how your personal experiences complement their priorities.

Call to action & conclusion: finish off strong

To close, summarize your enthusiasm for the role and briefly reiterate how your skills align with the school's mission. Express interest in discussing how you can contribute to the school's success.

The key is to highlight your eagerness to contribute and invite further conversation while leaving a positive final impression.

Finish by signing your name . This step is more than a formality—it's your final opportunity to leave a lasting and professional impression.

How to write an ESL teacher cover letter with no experience

Even if you lack direct experience, highlight your enthusiasm for teaching and your willingness to learn. Emphasize transferable skills, such as strong communication and adaptability, and showcase any relevant coursework or volunteer work. Your passion and potential can make a strong impression.

Key takeaways

Craft your ESL teacher cover letter with clear language to showcase your teaching skills and fluency. Show how your teaching philosophy fits with the school’s values and mission to emphasize your potential impact. Keep your cover letter concise, no more than one page, and ensure each section builds a compelling case for why you’re the best candidate. Close by summarizing your enthusiasm for the role, expressing a desire for further discussion, and leaving a professional sign-off.

Explore our ESL teacher cover letter builder —a user-friendly tool that helps you craft a standout, polished cover letter to elevate your job application and increase your chances of securing interviews!

Free professionally designed templates

How to Write a Cover Letter for an Internal Position (With Examples and a Template!)

Applying for an internal position isn’t just a matter of submitting a resume and hoping for the best. It’s about strategically positioning yourself as the perfect candidate for a role within a company that already knows you.

The prospect of new challenges, career growth, and the chance to contribute in different ways can be highly motivating. But with that comes the need to navigate office politics , manage relationships, and ensure that your application stands out.

We’ll explore what makes a cover letter for an internal position different from a traditional cover letter , why it’s crucial to write a good one, and how to do it effectively. We’ll also include examples and a template to help you get started.

Think you need to look outside your current company? One of these open jobs on The Muse might just be the one »

Is a cover letter for an internal position different from a traditional cover letter?

Yes! When you're applying for a job within the same company, you're not starting from scratch. The hiring manager already knows you and has very easy access to a reference check, so your cover letter must reflect proximity. Balancing familiarity with professionalism is key.

Unlike a traditional cover letter, where you introduce yourself and explain your interest in the company, a cover letter for an internal position should focus on your achievements , your understanding of the company culture, and your vision for how you can contribute to this new role.

“The process might be less formal but is often more competitive because you’re up against colleagues,” says Kenan Acieklly, CEO of Workhy , who has nearly a decade of experience in HR and business management. “Decisions may weigh heavily on your internal reputation, past performance, and ability to articulate your future potential within the company.”

Why should I write a cover letter for an internal position?

Writing a cover letter for an internal position is crucial for several reasons. You might think that since you're already an employee, a cover letter is just a formality. However, skipping it or writing a generic one could really hurt your chances.

This cover letter should highlight why you’re the best candidate for this different role, even if your managers and colleagues already know your work ethic and contributions. You’re making the case that you're not just a good employee, but the right person for this specific job.

Writing a cover letter underscores your seriousness about the role. “It’s an opportunity to articulate your vision and demonstrate continued commitment to the company’s success,” Acikelli says. And it serves many important functions:

• It reaffirms your interest in the company: Even though you already work there, this shows that you're still committed to the company's mission and values.
• It highlights your achievements: This is your chance to remind the hiring manager of your successes within the company—things they might not remember or know about if they weren’t directly supervising you.
• It shows your initiative: Applying internally demonstrates that you’re eager to grow and take on new challenges. A well-crafted cover letter underlines your proactive approach to your career.
• It provides a tailored narrative: This letter allows you to connect your current role with the new one, explaining how your skills, experience, and knowledge of the company make you the ideal candidate.

How to apply for an internal role

Let's go over some of the most common questions about applying for an internal position:

Is it OK to apply for an internal position?

Yes, it is absolutely OK to apply for an internal position. Companies generally encourage internal mobility as it allows them to retain talent and leverage existing employees’ skills and institutional knowledge. Applying for an internal position shows that you are committed to the company and interested in furthering your career within the organization.

How to express interest in an internal position?

It's important to be both professional and enthusiastic. Start by scheduling a meeting with your current supervisor to discuss your career goals and explain why you're interested in the new role. During the conversation, emphasize your desire to continue growing within the company and explain how the new position aligns with your career aspirations. Make sure to follow any formal application procedures, such as submitting an updated resume and a strong cover letter.

How do you tell your boss you are applying for an internal position?

Schedule a private meeting with your boss to discuss your plans. Be upfront about your intentions, explaining why you’re interested in the new role and how it aligns with your long-term career goals . Emphasize that this move isn’t a reflection of dissatisfaction with your current position, but rather a desire to grow and take on new challenges within the company. It’s important to assure your boss that you remain committed to your current responsibilities and that you will help ensure a smooth transition if you’re selected for the new role.

Do I need a CV for an internal job?

Yes, you typically need a curriculum vitae (CV) or resume when applying for an internal job. While the hiring managers might already know you, a CV provides a formal document that highlights your relevant experience, skills, and accomplishments. It also helps you present your qualifications in a structured way that aligns with the job requirements. Make sure to tailor your CV to the specific role you’re applying for, emphasizing the experience and achievements that are most relevant to the new position.

How do you message a hiring manager for an internal position?

Keep the tone professional and concise. Start by introducing yourself and expressing your interest in the position. Mention that you are currently working in the company and explain why you believe you are a good fit for the role. Offer to provide more information or discuss your qualifications in detail at their convenience. Close the message by thanking them for considering your application and expressing your enthusiasm for the opportunity.

“Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

I am writing to express my interest in the [Job Title] position that was recently posted. I have been with [Company Name] for [X years] as [Your Current Position], and I believe that my experience and skills align well with the requirements of this role. I would greatly appreciate the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to the team in this new capacity. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of working together.

Best regards, [Your Name]”

How to write a cover letter for an internal position (examples included!)

Now that you already know the basics of how to apply for a role within your current company, let's focus on how to write an impressive cover letter for an internal position.

Think of it as a way to remind decision-makers why you're the right person for the job—because of your qualifications, your understanding of the company’s goals, and how you can contribute to its success in a new capacity. Your cover letter for an internal position should convey your enthusiasm for the position, reflect on what you've achieved so far, and outline how you plan to make an even bigger impact if given the opportunity.

Follow this structure to make an impressive cover letter for an internal position:

1. Start with a strong opening

Begin by expressing your excitement about the new role and your commitment to the company. Mention how long you’ve been with the company and briefly describe your current position.

“I am thrilled to apply for the [Job Title] position. Having been with [Company Name] for [X years], I have developed a deep understanding of our operations and have consistently strived to contribute to our success in meaningful ways.”

2. Highlight your accomplishments

This is where you shine a light on what you've achieved in your current role. “Start with your accomplishments in your current role, then connect those successes to the value you’ll bring to the new position,” Acikelli says.

“In my current role as [Your Current Job Title], I successfully led [Project Name], which resulted in [specific achievement, e.g., a 20% increase in sales]. This experience has given me invaluable insights that I am eager to apply in the [New Job Title] role.”

3. Showcase your knowledge of the company

Use your insider knowledge to your advantage. “Mention any cross-departmental collaborations to show your versatility and readiness for broader responsibilities,” Acikelli says. Discuss how your understanding of the company’s culture, goals, and challenges makes you a good fit for the new role.

“Having worked closely with [Department/Team], I am well-versed in the challenges we face in [specific area]. I am particularly excited about the opportunity to contribute to [specific initiative or project related to the new role], as I believe my experience and knowledge could greatly benefit our efforts.”

4. Align your skills with the new role

Clearly explain how your skills and experience align with the requirements of the new position. Be specific about what you bring to the table that will help you succeed in this role.

“My experience in [specific skill or area] has equipped me with the [specific abilities] needed to excel in the [New Job Title] role. I am confident that my background in [relevant experience] will allow me to [specific contribution].”

5. Express your commitment to growth

Demonstrate that you're eager to learn and grow within the company. Mention any relevant training or development you’ve pursued and how you plan to continue growing in the new role.

“I am committed to continuous professional development, as evidenced by my completion of [relevant training or certification]. I am eager to further develop my skills in [specific area] and contribute to [Company Name] in new and impactful ways.”

Cover letter template for internal position

Use the following cover letter template for internal position as a guide. This structure will help you effectively communicate your enthusiasm for the position while leveraging your internal experience to stand out as the ideal candidate.

[Your Name] [Your Current Job Title] [Company Name] [Email Address] [Phone Number] [Date]

[Hiring Manager’s Name] [Hiring Manager’s Job Title] [Company Name]

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

I am writing to express my interest in the [Job Title] position that recently opened up in [Department Name]. Having been with [Company Name] for [X years], I have gained a deep appreciation for our company’s mission and values, and I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to [specific department or project related to the new role] in this new capacity.

In my current role as [Your Current Job Title], I have had the privilege of [mention your key achievements]. This experience deepened my understanding of [specific area or department] and inspired me to seek new challenges within [Company Name]. I am particularly drawn to the [Job Title] position because [specific reason related to the new role].

One of the aspects of [Company Name] that I value most is our commitment to [specific company value or mission], and I am eager to contribute to [specific project or initiative related to the new role] in a more direct way. I believe that my background in [relevant experience or skill] aligns perfectly with the needs of the [Job Title] position, and I am confident in my ability to [specific contribution or goal].

I am also committed to continuous growth and development, as evidenced by [mention any relevant training or certifications]. I am excited about the opportunity to bring my skills and experience to the [Job Title] role, and I look forward to the possibility of continuing to grow with [Company Name].

Thank you for considering my application. I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to further discuss how I can contribute to the success of [Company Name] in this new role.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Bottom line

By carefully crafting your cover letter, you can position yourself as the ideal candidate for the role. Remember, your cover letter for an internal position is your chance to highlight your achievements, showcase your understanding of the company, and demonstrate your commitment to growth. With the right approach, you can successfully transition into a new role within the same company, taking your career to the next level. Good luck!

More From Forbes

3 tips for including internship experience in a cover letter.

• Share to Facebook
• Share to Twitter
• Share to Linkedin

How to stand out from the crowd as a new grad with internship experience

If you are a fresh graduate looking for a new job, a cover letter can help paint a helpful context of who you are and why you would be an excellent fit for the company. For seasoned professionals with considerable career milestones, resumes are often adequate to show their skillsets and how they would perform at a new job. Indicators like the type of company, pace of promotion, and scope of responsibilities paint a picture for the hiring managers of how they can expect the candidate to perform even before the interviews.

The good news for new graduates is that they are on an even playing field as they embark on a new career path with their peers. The downside is the need for additional information for the candidate to stand out from the crowd. Internship experience can be an advantage if leveraged and narrated correctly. When a company hires a new graduate, it knows the lack of experience and proof points to consider in the candidate. They are therefore looking for genuine interest, willingness to learn, and potential in new grads. If you have internship experience, including them in your cover letter is an excellent opportunity to feature these qualities. Here are a few tips on how to do this best.

Showcase Your Decision-making Process

One risk of hiring new graduates is that they may quit quickly if they find that the industry or the job function is not what they expected. If you have interned at a similar company, you can explain how that experience solidified your interest in the field and helped you narrow down the jobs you are genuinely interested in. By discussing your decision-making process and how the internship provided real-life perspective, you can demonstrate that you are a knowledgeable decision-maker rather than someone who is simply influenced by outside perspectives.

On the other hand, if you interned in an entirely different industry and position, you can use this experience to demonstrate that you discovered what you truly want to pursue. Highlight the positive lessons learned during the internship and avoid speaking negatively about past opportunities. The crucial point is to showcase what you gained from the experience and how it has strengthened your interest in the current company and role.

Be Truthful About The Scope Of Your Experience

Internship experiences can vary widely depending on the company, from simply shadowing an employee to conducting in-depth analysis or participating in structured rotational programs. However, it's important to note that internships typically don't involve holding leadership positions or having significant decision-making authority. It's essential to be honest about your role and responsibilities during an internship, as exaggerating or misrepresenting your experience will likely be noticed by hiring managers.

Best High-Yield Savings Accounts Of 2024

Best 5% interest savings accounts of 2024.

In addition, you should not disclose any confidential information about the company at any time. Keep your account of the experience brief and truthful.

Highlight Relevant Skillsets And Potential

If your previous internship provided you with the skills described in the job requirements for the position you are applying for, be sure to emphasize this and explain how you used those skills, as well as your eagerness to further develop them. For example, if you gained experience in analyzing complex datasets during your internship, highlight how you enhanced the company's training through your independent learning efforts, express your enthusiasm for the skill, and illustrate how it contributed to the team's goals to demonstrate your understanding of the practical application of your work. This can show your potential for growth, desire to learn, and proactive orientation towards your job, attributes all hiring managers seek.

When hiring recent graduates, hiring managers are aware that the candidates do not have extensive pre-existing skill sets or decision-making experience. They are hired with the expectation to learn quickly, contribute enough to offset the onboarding and training efforts, and hopefully grow within the company. Including an internship experience in your cover letter can help alleviate any concerns the hiring manager may have about your genuine interest in the company and role, and your desire to learn. It also provides a context for the kind of employee you will be, in ways a resume cannot for new grads.

• Editorial Standards
• Reprints & Permissions

Join The Conversation

One Community. Many Voices. Create a free account to share your thoughts. 

Forbes Community Guidelines

Our community is about connecting people through open and thoughtful conversations. We want our readers to share their views and exchange ideas and facts in a safe space.

In order to do so, please follow the posting rules in our site's  Terms of Service.   We've summarized some of those key rules below. Simply put, keep it civil.

Your post will be rejected if we notice that it seems to contain:

• False or intentionally out-of-context or misleading information
• Insults, profanity, incoherent, obscene or inflammatory language or threats of any kind
• Attacks on the identity of other commenters or the article's author
• Content that otherwise violates our site's  terms.

User accounts will be blocked if we notice or believe that users are engaged in:

• Continuous attempts to re-post comments that have been previously moderated/rejected
• Racist, sexist, homophobic or other discriminatory comments
• Attempts or tactics that put the site security at risk
• Actions that otherwise violate our site's  terms.

So, how can you be a power user?

• Stay on topic and share your insights
• Feel free to be clear and thoughtful to get your point across
• ‘Like’ or ‘Dislike’ to show your point of view.
• Protect your community.
• Use the report tool to alert us when someone breaks the rules.

Thanks for reading our community guidelines. Please read the full list of posting rules found in our site's  Terms of Service.

How to get ChatGPT to write your cover letter: step-by-step guide with exact prompts

• When applying for jobs, ChatGPT-4 can make the cover-letter writing process more manageable.
• An AI consultant shares tips for writing an effective cover letter using ChatGPT.
• Here's a step-by-step guide, including writing prompts and navigating ChatGPT's limitations. 

Generative AI can be an effective tool for time-consuming tasks like writing cover letters, but only if you know how to use it effectively.

As an AI consultant , marketing and design companies come to me when they need help learning to use AI tools like ChatGPT. I also help companies review potential employees for AI-specific roles by evaluating their understanding of current tools and trends.

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to get AI to write you a great cover letter that doesn't sound AI-generated. 

Learn the basics

ChatGPT works best with specific directions, so learn what makes a good cover letter before directing ChatGPT to write one. 

Isimemen Aladejobi, a career strategist, outlines three components of an effective cover letter. 

•  A strong introduction that demonstrates company or industry knowledge. Highlight something in the news that's relevant to your prospective department. Use this topical event to segue into why you're interested in this specific position.  Aladejobi recommends always referring to the job title and company by name.
• The body of the cover letter should convey why your skills and experience make you a perfect fit. Highlight what you brought to the table at your last job and connect it to the requirements of the role you're applying for. Even suggest initiatives you could start at the company.
• The sign-off should be simple. Aladejobi suggests, "I'm excited and looking forward to hearing from you," which she says demonstrates enthusiasm without being too wordy. 

With this in mind, you can now start prompting ChatGPT with confidence. 

Writing your cover letter in ChatGPT-4

Be aware of the token limit.

The token limit is ChatGPT's limit on recall and comprehension during a single session. ChatGPT has a token limit of 4,096, and according to OpenAI , 100 tokens are about 75 words.

If ChatGPT starts responding to prompts illogically, you've probably hit the limit. This message to help ChatGPT refocus:

" Please search this chat for the word strawberry and reread that message and provide me a summary of what you think we need to do. We're at step [#] of that message. Tell me if you want a recap of the previous steps, and I'll provide a summary. "

Related stories

Having this marker will keep ChatGPT on task and ensure an accurate end product. 

Step 1: Onboard ChatGPT to the task

ChatGPT needs very explicit instructions to complete tasks successfully. Below is the exact prompt to copy and paste into the chatbot. 

To apply for a job within your industry use this prompt: 

"Hi ChatGPT. You're now the best cover letter writer on earth. You and I will write a cover letter together for [job title] at [company]. I have [#] years of experience. Here's what we're going to do:

•  You will ask me at least 15 questions about my work history and vision for the role. Make at least one of the questions "What initiatives would you implement in this role?"
• I'm going to give you sections of the job description to read and you're going to generate a strategic plan for the cover letter based on my answers from step one and the job description for me to approve.
• I'm going to give you a news item about the company. Read it and tell me how you plan to connect it to my cover letter application.
• Use this format to write the cover letter:
• Begin with the news item based on my approval of your strategy. Conclude paragraph one: "When I came across this role, I knew it was the role for me. Let me tell you why."
• The next two to three paragraphs should be my career history with clear connections to the position requirements and desired skills. Make sure to say somewhere, "As your [position title], I'll," and include some of the initiatives.
• Wrap up with the following sentence, "I'm excited and looking forward to hearing from you."

If we exceed your token limit, let's use "strawberry" as our focus word so you can get reoriented. 

Please begin by summarizing what you think I want you to do."

If you're making a pivot in your career, remove this line from the prompt: " I have [#] years of experience ," and replace it with " I'm making a career transition from [industry] to [industry] so the cover letter needs to heavily showcase how my previous experience is an asset to [Company]. "

And add this to the first task: "Make another question about how I think my previous experience is an asset to this new industry."

Step 2: Check for understanding

ChatGPT should create a summary of this plan. Check that the summary is accurate. If it is, reply with " next step " or " yes ."

Ashley Couto

If ChatGPT gets confused, open a new chat and repaste the prompt.

Step 3: Answer the career questions and have ChatGPT generate a career summary

The bot should provide you with the 15 career questions. Each answer should be two or three sentences long. You can go over for one or two questions, but be wary of potentially hitting the token limit. 

Once you've answered all the questions, add this sentence and press enter:

" Please create a detailed summary of my responses that I can paste into ChatGPT so I don't have to answer all these questions again if I need to generate another cover letter. "

Copy and paste the summary into another document to use for other applications. 

Step 4: Input no more than 2,500 characters of the job description

Copy and paste only the pertinent details from the description into ChatGPT and delete the fluff. Keep skills and competencies, responsibilities, the role overview, and a little about the company if you think it would be helpful.

Step 5: Paste in a company press release or industry-specific news story

Once ChatGPT gives you its plan, decide whether you agree with its intent. If you do, indicate that you want to move forward and press return or make a change. 

With any AI tool, you must be an editor and strategic advisor. Do not assume that what it's generated is the right path. Exercise critical judgment and get ChatGPT to refine.

For example, after I provided the article, ChatGPT presented me with a summary that didn't highlight key issues on how Canadian media companies think about content. I gave it instructions to refine it.

Step 6: Generate the cover letter and revise it with ChatGPT

Once you've approved its strategic approach, ChatGPT will generate the cover letter. 

It will generate a first draft but probably won't be ready for use yet. It's your job now to go back in and revise using specific instructions.

For example, I felt that the third paragraph ChatGPT generated was weak.

Direct it with specific changes to adjust particular paragraphs and go back and forth for a few rounds until you're happy.

And it generated a much stronger attempt.

Step 7: Put it into a text editor

ChatGPT has a suboptimal understanding of grammar and syntax. Once you're happy with the content, put your text through Grammarly to help tighten up the language and avoid problems like using the passive voice.

Step 8: Rinse and repeat with modifications

You can use the same root prompt for future cover letters, but replace step one with this:

"I'm going to paste in a summary of my work experience. Please write me a three-sentence summary of what type of work I do and what you see as my top accomplishment so I can check for understanding."

Based on the previously generated summary, you'll double-check that ChatGPT has a good idea of what you do. If it's missing a few key details, fill it in on those or tell it which summary you want it to prioritize before you move through the rest of the prompt.

Watch: The 3 key words to use on your résumé to land the interview

• Main content