cover letter for freshman in college

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Let's dive in!

College Student Cover Letter Example

5 Steps for the Perfect College Student Cover Letter

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

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

#1. Put Contact Information in the Header

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

Here's a breakdown of what to include:

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

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

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

#2. Address the Hiring Manager

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

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

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

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

• Dear Ms. Rodriguez
• Dear Alex Rodriguez

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

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

#3. Write an Eye-Catching Opening Statement

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

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

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

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

#4. Use the Cover Letter Body for the Details

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#5. Wrap It Up and Sign It

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

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

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

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

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

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

Warm regards,

Jodie Sawkins

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

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

3 Essential College Student Cover Letter Tips

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

#1. Match Your Resume

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

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

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

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

Or Use A Cover Letter Template Instead

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

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

#2. Focus on Extracurricular Activities & Internships

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

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

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

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

#3. Proofread the Final Draft

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

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

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

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

Key Takeaways

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

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

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

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5 College Student Cover Letter Examples Working in 2024

• College Student Cover Letter
• College Student Cover Letters by Experience
• Write Your College Student Cover Letter

Your education has equipped you with the knowledge and skills to succeed in any role you set your sights on. You perform excellent research, meet deadlines, and can handle data accurately.

But did you write a cover letter and complementary college student resume to provide an effective overview of your capabilities?

Whether you’re applying to an advanced degree program or one of your first jobs, we have the resources to help you succeed. Check out our college student cover letter examples that have helped many academics grab their dream opportunities in 2024.

College Student Cover Letter Example

USE THIS TEMPLATE

Microsoft Word

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Block Format

Copy this text for your college student cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue Miami, FL 33101 (123) 456-7890

September 30, 2023

Ava Harper Sittercity 123 Fictional Lane Miami, FL 33101

Dear Ms. Harper,

As a diligent college student, I am eager to apply for the babysitter position at Sittercity. I strive to provide a safe, nurturing environment and a vibrant learning experience for every child, which Sittercity exemplifies. Your exceptional work with Fairfield Child Care Centers in Dallas has led to numerous glowing testimonials from parents and children. This resonates strongly with my passion for helping children grow in a secure and happy atmosphere. I am sure that my expertise, including cooking and meal preparation, would significantly contribute to your outstanding team.

Throughout my time at Nanny Poppinz, I curated nourishing meals that catered to the dietary needs of 23 children aged 2-9. I used cookbooks and online resources like the Mealime app to plan balanced, child-friendly meals. My dedication and love for cooking led to a commendation from 86% of the parents for dietary improvements and an 18% reduction in food waste at the facility.

Meanwhile, at the Learning Center for Kids, my First Aid/CPR skills were tested on countless occasions in a bustling learning environment with over 30 kids. From managing minor cuts to reacting promptly to allergy emergencies, I ensured children’s safety at all times by conducting regular safety drills and monitoring play areas for potential hazards.

Additionally, my storytelling capabilities significantly contributed to enhancing the children’s language skills at The Learning Nest. I employed tools like the Storyteller App and diverse books with multicultural themes to create engaging narratives tailored to each child’s interests. As a result, language comprehension increase index rose by 43% among the children within six months, while their active listening skills surged by 67%.

My experiences, coupled with my dedication to child safety and education, would be invaluable at Sittercity. Also worth noting, I have included my police clearance for your review. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my skill set could benefit and enrich your team at Sittercity.

Seline Dupont

Enclosures: Resume Application 2 letters of recommendation Police Clearance

Why this cover letter works

• As with this college student cover letter, use specific examples (whether volunteer work, internships, or babysitting siblings) to showcase your childcare proficiencies. Relevant keywords here include first aid/CPR. Meals preparation, storytelling.

Level up your cover letter game

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

College Application Cover Letter Example

Copy this text for your college application cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue Columbia, MI 48111 (123) 456-7890

March 07, 2024

Mia Santo University of Missouri 567 Pretend Lane Columbia, MI 48111

Dear Ms. Santo:

With great enthusiasm, I convey my desire to join the distinguished undergraduate society at the University of Missouri. As a passionate advocate for mental health awareness and a lover of classical music, my journey has been shaped by my dedication to creating positive change and my unwavering commitment to personal growth. I’m convinced your institution offers the perfect environment for me to flourish academically and socially.

I am keenly interested in the humanities and intend to major in this field. My commitment to understanding and empathizing with human experiences has been the driving force behind my extracurricular projects. For instance, as a moderator for #BreakTheStigma, I helped create a supportive community environment for individuals facing mental health challenges, embodying my belief in the power of empathy and collaboration.

Beyond academics, my hands-on involvement in organizing events such as “Keys to the Future” and “Santa’s Workshop” has allowed me to explore my interests in music and community service. At the University of Missouri, I’m eager to delve into courses exploring music’s psychological impact, combining my passion for mental health advocacy and my love for the arts.

My dedication to academic and extracurricular pursuits emphasizes my sincere desire to contribute positively to the University of Missouri’s vibrant community. I’m drawn to your institution because of its outstanding reputation and the supportive environment that encourages diverse interests and interdisciplinary learning.

Thank you for your consideration,

Enclosures: Resume Application Transcripts

• The essence is to paint a vivid picture of an all-around student. Even better, spotlight prior community involvements. That exhibits your active engagement in contributing positively to society and your potential to further these values in the target tertiary institution.

College Student No Experience Cover Letter Example

Copy this text for your college student no experience cover letter!

Jackson Hill Park Cities Pet Sitter 123 Fictional Lane Dallas, TX 75001

Dear Mr. Hill,

As one of the dedicated students of Southern Methodist University studying animal behavior in our Biology department, I am eager to bring my skills to Park Cities Pet Sitter as your next dog walker. With two years of experience volunteering at Dallas Dog and my proficiency in basic training commands and positive reinforcement techniques, I can provide excellent care to your canine clients.

Throughout my tenure at Dallas Dog, I developed a solid understanding of canine behavior. Specifically, I successfully utilized positive reinforcement techniques, which led to a remarkable 83% improvement in dogs’ compliance and adaptability. This experience fortified my empathy and patience, essential traits when working with animals, mainly when introducing new commands and routines.

While being a student at the university, I have skillfully balanced my academic responsibilities with extracurricular activities, maintaining an excellent academic record and actively participating in community service initiatives. This experience has strengthened my time management abilities, which will serve me well when scheduling and fulfilling dog walking duties.

The opportunity to work with Park Cities Pet Sitter excites me due to the company’s reputation for exceptional pet care and strong values of reliability and compassion. As a passionate animal lover, I would be thrilled to contribute to your team, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for the dogs while giving peace of mind to their owners. My academic background in animal behavior, complimented by my hands-on experience in pet care, equips me well for the role of dog walker at Park Cities Pet Sitter. I look forward to discussing how I can contribute to your team. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Nabil Soliman

• See how Nabil showcases his ability to connect with and care for canine pets in this college student no experience cover letter, using metrics to emphasize impact. Transferable skills gained during coursework (cue time management) can be pivotal for your candidacy.

College Student for Internship Cover Letter Example

Copy this text for your college student for internship cover letter!

Jackson Smith Burger King Corporation 123 Fictional Lane Chicago, IL 60007

Dear Mr. Smith:

Burger King Corporation’s call for interns who can resonate with the fast-paced and evolving nature of the food industry is why I am eager to bring my marketing skills to the table as an intern. As a college student majoring in marketing, your company’s innovative approach to digital strategy inspires me to make substantial contributions to your team.

As a volunteer at YMCA Metropolitan Chicago, I utilized Microsoft Office Suite to manage event schedules, prepare PowerPoint presentations, and analyze data, fostering a 17% increase in attendance at our community events in six months.

My experience with social media management originated from a class project where I was responsible for revamping a local business’s online presence. Using tools like Buffer and Hootsuite, I crafted engaging content and interacted with the audience on multiple platforms. This contributed to a 13% growth in followers within three months.

A summer internship at Chitech Solutions empowered my SEO prowess. Leveraging Google Analytics and keyword optimization strategies, our team facilitated a 28% improvement in organic search rankings and an 11.9% boost in website-generated leads.

My unique combination of creativity, tech-savviness, and analytical acumen is what sets me apart, and I am excited about the possibility of bringing these traits to Burger King Corporation. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to discussing further this role.

Santiago Castro

• Go further to project yourself as a result-driven multifaceted candidate who isn’t just familiar with industry-specific proficiencies and tools (Cue SEO, SMM, and Google Analytics) but has used them to generate tangible results (Think 13% growth in followers).

College Graduate Cover Letter Example

Copy this text for your college graduate cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue Atlanta, GA 43004 (123) 456-7890

Mason Martinez Vector 123 Fictional Lane Atlanta, GA 43004

Dear Mr. Martinez:

With a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from the Georgia Institute of Technology and a solid foundation in both frontend and full-stack development, I’m excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team as a junior software engineer. My interest in Vector is driven by its commitment to building a best-in-class engineering team, and my objective aligns perfectly with your mission to solve a wide range of engineering challenges in a vibrant tech community.

During my internship at Chick-fil-A, I improved checkout efficiency by incorporating Square POS software and spearheaded initiatives that enhanced sales by $4,271 within three months. These experiences honed my problem-solving skills and ability to work collaboratively in a team environment, directly contributing to project success from inception to production scaling.

I’m particularly drawn to Vector’s emphasis on building performant, user-centric interfaces and the prospect of working in cross-functional teams to turn business and product ideas into engineering solutions. My dedication to mastering my craft, combined with a track record of shipping high-quality products and features, positions me to make a meaningful contribution to your team.

The prospect of bringing my blend of skills, passion for fintech, and a strong desire for continuous growth to your esteemed company is thrilling. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my candidacy in further detail. Thank you for considering my application.

Hannah Levi

Enclosures: Resume Application 2 letters of recommendation

• Draw on specific examples from internships or college projects where you delivered concrete results—this could range from leading a team project to developing a software program that addressed a real-world problem. Better yet, show how you used technologies like Python, Java, React, and C++ to achieve these feats.

Related cover letter examples

• College Student resume
• High School Student
• Entry Level
• Career Change

Tips to Write an Effective College Student Cover Letter

As a college student or recent grad, you may have limited work experience , making a cover letter feel challenging. However, with the right planning and use of your academic knowledge, you can write a cover letter that stands out. 

The first step is reviewing the job description and picking out job skills that each company emphasizes. For instance, someone applying for a marketing internship may notice a company needs help with lead generation. Then, they could highlight knowledge gained during classes about creating effective landing pages and social media campaigns that will help the company achieve its goals. 

Grab attention with the opening of your college student cover letter

While writing reports for your classes, you’ve likely heard that immediately grabbing a reader’s attention is essential. The same is true with cover letters. The best way to make that initial connection is to greet the organization’s contact person by name. You can often find that in the job description or company website.   

Now that you have the hiring manager’s attention, you’ll want to take things a step further by connecting to the company’s mission and needs in your opening paragraph. For example, a college student applying for a dental hygiene internship may want to emphasize their eagerness to use their knowledge in X-rays and routine cleanings to help patients achieve a healthy smile.

The example below falls short since the applicant doesn’t greet someone by name or explain how their educational knowledge has equipped them for the role.

Needs to be more specific! 

As a recent graduate of Boston College’s nursing program, I’m eager to apply for the nursing internship at your company. I believe my education has equipped me with the knowledge to be a great addition to your team.

The opener below provides a more substantial overview of how the applicant’s knowledge from their animal behavior studies and skills in dog training commands will make them a great fit as a dog walker with Park Cities Pet Sitter. 

A great opener referencing specific skills! 

Provide the right experiences in the body of your college student cover letter

In the body of your college student cover letter, it’s important to get specific about the job skills that make you a great fit. For example, if you were applying for a student teaching opportunity, you may want to emphasize the classroom management and curriculum planning abilities you’ve gained in your college classes.  

You should also use numbers whenever possible. Even if you don’t have much work experience , you can still find data to back up your skill set, like grades, GPA, or accuracy.

A great body paragraph with essential metrics!

Leave a lasting impression while closing out your college student cover letter

Think of the closing of your cover letter like you’re wrapping up a persuasive class presentation. You’ll want to find ways to relate back to key points about how you connect to the company’s mission and the skills that make you a great fit. 

For instance, if you were applying to an entry-level accounting role, you could relate to how you’ll use your skills in QuickBooks to help a company achieve compliant financial practices.

Then, like any good persuasive presentation, you’ll want to use a call to action and thank the hiring manager for their time. 

The closer below isn’t making the right impact since the applicant doesn’t go into enough detail about the skills gained from their degree or their connection to the company’s mission.

Needs more detail to make an impact!

I believe my human resources degree has made me well-equipped for this internship. I look forward to discussing this role with you further. 

Rebecca Romanov 

The closer below does a better job relating to the applicant’s dedication to child safety and education, making them a great fit for Sittercity’s needs. 

Stand out by relating to the company’s mission! 

My experiences, coupled with my dedication to child safety and education, would be invaluable at Sittercity. Also worth noting, I have included my police clearance for your review. I look forward to discussing how my skill set could benefit and enrich your team at Sittercity.

Cover Letter Tips for a College Student

• Even if you don’t have much real work experience in your field, your academic achievements as a college student will still showcase how you’re prepared to perform well in entry-level roles. For example, if you’re applying for an accounting internship, you could discuss projects you worked on in your financial classes, such as a revenue reporting project where you used Excel formulas to speed up calculations by 56%.
• Non-traditional work experience like volunteering or participating in school clubs or other hobbies can still show how you’ll perform well on the job. For instance, let’s say you’re applying for a veterinary internship. You could talk about volunteering at a local animal shelter, following feeding schedules, and providing specialized care to animals from different situations for a 39% better quality of life. All that will show expertise you can use in entry-level vet roles.
• Both your college experience and jobs in other fields will help present transferable skills that can be applied to a wide range of careers. For an idea, you could write about how you managed time between your studies and participating in your school’s Future Business Leaders of America and math clubs. If you were applying for an entry-level business analyst role, that would show lots of ability in scheduling, business knowledge, and math skills for data management.

College student cover letters should be one page long. Keep it concise and relevant for each job you apply to. For example, if you were applying to an entry-level IT role, a short overview of your troubleshooting and programming knowledge from relevant courses would help you stand out. 

You’ve likely gained a lot of skills through your education, so listing all of them would make your cover letter too long. Instead, try to focus on three to five that are relevant to a company’s needs, such as pressure management and structural analysis for someone applying to an engineering internship. 

The best achievements to write about will be ones where you have metrics to show your impact and that are highly relevant to company needs. For example, if you were applying to a production management internship, you could explain how you used lean management processes in a class project to boost efficiency by 41%. 

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

• Cover Letter Examples
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• How To Write A Cover Letter For A Job With No Experience In That Field

Find a Job You Really Want In

Writing a cover letter can be difficult, especially if you’re a college student who may not have written one in the past. An excellent cover letter can help convince a hiring manager that you are the best person for the job. This is why you should know how to write a college student cover letter. If you’re a college student who needs to write the best cover letter, stick around. In this article, we’ll go over how to write a college cover letter, provide some student cover letter examples, and give you some tips to keep in mind when writing your letter. Key Takeaways Your cover letter should include an achievement-driven introduction, your key skills and qualifications, and a call to action. Research the company you’re applying to so you can tailor your cover letter to them and follow any guidelines they lay out. Include your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, honors, and soft skills in your cover letter. In This Article    Skip to section How to write a cover letter as a college student What to include in your cover letter Cover letter examples for college students 7 Tips for writing your college student cover letter How to write a college student cover letter FAQ References Sign Up For More Advice and Jobs Show More How to write a cover letter as a college student

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dear Mr. Cook ,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best regards, Maria Smith

What to include in your cover letter

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

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

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

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

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

Cover letter examples for college students

Student cover letter example

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

Email cover letter example

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

College student cover letter template

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

7 Tips for writing your college student cover letter

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to write a college student cover letter FAQ

Do college students need a cover letter?

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

What is a college student’s cover letter?

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

Harvard Extension School – Resume and Cover Letters

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

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

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College Student Cover Letter Example & How-To (2023 Guide)

Written by James Vandersmith

April 20, 2023.

Are you a college student looking for help writing your cover letter? Well, you’ve come to the right place! Our 2023 guide includes tips and examples specifically geared towards college students.

Create a Captivating College Student Cover Letter Header & Title

Your cover letter header and title should be eye-catching and relevant to the job you’re applying for. The title should clearly identify what type of document it is and make the reader want to learn more. Here are some tips for creating an effective header and title:

– Use a professional-looking font and avoid anything too fancy.

– Put your name, degree type and year at the top of the title.

– The job title you’re applying for in the header and/or title.

– Choose a powerful, yet professional color scheme.

Make a Great First Impression – Introduce Yourself Professionally

The introduction of your college student cover letter should be strong and attention-grabbing. Start by introducing yourself professionally with a brief summary of your personal and professional background. Any relevant skills or experiences you have that make you a great fit for the job should be highlighted in this section.

Address What You Can Contribute – Prove That You Can Deliver

Your cover letter should demonstrate how you can contribute to the company’s mission and goals. Do research on the job listing and company beforehand so you can accurately explain why you would be a great asset to their team. Be sure to include specific skills and experiences that apply to the job opening, and explain how you could use those abilities to benefit the company.

Express Your Enthusiasm for the Role – Show Off Your Personality

The most impressive college student cover letters demonstrate your enthusiasm for the position. Express why you believe that you are perfect for the role and how it can benefit from having you on board. Feel free to show off some of your personal interests and hobbies too – this will help give the hiring manager an idea of who you are as a person, not just another applicant.

Highlight Your Qualifications & Skills to Enhance your College Student Cover Letter

Your qualifications and skills are key selling points in your cover letter. Highlight any relevant degrees, certificates or awards that you possess, as well as any industry-specific knowledge you may have. This section should also include any internships, volunteer work or extracurricular activities that are pertinent to the job you’re applying for.

Showcase Your Competencies & Related Knowledge in Your College Student Cover Letter.

Your cover letter should also include any related knowledge or competencies you may have.

Here are some examples of related skills and knowledge you can highlight:

– Knowledge of relevant software and technologies

– Proficiency in a foreign language

– Experience with customer service or sales, if applicable

– Understanding of fundamental concepts related to the role

Highlight your Soft Skills.

Often overlooked but just as important, your cover letter should also include any soft skills you possess. Some examples of valuable soft skills are:

– Ability to work in a team environment

– Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities

– Problem solving and creative thinking abilities

– Adaptability to changing situations or environments

Finding your first job as a college student can be intimidating, so why not take advantage of the skills you’ve developed during this season? Showcase all that you have learned and cultivated while in school to make yourself stand out from other applicants.

Showcase your Achievements and Prove the Worth You Can Add to Your College Student Cover Letter.

Don’t forget to include any awards or special recognition you may have received in your College Student cover letter. This shows the hiring manager that you are an overall achiever and a valuable asset to their team. To make your achievements stand out, quantify them in relation to the position you are applying for. For example:

“As a student leader, I increased membership in my organization by 25% within 6 months. This has given me experience in project management and enhanced my organizational skills.”

Don’t forget to mention any extracurricular projects or accomplishments that showcase your impact as a college student. This is the perfect opportunity for you to demonstrate how you resolved an issue in school, managed a major project, or contributed to a team. This will help the hiring manager understand why you are the right person for the job and show them that you have something special to offer.

Display your value by including detailed accomplishments your cover letter. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

– Increased sales in a student-run store by 10% in two months

– Developed an app that was used by 1000+ students

– Wrote and published articles for the school newspaper

By quantifying your achievements, you can demonstrate the value you can bring to any position. Showcase your experiences and skills to create a powerful college student cover letter that will get you noticed!

Demonstrate Your Passion and Enthusiasm for the Role.

Your cover letter should also display your passion and enthusiasm for the position. This will show the hiring manager that you are genuinely excited about being a part of their team and eager to learn more about the role. Talk about why you believe this is an excellent opportunity for you, what your goals are, and why you feel passionate about it. Here are some examples:

– “I’m very excited to be able to join forces with your team and help drive success in this role.”

– “My goal is to use my knowledge and experience to help your organization reach its goals faster.”

– “I’m passionate about collaborating on innovative projects, learning new things, and helping people in need.”

By expressing your excitement and enthusiasm for the role, you can give the hiring manager an insight into your personality and dedication. Demonstrating your passion for the position will also make them more likely to remember you in comparison to other applicants.

Discuss Why You’re the Top Choice for the Job Position You’re Applying For.

Finally, you should use your college student cover letter to discuss why you are the best choice for the job position. In order to do this, you must demonstrate how your experience and skills make you a great fit for the role. Talk about how your education and experiences have helped prepare you for this opportunity and showcase any relevant knowledge or expertise that will help you stand out in the role. Here are some examples:

– “My experience as an intern has given me valuable insight into software development.”

– “I have excellent communication and organizational skills which will help me succeed in this role.”

– “My background in research makes me uniquely qualified to lead this project.”

By discussing why you’re the top choice for the job, you can demonstrate to the hiring manager that you are a great fit for the role. This will make your college student cover letter stand out from the competition and give you an edge in the hiring process.

Take Time to Research and Familiarize Yourself with the Company You Are Applying For.

It is important to research the company you’re applying for and learn more about their values, culture, and mission. This will give you a better understanding of how you fit into their organization and will allow you to showcase how your skills and experiences can be used to help the company meet its goals. Here are some tips for researching a company:

– Read through the company website and social media accounts to get an idea of their values, mission, and services.

– Talk to people who work at or have worked at the company in order to gain their perspective on what it’s like working there.

– Research any news articles or industry reports that discuss the company’s growth or recent successes.

Conclude your College Student Cover Letter Professionally.

Before you submit your college student cover letter, it is important to ensure that you have a professional conclusion. In this section, you should restate why you are interested in the position and remind the hiring manager of what makes you a great fit for the role. Here are some examples:

– “I am confident that my skills and experience make me an ideal candidate for the role. I look forward to discussing this opportunity further.”

– “Your organization is an excellent fit for my abilities, and I am excited about the possibility of becoming a part of your team.”

– “Given my qualifications, energy, and passion for the role, I am confident that I can help your organization reach its goals.”

By concluding your college student cover letter professionally, you will leave a lasting impression on the hiring manager and make it more likely that you land an interview. Good luck!

College Student Cover Letter FAQs

How do you write a cover letter as a college student.

Writing an effective cover letter as a college student requires demonstrating your enthusiasm for the role, discussing why you’re the top choice for the job position, researching the company you are applying for, and concluding your letter professionally. By following these tips and referring to a college student cover letter example or template, you can write an effective cover letter that will land you the job.

What should be included in a college student cover letter?

A college student cover letter should include a brief introduction, your qualifications and experience relevant to the role you are applying for, why you are interested in the position, and a conclusion that restates your enthusiasm for the job. Additionally, it should be tailored to the company and demonstrate how your skills can help them reach their goals.

What are some tips for writing a college student cover letter?

When writing a college student cover letter, it is important to be concise and focus on showcasing your relevant skills. Additionally, you should take time to research the company you are applying for and familiarize yourself with their values and mission. Finally, make sure that you have a professional conclusion as this will leave a lasting impression with the hiring manager.

How do I write a cover letter for a college student with no experience?

When writing a cover letter for a college student with no experience, it is important to focus on showcasing your transferable skills and academic achievements. Additionally, demonstrate your enthusiasm for the role and emphasize how you can contribute to their organization. Finally, make sure that any language you use in your letter is professional and concise.

What should my college student cover letter title be?

Your college student cover letter title should include your name and the specific role you are applying for. For example, it could read “John Smith – Application for Sales Representative Position”. This will help ensure that the hiring manager knows exactly who they are reading about in the letter.

What format should I use when writing a college student cover letter?

When writing a college student cover letter, it is important to use a professional and easy-to-read format. Start by introducing yourself and the role you are applying for at the top of your letter. Then, explain why you are interested in the position and how your skills make you an ideal fit. Finally, provide contact information and conclude your letter professionally.

How do I write a cover letter for a part-time student?

When writing a cover letter for a part-time student, it is important to emphasize any relevant experience you have. Additionally, discuss your enthusiasm for the role and explain how your skills can help the company. Finally, make sure that your cover letter is professional and concise. With these tips in mind, refer to a college student cover letter example or template to ensure that you leave a lasting impression on the hiring manager.

Should you include GPA in cover letter?

It is not necessary to include your GPA in your college student cover letter unless it is explicitly asked for. In this case, you should consider only including it if it is above 3.0 or higher as a lower grade point average may be seen as a negative to employers.

How should I end my college student cover letter?

When ending your college student cover letter, it is important to restate your enthusiasm for the job and thank the hiring manager for their consideration. Additionally, make sure that you provide contact information and close with a professional sign-off such as “Sincerely” or “Regards”. By following these tips and referring to a college student cover letter example , you can ensure that your letter leaves a lasting impression.

College Student Cover Letter Example

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to apply for the Sales Representative position at ABC Company. With my academic background in marketing and a passion for helping businesses reach their goals, I feel that I can make a valuable contribution to your team.

Throughout my studies at XYZ University, I have developed strong research and communication skills, as well as an understanding of industry trends and technologies. I am confident that my knowledge will be an asset to your organization.

I understand the important role that customer service plays in a successful business and strive for excellence in all communications. My passion for sales drives my determination to close deals and build relationships with clients. I am eager to more about your company and contribute my skills to help you meet your goals.

Thank you for my application. I am available for an interview at any time that is convenient for you and can be reached at (000) 000-0000 or by email at [email protected].

Make Your College Student Cover Letter More Personalized With AI

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College cover letter example

Introduction of a college student cover letter

College student cover letter body.

As the reality of a looming long (and hopefully prosperous) career starts to bite, you realize that every job during college is a stepping-stone to what comes next. 

The college cover letter should go much further than the functional resume. When your resume will likely only be one page, the cover letter offers a more free-flowing format. 

Our guide can help you write the most convincing cover letter for a college student. 

College student full text-only cover letter example

Dear Ms. Barwell,

As a student of organizational behavior and occupational psychology, I relish any opportunity to explore the human condition. Working as a research associate in your HR consultancy would offer a fascinating real-life perspective to my studies.

During my work at college, I have led several successful industry research projects. I am used to working within a corporate setting and know that occupational psychology only achieves a breakthrough when participants understand what the outcomes mean to them. Your practical approach is exactly how I have run my previous studies – one of which won me a Young Achiever Impact award from the local chamber of commerce.

My research has spanned seven different industries, with projects ranging from 2,500 to 45,000 employees. I am enclosing a link in my resume to my portfolio and academic papers.

While there are several relevant aspects of my experience for a role with LaneTech, it is my work with change management that is most impactful. I spent a year looking at the challenges of performance management after a $41m business merger. This is the sort of work that I hope to replicate with your clients.

I am also enclosing several references from both academic and corporate sources. While my healthcare experience remains rather limited, I am keen to broaden my experience in the medical devices and pharmaceutical industries. I believe that I have the transferable skills to bring a new dimension to your undergraduate research team.

I would welcome the opportunity of meeting for an interview and finding out more about your research priorities for the coming year.

Amy Sanders

Sections of a college student cover letter

Every college student understands the value of a tightly structured argument. Hiring managers will be reading a large volume of cover letters, so you need to get to the point and convey your message with maximum clarity. The format of an effective college student cover letter looks like this:

• Cover letter header . The college cover letter header should contain your basic contact details – full name, email, and phone number. Don’t include any social media details unless you are going into marketing or sales. 
• Greeting . The greeting for a college cover letter should be no different from any formal letter that you might write. Avoid an impersonal style. 
• Introduction . For a college cover letter, a blend of your previous part-time work experience and your career objectives will work well. Employers of college students want to feel that they will be motivated by something greater. 
• Body . Where you are studying, and your expected level of qualification is enough for hiring managers. 
• Conclusion . Share one last compelling message and mention that you would love to meet them to find out more during an interview.
• Signature . End the cover letter with a professional sign off.

Every section of your cover letter works together to tell the tale of your career. 

A one-page cover letter is more than enough for you to convey your personality and motivations. What is the objective of your career? How would this first job fit into your grand plan?

Need more inspiration? View our other related cover letter examples from this sector:

• Graduate cover letter
• Teaching assistant cover letter
• Education cover letter
• Postdoc cover letter
• Graduate assistant cover letter
• Masters cover letter

For more advice, read our guide on how to write a cover letter .

After designing the header and addressing the hiring manager , it is time to think about why exactly you deserve the chance to begin your career with this employer.

It is worth spending a little time to think about how to start a cover letter . That first paragraph needs to grab the attention and get to the heart of what you want to achieve in your career.

Remember, the cover letter for a college student should be relevant for the role in question. You may well have your ideal “job search story,” but if parts of it are irrelevant to the hiring manager, they will likely not invite you to an interview. Pick out the parts of your experience and personality that will interest them.

Dear Mr. Watts,

I am writing to express my interest in the Marketing Assistant position. As a recent graduate from State University with a degree in Marketing, I am eager to apply my academic knowledge and skills in a practical, professional setting. I am particularly drawn to this role because of its focus on innovative digital marketing strategies.

Hi, I have enjoyed my university years, but now it is time to enter the real world. I think that this job would be enjoyable and would like to give it a try for a while. I know how to work hard and would look forward to earning a regular wage. That is motivation enough.

Offer examples of instances when you’ve carried out duties like those listed in the job description. Lay out your strengths and potential contributions to the hiring manager.

In the body of your cover letter, consider including the following:

• Focus on your transferable skills. How will you make the best start in your job?
• Mention your motivations. What will keep you going when things get tough?
• Tell some stories about your volunteering or internships.
• Mention your appetite for training and professional development.

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

There are certain traits that every college student should seek to display within their cover letter. These transferable skills can come from a wide range of work experiences. Here’s how you can demonstrate it: 

• Enthusiasm . A cover letter should radiate enthusiasm, showing a genuine interest and passion for the position and field. 
• Relevant Skills . Mention specific skills that align with the job requirements.  Provide examples of how these skills have been effectively utilized in past experiences, demonstrating your capability and readiness for the job.
• Adaptability . Employers value candidates who can quickly adapt to new environments and challenges. Illustrate your ability to adapt by discussing instances where you successfully adjusted to new situations or demands.
• Professionalism . Displaying professionalism through your cover letter’s tone, language, and structure reflects your ability to communicate respectfully. 

Second body paragraph(s): Alignment with the organization

The most important concern for an employer of a college student is whether the student understands what they are getting themselves into.

Do they truly understand the nature of the role? Are they the sort of person who would fit with the employer culture?

In this example of NYC Public Schools , some key points can be taken from the vision and mission statement, including:

• building trust
• support all students, families, and school staff
• resolve conflict, build relationships, and keep our school communities safe

Call to action & conclusion: Finish off strong

Sum up your cover letter in the final few lines. One of the most effective ways to conclude is through a call to action. This sentence directly states your enthusiasm or interest in the position and encourages a hiring manager to contact you. 

Finish your letter with a signature that is both polite and formal. “Sincerely” or “Best regards” are great choices for a closing salutation.

Conclude by signing off with your name . First name and surname to keep things formal – even college students need to get serious at some point.

How to write a college student cover letter with no experience

You may not have much work experience, but you will certainly have enough life experience to excel in a college-level role. The key to a college cover letter with no experience is to frame what you have in such a way that it proves your potential. If you do not try to do this, the hiring manager will question your motivation.

It may seem like a fudge, but do your best to achieve the following:

• Share what you have learned in your part-time jobs and internships.
• Show an understanding of the role and what it takes to succeed.
• Demonstrate that your personality fits the company culture.
• Show you are results-focused by talking about your academic success.

So many college cover letters will focus on individual personality traits and ignore the realities of what the role requires. Paint a picture of the person that you will be when you are doing the job. Leave little to the imagination.

Key takeaways

A college student cover letter highlights your relevant skills , experiences and role fit. Every college cover letter should step beyond your academic activity into the world of work. How will you make a difference for your future employer? Try to include as much previous work experience as possible, but only do so if you can prove relevance for the role in question.

Try our cover letter builder to play with your career sales pitch. Read the cover letter back to yourself and imagine that you are the hiring manager – would they want to take a chance on you?

Free professionally designed templates

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Click here to directly go to the complete college student cover letter sample

How to write a cover letter for college student?

A college is probably your first exposure to the job market.

If you are a college grad student, you probably do not have much experience in the workforce. And, this makes the task of writing a cover letter for college student with no experience more challenging.

In the USA, the job market is fiercely competitive. According to Educationdata.org , around 4 million college students graduate every year.

That means you have to compete with 4 million other candidates to get a job.

In this fierce competition, how will you get noticed?

With your cover letter for college students.

In this Cover letter for college students blog, we will tell you everything about

• Why do you need a cover letter for a college student?
• Cover letter sample for college student
• How to write a cover letter for college students with step by step guide
• How to format your cover letter college student
• College student cover letter for internship checklist
• Tips for writing a cover letter for college student with no experience

Why Do You Need a Cover Letter for a College Student?

You will probably start searching for a job in college, and a cover letter is a professional letter that will accompany your resume and talk about your academic achievements and how you think you will benefit the company.

When you are a grad student, you probably will not have a ton of experience to show in your cover letter when applying for a job. But you can show a variety of other skills and achievements in your college student cover letter.

For starters, if you are a grad student and have a GPA over 3.5, you can proudly highlight that in your cover letter. In addition to that, you can include internships, volunteer work, academic achievements, participation in extracurricular activities, leadership roles you have taken in your college.

One of the best things you can highlight in your cover letter for college students is soft skills. It will help the recruiters gauge your competency and how well you will fit in the organization. Here are some soft skills that you can include in your cover letter for college student with no experience:

• Communication skills
• Attention to details
• Creative thinking
• Team Player
• Adaptability
• Problem Solving

Sample cover letter for college student

[ Back to Table of Content ]

Here is a sample cover letter for college students:

How to Write a Cover Letter for College Students: Step by Step Guide

If you see any professional cover letter, you will notice that all the professional cover letters follow similar formatting.

Cover Letter for College Students - Header

Like any other professional cover letters, you need to include all the necessary information in your cover letter header. Here is a list of things you need to include in your cover letter header:

• Phone number
• Location (No need to include whole address)
• Linkedin Profile Link (If you have)
• The Position you are applying for
• Name of the person you are sending the cover letter
• Their title
• Organization name
• Organization address

Here is an cover letter example college student - header section:

Cover Letter College Student - Address

Most of the college students make the mistake of sending the cover letter with a generic salutation like " To whom it may concern " or simply "Dear Hiring Manager" . Some college students go one step further and address the cover informally like this: " Hi Hiring Manager ,"

The first thing you need to do when addressing your cover letter is trying to find the hiring manager's name. You can easily do it by a quick Linkedin search. If you don't find the hiring manager's name online, try calling the company office and ask for the hiring manager's name.

Even then, if you don't get the hiring manager's name, use a generic salutation. But do not use "To whom it may concern". It's an old salutation and doesn't attract the hiring manager's attention anymore.

You can further personalize the generic salutation by addressing the cover letter to the department you are applying for. For example, if you are applying for a job in the marketing department, address like this: "Dear Marketing Hiring Manager,"

If the hiring manager has an academic or professional title, do not forget to include that in the salutation,

Cover letter examples for college students - Salutation:

• “Dear Mr. Moore,"
• “Dear Dr, Watson,”
• “Dear Ms. Chole,”

Cover Letter College Student - Introduction

We always say that start your cover letter with a powerful opening paragraph highlighting your experience or skills, But when you are in college, you do not have any experience to show.

But, that should not restrain you from highlighting your skills in the cover letter first paragraph.

Note: Don't just mention skills randomly; instead, read the job description carefully and mention the relevant skills for the job you are applying for.

Two ways to create a perfect cover letter for college students first paragraph:

Highlighting Your Achievements

Sure, you don't have any tangible professional experience, but you must have done other activities in your college days such as internships, volunteer work, independent research, etc. You can mention those in the first paragraph of your cover letter as achievements.

Cover letter example college student - Introduction

Tell the Hiring Manager You are Excited About the Opportunity

This will probably be your first job, and you are genuinely enthusiastic about this opportunity. Don't shy away from showing your enthusiasm in the cover letter.

Note : These are only examples. There are multiple other ways to write your cover letter introduction. A rule of thumb is to try and make your college cover letter introduction as personalized as possible. For instance:

• If someone referred you for the job, mention them in the introduction section.
• Research on the company and mention a recent accomplishment of the company.
• If you have seen the hiring manager's content on Linkedin, Start by appreciating their content.

No matter what you do, make sure that your college cover letter introduction is highly personalized and specific.

Cover Letter College Student - Main Body

Well done! You have successfully hooked the hiring manager.

Now you have come to one of the essential parts of your resume- the main body.

In this section, you have to describe your experience and achievements relevant to the job you are applying for, followed by another section where you say why you want to join the organization.

Let us see some examples of College Student Cover Letter - Main Body.

Owing to the values and the passion for excellence that ABC Technologies have showcased to date has been nothing short of extraordinary. Therefore, I consider ABC Technologies to be my most preferred employer.

Note : See, this is a perfect example of a college student cover letter main body. It accurately describes all your skills and achievements in the first paragraph and shows why you want to work with the organization.

I want to work with ABC Technologies because I am always interested in data analysis and I believe my experience will benefit the organization and help me grow as a person.

Note : This example does not show any tangible achievements and does not impress the hiring manager.

The passion for excellence that Lemon Media House has showcased to date has been nothing short of extraordinary. I am awed by its relentless commitment to helping small and medium businesses grow with the help of online media. Owing to such values, I consider Lemon Media House to be my most preferred employer.

Note : Notice that the candidate is showing his/her achievements with the first paragraph.

I believe my interest and work experience as a digital marketing associate makes me an ideal candidate for the Digital Marketing Assistant position in Lemon Media House.

Note :The candidate is not quantifying their achievements. And it sounds cheesy.

Cover Letter for College Students - Closure

You now have one last job to create a near-perfect college student cover letter.

You need to write a powerful closing statement for your cover letter and include a call to action to get invited for an interview.

Do not write CTAs like this:

• "Please interview me for the position"
• "Please give me a chance to explain my candidacy"

Instead, be professional in the call to action and give the hiring manager a little something to look forward to.

I have enclosed my resume for your consideration. I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss my suitability and qualifications with you on call or in person.

Sincerely, John Doe

Enclosure: Resume

Thank you for considering my application. I have attached my resume below. I look forward to meeting with you to discuss my qualifications and experience for the position.

Cheers, John Doe

Note : "Cheers" is not at all formal. The hiring manager is not your friend. It might work if you know the hiring manager personally, but if not, avoid using any informal closing in your college cover letter.

College Student Cover Letter- Formal Closing Salutation

There is not one, but many formal closing salutations you can use on your cover letter

• With best regards,
• Thanking you,
• Kind regards,

Avoid informal closing salutation such as,

Cover letter for college students - Correct Formatting

Writing a perfect college student cover letter is not the end of the story.

If your cover letter content is top-notch and it is presented poorly, you will not get any interview in the end.

So, make sure that your cover letter is professionally formatted, readable, and error-free before sending it to the recruiter.

Tips to format a college student cover letter for internship or job:

Your college student cover letter should not be more than one page and should only consist of 3 to 4 paragraphs. There is no ideal word count for cover letters, but it should wrap up within 500 words.

Cover Letter Font

The college student's cover letter's presentation is as important as the content of the cover letter. So, make sure to use a clear and simple font to write your cover letter. These fonts are easy to read and look clean.

Apart from that, many cover letters go through application tracking systems before reaching the hiring managers. And these application tracking systems work best with clean and simple fonts.

Fonts you can use:

• Times New Roman

Note : Make sure to set the font size to 12-14 points.

Cover Letter Margin

Speaking of business letter format, ideally, your cover letter margins should be 1". But if the cover letter is exceeding the 1-page mark, then you can try to reduce the margins to ¾" or ½."

But avoid reducing even further. Then your cover letter won't look good.

Cover Letter Whitespace

Make sure to leave plenty of whitespace at the start of the cover letter, between the paragraphs, and after closure. The more whitespace, the easier it is to read the cover letter.

You do not want to send a cover letter full of grammatical errors. So take your time to proofread your cover letter a couple of times before sending it to the hiring manager.

File Format

Do not send your cover letter in .DOCX format. Instead, send your cover letter in PDF format. It will keep the cover letter layout intact.

Cover Letter for College Students - Checklist

This checklist will guide you to write a cover letter for yourself Cover letter header including your name, contact information, location

• Cover letter title- The role you are applying for
• Hiring manager's name
• Company name
• Company address
• First paragraph - Start with an achievement or total work experience
• Second paragraph - Talk about key skills, achievements, and what you will bring to the table
• Third paragraph - If you have any additional achievements related to the job you are applying
• Fourth paragraph - Why you think the organization is the right fit for you
• Fifth paragraph - Call to action for an interview
• Closing salutation
• Enclosure - resume

Tips for Writing a Cover Letter for College Student

Go beyond your resume.

Your college student cover letter should not be an exact copy of your resume. Instead, it should elaborate what skills you can bring to the organization.

For your cover letter, pick two or three relevant skills that you want to highlight and demonstrate how you have successfully helped others with your skills.

As a college student, highlight transferable skills in your cover letter, such as team management, leadership skills, communication skills, etc. And give examples of your skills with your volunteer work, internships, project works etc.

Customize Your College Student Cover Letter for Every Job

Hiring managers are experienced enough to tell if you have provided them with a generic cover letter or not.

It is one of the most common mistakes college students make to apply for multiple jobs quickly. It is also the most common reason why candidates do not get a reply from the hiring manager.

Instead of sending a generic cover letter to everyone, put some effort into researching the company and write the cover letter targeted to the specific job you are applying for.

Do Not Come off as Over-excited or Apologetic

Nobody likes a passive person. The biggest mistake you can make in your college student cover letter is coming off as apologetic for your lack of experience or over-enthusiast for getting into the workforce.

Your approach should be bold and strong. Instead of apologizing, describe your skills you have gathered in your college experience.

Avoid Generic Soft Skills

• Hard Working
• Self-motivated
• Problem-solver These are some of the common generic skills that almost every one includes in their resume, draining them to life and meaning. Instead of using these generic skills, mention job-related skills, and provide examples of your skills and achievements.

Show Some Personality

Cover letters are not just a place to describe your qualifications; it's also a place to show your personality.

So, keep your cover letter professional but avoid using unnatural language like "I would like to express my sincere gratitude for considering my application." Instead, write the way you talk.

Additionally, you can add some comments on how much you love the company culture or the job you are applying for.

Key Takeaways

With that, we have come to the end of this blog. Now, let us check out some of the key takeaways from the college student cover letter blog:

• Presentation is the key. So make sure your college student cover letter is clean, readable, and only a single page.
• Start your cover letter with a powerful opening paragraph. For instance, you can start your cover letter with your years of experience or achievement.
• Provide credibility to your achievements by quantifying them with numbers.
• Finish your college student cover letter with a CTA asking for an interview.
• Do not forget to enclose your resume at the end of your cover letter.

If you want to create a college student cover letter, go to Hiration Cover Letter Builder and choose from 20+ templates to create a professional cover letter for yourself.

Go to Hiration career platform which has 24/7 chat support and get professional assistance with all your job & career-related queries. You can also write to us at [email protected] and we will make sure to reach out to you as soon as possible.

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College Student Cover Letter Example

While you may not have a lot of relevant work experience as a college student, you’ve certainly got plenty of transferable skills that will make you an appealing candidate to a potential employer. To showcase these skills, however, you must know how to write a great cover letter for college students. On that note, let’s dive into some cover letter examples college students can use to wow hiring managers.

Why a profession-specific cover letter matters 

A tailored cover letter is crucial for college students. It demonstrates your ability to connect your academic experiences and any part-time work or internships with the job you’re applying for.

When it comes to writing a cover letter, college students like you can use this tool to show employers you’re interested in the opportunity and understand the role. 

That said, creating a great cover letter can be tricky. While you can certainly take advantage of cover letter templates , you’ll also need to familiarize yourself with some basic dos and don’ts.

Once you master the art of writing a college student cover letter, you’ll be well on your way to landing a job interview.

Key components of a profession-specific cover letter

Every college student cover letter needs the following components:

• Introduction: Briefly introduce yourself, using the hiring manager’s name to transition into the content
• Academic Achievements: Highlight relevant coursework, projects, or academic successes
• Extracurricular Activities: Discuss clubs, sports, or volunteer work that have helped you develop skills relevant to the job
• Work Experience: Mention any part-time jobs or internships, focusing on transferable skills 
• Personal Qualities: Share qualities that make you a good fit for the role
• Closing Statement: Express enthusiasm for the opportunity and mention any attached documents, like resumes or academic transcripts

Along with a college student cover letter, you’ll also need an awesome resume . Make sure the style of your cover letter and resume template match without simply repeating the same information in each document.

It’s best to treat your resume like a basic rundown of your achievements, skills, certifications, educational experience, and work experience, if you have any.

When writing your college student cover letter, elaborate on some of the key attributes that make you a good fit for the position you’re applying for. Where possible, use real-world examples or brief stories to illustrate how you've used your skills to solve a problem, complete a project, or improve collaboration.

Cover letter format

Your cover letter should begin with an introduction, followed by the body, which is where you’ll detail your achievements in and out of school.

From there, transition into your extracurricular activities and work experience. Make sure you include a section about why you’re interested in the position and why you believe you’ll be a good fit for the company.

End with a strong closing statement reaffirming your interest in the role and readiness to discuss your application in further detail. Always thank the reader for their time and wrap things up with a short, professional close like “Sincerely” or “Respectfully,” followed by your name.

Sample cover letter for college students 

John Smith 123 Broadway Ave. Tampa, FL 33880 [email protected] (813) 123-4567

Sandra Hires Premier Solutions 456 Main St. Tampa, FL 33880

26 November 2023

Dear Mrs. Hires,

I am writing to express my interest in the administrative assistant position at Premier Solutions, as advertised on Jobseeker. As a recent graduate from the University of South Florida with a degree in Business Management, I am eager to apply the skills and knowledge I’ve gained through my academic studies and extracurricular activities to a real-world setting. While I may be new to the workforce, I am enthusiastic about the opportunities to grow and contribute meaningfully to your team.

During my time at USF, I participated in various projects and activities that honed my abilities in teamwork, communication, and time management. For instance, in my final year project, I led a team of five and ensured that we completed our project in a manner that exceeded the professor’s expectations. We received university-wide recognition for our hard work. This experience not only sharpened my emotional intelligence but also taught me the importance of collaboration, which I believe is vital for the position I am seeking.

Additionally, my role as a member of the school’s debate team allowed me to develop strong communication skills. Organizing events and coordinating with different teams gave me a practical understanding of the complexities of maintaining order within a fast-paced office environment. Balancing these responsibilities alongside my academic workload has also instilled in me a strong work ethic and time-management skills. 

What excites me most about the opportunity at Premier Solutions is the possibility of long-term growth and progression within the company. As a Business Management graduate, I aspire to grow into a leadership position within the organization and contribute to the innovative work you do at Premier Solutions, both now and for years to come.

I am confident that my educational background, though not extensive in professional experience, equips me with a fresh perspective and an eager approach to learning that will bring immediate and long-term value to your team. I am very much looking forward to the opportunity to discuss how my education and personal qualities align with your company’s needs.

Thank you for considering my application among the many who are no doubt vying for this position. I am eager to discuss my application further and can make myself available for an interview at your earliest convenience. 

Sincerely, John Smith Attachments: Resume 

Dos and don’ts

Now that you’ve seen an illustrative college student cover letter example, let’s go over some basic dos and don’ts for your cover letter. 

• Tailor each cover letter to the specific job and company
• Highlight skills and experiences relevant to the job
• Proofread for grammar and spelling errors
• Repeat your resume verbatim
• Write a generic cover letter for all applications
• Overlook the importance of expressing your personality

One of the most common mistakes associated with college student cover letters is making them too stuffy.

While it’s important to use professional language, you also need to include some of your personal sensibilities in the content. Remember, you want your college student cover letter to stand out, not get lost in the sea of applications the hiring manager is reviewing. 

Additionally, make sure your resume and cover letter complement one another. They’ll include some similar information, but one document should enhance the other and vice versa.

Additional tips

When writing your cover letter as a college student, make the most of what you’ve learned and experienced.

Do your homework on the company and job to make your letter read just right. Mention things you’ve done in school, any part-time work you’ve taken on, and activities you’ve been involved in on campus to show you’ve got the right skills for the job.

If you haven’t had a proper job before, focus on personal skills like working well with others, talking things through, solving problems, and being flexible.

Your letter must show that you’re keen on the job. Keep the tone upbeat and confident, but don’t go over the top. If you’ve got any links to the company, whether through past internships, events, or knowing someone who works there, make it a point to note them.

Finish your letter by saying how much you’d like to chat more about the job in an interview. A strong cover letter will grab the hiring manager’s attention, even if you’re just starting out in the working world.

Turning academic experience into career success

A well-crafted college student cover letter can bridge the gap between your academic life and your career aspirations.

By tailoring your letter to the specific role and highlighting your academic and extracurricular achievements, you can win the attention of potential employers. Use these tips and our helpful template to jumpstart your writing process.

Want to get more tips and tricks from Jobseeker? If so, check out our college student resume example so you can create a high-performing resume to go with your cover letter. We also have a huge library of profession-specific and generalized cover letters and resumes you can review to draw inspiration and put your best foot forward.

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Retail Cover Letter Example

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High School Cover Letter Example

Free cover letter template for students and new grads

Download this professional cover letter template to boost your job applications.

A well-written cover letter will make your job application stand out to employers. But how do you organize a cover letter and what should you include? We’ve created a professional template that you can download to create a letter that will impress recruiters. And be sure to download our corresponding resume template so your application looks seamless.

Want personalized guidance on your cover letter? Don't forget to consult your school's career services center !

The sections of the cover letter are:

Contact information: Include your first and last name, city and state, phone number and email address. You can include an additional link, like an online portfolio, if relevant to the role you’re applying for.

Greeting: A personalized cover letter goes a long way, so try to find the name of the hiring manager and address the letter to them. If you can’t find their name, “Dear Hiring Manager” will suffice.

The introduction: The opening paragraph should get the attention of the reader and make them want to learn more about you. You can briefly explain why you’re excited to apply for the job, or tell a short story that is relevant to the position. Make this as personal as possible, and explain how the role connects to your passions and interests! This is also a great place to mention if you're met the recruiter (or someone else from the company) at a career fair or another networking opportunity.

Your skills and experience: The main section of the cover letter summarizes your relevant skills and experiences . Be sure to include industry-specific or technical skills needed in the role. You can talk about your soft skills like leadership or communication, with examples of times that you’ve demonstrated them. Use the STAR method to tell an effective story about how you've applied your skills. Don't just repeat your resume—use this as a chance to show off your personality as well.

Closing: End your cover letter by thanking the employer for considering your application. Let them know you look forward to discussing your experience, or similar statement of interest in next steps. Sign your letter politely: ”Sincerely” or “Best regards” are common send-offs.

To create your cover letter using the template:

• View the template document here .
• Click File in the upper left-hand corner.
• Select Make a Copy  in Google docs or  Download  as a Word document.

4. If you made a copy, create a name for it and click  OK .

• Write your cover letter, and tailor it for each application. (That includes changing the greeting, job title/company, as well as any examples and stories to make sure they are the most relevant ones for the role). Be sure to use clear file names so you never get your cover letters mixed up.
• Save as a PDF and upload to your Handshake profile to include it in your application!

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Student Cover Letter Examples and Templates for 2024

• Cover Letter Examples
• Cover Letter Text Examples

How To Write a Student Cover Letter

When should you include a student cover letter.

A cover letter is like a formal introduction to your job application. This document goes beyond the confines of a resume to tell your story as a professional and why you’re interested in a job. Cover letters are especially helpful as a student if you have limited experience or simply want to differentiate yourself from other applicants.

It’s always best to include a cover letter with your application, whether or not it is required for the hiring process. In this guide, we’ll share tips and examples of student cover letters to help you write one that shows you’re ready to transition from the classroom to the workforce.

Student Cover Letter Template and Example

Student Text-Only Cover Letter Templates and Examples

City, State Abbreviation | [email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | LinkedIn URL

Dear Mr./Ms./Mx. Last Name / Hiring Manager / Company Name Hiring Team,

I recently discovered the event planning assistant opportunity on the Enchanting Engagements website and was eager to apply. [Referral Name] praised your team’s talent for making memorable experiences. My event planning skills and creativity would contribute to the successful execution of your fun, fairytale events.

As a fine arts major, I didn’t expect my creative ability to extend into the event planning space. I was voted into a leadership role by my art club peers and discovered I actually enjoy and even excel at event organizing. During my freshman year, I found myself at the helm of planning a charity art show. Each quarter since then, I’ve led our club to put on a variety of events:

• Curated and organized five thematic exhibitions each year, drawing an average attendance of over 300 visitors
• Coordinated at least 10 interactive workshops per semester to engage students in hands-on art techniques and concepts
• Orchestrated annual auctions that each raised more than $5,000 for local art-based community projects

Taking the lead as the event planner in my art club has helped me see the big picture while managing the smallest key details. I use my creativity to find solutions, work collaboratively, and negotiate with vendors while staying within budget. My creative vision and planning experience would fully support your company’s unforgettable enchanted events.

I look forward to the possibility of bringing my background in art and event planning to Enchanting Engagements. I would appreciate sharing more about my abilities in an interview at your convenience. Thank you for considering my application.

Your student cover letter should describe how your past academic, volunteer, or work experiences make you a great fit for the job. Writing a strong cover letter begins with a strategic approach, and the tips below will help get you started:

• Do your homework for the job: Show you’re truly interested in working for the company by making an effort to learn more. Check out its website and social media pages for the latest news and info. Then, use this knowledge to demonstrate how you align with the organization’s mission and values.
• Customize your letter: Hiring managers can easily tell if you send the same generic document to multiple businesses. Instead, adapt your letter for each application using the information gained from your research. Match your skills and qualifications with the job requirements and include those keywords in your letter.
• Highlight extracurriculars: If you have a limited work history, extracurricular activities can be a goldmine of relevant experiences. Team projects, leadership roles, clubs, and volunteer work are all valuable assets to pull from. Discuss the experience and skills you developed in these roles and how they apply to the job you’re applying for.
• Tell a compelling story: Think of this as a narrative story rather than an informative report. Provide employers with all the need-to-know facts, but don’t lose your unique voice in the process. Be authentic and let your personality shine through when describing what you’re passionate about or why you specifically want the job.
• Edit your writing: What better way to show you pay attention to the details than with an error-free cover letter? After your first draft, it can help you step away for a while to have a fresh perspective and clear mind for the final edit. Consider using a writing assistant like Grammarly to ensure proper spelling and grammar for extra support.

What To Include in a Student Cover Letter

Whether you’re in high school, college, or even a recent grad, your student cover letter must contain compelling evidence to suggest that you’re equipped for this new role. To ensure you include all the best aspects of your professional potential, follow the outline below.

1. Contact information and salutation

At the top of your cover letter, list your full name, location, email address, phone number, and a link to your online professional profile or portfolio. For the best impression, ensure your email address has a polished and professional look. A combination of your first and last name is often the best for job applications.

Next comes the opening salutation. If possible, this section should be personalized. Take time to figure out who you should address your cover letter to so you can use their name.

Addressing your cover letter to a specific person shows you made an effort to add a personal touch. If you can’t find a name, a simple general greeting like the one below will work.

YOUR NAME City, State Abbreviation | [email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | LinkedIn URL

2. Introductory paragraph

The opening paragraph of your cover letter should be engaging and informative, drawing the reader in. Be sure to list the job title you’re applying for and describe why you’re interested in the position. You can also mention your education status or academic background if applicable to the job. If you were referred by a current employee, mention their name here as well.

3. Background paragraph

The background paragraph should provide a brief overview of how your past has prepared you for the role. Even if you don’t have any professional work experience, you can describe time spent on academic projects, internships, side gigs, and extracurricular activities. Then, round off the paragraph with a few key accomplishments, using numbers when you can.

4. Key skills and qualifications paragraph

In this paragraph, prove that you’re ready to take on the demands of the position despite any lack of paid experience. Describe times you’ve excelled in the past when using skills mentioned in the job ad. If you don’t have any technical ability to perform the job, shift your focus to interpersonal abilities like communication, leadership, and teamwork.

5. Conclusion

To conclude your letter, end on a high note by reaffirming your genuine interest in the role. Make another mention of why you think you would be a good fit or why you want the job. Then, encourage the hiring manager to move forward with the hiring process. Tell them you look forward to speaking soon and would appreciate a chance to meet for an interview. Finally, end with a professional farewell such as “sincerely,” “best,” or “kind regards.”

I look forward to the possibility of bringing my background in art and event planning to Enchanting Engagements. I would appreciate the chance to share more about my abilities in an interview at your convenience. Thank you for considering my application.

If a company requires a cover letter for the hiring process, plan on submitting one with your application. Failing to follow this simple instruction will most likely disqualify you from the job. However, even if cover letters are listed as optional, it’s always best to include one regardless.

As a student, you may not have much work experience yet, and a cover letter can help persuade hiring managers to see beyond this. It gives you the chance to mention a referral, tell a compelling story, or explain how your transferable skills and volunteer time make up for any lack of paid work.

Craft a new cover letter in minutes

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

Jacob Meade

Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW, ACRW)

Jacob Meade is a resume writer and editor with nearly a decade of experience. His writing method centers on understanding and then expressing each person’s unique work history and strengths toward their career goal. Jacob has enjoyed working with jobseekers of all ages and career levels, finding that a clear and focused resume can help people from any walk of life. He is an Academy Certified Resume Writer (ACRW) with the Resume Writing Academy, and a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) with the Professional Association of Resume Writers & Career Coaches.

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Cover Letter for College Students

Cover letter maker.

Navigating the professional world as a college student can seem daunting. This guide aims to make the journey smoother for you by providing detailed cover letter examples , actionable tips, and a step-by-step guide on crafting compelling cover letters specifically tailored for college students.

What is a Cover Letter for College Students?

A cover letter for college students is a formal document that accompanies a student’s resume. It is a chance for the student to introduce themselves, elaborate on their experiences, and demonstrate their passion for the field, showcasing how their academic skills can transition into the professional world.

What is the Best Example of a Cover Letter for College Students?

The best cover letter for college students will differ based on the individual and the job they’re applying for. However, a great cover letter will always clearly articulate the candidate’s skills, show how they’re relevant to the job in question, and explain why the candidate is interested in this specific position. It’s about connecting the dots for the employer and painting a picture of a dedicated, proactive student ready to jump into the professional world.

[Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State, Zip Code] [Your Email Address] [Today’s Date]

[Employer’s Name] [Company Name] [Company Address] [City, State, Zip Code]

Dear [Employer’s Name],

I am writing to express my strong interest in the [Internship/Part-time Job] opportunity at [Company Name], as advertised on [Job Board/Company Website]. As a current college student majoring in [Your Major] at [Your University], I am excited to apply my classroom knowledge and develop practical skills in a real-world setting.

I am particularly drawn to [Company Name] because of its reputation for [mention a specific aspect of the company that aligns with your interests or career goals]. I am eager to contribute my energy, enthusiasm, and dedication to your team and learn from the talented professionals at [Company Name].

Enclosed is my resume, which provides further details about my education and experiences. I am excited about the opportunity to discuss how my skills and passion for [Relevant Industry/Field] can benefit [Company Name]. I would welcome the chance to interview and explore how I can contribute to your organization.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of discussing my qualifications in more detail. Please feel free to contact me at [Your Phone Number] or via email at [Your Email Address].

Sincerely, [Your Full Name]

Size: 29 KB

Free Cover Letters For College Students – Copy & Paste

Designing a cover letter from scratch can be challenging, especially when you’re not sure where to start. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! In the next sections, you’ll find several examples of cover letters that are perfect for college students. Feel free to use them as a foundation for your own cover letters.

Cover Letter for College Students with No Experience Example

Having no experience doesn’t mean you have no skills or value to offer. In your no experience cover letter , focus on your academic achievements, courses relevant to the job, and any extracurricular activities or volunteer work that show transferable skills. Highlight your eagerness to learn and grow professionally.

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

I am excited to apply for the [Job Title] position at your esteemed organization. Currently a [Your Major] major at [Your University], I believe my strong academic background and unwavering commitment make me a great candidate, despite my lack of traditional work experience.

Throughout my academic journey, I’ve had the chance to hone skills that are directly applicable to this role. My rigorous coursework in [Relevant Coursework], which emphasized [specific skills or knowledge], has provided a solid foundation. Additionally, my role as [Extracurricular or Volunteer Role], taught me valuable skills like [Transferable Skill 1] and [Transferable Skill 2].

Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to bring my strong work ethic, dedication, and passion to your team and am confident I can contribute meaningfully to your organization.

Best Regards, [Your Name]

How to Use Instructions: This cover letter example is suitable for students who have little to no work experience. Tailor this template to your needs, ensuring that you highlight your academic achievements, relevant coursework, and transferable skills gleaned from extracurricular or volunteer roles.

Size: 28 KB

Cover Letter for College Students for Grader Position Example

A cover letter for a grader position should highlight your academic accomplishments, especially in the subject you’re looking to grade. Show your commitment to education and detail any related experience, like tutoring or other teaching roles. Convey your meticulous nature and the ability to give constructive feedback.

I am writing to apply for the Grader position at [School Name]. As a top-ranking [Your Major] student at [Your University], I’ve developed a solid understanding of the subject matter and feel prepared to assist my peers in their academic journey.

Over the past [number] semesters, I have consistently earned high grades in [Relevant Coursework], demonstrating my proficiency. Moreover, as a [Volunteer Role or Extracurricular Activity], I’ve honed my ability to provide constructive feedback and guide others to understanding complex material.

Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the possibility of fostering an engaging and effective learning environment at [School Name].

Sincerely, [Your Name]

How to Use Instructions: This cover letter is ideal for students applying to become graders. When using this example, focus on your academic achievements, especially those relating to the subject you wish to grade. Showcase your commitment to education and your ability to give constructive feedback.

Size: 27 KB

Cover Letter for College Students Internship Example

When applying for an internship, your internship cover letter should showcase your passion for the field, relevant coursework, and how the internship will contribute to your career goals. Mention any projects or accomplishments that show your initiative and relevant skills.

I am thrilled to apply for the [Internship Title] at [Company Name]. As a [Your Major] major at [Your University], I have developed [Relevant Skills] that I believe will make a significant contribution to your team.

In the classroom, I have delved deep into [Relevant Coursework]. This, combined with my participation in [Club/Extracurricular Activity] where I [mention a project or initiative], has equipped me with the knowledge and skills that align with your internship’s requirements.

Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the opportunity to apply my academic learnings in a real-world context and further my professional development at [Company Name].

How to Use Instructions: This cover letter is suited for students applying for internships. Highlight your academic achievements, relevant coursework, and how the internship will contribute to your career goals. Mention any projects or accomplishments that show your initiative and relevant skills.

Size: 26 KB

Cover Letter for College Graduate Example

As a college graduate, your fresh graduate cover letter should focus on the transition from academia to the professional world. Detail how your college major, courses, projects, and internships have prepared you for the job you’re applying for. Highlight any awards or leadership roles you held during college.

As a recent graduate from [Your University], with a degree in [Your Major], I am eager to apply my skills and knowledge to the [Job Title] position at [Company Name].

My academic journey has equipped me with a comprehensive understanding of [Field of Study], notably in [Specific Course/Project]. I have honed my skills in [Relevant Skill 1] and [Relevant Skill 2], which I believe would significantly contribute to [Company Name].

I’m excited to bring my [mention a quality or attribute] to your team. I appreciate your time and consideration and look forward to the opportunity to demonstrate my potential in person.

How to Use Instructions: This cover letter is ideal for fresh college graduates. Ensure you focus on your academic achievements, skills, and knowledge that align with the job you’re applying for. Mention any relevant coursework or projects, and discuss how you can contribute to the company.

Cover Letter for Intern Example

As an intern, your cover letter should detail your educational background, interest in the field, and what you hope to gain from the internship experience. Describe how you plan to apply what you’ve learned in school to this real-world experience.

I’m thrilled to apply for the [Internship Position] at [Company Name]. As a [Your Major] major at [Your University], I’m eager to gain practical experience in my field of study.

Throughout my time in university, I’ve gained solid knowledge of [specific field or topic] and have excelled in [Relevant Coursework]. Furthermore, my involvement in [Extracurricular or Volunteer Role] has honed my skills in [Relevant Skill 1] and [Relevant Skill 2].

Thank you for considering my application. I’m excited about the possibility of contributing to your team and learning from the wealth of experience at [Company Name].

How to Use Instructions: This cover letter is for students applying for internships. It’s crucial to highlight your relevant coursework, academic achievements, and skills. Also, show your enthusiasm for the internship opportunity and explain how it fits into your career plans.

Size: 25 KB

Cover Letter for College Students Format

A well-formatted cover letter should include a greeting, an introduction, a paragraph detailing your qualifications, a paragraph explaining why you’re a good fit for the company, and a closing statement. Always tailor your cover letter to the specific job and company, showing the hiring manager that you’ve done your research and are genuinely interested.

[Your Name] [Your Address] [Your City, State, and Zip Code] [Your Email] [Your Phone Number]

[Hiring Manager’s Name] [Company Name] [Company Address] [City, State, and Zip Code]

I am writing to express my interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. As a [Your Major] major at [Your University], I have developed skills and knowledge that align with your job description.

In my academic journey, I have excelled in [Relevant Coursework] and have developed [Relevant Skill 1] and [Relevant Skill 2]. My involvement in [Extracurricular or Volunteer Role] has further honed my skills in [Relevant Skill 3] and [Relevant Skill 4].

I am eager to bring my strong work ethic, dedication, and passion to your team and am confident I can contribute meaningfully to your organization.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of discussing my application with you further.

How to Use Instructions: This cover letter provides a general format for college students. When using this template, remember to tailor it to your needs. Make sure to mention your relevant skills, coursework, and any extracurricular activities that align with the job you’re applying for.

College Students Cover Letter for University Admission Example

This type of cover letter is more personal. It should express your enthusiasm for the university and program you’re applying to, and provide a summary of your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and career goals. Explain why you believe this particular university is the best place for you to achieve those goals.

Dear [Admissions Officer’s Name],

I am thrilled to apply for [Program Name] at [University Name]. The diverse and enriching academic environment of [University Name] resonates with my academic and career aspirations.

As a student at [Your Current School/College Name], I have demonstrated a strong commitment to my studies. My involvement in [Extra-curricular Activity/Club/Volunteer Work] has honed my skills in [Relevant Skill 1] and [Relevant Skill 2].

I am confident that pursuing [Program Name] at your esteemed university will equip me with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in my future career.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute positively to your academic community.

How to Use Instructions: This cover letter template is perfect for college students applying for university admission. Make sure to express your enthusiasm for the program you’re applying to and highlight your academic achievements and relevant skills.

Sample Cover Letter for College Students

A sample cover letter for college students will highlight educational accomplishments, relevant courses, and transferable skills from extracurricular activities. It shows enthusiasm for the field and explains why the student is a good fit for the position.

I’m excited to apply for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. As a [Your Major] major at [Your University], I’ve developed a strong foundation in [Relevant Subject], which aligns with your job description.

I have excelled in [Relevant Coursework] and honed my skills in [Relevant Skill 1] and [Relevant Skill 2] through my involvement in [Extracurricular Activity/Volunteer Work/Part-Time Job].

I am eager to contribute to your team with my enthusiasm, dedication, and strong work ethic.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to further discuss my suitability for the position.

How to Use Instructions: This is a general cover letter template for college students. Remember to tailor it to your needs. Mention your relevant skills, coursework, and any extracurricular activities that match the job you’re applying for.

Cover Letter for Undergraduate Example

An undergraduate cover letter should showcase the student’s academic achievements, relevant coursework, and any related internships or volunteer work. It should express interest in the field and articulate how the student’s academic background makes them a good candidate for the job.

I am writing to apply for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. As an undergraduate student at [Your University], majoring in [Your Major], I am eager to bring my skills and knowledge to your team.

I have developed a comprehensive understanding of [Relevant Subject] through my coursework and have honed my skills in [Relevant Skill 1] and [Relevant Skill 2].

I am confident that my academic background and dedication will allow me to contribute meaningfully to your team.

How to Use Instructions: This cover letter template is ideal for undergraduate students. Make sure to focus on your academic achievements, skills, and knowledge that align with the job you’re applying for.

Cover Letter for Medical College Student Example

A cover letter for a medical college student should detail the student’s academic achievements in medical courses, any relevant internships or research projects, and a clear passion for medicine. It should also express how their career goals align with the job they’re applying for.

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

I am writing to express my interest in the [Job Title/Internship Position] at [Company/Hospital Name]. As a Medical student at [University Name], I am eager to apply the theoretical knowledge I have acquired in a practical setting.

My rigorous academic training in [Specific Medical Field or Subjects] and my passion for [Specific Medical Field or Aspects] make me an ideal candidate for this position. I have honed my [Mention specific skills] through my coursework and practical training.

I am confident that my strong [mention soft skills, like communication or problem-solving] skills, coupled with my academic background, will allow me to make a significant contribution to your team.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to your esteemed organization.

How to Use Instructions: This cover letter is great for medical students applying for internships, residencies, or jobs. Make sure to mention your specific field of study and any relevant skills or experiences.

College Students Cover Letter for Job Application Example

In this job application cover letter , the student should introduce themselves, state their academic major, and articulate their interest in the job. They should detail any relevant courses, projects, or internships, and highlight any transferable skills that would make them a good fit for the position.

I am excited to apply for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. As a [Your Major] major at [Your College], I have a strong understanding of [Relevant Subject] and a keen interest in [Relevant Industry or Job Role].

I have demonstrated my [Relevant Skill 1] and [Relevant Skill 2] through [Relevant Coursework or Projects]. I also developed [Another Relevant Skill] during my time as [Position] at [Previous Job/Internship/Volunteer Work].

I am confident that I can bring a fresh perspective and dedication to your team, and I am eager to contribute my skills and learn from your esteemed organization.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of discussing the position further.

How to Use Instructions: This cover letter template is suitable for college students applying for jobs. Remember to focus on your relevant skills, experiences, and how they align with the job you’re applying for.

Cover Letter for Engineering College Students Example

An engineering cover letter should detail their academic achievements in engineering courses, any relevant projects or internships, and technical skills. It should also show a passion for engineering and explain how these experiences and skills make the student a strong candidate for the job.

I am writing to apply for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. As a student of Engineering at [University Name], I am keen to apply the knowledge I have gained during my studies in a practical and dynamic environment.

In addition to my academic performance, I have gained practical experience during my internship at [Company Name], where I worked on [describe a project or responsibility you handled]. This experience allowed me to apply my knowledge in [specific field of Engineering] and develop my skills in [mention specific skills].

I am confident that my strong technical skills, coupled with my problem-solving abilities, make me an ideal candidate for this position.

Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team and look forward to possibly discussing the position further.

How to Use Instructions: This cover letter for engineering students applying for internships or jobs. Make sure to mention any internships, projects, or coursework related to the job you’re applying for.

How do you Write a Cover Letter for College Student?

1. Understand the purpose: The cover letter should complement your resume, providing a narrative of your experiences, showcasing your personality, and explaining why you’re a great fit for the job.

2. Research the company: Tailor your cover letter to each job application. Show that you understand the company’s values and explain why they resonate with you.

3. Format correctly: Start with a formal salutation, then introduce yourself and state the job you’re applying for. Detail your qualifications and why you’re a good fit for the job. Finally, conclude with a strong closing statement.

4. Highlight relevant coursework and projects: If you lack professional experience, focus on relevant coursework, projects, internships, and transferable skills.

5. Proofread: Always proofread your cover letter for any grammatical errors or typos. Consider asking a mentor, career counselor, or friend to review it as well.

Tips for College Student Cover Letter

1. Be genuine: Authenticity resonates. Let your passion for the field and for learning show.

2. Use action verbs: Words like ‘achieved,’ ‘completed,’ ‘led,’ and ‘developed’ can make your experiences sound more impactful.

3. Avoid repeating your resume: The cover letter is your chance to tell the story behind the bullet points on your resume.

4. Keep it concise: A cover letter should be no more than a page long. It should be easy to read, with clear and concise sentences.

5. End with a strong closing: Conclude with confidence. Thank the hiring manager for their time, express your hope for the opportunity to further discuss your qualifications, and indicate your intention to follow up.

As you navigate your career journey as a college student, remember that a cover letter is more than just a formality. It’s your chance to show potential employers who you are, what you’ve accomplished, and what you hope to achieve. Take this opportunity to make a memorable impression. With these examples and tips, you’re well on your way to crafting compelling cover letters that will help you stand out from the crowd.

Text prompt

• Instructive
• Professional

Write a cover letter for a college student applying for an internship at an educational technology company

Form a cover letter for a high school student seeking a part-time job at a local bookstore.

How to Write a Cover Letter: 10 Tips for College Students

Applying for a job or internship? Follow our tips for college students to get your application noticed.

A well-written cover letter is a key component in the search process of how to get an internship or job. It’s a great way to capture the attention of the hiring manager and tell your story with added color and information. Think of your resume as a detailed overview of your work history, education, skills, and other relevant work experience. Your cover letter is your “storytelling” opportunity to say why you are a great fit for the role.

Our 10 tips for writing cover letters will help you craft your best “why me” pitch and get your application noticed. 

1. Research the Job Before You Write Anything 

Before you write a word, your job search should start with learning as much as you can about the company and the position. Does a parent company own it? What do you know about the specific internship role? What are the daily responsibilities, and how can you demonstrate experience that meets the required qualifications? It is essential to know as much as you can before you submit your application materials; this will make the interview process more manageable, too. 

2. Use Correct Formatting

The standard format is much like a professional letter. Most computer word processing programs — from Microsoft Word to Google Docs — have templates to make this easy. An incorrectly formatted document in a pile of hundreds just like it may compel a recruiter to pass over your application. 

3. Look for a Name to Reference 

When you can, try to p ersonally address the hiring manager. Search on LinkedIn or even call the company to get the right name for the right manager. Hiring managers often cite this as an indicator of the effort an applicant is willing to put into the role, if hired. 

4. Start Strong 

Your first paragraph is the most important. Recruiters will often read an introduction and determine a job candidate’s eligibility, so it is essential to include your most pertinent information up front. Start with your name, the role you are applying for, and why you want the job. Follow up with your most relevant experience, why you are the best person for the job, and be sure to include any reference’s names, too.  

5. Cite the Same Terms as the Job Listing

Analyze the job listing carefully. Many job search portals use keyword algorithms to rate and rank your application. Not only are you building your “perfect candidate” pitch, you are matching their desired traits with your experience. Review the listing for specific words and use them: If your prospective employer asks for “strong research skills,” make sure you emphasize your “strong research skills” in your letter. 

6. Stay Relevant 

Please do not try to encapsulate your life story in one page. Keep your pitch relevant to the job listing. You may have to pick experience or achievements to showcase if your letter is too long. 

7. Keep it Brief 

Be sure to express your achievements and qualifications as succinctly as you can. Use bullet points, stay within one page, and limit the length of your sentences and paragraphs. The ideal is four to five short paragraphs: your introduction, two or three paragraphs on your experience, and a closing line. Recruiters have piles of applications and resumes to get through and succinct, clear letters fare best.  

8. Use Action Verbs and Numbers 

Action verbs communicate responsibility. Stay away from passive sentences — they are less direct and less lively. You want to show “I did this,” “I helped change xyz,” “That project might not have succeeded without me.” Do not be afraid to boast a little bit, and include specific ways — backed with data, numbers, and figures — that you made a difference. Recruiters want to see how you make an impact.

9. Close Correctly

Make sure to thank the recruiter for their time and reconfirm your interest in the closing line. Let the recruiter know that you will be reaching back out to follow up. Overall, you want to politely convey that you are very interested in this job and that you will go the extra mile to get it. 

10. Don’t Forget to Proofread

After you finish writing your letter, step away from it for a little while. When you come back, re-read it with fresh eyes and look for any errors. Ask a friend or family member to proof it for you. For international students, if English is not your first language, ask your Career Services advisor or your university’s Career Center to review it for you. 

Putting together a great letter takes practice. Follow our cover letter tips and you will have a better chance of standing out in a crowd of applicants. 

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Cover letters

6 Best College Student Cover Letter Samples – Templates

A College Student Cover Letter is a document that is often attached to an applicant’s resume that introduces him/her to a potential employer. The college student cover letter is usually considered the starting point in a fresh college graduate’s career, and it’s an opportunity for the job applicant to make a positive impression on the prospective employer and sell his/her skills and technical know-how to the employer.

A college student’s cover letter usually has three goals: expressing why an applicant is interested in a particular organization, demonstrating that the applicant has the necessary skills and knowledge required to perform the job well, and showing that he/she is a good fit for the organization.

Sample Letters & Templates

College student cover letter templates – by type.

Prerequisites of Writing the Letter

Writing a cover letter for college students is a challenging task. The writer of the letter needs to make sure that their writing is crisp and at the same time relevant. One also needs to ensure that the cover letter is interesting and engaging to the reader. To craft a good cover letter, an applicant needs to understand the prerequisites for crafting such a letter.

These are explained below:

Conduct some research

Before embarking on writing a college student cover letter, it is essential that the applicant finds out more information about the company and the open job position. One good way of finding out this information is by reading the job description to identify the specific qualities that the employer is looking for in a candidate. Another approach involves perusing its website, its executive’s Twitter feeds, and employee profiles on LinkedIn to understand the company culture. More informative research of the company enables the applicant to customize their cover letter, and it also helps them decide on the right tone to use throughout their college student cover letter.

Verify the Instructions

If possible, an applicant should reach out to the hiring manager or someone else that they know at the company and request them to verify instructions regarding addressing the letter and submitting it.

For example:

The employer might be specific about submitting the letter online via email or online application fields, or through traditional mail. 

By verifying information, the letter’s writer can follow the employer’s instructions to the latter, which is an excellent way of demonstrating keenness and attention to detail skills, a quality that most employers look for in suitable candidates.

Ascertain the recipient’s contact information

Another vital cover letter pre-writing consideration that the applicant should consider is ascertaining the recipient’s contact information. This is beneficial if the student is sending a hard copy of the application documents, in that they will have to write the recipient’s correct name and address for them to receive it.

However, if the application is to be submitted online, the letter writer should verify the recipient’s email address by double-checking the job posting or advertisement to ensure it reaches its intended audience.

Writing a College Student Cover Letter

A college student cover letter can increase or break an applicant’s chances of securing an interview with a prospective employer. Through the letter, an applicant has the opportunity to make a connection with the hiring manager and increase their prospects of landing the coveted job in a reputable organization.

To write an effective college student cover letter, consider this professional how-to guide:

Step 1- Provide contact details

As with a resume, an effective college student cover letter should start with a contact information section placed as the document’s header. In this section, the applicant should write all the essential information, including their full name, phone number, email address, and provide the date of writing the letter. The letter writer can also consider adding their social media profiles relevant to the field or include their personal website (if any) to add value to the application.

Next, the applicant should provide the receiver’s contact information, including the hiring manager’s name and professional title, the company’s name, and email address.

Note: The above format of addressing the college student cover letter is applicable when writing paper form of letters. However, if the employer requires the application to be submitted via mail, the applicant can skip this step, but be sure to use a professional email address of the student’s first and last name.

Step 2- Greeting/salutation

After properly addressing the college student’s cover letter, proceed to write the cover letter contents. The first thing to write is a salutation/greeting directed to the hiring manager and not using the overly popular “ dear sir/madam” salutation or “ To whom it may concern. ”

One main benefit of personalizing the greeting using the recipient’s name is to demonstrate your skills as the applicant in terms of research skills to the prospective employer and show that you are zealous about working with the company’s team.

However, sometimes a quick lookup through the company’s website and executives’ social media profiles does not disclose the company hiring manager’s name.

The applicant can use the following alternative greeting lines:

• Dear [department, e.g., Finance, Marketing team]
• Dear hiring manager.

Tip : If an applicant already knows the hiring manager’s name but is unsure of their titles and gender-specific names, they should avoid using specific titles and gender-specific names and opt for a general salutation—for example, Dear Finley Anderson.

Step 3- Add subject line

The next step of writing an effective college student cover letter involves creating a subject line that immediately communicates the letter’s purpose. This is especially in cases where the cover letter is to be submitted online via email. Most job descriptions guide applicants on what to use as subject lines for their covering letters; therefore, be sure to check the job descriptions and follow the employer’s instructions.

Step 4- Write a strong introductory paragraph

When it comes to job search, an applicant’s first impressions play a major role in influencing the recruiter’s decision to hire the candidate or not. Since recruiters typically get hundreds or thousands of applications on a single, they are not likely to read each applicant’s college cover letter end-to-end.

For this reason, an applicant should write an introductory paragraph that immediately grabs the recruiter’s attention, making them want to read more. To achieve this, an applicant should start their letter by mentioning why the open position is exciting to them and what they are bringing to the table. The applicant can then include a sentence or two about their background and provide their top 2-3 skills relevant to the job.

Note: While writing this section, the applicant should avoid rehashing their resume or including common platitudes. Always write something direct and dynamic.

Step 5- Writing the body paragraphs

After opening strong in the introductory paragraph, the applicant should proceed to write the body paragraphs of the college student cover letter. Typical cover letters for college students are usually split into two main body paragraphs: The first is for explaining why the candidate is the perfect person for the job, and the latter is for proving that the applicant is an ideal fit for the overall company.

Body paragraph 1- Show off accomplishments or an impressive background

The college student cover letter’s body paragraph 1 is where the student displays their professional skills and convinces the recruiter that they are a better fit for the job compared to all the other candidates. In most cases, this section involves writing about an applicant’s educational background and providing previous work experience pertinent to what the employer is looking for in ideal candidates.

Since the applicant is a student with no relevant work experience to show off, he/she can highlight their education which is their prime asset at the time. It is also a great idea to mention their academic distinctions, such as a GPA above 3.5, to give the hiring manager an overview of the job applicant’s qualifications. In addition, the applicant can also use specific examples to highlight their notable accomplishments.

Participation in extracurricular activities to demonstrate to the employer that they are well-rounded candidates.

However, it is important to note that the extracurricular activities should be relevant to the job.

Tip: Besides an impressive educational background and notable accomplishments in extracurricular activities, a job applicant should also project their soft skills in the cover letter to prove to an employer that they possess additional skills to perform the job well. Examples of soft skills that are relevant to almost all jobs to highlight in the letter may include adaptability skills, ability to learn quickly, collaboration skills, problem-solving skills, initiative skills, interpersonal skills, time management skills, Microsoft word, excel, PowerPoint skills, communication skills, active listening, among other skills.

Body paragraph 2- Show excitement, enthusiasm, and passion  

Recruiters are always looking for candidates who will be good at the job and be a great fit for the company culture. Therefore, the college student needs to convince the employer that they are enthusiastic about being part of the company’s team. Thus, in two or three sentences, the applicant should communicate why their educational background and transferrable skills make them an apt fit for the company culture.

Note: While writing this part, an applicant should mention something about the company that impresses them and provides specific examples rather than being generic. This shows that they did proper company research, demonstrating their genuine interest in working for the company. For instance, if the applicant is impressed by the employer’s culture of instilling a team-oriented environment for all employees within the organization, he/she should mention it in the cover letter.

Step 6- Wrap up the letter with call to action

Here, the applicant wants to wrap up their college student cover letter and provide a conclusion.

The applicant can end their college student cover letter by following these important tips:

•  Adding any other additional information that is not already mentioned in the cover letter that could help influence the recruiter’s decision to hire the student
• Appreciating the hiring manager for taking the time to review their application. Whereas it’s important to be courteous, the applicant should not come off as being too needy.
• The applicant can end the covering letter by including a call-to-action sentence- requesting the recruiter for an interview or directing them to the student’s attached resume or portfolio. Finally, the student can be proactive and express their intention to follow up with a call or email.

Step 7- Sign-off the college student cover letter

The last step of writing an effective college student cover letter involves writing the right formal closure, then providing their full name and signature.

An applicant can use any of the following sign-off clauses, including:

• Kind regards,
• Best regards, etc.

Tips for Writing a College Student Cover Letter

A college student cover letter can make or break an applicant’s chances of getting his/her foot in the door for a job.

Illustrated below is a list of tips that will help a college student’s cover letter get the attention of hiring managers and recruiters:

Make use of a proper cover letter format

Despite recently graduating from college and probably having no work experience, an applicant should write a strong covering letter that demonstrates professionalism and creates a positive impression.

To format the letter properly, make sure it includes an introduction, at least two body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Besides, make the letter brief- between 300-400 words maximum, and use a font size of 11 or 12. The font type to use should be Times New Roman, Calibri, or Cambria.  Throughout the letter, use a margin of ½-1 on both sides.

Focus the letter on the future

It is a great idea for an applicant to focus their covering letter on the future. Think of it as a link between the past and the future that explains what the student hopes to do next and why, and view it as an opportunity to sell transferrable skills.

Always use an appropriate tone

While writing the college student cover letter, applicants should maintain an upbeat tone and avoid saying what they do not mean. Authenticity, maturity, and professionalism are of utmost essence here.

Include keywords in the letter

Another good practice of writing a cover letter for a college student includes using keywords related to the open position. This can help an applicant get an interview as these are specific words that recruiters look for when considering applications.

Get feedback

Before submitting the cover letter for college students to the hiring manager, share it with a few people and obtain genuine feedback. It is recommended that the applicant specifies the kind of feedback they need such that it’s easy to review the document.

Proofread the letter

One should proofread the letter and identify any grammatical or spelling errors before sending it out to the recipient. This demonstrates to the employer that the applicant is keen and attentive to details.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a college student cover letter template.

A college student cover letter template is an online document that students can review, download, and customize by keying in their specific details to meet their unique needs and print for use. College student cover letter templates are often written by experts and usually include all the essential contents of a well-written covering letter.

Keep reading

6 best real estate cover letter examples, medical receptionist cover letter examples, sales cover letter template [free samples], graphic designer cover letter templates (writing guide), 18 hr cover letter templates – tips & examples, nursing cover letter (15 best sample letters & templates).

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College Cover Letter Example

Get hired faster & find inspiration for your new cover letter with this expertly drafted College cover letter example. Make a copy of this cover letter sample as it is or edit it directly using our powerful cover letter creator.

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Write an eye-catching resume as a university student

College Cover Letter Example (Full Text Version)

Sasha roberts.

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my interest in the Summer Marketing Internship at URMT Digital, Inc. advertised on LinkedIn.com. My education, experience, and skills make me a strong candidate for this position, and I believe I would be a valuable addition to your team.

I am currently a third-year Business Administration student at the University of Alabama, where I am actively involved in extracurricular activities such as the Business Club, Drama Club, and Marketing Society. I have received the Dean's Award for academic excellence and have represented the university at international business competitions. These experiences have helped me develop strong communication and leadership skills.

In my role as Vice President of the University of Alabama Marketing Society, I managed key functions, organized events, supervised students, and represented the society at various events. I have proven myself to be a reliable team player with a strong work ethic and the ability to complete projects on time and within budget.

I am a native English speaker with proficiency in French and basic knowledge of Spanish. I am proficient in software programs such as Google Analytics, Slack, and HubSpot Marketing. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further in an interview. Thank you for considering my application.

Sincerely, Sasha Roberts

Milan Šaržík, CPRW

Milan’s work-life has been centered around job search for the past three years. He is a Certified Professional Résumé Writer (CPRW™) as well as an active member of the Professional Association of Résumé Writers & Careers Coaches (PARWCC™). Milan holds a record for creating the most career document samples for our help center – until today, he has written more than 500 resumes and cover letters for positions across various industries. On top of that, Milan has completed studies at multiple well-known institutions, including Harvard University, University of Glasgow, and Frankfurt School of Finance and Management.

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1 Student Cover Letter Example

Students are experts at absorbing new information, adapting to various subjects, and showcasing their understanding through tests and assignments. Similarly, your cover letter is a testament to your adaptability, demonstrating your ability to learn and excel in different roles. In this guide, we'll delve into the best cover letter examples for students, helping you to translate your academic achievements into a compelling professional narrative.

Cover Letter Examples

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The best way to start a student cover letter is by addressing the hiring manager directly, if their name is known. If not, use a professional greeting like "Dear Hiring Manager". Then, introduce yourself and state the position you're applying for. Make sure to express your enthusiasm for the role and briefly mention how your skills or experiences align with the job requirements. Remember, the opening paragraph should grab the reader's attention and make them want to read more. It's also a good idea to mention any connections you have with the company or any research you've done about them.

Students should end a cover letter by expressing gratitude to the reader for considering their application. This can be followed by a confident closing statement that reiterates their interest in the role and their eagerness to contribute to the organization. For example, "Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the possibility of contributing to your team and look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my skills and experiences align with your needs." Finally, they should sign off professionally using phrases like "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by their full name. It's also important to include their contact information below their name so that it's easy for the employer to reach out. Remember, the ending of the cover letter should leave a positive and lasting impression.

A student's cover letter should ideally be one page long. This is because hiring managers often have many applications to go through and a concise, well-written cover letter can effectively communicate your skills and qualifications without taking up too much of their time. It's important to keep your cover letter focused and to the point, highlighting your most relevant experiences and skills that make you a strong candidate for the position. Remember, the purpose of the cover letter is to intrigue the employer enough to read your resume and consider you for an interview, not to tell your entire life story.

Writing a cover letter with no experience can seem challenging, but there are ways to highlight your skills and abilities that can make you stand out to potential employers. Here's how you can do it: 1. Start with a strong introduction: Begin with a brief introduction about who you are and why you're interested in the role. Mention the job you're applying for and where you found the job listing. 2. Highlight your academic achievements: Even if you don't have work experience, you can still highlight your academic achievements. Mention any relevant coursework, projects, or research you've done that relates to the job you're applying for. 3. Showcase your skills: Identify the skills required for the job and demonstrate how you've used these skills in your academic or personal life. For example, if the job requires strong organizational skills, you could mention how you've managed multiple assignments and deadlines. 4. Use examples: Provide examples of when you've demonstrated these skills. This could be through group projects, volunteer work, or extracurricular activities. 5. Show enthusiasm: Employers want to hire people who are enthusiastic about the job and the company. Do some research about the company and mention why you're excited about the opportunity to work there. 6. End with a strong conclusion: In your closing paragraph, reiterate your interest in the role and your eagerness to contribute to the company. Thank the employer for considering your application and express your hope for an opportunity to further discuss your qualifications. 7. Proofread: Make sure to proofread your cover letter for any spelling or grammar errors. A well-written, error-free cover letter shows that you pay attention to details and take your job application seriously. Remember, everyone starts somewhere, and employers understand that students may not have a lot of work experience. What's important is showing that you're eager to learn and that you have the skills and qualities they're looking for.

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Cover Letter Examples

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Use these student cover letter examples as a guide for formatting and general writing guidelines. Each example includes a copy of the job description with key qualifications in bold to highlight the connection between the skills and experiences in the description and those included in the letter.

Example #1: On-Campus Job | Front Desk Attendant

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Example #2: Part-time Job | Medical Scribe

Example #3: internship | data science intern, example 4: full-time job | analyst.

We respectfully acknowledge the University of Arizona is on the land and territories of Indigenous peoples. Today, Arizona is home to 22 federally recognized tribes, with Tucson being home to the O'odham and the Yaqui. Committed to diversity and inclusion, the University strives to build sustainable relationships with sovereign Native Nations and Indigenous communities through education offerings, partnerships, and community service.

• 8 Career Tips for College Students 

Posted by Adré van der Westhuizen | Sep 6, 2024 | Advice for Students | 0 |

As a college student, the future can seem both exciting and daunting. The world of work is vast and ever-changing, and it can be challenging to know where to start. At Oxbridge Academy, we believe every student can achieve their career goals. To help you on your journey, we’ve compiled 8 essential tips: 

1. Define Your Passion

The first step to a fulfilling career is to identify what truly excites you. What are your hobbies? What subjects do you excel in? Understanding your passions will guide you toward a career path that is both rewarding and sustainable. 

2. Network, Network, Network 

Building strong relationships with professionals in your desired field is invaluable. Attend industry events, join online communities, and leverage your university’s alumni network. Networking can provide you with valuable insights, job opportunities, and mentorship. 

3. Gain Practical Experience  

Internships, part-time jobs, and volunteer work offer invaluable practical experience. These opportunities allow you to apply your classroom knowledge in real-world settings, develop essential skills, and build your professional network. 

4. Develop Essential Skills 

Beyond your academic coursework, focus on developing essential skills that are highly sought after by employers. These include critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, teamwork, and adaptability. Consider taking online courses, attending workshops, or joining clubs to enhance your skills. 

5. Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter 

Your CV and cover letter are your first impressions on potential employers. Customise them for each job application, highlighting your relevant skills, experiences, and achievements. Use strong action verbs and quantify your accomplishments whenever possible. 

6. Practice Interviewing 

Interviewing can be nerve-wracking, but with practice, you can become more confident. Research common interview questions, prepare thoughtful answers, and practise with a friend or mentor. Remember, the goal is to showcase your skills and enthusiasm for the position. 

7. Embrace Lifelong Learning 

The world of work is constantly evolving. To stay competitive, it’s important to embrace lifelong learning. Take online courses, attend workshops, and read industry publications to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and developments. 

8. Don’t Be Afraid to Take Risks 

Sometimes, the best career opportunities come from stepping outside your comfort zone. Don’t be afraid to take calculated risks and pursue new ventures. Remember, failure is a natural part of the learning process. 

Remember, your career journey is unique. Avoid measuring your success by others’ achievements. Don’t be afraid to explore different paths and seek guidance along the way. At Oxbridge Academy, we’re committed to helping you achieve your career aspirations. 

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How to Tailor Your Cover Letters for Faculty Jobs

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It’s not easy to customize application letters. You’ll spend a lot of time asking yourself, “Am I doing this right?”

By   Jennifer S. Furlong  and   Stacy M. Hartman

Originally published: September 14, 2023

Read the full article at the Chronicle of Higher Education .

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Covering Innovation & Inequality in Education

STUDENT VOICE:  One of every five college students is a parent. Here’s how colleges can help more of us graduate 

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The first two times I tried college, I didn’t finish. There was never enough time to care for my young son, work a full-time job and do my schoolwork. And there was never enough money to pay rent, tuition and child care.

On my third try, everything clicked. This time I was more motivated than ever before — to prove that I could do it, to prove the doubters wrong. 

The first leg of my college journey came to a close this spring, after five grueling years, when I earned my associate degree in criminal justice from Howard Community College — a school that supports student parents like myself. 

I now consider myself proof that motivated and supported student parents can beat the odds and earn a college degree, even though the deck is stacked against us. 

One of every five college undergraduates in this country is caring for a dependent child. Student parents are usually women, at least 30 years old, raising children on their own. A third are Black , and a fifth are Latino. In addition, the largest share of student parents attend community colleges . There used to be a lot more of us, but a strong job market and the rising cost of tuition, housing and child care needs meant that many had to put their college dreams on hold.

The financial and time pressures on student learners are immense. Fewer than 40 percent of student parents earn their degrees within six years. 

Related: Interested in innovations in the field of higher education? Subscribe to our free biweekly Higher Education newsletter .

After I graduated from high school in 2019, I thought my road to a college degree would be relatively straightforward. I enrolled that fall but quit soon after I got pregnant. I returned to college in the fall of 2020, but caring for a newborn and trying to navigate online classes during the pandemic was simply too much. 

The college experience on offer did not match my reality of being a student and a parent . I had dropped out of school once already. It was much too easy to do it again.

Leaving college for a second time shattered my confidence and my belief in myself. 

I was raised by a single mom who didn’t go to college. I saw how hard she worked at a low-paying job and how much she struggled but could never get ahead.

I wanted to break that cycle. I was determined to provide a better life for me and especially for my son. I wanted to make sure he had everything he needed to grow up strong, healthy and smart. 

I was going to be the one who made it — the one who was able to look back and say to all who had doubted me that I had done this for me and my little boy.

In the fall of 2022, I tried again, this time at Howard Community College (HCC). The experience turned out to be completely different because HCC acknowledges and values parents like me and had assembled a plan and a program to support us. 

HCC offered me enough scholarships and financial aid to cover my tuition and fees for two years. They even gave me an emergency grant when I had trouble making rent one time. They arranged a flexible schedule that let me take all but one of my classes online at night after I was done with my job and had put my son to bed. At my previous college, I’d had to drop in-person courses when I couldn’t find child care at night. 

Howard also had a Career Links program designed specifically for single parents. It provided one-on-one academic and career counseling that helped me select my major, kept me on track to graduate and gave me the guidance I needed to figure out my future. 

This tremendous amount of support made a huge difference. I renewed my faith in myself. Last fall, I made the dean’s list. This spring, I received my degree.

Related: How parents of young kids make it through college

Today, I have big plans for my future. I’m still working full-time, but this summer I started university classes so I can earn my bachelor’s degree. My son, who turned four this spring, is getting ready to start preschool this fall. 

After I earn my four-year degree, I’d like one day to start a nonprofit that encourages other student parents, specifically single parents and children with an incarcerated parent. My son’s father has been incarcerated for the majority of my child’s life, and I want to provide comprehensive support and resources to help single parents like me overcome similar barriers.

Parents like us need all the help we can get, and I want to provide the assistance that I was lacking for so long.

College is difficult enough without adding a child and a full-time job to the mix. But when colleges can remove some of the financial, scheduling and other barriers that make it so much more arduous for student parents to finish their degrees, they demonstrate their support for their current students — and for the next generation to come.

Abby Bediako graduated from Howard Community College in 2024 and is currently attending the University of Maryland Global Campus. Abby is featured in Raising Up , a documentary film series aimed at elevating the lived experiences of student parents in higher education.

This story about student parents was produced by The Hechinger Report , a nonprofit, independent news organization focused on inequality and innovation in education. Sign up for our higher education newsletter . Listen to our higher education podcast .

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