Student cover letter examples
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Getting a job while you’re a student can be a great way to earn extra cash. The trouble is, you often have little experience behind you, which can make your CV look rather sparse.
That’s where your cover letter comes in. This gives you a chance to go into more detail about your interests, studies and what makes you a good fit for the role.
Find out how to write a persuasive and engaging application, no matter how much experience you have, with our step-by-step guide and student cover letter examples below.
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The example cover letters here should give you a good general idea on how your Student cover letter should be formatted and written.
The rest of this guide gives more specific guidance on how to create your own cover letter in this format, and even includes some templates you can copy and paste.
How to write a Student cover letter
A simple step-by-step guide to writing your very own winning cover letter.
Write your cover letter in the body of an email/message
When you send a cover letter with a job application, you should always write your message into the body of your email – or the body of the messaging system if you are sending via a job website.
Why do this?
Simply because you want to get your message seen as soon as the recruiter opens your application.
If you attach the cover letter as a separate item, this means the recipient will have to open it before they can read it – slowing down the process and potentially causing frustration along the way.
So, write your cover note in the body of your email/message to ensure you make an instant connection with the reader.
Start with a friendly greeting
To kick your cover letter off, start with a friendly greeting to build rapport with the recruiter instantly.
Your greeting should be personable but professional. Not too casual, but not too formal either
Go with something like…
- Hi [insert recruiter name]
- Hi [insert department/team name]
Avoid old-fashioned greetings like “Dear sir/madam ” unless applying to very formal companies.
How to find the contact’s name?
Addressing the recruitment contact by name is an excellent way to start building a strong relationship. If it is not listed in the job advert, try these methods to find it.
- Check out the company website and look at their About page. If you see a hiring manager, HR person or internal recruiter, use their name. You could also try to figure out who would be your manager in the role and use their name.
- Head to LinkedIn , search for the company and scan through the list of employees. Most professionals are on LinkedIn these days, so this is a good bet.
Identify the role you are applying for
Once you’ve opened up the cover letter with a warm greeting to start building a relationship, it is time to identify which role you want to apply for.
Recruiters are often managing multiple vacancies, so you need to ensure you apply to the correct one.
Be very specific and use a reference number if you can find one.
- I am interested in applying for the position of *Student job* with your company.
- I would like to apply for the role of Sales assistant (Ref: 406f57393)
- I would like to express my interest in the customer service vacancy within your retail department
- I saw your advert for a junior project manager on Reed and would like to apply for the role.
See also: CV examples – how to write a CV – CV profiles
Highlight your suitability
The sole objective of your cover letter is to motivate recruiters into to opening your CV. And you achieve this by quickly explaining your suitability to the roles you are applying for.
Take a look at the job descriptions you are applying to, and make note of the most important skills and qualifications being asked for.
Then, when crafting your cover letter, make your suitability the central focus.
Explain why you are the best qualified candidate, and why you are so well suited to carry out the job.
This will give recruiters all the encouragement they need to open your CV and consider you for the job.
Keep it short and sharp
It is best to keep your cover letter brief if you want to ensure you hold the attention of busy recruiters and hiring managers. A lengthy cover letter will probably not get read in full, so keep yours to around 3-6 sentences and save the real detail for your CV.
Remember the purpose of your cover letter is to quickly get recruiters to notice you and encourage them to open your CV, so it only needs to include the highlights of your experience.
Sign off professionally
To finish off your cover note, add a professional signature to the bottom, stating your important contact details and information.
This not only provides recruiters with multiple means of contacting you, but it also adds a nice professional appearance to the cover letter, which shows that you know how to conduct yourself in the workplace.
Include the following points;
- A friendly sign off – e.g. “Warm regards”
- Your full name
- Phone number (one you can answer quickly)
- Email address
- Profession title
- Professional social network – e.g. LinkedIn
Here is an example signature;
Warm regards,
Aaron Smith Customer service professional 075557437373 [email protected] LinkedIn
Quick tip : To save yourself from having to write your signature every time you send a job application, you can save it within your email drafts, or on a separate document that you could copy in.
What to include in your Student cover letter
Here’s what kind of content you should include in your Student cover letter…
The exact info will obviously depend on your industry and experience level, but these are the essentials.
- Your relevant experience – Where have you worked and what type of jobs have you held?
- Your qualifications – Let recruiters know about your highest level of qualification to show them you have the credentials for the job.
- The impact you have made – Show how your actions have made a positive impact on previous employers; perhaps you’ve saved them money or helped them to acquire new customers?
- Your reasons for moving – Hiring managers will want to know why you are leaving your current or previous role, so give them a brief explanation.
- Your availability – When can you start a new job ? Recruiters will want to know how soon they can get you on board.
Don’t forget to tailor these points to the requirements of the job advert for best results.
Student cover letter templates
Copy and paste these Student cover letter templates to get a head start on your own.
Good morning, Jon
I would like to submit my application for the Finance internship at CF Finance, where I believe my skills in financial analysis and investment strategies can make a valuable contribution.
As a highly driven Finance undergraduate student at Bristol University, I possess a strong track record of analysing complex financial data and making informed recommendations, evident from my selection for the prestigious JPMorgan 2-week intensive programme. In my current part time job at Lloyds TSB, I have honed my attention to detail, ensuring a 99% accuracy rate in cash balancing and implementing a new cash management system that reduced discrepancies by 30% within the first quarter.
Additionally, my experience working with the team at JPMorgan allowed me to develop financial models and reports, leading to the implementation of an automated financial reporting system that reduced reporting time by 5%.
I am eager to continue learning and to have the opportunity to work alongside the team at CF Finance. I am available for an interview at your convenience to further discuss my qualifications. Thank you for considering my application.
Kind regards,
Shana Johnson
I am an enthusiastic student in my first year of sixth form with excellent time management skills, seeking to apply for the retail assistant job at White Stuff.
In my current role as a Shop Assistant at Clarkson Newsagents, I serve up to 50 customers per shift and my proactive problem-solving approach has garnered 40 named positive feedbacks in the last six months, reflecting my dedication to exceptional customer service. Balancing academic responsibilities with work commitments, I have maintained excellent grades and actively participate in school fundraisers and community service projects. Organising events such as quiz nights and completing a sponsored half marathon showcase my passion for teamwork and strong work ethic.
I am excited to contribute my customer service skills and attention to detail to your retail team. I am available for an interview from 22nd March, and I am eager to discuss how my skills can benefit your shop’s success.
Thank you for considering my application.
Rachel Blake
I hope you are well. I am a highly motivated and detail-oriented Chemistry student at the University of Newcastle, specialising in organic synthesis with technical expertise in using HPLC and GC-MS for quality checking and chemical identification, and I am writing to express my interest in your master’s program.
With a proven track record of streamlining laboratory workflows during group projects, I am passionate about delivering accurate and efficient results in my research. During my time as a Peer Tutor at UNSU, I took on the responsibility of assisting freshman chemistry students, providing one-on-one tutoring and conducting revision workshops. Through these efforts, I successfully elevated the average test scores by an impressive 15% within just two years, showcasing my ability to effectively communicate complex concepts and support students in their academic journey. I am keen to further hone my analytical skills and contribute to cutting-edge research projects, and the research topics and innovative environment of your university laboratory aligns perfectly with my career aspirations.
I sincerely appreciate your consideration of my application and I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience.
All the best,
Fraser Bleaker
Writing a strong attention-grabbing cover letter is a vital step in landing a good Student job.
Use the tips, strategies and examples above to get more responses from you job applications and start lining job interview up.
Good luck with your job search!
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Student Cover Letter Samples & Examples That Worked in 2024
Unlocking the doors to your dream job as a student? It's time to unleash the power of a stellar cover letter!
While your resume showcases your qualifications, a well-crafted cover letter adds that extra punch of personality and passion. Don't let your student cover letter be an afterthought—let it be your secret weapon to make employers go "Wow!"
In this guide, we'll show you how to captivate employers, land interviews, and prove that even as a student, you've got what it takes to make a lasting impression.
And so, whether you’re at the beginning or nearing the end of your academic journey, a great student cover letter presents the ideal introduction and an extended interpretation of your experience.
1. Start your student cover letter with a proper greeting
A cover letter should always include a heading that contains your name, address, professional websites or portfolios, and date in a similar format as other professional letters.
Most LinkedIn job posts will include the name of the hiring manager to whom the letter should be addressed to, so make sure you obtain this information from the get-go.
Here are 2 examples of personalized student cover letter greetings
- Dear Mr. Jack Green,
- Dear Hiring Manager Joe Johnson,
If a name is not provided, start your letter with Dear Hiring Manager , or Dear Sir or Madam .
In this day and age, the outdated To Whom It May Concern phrasing is no longer acceptable, so make sure to do your research!
2. Open your student cover letter with a strong introduction
Your introduction should be strong and captivating in as little as one to three sentences.
Express your enthusiasm for the role and why you would be an ideal candidate. Some companies may have multiple job postings at a time, so make sure to address the specific position you are applying to within the first sentence.
As a good rule of thumb, make sure to submit an original, tailored-made cover letter to each job you are applying to.
Here are a few examples of strong student cover letter introductions
- As a motivated and ambitious student with a passion for [field of interest], I am thrilled to apply for the [position] at [company]. With a strong academic foundation and a drive to learn and grow, I am confident in my ability to contribute to the success of your team.
- As a highly motivated student with over 3 years of experience in the digital arts, I am excited to apply to [insert role name].
- As a third-year undergraduate student with an extensive background in accounting, I am eager to pursue the [insert role name] at your organization.
Create your cover letter fast with artificial intelligence.
3. mention what attracted you to the role.
Before applying to a job, it is best practice to commit some time to researching the company or organization you are applying to.
What is their mission? Do their values align with yours? What attracts you to their particular industry? Is there something you admire about their line of work?
This information will offer a bit of insight into your interests and will help recruiters determine if you fit into their company culture . Include this information within your introductory paragraph.
Here’s an example to get you started
I am eager to take part in your company’s mission to provide high quality products while advancing sustainable, eco-friendly home solutions.
4. Detail your previous work and academic experience in a student cover letter
The second paragraph of your cover letter should be devoted to explaining what makes you a great candidate for the role .
Detail the relevant experience that you’ve gained from previous jobs, internships, or volunteer positions concisely. Don’t be modest. Even that three-month administrative internship at your local library taught you an array of customer service and organizational skills.
Detail your most recent, and most impressive accomplishments first and avoid being redundant.
Tailor your responses to the specific skills and experience the recruiter is looking for in any specific job post.
Here are a few examples of how to detail your previous experience
- During my summer internship at [Company Name], I had the opportunity to work closely with a cross-functional team, where I developed strong problem-solving and communication skills. I contributed to various projects, including [specific project], where I successfully implemented [specific task], resulting in [positive outcome]. This experience taught me the value of collaboration and adaptability in a professional setting.
- As a volunteer at [Organization Name], I honed my leadership skills by organizing and leading fundraising events for local charities. Through my involvement, I developed exceptional event planning and coordination abilities, managing a team of volunteers and ensuring seamless execution of initiatives. This experience not only deepened my commitment to community service but also strengthened my organizational and interpersonal skills.
- At my previous sales associate role, I leveraged customer service skills and time management to help achieve our daily sales goals.
- At my previous role of editor for the student-run newspaper, I gained valuable skills in writing, proofreading, time management and communication.
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5. Highlight your best hard and soft skills in a student cover letter
Think of hard skills as your trusty toolbox, filled with technical expertise and knowledge, ready to tackle any challenge.
But hold on, don't forget about the secret sauce: your soft skills ! These are the magical ingredients that add flavor and finesse to your professional recipe. From communication sorcery to problem-solving wizardry, your unique blend of hard and soft skills will impress any potential employer.
Here are a few examples of hard skills to mention in your student cover letter
- Graphic design
- Deep knowledge of utilizing scientific equipment
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- Technical skills in programming languages (e.g., Java, Python, HTML)
- Data analysis and interpretation
- Research and analytical skills
- Knowledge of project management methodologies
On the other hand, soft skills are those that come naturally and can vary by individual.
Here are a few examples of soft skills to mention in your student cover letter
- Excellent communication skills (both verbal and written)
- Strong problem-solving abilities
- Adaptability and flexibility
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Leadership and decision-making
- Time management and organizational skills
- Attention to detail
- Positive attitude and willingness to learn
Make sure to add a little bit of both to your second paragraph as a means to enhance your range and versatility.
Feeling stuck? It’s always good practice to refer to the original job post to see pinpoint the specifics skills required for the role and highlight those you already possess.
6. End your student cover letter with a strong concluding statement
The concluding paragraph is almost as important as the introductory paragraph. The goal is to leave a memorable impression that stands out from other applicants.
In a few sentences, summarize your experience and enthusiasm for the role and remind them why they should consider you for the role.
Don’t be afraid to ask for an interview and make sure to thank the recruiter for their time and consideration. Include the best way for the recruiter to contact you, whether it be your phone number, email address, or both.
At the end, use a professional sign-off phrase like “ Sincerely ” or “ Best Regards .”
Here’s an example of an effective concluding statement for your student cover letter
Finally, I would appreciate the opportunity to meet with you to discuss my qualifications in further detail. I can be reached at 555-555-55555 or via email at [email protected]. Thank you for your time and consideration and I look forward to speaking with you in the near future.
[Applicant Name]
7. Job hunting resources for students
For students entering the job market, leveraging the right resources can pave the way to a bright career. Here are some key resources that can offer a valuable boost to your job search:
- University career services: Utilize your college or university's career services which often offer job placement assistance, resume writing workshops, mock interviews, and career fairs. They also provide guidance on internships and co-op opportunities that can provide invaluable experience.
- Online job platforms: Websites like Indeed , GlassDoor , LinkedIn , and Handshake are excellent platforms for job searching. These sites allow you to create a profile, upload your resume, and search for jobs by location, industry, and job function.
- Internship search platforms: Websites like Internmatch , Chegg Internships , and YouTern are dedicated to helping students find valuable internship opportunities to gain industry experience before graduation.
- Professional networking sites: Networking is crucial when looking for a job and sites like LinkedIn can be invaluable. Connect with alumni, professors, and potential employers in your field of interest.
- Online skill improvement platforms: Sites like Coursera , Khan Academy , and edX offer courses on an array of subjects, helping you upgrade your skills and knowledge that can add weight to your resume.
- Career-specific student associations: Organizations like the American Marketing Association (AMA) for marketing students, or the American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS) for architecture students, offer excellent networking opportunities, job postings, and professional development resources.
- Company websites: Don't overlook the career pages of companies you're interested in. Many companies post job vacancies, internships, and graduate programs on their websites directly.
Remember, the job hunting process might be challenging, but with these resources, determination, and resilience, you're well on your way to landing a rewarding opportunity.
Student Cover Letter FAQ
Can i use the same cover letter for all job applications as a student.
It's advisable to tailor your cover letter to each job application. Employers can often tell a generic cover letter from a personalized one. Adapting your letter to each position demonstrates a genuine interest in the job and company.
Is it necessary for students to write a cover letter even if it's not required in the job application?
Yes, it's advisable. A cover letter allows you to highlight your skills, experiences, and why you are a good fit for the role. It's an opportunity to make a compelling case for yourself beyond what's in your resume.
Should a student's cover letter focus more on academic achievements or extracurricular activities?
A balanced approach is best. Academic achievements show your knowledge and dedication, while extracurricular involvement illustrates transferable skills like teamwork and leadership. Tailor the focus based on the job you're applying for.
How long should my cover letter be as a student?
As a rule of thumb, your cover letter should not exceed one page. Keep it concise and focused, highlighting only the most relevant information.
I don't have any work experience. What should I write in my cover letter?
Highlight any relevant skills and experiences you have acquired through volunteering, school projects, clubs, or sports. Discuss how these experiences and the skills gained make you a suitable candidate for the job.
Martin Poduška
Martin is a resume expert and career advice writer at Kickresume. In his five years at Kickresume, he has written hundreds of in-depth, painstakingly researched resume advice articles and, as chief editor, he has also edited and revised every single article on this website. Tens of thousands of job seekers read Martin’s resume advice every month. He holds a degree in English from the University of St Andrews and a degree in Comparative Literature from the University of Amsterdam .
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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 example Here is a sample cover letter for a student that you can use as a guide to write an impressive cover letter of your own: Kellen Daniels 555-555-5555 [email protected] December 10, 2020 Dear Hiring Manager, I am a sophomore business major at Houston University writing to express my interest in the Online Advertising Intern opportunity at Blueprint Digital.
How to write a college student cover letter You can follow these steps to write your college student cover letter: 1. Do some research Read the job description carefully to identify the qualities the employer wants in a candidate. Among your set of skills, list those more relevant to the position.
3 Student cover letter examples and step-by-step guide that will show you exactly how to write a winning cover letter that will win you plenty of interviews. ... When you send a cover letter with a job application, you should always write your message into the body of your email - or the body of the messaging system if you are sending via a ...
Study the job posting and identify how you and your abilities match the list of required skills and experience. Then, pull those keywords from the job posting to use in your document. As you write your cover letter, work these keywords into your narrative. Explore our comprehensive guide to learn more about how to write the best student cover ...
6. Re-read and assess your cover letter Before you send your student cover letter with your job application, take the time to re-read it. If possible, do this some time after you've finished writing. When you re-read your cover letter, look for spelling or grammatical mistakes and correct them.
As you are preparing to find your first job, you can create a cover letter for each job application. Your cover letter should inspire the hiring manager to schedule an interview by showing how you are a great fit for the job. In this article, we explain what a cover letter is, what to include if you don't have work experience and provide some ...
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.
4. Detail your previous work and academic experience in a student cover letter. The second paragraph of your cover letter should be devoted to explaining what makes you a great candidate for the role. Detail the relevant experience that you've gained from previous jobs, internships, or volunteer positions concisely. Don't be modest.
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.
Tips for writing a student cover letter A student cover letter can be a fantastic addition to your application package and an opportunity to convey your enthusiasm about the role to the hiring manager. Here are some tips for writing one: Use numbers: Whenever possible, include numbers as evidence of your skills. For example, you could share how ...