Your cover letter is just as important as your resume. It’s more specific than a resume and highlights projects or efforts that align with the requirements of the position or program you’re applying for. A cover letter ties together your resume and the description posted by the organization.

You should submit a cover letter along with your resume (or CV) for every position or program that you apply for, unless the internship/job posting specifically notes not to include one.

Contents

Page Format

Since your cover letter will accompany your resume, match the style and formatting: Use the same font type, font size, and document margins.

  • Alignment: Left aligned after the header.
  • Length: 1 page, maximum 3–4 paragraphs.

Layout

  1. Header: Include the same header that is on your resume.
  2. Date: Spell out the month and include the year.
  3. Recipient: Include the organization’s name, the name and title of the person you are addressing, and the organization’s address or other contact information.
    • Addressing Your Letter: If possible, address your cover letter to a specific person. Usually, this is the hiring manager or the person who will supervise this position; try checking LinkedIn and the organization’s website. It also could be a recruiter or the contact listed in Handshake.
  4. Salutation or Greeting: If you are addressing a specific person, use their first and last name. If not, use something generic, such as “hiring manager,” “hiring committee,” or “selection committee.”
  5. Letter Body: The body of your cover letter should be a maximum of 3–4 paragraphs and address 3 main points: what you know about the organization, what position/program you are applying for, and what you can do for the organization.
    1. Introduction and Interest (paragraph 1): Include what position/program you are applying for, what you know about the organization, and why you are interested.
    2. The Evidence (paragraph 2): Outline what you can do for the organization; make a case for why you are the candidate to hire.
    3. The Connection (paragraph 2–3): Make the connections between the desired qualifications listed in the posting and your experience/skills.
    4. The Closing (paragraph 3–4): Reiterate your interest, express gratitude, and note that you look forward to hearing from them. Also, provide contact information if it is not already in the header.
  6. Signature: Use “Sincerely,” followed by your full name on the next line.

Samples

Workshop: How to Write a Cover Letter

Learn how to write a cover letter for a job application that will catch the attention of employers! This video discusses cover letter formatting, how to tailor your cover letter to a job description, and tips for creating a compelling cover letter for jobs and internships. Master the perfect cover letter format today.

Next Steps