job application letter for a high school graduate

High School Cover Letter Examples and Templates for 2024

• Cover Letter Examples

How To Write a High School Cover Letter

• Cover Letter Text Examples

When writing your cover letter for high school jobs, focus on how you can apply your secondary education in your target role. Express your interest in the employer, and cite the relevant skills you’ve gained through your work, school, extracurricular, or other life experiences so far.

This guide will help you write a cover letter that gets you interviews for a job during or right after high school.

High School Cover Letter Templates and Examples

Even if you’ve never had a job, you’ve probably gained useful skills through your education or other experiences. An effective high school cover letter focuses on those capabilities so hiring managers see you’re ready to excel in a work environment. Below, we outline what to include in a cover letter and explain how you can properly focus each section.

At the top of the page, include:

• Your resume contact header, which should give your full name, address , email, phone number, and LinkedIn or other social accounts if applicable
• The recipient’s name, title, organization, and contact information (when available)

Note: Feel free to omit this section when sending your cover letter as an email message as long as your contact details are part of your email signature. Look for instructions in the job posting on whether to send by email message or attachment. When the posting doesn’t specify, it’s your choice – just bear in mind email messages are increasingly common, but an attachment is often still better for more formal applications to large employers.

John Jones High School Student | [email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | 111 Address St. Miami, Florida 55555

April 1, 2024

Jane Smith Head Chef Jane’s Cuban Restaurant (123) 456-7890 [email protected]

2. Salutation

Address your recipient by name as in the first example below – this is the quickest way to show you’re sending a job-specific letter and not a boilerplate. If you can’t find the person’s name, use a variation of “Dear Hiring Manager” so your greeting is still tailored somewhat to each job opening.

Dear Mr. Chang,

Dear Sullivan’s Steakhouse Hiring Manager:

3. “Hook” or introduction

Catch the reader’s attention by citing an achievement from your high school or other experiences so far. Feel free to adapt a bullet highlight from your resume, as some repetition across documents is fine and can make your job application more cohesive. But choose carefully. The highlight that opens your letter is often your first impression on employers. Pick one that’s compelling and relevant to the job so managers can quickly envision you adding value to their team.

Alternatively, you can set yourself apart by networking. This approach is especially useful if you’re applying to your first job and/or have trouble choosing an experience highlight. Begin your letter by citing any personal or professional connections you have with the hiring manager. If someone at the organization alerted you to the job, use a line like “I was excited to hear from your colleague [Name] about [Company]’s new [title] position.” Or, if you’ve already met your recipient, mention that with a line like “It was great speaking with you at the job fair last week.”

Last year, I achieved 99.8% positive feedback in my part-time server role. Reviews mentioned my outstanding menu knowledge, friendly attitude, and willingness to go above and beyond to ensure perfect service. I hope to create incredible diner experiences as a server at Sullivan’s Steakhouse.

4. Job- or employer-specific paragraph(s)

Here’s where you can tell the employer directly why you want the job, bringing your candidacy into sharp focus. Read the posting again closely, then write two or three sentences responding to it. What interests you about the job’s main role or duties? And what appeals to you about the organization’s industry, size, or work culture? (It often helps to brainstorm your answers on a separate document or piece of paper first.) Consider quoting any text from the job posting that resonates with you. With this targeted approach, you can show the hiring manager you’re interested in their specific job opportunity.

Following this explanation, cite a few more of your skills or achievements , possibly as bullet points.

Your establishment’s inclusion in Miami’s Top Ten Cuban Restaurants list for the last five years running makes it my top choice to begin my post-high school culinary career. Armed with my associate degree in culinary science, I can now:

• Maintain exceptional quality standards in food storage, preparation, and presentation
• Prepare your existing dishes to perfection using precision in recipe duplication
• Create new, exciting Cuban-inspired menu items and specials

5. Call to action

Finally, request an interview for the position. Consider briefly restating your skills to maintain the letter’s focus through the last paragraph. If the job posting names a certain time commitment, you can also use this section to clarify how your school schedule would pose no conflict. To end your cover letter, use a simple closing like “Sincerely” or “Best regards” and then your name.

I would love to meet to discuss how I can help Sullivan’s Steakhouse achieve its goals. Please don’t hesitate to get in contact to schedule a convenient interview.

Astrid Bower

High School Cover Letter Tips

1. show you’re ready to apply your secondary education.

Unless you already have work experience, start your letter with a detailed example of your success in high school to date. Have you studied subjects or completed school projects that relate to the job opening at hand? Or have you done extracurricular activities that gave you useful soft skills or technical skills ?

In my final year at Dover High School, I received the highest mark in my cohort for my marketing elective coursework. My teachers praised my detailed understanding of consumer behavior and strong insights into effective sales techniques. I am excited to apply this knowledge as a retail associate at GameStop.

2. Tell why you're a good fit

In two or three brief sentences, describe what you have in common with the position or employer. For instance, maybe you share the company’s focus on excellent service, as reflected by your “Employee of the Month” awards at your last retail job. Or maybe the role interacts with many Spanish-speaking customers, a language you’ve earned honors in at the AP level.

Your company’s reputation for warm and attentive service is the perfect match for my customer-centered ethos. As a recent high school graduate with a committed work ethic, I can become an asset to your service team.

3. Highlight your relevant strengths

Add a short list of bullet points to show your skill in key work areas for your target job, such as group leadership or customer service. In addition to your high school experiences, feel free to cite highlights from any past jobs, internships, volunteer positions, or even personal milestones like running a marathon. Just make sure they all speak to the role you’re now pursuing.

My recent achievements include:

• Ranking in the top 10% for upselling in my store during the Christmas period in 2023
• Being selected to coach three new hires to use the point-of-sale system
• Receiving an email of thanks from a customer for my outstanding service after helping her find the ideal gift for her son’s 18th birthday

High School Text-Only Cover Letter Templates and Examples

Dear Chef Smith,

Two of my personally developed recipes were put on the permanent menu at Jack’s Bistro, the restaurant I interned at as a line cook during my two-year Introduction to Culinary Arts Careers half-day program partnership with Miami High School. I believe that my innate ability to use locally sourced ingredients to create new, innovative dishes with Cuban flair helped me earn this recognition as a student kitchen worker. I hope to bring this passionate originality to Jane’s Cuban Restaurant as a line cook.

I look forward to speaking with you in person about your full-time line cook position. Please contact me with your preferred meeting time.

Astrid Bower High School Graduate | [email protected] | (876) 543-2109 | 420 Second Street, Wilmington, DE 53197

April 23, 2024

Barney Chang Senior Hiring Manager Sullivan’s Steakhouse (998) 877-6655 [email protected]

My recent accomplishments include:

• Achieving a score of 85% for my hospitality and tourism elective course, placing me in the top 5% of my class
• Leading a team of five classmates to organize a charity soccer match to raise money for cancer research charities
• Being voted “Server of the Month” in December 2020 for my efficiency and attention to detail

Ammarah Grimes High School Graduate | [email protected] | (654) 321-0987 | 531 First Street, Dover, DE 98765

Macy Padilla Senior Hiring Manager Gamestop (432) 109-8765 [email protected]

Dear Ms. Padilla,

As an energetic and enthusiastic recent high school graduate with a year of part-time experience in a busy retail outlet, the opportunity to contribute to Gamestop’s incredible reputation for customer service appeals to me. My professionalism and customer-focused attitude make me the ideal fit for your organization.

I would like to arrange an interview to explore how my gaming knowledge and strong work ethic can yield strong sales for Gamestop in 2021. Please get in touch to book a suitable appointment.

Ammarah Grimes

High School Cover Letter Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the most important part of a cover letter -.

Any explanation you give for why the specific job opening or employer interests you. These details distinguish the cover letter from your resume and other application materials and can help you get past applicant tracking systems (ATS) . They also set up a good interview discussion about how you fit the role and the organization’s work culture.

Should I include a cover letter when the job posting says it’s optional? -

Yes. Actually, this is the best scenario for a cover letter. By sending yours, you can instantly stand out from the many applicants who send just their resume.

What should my cover letter’s design look like? -

Your resume’s. Carry over all of that document’s basic format settings , like font style, line spacing, and page margins.

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High School Student Cover Letter Examples & Writing Guide

• Updated January 23, 2023
• Published January 23, 2023

Are you looking for a High School Student cover letter example? Read our ultimate High School Student cover letter writing guide and learn from tips, examples, and proven strategies to land a job interview.

If you’re a high school student looking to make a difference in the world, summer jobs can be a great way to get your foot in the door. Crafting a strong cover letter can be the key to making a great first impression.

To help you do that, here are some examples and tips to guide you in writing a cover letter for a high school student. Ensure to highlight your skills, experiences, and qualifications that make you the ideal candidate for the job. Show off your knowledge of the company and the industry, and don’t forget to include your availability for summer work.

Finally, make sure to proofread your cover letter for any typos or grammatical mistakes. With these tips, you’ll be sure to make a great impression.

High School Student Cover Letter

Cover letters are an important part of any job application, and high school students are no exception. Whether you are applying for a part-time job or an internship, a well-written cover letter can help you stand out from the competition and get noticed by potential employers.

In this article, we will provide tips and examples on how to write an effective cover letter for high school student positions. We will cover what to include in your letter, how to structure it, and how to showcase your relevant skills and experience.

By following these guidelines, you will be well on your way to writing a standout cover letter that will help you land your dream job or internship.

High School Student Cover Letter Example 1

Dear [Hiring Manager],

I am writing to express my interest in the [insert job] position at your organization. As a dedicated and hardworking student, I am confident that I would be a valuable asset to your team.

Throughout my high school career, I have consistently demonstrated my ability to manage my time effectively and prioritize my responsibilities. I have excelled academically, maintaining a high GPA while also participating in numerous extracurricular activities, including the debate team and volunteer work at a local animal shelter. These experiences have taught me the importance of teamwork and communication, as well as how to balance multiple tasks and deadlines.

In addition, I am eager to learn and take on new challenges. I have a strong desire to make a positive impact in my community, and I believe that this position would allow me to do so while gaining valuable experience and developing my skills.

I am excited about the opportunity to work with your organization and contribute to its success. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to discussing how I can be a valuable addition to your team.

High School Student Cover Letter Example 2

I am writing to express my interest in your company’s [insert job] position. As a recent graduate of [high school name], I am eager to gain real-world experience and contribute my skills to your team.

Throughout my high school career, I have demonstrated a strong work ethic and dedication to my studies. In addition to consistently earning high grades, I have also taken on leadership roles in various extracurricular activities, such as serving as captain of the varsity football team and organizing school-wide charity events. These experiences have taught me the importance of teamwork, communication, and problem-solving, skills that I believe will be valuable assets to your company.

I am confident that my enthusiasm and determination to learn and succeed will make me a valuable addition to your team. I am excited to begin my professional journey and contribute to the success of your company.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my skills and experience can benefit your team.

High School Student Cover Letter Example 3

My name is [Name], and I am a recent high school graduate from [School Name]. I am writing to express my interest in the [Job Title] position advertised on [Job Posting Website]. With my strong academic background and enthusiasm for the role, I am confident that I have the skills and experience necessary to excel in the position.

During my high school career, I have been involved in a variety of activities that have taught me important skills such as communication, problem-solving, and collaboration. I have held multiple leadership positions in the student body, including Student Body President, and have organized a variety of successful events. Furthermore, I have been involved in extracurricular activities like Model UN, which has taught me the importance of public speaking and diplomacy.

I am excited to join the team at [Company Name] and to contribute to the ongoing success of the organization. I am confident that my enthusiasm, experience, and hardworking nature will help me to be a valuable asset to your team. I am eager to discuss the position and my qualifications in further detail.

Thank you for your consideration.

High School Student Cover Letter Example 4

I am a recent high school graduate and am interested in applying for the summer job you recently posted. With my educational background, I believe that I possess the necessary skills and qualifications to be successful in the position.

I am confident that I would make a great addition to your team. I have a strong background in school, including a 4.1 GPA in my senior year and several awards for academic excellence. Also, I have experience working in customer service, having served as a cashier at a local grocery store for the past two years. Additionally, I am highly organized and detail-oriented, and I am confident that I can handle any tasks that you throw my way.

I am excited to learn more about this opportunity and look forward to hearing from you. Please find my resume attached. Thank you for your time and consideration.

High School Student Cover Letter Example 5

My name is [Your Name], and I am a graduating senior at [High School Name]. I am writing to apply for the [Position Name] position that I saw advertised on [Job Search Site].

I am passionate about [Position Description], and I believe that my skills and experience make me an ideal candidate for the job. My academic accomplishments include [School-Related Achievements], and I have gained valuable experience through my involvement in [Extracurricular Activities]. Additionally, I have served as [Volunteer Roles] at [Organization Name], where I have gained valuable skills such as [Skills Gained].

I am confident that I can bring a great deal of value to the [Position Name] role. My goal is to use my skills and knowledge to contribute to the success of the organization. I am eager to learn and develop my skills further.

I have attached my resume for your review. I am excited to discuss my qualifications and experience with you further. Thank you for your time and consideration.

High School Student Cover Letter Writing Tips

Below you will find some general and specific tips that you can use to your advantage when writing your cover letter.

General Tips:

• Keep the cover letter concise and to the point. Don’t exceed one page in length.
• Use a professional and formal tone. Avoid using slang or overly casual language.
• Use proper grammar and spelling. Proofread your cover letter before sending it.
• Use bullet points to highlight your skills and experiences.
• Address the cover letter to a specific person, if possible.
• Customize the cover letter to the specific job and company.
• Keep the cover letter focused on how you can benefit the company, not on what you want from the job.

Specific tips for a High School Student cover letter:

• Mention your relevant coursework and any projects you completed in school.
• Include any extracurricular activities or leadership roles you held in high school.
• Highlight any part-time jobs or internships you have had.
• Mention any skills you have that are relevant to the job, such as computer skills or customer service experience.
• Explain why you are interested in the job and how it relates to your future goals.
• Provide examples of your work ethic and dedication to tasks.
• Close the cover letter with a professional closing, such as “Sincerely” or “Thank you for considering my application.”

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• School Superintendent Cover Letter Examples & Writing Guide

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3 High School Student Cover Letter Examples for 2024 

• High School Student Cover Letter
• High School Student No Experience Cover Letter
• Summer Job High School Student
• Write Your High School Student Cover Letter

As a high school student, you’re nearing your first steps into the professional world. You’ve got passion, energy, and a go-getter attitude—all you need is a chance to prove how capable you are. 

Whether you’re angling for a class president position at your school or searching for a part-time job, writing a cover letter to accompany your impressive high school student resume can really help you express your dedication. However, writing your first job application can seem pretty intimidating.

Don’t worry! That’s why we’re here. Start with our high school student cover letter examples and tips, and polish things off with our free AI cover letter generator to impress your target audience and reach for the stars.

High School Student Cover Letter Example

USE THIS TEMPLATE

Microsoft Word

Google Docs

Block Format

Copy this text for your high school student cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue Dallas, TX 75001 (123) 456-7890

August 20, 2023

Mia Moore Woodrow Wilson High School 123 Fictional Lane Dallas, TX 75001

Dear Ms. Moore,

I advocate for nurturing students to become leaders, and Woodrow Wilson High School is a fertile ground for such a realization. I am expressing my interest to become a class president in the upcoming student elections. My decision is backed by a strong vision for our school’s role in fostering a positive and inclusive environment that will empower every student to reach their full potential.

Since joining the school, I have been actively involved in organizing various events. I was the lead organizer for this year’s cultural festival, which achieved a 47% more attendance than last year. From this experience, if elected a class president, I will leverage event mobilization skills to create engaging and enjoyable events that bring us together as a close-knit community.

I have also utilized my graphic design abilities to create eye-catching posters, flyers, and social media adverts for different clubs. In particular, I designed social media banners to create awareness for the annual art exhibition, with posts garnering over 1000 comments within an hour across social media platforms. I firmly believe that effective communication is the key to success, and I will use my creativity and design skills to disseminate important information to all students.

Balancing academics, extracurricular activities, and personal commitments have honed my project management skills. As a class president, I will apply these competencies to work closely with my fellow student council members, ensuring that our ideas and initiatives are effectively executed for the betterment of our school and community.

Thank you for considering my candidacy. I look forward to the opportunity to serve our school and contribute to an even brighter future for all of us. If you have any questions or want to discuss further, do not hesitate to reach out.

Miguel Torres

Enclosures: Resume Application 2 letters of recommendation Personal Statement

Why this cover letter works

• Therefore, it makes perfect sense for your high school student cover letter to emphasize your role in event planning and back it up with the attendance metrics to prove your mobilization competencies.

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

High School Student No Experience Cover Letter Example

Copy this text for your high school student no experience cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue Atlanta, GA 30033 (123) 456-7890

Avery Johnson Jamba Juice 123 Fictional Lane Atlanta, GA 30033

Dear Mr. Johnson,

Growing up, I helped my mother with setting the dining table. It put a smile on my face to see everyone enjoy their meal. It is from this childhood passion, which has changed to customer service, I am writing to express my strong interest in the barista position at Jamba Juice.

I have always been captivated by the art of drink preparation and have spent countless hours experimenting with various flavor combinations at home. Moreover, my experience in providing exceptional customer service in my volunteer work at Mercy’s Community Center has allowed me to develop strong interpersonal skills and a genuine commitment to meeting the needs of others.

I am well-versed in creating delicious and visually appealing beverages. Whether it’s crafting the perfect smoothie, juice, or specialty drink, I take great pride in ensuring that each creation is made with the utmost attention to detail and quality. I will also strictly follow food safety guidelines and take personal responsibility for adhering to proper hygiene and sanitation practices.

I believe that working at Jamba Juice will provide me with valuable experiences and skills that will complement my educational journey and future career aspirations. I would be grateful for the opportunity to discuss how my skills and enthusiasm can benefit Jamba Juice in person. Thank you for considering my application.

Diego Chavez

• Your many experiments at home with multiple beverage flavors and food safety knowledge would be perfect examples of skills that you can highlight for your application to sail through.

Summer Job High School Student Cover Letter Example

Copy this text for your summer job high school student cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue Omaha, NE 68101 (123) 456-7890

Benjamin Brown McDonald’s 123 Financial Lane Omaha, NE 68101

Dear Mr. Brown,

Every other weekend, my dad takes us out for a brunch at Mcdonald’s. I always look forward to the treat and the excellent customer service. I would welcome the challenge of being on the other side, serving and meeting customer preferences as a crew team member for the upcoming summer break.

As an order taker at local community event dubbed “Good Neighbor” with a 350+ attendance, I developed strong communication skills and the ability to work under pressure while ensuring accuracy in taking orders. Additionally, I honed my cleaning and sanitization abilities during my volunteer stint at FreshBitez food bank, where maintaining a hygienic environment was of utmost importance.

I also have experience in food preparation at school events which taught me the importance of efficiency and attention to detail. Adding that to my food safety knowledge and excellent timekeeping equips me with unique skill sets to exceed all expectations for this role.

As a crew team member at McDonald’s, I am committed to upholding the restaurant’s reputation for excellence. I am a quick learner and thrive in fast-paced environments, which I believe are vital attributes for success in this role’s high expectations.

Thank you for considering my application. I would be thrilled to discuss my suitability further in an interview. Please find my resume attached for your reference. I am available at your earliest convenience.

Ingrid Hansen

• Telling your story about how it feels every time your dad takes you to McDonald’s for brunch is a great pacesetter to get hired. To add weight to your summer job high school student cover letter, emphasize your order-taking skills when you catered to a 350+ attendance community event.

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How to Prepare a Fantastic High School Student Cover Letter

Whether you’re still in school or just graduated, you already have a lot more marketable skills than you might think. Your cover letter is how you inform potential employers or the school faculty about them and make them shine.

The key is to focus on the job description and determine what it is that they want. For instance, if you’re applying for a part-time job as a barista, emphasize skills that are key for that role, such as customer service or cash handling. You got this!

Write the perfect greeting and intro

Start by addressing the recipient by name. If you’re announcing your candidacy for class president, find out the name of the student council advisor or faculty advisor and include it here. Applying for a job? Address the hiring manager or recruiter. If you absolutely can’t, a “Dear Hiring Manager” will do.

Move on to expressing why this particular role is special to you. Perhaps you care about your school and want to improve it as a class treasurer or secretary, or you want to work in food service because of your past volunteering at a food bank. 

Mention these things, alongside the company or school name, to show that you care about the position.

Here’s what you should steer clear of—a generic opener that makes it clear that this role is just a means to an end.

Don’t do this!

I’m applying for this job because I need to save money to buy a new car. I can work every other weekend.

The personal connection in this opener makes it clear that this person cares about the student body and has a deep commitment to the well-being of their fellow students, both of which are essential qualities for a class president.

Dive into why you’re a great fit in the body paragraphs

Use these 2-3 paragraphs to connect your skill set to the job description and explain why you’re a great fit. The exact contents depend on the role. 

For instance, if you’re applying to work at a pizza joint, emphasize the multitasking abilities that you’ve honed while organizing a class event. On the other hand, if you were ever a class treasurer, that’s a great thing to mention if you’re going to be handling cash—after all, you’ve already got experience in that.

A good way to make your past successes stand out is to add useful metrics. As an example, talk about how your efforts at promoting the school play resulted in over 30% higher attendance than the previous year.

If you don’t have any metrics, that’s okay—simply use this part of your cover letter to emphasize your strengths.

This is the way!

End on a good note with an impressive closing paragraph

To make a lasting impression, personalize your closing paragraph just as much as you did the rest of your cover letter. 

If you’re applying for a job, make sure to mention the company by name and express why you want to work there. You can also pick a couple of key skills that you’re excited to bring to the role, such as your positive attitude and love for math, if you’re applying to work at the cash register in a supermarket.

It’s important to thank the recipient for their time and express that you’re looking forward to the opportunity to discuss the role during an interview. Make sure to come off as respectful and emphasize how important this role is to you.

This is a poor example of a closing paragraph. The writer assumes that they will be hired due to the shortage of workers, but instead, they leave a poor impression on the potential employer.

Oh, no…

I know you are having trouble finding servers to hire so I hope you can get back to me quickly because I’m ready from next Monday.

Below is a much better approach that establishes a connection with that particular company. The writer comes off as humble and talks about how the job will be a learning opportunity.

Impressive!

Don’t worry—everyone has to start somewhere. Discuss your skills and work experience from school, extracurriculars, and passion projects. For example, if you’ve previously volunteered during a charity event, include it to show that you know how to work in a team.

It’s important to keep things professional. If the job description is informal, you can allow yourself to be a little more casual. However, as a high school student, it’s crucial to show that you’re ready to work with people and avoid using colloquialisms. 

Start by digging through LinkedIn and the company website. You may also be able to find it in the job description or the email you’re sending your application to. If all else fails, you can always call them and ask. Doing this will earn you a lot of brownie points as a high schooler in need of a job.

High School Student Cover Letter Examples & Writing Tips

Use these High School Student cover letter examples and writing tips to help you write a powerful cover letter that will separate you from the competition.

Table of Contents

High school student cover letter example 1, high school student cover letter example 2, high school student cover letter example 3, high school student cover letter writing tips.

If you’re a high school student who wants to make a big impact on the world, a summer job could be a great way to get your foot in the door.

But before you can get hired, you need to create a stellar cover letter. Check out the examples and tips below to learn how to write a cover letter for a high school student.

Thank you for the opportunity to apply for the role at your company. After looking over the job description, it’s clear that you’re looking for a candidate that is extremely familiar with the responsibilities associated with the role, and can perform them confidently. Given these requirements, I am certain that I have the necessary skills to successfully do the job adeptly and perform above expectations. 

I am a hard-working recent high school graduate (4.3 GPA) who has consistently been praised as focused by my teachers and managers. During the course of my academic career, I also managed accrue nearly 4.5 years of work experience. I had the privilege of working for El Pueblito’s in a server role in my free time, where I learned valuable professional skills such as conflict resolution, team work, multitasking, customer needs assessment, and customer service. Whether working on academic, extracurricular, or professional projects, I apply proven communication, creative thinking, and critical thinking skills, which I hope to leverage into the associate role at your company. 

After viewing my resume, I hope you will agree that I am the type of competent and competitive candidate you are looking for. I look forward to elaborating on how my specific skills and abilities will benefit your organization.

Thank you for your consideration, and I look forward to hearing from you soon. 

I am submitting this letter and the enclosed resume to show my interest in seeking a position at your organization.

I have recently graduated from high school and am seeking an entry-level position at your company. High school has taught me a variety of skills. One of them is the value of teamwork. I have played team sports and participated in event planning at school. This has taught me how to work with a team of diverse people to accomplish a specific outcome. Teamwork is not always easy. I used these opportunities to master the ability to inspire people to work in a team. I was recognized for this ability as I was appointed as captain and team leader in various after-school activities.

I managed to maintain good grades throughout my schooling career. I wouldn’t call myself a natural student. I’ve always had to work very hard to secure my achievements. This was, to me, a valuable life lesson which is that, if you want something you have to work for it. I regard this as one of my greatest strengths. I believe in perseverance and working hard to get anywhere in life.

Now that I’ve graduated, I’m looking forward to moving on to the next phase of my life. I want to start working and study part-time. I know that if you give me the opportunity to work at your organization, I can prove myself to be a dedicated employee. I believe that dedication and commitment are the main drivers of career success. I would enjoy the opportunity to meet with you to describe what skills and abilities I could add to your company. I am also interested in finding out more about your organization to see where I would best fit into it.

Thank you for your time. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

This cover letter serves as my application to be accepted in your institution to achieve academic excellence and build my future. Not only do I believe that I have the qualities that it takes to succeed at your school, but I also believe that the ethos of the school is in line with my own philosophies on education.

I can paint a rosy picture of a student that has all the talents in the world. I can tell you about my past academic achievements and that I participated in an array of sports. I can even tell you about the cultural activities that I excelled at, but it would not be the truth. I achieved outstanding grades and represented my previous school at the cross-country state championships. I also played the lead in our school’s rendition of Romeo and Juliet, but I did not achieve all of this because I am talented. Instead, I achieved it all because I am a hard worker.

From a very young age, I realized that anything that is worthwhile is never easy. I did not grow up in an affluent home, but I grew up in a stable home where my parents instilled in me the value of hard work and perseverance.

Your school has an excellent reputation and I believe that if I apply myself in my academics, sport and cultural activities as I have done in the past, I will make a success and be an asset to the school. Education is a powerful tool, but any tool is only as effective as the person using it. Your school has astounding teachers and your educational philosophy resounds with my own.

I look forward to hearing from you and also becoming a member of the legacy that you have already built over the years.

Use your cover letter to show your maturity

High school students are often still viewed as children, so they need to demonstrate that they are mature enough for the job. Demonstrate your maturity in the cover letter by highlighting examples of leadership skills you have exhibited through sports, volunteering or other extracurricular activities.

Address the specific job position

If you’re applying for a job as a high school student, it can be tempting to simply cut and paste your resume into the body of your cover letter. However, you should never do this because it won’t let hiring managers know why you’re interested in their company. To show that you have a passion for the role and why it interests you, write specifically about what attracted you to this particular company or job description. Be sure to include how your skills would benefit the company as well as any reasons why they should hire someone from your age group.

Be honest about your ability to handle the job

If you’re a high school student applying for a summer job, you’ll need to be honest with yourself and the employer about your ability to handle the responsibilities of this type of position. High school students often make the mistake of applying for jobs they are underqualified for because they overestimate their own abilities. Before you apply, make sure that you can complete all aspects of the job. If not, look for an entry-level position in which your responsibilities are more within your skill set or even better yet work as a volunteer or intern.

Avoid grammatical errors in your cover letter

A high school student’s cover letter is an important opportunity to prove they are the ideal candidate for the job. However, a poorly written cover letter will not leave a positive impression on the hiring manager.

Use proper grammar and spelling in your cover letter, as these two elements can speak volumes about yourself. Proofread your cover letter carefully before submitting it. If possible, have someone else read over your work for any errors you may have missed.

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High School Student Cover Letter Example [How-to Write]

When applying for a job as a high school student, it is crucial to have a well-written cover letter that highlights your qualifications and demonstrates your enthusiasm for the position. A strong cover letter can make a lasting impression on potential employers and increase your chances of getting an interview.

In this article, we will provide a comprehensive example of a high school student cover letter. By following this example, you will learn how to structure your cover letter, what information to include, and how to tailor it to the specific job you are applying for.

Whether you are applying for a part-time job, an internship, or a summer position, this guide will help you showcase your skills, achievements, and motivation to employers. With our sample cover letter, you can confidently embark on your job search and make a positive impression on hiring managers.

Related:   High School Student Resume Sample

High School Student Cover Letter Sample

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

I am writing to apply for the position of [Job Title] at [Company Name], as advertised on [Source of Job Posting]. As a recent high school graduate with a keen interest in [Industry/Field], I am excited to bring my enthusiasm and willingness to learn to a dynamic and growing organization like yours.

Throughout my high school years, I have actively participated in various extracurricular activities, including [List relevant activities or clubs]. These experiences have not only honed my organizational and leadership skills, but also taught me the importance of teamwork and effective communication.

During my senior year, I had the opportunity to complete an internship at a local [Industry] company. This experience exposed me to the day-to-day operations of a professional workplace and provided me with valuable insights into the responsibilities and challenges faced by professionals in this field. I gained hands-on experience in [Specific tasks or projects] and developed a strong work ethic.

Additionally, my academic achievements demonstrate my dedication to learning and personal growth. I have consistently maintained a high GPA and have been recognized for my outstanding performance in subjects such as [Relevant subjects]. My attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong organizational skills have been critical in my academic success.

What sets me apart is my passion for [Industry/Field] and my eagerness to contribute to a team-oriented environment. I am confident in my ability to adapt quickly, take initiative, and contribute effectively to [Company Name]’s goals and objectives.

Thank you for considering my application. I have attached my resume for your review. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my skills and enthusiasm align with the requirements of the [Job Title] position. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

[Your Name] [Your Contact Information: Phone Number, Email Address]

How to Write a Great Cover Letter for a High School Student Position?

Writing a great high school student cover letter is crucial when applying for part-time jobs, internships, or college admissions. Here are some tips to help you craft an effective cover letter:

Contact information:   Include your name, address, phone number, and email address at the top of the letter. Follow it with the current date and the employer’s contact information.

Salutation:   Address the recipient by name if possible. If you don’t know the name, use a generic salutation like “Dear Hiring Manager.”

Introduction:   Begin with a strong and captivating opening paragraph that states your purpose for writing the letter. Mention the position you’re applying for and how you learned about it.

Highlight your relevant experiences:   While you may not have much work experience, focus on transferable skills gained through extracurricular activities, volunteering, or coursework. Mention specific achievements that demonstrate your abilities.

Show enthusiasm and motivation:   Express your interest in the opportunity and explain why you are interested in the position or organization. Convey a genuine enthusiasm for learning and growing professionally.

Address the employer’s needs:   Research the employer and tailor your cover letter accordingly. Explain how your skills and qualities align with the company’s values or goals. Show that you understand their needs and how you can contribute.

Emphasize soft skills:   Highlight soft skills such as teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and time management. These skills are highly valued by employers.

Keep it concise:   Aim for a one-page cover letter that is clear, well-structured, and to the point. Use paragraphs to organize your thoughts and maintain a professional tone throughout.

Closing paragraph:   Summarize your interest and qualifications, thanking the employer for considering your application. Mention your availability for an interview and provide your contact information.

Proofread and edit:   Before sending, carefully review your cover letter for any grammatical or spelling errors. A polished and error-free letter shows your attention to detail and professionalism.

Remember, a well-written cover letter is your chance to make a positive impression and stand out from the competition. Good luck with your application!

Note : When applying for specific jobs or internships, always carefully read the job description and tailor your cover letter accordingly.

In conclusion, a well-written cover letter is a crucial component of a high school student’s job application. It helps showcase your qualifications, enthusiasm, and relevant experiences to potential employers, increasing your chances of securing an interview. By following the comprehensive example provided in this article, you can learn how to structure your cover letter, what information to include, and how to tailor it to the specific job you are applying for.

Remember to highlight your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and any relevant internships or work experiences. Express your genuine interest and motivation for the position and demonstrate your awareness of the employer’s needs. Emphasize your transferable skills, such as teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and time management. Keep your cover letter concise and well-organized, proofread it for errors, and maintain a professional tone throughout.

With these tips and the sample cover letter, you can confidently embark on your job search and make a positive impression on hiring managers. Good luck with your application!

• 10 High School Student Resume Objective Examples
• 10 High School Student No Experience Resume Summary Examples
• 20 High School Student Achievements for Resume
• Recommendation Letter for High School Student Entering College

High School Graduate Cover Letter Example

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Start your high school graduate cover letter with a strong opening that captures the reader's attention. Begin with a personal greeting, addressing the hiring manager by name if possible. Then, introduce yourself by stating your recent graduation and express your enthusiasm for the position you're applying for. Highlight a key achievement or a relevant skill that demonstrates your potential value to the employer. Make sure to convey your eagerness to learn and grow in a professional setting, which can compensate for your lack of extensive work experience. Example: Dear [Hiring Manager's Name], I am a recent graduate from [Your High School's Name], eager to bring my dedication and passion for [industry/field] to the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. As the captain of our school's [team/project], I honed my leadership and [relevant skill] abilities, which I am excited to further develop in a dynamic work environment like yours.

The best way for high school graduates to end a cover letter is with a professional closing that expresses enthusiasm and gratitude. Graduates should reiterate their interest in the position and thank the reader for considering their application. A strong closing sentence might be, "I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to [Company Name] and am eager to bring my skills and energy to your team. Thank you for considering my application." To close, use a formal sign-off such as "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by their full name. It's important to leave a positive and lasting impression, showing that they are respectful and serious about the opportunity. High school graduates should ensure that their contact information is easily accessible, either below their name or in the header of the cover letter, to facilitate a response from the employer.

High school graduates should include the following elements in a cover letter: 1. **Contact Information**: At the top of the cover letter, include your name, address, phone number, and email address. If you have a LinkedIn profile or a professional website, you can include these as well. 2. **Date and Employer's Contact Information**: Below your contact information, write the date followed by the employer's name, title, company name, and address. 3. **Salutation**: Address the letter to a specific person if possible. Use "Dear [Name]" or, if you cannot find a name, "Dear Hiring Manager" or "To Whom It May Concern" as a last resort. 4. **Introduction**: Start with a strong opening sentence that captures the reader's attention. Mention the job you’re applying for and where you found the listing. If you have a personal connection to the company or were referred by someone, mention it here. 5. **Body Paragraph(s)**: - **Relevant Experience and Skills**: Highlight any work experience, volunteer work, school projects, or extracurricular activities that have given you skills relevant to the job. Focus on transferable skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and time management. - **Achievements**: Discuss any achievements or awards that demonstrate your abilities or work ethic. This could include academic honors, leadership roles, or recognition in extracurricular activities. - **Enthusiasm for the Role**: Show genuine interest in the position and the company. Explain why you want to work there and how your values align with the company’s mission or culture. - **Connection to the Job Description**: Make connections between your skills and the requirements listed in the job description. Use specific examples to illustrate how you have demonstrated these skills. 6. **Closing Paragraph**: Reiterate your interest in the position and mention that you would welcome the opportunity to discuss how your skills and experiences align with the company's needs

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High School Student Cover Letter Example

Show that you're serious about your job search with this professional High School Student cover letter sample. You can use this example for free or revise it in our powerful cover letter builder.

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High School Student Cover Letter Example (Full Text Version)

Liesbeth reenkes.

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing in response to your advertisement on LinkedIn.com for the Summer Camp Counselor position. I believe that my skills and qualities align well with the requirements of the role, and I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team and further develop both personally and professionally.

Allow me to introduce myself. I am a diligent and committed high school student with a strong academic background, boasting a perfect GPA of 3.97. I have also excelled in various competitions and contests, winning accolades such as the 1st prize in the National Economics Competition, 2nd prize in the Human Rights Competition, and 3rd prize in the International Aerobics Contest. In addition to my academic achievements, I am actively involved in school societies, including the Aerobics Society, Fitness Society, and Tennis Club.

While education is a priority for me, I also value gaining practical experience. I have previously worked as an Administrative Assistant at FieldCore, Inc., where I was responsible for a range of tasks such as creating presentations, streamlining office procedures, organizing documents, and providing support to managers and supervisors. I am adept at working both independently and as part of a team, and I thrive in fast-paced environments.

My strong time management skills, professional demeanor, and dedication to excellence have been honed through my experiences as a Class Treasurer and Street Fundraiser. I am proficient in using various software programs such as MS Office, ProofHub, Netsuite, Trello, and Slack.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my skills and experiences align with the needs of your organization.

Best regards,

Liesbeth Reenkes

High School Student

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 23.2 percent of high school students participated in the labor force in October 2021. Besides gaining work experience for your further career growth, having a job can certainly teach you valuable skills, such as teamwork, leadership or cooperation. That said, it is only natural that many high school students are eager job seekers. And there is no better way to land a job than to advertise yourself with a professionally written cover letter.

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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Similar job positions

Formal Sciences Student Humanities Student High School Student Natural Sciences Student Social Sciences Student University Student Student Internship Professions And Applied Sciences Student

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Cover Letter Examples for Students and Recent Graduates

The Balance / Luyi Wang

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

What to Include in Your Cover Letter

College graduate cover letter example, student / recent graduate cover letter templates, student and recent graduate cover letter samples, how to write a cover letter, cover letter format and presentation tips.

If you're a student or a new grad, you may not have much experience in the workforce. This can make building a resume and writing a cover letter challenging. After all, if you haven't worked previously, what information can you include in these two documents?

Fortunately, on-the-job experience is not the only thing that shows your abilities. Here's guidance on what to include in your resume and cover letter, along with cover letter examples and cover letter templates are designed especially for high school students, as well as for college students and recent graduates seeking employment.

Academic Achievements and Extracurricular Activities

You can mention volunteer work, academic achievements, participation in clubs or activities (particularly those in which you held leadership roles), and internships. Your academic background is also an asset. Include details that are relevant to the position you want (use the job description as your guide to the qualities and training the employer seeks).

GPA and Honors

If you are an honors student with a GPA higher than 3.5, it is a good idea to mention this on a cover letter as well, along with any honors societies you have been inducted into.

Skills and Abilities

Other things you can mention are soft skills—interpersonal “people” skills like creative thinking, communication, teamwork, or time management that will help you to adapt easily to the people and clients or customers you will be working with.

Your goal in this cover letter is to show how you would be an asset to the company, describing the skills you bring that would allow you to perform well in the position.

Below, you'll find a list of student cover letters, listed by position and level of experience, to help you develop your own cover letter. 

Watch Now: 7 Tips for Finding Your First Job

You can use this sample as a model to write a college graduate cover letter. Download the template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online), or read the text version below.

College Graduate Cover Letter Example (Text Version)

Lucy Applicant 123 Main Street Anytown, CA 12345

555-555-5555 lucy.applicant@email.com

October 18, 2021

Eric Lee Media Director Kansai Collaborative Arts 123 Business Rd. Business City, NY 54321

Dear Mr. Lee:

I am writing to you to express interest in the graphic design position as advertised on Indeed.com. As a recent graduate with experience in 3-D animation software and the Adobe suite of software, I believe I am a strong candidate for a position at Kansai Collaborative Arts.

 During my time at the University of Northern State, I was awarded the top prize in the student design competition for my version of an app that would allow students to learn Japanese characters on their own time.

In addition to graduating with a 3.75 GPA, I spent a semester at a university in Japan, and I have strong conversational skills in the Japanese language. I believe this would be an asset, as I know your studio does a lot of collaborations with major design studios in Japan.

 Although I am a recent college graduate, my maturity, artistic skills, ability to work with others, and knowledge of the Japanese language and culture will make me an asset to your studio.

 I have enclosed my resume and will email you within the next week to see if we can arrange a time to speak further. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Signature  (hard copy letter)

Before you can begin writing your cover letter, it's important to know the guidelines governing these letters. Unlike a casual email to a friend, there are set standards for how to greet recipients, organize the letter's content, and much more. That's where templates can help: they allow you to know what information to put where, and they help you format your letter correctly. Review the templates below: 

• Cover Letter Format
• Cover Letter Template
• Email Cover Letter Template
• Email Cover Letter Sample
• Cover Letter Sample: General
• Cover Letter Sample: Block Format
• Microsoft Word Cover Letter Templates

These lists of cover letters include both general examples that will help you format your letter, as well as sample cover letters used to apply for specific positions, such as roles as a nanny or a marketing assistant.

Do not copy these sample letters—instead, use them as a guide to help you know what kind of information to include, and how to format your letter. 

Entry-Level Cover Letters

Have a look at these samples to see how best to present your experience when applying for an entry-level job.

• Entry Level Inquiry Letter
• Cover Letter Sample: Entry-Level

Student Cover Letters

As a student, the information you should emphasize in your cover letter will vary depending upon your level of education. Here are examples of effective cover letters created for students at the high school, college, and graduate levels.

• Recent College Graduate Sample #1
• Recent College Graduate Sample #2
• Response to Job Posting
• College Senior
• Graduate Student
• Networking Letter

Job-Specific Cover Letters

These cover letter samples target specific career fields. They demonstrate how to incorporate industry-specific keywords into your narrative.

• Email Cover Letter - Psychology Job
• Internship Cover Letter
• Finance Internship Program
• Entry Level Marketing

Cover Letters for Summer and Part-Time Jobs

Being able to write an enthusiastic and informative cover letter will set you apart from your competition when you apply for summer or part-time jobs while you’re still in school.

Make sure you send your cover letter and resume as soon as possible after a job is announced—these opportunities are snatched up quickly.

These samples can be modified to both summer and part-time work.

• Part-Time Job
• Summer Assistant Job
• Email Summer Job
• Summer Job #1
• Summer Job #2
• Summer Job Email Message
• Camp Counselor
• Email Editorial Assistant
• Sales Associate
• Summer Camp

This guide to writing a cover letter will walk you through everything you need to know to write a cover letter, including what to include in the letter, how to write it, and the proper cover letter format. Plus, find out about how to write a targeted cover letter and browse through additional cover letter samples and examples.

Here are cover letter tips and techniques for writing top-notch cover letters to send with your resume, including information about cover letter format and presentation, choosing a type of cover letter, writing custom cover letters, and cover letter examples and templates.

• Marketing Cover Letter Example and Writing Tips
• Student Resume Examples, Templates, and Writing Tips
• Teaching Assistant Cover Letter Samples
• Retail Cover Letter Examples and Writing Tips
• Admissions Counselor Cover Letter and Resume Examples
• Consulting Cover Letter Samples and Writing Tips
• Social Worker Cover Letter and Resume Sample
• Resume and Cover Letter Examples Listed By Job
• Speech Pathologist Resume and Cover Letter Examples
• Academic Recommendation Letter Examples and Writing Tips
• Tutor Resume and Cover Letter Examples
• Academic Advisor Cover Letter Sample and Writing Tips
• Entry-Level Finance Cover Letter and Resume Samples
• Software Developer Cover Letter and Resume Example
• Receptionist Cover Letter Examples and Writing Tips
• Cover Letter Examples for Sales and Marketing Jobs

• Resume Examples
• Resume Samples
• Resume Templates

High school graduate skills: Resume and cover letter

As a student you lack professional job experience, companies still want to see what talents you possess when you are applying for positions. You are adaptable and reliable if you can balance your personal obligations with your academic commitments. Did you participate in a team project? You're good at working with others. Do you watch a neighbor's kids or maintain their lawn? You have proven to be trustworthy. So, if you're a high schooler, what qualifications and expertise can you list on your resume?

List of high school skills

The talents listed below are ones that nearly every high school student possesses and that every company seeks. Additionally, you'll discover associated keyword words that you can utilize in your cover letter and resume.

Communication

The capability to understand and speak to others is referred to as communication skills. Both oral and written communication are included in this competence. Each student has had some training honing their communication abilities. Have you ever given any presentations in front of the class? Afterward, your verbal communication abilities will have enhanced. Have you taken any writing-related classes? Ensure to highlight your communication experiences because businesses are constantly searching for staff members with good verbal and written communication skills. 

• Customer service
• Good listener
• Guest Services
• Presentation
• Verbal communication

Dependability

Students with maturity and the ability to be relied upon to complete tasks on time are sought after by employers. Promote your sense of responsibility. Have you ever been handed more responsibility at your job, school, or even in sporting events as a result of your dependability? In your application for the job, give instances of them.

• Follow instructions
• Hard-working
• Multitasking

Quick learner

Employers sometimes don't anticipate high schoolers to have all the necessary abilities immediately. Though, they will count on you to take up new talents rapidly. Focus on instances in the past when you learned new expertise or technique quickly.

• Enthusiastic
• Fast worker
• Learn quickly
• Willing to learn

Functioning as a group is a requirement for several occupations available to high school students, such as being a co-counselor at a summer program or a member of the wait staff at a restaurant. Add samples of times you collaborated effectively with others on your resume, for as when you were a member of a sports team and club group.

• Collaboration
• Interpersonal
• Positive attitude

Companies hiring workers that are proficient in technology are preferable. Fortunately, a lot of high school students combine those abilities. Add any relevant experience you may have operating on specific computer software or engaging in other technology-relevant activities, whether it be from your academic or co-curricular activities.

• Microsoft Office
• Social media 

High School Graduate Tried and tested resume example for your next job in 2024. Get a jump-start, by editing this High School Graduate resume example. Just update this example with your details, download and launch your career to new heights today!

Tips for aligning skills to the job

Prepare a list of your accomplishments from all your co-curricular activities and the qualifications you applied or developed for each of these jobs. On your resume, highlight the skills that most closely align with what the employer is seeking. For instance, the employer of a retail business will be curious to learn if you are trustworthy, precise, and have excellent interpersonal and communication capabilities if you are looking for a job there. You must be adaptable and capable of working for hours if you want part-time employment with a variable schedule.

Pointers for listing skills on a resume

The greatest method to highlight your achievements on your resume is to mention your educational, school, and recreational activities. Your resume can mention things other than a paid job. Describe your qualifications in the job category or skills segment at the bottom of your resume. Illustrate your school education, volunteering, internship experience, and other experiences if you're a high school student with no job experience. In other terms, transferrable abilities are crucial for people without a strong professional record. Hard talents and soft skills are the two categories of skills that should be listed on your resume. Whenever you start creating your resume, it's crucial to comprehend the distinctions between each and their respective purposes. Hard skills are qualities that can be taught and acquired in a school setting or a context similar to it. These are abilities that are measurable or quantifiable. Hard skills include things like mastery of Excel or other computing tools and language fluency. Less measurable but no less significant are soft talents. They are the traits that make it possible for someone to communicate with others clearly and cordially. Although soft talents are more difficult to impart than hard abilities, most studies indicate that companies are placing an increasing emphasis on them. Communication, empathy, and dispute management are a few instances of soft talents. Although difficult to measure, these abilities are essential for working on the job. Here are the soft and hard skills to include on a high school student's resume and cover letter;

• Bookkeeping
• Graphic design
• Problem-solving
• Organizational skills
• Inventive 
• Conflict resolution
• Detail-oriented
• Data analysis
• Microsoft Excel
• Public speaking
• Microsoft Word
• Project management
• Responsible
• Office management
• Event planning

You must tailor your CV to the job position each time you apply for a job. It entails reviewing the job description and either incorporating the specified skills or rearranging your skill portion to make the hard and soft skills necessary for the tasks. A manager typically takes six seconds to examine a résumé before choosing whether to schedule an interview with an applicant. Because of this, you should carefully review the job description and ensure that your resume contains the most crucial data. Your resume's fundamental components won't alter from job to job. Here are the tips for writing a skills section for a high school student resume;

• Compile a list of all the talents given in the job requirements after reading the job posting.
• Determine the skills you have
• Incorporate skills and use them as examples in the 'Employment' section by associating them with specific successes or duties.

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HipCV guide on tips for writing a realtor cover letter along with realtor cover letter example.

HipCV guide on how to become a realtor also educational requirements to be a realtor.

HipCV guide on how to write a college graduate cover letter with no experience.

HipCV guide on steps to become an office manager and salary, certifications, education necessary to be an office manager.

HipCV guide on how to write an office manager cover letter with no experience and entry level office manager cover letter.

HipCV guide on how to write an HR assistant cover letter with no experience.

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Graduate cover letter example

A few writing rules

Getting the tone right, cover letters examples for:, resumes examples for:.

Congratulations on finishing your college degree! Patience, determination and years of hard work have culminated in this moment of success. Now, it’s time for your next challenge: landing a job, fellowship or other opportunity. 

One of the first tools you’ll need for success as a recent grad is a highly-polished resume and the knowledge of how to write an exceptional graduate cover letter. If you haven’t finished perfecting your resume, we’ve got you covered. Check out resume.io’s tips and tricks in our profession-specific resume examples , templates and general resume writing guide .

Once you’ve got your resume in top shape, this guide will show you how to knock your cover letter out of the park. We’ll focus primarily on the right qualities to convey for entry-level positions and how to beef up your resume when you’re just starting out. Since “recent graduate” isn’t actually an occupation, it’s a good idea to check out our other profession-specific cover letter guides for even more useful tips in your field of interest. This guide, along with an effective cover-letter example will:

• Explain the importance of creating a knockout cover letter when it comes to landing your first position
• Outline the details of professional cover letter formatting and provide free examples, samples and templates to work from
• Teach you how to use persuasive psychology to boost the body of your letter
• Help you convey the personality traits applicable to entry-level jobs in ANY field.

What is the purpose of a fresh graduate cover letter?

A cover letter for a fresh graduate, also called an application letter or letter of interest, is one of the most commonly requested job application materials. The primary purpose of your graduate cover letter is to work alongside your resume to create a complete picture of personality, experience and strengths as a candidate. 

Whereas a resume has clearly defined sections that are constructed based on your actual education and work history, a cover letter is a bit looser. While this can be overwhelming for some recent grads, flexibility is one of the application letter’s biggest advantages. You’re encouraged to discuss your goals, perspectives and successes and let your charisma shine.

One of the biggest challenges recent graduates face when applying for positions is a lack of concrete or relevant work experience. It can be hard to convince an employer that you have the skills for the job if you don’t have much on your resume to prove it. That’s where an exceptional cover letter can work wonders. A well-organized and deliberate application letter for a fresh graduate lets you highlight the qualities you do have to convince an employer that you’re worth a shot.

A cover letter is usually between 200 and 400 words long, or the length of one page. Recent graduates often try to make up for a lack of resume experience by writing long, expounding cover letters that dive into every possible corner of their educational journey. Unfortunately, this can be an automatic “out” in the eyes of many employers. 

Instead, focus on creating a strong argument by selecting only a handful of convincing points and carrying these themes throughout the letter. It’s also very important to adhere to the right formatting and font principles when drafting your cover letter. Stick to trusted font styles like Georgia, Calibri, Helvetica and Arial with a size between 10 and 12 points. A whimsical font like Comic Sans might seem tempting, but it’s a big no-go. You can find more details about style in this general cover letter writing guide.

Remember, at the end of the day a cover letter is all about maximizing your chances. Any spelling or grammar errors, wacky fonts or messy formatting will distract a hiring manager from your main purpose and bring down the likelihood of landing the position. 

Do I NEED a cover letter?

We’ve all been there – an online application offers a spot to upload a cover letter, but the description doesn’t specify whether it’s truly a requirement. Technically, you could just upload your resume and move on with your life, right? That would be a big mistake.

If you truly want a position, why would you throw away one of your biggest chances to make a great first impression for success? Unless a posting specifically asks you NOT to submit a cover letter, you should always write and send one. You never know – your letter just might make all the difference when it comes time for a hiring manager to make some decisions.

It takes the average recent grad three to six months to find a job after graduation. Moving back home with your parents might seem cliché, but a lot of other graduates are in the exact same position. Today’s recent graduates are more likely to be underemployed (i.e. working at a job that doesn’t require a college degree) than they were in 1990, according to the Harvard Business Review . Recent grads are also more likely to be clustered in certain roles, primarily as advertising managers, actuaries, news reporters and law clerks. Add to that the fact that the average starting salary in 2020 was more than $5,000 below that of 2019, CNBC found , and it may look bleak. It doesn't help that hat figure has risen 2.5 percent in 2022, much lower than the rate of inflation, according to a National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) survey .

But there’s also some positive news: More and more students are opting to major in creative fields and fields that interest them. And people with college degrees are much better protected against economic recessions than their degree-less counterparts. This data points to two things: 1. you’re not alone in this potentially confusing post-grad phase and 2. the job search hunt, especially for fresh graduates, takes patience and positivity. A strong cover letter and resume are essential tools to landing not just any job, but the job YOU want.

Best format for a graduate cover letter

The good news is that no matter which field you studied or plan to work in, the format for a great graduate cover letter is roughly the same. While an application letter might seem  structureless, these sections can help you stay on track and make the most of your one-page allowance. 

Plus, these are the sections hiring managers expect to see so you can rest assured you haven’t thrown the employer any curveballs. Key components include:

• The cover letter header
• The greeting
• The introduction
• The letter body
• The conclusion
• The signature

Let’s take a look at each of them, but first, here is a graduate cover letter example to give you an idea of how to write your own letter:

Dear Mrs. Lastwell,

As a recently graduated biotechnology major at the University of California, I am excited for the opportunity to work with you at PreGen. My university biotech assignments centered around the food production industry and I firmly believe that technology will help to feed the world of the future. After leaving with a GPA of 3.8 from Jefferson College, I immersed myself in the academic side of college life. We enjoyed close research links with the local agritech community, and I undertook five separate work placements. I was fascinated by molecular diagnostics and even worked part-time on a project to improve crop yields in Kenya. Your international focus is exactly where the world needs to be focusing its efforts right now. A junior research associate role with you would provide an ideal starting point. Your track record of developing the brightest of young scientific minds is unmatched in the industry and I yearn to follow in the footsteps of your award-winning agritech magicians. My education and work experience have combined to give me a solid understanding of laboratory procedures and industry best practice including greenhouse operations and the maintenance of research and chemical application equipment. I saved one work experience employer over $240k by creating a unified operational manual for all employees. I have spent years immersing myself in the theory of genomics and I look forward to putting my knowledge to use. I enclose a portfolio of my academic research work and have over 20 letters of recommendation from the scientists that I have assisted. I can’t wait to hear about the potential projects where my contribution may make a difference – an interview to explore the possibilities would be a dream. Yours sincerely, Christine Holtz

Cover letter header

The header can be one of the most challenging sections for recent graduates. It can be difficult to decide what information is necessary. When mailing a letter, the name and address of the company and date the letter was written are essential. For online applications, including your graduate cover letter, brief is better. 

The more you pack into your header, the less space you have to convince an employer of your unique qualities in the rest of the letter. Keep in mind that the primary purpose of the header in an online application will be to identify the document and keep your contact information at the hiring manager’s fingertips. 

In large companies, an applicant’s folder can circulate within the HR department, making the header even more important. In the past, headers contained the applicant and company address. Now, information like your email, phone number and even your LinkedIn account is much more useful.

Getting creative with your header

In addition to conveying your identifying information, the header also serves a role in the formatting of your document. It allows for some white space so the letter doesn’t start abruptly at the top of the page.

If you want to present an even more polished look, you might opt to use a cover letter template. A template has the advantage of being professionally designed, and can even allow you to align the formatting of your resume and cover letter for maximum visual appeal.

The goal of this section: Identify the document, keep your name and contact info easily accessible and create visually appealing formatting.

Cover letter greeting

As a fresh graduate, you’ll most likely start your career by working your way up from junior level positions. That means you’ll need to use a greeting in your graduate cover letter that is respectful and mindful of the organization’s hierarchy. 

There are some exceptions, however. A growing number of youthful brands and startups are opting for a more familiar tone both internally and externally. In these rare circumstances, it may be appropriate to use a greeting like “Hi” or “Hello” along with a first name instead of the more traditional “Dear Mr./Mrs./Ms” Informal greetings often work much better if you’re submitting your cover letter via email. 

The goal of this section: Start the letter off right with a warm and friendly salutation greeting that’s also professionally appropriate for your field and experience level.

When you have a name – and when you don’t

Addressing the recipient by name is one of the best strategies for catching a hiring manager’s attention right from the start of your letter. Many job postings even list the name of the hiring manager or contact person giving you every reason to include it in your letter. 

However, in some large companies or organizations hiring is done by a large team and it may be impossible to figure out who will be reading your letter. In this case, you might have to opt for a general greeting like “Dear XYZ Company Hiring Manager.” “Team” can also be a great non-specific word to use when a name is not an option.

After a few minutes poking around the internet searching for the hiring manager’s name, you might be tempted to throw your hands up in the air and go with “To Whom It May Concern:” However, this greeting is not just impersonal, it feels outdated and even cold. Using the company name, even in a general greeting, conveys that you are a human being speaking to other real people.

Cover letter introduction

Getting your graduate cover letter introduction off to an attention-grabbing start is one of the best things you can do to set your application up for success. By using a personal anecdote, emotive sentence or definitive statement, you’ll be miles ahead of candidates who opted for “I am writing to inquire about your recent vacancy for…” 

You get the idea – if you haven’t already fallen asleep. 

One of the biggest advantages a company gains when hiring recent grads is the creativity and innovation that comes from young minds. Simply put, a boring introductory paragraph introduction is selling yourself short. Convey your personality, spunk and unique qualities, just make sure to keep the tone professionally appropriate for your field and prospective employer. 

The goal of this section: Introduce yourself in a unique and exciting way, set yourself up for success in the body section.

Dear Mrs. Lastwell, As a recently graduated biotechnology major at the University of California, I am excited for the opportunity to work with you at PreGen. My university biotech assignments centered around the food production industry and I firmly believe that technology will help to feed the world of the future.

Cover letter body (middle part)

The body section of your graduate cover letter is the meat and potatoes. It should provide enough detail that the hiring manager feels satisfied after reading it, but it should also leave them wanting to get in touch to take the conversation further. 

What you choose to highlight in the body of your cover letter will depend somewhat on the most desirable skills and experiences in your field. However, a good strategy is to use the STAR/CAR method (Situation, Task, Action, positive Result) to convey your successes in previous work experiences. As a recent grad, you’ll likely need to talk about your previous internships and on-campus experiences. Focus on the most professionally-relevant activities and responsibilities to convey just how transferable your skills are. 

There are some skills that are applicable across entry-level jobs. The ability to take feedback and learn from others and your mistakes is invaluable in any job. Depending on the position, teamwork may also be of the essence. 

The goal of this section: Use anecdotes and examples of your strengths and skills, as related to your field, to highlight your professional competence. Prove that you have the right personality traits to be a good listener, quick learner and great team member.

After leaving with a GPA of 3.8 from Jefferson College, I immersed myself in the academic side of college life. We enjoyed close research links with the local agritech community, and I undertook five separate work placements. I was fascinated by molecular diagnostics and even worked part-time on a project to improve crop yields in Kenya. Your international focus is exactly where the world needs to be focusing its efforts right now. A junior research associate role with you would provide an ideal starting point. Your track record of developing the brightest of young scientific minds is unmatched in the industry and I yearn to follow in the footsteps of your award-winning agritech magicians. My education and work experience have combined to give me a solid understanding of laboratory procedures and industry best practice including greenhouse operations and the maintenance of research and chemical application equipment. I saved one work experience employer over $240k by creating a unified operational manual for all employees.

How to close a recent graduate cover letter (conclusion and sign-off)

You’ve written the bulk of your letter, but how do you close the letter professionally? You want to be memorable without making the assumption that you will land the interview. The closing paragraph of your graduate cover letter can be more challenging than it appears. 

As you move through the body section, think about how you’ll bring your themes back together in a way that leaves a hiring manager feeling optimistic and confident about your abilities. Then, it’s time for the call to action. This writing technique invites a hiring manager to get in touch and continue the conversation. Your tone should be respectful and polite, but also approachable and friendly. The call to action should be a natural extension of the rest of the letter. “Sincerely,” “Best regards” or simply “Best” are some of the most popular sign-offs that can work with a variety of situations or companies. 

The goal of this section: Create a natural and friendly call to action that entices the hiring manager to get in touch, close the letter with an appropriate good-bye.

I have spent years immersing myself in the theory of genomics and I look forward to putting my knowledge to use. I enclose a portfolio of my academic research work and have over 20 letters of recommendation from the scientists that I have assisted. I can’t wait to hear about the potential projects where my contribution may make a difference – an interview to explore the possibilities would be a dream. Yours sincerely, Christine Holtz

Writing psychology – cover letter tools and strategies

As a recent graduate in any major, you’ll want to express a few key personality traits that will make you a valued coworker across the board. 

• Trustworthiness: younger coworkers often develop a bad reputation when they can’t keep office gossip or even private work-related information to themselves. Highlighting your professionalism when it comes to demeanor and speech will build trust with a hiring manager right from the start.
• The ability to receive criticism: A junior employee who can not only take feedback well but implement it into their future performance will rise quickly through the ranks. If you can, show how you managed this in previous positions and how it led to even better outcomes.
• The right balance of confidence and humility: This is one of the trickiest parts of writing your first cover letters as a fresh graduate. You don’t want to brag but there’s no point in being so modest that a hiring manager can’t figure out the benefit of having you at their company. Assert yourself as a leader and hard worker who’s also willing to learn.

The laws of specificity

In their book, “Made to Stick,” brothers Chip and Dan Heath discuss the principles and strategies behind ideas that linger in our minds. These principles have a variety of applications and purposes, including in marketing, writing and persuasion. One area where recent grads struggle when crafting a convincing cover letter is credibility. With limited years of hands-on experience, how can a hiring manager be sure you truly have the skills for the job? That’s where the Heath brothers’ principle of specificity comes into play. Hiring managers know that it is much easier to write sweeping statements about your personality traits and perspectives than it is to show solid facts about how you initiated and effectuated a positive change. 

That’s why specific examples, quantifiable statements and concrete numbers give you the best chance of impressing a hiring manager and landing an interview. Specificity doesn’t just have to come in the form of results. You can also use this principle, for example, in naming an industry-leading company you interned for. You might include the size of a team you led,  the name of the published project you worked on or the location of your foreign language training. A sprinkling of the most relevant, specific details helps you make up for the credibility you might lack as a recent graduate and keeps a manager interested in what you have to say.

Recent graduate cover letter common mistakes (and how to avoid them)

Some good news: The more cover letters you write, the easier they get. You can give yourself a leg up on other recent grads by checking out these cover letter tips: avoiding these common pitfalls:

• The one-size-fits-all letter. Every company and job opportunity is a unique opportunity and your cover letter should reflect an understanding of this fact. What’s more, hiring managers are hardly fooled when candidates simply swap out one company’s name for another without tailoring the content of the letter. While you might create a basic letter to work off of, you’ll need to make sure you customize each letter for the specific position, using skills and information from the company website and job description.the exact skills needed for the job at hand.
• Generic and fluffy wording. Hiring managers know that you’re a recent grad. It’s no use trying to cover up that fact with elevated language that boils down into nothingness. Plus, no one ever said you shouldn’t have a personality. Proofread your As long as your grammar and spelling. As long as there are no typos is correct, it’s OK to be yourself.
• Too much or irrelevant information. If you don’t know what to talk about when seeking your first job, you might find yourself going a little overboard. Instead, try to keep the conversation friendly, but geared strictly toward your professional experience, activities and coursework and experiences. There will be a time and place for the fact that you developed the university’s first ping-pong club, but your cover letter probably isn’t it.
• Formatting errors. It can be tricky to hit the right balance of professionalism and individuality when it comes to cover letter format formatting. Odd or childish fonts can throw off a reader and misaligned formatting can come off as amateur. One way to avoid these all-too-common problems is with a professional formatting tool, like this one from resume.io.

Key takeaways

• An exceptional cover letter is one of the best ways to make yourself stand out from the competition by expressing your personality and unique advantages.
• It’s important to follow the expected cover letter length and style conventions to present a professional image and avoid taking a hiring manager by surprise.
• Numbers, facts and figures can help you build credibility and make up for any gaps in experience.
• Don’t try to fight against your recent grad status with fancy wording and eccentric formatting. It’s always a better idea to keep your letter clean, professional and error-free.

Now it’s time to get started on your exceptional cover letter. Land your dream job Get the job done right with resume.io’s professionally designed templates and easy-to-use builder tool . Go out there and win!

Other education cover letters and resumes examples from the same industry:

Need more inspiration before you can start crafting your own cover letter writing and resume? See our related education cover letter examples below.

• Scholarship
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• Middle School Teacher 
• Elementary School Teacher 
• College Professor
• High School Teacher  
• Academic Tutor 
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Application Letters for Fresh Graduates: See Two Samples That Work

If you’re a fresh grad looking for a job, then you know very well the challenge of writing an application letter. Together with your resume, an application letter is one of the two main documents you need to finally get a job and join the workforce.

But with no job experience, what should you include? Read these sample application letters for fresh graduates, and use them as a starting point to write yours.

Application Letters: Some Basics

What’s the difference between an application letter and a cover letter.

A cover letter is literally a cover sheet for your resume: “Here is my resume, please consider me for XXX job.” An application letter is longer and more detailed, because it can be sent on its own, without a resume or a specific job in mind: “Hello, I am XXX, interested in a job at your company. Here are my qualifications.”

That’s in theory. Here in the Philippines though, the terms are interchangeable. In this article, your “application letter” is a one-pager that introduces your resume for a specific role. It describes your skills and markets your abilities. It’s your brief, formal way to introduce yourself – and make HR teams notice your resume and offer you an interview.

Why do I need an application letter, when the information is in my resume?

Your resume follows a strict format, including keywords that you’ve pulled from the job listing. In contrast, an application letter gives you some room to express yourself, and highlight why you’re different from all your batchmates applying for the same job.

Most important, a letter identifies the job you’re applying for. Have you ever seen a resume headlined “[NAME], HR Associate”?  No.

Read more: Want To Get Hired? Follow These Sample Resume Formats For Fresh Graduates

Do resume scanning systems even read application letters?

Some job ads specify “No cover letter”, but this is rare. If the listing doesn’t mention a cover letter, or says “Cover letter optional”, then you should write one. As with your resume, you should use keywords from the job ad in your letter to raise your application’s place in the rankings.

Read about keywords and automated resume systems here: How to customize your resume and cover letter for any job

Once you’re ready to write your letter, use these samples to get started.

Application Letter Sample 1 (Hard Copy)

Use this format for a letter you will submit as a printed copy. Even if you applied online, always bring extra copies of your letter and resume to your interview. For emailed application letters, see Sample 2 below.

22 H Venture St., Diliman, Quezon City Philippines

June 15, 2021

Mr. Vincent Chua Hiring Manager Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) 12/F Ayala Life-FGU Center, Ayala Ave. Makati City 1226

Dear Mr. Chua,

I am writing to express my interest in the position of Recruitment Assistant in your company.

Having obtained my Bachelor’s Degree in [XXXX]  major in Human Resources in [XXX] University, I hope to bring my knowledge, skills, and commitment to excellence to BPI.

With my major in HR management, I am familiar with standard processes for recruitment, workforce organization, training, and compensation, as well as legal provisions and labor concerns.

My internship at San Miguel Corporation gave me the chance to work with top professionals in recruitment and HR. Being a trainee there developed my enthusiasm for human resources, and convinced me that HR management is my true calling.

For more details of my qualifications and expertise, please review my attached resume.

Thank you for taking the time to consider this application. I look forward to hearing from you.

(signature)

Jessica Cenadoza (email address / phone number)

Application Letter Tip: When submitting a hard copy, always follow the business letter format. Your letter and resume do not need expensive paper or flowery words, but they do need to be error-free and professional. Use an online program to check grammar, spelling and punctuation. Before printing, proofread again, then ask a friend to do so too.

Application Letter Sample 2 (Email)

This application letter sample below is tailored for email. Note the subject line and the absence of mailing addresses.

Email Subject: Alvin Marfal, Marketing Associate Position [Keep your subject line brief and straightforward.]

Dear Ms. Castañeda,

I would like to apply for your company’s recently announced position of Marketing Associate.

I am a recent graduate of [XXX], major in Marketing, from [XXX] University. My studies there have given me the skills to develop marketing campaigns and drive strategies, especially through the efficient use of social media.

During my internship at XXX Corporation’s Marketing Department, I learned how companies decide what products to sell, how to reach target customers, and how to react to competition. I also had the opportunity to work with seasoned professionals. They taught me how marketing concepts apply outside the classroom, how to blend with a group’s culture, and strive for common goals despite setbacks.

Finally, through active involvement in academics and extracurriculars, I developed communication and leadership skills that make me a valued member of any marketing team.

I attach my resume for your consideration. Thank you for taking time to review my application. I look forward to your reply so that we can further discuss it.

Yours sincerely,

Alvin C. Marfal (email address / mobile number)

Application Letter Tip: Check your subject line before pressing “Send.” A typo error in your email subject won’t reflect positively on you – and could result in your mail being ignored by the resume software. Our email subject above follows the usual format (name, position). However, some recruiters require a specific subject line or number code. Check the job ad to be sure.

Include your contact details on the email signature, so the recruiter can respond to you immediately.

To create a cover letter that stands out, customize.

Finally, remember that these are just samples to help you get started. Templates are guide that you can certainly customize. You have to change the name, position and company anyway, and of course the content of the letter as befits the job you are eyeing.

So when you follow these formats,  take time to write simply and clearly about yourself. Skip the legalese (“Attached herewith”) and the cliches (“out of the box”, “passionate”). In addition, be specific (see Alvin’s three marketing skills above) and consider the norms of your industry. Finally, don’t forget to proofread!

Your letter should prove that you’ve done your homework, understand the job requirements, and are the best person for the role. For example, this witty sample application letter for a fresh graduate is great for a content manager, but not for a technical or administrative job.

Now that you can write a good application letter, don’t let your new skills go to waste. #LetsGetToWork by finding out which companies are looking for fresh grads like you.

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Study in Ontario: international students

Information for international students interested in attending a publicly assisted college or university in Ontario.

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Attestation letter for international students.

As of January 22, 2024, most international students who want to study in Ontario must provide a provincial attestation letter ( PAL ) with their study permit application. Students should contact the Ontario postsecondary institution where they have accepted their offer of admission and intend to enrol to get a PAL . Learn more

How to choose a school

You can learn at a public university or college, or a career college.

Before you choose a school, you can get important information in what’s called a course calendar. This book has details on:

• the qualifications you need to get into a school or particular program
• tuition fees and other costs
• scholarships and financial aid

You can get a copy of a course calendar through the admissions office at a postsecondary institution. You can also contact the nearest Canadian diplomatic mission for more information.

Learn more about going to college or university in Ontario .

Qualifications/admissions

Each college and university sets its own admission standards. The standards can change from year to year. You will need to check a school’s website for the most current information.

When to apply

Universities.

Application deadlines depend on the program and school. Deadlines start as early as September.

In general, you will need to apply before February 1 , if you want to start school in September. The admission process can take up to nine months, so it’s a good idea to get an application in early.

What you need to apply

In most cases, you will need to gather these documents before you apply:

Transcripts

Original or certified copies of your high school diploma/record and any postsecondary education records, including courses you took and grades you achieved.

Proof of language skill

Acceptable test results from a certified language test that measures your skill in reading, writing, understanding and speaking either English or French. Generally accepted tests include:

• Test of English as a Foreign Language ( TOEFL )
• The International English Language Testing System ( IELTS )
• The Canadian Academic English Language ( CAEL ) Assessment
• Test d’évaluation de français ( TEF )
• Test de connaissance du français  ( TCF )

Proof of good health

Depending on your citizenship, you might also need to pass a medical exam. The exam has to be done by an authorized doctor.

If you need an exam, it’s a good idea to make an appointment when you are accepted to an Ontario college or university. Otherwise, it could take up to three months longer to process your application.

Medical exam list: Citizenship and Immigration Canada

List of authorized doctors

A study permit

In most cases, you will need to apply for a study permit before you come to Canada. If you plan to stay six months or more , you need a permit in all cases.

You can apply for a permit at the Canadian visa office in your country. Check with the local office in your area to see what supporting documents you will need.

Find an international visa office

Get a study permit application

In January 2024, the Government of Canada issued new requirements for most international students to obtain a provincial attestation letter ( PAL ) to apply for a study permit. To obtain a PAL in Ontario, please contact the postsecondary institution where you accepted an offer of admission and intend to enrol.

Visit the Government of Canada’s website for a list of categories of applicants who will not need a PAL .

Important: to protect your privacy, please do not share personal or private information via email to support your PAL request.

Bring a spouse or child/children

If you plan to bring family members with you, you will need to submit additional documents. Contact the nearest international visa office for more information.

How to apply

Undergraduate programs.

First check each school’s website. You will either apply directly to the school or use one of two application centres:

• the Ontario Universities Application Centre ( OUAC )
• the Ontario College Application Service ( OCAS )

Graduate studies

You will apply directly to a university.

Get credentials evaluated

You can have your existing credentials (degrees, diplomas, courses) evaluated at the Canadian Information Centre for International Credentials .

Health insurance

Public universities: you need to enrol in the  University Health Insurance Plan .

Public colleges and private colleges/universities : you will need to contact the international student office at the school for more information on health insurance for international students.

Work while in school

You don’t always need a work permit to get a job while you are in college or university. 

Work on campus

You can work on campus at a school without a work permit , if you:

• have a valid study permit
• are a full-time student at an eligible institution  

Work off campus

If you have a study permit and are enrolled full-time in an academic, professional or vocational training program at a designated learning institution ( DLI ) , you may work off campus without a work permit.

Note: You must have the appropriate work permit to take part in a co-op or internship program.

Additional information on studying and working in Canada as an international student is available through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, a federal government department.

Scholarships and bursaries

You could be eligible to get money to help you pay for your college or university education in Ontario. You will need to contact the financial aid office at the school you plan to attend.

Ontario Trillium Scholarships

Each year, Ontario awards 75 Trillium Scholarships – worth $40,000 per year – to the best doctoral students from around the world to support their studies in Ontario.

These scholarships can be renewed for up to four years.

Each university selects and awards scholarship candidates based on merit and program criteria. For more information, you can contact a university’s office of graduate studies.

Federal government scholarships

The federal government also offers a series of scholarships for international students.

More information: Scholarships Canada

Student Loans

International students with study permits: you are not eligible for bank or government student loans in Canada.

Plan to apply for landed immigrant status: you could become eligible for loans once status is granted.

Emergency loans: some colleges and universities offer one-time emergency loans for international students. You will need to contact a school’s financial aid office directly for more information.

Work after graduation

You could be eligible to get a special work permit to allow you to work in Canada – for up to three years – after you graduate.

Post-graduate work permit: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada

Live/work in Ontario permanently

Through a program called the Provincial Nominee Program , you could be eligible to live and work permanently in Ontario.

How the program works

Ontario nominates individuals for permanent resident status to the federal government.

Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program ( OINP )

For other ways to immigrate to Ontario, visit the Government of Canada’s website .

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