school admission cover letter

College Application Letters: Cover Letters & Letters of Continued Interest

College application letters.

College application cover letters support your college applications, college resume, and college application essay prompts. In combination with the other elements of your college applications, particularly your college entrance essay, college application letters help establish your “why.” In short, a college application letter is a cover letter for your college applications that describes your background, skills, and interest in the school. When looking at college application cover letter examples, pay attention to the values that they express. College application letters and college entrance essays are similar in that they are exercises in personal branding. When reading college application cover letter examples, pay attention to the messages they convey. 

If you’re wondering how to write a college application letter, CollegeAdvisor.com has advisors who can walk you through every part of the process. If your goal is to get into top colleges, CollegeAdvisor.com can help. We’ll analyze examples of college application letters and discuss the letter of continued interest to help you craft successful applications. 

In this guide, we’ll break down the different kinds of college application letters you may encounter when completing your college applications. We’ll discuss the college application letter and the letter of continued interest, as well as teacher recommendation letters.

If you want to read college application cover letter samples, you’ve come to the right place!

What is a college application letter?

To learn how to write a college application letter, you must first understand its purpose. Do this by checking out college application cover letter examples. College application letters and college resumes serve as introductions for your college applications. Unlike college application essay prompts, there are no specific questions to answer in your cover letter. Instead, include the essential elements of university application letters: your background, what makes you unique, and your reasons for wanting to attend that particular college. In short, what makes you, you .

As you’ll see when reading example college application letters, college application cover letters are not all that different from what you would write in a cover letter when applying for a job or graduate school. The purpose of college application cover letters, college entrance essays, and college resumes is to persuade colleges that you are the strongest candidate for admissions. 

College application cover letters are not the time to be shy, but they’re not the time to be pretentious either. When reading college application cover letter examples, you’ll see that there’s a fine line. Your tone matters. In your university application letters, show your experiences and accomplishments while portraying character traits that colleges value. To get into top colleges, find a balance between being proud of your accomplishments and being humble.

College application letters – Who requires them?

Unlike college entrance essays, college application letters are required by very few colleges. However, the skills you’ll develop by writing university application letters will serve you well as you approach your college application essay prompts. When researching college application examples, you’ll notice that there are optional materials to submit. If you’re serious about your college applications, submit university application letters to show your interest. 

College application cover letters are particularly effective if the college does not have college application essay prompts that ask you to explain why you want to attend the school and/or why you want to study your major. They are even more strongly recommended when applying to colleges that don’t have any supplemental essays. You’ll see many college application cover letter examples that focus primarily on academics, but you can include so much more.

Though university application letters are rarely required, they provide an ideal way to introduce yourself. After all, you’ll notice when reading college application cover letter samples that the goal is to help the admissions committee get to know you as a person. You are more than just your grades and scores.

If you want to get into top colleges that don’t allow you to submit a college resume or don’t provide interviews, you need to take extra steps to earn acceptance. Often, you can repurpose content from college application essay prompts that ask why you want to study your major! The college application essay format differs from that of a college application letter, but they serve a very similar purpose.

Test your knowledge about other aspects of the college admissions process in our quiz below!

What is a letter of continued interest?

A letter of continued interest (LOCI) is a letter you send to a college when you are deferred or placed on the waitlist. So, not everyone will need to write a college application letter of continued interest.

Your letter of continued interest has three primary goals: 

• Reaffirm your interest in the school.
• Provide additional context for your application. 
• Discuss accomplishments on your college resume that have occurred since you submitted your application.

In this guide on how to write a college application letter, we discuss all forms of college application letters in detail. We’ll expand on the above goals to explain the strategies for writing effective letters.

Explaining teacher recommendation letters 

In addition to submitting a college application cover letter and, potentially, a letter of continued interest, your application will also include recommendation letters . These letters enhance your college application entrance essay and build on answers to supplemental college application essay prompts. 

Due to the shift away from standardized testing, other parts of your college applications are inevitably getting more attention in the evaluation process. When assessing your college applications, admissions committees will often rely on letters from your teachers and counselor in place of interviews.

When reading sample college application letters of recommendation, you’ll observe that some are better than others. But, it can be a bit harder to find example teacher recommendations than it is to find college application cover letter examples. To ensure high-quality letters, create a plan well in advance of your senior year. You’ll want to ask teachers to write your recommendations who know you best beyond your grades. The strongest sample college application letters of recommendation speak to both your personal and academic strengths. 

College application sample recommendation letters with the biggest impact typically come from teachers from your core junior year courses – math, science, English, and social studies. If there’s a teacher from your junior year who taught you during your sophomore or senior year too, even better! Teachers who know you through multiple environments – clubs, classes, sports, or other areas – can often do the best job speaking to your growth and achievement over time. 

Choose teachers who know you best

Ultimately, the most effective sample college application letters of recommendation are written by the teachers who know you best. Pay attention to the college application requirements for each school on your list. Note when reading example college application letters of recommendation who the intended audience is. Some schools require math or science teachers for STEM and business majors , while others require English or social studies teachers for humanities majors .

For example, when looking at college application sample requirements, MIT writes “One recommendation should be from a math or science teacher, and one should be from a humanities, social science, or language teacher.” Caltech also requires one math or science teacher evaluation and one humanities or social sciences teacher evaluation. 

Some applicants are tempted to send more letters than the college applications require. However, aim for quality over quantity. If you want to ask another teacher to write a recommendation letter for you, ask yourself what perspective they will bring to your college applications that isn’t already covered in your college entrance essay or other recommendation letters. 

Don’t hesitate to provide materials to help your teachers and guidance counselor write their letters of recommendation for you. In fact, you should! When reading college application sample letters of recommendation, you’ll note that they are specific and provide examples where possible. Some teachers will even have you fill out a standard form to gather information from you. So, by having additional information already prepared, you are helping them tremendously. 

Here are some materials you can provide to help your recommendations augment your college applications:

• College entrance essay
• College resume or a list of your extracurricular activities and awards
• Responses to college application essay prompts.
• A sample college application letter that you’re sending to one of your colleges.
• A few paragraphs about why you want to study your major or pursue your intended career. 
• Key elements of the course you took with them, such as a favorite project or unit. 

When preparing materials to give to teachers, read the instructions given to recommenders by MIT. Even if you aren’t applying to MIT, the information can still be helpful to know. By understanding the process of writing recommendation letters on the teacher’s side, you can see what information will help them write a strong letter for you. 

Don’t wait until you’re submitting your college applications to ask your teachers for recommendations. Some teachers limit the number that they will write, and you want them to have plenty of time to write a quality recommendation. To make sure you have the best recommendations , ask teachers late in your junior year or early in your senior year.

The College Application Letter

As we’ve mentioned, a college application letter is a cover letter for your college applications. It describes your background, skills, and interest in the school. It’s different from both the college application essay format and the letter of continued interest. When reviewing college application samples, you’ll see that your cover letter works together with your college resume and college entrance essay to help admissions officers get to know you. 

Below, we’ll discuss how to write a college application letter and walk through a sample college application letter. But remember, you want your letter to be original! Don’t feel limited by what’s in any examples of college application letters.

Do all schools require a college application letter?

No — few schools actually require college application letters. However, learning to write a strong college application letter can help you in other aspects of the college admissions process. Reading college application cover letter examples can also help you learn how to write for the admissions committee audience. 

One of the ways to learn how to write a college application letter is to read sample college application letters. For instance, the same skills that help you write a strong and concise college application letter will help you in the college essay format, too.

The college application letter – What should I include?

So, you know the purpose of college application letters, but what should you include in them? Reading college application cover letter samples can help you determine this. While the college application essay format lends itself to focusing on one topic or story, college application cover letter examples highlight the importance of covering several different topics.

College application letters should contain the following elements: 

1. school name and address.

You college application letter should follow formal letter formatting guidelines, which include writing the full name of the college or university you are applying to in the upper left hand corner of the letter. Try to be as specific as possible with the address you choose to use.

2. Salutation

A standard salutation is suitable for your college application letter. However, it is a great idea to do your research and use the full name of the admissions officer assigned to your region.

3. Introduction

The best examples of college application letters open strong. Thank the admissions committee for reviewing your application, and introduce yourself. Do you have a unique connection to the school? Can you hook the reader in some way to make them want to keep reading?

4. Explanation of academic interests

Your primary purpose in college is to earn a degree, so notice that in example college application letters most of the space is often devoted to discussing academic plans. Include your intended major and career path, as well as interdisciplinary interests.

5. Discussion of extracurricular interests

The college application essay format may be a place for you to discuss extracurricular involvement, so use this space to elaborate or discuss additional interests. These could be connected to your academic plans, but they don’t have to be.

6. Conclusion

Express your interest in the school! Impactful example college application letters have a clear and brief conclusion that reaffirms your desire to attend and enthusiasm for the opportunity to join the next class of undergraduates. Point to specific classes, professors, programs, organizations, and aspects of the college that pique your interest. No one is going to hold you to your plan, but colleges want to see that you have one.

8. Complimentary Close

Lastly, every good college application letter should include an expression of gratitude alongside your close and your signature.

In the example of a college application letter above, there are a few key details to highlight. The letter is essentially a five-paragraph essay, with one paragraph for each of the five elements. This differs significantly from the college application essay format. In this college application example, the college application letter has clear and distinct sections, and this is very common in college application cover letter samples.

Depending on your interests and plans, you could take a more integrated approach. You’ll read some examples of college application letters that center around a theme or broad plan rather than separated into individual paragraphs.

This sample college application letter is a narrative. The applicant’s goal is to tell her story to the admissions committee. The best sample college application letters paint a picture for the reader and draw the reader into the storyline. Though it can feel like being vivid and descriptive is a waste of your space, “showing instead of telling makes for stronger college applications.

How to format your college application letter?

When reading sample college application letters, you’ll observe that they are formatted very similarly to professional cover letters. Your university application letters should be one page single-spaced. The heading should also be consistent across college application letters. 

• Your full address
• The date you will send the letter
• The admission officer’s name
• The college name
• The college address

Then, open your letter with a salutation. Many examples of college application letters open with “Dear” and are addressed to the admission officer. If you cannot find your regional admissions officer, it is fine to address the letter to the admissions office as was done in the sample college application letter above. Once you write the body of your letter, don’t forget your closing salutation – “Sincerely,” and then your name. 

Once you read several sample college application letters, you’ll understand the best practices. After writing a university application letter for one school, you don’t need to start from scratch for additional schools. Adapt what you have to fit the next college’s context and your specific interests on their campus. 

Being concise is key. Your university application letter should not be redundant. If it exceeds one page, see where information you mention is repeated elsewhere in your application. In your cover letter, focus on the content that makes you as original and unique as possible. Most importantly, don’t forget to proofread your university application letters! 

Can a college application letter help me with other parts of my application?

Think of the college application cover letter as the glue that holds your college applications together. When writing it, think about it as your opportunity to show your best self. After brainstorming the content, you’ll be better equipped to craft your candidate profile into a cohesive narrative and articulate why you want to attend the college.

Though many parts of your college applications will be out of your control by the time you reach your senior fall, the college application cover letter is one that you can control. Use it to elevate your college applications, show interest in your top schools , and make yourself stand out among other applicants!

The Letter of Continued Interest

Another form of college application letter is a letter of continued interest . In sample college application letters of continued interest, you’ll see that the primary purpose is to reaffirm your candidacy for a spot in the next incoming class of undergraduates. 

Though it can feel like a waiting game, the waitlist should not be passive. As soon as you are waitlisted or deferred, begin crafting a letter of continued interest. The best college application sample LOCIs are submitted promptly. Put in the effort to show you’re serious about attending. 

College application example LOCIs should focus on recent updates. Likely, a lot has happened since you submitted your application, particularly if you applied by the early deadlines. Strong college application sample LOCIs convey accomplishments and experiences that either add to previously mentioned ones or provide another dimension to your application. 

Letter of continued interest – When and where to submit?

Learn as much as you can by reading college application example LOCIs, but know that each school’s process for when and how to submit them is different. Additionally, the process may vary based on whether you were deferred to the regular decision round of admissions or waitlisted after the regular decision round. It’s important to follow each university’s directions.

Many schools will request that you upload your letter of continued interest to a portal. Some will request that you email it to an address – typically the admissions office. Others won’t allow you to submit any additional materials. If you’re in doubt, call or email the admissions office and ask. 

What to include in your letter of continued interest?

You’ll notice common trends when reading college application sample LOCIs. Effective college application example LOCIs convey a tone of sincerity, gratitude, and enthusiasm for an opportunity to attend. A strong sample college application letter of continued interest includes four elements. 

First, reaffirm your interest in attending the school if offered the chance to matriculate. Then, discuss relevant developments to your application, such as additional extracurricular accolades and continued academic successes. Sometimes, you’ll see a sample college application letter of continued interest that mentions how a student improved a lower mid-year grade or discusses a new leadership role. 

When reading a sample college application letter of continued interest, remember that colleges are looking for reasons to admit you, so don’t be shy! Offer to answer any questions they have and provide additional info in the conclusion of your letter. 

It’s important to back up your claims with supporting evidence. Strong college application sample LOCIs provide examples and specific details, just as you would in a cover letter or essay. Be vivid and descriptive as you share your story!

However, college application example LOCIs that include overly emotional appeals or merely complement the university are unlikely to be effective. Your letter of continued interest should be all about you. Though it can be difficult to realize this when reading college application example LOCIs, recognize that the content of your letter should fit within the context of the rest of your application. 

The many types of college application letters – Final Thoughts

In this guide, we covered several types of letters associated with your college process – college application cover letters, teacher recommendation letters, and letters of continued interest. Reading sample college application letters, whether they are college application cover letter samples or LOCIs, can help you do your best work. But, remember that every applicant’s college application process is unique. 

Our final tips for writing college application letters:

• Proofread. College application letters with typos or grammatical errors reflect poorly on your effort and candidacy. Use a polished and professional tone in everything you write for your college applications.
• Be yourself. Though this goal can get lost in the requirements, scores, and grades, you should focus on helping the colleges on your list get to know who you are . 
• Follow the requirements. Each college has their own requirements for how they want you to submit materials. Pay close attention to the details for each college as you go through the admissions process. 

CollegeAdvisor.com can help guide you through every step of the college application process. Check out our blog , webinars , or register with CollegeAdvisor.com today. Good luck!

This guide to college application letters and letters of continued interest was written by Caroline Marapese, Notre Dame ‘22. At CollegeAdvisor, we have built our  reputation  by providing comprehensive information that offers real assistance to students. If you want to get help with your college applications from CollegeAdvisor.com  Admissions Experts , click here to schedule a free meeting with one of our Admissions Specialists. During your meeting, our team will discuss your profile and help you find targeted ways to increase your admissions odds at top schools. We’ll also answer any questions and discuss how CollegeAdvisor.com can support you in the college application process.

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Winning College Application Cover Letter: Tips and Strategies

Writing a cover letter for a college application is an important task. It provides students with an opportunity to showcase their skills beyond their academic transcripts. It is a chance to tell the admissions committee who you are, why you are interested in the school, and how you can contribute to the school community.

A well-written cover letter can make a significant difference in the admissions process. This is because it allows students to show their writing skills, creativity, and passion for learning.

The cover should be concise, focused, and tailored to the specific institution. Students should avoid repeating information already present in their application. A cover letter should be used to add context to their application materials.

In this competitive admissions landscape, a well-written cover can be the difference between acceptance and rejection. With this in mind, students should take the time to create a thoughtful and compelling cover that reflects their best selves. You can also read our blog to learn more about how to stand out in your college application .

What Is Cover Letter for College Application?

A cover letter for college application is a document that provides students with the opportunity to showcase their achievements beyond their academic transcripts. The cover letter serves as a supplement to the rest of the application. It also gives admissions officers a more comprehensive view of the student.

A cover letter for university admission should be tailored to the specific institution. The text should highlight the student’s unique qualities that make them an excellent fit for the institution. This includes their strengths and achievements, as well as their motivation for attending school.

The cover can also provide context for any discrepancies or weaknesses in the student’s application.

You can also look at college admission consultant reviews in our blog if you are wondering how to write a cover application.

How to Write a Cover Letter For College?

College hooks are vital to creating a standout cover letter. This is part of your  application process, and we have a dedicated article to help you learn more about them.

A successful cover letter is one that highlights your strengths, personality, and achievements beyond your academic records.

To help you craft an exceptional college application cover letter, here are six essential tips:

• Research the college and its values:

Before starting your cover letter, research the school thoroughly. This helps you understand their values, goals, and mission. It can help you tailor your letter to fit the vision and show the admissions committee why you are the perfect fit for the institution. To assess if college is not for you , you can read the detailed article in our blog section.

• Address the letter to the appropriate person: 

A cover letter for college admission should address the proper person. Such as the admissions director or the head of the department you are applying to. This shows that you have taken the time to learn about their structure and are serious about your application.

• Start with a strong opening sentence:

A strong opening sentence can capture the attention of the admissions committee. This will make them interested in reading more. Start with an anecdote or an attention-grabbing statement that relates to your application.

• Highlight your strengths and achievements:

Use the cover letter to showcase yourself. Try to mention the ones that are relevant to the college’s mission and values. Mention your extracurricular activities, community involvement, and any relevant experience. In this way, you will be able to showcase your commitment to your goals.

• Explain why you are interested in the college:

It is crucial to explain why you are interested in the school beyond its reputation or location. Highlight specific programs, professors, or opportunities that align with your interests and goals.

• Proofread and edit for clarity and correctness:

After writing your cover letter, proofread it. It’s important to omit any errors, grammatical mistakes, or typos. Ensure that your application is clear, concise, and grammatically correct. This is important to create a positive impression on the admissions committee.

Crafting your college application cover letter is a key step in your admission journey. As you prepare, it’s helpful to ponder your post-college career. Learn when to begin considering this next life phase and strategize your future.

How to Format Your College Application Letter?

To make your application stand out, consider the following tips for formatting:

• Use a standard business letter format: Follow the standard business letter format. It includes your name and address at the top, followed by the date, the recipient’s name and address, a formal salutation, and your signature.
• Choose a professional font: Select a professional font, such as Times New Roman or Arial, and use a font size of 12 points. This ensures that your letter is easy to read and looks professional.
• Use clear and concise language: Use formal and professional language in the college admissions cover letter. Be clear and concise in expressing your points.
• Use bullet points : Consider using bullet points to highlight your strengths and achievements. This will help to make your application more readable and memorable.
• Keep it brief: Your application should be no longer than one page, so keep it brief and to the point. Focus on your strengths and why you are interested in attending college.
• Customize your letter to the college: Customize your letter to the college. You can do this by researching the institution’s values and mission. This will help you tailor it to the college’s needs.
• Proofread and edit : Before submitting your application, proofread and edit it for clarity and correctness. This will ensure that your application is free of errors and presents you in the best light possible.

By following these guidelines, you can create a professional and well-crafted college application. It will stand out to the admissions committee and increase your chances of acceptance.

Applying to college can be a competitive process. To give yourself an edge, it’s interesting to know about the most expensive schools in the world. Awareness about these institutions can inform your choices and aspirations.

Sample Structure

I. Introduction

• Introduce yourself and state the purpose
• Express your enthusiasm for the college

II. Research and Connection to the College

• mention what you know about the school
• Explain why you are interested in attending
• Discuss any personal connections you have

III. Highlight your Strengths and Achievements

• Discuss your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and relevant experiences
• Explain how these achievements have prepared you for college
• Highlight any skills or qualities that make you a strong candidate for the institute

IV. Explanation of Why You Are a Good Fit for the College

• Explain how the school aligns with your goals and values
• Discuss how you can contribute to the school community
• Explain why you believe the institute is the right fit for you
• Summarize why you are interested in the college and why you would be a good fit
• Thank the admissions committee for their time and consideration
• Provide your contact information
• End with a formal closing and your signature

Dear Admissions Committee, I am thrilled to submit my application to XYZ University for the upcoming academic year, with a passion for personal growth and academic excellence. I believe XYZ University will provide the perfect platform for me to achieve my goals and contribute to the vibrant university community. Throughout my high school career, I have eagerly engaged in numerous extracurricular activities, such as leading the debate team and volunteering at local nonprofits. My academic performance has been nothing short of exceptional, with rigorous coursework, including AP Biology and Calculus, leading to a strong academic foundation. What excites me most about XYZ University is its commitment to providing a holistic education, combining practical experience through internships and research opportunities with rigorous coursework. These opportunities align perfectly with my career aspirations and personal goals, making me confident that XYZ University is the ideal place for me to grow and thrive. Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the prospect of joining XYZ University and contributing to the community. Best regards, John Poe

Key Takeaways

Here are some things that we have learned from this article:

• A well-thought and well-crafted cover letter can increase your chances of acceptance into an institute of your choice.
• The cover should be concise and tailored to the institute, highlighting your unique qualities.
• Before writing the letter, research the college and ensure it is addressed to the appropriate person.
• Make sure that the opening sentence is strong and attention-grabbing.
• Emphasize your strengths and achievements as well as your interest in the school.
• Follow the formal business letter format.
• Use clear and concise language, as well as bullet points, to keep it brief and on-point.

Writing a stellar college application cover letter is crucial, but so is impeccable grammar. You might find it helpful to check out the Grammarly review . Ensuring flawless grammar can significantly enhance your application’s quality.

Who requires college application cover letters?

When you’re applying for college, you should write a cover letter to accompany your application. This letter is a chance for you to show off your personality, accomplishments, and motivation beyond just your grades. Colleges might have different rules for how they want your letter to look.

Therefore, you must check each school’s requirements before submitting your application. Even the most expensive universities in the world must cover letters. You can learn more about them through our blog.

What is a letter of continued interest?

A letter of continued interest is a formal application that prospective students write to colleges or universities. It is used to express their continued interest in attending the institution. This can be helpful if you are waitlisted or deferred, as it can help you stand out and prove your commitment to the college.

Furthermore, if you are wondering how to start an appeal letter for college , you can refer to articles on our blog.

Can a college cover letter help me?

Yes, a college cover letter can help you in several ways. Firstly, it gives you an opportunity to introduce yourself to the admissions committee. It also enables you to stand out from other applicants.

Secondly, a well-written cover can prove your writing skills. This can help you make a strong impression on the admissions committee.

Finally, a cover application can help highlight your unique achievements and experiences.

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• Graduate School

Graduate School Cover Letter Examples

With writing tips and a step-by-step guide.

Looking at graduate school cover letter examples is a good idea if you plan on applying to a graduate school program, as you may be required to include a cover letter with your  CV for graduate school  and other application components. Even though it is not a required document for all grad school programs, a well-written graduate school cover letter can help you stand out to the admissions committee and improve your chances of being accepted into your chosen program. This is especially true if you are applying to a highly selective institution or trying to  get into graduate school with a low GPA.

This blog will discuss everything you need to know about writing a cover letter for graduate school. You will learn why cover letters are important, learn tips to make your graduate school cover letter stand out, and you will get to review cover letter samples that will inspire you to write your own. 

>> Want us to help you get accepted? Schedule a free initial consultation here <<

Article Contents 10 min read

What is a graduate school cover letter.

A graduate school cover letter is a brief letter that applicants attach to their graduate school application. Much like a work cover letter, such as a  research assistant cover letter , for example, graduate school cover letters are meant to introduce you and your application to the reader. They give you an opportunity to make an excellent first impression, tell the admission committee that you are interested in their graduate school program and why you believe it is a good fit for you. 

Graduate school cover letters have become less popular as graduate schools typically ask students to fill out their personal information and submit materials online. If you are sending specific application materials or your entire application by mail, then you will need to include a graduate school cover letter. Additionally, a few institutions, like the University of Illinois graduate college, for example, require students to submit a graduate school cover letter with their application, even when it is online. 

Furthermore, even when a graduate program does not explicitly ask for a cover letter, including a well-written and informative letter can help differentiate you from the other students by leaving a lasting impression on the admission committee, thus increasing your chances of admission. That said, before you start writing a cover letter for such a program, you should verify the school's admissions website to ensure that the school accepts additional documents. 

It should also be noted that many graduate students look for work and research opportunities at the school that they will be attending. If that is the case for you, then you will need a graduate school cover letter with your application for that school-related internship, job, or research opportunity. For example, if you’re interested in conducting research with a specific professor while you complete your master’s, then it would be a good idea to send them your application with a cover letter attached so that you can communicate your suitability for their research project.

Graduate school cover letters are academic letters, meaning that they need to be formatted in a way that is professional, clear, and concise. Your graduate school cover letter should be no longer than a page, written in a classic font that is easy to read, such as Times New Roman or Calibri, sized 11 or 12.

The text of your letter should be organized and separated into paragraphs. Keep in mind that your letter may go through several readers, and not all of them may be experts in the field you intend to study, so do not use overly technical language or industry-specific jargon. Keep your language succinct, clear, and consistent throughout the letter.

Lastly, your letter needs to provide a quick introduction to you as a candidate and pique the reader's interest so that they want to read the rest of your application. This means that you should not use your cover letter to list all of the experiences and skills that make you perfect for this graduate program. Simply express your interest in the program, select one or two experiences, skills, or values to focus on, and relate those to your suitability for the program you're applying for.

Wondering how to get into grad school with a lower GPA?

Step 1: Brainstorm & plan 

The first thing you want to do before you start working on your cover letter, or any graduate school admission essay, is make a plan. Think about what you want to say in your cover letter and write it down. Remember that you only have a few paragraphs to work with, and you do not want to repeat information from your personal statement or other application components. 

Once you know what you want your cover letter to say, organize it so that it flows nicely, and it is easy to follow. Your graduate school cover letter should follow the structure of a typical letter. It should have an introductory paragraph, the main body, and a closing paragraph. 

Step 2: Address your letter 

As mentioned earlier, your graduate school cover letter is, in fact, a letter! Therefore, you should begin by addressing it the way you would in a formal letter. Write your full name and mailing address at the very top. We also recommend including your email address and phone number, but this is optional. On the following line, write out the date, and then write the recipient's name (typically, this is the name of the head of the department or just the name of the school you are applying to) and their address. You should verify the school's admissions webpage for this information. If it is unclear and you are unsure whom to address in the letter, contact the school and ask for this information to ensure that your documents get to the right person. 

This first section of your letter should follow this template:

1234 Imaginary Lane

NameofCity, TN 34421

December 12, 20XX

Dr. John Smith

Department of Psychology

BeMo Academic University

66 University Circle

NameofCity, TN 34457

Once again, because this is a formal letter, you want to open your letter with the appropriate greeting or a personal salutation. If you have the name of a specific recipient, you can use the most common salutation for graduate school cover letters, which is "Dear [recipient's name]." Do not forget to include the recipient's title if you have it. If you do not have the name of a specific recipient, then you can simply address the letter "To Whom It May Concern". 

Step 4: Introduce yourself and express your interest in the graduate program

The reader will already have your name at the top of the page, but your introductory paragraph should tell them why you're writing this graduate school cover letter. You should use it to state your interest in your chosen graduate program and briefly mention your academic background and accomplishments thus far. 

Take a look at this example for context: 

I am pleased to submit my application for the Master of Applied Psychology program at X university. As a recent psychology graduate of YZ university, this graduate program is the perfect next step toward achieving my goal of becoming a clinical psychologist. 

Step 5: Talk about your suitability for this program

This is the main body of your graduate school cover letter. You should try to limit this to one paragraph, but you can use up to two of them if necessary. You should briefly touch on why you chose this particular school and program, what skills you have that have prepared you for this program, and what makes you an ideal applicant. 

You can talk about what you intend to do after this degree or specific professors and faculty members you wish to work with. The information you share here will be personal, so there is no golden template. Just ensure that it is written in an organized fashion that is easy to read and understand. 

Step 6: Conclude and close your letter 

In your last paragraph, make sure you thank the recipient for their time and consideration. You should also encourage them to reach out to you if they need additional information, or if they have any questions. Then finally, You can close your cover letter with a warm, professional closing salutation. "Sincerely" or "Warm Regards" followed by your name are some acceptable closing salutations you can use.

Step 7: List enclosed documents

This section of your graduate school cover letter will look different depending on the school you are applying to, and the application format used. If you are applying by mail, you should list the enclosed documents in the same envelope as your cover letter. If you are applying online or by email, verify that all of the documents listed on your cover letter are attached and ready to send. 

This section should be at the very bottom of the page. It should list the documents in a bullet point format, in the order in which they are enclosed. The list should look something like this: 

Sincerely, 

Jane Doe 

• Program application form 
• Statement of purpose
• Academic transcripts

Letters of recommendation

Graduate school cover letter examples 

Graduate school cover letter example #1.

Candice Williams

1234 Dream St. 

Winnipeg, MB R3J 8T6

[email protected]

204-990-887

August 12, 20xx

Dr. Trevor Thorne

Department of English, Theatre, Film & Media

Toronto, ON M4C 2Y9

Dear Dr. Thorne,

I am excited to submit my application for consideration for the English literature master's program at BeMo Academic University. I have spent the past four years learning the basics of literature analysis through my bachelor's degree in the field, and I am eager to take this next step in my educational journey in order to further my training.

My undergraduate studies allowed me to explore and learn about different forms of literature from around the world. Still, I often found myself drawn to the impressive works of Shakespeare, Milton, Bronte, and many other great English writers. I had the opportunity to study in London for a year, where I attended a seminar on the impact of Charlotte Bronte's work on modern feminism led by none other than Prof. Jane Smith. She is one of the many brilliant professors in the English, Theatre, Film & Media department at BeMo that I hope to learn from. 

You will find enclosed the required application documents, including my academic CV, which provides more information on the research I have been able to do and publish so far in my short academic career. I am especially interested in the role that authors such as William Shakespeare played in the development of modern English, and I wish to explore that further through research. I feel that the rigorous curriculum this program offers will inform my future writing and research efforts, and allow me to achieve my goals. 

Thank you for your time, attention, and consideration. It is truly appreciated. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any additional information. 

Program application form

Statement of purpose 

Graduate CV

Official undergraduate transcripts

Angela Wong

102-9876 Mainland Rd.

New Haven, CT 44567

[email protected]  

April 8, 20XX

University of BeMo

175 Academy lane

New York, NY 34567

To whom it may concern,

It is my pleasure to submit my application for the Master's degree in Early Childhood Development in the Psychology department at The University of BeMo. I am currently completing my bachelor's degree in psychology and plan to graduate in the fall. Since my goal is to pursue a career as an educational psychologist, this particular program is the perfect next step toward achieving my goal. 

My undergraduate degree includes coursework in childhood psychology, special needs education, school and family crisis intervention, and many other courses that have given me the basics required to keep up with the thorough coursework that awaits me in your rigorous program. 

I have also gained valuable knowledge in the field through shadowing and internships in different schools in my community. Observing other child educators at work confirmed that this is the right career path for me, and it motivated me anew to learn how I can best help children develop a love of learning from the early stages of their educational careers. I know that there is only so much I can learn from observing, and the fact that this program provides six months of hands-on training is one of the many reasons why I am hoping to be a student at BeMo next year. 

Thank you for your time and consideration. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any additional information or documents. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Research Interest Statement

Cover letters are supposed to be a brief introduction to your application, so unless otherwise specified by the school, they should not be longer than one page. We recommend sticking to three to four paragraphs, as this is long enough to share substantial information without losing your audience. Keep in mind that your reader will also be reviewing your other application components, so you do not need to address everything in this one letter. The information in your other application components, such as your  statement of purpose , will complement your cover letter. So, treat your cover letter like a summary of your candidacy; keep it short but impactful.

Be genuine & professional

The individual or committee that will review your application will probably be people that help run the program you're applying to. It is, therefore, best that they get a sense of who you genuinely are. Communicate honestly and let your personality shine through. This will help make your cover letter more memorable. That said, keep in mind that this is a professional document and that genuine does not mean informal or unprofessional. Your tone should still be courteous and consistent throughout the letter.

Proofread & edit carefully

We cannot stress how important this is. Remember that your graduate school cover letter will be one of, if not the first, document that the admissions committee will see from your application. You do not want their first impression of you to be negative. Your letter should be easy to read and follow, and it should be error-free.

Take the time to review your letter multiple times and edit for flow, grammar, spelling, punctuation, and typos. Better yet, reach out to a  grad school essay tutor  for assistance. They can review your cover letter and help you edit it to make sure it is up to par.

Grad school essay tutors can also help you with other tricky written application components, such as  grad school career goals statements . So, do not hesitate to contact one if you need  grad school application help. ","label":"Bonus tip","title":"Bonus tip"}]" code="tab1" template="BlogArticle">

It is a brief letter that you attach to your graduate school application. This letter should state your interest in the program, and briefly explain why you chose it, as well as why you are a good fit for it.

Many programs do not request graduate school cover letters, but they are more common than most people think. Additionally, several programs accept grad school cover letters even when not required, so you can still submit a cover letter to help your application stand out.

That depends on the program that you are applying to. Some schools may request a cover letter for online applications, and others may not require one, but they allow students to submit them as an optional component.

Graduate school cover letters are not replacements for admission essays like a personal statement or  statement of intent . So if your school requires a graduate school cover letter, do not assume that this means you will not have to write any grad school admission essays.

Unless you are given the name of a specific member of the admission committee, you should address your graduate school cover letter to the "Admissions team," "[subject] Head of Department," or "To Whom It May Concern."

You can make your graduate school cover letter stand out by making sure your personality shines through in your writing, telling a short anecdote or interesting fact about you in the body of the letter, and detailing your relevant skills and experience.

Graduate school can be pretty competitive, but the level of competition depends on the specific program you will be applying to. Some programs have acceptance rates as high as 60%, while others admit less than 10% of applicants.

Graduate school advisors are admission experts who help students plan and prepare for graduate school applications.

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College Application Cover Letter Examples

As a college instructor and communication expert with extensive nonfiction and educational writing experience, Mary shares tips and advice related to a wide variety of topics.

Learn about our Editorial Policy .

When you are applying for college admission, it's important to do everything possible to make sure your application really stands out. Sending a cover letter in support of your application materials can be a great way to capture admissions officers' attention in a positive way while also giving them a chance to learn a bit about your personality and unique circumstances.

Example Cover Letter Templates for College Applications

You can use a cover letter whether you are applying via the Common Application or if you are submitting an individual admission packet. Choose the sample letter below that best fits your needs and adjust it to convey key highlights of why you should be considered for admission. To access each letter, simply click the image. It will open as an editable PDF file that you can customize, save and print. This guide for Adobe printables can be of assistance if you need help with the documents.

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Sample Cover Letter for College Application Packets

If you are submitting a school-specific applicant packet, include the letter with all of your other materials (such as your application form, essay, and application fee).

Example Cover Letter to Pair With the Common App

If you are using the Common App, also known as the Common Application, you may still want to send an individualized cover letter to the schools that you're most interested in attending. Consider sending your cover letter to each school's admissions representative at the same time you complete your Common App, or even a few days before.

Writing Your College Application Cover Letter

While the samples here are great starting points, you will need to adjust them to focus on your specific situation. You will need to include:

• Why you want to attend this particular school
• What your academic interests are
• How the school is a good fit for your academic interests and long-term goals
• How your background and future interests make you a great candidate to consider
• Any special connections you have to the school (i.e., do you have relatives who graduated from the school?)
• Details on how the other components of your application packet will be received
• A specific request to consider you for admission
• Details on how to contact you

Stand Out to College Admission Officers

A well-written cover letter can be a terrific add-on to your college application package. Not everyone will think to send this kind of document, so it just might help you stand out among the other applicants. Of course, a poorly written letter can have the opposite effect. So, be sure that your letter follows an appropriate business letter format, really presents you in a positive light, is well-written, and error-free .

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Gre prep online guides and tips, do you need a cover letter for graduate school applications.

Applying to graduate school means getting together a lot of materials. Most likely, you’ll need transcripts, letters of recommendation, a CV or resume, and a statement of purpose—but do you also need a cover letter for graduate school?

Read on to learn whether you need to submit a graduate school cover letter and how to make one. We’ll also give you six essential tips for making your cover letter for graduate school shine.

Do You Need a Cover Letter for Graduate School?

Generally, you don’t need to submit a cover letter with your graduate school application. Since most programs require you to input your personal information using an online application system, you usually won’t have to submit a separate cover letter as well.

In fact, your statement of purpose already accomplishes most of what a cover letter does: it introduces who you are as well as your academic interests, accomplishments, and goals. Therefore, you most likely won’t need to write a cover letter for your application.

Rarely, a program may ask you to submit a cover letter with your application (or allow you to submit one, even if it’s not required). If you are applying to graduate school by mail, you may want (or need) to include a cover letter in order to highlight your interest in the program and ensure it reaches the correct department.

However, most programs require you to apply online, so you can’t send in an application by mail unless your program allows it.  Aside from these relatively isolated cases, you shouldn’t need to submit a cover letter for graduate school.

That said, if you’re applying for a school-related job or internship, it’s common (and often necessary) to submit a cover letter with your application.  For example, if you were a current grad student looking to conduct research under a specific professor, you could submit a cover letter to that professor explaining who you are and why you’re interested in conducting research with him or her.

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Or, let’s say you’re applying for a part-time job or internship at your school. In this case, you’ll most likely need to submit a cover letter to introduce yourself, your skills, and your employment history.

How to Write a Cover Letter for Graduate School: Step by Step

If you plan to submit a graduate school cover letter, it’s important to know what to include on it so that you can make a positive impression on the admission committee (or employer).

In this section, we go over the six essential steps for writing a great cover letter for graduate school. With each step, we give you examples using our original graduate school cover letter sample .

Step 1: Address Your Letter

A clear and organized cover letter is key to making a good impression. Open your letter with your name and contact information followed by your recipient’s name and contact information (as if you were addressing an envelope).

Write your full name first and then use the lines directly beneath it to write your home address. You may also include your phone number and/or email address on a fourth or fifth line after your home address; however, this is optional.

Next, insert a blank space after your contact information and write today’s date. You may use the month-day-year format (e.g., September 4, 2017) or the more formal day-month-year format (e.g., 4 September 2017). Either is fine!

Leave another blank space after the date and  write your recipient’s contact information (i.e., to whom you’re sending your cover letter and application).

The name you use here depends on where you’re sending your application. If applying for admission to a graduate program, address your letter to either the head of the department or the head of the admission committee. If you’re not sure whom to address your letter to, contact your program and ask.

Write the name of the recipient with his or her title, if applicable. On the next line, write the name of the department/school for which the recipient works along with the address of the department/school.

Step 2: Use a Salutation

Like all letters, you should begin your cover letter with a greeting, or salutation, to your recipient.

The most common salutation for cover letters is “Dear [Recipent’s Name]” followed by a comma or a colon.  A comma is a little less formal than a colon, but either mark is acceptable.

If you can’t figure out whom to address your cover letter to, write, “Dear Head of Admissions,” “Dear Graduate Coordinator,” or “To Whom It May Concern.” All of these salutations are acceptable, though less personal than a name; thus, it’s best to find a specific person to address your letter to.

Step 3: Introduce Yourself (Paragraph 1)

Now, we get to the heart of the cover letter. Use this first paragraph to briefly introduce yourself and what program or position you’re applying for.  Also, talk a little about what your background in the field is, why you’re interested in this position/program, and how you heard about it.

Step 4: Summarize Your Background and Qualifications (Paragraph 2)

For this next paragraph, you’ll give a brief summary of any relevant skills and experiences you have that make you an ideal applicant for this program/position. Be sure to focus on transferrable skills— skills that can be applied across a range of fields and positions.

In addition, think deeply about why you’re drawn to this program/school and what it can do for you. What are your research interests and how will this program help you fulfill them? What do you plan to do after completing the program?

Finally, consider how you’ll fit with the program. Do your interests match what the program offers or specializes in? Are there any specific professors or faculty members you wish to work with?

Step 5: Thank Your Reader and List Enclosed Materials (Paragraph 3)

The final paragraph will be a short concluding paragraph in which you thank your reader(s) and give a list of enclosed materials.

When listing what’s enclosed, you may use commas or insert a short bullet list. Normally, you’ll enclose some or all of the following materials:

• Application for the program/position
• Statement of purpose
• Transcripts
• Letters of recommendation

Be sure to list the enclosed materials in the order in which they’re enclosed. Programs may ask you to submit materials in a specific order, so check that you’re following your program’s directions exactly (and aren’t forgetting to include any documents either).

Another option is to include a list of your enclosed materials at the end of your letter instead of in this final paragraph (see step 6 for more information).

Step 6: Add a Closing Greeting

The last step is to wrap up your letter with a polite closing salutation. There are many greetings you can use to close your letter, such as “Sincerely,” “Yours Truly,” “Warm Regards,” and “Respectfully Yours.”

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After this greeting, insert a blank line and then type your name.  Traditionally, you’d insert three or four blank spaces before typing your name; these spaces would then be used to sign your name in pen. Nowadays it’s OK to skip this step, especially if you’re trying to save space!

Take care to avoid any overly sentimental greetings, such as “Love” or “Forever Yours,” as these are inappropriate for a professional cover letter. Likewise, avoid using the single-word closing “From,” as this can sound a bit rigid and emotionless.

As I mentioned before, you may also insert a list of enclosed materials after your greeting (if you didn’t list them in your concluding paragraph). To do this, insert a space after your typed name and write “Enclosed,” “Enclosure,” or “Enc” followed by a colon. Then, insert a bullet list of the enclosed materials (in the order in which they’re enclosed). Here’s an example:

6 Tips for a Great Graduate School Cover Letter

Your cover letter for graduate school needs to make a great first impression on your program’s admission committee. Here are our top tips for ensuring your cover letter exceeds even your own expectations.

#1: Use a Polite, Professional, and Positive Tone

Because your cover letter is the first document the admission committee will see, be sure to do the following:

• Avoid slang and casual phrases. Nothing says unprofessional like “gotta” and “gonna,” so limit these words to conversations only. Remember, the cover letter is a formal document, much like an essay for school, so it’s better to err on the side of too formal than on the side of too casual.
• Be enthusiastic. Nobody wants to admit an unenthusiastic applicant, so use strong, positive words to convey your pleasure in applying to the program. Stick with upbeat words and phrases such as “happy,” “pleased,” “excited,” “thankful,” “accomplished,” etc.
• Thank your readers. Being polite is all about saying “thank you.” In your letter, thank your readers for their consideration and make it clear that you understand they’re spending a lot of time looking over your application. Don’t thank them over and over, though—this wastes valuable space and ultimately makes you sound desperate!

#2: Be Concise

The cover letter is not the time to delve deep into your personal reasons for pursuing a graduate degree (this is for your statement of purpose!), so be concise without forgoing critical facts about you and why you’re applying.

You’ll typically want to keep your cover letter at a maximum of one page,  with no more than two to four paragraphs. Since this letter is short, avoid getting verbose: don’t use tons of flowery language or open with a broad statement. Rather, get straight to the point of who you are, what program you’re applying to, and why you’re a qualified candidate.

If you’re not sure what to include in your letter, read through your resume/CV and statement of purpose to make note of what you’ve already mentioned in those documents. Then, cut down (or remove completely) any similar parts in your cover letter. In short, don’t repeat information you’ve already talked in detail about in other parts of your application.

#3: Use a Neutral Font Face, Size, and Color

Because the cover letter is a professional document, you’ll want to keep its format simple and elegant, as you would a school essay.

Stick with basic “generic” fonts,  such as Times New Roman, Arial, Tahoma, and Calibri. Don’t get creative by choosing fonts such as Comic Sans and Chiller—this will make your cover letter look wildly unprofessional and implies you’re not taking the application process seriously.

In terms of size, don’t use a super small or super large font size. You shouldn’t need to squeeze in tons of information on your cover letter, so an 11- or 12-point font should work fine.

Finally, use a regular black font color (on regular white computer paper). Wacky colors, like wacky font faces, will only make you look unprofessional!

#4: Single-Space Text

Unlike school essays, for which you always double-space and indent your paragraphs, the cover letter is single-spaced and uses block paragraphs. This means that instead of pressing the “tab” button to indent each paragraph, you’ll separate each paragraph from the next using a single blank space.

You should also insert a blank line when indicating any sort of transition from one element in your cover letter (e.g., a salutation) to another (e.g., a paragraph). Use our graduate school cover letter sample  to better understand how spacing should look.

#5: Align Everything Left

On cover letters, everything needs to be aligned left, from your address and date to your salutations and paragraphs. As I mentioned above, you do not  need to indent your paragraphs, so keep these aligned left as well.

There’s no need to justify your paragraphs.  In fact, I advise against doing this, as the justification tool on Word often inserts bizarre spacing between words, making paragraphs more difficult to read.

#6: Edit and Proofread

Like every part of your application, take time to edit and proofread your cover letter. Go over the technical and stylistic sides of your writing: make sure your paragraphs flow well together, and check that you haven’t made any glaring grammar, spelling, or formatting mistakes. (For specific tips on formatting, see tips 3-5 above as well as our graduate school cover letter sample .)

I also strongly suggest getting someone else to read your cover letter. A separate pair of eyes will ensure that your letter is as clear and cogent as it can be.

Remember, your cover letter is the first part of your application the admission committee will see, so it must be as close as possible to perfect. Typos and errors will set a negative tone for the rest of your application, even if your other materials are strong. Don’t let the cover letter be your downfall!

Recap: How to Write a Cover Letter for Graduate School

Cover letters for graduate school are generally quite rare. Most programs require you to fill out your personal information and submit materials online, so you won’t usually need to submit a cover letter with your application.

That said, if you are applying for a graduate program by mail, have been asked to submit a cover letter, or are applying for a school-related job or internship, you’ll need to know how to write a cover letter for graduate school.

A graduate school cover letter must include the following elements:

• Your name and address
• Your recipient’s name and address
• A greeting (usually “Dear [Name]”)
• Two to three paragraphs explaining who you are, what you’re applying for, and why you’re a qualified applicant
• A concluding paragraph thanking your recipient for considering you and including a list of any enclosed materials (e.g., a statement of purpose, transcripts, letters of recommendation, etc.)
• A closing greeting with your name (typed, or typed and signed)

Finally, to make a great cover letter for graduate school, be sure to follow these six tips:

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• Use a polite, professional, and positive tone
• Use a neutral font face, size, and color
• Single-space text
• Align everything left
• Edit and proofread

You should now have no trouble creating a strong cover letter for graduate school!

What’s Next?

You know how to write a graduate school cover letter—but what about a CV? A resume?  Check out our guides on how to write a CV and  resume  to learn what to include, what to leave out, and how to raise your odds of getting accepted to your program. And if you get stuck, use  our high-quality resume and CV templates  as a guide!

Need to write an essay for graduate school, too?  Learn how to write a personal statement  and how to write a statement of purpose using our in-depth guides and expert tips. We’ve also got samples of both personal statements (coming soon) and statements of purpose .

Ready to improve your GRE score by 7 points?

Author: Hannah Muniz

Hannah graduated summa cum laude from the University of Southern California with a bachelor’s degree in English and East Asian languages and cultures. After graduation, she taught English in Japan for two years via the JET Program. She is passionate about education, writing, and travel. View all posts by Hannah Muniz

Cover Letter For Graduate School: Sample And Tips

When you apply to graduate school, your application materials should be accompanied by a well-written cover letter. If you are submitting your application online, your cover letter for graduate school will be in a form of an email. 

At any rate, the purpose of your cover letter is three-fold:

• Provide a summary of your application details 
• Introduce you to the selection committee
• Make you stand out from other applicants

Perhaps you’ve already applied for a job before and wrote a general short cover letter . But a grad school cover letter is slightly different in shape and content. 

Thus, it’s important to get all the details right. To help you with that, this post features a cover letter example for graduate school. On top, we have a few tips on how to make your letter stand out from the crowd!

Cover Letter Sample For Graduate School – .docx Format

Download example (Word version)

Cover Letter Example For Graduate School – Text Format

Dear Dr. Natel,

My name is Corrine Ninja, and I am respectfully submitting my application for entry into the graduate program at the University of Kentucky College of Arts and Sciences – School of Anthropology. It is my intention to complete the required courses and other work to obtain my Master of Arts degree in Cultural Anthropology. I am particularly excited about the opportunity to build a degree program that allows me to continue the research I began in undergraduate school on the intersection of urban and feminist cultures.

I am currently studying anthropology at The University of MO Kansas City. My application for graduation has been accepted, and I will receive my BA in Cultural Anthropology with a Minor in Women’s Studies in August 2021. I hope to begin my graduate studies immediately after that. I was encouraged to apply for this program at a lecture I attended led by Prof. Davis Beckett, your lead instructor of Anthropology Research Methods.

As part of my coursework, I have spent the last two years studying urban and feminist culture in large cities in the Midwest, with a particular interest in the ways that nearby rural cultures impact urban areas via the use of ‘othering’. I’m very proud of the work I have done as an ethnographer during this research, and hope to pursue this as a career after completing my graduate work. The MA program at the University of Kentucky is very research-intensive and that what made it highly appealing to me. I’m confident that I could be a valuable contributor to this work, and that I would also benefit from working under such skilled researchers.

Enclosed is my personal statement, CV, letters of recommendation, and application. Please contact me if you need any additional materials. I look forward to hearing from you.

Respectfully,

Corrine Ninja

Graduate School Cover Letter Writing Tips

Here are some extra tips for writing your cover letter, determining what information to include, and making your overall application stand out.

Be Brief But Complete

Similar to a scholarship cover letter , you should balance brevity with providing all the information the selection committee needs. As a general rule, your application should include two to three paragraphs. However, don’t leave things out just to meet that criterion. Your goal is to exclude things that don’t really add useful information and to avoid being overly wordy.

Open With an Introduction and Purpose

Your cover letter should get to the point quickly. Introduce yourself, and state the reason for the letter. Provide sufficient details. The first person reading your letter may simply be looking for information on how to route your letter to the right person. 

Here’s a sample opening to try:

My name is Eleanor Hayes, and I am graduating in August with a bachelor’s degree in international business from the University of South Carolina. I am writing this letter to submit my application for the MBA program at the University of Ninjas. If accepted, I intend to begin my studies in January of 2022.

Detail Your Current Academic Standing

Many students begin the application process while they are still undergraduate students. This may impact when your application is considered and the number of seats available to you. So be forthcoming about whether you are a current student. Or chose to go into the field for a couple of years and now returning to academia .

Share Why You Are Interested in The Program

Spaces in graduate programs are very limited. Across programs, Princeton admitted only 1,332 graduate students out of 12,553 applicants last year. That’s about 10.6%. Additionally, schools invest a lot of money into graduate students by way of assistantship programs and research grants . So, it makes sense that they have a vested interest in only accepting students who are going to be very dedicated to the programs that they offer. Share in detail what makes a particular program so appealing to you.

Discuss Relevant Research And Experience

There’s more to graduate school admissions than having a great transcript. To compete with other applicants, you should have good research work, real-life experience, volunteer work, or internships under your belt. Out of these, choose two examples of your most relevant experience and bring them up in your cover letter. 

Indicate a Connection

If you have an alumni connection or received any sort of referral to apply, give that person’s name in your application. It’s important to credit them for pointing you in the right direction, and listing that connection may also help your application.

Final Tip: Make it Targeted

Although the application process is exhausting, avoid the temptation to send a similar letter to each selection committee. Take the time to write a targeted letter that specifically addresses each graduate program individually.

Other Cover Letter Samples

Cover letter for academic advisor: example and tips, police officer cover letter example for service-ready candidates, a detailed business analyst cover letter example with writing tips, a staunch surgical tech cover letter example.

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School Admission Cover Letter

Last Updated On August 3, 2018 By Letter Writing Leave a Comment

A school admission letter is a formal letter written by a student and addressed to the principal of a school the student wishes to join. Such letters outline the reason why the student has left his former school or discontinued his previous education and why he would like to enroll in that particular school.

It is either an application letter for school admission for a child or can be an application letter for university admission by an aspiring student.

The letter is usually short and extremely politely written. School admission letters must get across an impressive and admirable persona of a student to the reviewer. Otherwise, the principal may not grant the student admission in the school. Therefore these letters play an important role.

School Admission Cover Letter Writing Tips:

• Always be exceedingly polite. Praise the institution and its educational facilities. Mention that you would like nothing better than to study here in this institution that you admire so deeply.
• Explain why you are changing schools or education boards or both. Explain the reason. Mention any significant circumstances
• Be courteous in your request to be granted admission in the school. Mention any of your extra-curricular activities and request the reviewer to consider your application on the basis of your merit.

School Admission Cover Letter Template

__________ __________ __________ __________

Date: _____ (Date on Which Letter is Written)

Subject: Cove Letter for School Admission

Dear _____(Sir or Madam),

I wish to join the _______ (What is the Class/Grade You Wish to Join) grade of your school ___________ (What is the Name of the New School) at ______ (Where is the New School Situated) after successful completion of ________ (What is Your Current Class/Grade) grade from (What is the Name of Your Current School). My academic marks have been consistently above average in all the grades and I also take part actively in all the co curricular activities.

I do hope that I get a chance to study in _______ (What is the Class/Grade You Wish to Join) as I have heard a lot about the training programs and opportunities offered in your school. Furthermore, a team of excellent teachers with their conceptual method of teaching is also famous among everyone.

I would like to join the school to learn more in all the fields and excel in my academics .I assure you given a chance I would be an asset to your school.

I will be eagerly waiting to hear from you. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Thanking You

Yours truly, Name and Signature

Download Template (Doc and PDF)

School Admission Cover Letter Sample, Email and Example/Format

_____ _____ ______

___ ____ ___

Subject: Application for admission in school

Respected Sir/Madam,

I, _________ [name of student], had been studying in ____ [previous school] before. However, due to a transfer in my father’s job location, our family has had to relocate here to Mumbai, and I’m therefore applying to you to kindly grant me admission in your esteemed school.

I have a high average in academics from my previous school and I’m also a state-level basketball player. I have taken part in quite a few extra-curricular activities. I believe the environment and nature of this school and its students will suit me extremely well and will also aid me in growing further as a human being.

If granted permission to enroll in your institution, I promise I will be at my disciplined best at all times of the school day and that I will do my best to live up the expectations of my teachers.

Kindly find attached all my necessary documents.

Thanking you,

Yours faithfully, ______ [Name and details]

School Admission Cover Letter Generator

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Cover Letter Advice & Samples

Cover letter advice and samples.

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• Draft your cover letter knowing it is your first writing sample.
• Understand that a cover letter should persuade the reader.
• Use the cover letter to “connect the dots” of your experiences.
• Resist the temptation to restate your resume.
• Keep your cover letter to one page.
• Use the font style and point size that match your resume.
• Remember that the reader is busy: less is more.
• Ensure your cover letter is error free.

Cover Letter Construction

Address block and salutation.

• Address the cover letter to an actual person.
• Research websites or call employer to determine recipient’s name.
• If you cannot find the name of a hiring contact, address your letter to the head of the unit, department, or office.
• While this is the least-preferred option, you may address your letter to “Dear Hiring Committee” if you cannot locate the name of an actual person.
• For firms, address your letter to the recruiting director. For larger firms, contact information for recruiting directors is available at www.nalpdirectory.com in the Basic Information section.
• In the salutation, include the recipient’s title and last name (e.g., “Dear Ms. Raintree”) or write the recipient’s entire name (e.g., “Dear Jamie Morales”).

Paragraph One

• Tell the employer who you are and what you are seeking.
• Highlight (past, present, and future) geographic connections.
• Indicate if you have talked to students/faculty/friends/alumni who speak highly of the organization.

Paragraph Two

• Show that you understand the employer’s mission/practice, the work its attorneys do, and the clients it serves.
• Demonstrate your proven interest in and connection to that mission/practice, work, and clients.

Paragraph Three

• Describe skills you will contribute to support that mission/practice, work, and clients.
• Provide evidence from your experiences and coursework.

Paragraph Four

• List the documents included with the letter.
• Tell the employer how to get in touch with you by email, telephone, and mail.
• Convey your availability for a conversation, mentioning upcoming trips to the area.
• Thank the employer for considering you.
• Mention availability of Yale summer funding, if applicable.
• Optional: Promise that you will follow up in a few weeks if you think the employer would appreciate the diligence.

Sample Cover Letters (PDF)

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How to Write a Successful Internship Cover Letter

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How to Write a Successful Internship Cover Letter was originally published on Symba .

Internship applications normally ask for cover letters describing why you want the job and how you’re qualified. If you’re new to the workforce, writing a cover letter for a job application can be intimidating. Here are some tips and examples on how to write an internship cover letter. Why Are Cover Letters Important?

Besides the resume, cover letters are your first impression to an organization. A cover letter weaves together the different elements on your resume to create a cohesive story for your potential employer. By reading your cover letter, the hiring manager should understand your background, specific aspects of your background that qualify you for the internship, why you want that internship in particular, and how you’re different from other applicants. It’s important to carve out sufficient time to craft a well-written cover letter to make a good impression and help get your foot in the door for an interview.

Tips for Writing Successful Internship Cover Letters

1. KISS (Keep It Simple Stupid). Most cover letters should not be essays. Limit your letter to one page maximum. The hiring manager has their full-time job and is probably wading through multiple applications. They will not only appreciate your ability to say a lot with little, but will probably not read anything past one page. There may be special circumstances where you might have to write more than one page but that is the exception not the rule.

2. Personalize. It’s important to personalize your cover letters. Match your specific skills with the job description. Some employers may even ask for non-traditional cover letters. Personalizing will show that you read the job description and care enough about the job and application. You should also try to personalize your letter to a specific person. If you can find the name of your hiring manager, direct the cover letter to them.

3. Talk about what you can do for the organization, not what the organization can do for you. The hiring manager does not need to read about how this internship is your dream job and can transform your life. They want to know what your unique experiences in life can bring to the table and how you can help the organization.

4. If you don’t have previous work experience, write about your academics and any extracurriculars. Many intern managers understand that not every applicant will have previous work experience or work experience that’s directly related to the position. However, you’ve probably taken related academic classwork or maybe done extracurriculars that demonstrate your work ethic, leadership, and other relevant skills that are important for an intern.

5. Proofread. For many hiring managers, typos are a huge red flag. Lack of attention in a job application can signal potential lack of attention on the job. It is important to make sure both your cover letter and your resume are spot-free . Use spell check and read over your letter several times.

6. Ask others to review. Looking at the same thing over again can make it easy to miss mistakes. Have another person read your cover letter. It may also spark additional ideas that you can include in the letter.

Sample Cover Letters

Here are some examples of cover letters Team Symba has written that have gotten us into internships. Companies are anonymized.

Dear Hiring Manager at Company ABC:

I’m Ellen Zhang, a senior studying Marketing and Information Systems at Boston College. I’ve explored many career options from practicing law to playwriting, but I have never changed my desire to help others tell their stories. Marketing initially appealed to me because it involves telling the stories of products and brands to inspire consumer intention. When I took Consumer Behavior, I loved learning how both conscious and subconscious perceptions result in different buyer responses and it solidified my desire to pursue a career in marketing.

During my freshman year at BC, I planned a flash mob. Over the month that we marketed our event, we had grown to over 600 interested attendees on our Facebook event page and had the support of Boston radio station Kiss 108’s street team. We performed the 300-person flash mob successfully and made it to the local news channel. Our flash mob has also accumulated hundreds of thousands of views on YouTube. Besides honing my organizational skills, I learned the importance of an adaptable leadership style, of appropriately delegating tasks to team members, and of a constant line of effective communication. This flash mob also piqued my interest in inbound marketing since all our marketing efforts were through social media. I find it amazing how powerful and cost-efficient social media marketing can be, so subsequently, I took a class on Social Media for Managers, where we acquainted ourselves with the rapidly evolving world of social marketing. A little less than a year after the flash mob, I started my first internship at a boutique sports agency and worked with the marketing director. When I was tasked with making the new logo for the 2013 Vince Wilfork Foundation (VWF) Draft Night Fundraiser, I had my first professional taste of graphic design. It was very satisfying seeing my logo design on every event collateral, especially when the logo was sent out on gift bag invites to the Patriot players. My interest in marketing aesthetics and branding grew as I helped to build the image of the VWF and tell their story through visual media. During my next internship at the Computer Clubhouse, I was also tasked with helping build their brand image through web design and social media, and as an occasional mentor to the kids, I helped them shape and develop their own creative identities so they could tell their own stories.

Though I do love graphic design and am constantly practicing my skills, I would also love to be more involved with the strategy behind digital marketing and branding as well as work with analytics, which my market research class introduced me to. I hope that during an internship and my future career, my ideas and my work can inspire people, and I find it so rewarding that the stories that I can tell through brands and products can breathe life into intangible ideas and infuse character into inanimate objects. I believe that my previous work experience at my both my internships and my research position, my diverse marketing and IS coursework, and my love of story-telling make me a good fit as an intern for Company ABC. Thank you very much for your time and consideration!

Sincerely, Ellen Zhang

DEPARTMENT COMPANY ABC ADDRESS

Dear HIRING MANAGER at COMPANY ABC,

I’m writing to share my sincere interest in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) Internship Position. My name is Ahva Sadeghi, and I am Master’s student in Human Rights at the London School of Economics and Political Science. I recently graduated in May 2015 with my Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy, Political Science, Economics and Law from the University of Arizona Honors College as the Outstanding Senior. In 2013, I studied International Relations at Georgetown University. Throughout my studies, I have visited the MENA Programme site numerous times to study policy research on the region, and I am sincerely thrilled to have the opportunity to apply.

My personal academic interests are heavily vested in the Middle East. I am presently writing my Master’s dissertation on economic sanctions and human rights with a concentration on the Middle East. In my undergraduate studies, I wrote my Honors Thesis on women’s rights, political resistance and government policies on veiling in Iran. As an Iranian American, I have strong cultural and familial ties to the region, which prompts my passion, curiosity and research in international affairs and the Middle East.

My individual academic appeal to the Middle East is coupled with professional research positions on the region. Last year, I contributed to the 2014-2015 Human Rights Report on the Middle East as a Human Rights Research intern with the U.S. Department of State. I researched human rights violations, government affairs and policies concerning my delegated countries (Iran, Iraq, Qatar, and Syria), utilizing my Persian and Arabic language skills to access various forms of media. In 2014, I conducted research and data collection to contribute to the 2013 Trafficking in Persons Report as an intern with the Office to Combat and Monitor Trafficking in Persons with the U.S. Department of State. During my undergraduate studies, I was the Middle East Correspondent for my university’s international current events journal, and I founded my university’s international human rights awareness student organization. Throughout these positions, I have sincerely enjoyed learning and developing my understanding of the region.

It would be a privilege to continue my research on the Middle East with the MENA Programme at COMPANY ABC. The work produced by the MENA Programme has had a strong impact on my studies and understanding of the region, and I would be humbled to participate in the MENA Programme’s activities. Please feel free contact me via phone or email with any further questions. I look forward to discussing my application with you soon.

Yours Sincerely,

Ahva Sadeghi PHONE NUMBER EMAIL

Every cover letter should be unique to the job application and tell a story of where you’re from, how your skills and experiences complement the job requirements, and where you want to go. For additional help on crafting a cover letter, UC Davis has a great internship cover letter starter kit with a content worksheet to help you write.

The post How to Write a Successful Internship Cover Letter appeared first on Symba .