How Long Should a Cover Letter Be in 2024?

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Finally, an organization posted your dream job. You crafted a flawless resume and now you’re ready to apply. You land on the cover letter section of the application and see that it is optional. Is it truly optional?

Will not submitting make me less likely to land the job? Where do I even start and how long should the cover letter be?

These are some things that might run through your head. But don’t panic, we are here to help. No matter what your career level is, your cover letter can set you apart from the other applicants. But how much do you have to write?

This can be a complicated question. Too much text? The hiring manager might glance over it. Too short? The recruiter may think that you didn’t put much thought or effort into writing the cover letter . 

Cover letters should range from a half-page to one full page. Your cover letter should never exceed one page in length.

  • Page Count: 0.5 to 1
  • Word count: 250 to 400
  • Paragraph count: 3 to 6

how long should a cover letter be

How to Keep Your Cover Letter to One Page

Tip #1: keep it concise.

While the cover letter is a great way to showcase your personality, it is also very important to be concise. Hiring managers are sifting through dozens, and maybe even hundreds, of applications.

They do not have time to read a full two-page article about your daily tasks. Instead, highlight any relevant experiences that show your qualifications for the specific job.

Demonstrate your passion for the industry and end the letter. The decision-maker will appreciate your brevity and may even reward you with an interview . 

Tip #2: Highlight Only Relevant Experiences

Unless the employer requests a specific word count, keep it short. Take only the amount of space required to show that you are an ideal candidate for the job.

Highlight your qualifications and any relevant stories. It’s important to be specific, and not regurgitate the content on your resume. 

It is very important here to showcase how your past achievements can help the company solve their current challenges and how you will use your skills if chosen for the position.

Doing so will show the recruiter or hiring manager the value you can bring to their organization. 

matching resume and cover letter

Tip #3: Break Your Cover Letter into Sections

An effective cover letter contains three to four paragraphs. It’s important to keep the sentences short so the reader can quickly navigate your cover letter.  

Paragraph #1: The Intro

The first paragraph should grab the decision-maker’s attention. This is an opportunity to show your interest in the position and knowledge of the company. Make sure you address your cover letter to the correct person or department. Always be sure to research the company and customize each cover letter to the position you are applying for. 

Example: “I am excited to submit my application for the position of [insert position name] with [insert company name]. I have watched your growth for years and really appreciate the devotion to serving your customer’s needs.” 

Paragraph #2: Your Qualifications

The second paragraph should highlight relevant stories or stats that impress your qualifications. For example, “In the previous company, I grew sales by 150% in my first year and 200% in my second year.” It is helpful if you can be specific in how you achieved success or benefited the company in some way. This highlights what you bring to the table and how you can make an impact on the hiring manager’s business. 

Paragraph #3: Your Interest in the Company

The third paragraph, if you choose to include it, can speak to what drew you to apply to the specific company. This can sway the hiring manager's decision by showing passion and loyalty to the company. 

Paragraph #4: The Closing

The final paragraph should reiterate your interest in the position. It is a great time to thank the reader for their consideration and request an in-person meeting. It’s important to have a call-to-action so the reader knows what to do next. Always include detailed contact information. 

Tip #4: Experience Level

Cover letters can vary based on your experience level. If you are applying for jobs right out of college, don’t include metrics measured in school, such as GPA, unless requested. Instead, focus on your experiences, projects and achievements that make you a strong candidate. 

If you are in the middle of your career, pick out relevant accomplishments and state your experience level. For example, “With 12 years of teaching experience, I am writing to express my interest in the open position in your Mathematics Department.” 

If you have more experience, you likely have more relevant qualifications and stories. This may entice you to make your cover letter longer. Do not fall into the trap.

Longer does not mean better . Select a few key successes and leave others for the interview process. 

cover letter one page length

Tip #5: Formatting

The format is just as important as the length of your cover letter. Pay attention to the amount of white space on the page. More white space keeps the content easier to read for the recruiter or hiring manager.

You want to make sure that you use a font that is legible (as the ones handpicked by our team together with recruiters). Keep standard margins and align your text to the left. 

Writing a cover letter can be intimidating. If you remember to keep your writing concise and highlight only your relevant experiences, you will be on your way to snagging an interview in no time.

Suggested Reading:

  • How to Write a Cover Letter in 2024
  • Resume Formats Guide: How to Pick the Best in 2024
  • Cover Letter Examples

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How Long Should a Cover Letter Be? There Is an Answer (+5 Cover Letter Samples)

  • Júlia Mlčúchova , 
  • Updated May 31, 2024 12 min read

When you sit down to write a cover letter, one of the first questions that might pop into your mind is: How long should a cover letter be?

Too long, and you risk losing the reader's interest.

Too short, and you might not convey enough about why you're the perfect fit for the role.

So, what's our recommendation? The ideal cover letter is somewhere between half a page and a full-page long.  

If you want to learn how to use this relatively small space to its fullest potential , keep on reading this article and find out:

  • What is a cover letter and why you need one;
  • How long should a cover letter be;
  • What are the key components of an effective cover letter;
  • 7 tips that will make your cover letter stand out.

Table of Contents

Click on a section to skip

What is a cover letter and why you need one

How long should a cover letter be, key components of a great cover letter, more cover letter samples, 7 tips that will make your cover letter stand out, key takeaways: how long should a cover letter be.

You can think of a cover letter as your personal introduction to the employer.

And because recruiters usually read your cover letter before your resume, the responsibility of making a positive first impression lies on this compact document. 

Similarly to a resume , a cover letter gives you the space to explain why you're the best candidate for the job and how you can contribute to the company. 

But since both resume and cover letter are so similar, isn't writing one just a waste of time? 

Well, as research shows, 87% of hiring managers would strongly disagree! In fact, 49% of hiring managers admit to having invited candidates to a job interview even if their resume was weak. And that's just because of the quality of their cover letter!

So, yes, taking your time to craft a compelling cover letter does make a difference. 

But if you're still not convinced, here are 3 more reasons :

  • Getting your personality across. While a resume shows the facts and figures of your professional life, a cover letter allows you to add a personal touch to your application. It’s your opportunity to speak directly to the hiring manager and show a bit of your personality.
  • Showcasing your knowledge. It’s also a chance to show that you’ve done your research about the company (its needs, values, and challenges) and the role. 
  • Explaining career gaps or changes . Additionally, if you have gaps in your employment history or are changing careers , your cover letter is the best place to address these points.

In short, you should always attach a cover letter to your job application. Even if the job posting you're responding to doesn't ask for it. 

Is the writer's block kicking in?

Don't let this stand between you and the perfect cover letter! Let our AI Cover Letter Writer handle it for you.

And now, let's get to the real reason why you're here. 

This is how long the ideal cover letter should actually be:

  • Word count: Try to hit the 250 - 400 words range. This should be long enough to cover the essentials but short enough to keep the reader's attention.
  • Number of paragraphs: When it comes to structure, your cover letter should consist of 2-4 body paragraphs, framed by an introductory and a closing paragraph. 
  • Pages: Overall, your cover letter should be between half a page and a full page in length. 

Anything longer would defeat the purpose of a cover letter, which is to present yourself concisely and straightforwardly.

As you can see, a cover letter is a relatively compressed medium. So how can you make the most of its limited space? 

We’ll show you which elements shouldn't be missing from any cover letter: 

  • Contact information 
  • Personalized greeting
  • Introductory paragraph
  • Body paragraphs
  • Closing paragraph
  • Proper sign-off

And now, let's zoom in on each of these separately!

Contact information

Firstly, you should place your contact information at the very top of your cover letter. Make sure you include: 

  • your full name,
  • e-mail address,
  • phone number,
  • and link to your LinkedIn profile/ online portfolio (optional).

For the sake of conventions, you should also include the contact information of the recipient of your cover letter:

  • their name,
  • the name of the company,
  • the company's address. 

The main purpose of this section is to let the recruiters know how to contact you. So, keep in mind that your contact details should always be visually distinct from the rest of the text.

When it comes to cover letters, starting off on the right foot is crucial. So, instead of a generic salutation, you should address the recipient of your cover letter by their name, like so:

  • “ Dear [First Name] [Last Name], “
  • or “ Dear Mr./Ms./Dr. [Last Name], ”

But how can you figure out the hiring manager's name? Well, ideally you'll see it in the job posting. If not, you can check the company's website, LinkedIn profile, or give them a quick call. 

Greeting the recipient by their name is certainly preferable, because it adds that personal touch. But there are ways to address a cover letter without a name and still make a great impression.

Thirdly, you need to open up your cover letter with a bang! 

Since the purpose of the opening paragraph is to catch the recruiter's attention from the get go, you need to start with a compelling hook.  

But there really isn't just one way of achieving this. For example , your introduction can look something like this: 

Introductory paragraph example #1: Mentioning key achievement

“ In my previous role at DEF Corp, I led a team that developed a customer relationship management system that increased client retention by 30% within the first year. Now, I am excited to bring my experience and skills to your team.”

Introductory paragraph example #2: Showing particular interest in the company

“I was excited to see the Marketing Manager position at XYZ Company posted on your website, and I am eager to bring my five years of digital marketing experience to your dynamic team. I am particularly impressed by XYZ Company’s commitment to sustainability and innovative product development, which aligns perfectly with my values and professional goals.”

Introductory paragraph example #3: Sharing a personal story

“My fascination with architecture began when I was a child, building intricate cities out of LEGO blocks. The sense of creativity and accomplishment I felt then has only grown stronger, leading me to pursue a degree in architecture and design. When I discovered the Architectural Intern position at XYZ Architects, I knew it was the perfect opportunity to combine my lifelong passion with my academic knowledge.”

Of course, the main focus rests on your body paragraphs . And once again, nothing is set in stone. Well, at least regarding the number of the paragraphs (2-4). 

But when it comes to their content , the most successful cover letters address the following: 

  • Showcasing your skills and experience. But don't just list your skills and be done with it. Instead, put your skills into a real professional context. Describe a problem you've encountered in your previous job and the skills you utilized to solve it. Don't forget to also mention your results. 
  • Presenting your most illustrious achievements. Whether you've obtained a certificate vouching for your skills, or any awards and recognitions, mention it! Because this might be just the thing that sets you apart from the competition.  
  • Expressing your motivation for joining the company. For example, you can mention a particular project, company values, or goals that appeal to you. And be specific — recruiters don't like vagueness. 
  • Demonstrating your passion for the role. Finally, you need to show that you not only have the necessary skills and experience, but also passion and genuine interest in the profession. 

You can either go for the 4-body paragraph structure, dedicating each paragraph to a different topic, or combine them as you see fit. In either case, the flow of the text has to make sense!

When you’re writing your closing paragraph, keep it short and sweet. Ideally, you'll do these 4 things:

  • Reiterate your desire to work for the company. 
  • Thank the hiring manager for their time and consideration.
  • Express your desire to discuss further steps in-person (a.k.a. a call to action ).
  • (Optionally) remind them how they can get in touch with you .

Don't know how to finish on a high? Let these 8 great cover letter endings be your inspiration!

And finally, you need to wave the hiring manager goodbye professionally. 

There's no need to come up with anything original. On the contrary, a good old “Yours sincerely,” or “ Yours faithfully,” are your best bets.

Cover letter example

Here's an example of what a good cover letter can look like. 

But this isn't just any old sample! It belongs to a real person who got hired with the help of our beautiful cover letter templates . 

So, if you like what you see, don't be shy and go explore!

Quality Control Project Technician Cover Letter Example

This cover letter sample was provided by a real person who got hired with Kickresume’s help.

But what if you’re currently switching careers or trying to get an internship? Don't worry, we haven't forgotten about you either. 

Here are 4 more samples , two for each of these situations.

And if you happen to fancy any of them, just click on the red button in the bottom right corner and adjust the chosen sample to your liking.

How long should a cover letter be for an internship

The ideal length of your internship cover letter will probably be closer to a full page .

Since you don't have much work experience, if any, you need to dedicate more space to proving that you have what is needed to be successful. Instead of work, you can talk about your:

  • academic achievements,
  • relevant coursework,
  • dissertation project,
  • extracurricular activities that add to the internship position,
  • volunteering,
  • or membership in relevant societies.

Warner Bros. Public Relations Intern Cover Letter Example

University of massachusetts boston intern cover letter example, how long should a cover letter be if you're changing careers.

On the other hand, career change cover letters must focus on any transferable skills you've picked up in the past and that can be useful for your new career position. In this case, your cover letter will also probably be closer to a full page. 

Also, you need to explain the career pivot you're currently undergoing. Your cover letter should answer the following questions: 

  • What's the reason for the switch? 
  • What useful skills do you have? 
  • How can your expertise add value to the company? 

Just to be clear, you'll eventually have to address the career change. And the sooner, the better. So don't be afraid to slide this information straight into your introductory paragraph.

Junior UX Designer Career Change Cover Letter Example

This cover letter was made using Kickresume templates.

Career Change Cover Letter Example

This cover letter was written by our experienced resume writers specifically for this profession.

Are these samples not enough? In case you'd like to see more, feel free to browse through our cover letter database . Inside, you'll find even more samples submitted by real people and also those created by our professional resume writers.

You know what's even better than a well-written cover letter? An outstanding cover letter, of course! So, what can you do to elevate yours? We've gathered the best writing tips that have stood the test of time:

  • Before you start writing, do a bit of research. 
  • Make sure your cover letter is visually appealing.
  • Use quantifiable data to support your achievements.
  • Don't simply repeat your resume. 
  • Don't be shy to play the name game.
  • Accessorize your cover letter with relevant keywords. 
  • Proofread, proofread, proofread!

Let us expand on them a little more!

Tip #1: Before you start writing, do a bit of research

Gathering information about the company's projects, values, goals, initiatives, or even challenges gives you massive advantage. Firstly, it helps you tailor your cover letter so it fits the company's needs like a glove. Secondly, showing that you know about the company's struggles and mission creates the impression that for you it's not just about the money. 

Tip #2: Make sure your cover letter is visually appealing

Because the last thing recruiters want to see is a wall of text that's difficult to read and doesn't even make sense. Instead, work with white space and keep your paragraphs neatly organized. You can also use bullet points to make your cover letter more structured.

Tip #3: Use quantifiable data to support your achievements

Including numbers in your cover letter is an excellent way to communicate your potential — they’re specific, universal, and impactful. For example: “ I led a team that developed a customer relationship management system that increased client retention by 30% within the first year.”

Tip #4: Don't simply repeat your resume

Sure, some of the information you include in your cover letter is bound to be repeated in your resume. But instead of copy-pasting, try to provide more context. For example, why was this particular result so essential for your former team. Or, what makes you so determined to get this job (apart from the salary, of course).

Tip #5: Don't be shy to play the name game

If you know someone who's already working for the employer, make sure you name-drop them in your cover letter. Having that personal connection always helps. For once, it makes the recruiters trust you more. And it's also a good indicator that you're likely to fit in with the company culture.

Tip #6: Accessorize your cover letter with relevant keywords

This tip is especially valuable if you're submitting your job application through the ATS. Because without the right keywords, your application might not even reach the recruiters’ eyes.

But how to find out which keywords to include? Well, you need to start by reading your job posting carefully. Take note of any words or phrases that describe candidate requirements (for example skills, degrees, responsibilities, industry-specific words, etc.). Then, sprinkle these keywords naturally throughout your cover letter.

Tip #7: Proofread, proofread, proofread

And finally, we recommend you to always go through your text multiple times! Because nothing can ruin the first impression quite like stupid and unnecessary mistakes such as typos, grammatical errors, or misspellings.

The purpose of a good cover letter is to present yourself as the best candidate for the job in a concise and straightforward manner. 

That's why you should always aim for 250-400 words; 2-4 body paragraphs (framed by an introductory and a closing paragraph); and a layout that’s between half a page and a full page in length.

Despite this humble space, you should be able to cover the following sections : 

FAQ: How long should a cover letter be?

A good cover letter should be between 250 to 400 words. This range is long enough to cover all the necessary points but short enough to keep the reader's attention.

Typically, a cover letter should have 2-4 body paragraphs. These should be framed by an introductory and a closing paragraphs. Ideally, each paragraph should serve a specific purpose and be concise.

No, a cover letter should never be longer than one page. Keeping it to one page ensures that you present your qualifications concisely and respect the hiring manager's time.

In that case, you’re running the risk of not providing enough information to make a compelling case for why you're the best fit for the job.

While it's possible, a cover letter less than half a page might not fully showcase your qualifications and interest in the position. Try to write at least half a page to ensure you cover all essential points without overwhelming the reader.

Julia is an experienced career writer at Kickresume, who brings you expert tips on how to score big in the job market. From helping people improve their English to gain admission to their dream university, to guiding them on how to advance professionally, it would seem that her own career is also on a steadfast trajectory. Julia holds a degree in Anglophone studies from Metropolitan University in Prague, where she also resides. Apart from creative writing and languages, she takes a keen interest in literature and theatre.

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How Long Should a Cover Letter Be? (Examples)

By Biron Clark

Published: November 10, 2023

Cover Letters

Biron Clark

Biron Clark

Writer & Career Coach

If you’re wondering how long a cover letter should be, this article has everything you need to know (including exactly how many words to make your cover letter).

I’m going to share why most job seekers are making their cover letters far too long, and why you will likely get more job interviews by writing less in your cover letter.

Let’s get started…

How Long Should a Cover Letter Be?

Cover letters should be one page long and total 75 to 250 words. This recommendation applies to both printed and email cover letters. It’s okay if your cover letter doesn’t take up an entire page, but it should never exceed one full page.

Job seekers needing to explain gaps in employment , a recent change in career path, etc., may want to utilize more words in their cover letter than someone with a more standard background.

A job seeker who is staying within their current industry and career path (e.g. moving from Software Engineer to Senior Software Engineer) and not needing to explain a lengthy work gap should aim to be on the lower end of the recommended cover letter word count mentioned above — somewhere between 70 and 150 words.

As an example, my favorite cover letter template from Harvard Business Review has only 76 words:

How long should a cover letter be - example of ideal word count

As you customize this cover letter, the word count will likely rise a bit, but it’ll remain much shorter than what most job seekers send. And that’s a good thing!

This type of letter is going to be very different than what most job seekers are sending and what you’ve seen recommended online, and that’s often a plus.

Coming up soon, I’ll explain why a shorter cover letter may improve your odds of hearing back on a job application.

How Many Paragraphs Should a Cover Letter Include?

The typical cover letter should contain three to six paragraphs. Each paragraph should be relatively short, containing two to four sentences. This is especially important in the first paragraph of your cover letter, where you want to entice the reader and encourage them to keep reading by providing a short, punchy opening.

In general, when writing to grab someone’s attention, focus heavily on making the first paragraph compelling, because this is your first impression or “elevator pitch,” for why they should keep reading.

Now that you know how long a cover letter should be, let’s look at some specific benefits of using this length, which is shorter than some people recommend.

Reasons to Consider a Shorter Cover Letter

Now that you know how many words a cover letter should be, let’s talk about why I recommend this as the ideal length, even though some career experts recommend your cover letter be longer.

There are four things that happen when you keep your cover letter relatively short…

1. You Stand Out by Being Different

Here’s an example of a typical full-page cover letter that many job seekers are sending:

how long can cover letter be

If you’ve sent something like that in the past, it’s NOT your fault…

Almost every website with cover letter templates recommends this format, and it’s what you’re constantly told to send.

But that’s the beauty of limiting your cover letter to my ideal cover letter length of 75 to 250 words. It’s different than what everyone else is doing!

From the first glance, you’re showing the hiring manager that your cover letter is unique and worth reading closely . You show that you’re not going to bore them half to sleep with yet another generic letter containing info from a template or info that’s already on your resume.

Whereas, if you send a full-page cover letter like the image/example above, the hiring manager is thinking, “Okay, here’s another huge page of info to read through that’s probably based on a template.”

This happens to them over and over, all day.

That brings me to my next benefit…

2. You Get Your Cover Letter Read (Not Skimmed!)

Most job seekers send cover letters that so long-winded that nobody wants to read them. The hiring manager may read to the second or third paragraph, but they’re unlikely to through to the end.

Beyond that, job hunters send cover letters that repeat information from their resume, which doesn’t provide any value to the hiring manager or recruiter .

But because your cover letter is short, and ideally has small paragraphs, it’s inviting to read. Hiring managers open your email or letter and think, “Great, I can read this no problem.”

So they read your cover letter from start to finish without skipping a word!

This is why you should always send the hiring manager a short cover letter where each line has a purpose and message and does something to sell them on why you deserve the interview.

You don’t have to take my word for it, though. Test it! Send half of your cover letters in the standard, full-page style seen above, but with the other half, test what I’m suggesting here. Greatly reduce the word count, get right to the point, only offer info that’s not on your resume.

We’ve now looked at two reasons why the full-page cover letter is not the ideal length/approach. But I’ve got two more reasons for you…

3. You Draw Attention to Your Strongest Points/Skills

If you’re naming 20 different skills and qualifications in your cover letter, it’s hard for a recruiter or hiring manager to pick out the most important pieces.

Whereas, if you just name your three or four strongest arguments for why you’d be a great fit for their job description, those points will stand out (and get read, as mentioned above).

Sometimes less is more, and with cover letters, it’s often the case!

So this is another factor to consider when deciding how long your cover letter should be.

4. You Get Your “Call to Action” Read So You Win More Interviews

Finally, you should end each cover letter with a “Call to Action,” which I’ll explain in the next section.

This is where you ask for the interview, which is something many job seekers don’t do properly (or don’t do at all) in their cover letter.

And by keeping your letter brief, this closing paragraph comes relatively quickly… sometimes as the third or fourth paragraph… so it’s much more likely to get the reader’s full attention which means you’ll get more interviews.

Recommended Cover Letter Font Size

The best font size for your cover letter is 12 points, whether you’re sending a printed or an email cover letter. Avoid fancy fonts and choose a simple, easy-to-read font like Calibri or Arial. Include plenty of white space and small, punchy paragraphs. It’s better to have multiple, concise paragraphs in your cover letter than one or two very long paragraphs. This helps with readability.

How to End Your Cover Letter: Ask for the Interview

This is one other mistake a lot of job seekers make with their cover letters, along with repeating info on the resume and just being far too long-winded. They don’t ask for the interview in their closing paragraph!

The whole point of the cover letter is to win you job interviews . So after you’ve got the specific word count you want, make sure to finish up by actually asking the hiring manager to call you and set up a time to discuss in more detail!

Here’s an example of how you could conclude an email cover letter:

I’d love to discuss the position over the phone and provide a bit more context for how I can help you in this role. Are you available for a phone call later this week or early next week? My phone number is 555-218-4987.

Or, simply use the cover letter conclusion from the first example in this article, from Harvard Business Review:

I have attached my resume for your review and would welcome the chance to speak with you sometime.

However, I prefer a slightly stronger conclusion to a cover letter that really prompts the hiring manager to reply to a direct question. That should get you more responses from your cover letter, no matter your cover letter length!

Conclusion: How Many Words Should a Cover Letter Be?

To reiterate how long a cover letter should be, I recommend sticking to 250 words or less and never exceeding one page.

It’s beneficial to keep your letter short and concise for both a printed cover letter and a cover letter sent by email.

The shorter format allows you to focus on your strongest points and grab the hiring manager’s attention without overwhelming them with too much text or info. This will help you get more interviews and separate you from other job seekers who send long, generic, cut-and-paste cover letters with their applications.

However, as mentioned earlier, the length of your cover letter will vary depending on the industry (in a very formal, traditional industry, you may want to go for a slightly longer word count).

If you have an unusual scenario to explain, then your ideal cover letter length may be longer, too.

So don’t take the advice above as a hard-and-fast rule, but just a general guideline on how long a typical cover letter should be to win more job interviews.

As a final step, make sure to proofread everything! Sending a cover letter with a typo or mistake can cost you the job interview even if you have great qualifications and writing style.

More cover letter resources:

  • Do you need to send a cover letter?
  • How to write a cover letter with no experience
  • 3 steps to writing a cover letter that stands out

Biron Clark

About the Author

Read more articles by Biron Clark

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How Long Should a Cover Letter Be in 2024? (+Examples)

Kaja Jurčišinová — Staff Writer

Do you want to know what the perfect length of a cover letter is? What is the ideal number of words that a cover letter should have? And how many paragraphs should you include?  If you are looking for answers to these and more cover letter questions, you are in the right place.

The quick answer is that a cover letter should never be longer than a page, 400 words, or six paragraphs.

However, if you want to dive deeper into the cover letter nuances and become a real expert, you are in the right place. So, if you want to learn in detail how to write the perfect cover letter of a perfect length, just keep reading.

For more general information about cover letters , go and have a look at the first article from our series Cover Letter Guide: What is the Cover Letter. There, you will find a definition of what a cover letter is, what makes it different from a letter of motivation, and a short guide on how to write a great cover letter.

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What is the ideal cover letter length for 2024?

When it comes to cover letters,  the longer, the better  does not apply.  Even if you have years of expertise and you worked extremely hard on gathering professional skills and experiences  — and now you want to show it off all in detail on four pages — don’t.

Sometimes, less is more. This is the case for a good cover letter. It is crucial to highlight the experiences that are truly relevant to the advertised position. Don’t worry, there will be plenty of time to talk about your skills and achievements in more detail once you get the interview.

Rather, think of a cover letter as a tasteful, comprehensive, short advertisement. You want to catch the attention of a hiring manager and make it clear that you are a highly experienced professional fit for the role. Yet, at the same time, you don’t want to bore and overwhelm the person who is making the selection in the first round of the hiring process.

It is important to realize that in large companies, the hiring manager and the HR department have a very short time to go through your application.  On average, per one vacancy, there  are  up to 250 applicants. This means you must make your cover letter stand out from the crowd – but also be easy to read.

What follows are the tips on how to do it!

Read the instructions

Always make sure you read the employers’ instructions properly.  In many vacancy announcements, there is a clear list of what is required from an applicant. Often, these also indicate the expected length and form of a cover letter.

If specific regulations are not included, don’t worry. In this case, you can go for the standardized version of a cover letter.

Junior vs Senior

If you are at the start of your career  and are applying for a junior position   where it is expected to have a lack of practical experience, writing around 200 words is perfectly acceptable. A cover letter for an internship can be equally long. If you don’t have prior experience, you can focus on your inner motivation, education, and extra-curricular activities.

For an experienced candidate , the word count can be doubled. However, it really shouldn’t exceed 400 words in any scenario – unless specifically requested. At the same time,  a cover letter should never exceed 1 page.  If you do so, you completely disobey all the rules of this genre, and it won't work to your advantage.

While this length may sound too short, and you may feel tempted to write more about many of your professional accomplishments, it may eliminate you from the selection process. Being selective and cutting straight to the point makes you a better candidate as opposed to one who writes their whole life story.

How long should a cover letter be by Kickresume

Career vs Academic cover letter

The rules listed in the previous paragraph are almost universally true when we speak of a career cover letter.

However, an academic cover letter is conventionally longer. If you are wondering how long an academic cover letter should be, know that  the standard length is one page and a half . On the other hand, it is never longer than two pages.

Cover letter heading length

The same cover letter rules apply here, too. A short, simple, and catchy heading will get you far.

Do not exceed two sentences; one is advisable. Either use your full name or a catchphrase, such as: “ Why am I the best for the role of XY ”. However, do this only when you are sure that the company and the position that you are interested in aren't too formal.

How long should the first paragraph be

This paragraph is to capture the attention of the reader.  It does not have to be longer than two or three sentences.  State who you are, where and how you found the opportunity, and why you are interested in it. Do this in a catchy way, though! If you heard about the position from a person in common, do not hesitate to mention their name.

Remember, the first paragraph is short – do not waste words. Make yourself an attractive candidate right from the beginning, and mention your biggest assets right here – such as the length of experience or quality of your education.

How long should the second paragraph be

Arguably the most important part of your cover letter. Therefore,  you should make the second paragraph the most extensive and longest part of your cover letter.  Write about your accomplishments and past work experiences in detail. Explain why you are the best candidate for the role and what your skills are that no one else has.

On the other hand, remember —  you still must write at least one more paragraph in the body of the cover letter, as well as the closing paragraph. Therefore, don’t go overboard with the length.

The best thing to do is to initially write freely and more. Then, you can cut the number of words down later during later stages of editing. This way, you won’t limit your creativity from the start by being too focused on the correct word count.

How many words/paragraphs should a cover letter be

  • As we've already stressed, your cover letter shouldn’t be too long. Keep it under one page. However, sometimes only half a page may not be long enough. Find the right balance.
  • When it comes to the number of words, never exceed 400 words. 250-300 words are the ideal length of an average cover letter.
  • The perfect number of paragraphs in a cover letter ranges from three to four.  The maximum number of paragraphs that are acceptable is six.

Cover letter examples by length

If you want to see the instructions applied in real life, have a look at the cover letter examples of various lengths examples below. All three of these people managed to land the job by using the kickresume cover letter template ! 

Cover letter example 1: Short version: Half a page

Cover Letter Example short by Kickresume

Cover letter example 2: Medium version: Between half a page and a page

Cover Letter Example medium by Kickresume

Cover letter example 3: Long version: A page

Cover leter example long by Kickresume

If you liked these  cover letter samples  and you want your cover letter to look the same, use  one of our  cover letter templates!  You can go for the free or the premium version. It is super easy to use, so you’re just a click away from the cover letter of your dreams!

Cover letter formatting

Not only length but also the way you format the cover letter matters. Your goal is to  make it very easy to read.  You will achieve this by keeping your cover letter structured, nicely designed, and well-formatted. Here are the tips on how to achieve this:

  • When it comes to the font of a cover letter,  try to imagine being a busy hiring manager. You want to make their job as easy as possible – so go for a font that is easy to read. At the same time, you want to create a professional impression. In other words, the best font for your cover letter would be the classic  Times New Roman, Arial , or  Calibri . However, if you are confident enough to experiment and you want to make your cover letter stand out from the crowd with a more eye-catching design, go for it. But forget to ensure that the text should be easy to navigate and read – that is the priority. 
  • The letter size  matters, too. Anything between 10.5 and 12 is good. You don’t want to make the letters too small, so they would be hard to read, or too large, so you don’t exceed one page.
  • The margins  of a cover letter are conventionally 1.5 or 1.
  • A cover letter should never be   double-spaced. You want to fit all the information on one page — with double spacing, you wouldn’t be able to.

How long should an email cover letter be? 

Today, unless specifically instructed to do otherwise, the cover letter is conventionally sent as an email attachment.

Just like with the cover letter itself, sending a short and precise email is better than a long and overly complicated one.

In your email you must include:

  • a relevant subject:  if the subject title is not included in the vacancy instructions, use the name of the position for which you are applying;
  • a polite greeting:  address the person by their full name/if not available, Dear Sir/Madam will do
  • refer to your attached cover letter and resume;
  • express hopes for the future , consider attaching a phone number where they can reach you;
  • close with best regards/best wishes and your full name and surname;

Email cover letter length examples

Email cover letter example 1.

how long can cover letter be

Email cover letter example 2

Email cover letter example 2

Email cover letter example 3

Email cover letter example 3

And that’s about it. There is no need to make it too elaborate – all the important information is in the attachment.

Now hit that send sign and wait for the response. After listening to all the advice, we have no doubts you will receive positive news. The Kickresume team wishes you the best of luck!

Now, when you have that cover letter in your pocket, we are sure you also want an amazing-looking resume. The good news is that you are just a click away from our Kickresume CV templates!  You can even easily  turn your LinkedIn profile into a great resume .

How Long Should a Cover Letter Be FAQ

What is the ideal word length of a cover letter.

Your cover letter should be between 250 to 400 words long.

A cover letter isn't required – should I still send it?

Yes, this is your chance to stand out from the crowd of applicants and make it clear that you’re willing to put in the effort.

Is a 1000-word cover letter too long?

Yes, it is. It's never advised to exceed 400, max. 500 words.

Is it ok to have a cover letter that is two pages long?

No, you should always limit your cover letter to only one page. Recruiters don't have time to read long essays. They also like familiarity and known formats.

Can bullet points be used to shorten a cover letter?

Yes, using bullet points can help make your cover letter concise and highlight key achievements without reducing its effectiveness. Bullet points should be used to emphasize specific accomplishments, break up large blocks of text, and quickly convey important information.

Kaja Jurčišinová — Staff Writer

Kaja Jurčišinová

Kaja Jurcisinova is a fresh graduate and a junior copywriter at Kickresume. Kaja completed her undergraduate degree in Art History at the University of St Andrews in 2018 and graduated with a Master’s in Arts and Culture from the University of Groningen in 2021. She was an intern at multiple cultural institutions across Europe, including the Dutch Museum Association in Amsterdam, the Matter of Art Biennale in Prague, and the European Cultural Centre in Venice. At the moment, she resides in Visby on the Swedish island of Gotland.

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Ideal Cover Letter Length: How Long Should A Cover Letter Be?

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In This Guide:

How long should a cover letter be, example of one-page cover letter, how to achieve the ideal cover letter length, how to make the most of your cover letter word length and arrangement.

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At last, you found the job of your dreams!

The hours of scrolling through websites before bed has finally paid off.

It’s right there on the screen of your phone, just one cover letter away.

You immediately start thinking about all the things you can list in your letter.

Past job experiences, internships, soft and hard skills…

At one point, you notice the short cover letter has turned into a 3-page novel.

Is it too much?

How long is a cover letter?

And how long is too long when you’re writing about yourself and your achievements?

Can a cover letter be too short, resulting in everyone collectively laughing at your lack of imagination and experience?

Stop. Take a moment to breathe.

If you’re researching how long should a cover letter be, you’re already on the right path.

We will answer all your questions and more so that you can create a memorable cover letter that will impress the recruiters and land you the job of your dreams.

And if you need some inspiration, take a look at some cover letter examples .

Be a first-hand witness to how people just like you have found the balance between length and structure to build a cover letter that becomes the center of attention.

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The average length of a cover letter is half a page. The content should contain no more than 4 paragraphs . The first one being an introduction about yourself and how you found the position; the second (or second and third) – more about your experience, why you’re a suitable candidate; and the last one an ending with a summary of the info and a call to action.

Here is an example of a successful one-page cover letter with 4 paragraphs.

Enhancv Ideal Cover Letter Length: How Long Should A Cover Letter Be?

Now that you know what your end goal should be regarding the length of your cover letter let’s dive into the logistics of reaching that goal.

This includes the structure, the recommended information that should be in it, and some writing and editing tips.

By the end of this article, you will know how to construct a successful cover letter that will increase your chances of getting to your dream position.

And if you’re still wondering why you need one, check out our article on  the purpose of a cover letter in an application.

Enhancv Ideal Cover Letter Length: How Long Should A Cover Letter Be?

Focus on your relevant skills and achievements

We know you are probably a very skilled individual with a long list of accomplishments.

However, most companies only care about the ones relevant to the job.

Job recruiters go through so many applications a day that the moment they see pieces of information that are not related to what they are searching for, your resume and cover letter are headed to the bin.

If you’re applying for a chef in a restaurant, there is no need to explain how you won a science fair in high school with a DIY solar system.

Listing unnecessary information shows that you did not care enough to do the proper research about the type of employee this business needs.

Include four or fewer paragraphs in your cover letter body

We already mentioned briefly what those paragraphs should contain, so let’s go a bit more detailed.

Paragraph 1 – Introduction

Undoubtedly the most important part – the one you will use to win the recruiters over and invite them to learn more about you.

Start by introducing yourself and how you found out about the position, followed by what motivated you to apply for it. Use this part to showcase your knowledge about the company.

You know exactly what they are looking for and, big surprise, you’re the one that can give it all. If there are any specific things you really like about this business, now is the time to list them.

Paragraph 2 and 3 – Body

Now, this is your time to truly shine. Use this part to list all your achievements, skills, and qualifications that are directly related to the job position.

Use specific examples. “I have many years of experience working with wild cats.” is good, but it can be even more precise. “I have worked as a wild cats rehabilitator in the Oregon Zoo in Portland for 6 years.”

If you’re applying for an HR specialist, pay special attention to your organizational abilities and soft skills. If it’s a more technical and precise position, give examples.

“By transforming business goals into measurable indicators with conversion rate optimization in mind, I can help clients gather and analyze user interactions in a visually appealing way that they can access anytime, anywhere.“

Show the recruiters everything they will gain by hiring you. Cover letters are usually all about how the business will benefit from you, not the other way around.

In case you don’t have enough experience in the field you’re aiming for, highlight your motivations, extra courses you’ve taken, and how you want to develop in the future.

Paragraph 4 – Ending

And now it’s time for the big finale. Thank the hiring managers for their time and undivided attention, provide them with extra contact information and finish up with a call to action.

Let them know when you’re available for a callback, what is the best way to reach you, and that if they have any further questions, you will be at their disposal every day.

You can include one last sentence about how excited you are applying for this position, without sounding too needy, of course.

Write short and direct sentences

The way you express yourself is important. Prolonged and heavy sentences will put anyone off from what they’re reading.

Of course, that doesn’t mean you should write the whole cover letter in simple sentences, as they can sound quite robotic.

But there needs to be a pleasant flow to your writing. The reader should not struggle with understanding your cover letter.

So here are a few tips that will help you write short, concise sentences that are straight to the point and don’t sound like they’ve been written by a bot.

  • No “fluff words” – These include words such as “really”, “actually”, “totally”, etc. The main rule is – If you can remove it and the sentence doesn’t lose its meaning, then remove it.
  • Use active voice – The usage of passive voice prolongs the sentence with unnecessary clunky words that bear no meaning.
  • Get rid of redundant words – “In order to” can be just “to”, “in close proximity” can be “close”. No need to overcomplicate your sentences just to appear smarter.

Here is an example of transforming a long sentence into a short one.

“I truly believe that all of my skills will be of great use to your company should you decide to hire me.”

“If I am hired, my skills will prove to be useful for your company.“

Leave some information to be revealed later at the interview

Outline the most important info but don’t go into too much detail. You want to intrigue the recruiters enough that they invite you for an interview.

You don’t want to leave the impression that they’ve learned everything about you in the span of two short paragraphs, right?

Use a professional cover letter format

The content of your cover letter is the second thing HR managers will see. The first ones are the layout and design.

Our years of experience have shown that candidates that use a professional format for their cover letters have a better success rate when applying for interviews.

Use a readable and plain font, for example, Times New Roman, Arial, Verdana, or Calibri. The size should be no more than 13 point and no less than 11 point. Make it too small, and it’s illegible, make it too big and it looks like you’re trying to fill up space.

Except for the three paragraphs we already talked about, every cover letter should contain the following elements – a heading, a greeting , and a signature at the end.

Leave space between the paragraphs to make the text easy to read and scan, and align the text to the left.

Make sure it doesn’t look cluttered and messy.

Before you start writing, check if there are any specific requirements posted by the recruiters regarding your cover letter. Some companies will tell you exactly what they want for length and content.

Don’t tell too many stories. Giving examples is great but don’t go overboard.

Can my cover letter be 2 pages?

If you’re wondering about a 2-page resume, ask yourself, why do you need it to be so long?  Most of the information should be on your resume, the cover letter is just an add-on.

You’re not telling your life story, you’re simply listing all the relevant experience and skills you have so you can get invited to an interview. You will have more chances to market yourself once you get there.

Unless it’s for a pretty high-end position, such as a heart surgeon, professor ina university, or a science researcher, you should be able to fit everything in half a page.

How many words should a cover letter be?

Since we already established that the average length for a cover letter is two-thirds of a page, maximum, how many words is that?

Well, if you don’t have any specific instructions from the employer, keep it between 250 and 400, ideally 300. If you’re using a 12 point font and you’ve written your 3 paragraphs, that’s the usual word count at the end.

In any case, the average word count should be a guideline, not your main focus.

What about academic cover letter length?

The cover letter for an academic position is one of those rare cases where you can exceed the one-page maximum. In

It usually needs to include all sorts of important information such as teaching, research, departmental service, published papers, relevant accolades, and anything else that might be required for the position.

How long should my intern cover letter be?

A cover letter for an internship  should follow the same guidelines as the typical cover letter. Between 200 and 400 words is ideal.

It could be shorter, as well. If you’re applying for an internship, chances are you don’t have a lot of experience resulting in fewer things you can include in your cover letter.

  • Focus less on how long does a cover letter need to be and more on what is required from the company you’re applying to;
  • Always research for specific instructions from the hiring managers regarding cover letter length and other requirements;
  • Unless you’re applying for an academic position or another one that demands a longer letter, don’t go over one page;
  • The format of the cover letter should be professional and clean. The goal is to make your text easy to scan and understand. You can use Enhancv’s Content Analyzer  to check everything.
  • Write simply and use short sentences;
  • Tailor your letter to the position you’re applying for. Make it personal and show that you care.

What are your experiences with writing cover letters? Have you ever written a cover letter longer than one page?

Tell us in the comments below and if you found this article useful, make sure to share it with anyone who might need it.

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How Long Should a Cover Letter Be? This Is the Ideal Length for 2024.

Kat Boogaard

3 key takeaways

  • Your cover letter should be between 250 and 400 words and fit on a single page.
  • The ideal cover letter length depends on factors like experience and the employer’s instructions.
  • Teal’s AI Cover Letter Generator takes the guesswork out of the process and writes a cover letter that presents you as the ideal match for the company and open position.

You made it through writing your resume. A feeling of relief immediately washes over you—until you take another peek at the job description and realize you still need to write your cover letter .

Writing a cover letter is one of the more dreaded parts of the job application process. Yet this detested document can carry a surprising amount of weight in your job search. So, it’s worth gritting your teeth and getting it done.

As you summon your motivation, you’re bound to wonder: How long should a cover letter be? Do you need to drone on for several pages? Or can you put yourself out of your misery after just a snappy paragraph or two?

This guide breaks down the ideal cover letter length so you can write a cover letter that captures the interest of hiring managers and puts you at the top of the pile of applicants.

Struggling to land interviews with your resume? Get started with Teal’s AI Resume Builder for free.

Understanding the ideal cover letter length

You likely already know the answer to “ how long is a resume ?”

But cover letters feel a little more ambiguous. So what’s the ideal length for a cover letter? Ultimately, the “ideal” length is whatever you need to present yourself as the most relevant, qualified, and impressive fit for an open position.

To write a great cover letter, it’s important to focus more on the content itself than arbitrary rules and criteria. That said, there are a few general recommendations that answer “how long should a cover letter typically be?”

A typical cover letter length is:

  • Under 400 words
  • Three to five paragraphs long
  • Half a page to a full page (but not more than one page)

But as with your other application materials, you have some flexibility here. As you write your cover letter, think through some of these more nuanced considerations to determine the right length for your specific situation:

  • Your experience level: If you’re applying for an internship or entry-level job, your cover letter might be closer to 250 words, or two paragraphs. But if you have several years of experience under your belt, your skills and work history might justify a full page of content.
  • Your type of experience: Are you making a change to a completely different career or industry? Your cover letter can help you connect the dots and tell more of your career story, which warrants a longer length. In contrast, if your experience is straightforward, you might be able to keep your document shorter.
  • Job ad instructions: Look closely at the job ad to see if there are any explicit instructions related to your cover letter’s length, format, or content. Honor those directions as you write yours to increase your chances of making it through the first screening while also demonstrating your attention to detail.

Specifics aside, your cover letter is intended to be a concise and compelling summary of your most notable skills and achievements—and you should be able to convey those in a few thoughtful paragraphs. 

Does the length of your cover letter matter?

Let’s start with the bigger question: Do cover letters matter? Is anybody reading them? Or are you wasting your time? 

Rest assured, in most cases, your cover letter is reviewed by the hiring manager. The 51 hiring managers and recruiters Teal asked identified length as the second most important factor, just behind resume and candidate quality, when deciding whether or not to read a cover letter.

Hiring decision-makers are not only reading your cover letter but using it as a valuable tool to review and evaluate candidates. When they’re trying to get through the stack of applications as efficiently as possible, a long-winded cover letter will only slow them down (and likely get you ruled out of the interview process).

In comparison, a more concise cover letter has an increased likelihood of being read all the way through, allowing the hiring manager to understand and absorb your qualifications.

When you keep your cover letter short, you can:

  • Highlight your most important skills: Your cover letter should call attention to your most relevant and impressive qualifications. That’s hard to do if they get buried and lost in thousands of words that describe all of your other experiences and capabilities.
  • Make an immediate impact: 45 percent of hiring managers say they read an applicant’s cover letter before they ever take a look at the candidate’s resume. A shorter document helps you snag attention right away. Think of your cover letter like a movie trailer. The movie itself has hours of interesting footage, but the trailer’s job is to showcase the most compelling pieces and entice you to see the entire film. Similarly, your cover letter should inspire recruiters to take a look at your resume.
  • Demonstrate your soft skills: Communication, prioritization, and organization are valuable skills in nearly every job and career path. Your cover letter is an opportunity to show that you can determine the importance of information, arrange it effectively, and deliver a succinct and persuasive message.

Need some help writing a concise one? Check out these short cover letter examples .

How long should a cover letter be?

Here’s the simple answer to this question: short. A solid cover letter is one that’s brief and to the point. So how many pages or words should you aim for? Here are some details to help you.

How many pages should a cover letter be?

Generally speaking, your cover letter should fit on one page. If you need less than one page to get your point across, there’s no need to add unnecessary fluff to fill out the page. Even half of a page is considered an acceptable cover letter length.

Shorter is almost always better and your cover letter should never require two pages. If your content is spilling onto a second page, it’s a sign you need to trim.

How many words should a cover letter be?

The typical cover letter length is between 250 and 400 words. While that might sound like a lot, you’ll likely be surprised how quickly you hit that word count. It’s roughly enough space for three to five short paragraphs of two to three sentences each.

Put simply, less than 400 words on a single page is a safe benchmark when writing your cover letter. But exactly how much length you need hinges on your qualifications and experience level. 

Use this chart to estimate how long your cover letter should be:

how long can cover letter be

Keep in mind that those are guidelines and not hard and fast rules. You have the flexibility to adjust to a length that works best for you, provided you can still fit your information on a single page.

How to keep a cover letter to one page

Writing a short cover letter might seem simple. But once you start putting pen to paper (or your fingers on the keyboard), you’ll quickly realize how challenging it is to write a good cover letter.

Distilling all of your qualifications into a few paragraphs is no easy task. Just because your cover letter is short doesn’t mean it’s not substantial. Every single sentence serves a purpose.

Here are a few helpful tips to write a cover letter that’s equal parts clear, concise, and compelling:

1. Think like a highlight reel

Remember that, in many cases, the goal of your cover letter is to get the HR professional to review your resume. If they like what they see, you get moved to the interview stage.

That means your cover letter doesn’t need to tell the whole story. It just needs to get the hiring manager interested enough to keep you in the running. It’s not the whole meal—just an appetizer.

So ask yourself: If I could only tell the hiring manager three things that make me an ideal candidate for this position, what would I tell them? Those are the high points to focus on in your cover letter.

2. Return to the job description

Relevance is crucial when writing your resume, but it matters just as much when writing your cover letter. An effective cover letter is one that’s tailored to a specific job.

Teal’s Matching Mode can help you not only identify keywords in the job description, but recommend which to add based on which existing skills align with the open role.

Teal's Chrome Extension surfaces the top keywords from a job description.

To tailor your cover letter, return to the job description and ask yourself:

  • How many years of experience is the job asking for?
  • What education level does the job require?
  • What soft skills and technical skills are mentioned or emphasized?
  • What are the primary responsibilities of this position?
  • What unique skills and experiences separate me from other candidates?

Then review your own experience and qualifications and make detailed notes about how you check each of those boxes. Going through the job ad with a fine-tooth comb will help you surface cover letter keywords that should be included in your document.

3. Adjust spacing

Lastly, adjusting the spacing on your cover letter can help you keep all of the content on one page. To maximize the real estate on your resume consider adjusting:

  • Line spacing

For more tips, check out this guide on resume spacing .

4. Keep it straightforward

While a cover letter is a formal business document, you don’t want to stuff it with run-on sentences, filler words, and eye-glazing jargon. In fact, simpler is usually better.

Your cover letter should use:

  • Simple formatting that is easy for the hiring manager to skim and process
  • Short and straightforward sentences
  • Bullet points to highlight qualifications and achievements
  • A reasonable font size (10 to 12 point font), single-spaced text, and plenty of white space to visually balance your content

Ultimately, the easier your cover letter is to read, the greater the likelihood that HR people will actually do so. 

5. Ask for feedback

Not sure if your cover letter is making the right impression? Ask a trusted friend or family member to review it and offer constructive feedback.

When you do, don’t just give them your cover letter—share the job description too. That context will help them give you more pointed feedback that will hopefully get you closer to your dream job.

How to write a cover letter fast

Whether you need to create a short or long cover letter, it’s easy to get started with Teal’s AI Cover Letter Generator .

Here’s how it works: 1. Choose one of your resumes from the Resume Builder (or import one if you need to)

2. Click the “Cover Letter” tab

Navigate to the cover letter tab from Teal's resume builder

3. Attach a job description from your Teal Job Tracker

Teal's Resume Builder lets you attach a job description to tailor each resume appropriately

4. Click the “Write with AI” button

To use Teal's AI, "click the Write with AI button"

5. Set your cover letter settings for length and tone

Teal's AI Cover Letter Generator lets you set your preferred cover letter length

When you select “Apply,” Teal will automatically generate a cover letter on a polished document that matches your resume. You can easily export this document as a PDF to send with the rest of your application materials.

Want to make some changes? You can hit “Try Again” to have the AI generate a new result or select “Improve with AI” to change your previous selections and further refine your document.

Cover letter example from Teal

Even if you don’t use the AI result word-for-word, it gives you a starting point to work with—and it’s a lot less menacing than a blank page and a blinking text cursor.

Write a cover letter that’s just the right length

You don’t want your cover letter to be too long or too short. But writing something that hits the sweet spot while also effectively capturing your most notable skills, experiences, and achievements can be a challenge.

Fortunately, it’s possible. Put the above tips and tools to work and writing your cover letter doesn’t need to be nearly as dreaded and daunting.

Ready to make writing your cover letter a breeze? Try Teal’s AI Cover Letter Generator today .

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a 500-word cover letter too long.

It’s a little on the long side, considering the “standard” word count range for a cover letter is 250 to 400 words. It’s worth looking to see if there’s anything you can trim. However, if your content comfortably fits on one page with a reasonable font size, you can get by with 500 words.

Is a 150-word cover letter too short?

This word count is a little too short to get your point across. See what additional content you can add to get closer to the recommended cover letter length of 250 to 400 words. Don’t add fluff and filler for the sake of increasing your word count. Adding words should also add value.

Is a two-page cover letter too long?

Yes, two pages is too long. Your cover letter should fit on one page with plenty of white space to balance it out. Take a close look at your content to see what you can trim. 

How long should a cover letter be in the UK?

The UK uses the same recommendations as US cover letters. Your cover letter should be 250 to 400 words in three to five short paragraphs on a single page.

how long can cover letter be

Kat Boogaard

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  1. How Long Should a Cover Letter Be? The Ideal Length in 2023

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  3. How Long Should a Cover Letter Be? (Examples)

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  5. Ideal Cover Letter Length: How Long Should A Cover Letter Be?

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COMMENTS

  1. How Long Should a Cover Letter Be in 2022?

    The ideal cover letter length is: Less than one page. Three to five paragraphs. Less than 400 words. At least that's the approximate consensus we came to based on research and input from a few experts who have worked as hiring managers, recruiters, or both.

  2. How Long Should a Cover Letter Be? Length & Word Count

    Frequently asked questions about cover letter length. Typically, a cover letter should be 250-400 words or three to four concise paragraphs. The ideal cover letter length is a half-page to one page long. This length allows you to introduce yourself, highlight your most relevant qualifications, and express your enthusiasm for the position ...

  3. Q&A: What's the Ideal Cover Letter Length?

    3. Embrace white space. White space makes your cover letter more enjoyable for the hiring manager to read. Break up your text by adding a blank line between paragraphs, setting 1-inch margins on each side. With lots of white space, your cover letter will look like an enjoyable read rather than a wall of text. 4.

  4. How Long Should A Cover Letter Be? The Best Length in 2024

    The general rule of thumb for cover letter length is 250-400 words. But don't sweat too much if your cover letter ends up being just 200 words long—this is perfectly normal, especially if you're writing an entry-level cover letter or a cover letter with no work experience at all. Rate my article: how long.

  5. How Long Should a Cover Letter Be? Ideal Length in 2024

    An electronic cover letter should be the length of cover letters on paper. Namely, three paragraphs, 250-300 words, and less than a full page. The difference is, write a great subject line and leave the address section off the top.

  6. How Long Should a Cover Letter Be? (With Tips)

    The ideal cover letter should typically be between 250 and 400 words. This way, you can keep the letter brief and informative at the same time. However, employers have different requirements, so it's difficult to recommend a standard word count for cover letters. Before you write your cover letter, check to see if the company in question ...

  7. How Long Should a Cover Letter Be in 2024?

    The recruiter may think that you didn't put much thought or effort into writing the cover letter. Cover letters should range from a half-page to one full page. Your cover letter should never exceed one page in length. Perfect Cover Letter Length Characteristics. Page Count: 0.5 to 1.

  8. How Long Should a Cover Letter Be? (+5 Cover Letter Samples)

    This is how long the ideal cover letter should actually be: Word count: Try to hit the 250 - 400 words range. This should be long enough to cover the essentials but short enough to keep the reader's attention. Number of paragraphs: When it comes to structure, your cover letter should consist of 2-4 body paragraphs, framed by an introductory and ...

  9. How Long Should a Cover Letter Be? (Examples)

    Cover letters should be one page long and total 75 to 250 words. This recommendation applies to both printed and email cover letters. It's okay if your cover letter doesn't take up an entire page, but it should never exceed one full page.

  10. How Long Should a Cover Letter Be in 2024? (+Examples)

    When it comes to the number of words, never exceed 400 words. 250-300 words are the ideal length of an average cover letter. The perfect number of paragraphs in a cover letter ranges from three to four. The maximum number of paragraphs that are acceptable is six.

  11. How Long Should An Optimized Cover Letter Be?

    A cover letter has potential to be too long at times. getty. Research suggests that 83% of hiring managers state that cover letters are important in their hiring decisions. One of the main reasons ...

  12. Ideal Cover Letter Length: How Long Should A Cover Letter Be?

    A cover letter for an internship should follow the same guidelines as the typical cover letter. Between 200 and 400 words is ideal. It could be shorter, as well. If you're applying for an internship, chances are you don't have a lot of experience resulting in fewer things you can include in your cover letter.

  13. How To Write a Cover Letter (With Examples and Tips)

    Middle paragraph (s) Closing paragraph. Letter ending and signature. Your cover letter should be one page long and use a simple, professional font, such as Arial or Helvetica, 10 to 12 points in size. Your letter should be left-aligned with single spacing and one-inch margins. Show Transcript.

  14. How long should a cover letter be?

    The unbreakable rule for maximum cover letter length is short and simple: 400 words on a single page. As a resume companion document, your cover letter is designed to catch the recruiter's attention in a more direct, personal fashion. It can even make a difference in whether your resume gets read at all.

  15. How Long Should a Cover Letter Be?

    How to reach the correct length in a cover letter. Cover letters should be a page in length and no more than four paragraphs. Here are 7 tips that can help you organize your thoughts and reach the perfect cover letter length: Check the requirements. Include your contact information. Briefly acknowledge the reader.

  16. How Long Should a Cover Letter Be? Ideal Length for 2024

    3 key takeaways. Your cover letter should be between 250 and 400 words and fit on a single page. The ideal cover letter length depends on factors like experience and the employer's instructions. Teal's AI Cover Letter Generator takes the guesswork out of the process and writes a cover letter that presents you as the ideal match for the ...

  17. The Do's of Writing a Spectacular Cover Letter

    Do Be Concise: Cover letters should be one page long and divided into three to four paragraphs. The first paragraph should indicate the reason you are writing and how you heard about the position. Include attention grabbing, yet professional, information. For example, "I am an experienced faculty member and industry expert with over 10 years of ...

  18. How long should a cover letter be?

    What is the ideal length for a cover letter? ⁠The ideal length for a cover letter is 250-400 words, typically spanning 3-6 paragraphs on one page. This length allows you to effectively highlight relevant skills and experiences while remaining concise. Can a cover letter be too short? ⁠Yes, a cover letter can be too short. If it is too ...