cover letter internship abroad

Cover Letter for Internship Abroad: Examples & Tips to Succeed

To develop your language skills, to get a first international experience to boost your resume, to leave the family cocoon to gain maturity... There are many reasons why you might want to apply for an internship abroad. In order not to compromise your professional projects, you must write a quality cover letter.

Sample cover letter for an internship abroad

Arthur J. Smith 4871 Ashton Lane Austin, TX +1-555-728-3766 [email protected]

SPEEDEX Recruitment Manager 628 Veltri Drive Takotna, AK May 26, 2021

Subject: Application for an internship as an import-export salesman within Speedex for a period of 6 months

Madam, Sir,

Currently a second year student of Arthur College business at TSC Maryland, I am looking for a 6 month internship starting in September as a part of my studies. Working as an intern in an international company like Mellot would be a quite unique opportunity for me to develop my knowledge in the field and reach my career goal.

After my professional baccalaureate in commerce at the Sanem College, I set myself a precise objective: to become an import-export salesman. This commercial internship at Speedex would be a step closer to my ultimate dream. Indeed, I would like to specialize in importing and exporting art and hotel lighting, one of the main activities of your company.

During my 6-month internship as a sales assistant at Traders International, I was able to put into practice my knowledge of import and export procedures as well as commercial intelligence techniques on the international market. In addition, I am a good negotiator and a team player who can help your company achieve its goals.

I am ready to go above and beyond the call of duty to successfully complete my internship and the tasks you would entrust to me within Speedex. In order to discuss our respective interests in more detail, I would like to ask you to meet with me. I am attaching my curriculum vitae so that you can discover a little more about my skills and qualities.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Martin Locke

Are you lacking inspiration? Or do you have no idea where to start? Don't worry! This guide is for you!

Here's how to write a cover letter for an internship abroad

Note: Do you want to save time while preparing your internship application? Feel free to download our free cover letter and resume templates .

How to write a cover letter for an internship abroad

To grab all the chances, show in your cover letter that this internship abroad is made for you. Clearly state that your application is addressed to the company to which you are applying.

Here are the best practices:

• Emphasize that your academic background is appropriate for the internship in question
• Show that you really want to learn and develop your knowledge in an international company
• Highlight your interest in the company
• Demonstrate that your professional objective is perfectly coherent with the internship you are aiming for
• Explain that you have the skills necessary to effectively perform your future duties as an intern
• Make it clear that you wish to request an interview

The question is how to present your letter well and how to structure this information in a coherent way.

The layout of the cover letter for an internship abroad

Do not neglect the aesthetic side in your cover letters. Although the presentation is not decisive for the recruiter, it will allow you to make a good first impression.

Here are the basic rules for formatting a cover letter:

• Summarize your motivation in 1 page in A4 format (like the perfect resume)
• Aerate the structure with line breaks between paragraphs and 1.15 cm spacing between lines
• Write short paragraphs (4 to 5 lines)
• Don't take chances with fancy letter templates
• Opt for a simple design (a small colored border and a bold name)
• Choose a font size between 10 and 12 points
• Use a professional font (Garamond, Verdana, Calibri ...)
• Align the text on the left to optimize the readability of the document

Structure of the cover letter for an internship abroad

As far as the plan goes, try to follow this classic structure:

• Specific application subject: Application for an internship [name of internship] at [name of company] + duration of internship
• Introduction (1 paragraph)
• Interest in the internship and career objective (1 paragraph)
• Skills (1 paragraph)
• Request for a job interview (1 paragraph)
• Classic greeting (1 paragraph)
• First name, last name and signature

Writing a cover letter for an internship abroad

In the upper left corner of your cover letter, you should include your contact information:

• Your first name
• Your postal address
• Your e-mail address
• Your phone number (with the code +33 for France)

Below these, line up the recruiter's contact information on the right, including:

• The name of the company
• The name of the person in charge of recruitment
• The address of the company

Do not forget to indicate the date you are writing the letter.

Writing the perfect hook for an internship in an international company

The purpose of the hook is to entice the recruiter to continue reading, so it should answer the following questions:

• Who are you? (your current level of education)
• Why are you looking for an internship?
• How long is the internship?
• What is your professional goal?

On this last point, note that it is not yet time to detail your projects. You only mention the importance of the internship for your future career.

Example of a good hook

Example of a bad hook, mention your professional project in your cover letter for your internship.

In this paragraph, demonstrate that you want to do this internship abroad for a specific purpose.

So, try to connect your career plans with your interest in the internship position at the company.

Example of a professional project in a cover letter for an internship abroad

Highlight your strengths and key skills in your cover letter.

Although you will be working as an intern, recruiters want to know if you will be able to carry out your future tasks.

So, write a paragraph specifically dedicated to your skills. It can be your know-how acquired during your previous experiences (internship, summer job, volunteer work) or your personal skills. Be sure to explain that your strengths will be useful in helping the company achieve its goals.

How to finish your cover letter for an internship abroad

Forgetting to specify a request for an interview in the letter is a mistake that many candidates make. And yet, this last paragraph will allow the recruiter to project himself.

Finally, end your letter with a greeting.

Examples of interview request forms

• With this in mind, I hope to meet with you soon for an interview so that I can answer any questions you may have.
• I would like to ask you, Madam, Sir, to grant me a meeting so that we can discuss our respective ambitions in greater detail.

Examples of closing greetings

• We look forward to hearing from you. Please accept, Sir, my sincere regards.
• Yours sincerely.

Summary: Key points for writing a convincing cover letter for an internship abroad

• Make a simple presentation that reflects your professionalism
• Aerate the structure of the cover letter
• Write a cover letter that arouses the recruiter's interest
• Demonstrate that his or her career plans are related to his or her interest in the internship
• Mention the hard and soft skills that you can use to benefit the company
• Specify that you wish to meet the recruiter for a job interview

Which resume to choose for the cover letter for internship abroad?

The information provided in the cover letter and resume must be consistent. This way, you increase your credibility.

To save a lot of time, we offer you our free and customizable resume examples . Simply choose the model that best reflects your personality. Then, download it for free in Word format to modify the predefined information with your own.

How to write the e-mail that will contain the cover letter?

• Start your email with a polite greeting (Dear Sir or Madam)
• Briefly describe your interest in the internship
• Indicate your key skills that could be useful to the company
• Don't forget to insist that your skills and qualities correspond to those described in the job description.

Tasuta allalaetav kaaskirja mall

Motivatsioonikiri, millele on enamikul juhtudel lisatud CV, on iga töötaotluse põhielement. Seda tüüpi kiri peab lühidalt kirjeldama oskusi, võimeid ja teadmisi, mis teil on ja mis on teatud huviga seoses otsitava ametikohaga. Selles mõttes peab kaaskiri lihtsalt sisaldama sellele ametikohale kandideerimise motivatsiooni ja põhjendusi. See peab äratama värbajas huvi ja panema ta pidama teid selle töö jaoks parimaks võimaluseks.

Kuidas koostada lihtsat kaaskirja

• 1 Valige oma valitud CV mall.
• 2 Austab ühtset struktuuri. Näiteks kasutage kaaskirja struktuuriga "Sina-Mina-Meie".
• 3 Lisage järgmised osad, apellatsioonivorm, lühitutvustus, kirja sisu ja järeldus
• 4 Ärge unustage viimast viisakusvalemit. Vaadake kaaskirja viisakusvalemite näiteid.
• 5 Isiklikuma ja formaalsema ilme lisamiseks lisage lehe allossa oma allkiri
• 6 Kui soovite saata selle meili teel, eksportige oma kaaskiri PDF-vormingus.

Teised kaaskirjade näidised

Kaaskirja struktureerimise nõuanded.

Kaaskirja kirjutamise hõlbustamiseks pidage meeles, et koguge eelnevalt kogu vajalik teave. Näidake toimetaja loovust, järgides samal ajal tüpograafiliste reeglite õiget kasutamist ja jälgides, et ei tekiks kirjavigu. Sest hea kaaskiri peegeldab teie kuvandit inimese ja professionaalina. Olge oma kirjutamisel loominguline ja originaalne, jäädes samas lihtsaks, kokkuvõtlikuks ja täpseks. ‍ Näidake läbitud punktide ohutust, enesekindlust ja meisterlikkust. Rõhutage, mida saate ettevõttesse tuua ja mainige oma erialast kogemust vastavas valdkonnas. Märkige ka kõik põhipunktid, mis panevad teid end uute ideedega täitva transformeeriva agendina ilmuma. Täpsustage oma võimet saavutada kavandatud eesmärgid ja kohaneda uute suundumustega.

Näita ennast positiivselt. Ärge langege sellesse viga, et kasutate sama kaaskirja mitme ettevõtte jaoks. Koostage kaaskiri iga taotletava töö kohta. Seda tüüpi kiri võimaldab tööandjal kujundada teie isiksuse kohta arvamust, sest see annab teile võimaluse täpsustada oma motivatsioone, mida lihtsas CV-s tegelikult ei kirjeldata.

Lihtsa ja tõhusa kaaskirja kirjutamise soovitused

• Laiendage Intro ‍ Pidage meeles, et pärast kõne valemit peate välja töötama sissejuhatuse, kus tutvustate end ametlikult ja isiklikult. Ärge unustage märkida peamist eesmärki, mis ajendas teid seda kirja kirjutama.
• Struktureerige oma kirja sisu Laske end juhinduda järgmistest küsimustest: – Miks?, Mis eesmärgil?, Kuidas?, Miks soovite selles ettevõttes töötada? → selles osas peate kirjeldama, mida saate ettevõttele tuua. – Rõhutage, kuidas teie teadmised võivad oluliselt mõjutada ettevõtte funktsioonide arengut ja majandussektorit, kus ta tegutseb. - Kuidas te seda teeksite tee seda? → lihtsalt rõhutab teie teadmisi ja võimeid professionaalina – Rõhutage oma õnnestumisi, varasemaid kogemusi, diplomeid, saadud tunnustusi või auhindu.
• Olge oma järeldustes otsekohene Andke teada, et olete vestluseks saadaval, esitades kontaktteabe, näiteks oma e-posti aadressi, telefoninumbri ja postiaadressi. Kui need kontaktandmed muutuvad, ärge unustage uuendada oma CV-d ja kaaskirja ning saata need uuesti ettevõtetele, kes on need juba saanud.
• Hoolitse paigutuse eest Teie kaaskiri peab olema kooskõlas teie CV-ga. Värbaja peab esmapilgul nägema, et need 2 dokumenti moodustavad ühe taotluse. Kasutage oma kaaskirjas samu värve, fonti, ikoone jne, mis oma CV-s. See väike näpunäide aitab teil luua tõhusa ja professionaalse rakenduse.

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Cover Letter

Advice for getting a job, instructions.

Translating Success: Writing The Perfect Cover Letter For An Internship Abroad

When applying for internships abroad it’s a common requirement that applicants send not only their CV, but also a cover letter. For recruiters, receiving a cover letter provides more insight into the character of the applicants and, for over-subscribed positions, can provide a valuable way to choose between candidates.

When assessing overseas candidates, foreign grading systems often complicate measuring candidates; sometimes, a cover letter is the way recruiters assess the value of a potential candidate.

For these reasons, applicants should take seriously the task of writing their cover letters; between candidates that are closely tied in their experience and academic achievements, a cover letter might be the thing that clinches you for a position. Strong cover letters will open up new opportunities for you. Let’s find out how to write the perfect cover letter for internships abroad.

The Right Opening

The way in which you open your cover letter is surprisingly important. Addressing your reader for the first time, this is your chance to make a first - and lasting - impression. Recruiters may be reading hundreds of cover letters for popular positions, so you need to stand out for the right reasons.

Avoid generic openings such as 'To whom it may concern'. If someone is going to the trouble of reading your cover letter, they ought to be addressed by name. This information is usually available online, but an email to the organization you’re applying with can help you identify the recipient of your cover letter. If in doubt, find the head of the department to which you’re applying; this is who you need to impress.

The Right Content

Cover letters provide an opportunity for applicants to express themselves in their own words, but there are a number of key points all cover letters should take in. “Cover letters should introduce you to the recipient, and maintain a personal and sincere style throughout" , says Delores Fowler, a career expert at Coursework Writing Service and Write My Paper . “ It’s important that recruiters feel a sense of your personality shining through, after all if they were after a list of your achievements, a CV would suffice. ”

Structuring your cover letter in the appropriate way helps recruiters follow it as they rarely have time to give an in-depth reading to every letter. A cover letter should follow the following general structure:

• The address (Dear Mr/Ms…)
•  A personal introduction
• A discussion of your experience
• What has motivated you to pursue the role in question
• What makes you stand out as a candidate

By following a predictable structure, you can ensure that the key elements of your cover letter stand out at a glance.

Articulate Your Experience

Cover letters for internships abroad should be especially detailed in a qualitative account of your relevant experience. Often, a list of grades and achievements on a CV won’t translate easily across borders, so recruiters will look to your cover letter to assess you as a candidate.

Don’t rely on your grades to tell the whole story; build a narrative about who you are and what you’ve achieved. This will help you stand out to recruiters in an international language of success.

Know Your Stuff

“ To demonstrate your value as a candidate it’s important to have done some research about the company in question as well as the specifics of the internship you’re applying for ,” says Karla Austin, a writer at Assignment Help and OXEssays. “ Candidates showing real hunger to be involved in the business will jump to the top of the list .”

When discussing what has motivated you to apply, you can demonstrate that your values align with the fundamental vision of the organization you're applying to. This is also an opportunity to articulate your familiarity with any current projects they’re working on.

Wrapping Up

When you're competing for an internship abroad you’re up against an international pool. When local grades and experience on your CV might make you feel like the perfect candidate, there’s no guarantee recruiters will have the relevant understanding of what you’ve achieved. Your cover letter is a chance to stand out from the crowd, telling recruiters why they should hire you in your own words. It’s a huge opportunity - don’t waste it.

Author - Katherine Rundell

Katherine Rundell is a resume writer at Literature Review Help and Essay Writing Services . Katherine has worked as a recruiter all over UK, and is currently based in Leeds. Her further work can be found at Order an Essay writing service.

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How to Write a Cover Letter for Internship (Examples & Template)

You’ve found the perfect internship and it’s now time to apply and land the position!

But, in addition to your resume, you also have to write an internship cover letter.

You might end up staring at the blank Word document for hours and nothing comes out.

We don’t blame you; cover letters are hard to write even if you have a decade’s worth of work experience, let alone if you’re a recent graduate or a student.

Worry not, though; in this article, we’re going to teach you all you need to know to write a compelling cover letter for your internship.

• Do you need a cover letter for an internship?
• How to write a compelling cover letter for an internship
• Plug and play internship cover letter template

Do I Need a Cover Letter for an Internship?

First things first—if you’re wondering whether you actually need a cover letter for your internship application, the answer is yes . 

An internship application is just like any other hiring process, meaning that a recruiter will go over your resume , cover letter (and maybe even references), and decide whether you’re qualified for the position. 

And yes, recruiters contrary to what you might think, recruiters do read your cover letter. 56% of recruiters prefer a cover letter with an applicant’s application.

This is reasonable - a cover letter allows you to add essential information you didn’t have space for in a resume, as well as explain (in words) how your experiences are tied to the role you’re applying for.

As such, a cover letter for an internship is essential and complementary to your application package.

Now that we got that out of the way, let’s go over all the best ways to write a cover letter for an internship. 

How to Write a Cover Letter for Internship

#1. respect the format.

Before you can focus on your cover letter’s contents, you should first make sure you’re sticking to the right format. 

Otherwise, your cover letter will be disorganized and the recruiter will have a hard time following your train of thought.

So, here’s the format that your cover letter for an internship should follow: 

• Header with contact information. This includes your full name, professional email, phone number, and LinkedIn profile (if you have one). Underneath your contact info, you should add the date and the receiver’s information (the recruiter’s name and title, the company/organization name, and their physical address). 
• Addressing the recruiter. Greeting the recruiter with “Dear Sir/Madam” or “To Whom It May Concern” is common, but not the best approach. Want to show the hiring manager that you did your research? We recommend you address the hiring manager by name directly. Our guide on how to address a cover letter covers everything you need to know on this topic!      
• Opening statement. Your opening statement should be brief, but at the same time professional and attention-grabbing. Here, you introduce yourself, mention the position you’re applying for, and potentially a key achievement or two.   
• Body. The body of your cover letter consists of 2-3 paragraphs where you highlight your education, provide background for your skills, and explain how you (and the company) would benefit from each other professionally. 
• Closing paragraph. Your closing paragraph is your chance to include a call to action, to thank the recruiters for their time, or mention anything important you left out. 
• Formal salutation. End your cover letter with a formal salutation such as “kind regards,” “sincerely,” or “best regards.” Our guide on how to end a cover letter can teach you all you need to know on the topic. 

Having trouble getting started with your cover letter? Read our guide on how to start a cover letter and get inspired!

#2. State the Position You’re Applying For in the Opening

Recruiters hate one-size-fits-all cover letters and resumes.

Around 48% of recruiters and hiring managers aren’t even going to read your cover letter if it’s not customized to the role you’re applying for.

And one of the easiest ways to do this is by mentioning the role you’re applying for right in the cover letter opening.

This allows you to:

• Show that you will be tailoring the rest of your cover letter for that position alone.
• Prove that your cover letter is customized for this specific internship, and you’re not just randomly applying for the job,

Here’s a practical example of how you can mention the role you’re applying for in the cover letter opening:

Dear Mr. Jacobs, 

It is my pleasure to apply for the Communications Assistant internship position at the United Nations Development Programme. I can confidently say based on my 2-year experience working as a journalist and my excellent academic results in the Mass Communications Major that I’d be a good fit for the position. 

#3. Mention the Right Keywords

When reviewing your application, hiring managers tend to scan your cover letter or resume and look for the right keywords that would make you qualified for the internship you’re applying for.

E.g. If you're applying for a job in graphic design, the recruiter is probably looking for keywords like “Photoshop,” “Illustrator,” or “InDesign.”

As such, it’s very important to include the right keywords in your cover letter.

How can you find these keywords, you might ask?

It’s actually pretty simple - just look at the internship job description and go through the required skills & responsibilities and identify the keywords that you’d think the recruiter would be looking for.

Then, do the following:

• Sprinkle some of those keywords throughout your cover letter. When relevant, back them up with an experience. E.g. don’t just say “I’m good at Photoshop,” say how you’ve taken 3 different Photoshop classes and used Photoshop for 2 different projects.
• Don’t include keywords that don’t apply to you, they’ll just make it seem like you’re copy-pasting from the job description.
• Research and add other popular soft skills that recruiters look for in applicants for the role you’re applying for. E.g. If you’re applying for an internship as a communications assistant, chances are, you’ll need strong communication skills (even if this is not something listed in the job description.

Now, let’s look at a practical example. Let’s say that the internship you’re applying for requires the following skills:

• Communication
• Ability to meet strict deadlines

Here’s how you’d mention this in your cover letter:

During my time as Editor in Chief at my University’s newspaper, I got to develop my communication and leadership skills significantly. For over two years, I was in charge of a 7 people team, which also helped my teamwork skills and my ability to meet deadlines. 

Keep in mind, though, that it IS possible to overdo it with the keywords.

44% of hiring managers say they will dismiss a resume or cover letter that looks as if it has copied the job posting. 

Using each and every keyword mentioned in the job description (without backing the skills up with experiences) might cause the hiring manager to think that you’re just copying the job ad & don’t actually have these skills.

So, don’t just copy-paste all the keywords from the job description, and if you DO mention a lot of those keywords, make sure to back them up with practical experiences.

#4. Highlight Your Education

If you don’t have a lot of work experience, your education and relevant coursework is your best chance to show that you’re a good fit for the internship. 

Letting the recruiter know what kind of courses you’ve completed that are relevant to the internship you’re applying for will be a big plus for your application. 

Say, for example, that you’re applying for an internship as a graphic designer. To make your internship cover letter impactful, make sure to mention all the relevant courses and related accomplishments. 

Here’s an example of how you could do that:

As a Visual Design major, I have completed several courses that have helped me build my professional portfolio. A few of the most beneficial ones have been Design & Layout and Visual Communication: Theory and Practice. I have also gained valuable experience doing the layout of the university’s newspaper for 4 years and of several books as independent projects. 

#5. Provide Background For Your Skills

It’s one thing to just claim that you have a set of skills and another to prove it. 

Anyone can say that they’re great at doing something, but what makes all the difference is when you can actually put your money where your mouth is. 

For example, in your internship cover letter, instead of just mentioning that you have “good time-management skills,” actually back it up with a past experience that proves it.

During the summers I assisted my family’s wedding planning business, I learned a lot about time management. In that kind of business, it’s important that things run like clockwork so in addition to time management skills, it also significantly improved my attention to detail. 

#6. Explain Why You’re a Good Fit For The Position

In addition to just listing out the skills that are relevant and beneficial for the internship, you should also explain why you are a good fit for the position. 

This means that you should connect the dots between what the company/organization is looking to gain from its interns and what you can do to provide those services. 

So, after you research and create an understanding of what is required of you, you should use your cover letter to explain why you’re a good fit for that position. 

For the sake of the example, let’s assume you’re applying for an internship at a Human Rights organization. A big chunk of what the role requires is categorizing virtual files of the cases the organization has worked on in the past.

What you want to do, in this case, is show how you can help with that particular job as an intern. Here’s how:  

I have spent 3 summers working at the National Library, where I was tasked to sort and categorize books based on their topic, author, and year of publication, and also memorize where each section fits in the library. I believe this skill, which I have perfected over the years, can really be of use for the internship position at Organization X.

#7. Describe What You Would Gain Professionally

In addition to showing (and proving) your skills and how you can benefit the company, you should also explain how getting the position will benefit YOU . 

When it comes to internships, oftentimes they serve the purpose of helping students and young professionals acquire in-depth knowledge about the industry, create a network, and develop skills that will benefit them throughout their careers. 

So, it will surely help you make an even better impression if you show that you are self-aware about what you’ll get out of the internship and how it will help you grow professionally. 

Here’s how you can do that: 

I am excited for this internship to provide me with the necessary customer service skills and network that will help me grow professionally in my future career as a customer service manager. 

#8. Proofread Your Cover Letter

After all, is written and done, there’s one final thing to do and that is make sure your cover letter doesn’t have mistakes. 

A spelling or grammar mistake probably won’t disqualify you, but at the same time, it will probably be a red flag for recruiters that you’re not too attentive.

For this reason, ask a friend to proofread your cover letter or use spell-checking software such as Grammarly and Hemingway . 

Want to know what other cover letter mistakes you should avoid? Our guide on cover letter mistakes has all you need to know on the topic! 

#9. Match Your Cover Letter & Resume Designs

Want your internship application to truly shine?

Match your cover letter design with your resume!

Sure, you could go with a generic Word cover letter template, but why fit in when you can stand out?

At Novorésumé, all our resume templates come with a matching cover letter template , guaranteed to make your application truly special.

Cover Letter for Internship Template

Struggling to create a cover letter for your internship?

Simply follow our tried-and-tested internship cover letter template!

Key Takeaways 

And that’s a wrap! You should now have all the necessary information about how to create a cover letter for an internship.

Now, let’s do a small recap of the key learning points we just covered:

• Cover letters are a must when you’re applying for an internship.
• When you start writing your cover letter, make sure you respect the format: the header with contact information, the greeting to the recruiter, an opening paragraph, the body with 2-3 paragraphs, and a closing paragraph followed by an official salutation and your name.
• Some of our main tips on how to write a cover letter for an internship include: state the position you’re applying for, make use of the right keywords, and back up your skills with experiences.
• Use a cover letter builder and match it with your resume to make sure your cover letter truly stands out from the rest.

Related Readings: 

• Entry-level Cover Letter
• Do I Need a Cover Letter in 2024?
• Top 21 Cover Letter Tips

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UN Internship Cover Letter Guide With Examples

Attach your internship at UN application with a UN Internship Cover Letter to increase your chances of getting the role. Find key tips and suggestions.

Pansy Thakuria

Read more posts by this author.

Embarking on a journey with the United Nations is an opportunity to make a global impact. A UN internship can be the ideal launching pad for those aspiring to work in international relations, diplomacy, and public service. The competition, however, is intense. Crafting a well-articulated cover letter is vital to make a strong impression.

In this guide, we'll offer tailored templates, tips, and advice for drafting your UN Internship cover letter, irrespective of your experience level.

UN Internship Cover Letter Sample (With Experience)

[Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State ZIP Code] [Your Email Address] [Today's Date]

[Recipient's Name] [Title] [United Nations Department/Agency Name] [Address] [City, State ZIP Code]

Dear [Recipient's Name],

I am excited to apply for the [Specific Internship Position] at [Specific UN Department/Agency]. With my degree in [Relevant Major/Field of Study] and my experience at [Previous Relevant Experience/Institution], I am confident in my ability to contribute effectively to the work of the United Nations.

While at [Previous Experience/Institution], I:

• Contributed to [specific project or task], directly impacting [specific outcome or achievement].
• Engaged in [activity], deepening my understanding of [specific global issue].
• Collaborated with diverse teams, honing my cross-cultural communication skills.

I have always been passionate about [specific global issue or UN Sustainable Development Goal]. I believe interning with [Specific UN Department/Agency] will enable me to make meaningful contributions while refining my skills and knowledge.

Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to discuss how my background aligns with your team's objectives.

Warm regards, [Your Name]

UN Internship Cover Letter Sample (Entry-Level)

I am genuinely interested in the [Specific Internship Position] at [Specific UN Department/Agency]. As a recent graduate from [University Name] with a degree in [Relevant Major/Field of Study], I am enthusiastic about applying my academic foundation to address global challenges.

Although my professional experience is nascent, my academic pursuits have equipped me with a robust understanding of [specific global issue or UN Sustainable Development Goal]. My involvement in [university club or project] enabled me to [specific achievement or skill acquired].

I am particularly impressed with [Specific UN Department/Agency]'s work in [specific initiative or project] and am eager to contribute my skills and passion to your esteemed team.

Thank you for reviewing my application. I look forward to discussing my potential contributions to your mission.

Best regards, [Your Name]

Crafting Your UN Internship Cover Letter: Key Tips

1. Be Specific: Highlight the specific UN department or agency you are applying to and align your skills and interests with their initiatives.

2. Have a Global Perspective: Emphasize any international experiences, language proficiencies, or cross-cultural encounters you've had.

3. Be Passionate for Global Issues: Relate your passion for certain global issues, especially those pertinent to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.

4. Be Concise and Clear: The UN receives numerous applications; ensure your cover letter is concise and immediately emphasizes your suitability.

5. Have a Tailored Application: Avoid generic statements. Tailor your application to the unique attributes and functions of the specific UN department or agency.

What to Include in Your UN Internship Cover Letter?

• Understanding or experience with global issues or challenges.
• Relevant academic pursuits or research.
• Any international or cross-cultural experiences.
• Language skills or proficiencies.
• How your personal values align with the UN's mission.

Bottom Line

A UN internship is a chance to engage with global challenges on an unparalleled platform. Your cover letter should reflect your knowledge of the UN's work, your passion for international issues, and your readiness to contribute.

Personalize each application, ensuring alignment with the specific UN agency or department. Using this guide, aspiring UN interns can present themselves compellingly, aligning their skills and passion with the mission of the United Nations.

This article has been written by Pansy Thakuria . She works as a Content Marketing Specialist at Vantage Lens . Her areas of interest include marketing, mental well-being, travel, and digital tech. When she’s not writing, she’s usually planning trips to remote locations and stalking animals on social media.

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Motivation letter for an Internship

Updated on 08 february, 2024.

upGrad Abroad Team

Upgrad abroad editorial team.

A motivation letter for internships is often necessary as a part of the application process at diverse organizations. Internships hold immense value for candidates, enabling them to gain hands-on experience and knowledge of their chosen professional fields. It also helps manifest the insights gained during candidates’ master’s or bachelor’s courses. The accepted way to put a resume in front of a recruiter for potential internships is with an accompanying motivation letter. It is a letter enclosed with the application and is slightly different compared to cover letters submitted with job applications.

Table of Contents

• Things to keep in mind when writing a Motivation Letter for an Internship
• Motivation Letter for Internship- Sample

A motivation letter for an internship will convey the reasons for the candidate being suitable for a specific job while giving insights into the candidate’s potential to contribute to the organization, personality, interests, and whether the candidate will be a suitable fit. One can evaluate a few sample motivation letters for an internship to understand the concept better. 

Things to keep in mind when writing a Motivation Letter for an Internship 

If you know how to write a motivation letter for a scholarship,  you can also write it easily for internships. The motivation letter for an internship should contain the following: 

• Basic information about the candidate. 
• The candidate’s unique personality traits, which sync with the job position. 
• Examples of the candidate being suitable for the job. 
• Organizational knowledge. 
• Reason for applying for the given job position. 
• The job aspects which align with the candidate’s future goals, academic prowess, and experience.

The letter should be addressed to the hiring manager or concerned company employee. The introductory paragraph should talk about the candidate, highlight the position being applied for, and the reasons for applying to the given job. It should also demonstrate the candidate’s readiness for the work. The following few paragraphs should focus on the reasons the candidate is a suitable fit for the job, their background, interests, and how they align with the job and organization. 

List a few academic and professional accomplishments in order with examples. The letter should end by thanking the recipients for their time in evaluating the same while reiterating the candidate’s desire for the position and mentioning how the candidate is available to answer further queries. 

Motivation Letter for Internship- Sample  

Here is a motivation letter example for internships. 

Dear Sir/Madam, 

I am pursuing my Master of Science in Finance at (name of university). I have read your posting for a Wealth Management Internship with keen interest. My educational background aligns with the qualifications needed for the position at (name of company). I also gained relevant experience and insights from my previous internship with (company name), where I learned the basics of portfolio management and was entrusted to assist with handling personal investments made by two distinguished family offices. 

With my previous experience and educational qualifications, I have a strong foundation in portfolio management, risk assessment, preparing presentations on emerging investment sectors, financial forecasting and modeling, and taxation. I have completed my Bachelor of Science in Finance at (institution name), with a 7.0 GPA overall, and gained knowledge of basic financial concepts. My current program of study is also helping me grasp concepts like financial planning, real estate trusts, fund analysis, and others. 

The responsibilities outlined for the internship match my areas of study, experience, and skill sets. I am passionate about portfolio management, and an internship with your organization will help me further enhance my technical skills and industry knowledge in the field. I am also the university association’s finance secretary, which handles student contributions, events, and facilities. I have gained invaluable experience and insights while maintaining the association books and getting them audited annually. I would welcome an opportunity to be a part of your organization and contribute towards its future success. 

Please review my attached resume for additional information on my knowledge, skills, and areas of expertise. I look forward to hearing back from you. 

Thank you for your time and consideration. 

Sincerely, 

(Contact Information)

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Is it mandatory to have a motivation letter for an internship?

A motivation letter is not always mandatory, but applicants would do well if they attach it to their applications. Cover letters are required for job applications, and in the same way, motivation letters are necessary for internship applications as well.

Is there any difference between a cover letter and a motivation letter?

A cover letter exhibits examples of how the candidate’s skills, attributes, and job experience sync with the position. A motivation letter is slightly different, emphasizing the candidate’s interests, personality, and reasons for applying.A cover letter exhibits examples of how the candidate’s skills, attributes, and job experience sync with the position. A motivation letter is slightly different, emphasizing the candidate’s interests, personality, and reasons for applying.

We are a dedicated team of study-abroad experts, ensuring intensive research and comprehensive information in each of our blogs. With every piece written, we aim at simplifying the overseas education process for all. Our diverse experience as journalists, content writers, editors, content strategists, and marketers helps create the most relevant and authentic blogs for our readers.

Exams to Study Abroad

Top study abroad destinations, important resources, get free consultation, similar articles.

Finally, based on how you greeted the recipient of your cover letter, you can sign off with either “ Yours sincerely ,” or “ Yours faithfully ,” . If you addressed the recruiter by their name, sign off with the former; if not, use the latter.

Don't feel like writing your internship cover letter by hand?

Let our AI cover letter writer create the first draft of your internship cover letter!

Undoubtedly, the best way to learn something is to look at specific examples . And that's exactly what we're going to do right now! 

Below, we've prepared 5 internship cover letters written by real people with the help of our cover letter templates .

And, each of them is accompanied by our internship cover letter writing tips that you can implement into your own cover letter! 

FYI, you can use each of these examples as the first draft for your very own internship cover letter – simply click on the red button and start personalising the text (or let AI handle it).

#1 Philips Marketing Intern Cover Letter Sample

Internship cover letter example:.

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

What can you take away?

• Eye-catching header.  Firstly, the header is visually clearly separated from the rest of the text. This makes the recruiters notice it immediately. Plus, the contact information of the company is also featured in the left-hand corner - just like it would be on an actual letter.
• Research the company before applying. Notice sentences like: “ I really like and relate to what Philips stands for … ” and “ Furthermore, it is very appealing that Philips operates on an international level… ”.This shows that the candidate’s done a thorough research of the company's philosophy and structure.

#2 Warner Bros. Public Relations Intern Cover Letter Example

• Share a personal story. This can help you establish a sentimental connection between you and the company. Show them that for you, working for their company means more than any old internship.
• Name-drop a referral. Now, this is a little bit of a cheat code. But, if you happen to know about anyone who has worked/currently works for the company, slip their name into your cover letter.

#3 University of Massachusetts Boston Intern Cover Letter Example

What can you take away  .

• Write about what you want to gain from the internship. It shows that you're not there just to have something to put on your resume; but that you’re motivated by the idea of gaining actual industry knowledge and skills.

#4 Audit/Tax Summer Internship at CohnReznick Cover Letter Sample

• Mention any relevant academic activities. If you're wondering how to write a cover letter for an internship with no experience whatsoever, this is your way to go! For example, notice how this candidate noted all of his relevant courses, skills, association membership, and competition participation.
• Focus on transferrable skills. Especially when your study programme doesn't necessarily fit the internship opening to a T. Instead, focus on any transferable skills you've picked up. 

#5 Intern at NBC Cover Letter Sample

• Keep your opening and closing paragraphs short and sweet. As you can see in this example, it helps keep a certain visual harmony of the overall document. And, despite the length, both paragraphs do exactly what they're supposed to. Besides, recruiters might be discouraged to read the rest of your cover letter if your introductory paragraph is too long.

To sum it all up, an internship cover letter is a formal document that you submit together with your resume when applying for an internship. Its content should be something between a traditional cover letter and a motivational letter.

Its purpose is to introduce yourself to the recruiters in a more personal way than the resume allows. 

The main things you want your internship cover letter to communicate are:

• who you are,
• why you're interested in this opportunity,
• what make you the best fit for the internship, 
• your motivation (your long-term professional goals),
• your desire to learn (what you want to gain from the experience).

To write a truly impactful and persuasive cover letter, we recommend following these 7 key steps: 

• Specify which internship you're applying for in the subject line.
• Include your contact information in a header.
• Address the recipient appropriately.
• Introduce yourself & your motivations in the opening paragraph.
• Elaborate on why you're a good fit and what motivated you in body.
• End your cover letter with a confident closing paragraph.
• Finish off with a polite sign off. 

Finally, if you feel that the examples provided in this article aren't enough, you can always find more in our cover letter database . 

Julia has recently joined Kickresume as a career writer. From helping people with their English to get admitted to the uni of their dreams to advising them on how to succeed in the job market. It would seem that her career is 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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Featuring Study Abroad in your Cover Letter

By Rachael Kroot Published January 12, 2012

Every employer is looking for something different, and every applicant brings something unique to the table.  How do you stand out among the crowd? 

Including a few sentences about study abroad in your cover letter can be a great way to demonstrate your knowledge of the world and capture a reader’s attention.  Study abroad is such a multi-faceted experience; however, picking just a few points to focus on can be overwhelming.  So what do potential employers find the most relevant?

Specific examples

Unfortunately, there is no one right answer.  The best thing you can do is consider the company and position you are applying for and focus on whatever experiences relate best.  If you can, use specific examples and explain what exactly it is that you gained from your time abroad.

For instance, if you are applying for a job on Capitol Hill in Washington DC, you would definitely want to mention an internship with a Member of Parliament (MP) in London.  You could try to pull specific examples by saying something like:

During my semester in London, I gained a unique perspective on the British governmental system by interning with MP Rosie Cooper.   I was lucky enough to sit in on some of her daily meetings, including a conference with the United States Ambassador.  I picked up on the intricacies of how our two countries interact on a political level by attending this conference, and I would like to bring my experiences back to Capitol Hill to help continue building our Special Relationship from the other side.

Not so specific examples

Sometimes, the specifics do not seem relevant.  Examples can be especially hard to think of if you did not have an internship or job abroad.  That’s okay!  A more general description of your experience can still be a good way to demonstrate your independence and cultural awareness to an employer.  When I applied to work as an assistant at a travel agency, I focused on the broader view:

  My desire to learn about and make connections between a wide variety of subjects keeps me constantly searching for new ideas and opportunities to better understand the world around me.  This manifests itself in my strong interest of travel.  For instance, I was privileged enough to be able to study abroad in London the spring semester of my junior year.  While there, I took advantage of my proximity to Europe by traveling around the UK, Spain, France, Italy and the Netherlands.  I learned the ins and outs of the travel world: from plane to train, from hotel to hostel, and from tourist trap to local treasure.

Some other things you might want to consider mentioning when writing a cover letter include:

• Your interactions with different cultures
• Your adaptability to new situations
• The organization and detail you put into planning trips
• Personal independence
• Managing money in another currency
• Communication across language barriers
• Relevant coursework or research projects

A lot of people think that study abroad is all about having fun – and it is!  But it is also a great learning and growing opportunity.  Put a professional spin on things, and any employer will be impressed to see how much you took away from the experience.

Looking for more information? Check out our  study abroad student guide to learn more .

Rachael has a B.S. in Geography from the University of Maryland and studied abroad in London during the Spring of 2009.

Sample cover letter for Internship position at Erasmus

Studying abroad, got the job yes.

Dear Erasmus committee,

My name is >>Name<< and I am currently in my second semester at >>Name of University<< majoring in English and minoring in French as part of >>Name of programme<<.

As a language student a semester/year abroad is of great value, since I believe that you cannot really learn a language to the fullest if you have not been in an environment where it is the primary language spoken.

It is a unique opportunity to combine my university studies with first-hand experience of life in a country speaking the language that is a part of my education. Along side improving my spoken and written English/French, I also hope to gain insight into the various aspects of the culture and history of the country.

I have an excellent command of the English and French language which would enable me to adjust and adapt easily to an English or French speaking country and university. This is partly due to my experience with work and travel both in/to France and the US, where I spent time at each site studying the English and French language. The stay in the US ended with a CAE test where I received the highest score, C2.

To grow up in an household where there were more than five languages spoken daily, have made me able to see language learning and development as more than only grammar and “right or wrong”. I see it as a way of communication, which may be, in a lot of ways, more relevant today than ever before, not only in a way of solving conflicts, but also to learn and understand other cultures and societies etc.

Both English and French literature is something that is close to my heart. You can probably throw any kind of classical literature my way and I will have read it. Personally literature, mostly the classic but also the modern, has shaped me a lot as a human and given me a great appreciation for language learning and how it is used.

I am a firm believer that through learning new languages, we learn to interpret literature from other countries and cultures in a better way. I have experienced that through knowing/understanding English and French I have been able to see for example, Emily Brontë's Wuthering Heights, Tom Hardy’s Tess from the D’Urbervilles, Honoré Balzac’s La Comédie Humaine or Victor Hugo’s Les Misérables in a completely different way than when reading it in my native tongue.

Some reasons for choosing Erasmus:

• - Learning a foreign language even better and improving my skills in English and French.
• - To get practice and first-hand see how English and French studies work in each respective country, and to work in a different environment than at my university.
• - Enhance my chances to find a better employment, as I will get a truly multicultural experience, highly vaulted nowadays among employers.

I am in particular interested in courses in English/French cultural studies, English/ French linguistics and English/French literature.

I really hope that you will consider me as a student for your university, which would be a honor for me to attend as a part of my abroad studying.

Best regardes, 

>>Name<<

• Français ( French )

How to write a CV and a cover letter to work internationally?

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How to make a CV to work internationally?

There is no single template for international applications. On the other hand, it is wise to adapt to the recruitment methods of the countries you contact.

• First of all, the language used to write a CV must be that of the host country. Thus, the formulations must be mastered, the syntax and spelling without mistakes. Any unclear and poorly written application will be overlooked by the competition. At the same time, writing a CV in English (American or British, be sure to adapt to the recipient’s origin. The choice of words or expressions may differ greatly) is an additional asset to convince and show your motivation to work internationally.
• Germany appreciates having as much information as possible on the civil status (parents’ profession, religious denomination, family situation…) in order to better target the candidate’s profile. The organization should remain basic, without layout effects. The past of employees is of great interest to German recruiters. It is therefore important to present, without too much detail, all experiences and training since college (dates of activities, job title). The CV must be signed and dated by hand to attest to the veracity of the information.
• In the United States, on the other hand, discrimination law requires that personal information be kept to a minimum. The candidates maintain a certain discretion, the description must remain more standard (Name, first name, address, telephone). American recruiters appreciate direct and incisive wording, especially through the use of action verbs. It is strongly recommended that personal goals be mentioned to understand the candidate’s motivation. The highlighting of any publications in the context of your studies is a very good indicator for the recruiter.
• Halfway between American and French customs, the Quebecers do not include any elements relating to private life, and no photograph either. On the other hand, mentioning your goals and career plan is essential for your application. Quebec recruiters will be more interested in describing your skills than in listing your diplomas.
• As for Japan, it has very strict conventions. As such, it offers predefined structures. It is called Rirekisho. The models can be found in bookstores or supermarkets. The CV must be handwritten, in black ink. It is sent by mail, and not by email as is customary. The use of a large envelope is also required. Indeed, folding documents is extremely badly perceived on this side of the world. Photocopying is also a very bad signal to recruiters.

What are the elements to avoid in an international CV?

The first mistake to avoid when writing a resume is word-for-word translation. The risk is to give the impression of a too fragile mastery of the English language. A recurring trap is also that of “false friends”.

• The Curriculum Vitae is translated as “Resume”. However, it is by no means a simple summary.
• The term Grande école is the perfect example. It does not translate to “High school” (this term refers to high school). The French term is kept in this case. Example, “Grande école of Engineering”.
• In the United States, “company” is the term used to describe a business, while the British use the term “entreprise” or “business”.

Beware of the equivalence of diplomas. Understanding and targeting language equivalencies is necessary before writing an international CV.

• The BTS will be translated as “2 year technical degree”.
• The master degree will be translated as “Master degree” or “Bachelor”.

Depending on the country, the use of the photo can be divisive. In the past, it was not acceptable to send a CV without a photo. Today, this is much more likely to be considered, especially because of the fear of companies to be accused of discrimination in hiring. However, some countries are still resisting and perceive the use of photography badly:

• United States
• New Zealand
• United Kingdom

Example of an international CV

First and last name Full address Email Phone number

Brief description of the objective and profile of the candidate

Title of the job

• List of positions
• Year of activity and country of residence.
• Brief description of positions held
• Name of the company

A map of the world with colored areas to locate the spaces in which you have worked allows you to focus your resume towards a mobile and international profile.

• Years of degree obtained
• Type of diploma
• University of graduation
• Brief summary of skills obtained.

At the bottom of the page, describe any additional skills that may complement your profile. Mastery of foreign languages, computer tools, various hobbies…

How to write a cover letter for an international career?

The cover letter is not mandatory, but let’s face it, it would be a shame to skip over such a crucial element for the recruiter. It makes the difference between the two. Even if it has elements in common with a classic cover letter (diplomas, objectives, hobbies…), facing an international audience adds an extra challenge to the task.

• The first essential point concerns the candidate’s motivation to work abroad rather than in his or her country of origin. The question may seem perfunctory, but the reasons for studying elsewhere are of real importance to schools or companies. It must appear as a conscious and thoughtful choice.
• Chances are you will not be the only international student in your program. Therefore, it is important to emphasize your interest in the exchange and in meeting new people. Shy or extroverted, recruiters want to see your ability to adapt to multicultural interactions. This should be a major motivation in your application.

What are the elements to avoid in an international cover letter?

• A common mistake is to turn the focus of the cover letter on yourself. Mentioning one’s aspirations may seem legitimate, but the recruiter wants above all to know what the candidate can bring to the company. What is the point of selecting one student over another? It is important to put yourself in the recruiter’s shoes.
• There is no need to copy what you have already mentioned in your CV. The cover letter should be complementary and provide new information about your application.
• Too much neutrality can be discriminatory. The cover letter remains a space for expression, the recruiter wants to get a glimpse of your personality. Don’t stick to a standard, administrative style. Make the recruiter want to meet you.

Sample cover letter to work internationally

Here is a synthetic example of a cover letter for international work:

• Fill in the subject of your application.
• Madam, Sir,

After doing a lot of research on the possibilities of working abroad, I decided to put together an international mobility file. I chose your company because it corresponds in every way to my objectives and skills. My past experiences in the field make my application particularly legitimate for this position. I am convinced that my previous trainings as well as my experience in companies will bring a lot to your company.

My choice of residence is your country because multicultural exchange is at the heart of my professional orientation. It is a great source of interest and enrichment for my future employment.

Yours sincerely

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