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How to Write a Cover Letter for an Internship? (+5 Real Internship Cover Letter Examples)

• Julia Mlcuchova , 
• Updated March 20, 2024 8 min read

Trying to figure out how to write a cover letter for an internship ? Look no further!

POV: After weeks and weeks of searching for the right internship opportunity, you've finally found it. But, at the end of the posting, there's a single short sentence that takes you aback:  “Please, attach a cover letter to your application .”

Although some consider cover letter writing to be a relic of the past, it still holds its rightful place in the professional world. 

Because a well-written and persuasive cover letter can sometimes make up for the lack of work experience on your resume . And if you're trying to apply for an internship , this is probably your case, too. 

So, continue reading this article and learn: 

• What is a cover letter for an internship;
• Whether you need to attach a cover letter to your internship application;
• How to write one in 7 steps;
• 5 real-life internship cover letter examples .

Table of Contents

Click on a section to skip

What is a cover letter for an internship?

Do you need a cover letter for an internship, how to write a cover letter for an internship in 7 steps, 5 real-life internship cover letter examples, key takeaways: how to write a cover letter for an internship.

Generally speaking, an internship cover letter is a formal document that accompanies your resume when applying for an internship. 

When it comes to its content, a cover letter for an internship falls somewhere between a traditional cover letter and a motivational letter . 

• A traditional cover letter , used by job applicants with years of experience, is supposed to underline some of the candidate's most relevant and impressive skills, qualifications, and work achievements . 
• A motivational letter , used mostly in academia, aims to communicate one's passion for the subject, their motivation, and personal goals . 

Hence, a cover letter for an internship combines the purpose of the traditional cover letter (convincing the recruiters that you're the right person for the job) with the tone and strategy of the motivational letter (writing about personal motivations and goals).

A truly successful internship cover letter should answer the following questions:

• Who are you? 
• Why are you interested in this particular internship?
• Why are you the best fit for this internship?
• What do you want to gain from this internship?

Absolutely! 

In fact, you should always attach a cover letter to your internship application , even if it isn't explicitly required from you.  

Why, you ask? 

Well, consider this: Internships are crucial stepping stones towards your dream career. And they're also incredibly competitive. A single internship opening can be answered by tens of applicants at a time. 

But how can you stand out from a crowd of equally inexperienced candidates? Certainly not by your non-existent professional accomplishments, right? 

When companies look for interns, they don't expect you to have a ton of real-life experience. They aren't looking for a “finished product,” but for someone with a genuine desire to learn and enthusiasm for the job. 

And these two are your weapons of choice!

How can a cover letter for an internship help you?

Apart from the reasons mentioned above, your internship cover letter is also responsible for: 

• Conveying first impression. Usually, recruiters will read your cover letter before looking at your resume. So, it's the perfect opportunity to introduce yourself to them in a memorable way. 
• Showing your efforts. Next, taking the time to craft a thoughtful cover letter shows that you're willing to put in that extra effort to stand out from the rest of the candidates. 
• Highlighting your communication skills. Also, a well-written cover letter demonstrates your ability to articulate your thoughts clearly and professionally. 
• Showing your professionalism. When you walk into a room, it's polite to introduce yourself and shake everybody's hand. This is exactly what a cover letter does! To attach one to your application is a common courtesy.

Now that you're familiar with the whats and whys , let's have a look at how to write a good cover letter for an internship step-by-step. 

For example : Application for [name of the internship] internship – Surname.

Then, place your contact information (your name; professional email address; phone number; link to your website / portfolio / social media accounts if relevant) directly into the header .

If you know the recipient's name, address them by “ Dear [full name] ,” or “ Dear Mrs/Mr [last name] ,”. If you don't know who to address the cover letter to , address it more generally to “Dear Hiring Manager,” .

In the first paragraph of your cover letter , start by stating your name and where you studied (including your current degree and year of study). Proceed by explaining how you came to know about the internship and what are your motivations for applying to it.

Since you don't have much work experience, you can talk about your academic achievements; relevant coursework; dissertation project; extracurricular activities; volunteering; membership in relevant societies, etc.

The closing paragraph of your cover letter should reiterate your desire to get the specific internship, express gratitude to the recipient for their time and consideration, and include a final call for action (i.e. "I look forward to discussing the next steps during an interview." )

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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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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How to Write a Cover Letter for an Internship [Examples & Template]

Published: September 15, 2023

Writing a cover letter can feel like a daunting task, especially if you don’t have a lot of real-world experience.

Fortunately, a cover letter is actually a chance to explain how your extracurriculars and classes have taught you exceptional leadership and time management skills.

We’ve created an internship cover letter template to provide some initial structure and inspiration. For the best results, download our template, then add your own creativity and flair with the tips below.

5 Free Cover Letter Templates

Five fill-in-the-blank cover letter templates to help you impress recruiters.

• Standard Cover Letter Template
• Entry-Level Cover Letter Template
• Data-Driven Cover Letter Template

You're all set!

Click this link to access this resource at any time.

How to Write a Cover Letter for an Internship

• Include your name, date, location, and contact information.
• Include the company, department, and company address.
• Address the hiring manager.
• Set the context for your application.
• Sell your experience.
• Close the letter with grace and a call to action.

There are different formats you can use when writing internship cover letters, but you can’t go wrong with the traditional business letter format. Business professionals use this template style to apply for full-time roles, so your cover letter will stand out above the rest. Remember to proofread, use formal terms such as “Dear” and “Sincerely,” and lean towards a professional tone in your body copy.

1. Include your name, date, location, and contact information.

Although some companies are firmly against using applicant tracking systems, chances are many of the companies you apply to  will screen your resume and cover letter using one. That means you’ll need to stand out to both an automated system and human recruiters.

Have you ever heard the myth that you’d get credit for writing your name on the SAT exam? The same applies to adding contact information to your cover letter, but it’s 100% true. Make it easy for the recruiter to get in touch with you by providing an up-to-date phone number and email address.

In the past, it was common for job and internship seekers to include their exact address on their cover letter as they’d mail them directly to the hiring managers. In today’s digital world, most hiring teams won’t need to know your exact home address to extend an internship offer, so feel free to leave it off. Simply include your city and state to give the team an idea of your proximity to the office.

Your Address

Your City, State, Zip Code

Cell: 555-555-5555

Email: [email protected]

2. Include the company, department, and company address.

If you’re writing a cover letter for several internship opportunities, you’ll find it helpful to search the full name, department, and headquarters address of each company. Doing this as a separate step will help you copy the information accurately in your cover letter. Remember, you don’t want any typos or mistakes in your cover letter, especially when it comes to information that can be easily found on the internet.

Finding the department name may not be as simple, so you can leave that out if you’re unsure. If your company has several campuses or operates in different cities, use the address of the location where the internship will be performed or the office location where your hiring manager works. If your internship will be remote, use the company’s general headquarters address.

City, State Zip

3. Address the hiring manager.

As a student looking for an internship, you’ll definitely set yourself apart from other applicants by being resourceful. You can show your resourcefulness by searching for the hiring manager’s name to properly address them in your cover letter. Occasionally, their title is stated in the role description. You can then search for the role on LinkedIn to identify their name. If you can’t find a name, you can instead address them by title only. Other times, though, finding the name of the hiring manager could be more difficult. If a Google search doesn’t return a first and last name, your best bet is to leave the name out. Sacrificing a bit of personalization is much better than addressing the wrong person in your cover letter.

Dear X, (try to find the hiring manager’s name… if you can’t, you can put “Dear [Company A] Hiring Committee”)

4. Set the context for your application.

In the first paragraph, explain how you heard about the company or position, and if you know anyone at the company, mention them here. Next, express your own interest in the company or position and explain briefly how it relates to your own passions. Don’t forget to introduce yourself in this paragraph, writing your name, your education level, your major, and your interests.

You may opt for a creative first line to capture the reader’s attention. One that worked for me early in my career went something like this:

“ Can I tell you a secret? I’ve been telling stories since I was five years old. No, not fibbing — real storytelling... ”

This is where you’ll benefit from researching the company’s culture. While this opening statement worked well for startups and more laid-back companies, a big accounting firm might find it culturally off-beat.

5. Sell your experience.

Scan the internship position description and pick out a few qualities you think apply to you — just don’t choose all the descriptors mentioned as it could appear disingenuous and make your cover letter too long. For instance, if I see a company is looking for someone who’s “outgoing, organized, hardworking, and willing to take criticism,” I would pick those that describe me best and focus on providing examples in the body of my cover letter.

Mentioning the traits directly in your cover letter shows you’ve read the position description, and makes your cover letter more scannable. If the hiring manager is looking for someone with content skills, she might scan your cover letter looking for the words that indicate experience with content.

Finally, brainstorm a few compelling examples to show how you embody the most important characteristics. Don’t just write, “I have excellent customer service skills.” You want to prove it. Support your claim by writing something like,

“ Last summer, I worked as an orientation leader at my college, serving as a resource for incoming students and their parents. This experience strengthened my customer service skills. ”

Even if you don't have a lot of (or any) job experience, think about highlighting skills you've gained from extracurriculars, volunteer experience, or even passion projects:

“My passion for dance led me to become a volunteer dance teacher which helped me develop as a leader.”

6. Close the letter with grace and a call to action.

If the internship application does not explicitly state “please do not contact,” you might choose to conclude by specifying how you will follow up, such as, “I will call next week to see if my qualifications are a match,” or, “I am eager to meet with you to discuss this opportunity, and am available for an interview at a mutually convenient time.” Conclude by thanking the hiring manager for taking the time to consider you, and end on a positive, confident note, such as, “I look forward to speaking with you soon.”

You may even go a step further and give the hiring manager a call to action. Include a link to your online portfolio, a website, or even a YouTube channel where you display your work and personality. To see how often hiring managers are viewing these additional items, include tracking to your link using a URL tracker like Bitly to capture that data.

Sample Internship Cover Letter

Featured resource: 5 free cover letter templates, event planning internship cover letter.

1 Hireme Road

Boston, MA, 20813

Email: [email protected]

May 20, 2021

Event Planning Department -- Internship Program

35 Recruiting St.

Boston, MA, 29174

Dear Internship Coordinator,

At the suggestion of John Smith, a senior marketer at Company A, I am submitting my resume for the Event Coordinator internship position. I am a junior at Elon University, pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Sport and Event Management, and am passionate about event planning. I am thrilled to hear about Company A’s Event Coordinator internship program and feel my experiences and skills would be an excellent match for your organization.

As an executive member of the Student Union Board at Elon, I am in charge of organizing, promoting, and implementing multiple school-related social activities per week, while being challenged to design new events. I work cohesively with a diverse team made up of students and faculty, and I also foster relationships with novelty companies.

My experience as an Orientation Leader has further prepared me for this internship. It was essential that I remain positive, outgoing, and energized during move-in day and act as a liaison between new students, families, and faculty in a fast-paced and demanding environment. I was expected to maintain a highly professional customer service ethic while interacting with families and new students.

My Elon University experiences, executive board membership, and orientation leadership role have prepared me to be successful in the Event Coordinator internship program. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how I can add value to Company A.

(handwritten signature)

Marketing Internship Cover Letter Template

Marketing Department — Internship Program

I am a passionate, creative, and driven Elon University student with leadership and event planning experience, as well as strong communication skills. I am seeking opportunities to showcase my writing abilities in a challenging and stimulating environment. My skills and experiences will enable me to deliver successful results as a digital marketing intern for Company B.

Please allow me to highlight my key skills:

• Prior experience writing blog posts and press releases for marketing objectives
• Strong communication skills and ability to adopt voice for diverse audiences and varying purposes
• Efficient in managing multiple projects with fast-moving deadlines through organization and time-management skills
• A firm understanding of grammar rules and how to write effectively
• Experience in leadership positions, both as Student Union Board executive leader and as an Elon Orientation Leader
• Proven ability to form positive relationships with people from around the globe, exhibited by my internship experience in China last summer
• Experience organizing, promoting, and implementing social events
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Photoshop, and Premiere), and social media platforms

In closing, I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how I can be an asset to Company B. I will call next week to see if you agree that my qualifications are a match for the position. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Internship Cover Letter Examples

1. hospitality internship cover letter, why this cover letter example works:.

Passion, a willingness to learn, and previous industry experience are the factors that make this cover letter stand out. The hiring manager is able to see that the candidate has a genuine interest in the field of hospitality and takes their future in the field seriously.

How to incorporate these tips:

Start by analyzing your own experience and interest in comparison to the internship you're applying for. Do you have any examples, facts, or figures that you can include in your letter? This will help the hiring manager understand your interest in the position and give them more of a reason to hire you over the competition.

2. Supply Chain Internship Cover Letter

This student has concrete experience in three specific areas of the supply chain: demand forecasting, inventory management, and logistics strategies. Naming these areas of expertise is not only helpful for landing the internship, it helps the hiring manager structure the team by pairing them with other interns and mentors who can complement that skillset. If there's anything a hiring manager loves more than a prepared hire, it's a hire who's proactive!

3. Fashion Design Internship Cover Letter

Hands-on experience isn't possible in every field of work, but when you aspire to work in the fashion industry, there's no better way to stand out for an internship. In this internship cover letter example, Peter shares that he has practical experience designing clothing which demonstrates his ability to illustrate, design, and produce a material product which is exactly what Sleeves & Thread is looking for. 

Roll up your sleeves and get your hands dirty. If you're planning to work in an industry that produces material goods, technology, or even provides services, a great way to prove your chops is to do it before you get the job. This might look like starting a small summer side hustle, working pro bono, or taking on projects at school for extra credit. Whatever route you choose, make sure to take on projects that build a quality portfolio that hiring managers will want to see.

4. Finance Internship Cover Letter

Rebecca takes the time to highlight her skillset, but she also balances her cover letter with reasons why Banking Corporation will be a great fit for her budding career. She gives plenty of reasons why the company is appealing to her which helps balance the cover letter.

The obvious point of a cover letter is to sell your skills to the hiring manager in order to secure the internship. However, it's important to remember that the hiring process is a two-way street. It's beneficial to incorporate reasons why you want to work for the business. Explaining what the business is doing that aligns with your personal goals and values can be the factor that tips the scale in your favor and gets you hired.

5. Marketing Cover Letter Internship Example

If you work in the industry of the arts, creative, or marketing, chances are you'll have more freedom when it comes to drafting your cover letter. Here, Robin takes a novel approach by weaving colorful language that practically jumps off the page. With just enough pizazz, her personality shines through which could leave the hiring manager wanting to learn more.

It may be tempting to throw in flowery language for the sake of standing out, but proceed with caution. A better approach would be to imagine you're seeing the internship opportunity for the first time, then share your excitement with a friend. Next, write down what you said, exactly as you said it, and edit from there to include the key points of a cover letter we mention in this article. You'll sound natural while still getting your point across succinctly.

Internship Cover Letter Templates

Standard internship cover letter template.

Use this cover letter template as a foundation for your cover letter. You can customize it to fit your experience and the companies you’ll be applying to.

Download this cover letter template

Data-Driven Internship Cover Letter Template

If your major is data-driven like STEM, marketing, or accounting, this is the internship cover letter template for you. With this template, you can include the data highlights of your class projects and assignments to show the hiring manager that you can support your experience with credible facts.

Entry-level Cover Letter Template

As you approach your senior year of college, you may be looking for entry-level roles rather than internships. Cover letters are just as important for full-time roles as they are for internships, so use this template to make the transition in your job search.

Wrapping Up Your Letter of Recommendation

A resume isn’t always enough to make an impression. Including a cover letter in your internship application is the first step to setting yourself apart from other applicants. Study and apply the six steps for writing a professional internship cover letter and use one of these samples or templates to customize it. Your resume gives the highlights of your time in college while your cover letter tells the story of how those experiences will serve you as an intern with your future employer. Use it to your advantage to land the first role in your career as you navigate college and beyond.

Editor's note: This post was originally published in April 2018 and has been updated for comprehensiveness.

This article was written by a human, but our team uses AI in our editorial process. Check out our full disclosure to learn more about how we use AI.

Don't forget to share this post!

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Cover Letter for Internship: Examples & Guide

An internship is a great way to kick-start your career. But to get there, you need an internship cover letter that’s not like the other 378 on the manager’s desk.

Most intern cover letters say, “I’m a hard worker, and I fit the job.” Yours should prove that you fit the job like you were born to do it.

Sounds complicated? Don't worry, we've broken up the entire process of writing a cover letter for an internship into eight simple, actionable steps, plus we give you an internship cover letter example you can use for inspiration.

Here’s what you’re going to discover:

• Internship cover letter examples to get you started
• A versatile cover letter template for internships
• A step-by-step guide to formatting and writing your internship cover letter
• Pro-tips on how to write a cover letter for an internship

Save hours of work and get a cover letter like this. Pick a template, fill it in. Quick and easy. Choose from 20+ cover letter templates and download your cover letter now.

Create your cover letter now

What users say about ResumeLab:

I had an interview yesterday and the first thing they said on the phone was: “Wow! I love your cover letter.” Patrick I love the variety of templates. Good job guys, keep up the good work! Dylan  My previous cover letter was really weak and I used to spend hours adjusting it in Word. Now, I can introduce any changes within minutes. Absolutely wonderful! George

Not quite what you’re looking for? Check out some of these resources.

• Best Cover Letter Templates
• Best Cover Letter Tips
• Digital Marketing Cover Letter Example
• Engineering Internship Cover Letter Example
• Entry-Level Cover Letter Example
• Library Assistant Cover Letter Example
• No Experience Resume Guide
• Non-Profit Cover Letter Example
• Production Assistant Cover Letter Example
• Recent Graduate Cover Letter Example

Or head straight to our extensive collection of cover letter examples for all professions and experience levels.

Sample Cover Letter for Internship

Meet Apryl, a fresh university graduate with outstanding academic credentials. Apryl is applying for an internship at Stanley Black & Decker, a manufacturing company. The company is looking for someone with deep interest in engineering, and knowledgeable about tools & techniques used in improving manufacturing processes.

Fortunately, Apryl is highly educated in this matter and her love for engineering runs deep. And she perfectly highlights these qualities in her cover letter.

Cover Letter for Internship—Example

Apryl Assaraf

Engineering Graduate

4109 Diane Street

Hartford, CT 06101

860-614-1256

[email protected]

linkedin.com/in/aprylassaraf27

Hartford, 8/8/2022

Andre Daugherty

Lead Engineer

Stanley Black & Decker, Inc.

1723 Lochmere Lane

Hartford, CT 06182

Dear Mr. Daugherty,

Dr. Whiting encouraged me to apply for the position of Engineering Intern after I received Brown University's Outstanding Senior Award for my project on smart morphing surfaces.

Engineering has been my passion since I was nine. That passion helped me graduate with a 4.0 average across all my engineering coursework. It also led me beyond the assigned curriculum with:

• Extensive reading of 100+ books on engineering, design, and leadership.
• Writing a regular column in the “Manufacturing Innovation” blog (20,000 readers).
• Obtaining my Six Sigma Black Belt Certification.

Stanley Black & Decker is a leader in the manufacturing world with good reason—I was deeply impressed when I learned how you’ve reduced waste by 30% and increased customer satisfaction by 20% by implementing Kaizen best practices. This internship is an unmatched opportunity to grow among outstanding professionals.

I'd love to put my skill and passion to work for you. Could we set aside some time for a call to discuss how my success so far can translate to engineering excellence at Stanley Black & Decker?

Best regards,

P.S. — I'd also like to tell you how my design of fiber-optic bundles threaded through a working coil saved a freelance client $2,500.

This internship cover letter follows the best practices in cover letter writing. It’s concise, focused on the right things, and structured using a proven cover letter template.

In fact, this is the same cover letter structure used by experienced professionals across all fields. So master it early on in your career, and you’ll stand out among the other interns as someone who clearly knows what they’re doing.

Now, let’s go through the entire process of writing a great internship cover letter. Here are the steps in a nutshell.

How to Write an Internship Cover Letter

• Use a proven internship cover letter format.
• Create a proper cover letter header.
• Start your cover letter with the suitable greeting.
• Craft a powerful first paragraph that attracts the reader’s attention.
• Explain what makes you the right person for this internship.
• Show that you’re passionate about the internship and the company.
• End with a compelling call to action.
• Sign off like a pro (and consider adding a P. S.)

Ready to get started?

1. Use the Best Internship Cover Letter Format

There’s no second chance to make that first impression. The hiring manager who receives your cover letter should know you’re a competent young professional even before they start reading.

And that’s where proper cover letter format comes in:

• Use one of the best resume fonts .
• Set the page margins to 1” on all sides.
• Put your contact info in the top left corner.
• Add the date under your address.
• Include the hiring manager’s name and contact info.
• Start with a classic business letter greeting.
• Keep your cover letter to one page and 250–400 words.
• Divide the letter into paragraphs with a blank line between them.
• Make sure your letter ends with a call to action and a sign-off.
• You can include a P. S., but it’s optional.

Consider using a dedicated cover letter builder to make cover letter formatting as pain-free as possible. Most builders come with matching designs for resumes and cover letters to make your internship application look professional. In addition, the best cover letter builders provide you with pre-written chunks of text that you can customize to your liking—no more staring at a blank screen!

Double your impact with a matching resume and cover letter combo. Use our cover letter generator and make your application documents pop out.

CREATE YOUR COVER LETTER NOW

Want to try a different look? There's 21 more. A single click will give your document a total makeover. Pick a cover letter template here .

2. Make a Great Internship Cover Letter Header

If you’re sending your internship application via snail mail or handing it in personally, your cover letter needs to follow the conventions of a typical business letter. That is, it needs a proper cover letter header that looks like this:

Cover Letter for Internship—Header Template

Title (e. g. Marketing Student)

Street Address

City, State, ZIP

Email Address

Hiring Manager Name (if possible)

Hiring Manager’s Job Title

Company Name

If you’re applying for an internship position, you probably don’t have a job title yet. Just put “Engineering Student” or “Computer Science Graduate” or whatever accurately describes your educational background.

The entire header of your internship cover letter should be justified to the left so that your name is in the top left corner.

What should you do if you’re not sure who your hiring manager is? Check out our guide on how to address a cover letter . You’ll learn how to find out who’s responsible for hiring you—and what to do if your research yields no results.

3. Choose the Right Salutation for Your Internship Cover Letter

The most surefire thing to write after the cover letter header is:

Dear Mr./Ms. Smith,

If you’re 100% sure that the company where you’re applying has a super relaxed culture and everyone calls each other by their first names, you can also opt for Dear John or Dear Jane . But to stay on the safe side, you may still want to stick to the last name.

What if the hiring manager has a unisex name, and you’re not sure if you should write Mr. or Ms.? Here’s what you can do:

• Find their LinkedIn profile and see if their profile pic lets you clearly identify their gender.
• Check if they list their preferred pronouns on their LinkedIn or Twitter profile.
• Google their name and try to find photos of them (but always check out the photo’s context to make sure it’s the right person).
• Start your cover letter with their first and last name: Dear Jules Smith .

In short, do whatever it takes to avoid misgendering the person.

But… what if you’ve done your research and still can’t find the hiring manager’s name? As a last resort, go with something like Dear Hiring Manager . It might feel a bit awkward, but it’s still infinitely better than no greeting at all. If you’re unsure about writing a custom paragraph from scratch, try this, more generalized template instead.

Cover Letter for Internship Example—Introduction

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name] :

When I found out that [Company Name] is looking for an [Internship Field, f.e. Engineering, Accounting] intern, I was thrilled. As a recent graduate in [Field of Study] I am very passionate about the subject. I am highly skilled in [Relevant Skills/Tools] and can’t wait to use my expertise to aid the team with the upcoming challenges.

Expert Hint: If anyone tells you to start your internship cover letter with Dear Sir or Madam or To whom it may concern … don’t. You don’t live in a 19th-century novel, so ditch those outdated and painfully generic formulas .

4. Grab the Reader’s Attention With the First Paragraph

There are several effective ways to start a cover letter , but they all have one thing in common: they attract the reader’s attention and make them want to read the rest of your cover letter.

So your opening paragraph has to stand out.

In other words, don’t do this:

I’m writing to apply for this internship. I’m a very motivated person, and I want to learn. Please find attached my resume.

This opener is like one of those generic pictures that you get when buying photo frames. Everyone’s seen them so many times that no one pays attention to them any longer.

Here’s what you can do instead:

Start Your Internship Cover Letter With a Big Relevant Achievement

Maybe you’re not Frodo Baggins, who can start his cover letter with “I’m the guy who saved Middle-Earth way back at the end of the Third Age.”

But this doesn’t mean you don’t have any achievements to show. Got an award? Completed a successful freelance gig? Go ahead and put them right into the opening paragraph of your cover letter! Like this:

When I ranked my uncle’s business website on Google’s first page for three highly relevant keywords—within just six months—I knew that SEO could be both my passion and my career. 

The first paragraph of their cover letter shows that this candidate can do much more than make coffee for regular employees. No one who’s hiring a digital marketing intern will resist reading this cover letter to the end.

Writing an internship cover letter with no experience? Focus on something you’ve done at school or college.

As Prof. Sockheel’s research assistant, I single-handedly cleaned and wrangled over 300,000 rows of data for her research project on comparing the efficacy of headache treatments.

This person is applying to be a healthcare data analyst intern. In their internship cover letter opening, they describe a big project they worked on. This is how the hiring manager knows that this candidate won’t have to learn data science from scratch.

Starting your cover letter with an achievement shows that you’ve already got the basics of your job.

Drop a Name

Another great way to start a cover letter for an internship is to drop a name. It could be a mutual contact at the company or someone famous in the field (for example, your academic supervisor who suggested you apply for a specific internship).

Be brief, and don’t tell the entire story of how you met this person. Just write something like this:

Mr. Lastpenny from the financial department suggested I apply—he believes my financial analysis skills will be beneficial in planning the company’s budget for 2023.

A word of warning, though: always ask the person if they’re OK with you mentioning them in your cover letter.

And, of course, never make things up. Lying on a cover letter can backfire immensely.

Show You’ve Done Your Research

Another way to impress the reader of your internship cover letter is to show that you genuinely care about the company and that you’ve done your research before applying.

Check out the company’s website, go through recent press releases, and do a quick Google search to find out more about the company’s challenges and plans.

Then, show that you’re eager to help them with these specific challenges and projects.

When I learned that Knight’s Knives Inc. is going to launch a new product line in 2023, I knew I wanted to assist your social media marketers in preparing for the upcoming launch.

This opener shows that the candidate didn’t just randomly apply because they saw an internship position. Instead, they’ve taken the time to research the company. Their research showed that Knight’s Knives is apparently looking for a social media intern because they need an extra pair of hands for their product launch campaign.

When the hiring manager at Knight’s Knives reads this cover letter, they’ll think, “Wow, this person definitely wants to work with us—after all, they’ve taken the time to find out about our upcoming products! ”

5. Show How Your Skills and Achievements Make You the Right Candidate

Now that you’ve got the reader hooked, it’s time to prove you’re the right person for this internship.

To do this, double-check the job ad and note the specific requirements listed there. Let’s say the company wants an intern with skills in:

• Written communication

Now, bombard them with some proof that you’ve got these exact skills.

• Extensive reading of 100+ books on engineering, design , and leadership .
• Writing a regular column in the “Manufacturing Innovation” blog (20,000 readers) .
• Obtaining my Six Sigma Black Belt Certification .

You’re in the door.

Why does that internship cover letter example work?

Because it proves, you’re driven AND gives hard evidence. And it packs an extra punch because the bullets tie you to the internship.

Expert Hint: If you really want the internship, reach out to employees on LinkedIn and ask to chat about the company’s needs. This will help you write an internship cover letter that’s closely tailored to this specific position at this specific company.

6. Prove Your Passion for This Specific Company

OK, so you’re the right person for this internship. But is this internship the right place for you?

That’s what you prove in the next paragraph.

Everyone loves compliments, so go ahead and compliment the company on a recent achievement. You may need to do some extra research to find something that fits—but that research will pay off. It shows that you’ve been following the company’s successes for quite some time and that you’re genuinely interested in it.

Then, show how much you value working with these accomplished professionals.

Stanley Black & Decker is a leader in the manufacturing world, with good reason—I was deeply impressed when I learned how you’ve reduced waste by 30% and increased customer satisfaction by 20% by implementing Kaizen best practices. This internship is an unmatched opportunity to grow among outstanding professionals.

It’s important to make sure that this paragraph is closely tailored to a specific company. If you can copy and paste this paragraph and use it to apply for another internship, it’s too generic and needs a rewrite!

Here’s what we mean:

Stanley Black & Decker is an amazing company, you’ve got great business results, and everyone loves your products.

You can say the exact same thing to flatter almost any company out there. The candidate who wrote this is probably pasting the same sentence into every cover letter, just changing the company name. And this doesn’t make a good impression.

7. Close Your Internship Cover Letter with a Powerful Call to Action

Now’s the time to end your internship cover letter. But how do you actually do this?

You might want to sign it off and send it as soon as possible. But wait—your cover letter is still lacking a few important sentences.

You see, the point of a cover letter is to get an interview. And the best way to get something is to ask.

Yes, you’ve read it right: end your cover letter by asking the reader to schedule a call with you.

For the best results, couple your request with a reminder that you want to bring genuine value (and not just hang out until the end of your internship). Like this:

Cover Letter for Internship Examples: Calls to Action

This call to action feels confident and professional. It’s important to avoid calls to action that sound needy or bossy:

Please reply ASAP because I’m applying for 10 other internships, and I want to know if I’m accepted.

Do we need to explain that bossing people around in your cover letter isn’t a good idea?

Please hire me because I’ve been applying for different internships for 2 months and never heard back, I’m desperate. I don’t know what’s wrong with me.

Trying to melt the reader’s heart like this isn’t going to work.

If you’re looking for more inspiration and guidance on closing your cover letter, check out our dedicated guide on how to end a cover letter .

8. Sign Off and Write a Jaw-Dropping P. S.

Whew! Almost done!

Now, all you need to do is to add a so-called complimentary close . Surefire formulas include:

• Best regards

No matter which closing formula you choose, put a comma after it, make a new line, and write your name. You can also repeat your contact info after your name.

For a truly spectacular cover letter, consider adding a P. S. where you surprise the reader with another jaw-dropping achievement of yours.

P.S.: I'd also like to tell you how my design of fiber-optic bundles threaded through a working coil saved a freelance client $2,500.

Promising to tell your reader a story when they call you back is a great move. After all, who wouldn’t want to hear a good story?

Just make sure you’re not making this story up.

And also, make sure you haven’t forgotten to write your internship resume.

With ResumeLab’s resume builder you’ll write your resume in a flash. Get specific content to boost your chances of getting the job. Add job descriptions, bullet points, and skills. Improve your resume in our resume builder now .

CREATE YOUR RESUME NOW

Nail it all with a splash of color, choose a clean font, highlight your skills in just a few clicks. You’re the perfect candidate and we’ll prove it. Just pick one of 21 resume templates and get started now .

Key Takeaways

Writing a cover letter for an internship follows the same steps as writing a cover letter for any job. Here’s the process:

• Get to know the standard format for cover letters.
• Create a cover letter header with contact information.
• Address your cover letter to a specific person if possible.
• Grab the reader’s attention with a unique first paragraph.
• In the next paragraph, prove why you’re a great fit.
• Explain why you’re passionate about this particular company.
• End with a call to action and a professional sign-off.
• Add an impressive P. S. if you have a suitably big achievement to talk about.

Need more guidance on how to write a great cover letter ? Got a question about applying for internships? Leave a comment. We’re happy to reply .

About ResumeLab’s Editorial Process

At ResumeLab, quality is at the crux of our values, supporting our commitment to delivering top-notch career resources. The editorial team of career experts carefully reviews every article in accordance with editorial guidelines , ensuring the high quality and reliability of our content. We actively conduct original research, shedding light on the job market's intricacies and earning recognition from numerous influential news outlets . Our dedication to delivering expert career advice attracts millions of readers to our blog each year.

Olga is a career expert with a background in teaching. At ResumeLab, she writes actionable guides to help job-seekers highlight their unique strengths and unlock their career potential.

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How to Write an Internship Cover Letter: 9 Tips (+ Examples)

A strong cover letter can get you noticed when applying for an internship. Find out how to craft a standout cover letter today.

You’ve found an internship, and it’s the opportunity you’ve been looking for to put you on the path to your dream job. However, the internship application requires you to send a cover letter .

Cover letters give you space to contextualise how your previous work experience and relevant skills make you a good fit for the position. They expand on your resume meaningfully, grabbing a hiring manager’s attention and demonstrating why you’re undeniably the right person for the internship. 

In this article, you will learn how to put your best foot forward with nine tips for your internship cover letter. You will also find examples alongside each tip and a cover letter template to help you compose your own. Whether you’re a high school student, recent college graduate or career switcher looking to start a new path, these tips are for you. 

Internship cover letters: Why you need one

Cover letters provide hiring managers insight into applicants' experience, skills, and aspirations. As a result, cover letters benefit early-career seekers applying for internships because they provide a more detailed picture of their backgrounds than their resumes might. 

Whether a job description asks for a cover letter or not, sending a unique resume to each internship you apply to is wise. Adding a cover letter can sometimes be the difference between landing the internship or not. 

Research conducted by ResumeGo between 2019 and 2020 found that cover letters can have a positive impact on how applications are interpreted by hiring managers. Among their many findings, the researchers found that [ 1 ]: 

87% of hiring managers said they read cover letters. 

65% of hiring managers said cover letters influence their hiring decisions. 

81% of hiring managers valued cover letters tailored to a specific position over generic ones. 

78% of hiring managers said it was easy to tell when a cover letter was generic. 

These statistics suggest both the impact a cover letter can have when applying for an internship and the importance of crafting one that speaks directly to the position. One thing is clear: cover letters matter. 

How to write a cover letter for an internship 

A cover letter is your chance to stand out from the crowded applicant pool. In this section, you’ll learn nine high-impact tips to help you craft a cover letter highlighting your professionalism, aspirations, and qualifications. 

1. Properly format your cover letter.

Proper formatting helps hiring managers quickly scan your cover letter for key information, such as your contact information and skills, and conveys your professionalism. From top to bottom, your cover letter should have the following elements: 

Keep to one page only : Your cover letter should be only one page. This will keep it focused, impactful, and easily scannable for hiring managers.  

Header at the top: Include your contact information so hiring managers can easily contact you. 

Greetings: Open with a greeting to the hiring manager. This is a formality that makes your letter more personal. 

Intro: Include a brief introduction that describes who you are, what you are applying for and your key qualifications. 

Body: The body of your cover letter is where you detail your experience, skills, and education. 

Conclusion/Call to action: Include a call to action that encourages your reader to contact you. 

Salutations: Finally, you want to leave the reader with a good impression by including a formal greeting followed by your full name. This conveys a sense of professionalism and friendliness. 

In the following tips, you will learn more about handling each of these parts of your resume to make them as impactful as possible. 

2. Use a professional email address.

The header of your cover letter is where you include your contact information, full name, phone number, and email address. 

While it may seem insignificant, one of the most important things you can do in your header is to include a professional-sounding email address. In this instance, the simpler the email address, the better. Create an email address that is a simple variant of your name with a standard free email provider, such as Gmail. 

3. Personalise your greeting. 

While many cover letters are addressed 'to whom it may concern', a more impactful way to catch a hiring manager’s attention is by addressing them by name directly. 

In addition to making your cover letter more personal, this tactic highlights that you’ve researched and created a job-specific cover letter rather than sending a generic one. This can positively impact how a hiring manager views your resume and cover letter. 

You can find out who the hiring manager is by doing some straightforward research online. Some job descriptions will instruct you to email a specific person. In other cases, you might need to visit the organisation’s website and see if you can identify the person who heads their internship or hiring efforts. 

If this doesn't work, you can also reach out to the organisation directly by either email or phone to see if they can give the name of the hiring manager who will be looking at internship applications. Let them know that you are applying for the specific internship and would like to address the hiring manager directly in your application. 

If you cannot learn the hiring manager's name, don’t worry—your application likely won’t be penalised for a common, courteous greeting.

4. Include key information in the intro.

Your cover letter should include a short introduction that immediately identifies the specific internship position you are applying for and the key background information relevant to the position. Ideally, keep your introduction to only a few sentences, making sure to stay within four. 

Much like a thesis statement in a school paper, the introduction of your cover letter helps the reader understand your purpose for writing and the qualifications that make you ideal for the position. 

‘Dear Ms Angelou, 

I am writing to apply for the editorial assistant internship position at Little House Publishing. An avid reader since I first played Grimm’s (macabre) Fairy tales as a five-year-old, I have made storytelling my personal and professional calling. As an English major at the University of Delhi, I have been an editor of our school’s literary magazine for three years, brought two theatre productions to life as dramaturgs, and taught reading and writing to countless middle schoolers.’ 

5. Show how you and the internship are a perfect match. 

The key aim of your cover letter is to demonstrate to the hiring manager why you and the internship are a perfect match for one another. 

As a result, you should craft your letter to emphasise how your skill set and experience have prepared you for the position and why it can help you achieve your professional aims. Remember, an internship is as much an educational opportunity as a work experience, so don’t be afraid to note what the internship offers you and what you offer the internship. 

To identify how you and the internship are a good match for one another, do the following: 

Read through the job description and identify the skills and experience you possess. 

Identify what experience, skills, or understanding you will gain from the internship.

Include these points in your cover letter. 

'After studying Python for the last two years, IBM’s data science internship will finally allow me to see programming at work in the real world. Throughout high school, I’ve spent hours combing through data, creating visualisations, and posing questions to data big and small all by myself. At IBM, I will be a part of a community that takes data seriously, contributing to projects but learning even more.' 

6. Emphasise your education and extracurriculars.

While most jobs require relevant work experience, most internships typically expect applicants to have little or none. This is particularly true for internships geared towards secondary school and college students. 

If you’re a student without much (or any) relevant work experience, then you should emphasise your education and extracurricular activities. You’ll be able to highlight your skills, interests, and concrete achievements for hiring managers as much as previous work experience would allow you to do. 

'As a computer science student, I have taken advanced courses on machine learning and programming data structures, achieving top grades in both. Later, I used these skills in the AI club when I taught a machine to recognise different hand gestures visually.’

7. Use active language and note concrete outcomes. 

One of the key ways to create impactful writing is to use active language that shows the reader how you achieved concrete outcomes. This method will help your reader fully comprehend what you have done and what you have ultimately achieved. 

Active language (also known as active voice) is when the subject of a sentence acts upon an object rather than the object being acted upon by an object. For example, consider the chart below: 

In the first sentence, the emphasis is on the woman (the subject) doing an action ('programming') on the computer (the object). Meanwhile, the second sentence emphasises the computer rather than the action performed by the subject (the woman). Focusing on the action, the first sentence highlights the woman’s work and keeps the sentence shorter. 

Using active language that clearly describes how you accomplished a specific result will keep the attention on you and what you can do.  

'As a writing tutor, I taught middle schoolers how to write in the active voice to help them articulate themselves with impact. To do this, I analysed sentences on the blackboard, edited essays live, and reinforced concepts week to week.  Our results spoke for themselves: test scores improved by 78 per cent in just two months.'

8. Consider using a bulleted list to highlight your technical skills. 

To make it more scannable, consider including a bullet point list of your relevant skills in the body of your cover letter. This technique helps readers catch important skills that you possess that help you stand out from the applicant pool. 

'Throughout my education and extracurriculars, I have improved many skills relevant to the internship, including: 

Collaboration

Problem-solving

9. Include a call to action and salutation at the end of the letter. 

Your cover letter should leave the hiring manager wanting to reach out to you and a good picture of you. To leave them wanting to hear more from you, end the cover letter with a brief statement about your desire to speak more about the role soon and close with a professional salutation, such as 'sincerely'.

'I look forward to talking soon about how I can contribute to the team this summer. Thank you for the opportunity, time, and consideration.

Sincerely, 

Abraham Lincoln'

Landing an internship can help you start your career. To ensure you’re ready for that first day on the job, you might consider taking an online course or gaining a Professional Certificate in data science , project management , or social media marketing . 

Article sources

Resume Go. “ Cover Letters: Just How Important Are They? , https://www.resumego.net/research/cover-letters/.” Accessed January 1, 2024. 

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Student Internship Cover Letter Samples & Examples That Worked in 2024

Internships are an important step in any young professional’s career. These positions give you an entryway into the industry of your choice, helping you to learn the ropes and build industry connections that can lead to long-term jobs down the line.

In this guide, we teach you five essential steps for writing a cover letter for an internship application. Continue reading to learn all about:

• Formatting a header for your intern cover letter
• Tailoring your intern cover letter to specific employers
• Writing a strong introduction for your intern cover letter
• Selecting the right skills and accomplishments for your intern cover letter
• Ending your intern cover letter with a memorable conclusion
• Finding useful job search resources for interns 

1. How to properly format a header for your intern cover letter

The first step to writing an excellent cover letter that wins you the internship of your dreams is to create a professionally-styled header.

A cover letter header is the first block of text a reader will see when looking at your cover letter. It helps to not only give the letter structure but to also create a sense of visual flow.

In your header, you should include:

• Your name and professional title
• Your professional contact information
• The name of the company you are applying for an internship at
• The address of the company (this detail is especially important if a company has multiple locations)

Here is an example of a well-formatted intern cover letter header

Mack Jones , Engineering Student & Intern (123) 456-7890 | [email protected] | linkedin.com/in/mack-jones

To: Applejax Engineering Internship & Hiring Department 1234 Street Address Birmingham, AL

Create your cover letter fast with artificial intelligence.

2. how to tailor your intern cover letter to specific employers.

In addition to creating a header, another step to take is to research the employer thoroughly before beginning to write your cover letter.

Using the information you uncover in your research, you can tailor your cover letter to a specific company and employer. For instance, if a company is involved in a major project, you can highlight which of your skills can contribute to tasks associated with the project.

You should also look up who at a company is responsible for hiring, as this is the person most likely to read your cover letter. Once you discover who this person is, address them directly in your cover letter greeting.

Here are 3 examples of personalized cover letter greetings

Dear Intern Manager Jane Casey,

• Dear Ms. Jane Casey,
• Dear Hiring Manager Paul Newly

3. How to craft a strong introduction for your intern cover letter

Now that you have your header in place and your research ready to go, you can begin writing the body text of your cover letter.

The first paragraph you will write is your introduction . This should feature key information, such as:

• A brief overview of your professional and academic history

If you are a student applying for an internship, you likely lack extensive professional experience. Instead, you should focus on highlighting your relevant academic beckground.

• A statement on why you are enthusiastic about applying to this company
• A mutual acquaintance

Naming a mutual acquaintance when possible can go a long way in terms of giving you a competitive edge over others applying for an internship.

Here is an example of a strong introduction from an intern’s cover letter

As a senior at Appalachian State University, I have studied communications and public relations for more than three years. In my time at the university, I served as the Assistant Editor and later as the Chief Editor of the school newspaper. While working for the school paper, I met your company’s Head of PR, Mr. John Eggleston, whom I interviewed for a feature. Impressed with my professionalism, Mr. Eggleston strongly suggested I apply for this internship.

Find out your resume score!

4. How to select the best skills and accomplishments for your intern cover letter

After completing your introduction, you can now write the remaining body paragraphs of your letter.

The body paragraphs are where you will provide more in-depth insights into who you are, what skills you possess, and what accomplishments you have achieved that are relevant to the position.

Whenever possible, you should include quantifiable data points in your descriptions, such as statistics relating to a specific accomplishment. For instance, a customer service representative could list the exact percentage of sales they increased during a set timeframe.

Always aim to include the most relevant information possible and find ways to draw connections between your skills and the requirements of the internship.

Here are 6 examples of skills to describe in an intern cover letter

• Communication (describe your communication style)
• Collaboration and teamwork
• Independence
• Critical thinking
• Problem-solving
• Time management

Here is an example of how to describe an accomplishment in an intern cover letter

Developed and executed a successful social media campaign: During my marketing internship at XYZ Company, I took the lead in developing and executing a social media campaign aimed at increasing brand awareness and engagement. Through strategic content planning, targeted audience segmentation, and creative visuals, we achieved a 30% increase in social media followers and a 20% boost in overall engagement. This campaign not only expanded the company's online presence but also generated valuable leads and customer interactions.

Conducted market research to identify new target segments: As an intern at ABC Corporation, I was responsible for conducting market research to identify untapped target segments for a new product launch. Through surveys, focus groups, and competitor analysis, I gathered valuable insights into consumer preferences and market trends. Based on my research findings, I developed a comprehensive target segment profile and recommended strategic marketing initiatives to capture these segments. The insights provided by my research contributed to the successful launch and positioning of the product in the market.

Assisted in the development and execution of a successful email marketing campaign: During my internship at DEF Company, I actively contributed to the planning and execution of an email marketing campaign. I collaborated with the marketing team to create engaging email content, design visually appealing templates, and segment the target audience based on demographic and behavioral factors. As a result of the campaign, we achieved a 25% increase in email open rates and a 15% conversion rate, effectively driving sales and customer engagement.

5. How to end your intern cover letter with a memorable conclusion

Last but not least, the final step in writing an intern cover letter is to create a memorable conclusion .

Making a conclusion memorable ultimately comes down to letting the employer know how and when to contact you, as well as applying slight pressure by stating when you plan to follow up. This can encourage the employer to contact you quickly, increasing the chances of you earning an interview.

Don’t forget to include a formal sign-off (sincerely, many thanks, etc.) to keep your cover letter sounding professional through the very end.

Using email signature generators to create a polished and professional signature can also leave a lasting impression on the recipient.

Here is an example of a memorable conclusion from an intern cover letter

It is with great excitement that I submit this application and letter for your consideration. I am eager to hear from you and hope to speak directly within the next week. You may reach me any day of the week between the hours of 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., or from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the evenings. If I have not heard back by next Monday morning, I plan to follow up via phone call at that time.

Best Wishes,

[Applicant Name]

6. Useful job search resources for interns 

Stepping into the professional world as an intern can be thrilling yet overwhelming. Navigating through job posts, company profiles, and application expectations can seem like a maze.

But don't fret, we've got your back. Here are some excellent resources to uncomplicate your internship hunt:

• Glassdoor: A one-stop shop to explore company reviews, salary insights, and potential interview questions. They also have a comprehensive section dedicated to internships across industries.
• LinkedIn:  The world's largest professional network can be a goldmine for internships. Leverage features such as job alerts and company pages to hone your search.
• Indeed:  Known for its robust job listings, Indeed makes finding internships straightforward with its user-friendly interface and advanced search options. 
• InternMatch:   A resource geared towards helping you find the perfect internship. You can filter by city, industry, and even specific skills.
• Your university's career services:  Often overlooked, but your institution's career centre can provide personalized advice, contact with potential employers, and insight into upcoming job fairs and networking events.

Remember, while these platforms can streamline your search, landing the perfect internship also hinges on a well-written cover letter. So be sure to stand out from the crowd and show your potential employer who they'd miss out on if they didn't bring you onboard!

Student Internship Cover Letter FAQ

While the structure and core content of your cover letter should remain the same, an unpaid internship cover letter might include a section explaining why you're willing to forego pay. This could be due to the valuable experience it offers, the chance to work with specific professionals, or because the internship aligns with your career goals.

Absolutely. If you lack professional experience, academic projects are a great way to showcase your skills and initiative. Just make sure to explain how the project is relevant to the internship you're applying for.

While it might save time, it's not the best strategy. Hiring managers can usually tell when a cover letter has been recycled. Customize your cover letter to match each position. Is it more work? Yes. But will it improve your chances of landing the internship? Absolutely.

If it's possible, try to find out the hiring manager's name – LinkedIn or the company's website can be good places to start your search. If not, it's safer to use a generic greeting like "Dear Hiring Manager" as opposed to "To Whom It May Concern," which can seem outdated.

Yes, you can. Remember that internships are learning experiences. What's critical is showcasing your willingness to learn and the skills you do have in your cover letter. Don't focus solely on what you lack, but more on what you'll bring to the company.

Martin Poduška

Martin is a resume expert and career advice writer at Kickresume. In his five years at Kickresume, he has written hundreds of in-depth, painstakingly researched resume advice articles and, as chief editor, he has also edited and revised every single article on this website. Tens of thousands of job seekers read Martin’s resume advice every month. He holds a degree in English from the University of St Andrews and a degree in Comparative Literature from the University of Amsterdam .

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Internship Cover Letter Examples and Writing Tips

What To Include in a Cover Letter

Tips for writing an internship cover letter, internship cover letter examples, internship cover letter template, how to write an email cover letter, email cover letter example, frequently asked questions (faqs).

Emilie Dunphy / The Balance

If you are applying for an internship, you will likely have to submit a cover letter as part of your application. Your cover letter should be tailored to the specific internship for which you're applying and include examples from your work, academic, and extracurricular experiences.

When writing a cover letter for an internship position, it's important to share your most relevant qualifications with the hiring manager. When you don't have much (or any) formal work experience, you can include school activities, volunteering, educational programs, and other learning experiences.

Key Takeaways

• Take the time to write a customized cover letter for each internship you apply for, and include your most relevant qualifications for the position.
• When you don't have work experience, you can include academics, extracurricular activities, and volunteering.
• Be specific, and share examples of the skills the employer is looking for in your cover letter.
• Carefully proofread and edit your cover letter prior to sending it.

Your cover letter should include your contact information, a greeting, the reason you're writing, why you're a qualified applicant for the position, and a closing.

Contact Information:  How you address the cover letter will depend on whether you are sending a printed or email cover letter and the contact information you have for the employer. In a printed letter, the contact information will be at the top of the letter. For an email, add your contact information below your typed name.

Salutation:  The salutation is the  greeting you include  at the beginning of a cover letter. For example, “Dear Hiring Manager.”

Body of Letter:  The body of a cover letter includes the sections where you explain why you are interested in and qualified for the job for which you are applying. This typically includes an introductory paragraph, a paragraph or two describing your qualifications, and a closing paragraph.

Closing:  When you're writing a cover letter or sending an email message to apply for a job, it's important to close your cover letter in a professional manner. For example, “Sincerely” or “Respectfully.”

Signature:  In a printed cover letter, you’ll add a written signature above your printed name. For an email cover letter, add a space after the closing and type your name.

Use Business Letter Format. Use proper business letter format when sending a cover letter by mail. Include your contact information at the top, the date, and the contact information for the employer. Be sure to provide a proper salutation, and sign your name at the bottom. If you are sending the  cover letter via email , you do not have to include the contact information at the top. Instead, place this as part of your email signature at the end of your letter.

Customize Your Cover Letter. It's important to write a  unique cover letter  for each internship for which you apply. Highlight skills and abilities you have that relate to the specific internship listing. The main emphasis of your cover letter should be convincing the reader that you will be an asset as an intern.

Provide Specific Examples. If you mention that you have a particular skill or ability in your cover letter, be sure to prove this with a specific example from your past work, academic, or extracurricular experience.

Add Keywords to Your Letter. One way to individualize your letter is to use  keywords  from the internship listing. For example, if the listing says the intern needs to have excellent “time management skills,” include an example of how you have demonstrated time management skills in the past. You'll be able to show the hiring manager that they have the skills you are seeking.

Emphasize Your Academic Experience. In the letter, you can mention academic experience, if applicable. Especially if you have limited work experience, you might use examples from school to demonstrate that you have particular skills. For example, if the internship requires you to work as part of a team, provide an example of a successful team project you worked on during one of your college courses.

Include Extracurricular Experiences. You can also include details about your relevant experience from extracurricular activities or  volunteer work . For example, a reporter for a college newspaper can point to interviewing and writing skills; a history of volunteering at a shelter can provide an example of strong  interpersonal  and  organizational skills .

Mention How You Will Follow Up. Towards the end of your letter, say how you will  follow up  with the employer. You might say that you will call the office to follow up in about a week (don't follow up any sooner). However, do not include this if the internship listing specifically says not to contact the office.

Carefully Proofread and Edit. Be sure to thoroughly proofread your cover letter for spelling and grammar errors. Many internships are very competitive, and any error can hurt your chances of getting an interview. Also, avoid using too many words to convey your information and intent. Keep your points brief and targeted.

Review sample printed and email cover letters for internship positions, and get a template to download to use as a starting point for your own letter.

Download the cover letter template (compatible with Google Docs or Word Online) or read the example below.

The Balance

Internship Cover Letter Sample (Text version)

Joseph Q. Applicant 123 Main Street Anytown, CA 12345 555-555-5555 josephq@email.com

October 26, 2022

Director, Human Resources BC Labs 123 Business Rd. Business City, NY 54321

Dear Ms. Smith,

I am writing to apply for the scientific research summer internship position that was listed in the Anytown University Career Services Office. I believe my research and conservation experience make me an ideal candidate.

I have had a great deal of research experience in chemistry, biology, and geology, both in the lab and in the field. Most of my experience is in environmental field studies. I am currently conducting research in our school's outdoor laboratory to assess the water quality of a nearby pond. I know water quality assessment is a component of this internship, and I know my previous experience makes me a prime candidate for this.

Last summer, I worked as a conservation assistant at the National Trust's Clumber Park. Along with trail maintenance and building, I also served as a research assistant for the research organization at the park. I conducted an analysis of soil samples, and input data from various research projects. I received a special commendation from the director of the research organization for my attention to detail and dedication to research.

I believe that I would be an asset to your program. This internship would provide me with the ideal opportunity to assist your organization and expand my research skills.

I will call next week to see if you agree that my qualifications seem to be a match for the position. If so, I hope to schedule an interview at a mutually convenient time. I look forward to speaking with you.

Thank you for your consideration,

Signature (hard copy letter)

Joseph Q. Applicant

If you're sending your cover  letter via email , your format will be slightly different than a traditional letter. List your name and the  job title in the subject line  of the email message.

Include your contact information in your email signature, and don't list the employer's contact information (also don’t list your contact information at the top of the message). Start your email message with the salutation. 

Subject: Liz Lerner – Marketing Intern Position

Dear Mr. Peters,

It was with much interest that I read your posting on the ABC College job board inviting applications for a marketing internship at Brand Solutions Inc.

As an honors student in marketing, I have successfully completed upper-division coursework in marketing management, print and online advertising, social media management, and data analysis, which have provided me with a firm understanding of rising market strategies and technologies.

This coursework included on-site practicums with Boyd Brothers LLC and Boulevard Bistro, where I helped the owners of these businesses establish their first-ever social media presence on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and Twitter. This involved setting up their accounts, creating photo and video content, writing posts, launching digital ad campaigns, and tracking user engagement via Google Analytics and Facebook Analytics. I am also well-versed in the use of Adobe Creative Cloud for graphic design and Microsoft Office suite.

Impressed by the press that Brand Solutions Inc. has received in Market Branding Today and on Forbes Online , I am eager for the challenges and opportunities I would experience as your next marketing intern. My resume is attached; may we please schedule a personal interview to discuss my qualifications for this role in greater detail? Thank you for your time, consideration, and forthcoming response. 

Liz Lerner liz.lerner@email.com 555-123-4567 www.linkedin.com/in/lizlerner (optional)

Do I have to write a cover letter for an internship?

If a cover letter is listed as optional, you don’t have to include one. However, a cover letter provides you with the opportunity to showcase the credentials you have for the position. When you don’t have formal work experience, your cover letter is a good way to highlight the talents, attributes, and experience that make you an ideal candidate for the role.

What can I include in a cover letter when I don’t have work experience?

When you don’t have work experience, you can share examples of volunteering, extracurricular activities, schoolwork, academic programs, sports, community organizations, and other ways you have gained skills and experience that qualify you for the position.

CareerOneStop. " Cover Letters ."

North Central College. " How to Write an Internship Cover Letter: Examples & Tips ."

University of Michigan. " Cover Letter Resources ."

Handshake. " Top 5 Tips for Writing an Internship Cover Letter ."

How to Write a Cover Letter for an Internship

Our customers have been hired at: * Foot Note

A cover letter is a vital part of an internship application because it serves as a personalized introduction to your resume and provides an opportunity to showcase your relevant skills , experience and enthusiasm for the internship position. Unlike a resume, which provides a concise overview of your qualifications, a cover letter allows you to delve deeper into your motivations and explain why you are the ideal candidate. 

If you’re wondering “how do you write a cover letter for an internship?” you’ve come to the right place. We’ve got everything you need to write a persuasive internship cover letter.

In this guide, we will explain: 

• What an internship cover letter is. 
• How to write a good cover letter for an internship.
• How to format a cover letter for an internship. 
• What to include in a cover letter for an internship.

What is a cover letter for an internship? 

The primary objective of a cover letter for an internship is to grab the attention of the hiring manager and make them want to learn more about you. It should highlight relevant experiences or coursework that demonstrate your suitability for the internship, while also expressing genuine interest in the company or organization and your passion for the work. 

When paired with a well-written resume , a good internship cover letter allows you to showcase relevant qualifications that may not be obvious from your resume alone.  It provides an opportunity to explain how previous academic, volunteer , or extracurricular activities have equipped you with the transferable skills necessary for the internship role.

Read on to learn what to put in a cover letter for an internship.

“It’s crucial to realize that [a] cover letter is not just a formality. It could be your only chance to make a strong first impression.” – Gianluca Ferruggia, hiring manager and general manager of DesignRush.

How to make a cover letter for an internship

Ultimately, a cover letter for an internship should persuade potential employers that you are uniquely qualified for the internship position and explain how it aligns with your career aspirations. By understanding its purpose and tailoring it specifically for each internship application, you can increase your chances of securing an interview and ultimately landing the internship opportunity you want. 

The following steps will show you how to write a good cover letter for an internship position.

Prepare to write your internship cover letter

Writing a cover letter for an internship position starts with preparation.  

First, you must research the company. By conducting thorough research on the company, its values and its mission statement, you can effectively convey how your own internship and career aspirations align with their goals. Hiring managers will be impressed that you are not only knowledgeable about their business but also passionate about contributing to its success.

Start by thoroughly exploring the company’s website and social media profiles, paying attention to their “About Us” pages, recent news or press releases and any information regarding their internship program. This research will provide valuable insights into the company’s goals and initiatives which you can match to your career aspirations and emphasize in your internship cover letter. 

Next, review the internship description carefully and identify key qualifications the potential employer seeks. Then, identify experiences from your academic, extracurricular, or professional life that align with those requirements. Then match them to your skills and experiences and incorporate them into your cover letter.

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Choose an internship cover letter template

A cover letter template can help ensure that you have all the necessary information included in your internship cover letter and that it is formatted properly. It can also save time when writing a cover letter for an internship, allowing you to focus on customizing it to the job you want. Using an internship cover letter template can also help you avoid errors and ensure that your cover letter is professional and polished.

Use the correct internship cover letter format

The appropriate cover letter format is the same as a standard business letter format. It consists of three main parts: 

• An introduction — This should include your contact information, a salutation, the purpose of your letter and a brief overview of why you are the best candidate for the position.
• The body — The body of your letter should consist of one or two paragraphs and provide more detail on why you are the best fit for the role and include pertinent qualifications, such as school and work experiences, skills, certifications, coursework and volunteer activities. It should also explain why you want the job and how it fits into your career goals. 
• The conclusion — Your internship cover letter should conclude with a brief summary of why you are the best candidate for the internship; a show of gratitude for the person’s time and attention; a reminder of your enthusiasm for the position; and an invitation to reach out for an interview along with your contact information. 

Add your contact information

Your contact information should be included at the top of your internship cover letter, just below your address. 

Your contact information should include your full name, city, state, ZIP code, email address, phone number and any other relevant contact information, such as a professional social media account and a website or portfolio if applicable. Make sure to include professional contact information that you will be able to access throughout the duration of your internship.

Add the potential employer’s address

Like any business letter, a professional cover letter for an internship must include the receiver’s contact information, even if you intend to send your cover letter by email or an online job application system. 

First, add the date just below your contact information and below that, add the potential employer’s name, title, company name and mailing address. Include their phone number and email address if you have it. Make sure to double-check the contact information you are including to ensure it is up to date and accurate.

Greet the hiring manager with a professional salutation

Knowing how to address a cover letter for an internship is crucial to writing a cover letter that gets noticed. 

Address the person by their full name whenever possible. If you can not find their name, use “Dear Hiring Manager.” If you know their title, use that, like “Dear Professor Stone.” It’s also appropriate to address a department, like “Dear Marketing Director.”

Write a compelling internship cover letter introduction

Start your cover letter by introducing yourself and why you are writing the letter. Explain why you are passionate about the internship and the organization you are applying to, and how the position lines up with your career aspirations. Chris Estrada, CEO and Founder of Nationwide United Auto Transport, notes that “It’s crucial to think of a cover letter as a sales pitch where the product is you, especially when applying for an internship. It’s about convincing the hiring manager you are worth investing time and resources in.”

Here’s a sample of a cover letter for an internship introduction to get you started: 

 “As an ambitious and goal-oriented professional, I am excited to present my application for the internship position at [Company Name]. With my demonstrated expertise in [relevant skills], I am confident I can make a significant contribution to your organization.”

Talk up your internship qualifications in the body paragraphs

Don’t be shy! In the body of your cover letter for an internship, tell the hiring manager exactly why you are a great fit for the position. Without regurgitating your resume, succinctly highlight the relevant qualifications that make you an ideal fit for the internship, emphasizing measurable accomplishments relevant to the position. 

To make a strong impression, Estrada recommends that you “use quantifiable achievements from academic or volunteer experiences to demonstrate how you can add value to the company.”

For example,

“Previously, I interned at [name of company] where I [list experience and skills gained]. I am confident that my past experience and motivation to learn make me an ideal candidate for this position.”

Wrap it up with an inviting conclusion and call to action

When you write an internship cover letter closing statement, reiterate your excitement about the fact that you’re excited about the possibility of working for the employer and that you are confident you have the expertise to be successful at the job.

Remember that you’re writing a cover letter to a specific person, so thank them for their time and consideration. You should also encourage the recipient to follow up.

For example, “Thank you for considering me for the internship. I believe I have the skills and enthusiasm needed to be successful in this position. I look forward to hearing from you soon and discussing my qualifications in greater detail.”

Sign off professionally.

When writing a cover letter for an internship, sign off with a polite, professional and formal word or phrase, such as “Sincerely” or “Best regards.” Don’t sign off with personal or informal words or phrases like “Yours,” “Cheers,” or Thanks!”

Cover letter examples for an internship

Professional internship cover letter examples are valuable when writing a cover letter for an internship position because they provide insight into the best structure, format and tone of your cover letter, as well as what to include in it. 

Using an internship cover letter example is a great way to ensure that your cover letter is professional and compelling. It can help you organize your thoughts, highlight the relevant skills and experiences you have to offer, and explain why you are the right fit for the position. 

Put your best foot forward by choosing a cover letter example for an internship position below and use it for reference as you begin to write your cover letter.

10 Tips for writing an impactful cover letter for an internship position

• Review some internship cover letter examples in your field for guidance on what should be in a cover letter for an internship.
• Pay attention to formatting details such as font type and size, margins and alignment to ensure a professional appearance. Make sure to proofread carefully for grammar and spelling errors.
• State the exact job you are applying for so that the hiring manager can quickly identify what role you are applying for and accurately assess if you are the right fit for the role.
• Describe your internship goals. Describing your internship goals in a cover letter for an internship position is important because it shows potential employers that you have a plan for your future and that you are motivated and enthusiastic about the position. It also demonstrates that you are committed to accomplishing your goals and that you understand the role you are applying for and what it entails.
• Play up your relevant transferable, hard and soft skills in your internship cover letter. Hiring manager Gianluca Ferruggia of DesignRush recommends, “Showcase your skills: Instead of just listing them, provide examples of how you have utilized them in academic or other scenarios. If you’re applying for a digital marketing internship, maybe you’ve boosted the social media presence of a campus club.”
• Display your relevant coursework, volunteer work and academic projects to demonstrate to potential employers that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to complete the tasks and projects assigned to you. 
• Add keywords from the job description so the potential employer can identify easily that you have the necessary qualifications for the role. As a bonus, using keywords from the job description helps make your internship cover letter ATS-friendly . 
• Keep it concise: Be mindful of word count and keep your cover letter focused on relevant details. Avoid unnecessary repetition or lengthy paragraphs, and make each sentence count. See our guide on basic cover letters for additional tips from career experts. 
• Use action verbs to illustrate your skills, achievements and experiences.
• Proofread meticulously. A polished cover letter for an internship position should be free from any grammatical errors or typos. This shows hiring managers that you pay attention to the details.

How to write a cover letter for an internship position FAQ

Do you need a cover letter for an internship.

Yes, it is recommended that you include a cover letter when applying for an internship. A cover letter allows you to introduce yourself to the employer and demonstrate your qualifications for the position. It also provides an opportunity to explain why you are a good fit for the internship and why you are interested in the position. See our guide on how to write an internship resume for tips and tricks from career experts. 

What to write in a cover letter for an internship?

Before you figure out what to say in a cover letter for an internship, preparation is essential. You must start by thoroughly researching the internship and the company to understand their needs and requirements. This will help you tailor your letter to showcase your most pertinent skills.

Introduce yourself in the first paragraph of an internship cover letter and mention any previous internships, coursework, extracurricular activities, hobbies, volunteer experiences, scholastic or sports achievements and awards that demonstrate your ability to succeed in the role. Highlight specific projects or tasks you have completed that align with the responsibilities of the internship.

When writing a cover letter for an internship, it is essential to highlight relevant skills and experiences that tell hiring managers you are a strong candidate for the position. 

Focus on transferable skills gained from coursework, extracurricular activities, or part-time jobs that are applicable to the internship. Emphasize qualities such as leadership, teamwork, problem-solving abilities and effective communication.

It is also crucial to mention pertinent technical skills or computer proficiencies in your cover letter for an internship. Employers often value candidates who possess specific technical knowledge as it can contribute positively to their team’s productivity.

Provide concrete examples for each skill or experience mentioned, demonstrating how they have prepared you for this particular internship opportunity. You can use an AI cover letter generator to make your cover letter in a matter of minutes.  

How to write a cover letter for an internship with no experience?

Here are some tips for writing a cover letter for an internship with no experience: 

• Focus on transferable skills. Even if you have limited professional experience, you likely possess valuable transferable skills that could be relevant to a potential internship. Focus on the skills that you have developed, such as communication, problem-solving, organization and so on.
• Highlight your passion and enthusiasm for the internship. Use your cover letter to showcase your enthusiasm for the company, its mission and the internship opportunity. Employers are looking for candidates who are passionate and committed to the role.
• Demonstrate your knowledge of the company and your desire to go the extra mile. Research the company and highlight details like its business mission, goals, values and culture. This shows that you are a serious candidate and have taken the time to learn about the company and its objectives.
• Emphasize your education: If you have limited professional experience, your academic achievements can help you shine. Focus on courses, projects awards and academic clubs related to the internship position.
• Express your commitment: Express your commitment to the position and demonstrate your enthusiasm for the role. Show that you are willing to learn and grow in the position by mentioning past experiences where you have demonstrated a willingness to go the extra mile to learn and grow. Be specific. This will help the hiring manager visualize you as a candidate who is eager to develop professionally and contribute to the company’s success.

How to address a cover letter without a name for an internship?

If you can’t find the name of the hiring manager, it’s acceptable to write “Dear Hiring Manager,” when writing a cover letter for an internship. 

Start the letter by addressing the company or organization. For example, “Dear English Department.” Never write “To Whom It May Concern” because it is generic and impersonal. It also conveys that you have not done your research, which tells hiring managers that you are not serious about getting the internship. 

How should I start an internship cover letter?

Here are some tips for how to start a cover letter for an internship:

• Start your cover letter with a strong opening sentence that clearly states why you are writing and what position you are applying for.
• Introduce yourself and explain why you are the perfect candidate for the internship. Highlight any relevant skills, qualifications, or experiences.
• Include details that demonstrate you are knowledgeable about the company and the position.
• Show your enthusiasm for the internship. Explain why you are excited about the opportunity and how it will help you develop your skills and career.

What are the best practices for ending an internship cover letter?

Here are some tips for how to end a cover letter for an internship:

• Conclude your cover letter by thanking the employer for their time and consideration. Request an opportunity to discuss the position further.
• Express appreciation for the opportunity to apply for the internship. 
• Summarize your qualifications and emphasize why you are the best fit for the position. 
• Provide contact information (even though it’s written at the top of your resume) and reiterate your interest in the position. 
• End with a professional closing such as “Sincerely” or “Best Regards.” 
• Include your full name and contact information at the bottom of the letter.

How long should a cover letter for an internship be?

A cover letter for an internship should generally be no longer than one page in length. Make sure to keep your letter concise and to the point, highlighting the skills and experience that make you uniquely qualified for the position. Proofread your letter for any errors before sending it off.

How to write a cover letter for an internship position key takeaways

Now you know how to create a cover letter for an internship. Let’s recap what you’ve learned. 

• Cover letters are a necessary part of a job application and should always accompany your resume. 
• Examples of a cover letter for an internship in your field of interest can show you how to format your cover letter. They can also provide ideas for how to express your qualifications. 
• An internship cover letter is like a sales pitch, where you are the product. 
• Try to address your cover letter to the hiring manager or recruiter whenever possible. If you can’t find their name, it’s acceptable to use “Dear Hiring Manager” or “Dear Director of [department].”
• Highlight your skills and experiences with concrete examples of how you have used them to make an impact on a person or organization. 
• Showcase your measurable achievements, like “As a design intern at ABC Corporation, I was able to contribute to a 10% increase in customer satisfaction ratings in the first quarter of my internship.”
• A cover letter for an internship should close with an invitation to connect.

How we reviewed this article

Since 2013, we have helped more than 15 million job seekers. We want to make your career journey accessible and manageable through our services and Career Center’s how-to guides and tips. In our commitment to bring you a transparent process, we present our Editorial Process .

• Nationwide United Auto Transport . Estrada, Chris
• North Central College. Article. Imm, Jacob. How to Write an Internship Cover Letter: Example and Tips
• DesignRush . Ferruggia, Gianluca. General Manager.
• Handshake. Blog. How to write an internship cover letter: 7 tips & an example

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Kellie Hanna, CPRW

Career advice expert.

Kellie is a Certified Professional Resume Writer with 20+ years of experience in digital media and is passionate about helping job seekers navigate their careers. She earned a B.A. in English and writing from Temple University.

*The names and logos of the companies referred to above are all trademarks of their respective holders. Unless specifically stated otherwise, such references are not intended to imply any affiliation or association with MyPerfectResume.

15 internship & entry level cover letter templates

Make a professional cover letter to land the perfect internship or entry-level job with these free easy to use templates.

When applying for a job, a well-written cover letter can be just as important as a strong resume. A cover letter is a document that accompanies your resume and provides additional context for your qualifications, experience, and interest in the position you are applying for. In this article, we will explore what a cover letter is and why it is an essential part of the job application process.

What is a Cover Letter?

A cover letter is a one-page document that serves as an introduction to your resume. It is typically addressed to the hiring manager or HR representative and provides additional information about your qualifications, experience, and interest in the position. A well-crafted cover letter can help you stand out from other applicants and showcase why you are the best candidate for the job.

Why is a Cover Letter Important?

A cover letter is important for several reasons. Firstly, it provides an opportunity to introduce yourself to the hiring manager and explain why you are interested in the position. This can help to establish a personal connection and demonstrate your enthusiasm for the job. Secondly, a cover letter allows you to highlight your relevant skills and experience, which may not be immediately apparent from your resume alone. Finally, a well-written cover letter can help to demonstrate your writing skills and attention to detail, both of which are valuable qualities in any job.

What Should be Included in a Cover Letter?

A cover letter should be tailored to the specific job you are applying for and should include the following elements:

• Introduction: Begin by introducing yourself and explaining why you are interested in the position.
• Body: The body of your cover letter should provide additional information about your qualifications and experience, as well as specific examples of how your skills align with the requirements of the job. Use this section to highlight your relevant accomplishments and demonstrate your understanding of the position.
• Closing: End your cover letter by thanking the hiring manager for their time and consideration, and expressing your enthusiasm for the opportunity to interview for the position. Be sure to include your contact information so that the hiring manager can easily reach you if they have any further questions.

In conclusion, a cover letter is an important part of the job application process. It provides an opportunity to introduce yourself to the hiring manager, highlight your relevant skills and experience, and demonstrate your enthusiasm for the job. By taking the time to craft a well-written cover letter, you can increase your chances of standing out from other applicants and securing the job of your dreams.

Cover letter templates for internships

Software development internship.

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

[Hiring Manager's Name] [Company Name] [Company Address] [City, State ZIP Code]

Dear [Hiring Manager's Name],

I am writing to apply for the Software Development Internship at [Company Name]. As a computer science student with a passion for programming, I am excited about the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in this field.

[In the first paragraph, introduce yourself and express your interest in the position. In the second paragraph, highlight any relevant coursework or programming experience. In the final paragraph, express your enthusiasm for the internship and provide your contact information.]

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to [Company Name]'s software development initiatives.

[Your Signature] [Your Name]

Data Science Internship Template

I am writing to apply for the Data Science Internship at [Company Name]. As a computer science student with a strong interest in data analysis, I am excited about the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in this field.

[In the first paragraph, introduce yourself and express your interest in the position. In the second paragraph, highlight any relevant coursework or data-related experience. In the final paragraph, express your enthusiasm for the internship and provide your contact information.]

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to [Company Name]'s data science initiatives.

Cybersecurity Internship Template

I am writing to apply for the Cybersecurity Internship at [Company Name]. As a computer science student with a strong interest in cybersecurity, I am excited about the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in this field.

[In the first paragraph, introduce yourself and express your interest in the position. In the second paragraph, highlight any relevant coursework or cybersecurity-related experience. In the final paragraph, express your enthusiasm for the internship and provide your contact information.]

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to [Company Name]'s cybersecurity initiatives.

Marketing Internship Template

I am writing to apply for the Marketing Internship at [Company Name]. As a [Your degree program or field of study] student with a passion for marketing, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team.

[In the first paragraph, introduce yourself and express your interest in the position. In the second paragraph, highlight any relevant coursework or extracurricular activities. In the final paragraph, express your enthusiasm for the internship and provide your contact information.]

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to learn and grow with [Company Name].

Finance Internship Template

I am writing to apply for the Finance Internship at [Company Name]. As a [Your degree program or field of study] student with a strong interest in finance, I am excited about the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in this field.

[In the first paragraph, introduce yourself and express your interest in the position. In the second paragraph, highlight any relevant coursework or finance-related experience. In the final paragraph, express your enthusiasm for the internship and provide your contact information.]

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to [Company Name]'s financial initiatives.

Journalism Internship Template

[Hiring Manager's Name] [Publication Name] [Publication Address] [City, State ZIP Code]

I am writing to apply for the Journalism Internship at [Publication Name]. As a [Your degree program or field of study] student with a passion for journalism, I am excited about the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in this field.

[In the first paragraph, introduce yourself and express your interest in the position. In the second paragraph, highlight any relevant coursework or journalism-related experience. In the final paragraph, express your enthusiasm for the internship and provide your contact information.]

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to [Publication Name]'s editorial team.

[Your Signature] [Your Name]Template for a Design Internship

Technology Internship Template

I am writing to apply for the Technology Internship at [Company Name]. As a [Your degree program or field of study] student with a strong interest in technology, I am excited about the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in this field.

[In the first paragraph, introduce yourself and express your interest in the position. In the second paragraph, highlight any relevant coursework or technology-related experience. In the final paragraph, express your enthusiasm for the internship and provide your contact information.]

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to [Company Name]'s technology initiatives.

Public Relations Internship Template

I am writing to apply for the Public Relations Internship at [Company Name]. As a [Your degree program or field of study] student with a passion for communication, I am excited about the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in this field.

[In the first paragraph, introduce yourself and express your interest in the position. In the second paragraph, highlight any relevant coursework or communication-related experience. In the final paragraph, express your enthusiasm for the internship and provide your contact information.]

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to [Company Name]'s public relations initiatives.

Education Internship Template

[Hiring Manager's Name] [School Name] [School Address] [City, State ZIP Code]

I am writing to apply for the Education Internship at [School Name]. As a [Your degree program or field of study] student with a passion for teaching, I am excited about the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in this field.

[In the first paragraph, introduce yourself and express your interest in the position. In the second paragraph, highlight any relevant coursework or teaching-related experience. In the final paragraph, express your enthusiasm for the internship and provide your contact information.]

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to [School Name]'s educational initiatives.

Cover letter templates for entry level jobs

Basic entry-level template.

I am writing to apply for the [Position Name] role at [Company Name]. As a recent [Your degree or educational program], I am excited to begin my career in [Industry] and believe that this position would be an excellent opportunity to do so.

[In the first paragraph, introduce yourself and explain your interest in the position. In the second paragraph, highlight your relevant coursework, internships, or extracurricular activities. In the final paragraph, express your enthusiasm for the position and provide your contact information.]

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to [Company Name].

Entry-Level Marketing Template

I am writing to apply for the [Position Name] role at [Company Name]. As a recent graduate with a degree in Marketing, I am excited to begin my career in this field and believe that this position would be an excellent opportunity to do so.

[In the first paragraph, introduce yourself and explain your interest in the position. In the second paragraph, highlight any relevant coursework or internships. In the final paragraph, express your enthusiasm for the position and provide your contact information.]

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to [Company Name]'s marketing initiatives.

Entry-Level Human Resources Template

I am writing to apply for the [Position Name] role at [Company Name]. As a recent graduate with a degree in Human Resources, I am excited about the opportunity to begin my career in this field and believe that this position would be an excellent opportunity to do so.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to [Company Name]'s HR initiatives.

Entry-Level Graphic Design Template

I am writing to apply for the [Position Name] role at [Company Name]. As a recent graduate with a degree in Graphic Design, I am excited to begin my career in this field and believe that this position would be an excellent opportunity to do so.

[In the first paragraph, introduce yourself and explain your interest in the position. In the second paragraph, highlight any relevant coursework or design projects. In the final paragraph, express your enthusiasm for the position and provide your contact information.]

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to [Company Name]'s design initiatives.

General Cover letter templates

Job application template.

I am writing to express my interest in the [Position Name] role at [Company Name]. As a [Your current or most recent position] with [Number of years of experience], I am confident that I possess the skills and qualifications necessary to excel in this position.

[In the first paragraph, introduce yourself and express your interest in the position. In the second paragraph, highlight your relevant experience and skills. In the final paragraph, express your enthusiasm for the position and provide your contact information.]

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Career Change Template

I am writing to express my interest in the [Position Name] role at [Company Name]. Although my background is in [Your previous career or industry], I am eager to pursue a new career path in [New career or industry] and believe that this position would be an excellent opportunity to do so.

[In the first paragraph, introduce yourself and explain your career change. In the second paragraph, highlight your transferable skills and any relevant experience. In the final paragraph, express your enthusiasm for the position and provide your contact information.]

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further.

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• Cover Letter Examples

How to Write an Internship Cover Letter (Best Examples)

Getting an internship is tough. You need something more than a CV. Find out how to write a compelling cover letter for an internship to beat the competition.

Writing a good internship cover letter might be more important than having a perfectly written CV. If you don’t have tons of remarkable achievements, finding the right way to impress recruiters with your candidacy can be tricky.

Most major companies use internships to recruit for full-time roles. It’s incredibly competitive, and to land the best offers, you need a cracking cover letter for an internship to help get your foot in the door.

This guide will show you:

• Internship cover letter examples better than 9 out of 10 others.
• Internship cover letter tips that will let you show off your strengths and abilities.
• An easy step-by-step guide on how to write a cover letter for an internship.
• Why a carefully targeted and researched internship cover letter is key to success.

Want to write your cover letter fast? Use our cover letter builder. Choose from  20+ professional cover letter templates  that match your resume. See actionable examples and get expert tips along the way.

Create your cover letter now

Sample Cover Letter for a CV— See more cover letter templates and create your cover letter here .

An internship cover letter is not quite what you’re looking for? See our other guides:

• Graduate Cover Letter Example
• Speculative Cover Letter Example
• Customer Service Cover Letter Example
• Graphic Design Cover Letter Example
• Consulting Cover Letter Example
• Engineering Cover Letter Example
• Architecture Cover Letter Example
• Career Change Cover Letter Example
• Motivation Letter Example
• Sales Assistant Cover Letter Example

What is an internship cover letter?

I must start with its definition to properly teach you how to write an amazing internship cover letter.

An internship cover letter is a formal letter that introduces you to the recruiter. It shows who you are, why you are interested in the role, and why you’re a perfect candidate. A well-written cover letter should be tailored for the job you’re after and convince the recruiter to read your CV. 

And there you have it. Without further ado, let’s start today’s lesson by seeing a great internship cover letter example!

Pro tip: To tailor your cover letter for a specific job, read the job ad carefully and mirror it, by answering their requirements directly. Using the company’s name and mentioning the same skills the job ad mentioned is a great tactic.

Internship cover letter sample

Jane Newman

101 New Cross Road

0777 777 7777

[email protected]

6th May 2020

Christine Kane

Marketing Manager

The Useful Agency

9 Millers Lane

Dear Ms. Kane,

I am writing regarding the summer marketing internship with The Useful Agency. I am particularly interested in this internship due to your dedication to cutting-edge multichannel marketing approaches. The Useful Agency is the leader in the field of bespoke campaigns for small to medium-sized tech startups, and its role in assisting the growth of the ‘unicorn’ fintech firm Bazillion is legendary. My personal interest and academic focus on effective marketing for startups make me the ideal candidate for this internship.

Your job advert says you’re looking for an ambitious final-year marketing student with a solid knowledge of the marketing challenges facing tech startups. Here’s why I will be the perfect fit for this internship.

• Experience. Hands-on experience in the sector, having undertaken three work experience placements with London-based tech startups.
• Knowledge. Set to graduate with first-class honours and have undertaken modules in Entrepreneurship & Innovation and Digital Marketing. Currently working on a dissertation on the needs of digital businesses.

The reason I’m so excited about this internship is the opportunity to see how you create unique approaches for each client. The consistently exceptional testimonials you get from your clients are proof of your mastery of this approach, and I would love the opportunity to learn from you.

Thank you for taking the time to consider me for this role, and please contact me at your convenience so that we can discuss this opportunity further. I’d love to show you how my eagerness to build on my existing knowledge and experience would make a valuable contribution to your team.

Yours Sincerely,

That’s exactly how to write a cover letter for an internship. It’s safe to say Jane’s name is already shortlisted.

Now, let’s see how to write a cover letter for an internship that’s just as good.

Your internship cover letter doesn’t have to be long. Learn more: Short Cover Letter Examples

1. Use the best internship cover letter template

Having a properly written internship cover letter is crucial for landing the internship you're after. It's a perfect way of showing your future employer your interest in the position. It also helps you highlight all the skills, education, and qualifications that might be useful during that internship. 

Since it's an internship, your potential employers will focus mostly on those qualities and not on your work experience—given that it's probably not yet as impressive as your other strengths.

That’s why an internship cover letter might be even more important than an internship CV. But how can you ace it? Let’s break down your internship cover letter using this template. It’s a simple guide to the structure you should follow:

Cover letter template for an internship—checklist

• Your personal details , contact info, and the date
• The company’s contact info
• Salutation: Dear (hiring manager name) . Using their name will instantly activate their brain , helping your cover letter get their full attention.
• First paragraph: a well-researched and targeted introduction 
• Second paragraph: your key skills (both hard skills and soft skills ) and why you fit the internship
• Third paragraph: show your passion and why you want to intern at this company
• Fourth paragraph: your call to action (CTA)
• Sign-off: Yours Sincerely/Faithfully plus your full name and signature.

Okay, so you know what to include in a cover letter . Now, let’s talk more about your cover letter format .

Internship cover letter format

75% of managers want employees with good written communication skills. And you can instantly nail that requirement with a professional cover letter layout . 

Here’s how to do it properly:

• Get your cover letter address right. Your contact details and the date need to be right-aligned. Also, make sure the date is formatted correctly e.g. 5th May 2020.
• Then left-align the rest of your letter. Don’t justify it, as it’s against the standard business letter style.
• Set your margins to one inch on each side of the page and space between paragraphs. This creates plenty of white space , to frame your content and make it easier to read.
• Choose a professional font set at 11–12pt in size. Good CV fonts are perfect for cover letters too.

We’ve covered (pun intended!) what your cover letter should look like. Let’s dive into what should be its content.

Send your internship cover letter with an equally impressive CV. Read more: Internship CV Example & Guide

2. Start your cover letter for an internship right

Here’s the thing with internships. The best companies are flooded with candidates, and recruiters haven’t got the time for substandard applications. They’ll spend an average of 7 seconds looking at your application papers. If you don’t grab their attention instantly, it’s the ‘no pile’ for you.

So how can you impress them within those 7 seconds? By starting your cover letter perfectly.

Here’s how to start a cover letter for an internship:

• Write a professional internship cover letter header. Include your name, address, phone number, and email address. Add a date. Write down your addressee’s address.
• Open with a personal greeting . That’s how you engage with your reader from the start. Try to add some information about the company you're applying to, to make them realise it’s not another generic cover letter, and you want that specific internship, not just any other.
• Show that you’re excited to have an opportunity to learn something with them. Some good ego-boosting won’t do you any harm, on the contrary, it might be a great start for your internship.

You know how. Now let’s see an example of an internship cover letter that will get you work experience at the company of your dreams.

Cover letter examples for internship—first paragraph

Now that’s going to give the hiring manager pause for thought.

What makes it impressive? Meticulous research. As you progress in your career, your internship cover letter should start with eye-catching professional accomplishments. But as you don’t have any professional experience yet, you need to explain why you want this internship with this company.

That’s where your research skills come in. Look at their corporate website, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor. Search for current news using Google’s news aggregator, and look for insights from previous employees and interns on forums like Quora and Reddit.

Here’s what to find out when researching the company you’re applying to:

• The history of the company
• News and current events the company is involved in
• Major projects the company is undertaking
• Company vision and corporate values
• Background info on the manager you’ll be working under

As you can see, that example is meticulously researched and laser-focused. Compare it to this one.

It’s not terrible, but it’s not great. The problem is that it comes across as an obvious copy-paste that the candidate uses for everything. There’s no targeting the company and no research.

Don’t be lazy and generic. Make every application targeted and unique. And always avoid the “to whom it may concern” opening line, as it’s just plain lazy.

Find out more details about gaining your recruiters’ attention from the very first sentence of your cover letter. Read our guide: How to Start a Cover Letter

3. Write a compelling internship cover letter middle

So you’ve just written a perfect cover letter opening. The hiring manager is well and truly hooked. But unless you keep up the pace, it’s still a one-way ticket to rejection. Stay in the race by including more proof of your passion and skills.

To do that, you need to write a cover letter middle which shows:

• Your understanding of the internship duties. That alone will prove that you're an excellent candidate for an internship.
• How you can excel at those duties. It’s how you show you have given it a thought and have a plan for your career development within that company.
• Why you want this internship and not just any internship. That’s what makes it personal, and that’s what makes the reader feel appreciated and acknowledged. It’s also what makes them think you’re a good investment, someone who can soon turn an internship into a full-time job.

Look at these internship cover letter examples:

That’s going to keep the recruiter fully engaged. Do it like that internship cover letter example, and you’ll get your career started in style.

But the next of our internship cover letter examples will get you nowhere fast.

It’s ok. But it’s not going to get you an interview. Sure, it’s got passion, but the first half of it sounds like it was taken from a textbook definition of marketing and the rest of it feels far too general. There’s no understanding of the needs of the company and no proof of the claims being made. It just won’t cut it.

By this point, you might be wondering how long should a cover letter be . Aim for 300 words maximum. And since we're getting close to that number, let's see how to end a cover letter perfectly.

Find more useful expert tips on how to write a cover letter: Best Cover Letter Tips for 2024

4. End your internship cover letter with a call to action

You’ve impressed your recruiters with a perfect cover letter layout. You’ve gained their attention with perfect opening lines. They kept on reading through the amazing second and third paragraphs of your internship cover letter. Now it’s time to end it strongly and make them remember your application.

Here’s what you should remember when closing an internship cover letter:

• Once again, express your excitement about the chance to start your career in such a prestigious company. 
• Write about how your skills and passion might help the company if they accept you for an interview. After all, from their perspective, that’s exactly what you’re there for.
• Ask for an interview. It’s not as bold as may seem. And convincing them the ball is in their court will press them to take action.

Let’s see some examples:

Cover letter sample for an internship [ending]

That’s a strong finish.

It thanks the reader, which isn’t just good manners, it motivates a positive response , too. Then it makes it clear you want to proceed to the next stage of recruitment, plus cements your passion and commitment to contributing to the employer.

Compare it to this.

Not so good. It even uses the dreaded please find attached my CV . Don’t start with a bang and end with a whimper by using that sort of ending.

And remember, it’s Yours Sincerely if you address your cover letter to a named person and Yours Faithfully if it’s addressed anonymously, as in Dear Hiring Manager . Don’t use anything else, cover letters need to retain a certain level of formality.

End your cover letter in style and make a great last impression. Read more: How to End a Cover Letter

Plus, a great cover letter that matches your CV will give you an advantage over other candidates. You can write it in our cover letter builder here.  Here's what it may look like:

See more cover letter templates and start writing.

Key takeaway

Let’s sum up how to write an internship cover letter:

• Create a professional header, including your full name and contact information.
• Add a date, location, and company address below.
• Address the hiring manager directly by their full name.
• Express your interest in this specific job, and mention how you've heard about the opening and why you think you'd be a perfect fit.
• Mirror the job ad in your cover letter by mentioning the skills and experience they are looking for in a candidate.
• Finish your cover letter with a professional sign-off and a call to action, offering a date for your interview.

Thanks for reading. What else would you like to know about writing a cover letter for an internship? Do you want to discuss something more specific like a cover letter for a law internship or a cover letter for a fashion internship? Let me know in the comments section and I’ll be happy to help.

About Zety’s Editorial Process

Our editorial team has thoroughly reviewed this article to ensure it follows Zety’s editorial guidelines . Our dedication lies in sharing our expertise and providing you with actionable career advice that offers you real value. Every year, the quality of our content attracts 40 million readers to our site. But that’s not all – we conduct original research to gain a detailed understanding of the labour market. We take pride in being cited by top universities and leading media outlets in the UK and worldwide .

• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1647299/
• https://www.snhu.edu/about-us/newsroom/2018/04/what-are-soft-skills
• https://u.osu.edu/ehedesigntips/2015/04/06/design-101-white-space/
• https://www.hrdive.com/news/eye-tracking-study-shows-recruiters-look-at-resumes-for-7-seconds/541582/
• https://www.umkc.edu/facultyombuds/documents/grant_gino_jpsp_2010.pdf

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Home » Job Tips » Resume Writing Tips » How to Write a Cover Letter for Job

How to Write a Cover Letter for a Job?: The Ultimate 2024 Guide

Imagine a scenario where you are able to find that one perfect job role that checks all your boxes but when you scroll down to apply you find the two words that fill you with instant dread, a cover letter. If you can relate to this scenario then don’t worry, you are not alone. Or even if you are new to the term and don’t understand what it means let alone know how to write a cover letter for a job, this blog is for you. In this blog, we will walk you through all the essential elements necessary for writing a cover letter. So, buckle up and get ready to explore all the sections that will help you write a cover letter to ace the application process effortlessly.

Table of Contents

How to Write a Cover Letter for a Job

A cover letter for job is a document that helps you explain your intent and motive for applying to a specific job role. It covers your extracurricular activities, skills, achievements, and experiences in the field.

Follow the cover letter format given below to get an idea about what you should include while writing an introduction of a cover letter:

1. Mention Your Name and Address

Imagine writing the perfect cover letter but never finding out whether they liked it because you forgot your contact details. So, write your name, email address, contact number, and date at the top left of the document. Make sure that your email address isn’t unprofessional.

Meena Joshi JD Colony, Vasant Vihar New Delhi (+91) 9867895046 [email protected]

2. Mention the Date

After you have written your personal details like name and address, it is important to mention the date.

3. List the Recipient’s Name and Address

It is the first essential step that must not be skipped under any circumstances. Who will the letter get to if it does not have the name and address of the recipient? Hence, it is mandatory to fill out this section by carefully examining the details through the job description or the website of that particular organization.

To Hiring Manager’s Full Name XYZ Pvt. Ltd. B-000, Business Zone West Country, New City 2, Delhi, India – 110076

Remember: If you have to write a cover letter by mail then you do not need to mention the recipient’s address, date, or your name and address.

4. Greeting

When you are starting a cover letter try addressing it to a specific individual. You can do this by scouring the official website of the company to find the name of the head of the department or the hiring manager. If the powers of the internet fail you, address it to the department you are applying to. Do not write ‘To Whom It May Concern’ unless you want to come off as a robot. Use ‘Dear ABC’ or simply start with ‘Hello ABC.’

5. Cover Letter Body

After adding all the relevant information, it’s time to move on to the main body of the letter. This section comprises the opening paragraph and the main body of the letter. Let’s understand them further.

Opening Paragraph

There are three ways you can approach the beginning of a cover letter. They are as mentioned below:

• I am thrilled to apply for the position of content writer at Buzzfeed India. Having completed a bachelor’s degree in Journalism and an internship of six months at The Indian Express, I am confident that I will bring valuable skills to the organization.
• At the age of 10, I went to the World Book Fair with my brother for the first time. While he was spending time reading the synopsis of books, I was picking up one book after another lured by the attractive covers. I finally settled on Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone then ended up devouring all books in the series.  I followed this interest in judging a book by its cover by pursuing a bachelor’s in Design. I am applying for the position of graphic designer at Scholastic following the creative side of mine which I have decided to pursue as my career.
• During my last internship in social media marketing at Otter Pvt. Limited, I conceptualized three marketing campaigns, which increased the engagement rate by 25% and led to a spike of 15% in website traffic. I believe that the skills I have gained in this role make me the right fit for the position of Social Media Marketing Associate at Orange. Make sure to change the tone according to the company that you apply to. If the company is more on the conservative side such as an accounting firm, maintain a formal tone. If you are applying to a startup, you can have some fun, and use the language that they have used in the job description.

6. Main Body

This is the part where you explain more about the roles you have mentioned in your resume. Always read the job description attentively and see if you have the key skills that the role requires. Now that you have a fair idea of the key requirements, think of your main accomplishments that demonstrate your skills. Let’s find out how we can make it less exhausting.

• I was a content writer at Times Tech and during my tenure, I experimented with various types of content like articles, blogs, FAQs, Q&As, and videos. I analyzed the performance of each type and made the required changes that brought about a 25% increase in readership and website engagement.
• As the Vice President for Enactus, I oversaw the annual inter-college meet. This included getting in touch with leaders in the social entrepreneurship industry for the speaker’s session, ideating competition ideas, marketing the event on social media, and making arrangements for 20 Enactus teams from across the state.
• As a content writer at your company, I would use my writing and researching skills to produce more interactive content. It will bring traffic to your website and increase engagement.

Now that you have told the hiring manager why the job should be yours, let’s learn about writing the parting note.

7. Conclusion

In this section, try to keep your content concise and straightforward. Do not include anything new, try summarizing what you have already talked about. You can also thank them for taking the time to review your application.

I would welcome the chance to speak more about this opportunity and share how I can contribute.

Thank you for your time. Sincerely/Best regards, Your Name

Also Read: How to Write Cover Letter for Internship

Cover Letter Example s

If you are required to write a cover letter for a job, you will have to read the job description attentively. After that, you will have to form the outline of your letter according to the components that are necessarily included in it. Based on those points, you will have to highlight your relevant skills and experience to shine brighter than the other candidates. Here are some best cover letter examples to help you understand how to do this better.

Example 1: Brand Copywriter Cover Letter Sample

Let’s take a look at a generic cover letter example for your reference:

Explore the latest copywriting jobs .

Example 2: Full-Stack Developer Cover Letter Sample

If you wish to apply for a full-stack developer job, you can refer to this resume sample. 

Now that you know how to write a cover letter, apply for full-stack developer jobs .

Example 3: Mental Health Counselor Cover Letter Sample

Here is a cover letter sample to apply for a mental health counselor job:

Check out the top jobs for psychologists .

Example 4: Graphic Designer Cover Letter Sample

Refer to this cover letter sample if you wish to apply for a graphic designer job. 

Looking to work in the graphic design sector? Check out the best graphic designer jobs .

Tips for Writing a Cover Letter

There are a lot of points that need to be kept in mind when writing a cover letter. The following section explains all the components as well as some cover letter writing tips:

• Call To Action (CTA)- While ending the cover letter, tell the hiring manager what you want them to do. You can request an interview or a meeting.
• Enthusiasm for the Job/Organization– Mention what aspects of the job make you feel eager to join. You may have all the requisite skills, but so might the other candidates. What can set you apart is your enthusiasm for the role or company.
• Customization– Each job description comes with a different set of requirements and each company has a different culture, so make sure you customize your cover letter. Try to avoid sending generic cover letters.
• Conciseness– Once you have written your cover letter, take some time to edit. Eliminate everything repetitive. Make sure that your cover letter length does not exceed one page and 250-300 words.

Things to Skip in the Cover Letter

It is equally important to know what not to write in a cover letter. It is good to know these things before you start writing one to reduce your chances of rejection. Some of these points are mentioned below:

• Clichéd Phrases– Avoid writing overused phrases like ‘fast learner’ and ‘hard-working.’ Instead use action words such as led, designed, developed, conceptualized, etc. that show these qualities in action.
• Overly Formal Tone– A very formal tone can give the impression that you picked out a cover sample off the internet. It can also make it difficult to read your letter. To find out which words or sentences can be rewritten for easier readability, you can use the Hemingway Editor.
• Narrating Your Resume– Make sure that your cover letter isn’t a longer version of your resume. Think about the highlights during your jobs, internships, or extracurricular activities that relate to the job and give insights about them.
• Improper Formatting– Use consistent formatting throughout the letter, and use a font that’s easy to read such as Arial size 12 or Calibri size 12.
• Typos and Common Grammatical Errors– Once you have done the lion’s share of the work by writing the letter, make sure that typos or bad grammar don’t ruin your masterpiece. Even if all seems in order, proofread it yourself or ask a friend to review it for you.

Now that we have covered how to write a cover letter for a job, go write one! If you are still looking for jobs, then you can check out fresher jobs on Internshala. You can also check out our blog on top cover letter examples .

Related Cover Letter for Different Job Roles:

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Kriti heads the content team at Internshala. She got her first writing job when she was 17 and has 8+ years of experience in the field. She has a passion for crafting engaging and impactful narratives. With a background in writing and digital marketing, Kriti excels at creating compelling content strategies and optimizing online platforms. Her expertise lies in driving audience engagement and brand awareness through powerful storytelling.

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5 Tips For Landing Your Dream Summer Internship

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By Jennifer Lotito, Contributor

A successful internship can catapult careers and put aspiring professionals on a path to securing full-time jobs. But with summer internship season soon upon us, many prospective interns are feeling uneasy.

Internships have become an unofficial prerequisite for obtaining entry-level employment. But competition is fierce–and  increasing . According to a 2023 Ripplematch  survey , 60% of early career candidates are concerned about making their applications stand out.

Here are five tips to help you break through and land your dream summer internship.

Apply Early

You’ve probably heard the saying “summer bodies are made in winter.” The same is true with internships. While you might be busy planning that epic spring break trip or ski weekend with your roommates, now is the time to begin researching and applying for summer opportunities.

There’s rarely any downside to applying early. In fact, many employers, including (RED), the organization that I lead, screen candidates on a “rolling” basis, meaning that once someone meets the criteria, they’re hired. Applying early can give you a valuable leg up on the competition and help your summer planning.

Do Your Research

Securing an internship is a bit of a numbers game: the more places you apply, the better your chances. However, that shouldn’t keep you from doing your research on prospective employers. Your time is finite and you can only do so many internships–so make them count.

Where you apply should depend on your career ambitions. Make a list of your favorite organizations or companies that reflect your interests and values. Explore websites like  Glassdoor  and  Canary  that have reviews from interns and fellows. Talk to your college career office and classmates to discover which employers have the best internship offerings.

You can learn a lot about a company’s internship program by scoping their website. How much information do they share about the program? How detailed is the job description? Are the responsibilities generic or substantive?

You should also weigh other key factors like the location and compensation. While online internships offer great convenience, they also limit your ability to engage in the office culture and develop deeper relationships with potential mentors and future references. Moreover, whether an internship is paid or unpaid can significantly impact your experience.  Studies  have shown that paid internships have a greater chance of leading to full-time employment. There’s also a correlation between paid internships and higher entry-level salaries. Yet only  six in ten  internships are paid.

The bottom line is: You and your time are valuable. Do your homework and ensure you’re targeting employers that are worth your investment and talent.

Polish Your Resume And Cover Letter

After you’ve determined your dream list of employers, it’s time to get your application materials in top shape, starting with your resume.

Your resume should succinctly summarize your experience, including prior internships, jobs, academic credentials, and relevant extracurricular activities. It should not exceed one page. If your resume is longer, keep revising. The average recruiter spends less than 10 seconds reviewing a resume. You may have a million accolades, but the only ones that matter are the items that pertain to the application before you. As you read your resume, ask yourself: Does this bullet make it significantly more likely someone will hire me?

You should update your resume with every application to reflect the keywords in the job description. Tools like  Skillsyncer  and  Jobscan  can help identify missing keywords so your resume doesn’t get buried in the applicant tracking system.

Understand the differences between a resume and a cover letter. A resume tells an employer where you’ve worked and what you’ve done. A cover letter explains why it matters and why you want the job. Cover letters seldom make your candidacy, but they can break it. Don’t rely on artificial intelligence platforms to write your cover letter. A great letter conveys emotion and tells a story–your story. No other person or thing can tell your story better than you.

Before finalizing your application materials, ask a trusted friend to review them. Treat any edits like an objective umpire, taking good suggestions and politely ignoring others without ego. Tools like  Grammarly  and  Hemingway  can improve the quality of your writing and limit grammatical errors.

Finally, as you begin creating multiple resumes and cover letters, always double-check that you’re attaching the correct materials to each application. You don’t want to learn this lesson the hard way!

Network, Network, Network

One of the best ways to secure a coveted internship is to put yourself out there.

After you’ve identified your dream employer, see if you can determine the hiring manager. If you can, ask if they’d be willing to do an informational interview or grab coffee sometime. If you’re unable to find the hiring manager, try building relationships with other employees who can help advance your application.

It’s never been easier to ask someone for a Zoom meeting. However, virtual meetings with strangers are rarely as productive as sitting down in person. So do the outreach and try meeting face to face. At worst, your email or LinkedIn message will go unanswered. At best, you may meet someone who can teach you something, help with your application, or serve as a future resource.

Now’s the best time in your career to grow your network. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there and go for it. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain.

Prepare For Interviews

Once you’ve submitted your application materials and have been contacted for an interview, it’s time to seal the deal. As the old phrase goes: proper preparation prevents poor performance. When preparing for interviews, begin by refreshing your knowledge of the employer. Annual reports, press releases, and even social media are great places to look for information. Pay attention to how the prospective employer communicates their mission and work.

Spend ample time familiarizing yourself with the job description. Develop a list of potential job-specific questions that you could be asked. For more generic questions,  Indeed  has created a list of 100 common interview questions. Every night, you should spend 15 minutes rehearsing a few of these questions out loud in front of the mirror. Artificial intelligence-backed communications tools like  Yoodli  can give you practice interview questions, assess your delivery, and provide real-time feedback.

When practicing for interviews, you should limit your answers to two minutes in length. If a question requires you to talk about your experience, always follow the S.T.A.R. method by describing the situation, the task, the action taken, and the result.

Most interviews end with the applicant asking the employer questions. Prepare at least a half dozen questions in advance. Some of your questions may be answered during the interview. So, it’s better to have too many questions than not enough.

When interviewing, you always want to present your best self. Ask smart questions and show why you’re the answer to your dream internship.

Read the full article here: https://www.forbes.com/sites/jenniferlotito/2024/03/13/5-tips-for-landing-your-dream-summer-internship/?sh=7a60acfc3171