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How to Write a Job Application Cover Letter

Writing a cover letter is essential when applying for jobs. This is the perfect way to express how your specific skills are relevant to the open position. Wow your future employer with this simple cover letter example format.

Write a First Draft

Writing a first draft makes your letter concise and professional, states The Balance Careers. Organize your thoughts by making a list of what you’re trying to convey. Make sure you prioritize certain aspects like your previous job experience and why you would be a good fit for the position. Clearly state what position you’re interested in and why. Think about why you’re applying and what caught your eye about this specific position. Your cover letter will be easier to write after your thoughts are collected and organized.

Customize Your Salutation

When writing a salutation, make sure you know who you are writing to. Is this person the owner of the company or a Human Resources administrator? If you’re not sure, research the company to find out. Addressing your cover letter to a specific person shows initiative and attention to detail. After your salutation, start your letter with a short introduction of yourself. This gives future employers insight into who you are and the purpose of your cover letter.

Write Intentionally

Your cover letter should be no more than one page, so keep your points brief. Clearly state what position you are interested in and why. Explain why you are a good fit for the company because of your past job experience. If you have no similar job experience, let the employer know why you are changing career paths. Expand on your skills and give specific examples of how that skill set helped you at your last position. Name projects you’ve worked on and show results.

Close Your Letter

End your cover letter with a brief sentence and sign off. Thank the employer for their time and express your interest towards the job again. Let them know you’ll follow up with them if you do not hear back within a week and leave your contact information. Sign off with a professional farewell and leave room for a signature if sending a hard copy.

Edit and Proofread

As you finish writing your cover letter, make sure you take time to edit and proofread your document. Make sure it’s structured in a professional format with the company’s information, the salutation and introduction, the body of the letter, a brief closing sentence and farewell. Check for spelling and grammar mistakes to ensure a formal result. Make sure all names are spelled correctly, as well.

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cover letter for new graduate

Recent Graduate Cover Letter Examples in 2023

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Frank Hackett

Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW)

Frank Hackett is a professional resume writer and career consultant with over eight years of experience. As the lead editor at a boutique career consulting firm, Frank developed an innovative approach to resume writing that empowers job seekers to tell their professional stories. His approach involves creating accomplishment-driven documents that balance keyword optimization with personal branding. Frank is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) with the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches (PAWRCC).

Create a professional resume in minutes for free.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment is expected to grow to 160.3 million jobs in 2024. Data suggests that professionals with bachelor’s degrees generated a median weekly income of $1305 compared to candidates who only possessed high school diplomas. College graduates made over $675 more per week. Although a degree can be a valuable tool to help you jump-start your career within your target industry, you’ll still need to build a compelling cover letter to market yourself effectively during your job search. Below, you’ll find examples for recent graduates across three separate fields.

Downloadable Cover Letter Examples

Recent-Graduate_Example-1.pdf

Recent Graduate Cover Letter Examples (Text Format)

Years of experience.

Curtis Jones Software Developer  | [email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | 123 Address St., Portland, OR 12345

January 1, 2022

Caroline Matthews Hiring Manager Solaris Software Inc. (987) 654-3210 [email protected]

Dear Ms. Matthews,

As an intern at Portland Technology Inc., I collaborated with a dynamic team of software developers and engineers to design innovative mobile applications for the education industry. While supporting the development of three separate applications, I gained valuable knowledge and training in Agile methodology and software development lifecycles. I believe that my internship and academic experience will allow me to deliver valuable contributions to your organization.

Solaris Software Inc.’s reputation for creating value for users is what draws me to apply for this position. I am confident that my bachelor’s degree in software engineering from the University of Portland and my experience as a software developer intern will allow me to aid your teams in designing scalable applications based on the following achievements from my career:

I look forward to speaking with you further regarding how my application development experience can aid Solaris Software Inc. in continuing to create value for users. You may contact me via phone or email at your earliest convenience. I appreciate your time and consideration.

Sincerely, Curtis Jones

Jessica Adams Financial Analyst  | [email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | 123 Address St., New York, NY, 12345

Raymond Johnson Hiring Manager Cohen Financial Partners (987) 654-3210 [email protected]

Dear Mr. Johnson,

During my internship with Brooklyn Financial Services, I interfaced with a team of financial analysts to evaluate investment opportunities for a multimillion-dollar firm. Through this experience, I gained valuable knowledge of business models, product use cases, and financial forecasting, which I believe makes me the ideal candidate for the financial analyst position with your company.

Cohen Financial Partners has a reputation for ethical business practices, which strongly aligns with my core values as a finance professional. I believe that I can continue to help your organization to grow your investment portfolio based on my previous achievements from my work experience and academic career:

I would like to schedule an interview to discuss further how my experience in financial analysis and risk management can benefit your organization. Feel free to contact me at your earliest convenience with any additional questions you may have about my background. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Jessica Adams

Arthur Morris Marketing Professional  | [email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | 123 Address St., Boston, MA 12345

Sarah Taylor Hiring Manager New England Marketing Inc. (987) 654-3210 [email protected]

Dear Ms. Taylor,

As a marketing intern with the Falmouth Marketing Consulting Agency, I coordinated with a team of specialists to enhance social media presence and web marketing for clients. I also attended meetings with creative teams to define brand messaging based on target audiences. Through these experiences,  I developed an advanced understanding of social media marketing, which I believe will allow me to thrive in the marketing specialist position with your organization.

New England Marketing Inc.’s reputation for driving customer success is what draws me to apply for this position. I believe that my expertise in brand messaging, and social media marketing will allow me to provide valuable contributions to your organization based on my career achievements:

I hope to speak with you further regarding my expertise in social media marketing and how it can benefit your organization. You may contact me via phone or email at your convenience. I appreciate your time and consideration.

Sincerely, Arthur Morris

Recent Graduate Cover Letter Checklist

A great nursing cover letter has five main elements:

1. Heading. Use a stylized template to help your information stand out. Be sure that your heading includes the following details:

2. Salutation. Greet the hiring manager by Mr. or Ms. [Last Name]. If you can’t find the hiring manager’s name, use “Dear Hiring Manager” instead.

3. Introduction. To grab the reader’s attention, you need to craft a strong introductory paragraph highlighting one of your defining career accomplishments. Using numbers to enhance the impact of your achievements is an effective strategy, but this can be more difficult for recent graduates due to a lack of industry experience. If you don’t have an internship you can point to, you should instead focus on showcasing academic achievements that demonstrate your qualifications for the job.

4. Body paragraphs. You want to continue to showcase achievements from your internships in the subsequent body paragraphs. If you haven’t had the opportunity to work in your field, you should instead draw attention to your academic projects. Using a list of bullet points to break up the monotony of the text on the page is helpful here, as this will improve the overall readability of your document. It’s also important to mention the organization’s reputation and its relation to your background and experience.

5. Closing section. For your closing paragraph, you want to create a call to action (CTA) that invites the hiring manager to bring you in for an interview. This will send a clear message to hiring managers that you’re confident and engaged during the initial phases of the application process.

Introduction

A strong introduction typically features a defining accomplishment from your career backed with a compelling monetary figure or metric. Integrating numbers can help you tell your story better, but this can often be difficult for recent graduates who have yet to secure an entry-level position. In this instance, you want to focus on drawing attention to coursework that matches the job description or an academic project. Employers value candidates who have qualifications and skill sets that meet their needs, so you’ll want to tailor your cover letter to the job description as much as possible. Below, you’ll find an example to help you craft a strong introductory paragraph.

As a software engineering student at Boston University, I executed various application development projects during my academic career. My proudest achievement was designing a mobile application that enabled users to compare pricing, reviews, and restaurant reservations using Python. I am confident that my software engineering knowledge will allow me to immediately contribute to the fast-paced business environment with Sunset Software Corp.

I’ve recently completed my degree in software engineering and am looking for the opportunity to start my career in the industry. I’m excited for the chance to work with your team, and I’ve been exposed to various programming languages and application platforms during my time as a student. I’m a hard worker and creative problem solver who has all the skills you’re looking for.

Body Paragraphs

Your body paragraphs should continue to highlight accomplishments from your work experience and academic career. Focus on drawing attention to how your background aligns with the company’s reputation or mission statement. Numbers and metrics are an effective tool for grabbing the reader’s attention, but as a recent graduate, you may need to employ other tactics to differentiate yourself from the competition. In this instance, you should focus on crafting paragraphs that highlight academic projects, coursework, awards, or even volunteerism. You should also consider using a list of bullet points to help break up the text on the page. Below, you’ll find an example to help you craft strong body paragraphs for your cover letter.

As a recent graduate in journalism from the University of Pennsylvania, I’m drawn to the Philadelphia Inquirer’s reputation for reporting and integrity. I believe that I can help your organization to continue this long-standing reputation based on the following achievements from my academic experience:

Having just completed my degree in journalism from a prestigious school, I have yet to acquire industry experience, but I am confident that I have the skill sets to succeed in this entry-level journalist position with your newspaper. Some of my past endeavors include creative writing in my spare time and avidly reading news stories from various sources. I wrote well for my school’s student newspaper during my time at the university and received high praise from my professor. I am very excited about the chance to join your team and jump start my career.

To close out your cover letter on a strong note, you need to include a call to action (CTA) that invites the hiring manager to take the next step and bring you in for an interview. You should also use this opportunity to reinforce how your qualifications and experience can create value for the organization. Be sure to thank the hiring manager for their time in the final sentence of the paragraph, as you want to communicate in a polite and professional manner during your correspondence. Below, you’ll find an example to help you craft a strong closing paragraph.

I hope to schedule an interview with you to discuss further how my expertise in brand marketing can help your creative team continue to grow exposure for your new product line. Feel free to contact me via phone or email at your earliest convenience. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Best regards,

I appreciate you taking the time to review my application and read my cover letter. This is an exciting opportunity for my career and I can’t wait to hear more about your company, and the position.

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Home Cover Letter Examples Recent Graduate Cover Letter

Recent Graduate Cover Letter Example

October 24, 2022 | By the Resume Genius Team | Reviewed by Conrad Benz

Writing a cover letter for your first job after graduation can be difficult, but it doesn’t have to be. With our recent graduate cover letter example and writing tips as a guide, it won’t be long before you’re part of the workforce.

An example of a recent graduate cover letter

Not happy with how this cover letter looks? We have many other cover letter template designs available.

Additional Templates & Samples Like a Recent Graduate Cover Letter

Entry Level Nurse Cover Letter

Recent Graduate Cover Letter Template (Text Format)

Using the right formatting for your cover letter ensures employers take your application seriously.

24 October 2022

Dana Johnston

2518 Lilac Ave

North Charleston, SC, 29405

[email protected]

Dear Ms. Johnston,

My name is James Amore, and I’m excited to apply for the position of Junior IT specialist at the French Central Inn, Charleston. I’m a recent graduate (December YYYY) in Management Information Systems (MIS) from Charleston Southern University, and I’m eager to enter the workforce. I meet all of the academic requirements mentioned in your job posting.

Growing up, I took a liking to all things tech and digital, which led to me picking MIS as my major. Apart from all the tech courses during my MIS studies, I thoroughly enjoyed and excelled at the psychology courses, as the intersection of tech and humanity (specifically, how people respond to and adapt to technological changes) is a passion of mine. It’s one that I discuss frequently on my tech blog: techfacts.com.

During my final year of university, I interned at Safe Homes Inc., a vendor providing an array of home security systems. I worked on both the hardware and software side, installing physical equipment as well as configuring the requisite software, and involved elements of IoT.

What excites me most about this position is that the role involves extensive work with the Internet of Things (IoT). As a leader in combining IoT and hospitality, working at your inn would be a fortuitous coming together of passion, competence, and opportunity.

I look forward to putting my knowledge and skills to use as a productive member of your IT department, and learning from the best in the industry. In an interview, I’d love to discuss my short- and long-term career goals and how they align with the French Central Inn’s tech vision. I await your call.

James Amore

5 recent graduate cover letter tips

Learning how to put together a cover letter for the specific job(s) you want will help you land more interviews.

Putting together a cover letter for a job as a recent graduate can be difficult, especially if you don’t have any formal work or internship experience. Fortunately, it’s still possible to write a convincing cover letter that helps you land a job, no matter how much experience you have.

Here’s a breakdown of what to include in your recent graduate cover letter to wow employers and land your first job or internship out of college.

An infographic explaining the best things to include on a cover letter for a recent graduate

1. Briefly introduce yourself

Start your new grad cover letter by introducing yourself to your potential employers, just as you would if you were meeting them in person. Cover the basics — your name, your academic qualifications, and what position you’re applying for.

You should also mention how you discovered the job opening and if you were recommended by anyone currently working at the company. This can help you immediately establish a rapport with the hiring manager and improve your chances of getting an interview.

Here’s an example of a strong cover letter introduction paragraph for a recent graduate:

An example of a recent graduate cover letter introduction written by a candidate applying for a job as an architect

The candidate gives a concise summary of their education and qualifications, showing employers that they have the required licensure for an architect.

2. Connect your skills to the job

When applying for a job as a recent graduate, don’t worry about your lack of work experience . Instead, showcase the personality traits and soft skills you possess that make you an excellent match for the job.

First, think about all of your relevant interests and skills, or areas of work that you’re passionate about. Then, use your cover letter to connect them to the work being done at the company you want to work at.

Here’s an example of how one candidate uses their cover letter to advertise their passion for conversational Spanish:

An example of a recent graduate cover letter highlighting the applicants Spanish skills

If you’re applying for a job directly in your field of academic expertise, you can also explain what drew you to the field in the first place.

3. Highlight internship or project work experience

Your third paragraph should be the core of your recent grad cover letter. This is where you highlight your relevant experience, whether it’s from internships , extracurricular activities , or coursework . Your objective is to highlight any experience that taught you skills that are valuable in your target industry (e.g., your ability to work on a team, solve problems, or learn quickly).

Here’s an example of how one recent graduate uses the third paragraph of their cover letter to highlight their internship experience:

An example of a recent graduate cover letter showcasing the candidate's relevant experience

4. Explain why you’re a match for the job

Employers understand that as a recent graduate, you’ll likely be writing a cover letter with no work experience . What they want to see is that you’re passionate about the work and are enthusiastic to learn.

That’s why in your fourth paragraph you should take the opportunity to explain what about the position excites you. Be as specific as possible — if you’re interested in the product the company makes or even their work culture, be sure to mention it. Show that you’re interested in the specific job you’re applying to, and not just any job.

Here’s an example of how to effectively communicate your enthusiasm in a recent graduate cover letter:

A recent graduate cover letter example demonstrating the applicant's enthusiasm for the role

This applicant comes across as eager to apply their skills to create a positive customer experience and ultimately benefit the company.

5. Finish with a clear call to action

Wrap up your new grad cover letter by strongly yet politely restating your interest in the position. Additionally, mention your interest in scheduling a phone call to discuss the job opportunity further.

This not only shows that you’re enthusiastic about the job, it also pushes the hiring manager to reach out to you.

Here’s an example of a strong closing sentence on a cover letter from a recent graduate:

An example of a call to action at the end of recent graduate cover letter

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New & Recent Graduate Cover Letter Samples & Proper Format

New & Recent Graduate Cover Letter Samples & Proper Format

You’ve just graduated. Time to find your first full-blown job. But how will you outperform all other candidates? Write a perfect cover letter for a recent grad. Here’s how.

Michael Tomaszewski, CPRW

As seen in:

In 5 minutes, you’ll know how to write the best recent graduate cover letter out there.

But shall we play a round of Cards Against Humanity first?

Research shows new grads find it difficult to land their first jobs due to ______.

Yeah, that would be a tough pick.

Seriously, though, looking for jobs as a recent grad is daunting. But for you, it doesn’t have to be.

Let me hand you your weapon X : a perfect cover letter for a recent graduate.

This guide will show you samples of recent graduate cover letters, plus the best tips on how to write a new grad cover letter that stands out like a lighthouse in a sea of boring.

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

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Sample fresh graduate cover letter and a matching resume made with our builder: See other cover letter examples and create your cover letter here .

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Sample Cover Letter for a Recent College Graduate

Alison Doyle is one of the nation’s foremost career experts.

cover letter for new graduate

What to Include in Your Cover Letter

How to Send an Email Cover Letter

Emilie Dunphy © The Balance 

Writing a cover letter as a recent college graduate can seem complicated because you have limited work experience. However, there are ways to show the employer that you are an ideal candidate for the job.

Read below for advice on writing a cover letter for an entry-level position as a college graduate, as well as an example letter.

Introductory Paragraph: In the first paragraph of your cover letter, express your interest in both the job and the employer, mentioning the company by name. Cite the source where you discovered the job announcement. If you have a connection at the company who you know would support your candidacy, mention their name here .

Do not use a generic cover letter for all of your job applications. Each one should be reworked to speak directly to the identity and needs of the employer to whom it is sent.

Body Paragraphs:  Use two or three short paragraphs in the body of your cover letter to “sell” your candidacy to the employer. While you should definitely mention the name of your college and your major (especially if this is directly related to the job), your cover letter shouldn’t be a simple biography of your academic history.

Instead, try to persuasively demonstrate how your college studies, internships, temporary / seasonal work experiences, and / or extracurricular experiences have given you the primary qualifications listed on the employer’s job posting.

Closing Paragraph: In your closing paragraph, reiterate your enthusiasm for the job opportunity and thank the employer for their consideration. This is the best place to request a personal interview and to explain how you intend to follow up on your application .

Tips for Writing a Recent College Graduate Cover Letter

Use keywords.  Take a careful look at the job description, noting any skills or experiences that the description indicates. Try to include some of those  keywords  in your cover letter. This will show the employer a connection between your experiences and the job.

Focus on activities and responsibilities.  In the body of your cover letter, emphasize the skills and experiences that make you a good candidate. Avoid focusing on your GPA or grades, or other metrics related to college. Instead, focus on activities you did, and the responsibilities you held. Maybe you had an internship or were a leader in a school organization. These examples go beyond showing that you were a good student. They show you have what it takes to be a good employee.

Sell yourself.  Avoid talking about how much you want the job; instead, focus on how you will help out the company. Emphasize ways that you can add value at the company, and why you are a good fit for them.

Show your knowledge of the company.   Research the company  before writing the cover letter. If possible, explain what you know about the company (or the department the job is in). Perhaps you’ve read an article about the company’s recent successes, or you’ve read and believed in the company’s mission statement.

Knowledge of the company will put you a step above the competition.

Edit, edit, edit.  Make sure you thoroughly read through your letter, editing any typos or grammar errors. Keep your message short and to-the-point, using language that is easy to understand. Ask a friend or career coach to read it for you as well.

Recent College Graduate Cover Letter Example

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

Recent College Graduate Cover Letter Example (Text Version)

Your Name Address City, State Zip Code Phone Number Email

Name Title Company Address City, State Zip Code

Dear Mr./Ms. LastName,

I am writing to apply for the position of Media Relations Assistant Manager, which I saw advertised on MediaJobs.com. ABCD is a fast-moving global institution and an outstanding communications pioneer, now poised to guide the direction of print journalism. I believe that my extensive experience in media makes me an ideal candidate for this position at your company.

As a recent graduate of the State University, I have a significant background in media. As a media major, I held multiple internships, including Media Relations Coordinator Intern at XYZ Company. I also served as president of the Media and Marketing Club at school. We successfully developed and pitched an advertisement campaign for a local nonprofit, which helped increase donations to the nonprofit by 22 percent.

You state in your job listing that you are looking for someone with strong writing skills and an attention to detail. Throughout all four years of college, I worked part-time as a copy editor for an online journal. This job required great attention to detail in writing and editing. I would love to bring my editing skills to a position with your company.

These strengths, combined with deep and varied academic, internship, and employment experience, have prepared me to make a strong and immediate impact at ABCD.

I am excited about the opportunity to join the ABCD team as it moves to the center of the print media conversation. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Your Signature  (hard copy letter)

Your Typed Name

If you're sending your cover  letter via email , 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 contact information. Start your email message with the salutation.

Key Takeaways

YOUR COVER LETTER IS YOUR “SALES PITCH”: Your cover letter is far more than an expression of your interest in a job opening. Ideally, it should be a powerful marketing document that summarizes the unique qualifications that you could bring to the employer.

FOCUS ON THE EMPLOYER: Every statement you make in your cover letter should serve to respond to the needs of the employer (as these are expressed in their job announcement). Don’t write extensive biography here. Instead, highlight the skills you offer.

MAKE YOUR COVER LETTER LETTER-PERFECT: Most hiring managers view carelessly written, generic cover letters as a red flag. Carefully edit your letter to eliminate all grammatical, spelling, and formatting errors. Ask a grammar-savvy friend to proofread it for you as well.

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Dear Recent College Grads, Here's How to Write a Great Cover Letter

Hot jobs on the muse.

person sitting on a couch working on a laptop

A job search can quickly become a full-time job on its own. As a recent graduate looking for your next step, you might be tempted to attach your resume and click apply without bothering to send an accompanying cover letter. But taking the time to write one is worth the effort. This is the only place where you have free rein to explain why you’re interested in the job and how exactly you’re a good match. A compelling letter makes it so much easier for the reader to think, “ Yes! Let’s interview them!”

In my experience as a hiring manager, a cover letter can make or break my interest in moving forward with a candidate. If an application doesn’t include one, I’m almost certain to pass unless the resume is pretty much a perfect match. Admittedly, there are other recruiters and hiring managers who don’t look at the cover letter at all—but it’s best to assume that they will (it certainly beats wondering if you didn’t make the cut just because you didn’t send one!). And even if they don’t read it, you’re still ahead of the game in your preparation if you get called for an interview.

The basics of a cover letter boil down to this outline:

Four paragraphs should be a breeze—I bet you’ve written plenty of assignments longer than that to earn your degree! So how can you leverage your letter to effectively win over the recruiter or hiring manager even as a new grad who doesn’t have much experience?

Here are seven tips along with an example of what a recent college graduate cover letter could look like.

1. Tell Them Who You Are

Right off the bat, the person reading your letter is going to want to know some basic information in the introductory paragraph—like a quick synopsis of who you are, what you’re applying for, and why you’re interested in this opportunity. Sharing up front that you’re a recent grad signals that you’re likely able to be onboarded quickly, which is great if they need an expedited hiring process (or if they’re looking to train new talent). Here’s what a quick opening might look like:

Dear Mr. Fortman,

I am excited to submit my application for the UX Designer opening at CompanyDesign. As a recent graduate with a software engineering degree from Big State University, I am confident I could contribute to the success of your team.

2. Highlight Why This Company

Once you introduce yourself, it’s time to tell the reader why you’re trying to land a job at this specific organization. Showing them clearly and explicitly why you’re interested, excited, or passionate about the work they do and explaining how you’re connected to it can help convince them to add you to their interview list.

If you have some sort of contact at the company—someone at the company referred you, you spoke to a recruiter at your college’s career fair or info session, or you have a friend who interned there—mention what you learned from them and how what they shared makes you feel this would be an exciting opportunity and a good fit. Be specific where you can. If you were applying for that UX design role, you might say:

In February, I had the pleasure of speaking with Allison Ro from the product team at a career panel on campus. After learning about the company’s focus on human-centered design and your multidisciplinary team approach to creating products that improve the world, I knew CompanyDesign was where I wanted to work.

If you don’t have any “ins” at the company or first-hand information like this, don’t worry! You can do a bit of sleuthing and research in other ways. What can you find on their website or Muse profile about their work that excites you? Do they have values that are top priorities for you—like sustainability? Check out their mission page to find out! Is their work culture the type of environment where you can thrive and contribute? Have they been in the news recently for innovation or a new product? Find some nuggets of information that resonate with you and weave those specifics into answering the all-important “ Why this company? ” question. 

No matter where you got your information, you want to show you understand the company and what you can add as a new hire. Conveying an interest and excitement for working specifically for this job at this company—rather than a desire to get any job at any company that’ll pay you a salary—can go a long way. After all, it can be easier to hire someone who is super into the work you do and needs a bit of training over someone with all the skills who doesn’t care about the work or mesh with the team.

3. Identify Their Needs for This Role

Once you’ve connected at a higher level with the company, the next two paragraphs can help you stand out as a top candidate if you align yourself and your skills closely with what the company needs. Unlike cover letters you may have written when applying to internships , where it may make sense to talk about being excited for the learning opportunity, your focus as a new grad seeking full-time employment should shift to how you can meet the company’s needs. It’s all about how you can contribute to their success rather than the other way around.

The best way to do this is to identify the top skills and qualities for the role and explicitly match those with what you have to offer. Use the job description as your blueprint. Typically, the most important attributes of the role will be mentioned higher up in the description. Pay attention to themes that are repeated throughout, too. If they mention design skills, or aspects of design, in multiple spots that’s an area you should highlight. If they mention collaboration, teamwork, and communication, that’s another clue for a theme you should address.

Unfortunately, not all job descriptions are detailed. If you need more information to figure out what recruiters and hiring managers are looking for, see if you can find a person currently (or previously) in this role—or a similar role—at the company by searching on LinkedIn. You’re likely to get some good insights from their experience entries or the recommendations their colleagues or clients wrote for them. If you have any connections at the company you may be able to get a better sense of what they look for through an informational interview . However, be mindful not to wait too long to get your application in!

4. Demonstrate Your Value—Show, Don’t Tell

Once you’ve done some reconnaissance, pick three or four of the main themes you identified that correlate to the skills, strengths, and attributes you have. Your goal in the next couple of paragraphs of your cover letter will be to share a few stories that demonstrate how you’ll bring those skills, strengths, and attributes to the position.

Having recently graduated, you may be applying to your very first full-time job or trying to get your foot in the door in a role or field you don’t have direct experience in. That’s OK! College classes, internships, research experiences, part-time jobs, work-study programs, extracurricular activities, volunteer work, and personal projects can all be used as examples to back up and show your value to the employer. And you can always highlight transferable and additive skills .

If you’re applying to a marketing job and you didn’t land a marketing internship before you graduated, for example, you may have had a relevant class project or gained experience using a similar skill set when you advertised events as a Resident Assistant. Maybe you had a work-study job at the campus bookstore and you maintained its social media pages, or you were in charge of recruiting new students to your student club and increased the membership. Perhaps you had a job where you had to be a data whiz in a fast-paced and collaborative environment and that could be an added benefit to this employer. Find the connections between some of the skills you used in these situations—advertising, telling a story to reach your audience, increasing engagement, and making data-informed decisions—and explain how they can transfer into what was outlined in the job description.

One common pitfall to avoid as a new grad is highlighting things you don’t specifically have yet. If you’re leading with a negative like, “Although I don’t have…”—skip it! Jump right to what you were going to say next. So instead of saying:

Although I don’t have experience with Tableau, I have experience leveraging analytics to make data informed decisions using Looker.

You should just say:

I have experience leveraging analytics to make data informed decisions using Looker.

Remember, with these paragraphs you want to tell a compelling story. Don’t just reiterate the facts on your resume. Take time to highlight the theme(s) you’re focusing on at the beginning of the paragraph. Next, show you have these qualities instead of just saying you have them with nothing to back it up. Share an example that highlights the value you added and connects back to the job opportunity. So if you’re applying for a data analyst role, your paragraph might look like this:

I have experience using business intelligence software and leveraging analytics to make data-informed decisions. While interning at Startup, I used Looker to analyze customer service ratings and identified trends that correlated with high satisfaction ratings. I presented the data to my team along with three key recommendations that I predicted could increase overall customer service ratings by 10%. I discovered that I most enjoy trying to understand the “why” behind the data and translating that into strategies for improvement. I would be thrilled to apply this same motivation to help A-Company manage and gain insights from their data to drive innovation.

5. Show Off Those Soft Skills

When reviewing the job and deciding what to highlight, remember that soft skills , like collaboration and communication, are often highly sought after as well. Technical skills are no use to an employer if you can’t communicate with a client or lead a project to completion. If these skills frequently show up in a job description you may choose to highlight them in a separate paragraph. You can also demonstrate them within stories that showcase your technical themes.

Group projects for internships or classes are prime experiences that can help you highlight many interpersonal skills . Collaborative work, like being on athletic teams or in student clubs, are also gold mines to draw upon as examples.

A word of caution: I often see new grads relay the entire story from the group “we” perspective, which can be detrimental as the employer doesn’t know what you did. It’s important to give context about the makeup of the team, and certainly give credit where credit is due, but then it’s most useful to transition and describe what responsibilities you had, how you contributed to the overall project, and what the outcome was. Here’s an example of how to set up that transition:

Through my Business Insights class, I was part of a team of four students tasked with developing and pitching a new business idea. Once we landed on an idea for a new food delivery service targeting college students, I led our efforts on market analysis...

6. Keep Connecting Back to the Company

Instead of calling it quits after highlighting relevant past experiences and demonstrating your skills and qualities, be sure to tell the reader how what you’re sharing matches with the role and company. This takes the guesswork out of how or if you might be a fit. Don’t assume they’ll make the connections themselves. Spell them out and make them impossible to miss! 

You might be noticing a theme here: You should keep looping back to the specific role and company you’re applying for at every turn. From the intro to the experience paragraphs to the closing, you can only strengthen your cover letter by directly aligning yourself with this opportunity.

7. Watch Your Formatting

The content of your letter is most important, but here are some helpful formatting tips for traditional cover letters if you’re new to writing them.

The top of your document should include the following information:

If you’re writing the cover letter directly in an email, then you can skip those details at the top. But either way, try to include the name of the person to whom you are writing in your greeting. It’s always best if you can find the recruiter or the supervisor for the position so you can address your cover letter to them. If you can’t, then go with something more general like, “ Dear Hiring Manager,” or “ Dear Editorial Team .” Just stay far away from, “ To Whom It May Concern ”!

A few additional pointers:

What Does a Good Recent Grad Cover Letter Look Like?

So what does all of this actually look like in practice? Below is a sample cover letter for an entry-level job. Anything in bold directly aligns this candidate with the job description.

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am excited to apply for the Content Specialist (Req. #04321) opening at Consumer P. Company. As a recent graduate from Local College with a communications major and a digital media concentration, I have a passion for elevating consumer products that change the world . After speaking with Tanya Jones at our spring career fair and learning about CPC’s fast-paced environment, collaborative spirit, and goal to reach its audience in creative ways, I knew this role would be perfect. I admire CPC’s mission to design five-star products that make life easier and believe my knowledge and experiences would allow me to add value to the marketing team.

Through my internship at ContentCo I gained hands-on experience in understanding consumer insights, building partnerships with influencers , and developing content strategies . Working on a tight deadline prior to a new product launch, my fellow intern and I gathered early user testimonials, stories, and media . I also developed a short video mockup for a social media campaign that I’m proud to say was selected to be part of the launch. I would be eager to bring these same skills and passion for storytelling to CPC’s brand and world-class products.

During my time at Local College I also gained experience interpreting data and leading social media campaigns. As part of a semester-long project, my group collaborated with a local bakery on their marketing strategies . I led our efforts to launch a new Instagram account and was responsible for data collection and interpretation . Our client implement ed several of our recommendations, which resulted in an increase in social media traffic and purchases. I was particularly motivated by the bakery’s commitment to the community—donating daily to local food pantries—and am excited to know CPC similarly values giving back to the community.

Through my internship and academic experiences in communications, along with my involvement in our college chapter of the American Institute of Graphic Arts (AIGA), where I learned new trends for innovation in design , I have developed a strong skill set to add value as a CPC Content Specialist. I would be thrilled to speak with you further about how I can contribute to the marketing team. Thank you for your time and consideration, and I look forward to hearing from you.

Patrick Lai

cover letter for new graduate

Recent Graduate Cover Letter Sample

After toiling away in classrooms for four (or more) years, getting a job right out of college is a natural goal. But composing a recent graduate cover letter can feel like a kind of catch 22. On one hand, you don't have much material to work with; on the other, you need a strong resume and cover letter to get you in the door.

Why would you even bother with a cover letter in the first place? Thing is, your goal of finding a job as a new grad is shared by every other graduate in the country—plus all the other entry-level job seekers out there—so the competition is understandably fierce. A smart, enthusiastic, and tailored cover letter will help set you apart from the masses.

About the whole lack-of-job-experience thing—how do you explain that to potential employers without sounding like a total newbie? Don't fret: Companies aren’t expecting you to have worked loads of jobs, but they will be interested to know which of your skills and talents you’ve developed while in school.

Ideas for a College Cover Letter

Most cover letter examples for college students will encourage you to highlight what you've learned in class, plus any skills you picked up while working side jobs and/or internships—especially ones that are relevant to the position you’re seeking. Just as important is your enthusiasm for the job itself. A cover letter is a great chance to let a company know you’re not just looking for any old job but that you’re specifically looking for a job with them. (Everyone likes to feel special, even giant corporations.)

There are plenty of ways you can show that you have both ambition and skills that are valued in the workforce . To get you started, take a look at the following questions posed in the bullet points, and make a list of any applicable experience you have under each one. Did you:

All of those opportunities can lead to relevant experiences that are perfect for a college student cover letter, whether you’re about to finish your studies and enter the real world or are a year or two from making the leap.

Get started on your career today. View our college graduate cover letter sample below as a guideline, or see all cover letter examples on Monster.

Recent Graduate Cover Letter

Josh Michaels 4 Church St. | Sometown, NJ 08888 | (555) 555-5555 | [email protected] [date]

Katherine Yu HR Director ABC Company 1530 State St. Anytown, NJ 08999

Dear Ms. Yu:

Your advertisement for an HR assistant fits my qualifications perfectly, and I am writing to express my interest in and enthusiasm for the position.

After completing a business degree from Rutgers University in May, I enrolled in a human resource development program to enhance my credentials in my chosen field. Course highlights include: Leadership in an Organizational Setting, Performance & Task Analysis in Human Resource Development, and Technology in HR Settings.

Based on your description of the ideal candidate, I also offer:

I would very much like to meet in person to share more of my qualifications and learn more about your HR support needs. Please feel free to call me at (555) 555-5555 or email at [email protected]

Thank you for your time and review of the enclosed resume, and I look forward to speaking with you.

Josh Michaels Enclosure: Resume

Show Off Your College Graduate Cover Letter

Now that your recent graduate cover letter is out of the way, you want to make sure you’re getting in front of as many hiring managers in your field as you can. Want some help with that? Monster has a bunch of free resources for job seekers to help you launch your career from a strong, solid foundation.

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Graduate Cover Letter Example

Graduate Cover Letter Example

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

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

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

What is the purpose of a fresh graduate cover letter?

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

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

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

A few writing rules

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

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

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

Do I NEED a cover letter?

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

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

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

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

Best format for a graduate cover letter

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

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

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

Dear Mrs. Lastwell,

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

Cover letter header

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

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

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

Getting creative with your header

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

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

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

Cover letter greeting

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cover letter introduction

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

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

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

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

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

Cover letter body (middle part)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Writing psychology – cover letter tools and strategies

Getting the tone right.

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

The laws of specificity

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

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

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

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

Key takeaways

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

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Recent Graduate Cover Letter Examples & Writing Guide

Recent graduate cover letter examples.

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

1. Use the Professional Cover Letter Format

2. make a header with your contact information, cover letter for recent graduate: header , 3. identify yourself and the position, recent graduate cover letter: introduction, 4. tell them why they should choose you, recent graduate cover letter sample: second paragraph, 5. tell them why you chose them, recent graduate cover letter sample: third paragraph, 6. ask for an interview and close the deal, recent graduate cover letter sample: sign off & call to action, was it interesting here are similar articles.

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Cover Letter Examples for Students and Recent Graduates

The Balance / Luyi Wang

What to Include in Your Cover Letter

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

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

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

Academic Achievements and Extracurricular Activities

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

GPA and Honors

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

Skills and Abilities

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

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

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

Watch Now: 7 Tips for Finding Your First Job

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

cover letter for new graduate

College Graduate Cover Letter Example (Text Version)

Lucy Applicant 123 Main Street Anytown, CA 12345

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

October 18, 2021

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

Dear Mr. Lee:

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

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

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

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

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

Signature  (hard copy letter)

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

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

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

Entry-Level Cover Letters

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

Student Cover Letters

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

Job-Specific Cover Letters

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

Cover Letters for Summer and Part-Time Jobs

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

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

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

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

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

cover letter for new graduate

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