application letter sample for fresh graduate

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Sample Cover Letter for a Recent College Graduate

application letter sample for fresh graduate

What to Include in Your Cover Letter

Tips for Writing a Cover Letter
Recent Graduate Cover Letter Example

How to Send an Email Cover Letter

Emilie Dunphy ÃÂ© 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.

Letter Templates & Example

Application Letter Example for Fresh Graduate: Tips and Tricks

Are you a fresh graduate looking to secure your first job? Writing an application letter can be a daunting task, but fear not! We’ve got you covered with some great application letter examples specifically tailored to fresh graduates. With these examples, you can draft an effective application letter that highlights your skills, experience, and enthusiasm. Whether you’re applying for a job in marketing, sales, accounting, or IT – we’ve got a sample application letter for you. So, take a deep breath and dive into our examples. You can edit them as needed to fit your own personal and professional experiences. With our help, you’ll be well on your way to landing your dream job.

The Best Structure for an Application Letter Example for Fresh Graduate

As a fresh graduate, writing an application letter can be a daunting task. It’s your first step towards getting your dream job, and you want to make a good first impression. A well-written application letter highlights your skills, experiences, and qualifications and allows you to stand out from other applicants. Here are some tips on the best structure for an application letter for a fresh graduate.

The first thing to include in your application letter is a professional heading. The heading should include your name, your contact details (phone number and email address), and the date. Format the heading to be aligned to the left side of the letter, and use a standard font size and style like Times New Roman or Arial.

2. Salutation

The second thing to include is a formal salutation. Address the letter to the hiring manager or recruiter, using their name and job title. If you are not sure who to address the letter to, you can use “Dear Hiring Manager.” Avoid using “To Whom It May Concern” as it is too generic and may show lack of interest.

3. Introduction

The introduction should include your intention for writing the letter. State the position you’re applying for and where you found out about the job opening. Show enthusiasm and interest in the position with a brief statement or two, convincing the reader that you’re the perfect fit for the role.

4. Body Paragraphs

The body of the letter should focus on highlighting your skills and qualifications. Convey your experiences related to the position you’re applying for and provide examples to demonstrate your skill set. Focus on achievements and projects that showcase your adaptability, team-player mentality, and multiple skills. Use bullet points to list specific details about your experiences, making sure it is well-detailed but concise. Show how your transferable skills and education align with the job description and the organization’s core values. Always tie the experience or credentials back to the company’s goals.

5. Closing Paragraph

The closing paragraph should thank the reader for their time and consideration. Restate your interest in the position, and indicate your availability for an interview. Include a call-to-action by encouraging them to review your application and resume or add any additional information they would like. Mention that you are excited about hearing from them soon.

6. Closing Salutation

End the letter formally, using “Sincerely” and your name. Underneath, include any professional certifications or degrees you possess which reinforces your standing among other applicants.

In conclusion, the above structure serves as a guide to creating an appropriate application letter for a fresh graduate position. Stick to the structure and customize it to mirror your abilities and experiences. In the end, your letter should showcase your professionalism, passion, and interest in the position. Good luck in your job search!

7 Application Letter Examples for Fresh Graduates

Sample 1: application letter for job vacancy.

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my strong interest in the open position at XYZ Company. As a recent graduate, I am excited to put my skills and knowledge into practice, and I believe that this role aligns perfectly with my career goals.

During my time in university, I gained valuable experience in project management, which I believe will be an asset to your team. I also possess excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, which I developed through various internships and part-time jobs.

Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to discuss my qualifications further and look forward to hearing from you soon.

Sample 2: Application Letter for Internship

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am a recent graduate of [University Name] with a degree in [Major], and I am excited to apply for the [Internship Position] at your esteemed organization. I am passionate about [Industry/Field] and believe that this internship will provide me with the hands-on experience and exposure I need to jumpstart my career.

Throughout my academic journey, I have developed skills in [Skill 1], [Skill 2], and [Skill 3], which I believe could be applied to real-world scenarios such as those that your organization handles.

Thank you for your consideration, and I look forward to hearing back from you soon.

Sample 3: Application Letter for Scholarship

Dear Scholarship Committee,

I am writing to apply for the [Scholarship Name] offered by your organization. As a recent graduate, it is my ambition to pursue higher education in [Field of Study] and I believe that your scholarship will afford me the opportunity to do so.

Throughout my academic career, I have maintained excellent grades and have been involved in extracurricular activities such as [Activity/Club Name]. Additionally, I have volunteered at [Organization Name] where I honed my skills in [Skill].

Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to hearing back from you.

Sample 4: Application Letter for Volunteer Position

To Whom It May Concern,

I am writing to express my interest in a volunteer position with your organization. As a recent graduate, I am eager to give back to the community and gain experience in [Specific Field].

During my time in university, I volunteered at [Organization Name] where I developed skills in [Skill 1], [Skill 2], and [Skill 3]. I believe that these skills would be an asset to your organization and that I could make a meaningful contribution to the work that you do.

Sample 5: Application Letter for Graduate School

Dear Admissions Committee,

I am writing to express my interest in pursuing a graduate degree in [Field of Study] at [University Name]. As a recent graduate of [University Name], I am excited to continue my education and further develop my skills in this field.

During my undergraduate studies, I took courses in [Related Course], [Related Course], and [Related Course], which have prepared me for the rigor of graduate-level coursework. I also conducted research in [Related Research Topic/Area], which solidified my determination to pursue further education in this field.

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

Sample 6: Application Letter for Professional Development Program

Dear Program Coordinator,

I am writing to express my interest in the [Professional Development Program Name] offered by your organization. As a recent graduate, I am eager to further develop my skills and knowledge in [Related Field/Industry].

Throughout my academic career, I have developed skills in [Skill 1], [Skill 2], and [Skill 3], which I believe could be enhanced through this program. I am also excited about the opportunity to network with other professionals in the field and gain exposure to new ideas and perspectives.

Sample 7: Application Letter for Entry-Level Position at Current Company

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I am writing to express my interest in the entry-level [Position Name] at [Current Company Name], where I recently graduated from [University Name]. I am thrilled at the prospect of taking on new challenges and further developing my skills in this role.

Throughout my academic career, I have developed skills in [Skill 1], [Skill 2], and [Skill 3], which I believe could be applied directly to this role. I am also enthusiastic about the opportunity to contribute to the growth and success of [Current Company Name].

Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to discussing my qualifications further.

Tips for Writing an Application Letter as a Fresh Graduate

Writing an application letter can be an overwhelming task, especially for fresh graduates who are new to the job market. However, by following a few tips, you can make your application stand out and increase your chances of getting an interview. Here are some tips on how to write an effective application letter as a fresh graduate:

1. Tailor your letter to the job: Don’t just send a generic letter to every job you apply for. Make sure to research the company and the specific job you’re applying for and tailor your letter accordingly. This shows that you’ve done your research and are serious about the job.

2. Highlight your skills and experience: Even though you might not have much work experience yet, you can still highlight other skills and experiences that are relevant to the job. This can include any volunteer work, extracurricular activities or relevant coursework you’ve done.

3. Be concise and to the point: Employers receive hundreds of applications for each job, so it’s important to keep your letter brief and to the point. Be concise in your writing and make sure to highlight the most important information.

4. Use a professional tone: Even though you might be new to the job market, it’s important to come across as professional and confident in your letter. Avoid using slang or overly casual language, and make sure to proofread your letter for any errors.

5. End with a strong closing: Finally, make sure to end your letter with a strong closing that leaves a positive impression. Thank the employer for considering your application and express your enthusiasm for the job.

By following these tips, you’ll be able to write a strong application letter that showcases your skills and experience as a fresh graduate. Good luck with your job search!

Application Letter Example for Fresh Graduate

What should I include in my application letter as a fresh graduate?

Your application letter should include your personal information, educational background, work experience (if any), skills and accomplishments that are relevant to the job you are applying for, and your intention or interest in applying for the position.

How long should my application letter be?

Your application letter should be brief and concise, ideally no more than one page. Avoid lengthy paragraphs and use bullet points to highlight key points and achievements.

What format should I use for my application letter?

Your application letter should be in business letter format, which includes the date, recipient’s name and address, salutation, body of the letter, closing, and signature. Use a professional font and size, and make sure to proofread for errors before sending.

What should I do if I don’t have any work experience?

If you don’t have any work experience, focus on highlighting your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, volunteer work, and relevant skills that you have developed. You can also mention any internships or part-time jobs that you have had, even if they are not related to the job you’re applying for.

How can I make my application letter stand out?

To make your application letter stand out, try to customize it for each position you apply for. This means researching the company and job description to see what skills and qualifications they are looking for, and tailoring your letter to highlight those specific areas. Use strong action verbs and be confident in your abilities, but also be humble and respectful in tone.

Should I attach my resume with my application letter?

Yes, it is recommended to attach your resume with your application letter. This will give the employer a complete picture of your background and qualifications, and will make it easier for them to evaluate your candidacy.

How long should I wait to follow up after submitting my application letter?

It’s advisable to wait about one to two weeks after submitting your application letter before following up with the employer. This shows that you are interested in the position and eager to hear back, but also gives the employer time to review all applicants and make a decision. You can follow up via email or phone call, depending on the employer’s preferred communication method.

Cheers for now!

That wraps up our example application letter for fresh graduates. We hope you found it helpful. Remember to always be genuine, confident and showcase your skills and character in your application letter. Stay tuned for more articles that will be fresh and exciting. Thank you for visiting and come back soon!

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Sample Fresh Graduate Application Letter

It must be noted that getting a job is challenging for many fresh graduates. However, building a resume and further writing an application letter without any experience can be a bigger challenge when fresh graduates are trying to land good jobs.

As a fresh graduate job seeker without any experience, it is quite discouraging when you have applied for dozens of jobs and receive zero responses from prospective employers.

Though you may feel like giving up on the job search, you must persevere and keep writing application letters that will enable you to stand out to potential employers.

Before we delve into the ideal sample fresh graduate application letter, it is ideal for defining what an application letter entails.

What is an Application Letter

For most people, the application letter is known as a cover letter. In simple terms, the application or cover letter is a document that is roughly one page long and supports your CV or Resume.

It highlights your skills, experience, qualifications, or any information related to the position you will be applying for. The application letter is meant to clearly outline why you believe you are the perfect fit for the job role.

It outlines this by merging your qualities with the duties of the specific job position. For those who may be wondering if they can write an application letter without having any prior experience, the answer is yes.

Although this may most likely be challenging, you can focus the letter on your soft skills. You must have gained these skills from some other experiences such as educational courses, volunteering, and even extracurricular activities.

You must highlight your soft skills, as most employers will value them. These employers will value your soft skills since soft skills are hard to teach. Soft skills are naturally developed, while hard skills can be taught via training.

In addition to highlighting your soft skills in the application letter, you are to include the fact that you have the passion for learning more skills when you get the job role. This will tell the potential recruiter that you are willing to learn more and be dedicated to the position though you do not have the experience.

Steps To Writing A Fresh Graduate Application Letter

We will be providing you with four steps to writing an application letter for a job without any experience. They are:

The first paragraph: Introduce yourself clearly

The first paragraph provided you with the chance to make a sturdy first impression on the potential employer. This section should comprehensively explain:

Who you are
Your position of interest
How the job role was discovered

This introduction is a great way to mention a possible connection that you may have with the company. It means that if you know a former intern or alumni that worked for them. An example is:

“My name is Yvonne, and I am a recent graduate from Covenant University. I graduated in September with a B.A in Mass Communication. An alumnus forwarded a job position to me about your Digital Marketing position at One Media Group. I am highly interested in this opportunity because I will make a suitable fit for your agency”.

The second paragraph: Go into detail on your accomplishments and skills

This is the biggest challenge for fresh graduates as they have no experience. Here, most fresh graduates make mistakes as they have no idea how to high their classroom experience and significant skills.

While you explain why you are suitable for the position, it is vital to link the dots with the recruiter.

For instance, if you have no marketing internship, but you gained marketing experience during your NYSC or while in school, you can highlight the communication skills and experience you gathered through that position.

An example is:

“I am well aware that you seek a candidate with strong oral and written communications skills. As a graduate of Mass Communication, I had the opportunity to be a part of the campus newspaper committee. I was responsible for writing catchy news headlines about current happenings on campus”.

The third paragraph: Highlighting your best qualities and explaining why you are the ideal fit

The majority of employers want to hire candidates that are creative team players with powerful time management skills. Even though you feel you are a suitable fit for the job role, you will need to use examples that reflect on why you are ideal for the job.

The reality here is that simply stating that you have amazing time management skills and a knack for leadership will not get you the job. When you write about your qualities, you must have real-life examples to back them up.

Always have in mind that you need to ensure your examples are both visual and concise. An example is:

“During my final semester at Covenant, I led a group of four students to create a marketing campaign for a campus event. I was responsible for leading the brainstorming sessions and communicating with clients we needed to sponsor the event.

Through this project, I learned how to work with others and function effectively in a team to accomplish a common goal”.

Read Also: Is degree better than experience when looking for jobs in Nigeria

The fourth paragraph: End it with a call to action

The last paragraph is the section that seals the deal for an invite to an interview. You will want to leave a lasting impression on the recruiter, so your conclusion must be upbeat, confident and inspires the recruiter to get in touch with you.

An example is: “With the combination of my leadership skills and marketing experience, I am confident that I will make the perfect fit for the job role. Thank you for taking the time to review this application and consider me as an ideal candidate. I look forward to hearing you soon”.

Once you proofread the application letter and confident that it has no error, you are all set to forward it to the recruiter. Ensure that you include a header at the top of this document that entails your contact information and even a link for your LinkedIn account.

Immediately the document is ready; you are to save it as a pdf and attach it to an email for the recruiter. This will make sure the formatting of the application letter does not change when the receiver downloads it.

Sample Application Letter

A sample of a fresh graduate application letter goes thus:

Dear Hiring Manager,

My name is Yvonne Nelson, and I am excited to express my interest in the digital marketing position at One Media Agency. I was thrilled to learn about this job position. I believe my sturdy communication and time management skills will assist me in excelling as an employee at your reputable company.

As a recent graduate from Covenant University, I gained strong written and oral communication skills as a Mass Communication major. As a significant member of the newspaper committee on campus, I wrote compelling stories, headlines and provided informative material to the readers. I can apply these exact skills to build thoughtful and engaging marketing material for your customers.

My resilient dedication to research and finishing works within tight deadlines makes me the ideal candidate for your company. If I were given a chance to work as a Digital Marketer, I would enjoy developing my skills as I create informative works that capture your client’s attention and the target audience.

I am very thrilled to learn more about your company and develop my skills further. Thank you for taking the time to review this application and consider me as an ideal candidate. I look forward to hearing you soon.

Yvonne Nelson.

We have provided you with tips on how to write a fresh graduate application letter with little or no experience. Also, we have included a sample Application Letter that you can use in writing yours.

Ensure that you read through yours for any error or grammatical blunders before you send it out.

We have provided you with some of the businesses you can start as a fresh graduate. As a business-minded person, there are lots of room for you to experience your business ideas, however, it will take a unique person to be a successful entrepreneur.

If you are looking for the ideal business to begin as a fresh graduate, you are reading the ideal article that will help your career.

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