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

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

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

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

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

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

So, continue reading this article and learn: 

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

Table of Contents

Click on a section to skip

What is a cover letter for an internship?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Absolutely! 

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

Why, you ask? 

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

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

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

And these two are your weapons of choice!

How can a cover letter for an internship help you?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#1 Philips Marketing Intern Cover Letter Sample

Internship cover letter example:.

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

What can you take away?

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

#2 Warner Bros. Public Relations Intern Cover Letter Example

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

#3 University of Massachusetts Boston Intern Cover Letter Example

What can you take away  .

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

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

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

#5 Intern at NBC Cover Letter Sample

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Julia has recently joined Kickresume as a career writer. From helping people with their English to get admitted to the uni of their dreams to advising them on how to succeed in the job market. It would seem that her career is on a steadfast trajectory. Julia holds a degree in Anglophone studies from Metropolitan University in Prague, where she also resides. Apart from creative writing and languages, she takes a keen interest in literature and theatre.

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21 February 2024

Writing an Internship Cover Letter (with Examples)

You’ve found the perfect internship and own a CV that belongs right next to the Mona Lisa. Now it’s time to get your cover letter together…but how do you go about writing one for an internship ?

Writing an internship cover letter is pretty much an essential life skill. Once you’ve written one, it’ll become second nature.

In this guide, we run you through all you need to know.

What is an internship cover letter?

How to write a cover letter for an internship, internship cover letter example, internship cover letter do’s and don’ts.

Put simply, an internship cover letter is a formal letter that outlines who you are, why you are interested in the role and why you’re a smashing candidate. 

A cover letter for an internship should urge an employer to read your CV and seriously consider your application. And, when you’re likely applying as one of many applicants, it should help you stand out.

This doesn’t mean doing anything crazy, like making all the text bold and pink. But it does mean (humbly) boasting about your attributes and skills.

Read on for the how…

Here is a step-by-step guide to putting together an internship cover letter. Think of it like an IKEA manual without confusing diagrams and Allen keys. (Unfortunately.)

Firstly, make sure to tailor your cover letter for each internship application you make.

Set up a document in business letter format. There’s a template for this in Word. But you can also find what you need on Google.

Then…begin to write.

STEP 1: The opening

The opening address in a cover letter is remarkably important. It’s like the first flight of an albatross chick.

If it takes to the wind, it’ll soar off the beach and into the sky to a life of internships and career opportunities. If it falls and lands in the ocean, it’ll get wet and almost immediately be ripped apart by tiger sharks.

If you address your cover letter to the wrong person. Or to nobody at all, tiger sharks will be the least of your problems. So try and avoid Dear Sir/Madam or To whom it may concern ​.

Dear Full Name, e.g. Dear John Smith , Dear Mr/Ms Surname, e.g. Dear Mr/Ms Smith. Always write Ms instead of Miss/Mrs. Don’t presume marital status. 

Finding the recruiter’s name is not always easy. If you’re struggling via LinkedIn, you have some other options…

• Ring or email the company , and ask for the name of the person who is tasked with reading the cover letters for the internship you’re applying for
• Many organisations have a ‘no name’ policy for confidentiality reasons, so if they can’t give you a name…
• Address your cover letter to the head of the department your internship is in
• If you cannot find the name of the person who handles recruitment, address your internship letter to someone who works in human resources (HR)
• As a last resort, address your cover letter to someone in the team.

STEP 2: Introduction

In the introduction of a cover letter for an internship, you need to specify what internship you are applying for. 

Be specific. Here’s an example:

“I am writing regarding the vacancy for the consultancy internship with PwC.”

​It’s also a good idea to reference where you found the internship vacancy. Employers love to know what channels students use when looking for jobs. Here is an example –

“as advertised on RateMyPlacement. Please find my CV attached.”

You also might like…

• How to Write an Internship CV
• Common Internship Interview Questions
• The Best Internships and Placements

STEP 3: Company research

Now it’s time to let the recruiter know why you are interested in the internship. Don’t write ‘because mother told me to’. You want to give specific reasons why the company or the content of the course have drawn you to this internship.

Do some research about the company that is organising the internship. Below is a list of areas you should focus your research on…

• Origins of company​
• Has the company been in the news recently?
• Any major projects the company has been involved in?
• Background of directors or the manager of the team you’re applying to
• Company values/vision.

If you want to research the programme you are applying for, check for any case studies or reviews written by previous interns.

Then craft your next paragraph around the question: why do you want to do this internship?

Here is an example of how to approach this –

“I am drawn to this internship at PwC because it concentrates on sustainability and climate change consultancy. I have read about PwC’s recent project implementing new sustainability procedures in government buildings across the UK. My involvement in the ‘Clear Up Our Campus’ campaign at university makes me perfect for this internship. “

Here, you have shown why you are attracted to the course, demonstrated that you understand what the internship consists of, and even commented on a recent project. It’s a winning formula.

STEP 4: Work experience & qualifications

Now we move on to your work experience, skills and qualifications and why they make you perfect for the internship.

Ensure that you keep the content of your internship cover letter relevant to the role on offer. If you can do a passable impression of Morgan Freeman, that’s great. But it won’t improve your chances of getting an interview.

What unique skills can you bring to the company? What previous work experience has prepared you for this internship? 

If you can answer these questions, employers will be under your spell. As if you were Hermione Granger. Or Ronald Weasley.

Try something like this –

“As my CV describes, I am two years into a Sustainable Engineering degree, achieving high grades in modules focused on sustainable planning in urban environments. My studies have imparted the groundwork of knowledge and analytical skills crucial for a career in this consultancy field. I also have three years of work experience at The Bear Factory, which has imparted great collaborative skills. “

STEP 5: Outro

In this closing section, thank the recruiter for considering your application and express your interest/availability for attending an interview. 

One sentence will do it. Something like this…

“Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss the programme further in an interview .”

STEP 6: Signing off

If you start your cover letter with a personal name, such as “Dear Susie,” end it with “Yours Sincerely.”

If you didn’t manage to find the recruiter’s name, use “Yours Faithfully.”

Once you’ve proofread, it’s pen down and time to find some cake. You’ve officially finished your internship cover letter, just in time to apply for that internship.

The examples from each step in this guide have been combined to form a complete example of an internship cover letter. 

This example is for a consultancy internship with PwC …

Dear John Smith,

I am writing regarding the vacancy for the consultancy internship with PwC, as advertised on RateMyPlacement. Please find my CV attached.

I am drawn to this internship at PwC because it concentrates on sustainability and climate change consultancy. I have read about PwC’s recent project implementing new sustainability procedures in government buildings across the UK. My involvement in the ‘Clear Up Our Campus’ campaign at university makes me perfect for this internship.

‘As my CV describes, I am two years into a Sustainable Engineering degree, achieving high grades in modules focused on sustainable planning in urban environments. My studies have imparted the groundwork of knowledge and analytical skills crucial for a career in this consultancy field. I also have three years of work experience at The Bear Factory, which has imparted great collaborative skills.’’

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss the programme further in an interview.

Yours Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Here are a few golden nuggets in the form of do’s and don’ts to help your cover letter shine.

• Do talk about your relevant skills and work experience. Here you’ll get the chance to expand on some parts of your CV and really show off your skills. Make sure to pick the most relevant examples.
• Do tailor your CV for each job you apply for. An employer can tell if you’re just copying and pasting cover letters and changing the employer’s name. Always make it relevant to the job you’re applying for.
• Do edit and spellcheck your cover letter. Believe it or not, employers are looking at you right from the start. So, if they see a cover letter with spelling errors – it’ll straight in the bin.
• Do research on the company. Talk about a couple of initiatives they have and link that back to your experience or your personal goals. It looks really good.
• Don’t repeat your CV. Remember this is your chance to shine, pick some of the best examples of your experience and expand on those.
• Don’t use too many keywords. Stuffing your cover letter with waffle will make you out to be unprofessional. Use keywords sparingly and where you need to use them.
• Don’t focus on what the company can do for you. While it’s good to know what you want from a company, we go Dutch over here. Always explain the qualities that you have and why they will work for the company you’re applying for.
• Don’t forget your salutations. A letter is a letter, so don’t forget to add your name and make sure you’re using the hiring manager’s name in the greeting.

Ready to apply? Why not browse through our work experience opportunities. We have loads of vacancies live right now. Click below to get started.

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Internship cover letter example

Cover letter header

Cover letter greeting, cover letter introduction, cover letter middle part (body), how to close an internship cover letter (conclusion and sign-off).

When you are looking for employment it pays to have experience, and that’s why internships are a favourable choice for many students and undergraduates. Your internship cover letter needs to be engaging, as there is often fierce competition for these roles.

Internships are most common during the summer months, where students put down their study materials for a few months and head off to the world of work. It benefits both parties, as the company gets an insight into the abilities of the intern without making a long-term commitment, and the intern gets that much-needed experience within the field they wish to work in.

Internships are extremely common within the engineering sector as well as many others. Some companies will employ their intern every summer throughout their studies and then hire them permanently when the studies are complete. Internships can be paid or unpaid, however, recent trends have shown an increase in more paying opportunities. In most cases, employers will pay a salary, although it won’t usually be as high as it is for a permanent employee.

A great cover letter is one of the best advantages you can give yourself when it’s time to apply to a competitive internship. This guide, together with our internship cover letter example, will discuss the following:

• The relevant paragraphs to have on your cover letter and the general format and structure
• Making the most impact with each paragraph on your cover letter
• How to ensure your internship cover letter is both personable and professional
• Common mistakes on cover letters and how to avoid these

Resume.io is a resource for job seekers – whether they’re applying to their first internship or a role where they’ll hire the interns! To find even more tips and advice on how to write a cover letter in your chosen field, check out our cover letter examples.

The market is a bit unstable due to Covid, but  69% of employers are planning to offer virtual work or hybrid programmes, an Institute of Student Employers (ISE) survey found. 

Best format for an internship cover letter

As you may not have any prior work experience, the internship cover letter will tell the reader about your personal and academic journey, albeit briefly. As with any great story, there needs to be a beginning, middle, and end, and therefore, it is vital to create and adhere to a defined format when writing your cover letter.

When writing your internship cover letter, you should make sure it contains the following key elements:

• Your cover letter header (key contact details)
• Your greeting/salutation to the relevant contact
• The introduction (starting your story)
• The body of the cover letter (main section)
• The conclusion (final thoughts and sign off)

You can use the cover letter samples throughout the guide for inspiration.

With the format of the internship cover letter, you want to ensure the reader understands your motivation and future career plans. An internship cover letter can be a bit trickier than applying for permanent roles, as you may not have any relevant experience, and as we mentioned earlier, there is usually a lot of competition.

For further general advice on how to write your cover letter, check out our comprehensive cover letter guide to maximise the effectiveness of each section.

At the top of your cover letter, you will need to include your telephone number, email address, and any other useful contact details in the header. These may be a little dull, but they are essential, as if you don’t have these, the hiring manager won’t be able to contact you. Do not underestimate the power of a cover letter. Even though it is brief, hiring managers are often so busy that they may just quickly pull out the information they need from your cover letter, and give you a call before checking your CV. Your header allows them to do that.

Double-check personal details before you submit. It can be easy to make a typo with your email address or telephone number, and if your email bounces back or your telephone number doesn’t work, the hiring manager isn’t going to start trying to track you down by other means. They simply don’t have time. Make sure you don’t forget to double-check your details, while you are proofing the rest of your internship cover letter. 

The purpose of the cover letter header: This is where your contact details will be. The key information to allow the hiring manager to get in touch with you.

Whether speaking to a friend, family member, or in a professional capacity, almost every conversation starts with a greeting. Your greeting can make an impact and with a cover letter, you want to come across as friendly, but also professional. This is why it is important to be personable in your approach, but without being overly familiar. There is a fine line between the two.

A cover letter should start with a greeting such as “Dear Mr/Mrs/Ms. Surname” instead of a simple ‘hello’ which is more relevant to informal emails. If there is no name on the job spec, it is perfectly acceptable to just say “Dear Hiring Manager”, “Recruitment Team” or similar, although personalising it is always preferable.

Keep it simple and start off on the right footing by building a rapport, while being respectful at the same time. It may not seem particularly important, but how you address people is relevant, especially on a formal document.

The main purpose of the cover letter greeting: Get off on the right foot – be personable, while also ensuring your greeting is professional. Use our cover letter sample below to give you an idea of what to write on your own.  

The first 1-2 sentences of your cover letter are called the introduction. You really want to ensure the reader sits up and takes notice from the offset, and your introduction will act as a hook. Your introduction only needs to be a couple of sentences, but these sentences must count.

You may not have any experience, so what makes you an ideal candidate for the internship? Consider the job spec and what skills you have that would be a good match for what they’re looking for. What value can you bring and why do you want to work for this company specifically?

The hiring manager isn’t expecting anything in-depth from your experience. They know that most candidates do not have experience, so they’re looking to understand any relevant skills and qualifications you have. They also want to know why you have chosen to apply for this company specifically.

Let’s say you are studying human resources and applying for an internship with a recruitment agency. You want to inform the reader of any skills/experience that might be relevant. For instance, recruitment agencies often look for candidates with sales skills. Have you worked in retail or customer service before? What aspect of recruitment attracts you to want an internship?

The aim of the cover letter intro: Work out what your most important message is and make sure that it fits with the nature of the role. Grab their attention and they will be curious to read further. Check out our cover letter sample below for guidance.

Dear Mr. White,

After completing the Recruitment and Selection module in my Human Resources degree course, I realised that this was an area I had a particular interest in. I would relish the opportunity to help candidates gain employment, as well as acquiring new opportunities for candidates.

The middle part of the cover letter (the body) is the section of the cover letter that will state the most important aspects of your experience. Even if you do not have direct experience, like the recruitment internship example we mentioned above, you can talk about the skills you have acquired that are relevant to the role and your interest in working for this company.

Internships are different from applying to a role where experience is necessary. The hiring manager is not expecting you to have experience, so don’t worry about this. They know that you are a student or newly qualified graduate, so their expectation is based on your desire to work for them and in this role, as well as any relevant skills you have.

Most companies don’t just think about internships as a one-off, they hire interns with the view that they will recruit them for a permanent role in the future. The main thing for them is that you will be driven, and eager to learn. You want the reader to finish the internship cover letter completely convinced that you would take everything you can from the internship. That you will soak up any training and benefit from it.

They also want to be sure that you will be able to get on with others and work well with a range of personalities. Communication will always be a key factor in any role.

The aim of the main section of the cover letter: What relevant experience can you bring, why are you applying to work with this organisation specifically? The cover letter sample below will give you some inspiration to use.

I have several years’ experience of working within retail, where I have been responsible for upselling products and building a rapport with customers. I enjoy the aspect of helping customers, which will also apply to supporting candidates in their career journey.

After thorough research of recruitment agencies to find a suitable internship, I quickly found that your organisation is one of the most highly respected agencies in London. This is further reaffirmed through the many awards you have received. 

I am a hard-working individual, with a strong understanding and passion for sales, and a desire to constantly learn and develop my skills

Make sure you book-end your internship cover letter with a conclusion and sign-off. The aim of this is to state why you feel that you are the right person for the internship and to reaffirm your interest. For any employer, knowing that you are passionate about the prospect of working for the organisation is vital.

If there is anything that makes you particularly unique, you may want to put this in your conclusion. Leave them with a little taster of what’s to come and inspire them to go further by reading your CV. The conclusion is the perfect way to lead them to the CV, but you should also bear in mind that they may make selections based on just the cover letter, especially for internships.

You can also state your excitement for meeting the company to discuss your skills and interest in the role in further detail. Confidence is key here. Recruiting an experienced person is a risk, so they want to be assured that you will be no shrinking violet.

Look at the cover letter sample below for the conclusion and sign-off. It is professional and has a subtle call to action. It doesn’t just assume that the reader will take them to the next stage, but rather, that they are excited about the prospect. You can use this to adapt for your own internship cover letter.

The aim of the conclusion/sign-off: This is the final thought, reaffirming your interest and why you want to progress to the next stage.

Recruitment and selection is about making the right fit, and it requires confidence, sales ability and a passion for supporting candidates in their career journey. I believe my passion for sales, and ability to build strong relationships makes me an ideal fit for a recruitment internship. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss my credentials in more detail.

Writing psychology: how you can convey your work ethic in your cover letter

The internship cover letter should always have a clear structure, which you should follow religiously. It is slightly more personable than the CV, but it should also be professional. It is even more important to show your personality on the internship cover letter, as you are unlikely to have specific experience or at least, not much experience. When you follow a structure, it will ensure that you keep to the point and don’t end up diverting.

These are the main points to get across in the internship cover letters if you want to give yourself the best possible chance of being offered an interview:

• What skills do you have that are relevant to the role?
• Why are you specifically applying to this industry and organisation?
• What personal qualities do you have that make you an ideal fit?
• Do you have any specific industry experience?

Think about the internship from the hiring manager’s point of view. They may be sitting with a pile of prospective candidates, all studying a similar degree, so what makes you stand out from the crowd? The main aim is to show your passion for the company and the role. Employers understand candidates often apply for a barrage of internships, in the hope that they will just secure some work anywhere. This is not what they want; they want you to be passionate about the industry as they are likely to be looking at the long-term prospects of hiring you permanently in the future.

Let the hiring manager know what value you can bring to the company. Make it clear why this is the organisation you are interested in. You will receive the benefit of training during your internship, how will you use this, and will you be motivated enough to maximise the benefits of it? Use our cover letter samples throughout the guide and adapt this to suit.

Keep your language as positive as possible With an internship, you are unlikely to have any experience, so there is the tendency for candidates to use wording like “Although I don’t have experience in sales…”

This is negative language, and it will instantly put the reader off. It is better to say, “I have a strong interest in sales, and it is an area I would like to work in.”

Always be aware of the language you are using and avoid anything that might seem negative.

Common mistakes found in an internship application letter (and how to avoid them)

As an intern, you need to show the hiring manager that you will be professional, with a desire to learn. They should leave your internship cover letter with no doubt that you will be accurate with any correspondence you send to clients. These are some of the most common mistakes found in cover letters and how you can avoid these.

• Check the spelling and grammar. Even if they are minor mistakes, spelling and grammar errors can be extremely off-putting. Employers are putting their trust in you with an internship, and they need to be sure that you have the basics to be able to deal with clients professionally. If you have failed to check your spelling and grammar, it won’t necessarily bode well for how you’d deal with professional correspondence. You can use spelling and grammar checks and maybe even ask someone else to look over it for you.
• Make sure dates are accurate. Don’t just guess the dates for your work experience and education, make sure these are accurate. If you are offered the internship, the hiring manager will assess your references first and if the dates are inaccurate, they will be concerned as to why this is the case.
• Let your personality shine. The hiring manager doesn’t have a lot to go on with your application for an internship. You may not have any relevant experience, so they are judging by your skills and personality. Therefore, your personality must shine through on your internship cover letter.
• Great formatting is a must. When you don’t have a ton of experience, a few professional touches can go a long way in convincing a hiring manager that you’re right for the role. Make sure to keep a strong balance of white space to text, limit your cover letter to one page and create an attractive header layout. A free cover letter template can help with this.

Key takeaways

• Ensure the reader knows why you are applying for the role. Why are you interested in the role and the organisation?
• Follow a clear and concise format throughout your cover letter.
• Explain why the internship will benefit you.

If you’re looking for additional inspiration for cover letter writing, you can check out our related cover letter examples:

• Graduate cover letter sample
• Apprenticeship cover letter example
• Google cover letter sample
• Engineering cover letter example

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Internship cover letter

Formal internship programmes are competitive so it's important that you assemble a strong cover letter. Our internship cover letter example shows you how

When applying for an internship you'll need to do your homework. Look carefully though the job advert to see what employers are asking for. Do your best to show how you match each requirement, usually through your current or previous experience. Even if your experience is not directly relevant, match what you can to what's needed. Find examples of your skills and attributes from other contexts for example innovation, teamwork, seeing things through from start to finish, etc.

Try to use some of the words from the advert in your cover letter. It's possible in a large company with many applications that letters will be pre-selected by auto-scanning. Even when someone reads each one, they skim the letters, looking for those that are interesting and/or meet their requirements.

As a current student or recent graduate recruiters will know that you'll be applying for all the internships you can find, so make sure each letter is well-tailored to the specific company. Tell employers something you like or admire about their company but don't lay it on too thick. You need to sound sincere.

You also need to make sure that you sound enthusiastic - you will be competing with many other hopefuls. Don't be afraid to allow aspects of your personality to show through. Faced with many applicants, recruiters want to see what makes you tick as an individual.

Please be aware that this is an example. Use this internship cover letter template to help generate ideas and structure your own document but avoid copying and pasting. Your cover letter needs to be original and tailored to the job you're applying for.

Meredith Evans The Lodge Lodge Lane Lodgetown Lodgeshire LG24 5XY [email protected] 07111 223344

Bill Smith XYZ Publishing Book House Tome Street London EC5 7QJ

5th May 2023

Dear Mr Smith

One-year editorial internship at XYZ Publishing

I would like to apply for the one-year editorial internship advertised on your website. I am attaching my CV, as requested.

My ambition is a career in publishing and I am particularly interested in the art and history books, as well as the periodicals that you publish. As you can see from my CV, I graduated in journalism and am now studying for a Masters in publishing.

My research project focuses on the role of publishing in the promotion and public understanding of heritage through heritage events. I based this on my work (part paid, part voluntary) on the bicentenary celebrations in my university town. This brought me into contact with local organisations including schools. I produced a series of infoquizzes for Key Stage 1 and 2, (including commissioning artwork) and leaflets for adults to run alongside audioguides. My blog helped me to formulate my plans and to promote the project through marketing and engagement.

As well as confirming my passionate interest in communicating heritage to a wider audience, I developed skills in:

• negotiation, by liaising with the heritage industry, publishers and BiCentenary2022 partners, including local businesses
• time management, as I was doing this in the third year of my degree while completing my dissertation
• multi-tasking and project management to deliver within the bicentenary deadlines
• fact-checking, proofreading and editing.

I work part-time in a local branch of a national chain of booksellers where I'm usually based in the art history and heritage section, although I help out as needed throughout the shop. I enjoy developing my knowledge of books and periodicals in the field and using this to help customers.

All this whetted my appetite for a career in publishing and I'm eager to learn more from experienced staff in the art and heritage publishing world. I look forward to working with committed professionals. I am willing to do any tasks, as I want to experience all aspects of publishing.

I hope to be able to use my practical experience of creating and marketing an arts and heritage project, my project management skills and my enthusiasm for public engagement to make a contribution to the company.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Yours sincerely

(sign your name here)

Meredith Evans

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Ready to dive into the world of internships ? A standout cover letter is key to catching the eye of potential bosses. It's the perfect partner to your student CV , adding extra depth and a personal touch to make you shine among the crowd. This guide's got everything you need: must-have elements and top-notch tips for an amazing internship cover letter. Whether it's your first internship plunge or a career switch, we've got your back. Let's get you prepped for success!

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Cover Letter Example for an Internship

Before we dive into a cover letter example for internship, there are some general tips to help you understand the tone, structure, and content that can make your application stand out:

Research: Before writing your cover letter, research the company and the industry. This will help you tailor your application to align with the company’s values and culture.

Personalize: Avoid generic cover letters. Personalize each application by mentioning the name of the hiring manager and specific details about the company.

Showcase Your Skills: Highlight your skills and experiences that are most relevant to the internship. Use specific examples to demonstrate your abilities.

Be Concise: Keep your cover letter concise and to the point. Aim for no more than one page and ensure your cover letter is free from grammatical errors and typos.

Remember, a well-structured cover letter should include an introduction, body, and conclusion. Tailor these examples to reflect your own experiences, skills, and enthusiasm for the position.

Cover Letter for a Marketing Internship

When applying for a marketing internship, it's essential to highlight your creativity, communication skills, and understanding of the industry. Showcase any relevant coursework or projects that demonstrate your marketing acumen. Here’s how you can structure your cover letter for a marketing internship:

Introduction: Briefly introduce yourself and express your interest in the internship. Mention how you came across the opportunity and why it caught your eye.

Body: Discuss your relevant skills and experiences. This could include coursework, projects, or any previous internships. Highlight how these experiences make you a perfect fit for the role.

Conclusion: Conclude by reiterating your interest in the position and expressing your eagerness to contribute to the team. Provide your contact information and thank the employer for considering your application.

Wondering what it should look like? Have a look at our example of interniship application letter for a marketing position:

Cover Letter for an Internship With No Experience

Lack of experience shouldn’t be a barrier to applying for an internship. Focus on your enthusiasm to learn and contribute, as well as any transferable skills that could be beneficial in the role. Here’s an example of a cover letter for an internship with no experience:

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FAQ About Internship Cover Letter

What is the purpose of a motivation letter for an internship?

A motivation letter for an internship, often referred to as a cover letter, is a personal document where you introduce yourself to a potential employer, express your interest in a specific internship position, and mention your relevant skills, and experiences.

How do I tailor a student cover letter for an internship to a specific role?

To tailor a student cover letter for an internship to a specific role, start by thoroughly researching the company and the internship role. In your cover letter, mention specific aspects of the company and role that excite you, and draw clear connections between your skills, experiences, and the requirements of the internship.

What are some tips for writing a cover letter for an internship with no experience?

When writing a cover letter for an internship with no experience, focus on highlighting your transferable skills, enthusiasm for the industry and the company, and eagerness to learn. Emphasise your academic achievements and any relevant coursework or projects. Make sure you also have a look at CV examples for students , so they can match with your cover letter.

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How to Start Your Cover Letter for an Internship

How to show your skills and experience meet the company’s needs, how to end a cover letter for an internship, differences between a paper letter and an email, a few mistakes to avoid, application for internship example cover letter, a summary of the key tips for an internship cover letter, how to write a cover letter for an internship (with example & template).

Updated May 15, 2024

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If you are applying for an internship, it is likely that you will be asked to submit a cover letter. An internship cover letter is a formal letter that is sent to a potential employer or recruiter along with your CV when applying for a position.

The internship cover letter is your opportunity to introduce yourself and explain why you are interested in the position and what you would bring to the role .

It should emphasise key skills and qualifications that will make the employer take interest in your CV, and ultimately invite you to interview.

Writing a cover letter that grabs a recruiter’s attention is challenging for seasoned job applicants. Working out what to include and mistakes to avoid can be even harder for internship candidates, who may have little or no experience of composing this kind of letter.

It can also feel daunting trying to demonstrate that you will be an asset to the company when you are just starting out in the world of work. But with the right knowledge and approach, anyone can write a sparkling cover letter for an internship that will make the recruiter take notice.

What to Research Before Starting Your Internship Cover Letter

It is important that your letter shows a real interest in the company to which you're applying for an internship, and an understanding of what your role there would involve.

You also need to demonstrate that you have specific skills and abilities that would be of particular benefit. So before you start writing your cover letter for internship, make sure you have all this information ready.

Do Your Own Research

Start by forming a general overview of the company and how it works. Areas of research could include:

• The history and background of the company, and its values, aims and vision .
• Whether the company was recently involved in any noteworthy projects .
• Any awards or accolades the company has won recently.
• If the company has appeared in the news recently.
• The background of directors, managers or senior members of the team you are applying to.

Next, you need to find out as much as you can about the role you are applying for and what the company needs from a successful candidate.

Your general research should give you a good start, but you should also read the job description thoroughly and pick out any key skills and attributes mentioned.

You may also be able to find case studies or reviews by previous interns online, which will help you to understand the role better.

Ask For Inside Help

If possible, speak to someone who works for the company to find out what they are looking for. You may find opportunities to meet staff at careers fairs or similar events. 

If it feels appropriate, consider contacting relevant team members through the company's website or on social media.

As long as you are polite, respectful, and show real interest in what they do, most people are flattered to be asked about their jobs. This could give you valuable insight that makes your letter stand out.

Find Out Who Is Going to Read Your Letter

Finally, find out who will be reading your application letter, so you can address it to the correct person.

Letters beginning ‘Dear Sir/Madam’ or ‘ To Whom It May Concern ’ are more likely to end up on the reject pile.

If a name is not given in the internship posting, you might need to do a bit of detective work. Start by ringing or emailing the company to ask for the name of the person who will be reading the internship cover letters.

If they cannot give you a name for confidentiality reasons, then find out who is the head of the department your internship is in and address it to them. If that name is also unavailable, address it to someone in HR.

Once you have done your research and know whom you are addressing, you are ready to start writing your internship cover letter.

Your first paragraph is your introduction and should specify which internship you are applying for (as the company may have more than one) and where you heard about it , as well as explain (briefly) who you are and why you are applying for the position .

Remember that the person considering your application may have read hundreds of internship cover letters that week. Including some kind of hook in your opening paragraph – such as an eye-catching award or achievement – will make you stand out from the crowd and encourage them to read on.

Open your letter by addressing the reader by their first name and surname, or Mr/Ms and their surname. Avoid using Mrs/Miss unless you are certain this is their preferred title.

For example:

Dear Ms Jones, I am writing to apply for the digital marketing internship at Cosmetics Corporation Ltd, as advertised on WikiJob. I am in my final year of a Digital Marketing Management degree, and last year I was a finalist in the prestigious student awards run by the Chartered Institute of Marketing. The skills and experience I have acquired during my time at university make me an ideal candidate for this role.

Having made your introduction, move on to the main part of your cover letter. This should demonstrate what you know about the company, why you are interested in it, and how your skills and qualities would be of benefit to them.

Think about the key skills and attributes in the listing and describe how you meet these requirements, making sure you give specific examples to show how you have put them into action.

Don't say, "I'm a great team player." Instead, describe a situation where you worked successfully as part of a team. Emphasise skills or experience that other candidates are unlikely to have and those that align you most closely with the company’s core values and ambitions .

If you have limited work experience, then think back over academic experience, extra-curricular activities and volunteer work that may provide you with examples of what you can offer.

Tell the reader why you want to bring your skills and experience to their company in particular and what excites you about working there. Use specific examples to demonstrate your knowledge of the company.

This shows you have a real enthusiasm for the role. It also lets the recruiter know that this isn’t a copy-and-paste internship cover letter that you have sent to every internship programme in town.

Finally, keep your letter to the point  – the main body of your cover letter should be two or three paragraphs long at the most.

You don’t need to lay out everything you have ever done, as your CV will give a more detailed overview of your education, qualifications and experience. The cover letter should pique the recruiter’s interest in you and make them want to find out more.

In your final paragraph, you should thank the recruiter for their time and finish with a prompt for them to act on your letter and invite you for interview.

Something along the lines of:

Thank you for considering my application and I look forward to discussing this opportunity with you in more detail.

One sentence should be enough. Sign off with 'Yours sincerely' and your name.

It should be clear from the internship posting whether you are expected to send your cover letter and CV by email or by post.

If you are writing a paper letter, include your name, contact information and date at the top, aligned to the right. Then put the name and contact information for the person you are writing to, aligned to the left.

Sarah Smith 1e London Road London SE25 1BF 0203 111 1234 [email protected] 01/01/2019 Jane Jones Cosmetics Corporation Ltd 2 Commercial Road London W1 2EA

If you are sending your internship cover letter by email, you do not need to include the contact information and date at the top.

Instead, give your contact information after your name at the end of the letter. Put your name and the job title in the subject line.

And unless the posting specifies sending your cover letter as an attachment, put the text of your letter in the body of the email.

This will make it easier for the recruiter to find your cover letter in an email search.

• Don’t forget to proofread . Check your cover letter for internship thoroughly for any spelling mistakes or grammatical errors. Internship placements can be highly competitive and any slip-ups could harm your chance of being invited to interview.
• Don’t be too wordy . Your letter should sound professional but natural and conversational. Avoid jargon and language that sounds overly stiff and formal. And don’t go on and on; one side of A4 is plenty. After you have written the first draft of your letter, put it away for a day and then come back to check that it conveys what you want to say fluently and succinctly.
• Don’t lie . It might be tempting to increase your chances of landing the internship by embellishing your credentials. But if you lie about your skills or qualifications, you are likely to be found out. Instead, focus on presenting your true qualities and experience in the most compelling way.
• Don’t cut and paste . As we have mentioned above, it is crucial that every internship cover letter is tailored to a specific role. Recruiters can spot a generic application letter instantly and your application will go to the bottom of the pile.

This is an example of a cover letter for a fictional internship, showing how the advice covered above could be put into practice.

Sarah Smith 1e London Road London SE25 1BF 0203 111 1234 [email protected] 01/01/2019 Jane Jones Cosmetics Corporation Ltd 2 Commercial Road London W1 2EA Dear Jane Jones, I am writing to apply for the digital marketing internship at Cosmetics Corporation Ltd, as advertised on WikiJob. I am in my final year of a Digital Marketing Management degree at Anytown University and last year I was a finalist in the student awards run by the Chartered Institute of Marketing. The skills and experience I have acquired during my time at university, and beyond, make me an ideal candidate for the role. I am particularly drawn to this internship with Cosmetics Corporation because of the company’s innovative approach to digital marketing. The recent Ethical Beauty campaign really stood out in the new ways it captured audiences via online platforms. I have been following the campaign with interest and have made it part of the focus of my final piece of coursework. I also admire how the company is committed to promoting ethical choices, as this is a cause close to my own heart. Last year I worked with a team of fellow digital marketing students to create a campaign encouraging consumers to swap single-use plastics for reusable alternatives. Our campaign reached the final of the Chartered Institute of Marketing’s student awards, where the video content that I created was singled out for a particular commendation. I have also been putting the skills I am learning at university into practice. My friend runs a small business making and selling soaps and scented candles, and I have managed her website and social media accounts for the past few months. Sales have risen around 20 per cent in that time. I am confident that my skills, experience and passion would make me an asset to the digital marketing team at Cosmetics Corporation Ltd. I would be thrilled to have the opportunity to learn even more by working with a company that is making such an impact in the industry. Thank you for considering my application and I look forward to discussing this opportunity with you in more detail. Yours sincerely, Sarah Smith

Keep these six points in mind when you write your cover letter for an internship:

• Before you start writing, research the company and the role you are applying for thoroughly.
• Don’t address your letter to Sir or Madam; find the name of the person who will be considering your application.
• Tailor your letter to the role you are applying for. Tell the recruiter what excites you about their company and how you match the key qualities and attributes they are looking for.
• Give specific examples to illustrate your skills and experience.
• Keep your letter brief and to the point. It should be no more than one side of A4.
• Remember to proofread . Don’t let sloppy spelling or grammar let you down.

You might also be interested in these other Wikijob articles:

Or explore the Application Advice / CVs sections.

How to Write the Perfect Cover Letter for an Internship (Plus, an Example!)

As a student, you don’t have a lot of time in the day that isn’t already eaten up by classes, problem sets, essays, extracurriculars, sports, hackathons, research, dance performances…the list goes on. Applying for any kind of job is time consuming (not to mention nerve-racking), so when you see a job posting where the cover letter is optional, you might be tempted to skip it. Not so fast!

If you’re looking at internships , it probably means you don’t have a ton of work experience to set you apart from other candidates. Or perhaps you do have some experience, but it’s not the most relevant or as obviously related. The cover letter is exactly the place for you to make a case for yourself. This is where you can connect the dots for the recruiter and tell the story that your resume can’t on its own. (How does competitive ballroom dancing connect with being a management consultant?) And, if nothing else, it’s a chance to get across your excitement.

While it can certainly help to check out some general cover letter tips and read through some examples , here are some specific pointers on how to make the most of a cover letter for an internship.

1. Make It All About the Company

Step one is to introduce yourself and why you’re interested in this particular internship. As a student, you’ll probably instinctively want to write about all the things you’re excited to learn on the job. Including some of that is fine, but remember that applying for an internship at a company isn’t the same as applying for college. Companies are more invested in what you have to offer them than what they have to offer you . Or, put more bluntly, they have no reason to care about you yet. You have to give them one.

A better way to show your enthusiasm is to be specific about why you’re interested in this company. What makes it special? Is their product one of a kind or solving an important problem in a unique way? Are they working toward a particular mission that resonates with you?

Avoid being impressed in a generic way. If you can say the same thing about another company then you’re not being specific enough. In other words, don’t say: “I’m impressed that Company X is a market leader in clean-tech.” Instead, say: “Company X’s unique approach to removing plastic pollution from the ocean by using currents and robotic traps is fascinating.”

It can feel a little weird to be too fawning, but it’s fine in small doses. After all, companies have internships because they are trying to create a recruiting pipeline, so letting them know you’re a fan of their work or at least very interested in the industry is a good idea. You want them to know that you’re worth training and investing in—that you’re going to stick around.

2. Mention Relevant Projects, Extracurriculars, and Classes

In a typical cover letter, the next step would be to write about all your relevant experience. But perhaps this internship you’re applying for is the relevant experience you’re hoping you can write about one day. So what do you write about today?

It’s okay to have no directly relevant work experience . The next best thing is to choose two examples of things you’ve done that are as closely related to the role as possible and then to go into detail about the parts of the work that are most relevant. You’re trying to tell a story and you want the reader to understand that the next logical step in it is the exact internship you’re applying for. You want to give the reader an “It all makes sense!” moment.

Ideally, you’re choosing things that aren’t too far off from professional experience, like an independent project where you can show off some technical skills, or leadership experience in a student organization to get across those all-important soft skills. Experiences with a competitive element to them are great, too—think hackathons and case competitions.

If you must, you can mention coursework as well. In general, though, recruiters and hiring managers are less excited about projects where a clear solution already exists. There are always exceptions, of course. Class projects that are more creative and don’t involve a clean, preset answer might also be a good option.

3. Stitch Together Your Skills

Of course, there’s always the possibility that nothing you’ve done feels relevant. That’s fine, too. Everyone has to start somewhere! If you really can’t find any related work to write about, choose three experiences you feel comfortable talking about and then pick and choose the parts that illustrate the skills you bring to the table.

For example, if you worked a part-time job in high school as a lifeguard, you can write about how you were known for being reliable, how you’d always pick up other people’s shifts when they were out, and how great you were at being vigilant when you were on duty. You can write about the courses you’ve taken to showcase your interest in a particular subject area. Maybe they were quite advanced for a sophomore. That’d be worth mentioning to show not only your subject-matter interest, but also your ambition and ability to learn quickly. And if you served as an executive board member of a cultural group, you could write about your communication skills and how detail-oriented you needed to be to pull off a big show.

You might not have any professional work experience, but anyone recruiting interns will be interested in someone who is reliable, enthusiastic, detail-oriented, and a good communicator. Throw in that you’re a fast learner who has taken a few relevant classes and you’ll have a fair shot.

4. Don’t Apologize

So that’s all the stuff you should do. Here’s something you shouldn’t. Don’t apologize for your lack of experience. Don’t write, “Even though I’m only a freshman…” or “Despite my limited experience in fundraising…” This is one of the most common mistakes students make in their cover letters.

Instead, write something like, “I’m excited to bring my coursework alive by doing hands-on work in…” or “I’m looking forward to parlaying my campus event planning experience to fundraising for…” Basically, instead of homing in on your weaknesses, you want to highlight your strengths. You get to pick what to focus on, so choose wisely.

It can be tough to write from the perspective of what you have to offer a company when you don’t feel like you have very much work experience to lean on, especially when many of the applications you’ve worked on in the past (read: college applications) have been so focused on what you might have to gain from a particular experience. One way to increase your chances of getting a great internship is to think about the application process as more of a pitch. You’re not just applying, you’re pitching yourself, so submit a nice and tidy letter (make sure you edit it and catch any typos!) and keep it positive.

5. Read This Example to Help You Craft Your Own Cover Letter

All of this sounds nice in theory, but what does it look like all put together? Here’s a sample cover letter from a student with limited relevant experience who is applying for a product management internship. (Quick tip: Remember never to start off with “ To Whom It May Concern ”!)

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am excited to submit my application for the product management internship at BPM Tech. As a student at Big State University majoring in electrical engineering with a keen interest in environmental studies, I believe I would be a good fit for the role. BPM’s mission to design and manufacture the world’s most energy dense batteries while protecting our planet and not taking any shortcuts is inspiring, and I would be thrilled to be able to contribute to this mission.

In a recent hackathon, I demonstrated my ability to think on my feet and lead a team through designing and prototyping stages of a project. Competing as a team of three students with different academic backgrounds and working under a tight deadline, we were ultimately able to get a working prototype together and presented our work to a panel of industry experts who awarded us second place. I was particularly proud of how close we got to winning the audience favorite award. For me, the most exciting part of working on products comes from users and their reactions.

I’ve also been an active volunteer at my local animal shelter for over five years. As a more seasoned volunteer, I’ve taken the initiative to lead trainings, organize donation drives, and serve as a dog walker. This experience has strengthened my communication skills and confirmed my belief that my motivation skyrockets when my work supports a good cause. I would be delighted to bring my focus and dedication to another organization whose mission I believe in.

Through these experiences, along with my coursework in electrical engineering, I am confident that I would be able to successfully navigate the challenges of the PM internship program at BPM. I welcome the opportunity to speak with you about my qualifications and look forward to hearing from you. Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely, Sarah Gunnarson

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Internships and placements

How to write a cover letter for an internship.

Olivia Rowland

2 Feb 2024, 10:21

Discover how to structure a strong covering letter for work experience based on a simple template.

A strong internship cover letter complements your CV. Use it to point recruiters to the parts of your CV that match their requirements and to provide more detail. This will help employers see that you’ve thought about your skills and strengths and how they align with the organisation’s needs.

Internship hiring managers aren’t looking for lots of experience. Instead, they’re looking for skills, willingness to learn and genuine enthusiasm for the internship and their organisation. You can use your cover letter to demonstrate some of your skills and strengths. For example, it’s an opportunity to show that you can express yourself clearly and concisely, that you can carry out research and pay attention to what the recruiter needs.

What should you write about in your cover letter?

We suggest thinking of your letter as being in four parts:

• A ‘why you should consider me’ section
• A ‘why I am applying to this internship’ section

You can use a similar structure for other cover letters, including for graduate jobs and vacation schemes – see our templates for examples of how you can do this. It’s best to take a slightly different approach if you’re making a speculative application for an internship – take a look at our guidance on this.

If you prefer to learn more by doing than reading, try out our free online learning mini-module, which will take you through each step of writing a convincing and compelling covering letter.

How to open a cover letter for an internship

How your letter opens depends on what you know about them. If you’re sending your letter to a named person, you can use this in your opening line – for example, ‘Dear Ms Johnson’. Avoid using a first name only unless this is all you have. It’s fine to use ‘Ms’ if you don’t know a female recruiter’s title.

If you don’t know the name of the person you’re writing to – perhaps you’re sending it to a team email address or using an application portal – you can use ‘Dear Sir or Madam’.

Use the first paragraph of your letter to outline which internship you’re applying for, where you saw it advertised and what attachments you’re also sending (for example, a CV) as part of your application. Keep this section short so that you have more space for the next two sections.

Dear Ms Johnson,

I have attached my CV in response to your advert on targetjobs.co.uk for a marketing intern.

What to write in a cover letter: why you?

After your opening, include a paragraph that outlines briefly what attracted you to this internship. Focus on what you would gain from the experience: for example, the aspects of it that particularly appeal to you and how these relates to your career goals, your course or specific skills and achievements. The aim is to communicate genuine interest in the internship based on your strengths and interests.

Then use the next paragraphs to match your skills against those the organisation seeks and to provide more information about them.

Look at the advert carefully, making a note of which of the required skills you have. The go back and provide more details. Think about answering the following questions:

• How did you develop each skill?
• Why did you choose to focus on these skills?
• What have you enjoyed about learning these skills?
• If they have influenced your career plans, in what ways?
• Who did you work with and how did you work together?
• What impact have your skills made so far?

As you write this section, remember to think beyond ‘traditional’ work placements. All of your experience – your studies, term-time and holiday jobs, volunteering, involvement with university clubs, hobbies and sports – counts when it comes to demonstrating who you are and what you can do.

Let’s say that you are applying for a marketing internship, which will require you to conduct simple research and data analysis tasks, contribute to social media campaigns by creating posts. The job description says that you will need good analytical and communication skills and be able to respond quickly to new information.

As you will see from my CV, I am a second-year combined arts student at Abingdon University. The course involves writing for a range of audiences, including developing marketing and advertising copy. I now hope to apply and build these skills via a marketing internship with [name of organisation]. I followed your social media campaign on water saving last summer and would love to gain insights into how such initiatives are developed.

I believe I have the skills to be a successful intern at your organisation. As well as writing, my course also involves carrying out research and analysing information such as statistics and historical sources. I regularly present the results of this work in seminars, both individually and as part of small groups. I recently completed a project on language use in political campaigns that I hope to build on in my final year.

I have also built a range of relevant skills from my vacation job as a customer service agent for Smith Energy, a role that involves resolving customers’ queries via email. As well as helping me build communication skills, the position also often requires me to think quickly and to handle complex questions calmly. Last summer I had the chance to shadow the social media team. In this time I experienced how they respond to customer and press queries.

Not all internships are advertised. Take our free online mini-module to help you secure one of these hidden opportunities.

What to write in a cover letter: why this internship matters

Your ‘why I am applying to this internship’ section should focus on why you’ve chosen this particular internship at this organisation. Read the advert again and research the employer, noting down aspects of the organisation and the internship that particularly interest you. Then explain why they’re important to you, linking them to examples from your CV to show how they relate to a career path you’re exploring or strengths you can demonstrate. It’s essential that what you have written couldn’t be said word for word about another employer.

Let’s say that you are applying to a charity dedicated to encouraging people to conserve resources and act more sustainably. This is one way that you can combine your research into the organisation and the opportunity with your interests and achievements.

I am applying to your organisation because I’m impressed by your mission to make the world a more sustainable place through concrete individual and community actions, and I’d like to contribute to it. As mentioned above, I was inspired by your campaign to save water and the way in which you targeted the money conscious as well as the more sustainably minded.

I was also interested to see that the marketing internship involves social media as this is an area in which I have enjoyed working and am considering making a career. Outside my studies I am social media officer for Abingdon University Drama Group, a role that involves planning and implementing campaigns about our productions. This includes writing all copy, designing graphics and creating videos. The role also involves analysing data relating to our social media accounts and creating a strategy to increase ticket sales. I especially enjoyed this aspect of the role as it enabled me to explore new ways to build engagement. A series of short videos was particularly successful – data indicated that 40 % of audience members attending our spring production had seen it.

What to write in a cover letter: how to finish

There are several ways to finish your cover letter. You could:

• Thank the recruiter for reading your application
• Outline when you’d be available (or not available) to attend an interview.
• Simply note that you look forward to hearing back from the employer.

Sign off ‘Yours sincerely’ unless you’ve addressed your letter to Sir or Madam, in which case it’s conventional to use ‘Yours faithfully’.

Thank you for your time reading my application. I am available on the interview dates outlined in the advert and I look forward to hearing from you.

Yours sincerely,

[Your name]

Don’t rely on an AI tool such as ChatGPT to write your covering letter: while it may be useful for reference, recruiters tell us that AI-generated covering letters aren’t specific enough about the organisation and your motivations for applying.

Sending the wrong version of your cover letter could scupper your chances of landing an internship. If you do more than one draft of your covering letter, save them into separate documents clearly labelled. This way you can easily identify your final version and avoid risking accidently sending one that you weren’t happy with.

Before you send your letter, ask a friend or careers adviser to read it through, both for feedback and as a proofread.

Finally, check any instructions from the recruiter before you hit ‘Send’. For example, they may ask for your cover letter as a separate document or in a particular format, or you may need to send additional information, such as referees or a link to a portfolio.

Where next?

It’s rare for you to have to write a covering letter without also writing a CV – check out our advice on internship CVs (complete with a template) for help in creating the perfect partnership.

If you are seeking an internship or other form of work experience, you can start with our complete work experience search .

And we’d also recommend you register with us , as you will receive a constantly updated, dedicated feed of vacancies, advice and events that are of most interest to you.

targetjobs editorial advice

This describes editorially independent and impartial content, which has been written and edited by the targetjobs content team. Any external contributors featuring in the article are in line with our non-advertorial policy, by which we mean that we do not promote one organisation over another.

People reading this also searched for roles in these areas:

• Graduate Jobs
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• Internships

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How to write an internship cover letter: 7 tips & an example

Learn how to create a cover letter that helps your internship application stand out.

So, you’re ready to find the perfect internship and kickstart your professional career. You’ve researched opportunities, made a list of your dream companies, crafted a great resume, and are about to apply. But what should you upload for the application’s “cover letter” field?

You’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll tell you how to write a great cover letter that will help you stand out from the crowd and get you hired. It’s often the first thing a hiring manager will see when they open your application, so it's important to get it right. After all, first impressions are everything!

Read the internship posting carefully before writing your cover letter. Pay attention to the intern’s primary responsibilities and the desired candidate’s skills and experience. Keep the job posting handy so you can refer to it while writing.

Now that you’re ready to start writing, let’s get into our guide for creating the perfect cover letter for every application on your to-do list.

1. Customize each cover letter

One of the most important intern cover letter tips is to avoid using the same generic letter for all your applications. Recruiters and employers can tell when you didn’t take time to create a unique letter for their specific internship. Instead, open your cover letter by sharing why you’re excited about this particular internship and employer and why you’re a good fit. Include information about the company and the role you’re applying for (pro tip: Use language from the application!).

2. Structure the cover letter’s flow effectively

A well-crafted cover letter should grab the attention of the recruiter or hiring manager and effectively convey key information. Achieve this by structuring your cover letter with an engaging introduction sentence and impactful first paragraph, an informative body paragraph or two, and a strong closing paragraph. It's also important to strike a balance between conveying key information and maintaining a concise and engaging tone throughout your cover letter.

Cover letters shouldn’t be very long — three or four paragraphs are plenty. Keep it short, sweet, and to the point. Now is not the time to be chatty! Save the chit-chat to showcase how friendly and personable you are during the interview.

Hiring managers are busy, and you want to ensure they read your cover letter from start to finish. That’s why it’s key to emphasize only the most important points relevant to the internship you’re applying for while keeping the cover letter as short as possible so it’s easy to read.

3. Include keywords and supporting details

It is common for employers to scan resumes and cover letters for keywords related to the internship. First and foremost, use the company name. Next, incorporate any skills or experiences listed in the job description.

While your resume lists your technical skills and experience, a cover letter should include details about desirable soft skills like time management and communication skills. If you’re mentioning soft skills, provide support. For example, if you want to highlight your leadership skills, detail a time when you led a group project or served as a student group officer.

As you consider which skills and experience to mention in a cover letter, take a look at the ones listed in the application or job posting. Pointing to those shows the hiring manager why you’re the best candidate for that role and demonstrates that you’ve read the job description carefully. Taking the time to review the role strengthens your case as a sincerely engaged and interested applicant.

4. Highlight coursework and extracurriculars

Don’t worry if you don’t have much work experience. Describe relevant coursework and major projects you’ve worked on as a college student that demonstrate your knowledge and skills. You can also add any student group involvement or volunteer opportunities.

These combined experiences show your initiative and help you stand out as a candidate (even if you’ve never been paid to do those things). Just because you didn’t make any money doesn’t mean you didn’t do a great job! You’ll have the chance to demonstrate how well you performed in those roles during the interview, so get ready to discuss the experiences you mention in the cover letter in greater detail.

5. Share what you’d like to accomplish

Cover letters aren’t just for telling employers why they should hire you. They’re also an opportunity to share what you believe you’ll get from the specific position. Whether it’s gaining a new skill or learning more about an industry, share why the role is important to you. This tells the employer that you’re not just trying to satisfy course credits with your internship — you’re also looking for valuable work experience that will kickstart your career. Who knows, maybe they’ll want to hire you as a full-time employee later.

6. Professionally format the cover letter

Your cover letter format is just as important as what’s in it. Aim to keep your cover letter concise and limited to one page. Use a clean and readable font, like Arial or Calibri, with a font size of 10 to 12 points and proper spacing and margins for a professional appearance.

Include a header with your contact information, including your full name, phone number, professional email address, and optionally, your LinkedIn profile or relevant online portfolio. Also, try to find the hiring manager’s name to address the letter. Rather than starting with a salutation like “To Whom It May Concern” or “Dear hiring manager,” try to find the actual name of the person you’re addressing. Lastly, don’t forget to close with a professional sign-off, such as “Sincerely” or “Best.”

Get help with formatting your internship cover letter by downloading our free template . Again, remember to tailor it to the company and internship role you’re applying for!

7. Proofread and ask for feedback

Once your cover letter is ready, carefully read through it and check for spelling, punctuation, grammar mistakes, and typos. Have a friend or family member review it and give feedback. If you have a classmate majoring in English or communications who wouldn’t mind taking a look, even better!

Another option is to reach out to your school’s career center . Schedule an appointment to review your cover letter and resume and ask any other application- or interview-related questions. Your school wants you to succeed in your career, so take advantage of all the tools they have to offer while you’re attending.

Example cover letter

Here’s an internship cover letter example to use as a starting point. Remember to tailor yours to the specific job you’re applying for rather than just copying and pasting this one:

[Your Full Name]

[Your Contact Info (include relevant social media accounts, if applicable)]

[Hiring Manager’s Name]

[Hiring Manager’s Job Title]

[Hiring Manager’s Contact Info]

Dear [hiring manager’s full name],

As a passionate [college/university] student majoring in [relevant field], I am eager to immerse myself in [Company’s Name]’s groundbreaking work in the [relevant industry] through your internship position. I firmly believe my [specific skills or coursework] will allow me to serve as a valuable asset on the [Company Name] team while expanding my knowledge to real-world challenges and harnessing invaluable hands-on experience within the industry.

With a passion for [specific aspect of the industry or role], I am confident in my ability to [relevant job responsibilities or tasks]. During my studies, I have developed a solid foundation in [mention relevant coursework or projects], which has equipped me with the [skills or knowledge] necessary for success in this role. Additionally, my experience as a [relevant internship or extracurricular activity] has allowed me to further refine my [specific skills or abilities].

I am particularly drawn to [Company Name]'s commitment to [mention a value, mission, or specific project]. The opportunity to work alongside a talented and innovative team while contributing to [Company Name]'s growth is truly inspiring. My strong [communication/analytical/technical, etc.] skills, coupled with my dedication and adaptability, make me an ideal fit for the [job title] role.

I welcome the chance to discuss my qualifications and learn more about [Company Name] in an interview. Thank you for considering my application. I have attached my resume for your review. Should you require additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address].

Thank you for your time and consideration.

[Your Name]

Do you need a cover letter for an internship?

While a cover letter isn’t mandatory for all internship applications, we recommend submitting one. A cover letter provides an opportunity to showcase your qualifications, skills, and enthusiasm for the internship position. It allows you to personalize your job application, demonstrate professionalism, and communicate your interest in the role and organization.

A well-written cover letter can significantly enhance your chances of standing out among other candidates and securing the internship. Hiring managers know that job and internship seekers are likely applying to many other opportunities at the same time, so ensure they know their company is one you would especially like to work for.

How do you write an internship cover letter if you have no experience?

If you lack professional experience, you can still present yourself with confidence, highlight your relevant skills and achievements, and convey your eagerness to learn and contribute. Here are some tips for accomplishing this:

• Focus on transferable skills. Highlight relevant transferable skills acquired through coursework, extracurricular activities, part-time jobs, or volunteer work. These skills can include communication, teamwork, problem-solving, organization, research, or leadership skills.
• Emphasize academic achievements. Showcase your academic achievements, such as high grades, honors, or specific coursework relevant to the internship. Discuss how your academic knowledge and skills can apply to the internship role and contribute to the organization.
• Showcase relevant projects or coursework . If you have completed any projects or coursework that align with the internship position, describe them in detail. Highlight the tasks, methodologies, and outcomes to demonstrate your ability to apply your knowledge in a practical setting.
• Leverage extracurricular involvement. Discuss any relevant extracurricular activities or leadership roles you have held. For example, if you were part of a club or organization related to the internship’s field, explain your involvement and how it has developed your skills or provided you with relevant experiences.
• Express eagerness to learn. Emphasize your willingness and enthusiasm to learn and grow in the internship. Highlight your passion for the field and commitment to acquiring new skills and knowledge. Demonstrating a positive attitude and eagerness to learn can compensate for a lack of direct experience.
• Connect with the company's culture , mission, and values. Research the organization and align your cover letter with its mission, values, and projects. Show that you are genuinely interested in their work and how your background and aspirations align with their goals.
• Network and seek recommendations. If possible, reach out to network contacts who may have connections or insights into the internship opportunity. Requesting recommendations or endorsements from professors, advisers, or professionals in the field can bolster your application.

Land your dream internship

The ultimate goal: landing your dream internship (and, later, your dream job!). An effective cover letter can help make that happen. It's your chance to shine, showcasing why you're the perfect fit for the position. A personalized and compelling letter grabs employers’ attention and helps you stand out from the crowd. Remember to be authentic, highlight relevant experiences, and let your passion shine through.

Don't underestimate the impact of a well-crafted cover letter and the opportunities that lie ahead. This is your opportunity to show potential employers your skills and abilities and share some of your background with them before the interview.

Head over to Handshake today to open doors to exciting internship possibilities. Not only can we connect you with the best companies looking for talent just like you, but you can also set up job alerts so you won’t miss that golden opportunity. Happy job searching!

Find the right jobs for you. Get hired.

Related stories, most recent stories.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Do I Need a Cover Letter for an Internship?

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to Write a Cover Letter for Internship

#1. respect the format.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This allows you to:

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

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

Dear Mr. Jacobs, 

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

#3. Mention the Right Keywords

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

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

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

How can you find these keywords, you might ask?

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

Then, do the following:

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

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

• Communication
• Ability to meet strict deadlines

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

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

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

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

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

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

#4. Highlight Your Education

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

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

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

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

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

#5. Provide Background For Your Skills

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#7. Describe What You Would Gain Professionally

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

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

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

Here’s how you can do that: 

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

#8. Proofread Your Cover Letter

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

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

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

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

#9. Match Your Cover Letter & Resume Designs

Want your internship application to truly shine?

Match your cover letter design with your resume!

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

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

Cover Letter for Internship Template

Struggling to create a cover letter for your internship?

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

Key Takeaways 

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

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

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

Related Readings: 

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

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Student Internship Cover Letter Samples & Examples That Worked in 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

In your header, you should include:

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

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

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

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

Create your cover letter fast with artificial intelligence.

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

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

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

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

Here are 3 examples of personalized cover letter greetings

Dear Intern Manager Jane Casey,

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

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

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

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

• A brief overview of your professional and academic history

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

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

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

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

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

Find out your resume score!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Wishes,

[Applicant Name]

6. Useful job search resources for interns 

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

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

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

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

Student Internship Cover Letter FAQ

What if the internship is unpaid. should the cover letter be different.

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

Should I mention academic projects in my intern cover letter?

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

Can I reuse the same cover letter for different internships?

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

What should I do if there's no named recipient for my cover letter?

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

Can I still apply for an internship if I lack some required skills?

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

Martin Poduška

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

All student cover letter examples

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• High School Student
• Humanities Student
• Natural Sciences Student
• Professions And Applied Sciences Student
• Social Sciences Student
• University Student

All student internship cover letter examples

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Internship Cover Letter Examples and Templates for 2024

• Cover Letter Examples

How To Write an Internship Cover Letter

• Cover Letter Text Examples

When writing your cover letter for an internship, focus on how you can quickly apply course concepts at the company that posted the position. Also, emphasize the related skills you’ve gained through your school, work, or other life experiences so far. This guide offers cover letter examples and tips for landing an internship.

Internship Cover Letter Templates and Examples

• Entry-Level
• Senior-Level

A great internship cover letter usually has five sections, outlined below. When possible, connect each section back to your relevant entry-level skills and the employer’s internship program. The following advice and examples show what to include in your cover letter so it’s optimized for each intern opportunity.

At the top of the page, include your resume contact header, the date, and any contact details you have for your recipient. To set a clear focus, add a professional title to your contact header. In the internship cover letter example below, see how the title “Business Administration Student” quickly reveals the applicant’s career direction and knowledge base.

(Note: Feel free to omit this section if you send your letter as an email message and your contact information is part of your email signature.)

Mackenzie Martin Business Administration Student | [email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | St. Louis, MO 63101 | LinkedIn

January 1, 2024

Andrea Tarentino Recruiting Manager Creative Communications, Inc. (314) 987-6543 [email protected]

2. Salutation

Whenever you can, address your recipient by name – it’s the fastest way to signal you’re sending a custom letter and not a boilerplate. If you can’t find the recipient’s name, use “Dear Internship Coordinator” or a variation of “Dear Hiring Manager” so your greeting is still tailored somewhat to each opportunity.

Dear Mr. Brockley:

Dear BigAds Agency Hiring Manager:

3. “Hook” or introduction

To catch the reader’s attention, start your letter with a specific achievement or key qualification the company is looking for. Choose a highlight that shows you can quickly build knowledge and apply new skills. This highlight will likely come from your degree program but could also be any related work or volunteer experience you have. (Consult your resume bullet points for ideas.)

My advanced work experience in applied statistics, SQL, and Python makes me an ideal candidate for the internship position at Viome. In my current role, I implemented big data analysis techniques and learning algorithms that optimized classifiers across the company.

4. Body paragraph(s)

Use the main section of your letter to tell why you’re drawn to this internship or employer. For instance, maybe the work overlaps with one of your recent school papers or projects. Or the company’s product set or mission statement appeals to you and the direction you’d like to take your career.

Following this explanation, cite two or three more of your main skills or achievements , possibly as bullet points.

Mathematics and wellness are my two main passions, as shown by my bachelor’s degree in applied statistics, master’s degree in nutrition, and pursuit of a Ph.D. in data science. Recently, I started working toward the Data Science Council of America (DASCA) Senior Data Scientist (SDS) award.

I would love the chance to work at your high-tech startup. The skills I’ve acquired can transfer perfectly from a business-driven data science role to a dynamic smaller company with a humanitarian mission. My achievements include:

• Using data mining techniques and machine learning to forecast product sales with 96% accuracy
• Performing ad-hoc social media analyses to help the sales and marketing department streamline the acquisitions process

5. Call to action

Finally, request an interview and thank the hiring manager for their time. Consider briefly restating why the position interests you and how you’d like to apply your education. To end your cover letter, use a simple closing like “Sincerely” or “Best regards” and then your name.

I look forward to possibly speaking with you more about how I can support your organization. Please let me know a date and time that works well for you to discuss the opportunity. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Mackenzie Martin

Internship Cover Letter Tips

1. show you can quickly apply new knowledge.

Whether or not a company pays its interns, it must spend time and resources training and supervising them. That investment, and the short-term nature of these roles, means you need to show you can apply your skills and knowledge quickly. By demonstrating you’re a quick study, you can assure hiring managers you’ll add value even if your role is limited or temporary.

At Prairie Landing Business College, I have maintained a 4.0 GPA for seven consecutive semesters. I’ve also worked as an administrative assistant in the bursar’s office for two years, processing financial aid and tuition payments.

2. Highlight your relevant skills and traits

Great interns are usually open-minded, collaborative, reliable, and resourceful. View your own experience through that lens. Have certain courses or part-time jobs allowed you to develop any or all of those qualities? Mention them on your cover letter, possibly as bullet points, so they stand out from your other information.

Here are three of my achievements to date:

• Participated in more than 30 events for DECA’s Competitive Events Program and received several recognition awards
• Won first place in the St. Louis Regional Library’s annual junior business leaders competition
• Maintained perfect attendance for six out of seven semesters at Prairie Landing Business College

3. When in doubt, brainstorm

Any time you’re stuck on a section of your cover letter, take 10 minutes to jot down your thoughts on a separate document or sheet of paper. By pausing to think more creatively, you can jog your memory and find new details to include about your experience. Brainstorming also helps you figure out the best and most original way to describe that experience, giving your letter the confident tone it needs to catch a hiring manager’s attention.

Internship Text-Only Cover Letter Templates and Examples

Dear Ms. Tarentino:

I’m passionate about the business world, so I’m completing my bachelor’s degree in business administration with an emphasis in digital marketing. The skills I’ve gained through my degree program will help me excel as a marketing intern at Creative Communications, Inc.

Gertrude McDaniel Marketing Supervisor | [email protected] | (434) 395-9244 | Atlantic City, NJ 54321 | LinkedIn

January 11, 2024

Sidney Brockley Senior Hiring Manager BigAds Agency (323) 386-3948 [email protected]

After a successful career in traditional marketing, I recently earned a master’s degree in digital marketing. I’d love the chance to add value to your organization while gaining experience in this fast-growing sector.

For the past six years, I’ve served as a marketing supervisor for the global brand Molson Coors. My team played a key role in recent changes that modernized the company and led to 5% growth within a year.

I would be delighted to bring the knowledge I’ve gained about digital marketing to BigAds as an intern. Below are three more of my achievements to date:

• Trained and motivated team members, helping the department set a new staff retention record of 96%
• Pinpointed areas of overspending and helped make significant Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization (EBITDA) improvements
• Raised my company’s marketing return on investment (ROI) by 2% in 2019 and 4% in 2020

After reading your company’s values and mission statement, I’m certain my skills and attitude align with the culture at BigAds. Please let me know the best time for an interview. I appreciate your time and look forward to possibly hearing from you soon.

Gertrude McDaniel

Maria Esperanza Data Scientist | [email protected] | (123) 878-0990 | Los Alamos, NM 50557 | LinkedIn

Jenny Medina Senior Hiring Manager Viome, Inc. (373) 232-7224 [email protected]

Dear Ms. Medina:

I’d be delighted to set up an interview so we can discuss your company’s internship program further. Please let me know a date and time that suits you. Thank you very much for your consideration.

Maria Esperanza

Internship Cover Letter Frequently Asked Questions

Should i tailor my cover letter for each internship -.

Yes. The main advantage of a cover letter over a resume is it lets you speak directly to the hiring manager about why you fit the role. By tailoring your letter to each internship, you can make the most of this advantage and boost your chances of an interview.

How do I write a cover letter with no work experience? -

Focus on your relevant academic, extracurricular, or volunteer experiences. No part of your letter needs to be about work. But every component should be about the knowledge, curiosity, and dedication you’ll bring to your internship. Even if you've never held a job, you can probably cite various ways you’ve developed these important qualities.

What should my cover letter’s design look like? -

Your resume’s. Carry over all of that document’s basic format settings , like font style, line spacing, and page margins. By styling your cover letter like your resume, you can make your intern application more cohesive and memorable.

Craft a new cover letter in minutes

Get the attention of hiring managers with a cover letter tailored to every job application.

Jacob Meade

Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW, ACRW)

Jacob Meade is a resume writer and editor with nearly a decade of experience. His writing method centers on understanding and then expressing each person’s unique work history and strengths toward their career goal. Jacob has enjoyed working with jobseekers of all ages and career levels, finding that a clear and focused resume can help people from any walk of life. He is an Academy Certified Resume Writer (ACRW) with the Resume Writing Academy, and a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) with the Professional Association of Resume Writers & Career Coaches.

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School Leaver Career Opportunities in 2024 (Examples & Tips)

by Artöm Obenko

• · July 02 2024
• · 10 min read

Table of contents

Whether you’re leaving school at 16 or 18, or approaching your final exams, it’s time to think about your next steps. Like writing a good CV , you need to carefully identify your strengths, soft skills , and career goals to make informed decisions. The transition from school to work is filled with limitless opportunities. Be open with yourself and let us help you pave a path that truly inspires you. Apply with confidence and get ready to embrace the next chapter in your career journey!

In this step-by-step guide, we cover:

A breakdown of diverse pathways available in the UK, from apprenticeships and A-levels to vocational courses and jobs with no experience.

Examples of best jobs per industry.

Tips for writing your first CV.

Steps on how to find and secure a job as a school leaver.

Whether you’re heading to college, sixth form, or considering an apprenticeship, we’ve got you covered with valuable advice and a vast collection of CV templates to help you embark on your career journey with confidence.

Read further to discover the opportunities ahead!

What are your options after leaving school?

1. apprenticeships and traineeships.

Apprenticeships and traineeships provide practical, on-the-job training, allowing you to earn while you learn. Whether you an electrician , carpenter , or plumber , you can pursue different types of apprenticeships or traineeships using one of the platforms below:

England –  gov.uk  

Scotland –  apprenticeships.scot  

Wales –  gov.wales  

Northern Ireland –  nidirect.gov.uk  

Use the ' Find apprenticeship ' tool by the National Career Service to help you navigate this competitive market.

Engineering apprenticeships : GCSEs in Maths and Science with grades 4-9 (A-C), coupled with strong problem-solving skills and an interest in technical subjects, are essential.

Business administration apprenticeships : GCSEs in English and Maths with grades 4-9 (A-C), as well as strong organisational skills and technical proficiency in Microsoft Office, are beneficial.

Doctor apprenticeships : A-levels in Biology, Chemistry, and either Physics or Maths with grades AAB or equivalent. Strong interpersonal skills, empathy, and a desire to work in healthcare are essential.

Learn more about the qualifications needed for the above jobs:

Engineering CV and engineer cover letter

Admin CV and admin cover letter

To increase your chances of landing an apprenticeship, expand your network! Consider attending local career fairs, and reaching out to school advisors at your school or experienced professionals on LinkedIn.

Alternatively, consider getting experience through volunteering to help you get more soft skills and develop a portfolio.

2. Internships

Internships offer temporary work experience in a specific field, helping you build your resume and professional network. They can be paid or unpaid and usually last from a few weeks to several months.

Discover what opportunities await if you're interested in an internship or top skills employers look for .

Marketing internships : GCSEs in English and Media Studies, grades 4-9 (A-C) with a strong skill set in social media management and basic graphic design tools like Canva or Adobe Photoshop are advantageous.

Finance internships: GCSEs in Maths and Business Studies, grades 4-9 (A-C) with technical expertise in Microsoft Excel and knowledge of financial principles, such as understanding balance sheets and financial ratios, are crucial.

Journalism: GCSEs in English and Media Studies, grades 4-9 (A-C). Experience with writing for school newspapers or blogs is beneficial. Familiarity with content management systems (CMS) like WordPress or Joomla and basic photo editing skills using tools like Adobe Photoshop or GIMP are advantageous.

Find out more about the qualifications needed for the above jobs:

Marketing CV and marketing cover letter

Finance CV and finance cover letter.

Journalist CV

3. First full-time job

Getting your first full-time job does not require prior experience and is also suitable for school leavers. These jobs provide valuable work experience and can be a stepping stone to more advanced positions. On the other hand, part-time jobs offer flexibility, allowing you to balance work with further education or other commitments. When applying for these roles, focus on building a strong CV and preparing thoroughly for interviews to make a positive impression.

For more information, explore our related guide for a part-time CV.

Retail positions : Cashier, sales assistant or stock clerk usually require GCSEs with grades 4-9 (A-C) and good customer service skills. Previous experience in customer-facing roles is a plus.

Customer service : Call centre operator or help desk support may require GCSEs in English and Maths with grades 4-9 (A-C) and excellent communication skills. Basic IT skills and experience using CRM systems can be beneficial.

Accountant : A-levels in Maths or Accounting with grades (A-B) requiring strong analytical skills and attention to detail.

Discover more information about entry requirements for the abovementioned jobs:

Retail CV and retail cover letter

Customer service CV and customer service cover letter .

Accountatnt CV and accounting cover letter

4. A-levels and T-levels

A-levels are traditional academic qualifications that can lead to university, further education, training, or employment. Selecting the right subjects is important as they can impact your future career options. T-levels are new qualifications that combine classroom learning with on-the-job experience through an industry placement. They aim to provide a more practical learning experience, preparing you for skilled employment or further study. For example, to pursue a career in medicine , A-levels in Biology, Chemistry, and Maths are often required. For digital production careers, T-levels in Computer Science and Maths can be beneficial.

Check out the A-level and T-level websites for more information about their entry requirements and school leaver programmes.

Healthcare career : A-levels in Biology, Chemistry, and Maths, typically requiring grades A-B. Strong analytical skills and a passion for science are crucial.

Designer : T-levels in Design, Surveying and Planning, or equivalent qualifications, requiring GCSE grades 4-9 (A*-C) in relevant subjects. Proficiency in design software like Adobe Creative Suite or Sketch, and a strong portfolio of work can be beneficial.

Travel and tourism : A-levels in Geography or Business Studies with grades A-C. Language skills and experience in customer service are beneficial for roles in the tourism industry.

Check out our related articles for more details on the required qualifications for the above jobs:

Healthcare CV

Designer CV and designer cover letter .

Travel agent CV

5. Vocational courses and school leaver schemes

When pursuing further education as a school leaver or student , vocational courses focus on practical skills and training for specific jobs, such as plumbing, electrical work, or beauty therapy. These courses are typically offered by colleges and vocational training centres. Graduation schemes are structured programs offered by employers to recent school leavers from the age of 17, providing a combination of work experience, training, and mentoring to help you develop in your chosen career.

Refer to Indeed or National Career Service for more valuable advice on how to find your desired job.

IT vocational program : for example, BTEC National in IT may require GCSEs in Maths and English, while hospitality courses might need basic GCSEs alongside an interest in the field.

NHS school leaver scheme : GCSEs in English, Maths, and Science, alongside a strong interest in healthcare and a commitment to learning and development.

Care Assistant or Nurse : Relevant vocational qualifications or A-levels, usually including Biology, followed by a nursing degree or diploma. Practical experience in healthcare settings is highly beneficial.

Refer to our related articles to learn more about the needed qualifications:

Software developer CV and data analyst CV

Medical CV and medical cover letter

Care assistant CV and care assistant cover letter .

6. Networking and career fairs

Building a professional network is essential for career development. See if your school is organising a career fair or ask if they can help you choose which one to visit. Attending career fairs allows you to meet potential employers, learn about job opportunities, and gain insights into different industries. Effective networking involves being proactive, asking questions, and following up with contacts you meet at these events.

Take a look at the Youth Employment UK platform for an overview of upcoming career fairs and events by month in the UK.

7. Obtaining certificates or diplomas

If you're already 18 years old, consider upskilling yourself by continuing further education after school. You can follow course either full-time, part-time, or using distance learning, offering plenty of flexibility to study from home wherever you are. Apart from getting a Bachelor's degree, consider the following options:

Higher National Certificate and Diploma (HNC/HND) or Foundation Degree (FdA) : Blend academic learning with practical experience in sectors like sport, hospitality, drama, design, and business studies, usually completed in one year.

Certificate of Continuing Education (CertCE) : Provices a recognised qualification in 8 months to 1 year, briefly introducing to higher education, which is perfect for those unsure about university.

Certificate and Diploma of Higher Education (CertHE/DipHE ): Standalone levels within a degree program, with CertHE taking 1 year and DipHE taking 2 years.

Please keep in mind that each course has different requirements, duration, credit system so ensure to choose carefully the best fit aligning with your career goals .

Ready for your next career move?

10 best jobs for school leavers per industry.

Whether you're seeking part-time jobs for school leavers, summer jobs or seasonal work , we have compiled a list of the top 10 jobs per industry.

Healthcare : Healthcare Assistant or Pharmacy Assistant.

Engineering : Engineering Technician or Junior CAD Designer.

IT : Support Technician or Junior Software Developer.

Administration : Office Administrator or Data Entry Clerk.

Retail : Sales Assistant or Customer Service Representative.

Receptionist : Front Desk Receptionist and Hotel Receptionist

Construction : Trainee Electrician or Plumbing Apprentice.

Artist : Graphic Design Assistant or Junior Photographer.

Teaching : Teaching Assistant or Nursery Assistant.

Marketing : Marketing Assistant or Social Media Coordinator.

For additional guidance on the most-demand jobs, refer to our related blog article on the best jobs for students .

10 best jobs for school leavers with no experience

Hospitality : Kitchen Assistant or Hotel Porter.

Customer Service : Call Centre Agent or Helpdesk Support.

Cleaning : Domestic Cleaner or Office Cleaner.

Sales : Market Stall Assistant or Retail Assistant.

Security : Event Steward or CCTV Operator.

Gardening : Garden Centre Assistant or Park Maintenance Worker.

Care Assistant : Nursery Assistant or After-School Club Helper.

Driver : E-bike Courier or Truck Driver

Warehouse : Warehouse Operative or Stockroom Assistant

Supermarket : Tesco Supermarket Assistant or Sainsbury's Checkout Assistant

For valuable insights, refer to our related blog article on how to write a CV with no experience .

Tips on how to choose the career path for you

Choosing the right career path can be challenging, but breaking it down into manageable steps could be your solution. Here are 5 tips to navigate you through the process:

Set realistic goals : Define what you want to achieve in your career and the steps needed to get there. Research the qualifications required for your desired roles.

Build a strong CV and cover letter: Highlight your skills, experiences, and achievements. Tailor your CV and cover letter to each job application, focusing on how you can meet the employer’s needs.

Practice interview skills : Prepare for common interview questions and practice your responses. Focus on communicating your strengths and how they relate to the job.

Use social media to connect with others : Use platforms like LinkedIn to connect with professionals in your field. Join relevant groups and participate in discussions to build your network.

Stay updated on trends : Keep up with industry trends and job market developments. This knowledge will help you make informed decisions and stay competitive.

Take a career aptitude test

To help you assess your strengths and weaknesses, consider using one of the following tests:

CareerFitter

Career Hunter

If you're still unsure what career suits you, ask yourself one of the following questions:

What are your main interests and strengths?

Are you a creative or analytical thinker? Are you a thinker or a doer?

How do you envision yourself in the next 5 to 10 years?

What values are important to you in a company setting?

What skills do I need to develop to pursue a career in a certain field?

Consider taking a gap year

If you're still uncertain about your career path, consider taking a gap year. It allows you to change scenery, reflect on your passions, and get involved with personal projects that interest you. It's also a great opportunity to learn new skills, travel around the world, and try out different things. For more inspiration, take a look at gap year programs in the UK and UCAS gap year options .

For more expert tips, refer to our blog article on how to find and track your job applications .

School Leaver CV example

In this school-leaver CV sample, Isabella highlights her previous work experience. She has showcased her customer service and language skills to gain a competitive edge. This simple CV template is well-structured, concise, and well-formatted, which looks appealing and is easy to read by recruiters.

Refer to our school leaver CV example for more career advice for school leavers.

Kickstart your career with a winning CV! Use our easy-to-follow guide and templates to create a CV for your first job !

Additional resources:

Skills for careers

MI5 school leaver programmes

Allaboutschoolleavers: School leaver jobs

School leaver options by the The Education Hub

Institute for apprenticeships

M&S school leavers programmes

Local (university) career services

Online workshops and webinars.

Key takeaways

Numerous options are available to school leavers in the UK, from further education and vocational courses to apprenticeships, internships, and entry-level jobs. It's important to explore different paths, remain open-minded, and be proactive in your search for the right opportunity. Staying positive and motivated as you navigate your future is crucial. Remember, the key is to stay open-minded, explore various options, and be proactive in your career search.

Tailor your CV and cover letter to specific jobs.

Create a master CV to streamline your job application process.

You could follow A-levels, apprenticeships, vocational courses, and internships.

A systematic approach to job search could reduce stress and make your job process smoother.

Quality outweighs quantity when crafting and sending out your CVs.

Next steps?

If you need more support in your job search, we have compiled several resources to make it easier. First, our professional team of experts at the CV Writing Service can guide you through the entire process of a job search.

Take a look at one of our CV examples for more inspiration about different career paths you could pursue as a school leaver. Or see one of our related blog articles below to help you

We're on a mission to prepare students from all levels for career success through industry-specific education and training.

How to start a cover letter

How to create a LinkedIn profile

Highest-paying jobs in the UK (including those with no experience)

Every great job begins with a great CV!

What are the options for a school leaver.

School leavers have various options, including further education (A-levels and T-levels), work-based learning (apprenticeships, traineeships, and internships), vocational courses, graduation schemes, entry-level jobs, and part-time jobs.

Refer to the SEO (Sponsors for Educational Opportunity) London website for more information about pre-professional development and entry-level career options.

Can I work full-time after leaving school?

Yes, you can work full-time after leaving school. Many entry-level job opportunities are available for school leavers, and apprenticeships also offer full-time work combined with training.

How do apprenticeships differ from internships? 

Apprenticeships combine practical work experience and academic learning, leading to a recognised qualification. Internships are typically shorter and focus on gaining work experience in a specific field without necessarily leading to a qualification.

Are there specific resources for school leavers in Scotland?

Yes, school leavers in Scotland have access to specific resources and opportunities, such as:

Scottish Vocational Qualifications (SVQs)

Foundation Apprenticeships

Higher National Certificate (HNC) or a Higher National Diploma (HND)

How do I choose between A-levels and vocational courses? 

Choosing between A-levels and vocational courses depends on your career goals, interests, and preferred learning style. A-levels are a better fit for those aiming to pursue academic careers, whereas vocational courses are perfect for hands-on, practical careers. Think of what aligns best with your aspirations and strengths.

What are the best college courses for school leavers in the UK?

Some of the most in-demand college courses for school leavers in the UK include:

Business Administration and Management

Information Technology and Computer Science

Health and Social Care

Engineering and Construction Trades

Creative Arts and Media

Some of the best platforms for school leaver courses include Riverside College , City of Bristol College , West Herts College , Exeter college , Weston college , and many others. Alternatively, take a look at the best school leaver courses by Reed .

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Updated July 02 2024

Artöm is your go-to Content Specialist committed to assisting job seekers globally. Through his engaging blog articles and in-depth guides, he's on a mission to make your career journey a breeze. Artöm is passionate about SEO, design, and all aspects of marketing, delivering expert advice that resonates with diverse audiences. Beyond work, you can find him practicising Kung Fu, travelling, reading a book, or enjoying the company of his beloved black cat. Try it now

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