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CWP: Craft of Prose: Cover Letter Resources

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Cover Letter resources

Cover Letter Writing Guide - Penn Career Services - A writing guide on cover letters prepared by Penn Career Services that covers the purpose of cover letters, cover letter etiquette,
Job Search Letters - Purdue Online Writing Lab (OWL) - These OWL resources will help you write job application letters, thank you and follow up letters, as well as effective acceptance and rejection letters. Also included are links to other OWL resources geared for entry-level and skilled labor positions.
Microsoft Office Templates - Access a wide selection of MS Word templates with formatting for various styles of resumes and cover letters.

Skill Sumo Future Proof: How to Craft a Cover letter This video, from Academic Video, will teach you how to craft a cover letter.
What to Include in the Resume and Cover Letter. From Sage Video, this online tutorial provides tips for developing your resume and for writing cover letters.
<< Previous: Resume Resources
Last Updated: Aug 26, 2024 1:21 PM
URL: https://guides.library.upenn.edu/c.php?g=1419866

The Abington Sun

We are your most reliable campus news, how to write a cover letter.

Posted By: Lauren Weber August 26, 2024

Lauren Weber

So you have to write a cover letter. Do you know how to start one? Do you even know what a cover letter is? Well, i n a nutshell, a cover letter is a three to four-paragraph letter applicants will send to employers when applying for a job. The cover letter can be a great way to showcase your interests, skills, and achievements. But how do you write one? What do you include?

On Campus Resources

If you have already written your cover and need someone to look it over, you can upload a copy to Nittany Lion Careers where someone from CPD will be happy to review it. “We are more than happy to look over student resumes and cover letters. We encourage students to use these resources during their time at Abington,” Jennifer Rae states. The CPD also has some online resources to help you write your letter. You can look at the career guide CPD provides and check out this video they posted on YouTube. In my experience, whenever I send out my cover letter the review takes about a day or two. You can check out some resources on social media too.

Other Resources

Some influencers who excel at spreading need-to-know career information for young adults are Internshipgirl and AdviceWithErin [links?] . You can easily find them on Instagram. These women provide career advice for college students or young professionals, but they also have some cover letter templates on their platforms.

Additionally, Indeed offers some help, walking users through writing a cover letter and even providing some templates. Much of the advice that I’ve seen suggests that the first step is formatting your letter:

The header should contain your name, contact information, and your address in the upper right corner. Place the name of the organization and their address in the lower left-hand corner.
Use a name where possible
Where a name isn’t possible, use a title, like “Dear Hiring Manager”
General phrases like “To Whom It May Concern” should be used as a last resort.
Opening paragraph
This is the first section of your letter and will typically be the first impression an employer will get as soon as they read the letter so it’s important to draw them in quickly.
It’s good practice to mention the position you’re applying for and a good way of showing your interest in the company.
Second paragraph
This section is a brief overview of your career background, any achievements, or relevant skills to the position
This is where you are going to use as many keywords as possible from the job description
A third paragraph is optional but if you have a lot of work experience and want to showcase any more accomplishments or skills this can be a section to put those items.
You can also discuss any transferable skills that are relevant to the role
Be sure to thank the reader for reviewing your cover letter

I hope this helps and remember you have a vast amount of resources at your fingers tips.

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Jobscan > Cover Letter Writing Guide

How To Write A Cover Letter in 2024 (Expert Tips and Examples)

Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to write a cover letter that will get you noticed by recruiters.

Trusted by:

A survey revealed that 77% of recruiters prefer candidates who send in a cover letter, even if submitting it is optional. Additionally, 90% of executives consider cover letters invaluable when assessing job candidates.

So, if you think cover letters are no longer important and necessary in 2024, think again.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you write a cover letter that effectively sells your skills and professional experience, increases your chances of getting interviews, and gets your foot in the door.

Table of Contents

What is a cover letter and do you still need one in 2024?

A cover letter is a letter of introduction accompanying your resume that paints why you are the best person for the job, what you bring to the table, and how you can help move the company forward.

Is the cover letter dead? No! In fact, a recent study by ResumeLab revealed that 64% of job vacancies still require that you include a cover letter in your application and 83% of HR pros said that cover letters are important for their hiring decision.

The bottom line is that a cover letter is still a valuable piece of your job search collateral. Nail your cover letter and you could end up getting that dream job.

So what exactly do you need to accomplish in your cover letter?

What is the purpose of a cover letter?

According to 49% of HR managers , your cover letter is the second best way to call attention to your resume and distinguish yourself from other applicants.

So the main purpose of your cover letter is to compel the recruiter to read more about you on your resume and move you to the next part of the hiring process.

Further, according to award-winning resume expert Melanie Denny , your cover letter is your value proposition letter. It proves why you are the best candidate to address the company’s needs with the professional skills and qualifications to succeed in the job.

Here’s an example of a great cover letter:

Now let’s get into the details of what your cover letter needs to include.

Cover Letter Structure Checklist

Here’s a quick rundown of what you need to include in your cover letter.

Contact Details Name Address (or City, State with zip code) Phone number Email address
Greeting Whenever possible, address the hiring manager by name.
Opening Who are you? What are your relevant skills and accomplishments?
Body (1-2 paragraphs) What do you know about the company? Why are you applying for this job? What value can you bring to the company? Include measurable results when possible.
Closing Reiterate your interest. Add a Call to Action. Mention any attachments. Use a professional sign-off like “Best” or “Sincerely” before your full name.

Here’s an example for the visual learners out there:

Now that you know the basics of what to include in your cover letter, let’s go through the process from start to finish to see how you can write a cover letter that will make you stand out from the rest of the candidates.

How to write a cover letter in 9 steps

It can be intimidating to try to parse down all your best qualities into a few quick paragraphs for your cover letter.

Here are 9 steps you can take to make sure you’re headed in the right direction:

Step 1. Do your research

Before writing your cover letter, thoroughly read the job description and the requirements for the job.

Melanie Denny , award-winning resume expert, likens the job description to your cover letter cheat sheet. And when checking the job description, she says you need to consider the following:

What are the company’s priorities?
What are their goals for the role?
What outcomes and accomplishments in your previous roles match the goals?
What are the key phrases and verbiage the company uses?

This will help you customize your cover letter, angle yourself and your narrative to fit the role better, and impress the hiring manager.

Try reaching out to the recruiter, hiring manager, or someone working in the company if you want more in-depth information about the company and the position you are applying for.

Step 2. Customize your cover letter for every job

Make sure your cover letter matches the job you are applying for. Writing a generic cover letter is a missed opportunity as this will not appeal to the recruiter or hiring manager. According to research from ResumeGo , 81% of HR professionals value job-specific cover letters over generic ones. Jobseekers who had tailored cover letters received a 53% higher callback rate compared to those who had no cover letter.

Remember, your cover letter is your chance to prove that you are passionate about working for a given company, so take the time to write a tailored cover letter for each position . You can do this by mentioning your skills and experience that are directly related to what’s mentioned in the job description. If you’re applying for a data analyst role that requires expertise in Microsoft Power BI, cite an example of a Power BI dashboard you built and how it helped the company.

Read our full guide: How to Optimize Your Cover Letter

Step 3. Include all of your contact info

You should make it easy for the hiring manager to reach you. In your cover letter, list these three things:

Address (including zip code– for ATS purposes )
Phone number with area code
Email address
Name of the Hiring Manager
Name of the Company
Address of the Company

Traditionally, your contact information is included in the upper left corner of your cover letter if you’re writing in a document. If you’re writing an email, this can be included beneath your signature at the end of the message.

Cover Letter Header Example:

Jane Jobscan Seattle, WA 98101 (555) 555-5555 • [email protected] linkedin.com/in/jane-jobscan

February 25, 2024

Lavinia Smith Hiring Manager Media Raven, Inc. Plantersville, MS 38862

Step 4. Address your cover letter to a real person

According to Melanie Denny, resume expert and President of Resume-Evolution, addressing your cover letter to a real person and addressing them by their name feels more personal and shows recruiters and hiring managers that you took time and did the research.

You can usually find the hiring manager’s name by searching the company website or LinkedIn profile, or by calling the company and asking which hiring manager is assigned to the particular position.

Once you learn the name, a simple greeting of “John” or “Hello John” is all you need.

If you can’t find the hiring manager’s name, you can use any of the following:

Dear Hiring Manager
Dear (Department) Team
To whom it may concern

Read our full guide: How to Address a Cover Letter

Step 5. Write a strong opening statement

Melanie Denny suggests that you start your cover letter with a bang. This will hook the hiring manager’s interest and show them how you can be a valuable addition to the team.

Here are things you can do:

Open with a thought-provoking question
Make a big claim about what you can do for the company
Say something relevant and specific to the company

For example,

“I want to bring the marketing department of Media Raven Inc. to the next level and help the company exceed goals and reach more customers as Marketing Manager.”

Step 6. Prove how your professional background and skills help the company in the body of your cover letter

Take advantage of this real estate and prove to the prospective employer how your background, values, and professional experiences position you as the best fit for what the role requires.

This is especially important if you are switching careers. Highlight your relevant accomplishments in your cover letter, showcase your transferable skills, and explain how you can help the company address its challenges and succeed.

For example:

“As the Director of Marketing at ABC Company since 2018, I directed all phases of both the creative and technical elements of marketing initiatives, including data mining, brand creation, print/web collateral development, lead generation, channel partner cultivation, customer segmentation/profiling, as well as CRM and acquisition strategies.

Perhaps most importantly, I offer a history of proven results, as evidenced by the following marketing accomplishments for my current employer:

Captured a 28% expansion in customer base since 2018, achieved during a period of overall decline in the retail industry.
Led national marketing campaign (comprised of trade shows, media, and PR initiatives) for my company’s newly launched technology services division
Developed and executed SEO strategy that achieved and sustained top 3 rankings on Google (organic, nonpaid results) for key product search terms.
Oversaw the creation of a new company logo and rebranded 100+ products to cement a cohesive corporate identity and support new company direction.”

Just like when writing a resume, your cover letter should only include the most relevant and positive information about you. To home in on the right skills and qualifications to mention, try scanning your cover letter .

Read our full guide: What Do You Put in a Cover Letter?

Step 7. Write a strong closing statement and a call to action

Use the closing of your cover letter to:

Thank the hiring manager for their time
Mention any attachments (resume, portfolio, samples)
Invite to schedule an interview
Let the hiring manager know that you will follow up

Keep the closing professional and try not to sound too eager since that can come off as desperate. You must also keep in mind the tone and personality of the company you’re communicating with.

“Given the opportunity, I’m confident I can achieve similar groundbreaking marketing results for Media Raven, Inc.

Ms. Smith, I would welcome the chance to discuss your marketing objectives and how I can help you attain them. Feel free to call me at (555) 555-5555 or email me at [email protected] to arrange a meeting. I look forward to speaking with you.”

Read our full guide: How to End a Cover Letter With a Call to Action

Step 8. End with a professional closing salutation

To finish out the closing , use a formal signature. You can use “Sincerely,” “Best,” “Regards,” “Yours,” or any other professional signoff.

Use your first and last name as your signature. If you’re sending your cover letter in the body of an email, make sure it’s your personal email account that does not list your current work signature beneath the email. Your other option is to write the cover letter in a word document, save it as a PDF, and attach it to your email.

Step 9. Optimize your cover letter for the ATS

The Applicant Tracking System or the ATS is a software that companies use to screen applications and shrink their pool of applicants. Through the ATS database, a recruiter or hiring manager can just search for specific skills and keywords and the ATS will return a list of the top candidates who match the search criteria.

To optimize your cover letter for ATS, you need to:

Carefully read the job description
Take note of skills and resume keywords frequently mentioned
Incorporate these keywords into your cover letter

Read our full guide: How to Optimize Your Cover Letter to Beat the ATS

Does your cover letter pass the test?

Scan your cover letter to see how well it matches the job you're applying for. Optimize your cover letter and resume with Jobscan to get more interviews.

How to Format Your Cover Letter

A cover letter is a letter, but that doesn’t mean you should just plop everything onto the page in a stream-of-consciousness flow. After all, cover letter formats determine the order in which the hiring manager learns about you, which can significantly influence their first impression. Use the format order below as a guideline for building the structure of your cover letter.

Notice how the topics flow like a conversation? When you first meet someone, you introduce yourself, tell them your name and a little about yourself, and then leave the conversation open for future meetings.

Your cover letter is just a like having a conversation with someone for the first time. Keeping that in mind will help you to keep things simple and focus on the right information.

Below are some examples of how to format your cover letter for different types of applications.

How to format your cover letter for a job

State your name
Explain your work history
Tell them what you can do for their company
Say goodbye

How to format your cover letter for an internship

Explain your coursework history and education
Explain what you can gain professionally

How to format your cover letter with no experience

Explain your skillset and character qualities that make you well-suited for the role
Outline entry-level achievements

You can also check out our cover letter templates to help you as you write your own cover letter.

Do you want to save time and receive instant feedback on your cover letter? Check out Jobscan’s cover letter tool .

Read more : How to Write a Resume for Today’s Job Market

Cover Letter Examples

Here are some examples to help you create a cover letter that will make you stand out and give a strong first impression.

1. Internship Cover Letter Example

2. Career Change Cover Letter Example

3. Operations Manager Cover Letter Example

4. Communications Professional Cover Letter Example

5. Software Engineer Cover Letter Example

Cover Letter Do’s and Don’ts

Aside from the basic steps of how to write a cover letter, there are some things you definitely need to make sure you avoid – and things you can’t skip! Follow these do’s and don’ts for writing a cover letter, and you’ll end up with a much better result.

Customize a cover letter for every job application that asks for one.
Incorporate the top skills or keywords from the job description in your cover letter.
Include the company name and address, the job title, and point of contact’s name on your cover letter.
Incorporate relevant and compelling measurable results in your cover letter.
Explain, briefly, any dramatic shifts in a career (i.e. you are changing industries or job titles).
Use company information to relate your interest in the job.
Keep your cover letter concise.
Convey WHY you are right for the position.
Use a cover letter unless one was requested.
Attach a cover letter directly to your resume unless requested to do so.
Use the same boilerplate cover letter for multiple job applications.
Over-explain your work history, employment gaps, or qualifications – save it for the interview.
Badmouth any of your past employers.
Use the cover letter to complain or tell about your job search journey.
Use non-standard formatting like tables, columns, or graphics. (ATS can’t read those and your cover letter copy might not be scannable by the system.)
Use long paragraphs.

More Cover Letter Tips

When emailing your cover letter, be strategic with your subject line. Never leave the subject line blank, and double-check for specific instructions in the job posting. If possible, use the email subject line to sell yourself. For example: “Experienced Software Engineer Seeks Senior Level Mobile Position.”
Keep your cover letter brief and to the point. The hiring manager will be reading many cover letters. By carefully selecting your words and experiences to include, you can stand out from the crowd of applicants.
Be confident. Let the hiring manager know the reasons why you deserve this position, and make yourself believe them too!
Your cover letter should not be simply a rephrasing of your resume. Let your personality show and go into further detail about your most valuable skills and experiences.
Do your research on the company and position before writing the cover letter. It should be customized to that specific company’s values and needs. Hiring managers can spot a generic resume from a mile away.
Use the job posting as your guide for what topics, skills, and experience to focus on.
The best cover letters include keywords from the job posting. Applicant tracking systems may scan your cover letter along with your resume and will be using these keywords to sort through the applicants.
Check for spelling and grammar errors.
Send your cover letter as a PDF to avoid readability issues and to present the most professional application package.
Scan Your Cover Letter with Jobscan to make sure you’re checking all the boxes.

Optimize Your Cover Letter with Jobscan’s Cover Letter Scanner

In addition to resume scans, Jobscan Premium users can also scan their cover letters against a job description.

This generates a report of the top hard skills and soft skills found in the job description that should be included in your cover letter, plus additional checks for optimal length, contact information, measurable results, and more.

Here’s how it works:

Key Takeaways

Your cover letter gives recruiters, hiring managers, and prospective employers an overview of your professional qualifications and relevant accomplishments that position you as the best candidate for the job.

So you have to make your cover letter powerful and interesting enough to make the recruiter or hiring manager read your resume and move you to the next step of the hiring process.

Here are key pointers when writing your cover letter.

Make sure you’ve read the job description and done your research about the company.
Get to know the name of the recruiter or hiring manager so you can address your cover letter properly.
Include relevant and measurable accomplishments in the body of your cover letter to prove to the hiring manager that you have what it takes to succeed in the job.
Keep your cover letter short and concise.
Your cover letter is not a substitute for your resume so don’t just copy and paste whatever is in your resume into your cover letter.

One last important reminder!

Having a strong cover letter is not enough. You also need to create a killer resume to make sure you stand out and land job interviews.

Learn more about writing a cover letter

How to Address a Cover Letter

10 Tips for Writing a Cover Letter

The Career Change Cover Letter: How to Get it Right

What Do You Put in a Cover Letter?

Is Your Cover Letter Robot-Approved?

How to End a Cover Letter with a Call to Action

Frequently asked questions, what are the different types of cover letters.

There are four types of cover letters.

Application cover letter An application cover letter is what you send to the recruiter or hiring manager along with your resume.
Prospecting cover letter You send this when you want to inquire prospective employers about open positions in their company or put yourself top-of-mind when they do decide to hire.
Networking cover letter You will send this to professionals in your network in hopes of getting referrals, introductions, job search advice, and job opportunities.
Career change cover letter This is what you send when you are switching careers or industries.

What tense should I use when writing a cover letter?

It can be appropriate to change tenses throughout your cover letter.

For example, you can explain who you are in the present tense and explain important aspects of your work history in the past tense. You can switch to future perfect tense when discussing the ways you would perform if given the position.

Think of it like this, “I am ABC, I did XYZ previously, and I look forward to doing EFG in this position.”

What to include in a cover letter

Our cover letter guidelines above explain how to write a cover letter more deeply, but in summary, you should always include your name, relevant work experience, and reasons why you are right for the job in your cover letter.

When not to include a cover letter

When the job posting clearly states not to include a cover letter
When you don’t have the time and energy to customize your cover letter. It’s better not to send a cover letter than to send a half-baked and mediocre one.
When you are applying online and there is no field to upload your cover letter.
When your cover letter has a lot of typos and errors.

What should you send first: a cover letter or a resume?

Typically, your cover letter and resume will be sent as a pair, but your cover letter is meant to be an introduction to your resume. If it is an email, use the cover letter in the body and attach your resume, otherwise, attach both.

Pro Tip: Be sure to review all instructions in the job description to follow the hiring manager’s requests.

How long should a cover letter be?

According to 70% of recruiters, a cover letter should not exceed 250 to 300 words.

Although there is no hard and fast rule about this, the ideal cover letter length should be around half a page to one full page in length to keep your message concise, clear, and easy to digest.

Should a cover letter be sent as a file attachment?

If it is not specified in the job posting, a cover letter can be sent either as an attachment (PDF is best) or in the body of an application email with your resume attached.

How to share a cover letter with a potential employer

There are several methods of sharing a cover letter with potential employers, depending on their application process.

Cover letters can be written on a document and turned into a PDF to be uploaded to a job application website or attached to an email along with your resume.

In other cases, your cover letter can simply be written in the email message to a hiring manager, with your resume attached.

How to title and save your cover letter

The key in every aspect of job applications is to make yourself an easy “yes” for your potential employer. That means making it easy for the hiring manager to keep track of your application materials for later review. With this in mind, make sure your full name and the phrase “cover letter” are included in the file label. Other helpful details might include the job title you’re applying for or the year of your application.

Here are a few examples:

Your Name_Cover Letter_Job Title.pdf
Cover Letter_Your Name_Job Title.pdf
Job Title_Your Name_Cover Letter.pdf
Your Name_Cover Letter_2024.pdf
Cover Letter_Your Name_2024.pdf

Explore more cover letter resources

Cover Letter Formats

ATS-Optimized Cover Letter

Cover Letter Templates

Generate a personalized cover letter in as little as 5 seconds

Say goodbye to the stress of writing a cover letter from scratch. Our AI-powered cover letter generator uses GPT-4 technology to create a personalized and ATS-friendly cover letter in one click. Stand out from the competition and land more job interviews.

Trojan Stories

Should You Use AI to Write Your Cover Letter?

Selective focus shot of diverse group of business people sitting in line against the wall, chatting, preparing and reading their resumes and cover letters when waiting for a job interview meeting.

It’s more common than ever to use AI tools in everyday life to streamline complicated or time-consuming tasks. Whether you’re pivoting careers, stepping back into the professional world after a break or searching for a job after a layoff, writing dozens of cover letters can be daunting. So, you may be asking yourself: Should you use AI to write your cover letter for you?

USC Online spoke to USC Career Center expert Lori Shreve Blake to find out when it’s appropriate to use AI in a cover letter — and when this tool should take a backseat.

Do: Use AI to Understand the Job Description

Writing a great cover letter takes time, especially if you’re out of practice. While it’s important that your cover letter is written in your authentic voice, Shreve Blake said AI assistants can help you tailor it to the job you want. 

Shreve Blake suggests using an AI assistant like ChatGPT to generate keywords from a job description, which you can incorporate into your cover letter. You can also save time by asking AI to read a job description and summarize the key functions of the role. 

You can also ask AI tools like ChatGPT to write a first draft of the cover letter. But there are some important details that AI won’t be able to add.

“You’re not going to state day-to-day duties in [your] cover letter,” Shreve Blake said. “You should emphasize your best accomplishments, share your unique qualifications, and demonstrate your professional fit for the role, your values and the organization’s alignment. Should you add quantifiers? Add numbers, percentages, [things] like that.”

Job seekers might be tempted to cut corners with AI to save time, but Shreve Blake emphasized that there are other ways to speed up the process of writing a cover letter. Once you have a template of your cover letter with an introduction, middle paragraph and summary paragraph, you can customize sentences, interchange keywords, and add examples based on the job you’re applying to. You can also customize the formatting of the document.

“I give an analogy of a house: Once you have that foundation of the cover letter completed with AI, then you can incorporate job-specific sentence s as you see fit,” Shreve Blake said. 

Many people also find writing a cover letter becomes quicker and easier over time.

“Writing cover letters is a skill, like other skills in life,” Shreve Blake said. “So, the more you do it, the faster and more confident you’re going to get.”

Don’t: Neglect Your Research

Researching your target employer is an integral step in the cover letter writing process. Applicants should visit the company’s website, read the mission statement and consider which of the company’s values resonates with them most. This research will help you put together an argument about why you’d make a great candidate — something an AI-generated cover letter can’t do, Shreve Blake said.

“The cover letter is also a persuasive piece,” Shreve Blake said. “So, it’s almost like that interview question[s]: ‘Tell me about yourself. Why are you interested in this job? What unique skills and experience makes you the best person for the job?’”

Making these connections early in the application process prepares you for interviews later. This “process of self-reflection” helps you identify what the organization is looking for and which key achievements make you stand out, Shreve Blake said.

Don’t: Forego Your Authentic Voice

Although recruiters can’t always tell whether a cover letter was written by AI or a human, there are sophisticated tools that can detect it, Shreve Blake said. Recruiters have also told her that they don’t like the generic cover letters they see when reviewing applications and Shreve Blake challenges job seekers to ask the question: “What do you want your first impression to be with a potential employer?”

“[If] the recruiter receives [a] generic, AI-written cover letter [and] one that is more custom to the job, which one do you think the recruiter is going to pick?” Shreve Blake said. “You must show integrity, you must show thought and care … It’s a test to see how you’ll be as an employee.”

Whether or not you choose to use AI, be sure to inject your authentic voice into your cover letter and use it to showcase your writing skills. (If you’re at a loss for verbs, check out the USC Career Center’s resume and cover letter booklet for a helpful list of action words to incorporate.) Employers use cover letters to judge whether applicants will be the right fit for email- and communication-heavy jobs, Shreve Blake said.

“I would say … [your] cover letter can be seen as a form of a work sample,” Shreve Blake said. “And it shows your future employer that you have skills in writing, that you possess attention to detail in submitting a cover letter that is grammatically correct and free of typos, that you have skills in communication, that you have skills in persuasion and strategic thinking.”

Do: Use AI to Check Your Grammar

Although you can speed up the process, writing a good cover letter takes time. So, you want to make sure your finished product is concise and easy to read.

“[Recruiters] spend about 15–30 seconds [reading] the resume. They may spend even less time on the cover letter and many employers do not require a cover letter ,” Shreve Blake said.

This is where AI comes in. Shreve Blake recommended using Grammarly or a similar AI-powered writing assistant to give your cover letter a once-over after you are finished writing it. This ensures that your spelling and grammar are up to par and that there are no filler words clogging up your precious cover letter real estate. 

“ Grammarly is a good tool to use to edit your cover letter ,” Shreve Blake said. “Twenty years ago, it was common to write a cover letter and then let a friend or family member double-check it for meaning and typos before submitting it to a potential employer. … Well, now you don’t have to ask a friend or family member. … [You] can use Grammarly and do that.”

Just remember to double-check your cover letter one more time after using a tool like Grammarly. Sometimes, AI takes your writing out of context, Shreve Blake warned.

Don’t: Limit Your Focus to Just the Cover Letter

Unfortunately, even writing a perfect cover letter sometimes won’t land you the job you want. Shreve Blake advised that people find additional ways to express their interest in a role or company, including networking and conducting informational interviews.

“At the end of the day, AI doesn’t hire people. Humans hire humans. People hire people,” Shreve Blake said.

Similarly, if someone at the company you are applying to is vouching for you, make sure not to make them look bad by submitting a generic, AI-written cover letter. After all, they are putting their reputations on the line for you, Shreve Blake said.

In the end, securing your dream job is all about going the extra mile . No matter what balance you choose to strike between using AI and writing the old-fashioned way, the goal remains the same: to create a cover letter that is tailored to the position you want and sells you well to your future employer.  

“ And, let’s face it, cover letter writing is not easy. ” Shreve Blake said. “So, not taking the easy way out and doing your research on the organization, addressing the right person, and going through the process of customizing the cover letter after using AI gives you a competitive edge.”

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Cover Letter

How to sign a cover letter: a guide to professional correspondence

Email cover letter

Attached cover letter, physical cover letter .

You’ve polished your cover letter and you’re good to go. There’s only one thing left to do: Sign on the dotted line. But how can you get this right? Do you need a handwritten signature or can you type out your name? In this guide, we’ll go over how to sign a cover letter like a pro.

What is a cover letter?

First things first, let’s cover the basics. A cover letter is correspondence to the hiring manager. It details why you are applying for this specific role. It also allows you to make a solid case about your suitability for the vacancy. It’s the chance to clearly state why you’re the perfect candidate.

Every cover letter includes the same elements, as follows:

Contact details
Introduction
Body (2-3 paragraphs)

In this guide, we will be looking at the last point on the list. The sign-off of a cover letter needs to make the right impression on the hiring manager. Looking for some additional inspiration? Read more about writing a cover letter in our full guide.

Should you sign a cover letter?

Times are changing. You no longer need a handwritten signature on a cover letter. Since we live in an ever-more digitalised world, modern-day recruiters don’t always expect to see this. Most of the time, it’s perfectly acceptable to simply type your name at the bottom of the letter instead.

However, in some cases, adding a full-on signature on a cover letter could help you to stand out from the crowd. It’s important to know when this is appropriate before you get started with your application. That way, you can make sure that the cover letter you submit is suitable.

How to decide whether to use a cover letter signature

Let’s kick things off by making this decision simple. If you’re unsure whether to handwrite your signature on a cover letter, let the format decide for you. Take a quick look at our breakdown below when you are figuring out which type of cover letter signature works for you:

Email cover letter

Cover letter attachment

Physical cover letter

Typed-out name

Typed name/

electronic signature

Typed name/handwritten signature

Looking to create a cover letter attachment? Look no further. We have a wide selection of expertly formatted cover letter templates that you can use at just the click of a button.

How to sign a cover letter based on its format

Effective cover letters are interesting and engaging. Chances are, you’ve spent a long time making sure that the body of your letter hits the mark. However, when you come to the end of the document, you don’t want to lose momentum. Getting the signature right is a must.

Recruiters spend just seven seconds looking at each new application. In that blink of an eye, they decide whether you have what it takes to make it to the interview. If your cover letter doesn’t keep them reading at every point, it could ruin your chances of success.

Let’s break down how you should sign your cover letter based on the format you are using.

Email cover letters are quickly becoming the norm. Since you’re likely to apply for a job by sending your CV to the hiring manager, you may choose to write your cover letter in the body of your email. There’s nothing wrong with this approach and it’s certainly speedy. There are two options that you can choose from when using this approach:

Type your full name out . If you decide to do this, you should use a standard sign-off, such as “Kind regards” or “Sincerely” followed by your name.
Use your email signature . Do you already have an email signature? If so, you can use it. Make sure it is suitable for the hiring manager to see before pressing “send”.

As a bonus, you may choose to include a link to your LinkedIn profile. Make sure that it is up to date before you do so. Take a look at our adaptable example below:

Kind regards,

Mary Smith

+ 44 74795724

Whether you’re filling out an online application or sending your CV to the hiring manager, you might send your cover letter as an attachment. In this case, you should save your cover letter as a PDF document (unless otherwise specified by the job description). Use our cover letter builder to create an interview-winning letter and then download it as a PDF at the click of a button.

You can add a signature by typing your name in the builder. However, if you want an electronic signature, leave it off completely. Once you’ve downloaded the PDF, you can use a program such as DocuSign or SignRequest to add an electronic signature to the document.

Sign your cover letter with Preview!

Do you have a Mac? If so, it’s even easier. Open your PDF in Preview and then go to Tools, then Annotate, and then Signature. You can quickly create an e-signature for your cover letter.

Sending a physical cover letter? While less popular than online methods, some employers ask that you send them your application in the post. If you are sending your cover letter as an actual letter, you have two options again. Let’s take a look at them:

Typed signature . Chances are, you will create your cover letter on a computer and print it off. If that is the case, there’s nothing wrong with typing your name as the cover letter signature. As before, you should include “Kind regards” or “Sincerely” first.
Handwritten signature . Since you are printing out your cover letter anyway, you can sign your cover letter by hand. Write “Kind regards” or “Sincerely” and leave a gap. When the document is printed, get a good black pen and sign the document.

It doesn’t matter which you choose. However, some employers may be impressed by the extra attention to detail if you hand sign your cover letter. The choice is yours.

Key takeaways

Making sure that you sign your cover letter is a must. In this guide, we’ve covered the main options depending on the format that you use. While signing a cover letter may seem like a small detail, it can make a world of difference. Use our cover letter builder tool to get started now.

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Should You Use AI to Write Your Cover Letter?

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You may be tempted to have ChatGPT or another AI tool write your cover letter for you. Here are some dos and don’ts to keep in mind.

Article originally written by Molly M. Kruse and published by USC Online

USC Online spoke to USC Career Center expert Lori Shreve Blake to find out when it’s appropriate to use AI in a cover letter — and when this tool should take a backseat.

Do: Use AI to Understand the Job Description

You can also ask AI tools like ChatGPT to write a first draft of the cover letter. But there are some important details that AI won’t be able to add.

“I give an analogy of a house: Once you have that foundation of the cover letter completed with AI, then you can incorporate job-specific sentences as you see fit,” Shreve Blake said. 

Many people also find writing a cover letter becomes quicker and easier over time.

“Writing cover letters is a skill, like other skills in life,” Shreve Blake said. “So, the more you do it, the faster and more confident you’re going to get.”

Don’t: Neglect Your Research

Don’t: Forego Your Authentic Voice

Do: Use AI to Check Your Grammar

Although you can speed up the process, writing a good cover letter takes time. So, you want to make sure your finished product is concise and easy to read.

“[Recruiters] spend about 15–30 seconds [reading] the resume. They may spend even less time on the cover letter and many employers do not require a cover letter,” Shreve Blake said.

“Grammarly is a good tool to use to edit your cover letter,” Shreve Blake said. “Twenty years ago, it was common to write a cover letter and then let a friend or family member double-check it for meaning and typos before submitting it to a potential employer. … Well, now you don’t have to ask a friend or family member. … [You] can use Grammarly and do that.”

Just remember to double-check your cover letter one more time after using a tool like Grammarly. Sometimes, AI takes your writing out of context, Shreve Blake warned.

Don’t: Limit Your Focus to Just the Cover Letter

“At the end of the day, AI doesn’t hire people. Humans hire humans. People hire people,” Shreve Blake said.

“And, let’s face it, cover letter writing is not easy.” Shreve Blake said. “So, not taking the easy way out and doing your research on the organization, addressing the right person, and going through the process of customizing the cover letter after using AI gives you a competitive edge.”

Access more career advice from USC Online today.

More From Forbes

3 tips for including internship experience in a cover letter.

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How to stand out from the crowd as a new grad with internship experience

If you are a fresh graduate looking for a new job, a cover letter can help paint a helpful context of who you are and why you would be an excellent fit for the company. For seasoned professionals with considerable career milestones, resumes are often adequate to show their skillsets and how they would perform at a new job. Indicators like the type of company, pace of promotion, and scope of responsibilities paint a picture for the hiring managers of how they can expect the candidate to perform even before the interviews.

The good news for new graduates is that they are on an even playing field as they embark on a new career path with their peers. The downside is the need for additional information for the candidate to stand out from the crowd. Internship experience can be an advantage if leveraged and narrated correctly. When a company hires a new graduate, it knows the lack of experience and proof points to consider in the candidate. They are therefore looking for genuine interest, willingness to learn, and potential in new grads. If you have internship experience, including them in your cover letter is an excellent opportunity to feature these qualities. Here are a few tips on how to do this best.

Showcase Your Decision-making Process

One risk of hiring new graduates is that they may quit quickly if they find that the industry or the job function is not what they expected. If you have interned at a similar company, you can explain how that experience solidified your interest in the field and helped you narrow down the jobs you are genuinely interested in. By discussing your decision-making process and how the internship provided real-life perspective, you can demonstrate that you are a knowledgeable decision-maker rather than someone who is simply influenced by outside perspectives.

On the other hand, if you interned in an entirely different industry and position, you can use this experience to demonstrate that you discovered what you truly want to pursue. Highlight the positive lessons learned during the internship and avoid speaking negatively about past opportunities. The crucial point is to showcase what you gained from the experience and how it has strengthened your interest in the current company and role.

Be Truthful About The Scope Of Your Experience

Internship experiences can vary widely depending on the company, from simply shadowing an employee to conducting in-depth analysis or participating in structured rotational programs. However, it's important to note that internships typically don't involve holding leadership positions or having significant decision-making authority. It's essential to be honest about your role and responsibilities during an internship, as exaggerating or misrepresenting your experience will likely be noticed by hiring managers.

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In addition, you should not disclose any confidential information about the company at any time. Keep your account of the experience brief and truthful.

Highlight Relevant Skillsets And Potential

If your previous internship provided you with the skills described in the job requirements for the position you are applying for, be sure to emphasize this and explain how you used those skills, as well as your eagerness to further develop them. For example, if you gained experience in analyzing complex datasets during your internship, highlight how you enhanced the company's training through your independent learning efforts, express your enthusiasm for the skill, and illustrate how it contributed to the team's goals to demonstrate your understanding of the practical application of your work. This can show your potential for growth, desire to learn, and proactive orientation towards your job, attributes all hiring managers seek.

When hiring recent graduates, hiring managers are aware that the candidates do not have extensive pre-existing skill sets or decision-making experience. They are hired with the expectation to learn quickly, contribute enough to offset the onboarding and training efforts, and hopefully grow within the company. Including an internship experience in your cover letter can help alleviate any concerns the hiring manager may have about your genuine interest in the company and role, and your desire to learn. It also provides a context for the kind of employee you will be, in ways a resume cannot for new grads.

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The Writing Center • University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Academic Cover Letters

What is this handout about.

The long list of application materials required for many academic teaching jobs can be daunting. This handout will help you tackle one of the most important components: the cover letter or letter of interest. Here you will learn about writing and revising cover letters for academic teaching jobs in the United States of America.

What is an academic cover letter?

An academic cover letter describes your experiences and interest as a candidate for a specific position. It introduces you to the hiring committee and demonstrates how your academic background fits with the description of the position.

What do cover letters for academic teaching jobs typically contain?

At their most basic level, academic cover letters accomplish three things: one, they express your interest in the job; two, they provide a brief synopsis of your research and teaching; and three, they summarize your past experiences and achievements to illustrate your competence for the job. For early-career scholars, cover letters are typically no more than two pages (up to four pages for senior scholars). Occasionally, a third page may make sense for an early-career scholar if the application does not require a separate teaching statement and/or research statement. Digital versions of cover letters often contain hyperlinks to your CV or portfolio page. For some fields, cover letters may also include examples of your work, including music, popular articles, and other multimedia related to your research, service, or teaching available online. Typically, letters appear on departmental or university letterhead and include your signature. Above all, a strong cover letter presents your accomplishments and your familiarity with the institution and with the position.

How should I prepare to write my academic cover letter?

Like all writing, composing a cover letter is a process. The process may be as short as a few hours or as long as several weeks, but at the end the letter should present you as a strong candidate for the job. The following section has tips and questions for thinking through each stage of this writing process. You don’t need to answer all of these questions to write the letter; they are meant to help you brainstorm ideas.

Before you begin writing your cover letter, consider researching the institution, the department, and the student population. Incorporating all three aspects in your letter will help convey your interest in the position.

Get to know the institution. When crafting your cover letter, be aware of the type of institution to which you are applying. Knowing how the institution presents itself can help you tailor your letter and make it more specific.

Where is the institution located?
Is it on a quarter-system or semester-system?
What type of institution is it? Is it an R1? Is it an R2? Is it a liberal arts college? Is it an HBCU? Is it a community college? A private high school?
What is the institution’s culture? Is it teaching-focused or research-focused? Does it privilege experiential learning? Does it value faculty involvement outside the classroom? Is it affiliated with a specific religious tradition?
Does it have any specific institutional commitments?
How does the institution advocate for involvement in its local community?
What are the professional development opportunities for new and junior faculty?

Learn about the department. Knowing the specific culture and needs of the department can help you reach your audience: the department members who will be reading your documents and vetting you as a candidate.

Who is on the search committee? Who is the search committee chair?
What is the official name of the department?
Which different subfields make up the department?
Is it a dual appointment or a position in a dual department?
How does the department participate in specific types of student outreach?
Does the department have graduate students? Does it offer a terminal Master’s degree, Ph.D., or both? How large are the cohorts? How are they funded?
Does the department encourage or engage in interdisciplinary work?
Does the majority of the department favor certain theoretical or methodological approaches?
Does the department have partnerships with local institutions? If so, which ones?
Is the department attempting to fill a specific vacancy, or is it an entirely new position?
What are the typical course offerings in the department? Which courses might you be expected to teach? What courses might you be able to provide that are not currently available?

Consider the students. The search committee will often consider how you approach instructing and mentoring the student body. Sometimes committees will even reserve a position for a student or solicit student feedback on a candidate:

What populations constitute the majority of the undergraduate population?
Have there been any shifts in the student population recently?
Do students largely come from in-state or out-of-state?
Is there an international student population? If so, from which countries?
Is the university recruiting students from traditionally underrepresented populations?
Are students particularly active on campus? If so, how?

Many answers to these questions can be found both in the job description and on the institution’s website. If possible, consider contacting someone you know at the institution to ask about the culture directly. You can also use the institution’s course catalog, recruitment materials, alumni magazine, and other materials to get answers to these questions. The key is to understand the sort of institution to which you are applying, its immediate needs, and its future trajectory.

Remember, there is a resource that can help you with all three aspects—people. Reach out to your advisor, committee members, faculty mentors, and other contacts for insight into the prospective department’s culture and faculty. They might even help you revise your letter based on their expertise. Think of your job search as an opportunity to cultivate these relationships.

After you have done some initial research, think about how your experiences have prepared you for the job and identify the ones that seem the most relevant. Consider your previous research, internships, graduate teaching, and summer experiences. Here are some topics and questions to get you started thinking about what you might include.

Research Experiences. Consider how your research has prepared you for an academic career. Since the letter is a relatively short document, select examples of your research that really highlight who you are as a scholar, the direction you see your work going, and how your scholarship will contribute to the institution’s research community.

What are your current research interests?
What topics would you like to examine in the future?
How have you pursued those research interests?
Have you traveled for your research?
Have you published any of your research? Have you presented it at a conference, symposium, or elsewhere?
Have you worked or collaborated with scholars at different institutions on projects? If so, what did these collaborations produce?
Have you made your research accessible to your local community?
Have you received funding or merit-based fellowships for your research?
What other research contributions have you made? This may include opinion articles, book chapters, or participating as a journal reviewer.
How do your research interests relate to those of other faculty in the department or fill a gap?

Teaching Experience. Think about any teaching experience you may have. Perhaps you led recitations as a teaching assistant, taught your own course, or guest lectured. Pick a few experiences to discuss in your letter that demonstrate something about your teaching style or your interest in teaching.

What courses are you interested in teaching for the department? What courses have you taught that discussed similar topics or themes?
What new courses can you imagine offering the department that align with their aim and mission?
Have you used specific strategies that were helpful in your instruction?
What sort of resources do you typically use in the classroom?
Do you have anecdotes that demonstrate your teaching style?
What is your teaching philosophy?
When have you successfully navigated a difficult concept or topic in the classroom, and what did you learn?
What other opportunities could you provide to students?

Internships/Summer/Other Experiences. Brainstorm a list of any conferences, colloquiums, and workshops you have attended, as well as any ways you have served your department, university, or local community. This section will highlight how you participate in your university and scholarly community. Here are some examples of things you might discuss:

Professional development opportunities you may have pursued over the summer or during your studies
International travel for research or presentations
Any research you’ve done in a non-academic setting
Presentations at conferences
Participation in symposia, reading groups, working groups, etc.
Internships in which you may have implemented your research or practical skills related to your discipline
Participation in community engagement projects
Participation in or leadership of any scholarly and/or university organizations

In answering these questions, create a list of the experiences that you think best reflect you as a scholar and teacher. In choosing which experiences to highlight, consider your audience and what they would find valuable or relevant. Taking the time to really think about your reader will help you present yourself as an applicant well-qualified for the position.

Writing a draft

Remember that the job letter is an opportunity to introduce yourself and your accomplishments and to communicate why you would be a good fit for the position. Typically, search committees will want to know whether you are a capable job candidate, familiar with the institution, and a great future addition to the department’s faculty. As such, be aware of how the letter’s structure and content reflect your preparedness for the position.

The structure of your cover letter should reflect the typical standards for letter writing in the country in which the position is located (the list below reflects the standards for US letter writing). This usually includes a salutation, body, and closing, as well as proper contact information. If you are affiliated with a department, institution, or organization, the letter should be on letterhead.

Use a simple, readable font in a standard size, such as 10-12pt. Some examples of fonts that may be conventional in your field include Arial, Garamond, Times New Roman, and Verdana, among other similar fonts.
Do not indent paragraphs.
Separate all paragraphs by a line and justify them to the left.
Make sure that any included hyperlinks work.
Include your signature in the closing.

Before you send in your letter, make sure you proofread and look for formatting mistakes. You’ll read more about proofreading and revising later in this handout!

The second most important aspect of your letter is its content. Since the letter is the first chance to provide an in-depth introduction, it should expand on who you are as a scholar and possible faculty member. Below are some elements to consider including when composing your letter.

Identify the position you are applying to and introduce yourself. Traditionally, the first sentence of a job letter includes the full name of the position and where you discovered the job posting. This is also the place to introduce yourself and describe why you are applying for this position. Since the goal of a job letter is to persuade the search committee to include you on the list of candidates for further review, you may want to include an initial claim as to why you are a strong candidate for the position. Some questions you might consider:

What is your current status (ABD, assistant professor, post-doc, etc.)?
If you are ABD, have you defended your dissertation? If not, when will you defend?
Why are you interested in this position?
Why are you a strong candidate for this position?

Describe your research experience and interests. For research-centered positions, such as positions at R1 or other types of research-centered universities, include information about your research experience and current work early in the letter. For many applicants, current work will be the dissertation project. If this is the case, some suggest calling your “dissertation research” your “current project” or “work,” as this may help you present yourself as an emerging scholar rather than a graduate student. Some questions about your research that you might consider:

What research experiences have you had?
What does your current project investigate?
What are some of the important methods you applied?
Have you collaborated with others in your research?
Have you acquired specific skills that will be useful for the future?
Have you received special funding? If so, what kind?
Has your research received any accolades or rewards?
What does your current project contribute to the field?
Where have you presented your research?
Have you published your research? If so, where? Or are you working on publishing your work?
How does your current project fit the job description?

Present your plans for future research. This section presents your research agenda and usually includes a description of your plans for future projects and research publications. Detailing your future research demonstrates to the search committee that you’ve thought about a research trajectory and can work independently. If you are applying to a teaching-intensive position, you may want to minimize this section and/or consider including a sentence or two on how this research connects to undergraduate and/or graduate research opportunities. Some questions to get you started:

What is your next research project/s?
How does this connect to your current and past work?
What major theories/methods will you use?
How will this project contribute to the field?
Where do you see your specialty area or subfield going in the next ten years and how does your research contribute to or reflect this?
Will you be collaborating with anyone? If so, with whom?
How will this future project encourage academic discourse?
Do you already have funding? If so, from whom? If not, what plans do you have for obtaining funding?
How does your future research expand upon the department’s strengths while simultaneously diversifying the university’s research portfolio? (For example, does your future research involve emerging research fields, state-of-the-art technologies, or novel applications?)

Describe your teaching experience and highlight teaching strategies. This section allows you to describe your teaching philosophy and how you apply this philosophy in your classroom. Start by briefly addressing your teaching goals and values. Here, you can provide specific examples of your teaching methods by describing activities and projects you assign students. Try to link your teaching and research together. For example, if you research the rise of feminism in the 19th century, consider how you bring either the methodology or the content of your research into the classroom. For a teaching-centered institution, such as a small liberal arts college or community college, you may want to emphasize your teaching more than your research. If you do not have any teaching experience, you could describe a training, mentoring, or coaching situation that was similar to teaching and how you would apply what you learned in a classroom.

What is your teaching philosophy? How is your philosophy a good fit for the department in which you are applying to work?
What sort of teaching strategies do you use in the classroom?
What is your teaching style? Do you lecture? Do you emphasize discussion? Do you use specific forms of interactive learning?
What courses have you taught?
What departmental courses are you prepared to teach?
Will you be able to fill in any gaps in the departmental course offerings?
What important teaching and/or mentoring experiences have you had?
How would you describe yourself in the classroom?
What type of feedback have you gotten from students?
Have you received any awards or recognition for your teaching?

Talk about your service work. Service is often an important component of an academic job description. This can include things like serving on committees or funding panels, providing reviews, and doing community outreach. The cover letter gives you an opportunity to explain how you have involved yourself in university life outside the classroom. For instance, you could include descriptions of volunteer work, participation in initiatives, or your role in professional organizations. This section should demonstrate ways in which you have served your department, university, and/or scholarly community. Here are some additional examples you could discuss:

Participating in graduate student or junior faculty governance
Sitting on committees, departmental or university-wide
Partnerships with other university offices or departments
Participating in community-partnerships
Participating in public scholarship initiatives
Founding or participating in any university initiatives or programs
Creating extra-curricular resources or presentations

Present yourself as a future faculty member. This section demonstrates who you will be as a colleague. It gives you the opportunity to explain how you will collaborate with faculty members with similar interests; take part in departmental and/or institution wide initiatives or centers; and participate in departmental service. This shows your familiarity with the role of faculty outside the classroom and your ability to add to the departmental and/or institutional strengths or fill in any gaps.

What excites you about this job?
What faculty would you like to collaborate with and why? (This answer may be slightly tricky. See the section on name dropping below.)
Are there any partnerships in the university or outside of it that you wish to participate in?
Are there any centers associated with the university or in the community that you want to be involved in?
Are there faculty initiatives that you are passionate about?
Do you have experience collaborating across various departments or within your own department?
In what areas will you be able to contribute?
Why would you make an excellent addition to the faculty at this institution?

Compose a strong closing. This short section should acknowledge that you have sent in all other application documents and include a brief thank you for the reader’s time and/or consideration. It should also state your willingness to forward additional materials and indicate what you would like to see as next steps (e.g., a statement that you look forward to speaking with the search committee). End with a professional closing such as “Sincerely” or “Kind Regards” followed by your full name.

If you are finding it difficult to write the different sections of your cover letter, consider composing the other academic job application documents (the research statement, teaching philosophy, and diversity statement) first and then summarizing them in your job letter.

Different kinds of letters may be required for different types of jobs. For example, some jobs may focus on research. In this case, emphasize your research experiences and current project/s. Other jobs may be more focused on teaching. In this case, highlight your teaching background and skills. Below are two models for how you could change your letter’s organization based on the job description and the institution. The models offer a guide for you to consider how changing the order of information and the amount of space dedicated to a particular topic changes the emphasis of the letter.

Research-Based Position Job Letter Example:

Date: Month Day, Year

Search Committee Chair’s First and Last Name, Graduate Degree
Full Department Name
Name of Institution
Department Address

Dear Dr./Mr./Ms. Search Committee Chair’s last name and/or Search Committee Members:

Paragraph 1 [3-5 Sentences]: Identify the position you are applying for. Introduce yourself to the committee and your research interests. Connect your interests to the department and describe what makes you interested in becoming part of this departmental community.

Paragraph 2 [3-5 Sentences]: Briefly explain your research to date. Consider mentioning your research questions, methods, key findings, as well as where and when you published and/or presented this work.

Paragraph 3 [4-5 Sentences]: Elaborate on your current research project. Consider mentioning your most prestigious funding awards for this project. Explain your key findings in more detail.

Paragraph 4 [3-5 Sentences]: Introduce your future research plans and goals. Point out the intellectual merit and/or broader impacts of this future work.

Paragraph 5 [3-5 Sentences]: Briefly discuss your teaching experience and strategies. Provide examples of teaching strategies or an anecdote highlighting your teaching effectiveness. You may also want to introduce your philosophy on diversity in an academic setting.

Paragraph 6 [2-3 Sentences]: Make a connection between your work and the department to which you are applying. Include how you will participate in the intellectual life of the department both inside and outside the classroom. Provide concrete examples of how you will be a hard-working and collaborative colleague.

Paragraph 7 [1-2 Sentences]: A thank you for the search committee’s time and consideration.

Sincerely,
[Signature]

Your Name
Credentials and Position
Institution/Affiliation Name

Teaching-Based Position Job Letter Example:

Date: Month Day, Year

Search Committee Chair’s First and Last Name, Graduate Degree
Full Department Name
Name of Institution
Department Address

Dear Dr./Mr./Ms. Search Committee Chair’s last name and/or Search Committee Members:

Paragraph 2 [3-5 Sentences]: Briefly discuss your teaching experience and pedagogical commitments. Provide examples of teaching strategies or an anecdote highlighting your teaching effectiveness. You may also want to introduce your philosophy on diversity in an academic setting.

Paragraph 3 [3-4 Sentences]: Provide a discussion of how you involved yourself with students or the broader university community outside of the traditional classroom setting. Discuss how those interactions influenced your teaching.

Paragraph 4 [2-3 Sentences]: Briefly explain your current research interests to date and how it relates to your teaching. State your research questions, methods, and key findings or arguments. Point out the intellectual merit and/or broader impacts of this future work.

Paragraph 5 [3-5 Sentences]: Highlight when and where your research was published and/or presented this work or any forthcoming publications. Mention any prestigious funding or awards. Introduce your future research plans and goals.

Paragraph 7 [1-2 Sentences]: A thank you for the search committee’s time and consideration.

Sincerely,
[Signature]

Your Name
Credentials and Position
Institution/Affiliation Name

Remember your first draft does not have to be your last. Try to get feedback from different readers, especially if it is one of your first applications. It is not uncommon to go through several stages of revisions. Check out the Writing Center’s handout on editing and proofreading and video on proofreading to help with this last stage of writing.

Potential pitfalls

Using the word dissertation. Some search committee members may see the word “dissertation” as a red flag that an applicant is too focused on their role as a graduate student rather than as a prospective faculty member. It may be advantageous, then, to describe your dissertation as current research, a current research project, current work, or some other phrase that demonstrates you are aware that your dissertation is the beginning of a larger scholarly career.

Too much jargon. While you may be writing to a specific department, people on the search committee might be unfamiliar with the details of your subfield. In fact, many committees have at least one member from outside their department. Use terminology that can easily be understood by non-experts. If you want to use a specific term that is crucial to your research, then you should define it. Aim for clarity for your reader, which may mean simplification in lieu of complete precision.

Overselling yourself. While your job letter should sell you as a great candidate, saying so (e.g., “I’m the ideal candidate”) in your letter may come off to some search committee members as presumptuous. Remember that although you have an idea about the type of colleague a department is searching for, ultimately you do not know exactly what they want. Try to avoid phrases or sentences where you state you are the ideal or the only candidate right for the position.

Paying too much attention to the job description. Job descriptions are the result of a lot of debate and compromise. If you have skills or research interests outside the job description, consider including them in your letter. It may be that your extra research interests; your outside skills; and/or your extracurricular involvements make you an attractive candidate. For example, if you are a Latin Americanist who also happens to be well-versed in the Spanish Revolution, it could be worth mentioning the expanse of your research interests because a department might find you could fill in other gaps in the curriculum or add an additional or complementary perspective to the department.

Improper sendoff. The closing of your letter is just as important as the beginning. The end of the letter should reflect the professionalism of the document. There should be a thank-you and the word sincerely or a formal equivalent. Remember, it is the very last place in your letter where you present yourself as a capable future colleague.

Small oversights. Make sure to proofread your letter not just for grammar but also for content. For example, if you use material from another letter, make sure you do not include the names of another school, department, or unassociated faculty! Or, if the school is in Chicago, make sure you do not accidentally reference it as located in the Twin Cities.

Name dropping. You rarely know the internal politics of the department or institution to which you are applying. So be cautious about the names you insert in your cover letters. You do not want to unintentionally insert yourself into a departmental squabble or add fire to an interdepartmental conflict. Instead, focus on the actions you will undertake and the initiatives you are passionate about.

Works consulted

We consulted these works while writing this handout. This is not a comprehensive list of resources on the handout’s topic, and we encourage you to do your own research to find additional publications. Please do not use this list as a model for the format of your own reference list, as it may not match the citation style you are using. For guidance on formatting citations, please see the UNC Libraries citation tutorial . We revise these tips periodically and welcome feedback.

Ball, Cheryl E. 2013. “Understanding Cover Letters.” Inside Higher Ed , November 3, 2013. https://www.insidehighered.com/advice/2013/11/04/essay-cover-letter-academic-jobs .

Borchardt, John. 2014. “Writing a Winning Cover Letter.” Science Magazine , August 6, 2014. https://www.sciencemag.org/careers/2014/08/writing-winning-cover-letter# .

Helmreich, William. 2013. “Your First Academic Job.” Inside Higher Ed , June 17, 2013. https://www.insidehighered.com/advice/2013/06/17/essay-how-land-first-academic-job .

Kelsky, Karen. 2013. “How To Write a Journal Article Submission Cover Letter.” The Professor Is In (blog), April 26, 2013. https://theprofessorisin.com/2013/04/26/how-to-write-a-journal-article-submission-cover-letter/ .

Tomaska, Lubomir, and Josef Nosek. 2008. “Ten Simple Rules for Writing a Cover Letter to Accompany a Job Application for an Academic Position.” PLoS Computational Biology 14(5). https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pcbi.1006132 .

You may reproduce it for non-commercial use if you use the entire handout and attribute the source: The Writing Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

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How to Write an Academic Cover Letter With Examples

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How to Write an Academic Cover Letter

Be Prepared for Faculty Review

Target your cover letter, cover letter format.

Cover Letter Example & Template

Requred Job Application Materials

Submitting your application.

When you are applying for a faculty position at a college or university, your cover letter will differ significantly from the standard business cover letter.

Your cover letter may be reviewed by Human Resources department staff to determine if you meet the basic qualifications for the job. If it does, it will be forwarded to a search committee comprised mostly of faculty members and academic deans.

These individuals will be accustomed to reading more lengthy academic cover letters and resumes or curriculum vitae (CV) than would be customary in the business world. They will also often be more interested in the philosophical foundations for your work than the typical business recruiter.

Kelly Miller / The Balance

Tips for Writing an Academic Cover Letter

Your initial challenge will be to pass through the Human Resources screening. Review each of the required qualifications included in the job announcement and compose statements containing evidence that you possess as many of the skills, credentials, knowledge, and experiences listed as possible.

Address as many of the preferred qualifications as possible.

Give concrete examples to support your assertions about your strengths.

Your faculty reviewers will typically have an interest in your philosophy and approach to teaching and research within your discipline. They will also be evaluating how your background fits with the type of institution where they work.

Research the faculty in your target department to assess their orientation and expertise. Emphasize points of intersection between your philosophy and the prevalent departmental philosophy.

If you possess traditionally valued areas of expertise that are not already represented by the current faculty, make sure to point those strengths out in your cover letter. It's important to tailor your letter to the orientation of the college and adjust the mix of emphasis on teaching and research based on the expectations in that setting.

Colleges will typically want to hire new faculty who are passionate about their current research and not resting on past research credits.

Describe a current project with some detail and express enthusiasm for continuing such work.

Try to do the same with any evolving teaching interests.

Highlight any grants and funding you have received to undertake your research activities. Incorporate any awards or recognition which you have received for your teaching or research activities. Some text should also be devoted to other contributions to the college communities where you worked, such as committee work, advising, and collaborations with other departments.

Your cover letter should be written in the same basic format as a business cover letter. An academic cover letter is typically two pages compared to a single page for non-academic letters.

Here’s an example of the appropriate format for a cover letter and guidelines for formatting your letters.

Academic Cover Letter Example

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

Academic Cover Letter Example #1 (Text Version)

Robin Applicant 123 Main Street, Anytown, CA 12345 555-555.5555 robin.applicant@email.com

April 5, 2021

Dr. Sylvia Lee Chair, English Department Search Committee Acme College 123 Business Rd. Charlotte, NC 28213

Dear Dr. Sylvia Lee,

I am writing to apply for the position of assistant professor of English with an emphasis in nineteenth-century American literature that you advertised in the MLA Job Information List. I am a Dean’s Fellow and Ph.D. candidate at XYZ University, currently revising the final chapter of my dissertation, and expecting to graduate in May I am confident that my teaching experience and my research interests make me an ideal candidate for your open position.

Over the past five years, I have taught a variety of English courses. I have taught a number of American literature survey courses, as well as writing courses, including technical writing and first-year writing. I have extensive experience working with ESL students, as well as students with a variety of learning disabilities, including dyslexia and dysgraphia, and disabilities like ADD and ADHD. I pride myself on creating a classroom environment that accommodates the needs of my students while still promoting a high level of critical thought and writing skills. Some of my most satisfying experiences as a teacher have come from helping struggling students to grasp difficult concepts, through a combination of individual conferences, class activities, and group discussion. I know I would thrive as a teacher in your college, due to your belief in small classroom size and individualized support for students.

Not only does my teaching experience suit the needs of your school and department, but my research interests also fit perfectly with your description of the ideal candidate. My dissertation project, “Ferns and Leaves: Nineteenth-Century Female Authorial Space,” examines the rise and development of American female authors in the 1840s and 1850s, with a particular focus on patterns of magazine publication. I argue that, rather than being submissive to the requirements of the editor or publisher, female authors, in fact, developed a more transparently reciprocal relationship between themselves and their readers than previously has been assumed. I apply recent print-culture and book-history theory to my readings of novels, magazine articles, letters, and diary entries by various female authors, with a particular focus on Sara Willis (known by her pseudonym Fanny Fern). I plan to develop my dissertation into a book manuscript and continue to research the role of female writers in antebellum magazine culture, with a particular focus on the rise and influence of female magazine editors on literary culture.

My research interests have both shaped and been shaped by my recent teaching experiences. Last spring, I developed and taught a course on the history of print culture in America. I combined readings on theory and literature that addressed issues of print with visits to local historical museums and archives. My students conducted in-depth studies on particular texts (magazines, newspapers, novels) for their final papers. I believe my interdisciplinary teaching style, particularly my emphasis on material culture, would fit in well with the interdisciplinary nature of your English department.

I am therefore confident that my teaching experience, my skill in working with ESL and LD students, and my research interests all make me an excellent candidate for the assistant professor of English position at ABC College. I have attached my curriculum vitae and the two requested sample publications. I would be happy to send you any additional materials such as letters of reference, teaching evaluations, and past and proposed course syllabi. I will be available to meet with you at either the MLA or C19 conference, or anywhere else at your convenience. Thank you so much for your consideration; I look forward to hearing from you.

Robin Applicant (hard copy letter)

Robin Applicant

Academic Cover Letter Example #2 (Text Version)

Betty Applicant 567 North Street, Boston, MA 02108 555-555.555 betty.applicant@email.com

Dr. Robert Smith Chair, Department of Biology Acme University 123 Business Rd. Business City, NY 54321

Dear Dr. Smith,

I am writing to apply for the position of Assistant Professor of Biology with a focus on molecular biology at XYZ University, as advertised in the March issue of Science. I am currently a postdoctoral fellow at the University of XYZ in the Department of Molecular Biology, working under the advisement of Professor Linda Smith. I am confident that my research interests and teaching experience make me an ideal candidate for your open position.

My current research project, which is an expansion on my dissertation, “[insert title here],” involves [insert research project here]. I have published my dissertation findings in Science Journal and am in the processing of doing the same with my findings from my current research. The laboratory resources at XYZ University would enable me to expand my research to include [insert further research plans here] and seek further publication.

Beyond my successes as a researcher (including five published papers and my current paper in process), I have had extensive experience teaching a variety of biology courses. As a graduate student at Science University, I served as a teaching assistant and guest lecturer for both biology and chemistry introductory courses and won the university award for outstanding teacher’s assistant. As a postdoctoral fellow at the University of ABC, I have had the opportunity to teach Introduction to Biology as well as a graduate-level course, Historicizing Molecular Biology. In every class, I strive to include a blend of readings, media, lab work, and discussion to actively engage students with the material. I would love the opportunity to bring my award-winning lesson planning and teaching skills to your biology department.

I am confident that my research interests and experience combined with my teaching skills make me an excellent candidate for the Assistant Professor of Biology position at XYZ University. I have attached my curriculum vitae, three recommendations, and the two requested sample publications. I would be happy to send you any additional materials such as teaching evaluations or past and proposed course syllabi. I will be available to meet with you at the ASBMB conference or anywhere else at your convenience. Thank you so much for your consideration; I look forward to hearing from you.

Betty Applicant (hard copy letter)

Betty Applicant

It’s important to submit all your application materials in the format requested by the college or university. You may be asked to email, mail, or apply online via the institution’s applicant tracking system.

You may be required to provide references with your application, so be prepared to submit a list of references. The institution may also request transcripts, teaching evaluations, and writing samples.

Send only what is requested. There's no need to include information that the institution hasn't ask for.

However, you can offer to provide additional materials like writing samples, syllabi, and letters of recommendation in the last paragraph of your letter.

Follow the instructions in the job posting for submitting your application. It should specify what format the college wants to receive.

Here are some examples of what you may be asked to include with your cover letter and resume or CV:

A cover letter, CV/resume, and contact information for three references.
A cover letter (PDF format) of interest indicating your qualifications and reason for application, Curriculum Vitae (PDF format), and a minimum of three professional references, including phone and email contact information.
A letter of interest, a Curriculum Vitae, a teaching vision statement, a research vision statement that specifically indicates how you would interact with or collaborate with other department faculty, and three references.
A cover letter, CV/resume, and contact information for three references. Please upload these as ONE document in RTF, DOC or PDF format.
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ImPACKful Tips: How to Write a Better Academic Cover Letter

Everybody has a story. The ability to identify the narrative arc of that story, and share it in a concise and compelling way, is what separates a good cover letter from the slush pile. Want to write an excellent cover letter? Make sure you know—and care—enough about your audience so that you can adapt your storyline to complement theirs.

What is an academic cover letter, and why do I need to write one?

Essentially, the cover letter introduces you to the search committee. (An academic cover letter should be one to two pages long.) It works in tandem with the CV to make an argument about your suitability for the advertised position—in other words, your “fit.”

It is my contention that there are two kinds of search committee members in the world:

those who start with the CV, and
those who start with the cover letter.

For that reason, your cover letter needs to stand on its own as a meaningful document . It interprets the timeline you set out in your CV without reiterating it. So if there’s something you want the committee to see in your CV, or understand about you as a candidate, you need to address it in your cover letter.

Think about it this way: your cover letter, working together with your CV, is what persuades the search committee to read the rest of your application package.

What do most cover letters look like and why are they boring?

Most cover letters are, at least in my experience, about the applicant. They focus on what the applicant has done and is currently doing, what the applicant likes or dislikes, and the applicant’s hopes and dreams for the future.

An analogy to the world of dating is apt here: imagine that you’ve met someone who wants to establish a lifelong (tenured or contract renewable!) relationship with you. You’re open to hearing how the two of you will forge a better life together—and then your date starts talking about their amazing qualities, their past relationships, their five-year plan for personal fulfillment, and in the last five minutes of the date they mention that you’re a great listener.

In short, most cover letters are one-sided and therefore, of limited interest to the reader who (in the vast majority of academic job searches) is an actual human.

How do I write a better cover letter?

Step one: read the job ad carefully & adapt accordingly.

The first step is to read the job advertisement very carefully, and then adapt your message accordingly. If, for example, the advertised position is for a 4/4 course load at a teaching-intensive liberal arts college, focusing your cover letter on your cutting-edge research agenda is unlikely to be effective. A better strategy is to address how your research informs your teaching practice and how you would involve undergraduates in a meaningful way.

Conversely, a cover letter for a research-focused position should emphasize past, current, and future research directions as they align with the department’s priorities.

Step Two: Align your experience and future plans with the job description

The order in which the job ad outlines responsibilities and priorities gives you a basic template for your letter. If you find yourself resisting this order—struggling to talk about teaching or research in a way that aligns with the advertised position, for example—it’s a sign that you might not want to invest your time in applying for that position.

You’re thinking about getting a job—but the search committee wants to hire someone who will be successful in the advertised role. Your goal in the cover letter is not just to impress the search committee with what you’ve done; it’s to demonstrate that you will be a solid long-term investment as a colleague .

Step Three: Focus only on the positions that match your research & teaching profile and that you’re most excited about!

At this point, most would ask, “In this job market, shouldn’t everyone apply for everything?” Not everyone will agree with me on this, but I say no. Having analyzed the data from my own academic job searches, I can affirm that I achieved equivalent or better results (measured in quantity and quality of interviews) by focusing only on the positions that best matched my research and teaching profile instead of adopting the scattershot approach of my first full-scale job search.

By limiting the number of positions you apply to, you will be able to devote more time to researching the department, the institution, the student demographics, the geographical region—anything and everything that will help you connect with the audience reading your cover letter, demonstrate your fit for the position , and convey your enthusiasm.

And while we’re on the subject, showing time and care and attention in your cover letter will express your enthusiasm far more effectively than resorting to everyone’s default sentence, I am passionate.

This sounds like a lot of time to spend, and a lot of effort!

be able to use all of this information in an interview setting;
accept an offer with confidence in your chances of success and happiness;
have a realistic plan when you step into your new role as a faculty member; and
show respect for your potential future colleagues.

You’re making a significant investment of time and energy in your job search—why not make every word count?

Interested in learning more about cover letters and getting feedback on your work in progress?

Attend one of our cover letter workshops or ask a member of your PACK to read your letter. You can view sample cover letters from the UCSF Office of Career and Professional Development and from our own postdoc manager, Dr. Christopher Smith .

Dr. Erin Frey (postdoctoral teaching fellow, CVM) writes,

“I was able to transform my cover letter into an authentic statement that highlighted personal stories of my passion and vision for the position and for the department.”

She adds that working with the professional development team “ helped me to understand what resonates with search committees and how to use concrete experiences to demonstrate my clinical teaching philosophies.”

Sign up for one of our workshops in the fall or ask someone in your PACK to help you with your cover letter today. Using our ImPACKful tips and resources, your story will shine bright in your cover letter.

Have suggestions on content you would like to see in the future?

Let us know your ideas here .

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Crafting The Perfect Academic Cover Letter: A Step-By-Step Guide

Land your dream academic position! Craft a compelling academic cover letter that highlights your skills and experience.

This guide will help you create a winning academic cover letter! Here you’ll find everything you need, whether you’re an experienced academic or a fresh graduate seeking your dream job in academia. We’ll discuss how to write an academic cover letter that grabs attention while highlighting your skills and experiences.

Making a positive impression on hiring committees and search panels begins with a well-crafted academic cover letter. This document serves as your introduction , demonstrating your passion for your field, your qualifications, and your fit for the institution and position you are applying for.

A great cover letter can make all the difference in the competitive world of academia, where job openings are often limited and highly sought after. A cover letter provides context to your CV or resume, allowing you to highlight specific experiences, projects, or accomplishments that demonstrate your suitability for the position. Throughout this guide, we’ll provide you with tips, strategies, and examples to help you craft a compelling academic cover letter that sets you apart from the competition. So let’s dive in and start crafting your path to academic success !

The Purpose (Why Do You Need A Cover Letter?)

It is imperative to include a cover letter in your job application package when applying to academic jobs. A cover letter serves as a personal introduction, adding depth and context to your CV or resume. In order to better understand its specific purpose, let’s look at:

1. Explaining How you fit the position and Interest: In your cover letter, you can explain why you are interested in the position and institution. It gives you the chance to explain why you are applying, whether it is the institution’s reputation, specific research opportunities, or alignment with your career objectives. You can also express your interest in the program and describe how it fits into your future goals. Additionally, you should demonstrate your enthusiasm and commitment to the program.

2. Highlighting Your Qualifications: In contrast to CVs and resumes, cover letters provide you with an opportunity to highlight and contextualize specialized experiences or qualifications relevant to the role. In order to demonstrate your suitability for the job, you can highlight specific projects, publications, teaching experiences, or other accomplishments.

3. Personalizing Your Application: Unlike a CV or resume, which tends to be more standardized, a cover letter offers you the chance to personalize your application for a specific job and institution. By addressing the hiring committee directly and tailoring your content to the institution’s values, mission, and goals, you can demonstrate your genuine interest and commitment.

4. Adding Context: At times, you may need to explain or contextualize certain aspects of your application. It can be helpful to include a cover letter if you are transitioning from one field within academia to another, or if there are gaps in your employment history.

5. Showcase Your Communication Skills: In academia, effective communication is paramount. An important skill that hiring committees look for is the ability to communicate clearly and persuasively in writing. You can demonstrate your writing style, professionalism, and attention to detail with a well-crafted cover letter.

6. Stand Out From Other Candidates : Being able to stand out from other applicants is essential in a competitive job market. With a thoughtfully written cover letter, you can convey aspects of your personality, work ethic, and passion for your field not readily apparent from your CV.

Research About The Institution

The first step in writing an academic cover letter is to thoroughly research the institution as well as the role for which you’re applying. By taking this step, you not only demonstrate your genuine interest in the position, but you also tailor your cover letter to make it more compelling to hiring managers.

Importance Of Research Before The Interview

You demonstrate your genuine interest in joining the academic community by demonstrating your knowledge about the institution and the position. You can align your qualifications and experience with what they are seeking in a candidate if you understand the institution’s values, mission, and goals. By researching the department, faculty members, and ongoing projects, you can use your insights to enhance the relevance and impact of your cover letter.

Tips for researching about the Institution:

Explore the Institution’s Website: Start by thoroughly exploring the institution’s official website. Learn about the faculty members, research areas, academic programs, and recent achievements of the department you’re applying to.
Read Faculty Profiles and Publications: Take the time to read faculty profiles and publications related to your field of expertise. Furthermore, this will help you identify potential collaborators or mentors within the department.
Review Recent News and Press Releases: Check for any recent news articles or press releases about the institution. It can provide valuable insights into the Lab’s accomplishments, partnerships, or current initiatives.
Utilize Professional Networks: Reach out to your professional network, including colleagues, mentors, or alumni who may have insights or connections related to the institution or position. You might find valuable information or advice from them that you couldn’t find through traditional research methods.
Attend Departmental Events or Webinars: If possible, attend departmental events, seminars, or webinars hosted by the institution. In addition to learning more about their academic community, you will also have an opportunity to network with faculty and students.

Tailoring Your Cover Letter

As soon as you have gathered enough information about the institution and the position, you can tailor your cover letter accordingly. Here are some tips for writing a targeted and impactful cover letter:

Start your cover letter with the name of the institution and the position you are applying for. It shows that you have done your homework and immediately grabs the reader’s attention.
Provide examples from your background that are directly related to the institution’s research areas, teaching philosophy, or academic initiatives. By doing so, you demonstrate how your skills and experience are in line with their requirements.
Refer to specific projects, programs, or initiatives in your cover letter if the institution has them. Explain how your expertise or interests make you a good candidate for participation or contribution.
Describe how you align with the institution’s values, mission, and academic culture. In this way, you demonstrate your commitment to excellence and innovation in education and research.

Academic Cover Letter Structure

Your introduction serves three purposes: grabbing the reader’s attention, expressing your interest in the position, and briefly describing your qualifications. The following is a list of what to include:

A strong opening sentence or paragraph that captures the reader’s interest.
The position you are applying for and where you learned about it.
A brief introduction of yourself and your interest in the position and institution .

Here is a simple Example:

“Dear Hiring Committee/Department Chair, I am writing to express my interest in the Specific Position at the Institution , as advertised on XYZ . With a passion for mentioning your field or research interest , coupled with relevant experience or qualification , I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to the Institution’s name or department .”

Body Paragraphs

Describe your qualifications, relevant experiences, and how they are aligned with the job requirements in the body paragraphs. The following is a list of what to include:

Detailed discussion of your academic background, research experience, teaching experience if any, and any other relevant skills or accomplishments.
Specific examples and achievements that demonstrate your suitability for the position.
Alignment of your qualifications with the institution’s mission, values, and goals.

“As a research assistant at [University/Institute], I conducted groundbreaking research in [specific area], resulting in [mention of any publications, grants, or awards]. In addition to my expertise in [relevant technique or methodology ], I am particularly drawn to [Institution’s name or department] due to the institution’s commitment to [mention any specific initiatives or focus areas].”

In the conclusion, you express gratitude for the opportunity to apply, summarize your interest, and offer a call to action. The following is a list of what to include:

A summary of your interest in the position and how you can contribute to the institution.
Expression of gratitude for the opportunity to apply and the reader’s consideration.
A call to action, such as expressing readiness for an interview or providing additional materials if needed.

“Thank you for considering my application. I am looking forward to contributing to [Institution’s name or department]’s mission of [mention the institution’s mission or goals] with my expertise in [your field]. It would be my pleasure to provide any additional information you may need. I look forward to discussing how my skills and experience align with the needs of [Institution].”

Academic Cover Letter Template

Dear Hiring Committee, Dear Hiring Committee/Department Chair, I am writing to express my interest in the Specific Position at Institution , as advertised on XYZ . With a passion for mentioning your field or research interest , coupled with relevant experience or qualification , I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to the Institution’s name or department . As a research assistant at [University/Institute ], I conducted groundbreaking research in [ specific area ], resulting in [ mention any publications, grants, or award s]. In addition to my expertise in [ relevant technique or methodology ], I am particularly drawn to [ Institution’s name or department ] due to the institution’s commitment to [ mention any specific initiatives or focus areas ]. Thank you for considering my application. I am looking forward to contributing to [ Institution’s name or department] ‘s mission of [ mention the institution’s mission or goals ] with my expertise in [ your field ]. It would be my pleasure to provide any additional information you may need. I look forward to discussing how my skills and experience align with the needs of [I nstitutio n]. Sincerely, Name

Using this structure , you can craft an effective cover letter for an academic position. Personalize each section based on your experiences and the specific requirements of the position and institution you are applying for.

Polishing And Final Touch

You should polish your academic cover letter after you draft it to ensure that it effectively conveys your qualifications and professionalism. During this final step, you will check your letter for errors, edit it, and ask for feedback to ensure that it is as good as possible.

Proofreading and Editing

You should proofread your cover letter to ensure it contains no grammatical, spelling, punctuation, or clarity errors. The following tips will help you proofread effectively:

Take your time when reviewing your cover letter. Make sure you don’t rush through proofreading.
The best way to catch awkward phrasing, repetitions, and grammatical errors in your cover letter is to read it aloud to yourself.
Take advantage of spelling and grammar checkers available in word processing software like Microsoft Word or Grammarly. It is important to remember that these tools may not detect all errors, so don’t rely on them solely.
Be clear and concise in your sentences. Use simple language rather than overly complex jargon that might confuse the reader.
Your cover letter should be consistent in terms of formatting, punctuation, and writing style.

Professional Tone and Formatting

Making a positive impression on potential employers requires a professional tone and formatting. You can ensure professionalism in your cover letter by following these steps:

Write in a formal tone appropriate for academic and professional settings. Don’t use slang, contractions, or language that is too casual.
Follow a standard business letter format, including your contact information, the recipient’s information, a salutation, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. You should use a professional font and a standard font size (e.g., Times New Roman, 12-point).
When possible, address the recipient by name and title . Use a generic salutation such as “Dear Hiring Committee” or “Dear Search Committee” if you’re unsure of the recipient’s name.
Double-check your contact information, including your email address and phone number.

Seeking Feedback

Your cover letter can be improved by getting feedback from others. Feedback can be obtained from the following sources:

Review your cover letter with trusted classmates or colleagues and ask for constructive criticism. It is possible for them to offer fresh perspectives and catch errors that might have slipped your mind.
Find mentors with experience in your field of study or academia who can provide feedback. It is possible to get guidance from them on how to tailor your cover letter for a particular academic position.
If your university has a career center or academic advising office, make use of those resources. Academic cover letters can be tailored to different positions by career advisors.

To ensure your academic cover letter presents you to potential employers in the best light, be sure to proofread, maintain a professional tone and format, and seek feedback from peers, mentors, and career advisors.

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About Aayushi Zaveri

Aayushi Zaveri majored in biotechnology engineering. She is currently pursuing a master's degree in Bioentrepreneurship from Karolinska Institute. She is interested in health and diseases, global health, socioeconomic development, and women's health. As a science enthusiast, she is keen in learning more about the scientific world and wants to play a part in making a difference.

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How to Write a Successful Cover Letter

By Victoria Reyes

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Sociologist Andrew Whitehead started a Twitter thread some months ago detailing his take on various stages of the academic job market. For the cover letter, he gave excellent advice . He suggested among other things, keeping it at a suggested length (one and a half to two pages) and avoiding jargon. He also stressed the importance of strong lead sentences, using the cover letter to highlight and point to other parts of your application, and controlling the narrative you want to tell .

Others have also written about writing a cover letter. Cheryl E. Ball, for example, provides excellent advice and a paragraph-by-paragraph breakdown . Indeed, a simple Google search on “how to write an academic cover letter” brings back 49,600 results if the clause is in quotations, and 526 million results without quotations.

I want to build on the foundational advice of those before me and provide additional insight into the purpose of a cover letter, tips for writing a successful one and what to avoid in it. At the very least, I find having multiple perspectives, styles of writing and exposure to different ways of thinking about the same topic to be useful.

This essay draws on an invited prep talk on how to write a cover letter that I gave at the 2019 American Sociological Association’s annual meeting and on my own experience as a job applicant and as a faculty member on search committees. It’s meant to be helpful for those new on the job market, as the following advice may seem obvious to those who have been in academe for a while.

The first thing that Ph.D. students need to remember about the academic cover letter is its purpose: to introduce who you are as a scholar, what you would bring to the department as a potential colleague and how you fit the requirements listed in the advertisement. The cover letter may be the first thing search committee members see, alongside the CV, so you want to make sure that it captures their attention in a good way.

Here are some tips that I hope you’ll find helpful.

Don’t assume knowledge on the part of the reader. Don’t presuppose that faculty members are reading your application holistically, or that if you mentioned something in a research statement, you won’t have to repeat it in the cover letter. As Whitehead suggests, you should walk your reader through the narrative you want to tell of who you are as a scholar. For example, what is it you study? Are you a scholar of globalization? Social movements? Race? What is the overarching question your research addresses? Even if the content of your publications covers particular topics, and it seems obvious to you who you are as a scholar, you need to specify in your cover letter what it is you study. Take the lead in shaping the narrative of you who are. If you don’t, others will.

Another aspect of not assuming knowledge on the part of the reader means that you need to be explicit, stating what you think is obvious -- because what is obvious to you is not always obvious to the reader. For example, although your dissertation may use qualitative methods, you may be able to teach undergraduate statistics. But you decide not to say in your cover letter that you are able to teach that class because you assume that anyone who has a Ph.D. in sociology could do so. However, that assumption would be incorrect, and the search committee will not know that you can, and want, to teach undergrad statistics unless you say that explicitly in your cover letter and teaching statement.

Tailor your letter. As others, like Karen Kelsky, have written , do your research on the institution and department behind the ad. Take care to understand and communicate how you fit with a given department and how you and your work connect to departmental activities and communities across the college or university. That means elaborating on your approach to teaching for a liberal arts college, for example, and demonstrating what your publications and research can specifically bring to a research university.

Tailoring your letter also means tailoring it to the job ad, remembering to be as explicit as you can about how you fit the listed requirements. If the job ad states that the position is for someone who studies religion, for example, say you study religion. Additionally, show how your broader research agenda ties to religion in some way. My department is currently hiring in organizations and institutions, and successful applicants clearly state they are scholars that study these areas. More important, the most successful applicants demonstrate that they are primarily interested in expanding theoretical knowledge about organizations and institutions more generally, rather than being theoretically interested in a different topic that happens to take place within an organization.

Something I didn’t realize until I was on the faculty side of hiring is that the areas of specialization asked for in the ad, other than those few open hires that call for anyone in any specialization to apply, are often tied to holes in the curriculum. So, for instance, at my institution, an applicant who demonstrates a teaching record related to organizations and institutions is the strongest, while a desire to teach -- with no prior record -- is slightly less ideal but still a potentially strong applicant. Someone who does not explicitly state their experience or their desire to teach in organizations and institutions is not as strong a candidate. The search committee only knows what you write down in your materials, so be sure to mention the obvious!

Write as a potential colleague rather than as a graduate student. When you write about your research, focus on your arguments and contributions rather than simply describing the details of your specific study. That demonstrates you’ve shifted to being a producer of knowledge who knows how your research fits into the broader field. Another way to write as a potential colleague, rather than as a graduate student, is to discuss how you see yourself fitting into, and contributing to, the department, college and university. That means doing your homework and seeing what centers and institutions are on the campus, as well as any workshops, symposia or other events that occur in your department and how you could contribute or add to those ventures. This involves a transition to seeing yourself as someone who is a useful resource that brings something to the academic table.

Write fact-based statements that highlight your accomplishments, including publications, awards, fellowships and teaching. It is not bragging or self-promotion to say that you’ve received an award or fellowship. It’s a statement of fact. For example, saying that you’ve won a teaching or mentoring award is evidence of excellence in teaching or mentoring. That is different than adjective-filled comments that talk about your “passion for teaching,” for example. Fact-based statements that highlight your accomplishments show , rather than tell, the reader of your commitment. Of course, you could still say you are passionate about teaching. Just follow it up with a sentence that provides concrete evidence or data that supports your claim -- such as a teaching award.

Be clear and concise. Write short, declarative sentences. Do not write long, complicated sentences, as your point may get lost in the details.

Here are a few things to avoid when writing a cover letter.

Excessive detail. Don’t try to describe each and every paper you’ve written in the cover letter. Instead, highlight one or two given papers and discuss their arguments and significance. Also, don’t give a detailed description of how your paper fits into the existing literature. That is appropriate for an article but not a cover letter, because it takes up too much space that could be better used to highlight your own accomplishments rather than others’ arguments. To be sure, you can gesture to how it fits into the existing literature, but limit it to just a short sentence or two. You should not write a whole paragraph on the intricacies of the subfield.

Jargon. Similar to what Verena Hutter and Kelsky write, be sure to avoid jargon and clichés . Remember that members of the search committee are likely not in your subfield. Translating your research for a general audience means getting rid of the jargon, or at the very least, defining the jargon you use. While each subfield’s jargon differs, think about whether a certain concept or word is familiar to an educated lay audience. If not, then it is important to try to explain your work without using the jargon.

For example, if you are dedicated to feminist praxis, talk about your commitment to both feminism and putting theory in action in lay terms, and/or define what you mean by “feminist praxis” -- particularly if you are applying to a department other than gender studies or related subfields. That said, avoiding jargon means knowing your audience, as it depends on the discipline and subfield. For example, writing that you are committed to feminist praxis may not be jargon in a gender studies department. In contrast, writing that you are committed to having students discover their “sociological imagination” may be jargon for gender studies but is a taken-for-granted concept across subfields within sociology.

Hyperbole. As previously mentioned, stick to fact-based statements that highlight your accomplishments. Remember you are probably competing with hundreds of applicants, many of whom have competitive records and accomplishments. So saying something such as “I am uniquely qualified to fill the position” is very likely to be untrue.

The three things to avoid that I mention above are common mistakes that signal someone who is still positioning themselves as a grad student, not a colleague, and thus, someone who may not be ready for a faculty job. That is a tricky but extremely important transition to make. It requires walking a delicate line between drawing on and acknowledging the work that senior scholars have done in the field and being confident enough to know you have something to contribute.

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Academic Cover Letter Sample

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November 2, 1998

Dr. Naomi Sellers Chair, English Search Committee Box 58 Baxter College Arcadia, WV 24803

Dear Dr. Sellers:

I am writing to apply for the position as assistant professor of English with an emphasis in rhetoric and composition that you advertised in the October MLA Job Information List. I am a graduate student at Prestigious University working on a dissertation under the direction of Professor Prominent Figure. Currently revising the third of five chapters, I expect to complete all work for the Ph.D. by May of 1999. I believe that my teaching and tutoring experience combined with my course work and research background in rhetoric and composition theory make me a strong candidate for the position outlined in your notice.

As my curriculum vitae shows, I have had excellent opportunities to teach a variety of writing courses during my graduate studies, including developmental writing, first-year writing for both native speakers and second language students, advanced writing, and business writing. I have also worked as a teaching mentor for new graduate students, a position that involved instruction in methods of composition teaching, development of course materials, and evaluation of new graduate instructors. Among the most satisfying experiences for me as a teacher has been instructing students on an individual basis as a tutor in our university Writing Lab. Even as a classroom instructor, I find that I always look forward to the individual conferences that I hold with my students several times during the semester because I believe this kind of one-on-one interaction to be essential to their development as writers.

My work in the composition classroom has provided me with the inspiration as well as a kind of laboratory for my dissertation research. My project, The I Has It: Applications of Recent Models of Subjectivity in Composition Theory, examines the shift since the 1960s from expressive models of writing toward now-dominant postmodern conceptions of decentered subjectivity and self-construction through writing. I argue that these more recent theoretical models, while promising, cannot have the liberating effects that are claimed for them without a concomitant reconception of writing pedagogy and the dynamics of the writing classroom. I relate critical readings of theoretical texts to my own pedagogical experiments as a writing teacher, using narratives of classroom successes and failures as the bases for critical reflection on postmodern composition theory. After developing my dissertation into a book manuscript, I plan to continue my work in current composition theory through a critical examination of the rhetoric of technological advancement in the computer-mediated writing classroom.

My interest in the computer classroom has grown out of recent experience teaching composition in that environment. In these courses my students have used computers for writing and turning in notes and essays, communicating with one another and with me, conducting library catalogue research and web research, and creating websites. I have encouraged my students to think and write critically about their experiences with technology, both in my class and elsewhere, even as we have used technology to facilitate our work in the course. Syllabi and other materials for my writing courses can be viewed at my website: http://machine.prestigious.edu/~name. In all of my writing courses I encourage students to become critical readers, thinkers, and writers; my goal is always not only to promote their intellectual engagement with cultural texts of all kinds but also to help them become more discerning readers of and forceful writers about the world around them.

I have included my curriculum vitae and would be happy to send you additional materials such as a dossier of letters of reference, writing samples, teaching evaluations, and past and proposed course syllabi. I will be available to meet with you for an interview at either the MLA or the CCCC convention, or elsewhere at your convenience. I can be reached at my home phone number before December 19; between then and the start of the MLA convention, you can reach me at (123) 456-7890. I thank you for your consideration and look forward to hearing from you.

First Lastname

Points to Remember

Use the form of address and title of the contact person as they appear in the job notice.
Refer to the job title as it appears in the notice, and state where you learned of the position.
Mention your major professor by name, especially if he or she is well known in your field. Also, mention your expected completion date.
Make a claim for your candidacy that you will support in the body of the letter.
For a position at a small undergraduate college, emphasize teaching experience and philosophy early in the letter.
Describe your dissertation and plans for future research. Emphasize links between your teaching and research interests.
Mention specific teaching experience that is relevant to the job notice or is otherwise noteworthy.
Refer to relevant materials available on the web.
State your willingness to forward additional materials and to meet for an interview.
Mention any temporary changes in contact information.

Academic Cover Letter

Get your next academic position easily

A life of academia is one of maintaining the highest standards of teaching and producing scintillating research findings. That’s why an academic cover letter for a job needs to be a carefully planned and well-targeted document.

Academia is a broad field and when it comes to professional documents like a letter of introduction in your job search many of the same rules apply across all faculty disciplines . Unlike targeting a job with a regular cover letter template , applying for university or college positions requires a little more detail and a few considerations that only apply to the academic field.

While it’s true that writing a cover letter isn’t everyone’s favorite part of the job-seeking process, it can be made much easier with an online cover letter builder. These tools can speed up the process of writing your accompanying letter by quickly laying out the most important sections and adding a little design flair that will show that you’ve gone the extra mile.

So what does it take to write a cover letter that will get you interviews for your next faculty position? As we’ll see in the following sections it takes a mix of those academic skills you’ve honed over the years , along with a touch of salesmanship.

How to Write an Academic Cover Letter for A Job

Your academic accolades, your ability to meet deadlines, being a great educator and excellent writing skills. These are just a few of the things that are going to be accessed on your academic job cover letter.

Of course, this being an academic position you’re targeting, you should adopt a similar tone to your previous writing in your field of study. It should be formal in tone, descriptive and follow the usual styling rules, such as not using contractions and making use of precise words related to your discipline.

Don’t forget to follow an academic writing style. That means:

No contractions
A formal tone
Specific vocabulary related to your field
Writing in paragraphs, not bullet points

As an academic, you need to show that you’re experienced as well as knowledgable in whatever the role will require. For example, there’s no use in applying for a role as an Assistant Professor in Statistics if you don’t reference your achievements in the study mathematics or use the right lexicon.

How to Format An Academic Cover Letter

Broadly speaking, an academic cover letter follows many of the same formatting rules as a professional or simple cover letter . Where an academic cover letter template could differ, however, is the inclusion of the full name and address of the hiring manager or faculty lead . Don’t forget to properly include the correct professional titles (such as Dr. or Professor) for whoever you’re reaching out to.

It should also go without saying that you should check your spellings and fully proofread your letter before you apply for a job. In the academic sector especially, any mistakes will simply lead to your cover letter and resume getting thrown in the trash.

Who Should You Target in An Academic Cover Letter

In the case of a cover letter for an academic job application, you are first and foremostly targeting a hiring professor at the institution you want to work at. Whilst this person is your ultimate audience, also, remember in many cases an HR person will probably be checking your credentials first, so bear them in mind too.

Overall you should use the job advert as a crib sheet , so you can correctly target the skills and credentials needed in your own letter of motivation. Answer the questions they will want to know from you before they progress further with your application process. This will give you a far greater chance of success.

Don’t forget to also do a little research on the hiring professor for the role you’re looking to get. Finding out their areas of focus and correctly appealing to the sort of skills and goals they like will give you a big advantage!

What to Include In an Academic Cover Letter

If you want your cover letter to really stand out you should always be ready to show examples of your work as well as enthusiasm for the position. Fitting your cover letter to the institution you want to work at is also another way to get an edge on the competition.

After all, universities are establishments with a strong sense of tradition and ethos. To be a good fit for the role you should show that you embody those characteristics that fit into their academic identity .

An academic cover letter needs more details pinpointed than most other types of cover letter. Be sure you also mention the dates of completion for any research you’re undertaking at the time of writing and mention the names of any supervising professors.

The essential parts of any academic cover letter are:

Your address and contact information
The hiring professor’s full name, title, and professional address
Examples of your research
An explanation of your teaching methodology
Date of completion for any current doctorates or theses
The full name and title of your supervising professors
Your reasons for applying
Any ideas for further research that may interest the recruiter

The elements above are absolutely critical considerations that should always be included in a cover letter. These will answer all the questions that the hiring manager will want to know from the beginning. Weaving these together into an effective story of your academic past present and future will be what gets you called in for interviews.

How Long Should an Academic Cover Letter Be?

Normally a generic cover letter won’t go beyond a single page . This is also the case for some academic cover letters although not all. In almost all STEM subjects for example, where your experience can be summarized quicker, one page is usually enough.

However, with an academic cover letter for those targeting faculty positions in humanities, things are a little bit different and you should be more descriptive. Therefore, 2 pages are usually recommended . This will give you plenty of room to flesh out your personal description and the relevant research that the hiring manager will want to see.

Remember though, if you write an academic cover letter that extends beyond 2 pages you run the risk of alienating the reader . After all, a cover letter for an academic opening still needs to adhere to the rules of motivation letters in general. Namely, it should be concise enough to digest quickly.

Academic Cover Letter Sample

When it comes to writing the cover letter for an academic role you need to create a detailed, yet concise and compelling outline to your career so far as well as where you see it going.

To start things off you should use the intro section to detail your address, the academic address of the professor and explain a little about what drew you initially to the role. As can see in our simplified academic cover letter example:

John Dugard

500 E Yates Street

Ithica, NY 14853

October 17th, 20XX

Dr. Susan Hughes

Department Of Physics and Astronomy

University Of Southern California

825 Bloom Walk

Los Angeles, CA 90089-0484

Dear Dr. Hughes,

I am writing to apply to Assistant Professor of Astrophysics faculty position as advertised on your department website that is due to begin in Fall 20XX. I am currently completing a doctorate at Cornell University and expect to have completed my Ph.D. thesis requirements by May 20XX. I was drawn to the position available at the University of Southern California, as I am highly eager to contribute to the improvement and expansion of the Department of Physics and Astronomy, further my research on Supermassive Black Holes and provide exemplary instruction on astrophysics.

Once you’ve made a strong introduction and properly explained why the job hooked you, it’s time to start telling the hiring manager why you’re the right person for the role . This means giving them some information about your academic training and how you plan to expand on it. As you can see in the next section of our example:

I have dedicated the last 5 years of my academic experience at Cornell University to analyzing the visibility of supermassive black hole accretion. My doctoral dissertation was completed in consultation with Prof. Edward Jones and examined the visibility of supermassive black holes and how AGN spectrum energy spikes influence the rate of accretion. This research was conducted using a relatively new methodology in which we used Keplar satellite observations to measure the spectroscopic projections from the accretion disc. I would be very enthusiastic in sharing and expanding on this methodology to further the goals and research of the department in at USC.

In addition to my work in supermassive black hole accretion, one of the other areas that interest me greatly for future research is the analysis of the gamma radiation produced by quasars and how this can lead to the discovery of new supermassive black holes. I also spent many months of my post-graduate study offering tuition to the physics department student body and led a course on the black hole dissipation during the final year of my Ph.D. I would, of course, relish the opportunity to continue with this work in the USC faculty.

Once you’ve provided a little more evidence for why the recruiter should hire you, or at the very least call you in for an interview, it’s time to start moving the conversation towards the next steps in the process .

The details you should include to conclude your covering letter for academic positions should feature:

Introduce the next steps (speaking to the search committee)
When you can make time for interviews in your schedule
An offer of thanks for their time
A polite and formal signoff. Either – Your’s Sincerely or Kind regards

You can see all these come into play as we round off our example cover letter:

I would enjoy exploring the possibilities of this further study and the position in the coming weeks. For the moment, please find enclosed my curriculum vitae, which includes further details of my teaching experience and research direction and also a letter of recommendation from Professor Jones. I will gladly provide any further supporting materials upon request and am available to speak more on my home number 607-255-5368 from 6 pm daily. I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your consideration and look forward to hearing from you soon.

Yours Sincerely

As you can see, it’s not rocket science to write a great academic cover letter. If you follow these tips and structure your cover letter carefully you’ll experience much more success with getting callbacks and interviews. To make your letter of intent for an academic position really stand out , remember that using cover letter builder is a great way to save time and see the exact styles that will make your document more eye-catching.

Insights blog

How to write a cover letter for journal submission

Download our cover letter template.

When you submit your article to a journal, you often need to include a cover letter. This is a great opportunity to highlight to the journal editor what makes your research new and important. The cover letter should explain why your work is perfect for their journal and why it will be of interest to the journal’s readers.

When writing for publication, a well-written cover letter can help your paper reach the next stage of the manuscript submission process – being sent out for peer review . So it’s worth spending time thinking about how to write a cover letter to the journal editor, to make sure it’s going to be effective.

To help you, we’ve put together a guide to explain how to write a cover letter for journal article submission. You will receive cover letter instructions of what you should include and what you shouldn’t, and a word template cover letter.

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Customized cover letter

Feedback on original writing

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What should my cover letter include?

Before you start to write, please check the instructions for authors (IFAs) of your chosen journal, as not all journals will require one. You should also check the IFAs for any journal specific information on what to include. This may include a list of relevant articles written by you or your co-authors that have been or are currently being considered for publication in other journals.

Key points to include in your letter to the editor:

Editor’s name (you can usually find this on the journal page on Taylor & Francis Online ).

Your manuscript’s title.

Name of the journal you are submitting to.

Statement that your paper has not been previously published and is not currently under consideration by another journal.

Brief description of the research you are reporting in your paper, why it is important, and why you think the readers of the journal would be interested in it.

Contact information for you and any co-authors .

Confirmation that you have no competing interests to disclose.

Things to avoid:

Don’t copy your abstract into your cover letter, instead explain in your own words the significance of the work, the problem that is being addressed, and why the manuscript belongs in the journal.

Don’t use too much jargon or too many acronyms, keep language straightforward and easy to read.

Avoid too much detail – keep your cover letter to a maximum of one page, as an introduction and brief overview.

Avoid any spelling and grammar errors and ensure your letter is thoroughly proofed before submitting.

Click to enlarge your PDF on key information to include in your cover letter .

Cover letter template

If you need further help to write a cover letter for a journal, you can download and use our sample template as a guide.

You might find that the submission system for your chosen journal requires your cover letter to be submitted into a text box rather than as a separate document, but it is still a good idea to write a draft first to make sure you have included everything.

Always make sure to check the journal’s instructions for authors for any specific additional information to include.

Submission ready

Use our submission checklist to make sure you’ve included everything you need to.

If you need more guidance, take a look at our other information and resources to help you make your submission .

Rapid constructive feedback

Consider the Taylor & Francis Rapid Technical Review service to help you meet your deadline, through peer-review-like comments on your manuscript.

Related resources

Journal submission support

Guide to improve your submission experience

Article submission checklist

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Cover letter examples

Isabella has outlined her extensive expertise and professional journey in the California cover letter template. With a deep understanding of nutrition, she provides expert guidance to promote health and well-being.

"I am writing to express my enthusiastic interest in the Lecturer position in the Department of Nutrition and Food Science at London University, as recently advertised on the university’s employment portal. "

Table of contents

How to Write an Academic Cover Letter

If you're an academic seeking guidance on the importance of a cover letter and how to write one, you're in the right place. Having an academic cover letter is a crucial step in your application process. It's your chance to showcase your qualifications, research, and teaching experience and present yourself as a suitable candidate.

This guide will walk you through the key elements of creating a good academic cover letter, offering practical tips and examples to help convey your suitability for the role. Whether you're applying for a faculty position, a research role, or a postdoctoral fellowship , a good cover letter can significantly impact your application, setting you apart from other candidates and capturing the attention of search committees.

Customise this academic cover letter example

Academic cover letter example.

Isabella Bennett, an academic and accomplished professional selected the California cover letter template to showcase her expertise. She seamlessly combines teaching, research, and her education in nutrition and STEM fields, creating an academic cover letter that will get her noticed. Check out the matching academic CV example.

What to include in an academic cover letter?

A good academic cover letter, like a good CV , should always include your contact information at the top, similar to the format of a professional business letter. Include your name, location, phone number, and email address.

1. Intro: How to start an academic cover letter

The introduction of your academic cover letter should be engaging and immediately convey the purpose of your application. Begin by addressing the hiring committee, mentioning the specific position you are applying for, and briefly stating why you are an ideal candidate. This section should be concise and to the point. For more tips, refer to how to start a cover letter.

Academic advisor cover letter example

I am writing to express my interest in the Academic Advisor position at the London School of Business, as advertised. With 5 years of experience in student counselling and a passion for supporting academic success, I am eager to contribute to your institution’s mission of guiding and mentoring students towards their educational goals.

Assistant professor cover letter example

I am writing to apply for the Assistant Professor position in Economics at Brightstone University, as advertised. As a recent PhD graduate from Eastford University, with a focus on Macroeconomics, I am eager to bring my passion for economic research and my dedication to teaching and research to your esteemed department.

Lecturer cover letter example

I am writing to express my interest in the Lecturer position in Psychology at London University, as advertised. With 10 years of experience in teaching and research in psychology, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your department’s mission of academic excellence and student engagement

Use the above as a guide for any academic positions, including but not limited to:

Senior Research Fellow

Research Associate

PhD Studentship

Research Assistant

Research Tutor.

For additional examples, explore our extensive collection of cover letter examples.

2. Body: How to write the body of an academic cover letter

The body of your cover letter should provide a detailed account of your qualifications, focusing on your research, teaching experience, and any relevant achievements. This section is usually divided into two to three paragraphs, each highlighting different aspects of your professional background.

In my current role at Manchester University, I have successfully advised a diverse student population on academic planning, career development, and personal growth. My strong interpersonal skills and commitment to student advocacy allow me to foster meaningful relationships with students, helping them navigate challenges and make informed decisions. I am impressed by London Business School’s dedication to student excellence. My background in student affairs and counselling aligns well with the needs of your advising team. I am excited about the opportunity to support students and contribute to its vibrant academic community.

During my doctoral studies, I conducted innovative research on economic growth and income inequality, resulting in several publications in renowned journals such as the Journal of Economic Perspectives and Economic Inquiry. My dissertation, “The Dynamics of Income Inequality and Economic Growth in Developing Economies,” received the Eastford University Best Dissertation Award for its significant contributions to the field. I have experience teaching undergraduate and graduate courses in Macroeconomics, Microeconomics, and Econometrics. In my role as a teaching assistant and later as an adjunct lecturer at Eastford University, I developed and delivered comprehensive course materials that fostered a deep understanding of complex economic theories. My ability to engage students and promote critical thinking was consistently reflected in my high student evaluation scores and positive feedback I am particularly drawn to Brightstone University because of its commitment to research excellence and interdisciplinary collaboration. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your department’s academic community through my research, teaching, and service. I am particularly interested in collaborating with faculty members on projects related to economic development and policy analysis, and I am eager to engage with students through mentorship and advising.

In my current role at Greenfield Institute, I have developed and taught courses in cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, and research methods, receiving positive feedback from students for my enthusiasm and ability to create an inclusive learning environment. My commitment to student-centred learning and evidence-based teaching practices aligns well with the teaching goals at London University. I am impressed by the University’s dedication to teaching innovation and research excellence and believe my teaching experience and passion for psychology make me a strong candidate for this position. I am eager to bring my skills and dedication to your department and contribute to its academic community.

There is no one-size-fits-all cover letter strategy, but for more tips, check out our article on cover letter structure.

3. Conclusion: How to end an academic cover letter

Similar to the above, this section is of equal importance. It should summarise your interest in the position, reiterate your enthusiasm, and thank the committee for considering your application. In addition, consider mentioning any enclosed documents such as your CV, references, or perhaps a separate document for additional publications, and express your willingness to provide further information if need be. For more tips, refer to how to professionally sign off and end a cover letter.

In conclusion, I am very enthusiastic about the possibility of joining the Department of Biology at Cambridge University. I am confident that my research background, teaching experience, and commitment to community engagement make me a strong candidate for the Assistant Professor position. Thank you for considering my application. I have enclosed my CV, research statement, and teaching philosophy for your review. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my application further.

Looking for a professional academic cover letter?

Key takeaways .

Customise the letter for the specific job and institution.

Use formal language and maintain a professional tone throughout.

Follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

Emphasise relevant qualifications, experiences, and skills.

Provide concrete examples of academic achievements and research contributions.

Explain how your research aligns with the institution’s goals and current projects.

Highlight any teaching experience and your teaching philosophy.

Discuss your future research plans and how they fit within the institution.

Mention why you are interested and how you can contribute to it.

Ensure the letter is free from grammatical and typographical errors.

Next steps?

If you're unsure about the layout or content of your CV, browse our extensive collection of cover letter templates and CV examples for inspiration. Alternatively, you can seek help from a professional through our CV Writing Service , which also offers LinkedIn profile optimisation.

Are academic and PhD cover letters the same?

Academic and PhD cover letters are similar but not identical. Both should detail your qualifications and research experience, but a PhD cover letter might focus more on your dissertation work and its relevance to the position. Academic cover letters often address teaching experience and fit with the department.

How do I write a cover letter for an academic application?

Begin with a strong opening stating the position you're applying for. Follow with a brief overview of your academic background and research achievements, then align your expertise with the job requirements. Conclude with your enthusiasm for the position and your readiness for an interview.

What is the best academic cover letter template?

A good academic cover letter template includes: an introduction specifying the position you're applying for, a brief summary of your qualifications and research interests, a description of how your experience aligns with the job requirements, and a conclusion expressing enthusiasm for the role and your availability for an interview.

How do you write a cover letter for an academic paper?

In an academic paper cover letter, briefly introduce your paper, its main contributions, and its relevance to the journal. Mention why the paper fits the journal’s scope and highlight any novel aspects. End with your contact information and your hope for a positive review.

How long should an academic cover letter be?

An academic cover letter should be no more than two pages long. Aim for clarity and conciseness to make a strong impression without overwhelming the reader. Refer to our guide that delves into the ideal cover letter length .

Does a cover letter benefit someone in academics?

Yes, a cover letter is crucial in academics as it highlights your suitability for the position, complements your CV, and provides context for your achievements and research interests.

Is a cover letter required for academic positions?

Yes, a cover letter is typically required for academic positions. It provides an opportunity to discuss your qualifications in more detail and explain why you’re a good fit for the role and institution.

Do you need a cover letter for a research position?

Yes, a cover letter is important for research positions. It allows you to explain your research background, how it aligns with the position, and why you are interested in the role, making your application more compelling.

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COMMENTS

Guides: CWP: Craft of Prose: Cover Letter Resources
Cover Letter Writing Guide - Penn Career Services - A writing guide on cover letters prepared by Penn Career Services that covers the purpose of cover letters, cover letter etiquette, ; Job Search Letters - Purdue Online Writing Lab (OWL) - These OWL resources will help you write job application letters, thank you and follow up letters, as well as effective acceptance and rejection letters.
How to Write a Cover Letter
Lauren Weber. So you have to write a cover letter. Do you know how to start one? Do you even know what a cover letter is? Well, i n a nutshell, a cover letter is a three to four-paragraph letter applicants will send to employers when applying for a job. The cover letter can be a great way to showcase your interests, skills, and achievements.
How to Write a Cover Letter in 2024: A Step-by-Step Guide
A survey revealed that 77% of recruiters prefer candidates who send in a cover letter, even if submitting it is optional. Additionally, 90% of executives consider cover letters invaluable when assessing job candidates. So, if you think cover letters are no longer important and necessary in 2024, think again. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you write a cover letter that effectively sells ...
How to Write a Cover Letter
3. Know the Company . Take the time to research the company you are applying to so that you can express how your experience can help. Plus, having knowledge of the company is ideal for when you ...
How to write a cover letter
A cover letter is a single-page letter that you include with your job application. You should always include a cover letter, unless the job advertisement clearly says not to. The purpose of a cover letter. When writing a cover letter, you should: introduce yourself; mention the job (or type of job) you're applying for (or looking for)
How to Use AI to Write Your Cover Letter
Just remember to double-check your cover letter one more time after using a tool like Grammarly. Sometimes, AI takes your writing out of context, Shreve Blake warned. Don't: Limit Your Focus to Just the Cover Letter Unfortunately, even writing a perfect cover letter sometimes won't land you the job you want.
How to sign a cover letter: a guide to professional correspondence
Let's break down how you should sign your cover letter based on the format you are using. Email cover letter Email cover letters are quickly becoming the norm. Since you're likely to apply for a job by sending your CV to the hiring manager, you may choose to write your cover letter in the body of your email. There's nothing wrong with ...
Should You Use AI to Write Your Cover Letter?
"Writing cover letters is a skill, like other skills in life," Shreve Blake said. "So, the more you do it, the faster and more confident you're going to get." Don't: Neglect Your Research . Researching your target employer is an integral step in the cover letter writing process. Applicants should visit the company's website, read ...
3 Tips For Including Internship Experience In A Cover Letter
How to stand out from the crowd as a new grad with internship experience . Getty Images. If you are a fresh graduate looking for a new job, a cover letter can help paint a helpful context of who ...
How To Write a Great Academic Cover Letter (Steps and Example)
How to write an academic cover letter. Here are some steps to follow when writing a cover letter for academia: 1. Read the job posting thoroughly. Any academic employer expects you to discuss your teaching history and philosophy, but the amount of detail can depend on the school. If the department asks for a separate teaching philosophy ...
Academic Cover Letters
At their most basic level, academic cover letters accomplish three things: one, they express your interest in the job; two, they provide a brief synopsis of your research and teaching; and three, they summarize your past experiences and achievements to illustrate your competence for the job. For early-career scholars, cover letters are ...
PDF Cover Letters for Academic Positions
STEM letters should not exceed one page. Humanities and social sciences letters may extend up to two pages. Check with faculty in your department. Address to the individual named in the job posting, or with "Dear Members of the Search Committee." The cover letter is a writing sample. It must be good. Proofread and spell check! TIPS
Academic Cover Letters
The First Paragraph. In the opening of your letter you need to convey some basic information, such as what specific position you are applying for (using the title given in the job notice) and where you learned of the opening. Since a cover letter is a kind of persuasive writing (persuading a hiring committee to include you on a list of ...
How To Write an Academia Cover Letter (With Example)
Here are the steps to follow for writing an academia cover letter: 1. Learn about the opening. Before you write your letter, closely review the job description that the university posts. Do some research to learn about the academic interests of other faculty in the department to see what areas of expertise are missing.
How to Write an Academic Cover Letter With Examples
Tips for Writing an Academic Cover Letter . Your initial challenge will be to pass through the Human Resources screening. Review each of the required qualifications included in the job announcement and compose statements containing evidence that you possess as many of the skills, credentials, knowledge, and experiences listed as possible. ...
ImPACKful Tips: How to Write a Better Academic Cover Letter
The first step is to read the job advertisement very carefully, and then adapt your message accordingly. If, for example, the advertised position is for a 4/4 course load at a teaching-intensive liberal arts college, focusing your cover letter on your cutting-edge research agenda is unlikely to be effective. A better strategy is to address how ...
Academic Cover Letter: Samples & Ready-to-Fill Templates
How to format your cover letter for academic posts. A fill-in-the-blanks template that will produce your academic cover letter within 15 minutes. Save hours of work and get a cover letter like this. Pick a template, fill it in. Quick and easy. Choose from 18+ cover letter templates and download your cover letter now. Create your cover letter now.
PDF How to Write a Cover Letter for Academic Jobs
2 3 www.jobs.ac.uk How to Write a over etter for cademi obs Tweet this ebook, share on Facebook, LinkedIn or Google+ The cover letter exists to: •emonstrate your enthusiasm for theD post, based on the research you have done about the role and the institution •our rationale for applying andExplain y how the role fits with your career plans
Academic Cover Letter: Examples for Faculty Positions
But writing an academic cover letter isn't 101-level. That's where we come in! This guide will show you: A sample cover letter for academic jobs better than 9 out of 10 others. Ten academic cover letter examples for inspiration. How to write an academic covering letter with authority.
Crafting The Perfect Academic Cover Letter: A Step-By-Step Guide
With a thoughtfully written cover letter, you can convey aspects of your personality, work ethic, and passion for your field not readily apparent from your CV. Research About The Institution. The first step in writing an academic cover letter is to thoroughly research the institution as well as the role for which you're applying.
Dos and Don'ts for writing a cover letter for the academic job market
Others have also written about writing a cover letter. Cheryl E. Ball, for example, provides excellent advice and a paragraph-by-paragraph breakdown. Indeed, a simple Google search on "how to write an academic cover letter" brings back 49,600 results if the clause is in quotations, and 526 million results without quotations.
Academic Cover Letter Sample
Academic Cover Letter Sample. November 2, 1998. Dear Dr. Sellers: I am writing to apply for the position as assistant professor of English with an emphasis in rhetoric and composition that you advertised in the October MLA Job Information List. I am a graduate student at Prestigious University working on a dissertation under the direction of ...
Academic Cover Letter Example & Tips
Follow these three tips to write an academic cover letter that gets you shortlisted: 1. Highlight academic skills. A strong academic cover letter should highlight a variety of hard and soft skills, along with your teaching experience or involvement in research activities. To make yourself a more compelling candidate, be sure to also mention any ...
Academic Cover Letter Examples
A cohesive presentation of your credentials reinforces your attention to detail and commitment to excellence within academia. How to write a cover letter for academia. Research indicates that cover letters play a significant role in the academic hiring process, with 83% of hiring managers considering them essential. Despite this, a lot of job ...
PDF Academic Cover letter
The DON'TS of Academic cover letter writing: No two cover letters should look the same: Do not use a generic cover letter template that you send out for multiple positions. Do not make generic claims about your "fit" or qualifications for the position. o Many applicants will be appropriately 'qualified' for each position.
PDF CVs and Cover Letters
speak or write on your behalf. Some formatting pointers: There is no single best format. Refer to samples for ideas, but craft your CV to best reflect you and your unique accomplishments. Unlike a resume, there is no page limit, but most graduate students' CVs are two to five pages in length.
Academic Cover Letter Sample for a job
Remember though, if you write an academic cover letter that extends beyond 2 pages you run the risk of alienating the reader. After all, a cover letter for an academic opening still needs to adhere to the rules of motivation letters in general. Namely, it should be concise enough to digest quickly. Academic Cover Letter Sample
How to write a cover letter for journal submission
Avoid too much detail - keep your cover letter to a maximum of one page, as an introduction and brief overview. Avoid any spelling and grammar errors and ensure your letter is thoroughly proofed before submitting. Click to enlarge your PDF on key information to include in your cover letter.
Academic Cover Letter: Examples & Ready-to-Fill Templates
2. How to Write a Top-Of-The-Class Academic Cover Letter 1. Use a Professional Cover Letter Format . You're an academic, your job happens to involve a lot of writing. Often chaotic, ideas-flying, tangents-bouncing, trying-to-make-a-breakthrough kind of writing. Exercise great care when formatting your academic cover letter. You can't trip ...
Academic Cover Letter (Guide with Examples)
Include your name, location, phone number, and email address. 1. Intro: How to start an academic cover letter. The introduction of your academic cover letter should be engaging and immediately convey the purpose of your application. Begin by addressing the hiring committee, mentioning the specific position you are applying for, and briefly ...

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How To Write A Cover Letter in 2024 (Expert Tips and Examples)

What is a cover letter and do you still need one in 2024?

What is the purpose of a cover letter?

Cover Letter Structure Checklist

How to write a cover letter in 9 steps

Step 1. Do your research

Step 2. Customize your cover letter for every job

Step 3. Include all of your contact info

Cover Letter Header Example:

Step 4. Address your cover letter to a real person

Step 5. Write a strong opening statement

Step 6. Prove how your professional background and skills help the company in the body of your cover letter

Step 7. Write a strong closing statement and a call to action

Step 8. End with a professional closing salutation

Step 9. Optimize your cover letter for the ATS

How to Format Your Cover Letter

How to format your cover letter for a job

How to format your cover letter for an internship

How to format your cover letter with no experience

1. Internship Cover Letter Example

2. Career Change Cover Letter Example

3. Operations Manager Cover Letter Example

4. Communications Professional Cover Letter Example

5. Software Engineer Cover Letter Example

Cover Letter Do’s and Don’ts

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Optimize Your Cover Letter with Jobscan’s Cover Letter Scanner

Key Takeaways

One last important reminder!

Learn more about writing a cover letter

How to Address a Cover Letter

10 Tips for Writing a Cover Letter

The Career Change Cover Letter: How to Get it Right

What Do You Put in a Cover Letter?

Is Your Cover Letter Robot-Approved?

How to End a Cover Letter with a Call to Action

What tense should I use when writing a cover letter?

What to include in a cover letter

When not to include a cover letter

What should you send first: a cover letter or a resume?

How long should a cover letter be?

Should a cover letter be sent as a file attachment?

How to share a cover letter with a potential employer

How to title and save your cover letter

Should You Use AI to Write Your Cover Letter?

Do: Use AI to Understand the Job Description

Don’t: Neglect Your Research

Don’t: Forego Your Authentic Voice

Do: Use AI to Check Your Grammar

Don’t: Limit Your Focus to Just the Cover Letter

How to sign a cover letter: a guide to professional correspondence

Email cover letter

What is a cover letter?

Should you sign a cover letter?

How to decide whether to use a cover letter signature

How to sign a cover letter based on its format

Key takeaways

Should You Use AI to Write Your Cover Letter?

Do: Use AI to Understand the Job Description

Don’t: Neglect Your Research

Don’t: Forego Your Authentic Voice

Do: Use AI to Check Your Grammar

Don’t: Limit Your Focus to Just the Cover Letter

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Academic Cover Letters

What is an academic cover letter?

What do cover letters for academic teaching jobs typically contain?