How to Write a Cover Letter: A Guide for Students

Applying for a part-time job, internship or graduate position? Knowing how to write a cover letter can help you stand out from other applicants and show employers why you’re right for the role. A good cover letter introduces you, highlights your relevant skills and explains what you can bring to a team, even if you don’t have much work experience.

Here’s how to write a cover letter that makes a great first impression.

What Should You Include in a Cover Letter?

A cover letter should be tailored to the position you’re applying for rather than simply repeating your resume. Aim for one page, with a clear introduction, a few paragraphs highlighting your skills and a short closing.

Most cover letters should include:

• Your contact details: Name, email address and phone number.
• Employer details: Hiring manager’s name and company, if available.
• Introduction: The position you’re applying for and why you’re interested.
• Relevant skills: Experience, achievements and strengths that match the role.
• Closing: Thank the employer and express your interest in an interview.

How to Write a Cover Letter Step by Step

You don’t need to be an experienced writer to create a strong cover letter. Follow these five steps to get started.

1. Start with a strong introduction

Introduce yourself and clearly state which position you’re applying for. Briefly explain why the opportunity interests you and what attracted you to the organisation.

2. Highlight your relevant skills

Think about what the employer is looking for and connect those requirements to your own experience. This could include communication, teamwork, organisation, problem-solving or technical skills.

3. Include examples

Rather than simply listing your strengths, demonstrate them with examples. You could mention a university group project, volunteer experience, previous employment or involvement in a student club.

4. Explain why you’re interested

Show that you’ve researched the company and understand what the role involves. Explain why you’d like to work there and how the opportunity aligns with your interests or career goals.

5. Finish with a professional closing

Thank the employer for considering your application and express your interest in discussing the position further. Keep it polite, confident and straightforward.

What If You Don’t Have Any Work Experience?

If you’re applying for your first job, don’t worry. Employers understand that students and recent graduates may have limited professional experience.

Instead, focus on transferable skills you’ve developed through university, volunteering, extracurricular activities or personal projects.

For example:

• Teamwork: Working on university group assignments.
• Communication: Presenting projects or participating in student activities.
• Time management: Balancing study, assignments and other commitments.
• Problem-solving: Completing research projects or managing challenges.
• Leadership: Organising events or taking responsibility within a student group.

These experiences can demonstrate valuable workplace skills, even if they didn’t come from a traditional job.

What Are Common Cover Letter Mistakes to Avoid?

Before submitting your application, check that your cover letter is professional, relevant and easy to read.

Avoid these common mistakes:

• Using the same letter for every application: Tailor your content to each position.
• Repeating your resume: Use the letter to explain your experience rather than copy it.
• Making it too long: Aim for one page with short, focused paragraphs.
• Being too generic: Include specific examples that demonstrate your skills.
• Forgetting to proofread: Check spelling, grammar, formatting and the employer’s name.

Ready to Apply for Your Next Opportunity?

Writing a cover letter becomes easier with practice. Focus on highlighting your strengths, providing relevant examples and showing employers why you’re interested in the opportunity.

At Journal Student Living, we know that university is about more than just studying. Through our Journal Life program, students can take part in career workshops, networking opportunities and activities designed to help develop skills beyond the classroom.

Looking for a place to make the most of your university experience? Tour our student accommodation and discover everything student life has to offer.

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