do you understand the purpose of an application letter

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Writing the Application Letter

Traditionally, the application letter or cover letter is a formal letter that accompanies your résumé when you apply for a position. Its purpose is to support your résumé, providing more specific details, and to explain in writing why you are a strong candidate for the specific position to which you are applying. It should not simply reiterate your résumé; it’s an opportunity for you to make a case for your candidacy in complete sentences and phrases, which gives the reader a better sense of your “voice.”

As always, it’s helpful to start by first thinking about the audience and purpose for the application letter. What information does your reader need to glean from your letter? At what point in the hiring process will they be reading it?

As you draft the letter, consider what you would want to say if you were sitting across the desk from your reader. It should be written in a formal, professional tone, but you still want it to flow like natural speech—this will make it easier for your reader to absorb the information quickly.

What to Include in the Application Letter

It can be helpful to think about writing the application letter in sections or “blocks.” This provides a basic structure for the letter; once you have an understanding of this foundation, you can customize, update, and personalize the letter for different applications and employers.

Introductory Paragraph

Open the letter with a concise, functional, and personable introduction to you as a job candidate. This is your chance to establish the essential basics of your qualifications and to set the themes and tone for the rest of the letter.

• Name the position you’re interested in (by exact name and number, if available), and where you heard about it
• Clearly state that you are applying for the position—remember that you are requesting (not demanding) that they consider you as a candidate for the position
• Identify your major, year or graduation date, and school (this should be a brief preview of your educational status/area—you will go into more detail in the Education paragraph)
• Create a theme (essentially a thesis statement) for the letter, based on the job requirements and your knowledge of the employer (this may not be possible until you write the other paragraphs, so save it for last) → NOTE: Once you have established the thesis (the key reasons for your qualifications), keep in mind that the remaining paragraphs must specifically “prove” or “show” that you possess these qualifications

Optionally, you might also take the opportunity at the beginning of the letter to express your interest in working for this particular company and/or your passion for and interest in the field—I am particularly interested in this position because… This sets a nice tone and shows that you are engaged and enthusiastic. It is also an opportunity to demonstrate your knowledge about the employer and what they do (developed through your research).

Education & Academics Paragraph(s)

Since you will have already stated your basic educational status (major/year/school) in the introductory paragraph, the purpose of this paragraph is to paint a more detailed picture of you as a student, making progress in your academic program and gaining valuable experiences along the way. Your opportunity in this paragraph is to describe your academic progress in more specific detail, explaining the activities and knowledge you are developing that most matter for this position and employer. Carefully consider what the employer will value most about your educational experiences.

• Emphasize specific skills and knowledge that you are developing
• Describe significant coursework or projects—don’t be afraid to focus in on a particularly compelling example or experience

If you have a lot of project experience or several key experiences that you want to highlight, this information may be written in multiple paragraphs.

This content should NOT be a laundry list of course titles. Instead, describe how your academics have shaped your understanding of the field you are entering and significant skills you are developing, but always tie it back to what the employer is looking for—stay focused on the information your audience needs and what they will care about.

Employment Paragraph (if applicable)

It is important for employers to feel that they are hiring responsible, reliable people who know how to hold down a job. If you do have work experience in this field such as a previous internship, this is a perfect time to discuss that.  If you have previous work experience, even if it’s not related to your field, this is your opportunity to describe the value of that experience—the value for you, but, more importantly, to your reader.

• Describe your previous work experience (show, don’t tell that you’re a good employee)
• Be specific about the company, the time frame, your responsibilities, actions and the outcomes/results
• Focus on relevant and transferable skills developed on the job

Activities Paragraph (if applicable)

Activities and involvement in things outside of your coursework and work experiences such as student organizations, clubs, and volunteer work are a great way to show that you are a well-rounded, motivated person with good time management skills. Personal, human connections are an important part of the job application process, and describing some of these activities and interests can help your reader start to feel a more personal connection.

• Demonstrate personality, values, and transferable skills through sports, volunteer, travel or other professional experiences
• Describe your specific actions and involvement honestly, while still trying to connect to transferable skills and the keywords in the job posting

If the employer has a strong program for charitable giving and involvement in an area that you share an interest, that would be another opportunity to build a connection with them and show that you could embrace the company culture and values.

Concluding Paragraph

As you conclude the letter,  tie everything together, acknowledge the next steps, and end on a positive note.

• Reference your resume (“You will find additional information on my résumé”)
• Request (don’t demand) an interview (“I would appreciate the opportunity to meet with to learn more about the position and discuss my application”)
• Provide contact information in the paragraph (phone number and email address)—don’t put this below your name
• Reiterate interest in the position, the employer—another opportunity to demonstrate your knowledge about the company

A Note About Topic Sentences

As you reinforce the main idea or purpose of the letter (that you have the necessary skills, qualifications, and temperament for the job), make sure you prioritize what your reader needs to know about you and that all of the experiences you describe are meaningful to them. One good way to do that is to focus on how you construct the topic sentences. The first sentence in each paragraph should clearly explain the purpose of the information contained in that paragraph.

Begin each paragraph with a statement that connects your experience to the employer’s requirements and desired qualifications.

Topic Sentence = My experience + Why it matters

Consider how the following examples were revised to focus more on the value of the experience to the employer rather than simply stating the information about the experience.

• Original: During the past three summers, I worked at Ray’s diner in my hometown.
• Revised: Working at Ray’s diner in my hometown for the past three summers has taught me a lot about responsibility and reliability.
• Original: During my freshman year, I was part of an Alternative Energy Vehicle project group.
• Revised: I gained first-hand experience with collaborative problem solving and project management while working on an Alternative Energy Vehicle project during my freshman year.

The revised versions explicitly connect the experience (working at the diner, being on a project team) with the value and lessons learned, making it easier for your reader to understand, even while reading quickly, how this supports your qualifications.

Letter Formatting Considerations

Your application letter should use formal letter formatting. You will find detailed information about the required elements of a letter document here and more information about writing cover letters here (both are from Purdue’s Online Writing Lab).

In today’s job market, where many applications are online, the letter might be delivered in a variety of different formats. For example, it might be a PDF file uploaded to an online application system or if might be simply sent in the body of an email. In any case, consider the following as you decide how to format the letter:

• If you are delivering it as a stand-alone file or an attachment, use a formal letter format and save it as a PDF (unless otherwise instructed).
• If you are sending the application letter content directly in the body of an email, you do NOT typically need to include the sender’s (your) address, the date, or the recipient/inside address. You would begin the email with the greeting.

Adapted from “Preparing Job Application Materials” in A Guide to Technical Communications: Strategies & Applications” by Lynn Hall & Leah Wahlin is licensed under CC BY-NC 4.0

Writing as Critical Inquiry Copyright © by Keri Sanburn Behre, Ph.D. and Kate Comer, Ph.D. is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

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• Career Planning
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• Cover Letters

Job Application Letter Format and Writing Tips

• Tips for Writing an Application Letter

Job Application Letter Format

Job application letter template, job application letter example.

• Job Application Email Example

A job application letter (also known as a cover letter) is a letter you send with your resume to provide information on your skills and experience. This letter is your chance to “sell” yourself to an employer, explaining why you are an ideal candidate for a position.

When you write your job application letter, it’s essential to pay close attention to formatting . There’s a right way to format a cover letter; deviate from the standard guidelines and hiring managers may drop you from consideration.

In fact, anything that makes your job application letter appear less than professional can prevent hiring managers from taking you seriously as a candidate. Make sure your cover letter is formatted properly and is free from errors before you send. 

Tips for Writing a Job Application Letter

Do not copy your resume. A cover letter is a sales pitch. The purpose of this letter is to convince the hiring manager that you’re a strong candidate and to highlight your relevant experience and abilities. Your application letter should show how exactly your background makes you a good fit for a particular position. In contrast, your resume is a general record of your experience, education, and accomplishments.

Tailor each application letter to the job. As mentioned above, emphasize in your letter why you are an ideal candidate for the specific job. This requires that you personalize each letter to fit the company and position. Match your qualifications to the job posting by highlighting the skills, experience, and requirements listed in the description.

Be professional. Application letters have a fairly rigid format—as hiring managers read your letter, they will expect to see certain information included in set areas. You have freedom within the structure to be personable, but it is important to stick to a certain level of formality. Pay particular attention to the professionalism of your salutation . You wouldn't, for instance, want to refer to the letter's recipient by their first name unless specifically requested.

Carefully proofread. Employers are likely to overlook an application with a lot of errors. Therefore, read through your cover letter, and even consider asking a friend or career counselor to read the letter. Proofread for grammar and spelling errors. Be particularly mindful to spell the letter recipient's name correctly, as well as the company name.

Follow business letter format. Use business letter format when writing your letter. If you’re sending a typed hard-copy letter, be sure to lead with a paragraph containing your address, followed by the date, followed by the address of the recipient. If you’re sending an email, you can omit the address and date sections.  

Decide whether to send a hard copy or email. The main difference in formatting an email application letter is that you need to include a subject line that clearly lays out your purpose for writing, e.g. “Graphic Designer—Joe Smith.” And, instead of placing your contact information at the top of the letter, as you would in a hard copy, you'll include it below your signature.

Since your application letter will be accompanied by your resume, make sure the letter does not duplicate your resume exactly.

Use this formatting information as a guideline when writing your customized application letters , so you know what information goes where.  

Contact Information Name Address City, State Zip Code Phone Number Email Address

Employer Contact Information (if you have it) Name Title Company Address City, State Zip Code

Salutation Dear Mr./Ms. Last Name, (leave out if you don't have a contact)

Body of Application Letter The body of your application letter lets the employer know what position you are applying for, why the employer should select you for an interview, and how you will follow up. See below for a paragraph-by-paragraph breakdown of the body of the letter.

First Paragraph The  first paragraph  of your letter should include information on why you are writing. Mention the job you are applying for and where you found the job listing. Include the name of a mutual contact, if you have one. You might conclude by briefly and concisely saying why you think you are an ideal candidate for the job.

Middle Paragraph(s) The next section of your application letter should describe what you have to offer the employer.

It can be a single paragraph, or you can break it up into a couple of paragraphs. If the section gets lengthy, you may use bullet points to break up the text. Remember, you are interpreting your resume, not repeating it.

Mention specifically how  your qualifications match the job  you are applying for. In this portion of the letter, make your case for your candidacy.

It can be helpful to spend some time researching the company —this knowledge and insight helps you make an informed and persuasive argument for your candidacy.

Use specific examples whenever possible. For example, if you say that you have lots of experience working successfully on team projects, provide an example of a time you worked in a group and achieved success.

Final Paragraph Conclude your application letter by thanking the employer for considering you for the position. Include information on how you will follow up.

Complimentary Close (examples)

Signature (for a hard copy letter)

Typed Signature

Download the job application letter template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online) or see below for more examples.

Melissa Brown 11 South Street Harbor View, Maine 04005 555-555-5555 melissa.brown@email.com

July 14, 2021

Jason Rivera Human Resources Director Avery Solutions, Inc. 700 Commerce Way Harbor View, Maine 04005

Dear Mr. Rivera,

I was excited when my former colleague, Stephanie Taylor, told me that you were hiring for a Human Resources Specialist at Avery Solutions.

Stephanie has told me how important teamwork is to your group at Avery, and how much you need an HR Specialist who can fit in with the department and hit the ground running on day one. I believe that I am the ideal candidate for your team.

In my current job at Smith Group, I created and run our onboarding program, including organizing background checks and new hire orientation. I also have extensive experience in:

• Data reporting/data entry on HRIS software
• Recruiting and hiring processes, including creating job descriptions and postings, screening resumes, and scheduling interviews
• Producing company events, such as the annual company-wide picnic (100+ employees from across the country)

I’d love to speak with you about my qualifications and what I can do for your team. I’ve attached my resume for your consideration. Please don’t hesitate to contact me on my cell at 555-555-5555 with questions or to arrange an interview.

Best regards,

Signature (hard copy letter)

Melissa Brown

Job Application Email Example 

Subject Line: George Woo – Editorial Assistant

Dear Ms. Cortez,

I was excited when Ada Wilson told me that you were looking for an editorial assistant with a background in rights and research and a passion for digital media. She suggested that I throw my hat in the ring, and I’d love the opportunity to tell you more about what I can offer your team.

I’ve interned for Ada’s team for the past three summers, developing extensive experience with the rights and research process. Last year, I was instrumental in securing the rights to include Sara Frey’s poems in our digital anthology – a first for an online publisher, according to Ms. Frey’s estate.

I also have:

• Expertise with most popular content management systems, including WordPress
• Analytics knowledge, including expert-level facility with Google Analytics
• A strong work ethic and commitment to meeting deadlines

I hope you’ll reach out at your convenience to tell me more about your team’s goals and needs for the coming year. You can reach me on my cell at 555-123-4567 or via email at George.Woo@email.com.

How to Get Your Application Noticed

Don’t copy your resume: Your job application letter is a sales pitch. Don’t regurgitate your resume; instead, use this document to sell the hiring manager on your skills.

Tailor your application letter to the job: Match your skills and qualifications to the job description, highlighting those that make you an ideal candidate.

Be professional: Use business letter format and be sure to proofread your letter before you send.

CareerOneStop. " How Do I Write a Cover Letter ?" Accessed July 14, 2021.

CareerOneStop. " Write Effective Cover Letters ." Accessed July 14, 2021.

Purdue University. " Writing the Basic Business Letter ." Accessed July 14, 2021.

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How To Write A Job Application Letter (With Examples)

• Best Business Salutations
• Letter of Introduction
• Close a Business Letter
• Job Application Letter
• Business Letter Layout
• To Whom It May Concern
• Letter Of Interest
• Letter Envelope
• Experience Letter
• How To Write A Letter

Find a Job You Really Want In

While applying to jobs, you might be asked to provide a job application letter (sometimes referred to as a cover letter) along with your resume. A resume outlines your professional skills and experience, and a job application letter explains why you are an ideal candidate for the position you’re applying to.

You can think of this as a strictly formatted professional letter that gives hiring managers a sense of your individual qualities prior to a job interview.

This article outlines the essential details and formatting for a job application letter. You’ll learn how to write a concise and engaging letter that will increase your chances of being selected for an interview.

Key Takeaways:

A job application letter can also be known as a cover letter. It is a way to introduce how your skills and experience are a good match for the job.

A job application letter should have your contact information, employer contact information, and a salutation,

A job application application letter should have an introductory paragraph, middle paragraphs that explain your qualifications, and a closing paragraph.

Use specific experiences with quantifiable results to show how your skills were successfully put into action.

Make sure to do your research and edit your letter before submitting.

Tips for writing a job application letter

Job application letter format, what’s the difference between a cover letter and a job application letter, dos and don’ts for writing a job application letter.

• Sign Up For More Advice and Jobs

If you’ve ever asked for advice on the job application process, you’ve likely heard the phrase “sell yourself” a million times over. This means that you should highlight your skills and achievements in a way that will pique a hiring manager ’s interest and make them pause over your application.

You might feel overwhelmed in the grand scheme of online applications, application/ cover letters , letters of intent , and interviews. It’s a lot to balance, especially if you have no experience with any of the things listed.

Remember to take everything one step at a time and review some helpful tips for writing a polished and engaging job application letter:

Tailor the application letter to each job. Your letter should address key points in the job description from the listing, as well as how you can apply your knowledge and experience to the position. You want to emphasize why you are the best candidate for this specific job.

Don’t copy information straight from your resume. Your resume is meant to act as a formal record of your professional experience, education, and accomplishments. The job application letter is where you highlight a few particular details from your resume, and use them to demonstrate how your experience can apply to the job.

Follow the business letter format. These letters have very strict formatting rules, to ensure that they appear as professional to hiring managers. A poorly formatted letter could prevent employers from taking your application seriously.

Proofread. Hiring managers will definitely overlook letters riddled with proofreading mistakes. Read your letter several times over to fix any grammar, punctuation, or spelling errors. You could ask someone else to look over it afterwards or run it through any number of online grammar check programs.

Decide on printing and mailing your letter or sending it in an email. An application letter sent through email requires a subject line that details your purpose for writing— consider “[job title], [your name].” The placement of your contact information is also different depending on the medium . In a hard copy, this goes at the top of your letter, as a header. In an email, it goes below your signature.

The following formatting information can be used as a guideline while drafting your own job application letter, with an example for both a printed/mailed letter and a letter sent through email.

Your contact information

Name Address City, State Zip Code Phone Number Email Address

Employer contact information

First paragraph

Middle paragraphs

This section should be about one to three paragraphs, discussing your various qualifications for the job. This is where you really emphasize what you could bring to the company and how you might fit into the work environment. It might be necessary to do some additional research about the company, to lend more specificity to your letter.

Final paragraph

Ending a cover letter might be a challenge, as you try to wrap up all the details about why you’re the most well-qualified employee on the planet. Let that confidence carry over into your concluding paragraph.

Sincerely/Best,

Job application letter example – printed and mailed

Robin Gomez 37 Southwest Avenue Gainesville, FL 12345 365-123-4567 [email protected] October 20, 2020 Ms. Martha Waters Hiring Manager Blue Swamp Publishing 27 Archer Street Gainesville, FL 67890 Dear Ms. Waters, My resume is attached in response to your advertisement for an editorial assistant . The job description aligns with my interest in editing short fiction, and I believe my experience and skills match what you’re looking for. This past year, I interned with the Editing, Design and Production department at Gator University Press. Over the course of two semesters, I interacted with academic texts at various stages before publication. I’m comfortable proofreading and copyediting manuscripts, as well as adding typesetting codes in Microsoft Word. I have also previously worked on the staff of Writers Student Literary Magazine in Jacksonville, FL , as the Fiction and Website Editor, as well as the head of the Proofreading Team. I played a significant role in the publication of six issues of the magazine, across a two year period (including print and online editions). My qualifications beyond this include experience in team-oriented settings and proficiency in creative and academic writing. I would love the opportunity to speak with you about how I can further contribute to Blue Swamp Publishing! Please feel free to contact me on my cell at 365-123-4567 if you have questions or to set up an interview. Sincerely, Robin Gomez

Job application letter example – emailed

Subject Line: Victoria Caruso – Public Relations Assistant Dear Ms. Janet Wang, I was excited when my colleague Rachel Smith told me that you were looking for a public relations assistant with a background in graphic design. She suggested that I reach out to you about the position, since I believe that my experience aligns well with what you are seeking at Trademark Agency. I worked alongside Rachel as a brand ambassador at a small graphic design company for three years, where I excelled in project management, strategy development, and client communication. This past spring, I played a significant role in designing the website for an up-and-coming multicultural women’s organization and publicizing their first few public events. Along with my experience and personal qualities, I prioritize: Expanding company recognition and designing unique brand details Managing media, press, and public relations issues for companies Developing company communication strategies Please see my attached resume for additional details about my career achievements. I hope to learn more about Trademark Agency’s goals for the coming year. You can contact me on my cell at 319-333-3333 or via email at [email protected]. Sincerely, Victoria Caruso 15th Avenue N Iowa City, Iowa 52240 319-333-3333 [email protected]

A cover letter normally is attached with a resume for a specific job opening, whereas a job application letter can be submitted independently. As already stated, a job application letter can also be known as a cover letter. Format wise, there are a lot of similarities.

However, a job application letter can also be more detailed than a cover a letter. Usually a cover letter acts a quick introduction to a resume when a candidate applies for a specific job opening.

Meanwhile, you can submit a job application letter to a company even if there are no job openings. In this case, you would provide more detail about yourself and your qualifications. Due to this, job application letters tend to be a little longer than the average cover letter.

Now that we’ve gone through the basic formatting for a job application letter and a few examples of what one might look like, how can we condense all that information into digestible pieces?

Refer to these lists of “dos” and “don’ts” to help you through your drafting process:

Explain what you can bring to the company. Consider: how is your experience relevant to what the hiring manager is looking for?

Discuss your skills. Pick out a few skills listed in your resume and describe how you have utilized them in the workplace.

Give specific examples to support your experience. Is there a major project you worked on at your last job ? Did you accomplish something significant in your previous position? Including examples of these things in your letter will add new, specific content to your application and make you more interesting.

Edit your letter thoroughly. Read your letter a couple times, pass it off to someone to look over, run it through an online grammar check. Make sure it’s free of any errors.

Don’t focus on what the job can do for you. While it might seem nice to write that a job is your dream job or that you’ve always wanted to work with a company, it can read as vague flattery. Remember, this letter is about your qualifications.

Don’t list your current or previous job description. Your education and work experience certainly have value, but don’t just list your degrees and places you’ve worked at. Explained what you learned from those experiences and how they’ve made you a strong employee.

Don’t paste directly from your resume. A job application letter is meant to add to your value as a candidate, not just reiterate the same information repeatedly. Use your resume as a guide , but expand on especially relevant details.

Don’t submit an unedited letter. Before an employer ever meets you, they see your application and your job application letter. You don’t want grammar errors and misspelled words to make a bad first impression, so make sure to edit your draft multiple times.

Armed with these tips, guidelines, and examples, you’ll be able to draft your job application letter more confidently and send them off to potential employers knowing that you’re one step closer to employment.

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Chris Kolmar is a co-founder of Zippia and the editor-in-chief of the Zippia career advice blog. He has hired over 50 people in his career, been hired five times, and wants to help you land your next job. His research has been featured on the New York Times, Thrillist, VOX, The Atlantic, and a host of local news. More recently, he's been quoted on USA Today, BusinessInsider, and CNBC.

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What Is the Purpose of a Cover Letter When Applying for a Job

We asked career experts to share their insights on the purpose of a cover letter when applying for a job.

Here are their advice:

Table of Contents

A cover letter helps personalize, customize, and highlight how your abilities match the employer’s needs

The true purpose of a cover letter is to make an impression that leads to further consideration, a cover letter narrates an applicant’s story, a cover letter indicates an applicant’s desire, a cover letter gives a picture of the applicant’s personal brand, a cover letter reveals the skillset, a cover letter helps you get an interview by graphically showing your qualifications, cover letters serve an important purpose because they humanize your resume, a cover letter allows you to showcase your communication skills, a cover letter allows you to describe your value, a cover letter allows you to explain gaps in your resume, a cover letter sets you apart from others as it mirrors extra attention and effort, a cover letter provides a brief overview of your background and qualifications, a cover letter entices the reader to keep going and review the resume, a cover letter is your chance to set the tone for the entirety of your candidate process, a strong cover letter embodies your personality, a cover letter tells the employer what you would like to get out of the position, the main purpose of a cover letter is to show the hiring manager how you’ll add value to the organization, a cover letter provides insight into your personal and professional essence, a cover letter is your your biggest shot at standing out in the candidate pool, the purpose of the cover letter is not to copy everything that’s already attached to your resume, a cover letter mirrors your first impression, a cover letter is the justification why your candidacy should be taken seriously, a cover letter is a way of sharing career backstory with hr, a cover letter is the “why”, a cover letter reveals the ‘story’ behind an applicant’s career and job application, a cover letter shows personality while revealing the passion of the candidate, highlight your experience that is relevant to that specific job, frequently asked questions.

Damian Birkel

HarperCollins Leadership Author | Founder & Executive Director,  Professionals In Transition

The power of the “T” square cover letter increase response rate by 50% .

Can you dramatically increase your response rate when you apply for a job? Absolutely. How? By using the “T” square cover letter; a classic ride-along note enclosed with your application & resume clarifying why “you are the answer” to the employer’s needs.

Written correctly, a cover letter will contain up to 99% of the key words of the position. This is because the unique key words for this position lie hidden in the requirements for the actual position you are applying for.

History of the “T” square cover letter

Believe it or not, the “T” Square Cover Letter has been around since the typewriter. In the Stone Age (long before technology and programs like Word, where you can simply insert a 2 column table. Back then you would literally have to draw a “T” with a ballpoint pen.

I actually did this early in my career, while I was job searching. It was responsible for the interview and ultimately my job.

How to create the “T” square cover letter :

• Start with an introductory paragraph. Be sure to list the name of the position and position number. End the paragraph with: “I feel particularly qualified because…”
• In the second paragraph, insert a 2 column table. Label the top of the first column “YOUR REQUIREMENTS” The second column should be labeled “MY ABILITIES”
• List each REQUIREMENT in the order listed (in column one); in bullet format. Then match each requirement with your matching ABILITY (in column two).
• In your concluding paragraph, end with: “You will hear from me shortly.” This lets the employer know that you will be calling to follow up.

Related: How to Follow up on a Job Application

How to find keywords:

The “T” square cover letter uncovers the unique key words (which are the list of the employer’s requirements) for the position in a format that no other cover letter can.

Because employer needs and keywords are the same things, the “T” square cover letter enables you to pierce the shield of Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) by highlighting your unique skill set as it matches against the key words for the position.

Utilizing the “T” square cover letter “feeds” the Applicant Tracking System. The higher you “score” against the keywords of the position, the higher the chances of you “passing through” the Applicant Tracking System software and into the hands of a real, breathing human being.

Lisa Trapani Shumate, MBA

Associate Vice President, University of Houston System | General Manager, Houston Public Media

If you are in the job market right now, I want to offer some encouragement and strategy for getting the job you want and the one that will position you for future success.

The strategy

Always spend as much time on the cover letter as on your resume . Using the same generic cover letter will tell your employer that their position is one of many to which you’re applying. It will convey that you’re playing the numbers game—the more applications, the more likely you’ll be hired. That may be true.

It’s also true that a generic cover letter won’t set you apart. These days there may be dozens of qualified applicants for every opening.

How will an employer decide whom to interview? You be the judge.

Applicant A: Cover letter example

Dear Hiring Manager, I am happy to offer my resume and application for the position of a data analyst. I believe you’ll find I am qualified and experienced. I pride myself on going above and beyond expectations. I have an excellent track record and would welcome the opportunity to be part of your team. My key strengths are: – Attention to detail – Excellent communication and listening skills – Team player – Problem solving Thank you for taking the time to review my application. I look forward to hearing back from you.

Applicant B: Cover letter example

Dear Mr. James, I’ve been closely following how ABC Corp has responded to customers, staff and as a voice for the transportation industry during the global pandemic. It’s inspiring to see the leadership your company has demonstrated. I’m applying for the position of Senior Data Analyst and believe I have the experience and qualifications that align with ABC Corp’s standard of excellence. ABC Corp’s values of teamwork, integrity and opportunity speak to being a great place to work. Here are the key strengths I offer ABC Corp: – I graduated with honors from my University by being committed to academic leadership. – I have track record of performance that has led to increasing levels of responsibility at my current employer. – I have invested in professional development through industry conferences and volunteer board service. The opportunity to be part of ABC Corp is exciting to me. Thank you for taking the time to review my resume and cover letter. I can be reached at [email protected], and my phone number is 953-000-6759.

Which applicant makes the cut for you?

Applicant A didn’t make a mistake, and Applicant A didn’t make an impression; they didn’t even address the hiring manager by name. Applicant B stood out by clearly stating why they should be a contender. They addressed their potential new boss by name and started building a relationship.

That is the true purpose of a cover letter—to make an impression that leads to further consideration, such as an assessment or an interview.

Now that you know the true purpose of a cover letter is to set you apart—you can develop a strategy for writing the letter.

Open : Talk about the company first. Show that you know what is important to the employer. This is easily learned from their website or people who already work there.

Middle : What are your strengths, how can you contribute, name your accomplishments and successes. What motivates you? In three bullets, Applicant B stated that they will work hard to achieve (committed to academic leadership), have been recognized for success (increasing levels of responsibility), and are self-driven (invested in professional development). The middle section could be 5 or more bullets. Try to keep the cover letter to one page.

Close : Show gratitude for the time taken to review the application and cover letter, include contact information, and optimism about the next step.

Now, for the encouragement : Even during the pandemic, there have been than 6 million jobs open each month. There is one for you. The best cover letters are written when you are truly interested in the industry and company to which you are applying. Ground your interest in research, talking to friends who work in the field, and thinking deeply about what you want now and where you want it to lead.

You hold the greatest influence over your career success. Show excitement for the opportunity through positioning your strengths and talents. Invest the time and effort in writing the kind of cover letter that blows away the hiring manager.

It’s not only the next step to being hired; it is the first step in building rapport with the person who could be your next boss.

Suzanne Rohan Jones

Adjunct Professor, Maryville University

We have heard the discouraging statistics in the last 10 months about workers in the U.S. losing their jobs due to the impact of COVID-19.

As the reduction in available positions is reflective of not only the hard-hit sectors of hospitality and entertainment but also for employers hesitant to commitment to expansion in a time of uncertainty, job seekers will need to try harder than ever before to stand out to potential employers, with cover letters offering the perfect opportunity to narrate their stories.

With more organizations opting for online applications and resume submission in the last two decades, it is no surprise that many job searchers believe that cover letters are optional or even a waste of time.

However, completing an online application and uploading a resume into a recruiting database rarely allows employers to read the job candidate’s full story, looking simply for keywords.

Given how many individuals have flooded back into the job market since last spring, they may be dozens and even hundreds of applicants for every position, depending on the job sector and region of the country.

To catch an employer’s attention, every effort should be made to stand out with an attractive, concrete, and meaningful cover letter. The best way to do this:

• Use a professional, business format and keep the cover letter to one page , with a combination of paragraphs and bulleted statements.
• The first paragraph should be 2-3 sentences in length and provide the background of how the applicant learned of the position and why the position is a good fit for the applicant’s skills, education, and interests.
• The second paragraph includes 2-3 sentences that outline the applicant’s traits and accomplishments that are most relevant to the job responsibilities and the organization’s culture.
• List 3-5 bullet points that offer specific examples of education, experience, or characteristics that match what the employer is seeking.
• The final paragraph should outline in 3-4 sentences how the applicant will follow-up, hopes for an interview, and is very interested in this specific position with this particular organization. Include contact information (phone number and email address) here for ease of access.

Related: How to End a Cover Letter

Writing a cover letter specific to each employer and role offers the perfect opportunity for a job applicant to present valuable information to get an employer’s attention and explain any gaps or questions that could arise from a review of the candidate’s resume or other application materials.

Think of a cover letter as a taco shell. It holds the ingredients ( experience , education , skills , accomplishments ) together in an organized package to make it easier to consume quickly.

Amanda Sutton

President, Catalyst Communications Choreography

Someone that puts the effort into a unique, non-canned cover letter is someone who has done their research and actually visualized a future at my firm. So the desire they bring to the table is already high in my eyes. Plus!

The cover letter already begins to tell the story of one’s journey to my desk, and hopefully the aspirations they have for themselves once they work with me.

What they hope to learn and gain. How they already apply these things in their work and personal lives – just little check marks that are noted along the way to – “Can I picture this person working with and meshing with my firm and the company’s brand?”

The cover letter acts as a writing sample. So, this can be telling of how comfortable they are reaching out to people, putting their personality on paper, and how much thought they’ve put into things like; titles, paragraphs, ideas, and long-form thought.

Are they convincing? Compelling? Do they “get how this works”?

I will qualify this by saying, “I own a Public Relations and marketing firm, so the comfort level of employees who ‘get’ how to stand out, and how to write and form creative, intelligent, and concise prose, is going to shine through for me.” – That’s part of the skill sets I look for.

Bud Whitehouse

Former Headhunter | Recruiter | Author, “ When Can You Start? The Insider’s Guide to Job Search and Career Success”

The fastest and most effective way to get my attention is by using a table with two columns; the left is for the position requirements, the right column for your qualifications.

Quote the requirements (in quote marks) in the left column, and, in the same language as the requirements, list your qualifications matching the requirements in the right column.

• Use the terms from the left side verbatim on the right side
• Be specific.
• Respond to all the requirements if possible. If you can’t respond to three or more requirements, don’t respond at all.

Dont’s

• Don’t tell me you’re a team player, ethical professional, etc. You say that, but you’re looking for a job so you’ll say anything. Information about you must be completely objective, not subjective.
• Don’t tell me the wonderful things you’ve heard about my company; this is blatant sucking up.
• Don’t tell me you have 10 years’ experience when I’m only asking for three. I will drop you because you’re overqualified and too expensive. “Over three years experience” will do nicely.
• Don’t respond to the duties and responsibilities section unless you have already responded to the requirements. You must respond to the requirements.
• Don’t exceed one and a half pages in length.

Allison D. Weidhaas, PhD

Associate Professor, Rider University | Director of MA programs (Business Communication & Health Communication)

While most of us dread writing a cover letter because it’s one more step in an already cumbersome job search process, cover letters should not be overlooked, even if the application indicates that a cover letter is optional.

Cover letters serve an important purpose because they humanize your resume. They bring out important parts of your experiences, and they help people to see you as a person rather than a series of disconnected bullet points.

When you think of cover letters as communicating about your important experiences, this can help you shape what to include and exclude.

Ultimately, you want to highlight the significant experiences that you think will be attractive to the potential employer.

For example, if you are applying for a job that requires writing, the cover letter provides you with an opportunity to discuss your writing experience in more depth than you can do in a resume. In several well-articulated sentences, you can describe the writing you provided for an organization, reactions from readers, and perhaps even the circulation of that publication (if that seems important to your potential employer).

It is important to note that a cover letter, while more detailed than a resume, typically should not go beyond one page.

( Note : There are some exceptions, such as academic cover letters, but in most cases, people don’t want to read lengthy documents.)

One reason people opt to avoid cover letters is that they don’t know how to start them. The first paragraph should include the job you’re applying for and, importantly, if anyone recommended that you apply for the position. You are more likely to get a call for a job interview if the person knows the individual recommending you for the job.

This is something you can include in a resume and, if available, should be in the first sentence of your cover letter.

When you write a cover letter, you want to use the inverted pyramid approach , which places the most important information at the top and moves down from there. The inverted pyramid assumes the reader might not read the entire letter. It’s possible the reader only skims the first paragraph and calls you for a job interview.

As you apply for jobs, I recommend saving your cover letters because often, you can tweak a previous cover letter for a different job. The first cover letter is often the hardest to write, but it’s worth the effort.

Paul French

Managing Director, Intrinsic Search

The ability to write well is a prized skill in today’s business environment where companies communicate with customers, employees, and other shareholders through the written word on platforms such as social media and email.

Strong written communication is also a demonstration of your critical thinking skills, which is another quality that employers are looking for to help them stay ahead of the game in a competitive marketplace.

Reading a bullet list of your skills and competencies alone does not completely give a clear picture of what you are capable of and how you fit into the role you are applying for.

A cover letter gives you a great opportunity to tie together your skills and strengths and show the employer/hiring manager/recruiter how you will put these to use and help the employer meet their goals.

In the cover letter, you can give anecdotal evidence of your experience, background, and your suitability for the role, something that you obviously cannot do in a resume.

Gaps in your resume can easily be a deal-breaker but this doesn’t have to be the case, because sometimes life happens and you cannot avoid such career gaps.

That said, you could increase your chance of being called in for an interview if you explained these career gaps and the cover letter offers you the perfect opportunity to do this.

Keep in mind though that you should not delve into personal matters when explaining your hiatus. A cover letter like a resume is strictly a business document.

Anne M. Barnwell, NCRW, CPRW

Certified Professional Resume Writer, The Write Resumes

Is a cover letter important to employers?

The research varies widely on how recruiters view the cover letter’s importance. When recruiters are asked if they consider cover letters, responses have ranged from 18 to 86%, making those studies meaningless.

The importance I give to cover letters is more antidotal. When I write a customized cover letter for the “perfect” job, my clients get the interview.

You can argue that because this was the perfect job for them, the employer recognized that same great fit but with hundreds of resumes to scan through, that seems unlikely. Instead, I believe the extra attention and customization are what set them apart.

How to write a cover letter that gets results?

In a nutshell, your resume is about you , your cover letter is about the company . How are you going to help the company succeed?

• Target the industry and company. That does not mean you need to start new for each letter. Write your template with the main points you will share with most of your applications, then customize it for that job. You’ll get better results by connecting with the company’s values, mission, and challenges.
• Highlight your top achievements and required skills. Don’t repeat the language from the resume word for word. Highlight the most important information and give the recruiter a compelling reason to learn more by reading your resume.
• Give answers to questions you know the recruiter will ask. Do you have a gap in your work history, or are you applying for a job in California and you live in Kansas? Give a one-sentence explanation in your cover letter and help that recruiter move on to the important information, your accomplishments.
• Brief is better. My ideal length is around 250 words. Enough to get and keep the recruiter’s interest. If I write a longer cover letter, it is only when I need to outline a specific personal connection or provide greater clarity for a potential red flag.
• Ask for the interview. Yes, it is that simple.

When shouldn’t you include a cover letter?

The only time I don’t recommend a cover letter is when the application instructions tell you to not include one. Otherwise, a cover letter won’t hurt you and when done correctly, has the potential to get you the interview.’

Ron Auerbach, MBA

Educator | Career Coach | Job Search Expert | Author, “Think Like an Interviewer: Your Job Hunting Guide to Success”

So it’s designed to briefly explain what you offer a company and why they should even consider you for employment. Then your resume or CV goes into a lot more detail.

Your cover letter should be, at most, a page. And in terms of the number of paragraphs, it’s 4–5 short paragraphs.

Related: How Long Should a Cover Letter Be

Here is the basic structure or layout of a cover letter:

• Introduction: Why you’re writing to them. So it’s the job to which you’re applying or you are inquiring if they have any available jobs for you.
• Some job seekers will use another paragraph to continue explaining their overall background and why they would make a good potential new hire.
• So you can use one or two paragraphs here to convince them you’re worth interviewing.
• Next paragraph: Your willingness to be interviewed and how they can reach you to set one up.
• Last paragraph: Thanking them for considering you and a quick recap of why you feel you’re a good choice to consider for employment.

Chere B. Estrin

CEO, Estrin Legal Staffing

There are two opinions about the cover letter these days: some read it and others ignore it.

Most candidates believe the cover letter is a summary of their resume. It is not. The purpose is to entice the reader to keep going and review the resume. It shows the employer who shows originality, independent thinking, and has a fresh, intelligent approach.

Its purpose is to show whether this person has:

• conducted research on the company
• can write concisely
• demonstrates your writing ability

Employers read cover letters because they want to know a bit about you without first delving into the resume OR to cause them to want to read the resume. They want to see a writing sample and sometimes the cover letter (if it is not a template), is a very good test.

Candidates are often misled about the purpose of the cover letter. It is not to give a regurgitation of what is in your resume.

Often, cover letters go into great length, and I assure you, those are the cover letters that do not get read in this day and age of Instagram and instant gratification. The purpose is to market your skills in order to entice the reader to want to read the resume.

Those employers that do not read the cover letter are those interested in getting right to the “meat” of the subject without wasting time reading what is already in the resume.

Others have a screening software, called ATS (Applicant Tracking Software) that reads only keywords on the resume. Those employers rarely have use for a cover letter as they are searching for a near-perfect match to the job description.

It is always best to include a cover letter as most companies expect it and leaving it out can show a lack of attention to detail to those employers sold on its purpose.

John Roccia

Director of Career Services, Ama La Vida Coach

So many people make the mistake of treating a cover letter as just one more item on a lengthy To-Do list while applying for jobs. It can be true that not including one might be a mark against you, but just treating it as a task that needs to be checked off removes a valuable opportunity for you to make a great impression.

A cover letter is your chance to set the tone for the entirety of your candidate process and to put in context all the other information the company will learn about you. Whether from your resume, subsequent emails, or your interviews, each piece of information will fit into a larger picture of you.

Your first impression is your chance to define what that picture will look like.

This means that your cover letter shouldn’t try to be autobiographical or tremendously deep. Your goal isn’t to tell your entire professional or life story in one document. Rather, think of it like a thesis statement, a title page, or a table of contents – a descriptor of what’s to come, presented enticingly enough to compel someone to dive in more deeply.

That context also serves to connect you to the company, and as such, each one should be personalized. Don’t fall back on “checklist” mentality and include a form letter just to include one. Introduce yourself with a specific reason why you’re doing so for this company. Don’t be afraid to be excited!

A cover letter is a chance to show the human behind the resume, and you don’t have to be dry and robotic.

In fact, you don’t even have to send an actual letter.

Understanding that the purpose of this document is to get some positive attention and interest, why not spice it up a little? I’ve seen job candidates successfully stand out from the crowd by sending a “pitch deck” of a few slides, a relevant sample of past work, or even a live video.

Take a look at the culture of the company you’re interested in.

Are they very buttoned-up and formal? Then a PowerPoint presentation of your past accomplishments can show initiative and confidence. Are they more relaxed and non-standard? Then a video pitch can win their hearts.

Whatever you do, remember that the ultimate point is to stand out .

Applications are not pass or fail – they’re competitive . There’s no such thing as a strict “good enough” threshold. One of the best ways to get a head start in that competition is to set the tone early that you’re the person they’re looking for.

Hannah Kuspira

Career Advisor | Co-Founder, Knowlejoble

Cover letters provide context to your job application. Unfortunately, most cover letters are generic and unoriginal. So much so, that in one-third of cases hiring managers won’t read cover letters until after they have decided to interview a candidate.

If written well, the cover letter begins to build a relationship between the applicant and the hiring manager and helps to inform the first stage of the interview process.

Resumes are great tools to document skills and experience, but they don’t tell you much about a person’s culture and personality fit. The cover letter is your opportunity to introduce yourself from a holistic human perspective – not just from the context of your career.

Great cover letters provide information on your values, career goals, personality, work environment preferences, and types of teams you like to work with. Infuse some personality into your writing by balancing the formal aspects with a more personal tone of voice.

Write your cover letter to help the manager decide if their open position is going to be a fit for the type of role that will help you thrive. Employers don’t want to waste their time by interviewing people with technical skills but that won’t fit with their team, so help them understand more about your work style and goals through your cover letter.

Employers want to know that you are not just applying to jobs for the money. Of course, your career provides financial gain, but it should also align with your larger goals and vision for your life.

Too many times, I read cover letters that tell me how I will benefit from hiring you… but I want to know what benefit you will get from the job.

Here are some examples of benefits you may receive from a position:

• Exposure to a new industry (or an industry you care a lot about).
• Development of new skills.
• Opportunity to work under a specific leadership style.
• Specific work schedules that they are offering
• Potential to grow leadership skills.

By including these details in a cover letter you show that you have researched the company, position, and the people who work there. It demonstrates dedication and buy-in which is received very well by hiring managers.

It will pique their interest and provides a jump-off point for a conversation during the interview stage.

Christa Juenger

VP Strategy & Coaching Services, Intoo USA

To do this, you need to identify their needs and use your letter to address solutions. Admittedly, cover letters aren’t always read, but you don’t want to risk missing the opportunity to share your excitement about the opportunity and a more personalized glimpse of you as a candidate.

By answering the following three questions, you’ll give the hiring manager an understanding of how you meet and exceed the specific requirements of the position and show your preparedness and interest by demonstrating your knowledge of the company and industry.

• Why am I interested in and a good fit for the organization? Do you follow them on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and love their brand? Have you heard what an amazing culture they have? Be specific about what draws you to the company.
• How are my qualifications well-matched for the position? Highlight your most relevant 2 or 3 qualifications that make them want to really dive into your resume.
• What should be the next step in pursuing an interview? Reiterate your interest and excitement in the organization and role, opportunity to discuss their needs and your qualifications in more depth, and best way to reach you (phone and/or email) for further discussion.

Personalized cover letters are a great opportunity to note your achievements and how they relate to the work you would be doing for this company.

By sharing relevant skills and experience that have helped other organizations solve their problems, you are telling a story about how you might help this company succeed, as well.

Chief Human Resources Officer, Resume.io

What a cover letter is not:

I think it is useful to first emphasize that a cover letter should never be simply a restating or rehashing of your resume. I don’t enjoy reading a cover letter and then opening a person’s CV to find the same information, only in point form.

What a cover letter is meant to accomplish:

The aim of a cover letter should be to communicate intention, briefly summarize relevant role-related experience without going into the minutiae (your resume does that) and highlight your personality and organizational fit.

A lot of times hiring managers will pass over a qualified and competent candidate simply because they know this person will not be a good fit culturally at the organization.

A good cover letter, therefore, should be based on prior research and an understanding of the organizational culture you are hoping to become a part of.

In short, the purpose of your cover letter is to provide insight into your personal and professional essence to whoever will be reading it. If you present yourself as an interesting, experienced person who will be a good fit for the role, the team, and the organization, I will eagerly read your resume.

Marilyn Maslin

Chief Job Search & Branding Strategist, Resume Footprint

Interestingly many people today forgo taking the time to craft a custom cover letter. I believe this is because they can be challenging to write, and they don’t understand the advantages of this personal marketing tool.

There are several purposes/advantages of applying with a cover letter.

• Cover letters often hold key information that resumes do not contain , such as career transition details, relocation logistics, and back to work information.
• In today’s technical world, the first hiring decision-maker is the ATS (applicant tracking system). Individuals who add a tailored cover letter are doubling their chances of getting sent through to the “Yes” pile due to added content consideration.
• As an HR professional and active recruiter, I can confirm that I read every cover letter when sourcing candidates. I respect that they took the time to produce an additional document. A cover letter also tells me a lot about a candidate. If they cared enough to craft a detailed cover letter for an opportunity, they would hopefully care about their job.
• Lastly, when sending your resume, the cover letter content can be used as the email.

Ben Lamarche

General Manager, Lock Search Group

A cover letter is your first opportunity to introduce yourself to a potential employer and really your biggest shot at standing out in the candidate pool. The ultimate goal is to tell a tailored story that clearly connects how your qualifications and experience align with the company’s expectations and culture.

Whereas a resume quantifies your professional achievements, your cover letter highlights your qualitative skills , ambitions , and motivations .

Cover letters can be tricky because you have to pack a lot into one page, so you need to craft at least four paragraphs of only two to three sentences each .

As the purpose of a cover letter is to tell a resonating story, you will need to cover:

• an introduction
• highlights of your qualifications
• connection with company culture

You need to be concise and poignant with your words, which is an oft sought-after skill across industries.

First, with the introduction , start off with how you heard about the exact position; do not forget to mention an employee who referred you to the opening. Then point out how your current position and experience offer the necessary skill set to excel.

Next, highlight the qualifications you mentioned by using at least one real-life example. Think closely about how your previous work can directly relate and benefit the position for which you are applying.

For example, you can mention how you identified a problem at work (perhaps sales were dropping), you created a solution (developed a marketing plan to target a new customer group), and your solution provided results (sales grew x% over a period of time). This is the area in which to expand upon a key achievement mentioned in your resume.

Now that you have shown how you will connect in the role, show how you will connect with the company culture . This is where you show you have done your research on the company, and it proves that you have truly crafted a unique letter for this company.

Perhaps you have charitable interests that align with the company’s values or mention how your career aspirations (offering innovative products for consumers) can help the company achieve its mission.

Lastly, thank the reader for taking the time to read your letter and offer methods of how to contact you. Restate your interest in the company and the position, and say you look forward to hearing back from them.

Clay Burnett

Executive Recruiter | President, Clay Burnett Group

A purposefully written cover letter can get your foot in the door and a chance to be considered for the position you are seeking.

Think of it as a magnifying glass providing a spotlight on your abilities to do the job.

First of all, read the job description very carefully to understand what the employer really, really wants. If you are working with a recruiter they can help you understand and define the needs outlined in the job description.

Listen to them and take their advice. If you are on your own, take some time to think through the job description and see the job through the employer’s eyes.

Next, look at your resume. What do you have that they want? This is where you compose your sales pitch.

Not everything on your resume will be of equal interest. Your skills and experience are unique to you and it’s important that you select the most relevant elements of your resume to summarize in your cover letter.

Remember that it is much harder to be concise than long-winded and the person reading your cover has little time and no inclination to plow through a long paragraph.

Compose your letter so that it is quick to read and easy to understand. That will make you stand out.

Michael Trust, MPA, SPHR, PHRca, SHRM-SCP

Human Resources Leader & Certified Mediator, Michael Trust Consulting

A cover letter’s purpose is to showcase and highlight certain experiences, education, accomplishments that are on the resume that might be lost.

It’s also a way to express why there is interest in the position. It should be generally short (unless you have a great deal of experience and a great deal to highlight); it’s part of a marketing document (the resume is the rest), and it should be written that way.

This is not the place to be humble; it’s not the place to be arrogant, either. It’s a fine line.

This document must be well written and be error-free. If a good job is done, it will actually set you up to answer many challenging interview questions because you’ve already briefly discussed achievements in your cover letter.

The cover letter doesn’t replace the resume, nor should it regurgitate what’s in the resume. Just highlight. It’s really that simple.

Rob Barnett

CEO, Rob Barnett Media

I don’t know why most cover letters sound like they were written ages ago by a boring character in a black and white movie or by a robot with no personality.

Don’t bother sending covers to “Dear Hiring Manager” or “Whom It May Concern.”

Take the time to find out exactly who the hiring manager is and address them directly. When you write a cover letter, you should sound exactly like you’re speaking to your new boss, directly – like a human being.

I don’t know why everyone thinks a cover letter should be a dull, lifeless, overly formal snoozer.

Drop the typical blah blah about how you’re “excited to apply for the position.” And don’t write any company without doing your homework on the business to add nutritious content on why the mission and work line up with your expertise.

Keep your recent and relevant history brief, then do the most important thing most candidates miss. Include an understanding of their needs with specific ideas about how you can bring value. If you’ve got something positive and complimentary to add – do it. Just don’t suck up.

You’ve got one job. The primary goal of your cover letter is to earn an interview. Ask for “a brief introductory call in the weeks ahead.” This sign of patience shows confidence and professionalism that will go much farther than any hint of desperation.

One last thing, if you’ve got any direct connection to the boss or a current employee, you should definitely contact that person in advance of writing the letter to get the best inside intel possible. Then name drop that professional connection with the hope they vouch for you, like in The Sopranos. Happy Writing.

Fletcher Wimbush

Founder and CEO, The Hire Talent

Your first impression is the cover letter, where you introduce yourself as more than just another candidate, but as the candidate that will be the best fit for the role.

Be sure to include any advantageous, pertinent information that could help you stand out from the herd. If you fear any bias going into the interviews, this can sometimes be a way to quell that issue.

As hiring managers get savvier and use more technology to ‘weed’ out bad hires using assessments, this may be a good way to get to the first interview, be yourself, tout your accomplishments and be transparent.

Dr. Laurence J. Stybel

Psychologist | Founder, Stybel Peabody

Think of your resume as an appendix to your letter. Think of your letter as the justification why your candidacy should be taken seriously.

A good cover letter should include evidence:

• That you have taken the time to conduct some research about the company/industry sector
• An explicit statement linking one critical stated needs to a specific accomplishment in your resume
• Statement welcoming next steps in the hiring process

Warning : If you ever write “I would be perfect for this job ” based on the job content outlined in the advertisement, I won’t even consider talking with you.

It tells me that you assume the job description accurately reflects the job itself. That’s naive. On the other hand, you should conclude your letter with, “I believe there is mutual value in us exploring this opportunity in more depth.”

Director of Operations, MyCorporation.com

Why are they applying for this job? What makes them the ideal hire for the role? What kinds of experience can they bring to the company to help it grow and thrive?

A cover letter provides candidates the space to answer all of these questions (and then some) and to make an incredible first impression on the business. The passion and sincerity shine through in a cover letter.

Employers want to hire great talent that cares about doing a fantastic job. A thoroughly written cover letter better positions the candidate to be potentially hired as an employee.

Dawson Whitfield

Founder and CEO, Looka

If your resume is all about explaining “what” you’ve done, your cover letter is about explaining “why”.

One of the reasons cover letters are often ineffective is that people use them as a way to reiterate what they’ve already said in their resume. They take their resume’s content and expand on it, emphasizing just how much their resume bullet points match up with the bullet points from the description of the job they’re applying for.

But to get the most out of a cover letter—both for employers and prospective employees—you need to go beyond the bullet points.

Explaining how this role fits into the trajectory of your career, what it means for your professional development, how the company’s mission aligns with your own—this is the kind of content that elevates a cover letter.

By delving into the “why” behind your work, you give employers a glimpse into the person they’d be working with. Not just whether or not you can do the work, but why you actually want to.

Imran Rashid

Managing Director, Group 4 Holdings Limited

The importance of a cover letter is very often overlooked when candidates make job applications. From someone who used to work in the HR Department and go through hundreds of applications a week, the aforementioned statement could not be further from the truth.

Although I now work in an Executive Position in a global conglomerate, I often give more importance to Cover Letters compared to the actual CVs when I have been given a shortlist of applicants to select for interviews.

CVs provide a good in-depth understanding of a candidate’s experience, education, and general development over the span of their careers. All employers want to know where you have worked and where you have been educated.

However, now more than ever, CVs are often quite boring and mundane – which is expected considering how much importance is given to adhering to standard structures and sticking by industry guidelines when creating and formatting one’s Curriculum Vitae.

Cover Letters

Although plenty of career academies and HR coaches would recommend also keeping Cover Letters ’standard and professional’, I would advise candidates not to make this common mistake.

Yes, as employers we want to know why you are applying for the job and making sure you haven’t just created one cover letter for all applications, but this is often discovered in the first round of screening.

When we receive shortlisted applications for the second round of screening or interview selection, we already know candidates have experience in the relevant fields, since this has been identified by the HR Department.

At this stage, Management will often spend more time reading the Cover Letter, trying to really understand the candidate and the ‘story’ behind their career and job application.

Unique details about why you are perfectly suited for the position, what makes you different, and your passion for the field really stand out.

Furthermore, always make sure you do not give the impression that your Cover Letter is a ‘one-for-all’ that has been used for multiple applications. Talk about why you are interested in working not only in the field you have applied for but for that employer in particular.

Try to find common similarities between your interests, goals, and achievements and your potential Employer’s company mission statements and corporate ethos.

In summary, ticking all the standard boxes of the Cover Letter are important and should not be overlooked. They are all excellent ways to show you are suitable for the job, however, to go that one step further you need to show a level of personalization about why you are an ideal candidate, and perfect for the company.

This is where you stand out, by avoiding general and vague statements and giving personalized and real-life examples that really make your Employer think that you have made an effort to show how you are different.

Remember that you are your own brand – never undersell what makes you different or unique .

Kevin Miller

Co-Founder and CEO, GR0

I’ve hired over 100 people in my role as CEO of GR0. These roles included account managers, marketing professionals, social media managers, SEO specialists, copywriters, and more. I’ve read hundreds of cover letters over the years.

Traditional cover letters are 100% still relevant and not only that, they are the most important part of the equation. They show personality and personalization while revealing the passion of the candidate to the employer.

This gives a pulse for how much the candidate cares. Cover letters are seen as optional by candidates so those that actually take the time to do them and do them well certainly stand out from the pack.

Related: How to Stand Out in a Group Interview

The most important piece of advice I would give, particularly to a recent college graduate, is to talk about personal projects and entrepreneurial activities.

This demonstrates scrappiness, initiative, and the types of traits that are incredibly valued by employers. This separates a candidate from the rest of the bunch because they can speak to real-life examples of their work and how they have applied their passions in real life. The employer can then deduce how the candidate will take that same vigor and apply it to their business.

Christopher Drashner

Managing Partner, The Remedy Group

Resumes and CVs are typically very general in nature. The resume should list your duties and accomplishments at each company and role but are not built around a specific desired position. That would be too time-consuming and not as effective as a Cover Letter.

A good portion of Hiring Managers barely skim a resume. They’re looking for specific buzzwords and/or experience and if they don’t see it quickly and easily, they’ll move on to the next resume.

The Cover Letter is your chance to make sure that the Hiring Manager sees that you have the experience they need. You can highlight your experience and your success in a form that the Hiring Manager is almost guaranteed to read.

Another benefit of the Cover Letter is that it shows the Hiring Manager that you’ve done your homework on the role and the company and that you’ve taken the time to craft a Cover Letter. It makes your application more personalized and sets you apart from the majority of people who are only sending a resume.

In conclusion, a cover letter is an excellent way to highlight why you’re a great fit for the role in a format that will be read and to make yourself stand out from the other applicants.

Stewart Dunlop

CEO, Linkbuilder.io

Sometimes, seeking the first job, people tend to neglect the role of a cover letter, however, it’s an essential part of the recruitment process, as it reveals a lot of applicant’s soft skills and interest in your vacancy.

Reading a cover letter it’s even more important than the CV. Metaphorically speaking, a cover letter is the boarding pass for successful recruitment.

The main task of a cover letter is to motivate a potential employer to consider your resume.

As a person who makes a final decision during the selection, the cover letter can tell me a lot about people who wrote it starting with assessing the skill of self-presentation to demonstrating their values and match them against the values of my company to see whether we can work well if a hire happens.

I can see how well a person researched my business on the internet to show they are not just interested in getting the position, but that they are really determined to get a job in your company.

These are the nuances that help me to filter out the candidates that will not be a good fit for my company saving out time for both parties.

Which is more important, a resume or a cover letter?

Both your resume and cover letter are important when applying for a job. While the resume provides a summary of your skills, experience, and education, the cover letter provides an opportunity to introduce yourself and explain why you’re a good fit for the job.

Your resume gives employers a quick overview of your qualifications and experience. It is often the first thing they look at when reviewing your application.

However, the cover letter is your chance to make a personal connection with the employer and show why you’re especially qualified for the job. The cover letter can also help explain gaps or inconsistencies in your resume and provide additional information about your background and skills.

In short, your resume and cover letter together provide a complete picture of your qualifications and suitability for the job. While your resume offers vital facts and figures, your cover letter allows you to express your personality, communication skills, and enthusiasm for the position.

Therefore, giving equal attention and effort to both documents is important to maximize your chances of success in the application process.

Should I use the same cover letter for every job I apply for?

While it may be tempting to use the same cover letter for every job application to save time and effort, this is generally not recommended. A customized cover letter can increase your chances of getting an interview and showing interest in a particular job and company.

Each job and company is unique, with different requirements, expectations, and company cultures. By tailoring your cover letter to the specific job and company you’re applying to, you can show that you understand the position and that your skills and experience make you a good fit.

Customizing your cover letter for each application may take more time and effort, but the potential benefits are worth it. A well-written cover letter can set you apart from other applicants and increase your chances of landing an interview.

How long should my cover letter be?

In general, a cover letter should be no longer than one page. Employers usually do not have the time or patience to read long letters. Therefore, ensure your letter is concise and limited to relevant details that relate directly to the job posting.

Of course, there may be exceptions to this rule, depending on the complexity of your work experience or educational background; in any case, make sure that excessive length does not distract from the key points of the document itself.

If possible, include all the vital information while writing engagingly—use clear, concise language and highlight the essential skills and qualifications that make you stand out as a candidate.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when writing a cover letter?

No proofreading:  It is essential to check for spelling and grammatical errors before sending your application.

No professional tone:  Remember that you are applying for a job and not writing an email or text message to a friend

Using overly complicated or flowery language:  Keep your language simple and clear.

Not going into company/role-specific details:  Make sure you tailor each cover letter to the specific job posting.

You focus too much on yourself:  Show that you understand what the company is looking for in potential candidates and focus on how you can contribute to the company’s success.

Sending a generic letter that is not tailored to the job or the company:  Avoid using a generic template that could be used for any job application.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can write a cover letter that puts your skills and experience in the best light and increases your chances of getting an interview.

Do employers care about cover letters?

Yes, employers care about cover letters because they can provide valuable insight into an applicant’s personality, communication skills, and motivation for the job. A well-written cover letter can help you stand out from other applicants and show interest in the job and the company.

Cover letters allow you to make a personal connection with the employer and explain why you’re a good fit for the job. It also allows you to address any concerns the employer may have about your qualifications or experience.

By tailoring your cover letter to the specific job and company you’re applying to, you can show the employer that you have researched and are interested in the position.

In some cases, a cover letter is specifically requested as part of the application process. However, even if a cover letter isn’t required, you can use it to demonstrate professionalism and attention to detail.

Therefore, it’s always a good idea to include a cover letter with your application and put as much effort into it as you do with your resume.

How should I address my cover letter if I don’t know the hiring manager’s name?

If you don’t know the name of the hiring manager, it’s best to use a general salutation such as “ Dear Hiring Manager ” or “ Dear Recruiter ” This is a polite and professional way to address your letter if you cannot use a specific name.

Avoid using the salutation “ To Whom It May Concern ” or “ Dear Sir/Madam ” as these salutations can seem impersonal or outdated. A generic salutation is a good way to avoid potential errors if the letter is addressed to the wrong person.

However, if you have made an effort to research the company and the position and you cannot find the name of the hiring manager, you can call the company and ask for the name of the appropriate person. This shows initiative and a willingness to go the extra mile in your job search.

It’s crucial to be respectful, professional, and polite in your cover letter. Even if you don’t have a specific name, you can make a good impression by using a generic salutation and tailoring the rest of the letter to the job and the company you’re applying to.

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How to Write an Application Letter

Last Updated: June 29, 2023 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Alexander Ruiz, M.Ed. . Alexander Ruiz is an Educational Consultant and the Educational Director of Link Educational Institute, a tutoring business based in Claremont, California that provides customizable educational plans, subject and test prep tutoring, and college application consulting. With over a decade and a half of experience in the education industry, Alexander coaches students to increase their self-awareness and emotional intelligence while achieving skills and the goal of achieving skills and higher education. He holds a BA in Psychology from Florida International University and an MA in Education from Georgia Southern University. There are 7 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 165,624 times.

Application letters are typically written to accompany school or job applications. The purpose of the letter is to introduce yourself to the decision committee, and to outline your qualifications in a specific way. It can be the only time other than an interview that you have a chance to really stand out in an application, so it's important to get it right. You can learn what to include in your letter, how to style it, and how to format it to give yourself the best chance.

Application Letter Templates

Writing a Job Application

• A good example would be: "I'm writing to apply for the Chimney Sweep position advertised in Rolling Stone. I think my experience in the heating industry makes me uniquely qualified for this position. Please find my application materials and a brief description of my qualifications below."
• Don't write your name until the signature. It'll be in the header and in the sign-off, so there's no reason to put it in the body of the letter itself.

• Be specific. Who are you? Where do you come from? What's your story? These details are important. HR screeners read hundreds of these.
• Describe your ambitions. Where do you want to go? How will this opportunity help you get there?
• What skills and experiences make you the right fit? Be as specific as possible and avoid vague language. It's better to describe a time you solved a specific problem at your last job than to just write, "I'm a good problem solver at work."

• Tailor it to the business. If you're applying to work at a record store, you need to talk about music. If you're applying to work at a tech company that writes, "Tell us something totally rad about yourself!" it's probably ok to be a little more informal.

• Don't over-promise. Telling someone that you can guarantee that you'll be able to turn around their sales figures in six months or less is a good way to get fired in six months.

• Any kind of job requires this type of research. If you apply to a restaurant, you need to be familiar with the menu and the kind of customers the restaurant attracts. Consider eating there a few times before you apply.
• Don't show you're familiar by criticizing a business and telling them what you can do better. Not the time to offer a harsh criticism of a business plan that you don't really know anything about.

Writing a School Application

• Common prompts include things like, "Outline your qualifications for this position" or "In writing, explain how this position would affect your career goals." Sometimes, the prompt will be as short as, "Tell us something interesting about yourself."
• If there is no prompt, but you still feel the need to introduce your application with a letter, it's usually best to keep it as short as possible. Explain what you're applying for, why you're applying, and thank the contact for their consideration. That's it.

• Often, college prompts will ask you to describe a time you struggled, or a time you overcame some obstacle. Write about something unique, a time that you actually failed and dealt with the consequences.
• The board will get thousands–literally, thousands–of letters about someone's first mission trip, and letters about the time someone's sports team was beaten, then overcame the odds, and won again. Avoid these topics.

• Be specific. If you're writing to a college board, don't say, "I want to go to this college because I need a degree." That's obvious. What do you want to do with it? Why? If you're applying to a business, don't say, "I just need a job." That's obvious. Why this specific job?

• If you're applying to schools, what do you like about the school? What faculty are you interested in? Why this school, instead of another?

Formatting Application Letters

• If you don't get a word-count guideline, just focus on making one or two good points about yourself, and keeping it at that. No need to drone on four several pages.

• Instead of a salutation, write, "Letter of Application" at the top left corner of the page, or put it in the header on the left side at the top.
• If you do have a contact, address it to them, making sure the name is spelled correctly. Then space down and start the body of the letter. [10] X Research source

• Sometimes, it's appropriate to type your name, then print out the letter and sign it in pen. That can be a nice touch.

• Mailing address
• Telephone and/or fax number

Expert Q&A

• Remember to be formal at all times. Do not use abbreviations anywhere. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 1

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/how-to-write-an-application-letter
• ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/subject_specific_writing/professional_technical_writing/tone_in_business_writing.html
• ↑ Alexander Ruiz, M.Ed.. Educational Consultant. Expert Interview. 18 June 2020.
• ↑ https://advice.writing.utoronto.ca/types-of-writing/admission-letters/
• ↑ https://wts.indiana.edu/writing-guides/personal-statements-and-application-letters.html
• ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/job_search_writing/job_search_letters/cover_letters_1_quick_tips/quick_formatting_tips.html
• ↑ https://writing.wisc.edu/handbook/assignments/coverletters/

About This Article

To format an application letter, start by including your name and contact details in the document header. When choosing a greeting, only use one if you know the person's name your writing to. Otherwise, give the document a title, like "Letter of application" at the top of the page. For the body of the letter, aim to write no more than 1 page of single-spaced paragraphs using a standard font. Finally, conclude your letter with a formal greeting like "Sincerely yours." For tips on how to write a job application letter, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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What Is The Purpose Of A Cover Letter In An Application

• What's the purpose of a cover letter?

How cover letters can help explain employment gaps

What are the basic parts of a cover letter, what to leave off your cover letter.

Quick Answer: A cover letter is an extension of your resume. It provides a more personalized introduction to show the company why you're the best candidate for the job, and gives you the opportunity to explain any employment gaps. A cover letter should include your personal information, relevant qualifications, values and goals, and a call to action. Make it personal, engaging, and professional.

Everyone says you don’t get a second chance to make a good first impression. And all of those unnamed people are completely right. First impressions are essential, especially when you’re looking for a job.

So you made a great resume, with a unique template, one that covers all the important past experiences and how you’re the best employee that would grace us with its presence on this planet.

But how can you make this even better?

This is when cover letters step in.

Even if you’re not required to write one when you apply for a certain position, it can only help.

In this article, we will show you all the benefits of sending a cover letter, the basic outline that you can follow, some common mistakes, and many other cover letter tips.

Let’s dive in.

What's the purpose of a cover letter?

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Cover letters are an extension to your CV or resume that will dive even deeper into your professional and personal qualifications, showing the company why you are the best candidate for the job.

It’s something that a lot of candidates skip when they apply for a certain position, so if you have a cover letter, you are already a couple of steps ahead of the competition!

These letters are a great way to properly introduce yourself in a more personalized way by addressing the points they care about the most.

Take it as something that would add a personal touch to all the facts and data you’ve already included in your resume, enticing them to read further and really get to know you.

It will show that you have put the time into researching the job you’re applying for. You know what they need and you will give it to them.

Before you start writing, take a look at some effective cover letters  so that you can see how the candidates tailored the content to fit the company and how they expressed themselves.

Employment gaps can easily turn off an employer and give a bad impression of your consistency and work ethics. And the bad thing is, there is no space on the resume where you can explain them.

This happens most often when you use the chronological type of resume. If you’re still wondering which type of resume will suit your needs best, take a look at our resume guide .

So, if you’ve decided to use the reverse chronological resume , all your gaps will shine bright like the sun, and there is no space left where you can clarify the circumstances that surround them.

Cover letters give you the freedom to do just that. Use it to tackle any controversial topics head-on and don’t leave anything to the imagination of your potential employer.

Don’t try to hide those gaps or other pieces of information such as only working in a company for 2 months. The best tactic is to be upfront about everything so you can win their trust even before the interview.

Of course, you can always find employers that would be hesitant to hire someone with long employment gaps, regardless of the explanation. However, those are companies you don’t want to have anything in common with.

And remember, the goal of a cover letter is to get you an interview. Don’t over-explain yourself, 1 or 2 sentences per gap would be enough. If the recruiters need more information, they can just ask you during the interview.

Then you will have the chance to go in-depth and make the best impression since you can look at their reactions, analyze their behavior, and see how they react to certain pieces of information.

Introduction

It’s best you start with an opening section that includes your personal information such as full name, address, email, phone number, etc. You can also insert a link to your professional profile, for example, LinkedIn.

Pay special attention to the email. It needs to look professional. No matter how long you’ve used your high-school email, “ [email protected] ” will not impress your future employers, unless you’re applying for a band.

Next is the greeting. Usually, the job offer includes the name of the hiring manager and if it doesn’t, take your time to research them. It will make a great impression if they see you made the effort to learn the contact names.

Still, it needs to be respectful. Say the name of the hiring manager is Josh. Don’t start with “Hey Josh” or “What’s up Josh?”. A simple “Dear Josh” would be great. Or, if you have a full name, use it – “Dear Mr.Smith”.

Representation of your qualifications

Now that you’ve finished with the presentations, it’s time to start advertising yourself.

Start with how you found out about the position and the things that motivated you to apply for it. Briefly explain how your qualifications and skills are related to the job, making sure you’re using the ones they specified in the ad.

If they are looking for someone who can manage multiple projects at a time, include it. See what they need the most in their candidates and if it’s something you’re confident in, don’t forget to put it in.

This part needs to be very engaging, it will determine whether they will continue reading or stop in the middle, throwing your resume and letter away for good.

Be specific about your achievements and responsibilities. “I was proofreading documents” is not as nearly as effective as “I was the main proofreader for all the legal documentation for the Accounting department”.

Be confident when you talk about what you’ve done but be careful not to appear cocky and arrogant. Simply highlight your accomplishments and let them speak for you, instead of saying how great and unique you are.

Values and Goals

The next section should include arguments about why you’re such a unique fit for the company, how they can benefit from someone with your personality, and how enthusiastic you are about applying for this position.

Take some time to explain about your hobbies, about you as a person. Show that you’re not a mindless robot, but a unique human being with their own passions and desires.

Share with them your dreams and what you expect to accomplish both as an employee of their company and in life in general.

If you’ve spent time volunteering, this is the perfect place to mention it and what it gave to you as a person and a professional.

End your cover letter with call to action

Now that you’ve listed all your amazing achievements, experience in the field, and personal qualifications, it’s time to finish off and entice the recruiting manager to contact you for an interview.

Remind them about the resume you’ve attached along with the cover letter and let them know the best way to contact you.

Thank them for the time they spent on your application and how you’ll be waiting in anticipation for the reply.

The recruiters shouldn’t doubt how much you want this job so make sure to remind them again. A simple “Eagerly waiting for your positive reply”, should do you just right.

Still not sure what to include? Take a look at some  cover letter examples  that have secured impressive job positions in no time!

Just as there are important things that would attract your future employers, there are some phrases that are a definite turn-off and should be avoided.

Let’s go through the main ones.

“Thank you for reading my resume.”

You can’t assume they’ve already read your resume. Chances are they haven’t and the cover letter is the first thing they go through.

“I will be an excellent fit for your position.”

Let your achievements and qualifications speak for you. And by saying “I will be”, you already assume they hired you, which is quite arrogant.

Instead, rephrase it to – “I believe I can be a great asset to your team/department/company.”

 “Dear sir, or madman”

Since cover letters include more written content than resumes, any punctuation and grammar errors will be easily noticed.

An inconsistent and incorrect writing style will make a really bad impression and everything else you’ve put as accomplishments and experience will be of no importance.

Proofread a few times. We recommend that you use an online tool like Grammarly or Enhancv’s Content Analyzer .

Be careful when you choose the font, make sure it’s professional. A cover letter entirely written in Comic Sans will throw off any sane, intellectual human being on this planet.

Cover letters are an extremely useful addition to your resume. They bring character and soul to the factual CV or work resume.

Most companies look for people that would add value to their business and a cover letter should be used to show them just that.

How you can give them exactly what they need and much more.

Still, cover letters can be quite difficult to pull off. Do your research, both for the company itself and for all the things a cover letter should include, as well as the recommended writing style, and much more.

Don’t use the same cover letter template for each company. Make it personal, show them you care.

For your convenience, we have gathered our years of expertise in a number of useful articles that will help you with your  cover letter .

• Cover Letter Guides

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How to answer the “what type of work environment do you prefer” interview question, how to show security clearance on resume, best fonts to use on your cover letter, how to write a great linkedin connection message [with examples], why are you leaving your current job - interview question (+ answers).

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College Application Letters: Cover Letters & Letters of Continued Interest

College Application Letters

College application cover letters support your college applications, college resume, and college application essay prompts. In combination with the other elements of your college applications, particularly your college entrance essay, college application letters help establish your “why.” In short, a college application letter is a cover letter for your college applications that describes your background, skills, and interest in the school. When looking at college application cover letter examples, pay attention to the values that they express. College application letters and college entrance essays are similar in that they are exercises in personal branding. When reading college application cover letter examples, pay attention to the messages they convey. 

If you’re wondering how to write a college application letter, CollegeAdvisor.com has advisors who can walk you through every part of the process. If your goal is to get into top colleges, CollegeAdvisor.com can help. We’ll analyze examples of college application letters and discuss the letter of continued interest to help you craft successful applications. 

In this guide, we’ll break down the different kinds of college application letters you may encounter when completing your college applications. We’ll discuss the college application letter and the letter of continued interest, as well as teacher recommendation letters.

If you want to read college application cover letter samples, you’ve come to the right place!

What is a college application letter?

To learn how to write a college application letter, you must first understand its purpose. Do this by checking out college application cover letter examples. College application letters and college resumes serve as introductions for your college applications. Unlike college application essay prompts, there are no specific questions to answer in your cover letter. Instead, include the essential elements of university application letters: your background, what makes you unique, and your reasons for wanting to attend that particular college. In short, what makes you, you .

As you’ll see when reading example college application letters, college application cover letters are not all that different from what you would write in a cover letter when applying for a job or graduate school. The purpose of college application cover letters, college entrance essays, and college resumes is to persuade colleges that you are the strongest candidate for admissions. 

College application cover letters are not the time to be shy, but they’re not the time to be pretentious either. When reading college application cover letter examples, you’ll see that there’s a fine line. Your tone matters. In your university application letters, show your experiences and accomplishments while portraying character traits that colleges value. To get into top colleges, find a balance between being proud of your accomplishments and being humble.

College application letters – Who requires them?

Unlike college entrance essays, college application letters are required by very few colleges. However, the skills you’ll develop by writing university application letters will serve you well as you approach your college application essay prompts. When researching college application examples, you’ll notice that there are optional materials to submit. If you’re serious about your college applications, submit university application letters to show your interest. 

College application cover letters are particularly effective if the college does not have college application essay prompts that ask you to explain why you want to attend the school and/or why you want to study your major. They are even more strongly recommended when applying to colleges that don’t have any supplemental essays. You’ll see many college application cover letter examples that focus primarily on academics, but you can include so much more.

Though university application letters are rarely required, they provide an ideal way to introduce yourself. After all, you’ll notice when reading college application cover letter samples that the goal is to help the admissions committee get to know you as a person. You are more than just your grades and scores.

If you want to get into top colleges that don’t allow you to submit a college resume or don’t provide interviews, you need to take extra steps to earn acceptance. Often, you can repurpose content from college application essay prompts that ask why you want to study your major! The college application essay format differs from that of a college application letter, but they serve a very similar purpose.

What is a letter of continued interest?

A letter of continued interest (LOCI) is a letter you send to a college when you are deferred or placed on the waitlist. So, not everyone will need to write a college application letter of continued interest.

Your letter of continued interest has three primary goals: 

• Reaffirm your interest in the school.
• Provide additional context for your application. 
• Discuss accomplishments on your college resume that have occurred since you submitted your application.

In this guide on how to write a college application letter, we discuss all forms of college application letters in detail. We’ll expand on the above goals to explain the strategies for writing effective letters.

Explaining teacher recommendation letters 

In addition to submitting a college application cover letter and, potentially, a letter of continued interest, your application will also include recommendation letters . These letters enhance your college application entrance essay and build on answers to supplemental college application essay prompts. 

Due to the shift away from standardized testing, other parts of your college applications are inevitably getting more attention in the evaluation process. When assessing your college applications, admissions committees will often rely on letters from your teachers and counselor in place of interviews.

When reading sample college application letters of recommendation, you’ll observe that some are better than others. But, it can be a bit harder to find example teacher recommendations than it is to find college application cover letter examples. To ensure high-quality letters, create a plan well in advance of your senior year. You’ll want to ask teachers to write your recommendations who know you best beyond your grades. The strongest sample college application letters of recommendation speak to both your personal and academic strengths. 

College application sample recommendation letters with the biggest impact typically come from teachers from your core junior year courses – math, science, English, and social studies. If there’s a teacher from your junior year who taught you during your sophomore or senior year too, even better! Teachers who know you through multiple environments – clubs, classes, sports, or other areas – can often do the best job speaking to your growth and achievement over time. 

Choose teachers who know you best

Ultimately, the most effective sample college application letters of recommendation are written by the teachers who know you best. Pay attention to the college application requirements for each school on your list. Note when reading example college application letters of recommendation who the intended audience is. Some schools require math or science teachers for STEM and business majors , while others require English or social studies teachers for humanities majors .

For example, when looking at college application sample requirements, MIT writes “One recommendation should be from a math or science teacher, and one should be from a humanities, social science, or language teacher.” Caltech also requires one math or science teacher evaluation and one humanities or social sciences teacher evaluation. 

Some applicants are tempted to send more letters than the college applications require. However, aim for quality over quantity. If you want to ask another teacher to write a recommendation letter for you, ask yourself what perspective they will bring to your college applications that isn’t already covered in your college entrance essay or other recommendation letters. 

Don’t hesitate to provide materials to help your teachers and guidance counselor write their letters of recommendation for you. In fact, you should! When reading college application sample letters of recommendation, you’ll note that they are specific and provide examples where possible. Some teachers will even have you fill out a standard form to gather information from you. So, by having additional information already prepared, you are helping them tremendously. 

Here are some materials you can provide to help your recommendations augment your college applications:

• College entrance essay
• College resume or a list of your extracurricular activities and awards
• Responses to college application essay prompts.
• A sample college application letter that you’re sending to one of your colleges.
• A few paragraphs about why you want to study your major or pursue your intended career. 
• Key elements of the course you took with them, such as a favorite project or unit. 

When preparing materials to give to teachers, read the instructions given to recommenders by MIT. Even if you aren’t applying to MIT, the information can still be helpful to know. By understanding the process of writing recommendation letters on the teacher’s side, you can see what information will help them write a strong letter for you. 

Don’t wait until you’re submitting your college applications to ask your teachers for recommendations. Some teachers limit the number that they will write, and you want them to have plenty of time to write a quality recommendation. To make sure you have the best recommendations , ask teachers late in your junior year or early in your senior year.

The College Application Letter

As we’ve mentioned, a college application letter is a cover letter for your college applications. It describes your background, skills, and interest in the school. It’s different from both the college application essay format and the letter of continued interest. When reviewing college application samples, you’ll see that your cover letter works together with your college resume and college entrance essay to help admissions officers get to know you. 

Below, we’ll discuss how to write a college application letter and walk through a sample college application letter. But remember, you want your letter to be original! Don’t feel limited by what’s in any examples of college application letters.

Do all schools require a college application letter?

No — few schools actually require college application letters. However, learning to write a strong college application letter can help you in other aspects of the college admissions process. Reading college application cover letter examples can also help you learn how to write for the admissions committee audience. 

One of the ways to learn how to write a college application letter is to read sample college application letters. For instance, the same skills that help you write a strong and concise college application letter will help you in the college essay format, too.

The college application letter – What should I include?

So, you know the purpose of college application letters, but what should you include in them? Reading college application cover letter samples can help you determine this. While the college application essay format lends itself to focusing on one topic or story, college application cover letter examples highlight the importance of covering several different topics.

College application letters should contain the following elements: 

1. school name and address.

You college application letter should follow formal letter formatting guidelines, which include writing the full name of the college or university you are applying to in the upper left hand corner of the letter. Try to be as specific as possible with the address you choose to use.

2. Salutation

A standard salutation is suitable for your college application letter. However, it is a great idea to do your research and use the full name of the admissions officer assigned to your region.

3. Introduction

The best examples of college application letters open strong. Thank the admissions committee for reviewing your application, and introduce yourself. Do you have a unique connection to the school? Can you hook the reader in some way to make them want to keep reading?

4. Explanation of academic interests

Your primary purpose in college is to earn a degree, so notice that in example college application letters most of the space is often devoted to discussing academic plans. Include your intended major and career path, as well as interdisciplinary interests.

5. Discussion of extracurricular interests

The college application essay format may be a place for you to discuss extracurricular involvement, so use this space to elaborate or discuss additional interests. These could be connected to your academic plans, but they don’t have to be.

6. Conclusion

Express your interest in the school! Impactful example college application letters have a clear and brief conclusion that reaffirms your desire to attend and enthusiasm for the opportunity to join the next class of undergraduates. Point to specific classes, professors, programs, organizations, and aspects of the college that pique your interest. No one is going to hold you to your plan, but colleges want to see that you have one.

8. Complimentary Close

Lastly, every good college application letter should include an expression of gratitude alongside your close and your signature.

In the example of a college application letter above, there are a few key details to highlight. The letter is essentially a five-paragraph essay, with one paragraph for each of the five elements. This differs significantly from the college application essay format. In this college application example, the college application letter has clear and distinct sections, and this is very common in college application cover letter samples.

Depending on your interests and plans, you could take a more integrated approach. You’ll read some examples of college application letters that center around a theme or broad plan rather than separated into individual paragraphs.

This sample college application letter is a narrative. The applicant’s goal is to tell her story to the admissions committee. The best sample college application letters paint a picture for the reader and draw the reader into the storyline. Though it can feel like being vivid and descriptive is a waste of your space, “showing instead of telling makes for stronger college applications.

How to format your college application letter?

When reading sample college application letters, you’ll observe that they are formatted very similarly to professional cover letters. Your university application letters should be one page single-spaced. The heading should also be consistent across college application letters. 

• Your full address
• The date you will send the letter
• The admission officer’s name
• The college name
• The college address

Then, open your letter with a salutation. Many examples of college application letters open with “Dear” and are addressed to the admission officer. If you cannot find your regional admissions officer, it is fine to address the letter to the admissions office as was done in the sample college application letter above. Once you write the body of your letter, don’t forget your closing salutation – “Sincerely,” and then your name. 

Once you read several sample college application letters, you’ll understand the best practices. After writing a university application letter for one school, you don’t need to start from scratch for additional schools. Adapt what you have to fit the next college’s context and your specific interests on their campus. 

Being concise is key. Your university application letter should not be redundant. If it exceeds one page, see where information you mention is repeated elsewhere in your application. In your cover letter, focus on the content that makes you as original and unique as possible. Most importantly, don’t forget to proofread your university application letters! 

Can a college application letter help me with other parts of my application?

Think of the college application cover letter as the glue that holds your college applications together. When writing it, think about it as your opportunity to show your best self. After brainstorming the content, you’ll be better equipped to craft your candidate profile into a cohesive narrative and articulate why you want to attend the college.

Though many parts of your college applications will be out of your control by the time you reach your senior fall, the college application cover letter is one that you can control. Use it to elevate your college applications, show interest in your top schools , and make yourself stand out among other applicants!

The Letter of Continued Interest

Another form of college application letter is a letter of continued interest . In sample college application letters of continued interest, you’ll see that the primary purpose is to reaffirm your candidacy for a spot in the next incoming class of undergraduates. 

Though it can feel like a waiting game, the waitlist should not be passive. As soon as you are waitlisted or deferred, begin crafting a letter of continued interest. The best college application sample LOCIs are submitted promptly. Put in the effort to show you’re serious about attending. 

College application example LOCIs should focus on recent updates. Likely, a lot has happened since you submitted your application, particularly if you applied by the early deadlines. Strong college application sample LOCIs convey accomplishments and experiences that either add to previously mentioned ones or provide another dimension to your application. 

Letter of continued interest – When and where to submit?

Learn as much as you can by reading college application example LOCIs, but know that each school’s process for when and how to submit them is different. Additionally, the process may vary based on whether you were deferred to the regular decision round of admissions or waitlisted after the regular decision round. It’s important to follow each university’s directions.

Many schools will request that you upload your letter of continued interest to a portal. Some will request that you email it to an address – typically the admissions office. Others won’t allow you to submit any additional materials. If you’re in doubt, call or email the admissions office and ask. 

What to include in your letter of continued interest?

You’ll notice common trends when reading college application sample LOCIs. Effective college application example LOCIs convey a tone of sincerity, gratitude, and enthusiasm for an opportunity to attend. A strong sample college application letter of continued interest includes four elements. 

First, reaffirm your interest in attending the school if offered the chance to matriculate. Then, discuss relevant developments to your application, such as additional extracurricular accolades and continued academic successes. Sometimes, you’ll see a sample college application letter of continued interest that mentions how a student improved a lower mid-year grade or discusses a new leadership role. 

When reading a sample college application letter of continued interest, remember that colleges are looking for reasons to admit you, so don’t be shy! Offer to answer any questions they have and provide additional info in the conclusion of your letter. 

It’s important to back up your claims with supporting evidence. Strong college application sample LOCIs provide examples and specific details, just as you would in a cover letter or essay. Be vivid and descriptive as you share your story!

However, college application example LOCIs that include overly emotional appeals or merely complement the university are unlikely to be effective. Your letter of continued interest should be all about you. Though it can be difficult to realize this when reading college application example LOCIs, recognize that the content of your letter should fit within the context of the rest of your application. 

The many types of college application letters – Final Thoughts

In this guide, we covered several types of letters associated with your college process – college application cover letters, teacher recommendation letters, and letters of continued interest. Reading sample college application letters, whether they are college application cover letter samples or LOCIs, can help you do your best work. But, remember that every applicant’s college application process is unique. 

Our final tips for writing college application letters:

• Proofread. College application letters with typos or grammatical errors reflect poorly on your effort and candidacy. Use a polished and professional tone in everything you write for your college applications.
• Be yourself. Though this goal can get lost in the requirements, scores, and grades, you should focus on helping the colleges on your list get to know who you are . 
• Follow the requirements. Each college has their own requirements for how they want you to submit materials. Pay close attention to the details for each college as you go through the admissions process. 

CollegeAdvisor.com can help guide you through every step of the college application process. Check out our blog , webinars , or register with CollegeAdvisor.com today. Good luck!

This guide to college application letters and letters of continued interest was written by Caroline Marapese, Notre Dame ‘22. At CollegeAdvisor, we have built our  reputation  by providing comprehensive information that offers real assistance to students. If you want to get help with your college applications from CollegeAdvisor.com  Admissions Experts , click here to schedule a free meeting with one of our Admissions Specialists. During your meeting, our team will discuss your profile and help you find targeted ways to increase your admissions odds at top schools. We’ll also answer any questions and discuss how CollegeAdvisor.com can support you in the college application process.

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Understanding Job Application Letters, Functions, and How to Make It

For fresh graduates and other recent graduates, making a job application letter is something that is less familiar to do. Learn the meaning, function, and how to make the following job application letter!

Nandang Ary Pangesti - 16 August 2022

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Definition of a job application letter, function, and how to make it | Corinne Kutz Unsplash

Application letter A job application is one of the documents attached when someone applies for a job. The main function of the inclusion of a job application letter is to: recruiter find out brief data on prospective workers and the position that the prospective worker wants to apply for.

For fresh graduates and other recent graduates may make a job application letter is something that is less familiar to do. Even so, writing a correct and polite job application letter is something that must be learned. Therefore, part Human Resources (HR) management companies can glance at your profile.

What is the meaning of a job application letter? What should be included in a job application letter? What is the function of a job application letter?  The following is an explanation regarding the meaning of a job application letter. This article will be perfect for those of you who are in the process of looking for a job.

Understanding Job Application Letters

Application letter is a letter that contains a person's application to apply for a position in a company. Usually, this letter will contain a brief identity, position or job title role who is being applied for, as well as a few sentences that might convince the company to choose the person for the position he is applying for.

A job application letter is one of the most important files for a recruitment stage in a company. Part human resource development (HRD) the company will know what position the prospective worker has registered for. A good job application letter can also be a good impression, especially for positions related to administration.

You need to remember that a job application letter is a different matter from Curriculum Vitae (CV) or curriculum vitae yes! CV is a file that makes informative data about a person's life, whether it's the education history, achievements, and skills of the owner. This letter can be read by anyone from any company because the information is general

Meanwhile, a job application letter is a letter that is more personal in nature because the letter is specifically from a job applicant for one company only.

Job Application Letter Functions

A job application letter is not something that is attached to a company without intent. This job application letter has several functions that are very, very useful for both workers and recruiters. So what are the functions of a job application letter? The following are some of the functions of a job application letter:

• As a written introduction media by employees to HRD and the company
• Make HRD know who we are and what position we are applying for
• A job application letter will usually include where prospective workers get information about job vacancies, with this the company can also evaluate which platform is more effective at attracting prospective workers.
• A job application letter will usually provide information regarding any attachments that the prospective employee includes along with the document. That way, the company can ensure that the attachments of prospective workers are complete and nothing is scattered.

How to Make a Job Application Letter

A job application letter is an essential document for a job seeker . Through a job application letter, a company becomes more familiar with its prospective employees, even though it is only a brief introduction.

Well , it seems less afdal when talking about a job application letter, but it does not discuss the structure of a job application letter and how to make this letter. The following is how to write a job application letter .

Write the place and date the letter was written

The first thing that needs to be done to make a job application letter is to write down the place and date the letter was written. For example:

Surakarta, 12 August 2022

Write about the letter made and the number of attachments

Next, the job candidate needs to include terms and attachments. Writing about the above letter is intended so that the company can quickly sort out the needs of the sender of the letter.

It is also necessary for prospective workers to write down the number of attachment sheets. This attachment is adjusted to any documents that you send along with your job application letter.

If you send documents directly online , make sure to send your job application letter and attached documents in only one document file! This will make it easier for HRD to check all your documents.

Here are examples of things and attachments:

Hal : Job application

Attachment : 6 Sheets

Add Mail Destination Address

The next step, prospective workers can add a destination address or company. Here are some tips for writing addresses.

• Try to use effective sentences, there is no need to use the words To and Yth together because these two words already have the same two meanings. It's better if you use only Dear.
• The address is better not to exceed 3 lines so that the contents of the letter are shorter, denser, and clearer.
• Write the description "Road" without abbreviation
• No need to use a period at the end of each line

Example of writing address:

DailySocial.id Personal personnel

at Jalan Tebet Timur Dalam II No.14, Jakarta

Write Best Regards and Letter Opener

Greetings and the opening text is an important part of the letter because it will give an impression to the reader. The greeting that is usually included in a formal letter such as a job application letter is "With respect". 

Add Letter Content

After writing the opening, of course, the letter writer needs to write down the contents that will state the need for the letter. In addition, this section will contain the identity of the sender and a statement regarding the attachment of documents other than the job application letter.

Write a Closing Job Application Letter

Next, another job application letter structure is closing. The phrase that should not be missed in your job application letter is a thank you for recruiter .

Give Closing Greetings and Sign Full Name

Finally, make sure you have added closing greetings and put your signature and full name at the end of the letter. Well Besides that, what is no less important is to make a list of what documents you attach other than that good job application letter fillet that you send by electronic mail (email) or via physical mail envelopes.

Sample job application letter

on Jalan Tebet Timur Dalam II No.14

Yours faithfully

Based on the information I got from DailySocial.id's official Twitter account on May 10, 2022, I know that DailySocial.id is opening job vacancies for interns in the field of internal content writer . I hereby volunteer for the position, as for my data as follows.

us : Nandang Ary Pangesti

gender : Woman

mobile number : 0838xxxxxx

Email : [email protected]

I have writing experience from the Student Press and Publishing Agency organization. With the experience I've had, I'm sure I can do the job in the position I'm applying for. I have high hopes for the fulfillment of this job application. For your attention, I thank you.

Yours faithfully.

Nandang Ary Pangesti

Appendix List:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Transcripts
• Recent Photo
• Certificate
• Police Record Certificate (SKCK)

Well , that was a discussion related to a job application letter. A job application letter can be an introduction and introduction to the story sheet of a worker in a company.

Make a good job application letter so that the company's HR will glance at you. Don't forget to use polite language. Hopefully there will be good news soon for friends job seeker who is looking for a job huh! Have a good fight!

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What to Know About Donald Trump’s New $60 Bible

“all americans need a bible in their home, and i have many. it’s my favorite book.”.

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Mother Jones illustration; Shealah Craighead/White House/ZUMA

One month after releasing a line of gilded high-tops for $399, Donald Trump revealed on Tuesday a new item: the Bible. “All Americans need a Bible in their home, and I have many,” the former president explained in a video promoting the country singer Lee Greenwood’s version of a King James translation, the “God Bless the USA Bible.”

“It’s my favorite book,” Trump added.

Throughout the rest of the clip, as if daring us into a collective disgust, Trump swerved through random opportunities to rail against bureaucrats and a country under threat—all while hawking a holy text.

But his latest sales pitch also prompted some legitimate questions. Such as: What the hell is going on? And: Excuse me? Here, we try to answer some of the queries.

So, that first question—what the hell—but more formally: What exactly is Trump promoting and how much will it cost me to shell out for this? 

Trump is encouraging his supporters to buy a Bible endorsed by himself and Lee Greenwood. It costs $59.99, without taxes or shipping included. That seems to sit on the more expensive end of Bibles on sale at Barnes & Noble . But those books presumably don’t include copies of the Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and the handwritten lyrics to the chorus of Greenwood’s “God Bless the USA.”

The “God Bless the USA Bible” does include these items .

Trump is in a serious cash crunch . So is he going to make money with this Bible?

According to the book’s official site , the God Bless the USA Bible has nothing to do with Trump’s campaign. It is “not owned, managed, or controlled by Donald J. Trump, The Trump Organization, CIC Ventures LLC, or any of their respective principals or affiliates.” Instead, Trump’s “name, likeness, and image” are being used “under paid license from CIC Ventures LLC.”

Wait, what is CIC Ventures LLC, though?

Okay, so CIC Ventures LLC is, according to the  Washington Post , basically a pipeline to Trump:

In [Trump’s] financial disclosure released last year, he’s identified as the [CIC Ventures LLC’s] “manager, president, secretary and treasurer” and the Donald J. Trump Revocable Trust is identified as a 100 percent owner of the business. The same entity also receives royalties from his book “A MAGA Journey” and speaking engagements.

In case it’s not already obvious: if you look at the company’s documents, you’ll find the principal address for CIC Ventures LLC is 3505 Summit Boulevard, West Palm Beach, Florida. That is a Trump golf course . Moreover, in a 2022 disclosure, Nick Luna is listed as a manager. Luna was Trump’s personal assistant and body man.

So, I’m sorry, but let me ask again: Is Trump making money off this?

The New York Times reports that “according to a person familiar” (classic) Trump will receive royalties from sales.

You could have just said that.

I wanted to tell you about the other stuff I found. Any other questions?

Yes. Who is Lee Greenwood?

The country singer who wrote “God Bless the USA.” Greenwood is a fierce MAGA guy who otherwise made news after pulling out of an NRA concert in response to the Uvalde, Texas, mass shooting.

Does Greenwood have a Christmas album with an oddly sexual cover?

Yes. Look at this .

Perfect sweater. Anyway, I feel like I’m experiencing deja vu. Hasn’t Trump made headlines before with a Bible?

You’re probably recalling that despicable photo-op when Trump held up a Bible in front of St. John’s Church, which had been a location of racial justice protests in the days prior. There was a complicated saga, afterward, about whether or not Trump deployed the police to clear protesters to get to the church. An Inspector General’s report ultimately concluded that he did not.  

Man, it’s pretty rough remembering all the awful shit we went through with him as president.

Yep. If you ever want to wallow in political depression, check out this quick compilation .

But wait. Wasn’t there another time Trump and the Bible made waves for something far more stupid?

Christian nationalists adore Trump, so there have probably been many times that Trump has referenced the Bible. But you might also be thinking of this incredible clip of Trump attempting to name his favorite verse .

Has a presidential candidate ever partnered on a holy text sale with a country musician?

Not to my knowledge. But this is from a dude who just last week seemed to compare his current legal jeopardy with the persecution of Jesus Christ. Happy Easter!

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This Was A Historic Admissions Cycle—Here Are All Of The Ivy League Acceptance Rates

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Harvard Office of Admissions and Financial Aid

The wait is finally over—last night, students across the nation were notified of their acceptance or rejection from the Ivy League schools to which they applied. “Ivy Day,” as it is called, not only brings students much-anticipated admissions decisions, but also an overarching picture of admissions trends at the most elite and selective institutions of higher education in America. This year heralds a particularly consequential admissions season for top universities—it is the first since the Supreme Court’s landmark decision ending affirmative action. It also comes amidst heightened tensions on college campuses, as institutional responses to the war in the Middle East left many students questioning their Ivy League dreams.

After years of plummeting admissions rates and ballooning applicant pools, some universities saw the tides turn this cycle. Harvard reported its highest acceptance rate in four years, accepting 3.59% of applicants, up from 3.41% last year. This follows the trend set during the 2023–24 early admissions cycle—their early acceptance rate rose to 8.74% , up from 7.56% in the 2022–23 early admissions cycle. The school also reported a 5.14% decrease in applications from last year, which may, in part, account for the buoyed acceptance rate. Brown noted a similar pattern: the institution’s acceptance rate rose to 5.16% overall, up from 5.09% for the Class of 2027, and saw a 5% decrease in applicants, which totaled 48,881. Despite the slight rise in admissions rates, this year marked the third lowest acceptance rate in Brown’s history. This trend of shrinking applicant pools will likely continue next year, as top schools such as Yale , Brown , and Dartmouth reinstate their standardized testing requirements.

Meanwhile, other Ivy League schools reported starkly different numbers. Rather than thinning, the University of Pennsylvania’s applicant pool swelled by more than 10%, numbering over 65,000—the largest in the university’s history (the university continued its practice of delaying the release of acceptance rates and demographic data). Yale also made history this year, as the school’s acceptance rate hit a historic low at 3.7% , down from 4.35% last year. Dartmouth, too, saw a 10% increase in applications, hitting a record low acceptance rate of 5.3%.

Many schools declined to release the racial and ethnic makeup of their pool of admits (either indefinitely or until the official end of the admissions cycle), following the Supreme Court’s ruling on affirmative action. However, schools tend to report other demographic information, such as the number of students from rural areas and the number of first generation students among those who were accepted.

Below are the admissions data released by Ivy League institutions for the Class of 2028 Regular Decision admissions round thus far:

Brown University:

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• Applications Received: 6,244 (Early Decision) | 42,637 (Regular Decision) | 48,881 (Overall)
• Number Accepted: 898 (Early Decision) | 1,623 (Regular Decision)
• Acceptance Rate: 14.38% (Early Decision) | 3.80% (Regular Decision) | 5.16% (Overall)
• Applications Received: 60,248 (Early Decision and Regular Decision)
• Number Accepted: 2,319
• Acceptance Rate: 3.85%
• Applications Received: TBA
• Number Accepted: 5,139
• Acceptance Rate: TBA
• Applications Received: 31,657 (Overall)
• Number Accepted: 1,685 (Overall)
• Acceptance Rate: 5.3% (Overall)
• Applications Received: 54,008 (Overall)
• Number Accepted: 1,245 (Regular Decision)
• Acceptance Rate: 3.59% (Overall)
• Number Accepted: TBA
• Applications Received: >65,000
• Applications Received: 57,465 (Overall)
• Number Accepted: 1,365 (Regular Decision)
• Acceptance Rate: 3.7%

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Baltimore bridge collapse: What happened and what is the death toll?

What is the death toll so far, when did the baltimore bridge collapse, why did the bridge collapse, who will pay for the damage and how much will the bridge cost.

HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE TO REBUILD THE BRIDGE?

What ship hit the baltimore bridge, what do we know about the bridge that collapsed.

HOW WILL THE BRIDGE COLLAPSE IMPACT THE BALTIMORE PORT?

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Writing by Lisa Shumaker; Editing by Daniel Wallis and Bill Berkrot

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Thomson Reuters

Lisa's journalism career spans two decades, and she currently serves as the Americas Day Editor for the Global News Desk. She played a pivotal role in tracking the COVID pandemic and leading initiatives in speed, headline writing and multimedia. She has worked closely with the finance and company news teams on major stories, such as the departures of Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey and Amazon’s Jeff Bezos and significant developments at Apple, Alphabet, Facebook and Tesla. Her dedication and hard work have been recognized with the 2010 Desk Editor of the Year award and a Journalist of the Year nomination in 2020. Lisa is passionate about visual and long-form storytelling. She holds a degree in both psychology and journalism from Penn State University.

New Indonesia leader visits China, promises close ties

Indonesia's president-elect Prabowo Subianto visited Beijing on Monday on his first foreign trip since his election, and was quoted by Chinese state media as telling President Xi Jinping he aimed to continue the close ties under predecessor Joko Widodo.