internship cover letter address

• Resume Writing
• Resume Examples
• Cover Letter
• Remote Work
• Famous Resumes
• Try Kickresume

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

• Júlia Mlčúchova , 
• Updated March 20, 2024 8 min read

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

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

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

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

So, continue reading this article and learn: 

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

Table of Contents

Click on a section to skip

What is a cover letter for an internship?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Absolutely! 

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

Why, you ask? 

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

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

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

And these two are your weapons of choice!

How can a cover letter for an internship help you?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#1 Philips Marketing Intern Cover Letter Sample

Internship cover letter example:.

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

What can you take away?

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

#2 Warner Bros. Public Relations Intern Cover Letter Example

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

#3 University of Massachusetts Boston Intern Cover Letter Example

What can you take away  .

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

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

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

#5 Intern at NBC Cover Letter Sample

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Related Posts

13 terrible cover letter phrases and how you can fix them, how to write a career change cover letter in 7 steps (+3 cover letter examples).

• 14 min read

Share this article

Join our newsletter.

Every month, we’ll send you resume advice, job search tips, career hacks and more in pithy, bite-sized chunks. Sounds good?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Do I Need a Cover Letter for an Internship?

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to Write a Cover Letter for Internship

#1. respect the format.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This allows you to:

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

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

Dear Mr. Jacobs, 

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

#3. Mention the Right Keywords

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

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

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

How can you find these keywords, you might ask?

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

Then, do the following:

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

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

• Communication
• Ability to meet strict deadlines

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

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

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

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

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

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

#4. Highlight Your Education

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

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

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

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

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

#5. Provide Background For Your Skills

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#7. Describe What You Would Gain Professionally

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

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

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

Here’s how you can do that: 

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

#8. Proofread Your Cover Letter

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

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

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

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

#9. Match Your Cover Letter & Resume Designs

Want your internship application to truly shine?

Match your cover letter design with your resume!

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

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

Cover Letter for Internship Template

Struggling to create a cover letter for your internship?

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

Key Takeaways 

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

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

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

Related Readings: 

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

To provide a safer experience, the best content and great communication, we use cookies. Learn how we use them for non-authenticated users.

How to Write an Internship Cover Letter [Expert Advice & Examples]

Published: May 31, 2024

It’s been a few years since I applied for my first internship, but I still remember the difficulties I encountered. After I finally crafted an eye-catching resume , I faced the daunting prospect of creating an internship cover letter for every application; I honestly didn’t know what to include or the tone I should strike.

Although I got the internship, in the end, I never found out whether my academic achievements, experience, or well-crafted cover letter got my foot in the door. However, I’ve always been curious.

With the benefit of hindsight — and some guidance from cover letter experts and hiring professionals — I’m here to help you write a winning internship cover letter. Let’s dive in.

Table of Contents

How to Write a Cover Letter for an Internship

Writing my own internship cover letter, internship cover letter examples, internship cover letter templates.

• Include your name, date, location, and contact information.
• Include the company name, department, and address.
• Address the hiring manager.
• Set the context for your application.
• Sell your experience and personalize your cover letter.
• Think about your cover letter’s readers (humans and machines).
• Close the letter with grace and a call to action.
• Proofread, proofread, and proofread.

I’ve seen some creatively designed cover letters, but in my opinion, you can’t go wrong with the traditional business letter format, which you’ll find in our free cover letter templates .

Download our cover letter templates …

Business professionals use this format style to apply for full-time roles and other purposes, so it’s something you can reuse in the future.

Remember to use formal terms such as “Dear” and “Sincerely,” and lean towards a professional tone in your body copy. Even if you know the recruiter personally, always use formal salutations instead of “Hey!” or Hi [name]. ”

1. Include your name, date, location, and contact information.

Ensure you provide your contact information, such as your phone number, email, and location, on your internship cover letter.

Since you’ll probably be sending your cover letter online (through an email or web form), you don’t need to provide your full home address — your city and state should be enough for most positions.

Your Address

Your City, State, Zip Code

Cell: 555-555-5555

Email: [email protected]

2. Include the company name, department, and address.

With your personal information out of the way, it’s time to showcase your research skills a little. Do an internet search to find the full name and address of the company you’re applying to. Try to dig deep to find the department name, but leave it out if you’re unsure.

If the internship will be remote, use the company’s general headquarters address if the internship will be remote.

City, State Zip

3. Address the hiring manager.

Tempted to type “To whom it may concern” or “Dear hiring manager” ? In your hunt for an internship position, you’ll stand out from the crowd by being resourceful. So, channel your inner sleuth by tracking down the hiring manager’s name.

You might find their role description on the company website, but if not, your best bet is to look through LinkedIn.

If you can’t find the hiring manager's name, or you’re unsure if you’re addressing the right person, leave the name out. I think it’s safe to say that sacrificing a bit of personalization is much better than addressing the wrong person in your cover letter.

5 Free Cover Letter Templates

Five fill-in-the-blank cover letter templates to help you impress recruiters.

• Standard Cover Letter Template

Entry-Level Cover Letter Template

• Data-Driven Cover Letter Template

Download Free

All fields are required.

You're all set!

Click this link to access this resource at any time.

4. Set the context for your application.

The first paragraph can make or break your internship cover letter and your entire application.

I’ll admit: I’ve always found opening paragraphs tricky, whether they’re for a cover letter, regular email, or a blog post, but they’re essential for creating a strong first impression and engaging the reader.

First, explain how you found out about the company or position. If you know anyone at the company, you can mention them here. Next, express your interest in the company and how it relates to your goals and passions. Also, make sure you get your basic information down, like your name, education level, major, and interests.

Depending on the company and position, you could try a creative approach to get your reader’s attention. Here’s one that worked for me early in my career:

“Can I tell you a secret? I’ve been telling stories since I was five years old. No, not fibbing — real storytelling ...”

A word of warning, though: Be sure to research the company’s culture before taking an approach like this. While this opening statement worked well for startups and more laid-back companies, a big accounting firm might find it culturally off-beat.

Pro tip : Geoffrey Scott , hiring manager and certified professional resume writer at Resume Genius, says, “The cover letters that stand out to me are ones where the candidate’s excitement clearly comes through. Of course, the tone must stay professional, but it shouldn’t be dull. When you’re passionate about what you do, it comes through in your cover letter.”

5. Sell your experience and personalize your cover letter.

Your cover letter isn’t supposed to be a summary of your resume, so go deeper and personalize it for your internship application.

To start, read through the specific position’s description and pick out a few qualities that you think apply to you. I don’t recommend choosing all the descriptors mentioned, as it could appear disingenuous and make your cover letter too long.

For instance, if I see a company looking for someone who’s “outgoing, organized, hardworking, and willing to take criticism,” I would pick the qualities that best describe me and focus on providing examples in the body of my cover letter.

You should cover things like:

• Relevant coursework.
• Soft skills (e.g., teamwork, problem-solving).
• Extracurricular activities (e.g., volunteering).
• Work experience (if any).

That said, make sure you tie them to the internship opportunity. For example, you could say, “I understand that this role requires that I consistently meet deadlines. I held down a part-time job while keeping up with my college assignments, which demonstrates my time management skills.”

Pro tip : If you lack relevant experience, use your research and knowledge to show enthusiasm. Daniel Space , a human resources business partner who has worked with companies like Spotify and WebMD, told me he once hired a French major instead of an HR major for an HR internship.

Why? He explains, " Not only did she clearly articulate how she understood the role … she also spent a few sentences describing the company going through a merger and correctly assuming that her work would be in helping with that.”

6. Think about your cover letter’s readers (humans and machines).

According to Jobscan’s research , 487 out of 500 Fortune 500 companies (97.4%) used an Applicant Tracking System in 2023. If you’re not familiar, this is a tool used to streamline hiring tasks.

Why do they matter for internship cover letters? Well, companies use these systems to filter resumes and cover letters based on keywords.

Ben Lamarche , general manager at recruiting firm Lock Search Group, told me that his company screens internship applications using an application tracking system.

When I asked how applicants could get their cover letters seen by a human, he recommended “ avoiding excessive formatting, sticking to a basic text layout, and including a few important words from the internship description, such as the precise requirements for skills and knowledge.”

Pro tip: Wondering how long your internship cover letter should be? I recommend you limit it to under a page or around 250 to 400 words. Also, use shorter paragraphs to break up the text.

Here’s what Indrė Padegimienė , talent acquisition specialist at Omnisend, has to say on the matter: “Recruiters are pretty busy people with hundreds of applications to review, so clear and concise communication is key. A five-page cover letter won’t get you a job.”

7. Close the letter with grace and a call to action.

If the internship application does not explicitly state “ please do not contact, ” you might choose to conclude by specifying how you will follow up, such as, “I will call next week to see if my qualifications are a match,” or “I am eager to meet with you to discuss this opportunity, and am available for an interview at a mutually convenient time.”

In your closing paragraph, thank the hiring manager for taking the time to consider you, and end on a positive, confident note, such as, “I look forward to speaking with you soon.”

Pro tip : You may even go a step further and give the hiring manager a call to action . I don’t think it hurts to include a link to your online portfolio , website, or even a YouTube channel where you display your work and personality.

To see how often hiring managers follow through on your calls to action, track the number of clicks on your link using a URL tracker like Bitly .

8. Proofread, proofread, and proofread.

When I asked Scott (Resume Genius) about the cover letter pitfalls he encounters the most, applicants’ lack of proofreading stood out.

After describing the cover letter mistake of simply summarizing what’s in your resume, he shared, “Another common error that could end up costing you a position is having spelling and grammar mistakes, especially if the internship is for anything that requires close attention to detail, like data entry. This seems obvious, but you wouldn’t believe how often I see it.”

Even with the availability of spell-checking tools like Grammarly , internship applicants still submit cover letters riddled with typos. Let me put it this way: You’ve done the hard part of actually writing your internship cover letter, so don’t let small mistakes put employers off.

Pro tip : Some companies provide AI cover letter generators. You simply input your resume and the job description, and you should get a decent-looking cover letter in seconds.

Just remember that while AI generators can save you time, you should check over everything they produce to ensure the AI hasn’t told any tall tales about your hands-on experience or skill set or made any mistakes. As you’ll see in these ChatGPT-generated internship email examples , caution and revisions are advised.

If you’re still unsure after your check-up, get a friend or classmate to proofread your cover letter for clarity and spelling before you finally sign off on it and hit send.

Now, I’ll use the tips I gave you above to craft an internship cover letter. In this sample, I will be applying for an event planning position. I start by including my contact information. That includes an address, phone number, and email address.

I also included the recipient’s contact information including the department I’m applying for.

I start with a greeting and the hiring manager’s name. If you can find a direct contact, referring to the person by name is preferred. From there, I mention that I am a referral and mention my contact at the company. I can then introduce myself and discuss relevant school experience relating to the role.

In the next section, I refer to relevant professional experiences. While these may not apply to an event role in corporate, I mention club work that I’ve done that relates to the role. I also reference an orientation job I held at the university that matches the events skillset.

From there, it’s time to wrap up with a conclusion. I also used Preview’s signature function on my Mac to include a handwritten signature followed by a typed version of my name.

Now, let’s explore some other cover letter examples for inspiration.

To inspire you further, I’ve curated additional internship cover letter examples tailored to different industries and positions. I’ll also explain why each example works and what you can do to evoke a similar response.

1. Hospitality Internship Cover Letter

Why This Cover Letter Example Works

I like that this cover letter demonstrates the applicant’s passion, willingness to learn, and previous industry experience. If I were the hiring manager, I’d shortlist them based on their internship cover letter.

How to Incorporate That Into Your Internship Cover Letter

I recommend you start by analyzing your own transferable skills and experience and seeing how they relate to the internship you're applying for.

Do you have any examples, facts, or figures that you can include in your letter? This will help the hiring manager understand your interest in the position and give them more of a reason to hire you over the competition.

I often see applicants use statements like, “I helped increase my group’s scores by [X]%.” If you have any figures like this, use them, but be honest about the role you played.

2. Supply Chain Internship Cover Letter

I could easily tell that, like many internship applicants, this student had yet to gain professional experience in the field. However, the applicant does a great job of showing enthusiasm for taking on real-world experiences.

They also demonstrate their knowledge of three areas of supply chain management: forecasting, inventory management, and logistics.

Go through your course notes and write down a list of topics and terms relevant to the internship you’re applying for. After I’ve completed coursework, I sometimes need to remind myself of what I’ve covered.

3. Fashion Design Internship Cover Letter

The student wrote a great second paragraph discussing their experience participating in design projects with original pieces that show their “artistic vision.” I also like that the student highlights how their design philosophy aligns well with Sleeves and Thread’s commitment to “pushing boundaries.”

Do your research on the company you’re applying to. You can compliment them on awards they have won or mention how you would fit well within their company culture.

4. Finance Internship Cover Letter

Rebecca takes the time to highlight her skillset, but she also balances her cover letter with reasons why Banking Corporation will be a great fit for her career. She gives plenty of reasons why the company appeals to her, which helps balance the cover letter.

Don’t be afraid to explain what an internship will do for you . Yes, companies want to know how an intern can help them, but they know you’re mainly there to advance your career.

5. Marketing Internship Cover Letter

If you work in marketing or another creative industry, you’ll have more freedom when it comes to drafting your cover letter. Here, Robin takes a novel approach by weaving in colorful language that practically jumps off the page. With just enough pizazz, their personality shines through. I think any marketing hiring manager would be eager to learn more.

Let your creative side run free! On a blank page (a creative’s nightmare, I know!), type out plenty of eye-catching phrases and sentences to showcase your writing skills. Next, see if you can find the right places to add them to your internship cover letter.

If, instead of examples, you’d like a jump-off point, don’t worry — I’ve got you covered. Here are some internship cover letter templates to get your creative juices flowing.

Standard Internship Cover Letter Template

This highly customizable internship cover letter is generic but can serve as the foundation for all your applications.

Data-Driven Internship Cover Letter Template

If your major is data-driven, like STEM, marketing, or accounting, I think this is the internship cover letter template for you. With this template, you can include the data highlights of your class projects and assignments to show the hiring manager that you can support your experience with credible facts.

As you approach your senior year of college, you may be looking for entry-level roles rather than internships. Cover letters are just as important for full-time roles as they are for internships, so use this template to make the transition in your job search.

Wrapping Up Your Internship Cover Letter

Worried about not having enough experience or skills to get your preferred internship? Don’t stress over what you haven’t achieved yet — and remember, everyone starts somewhere.

Instead, take stock of your academic and extracurricular achievements and see how you can apply your skills and experience to an internship.

Then, you’re ready to craft a compelling cover letter that shows you’re competent, enthusiastic, and willing to go the extra mile for every position you apply for. Whether you get your preferred internship or not, you’ll be happy that you gave it your best shot.

Don't forget to share this post!

Related articles.

How to Start a Cover Letter That Gets You Your Dream Job

The 46 Best Cover Letter Examples: What They Got Right

General Cover Letter: 15 Cover Letter Templates to Perfect Your Next Job Application

Is a Cover Letter Necessary in 2024?

Letter of Interest Tips, Templates & Examples [A 2023 Guide]

The Ultimate Guide to Writing a Cover Letter

Eight Cover Letter Greetings for Every Situation

7 Expert Cover Letter Tips to Get the Job

Marketing software that helps you drive revenue, save time and resources, and measure and optimize your investments — all on one easy-to-use platform

Your favourite senior outside college

Home » Internship Tips » Tips & Tricks » How to Write Cover Letter for an Internship?

How to Write a Cover Letter for Internships [Examples & Template]

Cover letters and resumes are the introductory documents that help an employer form their first impressions about a future employee. Thus, it is very important to draft the perfect documents to find success, especially when applying for an internship. To help you through the drafting process we are going to walk you through the process to write a cover letter for an internship that not only grabs attention but leaves a lasting impression.

Table of Contents

How to Write a Cover Letter for an Internship?

Want to write the best cover letter for an internship role? Follow the steps below and learn how to write a cover letter. 

• Mention Your Details: At the top left corner of the internship cover letter, write your full name, address, email ID, and phone number.
• Add Date: Next, add the date you are writing the letter. 
• Mention Receiver’s Details: Mention the receiver’s name followed by the company address. The receiver can be the manager or the HR professional responsible for recruitment. 
• Address the Recruiter: Write “Dear [name]” to address the recruiter before beginning the main content of the letter.
• Opening Statement: Write a brief statement that appeals to the recruiter and informs them of your intent to apply for the internship position. You can add one or two of your key achievements here but do not forget to mention which position you are applying for. 
• For example , you mention you have strong communication skills. Back the claim with a background story of how you gave a presentation on a technical topic and were able to communicate your idea easily to the audience due to your skills. 
• Closing Paragraph: Thank the recruiter and add a call to action, like requesting them to check your resume for more details or that you are available for an interview to discuss the internship opportunity further. 
• End With Formal Salutation: End your letter with “Warm Regards” or “Sincerely.”

Also Read: How to Write Cover Letter for a Job?

Cover Letter Template For Internship

Let us look at this internship letter template to understand how to write an internship application letter.

Also Read: Cover Letter Formats

Sample Cover Letter for Internship for Different Sectors

Here are some examples of letters for internships based on different sectors for your better understanding:

1. Sample Cover Letter for IT Internship

This sample cover letter for IT internship is for sectors like Web Development, Data Analyst, etc. 

2. Sample Cover Letter for Finance Internship

This cover letter format for an internship will guide you on how to create a cover letter for a job in the financial sector.

3. Sample Cover Letter for Marketing and Advertising Internship

This cover letter for an internship in marketing and advertising will help you showcase the skills that will enable you to contribute effectively in the corporate world, especially if you are seeking digital marketing internships .

4. Sample Cover Letter for Graphic Design Internship

This is the best cover letter for an internship in graphic design . It will help recruiters see your passion for design which will increase your chances of getting hired.

5. Sample Cover Letter for Human Resources (HR) Internship

This is the best way of writing a cover letter for an internship in Human Resources .

6. Sample Cover Letter for Law Internship

This format will highlight your relevant skills and experiences and make you a strong candidate for law internship opportunities .

Also Read: Cover Letter for Legal Interns .

Mistakes to Avoid while Drafting a Cover Letter

When writing cover letters it’s important to pay attention to minute details, here are some mistakes that you should avoid while writing your cover letter:

• Generic Templates- Craft a unique letter for each application, tailored to the specific internship and company.
• Ignoring Formatting- Use clear headings, bullet points, and a readable font. A well-formatted cover letter reflects your attention to detail.
• Overwhelming Length- Keep your cover letter concise and to the point. Aim for around 250-300 words.
• Neglecting Proofreading- Always proofread your cover letter before sending it out. Typos and grammatical errors can make a negative impression.
• Overusing Jargon- While it’s great to demonstrate your knowledge, avoid overloading your cover letter with industry jargon or technical terms. Explain complex concepts briefly and clearly to ensure your message is easily understood.

In this blog, we’ve covered some key points for writing a cover letter for an internship. By adding your own unique touch and showing your excitement for the role, you can set yourself apart from other applicants. So, take your time while writing a cover letter, and let your strengths shine on the page.

If you thought this blog was helpful, tell us in the comments section below. Also, check out these online interview tips before going for your next job interview.

Answer: To write a good cover letter for an internship, include keywords from the internship description, proofread to ensure content flow, highlight extracurriculars, format well, and customize each cover letter.

Answer: To write a letter asking for an internship, research the company to tailor your response accordingly. Write a meaningful subject line, add a greeting, and express your interest in the internship and the reason along with your skills and educational qualifications. 

Answer: Here is a sample for a basic cover letter: “My name is [your name], and I am writing to express my interest in the internship role [role title] at your company [company name]. I am excited to share that I believe I have the necessary skills and knowledge that make me the best candidate for the internship role. Kindly consider my application. Thank you for your time and consideration.”

Answer: Here is how you can write a cover letter for a legal internship, “Dear [recruiter’s name], As a recent law graduate, I am excited to hear about the internship role your company [name of the company] is offering. I have an additional certification course in corporate law and possess trial preparation skills. I am certain my skills and talent will be a great addition to your organization. Kindly consider my application in a positive light. I am excited to discuss this opportunity further with you. You can contact me at [email ID]. Thanks for your consideration.”

Answer: You should write a cover letter for an internship because it allows you to mention additional details you could not in the resume and provide background to some information like skills.

• ← Previous
• Next →

Sandipta Banerjee has completed her Master's in English Literature and Language. She has been working in the field of editing and writing for the past five years. She started her writing journey at a very young age with her poems which have now evolved into a poetry blog. She was working as Editorial Head in a US-based publishing house before joining Internshala.

Related Post

How to Find Internships on LinkedIn & Land Your Dream Internship?

Are you looking for ways to gain practical experience and build the skills necessary for your future career? If yes, securing an internship could be the perfect option for you.

How to Get an Internship in Amul? A Comprehensive Guide

Are you a student looking for a real-life learning experience in the dairy industry? An internship at Amul could be an excellent opportunity for you. Amul (Anand Milk Union Limited),

How to Get an Internship at ISRO: Strategies, Tips & More

Securing an internship at the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) is a dream for many students pursuing a career in science and technology. With its prestigious reputation and invaluable work

How to get an internship in Flipkart?

Securing an internship at Flipkart can be an exciting opportunity to launch your career in the e-commerce domain. As one of India’s largest online retail giants, Flipkart offers a dynamic

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

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

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

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

1. Make It All About the Company

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

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

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

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

2. Mention Relevant Projects, Extracurriculars, and Classes

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

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

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

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

3. Stitch Together Your Skills

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

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

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

4. Don’t Apologize

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

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

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

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

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

Dear Hiring Manager,

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

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

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

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

Sincerely, Sarah Gunnarson

How to Write a Cover Letter for an Internship

Finding the right internship is one of the best ways young professionals can get a step up in their careers. Internships provide crucial real-world experience that serves as a career launching pad and a network to build upon. 

An expertly crafted internship cover letter can be your winning ticket when applying for an internship—because a cover letter is just as important as a strong internship resume . Cover letters provide a chance to highlight your skills, enthusiasm, and unique, desirable traits.

However, writing about oneself is challenging for the best of us.

So, we’ve collected our best cover letter tips and guidance on how to write a standout cover letter for an internship. Below you’ll learn what a cover letter is, why they’re crucial in any job search, and simple tricks to create and tailor yours in less time than you’d think. 

What is the purpose of an internship cover letter and why is it important?

An internship cover letter accompanies a job application and highlights your skills, experience, and accomplishments. Think of a cover letter as your opportunity to showcase your enthusiasm and commitment to a position, allowing you to expand upon the skills that make you a strong candidate.

Additionally, because some roles receive a high number of applicants, a cover letter can serve as additional insight for hiring managers when whittling down the applicant pool for greater consideration.

How to write a cover letter for an internship

Include relevant contact information.

You want to make sure you use a professional internship cover letter format and that your contact information is near the top of your cover letter. This way, if they like you, it’s easy to find.

Depending on your preference, some people place their essential information along the top of their cover letter, similar to a header, or you can place it in the top right or left corners—there is no agreed-upon cover letter standard. 

It’s a good idea to include the hiring manager's contact information as well. Some companies get overwhelmed with emails, and when applying for an internship position on job sites, it can be difficult to tell where the cover letter will wind up. By including the hiring manager’s information, you can rest assured that your destination contact on your internship cover letter is clear.

Here you can find examples of a personalized cover letter . With Teal's Job Application Tracker , you can easily keep track of each application you submit, and you can quickly generate custom cover letters using the AI functionality within Teal's AI Resume Builder .

Address the hiring manager by name

Before you begin, it’s important to know how to address a cover letter , and you’ll want to address the hiring manager by name when you can. A name is often included in the job post; however, sometimes, the job posting merely states that “the candidate will report directly to the VP of Marketing.” With that, you can typically find a specific person through the company website, LinkedIn page, or Google search.

If the person is unfindable, you can contact the company directly through a support address to ask. Going the extra step to learn the hiring manager’s name will help demonstrate your commitment to the role.

Grab their attention and start with your “why”

Your cover letter implies an interest in the job, but hiring managers want to know why you’re interested in this specific position—and if this makes for a memorable story, all the better to grab the reader's attention. You don’t want to overload the reader with too many details, but a brief tale that illuminates how your values align with the role or brand can really help you shine—just be sure it’s relevant to the particular position.

You might also highlight a connection between a task you excel at and a key requirement for the internship position. This could be anything from your analytical abilities to your gift of gab. If the role calls for client-facing responsibilities, mention your knack for building and maintaining relationships. 

From there, use the next few paragraphs to share why you are the best fit for the role and incorporate hard data wherever possible. 

Outline relevant skills and bullet points

Remember, hiring managers are looking for a qualified candidate with experience that best matches the role, so only include information that coincides with relevant duties. Even if there is something you are incredibly proud of, if it has nothing to do with the role, leave it on the cutting room floor. 

Draw attention to relevant experiences, achievements, and challenges you’ve overcome in the past. Demonstrate your suitability by mentioning workplace contributions to highlight your value to the employer and make it known you’re willing to learn to prove why you’d be an asset to the company. 

While high school and college students may have limited workplace experience, don’t be afraid to think outside the box! You likely have highlightable skills and achievements you haven't considered.

Babysitting, for example, requires a high level of trust and responsibility. Think about relevant coursework, internships , or volunteer work. Clubs and team sports help develop skills, as well as leadership positions and student body council, which all indicate strong communication skills. You may have been head of the yearbook committee or school newspaper; these require extraordinary time management skills and task delegation, which are important traits to any job.

While this all sounds easy in theory, we understand that identifying your personal strengths to highlight on a concise cover letter is hardly an easy feat. Fortunately, Teal's AI Resume Builder is loaded with helpful tools and tips to help you do this. Best of all, you don’t have to start from scratch. Teal’s Resume and Cover Letter Builder allows you to import your existing resume or LinkedIn profile, storing the information in one place to build out your exhaustive career history. 

Incorporate relevant keywords and phrases from the job description

Many employers filter out resumes and cover letters that do not match the specific skills and keywords for resume that the employer seeks. By including these in your cover letter, you help ensure that it successfully passes through the initial screening process.

Use Teal's AI Resume Builder to quickly compare the skills and keywords in the job posting to those in your resume and cover letter. Make sure to add any relevant experience to your application materials.

Matching relevant keywords helps demonstrate that you have the skills and relevant experience required for the job, increasing your chances of being selected for an interview. Failing to include relevant keywords in your application could result in it being overlooked.

A common misconception is that employers use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to scan your resume for keywords to automatically knock out candidates. While ATS is a way to electronically file applications, it’s not as advanced as you may believe. There are no “ATS bots” deciding your fate — a human will almost always be reviewing your cover letter and resume. 

While employers are using technology to file applications, you can be too. You can learn how to use ChatGPT through Teal’s guide; AI can be a great resource to help you get started.

Tips for writing an effective cover letter

Easily customize your cover letter with ai.

With every internship application, you are marketing yourself to your client, and your resume and cover letter are the marketing materials. And just like in marketing, there is strategy involved. 

When using Teal's cover letter templates , be sure you personalize your cover letter to reflect specific keywords and phrases in the job ad. Teal’s AI Resume Builder and cover letter template feature uses AI to seamlessly gather key information from your resume and any job description to quickly generate a custom cover letter for each application. 

As with any personal marketing strategy, you have to think about what you have to offer, your most impressive accomplishments related to the position, and your target audience. By tailoring your content directly around the job description, you will have a better chance of landing that internship interview. This is your time to shine, so treat your letter with care. 

Keep it focused

With all the content-creation options available, jazzing up a resume and cover letter has gotten much easier. However, adding too much flair is detrimental. Unique and elaborate graphics, colors, fonts , and formatting can distract from the most important information: your experience. 

Simple is the way to go when crafting your resume and cover letter, using only standard fonts and formatting. Stick to Times New Roman or Arial for the font and save the files in PDF or Word. Simplifying your application package will get you past ATS software and give the hiring manager’s eyes a break.

Get personal with language

Writing in a professional manner is necessary for your internship cover letters; however, adding a warm and friendly tone can build a personal connection and give your writing a boost. As young professionals are starting out, they are often cautious with language, which can come off as robotic in correspondence. 

Remember: you are a person, so incorporating some light emotional language into your cover letter helps humanize you. The individuals reading your cover letter want to know what you’re passionate about or how you triumphed over adversity and other situations that involve emotion. Don’t be afraid to dip into those feelings a little when drafting your cover letter.

Including your personal thoughts and feelings allows you to show off your personal brand a little bit — even if that means cracking a joke or two . A warm tone helps hiring managers to feel connected to you. 

Do your homework

Researching a company helps provide an understanding of a company's culture, values, and mission. Remember, job applications and interviews are a two-way street; you also want to make sure they are the right fit for you. Secondly, it allows you to better tailor your cover letter, which shows your interest and enthusiasm for the role. 

Research can greatly improve your chances of success by providing further insight into a company's background and vision, helping you interview with confidence and stand out from other applicants.

You can keep track of the research you conduct in Teal's Job Application Tracker . Tips and guidance are offered of where and how to conduct research. You can also log the research completed on any contacts you have made at the company.

Stay organized

Keep track of your search with Teal’s Job Application Tracker , where you can easily organize your applications. You can access your tracker on the website or by downloading the Teal Chrome extension . This easily lets you save jobs you’re interested in, saves cover letters previously sent, and tracks internship positions you’ve applied for through sites like LinkedIn and Indeed.

With Teal’s Job Application Tracker, you can note company contacts, save jobs, view jobs you’ve applied to, mark follow-up dates, and more. It even lets you note your excitement levels on a scale of one to five stars; this way, you don’t forget to follow up with the ones you want the most. 

Following up on your internship cover letter and job application via a personal email or message on LinkedIn could be the difference between landing your ideal role and never hearing back. An email should be sent within 24 hours of your interview thanking the person for taking the time to speak with you. 

To further demonstrate your interest, mention a few specifics from your discussion. For example, you might say that you enjoyed hearing about the company culture or were excited to hear about the dynamic responsibilities associated with the job.

Located within Teal's Job Application Tracker are templates to use as a starting point when crafting a follow up email following an interview.

Teal’s Job Application Tracker provides suggestions and guidance on what to include in a great cover letter:

• academic achievements (GPA, awards, etc.)
• explain your interest in the field
• use specific examples to demonstrate your relevant skills and job experience
• emphasize willingness to learn 
• demonstrate enthusiasm and motivation
• describe your goals for your internship role
• use appropriate length (don’t include irrelevant information to make it longer)
• keep it concise and error-free (proofread)
• use a professional tone
• get feedback: have a teacher, mentor, or family member review both your cover letter and resume and provide feedback 

Internship cover letter examples

High school internship cover letter.

​​Dear Hiring Manager, I am writing to express my interest in the summer internship program at [Company Name]. As a highly motivated high school student and canine shelter volunteer, I am excited to gain valuable work experience and learn from industry professionals. I am particularly drawn to [Company Name]'s commitment to innovation and community involvement. I have always been passionate about making a positive impact in my community, and I believe that your organization's values align with my desire to help others. I am confident that I can provide a meaningful contribution given my background in volunteering, and I’m hopeful I’ll be able to develop my skills and contribute to community projects through your internship opportunities. I'm experienced in computer science and have excellent customer service skills. I'm a quick learner and have demonstrated an ability to easily adapt in new environments. Through my involvement in various class projects and volunteer activities, I have developed strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. I am excited about the prospect of working with your team and contributing to the success of your organization. Thank you for taking the time to consider my candidacy in your hiring process. I look forward to the opportunity to further discuss my qualifications with you at your earliest convenience. Best regards, Angela Lansbury

Pro tip: Explore Teal's professional cover letter templates to help you get started!

Internship cover letter when switching industries

Dear Mr. Maiz, I am writing to express my interest in the woodworking internship at Cohesive Grains. As a welder looking to make a career transition into woodworking, I am eager to gain practical experience and further develop my skills in this field. My professional background is primarily in welding with a bachelor's degree in graphic design, but I am confident that my firm understanding in design and digit dexterity are transferable to woodworking. I am particularly drawn to Cohesive Grains’ upcycled vintage pieces and the impact that your organization is making in this field. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team and learn from industry professionals. In my current role, I have demonstrated my ability to work under tight deadlines while maintaining a commitment to quality and artistic expression. I am a quick learner, and I am always eager to take on new challenges. I believe that my ability to create detailed welding work and my passion for woodworking make me a strong candidate for this position. I am excited about the prospect of working with your team and contributing to the success of your organization through this internship experience. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to finding a mutually convenient time to further discuss my qualifications with you. Sincerely, Jasyn Barn

Quickly create a personalized cover letter with Teal

Teal's AI Resume Builder with AI functionality can generate multiple versions of your cover letter with the click of a button. By inputting your desired job description, Teal can generate a unique and custom cover letter for each internship application you apply for, saving you time and energy.

Step 1: Sign up for Teal

Step 2: Download Teal’s Chrome extension and start bookmarking internships

Step 3: Build out an exhaustive career history (including certifications, projects, etc.)

Step 4: Attach your desired job description and use Teal’s AI Resume Builder with AI functionality to generate multiple versions of your cover letter tailored to each specific internship

Once you've landed an interview, check out our guide on common internship interview questions and example answers to help you prepare and seal that internship offer.

Related Articles

• How to write an excellent cover letter in 2023
• Unique ways to write a cover letter with no experience
• A comprehensive cover letter checklist
• How to format a cover letter

Frequently Asked Questions

What should i include in my statement of interest for an internship if i have limited work experience, how can i tailor my cover letter to stand out for a competitive internship position, is it appropriate to reach out to the company for more information before writing my letter of interest for an internship.

Rachael Gilpin

How to Make an InDesign Resume [+ Templates]

How (and What) to Name Your Resume File

ZipJob Reviews: Ratings & User Feedback

JobHero Reviews: Ratings & User Feedback

We help you find the career dream.

Internship Cover Letter Examples and Templates for 2024

• Cover Letter Examples
• Cover Letter Text Examples

How To Write an Internship Cover Letter

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

Internship Cover Letter Templates and Examples

• Entry-Level
• Senior-Level

Internship Text-Only Cover Letter Templates and Examples

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

January 1, 2024

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

Dear Ms. Tarentino:

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

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

Here are three of my achievements to date:

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

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

Mackenzie Martin

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

January 11, 2024

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

Dear Mr. Brockley:

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

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

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

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

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

Gertrude McDaniel

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

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

Dear Ms. Medina:

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

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

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

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

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

Maria Esperanza

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

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

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

2. Salutation

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

Dear BigAds Agency Hiring Manager:

3. “Hook” or introduction

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

4. Body paragraph(s)

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

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

5. Call to action

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

Internship Cover Letter Tips

1. show you can quickly apply new knowledge.

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

2. Highlight your relevant skills and traits

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

3. When in doubt, brainstorm

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

Internship Cover Letter Frequently Asked Questions

Should i tailor my cover letter for each internship -.

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

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

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

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

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

Craft a new cover letter in minutes

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

Jacob Meade

Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW, ACRW)

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

Check Out Related Examples

College Cover Letter Examples and Templates

Internship Resume Examples and Templates

Recent Graduate Cover Letter Examples and Templates

Build a resume to enhance your career.

• How To Address Employment Gaps on Your Resume and Cover Letter Learn More
• How To Show Your Problem-Solving Skills on Your Resume and Cover Letter Learn More
• What’s the Difference Between a Cover Letter and a Letter of Intent? Learn More

Essential Guides for Your Job Search

• How to Write a Resume Learn More
• How to Write a Cover Letter Learn More
• Thank You Note Examples Learn More
• Resignation Letter Examples Learn More

15 internship & entry level cover letter templates

Make a professional cover letter to land the perfect internship or entry-level job with these free easy to use templates.

When applying for a job, a well-written cover letter can be just as important as a strong resume. A cover letter is a document that accompanies your resume and provides additional context for your qualifications, experience, and interest in the position you are applying for. In this article, we will explore what a cover letter is and why it is an essential part of the job application process.

What is a Cover Letter?

A cover letter is a one-page document that serves as an introduction to your resume. It is typically addressed to the hiring manager or HR representative and provides additional information about your qualifications, experience, and interest in the position. A well-crafted cover letter can help you stand out from other applicants and showcase why you are the best candidate for the job.

Why is a Cover Letter Important?

A cover letter is important for several reasons. Firstly, it provides an opportunity to introduce yourself to the hiring manager and explain why you are interested in the position. This can help to establish a personal connection and demonstrate your enthusiasm for the job. Secondly, a cover letter allows you to highlight your relevant skills and experience, which may not be immediately apparent from your resume alone. Finally, a well-written cover letter can help to demonstrate your writing skills and attention to detail, both of which are valuable qualities in any job.

What Should be Included in a Cover Letter?

A cover letter should be tailored to the specific job you are applying for and should include the following elements:

• Introduction: Begin by introducing yourself and explaining why you are interested in the position.
• Body: The body of your cover letter should provide additional information about your qualifications and experience, as well as specific examples of how your skills align with the requirements of the job. Use this section to highlight your relevant accomplishments and demonstrate your understanding of the position.
• Closing: End your cover letter by thanking the hiring manager for their time and consideration, and expressing your enthusiasm for the opportunity to interview for the position. Be sure to include your contact information so that the hiring manager can easily reach you if they have any further questions.

In conclusion, a cover letter is an important part of the job application process. It provides an opportunity to introduce yourself to the hiring manager, highlight your relevant skills and experience, and demonstrate your enthusiasm for the job. By taking the time to craft a well-written cover letter, you can increase your chances of standing out from other applicants and securing the job of your dreams.

Cover letter templates for internships

Software development internship.

[Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State ZIP Code] [Your Phone Number] [Your Email Address] [Today's Date]

[Hiring Manager's Name] [Company Name] [Company Address] [City, State ZIP Code]

Dear [Hiring Manager's Name],

I am writing to apply for the Software Development Internship at [Company Name]. As a computer science student with a passion for programming, I am excited about the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in this field.

[In the first paragraph, introduce yourself and express your interest in the position. In the second paragraph, highlight any relevant coursework or programming experience. In the final paragraph, express your enthusiasm for the internship and provide your contact information.]

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to [Company Name]'s software development initiatives.

[Your Signature] [Your Name]

Data Science Internship Template

I am writing to apply for the Data Science Internship at [Company Name]. As a computer science student with a strong interest in data analysis, I am excited about the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in this field.

[In the first paragraph, introduce yourself and express your interest in the position. In the second paragraph, highlight any relevant coursework or data-related experience. In the final paragraph, express your enthusiasm for the internship and provide your contact information.]

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to [Company Name]'s data science initiatives.

Cybersecurity Internship Template

I am writing to apply for the Cybersecurity Internship at [Company Name]. As a computer science student with a strong interest in cybersecurity, I am excited about the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in this field.

[In the first paragraph, introduce yourself and express your interest in the position. In the second paragraph, highlight any relevant coursework or cybersecurity-related experience. In the final paragraph, express your enthusiasm for the internship and provide your contact information.]

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to [Company Name]'s cybersecurity initiatives.

Marketing Internship Template

I am writing to apply for the Marketing Internship at [Company Name]. As a [Your degree program or field of study] student with a passion for marketing, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team.

[In the first paragraph, introduce yourself and express your interest in the position. In the second paragraph, highlight any relevant coursework or extracurricular activities. In the final paragraph, express your enthusiasm for the internship and provide your contact information.]

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to learn and grow with [Company Name].

Finance Internship Template

I am writing to apply for the Finance Internship at [Company Name]. As a [Your degree program or field of study] student with a strong interest in finance, I am excited about the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in this field.

[In the first paragraph, introduce yourself and express your interest in the position. In the second paragraph, highlight any relevant coursework or finance-related experience. In the final paragraph, express your enthusiasm for the internship and provide your contact information.]

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to [Company Name]'s financial initiatives.

Journalism Internship Template

[Hiring Manager's Name] [Publication Name] [Publication Address] [City, State ZIP Code]

I am writing to apply for the Journalism Internship at [Publication Name]. As a [Your degree program or field of study] student with a passion for journalism, I am excited about the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in this field.

[In the first paragraph, introduce yourself and express your interest in the position. In the second paragraph, highlight any relevant coursework or journalism-related experience. In the final paragraph, express your enthusiasm for the internship and provide your contact information.]

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to [Publication Name]'s editorial team.

[Your Signature] [Your Name]Template for a Design Internship

Technology Internship Template

I am writing to apply for the Technology Internship at [Company Name]. As a [Your degree program or field of study] student with a strong interest in technology, I am excited about the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in this field.

[In the first paragraph, introduce yourself and express your interest in the position. In the second paragraph, highlight any relevant coursework or technology-related experience. In the final paragraph, express your enthusiasm for the internship and provide your contact information.]

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to [Company Name]'s technology initiatives.

Public Relations Internship Template

I am writing to apply for the Public Relations Internship at [Company Name]. As a [Your degree program or field of study] student with a passion for communication, I am excited about the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in this field.

[In the first paragraph, introduce yourself and express your interest in the position. In the second paragraph, highlight any relevant coursework or communication-related experience. In the final paragraph, express your enthusiasm for the internship and provide your contact information.]

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to [Company Name]'s public relations initiatives.

Education Internship Template

[Hiring Manager's Name] [School Name] [School Address] [City, State ZIP Code]

I am writing to apply for the Education Internship at [School Name]. As a [Your degree program or field of study] student with a passion for teaching, I am excited about the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in this field.

[In the first paragraph, introduce yourself and express your interest in the position. In the second paragraph, highlight any relevant coursework or teaching-related experience. In the final paragraph, express your enthusiasm for the internship and provide your contact information.]

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to [School Name]'s educational initiatives.

Cover letter templates for entry level jobs

Basic entry-level template.

I am writing to apply for the [Position Name] role at [Company Name]. As a recent [Your degree or educational program], I am excited to begin my career in [Industry] and believe that this position would be an excellent opportunity to do so.

[In the first paragraph, introduce yourself and explain your interest in the position. In the second paragraph, highlight your relevant coursework, internships, or extracurricular activities. In the final paragraph, express your enthusiasm for the position and provide your contact information.]

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to [Company Name].

Entry-Level Marketing Template

I am writing to apply for the [Position Name] role at [Company Name]. As a recent graduate with a degree in Marketing, I am excited to begin my career in this field and believe that this position would be an excellent opportunity to do so.

[In the first paragraph, introduce yourself and explain your interest in the position. In the second paragraph, highlight any relevant coursework or internships. In the final paragraph, express your enthusiasm for the position and provide your contact information.]

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to [Company Name]'s marketing initiatives.

Entry-Level Human Resources Template

I am writing to apply for the [Position Name] role at [Company Name]. As a recent graduate with a degree in Human Resources, I am excited about the opportunity to begin my career in this field and believe that this position would be an excellent opportunity to do so.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to [Company Name]'s HR initiatives.

Entry-Level Graphic Design Template

I am writing to apply for the [Position Name] role at [Company Name]. As a recent graduate with a degree in Graphic Design, I am excited to begin my career in this field and believe that this position would be an excellent opportunity to do so.

[In the first paragraph, introduce yourself and explain your interest in the position. In the second paragraph, highlight any relevant coursework or design projects. In the final paragraph, express your enthusiasm for the position and provide your contact information.]

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to [Company Name]'s design initiatives.

General Cover letter templates

Job application template.

I am writing to express my interest in the [Position Name] role at [Company Name]. As a [Your current or most recent position] with [Number of years of experience], I am confident that I possess the skills and qualifications necessary to excel in this position.

[In the first paragraph, introduce yourself and express your interest in the position. In the second paragraph, highlight your relevant experience and skills. In the final paragraph, express your enthusiasm for the position and provide your contact information.]

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Career Change Template

I am writing to express my interest in the [Position Name] role at [Company Name]. Although my background is in [Your previous career or industry], I am eager to pursue a new career path in [New career or industry] and believe that this position would be an excellent opportunity to do so.

[In the first paragraph, introduce yourself and explain your career change. In the second paragraph, highlight your transferable skills and any relevant experience. In the final paragraph, express your enthusiasm for the position and provide your contact information.]

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

Find the right jobs for you. Get hired.

Related stories, most recent stories.

Pay Your Deposit

Have you been admitted and need to lock in your decision?

Click the link below to pay your deposit now!

Deposit Today

How to Write an Internship Cover Letter: Examples & Tips

Reviewed by Jacob Imm

Mar 18, 2022

Before the days of applying for jobs online, the cover letter had the perfect name; it was the cover page for your paper resume. Today, the cover letter doesn’t physically cover anything. It’s simply one of the many digital attachments you’ll add to your internship application form.

While your cover letter is no longer the first page of your application, it’s still the hiring manager’s first impression of you as a person. Whether you’re on the job search or you’re applying for an internship position that could carry you straight into your career, it’s essential to make that introduction count.

This guide on writing an internship cover letter will help you put your best foot forward.

What is the Purpose of a Cover Letter?

Without a solid understanding of an intern cover letter’s purpose, it’s easy to wander off track when writing it. So, before we provide any writing tips and internship cover letter examples, let’s explore the importance of a good cover letter in the hiring process. 

In short, a strong cover letter gives you the chance to:

• Expand on the point-form nature of your resume – A resume is little more than a list of fast facts about you. It tells an employer about your professional experience, but it can’t explain how that experience is relevant to the internship program. A strong cover letter, on the other hand, can
• Tailor your application to the role – Because your resume is a personal history, it’s unchanging. You’ll likely use a very similar resume for each internship application. Conversely, the cover letter is your opportunity to add more internship-specific details.

If you see that a cover letter is optional for an application, don’t skip it. According to a ResumeLab survey of hiring managers, “83% [of] respondents claimed that a great cover letter can secure you an interview even if your resume isn’t good enough.”

That figure may seem high, but think about the information that document holds. Your cover letter offers hints about your personality, your writing skills and your goals—all things that a resume can’t do.

Writing An Internship Cover Letter, Step by Step (With Examples)

A typical cover letter for an internship program should include six sections:

• An introduction
• A body section (one or two paragraphs)
• A conclusion
• A way to contact you

Open up a blank document, make yourself some coffee or tea, and follow these five steps for a top-notch cover letter.

Step 1: The Header

A header provides essential information at first glance. Your header should include your full name, your email address, your phone number and, if relevant, your physical or home address. This section of your header can be aligned in the center or left justified, depending on your preference of format.

Below your personal information, you should include the date and the hiring manager details on the left side of the page. Here is a cover letter sample:

An Example Header

Jenny Smith

555.867.5309

[email protected]

February 13, 2022

Jane Doe, Hiring Manager

Example Company Name

City, State, ZIP code

555.123.4567

[email protected]

Step 2: The Greeting

The greeting sets the tone for the rest of the cover letter; aim to be courteous and conversational. A greeting is also incomplete without a name. Always try to address the hiring manager by name to prove you’ve done your research.

In professional workplaces, you should use their title and full name. For more casual businesses, you may opt to use only their first name.

Example Greetings

If you can find the name of the hiring manager:

Dear Ms. Jane Doe ,

Hello Jane ,

If you can’t address your letter to a specific person:

Dear Hiring Manager ,

Step 3: The Opening Paragraph

The first paragraph contextualizes your application and introduces you to the hiring manager. It should include your reason for applying and a high-level summary of your qualifications.

While you may be tempted to start with a line like, “I’m applying to work as an intern at Example Company,” aim for something more compelling. The hiring manager already knows which specific position you’re applying for; take this opportunity to wow them instead.

An Example First Paragraph

With my graduation from the Example School business program around the corner, I’m looking to bring my passion for marketing into a workplace that drives change in the industry. Between my in-school experience and my work helping entrepreneurs, I’m confident I can bring fresh new ideas to Example Company as an intern.

Step 4: The Body Paragraph(s)

The following one or two paragraphs should be where you sell yourself. Write about any significant accomplishments and the relevant experience you have. Adding statistics or verifiable facts can further elevate your cover letter.

An Example Second Paragraph

My knowledge of market trends and knack for visuals have propelled me to the top of my classes. My time in the debate club has allowed me to hone my communication skills. Outside of college, I’ve helped fellow students grow their businesses by offering my knowledge of digital marketing. For one dropshipping operation, I increased sales by 25% over three months by leveraging social media ads.

Step 5: The Closing Paragraph

This section is where you can relate your experience to the internship opportunity and explain why you’re the best candidate for the role. Be sure to include a thank-you and a sign-off at the end.

An Example Final Paragraph

These accomplishments are aligned perfectly with the work that Example Company does. Apart from my technical skills, I believe my ambition makes me an excellent candidate for this internship. To me, self-improvement is a never-ending journey, and I’m excited for the opportunity to learn from the best at Example Company.

Thanks for taking the time to read my cover letter. I look forward to hearing back from you.

Internship Cover Letter Tips and Tricks

Once you understand the framework of a standard cover letter, it’s time to fine-tune the appearance and the content. Here are some general cover letter tips that you can leverage when applying to internships.

Make a Strong First Impression

Before a hiring manager begins reading your cover letter, they’ll notice the formatting. Cover letters should be simple; there’s no need to go overboard with borders or graphics.

For a proper cover letter, be sure to:

• Use a professional, easy-to-read font like Calibri or Arial
• Write in 10- or 12-point font
• Align your document to the left

Remember: Shorter is Better

You can value a company’s time and your own by keeping your cover letter short and to the point. Writing three or four paragraphs is sufficient, and it should all fit on one page.

To keep your internship cover letter on the shorter side, you can omit some of your accomplishments or your less relevant experience, as this information will be available on your resume.

Keep the Tone Conversational

Your writing should be professional without feeling robotic. Consider the following two sentences:

“I am writing this cover letter to apply for the internship at your company.”

“I’m writing to express my interest in Example Company’s summer internship.”

Notice how the first line feels somewhat sterile. The lack of contractions and plain language remove all of the personality from the sentence. On the other hand, the second line feels warm and engaging while remaining business-like. That’s the tone you’re striving to achieve.

Demonstrate Your Worth

The company you’re applying to knows you want to intern there; otherwise, you wouldn’t have sent them a resume! Instead of writing about why you want the internship, focus on how the company can benefit from taking you on as an intern.

Don’t Worry About Your Lack of Work Experience

Companies know that interns from colleges typically have little to no work experience. Rather than mentioning your lack of on-the-job experience, find ways to make your coursework and extracurricular activities highlight your relevant skills.

For example, you can talk about:

• How you took the lead in a school project
• Your appreciation for teamwork as a member of the football team
• A victory at the state science fair
• Your time tutoring other students

Work Smarter, Not Harder

You should tailor your cover letter to each internship you’re applying to, but you don’t need to start from scratch every time. Instead, try drafting up a “template” cover letter with your major accomplishments, transferable skills, and tweak it to suit each new application.

Don’t Forget to Edit

There’s nothing more off-putting in a cover letter than an obvious typo, missing contact details or a formatting issue. These errors may seem insignificant, but to a hiring manager, they show a lack of attention to detail.

To perfect your writing before sending your application, try these proofreading tips:

• Read your cover letter out loud
• Change the font to make errors more visible
• Use grammar-checking software
• Ask a friend to read your cover letter
• Use a text-to-speech tool and listen back to your writing

Where to Find More Support for Writing Cover Letters

The best colleges recognize the important role that internships play in helping students reach their career goals and provide the necessary support to help students land these roles. Many schools offer cover letter workshops or help from career counselors. From answering questions like “ What is an internship ?” to explaining the differences in an externship vs. internship , you can always find help. 

Look for a college like North Central College, where students and alumni can access online resources surrounding internships and jobs or work directly with the Office of Career Development to put their best foot forward.

For more advice on landing your dream internship, view our list of common internship interview questions and how to prepare.

Jacob Imm is the assistant director of communications at North Central College Office of Marketing and Communications. He has 11 years of collegiate communications experience and has worked with hundreds of college students. He has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Notre Dame and a master’s degree from Northern Illinois University.  

Sources: 

Tomaszewski, M. (2021, December 23). Is a Cover Letter Necessary in 2022? Do I Need a Cover Letter? ResumeLab. Retrieved January 19, 2022, from https://resumelab.com/cover-letter/are-cover-letters-necessary

More North Central News & Stories

What is an Internship Cover Letter?

How to write an internship cover letter, sending the letter, internship cover letter msword template, related readings, internship cover letter.

How to write and send one

When applying for an internship, most companies require students to write and send an internship cover letter as part of the application documents. Resumes from students don’t ordinarily show extensive work history. That makes an internship cover letter different from a typical cover letter because it’s usually a more important factor in persuading a company to hire you.

The cover letter should be customized to the specific internship and should attempt to show how your academic qualifications , skills, extracurricular activities, and any previous work experience make you a suitable candidate for the organization.

• Internship cover letters are a key way to highlight skills for students who lack work experience.
• A cover letter is your first opportunity to make a good impression with the employer.
• Tailor your cover letter to the specific position you’re applying for.

Highlight your skills and qualifications in a way that captures the recruiter’s attention. Here are a few tips to follow when writing an internship cover letter:

1. Use the business letter format

An internship cover letter is a formal document and should follow a business letter format . Your contact information, the date, and the address of the employer should be at the top of the letter. The letter should also include a proper salutation before the introductory paragraph. At the end of the letter, you should sign your name. Use a plain font like Times New Roman or Arial. The font size for the letter should be 10 or 12.

2. State the role you are applying for

The internship cover letter should state the specific role you are applying for and what makes you a good candidate for the position. This is a better approach than writing a general cover letter for any position. Mentioning the specific role you are applying for naturally shapes the content of the rest of the letter.

3. Use keywords

Recruiters often do not initially read resumes/applications in their entirety. Instead, they scan through the document. Using specific keywords that were mentioned in the internship advertisement can help get your application more detailed attention. Review the job description to identify the main keywords that you should include in your cover letter.

4. Mention your academic experience

If the employer requires specific academic qualifications, you should mention your relevant qualifications and achievements in your cover letter. Since most students lack hands-on work experience, the next best things to note are completed courses and significant accomplishments. Highlight those that are most relevant to the job description. For example, if the job requires strong customer service skills, then you might want to highlight psychology courses on relationships that you’ve taken.

5. State relevant skills and extra-curricular experiences

You should mention extra-curricular experiences and skills that are relevant to the job description. These may include sports activities, leadership skills, and volunteer work that you have engaged in.

Volunteer experience in a related field can greatly boost your chances of getting an internship with a company. Even with limited industry experience, you can mention skills you gained from performing in volunteer roles and projects.

6. Proofread before sending

Once you have completed writing the internship cover letter, spend a few minutes reviewing the document for spelling, grammar, and syntax errors . Most employers are keen to notice how well-written (or poorly-written) a cover letter is. Keep in mind that your cover letter conveys the first impression that a recruiter forms of you. Any errors may spoil your chances of getting the job. You can also ask a friend or relative to review the final draft.

7. Follow up

Express near the end of the letter that you appreciate the employer’s consideration and hope to hear from them soon. You may also indicate that you will follow up in a week or two weeks’ time. If you follow up too soon, the employer may perceive you as over-eager (i.e., desperate). Following up lets you know the status of your application and at least confirm that your application was received.

Unless the employer has specifically stated that applications should be sent via post or submitted in person, you are likely to send the letter via email. Here are the two main ways you can use to send your cover letter via email:

1. As an email attachment

If the employer requires you to send a cover letter as an attachment, locate the document on your computer and attach it. It’s a good idea to include your name in the cover letter file name for easy identification.

2. Paste in the body of the email

The employer may ask you to send a cover letter as the body of the email. In such a case, don’t include the employer contact information and only include your contact information in the email signature. If you know the name of the recipient, include their name in the salutation .

[Applicant’s Name]

[Street Address]

[City, State, Zip Code]

[Phone Number]

[Email Address]

[Today’s Date]

[Recipient’s Name]

[Job Title]

[Company Name]

Dear [Recipient’s Name]

I’m writing to apply for the marketing summer internship program at ABC company. I learned about the internship program through New York University’s Career Services Office.

I am currently a senior marketing student at New York University, and I will receive my degree in the spring. In the course of my studies, I have acquired skills in marketing analytics, product development, pricing, digital interment marketing, marketing communications, and public relations. Currently, I hold a 3.9 GPA.

Last summer, I created a social media marketing campaign for a non-profit that sells hand-made artifacts to support homeless families. The campaign returned the highest revenues ever for the non-profit and I was recognized as one of the best-performing volunteers. I also used my marketing analytics skills to analyze the results of the campaign and make recommendations to the marketing department.

I believe I would be a resourceful addition to your marketing team. The summer internship program can provide me with an opportunity to contribute towards the achievement of your organization’s goals and objectives, as well as enabling me to expand my skills.

I will call next week to see if my qualifications and skills are a fit for the candidate you are looking for. If so, I would like the opportunity to discuss my suitability for this position in person at a mutually convenient time. Thank you for your consideration. Should you have any queries, please don’t hesitate to contact me at applicantname@email or (555) 555-5555.

Yours sincerely,

Thank you for reading CFI’s guide to an internship cover letter. CFI offers the Financial Modeling & Valuation Analyst (FMVA)™ certification program for those looking to take their careers to the next level. To keep learning and advancing your career, the following resources will be helpful:

• Business Writing
• Curriculum Vitae vs. Resume
• How to List Skills on Your Resume
• Investment Banking Cover Letter
• Resume Power Words
• See all career resources

• Share this article

Create a free account to unlock this Template

Access and download collection of free Templates to help power your productivity and performance.

Already have an account? Log in

Supercharge your skills with Premium Templates

Take your learning and productivity to the next level with our Premium Templates.

Upgrading to a paid membership gives you access to our extensive collection of plug-and-play Templates designed to power your performance—as well as CFI's full course catalog and accredited Certification Programs.

Already have a Self-Study or Full-Immersion membership? Log in

Access Exclusive Templates

Gain unlimited access to more than 250 productivity Templates, CFI's full course catalog and accredited Certification Programs, hundreds of resources, expert reviews and support, the chance to work with real-world finance and research tools, and more.

Already have a Full-Immersion membership? Log in