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Cover Letter Examples Cover Letter for Internship

6 Internship Cover Letter Examples

Landing an internship isn't difficult if you can put together a good cover letter. Our cover letter examples and internship resume examples will help you learn how to put together an application that will land you the role you want.

Intern (No Experience)

Base your cover letter on this example if you're applying for an internship and don't have any work experience yet.

Intern (With Experience)

Use this internship cover letter example for inspiration if you have some work experience already.

Marketing Intern

Looking to get a start in marketing? Our marketing internship cover letter will show you how to sell your relevant experience and skills, from social media and graphic design to collaboration and copy editing.

Finance Intern

To get an internship in finance, you'll need to demonstrate your analytical skills. Find out how to market your academic experience and skills to land that internship.

Engineering Intern

Ready to get to work building something? Use our engineering internship cover letter example to make a solid first impression and land a valuable opportunity.

Internship Cover Letter Template (Text Format)

How to write a cover letter for an internship.

Internship Cover Letter Example

FIRST AND LAST NAME

Email: [email protected]

Phone: (123) 456-7891

Address: Street, City, State

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/yourprofile

[Today’s Date]

Benjamin Locke Hart Marketing 2793 Limer Street Atlanta, GA, 30328 (770) 616-1847 [email protected]

Dear Mr. Locke,

I’m writing to you regarding the marketing role that opened up at Hart Marketing recently. I came across the job description on LinkedIn and was delighted to find that my academic accomplishments meet all of the necessary requirements. I am seeking a challenging but rewarding internship, which is why I was drawn to this exciting opportunity.

As a junior marketing student at the University of Georgia, I have acquired skills in advertising, PR, product development, and market research. Currently, I hold a 3.8 GPA and have been on the Dean’s List every semester. I have strategically focused my coursework in the following areas:

• Marketing analytics
• Marketing management
• Survey research
• Strategic internet marketing
• Integrated marketing communications

Using my knowledge of the above, I designed a marketing campaign for a local pet grooming business that yielded the highest return on investment based on our given budget. The campaign was so well received that I was awarded third place in UGA’s business plan competition.

I would be delighted to have an opportunity to personally interview with you. Please accept the enclosed resume and feel free to contact me at your earliest convenience. I appreciate your time and consideration.

Lauren Chen

Ready to write your own internship cover letter? In the following video our resident career expert Corissa breaks down how to write a cover letter for an internship, step-by-step:

Good internships aren’t easy to land, especially if you’re applying to a well-known company. If you’re a student with little or no relevant experience, it’s challenging to convince employers you’re the person they should choose for the position. That’s where an internship cover letter comes in.

Not only is it a great opportunity to make up for your lack of experience, recent cover letter statistics show that a quarter of hiring managers think cover letters are “very important”. Your cover letter provides space for you to not only communicate your passion for the role, but also to highlight relevant skills and education which might not fit on your resume.

Here are five tips to help you write a cover letter for an internship that showcases your qualifications and convinces employers that you’re the right person for the job.

1. Focus on your motivation and passion

Internships are entry-level positions. So most hiring managers aren’t expecting you to have much formal work experience.

Instead, hiring managers look for interns with enthusiasm and a willingness to learn . These qualities show you’ll take full advantage of the training you’re given.

A resume doesn’t leave much room for communicating passion and motivation. So, it’s essential that your internship cover letter conveys this passion by explaining your motivation for applying.

A cover letter that emphasizes your passion over your skills and experience is also called a motivation letter .

Here are three ways to communicate your motivation to employers in a cover letter for an internship:

• Describe your relevant interests. For example, if you’re applying for a beauty internship, talk about how you’ve been giving family and friends makeovers since you were young.
• Give an example of when you showed initiative. For instance, talk about how you started a campaign for green issues during college.
• Express interest in the company’s business by citing specific practices or products you’re excited about working with.

Additionally, if you lack relevant work experience, you can focus on other experiences you have that qualify you for the internship.

For example, mention any relevant college coursework , extracurriculars , or volunteer work experience that relates to the industry you want to intern in. This will make you appear eager to build your knowledge and seem more qualified.

List these experiences in bullet points in the body of your letter. Here’s an example of what that looks like in practice:

2. Showcase your ambition

Not all interns make coffee and organize filing cabinets. Many companies give promising interns real projects that affect the company’s bottom line and then offer the best interns jobs once their internship has finished.

Your cover letter should show you’re interested in doing more than just helping full-time employees out. Communicate that you’re both capable of handling the responsibilities of the job and driven to excel.

One of the best ways to emphasize your ambition in your intern cover letter is by adding hard numbers. Hard numbers provide a clearer picture of your specific achievements and show the reader that you can get results.

For example, if you were active in local politics in college and are applying for a political internship, you might include a bullet point like this:

Organized fundraising event for Congresswoman Harriet Lopez, raising $38,000 for her re-election campaign.

Need some help writing a cover letter that demonstrates why you're the perfect choice for an intern? Try using a free AI cover letter generator to get fresh ideas and a quick cover letter that sells your skills.

3. Address the hiring manager by name

One of the best ways to impress the hiring manager is simply by using their name when you start your cover letter . Instead of writing “Dear Sir/Madam,” or “ To Whom It May Concern ,” do some research first to figure out the name of the hiring manager or department head.

If their name isn’t available on the company website or in the job ad, here are a couple of other ways to find the hiring manager’s name:

• Call the company you’re applying to and ask for the relevant person’s name
• Search for the hiring manager’s name by looking through the company’s employees on LinkedIn

Using the hiring manager’s name shows that you’re serious about the internship and willing to take the extra effort to make a personal connection with them. Just by knowing how to address a cover letter properly , you’ve already made your application more impressive.

4. Focus on your education

If you don’t have much work experience yet, use your cover letter to focus on the qualifications you do have. Specifically, you should showcase your education.

For example, if you’re applying for a computer science internship , mention specific classes or relevant coursework you’ve taken in computer science. In particular, draw attention to what you’ve achieved in your classes (e.g., any class projects you’ve finished) to provide real examples of what you can do.

Focusing on your relevant academic qualifications shows employers that you’re already passionate about the field. It indicates that this internship isn’t just about adding  length to your resume —  it’s a way to advance your career and increase your knowledge of an industry you’re interested in.

5. Use the right internship cover letter format

A cover letter for an internship position should follow certain formatting. For instance, your cover letter should be four paragraphs long and use up about one full page (but no more than that).

Although this might sound short, it’s still plenty of space to describe your talents.

Simply follow the template below to learn how to format your cover letter properly:

Paragraph 1

First, formally introduce yourself, and say where you heard about the internship. Add some information about your background and explain why you’re applying.

Paragraph 2

In the second paragraph, sell your skills and the accomplishments you’ve added to your resume. Touch on your passion for the industry, and give examples of when you’ve excelled in a professional or academic capacity.

If you’re writing an internship cover letter with no experience , focus on your academic credentials.

Paragraph 3

Here you can mention anything that makes your application unique. For example, do some research about the company, and describe how you’d personally be a good fit for the company’s culture. Or elaborate on the company’s positive impact on your community (or society at large), and explain why that attracts you to work there.

Paragraph 4

Finish your application with a call to action . Say you’re ready to be interviewed and thank the reader for their time. Finally, close your cover letter with “Sincerely,” followed by your name.

Our free-to-use cover letter builder can make you a cover letter in as little as 5 minutes. Just pick the template you want, and our software will format everything for you.

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How to Write an Internship Cover Letter: 9 Tips (+ Examples)

A strong cover letter can get you noticed when applying for an internship. Find out how to craft a standout cover letter today. 

You’ve found an internship, and it’s exactly the opportunity you’ve been looking for to put you on the path to your dream job. But, the internship application requires you to send a cover letter .

Cover letters give you space to contextualize how your previous work experience and relevant skills make you a good fit for the position. They expand on your resume in a meaningful way that grabs a hiring manager’s attention and demonstrates why you’re undeniably the right person for the internship. 

In this article, you will find out how to put your best foot forward with nine tips for your internship cover letter. You will also find examples alongside each tip and a cover letter template to help you compose your own. Whether you’re a high school student, recent college graduate, or career switcher looking to start on a new path, these tips are for you. 

Internship cover letters: why you need one

Cover letters provide hiring managers with insight into an applicant's experience, skills, and aspirations. As a result, cover letters can be especially helpful to early-career seekers applying for internships because they provide a more detailed picture of their backgrounds than their resumes might. 

Whether a job description asks for a cover letter or not, it is usually a wise decision to send a unique resume to each internship to which you apply. In some cases, adding a cover letter can be the difference between landing the internship or not. 

Research conducted by ResumeGo between 2019 and 2020 found that cover letters can have a positive impact on how applications are interpreted by hiring managers. Among their many findings, the researchers found that [ 1 ]: 

87 percent of hiring managers said they read cover letters. 

65 percent of hiring managers said that cover letters influence their hiring decisions. 

81 percent of hiring managers valued cover letters tailored to a specific position over generic ones. 

78 percent of hiring managers said it was easy to tell when a cover letter was generic. 

These statistics suggest both the impact that a cover letter can have when applying for an internship and the importance of crafting one that speaks directly to the position. One thing is clear: cover letters matter. 

How to write a cover letter for an internship 

A cover letter is your chance to stand out from the crowded applicant pool. In this section, you’ll learn nine high-impact tips to help you craft a cover letter that highlights your professionalism, aspirations, and qualifications. 

1. Properly format your cover letter.

Proper formatting will help hiring managers easily scan your cover letter for key information, such as your contact information and skills, and also convey your professionalism. From top to bottom, your cover letter should have the following elements: 

Keep to one page only : your cover letter should be only one page long. This will keep it focused, impactful, and easily scannable for hiring managers.  

Header at the top: Include a header that contains your contact information, so that hiring managers can easily reach out to you. 

Greetings: Your cover letter should open with a greeting to the hiring manager. This is a formality that makes your letter more personal. 

Intro: Your cover letter should include a brief introduction that describes who you are, what you are applying for and your key qualifications. 

Body: The body of your cover letter is where you go into detail about your experience, skills, and education. 

Conclusion/Call to action: Your cover letter should conclude with a call to action that encourages your reader to reach out to you. 

Salutations: Finally, you want to leave the reader with a good impression by including a formal salutation followed by your full name. This conveys a sense of professionalism and friendliness. 

In the following tips, you will learn more about handling each of these parts of your resume to make them as impactful as possible. 

2. Have a professional email address.

The header of your cover letter is where you include your contact information, including your full name, phone number, and email address. 

While it may seem insignificant, one of the most important things you can do in your header is to include a professional-sounding email address. In this instance, the simpler the email address the better. Create an email address that is a simple variant of your name with a common free email provider, such as Gmail. 

3. Personalize your greeting. 

While many cover letters are addressed simply “to whom it may concern,” a more impactful way to catch a hiring manager’s attention is by addressing them by name directly. 

In addition to making your cover letter more personal, this tactic also highlights that you’ve done your research and created a job-specific cover letter rather than sent a generic one. This can have a positive impact on how a hiring manager views your resume and cover letter. 

You can find out who the hiring manager is by doing some straightforward research online. Some job descriptions will instruct you to email a specific person. In other cases, you might need to visit the organization’s website and see if you can identify the person who heads their internship or hiring efforts. 

If this fails, you can also reach out to the organization directly by either email or phone to see if they can provide the name of the hiring manager who will be looking at internship applications. Let them know that you are applying for the specific internship and would like to address the hiring manager directly in your application. 

If you’re unable to learn the name of the hiring manager, then don’t sweat it – your application likely won’t be penalized for a common, courteous greeting.

4. Include key information in the intro.

Your cover letter should include a short introduction that immediately identifies the specific internship position you are applying for and the key background information relevant to the position. Ideally, you should keep your introduction to only a few sentences, making sure not to exceed four. 

Much like a thesis statement in a school paper, the introduction of your cover letter helps the reader understand your purpose for writing and the qualifications that make you ideal for the position. 

Dear Ms. Angelou, 

I am writing to apply for the editorial assistant internship position at Little House publishing. An avid reader since I first played cracked open Grimm’s (macabre) Fairytales as a five-year-old, I have made storytelling my personal and professional calling. As an English major at The Ohio State University, I have been an editor of our school’s literary magazine for three years, brought two theater productions to life as a dramaturg, and taught reading and writing to countless middle schoolers. 

5. Show how you and the internship are a perfect match. 

The key aim of your cover letter is to demonstrate to the hiring manager why you and the internship are a perfect match for one another. 

As a result, you should craft your letter to emphasize how your skill set and experience have prepared you for the position and why it can help you achieve your professional aims. Remember, an internship is as much an educational opportunity as a work experience, so don’t be afraid to note what the internship offers you as well as what you offer the internship. 

To identify how you and the internship are a good match for one another, do the following: 

1. Read through the job description and identify the skills and experience you possess. 

2. Identify what experience, skills, or understanding you will gain by doing the internship.

3. Include these points in your cover letter. 

“After studying python for the last two years, IBM’s data science internship will finally give me the opportunity to see programming at work in the real world. Throughout high school, I’ve spent hours combing through data, creating visualizations, and posing questions to data big and small all by myself. At IBM, I will finally be a part of a community that takes data seriously, contributing to projects but learning even more.” 

6. Emphasize your education and extracurriculars.

While most jobs require applicants to have some kind of relevant work experience, most internships typically expect applicants to have very little or even none. This is particularly true for internships geared toward high school and college students. 

If you’re a student without much (or any) relevant work experience, then you should emphasize your education and extracurricular activities. You’ll be able to highlight your skills, interests, and concrete achievements for hiring managers as much as previous work experience would allow you to do. 

“As a computer science student, I have taken advanced courses on machine learning and programming data structures, achieving top grades in both. Later, I used these skills in the AI club when I taught a machine to visually recognize different hand gestures.” 

7. Use active language and note concrete outcomes. 

One of the key ways to create impactful writing is to use active language that shows the reader how you achieved concrete outcomes. This method will help your reader fully comprehend what it is that you have done and what you have ultimately achieved. 

Active language (also known as active voice) is when the subject of a sentence acts upon an object, rather than the object being acted upon by an object. For example, consider the chart below: 

In the first sentence, the emphasis is on the woman (the subject) doing an action (“programming”) on the computer (the object). The second sentence, meanwhile, puts emphasis on the computer rather than the action performed by the subject (the woman). By focusing on the action, the first sentence highlights the work that the woman does – and keeps the sentence shorter too. 

Using active language that clearly describes how you accomplished a specific result will keep the attention on you and what you can do.  

“As a writing tutor, I taught middle schoolers how to write in the active voice to help them articulate themselves with impact. To do it, I parsed sentences on the blackboard, edited essays live, and reinforced concepts week to week.  Our results spoke for themselves: test scores improved by 78 percent in just two months.”

8. Consider using a bulleted list to highlight your technical skills. 

To make it more scannable, you might consider including a bullet point list of your relevant skills in the body of your cover letter. This technique can help readers catch important skills that you possess that could help you stand out from the applicant pool. 

“Throughout my education and extracurriculars, I have honed many skills relevant to the internship, including: 

Collaboration

Problem solving"

Read: Hard Skills vs. Soft Skills: What’s the Difference?

9. Include a call-to-action and salutation at the end of the letter. 

Your cover letter should leave the hiring manager with both a desire to reach out to you and a good picture of you. To leave them wanting to hear more from you, end the cover letter with a brief statement about your desire to speak more about the role soon and close with a professional salutation, such as “sincerely.”

“I look forward to talking soon about how I can contribute to the team this summer. Thank you for the opportunity, time, and consideration.

Sincerely, 

Abraham Lincoln”

Landing an internship can help you kick off your career. To make sure that you’re ready for that first day on the job, you might consider taking an online course or gaining a professional certificate in such fields as data science , project management , or social media marketing . 

 Related articles 

How to Make a Resume for Your First Job (+ Template)

How to Answer “What Are Your Career Aspirations?”

Transferable Skills: How to Use Them to Land Your Next Job

How to Get Your First Job: A Guide

Article sources

1. Resume Go. “ Cover Letters: Just How Important Are They? , https://www.resumego.net/research/cover-letters/.” Accessed March 24, 2022. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

So, continue reading this article and learn: 

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

Table of Contents

Click on a section to skip

What is a cover letter for an internship?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Absolutely! 

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

Why, you ask? 

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

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

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

And these two are your weapons of choice!

How can a cover letter for an internship help you?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#1 Philips Marketing Intern Cover Letter Sample

Internship cover letter example:.

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

What can you take away?

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

#2 Warner Bros. Public Relations Intern Cover Letter Example

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

#3 University of Massachusetts Boston Intern Cover Letter Example

What can you take away  .

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

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

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

#5 Intern at NBC Cover Letter Sample

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Do I Need a Cover Letter for an Internship?

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to Write a Cover Letter for Internship

#1. respect the format.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This allows you to:

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

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

Dear Mr. Jacobs, 

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

#3. Mention the Right Keywords

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

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

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

How can you find these keywords, you might ask?

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

Then, do the following:

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

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

• Communication
• Ability to meet strict deadlines

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

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

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

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

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

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

#4. Highlight Your Education

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

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

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

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

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

#5. Provide Background For Your Skills

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#7. Describe What You Would Gain Professionally

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

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

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

Here’s how you can do that: 

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

#8. Proofread Your Cover Letter

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

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

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

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

#9. Match Your Cover Letter & Resume Designs

Want your internship application to truly shine?

Match your cover letter design with your resume!

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

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

Cover Letter for Internship Template

Struggling to create a cover letter for your internship?

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

Key Takeaways 

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

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

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

Related Readings: 

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

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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

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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.

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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

A cover letter for an internship, also called a letter of introduction, an application letter, or a personal statement, expresses how your skills and experiences make you the best candidate for the position. It should showcase your personal style while expanding upon and complementing your  résumé .

Always include a cover letter when it is requested to solidify your chance of becoming a candidate for the internship. Conversely, including a cover letter , particularly when it’s optional, gives you an edge over candidates who don’t submit a cover letter. Consider the following guidance, tips, and examples before presenting your skills and experience to hiring managers.

Write with confidence Grammarly helps you communicate clearly Write with Grammarly

How to format your cover letter and what to include

Contact information and date.

In the header or upper left-hand corner of the page, include your name and contact information and then that of the recruiter or hiring manager, followed by the date.

Your Name Berkeley, CA (000) 000-0000 [email protected] linkedin.com/in/myname

Recruiter’s Name or Title [Recruiter’s position if name is provided] Company Name Anytown, USA

March 4, 2022

Greeting and introduction

First impressions are important, and this holds true for your letter. Avoid common mistakes by keeping the recruiter or hiring manager foremost in your mind. Begin with “Dear” or an appropriate title, like Mr., Ms., or Mx., followed by the individual’s first and last names.

Avoid impersonal greetings, like “To Whom It May Concern,” or casual greetings, like “Hey” or “Hi.” You want to strike a personal yet professional tone.

Here’s a tip: If you’re unable to locate a name for the salutation, try alternatives , like “Dear Team [Company Name].”

After the greeting, include in the first sentence the position to which you are applying, followed by how you discovered the internship, then express your interest in the company.

Here’s a tip: Use language that makes your reader feel seen and reveals your excitement for the position.

Dear Ms. Reader,

I am writing to express my interest in the Editorial Internship at Firtree Magazine. I’m a subscriber, and Firtree’s content ignited my interest in environmental justice journalism. I was excited to see the editorial internship opportunity listed on Handshake, my university’s job database.

Content paragraphs

Your cover letter should have two to three body paragraphs that cover the following information:

Reason for applying

Most students seek internship opportunities to jump-start their careers, while others may seek internships to discover potential career paths that are related or unrelated to their course of study. In a few sentences, explain how your personal and academic experiences lend themselves to the company’s or organization’s objectives. 

As a computer science major, I believe in Google’s informational access initiative. I’m particularly interested in user experience and how usability and accessibility are interconnected. I would be glad to use my strong coding abilities to help the company expand and deepen this area of research and development.

Relevant skills or experience

Identify academic skills and experiences to add to your cover letter. You might pull relevant experience such as:

• Research assistantships or fellowships
• Conference or symposium presentations
• Participation in scholastic competitions
• Occupying a leadership or other significant role in a club or campus organization
• Campus jobs (e.g., school news reporter, library assistant, resident assistant, etc.)
• Membership and participation in student organizations

You could also describe the skills you acquired through extracurricular experiences or coursework. These can include soft skills, like leadership or multitasking, and hard skills, like coding, Python, HTML, or proficiency with the Adobe Creative Cloud or Microsoft Office Suite.

Here’s a tip: Quantify your successes to stand out.

As the social media lead for the University of Michigan’s Writing Center, I frequently use Photoshop and Premiere Pro to produce brand-specific content. I release five to ten social media posts a week using the Creative Cloud.

Your intended contribution and goals

Do your homework on the company and role to identify how you could contribute and be an asset to the team. Explore the company’s website or its reviews on sites like Glassdoor to get a sense of its culture, values, and mission. Also, state why you want to intern for the company regarding what you hope to learn or gain.

I’ve noticed Pixar’s increased focus on films with characters of varied abilities. I think my two years as a research assistant working with neurodivergent children could help enhance the information Pixar’s content producers are seeking while providing me valuable hands-on experience for a career in the film industry.

Conclusion and sign-off

To conclude the letter, reiterate your excitement about the internship opportunity and invite the hiring manager to discuss your application further. 

Wrap up the letter with a sign-off followed by your signature. Appropriate sign-offs include: “Sincerely,” “Best wishes,” “Kindly,” or “Thank you.” 

I look forward to learning more about the design internship and welcome the opportunity to further discuss my application and suitability for the role. You may reach me at [email protected] or over the phone at (000) 000-0000.

Devon Reader

How to handle little or no related experience in your cover letter

If you don’t have much related experience, be flexible. In instances where you have little experience, consider an unpaid part-time internship that can fill the gap. You may want to hold off on internships with “required/preferred qualifications” or “would love to see” in the job description since these might limit your competitive chances.

When crafting your cover letter, get creative about how you talk about what you’ve done, whether it’s problem-solving an issue at school or otherwise, organizing or facilitating an event, or starting a new group or game—these are all experiences you can bring to an internship. Use your cover letter to make a good impression, tout your qualifications, and demonstrate why you deserve consideration.

Identify transferable skills

Transferable skills are abilities you can easily take from one job to another. You can identify your transferable skills by generating a list of experiences from your responsibilities, like caregiving or babysitting, volunteer experience, or courses you took related to your major. Beneath each respective listing, note the hard and soft skills you successfully used.

Choose appropriate experiences

Once you’ve generated your list of skills, identify the required skills in the job description and look for correlations. Did participating in a group project improve your communication skills or ability to work effectively on a team? Have you cultivated skills that help you multitask and resolve conflict with poise? Depending on the internship’s expectations, match one or two experiences from your list to those listed in the job description. 

Sell your story and skills

In your cover letter, discuss the specific experiences that show you have comparable skills to do what the job requires. Let hiring managers know how you made a difference or overcame a challenge and how those skills apply to the role. 

In my economics class, I led a group of four peers to construct and present a product where I focused on delegation and team support. I shared praise and provided constructive criticism. My actions helped us work collaboratively, and we earned an “A” on the assignment. My interpersonal skills and open approach to teamwork make me a strong candidate for the  Communications Internship.

Internship cover letter guidelines

Your internship cover letter should be:

• Half a page to one page long
• Single spaced with 1-inch margins
• Written in 10–12 point font (Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri) 
• Submitted as a PDF for electronic or email submissions unless otherwise instructed
• Printed on US letter size paper (8.5 by 11 inches) if mailing

Perfecting tone

Tone conveys your attitude about a given topic or subject. Aim to present yourself as professional, likable, and genuinely interested in the company. For an internship cover letter, aim for a tone that is professional yet friendly.

Getting tone right can be difficult. Fortunately, Grammarly’s tone detector can help you nail the appropriate tone and ensure you come across as intended.

When to follow up

It’s tempting to ask for a status update about your application, but before you do, double-check the job description. Confirm when the application period closes, if applicants are asked not to inquire about status updates, whether a response date is provided , and submission portal updates . Requesting an update too soon or when it’s not advised may make you come across as impatient or as someone who didn’t bother to read all of the application information.

According to one study , inquiring “one to less than two weeks” is an appropriate time to reach out. Call or email the point of contact and politely inquire about the status of the application process.

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

Approximately two weeks ago, I submitted my application for [Internship Title] and wanted to inquire about the status of my application and/or learn when a decision will be made.

Please let me know if additional information is needed. I look forward to hearing from you.

Sample internship cover letter

Jane Smith Berkeley, CA (000) 000-0000 [email protected] linkedin.com/in/janesmith

Ms. Ronny Reader Hiring Manager Firtree Magazine Los Angeles, CA March 4, 2022

I am writing to express my interest in the Editorial Internship at Firtree Magazine. As an avid reader, John Forrest’s 2019 article, “Not Only the Land Is Burned by Forest Fires,” sparked my interest in environmental justice journalism. Naturally, I was excited to see Firtree’s Editorial Internship opportunity listed on UC Berkeley’s Handshake job database, knowing Firtree’s commitment to climate justice aligns with my career interests.

I am currently a junior pursuing my bachelor’s degree in English literature at Cal, which has strengthened my written communication skills. This is evident in my 3.85 grade point average and consistent placement on the dean’s list for the past three semesters. I work as a staff writer at The Daily Californian , Cal’s student-run paper. As a staff writer, I produce articles on a bi-weekly basis. Producing at this level in tandem with my coursework has sharpened my time management skills. Pitching on a weekly basis has strengthened my creative thinking and ability to stay abreast of current ecojustice news. My skill set aligns with Firtree’s goal of delivering interesting, informed content to your audience. 

Outside of academics, my volunteer experience has cultivated my interpersonal skills. Each week I tutor in writing at the local high school, which has taught me to communicate complex ideas effectively and engage with different learning styles and backgrounds. I believe this experience will help me communicate with my peers at Firtree and with interview subjects in the field. 

Having the opportunity to intern with Firtree would allow me to gain hands-on editorial experience to prepare for a full-time journalism career while contributing to Firtree’s continued success. I welcome the opportunity to further discuss my application for clarification or questions related to my experience. You can reach me at (000) 000-0000 or by email at [email protected].

Polished, mistake-free writing

Every writer needs feedback on their work, and cover letters are no exception. You want the hiring manager to see your experience and personality in your internship cover letter, not grammatical, spelling, and punctuation mistakes. To ensure your writing shines, use Grammarly to help catch typos, get rid of repetitive wording, and strike the right tone. 

Internship cover letter FAQs

What is an internship cover letter? An internship cover letter is a personalized letter that demonstrates a student’s or recent graduate’s suitability for an internship position based on relevant skills and experience.

What should an internship cover letter include? An internship cover letter should include reasons for applying, appropriate skills and relevant experience, intended contribution to the company, and the applicant’s goals/desires.

What if the applicant lacks experience? If an applicant has little or no related experience, draw from volunteer work, personal duties, and/or engagement and performance in relevant coursework to discuss applicable transferable skills. Find examples of your skillset inside and outside of the academic setting, be it sports, babysitting, event planning, or organizing groups or games. 

How do you format an internship cover letter? The cover letter should be formatted and organized to include the following in a single-page document:

• The applicant’s and hiring manager’s contact information and the date of the letter
• Greeting/salutation
• Opening paragraph
• Body paragraph showcasing applicant’s suitability for the position
• Closing paragraph

• English (UK)
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• Cover Letter Examples

Cover Letter for Internship: Examples & Guide

An internship is a great way to kick-start your career. But to get there, you need an internship cover letter that’s not like the other 378 on the manager’s desk.

Most intern cover letters say, “I’m a hard worker, and I fit the job.” Yours should prove that you fit the job like you were born to do it.

Sounds complicated? Don't worry, we've broken up the entire process of writing a cover letter for an internship into eight simple, actionable steps, plus we give you an internship cover letter example you can use for inspiration.

Here’s what you’re going to discover:

• Internship cover letter examples to get you started
• A versatile cover letter template for internships
• A step-by-step guide to formatting and writing your internship cover letter
• Pro-tips on how to write a cover letter for an internship

Save hours of work and get a cover letter like this. Pick a template, fill it in. Quick and easy. Choose from 20+ cover letter templates and download your cover letter now.

Create your cover letter now

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I had an interview yesterday and the first thing they said on the phone was: “Wow! I love your cover letter.” Patrick I love the variety of templates. Good job guys, keep up the good work! Dylan  My previous cover letter was really weak and I used to spend hours adjusting it in Word. Now, I can introduce any changes within minutes. Absolutely wonderful! George

Not quite what you’re looking for? Check out some of these resources.

• Best Cover Letter Templates
• Best Cover Letter Tips
• Digital Marketing Cover Letter Example
• Engineering Internship Cover Letter Example
• Entry-Level Cover Letter Example
• Library Assistant Cover Letter Example
• No Experience Resume Guide
• Non-Profit Cover Letter Example
• Production Assistant Cover Letter Example
• Recent Graduate Cover Letter Example

Or head straight to our extensive collection of cover letter examples for all professions and experience levels.

Sample Cover Letter for Internship

Meet Apryl, a fresh university graduate with outstanding academic credentials. Apryl is applying for an internship at Stanley Black & Decker, a manufacturing company. The company is looking for someone with deep interest in engineering, and knowledgeable about tools & techniques used in improving manufacturing processes.

Fortunately, Apryl is highly educated in this matter and her love for engineering runs deep. And she perfectly highlights these qualities in her cover letter.

Cover Letter for Internship—Example

Apryl Assaraf

Engineering Graduate

4109 Diane Street

Hartford, CT 06101

860-614-1256

[email protected]

linkedin.com/in/aprylassaraf27

Hartford, 8/8/2022

Andre Daugherty

Lead Engineer

Stanley Black & Decker, Inc.

1723 Lochmere Lane

Hartford, CT 06182

Dear Mr. Daugherty,

Dr. Whiting encouraged me to apply for the position of Engineering Intern after I received Brown University's Outstanding Senior Award for my project on smart morphing surfaces.

Engineering has been my passion since I was nine. That passion helped me graduate with a 4.0 average across all my engineering coursework. It also led me beyond the assigned curriculum with:

• Extensive reading of 100+ books on engineering, design, and leadership.
• Writing a regular column in the “Manufacturing Innovation” blog (20,000 readers).
• Obtaining my Six Sigma Black Belt Certification.

Stanley Black & Decker is a leader in the manufacturing world with good reason—I was deeply impressed when I learned how you’ve reduced waste by 30% and increased customer satisfaction by 20% by implementing Kaizen best practices. This internship is an unmatched opportunity to grow among outstanding professionals.

I'd love to put my skill and passion to work for you. Could we set aside some time for a call to discuss how my success so far can translate to engineering excellence at Stanley Black & Decker?

Best regards,

P.S. — I'd also like to tell you how my design of fiber-optic bundles threaded through a working coil saved a freelance client $2,500.

This internship cover letter follows the best practices in cover letter writing. It’s concise, focused on the right things, and structured using a proven cover letter template.

In fact, this is the same cover letter structure used by experienced professionals across all fields. So master it early on in your career, and you’ll stand out among the other interns as someone who clearly knows what they’re doing.

Now, let’s go through the entire process of writing a great internship cover letter. Here are the steps in a nutshell.

How to Write an Internship Cover Letter

• Use a proven internship cover letter format.
• Create a proper cover letter header.
• Start your cover letter with the suitable greeting.
• Craft a powerful first paragraph that attracts the reader’s attention.
• Explain what makes you the right person for this internship.
• Show that you’re passionate about the internship and the company.
• End with a compelling call to action.
• Sign off like a pro (and consider adding a P. S.)

Ready to get started?

1. Use the Best Internship Cover Letter Format

There’s no second chance to make that first impression. The hiring manager who receives your cover letter should know you’re a competent young professional even before they start reading.

And that’s where proper cover letter format comes in:

• Use one of the best resume fonts .
• Set the page margins to 1” on all sides.
• Put your contact info in the top left corner.
• Add the date under your address.
• Include the hiring manager’s name and contact info.
• Start with a classic business letter greeting.
• Keep your cover letter to one page and 250–400 words.
• Divide the letter into paragraphs with a blank line between them.
• Make sure your letter ends with a call to action and a sign-off.
• You can include a P. S., but it’s optional.

Consider using a dedicated cover letter builder to make cover letter formatting as pain-free as possible. Most builders come with matching designs for resumes and cover letters to make your internship application look professional. In addition, the best cover letter builders provide you with pre-written chunks of text that you can customize to your liking—no more staring at a blank screen!

Double your impact with a matching resume and cover letter combo. Use our cover letter generator and make your application documents pop out.

CREATE YOUR COVER LETTER NOW

Want to try a different look? There's 21 more. A single click will give your document a total makeover. Pick a cover letter template here .

2. Make a Great Internship Cover Letter Header

If you’re sending your internship application via snail mail or handing it in personally, your cover letter needs to follow the conventions of a typical business letter. That is, it needs a proper cover letter header that looks like this:

Cover Letter for Internship—Header Template

Title (e. g. Marketing Student)

Street Address

City, State, ZIP

Email Address

Hiring Manager Name (if possible)

Hiring Manager’s Job Title

Company Name

If you’re applying for an internship position, you probably don’t have a job title yet. Just put “Engineering Student” or “Computer Science Graduate” or whatever accurately describes your educational background.

The entire header of your internship cover letter should be justified to the left so that your name is in the top left corner.

What should you do if you’re not sure who your hiring manager is? Check out our guide on how to address a cover letter . You’ll learn how to find out who’s responsible for hiring you—and what to do if your research yields no results.

3. Choose the Right Salutation for Your Internship Cover Letter

The most surefire thing to write after the cover letter header is:

Dear Mr./Ms. Smith,

If you’re 100% sure that the company where you’re applying has a super relaxed culture and everyone calls each other by their first names, you can also opt for Dear John or Dear Jane . But to stay on the safe side, you may still want to stick to the last name.

What if the hiring manager has a unisex name, and you’re not sure if you should write Mr. or Ms.? Here’s what you can do:

• Find their LinkedIn profile and see if their profile pic lets you clearly identify their gender.
• Check if they list their preferred pronouns on their LinkedIn or Twitter profile.
• Google their name and try to find photos of them (but always check out the photo’s context to make sure it’s the right person).
• Start your cover letter with their first and last name: Dear Jules Smith .

In short, do whatever it takes to avoid misgendering the person.

But… what if you’ve done your research and still can’t find the hiring manager’s name? As a last resort, go with something like Dear Hiring Manager . It might feel a bit awkward, but it’s still infinitely better than no greeting at all. If you’re unsure about writing a custom paragraph from scratch, try this, more generalized template instead.

Cover Letter for Internship Example—Introduction

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name] :

When I found out that [Company Name] is looking for an [Internship Field, f.e. Engineering, Accounting] intern, I was thrilled. As a recent graduate in [Field of Study] I am very passionate about the subject. I am highly skilled in [Relevant Skills/Tools] and can’t wait to use my expertise to aid the team with the upcoming challenges.

Expert Hint: If anyone tells you to start your internship cover letter with Dear Sir or Madam or To whom it may concern … don’t. You don’t live in a 19th-century novel, so ditch those outdated and painfully generic formulas .

4. Grab the Reader’s Attention With the First Paragraph

There are several effective ways to start a cover letter , but they all have one thing in common: they attract the reader’s attention and make them want to read the rest of your cover letter.

So your opening paragraph has to stand out. In other words, don’t do this:

I’m writing to apply for this internship. I’m a very motivated person, and I want to learn. Please find attached my resume.

This opener is like one of those generic pictures that you get when buying photo frames. Everyone’s seen them so many times that no one pays attention to them any longer.

Here’s what you can do instead:

Start Your Internship Cover Letter With a Big Relevant Achievement

Maybe you’re not Frodo Baggins, who can start his cover letter with “I’m the guy who saved Middle-Earth way back at the end of the Third Age.”

But this doesn’t mean you don’t have any achievements to show. Got an award? Completed a successful freelance gig? Go ahead and put them right into the opening paragraph of your cover letter! Like this:

When I ranked my uncle’s business website on Google’s first page for three highly relevant keywords—within just six months—I knew that SEO could be both my passion and my career. 

The first paragraph of their cover letter shows that this candidate can do much more than make coffee for regular employees. No one who’s hiring a digital marketing intern will resist reading this cover letter to the end.

Writing an internship cover letter with no experience? Focus on something you’ve done at school or college.

As Prof. Sockheel’s research assistant, I single-handedly cleaned and wrangled over 300,000 rows of data for her research project on comparing the efficacy of headache treatments.

This person is applying to be a healthcare data analyst intern. In their internship cover letter opening, they describe a big project they worked on. This is how the hiring manager knows that this candidate won’t have to learn data science from scratch.

Starting your cover letter with an achievement shows that you’ve already got the basics of your job.

Drop a Name

Another great way to start a cover letter for an internship is to drop a name. It could be a mutual contact at the company or someone famous in the field (for example, your academic supervisor who suggested you apply for a specific internship).

Be brief, and don’t tell the entire story of how you met this person. Just write something like this:

Mr. Lastpenny from the financial department suggested I apply—he believes my financial analysis skills will be beneficial in planning the company’s budget for 2023.

A word of warning, though: always ask the person if they’re OK with you mentioning them in your cover letter.

And, of course, never make things up. Lying on a cover letter can backfire immensely.

Show You’ve Done Your Research

Another way to impress the reader of your internship cover letter is to show that you genuinely care about the company and that you’ve done your research before applying.

Check out the company’s website, go through recent press releases, and do a quick Google search to find out more about the company’s challenges and plans.

Then, show that you’re eager to help them with these specific challenges and projects.

When I learned that Knight’s Knives Inc. is going to launch a new product line in 2023, I knew I wanted to assist your social media marketers in preparing for the upcoming launch.

This opener shows that the candidate didn’t just randomly apply because they saw an internship position. Instead, they’ve taken the time to research the company. Their research showed that Knight’s Knives is apparently looking for a social media intern because they need an extra pair of hands for their product launch campaign.

When the hiring manager at Knight’s Knives reads this cover letter, they’ll think, “Wow, this person definitely wants to work with us—after all, they’ve taken the time to find out about our upcoming products! ”

5. Show How Your Skills and Achievements Make You the Right Candidate

Now that you’ve got the reader hooked, it’s time to prove you’re the right person for this internship.

To do this, double-check the job ad and note the specific requirements listed there. Let’s say the company wants an intern with skills in:

• Written communication

Now, bombard them with some proof that you’ve got these exact skills. Like this:

• Extensive reading of 100+ books on engineering, design , and leadership .
• Writing a regular column in the “Manufacturing Innovation” blog (20,000 readers) .
• Obtaining my Six Sigma Black Belt Certification .

Why does that internship cover letter example work?  Because it proves, you’re driven AND gives hard evidence. And it packs an extra punch because the bullets tie you to the internship.

Expert Hint: If you really want the internship, reach out to employees on LinkedIn and ask to chat about the company’s needs. This will help you write an internship cover letter that’s closely tailored to this specific position at this specific company.

6. Prove Your Passion for This Specific Company

OK, so you’re the right person for this internship. But is this internship the right place for you? That’s what you prove in the next paragraph.

Everyone loves compliments, so go ahead and compliment the company on a recent achievement. You may need to do some extra research to find something that fits—but that research will pay off. It shows that you’ve been following the company’s successes for quite some time and that you’re genuinely interested in it.

Then, show how much you value working with these accomplished professionals.

Stanley Black & Decker is a leader in the manufacturing world, with good reason—I was deeply impressed when I learned how you’ve reduced waste by 30% and increased customer satisfaction by 20% by implementing Kaizen best practices. This internship is an unmatched opportunity to grow among outstanding professionals.

It’s important to make sure that this paragraph is closely tailored to a specific company. If you can copy and paste this paragraph and use it to apply for another internship, it’s too generic and needs a rewrite! Here’s what we mean:

Stanley Black & Decker is an amazing company, you’ve got great business results, and everyone loves your products.

You can say the exact same thing to flatter almost any company out there. The candidate who wrote this is probably pasting the same sentence into every cover letter, just changing the company name. And this doesn’t make a good impression.

7. Close Your Internship Cover Letter with a Powerful Call to Action

Now’s the time to end your internship cover letter. But how do you actually do this?

You might want to sign it off and send it as soon as possible. But wait—your cover letter is still lacking a few important sentences. You see, the point of a cover letter is to get an interview. And the best way to get something is to ask.

Yes, you’ve read it right: end your cover letter by asking the reader to schedule a call with you.

For the best results, couple your request with a reminder that you want to bring genuine value (and not just hang out until the end of your internship). Like this:

Cover Letter for Internship Examples: Calls to Action

This call to action feels confident and professional. It’s important to avoid calls to action that sound needy or bossy:

Please reply ASAP because I’m applying for 10 other internships, and I want to know if I’m accepted.

Do we need to explain that bossing people around in your cover letter isn’t a good idea?

Please hire me because I’ve been applying for different internships for 2 months and never heard back, I’m desperate. I don’t know what’s wrong with me.

Trying to melt the reader’s heart like this isn’t going to work. If you’re looking for more inspiration and guidance on closing your cover letter, check out our dedicated guide on how to end a cover letter .

8. Sign Off and Write a Jaw-Dropping P. S.

Almost done! Now, all you need to do is to add a so-called complimentary close . Surefire formulas include:

• Best regards

No matter which closing formula you choose, put a comma after it, make a new line, and write your name. You can also repeat your contact info after your name.

For a truly spectacular cover letter, consider adding a P. S. where you surprise the reader with another jaw-dropping achievement of yours.

P.S.: I'd also like to tell you how my design of fiber-optic bundles threaded through a working coil saved a freelance client $2,500.

Promising to tell your reader a story when they call you back is a great move. After all, who wouldn’t want to hear a good story? Just make sure you’re not making this story up.

And also, make sure you haven’t forgotten to write your internship resume .

With ResumeLab’s resume builder you’ll write your resume in a flash. Get specific content to boost your chances of getting the job. Add job descriptions, bullet points, and skills. Improve your resume in our resume builder now .

CREATE YOUR RESUME NOW

Nail it all with a splash of color, choose a clean font, highlight your skills in just a few clicks. You’re the perfect candidate and we’ll prove it. Just pick one of 21 resume templates and get started now .

Key Takeaways

Writing a cover letter for an internship follows the same steps as writing a cover letter for any job. Here’s the process:

• Get to know the standard format for cover letters.
• Create a cover letter header with contact information.
• Address your cover letter to a specific person if possible.
• Grab the reader’s attention with a unique first paragraph.
• In the next paragraph, prove why you’re a great fit.
• Explain why you’re passionate about this particular company.
• End with a call to action and a professional sign-off.
• Add an impressive P. S. if you have a suitably big achievement to talk about.

Need more guidance on how to write a great cover letter ? Got a question about applying for internships? Leave a comment. We’re happy to reply .

About ResumeLab’s Editorial Process

At ResumeLab, quality is at the crux of our values, supporting our commitment to delivering top-notch career resources. The editorial team of career experts carefully reviews every article in accordance with editorial guidelines , ensuring the high quality and reliability of our content. We actively conduct original research, shedding light on the job market's intricacies and earning recognition from numerous influential news outlets . Our dedication to delivering expert career advice attracts millions of readers to our blog each year.

Olga is a career expert with a background in teaching. At ResumeLab, she writes actionable guides to help job-seekers highlight their unique strengths and unlock their career potential.

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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

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Student Internship Cover Letter Samples & Examples That Worked in 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

In your header, you should include:

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

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

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

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

Create your cover letter fast with artificial intelligence.

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

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

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

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

Here are 3 examples of personalized cover letter greetings

Dear Intern Manager Jane Casey,

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

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

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

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

• A brief overview of your professional and academic history

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

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

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

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

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

Find out your resume score!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Wishes,

[Applicant Name]

6. Useful job search resources for interns 

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

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

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

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

Student Internship Cover Letter FAQ

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

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

Should I mention academic projects in my intern cover letter?

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

Can I reuse the same cover letter for different internships?

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

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

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

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

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

Martin Poduška

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

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Internship cover letter example

Introduction of an internship cover letter

Internship cover letter body, call to action & conclusion: end on a high note, key takeaways .

The cover letter, also known as the application letter, is the perfect “covincer” for getting an internship position. It can be more powerful than a graduate’s temporarily thin resume. 

Whether you’re fresh out of college or simply moving from one professional field to another, internships are a great way to get your foot in the door. They lead to dream jobs, stable salaries, and growth opportunities.

A cover letter shows off your current skills and displays your eagerness to learn on the job!

Internship full text-only cover letter example 

Dear Mr. Vince,

I am applying for the internship role in Business Administration at your esteemed organisation.

I am currently in year 2 of a Masters in Business Administration and I'm eager  to gain experience, which hopefully would help me to garner a full time position in your company in the future.

The skills I possess would make me an ideal fit for the role, as I'm meticulous with detail, have a can-do positive attitude, and fit in well in different environments.

I enjoy working as part of a team, but I am equally comfortable working on my own initiative.

London Bridge Support Services is a company that I'm excited at the prospect of working for, as you have an outstanding reputation for delivering a quality service to customers. This is shown by the awards you have claimed over the years and your reviews on Glassdoor etc.

My long-term career goals are to work with a company that offers challenges and develops employees, and this internship would help give me the knowledge and experience I need to achieve this.

It would welcome the opportunity to discuss my experience in more detail and, of course, hear more about your organisation.

Felicity Kendwell

Sections of an internship cover letter

The cover letter structure for any intern position will usually be the same or similar, regardless of profession or position. Cover letters should include these key components:

• Cover letter header . This element of your cover letter provides your name, contact information and the date, making it simple for the internship coordinator to reach out.
• Greeting . Use the name of your reader whenever possible in this friendly opening. People take notice when they see their names.
• Introduction . This opening paragraph may just open doors. Start with a fact that will pique their interest. Why did you choose this career or this internship?
• Body . Detail the personality traits and foundational skills that will make you an excellent intern. Add why you’re a great fit for this particular company.
• Conclusion . Summarize your qualifications and enthusiasm for the internship and end with a call to action.
• Signature . End professionally and sign off with your first and last name.

While each of these cover letter parts is important, make sure they build to form a strong, consistent message. An internship application letter should never be more than one page that details your fitness for the position.

To get a broader idea of what makes a great application document, check out these related cover letter examples :

• Graduate cover letter
• University cover letter
• Scholarship cover letter
• Student cover letter
• Apprenticeship cover letter

For an in-depth look at writing each of these sections, as well as free example sentences, check out our article on how to write a cover letter .

After you developed your header and addressed the hiring manager , you’re ready for the introduction.

This is one of the most crucial parts of the cover letter, as it contains your opening sentence. Avoid being bland at all costs, but don’t go too far with eccentricity. As an intern, you want to open by projecting respectfulness, energy, and work discipline/ethic.

The goal of the cover letter introduction: grab emotional attention, don’t ramble, and introduce yourself in one powerful, friendly but professional sentence. 

A good tactic is to drop in one or two of your most impressive and relevant achievements or qualities you have.

Dear Mr. Marcus,

Ever since I got my first box of 128 Crayola crayons, I have been fascinated with color. I later became aware of how color changes environments and moods. My dream job is to help clients choose colors for their homes that create the mood and atmosphere they desire. I am eager to learn from the best through the interior decorator internship at Ethan Allen.

I love color and want to help people choose colors for their homes. The Ethan Allen interior decorator internship offers a great chance for me to do that. I am very interested.

Note the details and enthusiasm that shines through in the first example. Internship coordinators don’t expect you to have mid-level career achievements, but they do expect you to have a passion for the field. Show it off in your introduction.

This is the main text-heavy section of your internship application letter. Use it to strengthen and expand the opening theme of your introduction. 

Explain why you’re a good fit for the internship role, and what qualities and achievements prove that. 

Follow this format to accomplish that:

• Highlight any skills you’ve learned in school and any relevant experience
• Show why you fit the internship’s goals and the company’s culture
• Wrap up with an anecdote or achievement that wows
• Finally, bow out with a call to action that makes the hiring manager want to contact you

First body paragraph: Your suitability for the role (skills & experience) 

This space is typically reserved for a detailed description of your skills and experience. If you have previous internships or jobs in your field, you have more advantages than the average intern. Showcase the attributes that make you an excellent choice.

Tell the story of your nascent career using the following:

• Put your education front and center . Even if you have not yet earned your degree, the classes you have taken stand in for some experience.
• Volunteer work . Seemingly unrelated jobs may demonstrate transferable skills such as leadership or time management .
• Industry knowledge . If you’re up on the latest in your chosen industry or have taken related classes, show what you know.
• Technology savvy . It’s difficult to name a job that doesn’t make use of any technology. Any software or computer skills you know is an asset.
• Related hobbies . For example, a passion for travel or fluency in other languages or cultures is a plus if you want to work in foreign markets.
• Memberships in clubs or organizations . Only if they have bearing on the skills and attributes you need for the internship.

Do some research

Companies often recruit interns from the same colleges year after year. Find out if any of your classmates have won the internship you are applying for and ask them for details they don’t mind sharing that may help you write a more directed letter.

Read the guide: How to get an internship (Step by Step)

Second body paragraph(s): Alignment with the organization

As a future intern, there are a few ideas/emotions you want to convey to show that you will make the most of this internship or externship opportunity. 

You’ll want to show your eagerness and ability to learn, passion and sincerity. It’s important to . include statements that mesh with the company’s mission statement. 

For example, if you’re aiming for one of Google’s coveted spots, check out its “ About Google ” page to read the motto:

• Organize the world’s information and make it universally accessible and useful
• Improving the lives of as many people
• People using technology to benefit others

Review any pages dedicated to the company vision, commitment, or values. Watch any videos. Then, relate your passions to the company’s.`

How to be heard and understood

A great way to make sure a certain point, idea, achievement, or personal quality is taken to heart by the hiring manager (or anyone generally) is to open a sentence or paragraph with an emotional trigger as described above. Then move on to the factual data. You can even bookend factual proof with strong emotional points.

Check out and analyze this example: “As a truly passionate person, I fall in love with my projects and put my heart and soul into ensuring they succeed ( emotional ). This is why my debate team in college reached the national semi-finals under my leadership and why in my last job as a coffee shop manager I came up with a system of shifts that increased profits AND the level of worker happiness by reducing stress (factual).

The conclusion might be the tricky part for some people, even if you aced the cover letter introduction and body sections. The key is to land on “determined” but not “too arrogant/forceful.”  

Reiterate your main point and let the recruiter know you are eager to discuss why your skills, attributes and interests make you an intern who will contribute to the program.

Thank the recruiter for taking the time to review your application. Finish with a statement that confidently but not arrogantly suggests further consideration in the internship process. 

Finally, sign off with a polite “Sincerely” or “Best regards” and your full name.

Learning how to write a resume takes a certain finesse. Luckily, you’ve come to the right place. Read our complete guide and take a look at our examples now.

The internship cover letter is the final “convincer” that lets you influence hiring decision-makers. It’s vitally important and extremely useful even if the internship doesn’t require one . 

Display enthusiasm for the opportunity and highlight any transferable skills. Make it clear that your professional skills and philosophy make you a great fit for the internship.

With Resume.io’s cover letter builder , you can create a perfect cover letter in just a few minutes. There's no uncertainty, no hassle. Go out there and win! 

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Internship Cover Letter Examples and Writing Tips

What to Include in a Cover Letter

Tips for writing an internship cover letter, internship cover letter examples, internship cover letter template, how to write an email cover letter, email cover letter example, frequently asked questions (faqs).

Emilie Dunphy / The Balance

If you are applying for an internship, you will likely have to submit a cover letter as part of your application. Your cover letter should be tailored to the specific internship for which you're applying and include examples from your work, academic, and extracurricular experiences.

When writing a cover letter for an internship position, it's important to share your most relevant qualifications with the hiring manager. When you don't have much (or any) formal work experience, you can include school activities, volunteering, educational programs, and other learning experiences.

Key Takeaways

• Take the time to write a customized cover letter for each internship you apply for, and include your most relevant qualifications for the position.
• When you don't have work experience, you can include academics, extracurricular activities, and volunteering.
• Be specific, and share examples of the skills the employer is looking for in your cover letter.
• Carefully proofread and edit your cover letter before sending it.

Your cover letter should include your contact information, a greeting, the reason you're writing, why you're a qualified applicant for the position, and a closing.

Contact Information:  How you address the cover letter will depend on whether you are sending a printed or email cover letter and the contact information you have for the employer. In a printed letter, the contact information will be at the top of the letter. For an email, add your contact information below your typed name.

Salutation:  The salutation is the  greeting you include  at the beginning of a cover letter. For example, “Dear Hiring Manager.”

Body of Letter:  The body of a cover letter includes the sections where you explain why you are interested in and qualified for the job for which you are applying. This typically includes an introductory paragraph, a paragraph or two describing your qualifications, and a closing paragraph.

Closing:  When you're writing a cover letter or sending an email message to apply for a job, it's important to close your cover letter professionally. For example, use a closing such as “Sincerely” or “Respectfully.”

Signature:  In a printed cover letter, you’ll add a written signature above your printed name. For an email cover letter, add a line break after the closing and type your name.

Use business letter format. Use proper  business letter format  when sending a cover letter by mail. Include your contact information at the top, followed by the date, and the contact information for the employer. Be sure to provide a proper salutation, and sign your name at the bottom. If you are sending the  cover letter via email , you do not have to include the contact information at the top. Instead, place this as part of your email signature at the end of your letter.

Customize your cover letter. It's important to write a  unique cover letter  for each internship for which you apply. Highlight skills and abilities you have that relate to the specific internship listing. The main emphasis of your cover letter should be convincing the reader that you will be an asset as an intern.

Provide specific examples. If you mention you have a particular skill or ability in your cover letter, be sure to prove this with a specific example from your past work, academic, or extracurricular experience.

Add keywords to your letter. One way to individualize your letter is to use  keywords  from the internship listing. For example, if the listing says the intern needs to have excellent time management skills, include an example of how you have demonstrated time management skills in the past. You'll be able to show the hiring manager that they have the skills you are seeking.

Emphasize your academic experience. In the letter, you can mention academic experience, if applicable. Especially if you have limited work experience, you might use examples from school to demonstrate you have particular skills. For example, if the internship requires you to work as part of a team, provide an example of a successful team project you worked on during one of your college courses.

Include extracurricular experiences. You can also include details about your relevant experience from extracurricular activities or  volunteer work . For example, a reporter for a college newspaper can point to interviewing and writing skills; a history of volunteering at a shelter can provide an example of strong  interpersonal  and  organizational skills .

Mention how you will follow up. Towards the end of your letter, say how you will  follow up  with the employer. You might say you will call the office to follow up in about a week (don't follow up any sooner). However, do not include this if the internship listing specifically says not to contact the office.

Carefully proofread and edit. Be sure to thoroughly proofread your cover letter for spelling and grammar errors. Many internships are very competitive, and any error can hurt your chances of getting an interview. Also, avoid using too many words to convey your information and intent. Keep your points brief and targeted.

Review sample printed and email cover letters for internship positions, and get a template to download to use as a starting point for your own letter.

Download the cover letter template (compatible with Google Docs or Word Online), or read the example below.

The Balance

Internship Cover Letter Sample (Text version)

Joseph Q. Applicant 123 Main Street Anytown, CA 12345 555-555-5555 josephq@email.com

May 26, 2024

Director, Human Resources BC Labs 123 Business Rd. Business City, NY 54321

Dear Ms. Smith,

I am writing to apply for the scientific research summer internship position that was listed in the Anytown University Career Services Office. I believe my research and conservation experience make me an ideal candidate.

I have had a great deal of research experience in chemistry, biology, and geology, both in the lab and in the field. Most of my experience is in environmental field studies. I am currently conducting research in our school's outdoor laboratory to assess the water quality of a nearby pond. I know water quality assessment is a component of this internship, and I know my previous experience makes me a prime candidate for this.

Last summer, I worked as a conservation assistant at the National Trust's Clumber Park. Along with trail maintenance and building, I also served as a research assistant for the research organization at the park. I conducted an analysis of soil samples, and input data from various research projects. I received a special commendation from the director of the research organization for my attention to detail and dedication to research.

I believe that I would be an asset to your program. This internship would provide me with the ideal opportunity to assist your organization and expand my research skills.

I will call next week to see if you agree that my qualifications seem to be a match for the position. If so, I hope to schedule an interview at a mutually convenient time. I look forward to speaking with you.

Thank you for your consideration,

Signature (hard copy letter)

Joseph Q. Applicant

If you're sending your cover  letter via email , your format will be slightly different than a traditional letter. List your name and the  job title in the subject line  of the email message.

Include your contact information in your email signature, and don't list the employer's contact information (also don’t list your contact information at the top of the message). Start your email message with the salutation. 

Subject: Liz Lerner – Marketing Intern Position

Dear Mr. Peters,

It was with much interest that I read your posting on the ABC College job board inviting applications for a marketing internship at Brand Solutions Inc.

As an honors student in marketing, I have successfully completed upper-division coursework in marketing management, print and online advertising, social media management, and data analysis, which have provided me with a firm understanding of rising market strategies and technologies.

This coursework included on-site practicums with Boyd Brothers LLC and Boulevard Bistro, where I helped the owners of these businesses establish their first-ever social media presence on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and Twitter. This involved setting up their accounts, creating photo and video content, writing posts, launching digital ad campaigns, and tracking user engagement via Google Analytics and Facebook Analytics. I am also well-versed in the use of Adobe Creative Cloud for graphic design and Microsoft Office suite.

Impressed by the press that Brand Solutions Inc. has received in Market Branding Today and on Forbes Online , I am eager for the challenges and opportunities I would experience as your next marketing intern. My resume is attached; may we please schedule a personal interview to discuss my qualifications for this role in greater detail? Thank you for your time, consideration, and forthcoming response. 

Liz Lerner liz.lerner@email.com 555-123-4567 www.linkedin.com/in/lizlerner (optional)

Do I have to write a cover letter for an internship?

If a cover letter is listed as optional, you don’t have to include one. However, a cover letter provides you with the opportunity to showcase the credentials you have for the position. When you don’t have formal work experience, your cover letter is a good way to highlight the talents, attributes, and experience that make you an ideal candidate for the role.

What can I include in a cover letter when I don’t have work experience?

When you don’t have work experience, you can share examples of volunteering, extracurricular activities, schoolwork, academic programs, sports, community organizations, and other ways you have gained skills and experience that qualify you for the position.

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3 Internship Cover Letter Examples to Edit Now in 2024

• Internship Cover Letter
• Internship No Experience Cover Letter
• Finance Internship Cover Letter
• Write Your Internship Cover Letter

An internship cover letter complementing your internship resume could be your ticket to the next step in your career! Depending on the field you want to work in, writing a great cover letter could secure an invaluable internship based on how you present your skills, experiences, and unique traits.

But how should an internship cover letter look? What should the overall structure be, and how do you make yourself memorable in a sea of applicants?

Don’t worry. We’ve helped plenty of people get internships to bridge the gap between themselves and their dream jobs. We’ve created three internship cover letter examples and developed a free cover letter generator to help you out with some handy tips, too!

 Internship Cover Letter Example

USE THIS TEMPLATE

Microsoft Word

Google Docs

Block Format

Copy this text for your internship cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue Columbus, OH 43201 (123) 456-7890

October 30, 2023

Alexander Harris JPMorgan Chase & Co. 123 Fictional Lane Columbus, OH 43201

Dear Mr. Harris:

During a nail-biting university cybersecurity tournament, my team and I acted as the digital custodians of our data fortress. Just as excitement buzzes in the air during a World Cup soccer final, the thrill of solving problems, analyzing data, securing networks, and outsmarting virtual threats had me hooked. Now, I’m eager to bring these skills and passion to a respected institution like JPMorgan Chase & Co. as an intern.

During a brief internship at OhioHealth Riverside Methodist Hospital, I was fortunate to collaborate with a team that built a robust data defense system. A thorough analysis of internal network components unearthed potential vulnerabilities, catalyzing the deployment of innovative solutions that cranked up our security levels by an unexpected 23%.

Fast forward to my time running Franklin University’s Network Systems Club, our crew embarked on a quest to build a resilient network infrastructure. Harnessing tools like Wireshark and Nessus, we curated a secure environment that saw an 18% increase in network efficiency, along with a 32% leap in university-wide accessibility.

Data analysis has been a noteworthy chapter in my academic journey. Wielding R statistical software like a maestro, I grappled with colossal datasets, cleaned them up, and gleaned insightful revelations. One such project generated a 19% uptick in the accuracy of our predictive model. Recognizing the criticality of cybersecurity in today’s digital landscape, I piloted a sweeping awareness drive in the Franklinton neighborhood of Columbus, which successfully enlightened over 779 people on safe online practices.

I’m eager to not just contribute to JPMorgan Chase & Co. but also soak up every nugget of knowledge and experience available. Looking forward to discussing this opportunity further at your earliest convenience. Thank you for considering my application.

Maya Haddad

Enclosures: Resume Application 2 letters of recommendation Academic transcript

Why this cover letter works

• Think of a unique experience relevant to the role (in this case, consider the internship at OhioHealth Riverside Methodist Hospital). Describe your responsibility, skills, or knowledge applied and the positive impact made. Better yet, mention the lesson learned (in this case, a better understanding of network administration’s role in organizational communication).

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Internship No Experience Cover Letter Example

Copy this text for your internship no experience cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue Fort Worth, TX 76101 (123) 456-7890

Amelia Martin Tarrant Area Food Bank 123 Fictional Lane Fort Worth, TX 76101

Dear Ms. Martin:

Amid a vibrant business administration study, I stumbled upon a cause close to my heart. The strength of Fort Worth’s economically challenged residents struck a chord within me, and I’m inspired to blend my skills in social media management, content creation, and email marketing with my passion for empowering these individuals. It’s with great excitement that I apply for the nonprofit Intern role at Tarrant Area Food Bank.

Picture a local charity in Fort Worth seeing its community engagement soar by 27%. With colleagues, I spearheaded a mission titled “Sharing Smiles Across Miles,” a campaign aimed at spreading awareness about the plight of economically challenged residents and rallying support for their nourishment and development by harnessing the power of Hootsuite and Canva.

A summer internship at Cowtown saw me use tools such as Mailchimp and Constant Contact, where I successfully crafted bespoke and captivating email campaigns, bolstering a local environmental campaign’s donor involvement by 22%. Capitalizing on my content creation skills, I initiated a personal blog to raise awareness about food insecurity within Fort Worth’s underserved neighborhoods. The blog garnered over 2,178 readers.

With an unwavering commitment to harness my abilities for positive societal impact, I’m ready to join Tarrant Area Food Bank’s noble mission of empowering our community. Thank you.

Oliver Svensson

• Emulate how Oliver highlights a social media campaign and a personal blog he curated for the betterment of his community, complemented by tangible results from the efforts. The project’s nature also makes the candidate more relatable to the hiring nonprofit.

Finance Internship Cover Letter Example

Copy this text for your finance internship cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue Charlotte, NC 28201 (123) 456-7890

Daniel Thompson Bank of America 123 Fictional Lane Charlotte, NC 28201

Dear Mr. Thompson:

Bank of America’s unwavering dedication to delivering financial solutions that reshape the world resonates deeply with my ambitions. Fueled by a love for finance and a knack for bringing order to complexity, I am thrilled at the prospect of grappling with financial challenges and driving insightful decisions as your financial analyst intern. Just as Bank of America empowers people through financial inclusivity, I aim to become an impactful player in this schema, keen to harness my background in financial reporting, data analysis, and beyond.

During my business and finance coursework at Johnson C. Smith University, I excelled in financial analysis and reporting, earning the highest grade among my peers. This academic voyage fortified my proficiency in valuable instruments such as QuickBooks for financial statements and Excel for robust data scrutiny.

At Ronald McDonald House Charities of Greater Charlotte, I volunteered to analyze fundraising data and streamline the organization’s financial reporting. This proactive initiative reinforced donation revenue by 23% in just six months. I then built a volunteer-based portfolio management system for three Charlotte-based startups, hiking resource allocation efficiency by 36% within a year.I also seized an opportunity to work on a semester-long project in collaboration with Blythe Construction, a regional construction company. Leveraging financial modeling tools and R programming for profound data insights helped cut construction costs by an impressive 17%.

Thrilled by the prospect of translating my academic prowess, volunteer experience, and unwavering dedication to finance into tangible value, I’m eager to join the ranks at Bank of America as a financial analyst intern. With a deep reservoir of perseverance, innovative thinking, and an insatiable desire to propel the bank’s success further, I anticipate the rewarding journey this opportunity promises. Thank you for considering my application.

Ava Johansson

• In the same vein, wrap up your piece by emphasizing your eagerness to learn and contribute to the team, painting a picture of an adaptable candidate willing to grow.

Related cover letter examples

• Internship Resume
• Entry Level
• Financial Analyst
• Bank Teller
• Administrative Assistant

How to Write A Great Internship Cover Letter

Tailoring your cover letter to the job description is always important, but it’s more critical than ever if you’re seeking an internship! Since “internship” isn’t a profession but a way into one, you’ll need to utilize your language and paragraph topics to highlight where you overlap with the job.

Basically, you should write out whatever the job description calls for that you already have! If you want an internship at an insurance office, you should probably emphasize your clerical skills instead of focusing on your artistic abilities.

Writing a proper greeting and intro

It’s always polite to address someone by name, and cover letters are no exception! Make sure you show your preparedness and enthusiasm for the internship by taking the time to look up who you’re writing to.

Next, your opening paragraph should hook the reader with a few hints about what you’re good at. State why you want the job and use that as a platform to connect with the company through its values.

Make sure you list a couple of traits that make you a great fit for that specific internship role! This will make it easier for recruiters to sift through your qualifications and spark interest in the rest of your letter.

Just don’t write an informal, tasteless, or vague resume like this one:

Hey, this internship sounded cool off the list of choices. If you still have an open spot I’d like to try it and I can give you a bunch of reasons why I’m qualified

Look what a difference it makes to connect via the company’s objectives while using them to show how you’re qualified to benefit them as an intern:

That’s a winner!

Bank of America’s unwavering dedication to delivering financial solutions that reshape the world resonates deeply with my ambitions. Fueled by a love for finance and a knack for bringing order to complexity, I am thrilled at the prospect of grappling with financial challenges and driving insightful decisions as your financial analyst intern. Just as Bank of America empowers people through financial inclusivity, I aim to become an impactful player in this schema, keen to harness my background in financial reporting, data analysis, and beyond.

Writing ideal body paragraphs

While seeking an internship, your body paragraphs should directly correlate with the job description . Each paragraph should focus on one central point to keep your letter organized and easy to read.

Revisit the job description , company site, or any other resources you found about the business you’re applying to. Which of their values can you connect with? Do they support strong mentorship environments, giving you the ideal space to discuss your versatile abilities?

Just make sure that each paragraph has a little snippet of success to share, and always support that positive impact with a metric. Mention your achievements and credentials, and back them up with success percentages or personal ratings.

Here’s a good body paragraph example:

Picture a local charity in Fort Worth seeing its community engagement soar by 27%. With my colleagues, I spearheaded a mission titled “Sharing Smiles Across Miles,” a campaign aimed at spreading awareness about the plight of economically challenged residents and rallying support for their nourishment and development, by harnessing the power of Hootsuite and Canva.

Closing and signing off your internship cover letter

No piece of writing is complete without a conclusion, and you’ll want to make the most of your internship cover letter closer! This paragraph is your opportunity to tie everything together with a few final skills and a strong reiteration of why you jive with the company.

Don’t forget to include a call to action. Invite the reader to contact you again for more information on why you belong in that internship role! And make sure you thank the reader for their time, too.

You can say thank you in your closing paragraph or use it as your formal signoff. If you don’t use it as your signoff, end with a professional line and use your full, real name.

Don’t be vague, informal, or write a messy closer that runs on while still feeling incomplete:

Oh no . . .

Well I really want to get started on my internship as soon as possible so hopefully you can see why I’m qualified from all that stuff, so make sure you call me.

Instead, seize the chance to reconnect with the company and invite them to discuss more of your qualifications:

That’s nice!

I’m eager to not just contribute to JPMorgan Chase & Co. but also soak up every bit of knowledge and experience available. Looking forward to discussing this opportunity further at your earliest convenience. Thank you for considering my application.

Internship Cover Letter Mistakes to Avoid

• As an intern, you’re still proving your mettle, so show that you did your homework by researching who you’re actually writing your cover letter to! Avoid the “classics” that sound generic and make any cover letter look outdated. That means shunning greetings like “To Whom it may Concern,” “ Dear Sir/Madam ,” and “Dear Hiring Manager.”
• We totally get that most interns are just getting started in the professional world and have limited history to share. Still: Look for strategic angles to leverage the experiences you do have, whether those are from school projects or other internships. Maybe being captain of your college football team doesn’t directly relate to your dream job role , but the teamwork skills you developed each season probably do! Look for experiences and skills that translate similarly well to your desired job role and align with the job description.
• Since you haven’t had many (or any) jobs just yet, you’ll want to seek out numbers and quantifiable data to boost your credibility as a rising professional. You may not have had the opportunity to make measurable waves in the workforce, but if you can measure the ones you’ve made in previous internships or projects, you’ll highlight your desirability as a candidate!
• Your closing paragraph needs a strong call to action. Demonstrate enthusiasm! You really want that job, right? Show your ambition by summarizing your qualifications, inviting the reader to contact you for more, and encouraging further questions about why you’re a great fit.

Visit the company’s website and browse their About page, any mission statement, company history pages, etc. See if you can find values that overlap with yours to reflect in your cover letter and use as a segue into your qualifications!

If you didn’t come across the name of the recruiter or hiring manager while researching the company and combing through the job listing, don’t worry! You may also be able to look through professional social media accounts like Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn.

Anything longer than one page probably won’t be read all the way through since recruiters have limited time, so keep your cover letter short and sweet. You want to nail that internship by showing your ability to convey information efficiently.

How to Write a Cover Letter for an Internship (Templates Included)

Mike Simpson 0 Comments

By Mike Simpson

Figuring out how to write a cover letter for an internship can be surprisingly tricky.

Well, for one, if you’re going for an internship, you probably don’t have a ton of experience in the field.

Does that mean you shouldn’t go for it? Hardly. Overall, around 65 percent of paid internships turn into full-time, permanent job offers. That means an internship can be a great way to launch a career. Exciting, right?

So, if you’re ready to find out how you can get your career off on the right foot, come with us as we explore how to write a winning cover letter for an internship.

What Is an Internship Cover Letter?

Alright, before we dig into a step-by-step writing guide and internship cover letter examples, let’s pause for a quick second and talk about what an internship cover letter even is.

Generally, an internship cover letter is an introduction, a written handshake, if you will. It lets you dig a bit into what you bring to the table and highlight why you’re such a rock star candidate.

Usually, you’ll want to use the best cover letter format , one that uses a business communications-style approach. If you go too casual, the hiring manager might have doubts about your professionalism or written communication skills, and that’ll work against you. But by using the right format, you can showcase those skills without directly mentioning them.

However, that doesn’t mean an internship cover letter isn’t a bit different from a traditional one.

In a traditional cover letter for a job , you usually focus on work-related accomplishments and the skills and traits you used to achieve them. The thing is, if you’re a college student or recent graduate, you might not be able to go that route.

Instead, your internship cover letter is going to focus more on your educational experience. Your clubs, sports teams, and other extracurricular activities can also be worth featuring.

Additionally, you can tap onto other work experiences outside of that industry. After all, there’s a good chance you have transferable skills if you’ve held any position (or even done volunteer work).

If you are changing careers and using an internship to start on a new path, focusing on your transferable skills is the key. You can find the relevant experience that’s part of your work history, showcasing why you’re an exceptional candidate even though you haven’t specifically worked in or studied the field.

What Are Hiring Managers Looking for in an Internship Cover Letter?

Competition for certain internships can be surprisingly fierce. At one major company, 100 openings attracted about 14,000 applications . If that isn’t intimidating, we don’t know what is.

But that doesn’t mean you should panic. Instead, you just need to speak the hiring manager’s language in your cover letter and focus on what they want to find.

So, what is the hiring manager looking for? Well, that may depend on the exact position. Every role has different skill requirements. Luckily, those are usually spelled out in the must-have list in the position description.

Use that “must-have” list as a starting point. Look at each skill or knowledge area and see if you can bring it to the table. If you have relevant education or experience, that should be a focus when you start writing.

However, you should also feature traits that will make you a great intern. Usually, internships are partially educational experiences. The company knows you’ll need to be trained; that’s what internships are all about.

So, knowing that, what’s one thing you definitely want to spotlight? Your willingness to learn! But that’s not all. Traits like reliability, attention-to-detail, curiosity, accountability, organization, time management… they all matter, too.

Ask yourself this; which of your attributes made you an exceptional student? Once you have a few picked, think about how you can highlight them in a meaningful way. Can you align them with an educational achievement? If so, that could be a great starting point.

Essentially, hiring managers for internships want to find candidates who are open-minded, hungry to learn, and dedicated. If you can couple that with the core skills they want you to have on day one, you’re on your way to coming up with great content for your cover letter.

Common Internship Cover Letter Mistakes

Now, there’s one more thing we need to touch on before we get to the how-to guide for writing a cover letter for an internship. What’s that? Well, it’s common mistakes.

Certain missteps can send an otherwise amazing candidate straight into the discard pile. That’s why avoiding them is so critical; it can make the difference between moving forward in the selection process and removing yourself from contention.

One of the biggest mistakes you can make is talking about your needs too much. While your cover letter should be about you, it’s supposed to focus on what you can do for the company, not what the company can do for you.

Instead of talking about what you hope to get out of the internship, discuss how you can be the solution to a problem the company has. That’ll help you create an enticing value proposition.

Another major misstep is not targeting your cover letter to the role. Before you start writing, get to know the Tailoring Method . That way, you can make sure your content is focused on the right areas.

Next, simply rehashing what’s on your resume isn’t a smart move. If you do that, you’re missing an opportunity to really showcase your story in a meaningful way. Instead of going that route, take advantage of what you can do in a cover letter that isn’t an option elsewhere in your application. That way, you can really increase your odds of standing out.

Finally, sending in a cover letter with spelling or grammar mistakes is a big no-no. It makes it seem like you lack attention-to-detail, and that won’t help you get the position. So, before you hit send, review your letter for mistakes.

How to Write an Internship Cover Letter

If you want to make your application sparkle, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to write an internship cover letter that’ll stand out from the pack.

1. Start with Your Contact Information

The first thing that should appear in your cover letter is your contact information. You can either used a centered header approach, not unlike what you may have on your resume. However, you can also go with a simple left-aligned format.

By listing your contact information, you make sure that the hiring manager knows whose letter they are reading right away, and that matters. So, write your name, address, phone number, and email right at the top.

2. Date Your Internship Cover Letter

Yes, it may seem like a silly little detail, but you do want to date your letter. It’s part of a traditional business letter format, so include the date you finalized your letter below your contact details.

3. List the Hiring Manager’s Info

After the date, you’ll need to write in the hiring manager’s details. You can include their name, position, company name, and physical address if you have all of that. If not, you may want to list the details for human resources or the internship coordination office.

4. Add a Salutation

Even if you have the hiring manager’s name listed already, you still want to add a salutation. It’s a simple and quick greeting, allowing you to address them directly and set the tone for the letter.

When in doubt, a simple “Dear Mr./Mrs./Ms./Dr. [Name]” approach is sufficient. Then, follow that with a colon – not a comma – to finish it off.

If you don’t know the hiring manager’s name, you could use “Dear Hiring Manager.” Just make sure to stay away from “To Whom It May Concern,” as it’s a bit outdated and incredibly generic.

5. Start Off with a Bang

Ideally, your first or two sentences should be an attention-grabber. If you lead off with your name or that you want to apply to position X, that isn’t particularly engaging. Yes, that approach technically does the job. But if you can showcase your passion up front, that’s usually better.

6. List the Position Name

Immediately after your starting sentences, you do want to list the position details. Include the job title, department, and company name, if you have all of that. If you don’t know the department, just the job title and company name are usually enough.

7. Give an Overview

For your third (and maybe fourth) sentence, you want to give the hiring manager a quick overview of what you bring to the table. Usually, this involves listing a few skills or traits that you have that appeared in the must-haves list.

Additionally, you want to assert that you think you’re a great fit for the role based on your capabilities. It lets you showcase your confidence a bit, which can work in your favor.

8. Talk About Relevant Achievements and Skills

In your second and third paragraphs, you’ll highlight accomplishments that showcase your skills. This could include school, extracurricular, volunteer, or work experiences in other fields, as long as they specifically speak to why you’re a great candidate for this internship.

9. Close It Out

In the fourth paragraph, you want to bring it on home . Say again that you feel you’re an excellent fit, and also mention how excited you are to hear from them about the opportunity.

10. Sign Off

After your closing paragraph, you’ll need to sign off. Usually, options like “Sincerely” or “Best Regards” are your best options, as they are professional and polite.

After that, add your signature, and you’re set.

Internship Cover Letter Examples

Sometimes, nothing is more valuable than a great sample cover letter for an internship. It can help you see how one needs to go together, almost serving as a template you can follow.

Here are three internship cover letter examples for different situations.

1. College Student

Dear Mr. Doe:

I’ve been fascinated by technology ever since I first sat down in front of my family’s Windows 98 computer, and that passion led me to begin down the path toward earning my Bachelor’s Degree in Software Engineering. When I discovered the software engineering internship position with ABC Software Company, I was immediately excited about the idea of honing my skills in such an amazing role. I believe that my education has primed me for such an opportunity, allowing me to support the software engineering department through my attention-to-detail, exceptional work ethic, and ever-evolving technical capabilities.

As a student, I have had the opportunity to take part in large-scale projects that were part of my educational experience. I played a critical role in the creation of a standalone application designed to introduce pre-teens and teens to the exciting world of coding. Not only did this involve putting my software engineering skills to work, but also breaking down complex topics in a way that was easy to understand and engaging for younger learners.

Additionally, I’ve had the good fortune of being a part of the college’s debate team. This experience has allowed me to cultivate public speaking and negotiation skills, hone my research capabilities, and learn to function well when under pressure, traits that I believe would help me flourish in the internship position.

I believe that my education thus far will allow me to become an asset to the software engineering team, ensuring they have valuable support as I learn and grow on the job. I look forward to hearing from you about this exceptional opportunity.

Best Regards,

2. Recent Graduate

Dear Mrs. Doe:

During my studies that led me to my Bachelor’s in Marketing, I continued to find the world of advertising fascinating, particularly how well-timed, high-design marketing campaigns can have such an impact on public sentiment and interest. As a recent graduate, I believe that I’m an excellent fit for the marketing intern role at XYZ Company.

While studying marketing, I specialized in market analysis and segmentation. My focus has allowed me to develop a specific skill set, one that concentrates on identifying paths that speak to individual audiences, increasing interest and conversion rates. I was able to put these capabilities to work as a volunteer with a local charity, developing social media advertising campaign that increased event attendance by 15 percent, leading to a 25 percent increase in donations.

As a student and volunteer, I’ve also learned the power of teamwork, remaining open-minded, and maintaining a willingness to learn. Whether I’m needed as a group leader or a contributor, my adaptability allows me to serve in the role that’s required most, ensuring the team can move forward toward success.

Overall, I feel that my education and experience make me an excellent candidate for the marketing internship role. I appreciate your consideration and look forward to hearing from you regarding this exceptional opportunity.

3. Career Change

Dear Dr. Doe:

In today’s world, the customer experience is at the core of nearly every operation. While the bulk of my career has been in customer service management, I believe that my skills make me an excellent candidate for the IT help desk internship position with ABC Company. During my career, I’ve learned how to stay calm under pressure, get to the root of a customer’s needs, and address concerns while remaining polite, professional, and results-oriented.

As a customer service manager, much of my role focused on addressing escalated problems that tier-one representatives weren’t able to handle. Often, this meant dealing not only with complex issues but also frustrated customers. While serving in the position, I learned how to deescalate hostile situations and convey complex information to those without subject matter expertise, all while maintaining a smile.

Additionally, I’ve always had a passion for learning, whether through formal training or those around me. I’m diligent and dedicated, never resting until I’ve accomplished the task ahead of me.

I believe that my experience makes me a great and unique fit for the IT help desk internship position. Thank you for your consideration, and I look forward to hearing from you about this outstanding opportunity.

Putting It All Together

Ultimately, writing a cover letter for an internship doesn’t have to be a challenge. Take advantage of the guide and tips above. If you do, you’ll be able to craft an engaging, informative cover letter in no time flat.

Co-Founder and CEO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Mike is a job interview and career expert and the head writer at TheInterviewGuys.com.

His advice and insights have been shared and featured by publications such as Forbes , Entrepreneur , CNBC and more as well as educational institutions such as the University of Michigan , Penn State , Northeastern and others.

Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .

About The Author

Mike simpson.

Co-Founder and CEO of TheInterviewGuys.com. Mike is a job interview and career expert and the head writer at TheInterviewGuys.com. His advice and insights have been shared and featured by publications such as Forbes , Entrepreneur , CNBC and more as well as educational institutions such as the University of Michigan , Penn State , Northeastern and others. Learn more about The Interview Guys on our About Us page .

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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.

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Career Planning

Sample Cover Letter for Internship

Use this internship cover letter example to help secure your 2024 internship., kathryn knight randolph.

December 11, 2023

How to Format a Cover Letter

Header and contact information, greet the hiring manager, opening statement, closing statement, closing salutation, internship cover letter tips, start by introducing yourself, state your intentions, detail your background, share your research, state your goals, detail your experience, end with a summary & closing statement, cover letter example for internship.

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Kathryn Knight Randolph is the Associate Content Editor at Fastweb. She has 17 years of higher education experience, working first as an Admissions Officer at DePauw University before joining Fastweb. In b...

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Cover Letters Module and Templates (Toolkit)

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In this Cover Letters module, you will learn:

• How to identify different types of cover letters.
• How to make a positive impression through your correspondence.
• Guidelines and tips for writing strong letters.