Created by CakeResumeIn this article, we'll cover: What Is a Motivation Letter?Motivation Letter ExamplesMotivation Letter StructureMotivation Letter TemplateMotivation Letter FormatTips on How to Write a Motivation LetterIf you're looking to apply for a job, internship, or scholarship, you may be asked to submit a motivation letter and other application materials. In a job search context, a motivation letter for work shows your passion and eagerness to pursue a certain career and demonstrates how your values blend with the organization's mission. When writing a motivation letter, you may encounter the following difficulties: Distinguishing a letter of motivation from a cover letter and a letter of intent.Knowing “What do you write in a motivation letter for jobs?”Knowing how to write a motivation letter and how long a motivation letter should be Worry no more, we're going to clear up all confusion regarding both motivation letters for jobs and motivation letters for internships. You can also find a template and samples for your reference below. Let’s get started! What Is a Motivation Letter?A motivation letter, a.k.a. a letter of motivation, is a short letter that expresses your interest and explains why you’re a qualified candidate for a certain program/position. It's commonly attached to your CV or resume - hence why it's also referred to as a motivational letter for a CV. There are other terms used to refer to a motivation letter, including:A letter of interestA statement of purposeA motivation statement Note that a motivational letter shouldn’t be confused with a cover letter as it puts an emphasis on your personality, interests, and motives for applying. A cover letter, on the other hand, is submitted to present your skills and professional experience related to the job opening. For that reason, a letter of motivation is perfect if you are applying for an internship/volunteer role, or if you have little or no relevant experience. That means motivation letters are commonly required by university admission offices, educational institutes, and internship programs. During a job search, you can also write a motivational statement for your job application that acts as the introduction to your CV/resume for the hiring manager. In general, there are 4 purposes for writing a motivation letter: Motivation letters for school admission – are used when you wish to enroll in an educational program of any level (undergraduate or postgraduate) at a college/university.Motivation letters for internship – are used when you’re looking to be an intern at a company.Motivation letters for volunteering activities - are used when you want to be a volunteer in an organization.Motivation letters for work - are used when you’re seeking employment. A well-written motivation letter needs to convey the following information to the readers:What position are you applying for?What motivates you to apply for this role/program?What skills and qualities do you possess that will benefit the organization?Can you provide any compelling facts to prove that?What are your career goals?How will you bring value to the organization? Motivation Letter ExamplesWe’ll demonstrate what a powerful letter of motivation looks like through the following samples: Motivation letter for job exampleMotivational letter for internship with no experienceMotivation letter for job example Katherine Connor7223 Fern St, Fontana, CA 92336[email protected](+310)-142-1098 May 20, 2022 Dave LeimoneHiring ManagerMind Mills Media9315 Main Str., Riverside, CA 92501 Dear Mr. Leimone, My name is Katherine Connor and I am writing this letter to apply for the Account Manager position at your agency, Mind Mills Media. With over 8 years of experience in consulting and account managing, I have developed a robust skill set that allows me to effectively build trusted relationships with valuable clients as well as implement high-impact projects. In my former role as a PR Account Manager, I’ve fulfilled all my duties and achieved some notable successes including: Spearheading new customer service initiatives, resulting in a 130% increase in business volume.Negotiated contracts worth over $7.5 million.Resolving issues regarding CRM, leading to a 25% boost in key client retention. Together with my exceptional interpersonal and leadership skills, I believe that I match all job requirements perfectly. This opportunity would also help me advance my career as it has always been my dream to work in such a client-oriented company as Mind Mills. I have attached my work portfolio and resume below for your review. Thank you for considering my application and please let me know if you have any questions. Kind regards,Katherine Connor Motivational letter for internship with no experience Dear Hiring Manager, I am writing this letter to express my interest in the Finance Intern position at NVP Group. As a final year Master's student in Accounting Finance at the University of Waterloo, I believe that the skills and knowledge acquired during my 6 years of studies will allow me to fulfill all job tasks efficiently. Specifically, I have completed various courses in the finance field, including: macroeconomics, microeconomics, personal finance, project management, and financial accounting. I possess strong analytical skills with thorough attention to detail and a can-do attitude. My main interest in working at NVP Group stems from its impressive reputation, recognized as "Northwestern America's Most Trusted Firm" for three consecutive years. Moreover, the corporation’s diverse clientele and well-established internship program would provide me with a precious opportunity to pursue my dream career as a Finance Reporting Analyst. Thank you for reviewing my application and considering me as a candidate for the Finance Intern role at NVP Group. I look forward to hearing from you soon. With gratitude,Tina Le[email protected]cakeresume.com/tinale Motivation Letter StructureWhen writing a motivation letter, you will need to include the following 6 sections: 1. Letter header The header of a motivation letter should include the following information: Your contact info (name, email, phone number, Facebook/LinkedIn)Date writtenThe recipient's info (name, job title, email, physical company address) For example: Kaylee Nguyen903 Fern St, Fontana, CA 92336[email protected]linkedin.com/kayleengApril 19, 2022Catarina LeimoneCustomer Relationship ManagerGalaxy Media9815 Main Str., Riverside, CA 92501 2. Salutation The most common way to greet the reader is “Dear Hiring Manager" who will receive and review your letter in the first place. However, you can also try to address the recipient directly to make your motivation statement more personal and sincere by using their last name, like this: Dear Mr/Mrs + [Last Name], 3. Opening paragraph Here are some tips for a great motivation letter’s start that will grab the reader's attention at once: Introduce who you are and what role/program you're applying for.Make a strong statement about your interest in joining the organization/company.Keep this paragraph within 2-3 short sentences. Here’s an example of a motivation letter’s opening paragraph: “I am writing this letter to express my interest in the Finance Intern position at NVP Group. As a final year Master's student in Accounting Finance at the University of Waterloo, I believe that the skills and knowledge acquired in 6 years will allow me to fulfill all job tasks efficiently.” 4. Body paragraph(s) As the main body of a motivation letter, this paragraph is written to provide the following details: Your educational background, relevant work experience, academic and/or achievements, and career aspirations.Your skills through practical examples and metrics.Your positive personal traits. 💡 Pro Tip: Keep your body paragraphs within 200 words. Being concise and direct is always the best way to go when writing a motivation letter, as you don’t want to bore the readers with irrelevant details. Here’s an example of a motivation letter’s body paragraph: “I've completed a variety of courses in the finance field, including: financial accounting, macroeconomics, microeconomics, personal finance, and project management. I possess strong analytical skills with thorough attention to detail and a can-do attitude.My main interest in working at NVP Group stems from its impressive reputation, recognized as "Northwestern America's Most Trusted Firm" for three consecutive years. Moreover, the corporation’s diverse clientele and well-established internship program would provide me with a precious opportunity to pursue my dream career as a Finance Reporting Analyst.” 5. Closing paragraph In this part of your motivation letter, it's important to mention your future plans, demonstrate what you expect to learn from the program/job, and thank the reader. Useful tips for writing a strong motivation letter’s ending are: Keep it within 3 sentences.Be sincere, positive, and professional.Include a CTA. Here’s an example of a motivation letter’s closing paragraph: “I believe that this opportunity would help me upskill my career as a Social Media Specialist. I've attached my work portfolio and resume below for your review. Thank you for considering my application and please let me know if you have any questions.” 6. Sign off To end a motivation letter, simply follow this format:Best regards,[Your name] Make sure you include a proper email signature if you submit your letter of motivation via email, like this: Regards,Kaylee Tran————————[email protected]+886-981-234-567 Motivation Letter TemplateIf you are in a rush to write a motivation letter for your job or academic program application, use this complete motivation letter template and personalize it with your own information. [Your name][Your address][Your email address][Your phone number] [Date written] [Recipient’s name][Company name][Company physical address] Dear Mr./Mrs. [Last Name], My name is [your name] - a [professional title/college major]. I am writing this letter to apply for the [job title/scholarship/internship] role at [organization name]. I feel that my skills, educational background (and relevant experience - if any) make me an ideal candidate for this role. I am thrilled to join [organization name] because [motives/reasons for applying]. Moreover, this opportunity will allow me to gain [knowledge] and [skills]. With [personal trait] and [soft skill], I am confident that I would be an asset to your organization. Enclosed with this letter are [documents attached] for your review. Thank you for your time and consideration. Best regards, [Your Name] Motivation Letter FormatWhether you're writing a motivation letter for a job or academic purpose, make sure it looks neat and professional. Let's go over all the important elements regarding the motivation letter format. Letter format – The basics of font size are 12pt for body text and 14-15 for headings.Font – Top 10 best fonts for a letter of motivation are: Arial, Cambria, Calibri, Didot, Garamond, Georgia, Helvetica, Times New Roman, Trebuchet MS, and Veranda.Spacing – The standard letter spacing is 1” on all sides of the page, but you can adjust it accordingly based on the space.Motivation letter length – The letter should be sent as a PDF instead of a Word file because the reader won’t encounter any trouble opening and reading the document.Email format – The ideal length for a motivation letter sent through email is around 250-400 words.Tips on How to Write a Motivation Letter💡 Tailor the letter content to the program/job requirements. As a general rule of thumb, you should customize both your CV and motivation letter for the specific role instead of using the same document for the application. By doing so, you can stand out from the crowd of generic applicants and prove to the hiring manager that you're the best fit. Besides including keywords from the program/job description in your letter of motivation, you can also address the person in charge of the hiring to make your motivation letter more personalized. 💡 Explain how the position helps you achieve your career goals. It's important to be specific in this part of your motivation letter. Recruiters want to know not only about your career goals but also what you expect to learn from the position. These can reflect your passion and vision on the career path. Therefore, they will see your sincerity in working with them in the long run and be sure that hiring you will be a win-win situation. 💡 Demonstrate how your values align with the organization’s mission. Whether your personal values align with the company's mission is another important aspect that the hiring manager will consider while reviewing your motivation letter for work. Here’s how you can find out a company's values and work environment: Look for online reviews about the company or employer.Check out the company’s website and social media pages.Reach out to employees working there for insights. 💡 Show your personality. It's always important to be original and unique, especially when writing a motivation letter. To avoid sounding like everyone else, leave out some of the most overused phrases in motivation letter samples, such as: an ideal candidate for this rolebring more valuego above and beyond Another way to write with personality is providing specific examples and sharing your personal experience in the former role. Hence, recruiters can better understand who you are. 💡 Avoid repeating the contents of your resume. Keep in mind that a motivational letter for a resume should not simply restate the contents of your resume. In fact, it acts as an accompanying letter that writes about your motivation to apply for the job or program and provides more insights into your skills and capabilities that don’t fit into your resume.Submit your applications with confidence. Our AI resume checker gives you the insights you need to make every application count.Build Confidence--- Originally written by May Luong ---

Scholarships are highly sought after for their financial assistance, experiences, connections and accolades, which can give students an edge during their university studies. Although there are scholarships that are awarded purely through simple applications or based on academic merit, high-value awards often require scholarship motivation letters. As scholarships are highly competitive and limited in number, expressing your motivations for scholarships clearly and effectively is key to being considered. Along with discussing your desire for the award, application letters for scholarships are an opportunity to present yourself as the ideal ambassador for the university, convincing the scholarships committee you will uphold the commitments of the scholarship. In this article, we discuss tips for writing motivational letters for scholarships, as well as a sample motivation letter for scholarships.TABLEOFCONTENTWhat Is a Scholarship Motivation Letter? Scholarship Motivation Letter Format 7 Tips for Writing a Scholarship Motivation Letter Scholarship Motivation Letter Sample ConclusionWhat is a Scholarship Motivation Letter? Scholarship motivation letters are akin to cover letters in job applications; they are an opportunity for you to express your desires, interest and commitment towards the degree or program to the scholarship committee. Motivations for scholarship beyond financial gain is what committees want to award. As scholarships are often limited in number, and academic merit alone does not equate to motivation and commitment, scholarship motivation letters play an important role in refining and selecting awardees. Typically, a scholarship motivation letter covers these two basic principles: Why you are a good candidate: Many scholarships have an ethos or criteria which needs to be satisfied in order to be considered. Aside from simply fulfilling requirements, motivation letters for scholarships need to express how you embody values or would make an ideal ambassador for the university. Motivational essays for scholarships are an opportunity to share your interests and goals, which might not be included in regular applications.What you would do with the education:Universities want to provide scholarships to candidates who are interested in and committed to their desired degree or program. Since scholarships can be highly financially beneficial, universities want to make sure that the applicant genuinely wants to study there rather than being purely interested in receiving a free or discounted education. Scholarship motivation letters should therefore include specifics on how the program will equip you for your professional, educational or career goals. Format of a Scholarship Motivation Letter University scholarships have required criteria as well as a prompt or question for the motivational essay for scholarships; systematically and clearly answering these is key to the success of your application. Therefore, the structure of your scholarship motivation letter should be well thought out in order to properly answer the prompt. Here are our tips for planning your application letters for scholarships format: Greeting As with any formal letter, your scholarship motivational letter should be addressed to the appropriate person. The recipient might be listed on the scholarship or program website, but if there isn’t one, address it to the scholarships committee or relevant department. Introduction The way you introduce yourself in your scholarship motivational letter does not have to be basic or boring. Depending on the program and degree level, you can include more detail about how your background has led you to apply to this scholarship. Here are examples of introductions for scholarship motivation letters:Sample motivation letter for undergraduate scholarship: My name is Jane Johnson and I am excited to apply to the Department of Computer Engineering at Jamestown University. As my ultimate career goal is to work as a software engineer, I believe the opportunity and support offered by the Jamestown Women in Engineering Scholarship will allow me to flourish both academically and professionally. Scholarship motivation letter for masters: As a recent psychology graduate, I am delighted to be able to apply for the Jamestown University Clinical Psychology Graduate Program to continue my progression towards becoming a clinical psychologist. My research interest and previous education has made me well-prepared for professional training, and I would be delighted to be supported by Jamestown through the Graduate Ambassadors Scholarship. Motivation letter for PhD Scholarship: I am writing to express my interest in the Jamestown University PhD program in Neuropharmacology. My combined education of a Bachelor of Psychology and a Master’s degree in pharmacology has piqued my interest in applications of pharmacological sciences, and I would be honored to be supported through the Jamestown PhD Scholarship. Body Paragraphs The body paragraphs of a scholarship motivation letter should systematically address how you fulfill the objectives and criteria of the scholarship, as well as why you want to study that particular program or degree. You can mention your achievements, experience, interests or goals you want to achieve through studying at the university in your motivational letter for scholarship applications. Depending on the type of degree, here are ideas of what to include in motivation for scholarship letters: Sample motivation letter for undergraduate scholarship paragraph ideas: How your interests align with your ideal majorExtra-curricular activities which uphold university valuesWhat you want to do with your education after graduation Paragraph ideas for scholarship motivation letter for masters: What elements of your undergraduate major you would like to continue studyingHow the professional or practical elements of the program will help you career-wiseYour interest in a specific/unique course or Professor’s research area Motivation letter for PhD scholarship ideas: How your education has led you to a unique research nicheSpecific facilities, techniques or technology offered by the instituteInteresting aspects of your Master’s thesis you wish to elaborate onConclusion Wrap up your scholarship motivation letter by reiterating how you reflect the criteria for the scholarship, as well as how your education and achievements will allow you to contribute to the university. Assert your interest in the program and thank the readers for their time and consideration. Sign off Finish a scholarship motivation letter with a formal sign-off such as “Sincerely” or “Regards”, then your full name. Since a scholarship motivation letter is usually attached to an online application, it's not necessary to include contact details.Tips for Writing a Scholarship Motivation Letter Now that we have established the format and content of a motivational essay for scholarships, here are extra tips that can help elevate your application: Research the scholarship and scholarship provider: Although scholarships are often listed clearly on the university website, having a thorough read-through of the scholarships you are eligible for will provide you with more detail on the award and its’ provider. Although universities have their own scholarships, many are awarded from an adjunct institution or organization or are even donations from specific people. Knowing these small details can help you adjust the angle of your motivation for scholarship letters and showcase your commitment and interest in the university. Tailor your scholarship motivation letter: Just like resumes, scholarship motivation letters should be tailored to the relevant program or institution. Including how specific university values, research interests, facilities, etc. align with your personal and educational goals will highlight not only your motivation for scholarship but motivation towards being admitted to the program, which universities will want to award. Having a generic scholarship motivation letter might come across as rushed, disinterested or that you’re only motivated by the financial benefits of a scholarship. Avoid informal language: As you are applying to a university, having a well-written motivational essay for scholarships is essential. Formal language shows your seriousness and professionalism and can also be an opportunity to showcase your writing skills as well. Common uses of informal language to avoid in your scholarship motivational letter include: Using contractions – use “I am” rather than “I’m,” etc.,Using slangUsing inappropriate or excessive symbols (, ! emojis, etc.)Acronyms, unless they are specific to the relevant university or programPhrasal verbs – use concise and formal words instead of commonly spoken phrases e.g., say “many” instead of “lots of”, “most suitable” instead of “best” Present logical arguments: A motivational letter for a scholarship is essentially an opportunity to provide a convincing argument as to why you are the most suitable candidate. Making logical, sensical arguments is also a skill required in academia and research; therefore, showcasing this skill is valuable in scholarship motivational letters. Here are examples of logical and illogical arguments you might make when writing motivational essays for scholarships: Logical argument: I graduated with honors in a Bachelor of Engineering, and I strive to further advance my Engineering skills through the Jonestown Masters of Engineering program. Likewise, I actively participated in the Engineering Society throughout my undergraduate degree and reflect on the Women in Engineering scholarship value statement of “achieving excellence together.” Illogical argument: Previous scholarship winners have made significant contributions to their research field; if I am awarded a scholarship, I will too. Show your Gratitude: A scholarship is a competitive award that few applicants are eligible for, therefore, thank the relevant department, sponsor, or donor in your motivation letter for scholarships to show gratitude for the opportunity. Financial sponsors might be reviewing applications and could read your motivational letter for scholarships that they award. Stick to the word limit: Sticking to the guidelines for motivational letters for scholarships is essential. Strict review committees might not read all of your essays or might skim through it if it is too long. Writing a succinct, clear motivational letter for scholarships has more impact and shows your writing ability as well. Typically, motivational letters for scholarships will have an approx. 1000 word limit, or a maximum of 1-2 pages. Have a well-rounded answer: Although it might seem like the best way to write a motivational essay for scholarships is to list off academic achievements, having well-rounded essays will give you an advantage. Undoubtedly, many of the applicants will be high achievers; including extra experiences such as internships, employment, or societies which contributed to your motivation for the program in your motivational essays for scholarships will show the committee that you are interested in more than just financial gain.Motivational Letter for Scholarship Sample See our motivational letter for a scholarship example here. Take note of ways you can succinctly but clearly discuss and convince a scholarship committee to consider your application when writing your own application letter for scholarships.Motivational Letter for Scholarship SampleTo the Scholarships Review Committee, As an alumni of Jamestown University, I am delighted by the opportunity to continue my academic studies with Jamestown through the Masters of Data Science. My goal for the Masters program is to work with the supervision of Dr. Anna Lytics, as her undergraduate teaching piqued my interest in data science. I consider Dr. Lytics to be a professional role model, and with her encouragement I write to apply for the Women in STEM scholarship program. Graduating with an honors in the statistics major for my undergraduate program allowed me to gain strong foundational knowledge in statistical analysis in science. However, my interest in data science strengthened through taking elective courses Data Algorithms and Data Decisions with Dr. Lytics. I believe that data science will pose a new exciting opportunity to challenge my knowledge of statistical analysis and apply my skills in new contexts. Additionally, data science involves utilizing technology for innovative applications, such as methods of computer science, coding and programming, and therefore requires collaboration. I believe this can be achieved with the network of the Women in STEM scholarship program, which will foster an environment for women like myself to thrive. I am particularly interested in pursuing a thesis in data decisions with the advisory of Dr. Lytics. Dr. Lytics is not only a role model of a high-achieving woman in STEM, but she also has pioneered the industry and research niche of data decisions. I had the pleasure of working on a winter vacation internship in Dr. Lytics’ lab, where I gained insight into data decision processes. This allowed me to confirm my interest in the research speciality, but also to be encouraged that a successful career as a woman in STEM was achievable. Aside from academic advantages of the Women in STEM program, I am drawn towards the program's values – innovate, advocate and appreciate, as I am personally passionate about women in STEM. During my Bachelor’s degree, I founded the Jonestown University Society of Women Statisticians, and hosted free tutoring sessions for students struggling with statistics across all disciplines. In just 4 years, the society is the 3rd largest STEM society at Jonestown, and offers hundreds of hours of free tutoring every year. Being given the opportunity to continue advocacy for women in STEM through the scholarship program would not only maintain the program’s values, but allow for elevation in similar Jonestown STEM societies. Overall, my experience, passion and education has allowed me to develop my interest in data science as a research niche and career. I believe I support and practice the values of the Women in STEM program and would be delighted by the opportunity to join the community. Finally, I would like to express my gratitude to the Scholarships Review Committee, as well as the Organisation for STEM Equality for generously providing the award. Thank you for your time, Sam Pilsyze Conclusion Overall, a motivation letter for scholarships should include well-rounded information on how you reflect the degree or scholarship's values. Universities want to award those who they believe will benefit their department and provide innovation, publications, and quality. Tailoring an application letter for scholarships allows you to directly answer the prompt, and expressing gratitude will give your motivation letter for scholarship applications a personal touch. Use our advice and reference our sample scholarship application letter to craft your own motivational essay for scholarships that will stand out! Found this article helpful? Follow us and learn more about career development and job search tips. Cake is not only the resume builder but also the best talent community, where we help all job seekers to pursue their dream job!

A cover letter (sometimes also referred to as a “letter of motivation” or “job application letter”) is a formal document sent along with your resume or CV. It provides additional information besides what is written in your resume to express yourself further in a more personal way. Recruiters can tell a lot about you from your cover letter. Aside from the information you disclose through the content of your cover letter, recruiters can also infer your soft skills, such as how attentive to detail you are, how good you communicate through written language, and more through how you format your cover letter. When writing a professional cover letter, you need to pay attention to the following elements: Cover letter format (i.e., structure, header, layout)Cover letter style (block or semi-block)Cover letter line spacingetc. This article will guide you through everything you need to know about writing a convincing cover letter. Keep reading for more! Table of Contents What Is a Cover Letter and Why Does It Matter? Mastering the Cover Letter Structure: How to Write an Effective One Expert Tips on Formatting Your Cover Letter Professionally Cover Letter Template Real-Life Examples Common FAQs about Cover Letter What Is a Cover Letter and Why Does It Matter? A cover letter accompanies your resume or CV when you apply for a job as a tool to promote or market yourself through written communication to the recruiter before you meet them face-to-face. There is a general cover letter format for job applications that you can always follow and never go wrong with. However, it is still essential to remember that different employers might have different specific requirements for applications. So, make sure to read the job posting carefully. Depending on the requirements, you will need different cover letter formats, such as: Email cover letter format: Cover letters are written as the email content when sending an application via email.Digital or electronic cover letter format: Cover letters are saved as a DOC or PDF file and sent as email attachments.Printed cover letter format: Cover letters are printed out as a hard copy along with a printed resume to a mailing address. Mastering the Cover Letter Structure: How to Write an Effective One Recruiters usually will read your cover letter before your resume. Therefore, creating a good first impression with a properly written cover letter format is essential. This part will show you what elements should be included in a proper cover letter format. 1) Date written The date is a small yet important aspect of the cover letter header format and deserves as much attention as any other detail. Depending on the country you are in, the date format may vary. However, the most common format is [Month] [Day], [Year]. 2) Contact information In printed or digital cover letter formats, the sender's and receiver's contact information is typically placed at the top of the cover letter header. However, including your contact information at the bottom, along with your name and signature, is common for email cover letters. Regardless of the format, ensure you use a professional email address and provide accurate contact details.Cover Letter Example #1 (Send Through Email)Katherine Nguyen(+1)-333-0987 | [email protected] Cover Letter Example #2(Printed/Digital Cover Letter)Kevin Nguyen(+1)-333-0977[email protected] Cover Letter Example #3(Printed/Digital Cover Letter)Richard JenkinsHead of HR at HHH Company(+1)-992-9922[email protected] 3) Salutation or opening greeting You should directly address the person reviewing your application for this position. The person could be the hiring manager or the head of the department. “Dear” and “Hello” are the safest greetings. They sound friendly yet maintain a professional tone. If the name of the hiring manager is known, use: “Dear Mr. [Their Name],”. If only the team or department is known, use: “Dear Hiring Manager,” or “Dear [Name of Department] Department Team,”. If the recipient is unknown, use: “Dear Sir/Madam,”. You might think, "How about using 'To Whom It May Concern'?" Surprisingly, this salutation is no longer considered appropriate for application letters as it is needlessly formal and doesn't directly address a specific person.💡Pro Tip: To know the hiring manager in charge of the position, you can refer to the job post uploader or do some research on the company website. You could also ask for a connection that you have in the company (if any). 4) Opening paragraph The goal of the opening paragraph is to explain to the reader who you are and why you're writing this letter. Think of it as the first introduction about yourself that will immediately grab the hiring manager’s attention and stand out from the crowd. If written boringly, they may never even get to the second paragraph, and you don’t want that. Cover Letter Example #3 - Opening ParagraphI am Katherine Nguyen - a registered nurse seeking to acquire the nurse practitioner position at ENTC Hospital. My 8 years of experience in relevant roles make me the right fit for this role. 💡Pro Tip:State an accomplishment to show your confidence, determination, and interest in the position using phrases like “I believe that…”, “I am very interested in…”, “I am writing to express my strong interest in…”, etc.5) Middle or body paragraph Here comes the most crucial section for job applications in the cover letter format. In this part, explain why you think you're qualified for the role in terms of expertise, work experience, and skills. You're selling your candidacy to the reader, so it's essential to be as specific and concise as possible. Here are some extra tips to remember when crafting the body paragraph of your cover letter: Make strong connections between your qualifications and the job requirements.Use several shorter paragraphs or bullet points instead of one large text block.Avoid repeating all information that’s already mentioned in your resume. You can choose the proudest achievements or most relevant experience you want to highlight and invite recruiters to open your resume for further details. Here's an example of a cover letter body paragraph: Cover Letter Example #4 - Body ParagraphI have engaged in various industries, including technology, education, and beauty. I am detail-oriented, enthusiastic, and diligent, with nearly 6 years of experience in Content Marketing, SEO Writing, and Social Media Management. My primary job responsibilities include: Producing SEO-friendly content to publish on relevant media channels such as the company website, LinkedIn, and Instagram.Conducting keyword research and leveraging SEO practices to optimize the article writing.Managed multiple social media accounts to promote the company branding and products. In addition, I have a background in Digital Marketing and graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Communication and an MBA from Western State University. In terms of language ability, I am a native English speaker with professional working proficiency in Korean and basic French. 6) Closing paragraph In the closing paragraph of your cover letter, emphasize the value you can bring to the organization. Additionally, expressing enthusiasm about joining the team can highlight your genuine interest in the role. Don’t forget to thank the hiring manager for their time and consideration. Here’s an example of how to craft a compelling closing paragraph for your cover letter: Cover Letter Example #5 - Closing Paragraph I have had a strong passion for writing since I was little. I've also been a big fan of Beauty Magazine and the impact that it brings to young girls for many years. Therefore, I hope that I can become a part of the team and contribute to the expansion of Beauty Magazine into the Asian market. Thank you for taking the time to review my application. Please let me know if you have any questions. I look forward to your response. 7) Sign-off Now, it's time to finish with a professional sign-off. You can end your cover letter with a formal complimentary closing, followed by your signature. Since you're writing a formal document, avoid using casual language and tone like “Yours truly,” “With love,” or “Take care.” For an email/digital cover letter format, you should put your contact info below your signature. For a printed cover letter format, make sure your signature is handwritten. Examples of appropriate sign-offs to use in a standard cover letter format: Sincerely,Best,Kind regards,Best regards,Best wishes,With gratitude,Respectfully,Cordially, Expert Tips on Formatting Your Cover Letter ProfessionallyBelow are five key elements to keep in mind for crafting a well-formatted cover letter: Font Just like your CV or resume, it’s important to choose a professional font for your cover letter.Do'sUse standard fonts such as Arial, Helvetica, Roboto, Times New Roman, or Verdana.Keep the font size between 10.5 and 12 points for readability.Don'tsAvoid using decorative or fancy fonts that may appear unprofessional and difficult to read. Spacing Proper spacing is crucial for creating a clean and professional layout. It helps employers quickly grasp key information and makes the cover letter visually appealing. How to format spacing correctly: Leave a blank line between sections (e.g., date, recipient’s address, salutation, body paragraphs, closing, and sign-off).Use business letter spacing, typically 1 or 1.15 line spacing. Margins Alignment: Align all text to the left for a clean and professional look.Use standard margins of 1” to 1.5” on all four sides. If space is tight, you can slightly adjust the margins but ensure it still looks balanced. Full Block Format There are three common letter formats: block, modified block, and semi-block. For cover letters, the full-block format is the most professional and widely preferred. How to use full block format: Align all elements of the letter (e.g., text, dates, recipient information) to the left margin.Separate each paragraph with a blank line for clarity and readability. Cover Letter Length Keep your cover letter concise and informative, ideally between 250–400 words or half a page to one full page. This ensures it’s thorough yet easy to read.Cover Letter Template Real-Life Examples [Your Name] [Your Address][Your City, State, Zip Code][Your Phone Number][Your Email Address] [Date] [Hiring Manager’s Name] [Company Name][Company Address][Company City, State, ZIP Code] Dear Hiring Manager (or [hiring manager's name]), My name is [your name]. I’m excited to apply for the [job title] position at [Company Name]. [Short overview of your expertise, skills, and most outstanding accomplishments in the field]. [Explain your interest in this role and briefly explain how it matches your career goals.] During my [number of years] experience, I worked on [major job responsibilities]. My greatest accomplishments are [relevant past achievements]. These experiences have allowed me to gain [skills relevant to the position], which I believe will allow me to [how you want to contribute and help the company grow]. In addition to my experience, I have a solid educational background with a [educational degree] in [major of study]. I’m also a/an [personal trait] individual who is [soft skill #1, soft skill #2, soft skill #3…]. I am confident that the professional experience and skills I’ve obtained in previous positions have prepared me for this opportunity. I would love to meet you and discuss further on how I might be an asset to the [name of team, department or company]. I have attached my resume for your reference. Thank you for your consideration and for taking the time to review my application. I look forward to hearing from you so we could discuss my contributions further in an interview at your convenience. Sincerely, [Signature] Now that you know what a cover letter format for job applications looks like, let’s review these cover letter examples.Graphic Designer Cover Letter Marybelle SmithsVictoria, TX 77979[email protected](+361)-443-5491 March 18, 2022 Samuel LinHead of Marketing TeamSamaTech Corp.90 Live Oak St., Lilita, TX77971 Dear Samuel, My name is Marybelle Smiths, a freelance graphic designer with 5 years of experience in the field. After reviewing your job listing, I'm excited to be applying for the Graphic Designer position at SamaTech.My proven experience in various large-scale projects makes me an ideal candidate for this role. I earned my bachelor’s degree in Communication and Media Design from Texas AM. During my recent 5 years working as a freelancer, I have developed the necessary skills to deliver informative and eye-catching designs, including package design and marketing collateral. I have worked with nearly 30 big clients in the FinTech, beauty, and tourism industries - not to mention 80+ small and medium-sized projects in other areas. The biggest achievement I have obtained is an increase in blog traffic by 145% and shares by 80% by adding my graphics to the older posts that did not have images. I have received many testimonials from my clients. Please check them out on my LinkedIn and Upwork profiles. In addition to graphic design work, I have also expanded my expertise into web design and video production. To the best of my knowledge, SamaTech is looking for part-time assistants in these two fields. Therefore, my experience and abilities will make me the right fit for the vacancy at SamaTech. I’d also be able to develop my skills further should I be hired to become part of your team. Thank you for your time and consideration. Please let me know if you have any questions. I look forward to hearing from you and having an opportunity to interview. Sincerely,Marybelle SmithsStrategy Analyst Intern Cover Letter Jane DoeMelbourne 3000 [email protected](+361)-123-456 Jan 18, 2025 Dear Hiring Manager, I am eager to apply for the Strategy Analyst Intern position at A. Consulting Firm. I recently graduated with a degree in Business Administration from K. Business School in Singapore, where I developed a strong foundation in strategic thinking, problem-solving, and data analysis. Although I do not have direct work experience, I have gained practical skills through numerous academic projects and student club activities. As a member of the Economics Student Club, I had the opportunity to lead and collaborate on projects that required analytical thinking, strategic planning, and effective communication. These experiences have enhanced my problem-solving abilities and helped me develop a strong understanding of business dynamics, which I believe are essential for a successful strategy analyst. I am eager to learn and make a valuable contribution to A. Consulting Firm and I am eager to apply my skills while gaining exposure to the consulting industry. My passion for strategic analysis and my ability to work well within teams would allow me to make a positive contribution to your firm. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of contributing to your team. Best regards, Jane Doe Marketing Performance Executive (Fresher) Cover Letter Shi Yun LinTaipei, [email protected](+886)-123-456 Jan 18, 2025 Dear Hiring Manager, Please accept my application for the Marketing Performance (Fresher) position at D. Media Agency. I have a recent degree in marketing from N. University in Taiwan and hands-on experience as a Marketing Intern at H. Fashion, I am excited to bring my analytical skills, adaptability, and enthusiasm for performance marketing to your team. During my internship, I supported marketing campaigns, analyzed data to gauge campaign effectiveness, and gained a foundational understanding of performance metrics. Working in a fast-paced environment taught me the importance of precision, audience targeting, and agility in the digital landscape. I am proficient in tools like Google Analytics and Excel and have a growing knowledge of paid advertising platforms. I am eager to contribute my skills in data interpretation, campaign optimization, and cross-team collaboration to the innovative work at D. Media Agency. Thank you for considering my application. I would be grateful for the opportunity to discuss my application further at your earliest convenience. Please feel free to contact me by phone or email at your convenience. I look forward to the possibility of contributing to your team’s success. Warm regards, Shih Yun, Lin Product Owner Cover Letter Tyrell J. Walton600 Euclid AvenueLos Angeles, CA 90017Jan 18, 2025 Dear Hiring Manager, After considering, I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to join D. Software Company, by applying for the Product Owner position. With over 3.5 years of experience as a Product Marketer, I have a strong background in customer-centric product development, market analysis, and cross-functional collaboration, which I believe would enable me to contribute effectively to your team. Having worked closely with development teams to align product features with market demands, I am eager to bring this expertise to a Product Owner role, particularly in a company focused on automated marketing solutions—an area I am passionate about and deeply experienced in. In my role as a Product Marketer at E.Software, I was responsible for guiding product messaging and strategy, analyzing customer feedback to inform feature prioritization, and collaborating with engineering and design teams to ensure seamless product launches. I also hold a Certified Scrum Product Owner (CSPO), which has equipped me with Agile methodology and backlog management skills to drive product success in fast-paced development cycles. Besides, I plan to complete the Business Analyst course this November to further optimize my skills as a Product Owner. I am highly proficient in using analytics and project management tools such as Google Analytics, JIRA, and Trello, allowing me to make data-driven decisions and optimize product strategies. Additionally, my experience with user research and understanding of customer pain points has prepared me to advocate for end-users effectively and align with business goals in my decisions as a Product Owner. I am inspired by G. Software Company’s commitment to innovative marketing automation solutions, and I am confident that my unique blend of marketing and product experience will be an asset to your team. Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to discussing how my background and skills align with your team’s goals. Sincerely, Tyrell J. Walton Financial Analysis Planning (FAP) Cover Letter Andrew E. Stark4888 Lady Bug DriveColorado Springs, CO 80907 Dear Hiring Manager, After carefully considering your job posting on LinkedIn, I am writing to express my interest in the Financial Analysis Planning (FAP) position at M. Investment Pte. Ltd. With over 8 years of experience as a Financial Advisor at top consulting firms and a recent career break to focus on my family, I am eager to re-enter the finance industry, bringing my expertise in financial planning, strategy development, and client advisory to your team. In my previous roles, I developed and implemented tailored financial plans for a diverse portfolio of clients, closely collaborating with cross-functional teams to identify growth opportunities and maximize returns. My responsibilities included financial forecasting, budgeting, and advising clients on strategic investments, all of which have honed my analytical abilities and client-focused approach. I also hold the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), ensuring my knowledge aligns with current industry standards and the requirements for this position. During my career break, I continued to stay engaged in the finance field by completing professional development courses and networking within the industry. This has not only refreshed my knowledge but also deepened my passion for financial planning and investment strategy. I am particularly drawn to M. Investment Company due to its reputation for innovative financial solutions and commitment to client success, and I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team. I am confident that my background in finance, combined with my dedication to producing high-quality results, will make me a strong asset. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my experience and skills can support your company in achieving its goals. Warm regards, Andrew E. Stark Common FAQs about Cover Letter After reading this article, you might still have some questions or concerns. That's perfectly normal, and we’re here to help! Below, you'll find an FAQ section addressing some of the most common questions people have when crafting their cover letters. 1) How do I write my availability in a cover letter? When writing your availability in a cover letter, keep it clear and concise. Include this information in the closing paragraph of your letter. Include your availability in the closing paragraph so the employer knows immediately if your timeline aligns with their needs. You might phrase it as "I am ready to start right away" or "I am prepared to begin work on (specific date)”. This helps the employer evaluate your fit and demonstrates your straightforward communication skills — an attribute that many companies value. 2) How do I include salary expectations in a cover letter? If the job posting requests salary expectations, it's best to address this directly but carefully in your cover letter. A good approach is to provide a range while also expressing your flexibility. You can mention your expected salary range while expressing your openness to negotiation. For example: "Based on my experience and the industry standard, my expected salary is within the range of (amount) to (amount). However, I am flexible and open to discussing this further." Employers appreciate when candidates are honest but flexible, indicating a collaborative spirit. 3) How do I sign an electronic cover letter? Signing an electronic cover letter is simpler than you might think. A simple digital signature will do—just end with "Sincerely," followed by your full name. If you want to take it a step further, you can add an electronic signature image, but it’s optional. The key is consistency and professionalism. Employers care more about the content of your letter and the impression it leaves, so focus on delivering a strong message rather than worrying too much about how you sign it. 4) What is the main goal of a cover letter? Beyond what’s in your resume, the cover letter is a warm touch – your opportunity to introduce yourself to a potential employer. It goes beyond the bullet points of your resume by showing your enthusiasm for the position and highlighting specific skills that make you the ideal candidate. Think of it as a narrative that ties together why you’re interested in the job and how your background makes you a great fit. The cover letter adds depth, allowing you to explain the "why" behind your application and tailor your message to the company’s needs — something that can make a huge difference in competitive job markets. 5) What should a cover letter include? A good cover letter should include several key elements: an introduction that expresses your interest in the position, a summary of relevant experience or skills, and why you are interested in the company. Finish with a call to action, like expressing your interest in an interview, and sign off professionally. The letter should also be tailored to the specific job description, showing that you’ve taken the time to understand the company’s needs. 6) Are cover letters becoming obsolete? Not exactly! Cover letters are evolving rather than becoming obsolete. In some industries—such as tech—cover letters might be less common, but in fields like consulting, education, or creative roles, they still hold considerable value. A well-written cover letter can convey your enthusiasm and show that you’re not just mass-applying for jobs. Even if it’s optional, submitting a thoughtful cover letter can make you stand out in a competitive job market. It’s all about knowing your audience. 7) Do employers read cover letters? Yes, many employers do read cover letters, especially when they are narrowing down candidates for an interview. A well-crafted cover letter can distinguish you from other applicants and show that you have taken the time to understand the company’s needs. While some recruiters may focus mainly on your resume, others will appreciate the added context a cover letter provides, especially if it addresses how your experience aligns with their specific challenges. 8) Should I use AI to write a cover letter? Using AI to draft a cover letter can be a helpful starting point, especially if you're unsure where to begin. AI tools can generate a structure and suggest content. However, to make a genuine impact, personalize the draft to reflect your authentic voice and specific experience. Hiring managers are skilled at spotting generic letters, so adding a personal touch—highlighting your enthusiasm for the role and how your skills meet the company’s needs—is essential. 9) Should I include a cover letter if the application says "optional"? If the cover letter is "optional," consider submitting one if you genuinely want the job. A well-written cover letter can show your enthusiasm and provide details that your resume may not fully convey. It's an opportunity to distinguish yourself from other candidates, especially in competitive markets like Singapore or Taiwan. Unless you're under tight time constraints, submitting a cover letter when optional can only help your chances. 10) What should I write in a cover letter if I don’t have work experience? If you don’t have work experience, focus on the skills and experiences you do have—such as your education, internships, volunteer work, or relevant projects. Highlight the transferable skills you’ve developed, like teamwork, problem-solving, or leadership, and tie them to the requirements of the job. Employers are often more interested in your potential and your enthusiasm for the field. 11) What should I write in a cover letter if I’m a career changer? As a career changer, your cover letter is the perfect place to explain why you’re making the switch and what makes you a strong candidate for this new path. Emphasize transferable skills from your previous roles—like communication, problem-solving, or management—that are relevant to the new industry. Show that you’re enthusiastic about the change, and mention any steps you’ve taken to bridge the gap, such as courses, certifications, or projects. Explain why you are interested in the new field and how your previous experience brings a unique perspective. For instance, if you're transitioning into IT from a retail background, emphasize your problem-solving abilities, customer service experience, and adaptability. Show that you've done your homework and convey your enthusiasm for embracing new challenges in this career path. 12) What should I write in a cover letter if I’m a returning parent? If you’re a returning parent, acknowledge your career break briefly and then quickly shift the focus to your value as a candidate. Mention the skills you’ve developed during your time away—such as multitasking, organization, and resilience—and relate them to the position you’re applying for. Many employers appreciate the skills parents develop during their gap. Emphasize your excitement to rejoin the workforce and how your past experience, paired with your life skills, makes you an excellent candidate for the role.With Cake, you can easily create a resume online with our online resume builder, free download your resume’s PDF formats, and utilize ATS-compliant templates to create a resume. Land your dream job, create your resume online (free download) now!Create a Resume— Written by May Luong, Optimized by Andrea Do —

Academic motivation letters are not uncommon requirements for university students. You may have to write a motivation letter for admission to both undergraduate and graduate university programs. Academic motivation letters are also used for scholarship applications or for volunteer positions or research at your school. Motivation letters for university can be tough to write because they must strike a balance between personal and professional. Your challenge in writing a motivation letter for university admission is to stand out from the crowd of applicants, but don’t worry! It’s easy enough to write a strong and effective academic motivation letter. In this article, we will share with you all information you need to write a motivation letter for university application.TABLEOFCONTENTSWhat Is a Motivation Letter for University Admission?How to Write a Motivation Letter?Tips for Writing a Motivation for University AdmissionMotivation Letter for University Admission SampleConclusion What Is a Motivation Letter for University Admission? Like a cover letter for employment, a motivational letter to study is used alongside your application to an academic program or position. An academic motivation letter is meant to describe how you personally are a good fit for the program you are applying to. Academic motivation letters are important because it makes your application more personal and separates your unique qualities from the pack of applicants. Your motivational letter to study is your chance to show the hiring committee what makes you special and suitable for the program. A letter of motivation for university applications can also help you demonstrate your knowledge of the institution and program. An academic motivation letter is sometimes confused with a personal statement, but they are subtly different. A personal statement differs from a motivation letter for admission in that a personal statement is about your individual history and may include more stories about yourself and your journey to this moment. An academic motivation letter is more often used to demonstrate how you and the institution are compatible.📚 Further reading: What Is a CV? [Definition, Element, Writing Tips and Examples] How to Write a Motivation Letter for University Application While writing a motivation letter for admission might seem daunting, the basic format of an academic motivation letter is simple and easy to follow. Like any application letter, a motivation letter for university will have the following formatting elements. Opening The opening of your academic motivation letter should state your intention quickly and clearly. You want to let the admissions team know who you are and what you are applying to. Essentially, you should introduce why you are writing this motivation letter for admission. The following is an opening paragraph example from a motivation letter for studying abroad. I’m writing this motivation letter for the study abroad program in Greece. As a history major in my third year at the University of Southland, I’m keenly interested in Greek archaeology and this program would give me access to the National Archeological Museum of Athens, as well as the opportunity to explore world famous historical sites. Body Paragraphs Use the body of your academic motivation letter to explain why you are a good fit for the program or institution. The body of your motivation letter for admission will include details about your academic history, your passion for the program, and your compatibility with the school. Use this sample body paragraph from a motivation letter for a Bachelor of Business Administration to inspire you. I became interested in the Bachelor of Business Administration program at the University of Greenfield after taking several courses in business at Pathway College. In my time there, I became passionate about the study of different management styles and how corporate psychology plays a role in business structure.After finishing my diploma at Pathway, I worked for three years as a regional manager of a hotel chain, where I was able to apply what I learned in business to my role as a manager. My intention as I further my studies is to become proficient in Operations Management, and I’m confident that the program at Greenfield, one of the most renowned in the country, will serve as a foundation for my career in business. Final statement The final statement of your motivation letter for admission is an opportunity to end on a strong note. Your final statement should summarize the key takeaway of your academic motivation letter and restate your goal. You should also thank the reader for considering your application. Use this sample motivation letter for an exchange program to give you some ideas. I’m excited at the prospect of applying my mastery in French to the West University French Exchange program. I’m confident my passion for the language and culture will make me a good fit at the campus in Nice. Thank you for your consideration. Tips for Writing a Motivation Letter for University Admission If you’re not sure how to write your motivation letter for university, know that you’re not alone. Despite this challenge, there are some simple things you can do to enhance your writing and submit the best possible academic motivation letter. Follow these tips for writing a motivation letter for admission. 💡 Be concise. One important tip for writing a motivation letter for admission is to be concise. Make your points succinctly without adding too much extra detail. Remember that the admissions team will be reading many academic motivation letters, and they’ll look for strong, direct writing that doesn’t deviate. 💡 Be specific. When you write your motivation letter for university admission, try to avoid vague statements about your goals and experience. You can improve your academic motivation letter by using specific examples to support your points. For instance, instead of stating that you’re excited by the social work program because you want to give back to your community, you can give specific examples of volunteer work in your academic motivation letter. 💡 Tell personal stories. Your academic motivation letter is a chance to be more personal. You should include some personal details when you write your motivation letter for university, to help you stand out. Did you contribute to your school in a unique way? Did you have an interesting life experience which led you to apply? Include these personal anecdotes in your letter of motivation for university application. 💡 Do your research. The best way to write a strong academic motivation letter is to research the school and program first. Make sure you understand what you are applying to so you can demonstrate how you would be a good fit in your motivation letter for admission. Getting a sense of the school’s values and goals is a good way to indicate your compatibility and help your motivation letter for university to be more distinctive. 💡 Proofread. The last thing you should do before you submit your academic motivation letter is proofread it. You can do this yourself or ask a fellow student or colleague. Proofreading your motivation letter for admission will help you catch mistakes and give you a new perspective on your work.Cake is a resume builder tool that provides you with hundreds of free resume templates and examples that help showcase your best qualifications to land your dream job. Try our free resume builder now!Create Resume Motivation Letter for University Application Sample If you’re not sure how to write a motivation letter for university, it may help you to look at samples to get inspiration. Check out this example of a letter of motivation for university. Dear Sir/Madam, I’m writing to explain my motivation in applying to the Bachelor’s in Public Health from Sage University. As a nurse, I’m passionate about healthcare and I’m excited to pursue a career that makes a difference at the community level. I’m eager to demonstrate how I will be a good fit for the program at Sage University. I finished my nursing degree three years ago, and I’ve spent the ensuing time working in remote northern communities, delivering crucial care to underrepresented groups. During my time working as a nurse, I discovered significant challenges at the government level that made it difficult for these communities to access the care they needed. I learned of gaps in education that created very preventable health issues across these communities. This will be the focus of my academic career and my motivation for applying to a degree in Public Health. The program at Sage is well known and I aspire to study at one of the best programs in the state. Your Public Health program offers a number of courses that would be an excellent fit for my skills and goals. I’m particularly interested in the courses in healthcare education, as my goal is to eventually run educational programs for disease prevention in remote areas. I know the Bachelor’s in Public Health can help me to further my knowledge of remote healthcare and I’m confident I have much to contribute to the program. I’m excited about where this program can take my career, and I’m looking forward to using what I learn at Sage to bring better access to education and healthcare to remote communities. I’m confident my passion for healthcare systems makes me a strong candidate for this program. My transcript and academic references are enclosed in this application. Thank you very much for your time and consideration. Best Regards, Justine Amir Conclusion Writing an academic motivation letter can seem intimidating but there are a few easy things you can do to enhance your writing and improve your chances of acceptance. Your motivation letter for admission should follow a basic letter format, with an opening paragraph, body, and final statement. Keep your writing concise and use specific examples to make your points. Try reading some sample motivation letters for university to get some ideas. Applying to university programs can be a tough process, but an academic motivation letter can help take your application to the next level. Find this article helpful? Follow our blog for more!— Originally written by Tiffany Quinn —

Created by CakeResumeIn this article, we'll cover: What Is an Application Letter?What to Include in a Job Application LetterJob Application Letter SamplesApplication Letter TemplateTips for Writing an Application LetterAside from your resume, the hiring manager may ask you to submit a cover letter as a formal letter for a job application. Under different circumstances, it can go under different names shown below: Job application letter – explains why you're applying for this position and what makes you qualified.Letter of interest – expresses your interest in some position in a company even though it's already filled or not being advertised yet.Letter of motivation – proves that you are the perfect candidate for the position. Among these application formats for jobs, an application letter most closely resembles the function of a cover letter. It demonstrates your relevant qualifications for the position and convinces the employer to call you for an interview. This article will guide you on how to write an application letter for employment and feature samples of both an application letter format and an email job application format. What Is an Application Letter?Simply put, a letter of application is a formal document sent with your resume to explain at least these three things: Why you want to apply for this roleWhat makes you the right fitHow you can bring value to the organization A well-written job application letter can grab the recruiters' attention effectively, motivate them to read through your resume and offer you a job interview. Hence, you should always submit a short application letter, even though it’s not required for the application. Recruiters normally would read your application letter before your resume. Therefore, it is important that your job application letter could serve as an overview of your profile as a candidate, and is interesting enough to make them want to review your application until the end. When reviewing an application letter, recruiters expect to find a brief introduction of who you are and why you're applying for this role. Next, some paragraphs should elaborate the qualifications you possess that make you the right fit, in terms of education, experience, and skills. If you've stayed in the field for a while, focus on showing your achievements and present to the employer how you would contribute to their company in your job application letter. Lastly, to make a lasting ending for your application letter, express your appreciation for their time and insert a CTA about the job interview. Also, make sure you include a professional sign-off! What to Include in a Job Application LetterIn this paragraph, you will learn how to write each of the 6 sections included in a job application letter:Letter headerSalutationIntroduction paragraphBody paragraph(s)Closing paragraphSignature1. Letter header Basically, the header of an application letter should follow the format of any other formal letters. It means that you need to provide the following information: Your personal info (name, email, phone number/LinkedIn)Date writtenThe recipient's info (name, job title, email, company address) Example of anapplication letter header:Kaylee Tran9215 Fremontia Ave, Fontana, CA 92335[email protected](+310)-442-1500May 10, 2022Davis MiserPrincipalWest Randall Elementary School15620 Randall Ave, Fontana, CA 92335 2. Salutation The salutation in a job application letter is a greeting to the people who will read your document and evaluate your qualifications for the role. Normally, they can be the company founder, the hiring manager, or the position’s department head. Good salutations for application letters:Dear Mr/Mrs + [Last Name], Dear Hiring Manager,Dear [First Name], Hi Team,To Whom It May Concern,Bad salutations for application letters:Hey,How do you do!Dear all, Good morning/afternoon!What's up! 💡 Pro Tip: The cover letter salutation is one part of the letter where you can address the receiver of the letter directly. Addressing the correct or relevant people directly shows that you’ve put in the effort to do some research about the role and the team. 3. Introduction paragraph In the opening paragraph, it's essential to introduce yourself and the purpose of writing this application letter. The most important information that employers expect to read is a brief statement of your qualifications that make you qualified for the position. Instead of stuffing too many details in this section, keep your application letter opening paragraphs within 2-3 sentences. Example of the introduction paragraph in a job application letter:“My name is Kaylee Tran, an MSc graduate from IU International University of Applied Science. I am interested in applying for the Software Engineering Intern at Google after coming across your job listing on LinkedIn. I believe that my educational background and freelancing experience make me a highly competitive candidate for this position.” 4. Body paragraph(s) Here comes the most important part of your application letter for employment where you will need to express your motivation to apply and provide details on why you think you're the right fit. In the same way that you write a resume or CV, key components include skills, education, work experience, and professional achievements. However, instead of listing them in bullet points, you will compile a concise paragraph that best presents yourself to the hiring manager.💡 Pro Tip: Don't just repeat information from your resume. Keep your explanation no longer than 10 sentences. Be brief and concise since recruiters don’t have all day to review your application letter. Example of the body paragraph in an application letter:“I have a strong passion for writing and blogging, which is why I have found such fulfillment in content creation. My first job was as a social media specialist at IVY Travel, where I was responsible for managing the company’s social media accounts and producing well-thought-out content to attract more potential customers. My biggest achievement is receiving the 2018 Marketing Award for doubling the average organic likes from 80K to 160K on Facebook in one year.The following year, I advanced my career as a freelance content writer. This allows me to write for a variety of industries such as FinTech, EdTech, fashion, beauty, and tourism. I have helped over 15 companies with their content strategy and online branding. My previous clients are content with my active listening, attention to detail, and commitment to deadlines.” 5. Closing paragraph In this the final paragraph of your application letter, you will need to: Restate your interestKindly remind the hiring manager to review your resume and other files attachedKindly ask for an interviewExpress your appreciation for their time and consideration Example of the closing paragraph in an application letter:“As requested, I have enclosed my resume, work samples, and IELTS certificate. Please let me know if you have any questions or need any additional information. Thank you for your time and appreciate your consideration of my application. It would be my honor to have the chance to discuss this opportunity further with you.” 6. Signature To end an application letter, just simply write a formal closing, followed by your signature. If you're using an email job application format, make sure your email signature is professional and covers your personal information, like this: Kaylee Tran (Ms.)cakeresume.com/kaylee1990[email protected](+098)-1234-567 Good sign-offs for application letters:Best,Best regards,Kind regards,Sincerely,With gratitude,Bad sign-offs for application letters:See you soon!Thanks in advance!Stay safe!Cheers,Bye! Job Application Letter SamplesSample of an application letter for a job vacancy Kaylee Tran9215 Fremontia Ave, Fontana, CA 92335[email protected](+310)-442-1500 May 10, 2022 Davis MiserPrincipalWest Randall Elementary School15620 Randall Ave, Fontana, CA 92335 Dear Mr. Miser, My name is Kaylee Tran, an MSc graduate from IU International University of Applied Science. I saw the posting of the Software Engineering Intern from Google on LinkedIn, and I am very interested. I believe that my educational background and freelancing experience make me a highly competitive candidate for this position. For the past two years, I have gained hands-on experience in coding and programming, providing solutions in database technology, and testing applications. My main responsibility is collaborating with a US-based team to develop four new websites that serve 2.5 million users per month. The biggest accomplishment I have achieved is building and implementing an automated bug tracking system, resulting in a 25% reduction in issues reported in the later stages of development. The documents attached are my resume and work portfolio. I look forward to learning more about the Software Engineering Internship Program at Google. Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely,Kaylee Tran Simple job application email sample Dear Hiring Manager, I'm writing to express my interest in the content editor position listed on CakeResume. While I have 5 years of experience in content marketing and social media management, I am confident that I am well-positioned to support IVY Magazine. I have a strong passion for writing and blogging, which is why I have found such fulfillment in content creation. My first job was as a social media specialist at IVY Travel, where I was responsible for managing the company’s social media accounts and producing well-thought-out content to attract more potential customers. My biggest achievement is receiving the 2018 Marketing Award for doubling the average organic likes from 80K to 160K on Facebook in one year. The following year, I advanced my career as a freelance content writer. This allows me to write for a variety of industries such as FinTech, EdTech, fashion, beauty, and tourism. I have helped over 15 companies with their content strategy and online branding. My previous clients are content with my active listening, attention to detail, and commitment to deadlines. As requested, I have enclosed my resume, work samples, and IELTS certificate. Please let me know if you have any questions or need any additional information. Thank you for your time and appreciate your consideration of my application. It would be my honor to have the chance to discuss this opportunity further with you. Kind regards,Colleen Miller[email protected](881)-123-1234cakeresume.com/colleen.miller Application Letter TemplateNeed to write a quick and simple application letter? Use the free application letter template below. [Your name][Your address][Your email address][Your phone number] [Date written] [Recipient’s name][Company name][Company physical address] Dear Mr./Mrs. [Last Name], I am writing this letter to apply for the [job title] position at your company - [company name]. I believe that my educational background and professional experience make me an ideal candidate for this role. Moreover, I can have a chance to continue building upon the [technical skill] and [soft skill] acquired over the past [number] years. In the last role as a [job title], I was responsible for [job task 1], [job task 2], and [job task 3]. I pride myself on [notable accomplishment 1] and [notable accomplishment 2], resulting in [contribution] at [your former company]. You and the team can rely on me as a [personal trait 1], [personal trait 2], and [personal trait 3] employee with the ability to [soft skill] effectively. In terms of my educational background, I earned my [degree type] in [your major] from [University name] in [year]. I also obtained a certificate (or license) in [field]. Please find attached my resume for your further review of my skills and work history. I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss this position and how I can bring more value to the [team or department name]. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon. Kind regards,[Your Name] Tips for Writing an Application Letter✅ Start with a professional subject line. This is particularly important if you choose an email format for your job application. Think of it as an article title that is professional-looking and can grab the reader's attention. Examples of email subject lines for application letters:Front-desk Position - Your NameJob Posting #321: Marketing ManagerApplication for Public Health Associate Position 💡 Pro Tip: Some job postings list specific formats that you are required to follow when submitting your application. Make sure to pay close attention to these specific instructions if you don’t want your application to go missing. ✅ Highlight your skills. Bullet points on a resume make it easier to list relevant skills. However, you can’t do so when writing a job application letter - instead, provide specific examples of how you’ve leveraged that skill and what you've achieved. That will help fully showcase why you’re the right one for the position. ✅ Incorporate related keywords. A rule of thumb is not only your resume but also your application letter should be tailored to the job opening. You just need to review the job description carefully and insert keywords related to skills, job responsibilities, and requirements. Doing so can help effectively pitch yourself to employers and stand out from the crowd. ✅ Be concise. In general, an application letter sample for any position should not exceed one A4 page, ideally 250 to 400 words. Also, keep in mind that the body paragraph is the focus of the letter - longest and providing the most detail. ✅ Express your gratitude. Being polite and professional will always imprint a positive impression on recruiters. It also indicates good character and can be seen as an indication of how you will fit into the company. Hiring managers will be impressed by your professionalism if you put your appreciation into words. ✅ Include a strong CTA. A CTA (call-to-action) is like an invitation and reminder to the hiring manager to follow up and speak with you further regarding the job opportunity. This allows you to express your interest in the role and give them a push to reach out to you for an interview. ✅ Proofread before sending it out. Many job applicants don't make a practice of proofreading their application letters, resulting in spelling and grammar mistakes. These may reflect badly on you and cost you the interview. Thus, make sure your job application letter is error-free before it's submitted.Take the guesswork out of resume writing. Our AI resume checker analyzes your resume against industry standards and provides instant feedback.Get AI Feedback--- Originally written by May Luong --

Whensending an email with your resume, it's advised to attach a cover letter, which can provide hiring managers with additional details about your skills, achievements, and how you can contribute to their company's success. Since most employers use cover letters to evaluate job applicants before proceeding with the hiring process, knowing the purpose of a cover letter and how to write one can significantly increase your chances of getting an interview. In this article, we will share with you what a cover letter is, along with some examples and tips on how to write a compelling one. TABLE OF CONTENT: What is a Cover Letter? Why is a Cover Letter Important? How to Write a Cover Letter? Dos Don'ts When Writing a Cover Letter Cover Letter Format Cover Letter Examples for Different Professions Cover letter example for Software Engineers Cover letter example for Designers Cover letter example for Marketing Cover letter example for Consultants Cover letter example for Internship Cover letter example for Career Change What is a Cover Letter?A cover letter, as its name implies, is a document attached to your resume and provides additional information about the relevant skills and experiences for the job you're applying for. A cover letter is usually required when you apply for jobs, which is why it is also known as a "job application letter." A cover letter doesn't need to be long; it typically consists of three to four brief paragraphs. While not all job require a cover letter, it's good practice to submit one. This extra effort not only demonstrates your commitment to the job but also sets you apart from other applicants. You can also utilize cover letters for application, networking, prospecting, etc. Why is a Cover Letter Important?Although some people think a cover letter is unimportant, a well-written one can be a powerful tool to catch recruiters' eyes and spark their interest. In addition to your resume or CV, a cover letter allows the recipient (often your potential employer or hiring manager) to understand better who you are and how you can contribute to their company. A strong cover letter can set you apart from other candidates and significantly increase your chances of landing the job. To help you craft a compelling cover letter, we have provided tips, dos and don'ts, and successful cover letter samples and templates.Cover Letter Writing Tutorial How to Write a Cover Letter (Job Application Letter)? After knowing the importance of cover letters, the next step is to write one. What is the structure of a cover letter? There is a general format for cover letters, but note that it should be adjusted accordingly for different mediums and scenarios. Typically, a cover letter should not be more than 1-page long (the average time for hiring managers to read one resume is less than 20 seconds!), and within this 1 page, you should include the following 5 parts: contact information, greeting, hook, body, closing. Let’s dig into each of them!Contact Information In this part, you should include your full name, email address, mobile number, and address (not necessary). You can also add links of your professional personal websites like LinkedIn, Cake, Medium, if you have been building personal brand on them.📖 Further reading:Why Every Professional Should Have A Personal Website GreetingTo make a great first impression on the hiring manager, it's important to greet them by their name. You can easily find this information by searching the company's website or LinkedIn page. Remember, starting on the right foot is crucial to success!Motivation In this part, you will elaborate on why you are applying for this job. At the same time, it is an excellent chance to show how deeply you understand the company and its product and how much you admire the value the company brings to society!Qualification Here comes the highlight, the main body of your cover letter! Let’s be clear, this part is all about promoting yourself! That’s what you are going to do: Be clear about what qualities and skills are required for the job you are applying for.List all your past experiences and achievements related to the job requirements.Pick the top few accomplishments that can make you stand out from the competition to put in your cover letter. Note that you should avoid job-description writing. By quantifying your performance by numbers statistics, it would be clearer for your employer how much value you can bring to the company! Closing Hang in there; this is the last part of your cover letter! The primary intention of closing is to thank the hiring manager for spending time reading your cover letter; also, mention if there is any resume,portfolio, or relevant certificate attached. Remember to sign your full name at the end of the letter! Ta-da! Congratulations that you have finished your cover letter! 📙 Further reading:What to Include in a Portfolio Resume? 3 Tips to Build a Professional Portfolio for Interview Dos Don’ts of Writing a Cover Letter To ensure the best possible outcome, it is important to review the following dos and don'ts before sending your cover letter. Dos: Do customize your cover letter for different jobs, companies, and industries. Do use keywords of specific skills or qualifications so that employers can spot you more easily. Do explain and quantify how you can bring value and contribution to the company. Do perform research on the company and job that you are applying for. Do double-check and modify your cover letter every time before sending it out. Don’ts: Don’t make your cover letter too long. Don’t use description writing while mentioning your experience. Don’t use a template without making your cover letter more personal interesting. Don’t repeat everything on your resume, but choose some special one to elaborate on. Don’t speak ill of your former employers colleagues. Cover Letter Format for Job Application Confused about the format of cover letters for different purposes situations? Here's how to format cover letters for finding jobs, internships, or even career changes! Contact Information Full name, email address, mobile number, addressLinks of professional personal websites (e.g. LinkedIn, Cake, Medium) Greeting Greet the hiring manager/employer by his/her name Briefly introduce yourself and state your purpose of reaching out State how you found this job opportunity (e.g. job-search website, company’s website, friends’ recommendation, and etc.) Motivation State your reasons motivation of applying for the job Show your insight of the company and job positionShow your insight of the company and job position Qualification Specify your experience accomplishments that are most related to the job position Elaborate how you can bring value to the company supported by your past achievement mentioned previously Closing Briefly show your gratitude to the hiring manager and your expectation to interview Mention if there is any document attached (e.g. resume, portfolio, relevant certificate, and etc.) Use valediction (e.g. Sincerely, Yours, Best,) before signing your full name at the end of the letter Don’t worry if you are still struggling with writing a compelling cover letter, there are some successful cover letter examples from different industries for you! Software engineers, designers, marketing, consultant, you can find all free cover letter templates here that suit your industries! Cover Letter Examples for Job ApplicationCover letter example for Software Engineers Cover letter example for Software Engineers📕 Further reading:Software Engineer Resume : Do's Don'ts of a Perfect Engineering Resume Cover letter example for Designers Cover letter example for Designer Cover letter example for Marketing Cover letter example for Marketing Cover letter example for Consultants Cover letter example for Consultant Cover letter example for Internship Cover letter for Internship Cover letter example for Career Changers Cover letter example for Career Changers📚 Further reading:Considering a Career Change? Here Are 3 Tips to a Successful Job SwitchFind this blog helpful?Follow us for more useful tips on how to write a professional resume, interview tips, and job search guideline!If you're looking for a reliable and efficient tool to create a professional-looking resume, Cake is definitely the way to go. With its user-friendly interface and extensive features, it's the bestonline resume builderout there. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out in your career, Cake makes it easy to showcase your skills and experience in a way that will impress potential employers. So why wait? Try Cake today and see the difference for yourself!

Created by CakeResumeIn this article, we’ll cover: Why Are Scholarship Cover Letters Important?Scholarship Application FormatScholarship Cover Letter TemplateScholarship Application Letter SamplesTips on How to Write a Letter for a Scholarship ApplicationWhen students apply for scholarships, the admission team does not simply approve the request without further investigation of the applicant. Getting to know if the applicant is self-motivated, goal-oriented, and worth investing in is a basic routine before granting them a scholarship. A resume is generally a basic requirement when applying for a scholarship, but many great applicants with outstanding performance and experience apply for the scholarship, making the decision hard to make. This is where a scholarship cover letter comes into play. A scholarship cover letter will give the applicants a chance to introduce themselves beyond their experiences, and help the reviewers not miss out on students who truly deserve the grant.Why Are Scholarship Cover Letters Important?Never underestimate what a well-written scholarship cover letter can do for you. Your scholarship application letter plays a major role in convincing the scholarship grantor why you are the best candidate for the scholarship. 1. It allows you to appeal with a more personal touch. As you can only include limited information on your scholarship application resume, a scholarship cover letter is where you personalize the information with your style and show your personality in your sentences. A scholarship letter is a place where you can show your motivation before you can meet the interviewer. 2. Scholarship committees want to hear your story. A resume may show your experience but it could not tell the full story. When auditing information, scholarship committees appreciate it when you can tell some personal stories other than your accomplishments, which you can write in your scholarship cover letter. 3. You can show your passion through your scholarship application letter. An application letter for a scholarship helps you show your passion for the degree that you are applying to. By letting the committees know your passion for your academics, they can easily understand your future goals and determine if their scholarships will be of help. Scholarship Application FormatThe purpose of a cover letter for a job and a scholarship cover letter is different. One aims for an interview opportunity and the other aims for a scholarship. Here’s the format that you should follow that makes up a winning scholarship application letter: 1. Letter header Before starting any paragraphs, you should begin by stating your information, the date when you wrote the letter, and the receiver’s information. The sender’s information consists of your phone number, email, and mailing address. The receiver’s information consists of the organization’s name, address, and phone number. 2. Proper salutation Your next step is to greet the scholarship cover letter receiver, who is always in a more senior position than you. The best way to do it is by including “Dear”, then addressing the name of the committee with a Mr. or Ms. 3. Opening letter Now is the time to get into your paragraphs of the scholarship cover letter. In this paragraph, you should make a brief introduction of yourself including your experience. Then, tell the committees where and how you got the information about the scholarship and why you are interested in it.📍Reminder:If you are applying for scholarships from different organizations, remember to tailor your scholarship cover letter to each organization. 4. Body paragraph(s) After finishing your opening statement, you will get into the body paragraph where scholarship committees focus most. In this paragraph, you will have to tell them why you deserve the scholarship to stand out from other scholarship letters. Make good use of activities as references to share your experience, accomplishments, and awards to impress the scholarship committees.Helpful tips for writing your scholarship cover letter’s body paragraphs:If you have specific events or points that you want to focus on, you can use bullet points to make them stand out.Write according to the organization’s requirements and avoid oversharing information that does not help in the scholarship application. 5. Closing paragraph Your scholarship cover letter does not end after stating all that precious information. You will need a closing statement to finish the letter. The way to close the letter is to finalize everything by restating your need for the scholarship, showing appreciation to the committees, and including a call-to-action to invite them to review your resume and contact you. 6. Sign-offs In the end, use a respectful tone with a formal sign-off by using “Sincerely” or “Best regards” to show that you are worth investing in. Scholarship Cover Letter TemplateHere’s a scholarship application letter template for you to follow: [Your Name][Your mailing address][Your email address][Your phone number] [Date] [Scholarship organization name][Organization address][Organization phone number] Dear [Mr./Ms. Recipient’s name], My name is [your name] and I am currently a/an [educational background/major] student, pursuing my [degree] degree at [school/institution]. I will be starting my [the academic program you are applying for] in [school name]. I came across this scholarship program through [the platform’s/website’s name where you found the scholarship] and I believe that I am a great fit for the program. During my high school academic years, I maintained excellent academic performance with a GPA of [your GPA] while taking on various internships/freelance work/part-time jobs at [company/institution]. These experiences opened my eyes to the world of [field/industry of interest] and has made me grow a dream to pursue this as a career in the future. [Talk about your upbringing and values, and how it aligns with the program’s/institution’s values].[Talk about your goals for the future and what changes/impact you want to make] [Talk about how the program’s objectives can help you achieve this goal]. I would be honored to be considered for the [scholarship organization name]. Thank you for your time and consideration. [Best Regards/Regards/Sincerely],[Your signature] Scholarship Application Letter SamplesScholarship application letter sample (high school student)Email for scholarship applicationUniversity scholarship application letterSample scholarship application letter for master’s degreeDo not worry if you have no idea how to write one because here are some scholarship application letter samples that you can refer to. 🔖 Scholarship application letter sample (high school student) Patrick Mason75139 Helen Trace, Port Marcellus Mouth[email protected]202-555-0118 June 3rd, 2022 The Rotary Foundation14280 Collections Center Drive, Chicago, IL 606931-866-976-8270 Dear Mr. Williams, My name is Patrick Mason and I am a high school graduate from Marcellus High School. I will start my freshman year in the Data Analytics program in 2023 at the University of Portsmouth. I came across this scholarship program through my teachers’ recommendation and after some research, I have decided to seek financial aid from The Rotary Foundation. During my high school academic years, I excelled in my academic performance with an average of 87.6 and worked part-time as an intern at the high school’s administration department. Throughout the years, I have developed significant communication skills when facing students and visitors in need. I am confident to say that I am now a patient learner who also works hard for my future goals. I came from a small town that has suffered from pollution and hygiene issues with the environment. Hence, I want to use the knowledge that I will learn from the University of Portsmouth to solve these issues by analyzing big data and finding possible solutions to avoid causing more harm to the environment. Furthermore, I hope to use these abilities to help prevent the earth from suffering more from global warming. As you are aware, university tuition fees are very costly and I know that I will be needing loans to support my college education. I am sure that I will be taking part-time jobs to earn some monthly allowance but I believe that your scholarship support, would greatly cover some of these fees and allow me to focus on my studies. I would be grateful to be considered as a recipient of The Rotary Foundation’s scholarship. Thank you for your time and I look forward to hearing from you soon. Best Regards,Patrick Mason 🔖 Email for scholarship application Scholarship Application Letterby Calvin Ray Dear Scholarship Committee Ms. Brown, My name is Sarah Johanson and I am currently an undergraduate student at Middlebury Institute of International Studies, pursuing my studies in International Education Management. I was looking for scholarship programs through MIIS’ website and I found this program that helps students who need financial aid. I believe this would be the perfect opportunity for me to advance my goal using the help to build up my reputation in teaching, then join the education management team of a university. During my years at MIIS, I have maintained a GPA of 3.8 and have excelled in all of my classes. I am currently working part-time at a preschool education center named Joyous Planet. I learned various precious skills such as interpersonal communication, teamwork, and lesson planning skills that gave me an idea of the type of education style that I want to approach. Joyous Planet had a yearly volunteer mission to teach in remote areas in Asia. I was lucky to be given the opportunity to contribute my skills and time to these missions every year, and it has been nothing but a rewarding and eye-opening experience for me. Through this experience, I came to know that there were thousands of children who had no chance of getting an education, which limits their future development. This inspired and motivated me to put more effort into my studies and work to help these children to have the chance of receiving the privilege I had. I would truly appreciate the opportunity to meet with the committee and share about my passion and future plans on how I would like to contribute to education in developing countries. Thank you very much for taking the time to read my application. Sincerely,Calvin [email protected] 🔖 University scholarship application letter Tristan Wu99352 Richland, Washington[email protected]202-555-0145 June 3rd, 2022 Amazon440 Terry Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109, United States855-539-0461 Dear Mr. Wilson, My name is Tristan Wu and I am pursuing my bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering at the University of Washington in the upcoming academic year. I came across this scholarship program through Amazon’s career choice website and I believe my goal to be part of Amazon in the future and my hard work will make me the best candidate for your scholarship. In my high school years, I was given the chance to visit Amazon’s headquarters in Seattle. I came across one of the manufacturing processes regarding how hardware reliability engineers ensure the sold products work under different conditions and satisfy customers’ needs when using the product. This experience left a deep impression on me and lit a passion to pursue the goal of working at Amazon once I graduate. I aim to study mechanical engineering at the University of Washington to learn skills and gain experience in the field to work for Amazon in the future. This scholarship would grant me access to learning from experts in the field and get a chance to put my knowledge to good use in the future. I welcome you to arrange a meeting to discuss my qualifications and how my goals align with Amazon’s. Please take your time to review my resume and I look forward to hearing from you soon. Thank you. Regards,Tristan Wu 🔖 Sample scholarship application letter for master’s degree Samantha Wilson85621 San Francisco[email protected]202-555-0101 June 3rd, 2022 San Francisco Bay UniversityFremont, CA 94539, USA510-803-7328 Dear Miss. Parker, Having a year of experience in the computer science field and a bachelor’s degree in computer science, I am currently pursuing my master’s degree at San Francisco Bay University. My name is Samantha Wilson and I am a positive, self-motivated, and innovative person who loves to learn new knowledge. I researched and found out that SFBU is providing scholarships to Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS) program graduates. During my time in the field, my team and I developed an application together. The application is named Green Bin, allowing users to find the nearest recycle spot so that they can recycle waste instead of throwing all trash into the general bin. This was invented to inspire and provide convenience to the community to care more about the environment. I have been working as a software developer at The Silver Logic for a year and I believe there is more that I can learn from SFBU. I hope to continue my studies, to be inspired continuously, and to give back to the environment by putting my knowledge and skills into effective use. In this application, I have also attached my curriculum vitae for your review. I believe that the skills I have gained through my experiences make me the perfect candidate for this scholarship. I would also be honored to be allowed an opportunity for a meeting with you to further discuss my candidacy. Please feel free to reach out to me at any time should you have any other inquiries. Thank you for your time and I look forward to hearing from you soon. Sincerely,Samantha Wilson Tips on How to Write a Letter for a Scholarship ApplicationAfter reading those scholarship cover letter examples, you might have an idea of how to create one. You will not want to miss out on these tips that can help you when writing one. ✅ Only include information that is relevant to why you deserve the scholarship. You might have many things you want to share with the scholarship committees, but never forget that they have limited time to review your application letter for a scholarship. Only including relevant information will not distract the committees’ attention to other parts that might not leave a good impression.Take a look at this paragraph:“I have an excellent academic performance with an overall score of 80.5. Hence, I always spent time celebrating with my family after receiving my report cards. It is always a pleasure to be at the top of the class.” Try to put yourself in the reviewer’s shoes and imagine if you read that in an applicant’s letter. Not a very good impression, is it? ✅ Use a clear structure. When writing a cover letter for a scholarship application, you should always follow the formal structure of a letter. Having paragraphs and information all over the letter will show your unprofessionalism to the committees.Here’s the structure that you should follow when writing your scholarship cover letter:Headline (sender and receiver’s information, date)Salutation/GreetingIntroductionBody paragraph(s)Closing paragraph (CTA)Sign-off To ensure you have a clear structure that allows the committees to understand your statements easily, use transition words like: Then,In contrast,NextHenceTherefore, ✅ Engage the readers with clear and easy-to-understand language. You might think that using complicated phrases and vocabulary can grab the attention of scholarship committees but it can also make it difficult for them to understand the story you are trying to tell. Hence, using easy-to-understand language is important when writing the scholarship cover letter. ✅ Personalize each scholarship to cover letters. Different scholarship organizations have different requirements for applicants. Using the same scholarship request letter is not recommended because you might not be able to meet the requirements of different organizations. The best way to do it is to write according to the scholarship organization’s requirements to fulfill your needs. ✅ Spend more time on self-introduction. The first thing that committees evaluate is your self-introduction. Therefore, do not summarize your introduction. The main information that they want to know firsthand should be in the introduction. You may also use an interesting hook to grab their attention to continue reading the scholarship request letter.🔑 Key TakeawaysThat’s all the information that you should know when writing yours. Here are some things to keep in mind: Share your story in the scholarship request letter and keep it related to your academic or goal.Tailor your scholarship cover letter into different versions if applying for scholarships from multiple organizations.Only include relevant information in your scholarship cover letter and avoid oversharing information.Follow the scholarship cover letter structure if you do not remember which information comes first. Transform your resume from good to great. Our intelligent resume analyzer spots improvement opportunities you might have missed.Improve My Resume--- Originally written by Ryan Goh ---

The average annual salary for a software engineer in the US is over $100,000 per year (according to Indeed). That's nearly double the national average, a fact that is both impressive and reflective of the tough work that software engineers do. In addition to being well-versed in a plethora of programming languages, software engineers and developers have to be self-motivated, oftentimes collaborative, and whizz with technology. They have to be comfortable: Adapting to new technologies and tools to ensure software functionality and reliability;Reviewing code and creating software solutions; andCommunicating effectively to completed projects on time and to a high quality. They need to be able to demonstrate these skills on their software engineer resumes. Are you not sure how to do that? From entry level software engineer resumes to junior and senior software engineers, this article will cover how to write an amazing software engineer resume, including how to list essential engineering skills (including vital soft skills) within and outside your work experience. We'll also share 5 software engineer resume examples you can use as templates for whatever your software engineering needs.Table of Contents: What Do Software Engineers Do? How to Write a Software Engineer Resume Tips for Writing a Software Engineer Resume 5 Software Engineer Resume Examples Conclusion What Do Software Engineers Do? But first, what do software engineers do? And what's the difference between a software engineer and a software developer? Better yet, what's the difference between a software engineer resume and a software developer resume? Let's start nice and easy with a revelation: software engineers are not the same as software developers. But they're very similar. Software engineers cover the broader aspects of software development, focusing on design, system integration, testing, scalability, and maintenance. Software developers, on the other hand, focuses on creation, like writing, debugging, and testing code for software programs and applications. In short, the focus is much more narrow, which of course has to be specified and reflected in your software engineer OR software developer resume.How to Write a Software Engineer Resume A resume profile is made up of a resume header, resume summary, and a resume objective, as well as your personal information (name, email address, and location, at the very minimum). When writing a resume header for a software engineer, applicants need to focus on the most essential information they want a hiring manager to know. Here are some examples of software engineer resume headers, depending on the specialization:Software engineer resume header #1Entry Level Software EngineerSoftware engineer resume header #2Certified AWS Software Developer With 5 Years ExperienceSoftware engineer resume header #3Motivated Junior Software Developer Next, we're discussing how to write a resume summary for a software engineer. This is a short paragraph that summarizes your background and the key points of your resume, often showcasing your main achievements and skills. Aside from the resume header, the resume summary is the first thing hiring managers read when they come upon your software engineering resume so it's important that it's as attention-grabbing as possible. Let's look at some examples: Examples of resume summary for software engineers:Software engineer resume summary #1Certified developer with a strong foundation in software development and a passion for creating Android applications. Proficient in Java, Kotlin, Python, and C++, with a proven track record in applying problem solving skills to improve user engagement and retention. Software engineer resume summary #2Motivated and resourceful Software Engineer Intern with a passion for coding, programming, and creating powerful software solutions. Possesses a detailed understanding of HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and C+++. Software engineer resume summary #1Experienced junior software engineer with over 5 years of experience delivering innovative software solutions to achieve software dominance. Proven track record in cross-functional collaboration, implementing APIs and optimizing data structures.Lastly, we've got the resume objective. For interns, freshers, and entry-level applicants, this is a key part of your software engineer resume that draws attention to your strengths and motivations for applying. It can be omitted for experienced professionals, like junior and senior software engineers. Software engineer resume objective #1I am excited to grow my technical skills in a remote internship.Software engineer resume objective #2Seeking an entry-level software developer position to leverage technical background.Software engineer resume objective #3Eager to apply creative problem-solving skills to exceed targets in a challenging software engineering role.How to Discuss Your Work ExperienceWhether you're an entry-level software engineer, a junior software engineer a senior software engineer, and any of the variations in between, the work experience section is your most important section on a software engineer resume. That's because it's your chance to show hiring managers exactly what skills and achievements you have that make you a stellar candidate. In the case of software engineering, this section requires an obvious need to focus on technical skills, even for software engineering managers, as well as communication, self-motivation, adaptability, and time management. These skills can be demonstrated through a variety of different work or academic experiences, such as personal projects (especially successful software projects), relevant coursework, and internship experience at tech companies - essentially anything that can prove your technical expertise. So, how can you include all these skills while making your resume read well? For starters, you can follow this guide: Take keywords from the job description. The first step to properly discuss your work experience is to take keywords from the job description and input them into the description of your work or academic experience(s). This may seem like copying to the untrained eye, but it's actually one of the best ways to ensure that your software engineer resume gets noticed. Recruiters are looking for candidates who match the JD (job description); what better way to make yourself the perfect match than by integrating the ideal skills? That said, remember to only include skills that you actually possess and that are mentioned in the JD.Add numbers. Don't forget to add figures to quantify your achievements, as this gives extra evidence of your skills. However, it's not the end of the world if you can't find out how much was increased or reduced by your actions; there are plenty of other ways to include numbers in this section. You may also wish to consider addressing the specific number of projects completed, the degree of accuracy, or the super-high rating from feedback surveys. These are other easy ways to quantify your results.Use action words to describe experiences. Resumes are all about touting what you did, not what was done to you. Ensure you appear confident and professional by writing in an active voice and using active verbs.Here are 20 sample resume action words you can use in your software engineer resume: ManagedLedOptimizedCollaboratedDeveloped CreatedIntegratedTestedConductedDesigned EngineeredEnsuredMaintainedProvidedProgrammed ConfiguredImplementedModifiedTroubleshootEnhanced Now let's check out these resume examples:Software engineer work experience example #1Software Developer, ABCTech, US March 2018 - Present-Implemented automated testing protocols that reduced testing time by 30% during internship and detected 95% of bugs in final software releases. Junior Software Developer, Facebook, UK Sept. 2020 - Present-Collaborated with senior engineers to design new features for Facebook using Java, contributing to a 30% increase in user engagement and satisfaction on feedback surveys. Final Course Project: WeatherApp (2020)-Developed an Android application that provided Columbia students with real-time weather updates using Kotlin and Retrofit, achieving over 1,000 downloads and a 4.5 average of customer satisfaction. How to List Your Education Degree programs that get your foot in the door for software engineering positions include Computer Science, Software Engineering, Maths, and (Electrical) Engineering, however having a degree is not always compulsory for these positions. That's because hiring managers are often more interested in what you can actually do and have done - not what a piece of paper says. It's therefore in your best interests, for university students and graduates, to mention relevant coursework in your education section, especially if you're an intern, fresher, or entry level software engineer applicant. More experienced applicants can omit this but should always include their place of study, duration of study, and degree achieved (i.e. Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD). Below are a few examples showing how to list your education on a software engineer resume. BSc Engineering, University of Roehampton, UK Oct. 2015 - July 2018 B.S. Computer Science, University of California Berkeley, CA Sept. 2018 - June 2022MSc Software Engineering, University of College London, UK Oct. 2022 - July 2023What Key Software Engineer Skills to Add Whether you're an intern or software engineering manager, you need an extensive array of technical skills to propel you in the industry. And it really goes without saying that the focus needs to be on programming languages. You should also consider addressing your soft skills. While they may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of the word 'Engineering', soft skills can be just as important as technical skills, especially when it comes to managerial positions. Think communication skills (verbal and oral), time management, project management, self-motivation, and collaboration as your 6 key skills to mention. Hard SkillsOperating SystemsFront-end Development (e.g. Bootstrap, AngularJS)Software Testing and Quality Assurance (QA)Coding and Programming Languages (e.g. Python, C, C++, Java, Go, PHP, Swift, Kotlin, Ruby)Integration TestingUser Experience (UX) DesignSoftware Development Methodologies (e.g. Scrum/Agile Methodologies)TroubleshootingMachine LearningAlgorithmsData StructuresOOP (Object-Oriented Programming)Web Development (e.g. Javascript, HTML/CSS, React)Cloud Computing (e.g. Amazon Web Services, Azure, Google Cloud, Jenkins, Prometheus)Operating Systems (e.g. Windows, Linux, macOS, Android)Database Management (e.g. SQL, Oracle)Git/GithubCommunication Tools (e.g. Zoom, Asana, Slack)Soft SkillsCommunication SkillsInterpersonal CommunicationProblem Solving SkillsCustomer ServiceTeamworkLeadershipCollaborationAdaptabilityCritical ThinkingProject ManagementTime ManagementMentoringSelf-MotivationResilienceAnalysisCreativityOrganizationAttention to Detail 💡 PRO TIP: You shouldn't list every single skill known to (wo)man on your software engineer resume; only list the skills you possess AND the ones that correspond to the job description.How to List Your Certifications Although we've established that a degree isn't an entirely necessary part of the application - at least in the case of software developers - your software engineer resume or software developer resume will be more impressive if you've got evidence of skills, like with a certification. While we won't list all the certifications available, here are a few ideas on relevant certifications and how to list them in your resume: Professional Software Developer Certification, IEEE Computer Society (March 2023)AWS Certified Developer, Amazon Web Services (Feb 2024)Associate Android Developer Certification, Google (Jan 2020) Should You Add an Additional Section? If your software developer resume is looking a little bare, spruce it up with an additional section that discusses your hobbies, awards, or extracurricular activities. While there is still an obvious technical focus for software engineering resumes, these sections can help hiring managers know the real you by delving into your interests and passions. It's also a big tick in your favor if you happen to spend your free time participating in hackathons and coding challenges, or volunteering as a coding coach. Tips for Writing a Software Engineer Resume1) Beat ATS by using Cake's resume builder. ATS, or Applicant Tracking Systems, searches for keywords in applications. While they're a considerable asset to HR departments with their powerful tracking skills, they can be a pain for applicants who use online resume templates, as ATS don't recognise columns, graphics, tables, and images. Thankfully, if you're using Cake's resume templates, you don't have to worry, as all of Cake's templates are ATS-compliant and will help you beat the bot. Taking keywords from the job description and adding them to your software engineer resume is also a sure-fire way to ensure your resume passes the test. 2) Attach a Cake Portfolio. Don't just leave it to chance that the hiring managers may like the sound of your resume - show them what you can do! Demonstrate the skills and achievements mentioned in your work experience with a tailored portfolio built with Cake that showcases your knowledge of programming languages, plus how these programming skills have created epic projects with epic results. 💡 PRO TIP: Whether your projects are personal or academic, make sure to share previous work that highlights your skills in the best possible way. Use the right resume format. As you'll see later with the resume examples, there are different resume formats to choose from and the best format for a software engineer resume may not be the one you think. Where interns, freshers, and entry-level software engineers are encouraged to use the skills-based resume format (also known as functional format), experienced software engineers are instead recommended to utilize the (reverse) chronological resume format. This is a great choice for software engineers that can demonstrate career progression and consistent work experience. Don't forget your cover letter. The cover letter is an often overlooked part of applications, even though it can be the dealbreaker for hiring managers reviewing software engineer resumes. While the resume provides an important snapshot into you and your experiences, the cover letter explains how all of that will benefit the position. In other words, a software engineer cover letter offers valuable insights into your personal style, motivation, and suitability for the role.5 Software Engineer Resume Examples Curious what a good software engineer resume looks like? Look no further than these 5 resume examples, which can substitute as a software engineer resume template for your application. Software Engineer Intern Resume Example Martha Win |Motivated Software Engineer [email protected] | +55 555-555 | California, US | cakeresume.portfolio Motivated and resourceful Software Engineer Intern with a passion for coding, programming, and creating powerful software solutions. Possesses a detailed understanding of 5 programming languages: HTML, CSS, Java, Python, and C++. Excited to grow technical skills in a remote internship.SKILLS Programming Built a predictive model using Python, focusing on data preprocessing and model training, improving prediction accuracy by 18%. Built user-friendly interface for a web application that was developed using HTML, CSS, and Java to help users track and manage finances. Designed an embedded system to automate home appliances using C++ and Python, testing code quality and reliability that resulted in a 27% improvement in efficiency. Communication Presented 10 projects to classmates with clear visuals and verbal communication.Collaborated with classmates to improve user experience, increase software usability that led to a 10% increase in team productivity. PROJECTS Academic Projects: Personal Budget Tracker, Smart Home Automation System, UC Berkely (2022 - Present) EDUCATION B.S. Computer Science, University of California Berkeley, CA Sept. 2022 - June 2026Relevant coursework: Data Structures Algorithms; Software Engineering; Operating Systems; Embedded Systems Fresher Software Engineer Resume ExampleJackie Jackson - Fresher Software Engineer Enthusiastic graduate of B.S. Engineering from NCCU, eager to leverage proficiency in programming to real-world applications. Demonstrated ability in software testing, project management, and optimizing operating systems. [email protected] | +8869123456 | Taiwan SKILLS Programing Implemented automated testing protocols that reduced testing time by 30% during internship and detected 95% of bugs in final software releases.Developed scripts in Python for data parsing and analysis.Proficient in Java for backend development and SQL for database management. Time management Managed multiple projects simultaneously, consistently meeting deadlines.Completed 2 online courses in cybersecurity and machine learning alongside degree program.Strategically managed progress on development of a mobile application project, organizing meetings across teams with developers and marketers to deliver the app within a 3-month timeframe. WORK EXPERIENCE Software Engineer Intern, NCCU, Taiwan EDUCATION B.S. Engineering, NCCU, Taiwan (Feb 2020 - Feb 2024) Relevant Coursework: Mobile Application Development, Database Systems, Software Engineering, UI Design Entry Level Software Developer Resume ExampleJohn Desmond -Certified Android [email protected] | London, UK Certified developer with a strong foundation in software development and a passion for creating Android applications. Proficient in Java, Kotlin, Python, and C++, with a proven track record in applying problem solving skills to improve user engagement and retention. Seeking an entry level software developer position to leverage technical background. SKILLS OPERATING SYSTEMS Developed an Android application that provided local residents with real-time weather updates using Kotlin and Retrofit, achieving over 1,000 downloads and a 4.5 average of customer satisfaction.Built an Android e-commerce app using Java, implementing user authentication, product listing, and payment processing that increased user retention by 35% with improved UX design. ADAPTABILITY Easily transitioned between different programming languages and technologies to resolve compatibility issues and optimize software performance across Windows and macOs.Debugged and optimized Android application ensuring 98% functionality across 5 Android OS versions and device configurations. PROJECTS Personal Project: WeatherApp, E-commerce App CERTIFICATION Associate Android Developer Certification, Google (Jan 2020) Junior Software Engineer Resume Example WINNIELINLE |Junior Software Engineer With 5 Years Experience Experienced junior software engineer with over 5 years of experience delivering innovative software solutions to achieve software dominance. Proven track record in cross-functional collaboration, implementing APIs and optimizing data structures. Eager to apply creative problem solving skills to exceed targets in a challenging software engineering role. WORK EXPERIENCE Junior Software Engineer, IBM UK (Remote)Nov. 2019 - Present Developed creative software solutions for MinutePlus, a CRM platform, increasing user adoption by 20% over 6 months.Collaborated with senior engineers to integrate new payment gateway into MinutePlus, reducing transaction processing errors by 10%.Contributed to the implementation of APIs using Node.js, contributing to a 15% reduction in API response times. Software Engineer Intern, IBM UK (Remote)Sept. 2018 - Sept. 2019 Assisted in developing a machine learning module for sentiment analysis, improving accuracy through optimization of data preprocessing techniques.Led troubleshooting and debugging efforts, resolving technical issues within SLA timeframes 95% of the time. EDUCATION BSc Engineering, University of Roehampton, UKOct. 2015 - July 2018 SKILLS Creative Problem SolvingCollaborationTime ManagementData Structures AlgorithmsMachine LearningTroubleshooting Senior Software Developer Resume Example WINNIELINLE |Junior Software Engineer With 5 Years Experience Experienced junior software engineer with over 5 years of experience delivering innovative software solutions to achieve software dominance. Proven track record in cross-functional collaboration, implementing APIs and optimizing data structures. Eager to apply creative problem solving skills to exceed targets in a challenging software engineering role. WORK EXPERIENCE Junior Software Engineer, IBM UK (Remote) - Nov. 2019 - Present Developed creative software solutions for MinutePlus, a CRM platform, increasing user adoption by 20% over 6 months.Collaborated with senior engineers to integrate new payment gateway into MinutePlus, reducing transaction processing errors by 10%.Contributed to the implementation of APIs using Node.js, contributing to a 15% reduction in API response times. Software Engineer Intern, IBM UK (Remote) - Sept. 2018 - Sept. 2019 Assisted in developing a machine learning module for sentiment analysis, improving accuracy through optimization of data preprocessing techniques.Led troubleshooting and debugging efforts, resolving technical issues within SLA timeframes 95% of the time. EDUCATION BSc Engineering, University of Roehampton, UKOct. 2015 - July 2018 SKILLS Creative Problem SolvingCollaborationTime ManagementData Structures AlgorithmsMachine LearningTroubleshooting Conclusion In this article, we've shown how to describe a software engineer on a resume by highlighting what technical skills and work experience are essential for applications to a software engineer position. We've covered how the essentials in technical and soft skills (like programming languages and adaptability) play significant roles in your application, plus how to make your software engineer resume pop by taking keywords - like the mentioned skills! - from the JD and putting them into your application. Remember, whether you're a fresher or an experienced junior software engineer, you can always use this handy trip. We've even gone the extra mile and provided you with 5 stellar software developer resume examples that you can use as templates. If that wasn't enough, Cake has an overflowing boatload of resources on the blog for prospective software engineers, making nailing your entire application process from resume creation to technical interview a piece of cake. With Cake, you can create winning resumes for free with our online resume builder and also search for software engineer jobs around the globe. Try it out now!— Originally written by Eva O'Mara —

Created by CakeResumeHowever, the major difference between a cover letter and an application letter lies in the content. A cover letter, which is usually submitted along with a resume, focuses on expressing your interest in the position. An application letter meanwhile can replace a resume and a cover letter and briefly describes your education and work history.Job search jargon can be confusing sometimes, especially when there are terms that sound alike but mean differently. Yes, we're talking about a cover letter vs. an application letter. They serve the same purpose – introducing yourself, demonstrating your qualifications for the job opening, and convincing the employer to call you for an interview.Read on to learn more about: When to Use an Application Letter vs. Cover LetterCover Letter vs. Application Letter - ContentCover Letter vs Application Letter - Pros ConsTips for Writing a Strong Application Letter When to Use an Application Letter vs. Cover LetterSince an application letter and cover letter are two different documents, they should also differ in terms of usage. As we all already know and understand, a cover letter is used to accompany a resume when applying for a job vacancy.Then, what about application letters?Below we will discuss the 5 different situations that tell whether you should use an application letter or a cover letter.💡 When there is no job postingIf the job isn't being advertised, you can consider sending out an application letter or a letter of interest. These two documents work well when you want to express your confidence and desire to work at that company in the future. That being said, a letter of interest is another different document, just like how an application letter is different from a cover letter. Application letters highlight your skills, strengths, and previous work experiences in detail, along with your interest in the specific position you are writing about. 💡 When you’re applying for academic programs or scholarshipsIn such situations, a longer-form letter like an application letter or an academic CV is more preferred compared to a resume and cover letter. The reason is that school advisors expect to see the details of your personal growth in terms of both education and employment. Therefore, they can decide whether you would be an excellent candidate to be granted the opportunity. 💡 When you’re applying for internshipsAs a student looking for internships, you might not have a lot of work experience to describe in your resume. For that reason, an application letter will be able to do the job of both a resume and a cover letter. Also, the potential employer would like to dig deep into your educational background as well as personal traits and strengths, not just hear about your passion. That's why an application letter is preferable to a cover letter or a motivation letter. 💡 When you’re applying for a job openingA cover letter is generally sent along with your resume for a job application. It is considered as a supporting document that helps provide additional information besides what is written in your resume. Though it’s optional to include a cover letter in your job application, you should need one to express yourself further in a more personal way. 💡 When you have a lot to write in your resumeYou have plenty of work experience and have achieved many accomplishments in the field, so a 2-page resume is not enough. If so, you should describe those work experiences and accomplishments that don’t fit in your resume in a cover letter.Remember, do not repeat the same information on your resume in your cover letter. What if you are a recent graduate and have limited professional experience? A cover letter will then help you demonstrate your passion and motivation to apply for the job opening. You can also impress the hiring manager by stating your career goals. Cover Letter vs. Application Letter - ContentIn this paragraph, we're going to show you the difference between a cover letter vs. a letter of application in terms of their format and structure.1. Cover Letter vs. Application Letter - HeaderBasically, the header of a motivation letter vs. an application letter follows the format of business letters, which includes your contact information, the date when the letter is written, the recipient's address, and contact information.Example:Moon TranLa Mesa, CA, 91941[email protected](+310)-442-1549 April 10, 2022Davis PullmanMarketing ManagerIVY Media1836 La Mesa Blvd, La Mesa, CA 91942 2. Cover Letter vs. Application Letter - SalutationThe salutation in a letter is a greeting to the people who can make a decision on hiring you or offering you the scholarship. In general, they could be the hiring manager, the employer, or the Head of the Department where the vacancy is from.For any kind of formal letter, including a letter of interest, application letter, and cover letter, you should write a proper salutation like these: If you already know the recipient's name: Hello / Dear [Name]If you already know the recipient's gender: Dear Mr. / Ms. + [Name]If you only know the team or department: Dear Hiring Manager / Dear The Head of [Department] 💡 Pro Tip: You might be wondering, what about “To Whom It May Concern”? Believe it or not, this salutation is now considered outdated and overused. Read more on why you should consider not using “To Whom It May Concern” as your cover letter salutation. 3. Cover Letter vs. Application Letter - Opening paragraphHere's what to include in the opening paragraph of your cover letter:Your nameThe position you're applying forThe purpose of the letterA brief statement of your qualificationsExample of the introduction in a cover letter: “My name is Kaylee Sands, a TESOL-certified teacher currently seeking a teaching position at Dream School. I believe that my 8 years experience in teaching English and my strong communication skills make me the right fit for this role.”On the other hand, application letters have a more extensive introduction through which the employer can grasp more in-depth information about the candidate’s skills and qualities. You need to cover the following elements in the opening paragraph of your application letter: Your nameThe purpose of the letterA brief overview of your skills, experience, and goalsExample of the introduction in an application letter: “My name is Flavien Louis, an undergraduate student majoring in Marketing at Academy of Journalism and Communication. I am writing to express my desire to participate in the Unilever Future Leaders Program. I have a strong passion for exploring customer behaviors and developing Marketing plans to help the company maximize the profit. Previously, I have worked part-time at an advertising agency for one year where I have obtained much knowledge, experience, and skills in this field. I know UFLP would be the perfect opportunity for me to advance my goal of becoming a Digital Marketing specialist.” 4. Cover Letter vs. Application Letter - Body paragraph(s)In terms of the body paragraph, a cover letter aims to express your motivation and explain why you think you're qualified for the job opening. Thus, you will need to draw strong connections between your qualifications and the job requirements, and avoid repeating the information that is already mentioned in your resume.Example of the body paragraph in a cover letter: “During my 10 years of experience as an HR Specialist, I have engaged in a variety of industries such as EdTech, fashion, and tourism. My major job responsibilities include employee recruitment and retention, staff development, employee benefits, and HR records management. I’m detail-oriented and able to deal with complicated issues by leveraging organizational management as well as problem-solving skills. In the most recent position at PledgCam, I have implemented the very first corporate-wide program to foster employee engagement, having achieved 100% employee participation. Regarding my educational background, I hold a Bachelor’s degree in HRM and an MBA in Organization Development, both from Western State University.” Meanwhile, an application letter provides a brief description of your educational background, employment history, and accomplishments in the field. The information needs to be listed chronologically so the employer can see your personal development. That makes a job application and a cover letter different.Example of the body paragraph in an application letter: “In 2010, I graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Communications and an MBA from the University of Texas after studying for 6 years.My first job was a Sales Representative at Genex Engineering, where I was responsible for selling hardware and software for Asia-based customers while obtaining orders from existing or potential sales outlets. I hit and exceeded sales KPIs by 25% for 3 months in a row in 2018.After that, I advanced my career as a Sales Specialist at Ragic. My main job responsibilities include developing and implementing sales strategy, searching for potential clients, managing the retention of existing clients, and negotiating the contract of sales. My biggest achievement is receiving the 2020 and 2021 Sales Eminence Award for annual sales volumes over 115% of the goal.” 5. Cover Letter vs. Application Letter - Closing paragraphHow to write a cover letter vs a job application’s closing paragraph is similar. You will need to include the following information:Restate your interest in the role/program.Include a call to action inviting the hiring manager to reach out to you.Express your gratitude for their time and consideration. Example: “As a big fan of BAS Glow for many years, I hope that I can become a part of the Business Analysis Development team. I am confident that the experiences and skills I’ve obtained in 5 years of working have prepared me for this position. I would appreciate your time and consideration for a further discussion.Thank you and please kindly let me know if you have any questions." 6. Cover Letter vs. Application Letter - Sign-offThere’s no difference in the sign-offs of a cover letter vs a letter of application. Just simply end your letter with a formal closing, followed by your signature, like these: Sincerely,Best regards,With gratitude, 💡 Pro Tip: Avoid sign offs that are too personal and casual like: With love, Lots of love, XOXO, See you. 7. Cover Letter vs. Application Letter - AttachmentsIn general, you’re required to include a resume with your cover letter. You can also submit other supporting documents such as certificates and a portfolio.However, application letters don't contain any other attachments since they're considered a standalone document and you’ve already disclosed your explanations in the body of the letter.Still, to make sure you don't miss any requirements, read the job posting carefully. 8. Cover Letter vs. Application Letter - LengthA cover letter is typically half to one page long with 250-400 words. An application letter can typically be longer than a cover letter and can be one to 2 pages long. Cover Letter vs. Application Letter - Pros ConsWondering which type of letter you should use for your application? Below we've listed some pros and cons of using a cover letter vs. an application letter.Pros Cons of a Cover LetterPros:Entices the employer to read your resume.Shows your personal traits.Better explains what you contribute to the company as a candidate for the specific position.Provides additional information that's not mentioned in your resume.If it is an optional requirement, it shows that you're willing to take extra time to prepare a document that's not required.Cons:If not well-written, it would reflect poorly on your application.Some employers may not read cover letters if it's not a requirement for the application.Need to conduct a time-consuming research of the company and position in order to write a tailored cover letter.Need extra time and effort to prepare.Risk of repeating information already mentioned in the CV.Pros Cons of an Application LetterPros:Doesn’t consume much time and effort to design and format it.When well-written, it tells a compelling story about yourself.Works well when you want to describe in-depth academic experience.Makes you stand out from the crowd as many candidates don't submit an application letter if not required.No strict requirement for the length.Cons:Lacks personal touch and room for creativity compared to a well-designed resume.Some hiring managers prefer a resume or CV.May be out of date for some jobs or industries.Can only be used in very limited circumstances in a job search.Not suitable for those with limited work experience or educational achievements.Tips for Writing a Strong Application Letter✅ Rephrase your resume content in your application letter.As mentioned earlier, you shouldn't repeat what is already written in the resume. If you want to highlight any important details such as your previous job tasks and significant contribution, keep in mind to rephrase them.✅ Highlight notable achievements.You should not only show your accomplishments but also quantify them. That way, you can better prove yourself to the hiring manager and show that you can add more value to the company.✅ Start each paragraph by highlighting the content.This allows the employer to have a clear picture of what you're going to say within each paragraph. Just follow the guide on how to write a cover letter vs. job application mentioned above and you'll be able to give a clear, well-thought-out self-description.✅ Be brief and use descriptive words.Descriptive words allow you to provide specific information without writing a lot. Hence, consider using this kind of words will make your application letter more concise and impressive.📚 Further reading:300+ Resume Adjectives How to Use Them (Guide Examples)✅ Stuff facts and details in the application letter.Honesty is especially important when it comes to job and academic applications. Any false or ambiguous information may make you look bad and break your chances of landing the job interview. Including details about your experience will increase credibility and also help the readers gain a better understanding of your qualifications.Get recruiter-ready in minutes. Our AI resume checker reviews your resume for common pitfalls and suggests targeted improvements.Get Recruiter-Ready --- Originally written by May Luong ---