How To
How to write a cover letter
Make the case for why you fit the role — and why you want it — in a single, tailored page.
2 guides from 2 universities.
Key takeaways
A strong cover letter is short, specific, and tailored. The universities below agree on the essentials.
- 1.Answer both halves — why you fit the role, and why you want this specific organization.
- 2.Tailor and research — address a named person; reference the company's actual work.
- 3.Keep it to one page, factual, and free of flowery language.
- 4.Use concrete examples that connect the job's requirements to your credentials.
- 5.Make it match your resume in font and tone — they're a set.
Key idea
A cover letter answers two questions: Why do I want you? and why do you want me? Keep it brief, specific, and genuinely enthusiastic.
Structure & sections
- Why you want me — make the case that you fit the role: relevant skills, relevant experience, and demonstrated passion for the sector. Bullet the highlights (no more than four) for fast reading.
- Why I want you — say clearly what draws you to this specific company and role. Show you’ve done your homework on its products, customers, and recent news, and let real enthusiasm come through.
Do's
- Tailor the letter to each audience and highlight what’s most relevant to them.
- Keep it concise — a cover letter is a writing sample, so make it clean.