.png)
Whether you’re currently a student or thinking of becoming one soon, there are some requirements you may be expected to meet.
When applying to college, it’s essential that potential students understand how to create a college application cover letter as some institutions demand one. Thus, if you are seeking postsecondary education, having some knowledge about the topic is crucial.
In this article, we explain what a cover letter is, list the steps for writing one for college applications and provide some templates.
Let’s dive right in!
What is a Cover Letter?
A cover letter is a document that introduces you and your qualifications to a potential employer or, in this case, the institution you’re interested in applying to.
It is useful because it can help you stand out from other candidates and make a good, impactful first impression.
Why Is a Cover Letter Useful?
Admissions officers or job recruiters will have the chance to become acquainted with you on a deeper level through your cover letter so make sure to properly introduce yourself and guide them through your personal background, interests and qualities.
Remember, this is your chance to show a personal side of yourself and express all the reasons why accepting your application or hiring you is a clever decision.
What Is Needed to Write a Good Cover Letter?
To write a good cover letter, you will need to highlight your skills and experience that are relevant to the institution you are applying for. In addition, you will want to make sure that your cover letter is well-written and free of any grammar or punctuation errors. A good cover letter should be concise and to the point, and should include an explanation of why you’re interested in the position/school you’re applying for.
The Best Language to Use In a Cover Letter
Make sure to use a strong, impactful language when you’re writing your cover letter. Avoid using weak or passive language. Instead of writing “I think I would be a good candidate for this program”, try using a language that demonstrates confidence in your abilities: “I am confident I can excel in your top-level institution”
How to Prove that You’re a Good Fit
When writing a cover letter for a college application it’s important you keep in mind that it should be different from what you would usually write for a job application.
What to Include in Your Cover Letter If You Lack Experience
If you’re a student, you might not have much experience to showcase yet, that’s why you should grab the opportunity to express interest and emphasize your enthusiasm about being potentially admitted to the institution you’re applying to.
If you want to stand out from other applicants (and there will be many of them), you need to come up with a presentation that showcases your unique characteristics and make clear why you are among the most suitable candidates looking to get into the selected collegiate program.
Don’t Leave Anything Out
Focus on communicating your strengths and values but don’t shy away from admitting your weaknesses and, most importantly, the kind of work you put in to overcome them.
If you have any, include some information about your qualifications, the goals you have achieved and the challenges you have dealt with.
Get Feedback
Ask someone you trust and whose opinion you value, to check what you have written. A second set of eyes can help identify any areas that may need improvement. Additionally, asking for feedback shows that you are willing to take constructive criticism and use it to improve your application materials.
4 Steps to Write a Cover Letter for College Applications
Now it’s finally time to look in more detail at what you should focus on to successfully write an appealing cover letter for a college application.
Make Sure to Incorporate All the Right Elements
Ideally, a cover letter should be around three or four paragraphs long (240 to 400 words) and you have to pay attention not to exceed one page in length.
The elements all cover letters should always include are:
- Date and contact information
- Greeting
- Introduction
- Body paragraph
- Closing paragraph
- Letter ending and signature
Include the Head of Admission's Name, the College Name and the College Address
Right below the date is where you should write the first and last name of the head of admissions. On the next line, include the name of the college followed by the street address, city, state and zip code.
Come Up with an Respectful Greeting
Open your cover letter with a formal greeting such as “Dear”, “To the attention of” or “To Whom it May Concern” (in case you’re sending your cover letter to a general office). Follow your greeting with Mr. or Ms. and the last name of the admissions officer, then add a comma.
Explain in More Detail why You Have Picked Them
This is where you get to explain the reason for your cover letter. In this specific case, it would be to request admission to the institution you’re applying for: make sure to name the college and communicate your authentic interest in a particular program or course they offer. Find out more about the institution by looking up its history, then underline what this school in particular offers as opposed to other colleges.
Dedicate one or two paragraphs to your academic and professional career goals and why you believe this specific institution can help you achieve them: dwell on the offered training/resources you appreciate the most and express why you believe attending the school would give you the best chance of securing a successful career in your chosen profession.
Consider Asking AI for a Little Help
If you’ve never considered letting an AI tool help you write a convincing cover letter, this is the perfect time to change your mind: such tools are ideal to make your work easier, faster and, why not, sometimes even spark some inspiration.
You can use TextCortex to expand your paragraphs, change the tone of any text and paraphrase what you have already written to make sure you have more options. We have designed our tool to understand you and your writing needs: it actively presents options on how to make your content more authentic without ever saving on quality.
Cover Letter Templates for College Applications
Template 1
[Your first name] [your last name]
[Your street address]
[City], [state] [zip code]
[Date]
[First and last name of the head of admissions]
[College name]
[College address]
[City], [state] [zip code]
Dear [Mr. or Ms.] [last name of the head of admissions],
This letter is a formal request for admission to [name of college or university].
I am a recent high school graduate and I am interested in studying [subject area] in [degree program] with the hope of obtaining a [job title] after graduation. I have always enjoyed [activity] and am confident that I would excel in [major program] at [college name]. I am passionate about [topic] and believe that I would be an asset to your [college name] community.
I am enclosing my transcripts, test scores, and letters of recommendation. I would be happy to answer any questions you may have about my qualifications.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your first name] [your last name]
Template 2
[Your first name] [your last name]
[Your street address]
[City], [state] [zip code]
[Date]
[First and last name of the head of admissions]
[College name]
[College address]
[City], [state] [zip code]
Dear [Mr. or Ms.] [last name of the head of admissions],
As a long-time follower of your college and its fantastic [major] program, I would be most honored if you would accept my application for the [season] semester.
Over the past few years, I've researched many colleges that offer a [degree] in [program], but have ultimately chosen [institution] because of [reasons].
The opportunity to join your top-level institution and become part of its alumni is one of my greatest goals. I am confident that my education in [subject area] and [work/volunteer experience] make me a valuable asset and an ideal candidate for admission into the program. My educational experience has given me the opportunity to [experience this] and face the challenges that come with [field].
I am currently looking to begin my [type of studies], with a goal of completing the [program] at [institution]. Upon graduation, I wish to become [job title] to [career goals]. I believe the [college name] can provide me with the best education and opportunity to pursue my objectives.
All required documentation and my application form are enclosed. If any further questions arise, I will be happy to provide you with more details.
Thank you for your time and consideration concerning my application.
Sincerely,
[Your first name] [your last name]
Template 3
[Your first name] [your last name]
[Your street address]
[City], [state] [zip code]
[Date]
[First and last name of the head of admissions]
[College name]
[College address]
[City], [state] [zip code]
Dear [Mr. or Ms.] [last name of the head of admissions],
I am writing to apply to [college name].
I have been a student at [high school name] for the past four years and I am very excited to continue my education at the collegiate level.
[college name] has always been my top choice for several reasons. First and foremost, the school has an excellent academic reputation. I have always been a very good student and I know that I will be able to thrive in the challenging environment of your institution.
My education has allowed me to have first-hand experience with the field I am interested in and the challenges that come with it: [examples].
I am currently looking to begin my studies in [field] in order to complete a program that will allow me to pursue my goal of becoming a [job title]. I believe that [college name] can provide me with the best education and opportunity to reach my objectives.
I am a motivated individual who learns fast and is passionate about my field of interest. I wish to enhance my potential and contribute to the advancement of [field].
I am always looking for new opportunities to learn and grow, and I believe that by continuously expanding my knowledge and skills, I can make a significant difference in your renowned institution.
I am grateful for the opportunity to apply to be a part of your student body and I will work diligently to uphold the standards of your school. If admitted, I pledge to be a respectful and contributing member of the community and I promise to take advantage of all that your school has to offer and make the most of my time here.
I have included all of the required documentation and my application form. If you have any further questions, I would be happy to provide additional information.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your first name] [your last name]
%20(6).png)
%20(5).png)
