how to write an email cover letter for internship

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

Published: May 31, 2024

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

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

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

Table of Contents

How to Write a Cover Letter for an Internship

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

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

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

Download our cover letter templates …

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

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

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

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

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

Your Address

Your City, State, Zip Code

Cell: 555-555-5555

Email: [email protected]

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

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

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

City, State Zip

3. Address the hiring manager.

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

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

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

5 Free Cover Letter Templates

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

• Standard Cover Letter Template

Entry-Level Cover Letter Template

• Data-Driven Cover Letter Template

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4. Set the context for your application.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. Sell your experience and personalize your cover letter.

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

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

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

You should cover things like:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

8. Proofread, proofread, and proofread.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. Hospitality Internship Cover Letter

Why This Cover Letter Example Works

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

How to Incorporate That Into Your Internship Cover Letter

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

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

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

2. Supply Chain Internship Cover Letter

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

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

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

3. Fashion Design Internship Cover Letter

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

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

4. Finance Internship Cover Letter

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

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

5. Marketing Internship Cover Letter

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

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

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

Standard Internship Cover Letter Template

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

Data-Driven Internship Cover Letter Template

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

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

Wrapping Up Your Internship Cover Letter

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

So, continue reading this article and learn: 

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

Table of Contents

Click on a section to skip

What is a cover letter for an internship?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Absolutely! 

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

Why, you ask? 

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

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

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

And these two are your weapons of choice!

How can a cover letter for an internship help you?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#1 Philips Marketing Intern Cover Letter Sample

Internship cover letter example:.

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

What can you take away?

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

#2 Warner Bros. Public Relations Intern Cover Letter Example

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

#3 University of Massachusetts Boston Intern Cover Letter Example

What can you take away  .

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

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

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

#5 Intern at NBC Cover Letter Sample

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Do I Need a Cover Letter for an Internship?

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to Write a Cover Letter for Internship

#1. respect the format.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This allows you to:

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

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

Dear Mr. Jacobs, 

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

#3. Mention the Right Keywords

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

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

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

How can you find these keywords, you might ask?

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

Then, do the following:

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

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

• Communication
• Ability to meet strict deadlines

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

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

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

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

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

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

#4. Highlight Your Education

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

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

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

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

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

#5. Provide Background For Your Skills

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#7. Describe What You Would Gain Professionally

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

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

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

Here’s how you can do that: 

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

#8. Proofread Your Cover Letter

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

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

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

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

#9. Match Your Cover Letter & Resume Designs

Want your internship application to truly shine?

Match your cover letter design with your resume!

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

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

Cover Letter for Internship Template

Struggling to create a cover letter for your internship?

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

Key Takeaways 

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

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

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

Related Readings: 

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

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How to write an internship cover letter: 7 tips & an example

Learn how to create a cover letter that helps your internship application stand out.

So, you’re ready to find the perfect internship and kickstart your professional career. You’ve researched opportunities, made a list of your dream companies, crafted a great resume, and are about to apply. But what should you upload for the application’s “cover letter” field?

You’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll tell you how to write a great cover letter that will help you stand out from the crowd and get you hired. It’s often the first thing a hiring manager will see when they open your application, so it's important to get it right. After all, first impressions are everything!

Read the internship posting carefully before writing your cover letter. Pay attention to the intern’s primary responsibilities and the desired candidate’s skills and experience. Keep the job posting handy so you can refer to it while writing.

Now that you’re ready to start writing, let’s get into our guide for creating the perfect cover letter for every application on your to-do list.

1. Customize each cover letter

One of the most important intern cover letter tips is to avoid using the same generic letter for all your applications. Recruiters and employers can tell when you didn’t take time to create a unique letter for their specific internship. Instead, open your cover letter by sharing why you’re excited about this particular internship and employer and why you’re a good fit. Include information about the company and the role you’re applying for (pro tip: Use language from the application!).

2. Structure the cover letter’s flow effectively

A well-crafted cover letter should grab the attention of the recruiter or hiring manager and effectively convey key information. Achieve this by structuring your cover letter with an engaging introduction sentence and impactful first paragraph, an informative body paragraph or two, and a strong closing paragraph. It's also important to strike a balance between conveying key information and maintaining a concise and engaging tone throughout your cover letter.

Cover letters shouldn’t be very long — three or four paragraphs are plenty. Keep it short, sweet, and to the point. Now is not the time to be chatty! Save the chit-chat to showcase how friendly and personable you are during the interview.

Hiring managers are busy, and you want to ensure they read your cover letter from start to finish. That’s why it’s key to emphasize only the most important points relevant to the internship you’re applying for while keeping the cover letter as short as possible so it’s easy to read.

3. Include keywords and supporting details

It is common for employers to scan resumes and cover letters for keywords related to the internship. First and foremost, use the company name. Next, incorporate any skills or experiences listed in the job description.

While your resume lists your technical skills and experience, a cover letter should include details about desirable soft skills like time management and communication skills. If you’re mentioning soft skills, provide support. For example, if you want to highlight your leadership skills, detail a time when you led a group project or served as a student group officer.

As you consider which skills and experience to mention in a cover letter, take a look at the ones listed in the application or job posting. Pointing to those shows the hiring manager why you’re the best candidate for that role and demonstrates that you’ve read the job description carefully. Taking the time to review the role strengthens your case as a sincerely engaged and interested applicant.

4. Highlight coursework and extracurriculars

Don’t worry if you don’t have much work experience. Describe relevant coursework and major projects you’ve worked on as a college student that demonstrate your knowledge and skills. You can also add any student group involvement or volunteer opportunities.

These combined experiences show your initiative and help you stand out as a candidate (even if you’ve never been paid to do those things). Just because you didn’t make any money doesn’t mean you didn’t do a great job! You’ll have the chance to demonstrate how well you performed in those roles during the interview, so get ready to discuss the experiences you mention in the cover letter in greater detail.

5. Share what you’d like to accomplish

Cover letters aren’t just for telling employers why they should hire you. They’re also an opportunity to share what you believe you’ll get from the specific position. Whether it’s gaining a new skill or learning more about an industry, share why the role is important to you. This tells the employer that you’re not just trying to satisfy course credits with your internship — you’re also looking for valuable work experience that will kickstart your career. Who knows, maybe they’ll want to hire you as a full-time employee later.

6. Professionally format the cover letter

Your cover letter format is just as important as what’s in it. Aim to keep your cover letter concise and limited to one page. Use a clean and readable font, like Arial or Calibri, with a font size of 10 to 12 points and proper spacing and margins for a professional appearance.

Include a header with your contact information, including your full name, phone number, professional email address, and optionally, your LinkedIn profile or relevant online portfolio. Also, try to find the hiring manager’s name to address the letter. Rather than starting with a salutation like “To Whom It May Concern” or “Dear hiring manager,” try to find the actual name of the person you’re addressing. Lastly, don’t forget to close with a professional sign-off, such as “Sincerely” or “Best.”

Get help with formatting your internship cover letter by downloading our free template . Again, remember to tailor it to the company and internship role you’re applying for!

7. Proofread and ask for feedback

Once your cover letter is ready, carefully read through it and check for spelling, punctuation, grammar mistakes, and typos. Have a friend or family member review it and give feedback. If you have a classmate majoring in English or communications who wouldn’t mind taking a look, even better!

Another option is to reach out to your school’s career center . Schedule an appointment to review your cover letter and resume and ask any other application- or interview-related questions. Your school wants you to succeed in your career, so take advantage of all the tools they have to offer while you’re attending.

Example cover letter

Here’s an internship cover letter example to use as a starting point. Remember to tailor yours to the specific job you’re applying for rather than just copying and pasting this one:

[Your Full Name]

[Your Contact Info (include relevant social media accounts, if applicable)]

[Hiring Manager’s Name]

[Hiring Manager’s Job Title]

[Hiring Manager’s Contact Info]

Dear [hiring manager’s full name],

As a passionate [college/university] student majoring in [relevant field], I am eager to immerse myself in [Company’s Name]’s groundbreaking work in the [relevant industry] through your internship position. I firmly believe my [specific skills or coursework] will allow me to serve as a valuable asset on the [Company Name] team while expanding my knowledge to real-world challenges and harnessing invaluable hands-on experience within the industry.

With a passion for [specific aspect of the industry or role], I am confident in my ability to [relevant job responsibilities or tasks]. During my studies, I have developed a solid foundation in [mention relevant coursework or projects], which has equipped me with the [skills or knowledge] necessary for success in this role. Additionally, my experience as a [relevant internship or extracurricular activity] has allowed me to further refine my [specific skills or abilities].

I am particularly drawn to [Company Name]'s commitment to [mention a value, mission, or specific project]. The opportunity to work alongside a talented and innovative team while contributing to [Company Name]'s growth is truly inspiring. My strong [communication/analytical/technical, etc.] skills, coupled with my dedication and adaptability, make me an ideal fit for the [job title] role.

I welcome the chance to discuss my qualifications and learn more about [Company Name] in an interview. Thank you for considering my application. I have attached my resume for your review. Should you require additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address].

Thank you for your time and consideration.

[Your Name]

Do you need a cover letter for an internship?

While a cover letter isn’t mandatory for all internship applications, we recommend submitting one. A cover letter provides an opportunity to showcase your qualifications, skills, and enthusiasm for the internship position. It allows you to personalize your job application, demonstrate professionalism, and communicate your interest in the role and organization.

A well-written cover letter can significantly enhance your chances of standing out among other candidates and securing the internship. Hiring managers know that job and internship seekers are likely applying to many other opportunities at the same time, so ensure they know their company is one you would especially like to work for.

How do you write an internship cover letter if you have no experience?

If you lack professional experience, you can still present yourself with confidence, highlight your relevant skills and achievements, and convey your eagerness to learn and contribute. Here are some tips for accomplishing this:

• Focus on transferable skills. Highlight relevant transferable skills acquired through coursework, extracurricular activities, part-time jobs, or volunteer work. These skills can include communication, teamwork, problem-solving, organization, research, or leadership skills.
• Emphasize academic achievements. Showcase your academic achievements, such as high grades, honors, or specific coursework relevant to the internship. Discuss how your academic knowledge and skills can apply to the internship role and contribute to the organization.
• Showcase relevant projects or coursework . If you have completed any projects or coursework that align with the internship position, describe them in detail. Highlight the tasks, methodologies, and outcomes to demonstrate your ability to apply your knowledge in a practical setting.
• Leverage extracurricular involvement. Discuss any relevant extracurricular activities or leadership roles you have held. For example, if you were part of a club or organization related to the internship’s field, explain your involvement and how it has developed your skills or provided you with relevant experiences.
• Express eagerness to learn. Emphasize your willingness and enthusiasm to learn and grow in the internship. Highlight your passion for the field and commitment to acquiring new skills and knowledge. Demonstrating a positive attitude and eagerness to learn can compensate for a lack of direct experience.
• Connect with the company's culture , mission, and values. Research the organization and align your cover letter with its mission, values, and projects. Show that you are genuinely interested in their work and how your background and aspirations align with their goals.
• Network and seek recommendations. If possible, reach out to network contacts who may have connections or insights into the internship opportunity. Requesting recommendations or endorsements from professors, advisers, or professionals in the field can bolster your application.

Land your dream internship

The ultimate goal: landing your dream internship (and, later, your dream job!). An effective cover letter can help make that happen. It's your chance to shine, showcasing why you're the perfect fit for the position. A personalized and compelling letter grabs employers’ attention and helps you stand out from the crowd. Remember to be authentic, highlight relevant experiences, and let your passion shine through.

Don't underestimate the impact of a well-crafted cover letter and the opportunities that lie ahead. This is your opportunity to show potential employers your skills and abilities and share some of your background with them before the interview.

Head over to Handshake today to open doors to exciting internship possibilities. Not only can we connect you with the best companies looking for talent just like you, but you can also set up job alerts so you won’t miss that golden opportunity. Happy job searching!

Find the right jobs for you. Get hired.

Related stories, most recent stories.

Internship Cover Letter Examples and Templates for 2024

• Cover Letter Examples

How To Write an Internship Cover Letter

• Cover Letter Text Examples

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

Internship Cover Letter Templates and Examples

• Entry-Level
• Senior-Level

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

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

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

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

January 1, 2024

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

2. Salutation

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

Dear Mr. Brockley:

Dear BigAds Agency Hiring Manager:

3. “Hook” or introduction

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

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

4. Body paragraph(s)

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

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

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

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

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

5. Call to action

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

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

Mackenzie Martin

Internship Cover Letter Tips

1. show you can quickly apply new knowledge.

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

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

2. Highlight your relevant skills and traits

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

Here are three of my achievements to date:

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

3. When in doubt, brainstorm

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

Internship Text-Only Cover Letter Templates and Examples

Dear Ms. Tarentino:

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

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

January 11, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

Gertrude McDaniel

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

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

Dear Ms. Medina:

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

Maria Esperanza

Internship Cover Letter Frequently Asked Questions

Should i tailor my cover letter for each internship -.

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

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

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

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

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

Craft a new cover letter in minutes

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

Jacob Meade

Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW, ACRW)

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

Check Out Related Examples

College Cover Letter Examples and Templates

Internship Resume Examples and Templates

Recent Graduate Cover Letter Examples and Templates

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How to Write a Cover Letter for an Internship (Example)

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How to Write a Cover Letter for an Internship (Example) was originally published on Forage .

Trying to figure out how to write a cover letter for an internship can feel like a paradox. How do you explain your professional experience and skills — when you’re applying for an internship so you can gain professional experience and skills? 

>>MORE: What Is an Internship (and Why Should I Do One)?

It is confusing, but luckily, you can still write a successful cover letter without professional experience. This guide will cover:

What Do Employers Look for in an Internship Cover Letter?

Internship cover letter example, how to write a cover letter for an internship with no experience, how to write a cover letter for an internship: the bottom line.

Because you’re applying for an internship, employers don’t expect you to have years of experience and well-established job skills . 

“Prior work experience is always a plus, but what also matters is anything that provides a sense of the person’s character, commitment, passions and interests, drive, ability to overcome challenges, and willingness to learn,” says J.R. Lowry, founder of PathWise.io, a career coaching company. “As an employer, you can teach skills and provide experience, but we’re looking for intern candidates who will work at it.”

Instead, they’re looking for interns with interest, passion, and soft skills .

Get the gig

Take a free Forage course and you’ll be eligible for complimentary Internship hiring alerts, application support, resume and interview tips, and more.

Interest and Passion

Employers want to know why you’re particularly interested in the specific role at the company and why it excites you.

“Focus your cover letter on who you are, why the company or what you do is meaningful to you, and what YOU can bring to the organization,” says Ayanna E. Jackson, career and leadership consultant. “That requires research. Many times interns focus on ‘I want, I want, I want,’ versus focusing on what they can give to an organization with their ambition and skill. Usually, it’s a confidence issue, but hiring managers know you don’t possess all the skills. They want to know that you want to work there and not just anywhere. Be specific. Be confident.”

Soft Skills

Wendy Reimann, owner and writer at Lighthouse Writing, a writing and editing services company, emphasizes that soft skills are essential in an internship cover letter. Companies are looking for interns who don’t just have technical skills, but also skills like communication and collaboration that will make them valuable to the team.

>>MORE: Top Communication Skills for the Workplace

“Employers are also desperate for employees who demonstrate emotional intelligence alongside standard skills in their fields so that they can positively add to the company culture ,” she says. “Currently, the biggest skills and experiences needed in most industries are the ability to effectively collaborate and communicate across diverse populations, including gender, race, culture, and socio-economic status.”

Jill Knight Boston, MA 123-456-7890 [email protected]

January 10th, 2023

Charles Callahan VP of Product Company Z Boston, MA

Dear Charles, 

I’m writing to share my interest in the UX design internship at Company Z for summer 2023. I’m a current junior studying psychology at X University, and I believe my unique perspectives on user motivation and experience with user research and graphic design make me a great fit for this role.

In my cognitive psychology course, I learned a human-oriented approach to design, specifically from learning about how humans perceive and process information. As a result, I use an empathetic approach to design that aims to make any product intuitive, clear, and simple to use. I applied this approach in my human-computer interaction course, where I completed mock user research and identified three critical areas for design improvement within the sample product. After those improvements, 93% of users reported higher satisfaction with the product.

Outside of my academic work, I’ve worked independently on graphic design projects for various organizations on campus, using Figma to draft website designs and InDesign for print work. I’ve become the go-to person for designing for theater and music organizations on campus and work collaboratively with directors to produce a design they love. This is why I’m particularly passionate about interning for Company Z — I’m excited to bring my love for designing for arts organizations to Company Z’s innovative music product. 

My coursework in psychology and passion for arts graphic design give me a human-oriented, empathetic, and creative approach to UX design. This approach is not only in-line with Company Z’s mission but would also be an asset in an internship and help the company reach young audiences in new, creative ways. Please let me know if you need anything else from me to move forward in the process. I’ve attached my resume and portfolio and look forward to hearing next steps. Thank you for your consideration.

Best, Jill Knight

Where do you start if you don’t know how to write a cover letter for an internship without experience? Jill, from our example, doesn’t have any professional work experience, but she still writes a convincing cover letter that shows off her skills and passion. So, if you’re like Jill, here’s how to write your internship cover letter.

>>MORE: Should you use ChatGPT to write your cover letter ? Learn what the chatbot gets right (and wrong).

Start With a Header and Greeting

Every cover letter starts with a similar type of header. You write your information at the top, then include the hiring manager’s or company’s information (depending on whether you know who the hiring manager is). 

You don’t need to give your full address in the cover letter; however, even if you’re applying for a remote position, you can just include your city. This will give the recruiter or hiring manager an idea of where you’re located — and help them understand your time zone, whether you’re near one of the company’s offices, or if you qualify for relocation assistance.

Make sure you’re addressing the right person at the top of the letter. This should be the hiring manager for the role. If you don’t know who the hiring manager is, you can get savvy with your search:

• If the role was posted on LinkedIn , look for a “meet the hiring team” section underneath the job description.
• If the job description shares who interns report to, search on LinkedIn for people with that title who work at the company.

If you still can’t find the name, that’s okay — instead, address your letter to whatever team you’re applying for. For example, Jill could have addressed her letter to the product team.

Introduce Yourself

The first paragraph of a cover letter should summarize who you are and why you’re uniquely excited to apply for the role.

If you’re a student or recent graduate, you can include your major (if you’ve declared one), class year, and university. You can also include any other key information about your work. In this example, Jill mentioned she has experience with graphic design. 

Explain Your Experience

You don’t need professional experience to write a cover letter, especially for an internship. You can include:

• Academic experience: Courses you’ve taken that apply to the role, skills you’ve learned, and projects you’ve worked on
• Extracurricular activities: Clubs you’re a part of (or lead!), events you’ve led, projects you’ve worked on
• Volunteer experience: Places you’ve volunteered or community service projects you’ve done
• Personal projects: Independent work you’ve done, even if it’s not formally published or part of a formal project. (Make sure to include an online portfolio so the team can see it!)

“Highlight any clubs, events, or activities that you’ve helped plan,” Jackson says. “Think church, community, school clubs, sororities, fraternities or volunteer experiences. What role did you play? What did you accomplish? Who did it help? How many? How much? I’ve told my interns to think about why they are interested in that particular company or function and hone in on good storytelling. The WHY behind what they want to do is sometimes more important than having direct experience in that space.”

Emphasize Your Skills

When explaining what experiences you’ve worked on, be sure to call out any relevant skills you have. You don’t need to say outright, “I have communication skills” or “I have programming skills .” Instead, infuse these skills naturally into your descriptions.

For example, Jill mentions her hard skills when she says she uses Figma and InDesign, two applications that are relevant to the internship she’s applying for. However, she also mentions a soft skill, collaboration, when describing who she’s designed for. 

Your final paragraph of the cover letter should summarize everything you’ve discussed and show why you’re right for the role. 

You don’t need to parrot back precisely what you mentioned in the first paragraph. Instead, drive home why you’re the best fit. You can include your top experience highlights and say how that aligns with the company’s mission or an initiative you’ve researched. In Jill’s letter, she references the company’s mission and adds that her work could benefit the company by helping them reach a target audience.

“Frame your desire for the role in a way that showcases you’ve done your research on the organization: know a bit about their products, services, recent mergers, or customers and tie your genuine interests to that,” Jackson says.

Ask for Next Steps

End the cover letter with gratitude and a call to action. The reader should know you appreciate their time and understand what next steps you’d like them to take. Like Jill, you can ask them to let you know what else they need from you. You could also ask them when you should expect to hear back from them or tell them you’re looking forward to the next steps.

Finally, include a professional sign-off and your full name.

>>MORE : Unsure what sign-off to use? Learn eight sign-offs to use and six to avoid with How to End an Email Professionally (With Examples) .

Writing a cover letter for an internship when you don’t have any professional experience can be daunting, but employers aren’t looking for experienced interns with advanced skills. Instead, your cover letter can discuss any academic, extracurricular, volunteer, or independent work you’ve done and highlight key hard and soft skills the employer mentions in the job description. 

“Even if you haven’t had a ‘real job’ before, you likely have some relevant experience — what you’ve studied in school, school or other groups you’re involved in, any leadership roles you’ve played in those, sports team you’ve been on, things you’re interested in outside of school that might be relevant, etc.,” Lowry says. “Focus on what’s made you good at those things and what you learned from them.”

In the midst of internship applications? Check out our other internship guides:

• How to Find Internships That’ll Jumpstart Your Career
• Ultimate Guide to Internship Application Deadlines and Open Dates
• How to Apply for an Internship
• How to Ask for an Internship (Email Examples)
• How Long Does an Internship Last?

Image credit: Vlada Karpovich / Pexels

The post How to Write a Cover Letter for an Internship (Example) appeared first on Forage .

Asking for an Internship via Email? Use Our Steps, Examples, and Template

As a college student (and TBH as a human at any phase of their career), it can often feel like everyone around you has everything all figured out. And when you start hearing from your peers about the internships they’ve secured, that feeling only gets worse—especially if you’re still searching for an opportunity of your own.

There’s still time. As a career advisor who’s worked with many students going through the internship search process, I promise that not everyone has it nearly as together as you may think, and it’s possible that the only things standing between you and a great internship are a few well-crafted emails. (The same is true for non-students looking for an internship!)

While job boards and online postings can be useful leads, networking is key. Reaching out directly to a recruiter or to people you know can make all the difference in your internship search. Whether you’ve been searching for a while and haven’t had any luck securing interviews or just want to be proactive, take the time to write a personal note to a professor you’d like to work with or an alum of your school who’s currently employed by your dream company. It can really set you apart.

Sending an email to ask for an internship might seem intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be! In general, people are very open to giving advice and helping out when they can. Not sure where to start? Follow these easy steps for reaching out and check out our template and example emails for different situations.

Read More: 40 Templates to Help You Handle Your Toughest Work Emails

How to write an email asking for an internship

Regardless of what kind of internship you’re after or who you’re asking about it, you can follow these directions for writing your email.

1. Do your research.

First, start brainstorming who you might want to reach out to about internship opportunities and keep a running list. Is there a specific company whose work you’re interested in? Use online tools like LinkedIn and your school’s alumni directory to find connections at your top companies. Are there any professors whose work you particularly admire? Does a family friend work for a company you’d be interested in interning for? Add their names to your list.

2. Decide who you’ll contact, why, and in what order.

Once you’ve mapped out everyone you might want to reach out to, be sure to prioritize and plan out what order you’ll reach out to people in. Use your level of interest in the opportunity or organization and level of comfort connecting with the person as two guiding factors.

As you’re making and refining your list, make sure you know why each person is on it. You’ll want to craft a personalized message every time and have a specific goal for each note. For example, are you looking to land a particular internship or is this more of an exploratory email to see what might be available at a certain company? If you start thinking about these questions early on, you’ll be ready to go when the time comes to sit down and write your emails.

3. Start your emails with a professional greeting.

Always use an appropriate salutation when reaching out to someone via email. It’s one of the first things the recipient will see and, let’s face it, first impressions matter.

• If you’re emailing a recruiter or someone who you’ve never met, it’s a safe bet to start with “Dear Mr./Ms./etc. [Last Name].” Just make sure to do your research so you avoid using the wrong honorific or pronoun. If you can’t tell which you should use for sure, try “Dear [First Name] [Last Name].” Using a full name is always better than misgendering someone.
• If you have reason to believe they’d be happy with less formality (e.g., if they work at a startup with a casual culture), you can go with “Dear [First Name].”
• In the case of a professor, write out “Dear Professor/Prof. [Last Name].”
• If you feel more comfortable with the person—if they’re a family friend or mentor, for example—it’s acceptable to start your email with, “Hi [First Name].”

4. Be mindful of your tone.

If you’re cold emailing a recruiter or professor you’ve never spoken to before, it’s better to err on the formal side. When emailing a family friend, it’s OK to follow the lead of your past conversations and be a bit more casual than you’d be with a stranger.

5. Introduce yourself and reference your connection up front.

Be clear about why you’re messaging right in your opening lines by saying who you are (if necessary) and highlighting how you’re connected to this person. Are they an alum of your college? Is this a family friend that you saw at a get-together last month? If you’re emailing a professor, make sure you reference either the classes you’ve taken with them or a way in which you connect to their work. Even when reaching out to a recruiter, mention how you heard about the company or if another connection referred you (just make sure that connection is comfortable with you using their name).

6. Be specific about why you want this internship.

Show the person you’re emailing that you’ve done your homework and aren’t simply mass emailing about internship opportunities. So highlight what excites you most about this internship role, research project, or company.

If you’re applying to a specific internship, it’s pretty straightforward: Just make sure you reference certain aspects of the role that you find interesting and exciting.

At times, however, you may be emailing without a specific internship in mind. Maybe the organization doesn’t have a formal internship program, but you’d love to have a chance to be involved with a particular team or project. That’s OK, too! But explain why you’re interested in working with that company or department and be specific. This is essentially your way of asking for an internship to be created, and people are much more likely to want to help you do that if you come off as genuinely enthusiastic.

When reaching out to a professor about research opportunities or possible lab work, mention how their work aligns with your academic interests and long-term goals as well as what you’ve already done that sets you up to contribute to their project.

7. Make a direct request.

Don’t be vague or forget to make a clear ask. The more specific you are, the easier it will be for the person on the other end to understand what you’re looking for and act on your request. Are you asking to meet up and hear more about the organization they work for or for them to put you in touch with the hiring manager? Are you interested in one specific internship posting or hoping to see if an internship could be created? If you’re emailing about a specific internship, include either the reference number or a link to the posting in your note. In any case, you want the reader to know what it is that you hope will happen next, whether it’s a phone call, an email introduction, or a meeting.

8. Keep your internship email short.

Show that you appreciate people’s time by getting to the point ASAP. Introduce yourself, highlight your interest, insert your ask, and propose a next step quickly and concisely. People often want to help, but they’re also busy—so they’re far more likely to respond if your email is succinct and it’s easy for them to do what you’re asking.

9. Attach an updated resume.

Make sure you attach your most up-to-date resume —which should be tailored specifically to the role or company you’re emailing about or the type of internship you’re looking for. In some cases you might also choose to attach your cover letter —if, for example, if you’ve applied to a specific posting separately and want to include your letter as an FYI.

It’s impossible to fit all of your credentials into this one short email, so take the opportunity to further demonstrate your interest and qualifications. If these documents align well with the role you’re interested in, you’re much more likely to get some kind of positive and productive response.

An email template that’ll make asking for an internship way less stressful

Want more guidance? You can use this template to help you write your internship emails. Just don’t forget to tailor it as needed for each situation. For example, you probably don’t need to introduce yourself to a close family friend or tell a professor you’ve had which school you go to.

[Dear/Hello/Hi] [Name],

My name is [Your Name] and I’m a [year] at [school] in [major/concentration/program]. [Another sentence or two highlighting what you’re interested in and how you’re connected to the recipient.] I’m currently looking for a [season/semester] internship.

I’m reaching out because [I’m extremely interested in this internship opportunity/I saw that your organization is hiring interns/I was wondering if you had any availability for an undergraduate researcher/any other request you’re making.] [Another concise sentence or two adding details to your request, sharing your availability or qualifications, or making an alternate, smaller request.]

I’ve attached my resume [for your review/for reference/in case it’s helpful to you]. Please let me know if you have any questions! Thank you so much for your time.

[Your Name]

Example emails asking for an internship

Still hesitant? Take a look at these sample emails for inspiration as you start to draft—no matter who you’re emailing

Internship request email example for an alum of your school

Reaching out to an alum can be a great strategy during your internship search. If you’ve noticed an alum working for a company you’re interested in, you might think about sending them a note like this.

Subject line: MIT undergrad – materials science internship

Dear Mr. Cho,

My name is Jane and I’m a junior at MIT studying mechanical engineering. I recently started my summer internship search and discovered that the Bosch Group is currently hiring for a summer engineering intern in your department. I saw on LinkedIn that you work for Bosch’s materials science group, and noticed that not only are you an alum of the mechanical engineering department, but like me, you were also a member of the MIT Robotics Team.

I wanted to be sure to reach out as I am extremely interested in this internship opportunity and would love to hear more about your experience working at Bosch and any advice you might have about the hiring process. Do you have any availability for a quick call next week? I know you’re busy and would really appreciate any time you have. I have also attached my resume and the cover letter I submitted with my online application in case it’s helpful. 

Jane Walker

Internship request email example for a professor

If you’re emailing a professor about a potential research experience, use the sample below to guide you through your draft.

Subject line: Summer research

Dear Professor Jones,

My name is Jane, and I’m a junior studying mechanical engineering. I am very interested in biotechnology and am fascinated by your medical device research in particular. Currently, I am taking several related classes, including medical device design and a microcontroller lab class.

I am wondering if you have any availability in your lab for an undergraduate researcher over the summer. I would love the opportunity to commit 20-25 hours a week toward a research project in your lab. I noticed your work is currently focused on continuous glucose monitoring—a topic I’m deeply interested in (and knowledgeable about) due to my Type 1 diabetes.

Do you have any availability to discuss possible opportunities? I am happy to attend your office hours on January 9 if that is most convenient. Additionally, I am free on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1 to 4:30 p.m. In the meantime, I’ve attached my resume for your review. Thank you so much for your time.

Internship request email example for a recruiter

When emailing a recruiter, it’s important to reference a specific open role and/or to talk about why you’re interested in the work a company—or better yet, a specific department or team—is doing. A note like this one would be a great start.

Subject line: Summer engineering internship application for Medtronic

Dear Ms. Hernandez,

My name is Jane and I am a junior studying mechanical engineering at MIT. I was thrilled to see a summer engineering internship opportunity advertised with Medtronic (posting ID #7648) because I have a deep interest in engineering and medical device design, and am particularly fascinated by Medtronic’s work on patient engagement.

I’ve applied for this role online, but am attaching my cover letter and resume here for your review. I believe my microprocessor coding skills and machine shop experience from my previous internship would be a good fit for this position and hope to have the opportunity to discuss with you in more detail how I could help support Medtronic’s patient engagement initiative this summer.

Internship request email example for a family friend

When emailing a family friend it’s OK to be a bit more casual, especially if you’ve met and been on good terms in the past. The sample below is one way you could reach out to someone in your personal network.

Subject line: Looking for a summer internship

I hope all is well! It was great to catch up with you at the Chatterjees’ Christmas party last week. I’m reaching out because I’m currently in the process of searching for a summer internship, and I remembered from our conversation that you’re a product designer with Medtronic.

As you know, I’m finishing up my junior year, and would really love to spend my summer as an engineering intern with Medtronic. I’m wondering if you have any time next week to meet for coffee and chat about opportunities at the company. Additionally, if there’s anyone else you think I should connect with, I would appreciate any introductions you could make.

I’ve attached my resume for reference. Please let me know if you have any questions or if there’s anything else I can send you that might be helpful. I really appreciate any guidance you can offer and hope to see you soon.

Don’t be afraid to follow up!

Once you’ve sent your emails, be sure to give your contacts some time before following up. Waiting can be stressful, but remember that everyone is busy, and they may just need a few days to get to your note. If it’s been a week or so and you haven’t heard, you can follow up with a friendly reminder.

Here’s an example of what this could look like:

I hope this message finds you well! Just wanted to be sure to follow up on my previous email. I am very interested in working with Medtronics and would love the opportunity to speak with you regarding the engineering intern position. I appreciate your time and hope to have the chance to speak with you soon.

You might feel awkward and nervous about sending these types of emails, but it’s worth trying to reach out anyway. Keep in mind that even if an email doesn’t directly result in an internship, each connection you make is still a valuable opportunity to network and learn about potential career paths and internship possibilities. And you never know, someone you connect with now might remember you a few years down the line when another great opportunity comes up.

Regina Borsellino also contributed writing, reporting, and/or advice to this article.

21 February 2024

Writing an Internship Cover Letter (with Examples)

You’ve found the perfect internship and own a CV that belongs right next to the Mona Lisa. Now it’s time to get your cover letter together…but how do you go about writing one for an internship ?

Writing an internship cover letter is pretty much an essential life skill. Once you’ve written one, it’ll become second nature.

In this guide, we run you through all you need to know.

What is an internship cover letter?

How to write a cover letter for an internship, internship cover letter example, internship cover letter do’s and don’ts.

Put simply, an internship cover letter is a formal letter that outlines who you are, why you are interested in the role and why you’re a smashing candidate. 

A cover letter for an internship should urge an employer to read your CV and seriously consider your application. And, when you’re likely applying as one of many applicants, it should help you stand out.

This doesn’t mean doing anything crazy, like making all the text bold and pink. But it does mean (humbly) boasting about your attributes and skills.

Read on for the how…

Here is a step-by-step guide to putting together an internship cover letter. Think of it like an IKEA manual without confusing diagrams and Allen keys. (Unfortunately.)

Firstly, make sure to tailor your cover letter for each internship application you make.

Set up a document in business letter format. There’s a template for this in Word. But you can also find what you need on Google.

Then…begin to write.

STEP 1: The opening

The opening address in a cover letter is remarkably important. It’s like the first flight of an albatross chick.

If it takes to the wind, it’ll soar off the beach and into the sky to a life of internships and career opportunities. If it falls and lands in the ocean, it’ll get wet and almost immediately be ripped apart by tiger sharks.

If you address your cover letter to the wrong person. Or to nobody at all, tiger sharks will be the least of your problems. So try and avoid Dear Sir/Madam or To whom it may concern ​.

Dear Full Name, e.g. Dear John Smith , Dear Mr/Ms Surname, e.g. Dear Mr/Ms Smith. Always write Ms instead of Miss/Mrs. Don’t presume marital status. 

Finding the recruiter’s name is not always easy. If you’re struggling via LinkedIn, you have some other options…

• Ring or email the company , and ask for the name of the person who is tasked with reading the cover letters for the internship you’re applying for
• Many organisations have a ‘no name’ policy for confidentiality reasons, so if they can’t give you a name…
• Address your cover letter to the head of the department your internship is in
• If you cannot find the name of the person who handles recruitment, address your internship letter to someone who works in human resources (HR)
• As a last resort, address your cover letter to someone in the team.

STEP 2: Introduction

In the introduction of a cover letter for an internship, you need to specify what internship you are applying for. 

Be specific. Here’s an example:

“I am writing regarding the vacancy for the consultancy internship with PwC.”

​It’s also a good idea to reference where you found the internship vacancy. Employers love to know what channels students use when looking for jobs. Here is an example –

“as advertised on RateMyPlacement. Please find my CV attached.”

You also might like…

• How to Write an Internship CV
• Common Internship Interview Questions
• The Best Internships and Placements

STEP 3: Company research

Now it’s time to let the recruiter know why you are interested in the internship. Don’t write ‘because mother told me to’. You want to give specific reasons why the company or the content of the course have drawn you to this internship.

Do some research about the company that is organising the internship. Below is a list of areas you should focus your research on…

• Origins of company​
• Has the company been in the news recently?
• Any major projects the company has been involved in?
• Background of directors or the manager of the team you’re applying to
• Company values/vision.

If you want to research the programme you are applying for, check for any case studies or reviews written by previous interns.

Then craft your next paragraph around the question: why do you want to do this internship?

Here is an example of how to approach this –

“I am drawn to this internship at PwC because it concentrates on sustainability and climate change consultancy. I have read about PwC’s recent project implementing new sustainability procedures in government buildings across the UK. My involvement in the ‘Clear Up Our Campus’ campaign at university makes me perfect for this internship. “

Here, you have shown why you are attracted to the course, demonstrated that you understand what the internship consists of, and even commented on a recent project. It’s a winning formula.

STEP 4: Work experience & qualifications

Now we move on to your work experience, skills and qualifications and why they make you perfect for the internship.

Ensure that you keep the content of your internship cover letter relevant to the role on offer. If you can do a passable impression of Morgan Freeman, that’s great. But it won’t improve your chances of getting an interview.

What unique skills can you bring to the company? What previous work experience has prepared you for this internship? 

If you can answer these questions, employers will be under your spell. As if you were Hermione Granger. Or Ronald Weasley.

Try something like this –

“As my CV describes, I am two years into a Sustainable Engineering degree, achieving high grades in modules focused on sustainable planning in urban environments. My studies have imparted the groundwork of knowledge and analytical skills crucial for a career in this consultancy field. I also have three years of work experience at The Bear Factory, which has imparted great collaborative skills. “

STEP 5: Outro

In this closing section, thank the recruiter for considering your application and express your interest/availability for attending an interview. 

One sentence will do it. Something like this…

“Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss the programme further in an interview .”

STEP 6: Signing off

If you start your cover letter with a personal name, such as “Dear Susie,” end it with “Yours Sincerely.”

If you didn’t manage to find the recruiter’s name, use “Yours Faithfully.”

Once you’ve proofread, it’s pen down and time to find some cake. You’ve officially finished your internship cover letter, just in time to apply for that internship.

The examples from each step in this guide have been combined to form a complete example of an internship cover letter. 

This example is for a consultancy internship with PwC …

Dear John Smith,

I am writing regarding the vacancy for the consultancy internship with PwC, as advertised on RateMyPlacement. Please find my CV attached.

I am drawn to this internship at PwC because it concentrates on sustainability and climate change consultancy. I have read about PwC’s recent project implementing new sustainability procedures in government buildings across the UK. My involvement in the ‘Clear Up Our Campus’ campaign at university makes me perfect for this internship.

‘As my CV describes, I am two years into a Sustainable Engineering degree, achieving high grades in modules focused on sustainable planning in urban environments. My studies have imparted the groundwork of knowledge and analytical skills crucial for a career in this consultancy field. I also have three years of work experience at The Bear Factory, which has imparted great collaborative skills.’’

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss the programme further in an interview.

Yours Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Here are a few golden nuggets in the form of do’s and don’ts to help your cover letter shine.

• Do talk about your relevant skills and work experience. Here you’ll get the chance to expand on some parts of your CV and really show off your skills. Make sure to pick the most relevant examples.
• Do tailor your CV for each job you apply for. An employer can tell if you’re just copying and pasting cover letters and changing the employer’s name. Always make it relevant to the job you’re applying for.
• Do edit and spellcheck your cover letter. Believe it or not, employers are looking at you right from the start. So, if they see a cover letter with spelling errors – it’ll straight in the bin.
• Do research on the company. Talk about a couple of initiatives they have and link that back to your experience or your personal goals. It looks really good.
• Don’t repeat your CV. Remember this is your chance to shine, pick some of the best examples of your experience and expand on those.
• Don’t use too many keywords. Stuffing your cover letter with waffle will make you out to be unprofessional. Use keywords sparingly and where you need to use them.
• Don’t focus on what the company can do for you. While it’s good to know what you want from a company, we go Dutch over here. Always explain the qualities that you have and why they will work for the company you’re applying for.
• Don’t forget your salutations. A letter is a letter, so don’t forget to add your name and make sure you’re using the hiring manager’s name in the greeting.

Ready to apply? Why not browse through our work experience opportunities. We have loads of vacancies live right now. Click below to get started.

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Written by Conor

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Cover Letter Examples For An Internship + Writing Tips

If you’re in search of a great internship, your resume should be just one of your priorities. After all, it’s not as if you have tons of education and experience. If you did, you wouldn’t be on the lookout for an opportunity to work for the low wages of an intern, or in some cases for free.

By all means, create a great resume for an internship , but don’t forget to dwell on your cover letter too! This is where you can dig a bit deeper. You can use your cover letter to express your passion for your field, your excitement about working for the company to which you are applying, and make the case that you are a great fit for this opportunity.

Do Interns Need a Cover Letter?

A dozen times yes! Internships are highly competitive and most people will be applying with similar, entry-level resumes similar to yours. A cover letter provides you with an opportunity to share your unique personality — something that doesn’t come off that easily via a resume. Effectively, this is your best bet to show why a company should pick you over a bunch of other equally eager interns. 

Internship Cover Letter Examples

Internships come in different “flavors” — for college credit, at commercial organizations, non-profits, online, and on-location (in-person). 

While we cannot possibly give you an internship cover letter example for each and every type of these, we’d made several universal internship cover letter examples that can be easily adapted to the opportunity at hand.

General Cover Letter Sample For Internship (Word version)

Download cover letter (.docx)

Computer Science Cover Letter Internship (text version)

Dear Ms. Janis Merill,

I am submitting my resume and this letter to express my interest in the internship opportunity you have available in your Information Security department. I learned of this internship from Joe Meyer, who is my advisor at State University, and who recently retired as head of IS from your organization. I am grateful that he told me about this opening, and am very excited about pursuing this opportunity. I believe I would be challenged in this role, but also able to make a contribution.

I am currently a senior at State University majoring in Computer Science with an emphasis in Security. I previously graduated from Community College with an Associate’s degree in Information Technology where my area of concentration was Cybersecurity. Currently, I am on the Dean’s list, act as treasurer of the Cybersecurity club, and am an active member of the Forensics team.

I am passionate about computer security. I have intentionally chosen courses that have allowed me to develop and apply my skills in this area. These include:

• Network Security
• Network Firewalls
• Computer Forensics
• Penetration Testing
• Ethical Hacking
• Risk Assessment And Documentation

I am currently working on a research project with Joe Meyer where we are exploring the adaptations that will need to be made in the Information Security Field as technologies such as IoT, VR, and wearables continue to emerge.

In addition to my academic work, I have a year of experience working as a help desk technician at Major Big Box Electronics Store. I was recently promoted to a position that allows me to help individuals and small business owners whose computer systems have been hacked or exposed to malware.

I would love the opportunity to meet with you to discuss this internship opportunity. I think I would be a perfect fit, and will be happy to answer any questions you might have. Thank you again for your consideration.

Sincerely, Mervin Rosenthal

Sample Cover Letter for Architecture Internship

Dear Amy Rutherford,

My name is Matthew Fisher, and I am a student at the University of South Carolina School of Architecture And Civil Engineering. I will be graduating in June 2022 with a BS in Architecture and a minor in Urban Planning. I’m writing this letter to express my interest in interning with your firm, Rutherford Associates this spring.

If I am given the opportunity to work as an intern on your team, I hope to gain real-world experience in the areas of urban architecture, design of multi-family housing, and environmentally friendly building practices. Recently, I attended a tour of your firm’s newest structure, The Davis Building, and was truly impressed by your team’s ability to design an office building that used space-age materials while maintaining a look that blends so well with the historical district.

Of course, I also believe that I can be a valuable contributor to your team as well. I have worked as an architect’s assistant and draftsperson for a residential construction company for the past two years. There, my duties have included 3-D modeling, CAD, construction site inspections, and filing paperwork with local authorities.

I have arranged my spring semester schedule to ensure that I will be available to work on location during the day Monday through Friday. It is my hope that this availability will better ensure that I will be able to work with your team as needed. I’m very excited about this internship opportunity and thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely, Matthew Fisher

Engineering Internship Cover Letter Example 

Dear Ian Wilson,

My name is Lee-Ann Peterson and I am a senior at the University of Clarksville pursuing a degree in electrical engineering. I am writing this letter to express my interest in joining your for-credit fall internship program that begins in September of 2022. I have been accepted into my school’s graduate program, and strongly believe that working with your company will give me valuable insights into circuit design and facilitate my research in creating more energy-efficient battery storage.

As an engineering student, I have a highly hands-on attitude. In fact, in my spare time, I also design toy electric racing cars and have tested several of your battery products in my MVPs. Unsurprisingly, your battery life is much higher compared to Lithiums X batteries and I believe this is due to your innovative research into LiPo battery technology. 

On a more formal note, in the past four years, I have participated in multiple research projects, earned membership into the society of honors engineering students, and won the best in the show at the annual Sustainability In Engineering expo with a team. You can view a video of our home solar panel presentation here. Even though I pursued a lot of research and hobby projects, I have also consistently maintained a spot on the dean’s list and will graduate with an honors designation.

In fact, it’s my interest in sustainability that led me to learn about your company, Clarksville Wind and Solar, in the first place. I was a part of a team of students that were allowed to tour your facility earlier this year. I was inspired by your ability to implement sustainable solutions where other companies seem to be focused on the theoretical.

I have attached my resume, transcripts, and a letter of recommendation from my department head for your review. If there is anything else I can provide, please let me know. Thank you for considering my application, and I hope to meet with your selection committee in the near future.

Sincerely, Lee-Ann Peterson

How to Write a Cover Letter for an Internship: Step-by-Step

Writing a cover letter for an internship may feel overwhelming at first, especially if you are “pitching” to a company you’ve been long admiring. But don’t let the jitters overtake you. Even though an internship cover letter should provide a glimpse into your personality, it should still look professional and sound polished. 

Here are step-by-step instructions for writing a compelling cover letter for an internship:

• Create your list of core skills and accomplishments. 
• Review the internship posting. 
• Pick all the overlapping skills and incorporate them into your cover letter.
• Next, research the company further and try to understand its core values. 
• Explain how the work the company does resonates with you on a personal level. 
• Then talk about the ways you’d like to contribute and the expertise you seek to obtain.
• Close with the formalities and mention if you have any references available, plus detail your schedule. 

How Do I Write a Cover Letter for an Internship With No Experience?

No one expects interns to have a substantial backload of professional work experience. So don’t fret over this fact. Instead, get your mental cogs rolling towards determining what educational and personal skills could make you look more “valuable” to the potential employer. It could be literary anything — from your long-lasting passion for a cause the company explores to deep familiarity with the brand’s products or the relevant coursework you took in college. Focus on communicating your “why” for applying, then detail how you could be of help. 

How Do you List Internship Experience in a Cover Letter?

Technically, you don’t have to list your past internship experiences in a cover letter. That’s what your resume is for. But if you’d like to share some tidbits, talk about any positive reviews or references the past organization gave you, a particular project you’ve contributed to, skills you’ve developed, or duties you’ve performed. 

Wrap up 

You’ll probably notice that our example internship cover letters include several keywords. Many of them are in the bulleted list. This is a good thing to do to showcase that you’ve read the requirements and fit the baseline qualifications. 

There are some other important details as well. For example, we address the recipient as Mr. or Ms., removing Mrs. as it’s largely considered to be passé.

The cover letter examples emphasize academic coursework, work experience, relevant extracurriculars, and research projects. The letters also reference the person who provided the student with information about the opportunity. If applicable, this could be replaced with a job board, student advisor, or website.

Finally, if you want to make a lasting impression, consider “packaging” your cover letter in the same style as your resume. By submitting a matchy-matchy resume and cover letter, you increase your chances of being noticed in the pile of other submissions. Take a look at our well-designed and affordable bundles here .

FAQs about Internships 

Below are some commonly asked questions about internship cover letters and interning in general! 

How long should a cover letter be for an internship?

A solid cover letter for an internship should be under 400 words, which is roughly one page in a word processing document. If you are submitting an email cover letter, it’s okay to go even shorter. After all, most companies receive a ton of applications. Erring on the side of brevity increases the chances of your cover letter actually being read, rather than skimmed through. 

What should you not do during an internship?

Most companies are not legally required to take on interns. But most do so to contribute to the development of new workforce-ready candidates. Thus, most expect interns to be eager to learn, motivated, and respectful. If you want to appear as such a person, don’t ever do the following things during your internship:

• Show up late or miss the day without providing any reason 
• Discard the workplace rules or regulations
• Argue with your superiors or undermine their authority
• Sabotage the performance of other interns 
• Pester just about anyone to show your “motivation”
• Do not deliver on the tasks entrusted to you 
• Expect any person at the office to be readily available to you 

Is it OK to make mistakes as an intern?

Yes, absolutely. An internship is first and foremost a learning opportunity. And you cannot learn without making a mistake or two. The key, however, is not being afraid of acknowledging your blunders and taking full responsibility for them. If you feel that you are getting sidetracked, bring up the issue to your supervisor and ask for their help with making corrections. 

How hard is it to get an internship?

Depends on the company really. If you want to land a high-profile internship with some sort of an industry leader (think Google or Goldman Sachs), you’d be against dozens of others highly qualified and motivated interns. But you do not necessarily need to go after the top 1% of internships. Start at a lower level and approach local businesses, entrepreneurs, small-to-mid-market companies — these places often don’t have enough “helping hands” and would be eager to take on an intern even if they don’t have a formal program in place.

Updated on September 2021.

Elena runs content operations at Freesumes since 2017. She works closely with copywriters, designers, and invited career experts to ensure that all content meets our highest editorial standards. Up to date, she wrote over 200 career-related pieces around resume writing, career advice... more

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• 5 Ways to Network With Your...

5 Ways to Network With Your Current Colleagues

7 min read · Updated on July 02, 2019

Networking: Some people truly enjoy it, while others dread the prospect of small talk with strangers.

Like it or not, networking is essential in today's professional world if you want to continue to grow your career.

“It's not what you know, it's who you know.”

I bet you've heard that a million times, and it's true, but maybe not in the way you might think. The “who you know” doesn't necessarily mean knowing a bigwig with all the right connections. It might just mean knowing someone who happens to be aware of an open opportunity or a great person for you to meet. Yet, where do you find these great connections?

Before you strain your nerves building networks with hundreds of strangers, think about your workplace. How many of the people in your company do you really know? More importantly, how many of them know who you are, and what kind of skills you bring to the table?

Here are a few networking tips to use where you work for great new connections.

1. Be friendly

That seems obvious, right? Isn't that the point of networking? In reality, it's very easy to get caught up in work and walk around on your daily missions without paying much attention your surroundings, including other people. Whether it's in a hallway, an elevator, or you happen to notice someone you've never talked to at work, just say “Hi” and introduce yourself.

Networking Tip: Don't forget to smile. Many of us don't realize how stern, or even grumpy, we look while going about our daily business. Take a moment to consciously smile before saying hi to someone. It makes a big difference, especially when you're building networks.

2. Take advantage of lunch

Are you the person who eats lunch at their desk, goes home every day to eat, or maybe heads somewhere quiet with a book? There's nothing wrong with that; It's your time and you are entitled to it. Yet, if you'd like to build your business network where you work, it's a good idea to occasionally put yourself out there during that midday meal.

Simply take your lunch and head to the common break room. If there are already people there, avoid the temptation to grab a seat in the corner. Ask someone if you can sit with them and strike up a conversation. Even if you already know these people, it is a good opportunity to talk in a less formal capacity.

Is there an ongoing lunch group that goes out? Recommend a good place to them and see if you get invited into the group. You may not want to go out with the group every time, but it is a good way to talk to co-workers when they are a little more relaxed.

Networking Tip: Read the signs. If you head to the lunch room and someone is sitting at a table with their nose in a book, that's probably their private time. If you sit next to someone and start to chat, read their response. You'll know quickly if they welcome the conversation or not.

3. Welcome newcomers

This might be the easiest networking tip of all. New co-workers are typically excited to meet others and get some guidance. Right off the bat, you have the expertise that can help them simply by being there longer. It may be nothing more than telling them which floor has the best coffee, or what quirks the copy machine has, but it's expertise nonetheless. You could even go the extra mile and offer to take them out to lunch someday soon.

While your new co-worker may be new to your office, remember that they also have valuable experiences. That's why they got hired, right? Be sure to ask them about their background. You may discover common interests, or that your new colleague has expertise in an area you really want to learn more about.

Networking Tip: Try to think of a couple of simple, but helpful, tips to give the new person when you meet. Keep it harmless and useful, like handy parking tips for the office lot. Let them know that you're open to questions should they have any. Don't speak negatively about any other co-workers. Let the new person draw their own conclusions there.

Related: How to Make Friends at Work and Avoid Drama

4. Pay attention to office invites

Every office has email blasts that invite you to the third floor for a going away party, invitations to be on a volunteer committee, or something along those lines. It's very easy to roll your eyes and think, “Ugh. No thank you,” but if you really want to meet people in your office and connect with them, tell yourself that you'll accept the next email invite that comes through.

Why? It may be an opportunity to attend something in a completely different department where you don't know a lot of people. If it's volunteering, it may be a chance to show off skills that you don't use in your daily job, like organizing a catered event.

What about the after-work happy hour? You may not want to deal with co-workers after work, but this can be a great opportunity to really get to know people. Outside the office, they're more likely to talk about what they really like and don't like, about their careers. The key is to stop looking at office invites as unwanted obligations and look at them, instead, as opportunities.

Networking Tip: Want to dial it up a notch? Think about the volunteering and charity events that your office participates in on a regular basis. Suggest one that you are familiar with and offer to head up the effort. You'll have to recruit some new people (making new connections) while coming across as a helpful person and a leader.

5. Take advantage of LinkedIn

You're on LinkedIn, right? Of course you are. So are most of your colleagues. LinkedIn is a great way to learn more about your co-workers without crossing that line into personal life (i.e. don't stalk their Facebook page). You'll get to see where else they've worked, projects they've accomplished, and skills that they have mastered. There's a good chance that you'll learn something interesting about each and every one of your colleagues when you dive into their LinkedIn page. It's a no-brainer, and yes, connect with them to start building networks.

Networking Tip: When you look at their page, scroll down and look at the right-hand side where it says “In Common with Jane Doe.” This tips you off to the people and skills that the two of you share. Sometimes the connections will surprise you.

Networking is a lot more than just shaking hands, making introductions, and handing out business cards to strangers. It's making real connections to people, a lot of people. So doesn't it make sense to have strong connections to the people within your own organization? Whether you're looking to get ahead within your company or keeping your eyes open for opportunities outside your current employer, you have the most valuable resources surrounding you on a daily basis. Take a few moments to help yourself by saying hi and networking with your current co-workers.

Click on the following link for more networking tips.

Does your resume need a brush up before your next networking event? Request a free resume critique today !

Recommended Reading:

Network Like an Expert: Networking Tips From the Industry's Finest

6 Unconventional Networking Icebreakers for Your Next Event

Small Networking Event Tips: 5 Faux Pas to Avoid

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How To Put an Internship on a Resume (Examples + Tips)

3 key takeaways

• If you don’t have a lot of formal work experience, internships are valuable career experiences to include on your resume.
• Listing internships on your resume is similar to listing any other job, with a few small changes.
• With Teal's Resume Builder , you can create a resume that makes the most of your internships.

Getting that first job often feels like a catch-22. You need work experience to get a job but you need a job before you can gain enough work experience.

If you’re a recent graduate or someone without a lot of career history, including an internship on a resume bolsters your practical experience, lowering that initial barrier of entry.

While movies would have you believe that internships are not serious or career-defining, the data shows they carry real weight with employers. According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers, an internship within the same industry is the most influential factor when a company is deciding between two similarly qualified candidates.

Wondering how to list an internship on a resume? This guide has the details you need, including: 

• Why you should put an internship on your resume
• Where to list internships on your resume
• Tips for adding internships to your resume
• Common mistakes to watch out for

Struggling to land interviews with your resume? Get started with Teal's Free Resume Builder .

Why should you include an internship on your resume?

While it’s easy to discount internships and think of them as poor substitutes for professional experience, these experiences can be the difference between newly employeed and second choice.

Internships equip you with relevant experience in a specific field, provide the opportunity to forge connections within your industry, and help you build a solid knowledge base and transferable skills with hands-on practice in a real-world setting.

Plus, committing your time and energy to an internship—especially one that coincides with your education—shows employers that you are ambitious and eager to learn, grow, and gain skills that will positively impact your career and the success of your employer. When companies actively hire for a growth mindset , highlighting that drive and motivation helps you stand out.

That said, if you have several years of professional experience under your belt, you’ll likely remove internships from your resume and dedicate that space to your formal and full-time work experience. 

Ultimately, whether or not to include internships on your resume is a judgment call. Here are some circumstances when it’s best to list them:

• When you’re a recent grad or entry-level employee looking for your first job without a lot of other work experience
• When you’re changing careers or switching to a new industry and took a related internship to gain knowledge and exposure
• When you interned with a company that’s a big and noteworthy name in your industry (for example, you work in tech and took an engineering internship at Google)
• When you interned for the company you’re applying to

Like any other aspects of your professional history, relevance and recency matter. If an internship is more than a decade old, it’s time to remove it from your resume and fill that space with a more up-to-date or pertinent position. 

Where to put an internship on your resume

Your internship experience can be incorporated in several different places on your document. You might list your internships in:

• Your work experience section
• A separate section dedicated to internships
• Your resume summary

With Teal's Resume Builder , you can add and edit your resume sections as needed. Within the “Design” menu and the “Sections” tab, it’s easy to rename or rearrange the information on your resume by simply clicking and dragging the different section blocks. 

Here’s a closer look at each of those three sections and how to effectively showcase your internship experience in each.

Work experience section

In most cases, your internships are listed in your work experience section. Your internships can be incorporated with other paid positions in this section, and you’ll sort your jobs in reverse-chronological order .

Internship on a resume example 1

Dedicated internship section

If you have several internships or want to separate them from the rest of your work experience, you can create a dedicated internship section.

Pulling your internships out into their own section can make it easier to highlight them, especially if they’d otherwise be listed with an assortment of less relevant jobs. 

In a separate internship section, you can list all of your internship experiences in reverse-chronological order with plenty of detail, while putting your part-time and other positions in a less-detailed section underneath.

Internship on a resume example 2

Resume summary

While you won’t give a detailed rundown of your duties and responsibilities in this spot, you can also incorporate a mention of your internship (and some related achievements) in your resume summary .

This short paragraph goes at the top of your resume and highlights your top qualifications, relevant skills, and impressive accomplishments. Here’s an example that incorporates an internship: 

Struggling to write your summary? Teal’s Resume Summary Generator will do the hard work for you. Within Teal’s Resume Builder, add a professional summary and then click the “generate with AI” button. Teal will automatically write a resume summary you can edit and use.

Although it’s not part of your resume, your cover letter is another spot where you can add color and context to your internship. Check out this detailed guide to learn how to write a cover letter for an internship .

How to list an internship on your resume

Regardless of how you choose to structure your internship resume, there are several formatting rules and best practices that always apply. Every internship listing should include the same basic information:

• Job title or internship title (e.g. “Marketing Intern”)
• Company name
• Dates of employment
• Bullet points that detail your duties and relevant accomplishments

Much like any other job listing, you also need to remember the importance of relevance. Take a close look at the job description to pull out keywords, technical skills, soft skills, and other qualifications the employer emphasizes. Those are details you should incorporate into your own resume (provided you  possess them). Potential employers want to know how your experience satisfies the position requirements, and the perfect resume will connect those dots for them. 

Ready to create an internship resume that adequately captures all of your relevant skills and accomplishments? Take a look at the internship scenarios below to understand how to properly list them on your resume.

How to list a current internship on a resume

If you’re currently working an internship, you’ll list the basic details of that job. However, instead of sharing an end date for your internship, you’ll write “present.” You should also use present tense for the action verbs that start each of your bullet points.

Current internship on a resume example

How to list a past internship on a resume

Listing your past internship on your resume is similar to listing a current one, with a few exceptions:

• You’ll share the end date (month and year) that you stopped working that internship
• You’ll use past tense for your action verbs, as those are no longer present responsibilities

Past internship on a resume example

How to list an incoming internship on a resume

What if you’re creating a resume and want to include a future internship—meaning one you’ve accepted an offer for but haven’t officially started yet? 

Instead of the typical date range attached to a position, you’ll write “Anticipated Start Date” or “Expected Start Date” with the month and year you plan to start your internship. If you have an end date (for example, if it’s a summer internship that ends in August), you can list that too.

Listing job duties is tougher in this situation, as you haven’t worked in the position yet. Revisit the job description to pull out the major responsibilities you’ll handle in that job. Remember to use the present tense for those duties rather than the past tense.

Upcoming internship on a resume example

When listing an upcoming internship, include an “Expected” or “Anticipated” start date and refer to the job description when writing your bullet points.

Pro tip: Teal's Matching Mode feature surfaces the most relevant skills and other keywords from every job description for you to use in your resume.

Looking for more tips on listing upcoming roles? Check out this guide on how to write an incoming job on your resume .

How to list multiple internships on a resume

If you’ve held multiple internships (and they’re all within the last 10 years and relevant to the job you’re applying for) but not many other professional jobs, you can list multiple internships on your resume. Again, it’s up to you whether you break them out into their own section or incorporate them in your work experience section.

When listing multiple internships, remember to:

• List them in reverse-chronological order, with your most recent one at the top
• Include more bullet points and detail with more recent internships and less with older internships
• Use the present tense for current or future internships and the past tense for previous internships

Here’s an example of what a resume with several internships can look like: 

If you have multiple internships, list them on your resume in reverse-chronological order.

Teal's resume creator can take some of the complexity out of the classic “internship on resume” puzzle. Using the AI feature, you can automatically generate work achievements and a professional summary. Teal can also give you expert suggestions to make your resume even stronger and compare your document to the job description to offer targeted suggestions about which keywords to include.

Browse the template options to find the right internship resume template for you and then use the design options to customize your font, alignment, section order, and more. Put simply, you don’t need a professional resume writer if you have Teal.

6 common mistakes to avoid when listing internships on resumes

The above internship resume examples will help you get all of your relevant information down on paper. But to create an internship resume that stands out to hiring managers, there are a few common resume mistakes to know and avoid.

1. Ignoring the employer’s directions

Take a close look at the job posting to see if there are any specific instructions. Sometimes potential employers will provide explicit directions—such as including the contact information for your intern supervisor with your internship listings. Failing to follow those directions makes the hiring manager far more likely to pass on your application.

2. Including irrelevant experience

When you don’t have years of formal work experience behind you, it’s tempting to include every single one of your intern job duties to beef up your document. But as with anything else, quality is more important than quantity. Use the job posting as your guide to include only the most relevant skills and experiences on your resume.

3. Exaggerating your responsibilities

Similarly, resist the temptation to lie or over-inflate your responsibilities and contributions. While you absolutely should quantify your achievements and demonstrate your impact, there’s no need to lie on a resume .

Hiring managers don’t expect you to be well versed in your industry or responsible for making major company decisions. There’s no shame in answering phones and providing general assistance. Those tasks just may not be the ones you add to your resume, unless you improved those processes or used them to contribute to business growth.

4. Failing to quantify achievements

That doesn’t mean the descriptions of your summer internships should be generic. You can be honest while still using numbers and metrics to show the ultimate impact of your work. Teal’s AI Achievement Generator within the Resume Builder can automatically generate results-first bullet points to use on your resume.

If you’re starting an internship soon, take this as a reminder to keep notes about what you achieve in that position. Those details will be invaluable when you write future resumes.

5. Forgetting to update

Your career is ever-evolving—and so is your resume. While internships might carry a lot of weight on your resume when you’re just getting started (or are making a career change), they won’t have as much pull when you have several years of experience. If you’re 10 years in and still have your first internship on your resume, it’s time to make some updates.

6. Neglecting your education section

Most people work internships while they’re attending college or pursuing some other education. So, while it’s not a direct part of your internship listings, remember to also give your education section some focus and attention. 

Include your degrees, relevant coursework, and other related professional development opportunities to complement your internship on your resume. That’s another way to show the hiring manager you have existing skills and knowledge to bring to the position, even if you don’t yet have a lot of formal work experience. 

Avoid these mistakes and your resume will stand a better chance of scoring you an interview. When that happens, get prepared with these common internship interview questions .

Showcase your internship experience with Teal

Gone are the days when interns were glorified coffee fetchers. Today, internships are valuable career stepping stones that can equip you with the skills, experience, knowledge, and connections you need to thrive in a new job.

It’s up to your resume to showcase everything you took away from your internship and prove to hiring managers that you not only have the “real-world experience” they keep asking for, you also know how to make the most of every opportunity. Put the above tips to work to highlight your internship experience and prove you’re ready for your next step.

Ready to create your best resume? Get started with Teal’s Resume Builder for free today .

Frequently Asked Questions

Is an internship good for a resume.

Yes. An internship provides valuable professional experience, especially for recent graduates or people without extensive formal work history. You should include an internship on your resume if it’s recent (within the last 10 years) and relevant to the role.

Can you put a future internship on a resume?

You can list an upcoming internship on your resume, provided you’ve officially accepted the offer. Along with the job title and employer, write “anticipated start date” and the month and year you expect to begin your internship.

How do you describe yourself in a resume for an internship?

How you describe yourself on your internship resume will depend on the job posting. Your goal is to present yourself as qualified for that specific role , so review the job listing carefully and then incorporate relevant keywords and skills into your own document. Teal's Matching Mode feature recommends the most important parts of the job description to add to your resume.

Kat Boogaard

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Home » Employer Resources » HR Resources » Appointment Letter For Internship

Appointment Letter for an Internship: [with Template]

Internships are valuable experiences for individuals starting their careers and organizations alike. It provides real-world experience for students and graduates, allowing them to apply theoretical knowledge. On the other hand, employers and organizations benefit from the fresh perspectives and innovative ideas that interns bring to the team. One of the most important steps in hiring an intern involves drafting an appointment letter for an internship. This document formalizes the relationship between an organization and an intern. It serves as an official offer of an internship position and outlines the terms and conditions of the internship program. Through this comprehensive guide, we will explore the essential elements of an effective internship appointment letter.

Table of Contents

Appointment Letter for an Internship: Must-Have Elements

An effective appointment letter should be comprehensive, clear, and professional, providing all the necessary information for the new intern. Here are the key elements that should be included in the appointment letter for an internship.

1. Introduction

An appointment letter’s tone establishes the recipient’s impression of the entire document. Maintaining a positive and welcoming tone in the internship appointment letter is essential. Begin the appointment letter with warm greetings and congratulate the candidate on their selection. Express your enthusiasm about their future contribution to the organization. Overall, the document should sound welcoming, providing an overview of what to expect from the internship. 

2. Details of the Job Position

Including the job position details in an appointment letter format for an internship aims to provide specific information about the responsibilities and working arrangements. A detailed job description will help the intern understand their responsibilities and how they fit into the organization. The major elements to include in this section are:

• Internship Title: The internship title should be clearly stated at the beginning of this section. It is crucial to use a title that accurately reflects the nature of the work. For example, using ‘Marketing Research Intern’ or ‘Software Development Intern’, provides more clarity than a generic ‘Summer Intern’ title.
• Start and end dates of the internship
• Expected daily/weekly working hours
• Any flexible hours options, like remote work possibilities
• Requirements for occasional evening or weekend work
• Employment Terms & Relationship: This subsection clarifies the nature of the internship and the legal relationship between the intern and the organization. Begin by specifying whether it is a full-time or part-time position. If applicable, explicitly state if the internship position guarantees a pre-placement offer (PPO) or not upon completion of the program.

3. Compensation Package

The compensation package section outlines the stipend amount and other perks the intern will receive. This information can contribute to the intern’s decision to accept the position. Let us explore the key components of this section:

• Basic Stipends: If the internship is paid, clearly state the compensation amount, payment schedule, and method. However, if the internship is unpaid, it should be explicitly stated to avoid misunderstandings. 
• Internship certificate
• Pre-placement offer (PPO)
• Recommendation letter
• Professional development opportunities
• Free networking events
• Transportation allowances
• Access to company facilities

4. Privacy and Confidentiality Agreements

Protecting sensitive information is crucial for any organization. This section outlines the intern’s responsibilities regarding handling confidential data and intellectual property. Define what confidential information entails within your organization. This may include trade secrets, client data, financial information, marketing strategies, or any other sensitive data the intern may encounter during their tenure. 

5. Terms and Conditions

The terms and conditions section of an appointment letter defines the rules, expectations, and policies. This section is important to mention in the appointment letter, as it helps prevent misunderstandings that could lead to conflicts or disappointments. Here are some key elements that should be included in this section:

• Probationary Period: Explain the duration and purpose of any probationary period at the beginning of the internship. Outline the criteria for evaluation and the process for reviewing the intern’s progress during this time.
• Termination Conditions: State the circumstances under which the internship may be terminated by either party. Specify any notice period required and describe the process for termination, including exit procedures and final stipend payments.

6. Include Offer Letter Acceptance Section (with Timeline)

The offer letter acceptance section is critical to the format of the internship appointment letter. It formalizes the agreement between the organization and the intern. This section should mainly include the following points:

• Instructions on How to Accept the Letter: Provide instructions on how the intern should indicate their acceptance. This could be by signing a physical or digital copy via email or filling out an online acceptance form.
• Deadline: Provide a clear deadline for accepting the offer.
• Contact Information: Include contact details for any questions or clarifications.
• Next Steps: Mention any additional steps required after acceptance, such as background checks or documentation.

7. Closing Remarks

As you close your letter, reiterate how enthusiastic the organization is about hiring the intern. Include information about the next steps in the process, such as orientation dates, required paperwork, or pre-internship preparations. This helps the intern feel prepared and shows the organization is committed to supporting their transition. A statement like ‘We look forward to welcoming you to the [Company Name] team’ can be included in the closing paragraph. 

Sample Appointment Letter Format for an Internship

To illustrate the concepts discussed in this guide, here is an internship appointment letter sample. This template demonstrates how to incorporate all the essential elements into a professional document:       

A well-crafted appointment letter for an internship helps set clear expectations and start the internship on a positive note. In this guide, we have explored the essential elements of an internship appointment letter, from the introduction to the terms and conditions. By including all the elements, you can ensure that both the intern and the company are aligned on the internship’s terms and conditions.  You can also check out our blog on how to hire an intern for expert tips and places to source interns.

Answer: Yes, in some cases, interns have the opportunity to negotiate specific terms of their internship, such as start dates or work hours. However, certain aspects, like compensation or duration, may be less flexible to change depending on the organization’s policies.

Answer: While it is not strictly necessary, including information about benefits in an internship appointment letter can be helpful. It provides transparency to the intern regarding any perks, stipends, or other advantages associated with the position. However, some organizations may choose to address benefits separately or during orientation.

Answer: If there is a possibility of full-time employment following the internship, this can be mentioned. However, it is important not to make a guarantee if the company is not prepared to fulfill it.

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Shobha Saini, the Head of Human Resources at Internshala, has maintained a stellar track record in employee relations and talent acquisition. With eight exceptional years of experience, she specializes in strategic planning, policy-making, and performance management. A multi-talented individual, she has played a major role in strategizing HR practices in the organization.

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