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How to get an internship at microsoft.

To understand the importance of internships and how they can help you secure an internship at Microsoft, let’s start with a brief overview. We’ll explore the value of internships in gaining practical experience and developing relevant skills. This understanding will serve as the foundation for your journey towards successfully securing an internship at Microsoft.

Brief overview of the importance of internships

Internships are key for career-shaping. They give practical experience, which is usually hard to get in a classroom. They let you work with pros in the field, so you can learn and gain knowledge that you can use later.

Plus, internships let you explore industries and roles, so you can understand what your true passions and interests are. Through internships, you can meet with industry leaders and build connections that can offer future job opportunities.

In addition, internships provide a platform for personal and professional growth. They give you a secure space to test your abilities, learn from mistakes and cultivate soft skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. You’ll gain self-confidence and get feedback to improve.

Lastly, internships benefit employers. By hiring interns, companies bring fresh thoughts and ideas. Businesses gain from the new talent pool and can check out potential employees before making big commitments.

Researching Microsoft Internship Opportunities

To research Microsoft internship opportunities, start by exploring the Microsoft Careers website. This will give you valuable insights into the different internship programs available. Next, focus on identifying internship programs that align with your interests and goals. Finally, ensure that you thoroughly understand the requirements and qualifications for each program. This research phase is crucial in positioning yourself as a strong candidate for a coveted Microsoft internship.

Exploring the Microsoft Careers website

The Microsoft Careers website is user-friendly and easy to navigate. It has opportunities for students looking for summer internships and recent grads looking to start their career. Job descriptions show the responsibilities and qualifications needed for each role.

The website also has interactive features. You can connect with current interns and employees to learn about their experiences and the company culture. This helps you make informed decisions about your career path.

When I explored the website, I was captivated by a former intern’s story. They had transformed an ambitious idea into reality during their time at Microsoft. This showcased the creativity and support of the work environment. It inspired aspiring interns, showing the possibilities at Microsoft.

Identifying internship programs at Microsoft

Unlock the door to Microsoft internships ! Discover different departments such as engineering, marketing, design, and research that align with your interests and skills. Review the eligibility criteria for each program carefully and network with current or former interns, employees, or recruiters to gain valuable insights. Acknowledge Microsoft’s inclusive and collaborative work environment and look for internships with mentorship programs to enhance your learning experience. Note that Microsoft emphasizes diversity and inclusion initiatives . To make the most of your search, research extensively, customize your applications, connect with alumni, and attend virtual events. Following these tips can increase your chances of securing a meaningful and valuable internship experience.

Understanding the requirements and qualifications

Microsoft looks for candidates with strong academics, relevant coursework and a passion for tech . Show your skills in problem-solving, critical thinking and teamwork . Knowing Microsoft products and tech is helpful.

Previous related work or internships will boost your chances. This includes software development, hackathons and open-source projects .

Leadership roles and extracurricular activities show you can take initiative and succeed. Microsoft values people who have made an impact in their community.

Networking is vital for an MS internship. Connect with current employees. Learn about the culture and process. These connections could promote your application.

To get an MS internship, you need more than the basics. Showcase your unique skills, experiences and passions that align with the company’s values. Demonstrate technical know-how and interpersonal skills. You’ll increase your chances of landing an exciting opportunity at Microsoft.

Preparing for the Application Process

To prepare for the application process for an internship at Microsoft, start by updating your resume and cover letter. Showcase relevant skills and experiences that align with the internship requirements. Craft a compelling personal statement that highlights your passion and qualifications. These steps will help you stand out among other applicants.

Updating your resume and cover letter

Sarah’s success story is worth mentioning. She sent out countless job applications, but hadn’t had much luck. So, she revamped her resume! She modified the format; added measurable accomplishments; utilized keywords from job postings; and tailored details to each specific role.

The results? A heap of interview invitations! Eventually, Sarah got a job offer from a well-known company. Her experience proves how investing time into revising resumes and cover letters can maximize your chances of success in the recruitment process.

Therefore, review your current resume. Highlight successes and quantify them. Adapt your documents to each job application. And don’t forget to proofread for grammar and spelling errors! With a well-crafted resume and cover letter, you can really make a great impression on hiring managers.

Showcasing relevant skills and experiences

Highlight the abilities that are relevant to the job you’re applying for. Give concrete examples to back up your claims. Wherever possible, use numbers and stats to showcase the impact of your skills. Customize your resume or cover letter for each application. Showcase relevant skills and experiences – don’t just list qualifications. Consider creating an online portfolio for more in-depth examples.

I did this during a competitive application process for a digital marketing role. My tailored resume and cover letter showcased my successful social media campaigns and demonstrated my ability to drive engagement. Result? I got an interview and the job!

Crafting a compelling personal statement

Highlight your unique experiences by using vivid descriptions and anecdotes. Showcase your skills and accomplishments, with concrete examples. Express your passion and motivation, sharing personal stories. Demonstrate self-awareness and growth, showing maturity. Edit and revise for clarity, ensuring the message comes across effectively.

Also, show how you will enhance a diverse community. Begin crafting your personal statement early to ensure there’s time for thoughtful reflection and revisions. This is a chance to make a lasting impression and reveal who you are. Don’t wait until the last minute; start crafting your compelling statement today. Use powerful words to make an impact on those who shape your future.

Applying for the Microsoft Internship

To increase your chances of securing a Microsoft internship, you need to navigate the online application process, tailor your application specifically for Microsoft, and submit it before the deadline. Navigating the online application process involves understanding the steps involved and how to make your application stand out. Tailoring your application for Microsoft means highlighting the skills and experiences that align with the company’s values. Lastly, submitting your application before the deadline is crucial to ensure it receives proper consideration.

Navigating the online application process

• Craft your resume to feature your technology-related abilities and achievements. Target it to Microsoft’s needs .
• Learn about the internships Microsoft offers and pick those that fit your aims.
• Complete the online application truthfully and carefully .
• Submit any extra documents if needed.
• Send a thoughtful follow-up email to show your enthusiasm.
• Interact in a professional way during the process.
• Show your passion for Microsoft and their products.
• Demonstrate your IT knowledge, like coding languages or certifications .
• Give examples of how you used your skills to help projects.
• Follow these steps to make a strong case for why you’d be an ideal intern at Microsoft.
• All the best!

Tailoring your application for Microsoft

Research Microsoft . Get an understanding of their values, mission, and culture. This will help you to tailor your application. Show off technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and your passion for innovation. Make a personal narrative that shows who you are and why you’re suited for Microsoft. Tell personal anecdotes that show your determination. Reach out to Microsoft pros via LinkedIn, to get valuable advice. Use keywords from the job description in your resume and cover letter. Show recruiters you meet their criteria. Review your application multiple times. Ensure it is concise, well-organized, and visually appealing.

Go the extra mile! Show enthusiasm for Microsoft products . Show commitment to learning. Show eagerness to contribute to their success. Demonstrate how AI technologies can drive innovation at Microsoft.

Forbes 2021 List of World’s Most Valuable Brands says Microsoft ranks fourth globally.

Submitting your application before the deadline

Step 1: Get ready.

Make a resume with your experiences and abilities.

Write a cover letter that shows you are keen and perfect for the job.

Step 2: Check it over.

Read through everything for mistakes or differences.

Be sure you’ve included all the data and papers needed.

Step 3: Submit early.

Go to the Microsoft internship website and follow the instructions.

Upload your materials in the right format.

Also, remember that first impressions last. Align your application with Microsoft’s values and culture. Best of luck!

Fact Source: Glassdoor states that Microsoft gets numerous applications yearly for its internships.

Acing the Interview

To ace the interview for landing an internship at Microsoft, you need to be well-prepared and show your enthusiasm for the company. Start by researching Microsoft’s culture and values to understand what they prioritize. Then, prepare for common interview questions to impress the recruiters. Finally, highlight your passion for Microsoft to demonstrate your dedication.

Researching Microsoft’s culture and values

Exploring Microsoft’s culture and values reveals an ecosystem of innovation, collaboration and diversity . From 1975 to today, they’ve nurtured a culture of tech excellence. In this digital era, they emphasize learning and adaptability to empower individuals and organizations.

Teamwork is encouraged. Employees from diverse backgrounds come together to tackle challenges. Microsoft welcomes fresh ideas and diverse perspectives. By embracing creativity, they ensure growth and leadership.

They’re deeply dedicated to making a positive impact on society. Through initiatives such as AI for Good and Education Transformation , they use their expertise to drive change. Microsoft shows how tech can be a catalyst for progress.

My interview at Microsoft was eye-opening. The panelists had a genuine passion for tech and social impact. They shared stories of how their work had transformed lives. Joining Microsoft meant being part of a community that valued innovation and had a commitment to making the world a better place.

Preparing for common interview questions

Do your homework! Research the company, its values, and its mission statement. This is a great way to tailor your answers and show that you are a perfect fit.

Practice makes perfect! Rehearse common questions and think of solid answers. Practice in front of a mirror or with a friend to boost your confidence.

Be specific. When answering, use examples from your past experiences. This will demonstrate your skills and achievements in a tangible way.

Keep it positive. No matter the question, maintain a positive attitude. Emphasize your strengths and how you can contribute to the company’s success.

Ask insightful questions. At the end of the interview, take the opportunity to ask thoughtful questions about the job or company. This demonstrates your genuine interest.

Remember – each interview is unique. Adapt your preparation depending on the job requirements and industry expectations. Show that you can stand out from the competition!

Highlighting your passion for Microsoft

• Show your enthusiasm! Express your excitement when talking about Microsoft’s products, services, and initiatives during the interview.
• Do your research! Learn about Microsoft’s latest developments, projects, and corporate culture. Point out how their values match yours.
• Share experiences! Tell stories of times you used Microsoft technologies or applications to solve problems or be more productive .
• Connect with their mission! Show them how Microsoft’s mission statement speaks to you and how you want to help make it a reality.
• Be future-focused! Outline your career growth goals within the company and show your enthusiasm for upcoming projects.
• Be proactive! Mention any active involvement or contributions to communities or forums linked to Microsoft technologies.
• Impress the interviewer with your knowledge of Microsoft and your dedication to the company. Be honest and genuine.

Pro Tip: Use concrete examples to show your love for Microsoft and show how you use their products in everyday life.

Follow-up and Post-Interview Strategies

To enhance your chances of securing an internship at Microsoft, employ effective follow-up and post-interview strategies. Send a thank-you note after the interview to express your gratitude. Network with current or former Microsoft employees to build connections. Additionally, prepare for potential next steps to showcase your readiness and commitment.

Sending a thank-you note after the interview

Send your thank-you note within 24 hours of the interview to show promptness and interest. Make it tailored to the interviewer by including specific details from the conversation. Keep it concise, well-written, and free from errors. Use a formal tone and no slang.

Mention your enthusiasm for the opportunity and reiterate interest in the role. Send individual thank-you notes to each interviewer to show attention to detail and genuine interest. Doing this can reinforce your candidacy and leave a good impression.

Networking with current or former Microsoft employees

Connect with Microsoft ! To maximize your networking efforts, consider attending Microsoft events such as conferences and workshops. Here, you can meet current employees and network with them. Utilize online platforms like LinkedIn too – reach out, express interest, and seek advice. Join professional communities too, and engage actively.

Also, stay informed about Microsoft’s recent initiatives and projects. Show genuine interest in the work of current employees and look for opportunities to contribute. Sarah Thompson , an aspiring software engineer, did this effectively. She attended a technology conference hosted by Microsoft and engaged in conversations with former employees. One of these conversations led to a mentorship opportunity!

Networking with Microsoft’s current and former employees can be life-changing. Connect, build relationships, and open doors for amazing new possibilities!

Preparing for potential next steps

To be ready for what’s next, do these four steps:

• Research . Look into the company. Learn their beliefs, culture, and aims. This will help you match your skills to what they need.
• Enhance Skills . Figure out any skills you’re missing. Upgrade them through online classes, workshops, or certifications. This shows you are serious about getting better.
• Network . Use LinkedIn to connect with people in your field. Have conversations, search for advice, and make connections that can lead to job referrals.
• Reflect . Look back at previous interviews and meetings with employers. See where you can improve and create answers for interview questions.

Also, keep your online profile professional. Update your resume and LinkedIn. Comment and share industry content on social media.

To conclude, we have provided you with valuable insights on how to secure an internship at Microsoft. Now, let’s recap the key points and offer some success tips for landing that coveted Microsoft internship.

Recap of key points and tips for success in getting a Microsoft internship

Snagging a Microsoft Internship? Here’s a rundown of ways to make it happen!

• Brain-stretching: ace those tech interviews with stellar problem-solving skills and tech know-how.
• Resume revamp: spotlight your tech-savvy and innovation with relevant projects and experiences.
• Networking: go to industry events, join online communities, and connect with MS pros to increase your chances.
• Experiences: don’t overlook the power of internships or related experiences – they equip you with invaluable skills.
• Persistence: MS looks for learners and growers – keep improving and don’t give up.

Plus, brush up on MS’s current initiatives and developments to display true enthusiasm.

No credit card required

Your projects are processes, Take control of them today.

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 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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Microsoft 365 Life Hacks > Writing > How to write a great cover letter for a job

How to write a great cover letter for a job

Job hunting can be tough—especially when it comes to your cover letter. Writing a unique, eye-catching cover letter for a job application is one of the toughest parts of the entire process.

To help you land your dream job, we’ve created this quick guide to writing a stand-out cover letter. Let’s dive in.

What is a cover letter?

Before you can write an outstanding cover letter for a job application, you’ve got to understand what it is.

Your resume lays down the facts about your professional history. Your cover letter puts all of that information in context. A good cover letter will contain:

• An explanation for why you are applying for a role
• A description of how your past work history makes you an outstanding candidate
• A hint of your soft skills and ability to adapt to a new work culture

Cover letter contents vary depending on your industry, work history, and the open job. There is no clear formula for writing one, though there are certain tips you can follow. Because there is no “right” way to craft a cover letter, templates will not be much help. While you can use a template to format your cover letter, you’ll want to write the bulk of it yourself.

The more unique and creative your cover letter is, the more likely a recruiter will contact you for an interview.

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Why is having a good cover letter important?

Cover letters are optional for some applications. In the current tight job market, employers try to make it easier for people to apply for their positions. However, that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t write one.

Over half of senior managers say that cover letters are worthwhile. If other applicants don’t include a cover letter for a job and you do, you have already set yourself apart from the pack. If your cover letter is well-written, your initial impression gets more of a boost. Even if a cover letter isn’t requested, it’s a good move to include one anyway. Be sure to go the extra mile.

For jobs that do require cover letters, a well-written cover letter can easily prove your professionalism to recruiters.

Ten tips for writing a stand-out cover letter for a job

Cover letters are important, but how do you write one that recruiters and hiring managers won’t stop talking about? Here are ten top tips for crafting a cover letter for a job:

• Address your recruiter or hiring manager by name. Using your recipient’s name quickly makes your cover letter stand out. Addressing your recipient by name shows them that you’re willing to put that extra work in.
• Link your history to the job description. Carefully review the job description before you write your cover letter. Pick out a few leading job requirements, and connect your work history examples to those requirements.
• Show, don’t tell. Don’t just tell your audience about your achievements. Show them. Give examples, and try to include results where you can. Add in numbers where you can, too. Quantified results will stand out.
• Create a story. In your cover letter, demonstrate how your past work history has raised you to your present level. Then, explain how you will be able to succeed at the specific role you’re applying for. Think of it as a story with a strong narrative arc.
• Use an appropriate, approachable tone. Formal cover letters can seem off-putting in this day and age. Write in a casual yet professional tone. If your industry skews conservative or otherwise, keep that in mind.
• Insert your personality. Hiring teams want to know if you’ll be a flexible co-worker. Try to make your cover letter reflect your personality—especially if you’re naturally energetic, positive, or kind.
• Be honest. Don’t stretch the truth in your cover letter. In fact, this is the place to address any potential issues, like an employment gap or botched project. Honesty can be impressive, showing hiring managers how you would resolve a mistake or problem in your new role.
• Leave out what you can. Mainly, you don’t want to overwhelm your readers with information. They can ask follow-up questions during the interview. Leave out any history that isn’t necessary or relevant.
• End with a call of action. Don’t tell the letter recipient that you’d like for him or her to reach out immediately. That’s overstepping boundaries. But you should feel free to let them know that you’re excited to talk with them soon.
• Coordinate your letter with your resume. Finally, you can coordinate your cover letter with your resume. Ensure both documents use similar language. You can even ensure the design matches for that extra touch with cover letter and resume templates .

Overview: what your cover letter is really about

At the end of the day, the best way to write a good cover letter for a job is to be yourself and show how much you want the job. Ultimately, recruiters and hiring managers are looking for enthusiastic team members who are willing to work hard for good results.

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Cover letters for internship: Is shorter or longer better?

• Thread starter annel
• Start date Oct 31, 2013

Full Member

• Oct 31, 2013

Board Certified in Clinical Neuropsychology

Shorter. When I review, the cover letter is pretty far down the list of importance. But, I value objective info more than most probably. That being said DO NOT go over a page and a half. At most, 2 pages. If you're bleeding onto pg 3, I'm starting to have misgivings about you.  

To the extent that you can concisely convey information, shorter is better. Specifically, when sites have hundreds of files to review, your cover letter is likely to get read more so than your essays. As such, you will want to show good writing skills. Probably spend a short paragraph detailing what program and degree you are from and your enthusiasm for their program. A paragraph on what interests you in their program, and why you are a good fit. For research sites, a paragraph about those interests may also be appropriate. I would say 1 - 1.5 pages is standard though. Good luck!  

AcronymAllergy

Neuropsychologist.

Agree: ~1.5 pages seems to be fairly standard for internship and postdoc apps, with 2 being the upper limit (including signature line).  

researchgirl

AcronymAllergy said: Agree: ~1.5 pages seems to be fairly standard for internship and postdoc apps, with 2 being the upper limit (including signature line). Click to expand...

• Nov 1, 2013

Unless they request a lot of information in the cover letter, keeping it under a page is almost always appropriate. I followed this logic for internship, postdoc, and the academic market. You can say a lot in one page. They are definitely important...often the CV and cover letter are the only things that get read for the first cut. But that doesn't mean more = better...on the contrary, I think less is more if you are an effective writer.  

Pragma said: Unless they request a lot of information in the cover letter, keeping it under a page is almost always appropriate. I followed this logic for internship, postdoc, and the academic market. You can say a lot in one page. They are definitely important...often the CV and cover letter are the only things that get read for the first cut. But that doesn't mean more = better...on the contrary, I think less is more if you are an effective writer. Click to expand...

WisNeuro said: Agreed, I'll give the person who can concisely, and eloquently, write a cover letter in one page major bonus points over someone who just throws up on paper for 2 pages. Click to expand...

Board-certified psychologist

annel said: Hey all, I have heard two schools of thought in regards to internship cover letters. One says keep them short and too the point, ideally under a page. The other says flesh them out, and make sure to make a convincing case that you are an ideal candidate, and try to list everything that you like about the site. Thoughts? Is shorter better? Click to expand...

• Nov 4, 2013

Thanks for the replies all, The "page length" way of looking at cover letters doesn't really fit here, because I've noticed the letters as they appear in MS Word are significantly longer than they appear in the AAPI, due to the AAPI using smaller font. My cover letters are all for university counseling centers. My template was about 500 words, and it's been whittled down to 330. In order to cut it down, I had to eliminate a couple sentences about my passion for therapy, but I think that the shorter letter might look better. What kind of word counts are y'all hitting in cover letters? Also, a supervisor of mine suggested it might be helpful to include some personal info about me in the closing of the cover letter. Ie. "Self-care is important to me. I enjoy x/y/z." I have not seen this done in many cover letters. What do you all think? Good/bad idea?  

Psychologist - Private Practice

I'd focus on fit and see if you have room left over for a touch of personal info at the end. I left the personal information for my first essay though. I'm UCC all the way.  

Therapist4Chnge

Neuropsych ninja.

annel said: Also, a supervisor of mine suggested it might be helpful to include some personal info about me in the closing of the cover letter. Ie. "Self-care is important to me. I enjoy x/y/z." I have not seen this done in many cover letters. What do you all think? Good/bad idea? Click to expand...

thewesternsky

I agree with researchgirl-- My cover letters are all about 1000 words. This works out to between 1.5-2 pages on the APPI (often just over 2 pages in Word) including addresses and sig lines. I focused on my experiences, the quality of my training to date, and how the internship would be a good fit with my goals and experiences. I did not include personal info, although I put a little of that stuff in my APPI Essay 1 (autobiographical essay).  

cara susanna

Ditto the others. I left the personal stuff for my essays. Also, some of my essays were actually less than 500 words.  

Yep, 800-900 words here as well. I didn't apply to any UCCs either, though.  

CheetahGirl

Clinical psychologist.

annel said: What kind of word counts are y'all hitting in cover letters? Also, a supervisor of mine suggested it might be helpful to include some personal info about me in the closing of the cover letter. Ie. "Self-care is important to me. I enjoy x/y/z." Click to expand...

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ATS Resume Templates

Download an ATS-friendly resume template for free. These templates can be edited in Microsoft Word and can be accurately scanned by an applicant tracking system.

If you’ve made it to this page, then you probably already know more about applicant tracking systems (ATS) than the average job seeker. That gives you an advantage! Why?

Many companies use ATS to manage resumes and applications. In fact, Jobscan research shows that over 97% of Fortune 500 companies use an ATS.

If an ATS can’t read or understand the information on your resume, then your application might not be seen when a recruiter searches for candidates with specific skills or experience – even if you have those skills or the experience!

Your resume needs to be ATS-friendly in order to give you the best chance of getting a job interview. That means that you need an ATS resume template.

We’ve designed 15 ATS resume templates that can be downloaded as Microsoft Word files and easily edited. Download one for free or use our free resume builder to get a customized ATS-friendly resume in minutes.

Free ATS Resume Templates

Executive and Management ATS-Friendly Resume Templates

As a leader, you want your experience and accomplishments to shine. These resume templates give you opportunities to show the measurable results you’ve achieved, as well as your hard and soft skills .

Using correct formatting is critical here. The ATS needs to be able to parse all of that vital information and categorize it correctly. You also need your resume to be searchable by an ATS so that when a recruiter filters candidates by skills, your application stays on the list.

Entry-Level ATS-Friendly Resume Templates

You might not think you have a lot to show on your resume, but you do! These templates provide sections where you can highlight your education, internships, volunteer experience , personal accomplishments, and more.

An ATS-friendly resume will help you get found by recruiters and hiring managers. This is important because an entry-level position could have hundreds of applicants! Use these templates to make sure the ATS picks up your skills and experience.

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ATS Resume Templates - What You Need to Know

How to make the perfect ats resume.

Remember, an ATS is just a computer filing system. It needs to be able to scan and understand the text on your resume in order to correctly parse the information and sort it properly.

An ATS will never auto-reject a resume, but an ATS optimized resume does make it easier for a recruiter to find you among the sea of applicants.

Even more importantly, an ATS-friendly resume naturally follows expert-recommended resume writing standards as well. That means that when the recruiter personally views your resume, it will include the relevant information they’re looking for and will be formatted in a way that makes it easier to read

Follow these tips for making the perfect ATS resume :

1. Tailor your resume to the job you are applying for

Focus on quality over quantity. Each job you apply for is unique, even if they all have the same title. Every company has different needs for that role. The job description will make it clear which hard skills, soft skills, experience, and education the company is looking for. So tailor your resume to show them that you are the perfect candidate.

Tailoring each and every resume can be time consuming, but it’s worth the effort!

You can speed up this process by using a tool like Jobscan’s resume scanner . Powered by AI-technology , this tool analyzes your resume against the job description and provides you with a resume score that tells you how closely your resume matches the job description. It also tells you exactly what you need to do to increase your score.

2. Match your resume keywords to skills found in the job description

Recruiters might use an ATS’ search function to find applicants with specific skills. How do you know what skills they will search for? By examining the job listing. Use a resume scanner to automatically pick out the hard and soft skills the recruiter might search for, and then include those on your resume.

Even if the recruiter doesn’t search applications for those skills, they’ll definitely be looking for mentions of them on each resume they review.

3. Use long-form and acronym versions of keywords

Some ATS will only return resumes with the exact keywords the recruiters would search for. For example, if you included “Search Engine Optimization” in your resume but the recruiter searched for “SEO,” your profile may not appear in the results. Try to include both the acronym and the unabbreviated form of the term.

Use a tool like Jobscan’s resume fixer to make sure your resume doesn’t contain mistakes that will eliminate you from consideration.

4. Use Chronological or Hybrid resume format to write your resume .

Recruiters do not like the functional resume format . Unless you’re making a career change, a functional resume is going to work against you. (And even then, we recommend you steer clear of the format for a career change resume .)

The best format for the ATS is traditional reverse chronological. You can also use chronological and hybrid resume formats as these are familiar to most recruiters.

5. Use an easy-to-read, traditional font

For readability, use a traditional serif or sans serif font. Untraditional or “fancy” fonts can cause parsing errors, which means the full text of your resume won’t be searchable.

6. Use standard resume section headings

Section headers like “Where I’ve Been” in place of “Work Experience” will confuse applicant tracking systems, causing them to organize information incorrectly.

7. Save your file as a .docx if possible

A docx file is most compatible with ATS.

What is the best resume format for ATS?

There are three standard resume formats to choose from in your job search. They shape your first impression and determine the way recruiters and hiring managers view your fit as an applicant.

Your resume formatting can also determine how well your resume is parsed within an applicant tracking system (ATS) and how likely you are to be noticed as a result.

Regardless of the format you use, the most important thing is to use standard section headings like Experience, Skills, and Education. That will make it easier for the ATS to categorize the text.

How to tailor your ATS-friendly resume to a job

Tailoring your resume proves to recruiters that you’re an experienced professional. Most importantly, it shows them that you’re the perfect fit for this role.

Follow these three steps for tailoring your resume to a job description:

1. Examine the specific job description of the position

Go line by line through the job description and ask yourself these questions:

• “Does my resume experience section clearly state that I can do what’s required of this role?”
• “Am I using the same language found in the job description or job posting?”

You might find several different or missing skills and keywords in your generic resume.

2. Match skills and keywords from the job description

Mirroring the language, keywords, and buzzwords found within the job description is the easiest way to demonstrate you’re a better match than the competition.

The best way to show you’re the best fit for the position is to take words from the job posting and strategically put them in your job descriptions and other resume sections. A resume scanner will automatically pull out these keywords in seconds and speed up this process.

3. Write your job title clearly

Recruiters might search for people who have done the job they’re hiring, so list your job titles clearly and match the titles to the one in the job posting when possible. If you haven’t held the job before, list it under your name at the top or as part of your summary section.

What is Applicant Tracking Software (ATS)?

An applicant tracking system (ATS) is software used to assist with human resources, recruitment, and hiring. While each system offers a different package of features, applicant tracking systems are primarily used to help hiring companies organize and navigate large numbers of applicants.

For example, an ATS stores job candidate information like resumes, cover letters, references, and other recruitment and hiring data that HR teams can easily access and organize. It will also track job candidates and their application status throughout the hiring pipeline.

Ultimately, an ATS automates time-consuming administrative tasks such as manually screening applicants, reading resumes, scheduling interviews, and sending notifications and emails to job candidates and employees.

Can you add graphics to your resume?

When it comes to creating an ATS-friendly resume , the rule is: The simpler, the better. ATS are improving at scanning different formatting features, but not all of them are good at this.

Adding graphics and images could cause ATS parsing errors , which means the text on your resume won’t be fully searchable or accurately categorized by an ATS. We recommend that job seekers err on the side of caution. Avoid graphics, images, and photos.

Are Google Docs or Microsoft resume templates ATS-friendly?

They can be. We talked about some formatting features to avoid on your resume – fancy graphics and non-traditional fonts. Those features can trip up an ATS, even if they’re on a Word document or Google Docs file.

However, as long as you follow the guidelines on this page, or use one of these ATS resume templates, you’ll be fine.

How to get your cover letter past the ATS?

To increase your cover letter’s chances of passing an ATS, focus on using a clean format without complex formatting, incorporate relevant keywords and phrases from the job description, and ensure that your content is easy for the ATS to parse.

Consider using a tool like Jobscan’s cover letter generator to help you create an ATS-friendly cover letter. If you already have a cover letter, run it through our cover letter checker tool to get personalized feedback on how to improve your cover letter and make it more compelling to employers.

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