Full Department Name
Name of Institution
Department Address
Dear Dr./Mr./Ms. Search Committee Chair’s last name and/or Search Committee Members:
Paragraph 1 [3-5 Sentences]: Identify the position you are applying for. Introduce yourself to the committee and your research interests. Connect your interests to the department and describe what makes you interested in becoming part of this departmental community.
Paragraph 2 [3-5 Sentences]: Briefly explain your research to date. Consider mentioning your research questions, methods, key findings, as well as where and when you published and/or presented this work.
Paragraph 3 [4-5 Sentences]: Elaborate on your current research project. Consider mentioning your most prestigious funding awards for this project. Explain your key findings in more detail.
Paragraph 4 [3-5 Sentences]: Introduce your future research plans and goals. Point out the intellectual merit and/or broader impacts of this future work.
Paragraph 5 [3-5 Sentences]: Briefly discuss your teaching experience and strategies. Provide examples of teaching strategies or an anecdote highlighting your teaching effectiveness. You may also want to introduce your philosophy on diversity in an academic setting.
Paragraph 6 [2-3 Sentences]: Make a connection between your work and the department to which you are applying. Include how you will participate in the intellectual life of the department both inside and outside the classroom. Provide concrete examples of how you will be a hard-working and collaborative colleague.
Paragraph 7 [1-2 Sentences]: A thank you for the search committee’s time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Signature]
Your Name
Credentials and Position
Institution/Affiliation Name
Date: Month Day, Year Search Committee Chair’s First and Last Name, Graduate Degree Dear Dr./Mr./Ms. Search Committee Chair’s last name and/or Search Committee Members: Paragraph 1 [3-5 Sentences]: Identify the position you are applying for. Introduce yourself to the committee and your research interests. Connect your interests to the department and describe what makes you interested in becoming part of this departmental community. Paragraph 2 [3-5 Sentences]: Briefly discuss your teaching experience and pedagogical commitments. Provide examples of teaching strategies or an anecdote highlighting your teaching effectiveness. You may also want to introduce your philosophy on diversity in an academic setting. Paragraph 3 [3-4 Sentences]: Provide a discussion of how you involved yourself with students or the broader university community outside of the traditional classroom setting. Discuss how those interactions influenced your teaching. Paragraph 4 [2-3 Sentences]: Briefly explain your current research interests to date and how it relates to your teaching. State your research questions, methods, and key findings or arguments. Point out the intellectual merit and/or broader impacts of this future work. Paragraph 5 [3-5 Sentences]: Highlight when and where your research was published and/or presented this work or any forthcoming publications. Mention any prestigious funding or awards. Introduce your future research plans and goals. Paragraph 6 [2-3 Sentences]: Make a connection between your work and the department to which you are applying. Include how you will participate in the intellectual life of the department both inside and outside the classroom. Provide concrete examples of how you will be a hard-working and collaborative colleague. Paragraph 7 [1-2 Sentences]: A thank you for the search committee’s time and consideration. Sincerely, Your Name |
Remember your first draft does not have to be your last. Try to get feedback from different readers, especially if it is one of your first applications. It is not uncommon to go through several stages of revisions. Check out the Writing Center’s handout on editing and proofreading and video on proofreading to help with this last stage of writing.
Using the word dissertation. Some search committee members may see the word “dissertation” as a red flag that an applicant is too focused on their role as a graduate student rather than as a prospective faculty member. It may be advantageous, then, to describe your dissertation as current research, a current research project, current work, or some other phrase that demonstrates you are aware that your dissertation is the beginning of a larger scholarly career.
Too much jargon. While you may be writing to a specific department, people on the search committee might be unfamiliar with the details of your subfield. In fact, many committees have at least one member from outside their department. Use terminology that can easily be understood by non-experts. If you want to use a specific term that is crucial to your research, then you should define it. Aim for clarity for your reader, which may mean simplification in lieu of complete precision.
Overselling yourself. While your job letter should sell you as a great candidate, saying so (e.g., “I’m the ideal candidate”) in your letter may come off to some search committee members as presumptuous. Remember that although you have an idea about the type of colleague a department is searching for, ultimately you do not know exactly what they want. Try to avoid phrases or sentences where you state you are the ideal or the only candidate right for the position.
Paying too much attention to the job description. Job descriptions are the result of a lot of debate and compromise. If you have skills or research interests outside the job description, consider including them in your letter. It may be that your extra research interests; your outside skills; and/or your extracurricular involvements make you an attractive candidate. For example, if you are a Latin Americanist who also happens to be well-versed in the Spanish Revolution, it could be worth mentioning the expanse of your research interests because a department might find you could fill in other gaps in the curriculum or add an additional or complementary perspective to the department.
Improper sendoff. The closing of your letter is just as important as the beginning. The end of the letter should reflect the professionalism of the document. There should be a thank-you and the word sincerely or a formal equivalent. Remember, it is the very last place in your letter where you present yourself as a capable future colleague.
Small oversights. Make sure to proofread your letter not just for grammar but also for content. For example, if you use material from another letter, make sure you do not include the names of another school, department, or unassociated faculty! Or, if the school is in Chicago, make sure you do not accidentally reference it as located in the Twin Cities.
Name dropping. You rarely know the internal politics of the department or institution to which you are applying. So be cautious about the names you insert in your cover letters. You do not want to unintentionally insert yourself into a departmental squabble or add fire to an interdepartmental conflict. Instead, focus on the actions you will undertake and the initiatives you are passionate about.
We consulted these works while writing this handout. This is not a comprehensive list of resources on the handout’s topic, and we encourage you to do your own research to find additional publications. Please do not use this list as a model for the format of your own reference list, as it may not match the citation style you are using. For guidance on formatting citations, please see the UNC Libraries citation tutorial . We revise these tips periodically and welcome feedback.
Ball, Cheryl E. 2013. “Understanding Cover Letters.” Inside Higher Ed , November 3, 2013. https://www.insidehighered.com/advice/2013/11/04/essay-cover-letter-academic-jobs .
Borchardt, John. 2014. “Writing a Winning Cover Letter.” Science Magazine , August 6, 2014. https://www.sciencemag.org/careers/2014/08/writing-winning-cover-letter# .
Helmreich, William. 2013. “Your First Academic Job.” Inside Higher Ed , June 17, 2013. https://www.insidehighered.com/advice/2013/06/17/essay-how-land-first-academic-job .
Kelsky, Karen. 2013. “How To Write a Journal Article Submission Cover Letter.” The Professor Is In (blog), April 26, 2013. https://theprofessorisin.com/2013/04/26/how-to-write-a-journal-article-submission-cover-letter/ .
Tomaska, Lubomir, and Josef Nosek. 2008. “Ten Simple Rules for Writing a Cover Letter to Accompany a Job Application for an Academic Position.” PLoS Computational Biology 14(5). https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pcbi.1006132 .
You may reproduce it for non-commercial use if you use the entire handout and attribute the source: The Writing Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
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When you're applying for a faculty position with a college or university, the cover letter is your first chance to make a strong impression as a promising researcher and teacher. Below you'll find some strategies for presenting your qualifications effectively in an academic context.
A cover letter for an academic job has a function similar to one for a business job, but the content differs significantly in quantity and kind. While the general advice for business cover letters—such as tailoring your letter for the specific job and selling your strengths—still applies, a cover letter for an academic position should be long enough to highlight in some detail your accomplishments during your graduate education in research, teaching, departmental service, and so on. The typical letter is thus usually one and a half to two pages long, but not more than two—roughly five to eight paragraphs.
In the opening of your letter you need to convey some basic information, such as what specific position you are applying for (using the title given in the job notice) and where you learned of the opening. Since a cover letter is a kind of persuasive writing (persuading a hiring committee to include you on a list of candidates for further review), the first paragraph of your letter should also make the initial claim as to why you are a strong candidate for the position.
In an academic context knowing your audience means reading the job notice carefully and knowing the type of institution to which you are applying. Most graduate students have studied a broad range of material within their discipline before specializing in a narrow field for the dissertation project. Since it is rare to find a job notice specifying your exact qualifications, you need to emphasize those aspects of your graduate training that seem particularly relevant to the position advertised.
If you're still working on your dissertation, you should mention somewhere in the letter when you expect to be awarded the Ph.D., even being as specific as to mention how many chapters have been completed and accepted, how many are in draft version, and what your schedule for completion is. Last-paragraph tips include the following:
Job seekers at Purdue University may find value in the Purdue Career Wiki.
Everybody has a story. The ability to identify the narrative arc of that story, and share it in a concise and compelling way, is what separates a good cover letter from the slush pile. Want to write an excellent cover letter? Make sure you know—and care—enough about your audience so that you can adapt your storyline to complement theirs.
Essentially, the cover letter introduces you to the search committee. (An academic cover letter should be one to two pages long.) It works in tandem with the CV to make an argument about your suitability for the advertised position—in other words, your “fit.”
It is my contention that there are two kinds of search committee members in the world:
For that reason, your cover letter needs to stand on its own as a meaningful document . It interprets the timeline you set out in your CV without reiterating it. So if there’s something you want the committee to see in your CV, or understand about you as a candidate, you need to address it in your cover letter.
Think about it this way: your cover letter, working together with your CV, is what persuades the search committee to read the rest of your application package.
Most cover letters are, at least in my experience, about the applicant. They focus on what the applicant has done and is currently doing, what the applicant likes or dislikes, and the applicant’s hopes and dreams for the future.
An analogy to the world of dating is apt here: imagine that you’ve met someone who wants to establish a lifelong (tenured or contract renewable!) relationship with you. You’re open to hearing how the two of you will forge a better life together—and then your date starts talking about their amazing qualities, their past relationships, their five-year plan for personal fulfillment, and in the last five minutes of the date they mention that you’re a great listener.
In short, most cover letters are one-sided and therefore, of limited interest to the reader who (in the vast majority of academic job searches) is an actual human.
Step one: read the job ad carefully & adapt accordingly.
The first step is to read the job advertisement very carefully, and then adapt your message accordingly. If, for example, the advertised position is for a 4/4 course load at a teaching-intensive liberal arts college, focusing your cover letter on your cutting-edge research agenda is unlikely to be effective. A better strategy is to address how your research informs your teaching practice and how you would involve undergraduates in a meaningful way.
Conversely, a cover letter for a research-focused position should emphasize past, current, and future research directions as they align with the department’s priorities.
The order in which the job ad outlines responsibilities and priorities gives you a basic template for your letter. If you find yourself resisting this order—struggling to talk about teaching or research in a way that aligns with the advertised position, for example—it’s a sign that you might not want to invest your time in applying for that position.
You’re thinking about getting a job—but the search committee wants to hire someone who will be successful in the advertised role. Your goal in the cover letter is not just to impress the search committee with what you’ve done; it’s to demonstrate that you will be a solid long-term investment as a colleague .
At this point, most would ask, “In this job market, shouldn’t everyone apply for everything?” Not everyone will agree with me on this, but I say no. Having analyzed the data from my own academic job searches, I can affirm that I achieved equivalent or better results (measured in quantity and quality of interviews) by focusing only on the positions that best matched my research and teaching profile instead of adopting the scattershot approach of my first full-scale job search.
By limiting the number of positions you apply to, you will be able to devote more time to researching the department, the institution, the student demographics, the geographical region—anything and everything that will help you connect with the audience reading your cover letter, demonstrate your fit for the position , and convey your enthusiasm.
And while we’re on the subject, showing time and care and attention in your cover letter will express your enthusiasm far more effectively than resorting to everyone’s default sentence, I am passionate.
You’re making a significant investment of time and energy in your job search—why not make every word count?
Attend one of our cover letter workshops or ask a member of your PACK to read your letter. You can view sample cover letters from the UCSF Office of Career and Professional Development and from our own postdoc manager, Dr. Christopher Smith .
Dr. Erin Frey (postdoctoral teaching fellow, CVM) writes,
“I was able to transform my cover letter into an authentic statement that highlighted personal stories of my passion and vision for the position and for the department.”
She adds that working with the professional development team “ helped me to understand what resonates with search committees and how to use concrete experiences to demonstrate my clinical teaching philosophies.”
Sign up for one of our workshops in the fall or ask someone in your PACK to help you with your cover letter today. Using our ImPACKful tips and resources, your story will shine bright in your cover letter.
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Cover letter examples
Isabella has outlined her extensive expertise and professional journey in the California cover letter template. With a deep understanding of nutrition, she provides expert guidance to promote health and well-being.
"I am writing to express my enthusiastic interest in the Lecturer position in the Department of Nutrition and Food Science at London University, as recently advertised on the university’s employment portal. "
Table of contents
If you're an academic seeking guidance on the importance of a cover letter and how to write one, you're in the right place. Having an academic cover letter is a crucial step in your application process. It's your chance to showcase your qualifications, research, and teaching experience and present yourself as a suitable candidate.
This guide will walk you through the key elements of creating a good academic cover letter, offering practical tips and examples to help convey your suitability for the role. Whether you're applying for a faculty position, a research role, or a postdoctoral fellowship , a good cover letter can significantly impact your application, setting you apart from other candidates and capturing the attention of search committees.
Academic cover letter example.
Isabella Bennett, an academic and accomplished professional selected the California cover letter template to showcase her expertise. She seamlessly combines teaching, research, and her education in nutrition and STEM fields, creating an academic cover letter that will get her noticed. Check out the matching academic CV example.
A good academic cover letter, like a good CV , should always include your contact information at the top, similar to the format of a professional business letter. Include your name, location, phone number, and email address.
The introduction of your academic cover letter should be engaging and immediately convey the purpose of your application. Begin by addressing the hiring committee, mentioning the specific position you are applying for, and briefly stating why you are an ideal candidate. This section should be concise and to the point. For more tips, refer to how to start a cover letter.
Academic advisor cover letter example
I am writing to express my interest in the Academic Advisor position at the London School of Business, as advertised. With 5 years of experience in student counselling and a passion for supporting academic success, I am eager to contribute to your institution’s mission of guiding and mentoring students towards their educational goals.
Assistant professor cover letter example
I am writing to apply for the Assistant Professor position in Economics at Brightstone University, as advertised. As a recent PhD graduate from Eastford University, with a focus on Macroeconomics, I am eager to bring my passion for economic research and my dedication to teaching and research to your esteemed department.
Lecturer cover letter example
I am writing to express my interest in the Lecturer position in Psychology at London University, as advertised. With 10 years of experience in teaching and research in psychology, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your department’s mission of academic excellence and student engagement
Use the above as a guide for any academic positions, including but not limited to:
Senior Research Fellow
Research Associate
PhD Studentship
Research Assistant
Research Tutor.
For additional examples, explore our extensive collection of cover letter examples.
The body of your cover letter should provide a detailed account of your qualifications, focusing on your research, teaching experience, and any relevant achievements. This section is usually divided into two to three paragraphs, each highlighting different aspects of your professional background.
In my current role at Manchester University, I have successfully advised a diverse student population on academic planning, career development, and personal growth. My strong interpersonal skills and commitment to student advocacy allow me to foster meaningful relationships with students, helping them navigate challenges and make informed decisions. I am impressed by London Business School’s dedication to student excellence. My background in student affairs and counselling aligns well with the needs of your advising team. I am excited about the opportunity to support students and contribute to its vibrant academic community.
During my doctoral studies, I conducted innovative research on economic growth and income inequality, resulting in several publications in renowned journals such as the Journal of Economic Perspectives and Economic Inquiry. My dissertation, “The Dynamics of Income Inequality and Economic Growth in Developing Economies,” received the Eastford University Best Dissertation Award for its significant contributions to the field. I have experience teaching undergraduate and graduate courses in Macroeconomics, Microeconomics, and Econometrics. In my role as a teaching assistant and later as an adjunct lecturer at Eastford University, I developed and delivered comprehensive course materials that fostered a deep understanding of complex economic theories. My ability to engage students and promote critical thinking was consistently reflected in my high student evaluation scores and positive feedback I am particularly drawn to Brightstone University because of its commitment to research excellence and interdisciplinary collaboration. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your department’s academic community through my research, teaching, and service. I am particularly interested in collaborating with faculty members on projects related to economic development and policy analysis, and I am eager to engage with students through mentorship and advising.
In my current role at Greenfield Institute, I have developed and taught courses in cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, and research methods, receiving positive feedback from students for my enthusiasm and ability to create an inclusive learning environment. My commitment to student-centred learning and evidence-based teaching practices aligns well with the teaching goals at London University. I am impressed by the University’s dedication to teaching innovation and research excellence and believe my teaching experience and passion for psychology make me a strong candidate for this position. I am eager to bring my skills and dedication to your department and contribute to its academic community.
There is no one-size-fits-all cover letter strategy, but for more tips, check out our article on cover letter structure.
Similar to the above, this section is of equal importance. It should summarise your interest in the position, reiterate your enthusiasm, and thank the committee for considering your application. In addition, consider mentioning any enclosed documents such as your CV, references, or perhaps a separate document for additional publications, and express your willingness to provide further information if need be. For more tips, refer to how to professionally sign off and end a cover letter.
In conclusion, I am very enthusiastic about the possibility of joining the Department of Biology at Cambridge University. I am confident that my research background, teaching experience, and commitment to community engagement make me a strong candidate for the Assistant Professor position. Thank you for considering my application. I have enclosed my CV, research statement, and teaching philosophy for your review. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my application further.
Key takeaways .
Customise the letter for the specific job and institution.
Use formal language and maintain a professional tone throughout.
Follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.
Emphasise relevant qualifications, experiences, and skills.
Provide concrete examples of academic achievements and research contributions.
Explain how your research aligns with the institution’s goals and current projects.
Highlight any teaching experience and your teaching philosophy.
Discuss your future research plans and how they fit within the institution.
Mention why you are interested and how you can contribute to it.
Ensure the letter is free from grammatical and typographical errors.
Next steps?
If you're unsure about the layout or content of your CV, browse our extensive collection of cover letter templates and CV examples for inspiration. Alternatively, you can seek help from a professional through our CV Writing Service , which also offers LinkedIn profile optimisation.
Academic and PhD cover letters are similar but not identical. Both should detail your qualifications and research experience, but a PhD cover letter might focus more on your dissertation work and its relevance to the position. Academic cover letters often address teaching experience and fit with the department.
Begin with a strong opening stating the position you're applying for. Follow with a brief overview of your academic background and research achievements, then align your expertise with the job requirements. Conclude with your enthusiasm for the position and your readiness for an interview.
A good academic cover letter template includes: an introduction specifying the position you're applying for, a brief summary of your qualifications and research interests, a description of how your experience aligns with the job requirements, and a conclusion expressing enthusiasm for the role and your availability for an interview.
In an academic paper cover letter, briefly introduce your paper, its main contributions, and its relevance to the journal. Mention why the paper fits the journal’s scope and highlight any novel aspects. End with your contact information and your hope for a positive review.
An academic cover letter should be no more than two pages long. Aim for clarity and conciseness to make a strong impression without overwhelming the reader. Refer to our guide that delves into the ideal cover letter length .
Yes, a cover letter is crucial in academics as it highlights your suitability for the position, complements your CV, and provides context for your achievements and research interests.
Yes, a cover letter is typically required for academic positions. It provides an opportunity to discuss your qualifications in more detail and explain why you’re a good fit for the role and institution.
Yes, a cover letter is important for research positions. It allows you to explain your research background, how it aligns with the position, and why you are interested in the role, making your application more compelling.
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Writers Workshop
A cover letter is central to your academic job application. It allows you to explain the narrative of your academic career and demonstrate the cohesion of your application packet. Since it is often the first document read by the hiring committee, the cover letter acts as an initial writing sample and an introduction to your other application materials (CV, teaching philosophy, writing sample, letters of recommendation, etc.). The letter must therefore go through numerous drafts in order to show the hiring committee that you are a strong writer and a good fit for the position. Be sure to ask for feedback on these drafts from your advisor, professors in your field, colleagues, or a consultant at the Writers Workshop before including it in your application.
Keeping your audience and tone in mind is essential in crafting your academic cover letter. Even if you are still a graduate student finishing your dissertation, you should not present yourself as such. To persuade the committee that you are the ideal candidate for the position, write your cover letter as a potential colleague (rather than from the perspective of a graduate student or someone desperate for the job). Since most hiring committees are diverse in terms of areas of expertise, be sure to explain your terms, minimize jargon, and tie technical points to the larger aims of your work. Finally, it is especially important to cater your cover letter to the position by addressing all of the qualifications listed in the job ad. Connecting your experience to the institution you are applying to will help show your enthusiasm for the position and demonstrate how you will use your knowledge and skills to benefit the institution as a whole.
An academic cover letter typically follows the 5-7 paragraph format outlined below. This structure may vary depending on your discipline, where you are in your career, and what type of job you are applying to.
Introduction
Dissertation / Current Research
Future / Related Research
You can find additional information and sample academic cover letters through the Graduate College Career Development Office , Purdue Online Writing Lab , and Inside Higher Ed .
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Recently, on a listserv in my field known for being welcoming to outsiders and newcomers but also for being rife with discussions that quickly turn ridiculous, a thread on cover letters followed the usual pattern: A new grad student asks what seems to be an innocuous question, a few professors offer semi-helpful responses without getting too sucked into the time-sink, the rogue academic contributes some tongue-in-cheek humor, a few more grad students take the jokes seriously and panic, the list erupts in false information and rumors. (See, e.g., the incident in writing studies that will henceforth be known as Godwin's Eternal Bedbugs).
The job application letter, or the cover letter, is the most important part of your application. It’s the first thing a search committee member sees. Typically, a search committee member will read your materials in the following order: cover letter, C.V., letters of recommendation, writing sample or other additional materials. Depending on the individual committee member and how large the candidate pool is, your materials may get as long as 30 minutes or as short as 5 minutes. Less if it’s obvious from your cover letter that you’re absolutely not qualified for the job ( see “Fit” column ). If you are a fit for the job ad’s basic qualifications, it’s not unusual for readers to spend the most time on your cover letter, as it should be the narrative that explains the rest of your materials and, frankly, your academic life.
This document is, next to the teaching philosophy (fodder for another column), the most difficult for students to write because it sums up, usually before the student has finished their degree, their Ph.D. trajectory and so it is like writing a proposal for employment. You have to pretend (if you’re not already defended, or close to it) that you know exactly how your research will turn out and be able to state it confidently and articulately to a group of non-experts. I say non-experts because, unless you’re applying to a research-intensive university or a school that has a Ph.D. program in your exact area of study, and that has an extremely large faculty of experts in and around your field already, you’re more likely to be applying to a college where you’re intended to be one of a handful, or maybe the only one in your field who will research in your specific area. In those cases, it’s unlikely that the search committee will comprise researchers who understand your confined set of academic jargon. This does not mean you should dumb things down, but that you should fully explain yourself, defining any specific terms you need to use and giving examples from your research and teaching.
The academic cover letter generally follows very strict genre conventions. It should be no more than two pages, but definitely more than one and a half. No glaring amounts of white space, because this means you don’t have enough qualifications to talk about yourself.
The tone of the letter is crucial. It must be thoroughly formal and professional; remember that you are speaking as a potential colleague, not as a (desperate) graduate student. Your cover letter should not repeat items from your C.V. without including some context for their inclusion here. While it’s true that few faculty will read all of your documents with care, just listing items to repeat them in multiple locations doesn’t tell the search committee why these C.V. lines are important to your own research and teaching trajectories, nor why these items should matter for the position at hand. This is why your cover letter should narrate your experiences and persuade the committee that your qualifications meet the needs of the job qualifications posted.
Two pages is a short amount of space to work within, which is another reason why this genre is difficult for students to write successfully. Most Ph.D. students I’ve worked with over the years write at least seven drafts of their letter before it is workable. And then they often write another three or four drafts to perfect it for one job.
I recommend students pick out a "dream" job posting early on (or from the previous year, perhaps) and write their letter toward that job. Doing this will get you in the right frame of mind to convince a committee that you’re the right person for the job, and then you will have a standard draft to work from and create alternate cover letters for each job you apply to. And you must tailor each cover letter to fit each job ad, which is why being on the market is so damned time-consuming. (In case no one has told you yet, you will not -- no matter how good a student and researcher you are -- have time to work on your dissertation while you’re on the job market. I’ve never met a student who isn’t so totally distracted by the job search that they can refocus on their dissertations in between sending letters out.)
Job letters typically follow a five-paragraph format, with the order of paragraphs switched depending upon the focus of the department (research or teaching):
1. The Introduction
The tradition for including the full name and position number, if there is one, and location where you discovered the job posting feels odd, but it’s a standard opening line to your letter. Also in this paragraph, you should state what your current status is (ABD, defending in April, assistant professor, etc.). If you have not finished your degree yet, be very specific about when you defend (not will defend: be more definitive than that) and make sure your adviser agrees with you, or she might write a different timeline in her letter of recommendation, which will make the search committee assume you have unrealistic expectations. It’s also common to include a sentence or two about why you are applying for this particular position. Sometimes these statements can come across as empty. Don’t BS, and don’t write it just to have filler; be honest and sincere. For instance, a colleague wanting to make the switch from a tenure-track position at an R2 (teaching-intensive institution with some Ph.D. programs) to a tenure-track position at an all-male, teaching-intensive SLAC (small liberal arts college) explained why -- in terms of leadership-based teaching that was part of the school’s mission -- in her introductory paragraph.
2. The Dissertation Paragraph
This is one of the hardest paragraphs to write for most students, because (at least in my field) it’s typical that people go on the job market before they’ve finished their dissertations. Many students start crafting their cover letters at the same time they start writing their dissertations, so they have a really hard time writing in the future abstract. But once students are able to craft their dissertation paragraph, I’ve found that it actually clarifies their understanding of their own dissertations and helps them move forward. So I’d recommend starting your draft by writing this paragraph. One paragraph should be enough, and it can be structured similarly to the organization of your whole dissertation: one sentence for each chapter, roughly. In four to six sentences you must show what your dissertation contributes to your field of research -- the “So what?” factor -- by explaining how it is situated within your field’s disciplinary conversations (but you don’t have to cite scholarship), why your topic is important and necessary, and what your outcomes are.
If methodologies and methods are an important part of your research and field, include them. If archival or corpus-based work is an important part of your research, name them. People from outside your specialty will be reading this description, so don’t assume everyone on the planet has read Frankenstein and would know why you’re writing yet another dissertation about it. Make sure you emphasize the aspects of the dissertation that fit the particular job ad. Finally, in some fields it is acceptable to include an added, longer (one- or two-page) dissertation abstract with your materials. With the increased use of online submission websites for job ads, which mandate what you can upload, I suspect we will begin to see less and less of this inclusion from job candidates. Do yourself a favor and make your diss paragraph awesome so you don’t have to include another document.
3. Related/Future Research
This paragraph is often about your research agenda; that is, what articles or books you have plans to work on after the dissertation is completed. Students early in their dissertation writing often panic at the thought of having to plan out their research trajectory for the next six years, but if you want a job with any research involved, you will need to have some idea of how you will get tenure, and the research agenda is that document. Indeed, you might start this paragraph as a separate research agenda document and then summarize it in your cover letter. Research-intensive schools may ask for the separate, longer document, which should include names of projects, brief outlines, journals or presses or funding agencies they will be submitted to, and your work plan for completing them before tenure.
If you’re stuck thinking of what your future projects might be, consider all of the threads of interesting or related findings you discovered as part of your diss research; each one of those might become an article or, if several are related, your next book or research project. Finally, other things you might mention in this paragraph -- as they relate to the job ad -- include previous articles you’ve published, grants you’ve received, and conference presentations you’ve given. The purpose of this paragraph is to show that you have a coherent research trajectory and that you are productive. It is most useful for applying to research-intensive universities, to convince them that you can work independently and will get tenure. If you’re applying to a teaching-intensive university, consider making this paragraph about undergraduate research, if you have any involvement (or want to) in that area of mentoring.
4. Teaching Paragraph(s)
This paragraph seems to be the most difficult for students to write, and I think it’s because it is such an unusual academic genre. Unless you’re applying for a research-only position that you are absolutely sure includes zero teaching, you’re going to have to include this paragraph, so start practicing. Like the dissertation paragraph, I recommend students start by writing a full, two-page teaching philosophy (coming soon to a column near you!) and then summarizing it in your cover letter. This paragraph — you can have one or two — typically begins by explaining your teaching philosophy in one or two sentences. If your teaching relates to your research, definitely make that connection here. Then you give a broad overview of how you bring your teaching philosophy to your classrooms. This might include discussing what teaching values and learning goals you use in your classes.
For instance, my teaching philosophy is called an editorial pedagogy, so I need to define this term, relate it to my research in digital publishing, explain that my goal is to professionalize students as designers and editors (given the kinds of classes I teach), and say that I do this by mentoring them through in-progress feedback on their client-based projects. This is a very short example. Yours might be 1-2 sentences longer, but hopefully it gives you a sense of the big-picture nature of these opening sentences. After that introduction, get specific. Tell the search committee the name of a class you’ve taught using this pedagogical approach, what the assignments are (and/or texts you assigned), and how you set students up to achieve the learning outcomes of the assignment. Make sure that you relate this description back to how it enacts your teaching philosophy.
If you haven’t yet taught but that’s part of the job you’re applying for, suggest that this is the way you’d like to approach teaching and, perhaps, describe a training or mentoring situation that was similar to teaching and what you learned (as a potential teacher) from it.
Include a second paragraph only if the job ad lists a bunch of different classes you might teach and two kinds are different enough from each other than you need to describe your approach in each.
Some advisers recommend students include information about the kinds of courses you hope to teach in the future, pulled from the course catalog of the institution you’re applying to. I have mixed feelings about this because, like the “Here’s why I’m applying to your department” sentence of the introductory paragraph, it can come across as cloying. So approach the “Here’s what I can teach” section with care, and if you have two teaching paragraphs already, they’ll get the idea without your help, unless what they want you to teach is not adequately represented by the kinds of classes you’ve described. In which case, make that connection for them by showing how what you’ve taught relates to what they’d want you to teach. In addition, for teaching-focused colleges, this paragraph will go before your dissertation paragraph, and you will have two paragraphs on teaching, to show your dedication to it and to undergraduate mentoring or advising. Talk specifically about any examples you may have advising undergraduates in teaching, clubs, etc.
5. Service Paragraph
Some folks' strategy here is to list all their service work, to show what a good colleague they can be. The point of this paragraph is to show that you are a hard-working, collaborative colleague, not just some holier-than-thou star who will only sit in her office and never contribute to the department. But listing all your service is for your C.V. This paragraph should be about giving a story to your service work so that the work you highlight here portrays your service as connected to your research and teaching and contributes to the department or field.
Service work will be especially important to teaching-intensive colleges where the faculties are smaller (and thus have to pitch in more to departmental administration) and where undergraduate student mentoring and advising is expected. As with all paragraphs in this letter, make sure you draw on key words from the job ad itself (but not in an obnoxious way) to persuade the committee that you’re the right fit for the job. Keep in mind that if you’re applying to alt-ac jobs or other types of administrative positions such as a program director, this paragraph may actually go after the introductory paragraph and will be much lengthier. In that case, it should include your specific qualifications for running the program, what your vision is for it over the next five (or 10) years, and (if a required part of the job) how you plan to creatively finance it.
6. Conclusion.
Because you’re not done yet. This paragraph, though, is rather perfunctory. You’re simply telling the committee how your dossier (your letters of recommendation, C.V., writing sample, and any other job materials) will arrive, if separate from your cover letter.
Or include your web address, if you have an online portfolio. If the job doesn’t require recommendation letters up front, you can list who your recommenders are, but it’s not required. In some fields, it is expected that you indicate your availability and contact information for an interview. But that’s about it. Do not, under any circumstances, make it seem like they’re doing you a favor and that you have nothing to give in return.
Other quick T\tips:
These conventions differ depending on what field you are in, so while a national, cover-your-bases advice column like this can serve as a starting point, you’re still going to have to do some research into how people in your field write cover letters (and organize their C.V.s, etc.), and -- most obviously -- review drafts of your letter with your adviser. One of the best pieces of advice I got my first time on the job market was from a faculty member outside my disciplinary specialty, whom I had asked to read a draft of my cover letter. She was notorious for being rather to-the-point, so I was expecting some harsh criticism, even though I’d already revised the letter a dozen times. I made an appointment to meet with her; she read the letter and simply said to me: It sounds like you’re a graduate student who wants a job, not a colleague who wants to join their faculty. It was the perfect bit of advice I needed to rewrite the cover letter yet again and frame my work as one of a future colleague rather than as an immature graduate student not yet finished with her Ph.D. It is that mindset that a cover letter needs to have to be convincing. Have multiple faculty members, including those outside your specialty, read a final draft, and then expect to revise more.
Not everyone will have excellent advice, but the more that advice begins to resonate across readers, the more you should pay attention to it and make some corrections. Because if your cover letter bombs on the market, no one will ever get past that to see how awesome your C.V. or writing sample is. You have roughly 30 seconds to sell someone on your entire academic career, so make it count.
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Cover letter maker.
When applying for an academic position, an academic cover letter is a critical tool that showcases your scholarly background, interests, and achievements. It’s the opportunity to present your academic journey, research pursuits, teaching philosophy, and how you align with the institution’s mission. A well-crafted academic cover letter can make you stand out among other candidates.
An academic cover letter is a specialized document sent alongside a resume when applying for positions in academia, such as faculty, researcher, or administrative roles. Unlike standard cover letters, it focuses on academic accomplishments, scholarly work, teaching experience, and research goals. It often includes details about publications, conferences, grants, and how the applicant’s expertise would fit within the department and the institution as a whole.
Here’s an good cover letter for academic:
[Your Name] [Address] [City, State ZIP] [Email Address] [Phone Number] [Date]
[Search Committee Chair’s Name] [Department] [University] [Address] [City, State ZIP]
Dear [Search Committee Chair’s Name],
I am writing to apply for the Assistant Professor position in the Department of History at [University Name], as advertised on your website. With a Ph.D. in History from [Your University], my focus on [Your Research Area], and a proven record of excellence in teaching, I am eager to contribute my skills and enthusiasm to your esteemed department.
My dissertation, entitled “[Title of Dissertation],” explores [Brief Explanation of Research]. Under the guidance of Dr. [Advisor’s Name], I have developed a robust analytical methodology that has been recognized at various conferences.
In addition to my research, I have three years of teaching experience at [Previous Institution], where I taught courses on [Subjects Taught]. My commitment to creating an engaging learning environment is reflected in [Examples of Teaching Achievements or Philosophy].
I am particularly drawn to [University Name] due to its emphasis on [Specific Characteristics or Goals of the University that Align with Your Interests]. I am confident that my research interests and teaching approach would complement the already thriving academic community at your institution.
Enclosed is my curriculum vitae, teaching portfolio, and writing sample. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to the Department of History at [University Name].
Thank you for considering my application. I can be reached at [Phone Number] or via email at [Email Address].
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Size: 30 KB
Academic cover letter format.
Below is a full example of an academic cover letter format suitable for a faculty position, including detailed guidelines on how to use it.
[Your Full Name] [Your Address] [City, State, ZIP Code] [Phone Number] [Email Address] [Date]
[Recipient’s Full Name] [Title] [Department] [Institution/Organization Name] [Address] [City, State, ZIP Code]
Dear [Recipient’s Title and Last Name],
[Opening Paragraph: Introduce yourself, the position you’re applying for, and briefly mention how you heard about the opportunity.]
[Middle Paragraphs: Detail your academic background, research achievements, teaching philosophy, and other relevant qualifications. Use specific examples to demonstrate your suitability for the position.]
[Concluding Paragraph: Express your enthusiasm for the role and the institution. Mention any enclosed documents and request an interview or further discussion.]
[Signature (if a printed letter)]
[Your Typed Full Name]
Enclosures: [List of documents enclosed, such as CV, teaching statement, etc.]
This format can be tailored for different academic roles. Make sure to research the department and institution you’re applying to, and adjust the content accordingly.
Size: 27 KB
Here’s an example of an academic cover letter for a postdoctoral researcher position:
[Your Full Name] [Your Address] [City, State, ZIP Code] [Email Address] [Phone Number] [Date]
[Recipient’s Full Name] [Title] [Department] [University Name] [Address] [City, State, ZIP Code]
I am writing to express my interest in the Postdoctoral Researcher position in the [Specific Field] Department at [University Name], as advertised in [Where You Found the Job Posting]. Holding a Ph.D. in [Your Field] from [Your University], I have a strong research background in [Briefly Describe Your Research Area].
My doctoral research, titled “[Title of Your Research],” has been published in [Names of Journals or Conferences]. Collaborating with Dr. [Collaborator’s Name], we explored [Brief Description of the Research]. I believe that my expertise in [Specific Techniques or Methods] would contribute greatly to the ongoing projects at your department.
Furthermore, my experience as a teaching assistant for [Course Name] has equipped me with valuable skills in communicating complex ideas. I’m committed to fostering an inclusive and
engaging learning environment.
I am particularly excited about [Something Specific about the University or Department]. I look forward to the possibility of joining [University Name], where I can contribute to its mission of [Mission or Goals of the University].
Enclosed, please find my curriculum vitae, a copy of my dissertation abstract, and three reference letters. I welcome the opportunity to discuss how my skills and experiences align with the needs of your department.
Thank you for considering my application.
[Your Full Name]
This cover letter can be customized according to the specific postdoctoral position you’re applying for.
Size: 31 KB
Below is an example of an general academic cover letter for a job application in academia:
[Recipient’s Name] [Title] [Institution Name] [Address] [City, State, ZIP Code]
Dear [Recipient’s Name],
I am writing to apply for the [Position Name] at [Institution Name], as advertised in [Where You Found the Job Posting]. With a [Your Degree] in [Your Field] from [Your University], I have a diversified academic background that encompasses both [Briefly Describe Your Academic Interests].
My scholarly work includes [Mention Significant Research or Publications]. I have presented my research at various academic conferences and have been honored with [Any Awards or Recognition].
In the classroom, I have taught [Subjects or Courses], focusing on [Your Teaching Philosophy or Methodology]. I am committed to creating an inclusive educational experience and have received positive feedback from both students and peers.
What draws me to [Institution Name] is its [Specific Attributes or Goals that Align with Your Interests]. I am eager to contribute my academic expertise and collaborative nature to your prestigious institution.
Enclosed are my curriculum vitae, teaching statement, research statement, and the names and contact information for three references. I look forward to discussing how I can be an asset to your team.
This cover letter can be modified to fit various academic roles, from administrative to teaching positions.
Here is an example for a faculty position:
[Recipient’s Name] [Title] [Department] [University Name] [Address] [City, State, ZIP Code]
I am writing to apply for the [Specific Faculty Position] in the [Department Name] at [University Name]. As a [Your Academic Title] with a specialization in [Your Field or Subfield], I believe my scholarly interests and teaching philosophy align with the mission of your department.
My research focuses on [Describe Your Research Focus], and I have published [Number of Publications] articles in respected journals, including [Names of Journals]. My recent project, [Title of Project], has attracted funding from [Funding Sources or Grants].
I have taught courses on [List of Courses] and mentored [Number of Students] undergraduate and graduate students. My teaching philosophy emphasizes [Key Aspects of Your Teaching Approach], and I have consistently received high evaluations from students.
I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to [University Name]’s reputation for excellence in research and education. Enclosed please find my CV, teaching portfolio, research statement, and three letters of recommendation.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to discussing how my background and vision can benefit your department.
This letter is tailored for a faculty position and highlights both research and teaching qualifications.
Here is an example of an academic cover letter for an Assistant Professor role:
I am writing to apply for the Assistant Professor position in [Department Name] at [University Name], as advertised on [Where You Found the Job Posting]. As a Ph.D. holder in [Your Field] with a focus on [Your Research Focus], I am confident that my academic and professional experiences align with the requirements of this role.
My research has been recognized in publications such as [Names of Journals], and I have presented my findings at international conferences. My current work on [Title of Current Research] explores [Brief Description of Research].
In addition to my research achievements, I have taught [Names of Courses] at [Previous Institution(s)]. My approach to teaching emphasizes [Your Teaching Methodology], and I have been commended by both students and faculty for my dedication and innovation in the classroom.
I admire [University Name]’s commitment to [Specific Attributes of the University], and I am eager to contribute to your department’s success. Enclosed are my CV, samples of my published work, and contact information for three professional references.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of joining your academic community.
This example provides a clear and concise overview of qualifications specifically for an Assistant Professor role.
Below is an example for an academic cover letter tailored for a student applying for a research or teaching assistant position:
I am writing to express my interest in the [Specific Position, e.g., Research Assistant] role in the [Department Name] at [University Name]. As a [Your Year, e.g., Sophomore] majoring in [Your Major], I have developed strong skills in [Skills Relevant to the Position] and believe I would be an excellent fit for this opportunity.
My academic interests include [Your Academic Interests], and I have completed coursework in [Relevant Courses]. My experience working with [Any Previous Experience or Projects] has provided me with valuable insights into [Field or Subject].
I am particularly excited about the opportunity to work with [Name of Faculty or Project, if known], as it aligns with my long-term academic and career goals. I am eager to contribute my enthusiasm and dedication to your department.
Enclosed please find my resume and a letter of recommendation from
[Recommender’s Name, if applicable]. I look forward to discussing how my background and interests align with the needs of your team.
This letter is concise and focused, highlighting the student’s relevant skills and academic interests.
Here is an example for a university student seeking an academic opportunity:
I am writing to apply for the [Specific Position] in the [Department Name] at [University Name]. As a [Year in School, e.g., Junior] majoring in [Your Field], I am eager to contribute my academic skills and passion for [Your Area of Interest] to this role.
My studies have focused on [Briefly Describe Your Studies and Projects], and I have had the opportunity to collaborate with [Mention Collaborations or Group Projects]. I believe these experiences have prepared me well for the challenges of [Specific Position].
What draws me to this opportunity at [University Name] is its [Mention Something Specific about the University or Department]. I am excited to contribute to the ongoing success of your team.
Enclosed please find my resume and transcripts, along with a letter of recommendation from [If Applicable, Mention Recommender’s Name]. I look forward to discussing how my academic background aligns with your needs.
This example can be tailored for various academic opportunities available to university students, such as internships, research positions, or student assistant roles.
Size: 29 KB
Here is an example of an academic cover letter for a Ph.D. student or candidate:
I am writing to apply for the [Position Name] in [Department Name] at [University Name]. As a Ph.D. candidate in [Your Field], my research focuses on [Describe Your Research Focus], and I believe my expertise aligns with the qualifications you seek.
I have published [Number of Publications] papers in [Names of Journals] and presented my research at [Name of Conferences]. My dissertation, titled “[Title of Dissertation],” explores [Brief Description of Dissertation].
In addition to my research, I have served as a teaching assistant for [Courses You’ve Assisted With], gaining experience in curriculum development, grading, and mentoring students.
I am drawn to [University Name] because of its [Highlight Something Specific about the University or Department]. I am confident that my academic contributions will complement your department’s vision and goals.
Enclosed please find my curriculum vitae, publication list, and the names and contact information of three professional references. I look forward to discussing how I can contribute to your academic community.
This cover letter is designed for Ph.D. students or candidates seeking academic positions, such as postdoctoral roles, lectureships, or research roles.
Below is an example of a cover letter addressed to a search committee:
Search Committee [Department Name] [University Name] [Address] [City, State, ZIP Code]
Dear Members of the Search Committee,
I am writing to apply for the [Specific Position] in the [Department Name] at [University Name]. With a [Your Degree] in [Your Field], my academic interests and professional background align with the requirements outlined in your advertisement.
My research focuses on [Describe Your Research], and I have published in respected journals such as [Names of Journals]. My recent work on [Title of Project] received [Awards or Recognition].
I have taught courses including [List of Courses], employing [Your Teaching Philosophy or Approach]. My dedication to inclusive and engaging teaching has resulted in positive feedback from students and faculty.
I am excited about the possibility of joining [University Name] and contributing to its mission of [Mission or Goals of the University]. Enclosed, you will find my CV, research statement, teaching portfolio, and three letters of recommendation.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how I can be a valuable asset to your department.
This cover letter is targeted at a search committee, emphasizing both research and teaching qualifications.
Size: 28 KB
Here’s an example for an Adjunct Professor role:
I am writing to express my interest in the Adjunct Professor position in [Department Name] at [University Name], as advertised in [Where You Found the Job Posting]. With a [Your Degree] in [Your Field] and extensive experience in both research and teaching, I am confident in my ability to contribute to your department.
My academic work focuses on [Describe Your Academic Focus], and I have published [Number of Publications] articles in [Names of Journals]. My current research project, [Title of Project], is expected to [Expected Outcomes or Impact].
As a lecturer, I have taught [Names of Courses You’ve Taught] at [Names of Institutions], receiving praise for my innovative teaching methods and dedication to student success. I believe in fostering critical thinking and curiosity, encouraging students to explore beyond the syllabus.
I am drawn to [University Name] for its [Specific Attributes or Goals of the University], and I look forward to the opportunity to engage with your diverse student population.
Enclosed please find my CV, teaching statement, and the names and contact information of three professional references. I look forward to discussing how I can add value to your academic team.
This letter is specifically designed for those applying for adjunct teaching roles, highlighting relevant teaching experience.
Below is an example of an academic cover letter that can accompany a resume for a job application:
I am writing to apply for the [Position Name] at [Institution Name], as described in [Where You Found the Job Posting]. With a [Your Degree] in [Your Field], I bring a diverse academic background and a commitment to [Your Values or Goals that Align with the Position].
My scholarly work includes [Mention Significant Research or Publications], and I have been an active
member of the academic community, contributing to conferences and collaborating on research projects.
In my previous role as [Your Previous Role], I demonstrated [Describe Key Achievements or Skills]. I believe these experiences have prepared me well for the challenges and opportunities of the [Position Name] at [Institution Name].
Enclosed you will find my resume, which further details my academic and professional history. I look forward to discussing how my qualifications align with the needs of your team.
This example is a general academic cover letter that can be paired with a resume for various academic roles.
Here’s an example tailored for a science-related academic position:
I am writing to express my interest in the [Position Name] at [University Name]. With a PhD in [Your Field, e.g., Biology], my research focuses on [Describe Your Research Focus, e.g., Molecular Biology Techniques], and I believe my expertise aligns perfectly with the position’s requirements.
I have published [Number of Publications] papers in prestigious journals like [Names of Journals] and have actively collaborated with researchers both within and outside my field. My teaching experience includes courses such as [List Courses You’ve Taught], where I utilized innovative approaches to engage students.
What excites me about [University Name] is [Highlight Specifics about the University or Department]. I am confident that my contributions will enhance the scientific community at your institution.
Enclosed please find my curriculum vitae, research statement, and the names of three references. I look forward to discussing how my scientific expertise can benefit your team.
Below is an example for a Lecturer position:
[Recipient’s Name] [Title] [Department] [College or University Name] [Address] [City, State, ZIP Code]
I am writing to apply for the Lecturer position in [Department Name] at [College or University Name], as advertised in [Where You Found the Job Posting]. With a [Your Degree] in [Your Field], my academic and teaching experiences make me an ideal fit for this role.
I have taught courses including [List of Courses You’ve Taught], employing interactive and student-centered teaching methods that promote critical thinking. My commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive classroom has consistently resulted in positive student evaluations.
My research interests include [Describe Your Research Interests], which I believe align with the department’s focus on [Department’s Focus or Research Areas].
I look forward to the possibility of contributing to your department as a Lecturer, engaging with students, and collaborating with faculty. Enclosed, you will find my CV, teaching portfolio, and three letters of recommendation.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to discussing how I can add value to your academic team.
Here’s an example professional cover letter for academic role:
I am writing to apply for the [Position Name] at [University Name]. With a proven track record in both academic and administrative roles, I believe I am uniquely qualified to contribute to your team.
My scholarly work in [Your Field] includes [Number of Publications] publications, numerous conference presentations, and ongoing collaboration with industry partners. I have successfully secured funding for research projects and mentored both undergraduate and graduate students.
In addition to my academic achievements, I have experience in [Describe Administrative or Leadership Roles]. My leadership has contributed to [Specific Outcomes or Achievements].
I am attracted to [University Name] because of its commitment to [Specific Values or Goals]. I am confident that my diverse skill set will make a positive impact on your institution.
Enclosed please find my CV, research statement, and the names of three professional references. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to your academic community.
Here’s an example for a Research Assistant position:
I am writing to apply for the Research Assistant position in [Department Name] at [University Name], as described in [Where You Found the Job Posting]. As a [Your Degree, e.g., Master’s] student in [Your Field], my academic focus and research experience make me a strong candidate for this role.
I have worked on research projects such as [Describe Research Projects], acquiring skills in [List Relevant Skills, e.g., Data Analysis, Laboratory Techniques]. My dedication to meticulous research and collaborative teamwork aligns with the requirements of the position.
I am particularly interested in joining [University Name] because of its reputation for innovative research in [Specific Research Area]. I look forward to contributing my skills and enthusiasm to your team.
Enclosed please find my resume and a letter of recommendation from [Recommender’s Name, if applicable]. I hope to discuss how my background aligns with the needs of your department.
Here’s an example for an academic position within a school:
[Recipient’s Name] [Title] [School Name] [Address] [City, State, ZIP Code]
I am writing to apply for the [Position Name, e.g., Teacher] position at [School Name], as advertised on [Where You Found the Job Posting]. With a [Your Degree, e.g., Master’s in Education] and experience in [Your Field or Subject], I am confident in my ability to provide engaging and effective instruction.
I have taught [Grades/Subjects You’ve Taught], implementing [Describe Teaching Strategies, e.g., Collaborative Learning, Technology Integration]. My commitment to student success, inclusivity, and a nurturing learning environment has translated into [Specific Achievements, e.g., Improved Test Scores, Positive Student Feedback].
What attracts me to [School Name] is its focus on [Highlight School’s Values, Goals, or Initiatives]. I believe my educational philosophy aligns well with the school’s mission, and I am eager to contribute to the community.
Enclosed please find my resume, teaching portfolio, and three letters of recommendation. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my skills and experiences align with the needs of your school.
Here’s an example cover letter for an internship :
[Recipient’s Name] [Title] [Organization or University Name] [Address] [City, State, ZIP Code]
I am writing to express my interest in the [Internship Position Name] at [Organization or University Name]. As a [Your Current Status, e.g., Junior] majoring in [Your Field], I am eager to apply my academic knowledge in a real-world setting.
I have excelled in courses such as [List Relevant Courses], and have hands-on experience in [Describe Any Relevant Projects or Research]. I am particularly interested in [Describe Specific Areas of Interest Related to the Internship].
I believe that an internship at [Organization or University Name] would provide invaluable experience and align perfectly with my career goals. I am excited about the prospect of contributing to your team and learning from professionals in the field.
Enclosed please find my resume and a letter of recommendation from [Recommender’s Name, if applicable]. I look forward to discussing how my skills and interests align with the goals of your internship program.
Here’s an example for a College Professor position:
[Recipient’s Name] [Title] [Department] [College Name] [Address] [City, State, ZIP Code]
I am writing to apply for the [Position Name, e.g., Assistant Professor] position in [Department Name] at [College Name], as advertised in [Where You Found the Job Posting]. My scholarly pursuits, teaching experience, and commitment to community engagement make me an excellent fit for this role.
My research focuses on [Describe Research Focus], and I have published in leading journals such as [Names of Journals]. I have presented at national and international conferences and actively collaborate with colleagues and students.
I have taught courses at both undergraduate and graduate levels, including [List Courses You’ve Taught]. My teaching philosophy emphasizes [Describe Teaching Strategies, e.g., Critical Thinking, Collaboration], and I am committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive classroom.
What attracts me to [College Name] is [Highlight Specifics about the College or Department]. I am confident that my contributions will enrich the academic community at your institution.
Enclosed you will find my CV, teaching and research statements, and the names of three references. I look forward to discussing how my qualifications align with the needs of your department.
Here’s a simple example for an academic position:
[Recipient’s Name] [Title] [Department] [Institution Name] [Address] [City, State, ZIP Code]
I am writing to apply for the [Position Name] at [Institution Name]. My background in [Your Field], coupled with my passion for teaching and research, make me a strong candidate for this role.
I have experience teaching [List of Courses You’ve Taught] and have published research in [Describe Your Research Area]. I believe my skills and interests align well with the requirements of the position.
I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your academic community and collaborate with the talented faculty at [Institution Name].
Enclosed please find my resume, teaching statement, and a list of references. I look forward to discussing how I can add value to your team.
Size: 26 KB
Here’s a basic cover letter example for an academic role:
[Recipient’s Name] [Title] [Department] [University or College Name] [Address] [City, State, ZIP Code]
I am writing to express my interest in the [Position Name] at [University or College Name]. With a [Your Degree] in [Your Field], I am confident in my abilities to generate superior results for your team.
I have a strong background in [Describe Your Background and Experience], and I believe I would bring important skills to your department, including [List Key Skills, e.g., Teaching, Research, Communication].
I am excited about the opportunity to join [University or College Name] and contribute to [Describe What You Plan to Contribute, e.g., Student Success, Research Initiatives].
Please find my CV attached. I look forward to the possibility of discussing how I can contribute to your team.
An academic cover letter should be tailored to the specific position and institution to which you are applying. It should include the following key elements:
– Introduction: Introduce yourself, the position you’re applying for, and where you found the job posting. – Body: – Teaching Experience: Detail your teaching experience, philosophy, and strategies. – Research Experience: Describe your research interests, publications, and contributions to the field. – Alignment with Institution: Explain why you’re interested in the institution and how your skills and goals align with its mission and values. – Conclusion: Summarize your qualifications and express eagerness to discuss further in an interview. – Enclosures: Mention any enclosed documents, such as a CV, teaching portfolio, or letters of recommendation.
Writing an academic cover letter requires careful consideration of the specific role and institution. Here are the general steps to guide you:
1. Research the Institution: Understand its mission, values, departments, and what they look for in candidates. 2. Tailor the Content: Focus on the skills, experience, and qualifications that align most closely with the job description. 3. Highlight Your Teaching and Research: Provide details about your teaching experience, research interests, and scholarly contributions. 4. Show Enthusiasm for the Role: Express genuine interest in the institution and the specific role. 5. Follow Professional Formatting: Use a professional tone, clear language, and standard business letter formatting. 6. Proofread: Carefully proofread to eliminate any errors in grammar, spelling, or punctuation.
– Be Specific: Tailor the cover letter to the specific institution and role. Use details that demonstrate you’ve researched the institution and understand what they’re looking for. – Highlight Relevant Skills: Focus on the skills and qualifications that are most relevant to the position. – Show Your Passion: Demonstrate your passion for teaching, research, and the academic community. – Be Concise: Aim to keep the letter to one page, unless applying for a more senior position where more detail may be appropriate. – Follow Instructions: If the job posting includes specific instructions for what to include in your cover letter, make sure to follow them closely.
By following these guidelines, you can craft a compelling academic cover letter that effectively showcases your qualifications and enthusiasm for the role.
An academic cover letter should typically be one page in length, especially for early to mid-career positions. However, for more senior roles, such as full professorships or administrative positions, a longer cover letter may be acceptable. Here’s a general guide:
– Entry-Level Positions: Keep it concise, aiming for one page. – Mid-Career Positions: One to two pages may be appropriate, especially if you have extensive teaching and research experience to highlight. – Senior or Administrative Roles: Up to two pages, reflecting a more comprehensive overview of your academic career and leadership roles.
Always prioritize quality over quantity. Include only the most relevant information, focusing on your achievements, skills, and fit for the specific position. If the job posting specifies a particular length, follow those guidelines.
An academic cover letter is a crucial tool in your job application process. It showcases your teaching and research experience, aligns your skills with the specific role, and expresses your interest in joining the institution. By tailoring your cover letter to the position and following the guidelines and examples provided, you can craft a compelling and effective application.
This comprehensive article has provided a broad range of academic cover letter examples tailored to various roles within the academic community. From simple to detailed formats, these examples cater to different career stages and institutional needs. Following the guidelines, tips, and examples in this article will enable you to craft unique, distinct, and high-quality cover letters for your academic job applications. Whether you’re applying for a faculty position, research role, internship, or administrative post, these examples will guide you in showcasing your qualifications and alignment with the specific requirements of each position.
Text prompt
Write a cover letter for a college student applying for an internship at an educational technology company
Form a cover letter for a high school student seeking a part-time job at a local bookstore.
career-advice.jobs.ac.uk
Did you know that an Academic Cover Letter is essential when applying for academic jobs? In the following article, I will share with you why you definitely need one and what you should include.
First things first. Why would you bother with a cover letter when you have already included lots of information in your CV and application form? A cover letter can emphasise why you are perfect for the job. It gives you an opportunity to match your skills, knowledge and experience to the person requirements.
Through your cover letter, you have an invaluable opportunity to display your communications skills. It needs to be carefully edited to ensure that there are no spelling or grammatical mistakes. Your application will end up in the rejection pile within seconds if there are errors. At times, the more you read a document, the more you become blind to glaring mistakes. Do ask a friend or a colleague to proofread your work. It could really be worth it!
It is wise to emphasise your achievements as well as to highlight what you can offer the organisation. Ask yourself the following question: ‘What is the one skill, experience or knowledge that few other applicants could offer’? Make sure that you explain what you can do for the organisation or the department if being offered the role.
Cover letters must be professional and formal. Do not be tempted to adopt a chatty or colloquial style in order to seem friendly and approachable. The cover letter is not the place to do this. Equally the font and layout should be in a standard business letter style. Address the letter to the interviewer by name if possible rather than using ‘Dear Sir/Madam’. If you are unsure, find out who the head of department is and address the letter to them.
An academic cover letter should not be more than two pages. Remember that the selection panel might have several hundred applications to look through. You want your letter to have immediate impact and therefore it is best to keep it specific, clear and concise. Please do not fall into the trap of writing a letter much more than two pages – it is very likely that your letter will not be read! If your CV is too short, the recruitment panel will assume that you are not genuinely interested in the role.
You need to give a brief summary (a couple of sentences only) on why you are interested in applying for the job. Then outline your past experience and your plans in the areas of teaching and research. Make sure that you include relevant examples. These need to be based on the skills and experience the employer is interested in (you will find this out on their website and on the job advert). Finish with a short paragraph showing enthusiasm for the role.
Generic cover letters rarely work. It is best to tailor your letter specifically to the job you are applying for (instead of submitting a standard letter).
Here are two cover letter examples if you are applying for academic jobs:
https://www.jobs.ac.uk/careers-advice/cv-templates/1311/academic-cover-letter-template-teaching-focused-lectureship-post/
https://www.jobs.ac.uk/careers-advice/cv-templates/1330/academic-cover-letter-template-senior-lectureship-post/
Writing great cover letters is a skill you can learn. Follow some of the above guidelines and you will improve your chances of getting a fabulous job!
For more advice see:
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Henrietta Nagy is a seasoned portfolio worker with over 10 years’ experience in the UK education sector. Henrietta writes educational content, designs academic courses, delivers university lectures, mentors entrepreneurs, and provides career development coaching. One of Henrietta's recent organisational clients is the Oxford University where she has facilitated over 100 hours of learning events. With 9 years of higher education studies internationally (including an MBA), she has worked with CEOs, academics, scholars, managers, women entrepreneurs, academic administrators and other consultants.
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The cover letter serves as an introduction to your application package and answers the following questions: Who are you? When will you defend your dissertation (if you’re currently ABD)? Why are you interested in applying for this assistant professor position? Why are you interested in this institution? What is your dissertation research about? What are your future research plans? What kind of teaching experience do you have? How will you contribute to our department and institution? Why is the school a good fit for you and vice versa? A strong cover letter will be tailored to the institution to which you’re applying. For the humanities and social sciences it is typically 2–3 pages long, and for STEM fields 1–2 pages, but this may vary depending on your specific discipline.
Sometimes called a “ letter of intent ” or “ letter of interest ,” a cover letter is an introduction to the rest of your job application materials. The purpose of a cover letter is to quickly summarize why you are applying to an organization or for a particular position, and what skills and knowledge you bring that make you the most suitable candidate for that position. The cover letter is often the first impression that a prospective employer will have of you, especially if they do not know you or have not heard about you from their network of contacts. First impressions count, and so getting your cover letter right is a critical step in your job application process. Like all your job application materials, it may take time and focus to write your cover letters well. You will likely have several drafts before you come up with a final version that clearly articulates your skills and your understanding of the employer and the job requirements.
While your CV briefly states your skills, knowledge, experience, and (most importantly) what you have achieved using your abilities, the cover letter gives you an opportunity to create a narrative that shows the path you have taken in your career or education, emphasizing the skills you’ve used along the way, and explaining why the position you are applying to is the next desirable step on this path.
Step 1: The first step to writing a good cover letter is to have a good CV. Your cover letter expands upon some of the information you include within these documents and describes the role you have played in achieving your academic goals (i.e., showing how your experiences have made you the best candidate for the position).
Step 2: The next step is to find an open position that interests you. There is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all cover letter, as each should be tailored to each job you apply to, but there will certainly be parts of the letter that will stay much the same and be appropriate for multiple jobs. A 1-3 page cover letter might be the norm when applying for a tenure-track faculty position, but you need to check with your own department to find out what the standards are in your field.
Step 3: Go through the job ad and carefully note all of the requirements and skills the employer is looking for. Based on your background research of the employer and the people you have spoken to who know about this employer (whether a business or a university department), try to identify the two or three most important skills that the employer is looking for. You should then try to create a cover letter that illustrates that you have these skills and have used them effectively.
When applying for faculty positions, you will be expected to spend some time in your cover letter talking about your past research experiences and future research goals as well as your teaching—even though you may have covered these in more detail in your research statement and teaching philosophy documents. How much time you need to spend talking about teaching and research will depend on the nature of the position and your field of study. For some humanities and social sciences applications, you will not be asked for a separate research statement, and this information will need to be integrated into the cover letter. Cover letters for scientific positions will generally be shorter, as more (but not all) of the information about research will be covered in the research statement.
Keep in mind that academic letters also need to cover everything that non-academic cover letters address. You need to show that you are not only a good academic, but that you are a good person to work with who is committed to making meaningful contributions at that particular institution. Make sure that you address the requirements of the position as stated in the job ad. Speak to faculty in your department to get a sense of what is expected in cover letters in your discipline. See if any faculty you know have been involved in search committees, and find out what they looked for in cover letters.
For further tips, tricks, and strategies for writing an academic cover letter, see the resources below:
The cover letter samples below were provided by Penn graduates and postdocs after their successful job searches and represent a range of disciplines.
Science PhD cover letter |
Linguistics PhD cover letter |
History PhD cover letter |
Art history PhD cover letter |
Spanish PhD cover letter |
Science PhD cover letter (postdoc) |
PeopleImages.com / Getty Images
Target your cover letter, cover letter format.
Submitting your application.
When you are applying for a faculty position at a college or university, your cover letter will differ significantly from the standard business cover letter.
Your cover letter may be reviewed by Human Resources department staff to determine if you meet the basic qualifications for the job. If it does, it will be forwarded to a search committee comprised mostly of faculty members and academic deans.
These individuals will be accustomed to reading more lengthy academic cover letters and resumes or curriculum vitae (CV) than would be customary in the business world. They will also often be more interested in the philosophical foundations for your work than the typical business recruiter.
Kelly Miller / The Balance
Your initial challenge will be to pass through the Human Resources screening. Review each of the required qualifications included in the job announcement and compose statements containing evidence that you possess as many of the skills, credentials, knowledge, and experiences listed as possible.
Address as many of the preferred qualifications as possible.
Give concrete examples to support your assertions about your strengths.
Your faculty reviewers will typically have an interest in your philosophy and approach to teaching and research within your discipline. They will also be evaluating how your background fits with the type of institution where they work.
Research the faculty in your target department to assess their orientation and expertise. Emphasize points of intersection between your philosophy and the prevalent departmental philosophy.
If you possess traditionally valued areas of expertise that are not already represented by the current faculty, make sure to point those strengths out in your cover letter. It's important to tailor your letter to the orientation of the college and adjust the mix of emphasis on teaching and research based on the expectations in that setting.
Colleges will typically want to hire new faculty who are passionate about their current research and not resting on past research credits.
Describe a current project with some detail and express enthusiasm for continuing such work.
Try to do the same with any evolving teaching interests.
Highlight any grants and funding you have received to undertake your research activities. Incorporate any awards or recognition which you have received for your teaching or research activities. Some text should also be devoted to other contributions to the college communities where you worked, such as committee work, advising, and collaborations with other departments.
Your cover letter should be written in the same basic format as a business cover letter. An academic cover letter is typically two pages compared to a single page for non-academic letters.
Here’s an example of the appropriate format for a cover letter and guidelines for formatting your letters.
You can use this sample as a model to write an academic cover letter. Download the template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online), or read the text version below.
Robin Applicant 123 Main Street, Anytown, CA 12345 555-555.5555 robin.applicant@email.com
April 5, 2021
Dr. Sylvia Lee Chair, English Department Search Committee Acme College 123 Business Rd. Charlotte, NC 28213
Dear Dr. Sylvia Lee,
I am writing to apply for the position of assistant professor of English with an emphasis in nineteenth-century American literature that you advertised in the MLA Job Information List. I am a Dean’s Fellow and Ph.D. candidate at XYZ University, currently revising the final chapter of my dissertation, and expecting to graduate in May I am confident that my teaching experience and my research interests make me an ideal candidate for your open position.
Over the past five years, I have taught a variety of English courses. I have taught a number of American literature survey courses, as well as writing courses, including technical writing and first-year writing. I have extensive experience working with ESL students, as well as students with a variety of learning disabilities, including dyslexia and dysgraphia, and disabilities like ADD and ADHD. I pride myself on creating a classroom environment that accommodates the needs of my students while still promoting a high level of critical thought and writing skills. Some of my most satisfying experiences as a teacher have come from helping struggling students to grasp difficult concepts, through a combination of individual conferences, class activities, and group discussion. I know I would thrive as a teacher in your college, due to your belief in small classroom size and individualized support for students.
Not only does my teaching experience suit the needs of your school and department, but my research interests also fit perfectly with your description of the ideal candidate. My dissertation project, “Ferns and Leaves: Nineteenth-Century Female Authorial Space,” examines the rise and development of American female authors in the 1840s and 1850s, with a particular focus on patterns of magazine publication. I argue that, rather than being submissive to the requirements of the editor or publisher, female authors, in fact, developed a more transparently reciprocal relationship between themselves and their readers than previously has been assumed. I apply recent print-culture and book-history theory to my readings of novels, magazine articles, letters, and diary entries by various female authors, with a particular focus on Sara Willis (known by her pseudonym Fanny Fern). I plan to develop my dissertation into a book manuscript and continue to research the role of female writers in antebellum magazine culture, with a particular focus on the rise and influence of female magazine editors on literary culture.
My research interests have both shaped and been shaped by my recent teaching experiences. Last spring, I developed and taught a course on the history of print culture in America. I combined readings on theory and literature that addressed issues of print with visits to local historical museums and archives. My students conducted in-depth studies on particular texts (magazines, newspapers, novels) for their final papers. I believe my interdisciplinary teaching style, particularly my emphasis on material culture, would fit in well with the interdisciplinary nature of your English department.
I am therefore confident that my teaching experience, my skill in working with ESL and LD students, and my research interests all make me an excellent candidate for the assistant professor of English position at ABC College. I have attached my curriculum vitae and the two requested sample publications. I would be happy to send you any additional materials such as letters of reference, teaching evaluations, and past and proposed course syllabi. I will be available to meet with you at either the MLA or C19 conference, or anywhere else at your convenience. Thank you so much for your consideration; I look forward to hearing from you.
Robin Applicant (hard copy letter)
Robin Applicant
Betty Applicant 567 North Street, Boston, MA 02108 555-555.555 betty.applicant@email.com
Dr. Robert Smith Chair, Department of Biology Acme University 123 Business Rd. Business City, NY 54321
Dear Dr. Smith,
I am writing to apply for the position of Assistant Professor of Biology with a focus on molecular biology at XYZ University, as advertised in the March issue of Science. I am currently a postdoctoral fellow at the University of XYZ in the Department of Molecular Biology, working under the advisement of Professor Linda Smith. I am confident that my research interests and teaching experience make me an ideal candidate for your open position.
My current research project, which is an expansion on my dissertation, “[insert title here],” involves [insert research project here]. I have published my dissertation findings in Science Journal and am in the processing of doing the same with my findings from my current research. The laboratory resources at XYZ University would enable me to expand my research to include [insert further research plans here] and seek further publication.
Beyond my successes as a researcher (including five published papers and my current paper in process), I have had extensive experience teaching a variety of biology courses. As a graduate student at Science University, I served as a teaching assistant and guest lecturer for both biology and chemistry introductory courses and won the university award for outstanding teacher’s assistant. As a postdoctoral fellow at the University of ABC, I have had the opportunity to teach Introduction to Biology as well as a graduate-level course, Historicizing Molecular Biology. In every class, I strive to include a blend of readings, media, lab work, and discussion to actively engage students with the material. I would love the opportunity to bring my award-winning lesson planning and teaching skills to your biology department.
I am confident that my research interests and experience combined with my teaching skills make me an excellent candidate for the Assistant Professor of Biology position at XYZ University. I have attached my curriculum vitae, three recommendations, and the two requested sample publications. I would be happy to send you any additional materials such as teaching evaluations or past and proposed course syllabi. I will be available to meet with you at the ASBMB conference or anywhere else at your convenience. Thank you so much for your consideration; I look forward to hearing from you.
Betty Applicant (hard copy letter)
Betty Applicant
It’s important to submit all your application materials in the format requested by the college or university. You may be asked to email, mail, or apply online via the institution’s applicant tracking system.
You may be required to provide references with your application, so be prepared to submit a list of references. The institution may also request transcripts, teaching evaluations, and writing samples.
Send only what is requested. There's no need to include information that the institution hasn't ask for.
However, you can offer to provide additional materials like writing samples, syllabi, and letters of recommendation in the last paragraph of your letter.
Follow the instructions in the job posting for submitting your application. It should specify what format the college wants to receive.
Here are some examples of what you may be asked to include with your cover letter and resume or CV:
Key elements for your academic covering letter .
Your academic covering letter should:
Your CV is there for the employer to refer to for further details, so you should avoid simply repeating your CV again in your covering letter.
In your covering letter, you should argue your case as to why your experience so far makes you a great candidate for that particualr job at that particular university. Here are some tips on what to include in your academic covering letter:
Good luck with your applications!
Click here to directly go to the complete cover letter sample.
How long should my cover letter be?
If you are a job seeker, you must have come across this question in your mind. But, what does length have to do with a cover letter?
Well, majorly everything. A very pressing question in the recruitment circles is: how long should a cover letter be for a job?
Quite literally, it asks, how far you should go in order to impress your employer?
So how long should cover letters be? The immediate answer is 1/2 of an A4 page.
Read on to find how and why this rule is applicable. Always customize it according to your target recruiter. In this blog, we will answer some of your questions:
How long should a cover letter be.
Let's look at the length of the following example:
The length of the cover letter varies with what your cover letter needs to do.
Now a quick review of what your cover letter should do:
And you need to do all of it in less than half a page!
Also Read: How to write a cover letter?
You shall be surprised to find that most cover letters are 2 pages in length. Professionally speaking, this is wrong. Most hiring managers do not read long cover letters.
The longer your cover letter, the lesser are your chances of getting shortlisted. Let's look at some examples of how should a cover letter look:
The 2019 edition of cover letter length saw a rapid elaboration and justification of one's skills and interests. This was followed by explanatory interviews and resulted in wasting a longer time before hiring the most relevant candidate.
The 2022 edition of cover letter length has been made concise and to the point. This allows recruiters to find the exact candidate they need for shortlisting more relevant candidates.
Trends suggest that the 2022 edition of cover letter length will not necessarily compromise on space but shall highly prioritize the simplicity of language and directness of impact.
This shall enable recruiters to:
Your cover letter should be less than one page .
Only highlight:
In fact, a recent survey found out that, almost 70% of employers want a cover letter of less than 1 page, and about 25% responded that a shorter cover letter is better.
The usual preferences around the question - how long should a cover letters be:
Here are the few things to consider for the ideal cover letter length:
The second most important thing after the length of cover letter is the format.
You must choose a legible font. Resume experts at Hiration suggests Calibri or Open Sans.
Ensure a readable font size of about 12 points.
Your margins should be about 1 inch all around, with the text left aligned or justified.
To ensure maximum readability, add spaces between:
Also Read: Key Tips for writing a cover letter
This brings us the very next rule: do not waste the space you are supposed to cover with useless information.
Examples of wasteful sentences are: “Despite my limited experience with marketing…”, etc.
How long does a cover letter need to be?
There is no specific word count you should aim for when writing a cover letter (unless the employer gives you a specific word count).
Instead of focusing on the number of words, focus on making your cover letter one page or less, with a readable font and font size, and enough white space between paragraphs and in the margins.
In order to get a second opinion on your cover letter before posting it or sending it somewhere, give a print out of it to your family member or friend and ask if it looks too cluttered.
Not sure what skills and experiences you should be featuring? Drop the text of the job description into a word cloud tool like Wordle, and see what stands out. The words with higher frequencies are what the recruiter is looking for.
When emailing your cover letter, it is even more important to be concise.
Most readers pay attention to the first paragraph when reading an email. Most will ignore the rest of the message. 2 paragraphs of which the first one consisting an introduction and second describing why you are eligible for the job is enough with a closing paragraph at the end.
You can also make your email cover letter stand out with a clear, concise email subject line.
Typically, you want to include the title of the position that you are applying for and your name. For example, Editorial Assistant - John Smith.
If possible, try to keep the meat of your subject line (specifically, the job title and your name) under 30 characters . This is about as much as people can see on their mobile devices, which is often how people check their email.
To understand how long can a cover letter be, imagine you need to buy a car.
Do you ever read the long literature or spend hours listening to a salesman describe the functionalities of a particular car?
You only listen to the necessary specifications matching your needs.
The same goes for a cover letter. Check out the following length of a cover letter example:
This example shows how long a cover letter first paragraph should be, and why.
Here's another:
First, enter your name as the largest text. Then enter your contact information:
After the header, start your actual cover letter.
Let us break the above example into the following steps to understand exactly how to optimize the paragraphs to make it most effective.
Also Read: How to start a cover letter?
The following example portrays how to write the salutation in your cover letter.
Dan Wilkins HR Manager Bro Code Limited
Let's look at the corresponding example:
CCP & TTL1 Certified Collection Manager & Credit Analyst with a prolific 16-year track record of overseeing collection management and credit control for Fortune 500 companies. Adept at conceptualizing and implementing initiatives to drive continuous process improvement within the control and compliance framework to achieve operational excellence, I am extremely interested in the profile of Collection Manager & Credit Analysis Expert at Bro Code.
It has all the elements of the first paragraph of an ideally long cover letter:
It's 2 sentences long with 64 words.
There is no generic element in it. It displays your genuine interest and proposes why you think you are the best candidate for the job.
And it is based on your experience. That's how you write a job-winning cover letter.
In my present tenure as the Assistant Manager at Accenture, I have been independently managing 11 accounts while incubating and managing a team of 15 to supervise collections from Expedia on behalf of Marriott. As the Lead at IBM UK across London, Manchester & Liverpool, I spearheaded the Cash & Collections Application team to steer process development and deliver stellar levels of customer service. In my previous role as the Process Developer at Miss Effective, I effectively executed the Green Belt project (US/London) while steering process migration for USA Business Credit Services.
The second paragraph of the cover letter is slightly longer, about 93 words long.
It does not pound its chest and claims "I'm the best". Instead, it simply showcases the right numbers. Again, not a generic cover letter.
But, how do you do it?
First, read the job description very carefully. Secondly, go down memory lane and brainstorm about the times you delivered what the target job is exactly looking for.
I was declared a recipient of the Top Collector Award & Maintenance Award while demonstrating the capability to achieve 99% accuracy and productively managing a portfolio of USD 1.5 M per month.
The hiring manager should have not stopped skimming and started reading your cover letter.
Here's why it worked:
Read their mission statement and "about us" page. Read news articles about them. Find out their philosophy on training and staff development.
In short, state the reasons why that particular organization is the dream company for you.
Let's look at the following example:
It is difficult to come away un-awed by the passion for excellence that Bro Code has displayed in its meteoric rise to become a stalwart in this domain. Despite a presence in 9 countries, it values its employees & ensures a continuous learning environment. Hence, I consider Bro Code to be my most preferred employer. Enclosed for your consideration is my resume. I’d appreciate the opportunity to further discuss my suitability and qualifications with you on call or in person.
The fourth paragraph always entertains the nature of the organization and your reason for wanting to attend to the same. You should:
Always end on a sincere note as does the following example.
Sincerely, Sussane Stephens Enclosure: Resume
Ensure a sustainable gap between the text and the signature.
Still not clear about how long should a cover letter be? You may read our guide on the same.
The following is a concise guide for the same thing.
An academic cover letter could run up to 2 pages.
The question - how long should a cover letter be for an academic position - enables us to rethink the scope of an academic cover letter length.
Basically, it incorporates evidence, enthusiasm, and rationale.
On a larger scale, the academic cover letter covers highlights the following:
Further, if asked, it may also encompass a "Statement Of Purpose". The SOP relates to the readers the motivation/inspiration of the candidate behind opting for the particular position he/she is seeking.
This may easily run from 750 - 1000 words.
Also Read: How to write a cover letter enclosure?
How long does a cover letter need to be? Here are the common questions.
No, a cover letter should not be of 2 pages.
A cover letter that is of 2 pages violates both the definition and the parameters - a short summary of why you're the best bet for the job.
In fact, a resume can extend to 2 pages only if you possess 10+ years of experience.
The best cover letter length is less than 1 page. Smart and short cover letters allow a detailed eye-time with the manager.
In fact, a long cover letter often sends the message that you are unsure about your capabilities.
If your cover letter is of 1 full page or longer, then it will be considered lengthy.
A 2 - 3 page length of cover letter is a waste of paper.
A cover letter consists of 3 paragraphs explaining why you're the perfect candidate for the profile you're applying for.
The font you use for your cover letter should be of the same font size as that of your resume.
This said, the ideal font size for both is 12 pts.
Cover letter should be 250 - 300 words long.
This is because that's the number of words that take up a little more space than half a page with 12-pt. size.
The length of a digital cover letter should be the same as that of a paper cover letter. Mainly
The difference in an electronic cover letter would be in the address section in the starting and the subject line.
There should not be double space in a cover letter.
The line spacing of your cover letter should effectively be between 1 - 1.5.
Also, after ending each paragraph, give space of one blank line to clearly distinguish between the paragraphs.
Your resume for cover should not be more than 1 page, and ideally withing 400-500 words.
The basic principle of a cover letter for an internship and a cover letter for a job is the same. The only differene is that, in internship cover letter, you need to focus more on your academics and extracarricular activities.
Usually, an academic cover letter is called an SOP or a "Statement Of Purpose".
This can be 2 pages long - which is enough to demonstrate your:
In general, an academic cover letter length is usually 1.5 - 2 pages long. This is about 5 - 8 paragraphs.
The right length of a cover letter signifies that you are able to justify your profile and highlight the most relevant experiences.
The number of interviews that you'll get very much depends on the length of your cover letter. So the question now is, how to make the cover letter of the right length?
Well, you should ideally spend 30 minutes writing a cover letter and 10 minutes proofreading it.
The examples on the page shall help you answer how long should a cover letter be.
Follow the ideal cover letter length for the most number of responses from your hiring manager.
You may also get it reviewed by industry-specific professionals at Hiration.
Here are the most important points to practice while reducing your cover letter length:
Go to Hiration career platform which has 24/7 chat support and get professional assistance with all your job & career-related queries. You can also write to us at [email protected] and we will make sure to reach out to you as soon as possible.
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IMAGES
VIDEO
COMMENTS
Service is often an important component of an academic job description. This can include things like serving on committees or funding panels, providing reviews, and doing community outreach. The cover letter gives you an opportunity to explain how you have involved yourself in university life outside the classroom.
Academic Cover Letters. When you're applying for a faculty position with a college or university, the cover letter is your first chance to make a strong impression as a promising researcher and teacher. Below you'll find some strategies for presenting your qualifications effectively in an academic context.
November 30, 20XX. tin, TX 76019-0308Dear Dr. Mathews,I am writing to apply for the position of Assistant Professor in Structural Engineering beginning Fall 2014, as a. vertised on your department website. I am currently a doctoral candidate at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, and fully expect to complete my.
Many cover letters for academic positions include one to two single-spaced pages. However, the quality of your content and its relationship to elements from the job posting proves more important than the length of the letter. When composing an academic cover letter, provide more specific details about the information listed on your CV.
Cover Letter for Academic Jobs An ebook with tips and examples to create the perfect cover letter. 2 3 ... For jobs in academia, the length of the cover letter will depend on the seniority of the post. In any event, you should ensure the letter is no longer than two pages; one
Others have also written about writing a cover letter. Cheryl E. Ball, for example, provides excellent advice and a paragraph-by-paragraph breakdown. Indeed, a simple Google search on "how to write an academic cover letter" brings back 49,600 results if the clause is in quotations, and 526 million results without quotations.
The first step is to read the job advertisement very carefully, and then adapt your message accordingly. If, for example, the advertised position is for a 4/4 course load at a teaching-intensive liberal arts college, focusing your cover letter on your cutting-edge research agenda is unlikely to be effective. A better strategy is to address how ...
Include your name, location, phone number, and email address. 1. Intro: How to start an academic cover letter. The introduction of your academic cover letter should be engaging and immediately convey the purpose of your application. Begin by addressing the hiring committee, mentioning the specific position you are applying for, and briefly ...
Cover Letter Sample 1. I am excited to learn of the opening for an assistant professor in the Department of History at the University of the West, as advertised in University Review, March 2020. As a military history scholar, my research and teaching experiences, would complement your department's expertise in modern European history.
Academic Cover letter PDCO Career Resources Writing a cover letter can often be one of the most difficult parts of preparing for the academic job search. Your cover letter should be both engaging and readable, but professional and ... Each academic cover letter will be between 1-2 pages in length (no longer than two pages). Header:
For jobs in academia, the length of the cover letter will depend on the seniority of the post. In any event, you should ensure the letter is no longer than two pages; one and a half pages is better still. In order to make an impact, and to prove that you can explain ideas fluently and clearly, the letter needs to be succinct.
Academic Cover Letters. A cover letter is central to your academic job application. It allows you to explain the narrative of your academic career and demonstrate the cohesion of your application packet. Since it is often the first document read by the hiring committee, the cover letter acts as an initial writing sample and an introduction to ...
1. The Introduction. The tradition for including the full name and position number, if there is one, and location where you discovered the job posting feels odd, but it's a standard opening line to your letter. Also in this paragraph, you should state what your current status is (ABD, defending in April, assistant professor, etc.).
An academic cover letter is a specialized document sent alongside a resume when applying for positions in academia, such as faculty, researcher, or administrative roles. ... An academic cover letter should typically be one page in length, especially for early to mid-career positions. However, for more senior roles, such as full professorships ...
Length. An academic cover letter should not be more than two pages. Remember that the selection panel might have several hundred applications to look through. You want your letter to have immediate impact and therefore it is best to keep it specific, clear and concise. Please do not fall into the trap of writing a letter much more than two ...
A cover letter for an academic position should be no longer than two pages, but long enough to show off your accomplishments. Research, teaching, departmental service, and relevant accolades. The typical academic cover letter is usually one and a half to two pages long (or about five to eight paragraphs.)
How to format your cover letter for academic posts. A fill-in-the-blanks template that will produce your academic cover letter within 15 minutes. Save hours of work and get a cover letter like this. Pick a template, fill it in. Quick and easy. Choose from 18+ cover letter templates and download your cover letter now. Create your cover letter now.
Step 1: The first step to writing a good cover letter is to have a good CV. Your cover letter expands upon some of the information you include within these documents and describes the role you have played in achieving your academic goals (i.e., showing how your experiences have made you the best candidate for the position).
Betty Applicant 567 North Street, Boston, MA 02108 555-555.555 [email protected]. April 5, 2021. Dr. Robert Smith Chair, Department of Biology Acme University 123 Business Rd. Business City, NY 54321. Dear Dr. Smith, I am writing to apply for the position of Assistant Professor of Biology with a focus on molecular biology at XYZ University, as advertised in the March issue of Science.
A fill-in-the-blanks template that will produce your academic cover letter within 15 minutes. Save hours of work and get a cover letter like this. Pick a template, fill it in. Quick and easy. Choose from 21 cover letter templates and download your cover letter now. Create your cover letter now.
Key elements for your academic covering letter . Your academic covering letter should: be approximately one to two A4 pages in length, but can be longer (especially for more senior positions). focus on what you have to offer the department or institution to which you are applying, rather than what you'd like to gain from working there.
The length of a digital cover letter should be the same as that of a paper cover letter. Mainly. <1 full page. 250-300 words. 3 paragraphs. The difference in an electronic cover letter would be in the address section in the starting and the subject line.