Cover Letter Template: Free Copy-and-Paste Examples You Can Edit

A good cover letter template gives you the structure and leaves the content to you. Replace everything in [brackets], delete what does not apply and add one real, specific detail about the job.

Before using any template, check the cover letter format and keep the result under one page. See how long a cover letter should be.

Standard cover letter template

[Your Name] [City] · [Phone] · [Email] · [LinkedIn URL]

[Date]

[Hiring Manager Name] [Job Title] [Company Name] [Company Address]

Dear [Mr/Ms Surname],

I am applying for the [Job Title] role at [Company Name]. With [X years] of experience in [field] and a record of [one specific result], I believe I can help your team [goal from the job advert].

In my current role at [Company], I [achievement with a number]. This involved [skill the job asks for], which I understand is central to this position. I also [second achievement or relevant skill].

I am drawn to [Company Name] because [one specific reason: a product, a project, a value]. I would like to bring my experience in [skill] to [team or goal].

Thank you for your time. I would welcome the chance to discuss the role and can be reached on [phone] or [email].

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Enclosure: Resume

The last line is optional. Learn how it works in what an enclosure in a cover letter means.

Short email version

For a cover letter in the email body, use about 150 words:

Subject: [Job Title] application, [Your Name]

Dear [Name],

I would like to apply for the [Job Title] position. I have [X years] of experience in [field] and recently [specific achievement with a number].

Your advert mentions [requirement], which is a strength of mine: [one sentence of proof]. I have attached my resume for details.

Could we speak this week? Thank you for considering my application.

Kind regards, [Your Name] · [Phone]

Whether to paste or attach is covered in should I attach a cover letter or write it in the email.

Fresher cover letter template

Dear [Name],

I am a recent [degree] graduate from [college] applying for the [Job Title] role at [Company Name].

During my studies I [project or internship with a concrete outcome], using [tool or skill from the advert]. I also [leadership, club or certification]. These experiences taught me [relevant lesson].

I am excited by [Company Name]'s work on [specific thing] and would like to contribute as a [role]. I have attached my resume and would be glad to complete any assessment you require.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Pair it with a resume that puts education and projects first. The fresher resume template does this.

Career change template

Dear [Name],

After [X years] in [old field], I am moving into [new field] and applying for the [Job Title] role at [Company Name].

My work in [old field] built skills that carry over directly: [skill 1, with proof], [skill 2, with proof]. To prepare for this move, I [course, project or certification].

I would like to bring [strength] to [Company Name] and learn from your team. Thank you for considering my application.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

How to customise a template in 5 minutes

1. Copy the exact job title and one or two keywords from the advert.
2. Replace every bracket with a specific fact, not an adjective.
3. Add one number to each achievement (percentage, count, time saved).
4. Name one real reason for choosing this employer.
5. Read it aloud and delete anything you would not say.

Mistakes to avoid

• Leaving a bracket or the previous company name in the text.
• Using "To whom it may concern" when you can find a name.
• Copying the template wording without personalising it.
• Writing more than one page.

Next steps

See finished letters in cover letter examples. If you are new to the document, read what a cover letter is. Then build a matching resume with a free template.