how to write application letter for nursing internship

Sample Cover Letter for Nursing Internship

When embarking on a career in nursing, gaining practical experience through an internship is an invaluable step.

A compelling cover letter is your first opportunity to make a positive impression on a potential employer. It’s a chance to showcase your passion, drive, and academic accomplishments outside the bullet points of a resume.

The cover letter for a nursing internship is not just a formality; it’s an integral part of your application that can set you apart from other candidates.

Below, we provide an example of how a nursing student effectively communicates their qualifications for an internship.

This sample demonstrates the kind of personalized, engaging, and professional tone that can capture the attention of a hiring manager.

Use it as inspiration to craft your own letter, tailored to reflect your unique experiences and enthusiasm for the nursing profession.

Nursing Internship Cover Letter Example

Olivia Benson San Francisco, CA (000) 123-4567 [email protected] .

February 29, 2024

Dr. Elliot Stabler Director of Nursing Evergreen Hospital 123 South Avenue San Francisco, CA 52987

Dear Dr. Stabler,

I am contacting you to apply for the nursing internship program at Evergreen Hospital as advertised on the hospital’s career portal. Currently, in my final year at ABC University obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, I have maintained a GPA of 3.8 while actively participating in our community’s health advocacy programs. My academic and extracurricular activities have prepared me well for your internship program.

My clinical rotations in pediatrics, emergency care, and geriatrics have provided a diverse array of nursing experiences. Highlights from my training include:

• Assisting with patient assessments and care plan development, ensuring personalized attention to each patient’s needs.
• A successful track record of collaborating with healthcare professionals to deliver high-quality care and patient education.
• Building rapport with patients, which helps reduce their anxiety and improve patient experience.
• Efficiently managing patient care documentation and integrating technology in patient care through electronic health records.
• Demonstrating a commitment to ongoing learning and adapting quickly to new healthcare environments and situations.

What draws me particularly to Evergreen Hospital is your dedication to community health and the continuum of care philosophy that predicates every patient interaction. I believe that my foundation in nursing will enable me to make a valuable contribution to your team.

Enclosed with this letter is my resume, which provides further detail about my journey and qualifications. I would be grateful for the opportunity to discuss my candidacy with you in person. I plan to reach out to your office by the week’s end to inquire about a suitable meeting time. Until then, please do not hesitate to contact me at (000) 123-4567 or via email at [email protected] .

Thank you for considering my application for the nursing internship program.

Warmest regards,

Olivia Benson

Enclosure: Resume

• Nursing Supervisor Cover Letter Sample
• Nursing Unit Assistant Cover Letter Example
• Top 18 Nursing Student Resume Objective Examples
• Sample Letter of Reference for Nursing Student

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me of new posts by email.

Build my resume

• Build a better resume in minutes
• Resume examples
• 2,000+ examples that work in 2024
• Resume templates
• Free templates for all levels
• Cover letters
• Cover letter generator
• It's like magic, we promise
• Cover letter examples
• Free downloads in Word & Docs

3 Nursing Student Cover Letter Examples Made for 2024 

• Nursing Student Cover Letter
• Nursing Student No Experience Cover Letter
• Nurse Practitioner Student Cover Letter
• Write Your Nursing Student Cover Letter

You’re here to learn as much as you can each day on the job, administering basic patient care and assistance under a more supervised medical professional. You also help with manual and clerical duties like exam room prep and patient scheduling.

Now you need help writing a cover letter to complement your nursing student resume and looking just as tidy, organized, and prepared as an examination room!

We can help you make this happen. After years of guiding professionals in various roles in the medical field, we’ve put together three nursing student cover letter examples to get you started. You can also try our free AI cover letter generator .

Nursing Student Cover Letter Example

USE THIS TEMPLATE

Microsoft Word

Google Docs

Block Format

Copy this text for your nursing student cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue Indianapolis, IN 46077 (123) 456-7890

August 20, 2023

Harper Thompson Community Health Network 123 Fictional Lane Indianapolis, IN 46077

Dear Ms. Thompson,

Upon learning about Community Health Network’s commitment to exceptional healthcare services and world-class innovations, I was immediately drawn to contributing my expertise as a nurse within your esteemed organization. I am confident that my clinical experience and skills can effectively contribute to the ongoing mission of your network.

A mentorship program at Indiana University School of Nursing paired me with experienced nurses who gave me invaluable insights into tailoring care approaches to unique patient needs and individualized treatments. The knowledge proved instrumental during my internship at IU Health Methodist Hospital. In this bustling setting, I helped treat an average of seven patients daily—administering medications, dressing wounds, and performing assessments. I handled the stress, yet blossomed in that environment, contributing to a 33% reduction in patient waiting time.

Volunteering at Ascension St. Vincent Hospital further honed my interpersonal skills. Being there for the patients, listening, and providing comfort during their treatment journey reminded us that we’re treating people, not just illnesses. Interacting with a diverse patient population taught me the importance of culturally competent care, ultimately improving patient satisfaction by 42%.

Community Health Network’s focus on population health management and its accessibility to varied healthcare services truly aligns with my aspirations of becoming a nurse who contributes positively to the local community. I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to work in a healthcare system that puts patients first and integrates specialty and acute care with home care services.

Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to discussing my candidacy further.

Anika Hoffmann

Enclosures: Resume Application 2 letters of recommendation Nursing License/Certification

Why this cover letter works

• It helps to include any volunteering or internship programs in your nursing student cover letter, emphasizing the positive impact generated in different nursing environments.

Pair Your Cover Letter with a Matching Nursing Student Resume

or download as PDF

Level up your cover letter game

Relax! We’ll do the heavy lifting to write your cover letter in seconds.

Nursing Student No Experience Cover Letter Example

Copy this text for your nursing student no experience cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue Charlotte, NC 28105 (123) 456-7890

Daniel Hernandez Atrium Health 123 Fictional Lane Charlotte, NC 28105

Dear Mr. Hernandez,

While pursuing my nursing education, I was captivated by the hands-on, high-paced nature of patient care. Experiences in simulations and training allowed me to taste the energy of the healthcare environment, driving my desire to dive into this world professionally. Though I lack direct work experience, my education has equipped me with crucial skills and knowledge, which I am eager to apply to support your goals while continuing my nursing education.

Over time, I have learned the importance of proper hand hygiene, disinfecting surfaces, and wearing personal protective equipment to minimize infection risks for patients and staff members. I also understand the importance of helping patients maintain their independence and dignity while assisting with daily tasks such as bathing, dressing, and feeding.

I also have a strong foundation in measuring and recording vital signs, identifying changes in health status, and communicating any concerns to supervising nurses or physicians. That will be instrumental in providing exceptional care at Atrium Health.

I am confident that my blend of educational achievements, passion for patient care, and dedication to learning and growth make me a valuable candidate for the CNA position at Atrium Health. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my skills and qualifications can contribute to the success of Atrium Health.

Alissa Marino

• Academics aside, emphasize your commitment to learning, adding value to the hiring organization, and growing professionally. Tidbits about your life are welcome here, but show how they influenced your journey.

Nurse Practitioner Student Cover Letter Example

Copy this text for your nurse practitioner student cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue Atlanta, GA 30033 (123) 456-7890

Samuel Lewis Emory Healthcare 123 Fictional Lane Atlanta, GA 30033

Dear Mr. Lewis,

Feeding my lifelong goal to deliver a high standard of care that ensures the well-being of every patient, I am writing to express my enthusiasm for the registered nurse position at Emory Healthcare. The unparalleled commitment to patient care, as evidenced by Emory’s application for re-designation as a Magnet organization, aligns perfectly with my approach to healthcare.

My real-world nursing experience began at Grady Memorial Hospital. Here, I managed the assessments of an average of 18+ patients daily in different stages of wellness. Dealing with such a heavy caseload honed my skills in quick, accurate patient assessments and informed decision-making.

At Northside Hospital, I worked primarily in the diagnostic department, interpreting an estimating an average of 47+ diagnostic tests daily and collaborating closely with a team of medical practitioners to provide comprehensive and effective care for patients. I also administered medications for an average of 73+ patients daily at Piedmont Atlanta Hospital, diligently documenting their responses and adjusting the care accordingly. This role significantly developed my detail orientation and precision, making me competent in handling medications and recording vital observations.

My diverse experiences have profoundly equipped me with a broad knowledge of nursing care, efficient collaboration capabilities, and an excellent understanding of medical and healthcare systems. I am excited to join your team and contribute to the culture of safety, quality, and integrity embodied by Emory. It would be an honor to discuss my candidacy further.

Leonardo Conti

• But don’t just claim you can bring success to the role: include real examples of you spurring change or patient recovery in your previous workplaces.

Related cover letter examples

• Medical Assistant
• Entry Level
• Career Change

How to Write A Winning Nursing Student Cover Letter

Whether you’ve already built up a bit of work experience or are going in with zero professional background related to nursing, find a solid way to tailor your cover letter to each specific job description .

Look for areas where you have traits they want, whether you got them in a medical environment or not! After all, things like empathy and multitasking extend across many professions.

Writing the greeting and introduce yourself

Open up your nursing student cover letter on a good note by actually addressing it to a specific person! Many people toss out generic “To whom it may concern” intros without thinking about how to improve them.

After connecting with the hiring manager or recruiter, connect yourself with the company. Introduce some of your key traits that overlap with their values, and cite a couple of skills they specifically require.

Don’t forget to state that you’re a good fit and leave the reader wanting more info by alluding to the fact that you have plenty of potential!

Basically, don’t make it like this intro, which lacks a greeting entirely on top of carrying an unenthusiastic and bland tone.

Can I work at Emory Healthcare? I have plenty of qualifications, so I’ll tell you about them next.

Look what a different it makes to include a formal greeting and outline the alignment between personal and organization-wide goals! Not to mention: The reader’s left wondering what more there is to that approach to healthcare!

That’s way better!

To further my lifelong goal of delivering a high standard of care that ensures the well-being of every patient, I am writing to express my enthusiasm for the registered nurse position at Emory Healthcare. The unparalleled commitment to patient care, as evidenced by Emory’s application for re-designation as a Magnet organization, aligns perfectly with my approach to healthcare.

Writing the body paragraphs

Now, about those body paragraphs. Your goal here is to let each one tell a chapter in your story of excellence as a nursing student! Together, your body paragraphs should spell out exactly why you’d be great in a medical environment.

Can you talk about any extra certificate courses you’ve taken to prepare for your new nursing role? What about some notable projects from college? Just make sure you’ve got the data to back everything up!

Use concise but powerful metrics like success percentages and reduced patient wait times to add impact to your achievements. State how these accomplishments translate and make you a great fit for the role.

Example of a well-done body paragraph

My real-world nursing experience began at Grady Memorial Hospital. Here, I managed the assessments of an average of 18+ patients in different stages of wellness. Dealing with such a heavy caseload honed my skills in quick, accurate patient assessments and informed decision-making.

Concluding and signing your cover letter

Just like you conclude patient visits with post-procedural care instructions, make sure you close off your cover letter with a good concluding paragraph and a professional close.

Your concluding paragraph should sum up how you align with the company, mentioning them by name if possible. State that you’re a good fit and highlight a couple of your best traits. Thank the reader for their time, too!

Your signoff should be formal—and it can include your thank-you statement at the same time! Just remember to speak formally and use your real, full name . . . unlike in this example:

I really want this position and I’d be real good at it. Tell me what you think.

Instead of . . . that , consider writing in a few of your personal traits that make you a great student nurse and get specific with a graceful call to action, like in this example:

Much nicer!

Stick with one page! You want to show that you can act as efficiently while organizing your cover letter as you can while assisting other medical staff at work.

The internet is a beautiful thing! Try LinkedIn, Glassdoor, or even business social media accounts like Facebook or Instagram. These can all give you a good start if you can’t find the proper addressee in the job description or on the company site.

Yep! Include an “Enclosures:” section if you have additional certifications to attach, whether they’re additional relevant diplomas or CPR certificates. Just make sure you attach the actual documents separately!

7 Professional Nursing Student Cover Letter Examples for 2024

Your nursing student cover letter is your chance to make a strong first impression. Highlight your clinical experience and any relevant skills you've acquired. Show your dedication to patient care and your enthusiasm for the nursing profession. Make it clear why you're the ideal candidate for the program or position.

All cover letter examples in this guide

Beginner Nursing Student

Nursing Student Clinical Experience

Nurse Practitioner Student

Graduate Nursing Student

Nursing Student For Externship

Nursing Student No Experience

Cover letter guide.

Nursing Student Cover Letter Sample

Cover Letter Format

Cover Letter Salutation

Cover Letter Introduction

Cover Letter Body

Cover Letter Closing

No Experience Nursing Student Cover Letter

Key Takeaways

By Experience

Embarking on your nursing career, you've hit a common snag: the daunting task of writing a cover letter that stands out. Unlike your resume, your nursing student cover letter is your chance to showcase a crowning achievement, weaving a compelling narrative that captures your professional pride. Strike a balance between formality and originality, dodging clichés that dull your unique story. Remember, brevity is key—your impactful message should unfold in just one page. Let's guide you through crafting a cover letter that shines.

• Write a nursing student cover letter that helps you stand out (and get the job);
• Understand how to start and end your nursing student cover letter with the appropriate greeting;
• What to include in the body of your nursing student cover letter to put your best foot forward;
• Your most important achievements - how to present them as part of your nursing student cover letter.

And if you want to make your life even easier, simply drag and drop your nursing student resume into Enhancv's AI cover letter generator, and it will write your cover letter for you in just a few moments.

If the nursing student isn't exactly the one you're looking for we have a plethora of cover letter examples for jobs like this one:

• Nursing Student resume guide and example
• Babysitter cover letter example
• Medical Surgical Nurse cover letter example
• Certified Medical Assistant cover letter example
• Certified Dental Assistant cover letter example
• Speech Pathologist cover letter example
• Nurse Anesthetist cover letter example
• Hospital Pharmacy Technician cover letter example
• Dental Hygienist cover letter example
• Registered Nurse cover letter example
• Psychiatrist cover letter example

Nursing Student cover letter example

Michelle Sanders

Cleveland, OH

+1-(234)-555-1234

[email protected]

• Highlighting relevant educational background (e.g., "honed my skills at Case Western Reserve University") emphasizes the candidate's formal training and foundation in nursing, which is crucial for a job in the medical field.
• Describing specific volunteer experience (e.g., "volunteer time with the American Red Cross") demonstrates the applicant's practical experience and commitment to healthcare outside of formal education.
• Illustrating the impact of one’s work (e.g., "instrumental in orchestrating a community health survey analysis") showcases the ability to perform data-driven decision-making and create community health initiatives, important in evidence-based medical practice and public health.
• Mentioning soft skills, such as being detail-oriented and having empathetic communication abilities, addresses the interpersonal skills required in nursing to effectively interact with patients and colleagues.

Designing your nursing student cover letter: what is the best format

Let's start with the basics, your nursing student cover letter should include your:

• Introduction
• Body paragraph
• Closing statement
• Signature (that's not a must)

Next, we'll move to the spacing of your nursing student cover letter, and yes, it should be single-spaced ( automatically formatted for you in our cover letter templates ).

Don't go for a old-school font (e.g. Arial or Times New Roman), but instead, pick an ATS-favorite like Chivo, Volkhov, or Raleway, to stand out.

Our cover letter builder is also set up for you with the standard one-inch margin, all around the text.

Finally, ensure your nursing student resume and cover letter are in the same font and are submitted in PDF (to keep the formatting in place).

P.S. The Applicant Tracker System (or ATS) won't be assessing your [job] cover letter, it's solely for the recruiters' eyes.

The top sections on a nursing student cover letter

• Header: This section includes your contact information, the date, and the employer's contact details, providing a professional appearance and making it easy for the recruiter to reach you.
• Salutation: A personalized greeting addressing the hiring manager by name demonstrates that you've done your research and adds a personal touch to your cover letter.
• Introduction: Here, you should state your nursing program, your passion for the nursing field, and why you're interested in the specific healthcare facility, setting the tone for the rest of your cover letter.
• Body: This is where you elaborate on your clinical experiences, relevant coursework, and any special skills or volunteer work that makes you a unique fit for the nursing position.
• Closing: In the closing section, reiterate your enthusiasm for the opportunity, invite the recruiter to review your attached resume, and include a call to action, such as requesting an interview or stating your intention to follow up.

Key qualities recruiters search for in a candidate’s cover letter

• Clinical competence and technical skills: Ability to perform essential nursing tasks efficiently and accurately, adhering to medical protocols and hospital policies.
• Empathy and strong patient advocacy: Demonstrates understanding and sensitivity to patient needs and concerns, and effectively communicates to ensure patient comfort and safety.
• Adaptability and resilience: Ability to handle high-stress situations, adapt to rapidly changing environments, and maintain composure during emergencies or unexpected events.
• Attention to detail: Consistently observes and accurately documents patient health status, medication administration, and response to treatments.
• Teamwork and collaboration: Works effectively with interdisciplinary healthcare teams, contributing to patient care planning, and supporting peers and superiors.
• Commitment to professional development: Shows initiative to continuously learn, engage in professional education, and apply evidence-based practices to improve patient outcomes.

How to personalize your nursing student cover letter greeting

Before you start writing your nursing student cover letter, take the time to find out who is recruiting for the role.

Search for the recruiter's name on LinkedIn or the corporate website to address them personally in your nursing student cover letter salutation .

What if you can't find out who's recruiting for the role?

Always aim to avoid the very impersonal "Dear Sir/Madam" - instead, opt out for "Dear HR Team" or "Dear Hiring Manager" to make a better first impression.

List of salutations you can use

• Dear Hiring Manager
• Dear [Department] Team
• Dear [Specific Position Title] Hiring Committee
• Dear Dr. [Last Name]
• Dear Ms. [Last Name]
• Dear Mr. [Last Name]

Introducing your profile to catch recruiters' attention in no more than two sentences

The introduction of your nursing student cover letter is a whole Catch 22 .

You have an allocated space of no more than just a paragraph (of up to two sentences). With your introduction, you have to stand out and show why you're the best candidate out there.

Set out on a journey with your nursing student cover letter by focusing on why you're passionate about the job. Match your personal skills and interests to the role.

Another option for your nursing student cover letter introduction is to show you're the ideal candidate. Write about how your achievements and skills are precisely what the company is looking for.

However you decide to start your nursing student cover letter, always remember to write about the value you'd bring about. Making it both tangible (with your metrics of success) and highly sought out.

How to select your best achievement for the middle, or the nursing student cover letter body

You probably feel exhausted by this point in your application: you've dived into all the details of your success and skills in your nursing student resume.

What else can you include in your nursing student cover letter body ?

Well, for starters, the next three to six paragraphs should show you further value as a professional. Or, why should recruiters choose you?

Think back on a noteworthy achievement that answers key job requirements and dive deep.

Structure your nursing student cover letter middle as you'd a story: following chronological logic and highlighting outcomes, thanks to skills.

At the end of the day, you'd want recruiters to be able to see you as the best candidate for the role and understand more about who you are and what makes your success unique (and valuable to the role).

Time to wrap up your nursing student cover letter

Writing the closing paragraph of your nursing student cover letter is just as important as the salutation.

You have to make it personalized to the job advert and recruiter.

Experienced professionals advise candidates to end with a request or reminder for follow-up. Write that you're grateful for the opportunity, and, at the same time, hint that you're available for the next steps of the process.

Otherwise, you could also conclude your nursing student cover letter by facing the future. How do you see yourself, as part of the team? In particular, how would you settle in your new role in the first six months to a year?

Which story should you tell in your nursing student cover letter when you have zero experience

Candidates, lacking professional experience in the field - this one is for you.

Your nursing student cover letter is an exercise of integrity, honesty, and, above all, spinning a positive narrative around your strengths.

And what better way to capture recruiters' attention than with your most job-relevant achievement (this could be from your internship or volunteering experience)?

Make sure to back up your success with transferrable skills that are relevant to the job (e.g. how your year, studying abroad, has taught you to be more motivated and handle multicultural environments).

Another safe card you can bet on is your career dream: in the body of your nursing student cover letter, go into the details of how your ambitions would help make the company you're applying for better.

Key takeaways

Creating your nursing student cover letter should be a personalized experience for the role and the recruiter, where you:

• Format your cover letter using the same ATS-friendly font (e.g. Railway) as you did for your resume;
• Greet recruiters, using their name, and follow up with two sentences to introduce yourself, your interest in the role, and to stand out;
• Map out one key success from your career (or life) that has taught you job-crucial skills;
• Substitute your lack of experience with an achievement from your internships, degrees, or volunteering gigs;
• End with a promise for your potential or your availability for an interview.

Nursing Student cover letter examples

Explore additional nursing student cover letter samples and guides and see what works for your level of experience or role.

Cover letter examples by industry

AI cover letter writer, powered by ChatGPT

Enhancv harnesses the capabilities of ChatGPT to provide a streamlined interface designed specifically focused on composing a compelling cover letter without the hassle of thinking about formatting and wording.

• Content tailored to the job posting you're applying for
• ChatGPT model specifically trained by Enhancv
• Lightning-fast responses

How to Tailor Your CV To the Job

How to send a career fair follow-up email [samples included], should you include irrelevant experience on your resume, can chatgpt write your resume 10+ prompts you can test right now, how to ace 'tell me about a time you failed' job interview question, how to include a hackathon on a resume in 2024.

• Create Resume
• Terms of Service
• Privacy Policy
• Cookie Preferences
• Resume Examples
• Resume Templates
• AI Resume Builder
• Resume Summary Generator
• Resume Formats
• Resume Checker
• Resume Skills
• How to Write a Resume
• Modern Resume Templates
• Simple Resume Templates
• Cover Letter Builder
• Cover Letter Examples
• Cover Letter Templates
• Cover Letter Formats
• How to Write a Cover Letter
• Resume Guides
• Cover Letter Guides
• Job Interview Guides
• Job Interview Questions
• Career Resources
• Meet our customers
• Career resources
• English (UK)
• French (FR)
• German (DE)
• Spanish (ES)
• Swedish (SE)

© 2024 . All rights reserved.

Made with love by people who care.

Nursing Student Cover Letter Examples and Templates for 2024

• Cover Letter Examples
• Cover Letter Text Examples

How To Write a Nursing Student Cover Letter

When writing your nursing student cover letter, express your eagerness to gain and apply skills in patient care. Show your interest in the school or organization, and describe any clinical or health care experience you already have.

This guide will help you write a cover letter for the next phase of your nursing career.

Nursing Student Cover Letter Templates and Examples

• Entry-Level
• Senior-Level

Nursing Student Text-Only Cover Letter Templates and Examples

Isabelle Burns Home Health Aide | [email protected] | (876) 543-2109 | 432 Second Avenue, Miami, FL 65432

March 27, 2024

Ladonna Bishop Senior Admissions Officer Miami Dade College (432) 109-8765 [email protected]

Dear Ms. Bishop,

Reducing falls by 32% for patients on my roster in 2023 was my proudest achievement as a home health aide so far. My excellent knowledge of dementia care and a keen awareness of health and safety best practices for people with limited mobility helped me keep my patients safe. I hope to bring the same dedication to a career in nursing.

As a committed health care worker with over two years’ experience and a passion for improving the lives of vulnerable community members, Miami Dade College’s reputation for excellent teaching appeals to me. The following achievements demonstrate I have the ability to excel:

• Received praise four times during my performance appraisals for providing dignified personal care and toileting assistance
• Reduced hospital admissions by 22% for my patients in 2020 by offering nutritious meals and facilitating safe physical activity whenever possible
• Was thanked by a patient’s relative for providing companionship after she experienced a major stroke

Please feel free to get in touch to arrange a convenient interview. I look forward to exploring how my empathy and strong clinical knowledge can help me serve the community as a nurse.

Isabelle Burns

Nicolas LaTouche Nursing Student | [email protected] | (305) 098-7654 | 111 Main Blvd., Doral, FL  33198

January 1, 2024

Mr. Michael Atisha Emergency Center Director of Nursing Mount Sinai Medical Center of Florida (305) 674-2121 [email protected]

Dear Mr. Atisha,

While serving Mount Sinai patients as a certified nursing assistant for over five years, I earned multiple Employee of the Month awards for compassion, level-headedness, and a strong work ethic. I’m elevating my nursing skills to contribute more to this wonderful institution, and I ask to be considered for the nursing student extern position in the emergency center.

My associates and supervisors at Mount Sinai have constantly encouraged me to pursue a nursing degree. Moreover, the University of Miami’s nursing program has helped solidify my determination to help save lives. During my studies, I have:

• Accumulated over 1,200 hours of clinical experience
• Observed and treated patients with acute conditions, including heart attacks, respiratory distress and trauma
• Worked alongside registered nurses and assessed patients in the Surgical Intensive Care Unit

I’d appreciate the chance to discuss how my proven record of exceptional care, academic success, and passion for nursing can complement Mount Sinai’s mission of excellence in service to the community. Please feel free to contact me at your convenience to set up an interview.

Best regards,

Nicolas LaTouche

Harriet Gould Home Health Aide | [email protected] | (432) 109-8765 | 567 First Street, San Diego, CA 10987

March 26, 2024

Katrina Pittman Senior Admissions Officer University of San Diego (678) 901-2345 [email protected]

Dear Ms. Pittman,

In 2020, I reduced skin breakdowns and bedsores by 87% in my patients. My extensive knowledge of pressure management and skincare for individuals with limited mobility allowed me to improve my patients’ comfort and well-being. I hope to apply the same high level of care and further my clinical knowledge as a student nurse.

As a caring and empathetic home health aide dedicated to providing dignified and sensitive health care and assistance, the University of San Diego’s reputation for high-quality nursing education appeals to me. My hardworking attitude and quick learning ability will make me an asset to the San Diego health care system. My recent achievements include:

• Received a letter of thanks from a patient’s family for recognizing stroke symptoms and seeking prompt emergency assistance
• Trained three new hires last year to improve their understanding of healthy meal planning and preparation
• Scored 100% for accuracy and efficiency for health documentation during spot checks

I would like to arrange an interview to explore how my previous experiences and dedicated work ethic make me the ideal candidate for a nursing degree. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch to arrange a convenient time.

Harriet Gould

To write a great nursing student cover letter, you need to compensate for a lack of work experience by emphasizing your strongest clinical qualifications . Tell your unique story as a health care professional and convey your passion and commitment to patient care. Carefully tailor your document toward each hospital you apply to. Below, we’ll provide expert tips to help you craft each section of your nursing student cover letter.

1. Contact information and salutation

List all essential contact information at the top of your nursing student cover letter, including your name, phone number, email, and LinkedIn URL. Be sure to address the hiring manager by name — Mr. or Ms. [Last Name]. If you can’t find the hiring manager’s name, use a variation of “Dear Hiring Manager.” This shows you’ve taken the time to research the hospital before applying for the role.

2. Introduction

A strong beginning paragraph will quickly make a positive impression on your nursing student cover letter. Start by introducing yourself and conveying your interest in the role you’re applying for. Anchor your paragraph with an eye-catching clinical achievement to set the tone for your document and draw the reader in. Due to a lack of hands-on work experience, the best strategy here is to leverage accomplishments from your nurse externship.

In the example below, the candidate highlights awards they achieved during their time as a certified nursing assistant. Although the responsibilities of a CNA are much more limited in comparison to a registered nurse, these details help showcase the applicant’s track record of success working in fast-paced clinical settings.

3. Body paragraphs

Describe the most compelling aspects of your clinical experience and qualifications in the body of your nursing student cover letter. Whether you’ve previously held a health care-related position in the past, or if you’re graduating from a nursing program, you need to put your best foot forward. In the example below, the candidate emphasizes their genuine passion for improving the quality of life for patients. Creating a nursing student cover letter that is authentic and earnest is a great way to differentiate yourself from other candidates during the job search.

4. Nursing student skills and qualifications

In the early stages of your career, you’ll often need to rely on your clinical skills in lieu of a robust work history. Rather than providing a comprehensive list, incorporate keywords from the job posting into your nursing student cover letter using tangible examples from your academic program or externship. Below, we’ve compiled various skills to consider featuring on your document:

5. Closing section

In the conclusion of your nursing student cover letter, include a call to action (CTA) that encourages the hiring manager to schedule an interview. Reinforce how your unique clinical background and qualifications can support the delivery of quality patient care. Be sure to thank the hiring manager for their time and consideration in the last sentence.

Nursing Student Cover Letter Tips

1. show you’re eager to build patient care skills.

Start your letter strong with a clear example of your commitment to patient health and recovery.

2. Explain why you’re drawn to the opportunity

On a separate document or sheet of paper, take 10 minutes to brainstorm why this school or opportunity interests you. For example, maybe you share the organization’s commitment to improving the lives of vulnerable community members.

When you’re done brainstorming, review your notes: Do any stand out as important or persuasive? Take another 10 minutes to brainstorm and elaborate on them. Repeat this process until you have two or three concise sentences that speak to the opportunity at hand.

As a caring and empathetic home health aide dedicated to providing dignified and sensitive health care and assistance, the University of San Diego’s reputation for high-quality nursing education appeals to me. My hardworking attitude and quick learning ability will make me an asset to the San Diego health care system.

3. Showcase your health care knowledge

Use bullet points to present your knowledge of key health care or nursing areas like patient assessment, family relations, or medication administration.

My recent achievements include:

Nursing Student Cover Letter Frequently Asked Questions

How should i start my nursing student cover letter -.

With a clear example of your success in the type of role you’re pursuing. The concept of “show, don’t tell” absolutely applies to your cover letter’s first paragraph. For instance, don’t tell the reader you’re a “proactive health care professional.” Show you’re proactive by citing a time you exceeded expectations in your practicum or found a new way to support and advocate for patients.

What’s the most important part of a nursing student cover letter? -

Any explanation you give for why the specific organization or opportunity interests you. These details distinguish the cover letter from your resume and other application materials and can help you get past applicant tracking systems (ATS) .

What traits are useful to highlight in my nursing student cover letter? -

Desired qualities in nursing professionals include empathy, precision, dedication, collaboration, and emotional resilience. Consider which of these traits best describe you, then give an example or two of how you’ve demonstrated them.

Craft a new cover letter in minutes

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

Jacob Meade

Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW, ACRW)

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

Check Out Related Examples

Nursing Cover Letter Examples and Templates

Nursing Student Resume Examples and Templates

Student Cover Letter Examples and Templates

Build a resume to enhance your career.

• How To Show Your Problem-Solving Skills on Your Resume and Cover Letter Learn More
• Should Your Cover Letter and Resume Templates Match? Learn More
• What’s the Difference Between a Cover Letter and a Letter of Intent? Learn More

Essential Guides for Your Job Search

• How to Write a Resume Learn More
• How to Write a Cover Letter Learn More
• hank You Note Examples Learn More
• Resignation Letter Examples Learn More

Account Management

Log in to manage your policy, generate a certificate of insurance (COI), make a payment, and more.

Log in to your account to update your information or manage your policy.

Download a Certificate of Insurance (COI) to provide to your employer.

Make a Payment

Make a one-time payment, set up autopay, or update your payment information.

Submit a notice of an incident or claim in just minutes.

Topics on this page:

What Do You Include in a Nursing Student Cover Letter?

Section 1: your contact information, section 2: today’s date, section 3: the hiring manager’s contact information, section 4: salutation, section 5: 1st paragraph explaining why you’re writing, section 6: 2nd paragraph explaining why you’re interested in the position, section 7: 3rd paragraph explaining why you’re a good fit for the position, section 8: thanks & call to action, section 9: a closing, sample nursing student cover letter (downloadable template), final tips for writing your cover letter, how to write a nursing student cover letter [template].

Jul 24, 2024

When you’re seeking your first job as a nurse, it’s important to spend time crafting an ideal cover letter. But sitting in front of a blank page can be overwhelming. Resumes can be dry and packed with information, but a properly written cover letter can make you stand out from the pack, grabbing the interest of hiring managers everywhere. They highlight your best skills, communicate your preferences for employment opportunities, and give hints at your personality. It’s best to submit a unique cover letter, along with a resume, each time you apply for a job. The formula laid out below can make them easier to write.

We spoke with three hiring managers to find out what you should include or leave out of your cover letters to get a positive response. The following professionals offer their expertise:

• Sheena Ferguson, MSN, RN , chief nursing officer of the University of New Mexico Hospitals
• Denise Occhiuzzo, Ed.D., MS, RN, BC , administrator of Nursing Professional Services and magnet program director at Hackensack University Medical Center in New Jersey
• Kimberly Snow, BSBA , talent acquisition specialist at the University of Nebraska Medical Center

And don’t forget to check out our article on how to create a nursing student resume , too!

Effective cover letters follow this structure:

• Your Contact Information
• Today’s Date
• The Hiring Manager’s Contact Information
• A Salutation
• 1st Paragraph Explaining Why You’re Writing
• 2nd Paragraph Explaining Why You’re Interested in the Position
• 3rd Paragraph Explaining Why You’re a Good Fit for the Position
• Thanks & Call to Action

First impressions stick, and hiring managers pay attention to detail. They’ll notice if you don’t include the proper information or take the right tone in your cover letter. Nurses have to write down effective descriptions of what they observe in patients, so your cover letter should convey that you can present your thoughts clearly and concisely in writing.

When you’re composing your letter, consider the best ways to approach each section.

If you include your mailing address, phone number, and email address at the top of your cover letter, it makes it easier for hiring managers to get in touch with you. Some people only list their contact information on their resume, which can make it harder for hiring managers to contact them if the cover letter is printed and separated from the resume.

Try formatting it like this:

This is an example of the proper way to format your contact information for a nursing student cover letter.

Ideally, this date would be the day that you send the cover letter. It helps hiring managers keep track of the date you applied for the position. It may seem like a small thing, but it’s best practice to write out the full month name, rather than abbreviating it.

This is an example of the proper way to write out the date for a nursing student cover letter.

It may seem formal and old-fashioned, but when you include your hiring manager’s information, it shows you’re committed to following protocol. Include the person’s name, title, and mailing or email address. Don’t know the name of the hiring manager? You may help yourself stand out if you take a few minutes to look at an organization’s website to figure out which person is likely to review your resume, but if all else fails, address your letter to the “Hiring Manager.”

This is an example of the proper way to format the hiring manager’s contact information for a nursing student cover letter.

Greet the hiring manager in a respectful manner, addressing him or her as “Mr.,” “Ms.” or “Dr.,” rather than by first name. This is important if the hiring manager is a doctor or has credentialing, because it shows you recognize that they’ve worked hard to achieve their professional titles.

This is an example of the proper way to write a salutation for a nursing student cover letter.

This is an example of the proper way to write a salutation if you don’t know the hiring manager’s name.

But avoid this:

This is an example of how NOT to write a salutation. This one is too formal and generic.

And DEFINITELY avoid this:

This is another example of how NOT to write a salutation. Just as the one above was too formal, this one is too informal and chummy.

The opening words of your cover letter will provide a first impression to hiring managers, and should explain why you’re contacting them. Explain that you’ll be graduating soon and are seeking a position that will be a good fit for you, based on your education and experience. Be as specific as you can when applying for positions; hiring managers dislike it when candidates are too vague. If you’re eager to work with pediatric or geriatric patients, saying so can help you get noticed.

Don’t say in your cover letter that you’re interested in any job that’s available. You may think it makes you sound like an eager applicant, but hiring managers like to see someone who has some focus. Instead, highlight one position and say you’d like to be considered for it because you believe your experience and qualifications will make you a good match. Then, if you’d like, say you would be glad to be considered for any additional positions. You’ll seem focused and eager at the same time.

Try something like this:

This is an example of the proper way to write the introduction paragraph for a nursing student cover letter.

This is an example of how NOT to write an introduction paragraph. It’s pushy and signals that the applicant may not be genuinely interested in the specific job in question, but is just looking for anything.

Here, highlight why you’re well-matched for the position that you’re applying for. Give specifics that make you stand out. Include these types of things:

• Specific areas of focus: “I did my capstone project in pediatrics.”
• Feedback from superiors that demonstrates your qualifications for the position: “My clinical faculty noticed that I have a particular affinity for difficult situations…’”

This can also be a great place to write about your passion for the position.

This is an example of the proper way to explain the reason for your interest in the position in a nursing student cover letter.

This is an example of how NOT to explain the reason for your interest in the position.

What can you bring to the position that’s unique or sought after? Connect why your work experience, values, or personal characteristics makes you the best fit — and why you should be called for an interview.

This is an example of the proper way to explain why you’re a good fit for the position in a nursing student cover letter.

This is an example of how NOT to explain why you’re a good fit for the job. This is too choppy and doesn’t connect the dots for the hiring manager on why these skills make you the right fit.

Be sure to thank the hiring manager for reading your letter, and summarize the reasons why he or she should contact you for an interview. You want to be enthusiastic and give your qualifications one last push. No need for contact info here, if you have it at the top.

This is an example of the proper way to thank the hiring manager and include a call to action in a nursing student cover letter.

This is an example of how NOT to write the final paragraph for a nursing student cover letter. As with the intro, this is overly pushy and aggressive. It leaves the reader with a bad final impression.

A simple closing like “Sincerely” or “Warm regards” is a safe, formal way to end your cover letter.

This is an example of the proper way to close a nursing student cover letter.

Once you put all of these pieces together, your completed cover letter should look something like the sample below. Feel free to click on the image to see a larger PDF version of the document. If you like the format of our sample entry-level physical therapy resume, you can even download the Microsoft Word template we used and fill in the blanks with your information.

Tip #1: Check your tone.

Since you’re applying for a professional position, it’s crucial that you strike a professional tone in your cover letter. This doesn’t mean that you need to be overly formal – instead, you should aim to sound conversational, yet respectful and businesslike. Some easy things you can do are to make sure you avoid using contractions (e.g., “can’t,” “I’ll”)

Tip #2: Be aware of the length.

Before submitting your resume and cover letter, make sure that both documents are only one page long. If either document is longer than that, go back through and either cut information that you don’t need or make your language more concise. Chances are very good that if a hiring manager sees a two-page resume or cover letter in their inbox — particularly from a (soon-to-be) recent graduate — they’ll put it in the “No” pile and move on to the next candidate.

Tip #3: Use a spell-check tool.

Mistakes could cost you an interview. Maybe you were rushing to submit your application and didn’t double-check what you wrote. Hiring managers may assume that your innocent spelling or grammar mistake means you don’t have a firm command of the written word. In the healthcare field, attention to detail is extremely important.

Tip #4: Choose simple fonts.

Choosing an easy-to-read font like Garamond, Calibri, Times New Roman, or Helvetica will make sure your experience and qualifications will stand out. An unusual font can be distracting. And if you’re not sending electronically, make sure to print your cover letter on white or ecru resume paper. Pink or green paper might fit your personality better, but they’re hard to read and don’t c ome across as professional.

Tip #5: Read it aloud.

Once you’ve composed your entire letter, read it out loud to yourself to ensure that it says what you want it to say.

Tip #6: Get a fresh set of eyes.

Being your own editor tends to cause problems. You’ll read things the way you want them to read, rather than how they might come across to someone else. Consider letting trusted friends or relatives review your cover letter and resume for you. You might be surprised at what they feel is unclear.

Image courtesy of iStock.com/ SARINYAPINNGAM

Last updated on Jul 24, 2024. Originally published on Sep 27, 2018.

• Career Growth

The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Berxi™ or Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Company. This article (subject to change without notice) is for informational purposes only, and does not constitute professional advice. Click here to read our full disclaimer

The product descriptions provided here are only brief summaries and may be changed without notice. The full coverage terms and details, including limitations and exclusions, are contained in the insurance policy. If you have questions about coverage available under our plans, please review the policy or contact us at 833-242-3794 or  [email protected] . “20% savings” is based on industry pricing averages.

Berxi™ is a part of Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance ( BHSI ). Insurance products are distributed through Berkshire Hathaway Global Insurance Services, California License # 0K09397. BHSI is part of Berkshire Hathaway’s National Indemnity group of insurance companies, consisting of National Indemnity and its affiliates, which hold financial strength ratings of A++ from AM Best and AA+ from Standard & Poor’s. The rating scales can be found at  www.ambest.com  and  www.standardandpoors.com , respectively.

No warranty, guarantee, or representation, either expressed or implied, is made as to the correctness, accuracy, completeness, adequacy, or sufficiency of any representation or information. Any opinions expressed herein are subject to change without notice.

The information on this web site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment, and does not purport to establish a standard of care under any circumstances. All content, including text, graphics, images and information, contained on or available through this web site is for general information purposes only based upon the information available at the time of presentation, and does not constitute medical, legal, regulatory, compliance, financial, professional, or any other advice.

BHSI makes no representation and assumes no responsibility or liability for the accuracy of information contained on or available through this web site, and such information is subject to change without notice. You are encouraged to consider and confirm any information obtained from or through this web site with other sources, and review all information regarding any medical condition or treatment with your physician or medical care provider. NEVER DISREGARD PROFESSIONAL MEDICAL ADVICE OR DELAY SEEKING MEDICAL TREATMENT BECAUSE OF SOMETHING THAT YOU HAVE READ ON OR ACCESSED THROUGH THIS WEB SITE.

BHSI is not a medical organization, and does not recommend, endorse or make any representation about the efficacy, appropriateness or suitability of any specific tests, products, procedures, treatments, services, opinions, health care providers or other information contained on or available through this web site. BHSI IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR, AND EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ALL LIABILITY FOR, ANY ADVICE, COURSE OF TREATMENT, DIAGNOSIS OR ANY OTHER SERVICES OR PRODUCTS THAT YOU OBTAIN AFTER REVIEWING THIS WEB SITE.

Want Berxi articles delivered straight to your inbox? Sign up for our monthly newsletter below!

" * " indicates required fields

How we use your email address Berxi will not sell or rent your email address to third parties unless otherwise notified. Other than where necessary to administer your insurance policy or where required by law, Berxi will not disclose your email address to third parties. Your email address is required to identify you for access to the Berxi website. You may also receive newsletters, product updates, and communications about quotes and policies.

Lisa Fields is a contributing writer for Berxi. She is a freelance health content marketing writer and editor who specializes in health, psychology, nutrition, fitness and sleep content. Lisa has written for national magazines and websites, including Reader's Digest, WebMD, Family Circle, Self, Shape and Redbook. She also writes content for clients including Equinox, Ameda, Costco and Care.com.

Related Articles

How to Write a Nursing Student Resume [Template]

Rachel Murphy Jul 24, 2024

5-Minute Summary: The ANA Code of Ethics for Nurses

Lauren Katulka Jul 24, 2024

Nursing Medication Errors: 5 Stories That Will Make Nurses Double-Check Their Dosages

Michael Walton Aug 28, 2024

How to Write a Nursing Cover Letter

NurseJournal.org is committed to delivering content that is objective and actionable. To that end, we have built a network of industry professionals across higher education to review our content and ensure we are providing the most helpful information to our readers.

Drawing on their firsthand industry expertise, our Integrity Network members serve as an additional step in our editing process, helping us confirm our content is accurate and up to date. These contributors:

• Suggest changes to inaccurate or misleading information.
• Provide specific, corrective feedback.
• Identify critical information that writers may have missed.

Integrity Network members typically work full time in their industry profession and review content for NurseJournal.org as a side project. All Integrity Network members are paid members of the Red Ventures Education Integrity Network.

Explore our full list of Integrity Network members.

• How to Write a Cover Letter
• Mistakes to Avoid
• Cover Letter Tips
• Frequently Asked Questions

Nursing Cover Letter Template

Sample nursing cover letter, are you ready to earn your online nursing degree.

A nursing cover letter is still crucial in the job application process. It’s often the first impression a potential employer will have of you. A cover letter is a chance to tell your story and call attention to aspects of your resume you want a reviewer to notice.

It’s also a chance to explain to an employer why you want to work for them, what you know about them, and why you’re an ideal candidate. A strong cover letter can tip the balance in your favor, helping you stand out from the competition and land an interview.

In the following guide, we walk you through writing a strong nursing cover letter, mistakes to avoid, and real-world tips that will keep you focused. Check out our downloadable nursing cover letter template and a sample letter to get started. Once you master the process, you’ll be writing winning cover letters in no time.

4 Steps to Write Your Nursing Cover Letter

Writing a cover letter can feel overwhelming for many nurses, especially because it’s difficult to know what to say, how much to reiterate what’s on your resume , and what information to include or not. A cover letter is an opportunity to explain aspects of your professional or personal history that a resume can’t always get across. Your passion and interests come through, along with your ability to communicate clearly. Review the following steps to write a stand-out cover letter. Feel free to use our sample letter and downloadable template. The cover letter is a significant part of convincing employers that they absolutely need to meet you!

Create a Header with Your Contact Information

Introduce yourself and note the position you’re applying for in the opening paragraph, highlight your skills and the reasons you want to work for this employer, write a closing paragraph and restate your interest, 7 mistakes to avoid in your nursing cover letter.

• Submitting Spelling and Grammar Errors: Nursing requires excellent documentation and attention to detail. Grammatical errors are unprofessional, and they can paint a picture of someone who doesn’t value attention to detail. Many resume reviewers will likely pass on a candidate whose resume and/or cover letter contain errors.
• Copying Your Resume: Your nursing cover letter can highlight aspects of your resume , but it shouldn’t be a verbatim copy. Find creative ways to underscore your key characteristics, skills, or experiences without repetition.
• Using Incorrect or Inconsistent Format: It’s best practice for your cover letter and resume to match in terms of design, font, and format. This creates a branded, visually cohesive application package.
• Forgetting to Tie Your Qualifications to the Position: Your cover letter should be targeted and specific, addressing the position you’re applying for and its qualifications, skills, and responsibilities. If you don’t tie your qualifications to the job in question, that makes a weak case for you getting an interview.
• Failing to Address the Letter to a Specific Person or Department: Many postings fail to provide the name of an individual or a department to address in your letter. If they provide this information, use it. If they don’t, you can use the generic “Hiring Manager” or “Hiring Committee”.
• Starting Every Paragraph with “I”: Be creative in finding different ways to begin each paragraph (see our sample letter for examples). If two paragraphs begin with “I”, that’s OK, but no more than that.

Tips from Nurses on Writing Your Nursing Cover Letter

Research potential employers, explain relevant skills that meet the position’s qualifications, include your soft skills, highlight your best qualities, demonstrate your passion, showcase your ability and willingness to learn, check for errors, frequently asked questions about nursing cover letters, what should a nurse cover letter include.

A nurse cover letter should include a header with your name, credentials, and contact information, plus the receiver’s contact information. The body of the letter should specifically address the position you’re applying for, and how you can fulfill the characteristics, credentials, skills, knowledge, and expertise required.

What should a nurse cover letter not include?

Your cover letter does not need to include phrases like, “My references are available upon request”; “Please do not hesitate to contact me with any questions or concerns”; or “I can be contacted via email at _____________or via phone at _____________.” These are all givens, and if your contact information is in your header, there’s no need to say it again.

What’s the difference between a new grad nurse cover letter and an experienced nurse cover letter?

A new grad nurse cover letter can’t demonstrate the level of skill, expertise, and knowledge as a seasoned nurse. New grads haven’t accumulated years of nursing experience, but they have their academic and clinical performance, enthusiasm, passion, and related healthcare experience to share, whether paid or volunteer. When employers advertise new grad positions, they understand that new grad resumes and letters can’t reflect the resumes of experienced nurses.

Are nursing cover letters necessary?

In these days of online applications, a cover letter may be optional, meaning that applicants can upload a cover letter if they choose to. For some applications, a cover letter will be required. Consider this: if a cover letter is optional, why not go the extra mile and write a strong one? If your resume and experience are comparable to another candidate’s, your cover letter could give you the edge. After all, a resume can’t by nature express much personality, but a cover letter can. So, make a strong impression with a well-crafted letter, whether it’s required or not.

Download our cover letter template (DOCX, 14KB)

Name and Credentials

Town, State | Phone | Email

Personalized LinkedIn profile URL (optional)

Dept and/or contact person Facility or organization Street Town, State, Zip

Dear ________________:

Paragraph 1: Begin by stating the position for which you are applying. Say something about the organization to demonstrate that you’ve done your homework and understand what they’re all about, and that this letter is not at all “cookie-cutter” in nature.

Paragraph 2: Share select highlights of your career, expertise, experience, skills, or personal characteristics that are directly applicable to this position and/or this employer. You can emphasize something from your resume that you want them to make note of, as long as you don’t use exactly the same language as your resume, which is redundant.

Paragraph 3: This is a good place to highlight some of your “soft skills” (e.g., communication, emotional intelligence, relational intelligence, patient education, compassion, empathy, etc).

Paragraph 4: Here you can call attention to your computer skills, EMR experience, etc., as well as any other tech skills worth mentioning.

Closing paragraph: Tie the letter together, reiterate your interest, and express your enthusiastic desire to have the opportunity to meet to discuss your experience and the position further.

Sincerely, Your name and credentials

Miguel Schwartzkoffnian, BSN, RN

Annabelle, HA | 000-000-1000 | [email protected]

LinkedIn.com/in/MichaelSchwartzfoffianbsnrn

April 3, 2023

Department of Nursing Recruitment University of Tabula Rasa Medical Center 301 Rasa Drive Glen Tabularea, MOO 22222

Dear Nursing Recruitment Department:

As a caring and dedicated summa cum laude graduate of Adelphi University’s BSN program, please accept my enthusiastic interest in the Registered Nurse – Respiratory/Intermediate Care position posted on your website. I am both personally and professionally aligned with the values that are a very clear aspect of your organization’s mission. From your “Power of Caring” funding of your expanded Outpatient Care Center to your “Next Generation” initiative, I can clearly see the forward-thinking philosophy underlying UTRMC and its reputation as an innovative facility and community member.

During my education, I thrived in clinical practice where I received positive preceptor feedback following each rotation. I am highly coachable, and as you can see from my resume, I bring more than six years’ related healthcare experience as both an EMT and CNA. I am already well-versed in code blue response, Foley catheter insertion and care, venipuncture, ECG interpretation, and non-complex wound care. Comfortable in new settings, I am not afraid to ask questions to enhance my learning and improve the quality of care I deliver to patients and their families. I thrive in multidisciplinary environments, and I use my highly-developed communication skills and emotional and relational intelligence to foster a sense of camaraderie and collaboration among my colleagues, and nurse-patient relationships built on trust.

As a digital native and quick learner, I am highly competent using the Epic and Cerner EMRs and Microsoft Office Suite, and I have full confidence in my natural curiosity and powers of critical thinking in relation to learning new technologies and digital interfaces.

I have a great deal to contribute as a member of the UTRMC community of clinicians. I look forward to discussing the intersection of my skills and experience with the needs of your inspiring organization that embraces its role beyond the actual facility and into the surrounding community it serves.

Sincerely, Miguel Schwartzkoffnian, BSN, RN

Page last reviewed on February 24, 2023

Whether you’re looking to get your pre-licensure degree or taking the next step in your career, the education you need could be more affordable than you think. Find the right nursing program for you.

You might be interested in

HESI vs. TEAS Exam: The Differences Explained

Nursing schools use entrance exams to make admissions decisions. Learn about the differences between the HESI vs. TEAS exams.

10 Nursing Schools That Don’t Require TEAS or HESI Exam

For Chiefs’ RB Clyde Edwards-Helaire, Nursing Runs in the Family

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Do I Need a Cover Letter for an Internship?

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to Write a Cover Letter for Internship

#1. respect the format.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This allows you to:

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

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

Dear Mr. Jacobs, 

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

#3. Mention the Right Keywords

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

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

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

How can you find these keywords, you might ask?

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

Then, do the following:

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

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

• Communication
• Ability to meet strict deadlines

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

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

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

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

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

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

#4. Highlight Your Education

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

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

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

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

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

#5. Provide Background For Your Skills

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#7. Describe What You Would Gain Professionally

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

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

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

Here’s how you can do that: 

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

#8. Proofread Your Cover Letter

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

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

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

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

#9. Match Your Cover Letter & Resume Designs

Want your internship application to truly shine?

Match your cover letter design with your resume!

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

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

Cover Letter for Internship Template

Struggling to create a cover letter for your internship?

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

Key Takeaways 

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

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

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

Related Readings: 

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

To provide a safer experience, the best content and great communication, we use cookies. Learn how we use them for non-authenticated users.

Sample Letters

Writing an Application Letter for Internship (Free Templates)

In this guide, I’ll share my insights, provide you with three unique templates , and offer tips based on personal experience to help you craft a compelling application letter.

Key Takeaways

• Importance of Personalization: Tailor each letter to the specific internship.
• Structure Matters: Follow a clear, professional structure.
• Showcase Your Strengths: Highlight relevant skills and experiences.
• Be Concise and Focused: Keep it to one page, focusing on key points.
• Professional Tone: Maintain a professional tone throughout.
• Proofread: Ensure your letter is free from errors.

Step-by-Step Guide to Writing an Application Letter for Internship

1. understand the structure.

The structure of your application letter is crucial. Here’s a basic outline:

• Header : Your contact information and the date.
• Employer’s Contact Information : Name, title, company, and address.
• Salutation : Address the letter to a specific person.
• Introduction : State the position you’re applying for and how you found out about it.
• Body : Highlight your skills and experiences relevant to the internship.
• Conclusion : Summarize your suitability and express enthusiasm for the role.
• Closing : A polite closing statement and your signature.

2. Personalize Each Letter

One of the biggest mistakes applicants make is sending generic letters. Personalize each letter by mentioning the company’s name and specific details about the internship. Research the company and refer to specific projects or values that resonate with you.

3. Showcase Your Strengths

Use the body of your letter to highlight your relevant skills and experiences. Provide concrete examples that demonstrate your abilities. For instance, if you’re applying for a marketing internship, mention any marketing projects you’ve worked on.

4. Maintain a Professional Tone

While it’s important to show enthusiasm, ensure that your letter remains professional. Avoid using slang or overly casual language.

5. Proofread

Before sending your letter, proofread it to eliminate any grammatical or spelling errors. A well-written, error-free letter reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.

Real-Life Example

When I applied for my first internship, I tailored my letter to the company’s ongoing projects. I mentioned how I admired their innovative approach to marketing and referenced a recent campaign they had launched. This personalization caught the hiring manager’s attention, and I secured the internship.

Templates for Internship Application Letters

Template 1: marketing internship.

[Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State, ZIP Code] [Email Address] [Today’s Date]

[Employer’s Name] [Company Name] [Company Address] [City, State, ZIP Code]

Dear [Employer’s Name],

I am writing to express my interest in the Marketing Internship position at [Company Name], which I found advertised on [Website/Job Board]. With a passion for creative marketing strategies and a strong academic background in marketing, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team.

During my time at [Your University], I have developed skills in digital marketing, content creation, and social media management. I recently led a project where my team increased our university’s social media engagement by 30%. I am particularly impressed by [Company Name]’s innovative campaigns, such as [Specific Campaign], and I am eager to bring my skills and enthusiasm to your company.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to [Company Name]’s marketing team.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Template 2: Engineering Internship

I am writing to apply for the Engineering Internship position at [Company Name], as advertised on [Website/Job Board]. With a solid foundation in mechanical engineering and hands-on experience in project management, I am excited about the possibility of contributing to your innovative projects.

At [Your University], I have excelled in courses such as Thermodynamics, Fluid Mechanics, and CAD Design. I also led a team in designing a sustainable energy solution that won the [University’s Competition]. I am particularly drawn to [Company Name]’s commitment to sustainable engineering practices and am eager to bring my technical skills and passion for innovation to your team.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to [Company Name]’s engineering projects.

Template 3: Finance Internship

I am excited to apply for the Finance Internship at [Company Name], which I found on [Website/Job Board]. With strong analytical skills and a keen interest in financial markets, I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to contribute to your finance team.

My academic background in finance at [Your University] has equipped me with the knowledge and skills necessary for this role. I have successfully completed projects involving financial analysis and portfolio management. I am particularly impressed by [Company Name]’s approach to [Specific Financial Strategy], and I am eager to bring my skills and enthusiasm to your team.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to [Company Name]’s finance team.

Tips from Personal Experience

1. research the company.

Before writing your application letter, research the company thoroughly. Mention specific projects or values that align with your interests and skills. This shows the employer that you have a genuine interest in their company.

2. Highlight Relevant Experience

Focus on experiences that are directly relevant to the internship you’re applying for. Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills and achievements.

3. Keep It Concise

Aim to keep your letter to one page. Be concise and focused, emphasizing the most important points that make you a suitable candidate for the internship.

4. Show Enthusiasm

Employers want to see that you are genuinely excited about the internship. Express your enthusiasm for the role and the company in your letter.

Table: Do’s and Don’ts for Internship Application Letters

Final Thoughts

Writing an effective application letter for an internship requires personalization, clear structure, and showcasing your strengths. By following the tips and templates provided, you can create a compelling letter that increases your chances of securing the internship you desire.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: how should i start an internship application letter.

Answer: I always begin my internship application letter with a formal greeting and a brief introduction, stating who I am and the position I’m applying for, which sets a professional tone from the start.

Q: What should I include in the body of my internship application letter?

Answer: In the body of my letter, I highlight my relevant skills, experiences, and achievements, and explain how they align with the internship role, demonstrating my value to the potential employer.

Q: How can I make my internship application letter stand out?

Answer: To make my letter stand out, I personalize it by mentioning specific projects or values of the company that resonate with me, showing that I’ve done my research and am genuinely interested.

Q: How long should an internship application letter be?

Answer: From my experience, an effective internship application letter should be one page long, concise yet detailed enough to cover all essential points without overwhelming the reader.

Q: Should I include my GPA in the internship application letter?

Answer: If my GPA is strong and relevant to the internship, I include it to showcase my academic strengths; otherwise, I focus more on my skills and experiences.

Q: How do I address any lack of experience in my internship application letter?

Answer: I emphasize my eagerness to learn and my ability to quickly adapt to new environments, drawing attention to any relevant coursework or volunteer work that demonstrates my potential.

Q: Can I use the same internship application letter for multiple companies?

Answer: While the core structure can be similar, I tailor each letter to the specific company and position, addressing their unique requirements and showing my genuine interest in each opportunity.

Q: How important is the closing paragraph of an internship application letter?

Answer: The closing paragraph is crucial as it reiterates my enthusiasm for the internship, thanks the reader for their time, and includes a call to action, such as requesting an interview.

Q: Should I mention references in my internship application letter?

Answer: I typically do not include references in the letter itself but mention that they are available upon request, keeping the letter focused and concise.

Q: How do I convey enthusiasm in my internship application letter?

Answer: I convey enthusiasm by using positive and confident language, sharing. specific reasons why I’m excited about the internship, and showing how it aligns with my career goals.

Your favourite senior outside college

Home » Internship Tips » Tips & Tricks » How to Write Cover Letter for an Internship?

How to Write a Cover Letter for Internships [Examples & Template]

Cover letters and resumes are the introductory documents that help an employer form their first impressions about a future employee. Thus, it is very important to draft the perfect documents to find success, especially when applying for an internship. To help you through the drafting process we are going to walk you through the process to write a cover letter for an internship that not only grabs attention but leaves a lasting impression.

Table of Contents

How to Write a Cover Letter for an Internship?

Want to write the best cover letter for an internship role? Follow the steps below and learn how to write a cover letter. 

• Mention Your Details: At the top left corner of the internship cover letter, write your full name, address, email ID, and phone number.
• Add Date: Next, add the date you are writing the letter. 
• Mention Receiver’s Details: Mention the receiver’s name followed by the company address. The receiver can be the manager or the HR professional responsible for recruitment. 
• Address the Recruiter: Write “Dear [name]” to address the recruiter before beginning the main content of the letter.
• Opening Statement: Write a brief statement that appeals to the recruiter and informs them of your intent to apply for the internship position. You can add one or two of your key achievements here but do not forget to mention which position you are applying for. 
• For example , you mention you have strong communication skills. Back the claim with a background story of how you gave a presentation on a technical topic and were able to communicate your idea easily to the audience due to your skills. 
• Closing Paragraph: Thank the recruiter and add a call to action, like requesting them to check your resume for more details or that you are available for an interview to discuss the internship opportunity further. 
• End With Formal Salutation: End your letter with “Warm Regards” or “Sincerely.”

Also Read: How to Write Cover Letter for a Job?

Cover Letter Template For Internship

Let us look at this internship letter template to understand how to write an internship application letter.

Also Read: Cover Letter Formats

Sample Cover Letter for Internship for Different Sectors

Here are some examples of letters for internships based on different sectors for your better understanding:

1. Sample Cover Letter for IT Internship

This sample cover letter for IT internship is for sectors like Web Development, Data Analyst, etc. 

2. Sample Cover Letter for Finance Internship

This cover letter format for an internship will guide you on how to create a cover letter for a job in the financial sector.

3. Sample Cover Letter for Marketing and Advertising Internship

This cover letter for an internship in marketing and advertising will help you showcase the skills that will enable you to contribute effectively in the corporate world, especially if you are seeking digital marketing internships .

4. Sample Cover Letter for Graphic Design Internship

This is the best cover letter for an internship in graphic design . It will help recruiters see your passion for design which will increase your chances of getting hired.

5. Sample Cover Letter for Human Resources (HR) Internship

This is the best way of writing a cover letter for an internship in Human Resources .

6. Sample Cover Letter for Law Internship

This format will highlight your relevant skills and experiences and make you a strong candidate for law internship opportunities .

Also Read: Cover Letter for Legal Interns .

Mistakes to Avoid while Drafting a Cover Letter

When writing cover letters it’s important to pay attention to minute details, here are some mistakes that you should avoid while writing your cover letter:

• Generic Templates- Craft a unique letter for each application, tailored to the specific internship and company.
• Ignoring Formatting- Use clear headings, bullet points, and a readable font. A well-formatted cover letter reflects your attention to detail.
• Overwhelming Length- Keep your cover letter concise and to the point. Aim for around 250-300 words.
• Neglecting Proofreading- Always proofread your cover letter before sending it out. Typos and grammatical errors can make a negative impression.
• Overusing Jargon- While it’s great to demonstrate your knowledge, avoid overloading your cover letter with industry jargon or technical terms. Explain complex concepts briefly and clearly to ensure your message is easily understood.

In this blog, we’ve covered some key points for writing a cover letter for an internship. By adding your own unique touch and showing your excitement for the role, you can set yourself apart from other applicants. So, take your time while writing a cover letter, and let your strengths shine on the page.

If you thought this blog was helpful, tell us in the comments section below. Also, check out these online interview tips before going for your next job interview.

Answer: To write a good cover letter for an internship, include keywords from the internship description, proofread to ensure content flow, highlight extracurriculars, format well, and customize each cover letter.

Answer: To write a letter asking for an internship, research the company to tailor your response accordingly. Write a meaningful subject line, add a greeting, and express your interest in the internship and the reason along with your skills and educational qualifications. 

Answer: Here is a sample for a basic cover letter: “My name is [your name], and I am writing to express my interest in the internship role [role title] at your company [company name]. I am excited to share that I believe I have the necessary skills and knowledge that make me the best candidate for the internship role. Kindly consider my application. Thank you for your time and consideration.”

Answer: Here is how you can write a cover letter for a legal internship, “Dear [recruiter’s name], As a recent law graduate, I am excited to hear about the internship role your company [name of the company] is offering. I have an additional certification course in corporate law and possess trial preparation skills. I am certain my skills and talent will be a great addition to your organization. Kindly consider my application in a positive light. I am excited to discuss this opportunity further with you. You can contact me at [email ID]. Thanks for your consideration.”

Answer: You should write a cover letter for an internship because it allows you to mention additional details you could not in the resume and provide background to some information like skills.

• ← Previous
• Next →

Sandipta Banerjee has completed her Master's in English Literature and Language. She has been working in the field of editing and writing for the past five years. She started her writing journey at a very young age with her poems which have now evolved into a poetry blog. She was working as Editorial Head in a US-based publishing house before joining Internshala.

Related Post

How to Find Internships on LinkedIn & Land Your Dream Internship?

Are you looking for ways to gain practical experience and build the skills necessary for your future career? If yes, securing an internship could be the perfect option for you.

How to Get an Internship in Amul? A Comprehensive Guide

Are you a student looking for a real-life learning experience in the dairy industry? An internship at Amul could be an excellent opportunity for you. Amul (Anand Milk Union Limited),

How to Get an Internship at ISRO: Strategies, Tips & More

Securing an internship at the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) is a dream for many students pursuing a career in science and technology. With its prestigious reputation and invaluable work

How to get an internship in Flipkart?

Securing an internship at Flipkart can be an exciting opportunity to launch your career in the e-commerce domain. As one of India’s largest online retail giants, Flipkart offers a dynamic

• Resume Templates Simple Professional Modern Creative View all
• Resume Examples Nurse Student Internship Teacher Accountant View all
• Resume Builder
• Cover Letter Templates Simple Professional Modern Creative View all
• Cover Letter Examples Nursing Administrative Assistant Internship Graduate Teacher View all
• Cover Letter Builder

Nursing cover letter example

The purpose

A few writing rules, getting the tone right, tone of voice.

Whether you’re an experienced RN or are just finishing nursing school, you’re looking at a job market that desperately needs you. And if you’re going to put your own health on the line to heal others, you deserve the best nursing job you can get. 

An exceptional nursing cover letter is essential to stand out among other qualified applicants pursuing the same positions you seek.At Resume.io, we are specialists at helping people find the jobs that are right for them. 

Our resources include 180+ occupation-specific writing guides and corresponding cover letter examples. We also offer resume writing tools, informative blogs and field-tested templates to help you create both types of job application documents.

What you are reading here is a detailed guide to one crucial part of the job hunt equation — the cover letter (also known as an application letter). Here’s what we will discuss in this writing guide, backed by a nursing cover letter example:

• The current job role and outlook for nurses
• Why a cover letter is a critical companion to an outstanding resume
• How your nursing cover letter should be structured and formatted
• How to optimize the impact of each cover letter section: header, greeting, introduction, body and closing
• The psychology behind writing that triggers both a rational and an emotional response
• How to make your job application an irresistible pitch that no employer will ignore.

Looking for some more inspiration? Check out our related cover letter examples below: 

• New Grad Registered Nurse Cover Letter Sample
• Carer Cover Letter Sample
• Nursing Student Cover Letter Sample
• LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse) Cover Letter Sample
• CNA Cover Letter Sample
• Caregiver Cover Letter Sample
• Medical Receptionist Cover Letter Sample
• Medical Assistant Cover Letter Sample
• Physical Therapist Cover Letter Sample
• Occupational Therapy Cover Letter Sample
• Phlebotomist Cover Letter Sample
• Pharmacy Assistant Cover Letter Sample
• Healthcare Cover Letter Sample
• Medical Cover Letter Sample
• Doctor Assistant Cover Letter Sample

Today's outlook for nurses

As a nurse you are a heroic first responder on the front lines of the battle against all that ails us. And your superpower has never been needed more. 

It's no wonder that this role is projected to grow at a rate of 6% between 2022 and 2032, which is faster than average. With more than 3 million nursing jobs in the United States, it's clear to see that this is a vocation that will always be in high demand. 

Bonus: Land yourself one of these caregiving roles, and you can expect to make an average of $81,220 per year.

Why you need a nursing cover letter

A cover letter for anyone seeking a nursing job is a one-page pitch that is submitted along with a resume. The goal is to introduce yourself to a potential employer while highlighting the nursing experience, skills and qualities that make you ideal for the job. 

It’s also a personal appeal — you are asking for a job, after all, not demanding one. Think of it as a way of starting a friendly conversation with an individual who is in a position to hire a nurse like you.

You’ve heard of the “elevator pitch” — you have the opportunity to get on an elevator with a VIP who is looking to make a hire. 

You have precious few seconds to introduce yourself, establish a friendly connection, express your interest in the nursing job and explain why you would make an ideal candidate. When you hear a “Ding,” your time is up because this executive will get off the elevator. 

The challenge is to make such a positive impression, in a very brief window in time, that this executive wants your contact info and will actually call you later. 

This is essentially what the nursing cover letter is all about — it’s an elevator pitch in writing. Rather than just send this exec a resume, you have made a personal introduction that is far more likely to trigger a personal and emotional response.

A cover letter is usually between 200 and 400 words long, and should never exceed one page. Recent nursing graduates often try to make up for a lack of resume experience by writing long, expounding cover letters that dive into every possible corner of their educational journey. 

Unfortunately, this can be an automatic “out” in the eyes of many employers. Instead, focus on creating a strong argument by selecting only a handful of convincing points and carrying these themes throughout the letter. 

It’s also very important to follow basic formatting and font guidelines when drafting your cover letter. Stick to trusted font styles like Georgia, Calibri, Helvetica and Arial  with a size between 10 and 12 points. A whimsical font like comic sans might seem tempting, but it’s a big no-go. You can find more details about styling in this general cover letter writing guide. 

Remember, at the end of the day a nursing cover letter is all about maximizing your chances. Any spelling or grammar errors, wacky fonts or messy formatting will distract a hiring manager from your main purpose and bring down the likelihood of landing the position. 

Best format for a nursing cover letter

A good cover letter for nurses, or virtually any other occupation, will follow the same basic structure:

• The cover letter header
• The greeting / salutation
• The cover letter intro
• The middle paragraphs (body of the letter)
• The ending paragraph of your cover letter (conclusion and call-to-action)

Dear Dr. Rowntree,

I write to express an interest in your accelerated nurse midwifery programme for recently-qualified CNMs. During my seven-year nursing career, I have always sought to learn from the best, and there is no better place than at Mount Bisai.

After graduating with a BSN from NYU Rory Meyers College of Nursing I worked as a licensed RN for four years and then decided to take my Masters in Nurse Midwifery. I passed my CNM two years ago, and as a relatively recent Certified Nurse Midwife, I am conscious that the learning process has now firmly moved into the delivery room.

A broad range of experience from prenatal to delivery and postpartum care ensures that I can make a difference in terms of caring for my patients’ needs. I have worked with obstetricians on 150+ complicated cases and while I have a firm grounding in high-risk conditions, I am keen to take on more theory and practice at Mount Sinai. I was commended for lowest rates of C-sections amongst my graduating cohort and I believe that my empathetic interpersonal skills have been vital in offering the highest level of care.

Education is an important aspect of the birthing journey and I strive to take every opportunity to advise around nutrition, exercise, rest and general wellness. Every day matters. 

I have 90 letters of recommendation from new parents – many of which focus on how my prenatal efforts have contributed to a sense of calm preparedness when it is time for baby to arrive. 

I would welcome a chance to get to know your maternity team and glimpse what I might be like to work with you. I love the job and I want to be the best midwife that I can be.

Yours sincerely,

Jackie Elise

Cover letter header

Perhaps the silliest mistake you could make in a cover letter (or a resume) would be to leave out your contact information, so the employer has no idea how to reach you. If submitting by email, you might think the employer could simply hit “Reply.” 

But if your email is forwarded or printed to share with other decision-makers, your email address could easily get lost. Don’t make it difficult for employers to figure out how to reach you or you could lose out on that nursing job. 

Your name, phone number, email address (and optionally your snail-mail address, if required) should appear at the very top of your cover letter, in the header, also known as a letterhead. 

In addition to providing crucial information about how to contact you, the header should be attractively designed to grab the reader’s eye, and to provide white space that breaks up the solid black paragraphs of text that follow. 

Many good letterheads will put your name top and center in the largest font on the page, demonstrating your confidence and making it easier for employers to remember you.

Align document styles

Use the same fonts, font sizes and formatting styles in your cover letter and your resume. An employer should be able to hold your cover letter in one hand and your resume in the other and see at a glance that they came from the same person. 

This kind of consistency shows that you’re organized and you pay attention to detail. It gives you a visual brand and makes you more memorable. The writing style in your resume and cover letter should also be similar, though you should beware of repeating the same phrases in the two.

Goal of the cover letter header: Stand out from other nursing candidates with a distinctive-looking header that identifies who you are and how recruiters can reach you.

Cover letter greeting

This simply refers to the “Dear Xxxxx” portion of your letter. Many years ago, the universal guideline was to write “Dear Mr. Smith:” (ending in a colon), or if the recipient was unknown, “Dear Sir or Madam:”. (But you should avoid the old-school, gender-specific “Gentlemen:”.) 

In many ways, email has changed the way greetings are written, tending to make them less formal, and often ending in a comma rather than colon. But beware of adopting a tone that is too casual in a formal business letter addressed to people you don’t know.

Get the basics right first!

If you know the name of the person who is making the hiring decisions, use it in the greeting. People like to see their own names, and this practice proves that you are not sending out a generic cover letter to various recipients. 

Lean toward using the last name: “Dear Mr. Brown:”. If it’s a woman, beware of “Miss” or “Mrs.” and go with “Ms.” Of course, if you’re writing to a doctor of either gender, go with the title “Dr.” 

In some cases, it’s impossible to tell from a name whether the person is male or female — it could be a British woman named Jean ( Jeen ) or a Frenchman named Jean ( Zhan ). In such a case, you might look for this person’s picture online, or you might simply call the company and ask if Jean (or Alex, Chris, Dale or Sam) is a man or a woman. 

If you have no idea, your best fallback might be to break the last-name rule and simply write Dear Jean:”. However, some companies take pains to obscure the name of the actual hiring manager, and they might find it a bit disturbing if you’ve gone to great lengths to figure it out. In such cases, the best approach is often to make your greeting more generic, for example, “Dear XYZ team.”

Goal of the cover letter greeting: Start off by directly addressing the reader in a friendly, professional manner.

Cover letter introduction

“I am writing….” Hold it! They already know why you are writing. If you hadn’t been writing, they wouldn’t have your letter in front of them. 

Search and destroy the phrase “I am writing” from every cover letter you send. Your cover letter introduction is absolutely crucial — you need to hit the ground running with one bold and sincere sentence that both identifies the job you’re seeking and offers an early hint as to your qualifications.  

Goal of the cover letter introduction: Lead off by emphasizing the value you would bring to this employer as an experienced and motivated nurse.

Cover letter middle part (body)

This is where the rubber hits the road. The middle paragraphs of cover letters are vital. You’ve introduced yourself, you’ve said what you do — now you get two, maybe three paragraphs to explain why you’re great at it. And you need to provide some facts to back it up. 

One useful method  is known by the acronym "STAR," which stands for “situation, task, action, result.” The simpler variation "CAR" stands for “context, action, result.” 

Describe situations/contexts you have faced in your career as a nurse, and use strong verbs to describe the actions you took and the positive results you achieved. Use facts and figures wherever possible to quantify your accomplishments — for example, how many babies did you help deliver during your time in the maternity ward? How many patients did you attend during your time in the ER?

Goal of the cover letter body: Build your case for being an ideal job candidate by highlighting key nursing career accomplishments and abilities.

Education is an important aspect of the birthing journey and I strive to take every opportunity to advise around nutrition, exercise, rest and general wellness. Every day matters.

I have 90 letters of recommendation from new parents – many of which focus on how my prenatal efforts have contributed to a sense of calm preparedness when it is time for baby to arrive.

How to close a nurse cover letter (conclusion and sign-off) 

Your conclusion should suggest a call to action — you are eager to hear back, you would be delighted to schedule an interview, or perhaps you propose to give your target a call next week. Here you need to come off as determined, confident and decisive, without sounding entitled or presumptuous. 

End on a strong note, leaving no doubt in your reader’s mind that you are serious about this job and that you should be taken seriously as a nursing candidate.

Goal of the cover letter closing: End with a call to action that implies you expect a response from recruiters.

Writing psychology: how to convey your work ethic in your cover letter

In his best-selling book “ Thinking, Fast and Slow ,” the Nobel Prize-winning theorist Daniel Kahneman outlined two ways people think. The “fast” way is emotional, automatic and unconscious — like making a disgusted face when you’re shown a gruesome image. 

The “slow” way is more logical, conscious and calculating — like digging deep into your memory to recognize a once-familiar sound. 

The faster, more emotional way of thinking governs most of our daily thought processes, but the slower, more deliberative style is what it might take, for example, for a hiring manager to read a letter carefully and say, “This sounds like a great nursing candidate.” 

Emotional responses can actually trigger more deliberative responses. This is why it’s important to use a certain amount of emotional, passionate language in your letter — speaking to the heart, as it were, rather than to the head. This will grab your reader’s attention and make him or her slow down and read more closely.

One way to use this insight is by using emotional language as bookends — opening with emotion, switching to facts and closing with emotions. For example: In my previous nursing jobs, I’ve always been known for having a “big heart,” and for engaging with patients from a deep sense of compassion, as if they were my own family. (This is emotional language.) Yet my experience and seniority have also made me the no-nonsense, go-to person in my unit when other nurses need advice, and even doctors frequently consult with me on treatment regimens. (This is factual language.) 

What I love about this job is seeing great patient outcomes — and seeing the joy on the faces of family members when medical intervention achieves desirable results . (This is emotional language again, bookending the factual language.)

Every cover letter should be unique, tailored to a specific recipient. Study your target, scour its website and social media posts, and familiarize yourself with the kind of language it uses and the image it projects. Then strive to make your tone match the tone of the company you’re targeting. Health-care providers deal with life-and-death issues, so they will typically use a serious, formal tone in addressing their market. Yet watch for the nuances of how they do so, and style your letter accordingly.

Two important things to bear in mind: 

• If you’re responding to a specific nursing job listing, study it like it’s gospel. Look at the requirements and qualifications, understand the company’s needs, and make sure you address these specifically in your cover letter.
• Keep it short. Hiring managers are busy people — they don’t want to read your novella. You get one page, so make it count with a proper mix of emotional and factual language. Less is often more, so cover the bases but leave your reader curious to learn more about you.

Nursing cover letter with no experience

How do you write a cover letter without experience? The short answer is that as a registered nurse, you do have experience, and it's probably more than you realize! 

During your training, you spent time in clinical settings working with nursing supervision. That counts as your first job. You may have had jobs unrelated to nursing as well. These have transferrable skills that you can detail in your letter. 

Use the same format of emotion, facts, emotion, but be honest about your desire to take your first role as an RN. Many employers seek out nurses new to the career because they are excited by their first opportunity and are up on all the latest nursing information. 

Also remember that nurses are in high demand, so you have a great chance of snagging a great job right out of school. Just make sure you don't overstate your experience or come off as too eager. Maintain a professional tone at all times. Below is a sample sentence from a nursing cover letter for a first job.

My nursing training proved to me that I have chosen the right career and I am eager to begin contributing to excellent patient care as a registered nurse.

Basic mistakes in a nursing application letter (and how to avoid them)

Here are some of the common mistakes people make in writing cover letters:

• Spelling mistakes. Bad spelling, grammar and punctuation can absolutely derail your chances of landing an interview. Proper English is not optional. If English is not your long suit, consider finding an editor to proofread your letters.
• Formatting errors and bad fonts. Many text editors will result in buggy letter formats and strange-looking headers. Even the choice of font can be problematic. The templates and tools we offer at resume.io are your best bet to sidestep all these problems.
• Not including white space. Don’t make the mistake of thinking that because you get one page, you have to fill it with black text top to bottom and side to side. Your visual style should be an eye-pleasing mix of text and blank space, not too dense and not too sparse. Using professional tools is your best way to make sure you get this right.
• Using old-hat sayings. Avoid clichés, and don’t write like a robot. We’ve already mentioned the biggest cover letter cliché, “I am writing….” Also, please don’t say you’re a “self-starter” or a “team player.” Use forceful, original language, and write like a human being. Do not say, for instance: In consideration of your listing for a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), I would like St. John’s Hospital to consider the candidacy of a professional, experienced health-care provider such as myself. Keep it real — the way a normal person speaks — and avoid word bloat.

The best way to avoid all these mistakes is to use one of the field-tested cover letter templates and professional guidance at resume.io. We can’t write the letter for you, but we will take the guesswork out of this crucial element of your job application.

Take your career growth to a new level with these 10 expert tips to writing and formatting the best cover letter.

Key takeaways

• Your cover letter is your personal introduction to a hiring manager, and your “elevator pitch” explaining why you’re the right candidate for the job.
• Unless you’re specifically asked not to submit a cover letter, always consider the cover letter an essential part of a job application.
• Follow proper cover letter structure and make sure each portion of your letter achieves what it’s supposed to.
• Use emotional language to trigger a personal response, offset by factual and rational language that positions you as the right candidate.

Free professionally designed templates

How to Write a New Grad Nurse Cover Letter (With Examples!)

What is a new grad nurse cover letter.

• Cover Letter Benefits
• New Grad Nurse Cover Letter Features
• What to Include

First, congratulations on graduating from nursing school! This is a huge milestone that paves the way for an exciting and fulfilling career in the nursing profession. As you embark on this next chapter, it's time to polish  your new grad nurse resume and craft a captivating new grad nurse cover letter that truly shines.

If you are a recent nursing school graduate, you are in the right place! This article will explain what a new nurse cover letter is, how they are unique from other cover letters, what they should include, and four sample new grad nurse cover letters. 

Popular Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Programs

GCU's College of Nursing and Health Care Professions has a nearly 35-year tradition of preparing students to fill evolving healthcare roles as highly qualified professionals. GCU offers a full spectrum of nursing degrees, from a pre-licensure BSN degree to a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program.

Enrollment: Nationwide

• MSN - Family NP
• MSN - Adult Gerontology Acute Care NP
• MSN - Nursing Education
• MSN - Health Informatics
• MSN - Public Health Nursing
• MSN - Health Care Quality & Patient Safety
• MBA & MSN - Nursing Leadership in Health Care Systems
• See more GCU nursing programs

WGU's award-winning online programs are created to help you succeed while graduating faster and with less debt. WGU is a CCNE accredited, nonprofit university offering nursing bachelor's and master's degrees.

• BSN-to-MSN - Family NP
• BSN-to-MSN - Psychiatric Mental Health NP
• BSN-to-MSN - Nursing Education
• RN-to-MSN - Nursing Education
• RN-to-MSN - Nursing Leadership & Management

Enrollment: Nationwide, excluding NY, RI and CT. Certain programs have additional state restrictions. Check with Walden for details.

• MSN - Psychiatric-Mental Health NP
• MSN - Adult/Gerontology Acute Care NP
• MSN - Adult/Gerontology Primary Care NP
• MSN - Pediatric NP - Primary Care
• MSN - Nursing Informatics

As a working RN, you need a flexible, transfer-friendly program to help you save time and money as you take the next step in your nursing career. In our CCNE-accredited4 RN to BSN program, you can transfer in up to 134 credits—which is nearly 75% of program requirements. Your transfer credits can be reviewed in one business day (on average).

Enrollment: FL

• MSN - Adult-Gerontology NP - Primary Care
• MSN - Nursing Leadership & Admin
• MSN - Healthcare Tech, Simulation & Informatics
• See more Rasmussen nursing programs

A new grad nurse cover letter is the document that will accompany your resume when applying for a nursing position or nurse residency program as a new grad nurse.

It serves as an introduction to the hiring manager and provides an opportunity to highlight your qualifications, skills, and passion for nursing.

Most importantly, cover letters also allow you to make a positive first impression. A well-written cover letter helps grab the hiring manager's attention and makes them interested in reviewing your resume and considering you for the position.

By clicking download, you agree to receive email newsletters and special offers from Nurse.org. You may unsubscribe at any time by using the unsubscribe link, found at the bottom of every email.

Your request has been received. Thanks!

Do You Need a Cover Letter When Applying to Jobs as New Grad Nurse?

The short answer is yes, you do need one! Here are the top 3 reasons why new nurse grad cover letters are an essential component of a job application:

Personalization

A cover letter allows you to customize your application and tailor it to the specific nursing position you are applying for. You can highlight relevant skills, experiences, and qualifications that make you a strong candidate for that particular role.

Showcase Your Qualifications

A cover letter provides an opportunity to expand on the information provided in your resume. 

You can elaborate on your educational background, clinical experiences, and any specialized training or certifications you have obtained. This helps the hiring manager understand your qualifications in more detail.

Express Your Passion For Nursing

A cover letter allows you to convey your passion for nursing and express why you are motivated to pursue a career in this field. It helps the hiring manager gauge your enthusiasm and commitment to the profession.

Stand Out From Your Competition

A cover letter gives you the opportunity to differentiate yourself from other candidates. By highlighting your unique experiences, skills, and qualifications, you can make a compelling case for why you are the best fit for the position.

>> Show Me Online MSN Programs

How is a New Grad Nurse Cover Letter Unique from Other Cover Letters?

A new grad nurse cover letter is different from other cover letters because the context is very specific to newly graduated nurses entering the workforce. Here are some unique aspects:

Nursing Education

As a new graduate nurse, your educational background is a critical component of your qualifications. 

Your cover letter will likely place significant emphasis on your nursing education, including the nursing program you completed, and any relevant coursework or clinical rotations. 

If you graduated with honors, this is a great place to emphasize it!

Limited Professional Experience Compared to Experienced RNs

Unlike experienced nurses, new grad nurses have limited professional experience. Therefore, the focus of your cover letter will often be on your clinical experiences during your nursing program, including any internships, externships, or practical training. 

You can highlight the skills, knowledge, and achievements gained during these experiences to demonstrate your readiness for the job.

Demonstrate Enthusiasm and Eagerness to Learn

As a new graduate, employers understand that you are entering the nursing field with a strong foundation of theoretical knowledge but limited practical experience. 

Your cover letter should convey your enthusiasm for learning and your eagerness to grow as a nurse. You can express your commitment to ongoing professional development, continuing education, and embracing mentorship opportunities.

What Should You Include in a New Grad Nurse Cover Letter?

When crafting a New Grad Nurse Cover Letter, you should include the following sections, each serving a specific purpose:

1. Personal and Contact Information

Include your full name, address, phone number, and email address at the top of the cover letter. This information allows the hiring manager to easily reach out to you.

2. Greeting

Address the cover letter to the hiring manager or the person responsible for reviewing applications. 

If the job posting does not mention a specific name, you can address it as "Dear Hiring Manager" or "Dear [Name of the Healthcare Organization] Hiring Team."

To find the appropriate contact information, you can search the organization's website and LinkedIn profiles of employees, or consider making a phone call to the organization's human resources department.

3. Opening Paragraph

In the opening paragraph, introduce yourself as a recent nursing graduate and express your interest in the specific nursing position you are applying for. 

Mention how you learned about the job opening, whether through a job posting, referral, or research on the organization.

4. Middle Paragraph(s):

In the middle paragraph(s), elaborate on your qualifications, skills, and experiences. 

Highlight your nursing education, including the name of the nursing program, the degree obtained, and the date of graduation. Mention any honors, awards, or notable achievements during your studies.

Discuss your clinical experiences, such as internships or practical training, and emphasize the types of patients you worked with, the skills you gained, and any noteworthy contributions or accomplishments.

Additionally, highlight any relevant transferable skills from other experiences, such as leadership roles, volunteer work, or part-time jobs. These skills can include communication, teamwork, critical thinking, organization, and problem-solving.

5. Closing Paragraph

In the closing paragraph, reiterate your interest in the position and express gratitude for the opportunity to apply. 

Emphasize your enthusiasm for further discussing your qualifications in an interview. 

You can mention that you are open to providing any additional information or references upon request.

6. Sign Off

End the cover letter with a professional sign-off, such as "Sincerely," followed by your full name. 

Leave space for your handwritten signature if you are submitting a physical copy of the letter.

Nursing Cover Letter Tips for New Grads

Remember to keep your cover letter concise and focused, typically no longer than one page. 

Customize it for each job application, aligning your qualifications and experiences with the specific requirements of the position.

 Proofread the letter carefully to ensure it is free from errors and presents a professional image.

4 Nurse Cover Letter Examples for New Grads 

Here are four nurse cover letter examples tailored to different scenarios for new grad nurses:

Example #1: New Grad Nurse Applying to a Med Surg Unit

Dear (Recipient's Name),

I am writing to express my strong interest in the New Grad Nurse position within the Medical-Surgical Unit at (Healthcare Organization). As a recent graduate of (Nursing Program) with a passion for patient care and a solid foundation in medical-surgical nursing, I am excited to contribute to your dedicated team.

During my nursing education at (Nursing Program), I developed a comprehensive understanding of medical-surgical nursing principles and gained valuable clinical experience. I successfully completed rotations in diverse healthcare settings, including medical-surgical units, where I had the opportunity to care for patients with a wide range of conditions and diagnoses. My clinical experiences helped equip me with strong assessment skills, the ability to administer medications safely, and effective communication with interdisciplinary teams.

I am confident in my ability to provide exceptional care to patients in the Medical-Surgical Unit at (Healthcare Organization). I am committed to delivering compassionate, patient-centered care and ensuring the highest standard of safety and quality.

I am impressed by (healthcare Organization’s) reputation for excellence in medical-surgical care and your commitment to fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment. I am eager to join your team and contribute to the delivery of outstanding patient outcomes.

Thank you for considering my application. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my skills and passion for medical-surgical nursing align with the needs of (Healthcare Organization) in an interview. Please find my attached resume for your review. I look forward to hearing from you.

(Your Full Name)

Example #2: New Grad Nurse Applying to a Labor and Delivery Unit

I am thrilled to apply for the New Grad Nurse position within the Labor and Delivery Unit at (Healthcare Organization). As a recent graduate of (Nursing Program), I am excited to embark on a fulfilling career in maternal-child health and contribute to the exceptional care provided by your renowned department.

Throughout my nursing education, I developed a strong passion for women's health and had the privilege of completing a clinical rotation in the Labor and Delivery Unit at (Hospital Name). This experience provided me with hands-on exposure to the full spectrum of obstetric care, including antepartum, intrapartum, and postpartum stages. I gained valuable skills in fetal monitoring, assisting with labor and delivery, conducting newborn assessments, and providing breastfeeding support.

My dedication to providing compassionate care to women and their families is unwavering. I possess excellent communication skills, which allow me to establish trusting relationships with patients, address their concerns, and provide education during pivotal moments. I am confident in my ability to promote a safe and nurturing environment for both mothers and infants, ensuring positive birth experiences and healthy outcomes.

The commitment to excellence and family-centered care at (Healthcare Organization) aligns perfectly with my professional values. Joining your Labor and Delivery Unit would allow me to contribute my knowledge and skills while continuously growing and learning as a nurse.

Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the opportunity to discuss further how my passion for maternal-child health and my dedication to providing exceptional care align with the needs of (Healthcare Organization). Please find my attached resume for your review. I look forward to the possibility of an interview.

Example #3: New Grad Nurse Applying to the ICU

I am writing to express my interest in the New Grad Nurse position within the Intensive Care Unit at (Healthcare Organization). As a recent graduate of (Nursing Program), I am eager to embark on a challenging and rewarding career in critical care nursing and contribute to your esteemed department's mission of providing exceptional patient care.

During my nursing education, I had the privilege of completing a clinical rotation in the ICU at (Hospital Name). This invaluable experience exposed me to a wide array of critical care scenarios, including postoperative care, respiratory distress, and cardiovascular emergencies. I developed strong assessment skills and honed my ability to monitor and interpret vital signs.

My passion for critical care nursing is fueled by a commitment to deliver exemplary patient outcomes. I thrive in high-pressure situations, utilizing critical thinking and effective communication to collaborate with interdisciplinary teams and ensure prompt and precise interventions. I am eager to learn and become more proficient in advanced life support techniques, medication administration, and ventilator management to provide compassionate and evidence-based care to critically ill patients.

(Healthcare Organization)'s reputation for excellence in critical care and commitment to advancing patient care aligns perfectly with my professional aspirations. I am impressed by the innovative practices and ongoing professional development opportunities available within your organization. 

Thank you for considering my application. I welcome the opportunity to discuss how my dedication, clinical competencies, and enthusiasm for critical care align with the needs of (Healthcare Organization). Please find my attached resume for your review. I am excited about the possibility of an interview and look forward to hearing from you.

Example #4: New Grad Nurse Applying to an Oncology Unit

I am writing to express my sincere interest in the New Grad Nurse Program within the Oncology Unit at (Healthcare Organization). As a recent graduate of (Nursing Program) with a strong passion for oncology nursing, I am eager to contribute to your dedicated team and provide compassionate care to individuals and families impacted by cancer.

Throughout my nursing education, I was deeply inspired by the strength and resilience of oncology patients I encountered during my clinical rotations. I gained exposure to various aspects of oncology care, including chemotherapy administration, symptom management, patient education, and palliative care. 

I am committed to providing holistic support to patients throughout their cancer journey. I possess excellent communication skills, enabling me to establish trusting relationships, listen attentively to patients' concerns, and provide emotional support. I am dedicated to staying updated on advancements in oncology treatments and nursing interventions to ensure the highest standard of care.

(Healthcare Organization)'s reputation as a leading provider of oncology services, along with your comprehensive and patient-focused approach aligns with my professional goals. Participating in your New Grad Nurse Program would provide an ideal platform to enhance my skills, expand my knowledge, and contribute to the well-being of oncology patients.

Thank you for considering my application. I welcome the opportunity to discuss my passion for oncology nursing, and dedication to patient care. Please find my attached resume for your review. I am excited about the possibility of an interview and look forward to hearing from you.

A well-crafted new grad nurse cover letter is a valuable tool for showcasing your qualifications, skills, and passion for nursing. It allows you to personalize your application and stand out from other candidates, despite limited professional experience. 

By highlighting your education, clinical experiences, transferable skills, and career goals, you can highlight your readiness and commitment to excel as a new graduate nurse.

Remember, landing your first nursing position may take time and perseverance. But with a well-crafted cover letter, a compelling resume, and a great attitude, you will land your first nursing job. Good luck in your job search as you embark on this fulfilling and rewarding journey as a new grad nurse!

Sarah Jividen , RN, BSN, is a trained neuro/trauma and emergency room nurse turned freelance healthcare writer/editor. As a journalism major, she combined her love for writing with her passion for high-level patient care. Sarah is the creator of Health Writing Solutions , LLC, specializing in writing about healthcare topics, including health journalism, education, and evidence-based health and wellness trends. She lives in Northern California with her husband and two children. 

Plus, get exclusive access to discounts for nurses, stay informed on the latest nurse news, and learn how to take the next steps in your career.

By clicking “Join Now”, you agree to receive email newsletters and special offers from Nurse.org. You may unsubscribe at any time by using the unsubscribe link, found at the bottom of every email.