Full Department Name
Name of Institution
Department Address
Dear Dr./Mr./Ms. Search Committee Chair’s last name and/or Search Committee Members:
Paragraph 1 [3-5 Sentences]: Identify the position you are applying for. Introduce yourself to the committee and your research interests. Connect your interests to the department and describe what makes you interested in becoming part of this departmental community.
Paragraph 2 [3-5 Sentences]: Briefly explain your research to date. Consider mentioning your research questions, methods, key findings, as well as where and when you published and/or presented this work.
Paragraph 3 [4-5 Sentences]: Elaborate on your current research project. Consider mentioning your most prestigious funding awards for this project. Explain your key findings in more detail.
Paragraph 4 [3-5 Sentences]: Introduce your future research plans and goals. Point out the intellectual merit and/or broader impacts of this future work.
Paragraph 5 [3-5 Sentences]: Briefly discuss your teaching experience and strategies. Provide examples of teaching strategies or an anecdote highlighting your teaching effectiveness. You may also want to introduce your philosophy on diversity in an academic setting.
Paragraph 6 [2-3 Sentences]: Make a connection between your work and the department to which you are applying. Include how you will participate in the intellectual life of the department both inside and outside the classroom. Provide concrete examples of how you will be a hard-working and collaborative colleague.
Paragraph 7 [1-2 Sentences]: A thank you for the search committee’s time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Signature]
Your Name
Credentials and Position
Institution/Affiliation Name
Date: Month Day, Year Search Committee Chair’s First and Last Name, Graduate Degree Dear Dr./Mr./Ms. Search Committee Chair’s last name and/or Search Committee Members: Paragraph 1 [3-5 Sentences]: Identify the position you are applying for. Introduce yourself to the committee and your research interests. Connect your interests to the department and describe what makes you interested in becoming part of this departmental community. Paragraph 2 [3-5 Sentences]: Briefly discuss your teaching experience and pedagogical commitments. Provide examples of teaching strategies or an anecdote highlighting your teaching effectiveness. You may also want to introduce your philosophy on diversity in an academic setting. Paragraph 3 [3-4 Sentences]: Provide a discussion of how you involved yourself with students or the broader university community outside of the traditional classroom setting. Discuss how those interactions influenced your teaching. Paragraph 4 [2-3 Sentences]: Briefly explain your current research interests to date and how it relates to your teaching. State your research questions, methods, and key findings or arguments. Point out the intellectual merit and/or broader impacts of this future work. Paragraph 5 [3-5 Sentences]: Highlight when and where your research was published and/or presented this work or any forthcoming publications. Mention any prestigious funding or awards. Introduce your future research plans and goals. Paragraph 6 [2-3 Sentences]: Make a connection between your work and the department to which you are applying. Include how you will participate in the intellectual life of the department both inside and outside the classroom. Provide concrete examples of how you will be a hard-working and collaborative colleague. Paragraph 7 [1-2 Sentences]: A thank you for the search committee’s time and consideration. Sincerely, Your Name |
Remember your first draft does not have to be your last. Try to get feedback from different readers, especially if it is one of your first applications. It is not uncommon to go through several stages of revisions. Check out the Writing Center’s handout on editing and proofreading and video on proofreading to help with this last stage of writing.
Using the word dissertation. Some search committee members may see the word “dissertation” as a red flag that an applicant is too focused on their role as a graduate student rather than as a prospective faculty member. It may be advantageous, then, to describe your dissertation as current research, a current research project, current work, or some other phrase that demonstrates you are aware that your dissertation is the beginning of a larger scholarly career.
Too much jargon. While you may be writing to a specific department, people on the search committee might be unfamiliar with the details of your subfield. In fact, many committees have at least one member from outside their department. Use terminology that can easily be understood by non-experts. If you want to use a specific term that is crucial to your research, then you should define it. Aim for clarity for your reader, which may mean simplification in lieu of complete precision.
Overselling yourself. While your job letter should sell you as a great candidate, saying so (e.g., “I’m the ideal candidate”) in your letter may come off to some search committee members as presumptuous. Remember that although you have an idea about the type of colleague a department is searching for, ultimately you do not know exactly what they want. Try to avoid phrases or sentences where you state you are the ideal or the only candidate right for the position.
Paying too much attention to the job description. Job descriptions are the result of a lot of debate and compromise. If you have skills or research interests outside the job description, consider including them in your letter. It may be that your extra research interests; your outside skills; and/or your extracurricular involvements make you an attractive candidate. For example, if you are a Latin Americanist who also happens to be well-versed in the Spanish Revolution, it could be worth mentioning the expanse of your research interests because a department might find you could fill in other gaps in the curriculum or add an additional or complementary perspective to the department.
Improper sendoff. The closing of your letter is just as important as the beginning. The end of the letter should reflect the professionalism of the document. There should be a thank-you and the word sincerely or a formal equivalent. Remember, it is the very last place in your letter where you present yourself as a capable future colleague.
Small oversights. Make sure to proofread your letter not just for grammar but also for content. For example, if you use material from another letter, make sure you do not include the names of another school, department, or unassociated faculty! Or, if the school is in Chicago, make sure you do not accidentally reference it as located in the Twin Cities.
Name dropping. You rarely know the internal politics of the department or institution to which you are applying. So be cautious about the names you insert in your cover letters. You do not want to unintentionally insert yourself into a departmental squabble or add fire to an interdepartmental conflict. Instead, focus on the actions you will undertake and the initiatives you are passionate about.
We consulted these works while writing this handout. This is not a comprehensive list of resources on the handout’s topic, and we encourage you to do your own research to find additional publications. Please do not use this list as a model for the format of your own reference list, as it may not match the citation style you are using. For guidance on formatting citations, please see the UNC Libraries citation tutorial . We revise these tips periodically and welcome feedback.
Ball, Cheryl E. 2013. “Understanding Cover Letters.” Inside Higher Ed , November 3, 2013. https://www.insidehighered.com/advice/2013/11/04/essay-cover-letter-academic-jobs .
Borchardt, John. 2014. “Writing a Winning Cover Letter.” Science Magazine , August 6, 2014. https://www.sciencemag.org/careers/2014/08/writing-winning-cover-letter# .
Helmreich, William. 2013. “Your First Academic Job.” Inside Higher Ed , June 17, 2013. https://www.insidehighered.com/advice/2013/06/17/essay-how-land-first-academic-job .
Kelsky, Karen. 2013. “How To Write a Journal Article Submission Cover Letter.” The Professor Is In (blog), April 26, 2013. https://theprofessorisin.com/2013/04/26/how-to-write-a-journal-article-submission-cover-letter/ .
Tomaska, Lubomir, and Josef Nosek. 2008. “Ten Simple Rules for Writing a Cover Letter to Accompany a Job Application for an Academic Position.” PLoS Computational Biology 14(5). https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pcbi.1006132 .
You may reproduce it for non-commercial use if you use the entire handout and attribute the source: The Writing Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
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Land your dream academic position! Craft a compelling academic cover letter that highlights your skills and experience.
This guide will help you create a winning academic cover letter! Here you’ll find everything you need, whether you’re an experienced academic or a fresh graduate seeking your dream job in academia. We’ll discuss how to write an academic cover letter that grabs attention while highlighting your skills and experiences.
Making a positive impression on hiring committees and search panels begins with a well-crafted academic cover letter. This document serves as your introduction , demonstrating your passion for your field, your qualifications, and your fit for the institution and position you are applying for.
A great cover letter can make all the difference in the competitive world of academia, where job openings are often limited and highly sought after. A cover letter provides context to your CV or resume, allowing you to highlight specific experiences, projects, or accomplishments that demonstrate your suitability for the position. Throughout this guide, we’ll provide you with tips, strategies, and examples to help you craft a compelling academic cover letter that sets you apart from the competition. So let’s dive in and start crafting your path to academic success !
It is imperative to include a cover letter in your job application package when applying to academic jobs. A cover letter serves as a personal introduction, adding depth and context to your CV or resume. In order to better understand its specific purpose, let’s look at:
1. Explaining How you fit the position and Interest: In your cover letter, you can explain why you are interested in the position and institution. It gives you the chance to explain why you are applying, whether it is the institution’s reputation, specific research opportunities, or alignment with your career objectives. You can also express your interest in the program and describe how it fits into your future goals. Additionally, you should demonstrate your enthusiasm and commitment to the program.
2. Highlighting Your Qualifications: In contrast to CVs and resumes, cover letters provide you with an opportunity to highlight and contextualize specialized experiences or qualifications relevant to the role. In order to demonstrate your suitability for the job, you can highlight specific projects, publications, teaching experiences, or other accomplishments.
3. Personalizing Your Application: Unlike a CV or resume, which tends to be more standardized, a cover letter offers you the chance to personalize your application for a specific job and institution. By addressing the hiring committee directly and tailoring your content to the institution’s values, mission, and goals, you can demonstrate your genuine interest and commitment.
4. Adding Context: At times, you may need to explain or contextualize certain aspects of your application. It can be helpful to include a cover letter if you are transitioning from one field within academia to another, or if there are gaps in your employment history.
5. Showcase Your Communication Skills: In academia, effective communication is paramount. An important skill that hiring committees look for is the ability to communicate clearly and persuasively in writing. You can demonstrate your writing style, professionalism, and attention to detail with a well-crafted cover letter.
6. Stand Out From Other Candidates : Being able to stand out from other applicants is essential in a competitive job market. With a thoughtfully written cover letter, you can convey aspects of your personality, work ethic, and passion for your field not readily apparent from your CV.
The first step in writing an academic cover letter is to thoroughly research the institution as well as the role for which you’re applying. By taking this step, you not only demonstrate your genuine interest in the position, but you also tailor your cover letter to make it more compelling to hiring managers.
You demonstrate your genuine interest in joining the academic community by demonstrating your knowledge about the institution and the position. You can align your qualifications and experience with what they are seeking in a candidate if you understand the institution’s values, mission, and goals. By researching the department, faculty members, and ongoing projects, you can use your insights to enhance the relevance and impact of your cover letter.
Tips for researching about the Institution:
As soon as you have gathered enough information about the institution and the position, you can tailor your cover letter accordingly. Here are some tips for writing a targeted and impactful cover letter:
Your introduction serves three purposes: grabbing the reader’s attention, expressing your interest in the position, and briefly describing your qualifications. The following is a list of what to include:
Here is a simple Example:
“Dear Hiring Committee/Department Chair, I am writing to express my interest in the Specific Position at the Institution , as advertised on XYZ . With a passion for mentioning your field or research interest , coupled with relevant experience or qualification , I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to the Institution’s name or department .”
Describe your qualifications, relevant experiences, and how they are aligned with the job requirements in the body paragraphs. The following is a list of what to include:
“As a research assistant at [University/Institute], I conducted groundbreaking research in [specific area], resulting in [mention of any publications, grants, or awards]. In addition to my expertise in [relevant technique or methodology ], I am particularly drawn to [Institution’s name or department] due to the institution’s commitment to [mention any specific initiatives or focus areas].”
In the conclusion, you express gratitude for the opportunity to apply, summarize your interest, and offer a call to action. The following is a list of what to include:
“Thank you for considering my application. I am looking forward to contributing to [Institution’s name or department]’s mission of [mention the institution’s mission or goals] with my expertise in [your field]. It would be my pleasure to provide any additional information you may need. I look forward to discussing how my skills and experience align with the needs of [Institution].”
Dear Hiring Committee, Dear Hiring Committee/Department Chair, I am writing to express my interest in the Specific Position at Institution , as advertised on XYZ . With a passion for mentioning your field or research interest , coupled with relevant experience or qualification , I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to the Institution’s name or department . As a research assistant at [University/Institute ], I conducted groundbreaking research in [ specific area ], resulting in [ mention any publications, grants, or award s]. In addition to my expertise in [ relevant technique or methodology ], I am particularly drawn to [ Institution’s name or department ] due to the institution’s commitment to [ mention any specific initiatives or focus areas ]. Thank you for considering my application. I am looking forward to contributing to [ Institution’s name or department] ‘s mission of [ mention the institution’s mission or goals ] with my expertise in [ your field ]. It would be my pleasure to provide any additional information you may need. I look forward to discussing how my skills and experience align with the needs of [I nstitutio n]. Sincerely, Name
Using this structure , you can craft an effective cover letter for an academic position. Personalize each section based on your experiences and the specific requirements of the position and institution you are applying for.
You should polish your academic cover letter after you draft it to ensure that it effectively conveys your qualifications and professionalism. During this final step, you will check your letter for errors, edit it, and ask for feedback to ensure that it is as good as possible.
Proofreading and Editing
You should proofread your cover letter to ensure it contains no grammatical, spelling, punctuation, or clarity errors. The following tips will help you proofread effectively:
Professional Tone and Formatting
Making a positive impression on potential employers requires a professional tone and formatting. You can ensure professionalism in your cover letter by following these steps:
Seeking Feedback
Your cover letter can be improved by getting feedback from others. Feedback can be obtained from the following sources:
To ensure your academic cover letter presents you to potential employers in the best light, be sure to proofread, maintain a professional tone and format, and seek feedback from peers, mentors, and career advisors.
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Choose one simple font, pick an appropriate font size, how to make your font selection, include plenty of white space, sending email cover letters.
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When you are writing a cover letter , it's important to use a font—or type style—that is clear and easy to read. Consider that hiring managers have to review dozens, if not hundreds, of applicants for a position. They may immediately pass over a cover letter and resume that isn’t instantly legible.
Be sure to make your font large enough so that the reader doesn't have to squint to read your letter, but not so large that your letter doesn't fit well on the page.
When it comes to choosing a font to use in your cover letter, your best bet is to keep it simple and professional. You want your words and message to stand out, not your font choice.
Avoid using unprofessional novelty-style fonts such as Comic Sans, handwriting, or script-style fonts.
Ideally, the font used in the cover letter will be both the same size and style as the one used in your resume, to help you present a cohesive package.
Review these tips for determining the right font for your cover letter, as well as what size it should be, and which styles are and are not appropriate to use in a cover letter.
Using a simple font will ensure that your cover letter is easy to read. Basic fonts like Arial, Courier New, Calibri, Verdana, and Times New Roman work the best. Most word processing and email programs will default to a professional and easily readable choice.
Limit yourself to one font in your cover letter; it's best not to mix several fonts in one document.
There is no need to use different styles in a cover letter. Avoid underlining or italicizing, and use boldface text only when emphasizing quantifiable achievements that need to “pop” on the page.
Depending on how much content you have in your letter, select a 10- or 12-point font size.
It's best if you can format your cover letter so it fits on one page, with margins that are no larger than 1” and no smaller than .7”.
If your letter includes a heading with your name and contacts information, you may choose to make this font slightly larger.
When you are using Microsoft Word, you can select a template for your letter or start from scratch with a new document. If you're using a different word processing program, the process is similar.
Regardless of the font size, you select, there needs to be space at the top of the letter and between each paragraph and each section of your cover letter . Here's how to space your cover letter .
You may need to try a couple of different sizes to make sure that your cover letter fits on a single page, and you have enough white space in between paragraphs. Review these formatting tips to be sure your letter will make the best impression.
The information above applies primarily to instances where you are sending a traditional cover letter by snail mail or when you are sending a formal cover letter as a Word or PDF attachment to an email message .
Copying and pasting a cover letter into the body of an email message may change the formatting, making it difficult to read for an employer who may have a different computer system.
The safest thing to do when you are copying and pasting your cover letter into an email is to remove the formatting and reformat it as plain text. Send a copy to yourself before you send it to an employer to double-check that it reads correctly.
The two documents crucial to get right when applying to a PhD are your CV and covering letter.
In this article, we’ll set out the core guidelines you should follow to create an effective academic cover letter.
An academic cover letter is a written document that accompanies your CV and application form when applying for a PhD.
It’s different from a CV as instead of being a structured summary of your skills and experience, it is a summary of why you believe you are suited for a particular PhD programme. As a result, all academic covering letters should be tailored for the specific position you are applying for and addressed to the supervisor who is overseeing the project. They also shouldn’t repeat what is already stated in your CV, but rather expand on the details most related to the position you are applying to.
Note: An academic cover letter is sometimes referred to as a PhD application letter, but never a motivation letter. The latter is different in that it concerns the reasons as to why you want to undertake research, while a cover letter focuses on demonstrating your suitability for a programme. This is an important distinction to note.
The aim of an academic cover letter is to convince the PhD supervisor that you are the perfect candidate for the PhD project.
Academic cover letters should complement your CV and sell you as a person – will your potential supervisor be excited to work with you after having read your cover letter?
You should demonstrate that you have the skills which make you suited for research. It is essential that you recognise these skills in you and that you use them to promote yourself.
Include your name, address, email address and phone number in the top right corner of the letter. This is so the supervisor can reach you should they have questions or require any further information.
Help the supervisor establish exactly which PhD position you are applying for as there may be several positions being advertised at one time. If they provide a reference number as part of the project description, it would be a good idea to include it in brackets.
Use this section to explain your motivations for applying to the specific PhD and where your research interests stem from. Is it related to the dissertation you produced as part of your final year undergraduate dissertation, etc?
Whatever your motivation for applying to the PhD, make sure that your enthusiasm comes across clearly. The supervisor will appreciate how great a role self-drive plays in completing PhD projects and you will want to convince them you have the level of drive required to be successful.
Besides explaining your motivations for undertaking the project, show that you possess a basic understanding of it. In doing so, make sure you reinforce each point with some level of evidence; avoid making general statements or talking loosely around the research subject. This will show the PhD supervisor that you’ve taken the time to research the background to the project.
In this section, briefly discuss your academic background and any relevant experience you have within the field of research. Don’t worry if you have little experience in this area as this will be the case for most applicants. If this the case, then use this section to explain how you will be committed to the PhD research project. If you have experience in conducting research, explain what your role was, the analytical methods you used and any other aspects of your work which may be relevant. Similarly, discuss any teaching experience if you happen to have it.
Keep this short and concise. Thank the supervisor for taking the time to read your application and let them know that you’re looking forward to hearing from them.
Your academic cover letter should be between half a page to one full page .
To keep it effective, make it as concise as possible and only discuss points which are either relevant to the project or the aspect of being a doctoral research student. This may feel difficult to do, especially if you have much you want to include, but keep in mind that your cover letter can also be used as evidence of your communication skills, more specifically, whether you can convey important information in a clear and logical manner. As this will be a key skill of any research candidate, the prospective supervisor will take it into account when evaluating your capabilities.
Your cover letter should be written in paragraph format, with bullet points only reserved for situations where a list would improve clarity. This is because a cover letter is one of the few places where you are expected to show your personality, so using too many bullet points will diminish your ability to do this. The best way to approach writing your application letter is to see it as a very short personal essay.
Use a common font like Times New Roman or Calibri, and if possible, avoid the use of highlighting, underlining and tables as they become too distracting. Keep your font size between 10 to 12 points and your margins to at least 0.5 inches around all edges. Try to match the font size, type, line spacing and margin size to your academic CV for neat and consistent presentation.
Your cover letter should be addressed to the PhD supervisor, starting with a “Dear [academic title] [surname]”, for example, “Dear Professor Williams”.
Hopefully, you now know what it takes to write a successful cover letter for a PhD application. While a strong cover letter will go a long way to helping you stand out, you will need to learn how to create an equally strong CV if you really want your application form to excel. To this effect, we recommend you next read our step-by-step guide for creating effective academic CVs .
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When you're applying for a faculty position with a college or university, the cover letter is your first chance to make a strong impression as a promising researcher and teacher. Below you'll find some strategies for presenting your qualifications effectively in an academic context.
A cover letter for an academic job has a function similar to one for a business job, but the content differs significantly in quantity and kind. While the general advice for business cover letters—such as tailoring your letter for the specific job and selling your strengths—still applies, a cover letter for an academic position should be long enough to highlight in some detail your accomplishments during your graduate education in research, teaching, departmental service, and so on. The typical letter is thus usually one and a half to two pages long, but not more than two—roughly five to eight paragraphs.
In the opening of your letter you need to convey some basic information, such as what specific position you are applying for (using the title given in the job notice) and where you learned of the opening. Since a cover letter is a kind of persuasive writing (persuading a hiring committee to include you on a list of candidates for further review), the first paragraph of your letter should also make the initial claim as to why you are a strong candidate for the position.
In an academic context knowing your audience means reading the job notice carefully and knowing the type of institution to which you are applying. Most graduate students have studied a broad range of material within their discipline before specializing in a narrow field for the dissertation project. Since it is rare to find a job notice specifying your exact qualifications, you need to emphasize those aspects of your graduate training that seem particularly relevant to the position advertised.
If you're still working on your dissertation, you should mention somewhere in the letter when you expect to be awarded the Ph.D., even being as specific as to mention how many chapters have been completed and accepted, how many are in draft version, and what your schedule for completion is. Last-paragraph tips include the following:
Job seekers at Purdue University may find value in the Purdue Career Wiki.
When it comes to job search, every small detail can play for or against you. Spelling, layout, stylistic highlights, fonts — the tiny design tweaks can amplify or muddle the first impression you are to make.
All of the above is true for cover letters too. The easiest way to make the wrong first impression is by using a terrible cover letter font. OK, but which ones are good ones and which ones are bad?
I’ve talked to our graphic design team (the one behind all our resume templates !) to get their scoop on the best fonts for cover letters.
The best font for a cover letter is Times New Roman . It’s a classic serif typeface that’s been in use for over 85 years. Times New Roman uses space economically which makes it easier to fit your cover letter into one page. This font looks equally great in print and in digital documents, plus it is supported by all major word processors and email apps. So your cover letter will be 100% readable!
The best font size for a cover letter is 12 points . This is a standard font size for most business documents — not too big, not too small for different screen sizes. You can also opt for 10 or 11 points cover letter font size if you need to fit more information into one page, but this can affect the readability of your letter.
Times New Roman is a clear leader, recommended for use by career advisors from MIT , Purdue University , and Boston University among others for both resumes and cover letters.
But because Times New Roman is a serif font, it might be hard to read for people with dyslexia or other types of reading disorders . So if you want to be extra mindful, you can look for another professional cover letter font.
Just make sure it is:
To help you narrow down your choice, here are several more best fonts for a professional cover letter we recommend using.
Arial font has been around since the 1980s. You are probably well-familiar with it if you are a Windows user. Arial has been the default font for this operating system since the 1990s. It’s a web-friendly sans serif typeface. However, many graphic designers suggest avoiding Arial in print as it ends up looking somewhat plain, especially in bigger sizes.
But since most of us dispatch email cover letters these days, it shouldn’t be much of a concern.
Helvetica is a Swiss-born typeface as its name indicates (Helvetia is the Latin word for Switzerland). Originally created by a freelance designer for a Haus foundry, it became hugely popular thanks to Apple. While Microsoft chose Arial as the main font for its OS, Apple picked Helvetica for the same purpose.
Helvetica is also a sans serif font and it’s very readable. That’s because it has even kerning in any variation — bold, italic, or skinny — which gives the reader a sense of clean spacing.
Calibri is a digital-native sans serif post. It was created specifically for online documents in the early 2000s — and presented to the general public with Microsoft Office 2007 and Windows Vista releases. Up till today, it remains the default font in MS Office.
It has a pleasant rounded feel to it, paired with a tight layout. Thanks to it, you can flexibly change text size without losing resolution. So if you need to fit a longer cover letter into one page , try using Calibri in size 11.
Don’t let this name trick you — the Georgia typeface was designed in the US in the 1990s for Microsoft corporation (again). But it was introduced only in 2006 as one of the standard fonts.
Georgia was originally envisioned as an alternative serif font to Times New Roman, which would look better on smaller screen sizes. Times New Roman becomes hard to read in small sizes.
Overall, Georgia is a great cover letter font option for those who want to add some extra “personality” to your cover letter, while still maintaining professionalism.
Garamond is another fine example of a time-tested font. It was modeled after an old-styled Latin typeface, used by a 16th-century engraver Claude Garamond. But don’t let its age deter you, Garamond looks fresher compared to other popular serif fonts like Times New Roman and Georgia. So if you want to give your cover letter a subtle creative flair, go for this option.
Verdana typeface family is another ‘brainchild’ of Microsoft Corporation, released in the late 1990s. It was modeled after humanist sans serif fonts such as the ones still used by the London Underground.
Yet Verdana has a more modern feel to it and touts generous width and spacing between letters. It also has a prominent distinction between frequently confused letters just as lowercase i j l, the uppercase I J L, and the number 1.
If you feel that typography isn’t your forte, go with a “safe” choice of Times New Roman. Yes, it’s somewhat overused, but this fact doesn’t make it less professional. Alternatively, opt for popular sans serif fonts such as Ariel, Helvetica, or Verdana. There you go — you now have no more excuses for not working on your cover letter !
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ABD, applying for academic positions in the humanities. Are size 11 font cover letters tossed aside? An Advisor told me this might anger the hiring committee. Using garamond, if that changes anything. Just trying to keep it under 2 pages and it easily is in size 11. Size 12 it's slightly over. Any other general advice on fonts/length of letters also welcomed!
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What is the correct font size for a cover letter, what font size is too small for a cover letter, cover letter spacing and white space.
What is the best cover letter fonts? There's no single correct answer to this frequently asked question. But when it comes to choosing the right font for your own cover letter, you have quite a few great options.
The best fonts to use in a cover letter are those that are attractive, clean and easy to read.
You want hiring managers to take one glance at your cover letter and think “Looks good!” before they even start reading. Then you want them to read every word, focusing on your content — not distracted by a strange font choice or a font size that’s too big or too small.
If you choose some odd-looking, avant garde font to make your cover letter stand out , it will — but for all the wrong reasons. The recruiter is likely to frown and wonder why you chose such a weird font, and you’ve already got one strike against you.
There is no shortage of online advice about how to choose the best font for cover letters, including YouTube videos such as this one.
Your choice of cover letter font ultimately comes down to two basic font types: serif and sans serif.
Serif fonts : A serif is a decorative flourish, a small line or stroke added to the letters of the alphabet. For example, a capital A in a serif typeface will have a small horizontal line at the bottom of the two diagonal lines that form the primary part of the letter — they look like tiny pedestals that form a base for the letter.
Serifs are added to the parts of letters that end in mid-air; for example, a lowercase “i” as in “ice” will generally have a serif at the top pointing left and a serif at the bottom pointing both right and left. But you’ll probably never see a serif on the letter “o” because it’s a circle where no part of the letter ends in mid-air.
Sans serif fonts : Sans serif fonts don’t use serifs, so they look more like the alphabet displayed above the blackboard in an elementary school classroom. For example, if you print the letter “i” on a piece of paper with a pencil, you probably just draw a straight vertical line and add a dot on top of it. That’s sans serif. But if you add little decorations to the vertical line, those are serifs.
There is no right or wrong answer to the question of using a serif or non-serif cover letter font, as long as it's easy on the eyes and doesn't distract your reader. Perhaps with the exception of header text only, you should use the same font consistently throughout. It can be a matter of personal preference, as well as compatibility with the occupation, employer and industry. In terms of “personality,” serif fonts tend to be perceived as more traditional, formal, mature and reliable, while sans serif fonts are commonly described as sleek, modern and clean.
Chances are, you've heard the rule that serif fonts are easy to read. However, there's little weight to that argument.
Research into the theory suggests that serif fonts may produce a "tiny legibility increase" when the type is small or far away. However, the study authors concluded that overall there is "no difference in legibility between typefaces" that are serif or sans serif.
Here is our list of good fonts for cover letters:
Now you know about the best fonts for cover letters, let's talk about the worst. Unless you’re really loving unemployment, don’t use these fonts in a cover letter:
You’ll hear conflicting advice on certain fonts, these are generally considered situational fonts and you need to consider the image, character, and context for the job:
Helvetica : There’s nothing wrong with the world’s most famous font, but it’s so old that many consider it yesterday’s choice.
Times New Roman : Same goes for this classic serif font: It still works after all these years, but you won’t get points for originality.
Roboto, Open Sans, Ubuntu : These are clean and legible fonts that are widely used in the tech/IT industry, but they may not be as popular with more traditional jobs and employers. You can feel a bit safer using these when applying to a software company or an IT startup. Just be advised that you might end up with an overly sleek and techy feel to your document.
Whatever font you choose, do not make the mistake of running it too big or too small. Too big and it looks childish; too small and the reader needs a magnifying glass. And you can always count on resume.io for occupation-specific advice and a top-of-the-line online cover letter builder to boost your career!
A good rule of thumb is to start with a 12-point font size. Font size depends on the font style; for some fonts, 12 points could be too large or 10 points too small. Getting it right may take some trial and error.
People sometimes ask if an 11-point font is OK for a cover letter, and the answer is yes. Font sizes are typically described in even numbers, but there’s no reason you can’t make your font size 11, or even 11.3, as long as it looks good on the page.
Most cover letters should be one page only , and most first drafts exceed one page, so writers resort to downsizing the font to make it fit. This IS an allowable tactic, but don’t make it any smaller than 10 points.
The temptation to increase your resume to two pages is real, but is it the right thing to do? For a director-level job seeker, the answer will be yes, but what about everyone else? If you do opt for two pages, make the most of them.
In addition to choosing the right font size for your application letter , you need to set appropriate cover letter margins — one inch on the top, bottom, left and right is a good rule.
Another consideration is cover letter spacing . Every typeface comes with a default amount of “leading” (rhymes with “sledding”), which means the amount of space between lines. This setting is adjustable, but don’t downsize it to squeeze your letter onto one page. Allow for an appropriate amount of white space in your cover letter, or it will look like you’re trying to cram 12 pounds of stuff into a 10-pound bag.
Look no further than resume.io for samples of what you might decide is the best font for cover letters. And if you’re ready to create your own cover letter, this is also the right place to get started right away. Check out our professionally designed, field-tested cover letter templates in four design categories: simple , creative , modern and professional .
Our top-of-the-line cover letter builder tool makes it easy to customize your own version for hassle-free, high-quality results in no time.
You can always count on resume.io for the advice to boost your career! Our job-winning resources include a wide selection of occupation-specific writing guides and free cover letter examples .
Best of luck with choosing the right fonts and formatting choices for your cover letter. And even if you’ve forgotten everything we’ve said here, remember: Don’t use Comic Sans!
Why are cover letter font, size, and style important?
So you’ve slaved away for days on end drafting a great cover letter to go with your resume but you end up choosing an unprofessional font for your cover letter and all your hard work goes in vain because of a minor mishap.
Not exactly a situation that job seekers dream about, isn’t it?
You see, your cover letter font is important because it directly impacts your letter’s readability and appeal.
If the recruiters can’t read the contents of your cover letter with ease, the chances of you being shortlisted are slim.
Whereas, a well-chosen cover letter font with the right styling, size, space, and margin can help you make a good impression on the recruiters.
Read on to learn more about cover letter font and the following related FAQs:
When it comes to cover letter font type, the options are plenty. The key is simply to ensure that the font you select looks professional and simple.
Here are some top cover letter fonts that you can choose from:
Times New Roman: If you want to play it safe and go for the traditional approach, Times New Roman is your best choice. This font type is widely used when candidates are applying for government jobs and other traditional industries such as law and medicine.
Helvetica: Being a contemporary font option, this is a suitable choice for your cover letter font if you are seeking jobs in marketing, sales, or business. Due to its concise design, it does not distract the readers from the content.
Calibri: With its modern and light design, Calibri makes for an elegant cover letter font. This font’s popularity has toppled Times New Roman as the default font in Microsoft Word.
Arial: If you are unsure of the type of fonts job seekers generally use in your industry, Arial is a great option for your cover letter font. Due to its sleek and minimal design, the majority of candidates prefer this font style.
Garamond: Garamond is a popular cover letter font used by job seekers in their applications. It is a classic serif font that is commonly used by professionals in both creative and academic industries.
Trebuchet MS: Due to its slightly larger and bolder design, Trebuchet MS takes up more space and is well suited for fresh graduates who are writing a short cover letter with less content.
Didot: Didot is a good cover letter font if you are applying for jobs in the fashion, architecture, or graphic design industries as this cover letter font is considered to be more artist-friendly and creative among others.
Tahoma: This cover letter font type can be a great option for job seekers from any industry as it is very reader-friendly, modern, and simple.
Georgia: Since this font is commonly used by newspapers, it is one of the most popular fonts in the writing industry. With its modern yet classic design, Georgia is a good cover letter font if you are targeting jobs in the writing or creative industries.
Cambria: If you are sending your cover letter in an online format, Cambria is a great font for your cover letter as it was specially designed to facilitate screen reading.
Also read: How to write a cover letter in 2022?
Even if you want to stray away from a traditional font like Times New Roman and want your cover letter to stand out from the rest, your top priority must be your cover letter’s reader friendliness.
Your cover letter font must not distract the recruiters from its content. Avoid using fonts that include special characters or are too stylish.
Since the majority of employers use the Applicant Tracking System (ATS) to select suitable candidates based on the use of relevant keywords in their resumes and cover letters, it is best to use simple cover letter fonts to ensure that the ATS can easily scan your cover letter for the same.
However, this doesn’t mean that your cover letter font must be bland or outdated. You can choose a modern and sharp font that can help your cover letter stand out by following these tips:
Yes, you need to research the company you’re targeting to probe the type of font they have used in their websites, job listings, press releases, etc.
The chances of them resonating with your cover letter will be higher when they see a familiar font in your cover letter as opposed to a completely new font.
Accordingly, choose a font (from the recommended list) that matches their font type for your cover letter.
When you are choosing a cover letter font, you must also consider the nature of the industry you’re in.
For instance, if you are applying for jobs in the creative industry such as graphic design, writing, fashion, marketing, etc, you can choose a font with a slightly stylish design like Didot, Helvetica, Proxima Nova, and Garamond.
While aspiring candidates in conventional industries like medical, law, and engineering fields, must stick with traditional fonts like Times New Roman and Calibri.
Always ensure that you use only one cover letter font throughout your letter.
Mixing and matching is the last thing you want to do in your cover letter as it will distract the recruiters from the content and it also doesn’t look professional.
Instead, you can use different font sizes and types to segregate the headings and the body.
To ensure that your cover letter font remains intact, you must save your file in a PDF format unless the recruiters have specified any other format like .doc or Docx. in the listing.
Also read: What are some good cover letter examples?
The standard cover letter font size commonly used by candidates is 12 points.
However, depending on the type of font you select, the size can be changed between - 10, 11, and 12, points.
The reason is, that certain fonts can appear too small or too large at 12 points due to their spatial proportions.
And since your cover letter must not exceed one page, you can adjust your cover letter font size to fit the page.
But ensure that you don’t go below 10 points and that the smaller cover letter font size does not affect the readability.
If your font size is too small, recruiters may reject your cover letter even before reading it and the ATS may not be able to scan the small font size.
As for the cover letter margins and font spacing, ensure you follow the below-given guidelines:
Also read: How to start a cover letter?
Once you are done choosing the perfect cover letter font size and type, the next step is highlighting crucial details with a different cover letter font style.
While the body of your cover letter will not have any font style, you can use Bold and Italics to draw the recruiters' attention to certain details.
Avoid using cover letter font style like underlining as it serves the same purpose as bolding.
Besides, bolding is the most commonly used cover letter font style to highlight details in professional paperwork.
Also read: How to write a cover letter for resume?
Is 11 point font okay for a cover letter?
Yes, depending on the font type of your cover letter, the font size can range between 10-12 points.
Should my cover letter and resume be the same font?
Yes, to maintain uniformity, you must use the same font in your cover letter and resume.
Why are cover letters important?
Cover letters are important because 65% of hiring managers agreed that a well-written cover letter can influence their hiring decision.
Also Read: How to choose an ideal cover letter template in 2022?
If you are still confused over cover letter font size and style, you can simply use Hiration’s AI-powered cover letter builder which will help you draft a perfect letter without the hassle of selecting the font type or size. You can also write to us at [email protected] .
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Eye-pleasing fonts, get to writing.
Recruiters and human resource specialists look for reasons to keep or throw away cover letters from the second they see them. Your writing style and content of your letter may be the most important factors of whether you make it to the next round or not, but do not overlook the importance of appearance.
You can have the best-crafted cover letter that truly sets you apart from your peers, but if you write it in Comic Sans, someone will likely toss it in the trash before being read. In this article, you’ll learn about some of the best fonts for cover letters.
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There is no single best font for your cover letter, but you cannot go wrong with the options listed below. Whether you are looking for something classic, safe, or professional while still being fun, you will find something that works for you.
Arial is a sans serif font, meaning without strokes at the ends of letters, and is always a safe choice. This classic font is clean and easy to read, making it the standard choice for most business uses — including cover letters. Arial is also a standard sans serif choice for many commonly used applications such as Microsoft Word and Google Docs.
Times New Roman was the standard font for printed work before documents, including cover letters, were primarily read on computer screens and tablets. This is one of the best fonts for cover letters due to it being a serif font, meaning letters have strokes that help make them easier to identify and read.
Calibri has served as Microsoft’s default serif font for nearly 15 years from its creation to today. The software giant is in the process of moving on to new options, but Calibri is still a popular and safe choice for your cover letter. The design consists of more defined lines and curves for lettering, which increases readability.
Lato is one of the best fonts for cover letters for job seekers who want to be professional but add some style. This sans serif font comes in a variety of typefaces from thin to ultra-bold. This modern font was created by Polish designer Łukasz Dziedzic in 2010.
Exo 2 is a redesigned geometric sans serif font created by Portuguese designer Natanael Gama while he was doodling glyphs. This contemporary font grabs attention in the right way while still maintaining professionality. Exo 2 would be one of the best fonts for a cover letter for anyone applying for a creative or non-corporate position.
Helvetica is a classic font that has been a favorite of the business and art worlds since the 1950s. This sans it specifically designed serif font to be neutral, making it one of the best fonts for cover letters as it will not distract the reader from what you have written.
You cannot go wrong with any of the choices mentioned here. Some fonts like Arial and Times New Roman are used more than others, but all are safe options that will not turn an evaluator off from your cover letter on sight. So check them out, make your choice, and write that cover letter!
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An academic cover letter describes your experiences and interest as a candidate for a specific position. It introduces you to the hiring committee and demonstrates how your academic background fits with the description of the position. ... Use a simple, readable font in a standard size, such as 10-12pt. Some examples of fonts that may be ...
Stick to a common font, such as Times New Roman, using a font size of 10 to 12 point. Use highlighting judiciously, favoring bold, ALL CAPS, and white space to create a crisp professional style. Avoid text boxes, underlining, and shading; italics may be used in moderation. Margins should be equal on all four sides, and be ¾ to 1 inch in size.
Pick the optimal cover letter font size. When selecting a font size, you have three options: size 10, 11 or 12. It is essential that your cover letter fits on one page, so opt for a size 10 or 11 font if it's spilling onto a second page. If you have a lot of room to spare, choose a size 12 font. As tempting as it may be, never go below a size ...
The best font for a cover letter should be simple, clear, and match the font you use in your resume. The most popular choices include Times New Roman, Arial, Calibri, and Verdana. The font size should be set to 12pt and it's best to limit yourself to just one typeface. But that's not the full answer on what font is suitable for a cover letter.
You should use a professional font and a standard font size (e.g., Times New Roman, 12-point). When possible, address the recipient by name and title. Use a generic salutation such as "Dear Hiring Committee" or "Dear Search Committee" if you're unsure of the recipient's name. ... To ensure your academic cover letter presents you to ...
typeface clear (a font size of 11 or 12 is recommended) as the employer's attention span will be brief. It is traditional to write the cover letter in ... www.jobs.ac.uk How to Write a Cover Letter for Academic Jobs Tweet this ebook, share on Facebook, LinkedIn or Google+ Dear Sir or Madam
Alison Doyle. Updated on August 19, 2021. In This Article. View All. Keep it Professional. Choose One Simple Font. Pick an Appropriate Font Size. How to Make Your Font Selection. Include Plenty of White Space.
Keep your font size between 10 to 12 points and your margins to at least 0.5 inches around all edges. Try to match the font size, type, line spacing and margin size to your academic CV for neat and consistent presentation. Your cover letter should be addressed to the PhD supervisor, starting with a "Dear [academic title] [surname]", for ...
Aim for a font size or 11- or 12-point. Be mindful of spacing. Single space your cover letter, and add an extra space between greetings, each paragraph and your signature. This makes it easier to read. Left justify the entire letter with the exception of your name, address and contact details (landline, mobile phone and email), which can sit as ...
You can follow these steps to write a cover letter for an education or academic position: 1. Format the cover letter. The first step to writing your cover letter is choosing a method with which to write and format it. Consider using a word processing programme with a library of cover letter templates, as it can make the formatting process ...
Academic Cover Letters. When you're applying for a faculty position with a college or university, the cover letter is your first chance to make a strong impression as a promising researcher and teacher. Below you'll find some strategies for presenting your qualifications effectively in an academic context.
Times New Roman becomes hard to read in small sizes. Overall, Georgia is a great cover letter font option for those who want to add some extra "personality" to your cover letter, while still maintaining professionalism. 5. Garamond. Garamond is another fine example of a time-tested font.
(like books); serif fonts may be considered more formal. Test: ask someone to look at a document for five seconds; take away the document; ask the person what font was on the document; see if s/he even noticed the style. A too-small or too-large font gets noticed, as does a weird style. Should your resume and cover letter font style and size match?
How to format your cover letter for academic posts. A fill-in-the-blanks template that will produce your academic cover letter within 15 minutes. Save hours of work and get a cover letter like this. Pick a template, fill it in. Quick and easy. Choose from 18+ cover letter templates and download your cover letter now. Create your cover letter now.
Write an academic cover letter that gets interviews in 2024. Use our writing guide and examples made by career experts to make a standout cover letter. ... Font style and size: Opt for classic and professional fonts such as Times New Roman or Arial to maintain an air of sophistication befitting academia. Use a font size ranging from 11 to 12 ...
ABD, applying for academic positions in the humanities. Are size 11 font cover letters tossed aside? An Advisor told me this might anger the hiring committee. Using garamond, if that changes anything. Just trying to keep it under 2 pages and it easily is in size 11. Size 12 it's slightly over.
Academic Cover Letter examples Write the best Cover Letters in 5 minutes 300+ samples and expert guides used by millions of users. ... Font size: Use a font size of 10 to 12 points. Do not resort to using a tiny font size to make your letter fit onto one page. Margins: Use 1-inch margins on the top, bottom, left and right. ...
Arial: Sort of like a Helvetica for the 21st century, Arial is a modern sans serif font popular for its legibility and clean lines.This one always makes the list of best fonts for cover letters. This is Arial. Calibri: Another good sans serif option, Calibri is the current default font for Microsoft Word.; This is Calibri. Cambria: A good-looking serif font designed for computer screens ...
Here are some steps you can use to decide on the best font size for your cover letter: 1. Consider your audience. One way to choose an effective font size is to think about the preferences of your potential readers. For example, if you're interested in working for a company with more traditional values in a highly technical industry, you might ...
5. Garamond. With its classic serif design and delicate strokes, Garamond is one of the best fonts for a cover letter. Based on designs from the 16th century, this font's timeless look still holds up well and looks good at any size.
Helvetica: This font is a sans serif font with a concise design. When utilized for a cover letter, it does not distract a reader from the content. If you're applying to a contemporary workplace, Helvetica is a suitable choice. Times New Roman: A classic serif font, Times New Roman is widely used in job applications.
It is a classic serif font that is commonly used by professionals in both creative and academic industries. Trebuchet MS: ... The standard cover letter font size commonly used by candidates is 12 points. However, depending on the type of font you select, the size can be changed between - 10, 11, and 12, points. ...
Exo 2 is a redesigned geometric sans serif font created by Portuguese designer Natanael Gama while he was doodling glyphs. This contemporary font grabs attention in the right way while still maintaining professionality. Exo 2 would be one of the best fonts for a cover letter for anyone applying for a creative or non-corporate position.