cover letter examples mla format

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MLA Format Cover Page

The Modern Language Association (MLA) does not require you to create a cover page when you complete your research paper, but some instructors may require it.

If your instructor requires your paper to have a cover page, here is how to make it (very easy). This cover page should include: your school name, your research paper title, your name, your class, your professor name and your paper due date.

How to Format Your MLA Cover Page:

This page is double spaced and the letters are centered.
Font: Times New Roman
Font size: 12
The first letter of each word should be capitalized with the exception of very short words such as: the, and, of, or, a, an, in, to, for. Note: the first letter of the first word should be capitalized, regardless of what kind of word it is.
Type the name of your university or college.
Skip to about one-third of the page and type your research paper title, include a subtitle if you have.
Skip several lines down and type your name, your course name and number, your instructor name and your paper’s due date.

Sample MLA Format Cover Page:

Sample MLA Format Cover Page

Alternate First Page:

If your instructor requires a cover page, you would omit the main heading on your first page. Here is an example of the first page if a cover page is used. You still need your last name and page number on the first page and every other page.

Sample MLA Format First Page with Cover Page

Sample MLA Paper:

Visit here for a sample paper with the cover page. The cover page can vary slightly. This paper also has the outline page for your sample.

If you find this website useful, please share with a friend:

How do I get the header on the second page on down? I tried editing it but then it takes the header away from all the pages.

In word select the header then go to: Header & Footer>Page Number>Format Page Numbers>Page Numbering>Start at page>Set to 0

How do I get the header on the second page on down? I tried editing it but then it takes the header away from all the pages. I am using windows. Also, the page numbers are not working for me either. Please help me.

How should I start the page after my cover page?

https://mlaformat.org/mla-format-heading/

Thank you so much Stephen !!! Helped a lot in my written assignments 🙂

Great site ! Thank you so much. Just returned to school to complete my bachelors and needed a little refreshing. Has all the information I needed !

Thanks so much for all of the great information! I have not used MLA before and was a little panic stricken. I have found all of my answers here. This is now saved to my favorites so I can use it regularly. Thanks again!

Should the lines on the cover page be double spaced?

Thanks so much for the picture of the cover page it has helped a lot. But, I was wondering do I still need to put my Title at the top of every page after the header?

Hello Lydia. You do not.

After your cover page, your next page’s heading should look like the “Alternate First Page” above.

After the “Alternate First Page” => your next pages should have “The Inner Pages” heading: https://mlaformat.org/mla-format-heading/

Sample paper: https://mlaformat.org/mla-format-sample-paper-with-cover-page-and-outline/

hey Lydia you don’t need to but if you want to you can

Thank you so so much. I love the simplicity of the website, very easy to understand. I finally have a cover page for my paper!!

I love this website!! It helped so many times with all my essays. I’m working on a college one and this was very useful. Thank you soo much. And thanks for the examples im a visual person I needed that 🙂

Hi Kaylin, I am glad you find this site useful. Take care!

By the way (sorry i forgot!) for the coverpage, would the text font be 12 times new roman???

You can set everything 12, Times New Roman. Or you can set the Title a little larger than 12, that should work too.

In the example above, I have the title larger than 12.

Here is an example with everything set at 12.

Thank you so much for your help on this useful website! I found it very organized and I’m very glad that I came across this particular article. Thanks!!!!!!!:)

I have a question regarding the cover page and the following pages. If I have a cover page as the example provided, do I still need the heading on the next page? And should the pages after that contain my last name on the top left as the header does on the on the previous pages? or do I not need the header at all if I have the cover page and just my name?

Excellence question, Stella! I have updated this article with information on the first page if a cover page is used. Please see “Alternate First Page” above.

You can omit the main heading but you still need your last name and page number on the first page and all subsequent pages. Take care!

Academic Cover Letters

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Copyright ©1995-2018 by The Writing Lab & The OWL at Purdue and Purdue University. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, reproduced, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without permission. Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our terms and conditions of fair use.

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.

Distinctions between Academic and Business Cover Letters

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.

The First Paragraph

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.

Tailoring for Your Audience

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.

Job notice: If you've written a political science dissertation on populism in early twentieth-century US national politics, you probably won't respond to a notice seeking a specialist in international politics during the Cold War. But you may wish to apply for a position teaching twentieth-century US political parties and movements. In this case you would want to stress the relevance of your dissertation to the broad context of twentieth-century US politics, even though the study focuses narrowly on the pre-World War I period. You might also highlight courses taken, presentations given, or other evidence of your expertise that corresponds to the job notice.
Type of institution: Often the job notice will provide a brief description of the college or university, indicating such factors as size, ownership (public, private), affiliation (religious, nonsectarian), geography (urban, suburban, rural), and so on. These factors will influence the kind of information emphasized in your letter. For example, for a job at a small liberal arts college that focuses on undergraduate teaching, you would emphasize your teaching experience and pedagogical philosophy early in the letter before mentioning your dissertation. On the other hand, for a job at a large research university you would provide at least one detailed paragraph describing your dissertation early in the letter, even indicating your plans for future research, before mentioning your teaching and other experience.

Other Advice

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:

Mention your contact information, including a phone number where you can be reached if you will be away during a holiday break.
If you will be attending an upcoming major professional conference in your field, such as the MLA convention for language and literature professionals, indicate that you will be available for an interview there. Be sure to mention that you are available for telephone or campus-visit interviews as well.
If you have some special connection to the school, type of institution, or region, such as having attended the school as an undergraduate or having grown up in the area, you may wish to mention that information briefly at some point.
Mention your willingness to forward upon request additional materials such as writing samples, teaching evaluations, and letters of recommendation.

Job seekers at Purdue University may find value in the Purdue Career Wiki.

17+ MLA Letter Format – Examples, Email Template, Wording Ideas

Letter Format
March 6, 2024
Business Letters , Cover Letters , Formal Letters , Friendly Letters

MLA Letter Format : The Modern Language Association (MLA) style is commonly used for academic writing in the humanities . MLA Cover letter format is a standard format used for writing formal letters in the MLA style . This article will provide guidelines and examples for MLA letter format.

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MLA Letter Format Tips

Content in this article

General Guidelines:

Use standard 8.5 x 11 inch paper for your Business letter .
Use a legible font, such as Times New Roman or Arial, and a font size of 12.
Use 1-inch margins on all sides of the page.
Include a header with your name, instructor’s name, course title, and date in the upper left-hand corner of the first page.
Use block format, meaning all text is left-aligned, with single-spacing within paragraphs and double-spacing between paragraphs.
Include a closing and signature, and leave space for your signature and printed name.

Letter Components:

Your Address: Type your name, address, phone number, and email address in the top right-hand corner of the page.
Date: Skip a line and add the date under your address.
Recipient’s Address: Skip another line and add the recipient’s name, title, organization or company, address, and city, state, and zip code.
Salutation: Skip another line and add a salutation. If you don’t know the name of the person you’re writing to, use “Dear Sir or Madam.”
Body: Skip another line and begin your letter with an introduction that briefly explains the purpose of your letter. The body of your MLA Letter Format should contain the main message you want to convey. Use clear and concise language and avoid using jargon or technical terms that your reader may not understand. You can also include any supporting evidence, such as data or examples, to strengthen your argument.
Closing: Skip a line and add a closing, such as “Sincerely” or “Best regards.” If you’re writing to someone you know well, you can use a more informal closing, such as “Take care” or “Cheers.” Follow your closing with a comma.
Signature: Skip four lines and include your handwritten signature. If you’re sending an electronic letter, you can use a digital signature.
Printed Name: Skip two lines and type your full name.

MLA Letter Format – Sample Format

Below is a Sample Format of MLA Letter Format:

[Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State, ZIP Code] [Email Address] [Phone Number] [Date]

[Recipient’s Name] [Recipient’s Title, if applicable] [Company or Institution Name] [Address] [City, State, ZIP Code]

Dear [Recipient’s Last Name],

[Opening Paragraph:] Begin the letter with a formal salutation, such as “Dear Mr./Ms./Dr. [Last Name],”. If you have a specific title for the recipient, include it in the salutation.

[Body Paragraphs:] Compose the body of the letter, ensuring that each paragraph is indented. Maintain a formal tone and structure, and use clear and concise language to convey your message.

[Closing Paragraph:] Conclude the letter by summarizing your main points and expressing gratitude or goodwill. Use a closing phrase such as “Sincerely,” or “Yours faithfully,” followed by your signature.

[Your Full Name (Typed)] [Your Signature, if sending a physical letter]

[Note: The above template provides a general outline for a formal MLA letter. Adjust the content and formatting based on the specific context and purpose of your letter.]

MLA Letter Format – Example

Here’s an Example of MLA Letter Format:

[Your Name]

[Your Address]

[City, State ZIP Code]

[Recipient Name]

[Recipient Address]

Dear [Recipient Name],

I am writing to express my interest in the position of [Job Title] that was recently advertised on [Source of the job advertisement]. I am a recent graduate of [Name of University] with a degree in [Your Field of Study], and I believe that my education and experience make me an ideal candidate for the role.

In addition to my academic background, I have gained valuable skills through internships and volunteer work in [Related Field]. I am particularly drawn to this position because [Reasons Why You Are Interested In This Position]. I am confident that my skills and experience make me a strong fit for the role.

Thank you for considering my application. I have attached my resume and references for your review. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or need further information.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Formal Letter in MLA Style

A template for crafting formal letters in MLA style, incorporating proper formatting, structured paragraphs, and appropriate salutations and closings for clear and professional communication.

[Note: This format adheres to the MLA style for formal letters. Ensure that you follow any specific guidelines provided by your institution or publication.]

MLA Friendly Letter Format

The Modern Language Association (MLA) does not provide specific guidelines for friendly letters, as it mainly focuses on academic writing. However, you can follow a general friendly letter format with informal language, maintaining clarity and friendliness:

[Recipient’s Name] [Recipient’s Address] [City, State, ZIP Code]

Dear [Recipient’s First Name],

[Opening Paragraph:] Begin the letter with a warm greeting, mentioning your relationship or any shared experiences.

[Body Paragraphs:] Share your news, stories, or any relevant information. Keep the tone casual and friendly, allowing your personality to shine through.

[Closing Paragraph:] Wrap up the letter with a friendly closing, expressing anticipation for future communication or sharing plans to meet.

Best regards,

[Your Full Name]

Remember, the key to a friendly letter is to maintain a warm and approachable tone while following basic letter-writing conventions.

MLA Letter Format – Template

This is a Template of MLA Letter Format:

I am writing to request an extension on the deadline for my [Name of Assignment] assignment. Due to unforeseen circumstances, I have been unable to complete the assignment on time, and I am hoping to request an extension until [New Deadline Date].

I understand that this may cause inconvenience, and I apologize for any inconvenience that this may cause. I assure you that I will use the additional time to ensure that the assignment is of the highest quality.

Thank you for your understanding. Please let me know if you require any further information or documentation.

MLA Style Letter to a Professor

A template for crafting a formal letter to a professor in MLA style, ensuring a respectful tone, clear structure, and adherence to academic conventions.

[Professor’s Full Name] [Department] [University Name] [University Address] [City, State, ZIP Code]

Dear Professor [Last Name],

[Opening Paragraph:] Begin with a formal salutation, addressing the professor respectfully, such as “Dear Professor [Last Name],”.

[Body Paragraphs:] Compose the body of the letter, maintaining a formal tone and structure. Clearly state the purpose of your letter and provide any necessary context or details.

[Closing Paragraph:] Conclude the letter by expressing gratitude and including a closing phrase such as “Sincerely,” or “Yours faithfully,” followed by your signature.

[Note: Follow specific guidelines provided by your educational institution for any additional details or requirements for communication with professors using MLA style.]

MLA Format for Application Letter

A structured template for an application letter in MLA format, designed for clarity and professionalism in presenting qualifications and intentions for a job or academic position.

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

Dear [Employer’s Last Name],

[Opening Paragraph:] Begin the letter with a formal salutation, such as “Dear Mr./Ms./Dr. [Last Name],”.

[Body Paragraphs:] Compose the body of the letter, ensuring each paragraph is indented. Clearly state the purpose of your application, highlight your qualifications, and express your interest in the position.

[Closing Paragraph:] Conclude the letter by summarizing your main points, expressing enthusiasm for the opportunity, and using a closing phrase such as “Sincerely,” or “Yours faithfully.”

[Note: Adapt the content based on the specific requirements of the job application and follow any additional guidelines provided by the employer or institution.]

MLA Recommendation Letter

A template for crafting a recommendation letter in MLA format, designed to convey a professional and detailed endorsement of an individual’s capabilities and attributes.

[Recipient’s Full Name] [Title, if applicable] [Institution or Company Name] [Address] [City, State, ZIP Code]

[Body Paragraphs:] Compose the body of the letter, maintaining a formal tone and structure. Clearly state your recommendation for the individual, providing specific examples of their qualifications, skills, and character.

[Closing Paragraph:] Conclude the letter by summarizing the individual’s strengths and expressing confidence in their abilities. Use a closing phrase such as “Sincerely,” or “Yours faithfully.”

[Note: Follow specific guidelines provided by the institution or employer regarding the content and formatting of recommendation letters in MLA style.]

Email Format about MLA Letter format

Here’s an Email Format for MLA Letter Format:

Subject: MLA Letter Format

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to inquire about the proper MLA letter format for my upcoming assignment/job application. I am aware that MLA is mostly associated with academic writing, but I was informed that it is also appropriate for letter writing.

Could you please provide me with some guidelines or a sample of an MLA letter format that I can follow? I would greatly appreciate any assistance you can provide.

Thank you in advance for your time and help. Please let me know if you require any further information from me.

Email Format about MLA Letter Format

MLA Resignation Letter

A template for creating a resignation letter in MLA format, ensuring a clear and respectful expression of your decision to resign and gratitude for the opportunities during your tenure.

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

[Opening Paragraph:] Begin with a formal salutation, such as “Dear Mr./Ms./Dr. [Last Name],”.

[Body Paragraphs:] Compose the body of the letter, maintaining a formal tone and structure. Clearly state your intention to resign from your position, provide the effective date of your resignation, and express gratitude for the opportunities.

[Closing Paragraph:] Conclude the letter by expressing appreciation for the experience gained and offering assistance during the transition. Use a closing phrase such as “Sincerely,” or “Yours faithfully.”

[Note: Follow specific guidelines provided by your company and ensure that the content of the letter aligns with professional standards.]

MLA Acknowledgment Letter

A template for drafting an acknowledgment letter in MLA format, designed to convey appreciation and recognition formally, adhering to clear and organized communication standards.

[Body Paragraphs:] Express your gratitude and acknowledgment in a formal tone. Clearly state the purpose of the acknowledgment, providing any necessary details.

[Closing Paragraph:] Conclude the letter by summarizing the acknowledgment and expressing appreciation. Use a closing phrase such as “Sincerely,” or “Yours faithfully.”

[Note: Adapt the content based on the specific acknowledgment being made and follow any additional guidelines provided by the institution or organization.]

MLA Thank You Letter

A template for creating a thank-you letter in MLA format, designed to convey appreciation in a formal and organized manner, adhering to the principles of MLA style for clear and effective communication.

[Body Paragraphs:] Express your gratitude in a formal tone. Clearly state the purpose of the thank-you letter and provide specific details about why you are grateful.

[Closing Paragraph:] Conclude the letter by summarizing your appreciation and expressing thanks again. Use a closing phrase such as “Sincerely,” or “Yours faithfully.”

[Note: Tailor the content based on the specific context and reason for expressing thanks. Follow any additional guidelines provided by the institution or organization.]

FAQS for MLA Letter Format – Examples, Email Template, Wording Ideas

How do i format a letter in mla style.

Ensure your MLA Letter Format follows MLA conventions, including proper heading, salutation, body paragraphs with indentation, and a formal closing.

Can I use MLA Letter Format for email correspondence?

While MLA Letter Format is primarily for academic writing, you can apply its principles to emails by incorporating proper formatting and maintaining a professional tone.

Are there specific guidelines for addressing recipients in MLA Letter Format?

Yes, This MLA Letter Format address recipients formally using titles (Mr., Ms., Dr.) and include their last name in the salutation (e.g., “Dear Dr. Smith”).

What is the recommended font and size for MLA Letter Format?

Use a legible font like Times New Roman or Arial, size 12, for MLA Letter Format to ensure readability and adherence to MLA style.

Can I include bullet points or lists in An MLA Letter Format?

MLA Letter Format generally prefers narrative writing, but if the content benefits from lists, use clear and concise bullet points, ensuring they follow MLA conventions for formatting.

MLA Letter Format is a standard format used for writing formal letters in the MLA style . By following the guidelines and examples provided in this article, you can write a clear and concise letter that conveys your message effectively .

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COMMENTS

Cover Letters - Purdue OWL® - Purdue University
Click here to download the PDF file containing sample résumés and employment letters. The cover letter pages are organized into the following sections: Cover letter overview. What is a cover letter? Why do I need to do a cover letter? What should I do if I'm a veteran transitioning into civilian life?
MLA Format Cover Page | MLAFormat.org
If your instructor requires your paper to have a cover page, here is how to make it (very easy). This cover page should include: your school name, your research paper title, your name, your class, your professor name and your paper due date.
Academic Cover Letter Sample - Purdue OWL®
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.
Like an Essay: Cover Letter Exercise 1 - MLA Style Center
1. Underline the thesis. 2. Circle transitional words and phrases. 3. Place a square around words that you think the writer directly borrowed from the job description. February 3, 2020 .
Academic Cover Letters - Purdue OWL® - Purdue University
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.
17+ MLA Letter Format - Examples, Email Template, Wording ...
MLA Letter Format: The Modern Language Association (MLA) style is commonly used for academic writing in the humanities. MLA Cover letter format is a standard format used for writing formal letters in the MLA style. This article will provide guidelines and examples for MLA letter format.