If you’re a high school student, the world of work is approaching fast. After graduation, you might be planning to go to college and work part-time, start an apprenticeship, or land a full-time job. Whether you decide to continue your education in the classroom or go straight into the workforce, it’s never too early to start preparing for the job application process.
One of the key elements of most job applications is a cover letter, which accompanies your resume and details why you are a good fit for the job. In this article, we’ll explain why every high school student should have a cover letter, with tips on how to write one that will impress hiring managers in every field.
What is a cover letter?
A cover letter is a letter that you send, along with your resume, as part of a job application. Most cover letters follow a traditional letter-writing format, though if you’re applying for a job via email you might send a more informal cover note.
Your cover letter is an introduction to you and your job application. It gives you the chance to tell the employer a few things about yourself and let them know you’re enthusiastic about the job opportunity before they read more detail about your skills and experience in your resume.
The cover letter sets the tone for your application, so it’s important that it makes a positive first impression. You’ll want to mention a few key skills, highlight some achievements you’re particularly proud of, and show a positive, professional attitude that will make the reader want to learn more about you.
When might I need a cover letter as a high school student?
Cover letters aren’t usually needed as part of a college application, but if you’re applying for any sort of work, either during high school or after you graduate, there’s a good chance you’ll need a cover letter. Though you’ll likely need to tweak it for each job you apply to, it’s useful to have a basic cover letter prepared in advance.
A few situations you might need a cover letter for are:
Part-time work during college
If you’re applying for casual, part-time work alongside your studies, you might find job postings asking for a resume and cover letter. In the case that a cover letter isn’t required, you can set yourself apart from other candidates and show a level of maturity and professionalism by writing one.
Full-time work after high school
If you’re planning to work full-time after graduating high school, you’ll find most job applications require a resume and a cover letter. If you’re sending a resume or application form by email, you might only need a more informal cover note.
However, it can still be worth writing a full, detailed cover letter, in a professional letter format, to attach to your email along with your resume. This can be especially valuable if you’re sending a standalone resume and not an application form that includes a long personal statement. Using a professional letter format, rather than writing your whole cover letter in the body of your email, also reflects how serious you are about the role.
Internships, apprenticeships, and work experience
If you’re applying for a work placement or a work-based qualification, you’re probably going to need a cover letter. These types of opportunities usually have the same application process as permanent jobs. Applicants are likely to have a similar experience level to you, so writing a professional cover letter can help set you apart from the competition.
What should go in a high school student cover letter?
If you’re writing your first cover letter, whether for a job application or further study after high school, it’s important to know what employers will expect to see in it. Use a traditional letter format and a cover letter template like those offered by Jobseeker to give your cover letter a professional look and feel. Ensure your cover letter includes the following information:
Cover Letter Checklist
Header with contact information
Include your name, phone number, email address, and location (or postal address).
The employer’s name and address
Include the name of the hiring manager, if you know it, along with the address of the company.
The date
Add the date you’re sending the letter.
A professional greeting
Open your letter by greeting the hiring manager by name, for example, ‘Dear Andrea Thompson’. If you don’t know their name, you can sub in their job title, or use ‘Dear Hiring Manager’.
An introductory paragraph
In your opening paragraph, confirm the job you’re applying for and briefly explain why you’re applying, including your career ambitions.
A paragraph showing your skills
The main paragraph of your cover letter shows some of your skills, experience, and achievements. Make sure they’re relevant to the job description and they differ from (or expand on) the content of your resume. For entry-level roles, most managers won’t expect you to have much work experience, so you can mention achievements and skills you’ve gained in high school or through extracurricular activities.
A closing paragraph
In closing, thank the reader for considering your application and invite them to contact you to discuss the role further.
A professional sign-off
Use ‘Yours sincerely’ followed by your signature and name if you’ve addressed the letter to a named recipient, or ‘Yours faithfully’ if you don’t know the manager’s name.
Top tips for the most impactful high school student cover letter
Finally, keep these top five tips in mind when writing your cover letter to give yourself the best chance of success:
5 Tips for Cover Letter Success
1. Adapt every cover letter to the job you’re applying for.
2. Focus on your skills and achievements, either academic or in work.
3. Don’t exaggerate or lie — be honest about your experience.
4. Use a cover letter template for a professional look and feel.
5. Keep it short and simple (a maximum of one side of paper).
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