Cover letter format
Every template below follows the same proven cover letter format. Keep it to one page, in this order:
- 1
Header
Your name and contact details, the date, and the employer's name and address. In an email, use a clear subject line instead.
- 2
Greeting
Address the hiring manager by name when you can. If you can't find it, use "Dear Hiring Manager".
- 3
Opening paragraph
Name the role you're applying for and give one strong reason you're a fit.
- 4
Body paragraphs
One or two paragraphs with specific achievements, ideally with numbers, that match the job description.
- 5
Closing paragraph
Say why you want to work for this company, thank the reader and invite next steps.
- 6
Sign-off
"Sincerely", "Kind regards" or "Best regards", followed by your full name.
Cover letter templates
Choose the template that fits your situation, copy it and replace everything in [brackets].
General cover letter template
Best for: Most job applications in any industry.
Entry-level and graduate cover letter template
Best for: Students, recent graduates and first jobs.
Career change cover letter template
Best for: Moving into a new industry or type of role.
Experienced professional cover letter template
Best for: Mid-career and senior candidates with a strong track record.
Internal promotion cover letter template
Best for: Applying for a new role at your current employer.
Email cover letter template
Best for: Applying by email or through a short message field.
Referral cover letter template
Best for: When someone at the company recommended you.
Short cover letter template
Best for: Online applications with a character limit.
Generate a tailored cover letter with AI
Templates are a great start, but the best cover letters are written for one specific job. CVeezi's AI cover letter generator does that for you:
- • It uses your CVeezi resume, so the letter matches your real experience.
- • Add the company, the role and the job description for a letter tailored to the posting.
- • Choose short, standard or detailed length.
- • Edit the text, regenerate with new instructions, or copy it into your application.
AI cover letters are included in paid plans. The templates on this page are always free.
How to customize a cover letter template
Replace every placeholder
Search for every [bracket] before you send. A leftover placeholder is the fastest way to be rejected.
Use the job description
Pick two or three requirements from the posting and show, with examples, that you meet them.
Add one number per paragraph
Results such as "grew sales 18%" or "managed a team of 6" are more convincing than adjectives.
Say why this company
Mention a product, value, project or piece of news so the letter can't be sent to anyone else.
Keep it to one page
Aim for 250–400 words. Recruiters skim, so short paragraphs work best.
Match your resume
Use the same name, contact details and tone as your resume so your application looks consistent.
Cover letters around the world
The structure stays the same everywhere, but names and expectations differ by country.
United States and Canada
Called a cover letter. One page, direct and achievement-focused.
United Kingdom and Ireland
Often called a covering letter. Use British spelling and end with "Yours sincerely" if you know the reader's name.
UK covering letter guideEurope
Often called a motivation letter, with more emphasis on why you want the role and company.
Middle East, Asia and Africa
A formal tone is common. Mention your availability and, where relevant, your visa or relocation status.
Pair your cover letter with a matching resume: browse free resume templates, see resume examples or read the resume format guide.
Cover letter templates FAQ
What is a cover letter template?
A cover letter template is a pre-written letter with placeholders, such as [Job Title] and [Company Name], that you replace with your own details. It gives you a proven structure so you only need to add your experience and reasons for applying.
Are these cover letter templates free?
Yes. Every template on this page is free to copy and use. No account is needed.
What is the best cover letter format?
A one-page letter with your contact details, a personal greeting, an opening that names the role, one or two paragraphs of specific achievements, a closing paragraph and a professional sign-off.
How long should a cover letter be?
Between 250 and 400 words, or three to four short paragraphs, fits on one page. For online forms with character limits, use the short cover letter template.
Do I still need a cover letter?
Often, yes. Many employers read them, and a tailored cover letter can set you apart when candidates have similar resumes. If a posting says a cover letter is optional, sending a short, specific one is still a good idea.
Can AI write my cover letter?
Yes. CVeezi's AI cover letter generator writes a first draft based on your CVeezi resume, the company, the role and the job description. You choose short, standard or detailed length, then edit, regenerate or copy the letter. AI cover letters are included in paid plans.
What is the difference between a cover letter and a resume?
Your resume summarises your experience, education and skills. Your cover letter is a short, personal letter explaining why you want this specific job and how your experience fits it.