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The application letter

The application letter is a supplement to the CV, in which you can provide additional information about yourself, your motivation, your knowledge and your skills. Therefore you should not repeat facts from your CV in your letter. An application letter consists of no more than one A4 page. Recruiters always start by reading your CV and read your letter only afterwards.

Always address your letter to a specific person

Do not write Dear Sir/Madam or Dear recipient. If it is not clear to whom you can address your letter, then contact the recruiter.

Structure of letter

An application letter has a fixed structure:

• Say where you found the job advertisement (you can often do this in one sentence).
• Explain why you are applying for this position. Show your enthusiasm for the position and the organization.
• Make it clear why you are suitable for the job.
• End with a strong, impressive paragraph in which you indicate that you would like to be considered for an interview.

Student Career Services has a template for an application letter which you can use as the basis for your own letter.

Do you find it difficult to write an application letter?

Your application letter and CV are often the first things a company sees of you. Based on these documents, they decide whether or not they will invite your for an interview. An enthusiastic letter and a good CV are therefore essential.

Do you need advice about your application letter or CV? Then follow the workshop Job application skills: letter and CV or visit the drop-in consultation at the Student Desk.