high school application letters

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High School

Fall 2024 High School Offers

High school offers are now available! You can get your offer in your MySchools account or through your child's school. 

Watch the video tutorial below to learn how to access your offer and waitlists on MySchools. 

Happening Now!

Bard High School Early College Brooklyn (19K965) is a new school opening in the Fall 2024. Offers will be available to current 8th and 10th grade students who applied through Myschools by the May 2nd deadline, before the end of the school year! 

I've Got My Offer! What's Next? 

If you received one high school offer (like most families), there is no step you need take to accept it - this is your high school placement for September! Reach out to this school to learn more about the welcome events they are holding this spring.

If you are interested in obtaining an alternative high school placement, use high school waitlists. On waitlists you can monitor your position at schools where you're already waitlisted, or add yourself to additional school waitlists. Learn more on our waitlist page. 

Offers and Waitlists Information Sessions

We have concluded our family presentations. We have discussed how high school offers  were made, how waitlists work, and next steps. A recorded video about the O ffers and Waitlists Information Session is available below.

Information about High School Admissions 

Who can apply.

To apply to high school, you must be both of the following:

• A NYC resident
• A current eighth grade or first-time ninth grade student

During the application period, all of the following students are welcome to apply: Current public district and charter school students, private or parochial school students, students with disabilities, students with accessibility needs, students learning English, students from immigrant families, students in temporary housing, LGBTQ and gender nonconforming students, and students with children.

Exploring High Schools

When you apply to high school in New York City, you have a wide range of choices. We offer more than 700 programs at over 400 high schools.

Three Paths

There are three paths to high school admissions, and you can take all three.

• High School Application.  This process is how you apply to most high school programs. During the application period, apply to 12 options with your high school application. Submit your application online or through a school counselor. Some programs have additional requirements, such as an audition or assessment, and some programs make offers based on applicants' academic records.
• Specialized High Schools Admissions Test (SHSAT).  Interested students can also apply to the  eight testing Specialized High Schools . At schools.nyc.gov/SHS , learn how to participate and find SHSAT practice tests and other test preparatory materials.
• LaGuardia High School Application. Interested students can also apply to any/all of LaGuardia's six arts programs by submitting a LaGuardia application and auditioning.

Charter schools have a separate admissions process . Contact charter schools directly to learn how to apply.

Here are a few ways to learn about your high school options:

• The searchable MySchools high school directory contains the most up-to-date, detailed information on all NYC public high schools and programs.
• Save or print the pages of your favorite programs to browse offline.
• Check the Events Calendar to learn about schools' upcoming open houses and other school-based or central admissions events.
• Contact schools directly to find the most up-to-date information about schools' academic offerings, activities, sports, and more.
• Explore different types of high schools and programs , such as Career and Technical Education, Community Schools, and more.
• Learn about the diversity initiatives that high schools across the city are participating in and which schools are involved.
• Refer to this page and the Specialized High Schools page  for the latest information and guidance.
• Watch the NYC High School Admissions Video Series, including tutorials on how to use MySchools on this page—we'll walk you through the steps of applying to high school in New York City.
• Watch our Specialized High Schools video series .

How to Use the MySchools Directory

• Year-round: Anyone can search for schools and programs in the public directory .
• After you get your welcome letter: Create your MySchools account and add your child to it to get a personalized search experience. Once your family has an account and is logged in, you can save favorite programs, get helpful tips, and start adding programs to your application.

Your Address

Even if you're not logged in to MySchools, you can type your home address in the "Your Child's Address" search bar to find schools near you. When you're logged into your account, the MySchools map will show your address with a home icon. It will also display the schools closest to your home on the map and in a list.

Type course names, interests, clubs, and programs into the search bar to find schools that offer what you're looking for:

• For schools offering Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) courses, type "AB," "IB," or a specific course like "AP Biology" into the search bar.
• For schools offering computer science courses, type "Computer Science," "CS," or a specific course name.
• For schools with Dual Language programs, type "Dual Language" or a more specific search term like "Spanish Dual Language."
• For schools featuring arts courses or activities, type a general term like "painting" or "dance" into the search bar.

Use filters to narrow your search to schools with specific features:

• Use the Subway filter to find options along your train(s) of choice. 
• Use the Size filter to search for schools by how many students attend. 
• Use the Sports filter to find schools that have teams for specific sports, such as badminton, basketball, and swimming. The Public School Athletic League (PSAL) coordinates interscholastic competition for all NYC public high school – learn more  on the PSAL website.
• With specific eligibility requirements. Use the "eligibility" filters to find programs where only specific students are eligible to apply – for instance, School for New Arrivals is only open to applicants who are new to the country and learning English.
• By borough . Filter to see only schools in a specific borough, such the Bronx.
• That are partially or fully accessible . Filter to find schools in "fully accessible" or "partially accessible" buildings. Learn more about accessibility ratings  on the Building Accessibility page .
• With programs that use specific admissions methods . Filter to find schools that have programs using particular admissions methods, such as "open" or "audition." Learn more below under "Admissions Methods."
• Whose students wear uniforms . Select "Uniform required" to find schools where students wear uniforms.
• With Diversity in Admissions priorities . Find programs participating in Diversity in Admissions initiatives. These programs give priority to students who are English Language Learners (ELLS), are in the child welfare system, are in temporary housing, or whose families are low-income. Learn more on  the Diversity in Admissions webpage .
• With 10th grade seats . Select "10th Grade Admissions" to find schools that have 10th grade seats available.

Admissions Information Sessions

Join us at events throughout the year to learn about the admissions process. After each presentation, there is a question and answer session. Below is a recording of an admissions information session that took place in the fall of 2023.  Details about upcoming information sessions are posted here on our website and in our our centralized  MySchools events calendar.  

Open Houses and School Visits

All high schools are encouraged to offer opportunities for families to learn about their schools.

• Many schools will list their open houses and tours in the centralized MySchools events calendar
• Additionally, schools may provide information on their own websites for prospective families, such as a schedule and links to any live or recorded events (or links where families can register), videos and/or other media, and contact information for families who want to speak with or write to school staff.

Ask Questions!

When you speak with a school representative (such as at a school's open house), try to ask one question from each category. Create your own questions to learn more about a school.

School Culture

• What time does the day start and end?
• How do you support students looking for extra help with their classes?
• Are their opportunities to be involved in the community?

Ninth Grade

• What time do students usually finish their clubs and activities?
• How does your school communicate with new students the summer before ninth grade?
• What are your most popular classes?
• What language courses do you offer?
• What makes your school's classes special?

College and Career Readiness

• How do you support students towards college?
• What colleges do students from your school usually go to? Why?
• What CTE certification programs does your school offer?
• Does your program have admissions priorities? If so, what are they?
• For screened programs: What are your selection criteria? Are there any extra steps I should take to be considered?

Other Interests

• What else does your school offer (sports, clubs, arts, music, community, service, internships, etc.)?

Learn About Admission Programs

When you apply to high school, you are not just applying to schools: you are applying to programs. Think of a program as a doorway to get into the school. If a school has multiple programs, you can apply to more than one program at that school. For instance, a school might have an arts program and a technology program; if you were interested in both dancing and computer science you might apply to both programs at the same school. They would count as two different program choices.

Schools' MySchools pages include detailed program information. Browse these sections to find programs that interest you. Program information can also help you figure out your chances of getting an offer to a specific program: learn more under the tab "Know Your Chances."

• Click a program name to display its information. During the application period, you can click the stars next to program names to save them as your favorites.
• You can also add up to 12 programs to your high school application.

Interest Areas

All New York City public high school programs offer a broad liberal arts education. Additionally, most programs focus on up to two interest areas, such as architecture or science and math, and they may offer additional courses in that subject or field. Many but not all programs' interest areas are also part of their names. You can find a programs' interest area(s) in its school listing in MySchools.

Schools offer programs in the following 22 interest areas. All programs include courses across a wide range of subjects. Programs listed as "humanities & interdisciplinary" or "zoned" do not emphasize a particular interest area:

• Animal science
• Architecture
• Communications
• Computer science and technology
• Cosmetology
• Culinary arts
• Engineering
• Environmental science
• Health professions
• Hospitality, travel, and tourism
• Humanities and interdisciplinary
• Law and government
• Performing arts
• Performing arts/visual art and design
• Project-based learning
• Science and math
• Visual art and design

In MySchools , use any of the interest areas, such as "health professions", as a search term to find programs related to this interest area. You can also try more specific words like "nursing."

Program Eligibility

Some programs are only open to students who live or go to school in a certain borough, who speak a home language other than English, or who meet other eligibility requirements. 

• For instance, a program's eligibility could be "Open only to Bronx students or residents." This means that if a student lives and attends a school in a borough other than the Bronx, they cannot list this program on their application
• In MySchools , click on a program to display its eligibility requirements. Once you're logged in to your MySchools account, you'll only be able to add programs to your application that you are eligible to attend.

Tip: A program may have more specific eligibility requirements than the larger school. If no eligibility is listed, all students can apply.

Know Your Chances: Learn How Students Get Offers

Watch this animation to find out why your high school application choices matter and to learn about other factors, such as admissions priorities and seat availability. For more detailed information on how offers are made to specific types of programs, keep reading this page and check out the following resources:

• The high school section of the 2024 NYC Public Schools Admissions Guide––scroll to the bottom of this page to view or download this resource. Print copies are also available at middle schools, libraries, and other locations.
• How Students Get Offers to DOE Public Schools
• Screened Admissions

The Four Admissions Factors

How can you know your chances of getting an offer to a specific high school program? It helps to start by learning how offers are made. Students get offers to programs based on a few key factors. You can control some of these factors, while others are aspects of the programs themselves.

Learning about all of these factors can help you know your chances of getting an offer to each program of interest:

• Your Application Choices.  The number of program choices you add to your application AND the order in which you place them matter! This is a factor you can control. Only apply to programs you are truly interested in attending. Add 12 choices to your application in your true order of preference. Then submit your application.
• Seat Availability.  The number of applicants compared to the number of available seats it has helps show how in demand (or popular) a program is. 
• Your Priority Group for a Program.  Some programs give admissions priority to specific groups of applicants before others, such as to students who live in a specific district or borough. Applicants in a program's priority group 1 will be considered first. Then, if seats are still available, applicants in that program's priority group 2 will be considered next, and so on. Learn which priority group you're in for each program. You may be in different priority groups for different programs.
• The Program's Admissions Method.  For some programs, applicants get offers based on random selection. For other programs, applicants are evaluated based on selection criteria and then ranked based on that evaluation. 
• For Programs That Use Random Selection.  Students gets offers based on their randomly assigned numbers. This number will be available after the application opens. Families will see it in their MySchools profile.
• For Programs Where Offers are Made by Applicant Rank/Groups.  Students are evaluated, scored, and ranked for admission based on the program's selection criteria, such as grades or an audition.

For audition programs , the school assigns a ranked number to applicants based on that evaluation and admits students in ranked-number order.

For screened programs , students are placed in five groups according to seventh-grade grades and admitted in group order, beginning with Group 1. Learn more at  schools.nyc.gov/ScreenedHS . Some screened programs have additional requirements, which are also used to make offers.

Factor 1. Your Application Choices

The number of program choices you add to your application and the order in which you place them matter! Creating a balanced application can increase your chances of receiving an offer to a program you want to attend. A balanced application should have:

• 12 program choices, ANY of which you’d be happy to attend. There is no way to guarantee an offer to your first-choice program. With more than 700 high school program options to choose from, we invite you to explore programs in MySchools to find 12 choices that you are truly interested in and list them on your application. Finding more programs that interest you and adding them to your application increases your chance of getting an offer to a program you want. Listing fewer than 12 choices will lower your chances of getting an offer to a program of your choice.
• Program choices in your true preference order.  Always place the programs on your application in your true order of preference, with your favorite program at the top as #1. You will be considered for your first-choice program first. If you don’t get an offer to your first choice, then you will be considered for your second-choice program as though it were your first choice, and so on.
• A mix of admissions methods.  If you're going to apply to any screened or audition programs, also find some programs that use the educational option and open admissions methods to include on your application. 
• Not just high-demand programs.  High-demand programs are those that have many more applicants than available seats. More applicants per seat means a lower chance of getting an offer. If you apply to any high-demand programs (3 or more applicants per seat), also find some programs that have fewer applicants per seat.
• You are in the first priority group for some programs.  Different programs have different priority groups. Not being in the first priority group for a program means a lower chance of getting an offer to that program.

Tip:  Always place the programs on your application in your true order of preference, with your favorite program as #1. There is no better strategy! High schools will not see your application choice order, so they will not know if they are your first or twelfth choice.

Factor 2. Seat Availability

Another important factor in admissions is a program's seat availability. The number of seats in a program means the number of students it can admit.

Seat Groups

Each program admits general education students and  students with disabilities . Your application will show which designation you are in. This is not something you choose.

Special education instructional programming includes Integrated Co-Teaching (ICT) classes, Special Class (SC), and Special Education Teacher Support Services (SETSS).

• Related services, such as speech, occupational therapy (OT), and physical therapy (PT), are not considered special education instructional programming for the purposes of high school admissions.
• Please note that students with 504 accommodation plans are not entitled to seats for students with disabilities if they do not have an IEP that states the student also receives instructional programming for more than 20 percent of their academic program.
• Students who are not in a public school setting, but who would be receiving special education service of greater than 20% if they were in a public school setting will be considered SWD for admissions. If you believe this is the case for your child please reach out to  [email protected] .

Every high school participating in high school admissions is expected to welcome and serve students with disabilities in accordance with the recommended programs and services listed on their Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).

• If you currently have an IEP, the IEP team at your high school will review it to ensure that all services and supports you require are provided.
• Please note that the student-to-teacher ratio in a high school special class is 15:1, a change from the middle school special class ratios. For more information, visit the  Special Education website . 
• Seats for students with disabilities in the  MySchools Directory  reflect the percentage of students with disabilities in each borough.

Seats and Applicants Per Seat: Demand Last Year 

A program's demand is how popular it is. You can learn how many seats each program offered last year as well as how many students applied for these seats in  MySchools . (Note that all numbers are from last year. ) Here's how:

• For any program, click on the My Chances tab.
• How in-demand the program was last year 
• How many seats the program had
• How many students applied to the program
• How many applicants there were per seat

Your Chances: Demand

A program's applicants per seat shows how in-demand or popular the program is – this can help you know your chances of getting an offer from that program. 

As part of the clearer admissions information we promised to provide during this year’s process, we are providing more accurate applicant data to show how in-demand a program is. We are now showing the true number of applicants who were considered for a seat in a program. In contrast to previous years, this number excludes applicants who matched to a more preferred choice from their application.

For example, if Chambers Street School had 1000 applicants, but 300 matched to a more preferred school from their applications and never competed for a seat, the true number of applicants is 700.

Tip:  Consider listing some programs with lower demand to your application.

Schools Offering Grade 10 Seats in Admissions

Some high schools have seats set aside specifically for students who are starting tenth grade in the fall.

• If you are a current first-time ninth grade student (not repeating ninth grade), you can apply to a program or programs at these schools.
• In MySchools, select "More Filters" to filter for schools that have tenth grade seats available.

Factor 3. Admissions Priorities

A program’s admissions priorities determine the order in which applicants are considered for offers to that program.

• All applicants in priority group 1 will be considered first.
• Then, if seats are still available, students in priority group 2 will be considered next, and so on. 

Admissions priorities are only used if a program has more applicants than available seats.

You can find a program’s most up-to-date admissions priorities on its page in  MySchools . Here's how:

• Click on the My Chances tab and look for the Priority Groups section, which lists a schools' admissions priorities in order. Your priority group for this program will be bolded and included the words Your Group.
• If a program does not use admissions priorities to make offers, this information appears as: 1. Open to all NYC residents.

Diversity in Admissions

High schools across New York City are participating in an initiative to increase diversity within their schools. Some schools give an admissions priority to students who are English Language Learners (ELLs), are low-income, or to students from different neighborhoods. The current list of schools participating in diversity pilots is available on our  Diversity in Admissions website . Throughout the admissions process, check MySchools for programs' most up-to-date admissions priorities. 

Students at Continuing Schools or with Zoned Schools

If your high school application indicates a guaranteed offer to a particular program and you would like to continue at that school, place this program on the application in your order of preference.

• You do not have to list this program first on your application to keep your guarantee.
• You will receive an offer to this program if you do not receive an offer to a program that you listed higher on your application.
• This guarantee would be your continuing school (school that has both middle and high school grades) if you attend one, or your zoned school if you have one and the admissions method is zoned guarantee.

Your Chances: Your Priority Group

• Being in the first priority group for a program means you have a higher chance of getting an offer, but your chances also depend on other factors (such as demand and admissions methods). 
• Not being in the first priority group for a program means you have a lower chance of getting an offer to that program.

Tip:  Consider applying to at least a few programs where you are in the first priority group – this increases your changes of getting an offer to a program from your application.

Factor 4. Admissions Methods

Admissions methods are the ways programs make offers to students; they also describe what you need to do to be considered for a program. In most cases, all you have to do is list the program on your application.

For screened programs, applicants are grouped and/or ranked based on selection criteria.

• Learn how screened programs are making offers this year at schools.nyc.gov/ScreenedHS .
• Some programs that previously used additional criteria may continue to use them.
• During the application, be sure to complete any additional requirements the program may have. You can find these requirements on the school’s MySchools page.
• This year, the sole selection criteria for admission to all audition programs (except those at LaGuardia High School) is the audition itself. LaGuardia High School has its own admissions process and will continue to  use students' academic records  as well as their auditions to make offers to its programs.
• For all audition programs, except LaGuardia, list any program(s) on your high school application.
• For LaGuardia High School programs, apply using the school's separate application (also available in MySchools) by the deadline. 
• For all audition programs, learn how to audition this year on our  Auditions page .

Educational Option (Ed. Opt.)

• Educational Option (Ed. Opt.) programs are designed to serve students at a range of academic levels. Based on their four core course grades, an applicant’s records are categorized as "high," "middle," and "low." You can learn more details on the Ed. Opt. page.
• If a program also uses admissions priorities, all qualifying applicants in the first priority group will get offers first.
• What you should do: Just list the program on your application. 

Screened: Language

• Offers to screened language: programs are based on English Language Learner services entitlement, in order by their priority groups and randomly assigned numbers. 
• What you should do: Check that you meet the program's eligibility requirements, such as home language, language proficiency, years living in the United States, or similar. 

Screened: Language and Academics 

• For screened: language and academics programs only, schools use academic records in addition to English Language Learner services entitlement and priority groups. 
• What you should do: Check that you meet the program's eligibility requirements, such as home language, language proficiency, years living in the United States, or similar. 

Transfer - For Students Who Are Behind on Credits

• Schools use a student's date of birth to verify eligibility and make offers.
• What you should do: Make sure that you meet the program’s age and academic requirements. 
• Students who live in the school's zone have a guarantee or priority to attend. 
• Offers are made to applicants who live in the school's zone. 
• What you should do: Check your home address to see if you live in the zone. List the program on your application. You do not have to list it first to keep your priority.
• Offers are made to students in order by their priority groups and randomly assigned numbers, through the process of random selection. 
• What you should do: Just list the program on your application. 

There are two broader types of admissions methods—those that don’t screen applicants and those that do:

Programs That Do NOT Screen Applicants: Open, Educational Option

As part of the high school admissions process, every applicant is assigned a random number, as in a random lottery. Programs with open and educational option admissions methods use students’ randomly assigned numbers, and may also use admissions priorities, to make offers. At many programs, when there are more applicants than seats, students are admitted in order by their randomly assigned numbers. If the program also uses admissions priorities, all applicants from the first priority group for a program are admitted before any students from the second priority group, regardless of their randomly assigned numbers.

Programs That DO Screen Applicants: Audition and Screened

• Audition programs evaluate applicants for admission based on common component selection criteria, and they assign a ranking number to applicants based on that evaluation, starting with the top-ranked applicant as #1. Ranked applicants receive offers in ranking number order. If the program also has admissions priorities, offers are made to ranked applicants in priority group order.
• This year, applicants to screened programs are assigned and admitted in groups; this is done centrally based on academic records (learn more above and on the  Screened Admissions page ). Some screened programs have additional requirements like an essay or interview.

Selection Criteria

• Programs that have a screened or audition admissions method evaluate applicants based on specific selection criteria. Check the Section Criteria section of any program's MySchools page to see if they require additional assessments such as an interview, essay, portfolio, or audition.
• Learn about audition requirements for each discipline and find a list of programs in MySchools and on our  Auditions page .

How to Apply

During the application period, you can submit your application one of the following three ways:

• Online with MySchools ––recommended!
• Through your school counselor
• Through a Family Welcome Center

Here's how to apply online:

• Be sure to place programs in your true order of preference, with your first choice as #1.
• Applying to 12 programs, any of which you'd be happy to attend, makes it more likely that you'll get an offer to a program of your choice.
• Find out how to prepare auditions for any programs that require them, including for Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts, NYC's audition  Specialized High Schoo l, in  MySchools  or on our  Auditions page . 
• Learn how screened schools will make offers this year on our  Screened Admissions page . For a list of programs that require assessments and guidance on these requirements, check our  Assessments for Screened Programs page .
• You can apply in English, Spanish, Chinese, Bangla, Russian, Arabic, Urdu, Haitian Creole, Korean, or French online in  MySchools .
• If you would like to apply using another language, call us at 718-935-2009, or  contact a Family Welcome Center  and ask for an interpreter.

Have questions about MySchools or your application? 

• Learn how to create your  MySchools  account, build and submit your application, and more in the video playlist at the top of this page. 
• Need additional support? Talk to your school counselor (or  contact a Family Welcome Center ); they can help you access your  MySchools  account, build a balanced application, and apply.

Additional Requirements: How to Submit Auditions or Assessments

Students can submit virtual  auditions  (and assessments for some screened programs) online directly through their MySchools account. This video tutorial below walks through the process. Here are some tips for troubleshooting uploads: 

• Make sure that the file name does not have special characters like pound signs, hashtags, hyphens, underscores, etc. (#,-,/,_).
• Upload on a different browser. We recommend Google Chrome for the best results. 
• Use laptop instead of a mobile device. 
• Make sure the file is smaller than 500 MB. If you need to compress a file, use this website: clideo.com/compress-video .
• If you are using a google doc or SharePoint file, please change it to a pdf or word file.
• Do not submit zip files.
• Please be patient with uploads.

To learn how assessments are made learn more here .

Admissions for Students in District 75 Programs

District 75  provides highly specialized instructional support for students with significant challenges, such as Autism Spectrum Disorders, significant cognitive delays, emotional disturbances, sensory impairments, and multiple disabilities. These supports are offered in a wide variety of settings and locations across New York City, including special classes co-located in District 1-32 schools, school buildings where all students have IEPs, general education classrooms, agencies, hospitals, and at home.

Students enrolled in District 75 who are considering a District 1-32 high school can participate in high school admissions. These students should also work with their IEP team to determine whether the recommendation for District 75 for high school is still appropriate. If the IEP team believes that District 75 continues to be appropriate, the District 75 Placement Office will notify the student of their District 75 high school placement in the spring or summer.

Students Who Are Recommended for District 75 Inclusive Services 

District 75 Special Education Inclusive Services are offered in some District 1-32 high schools. Students with disabilities are recommended to receive special education services based on their IEP mandates. Students who are mandated to receive Special Education Inclusive Services from District 75 participate in general education curriculum at a District 1-32 school. Students learn in age-appropriate general education classes, receive instruction from a general education teacher, and participate in school programs with students with and without disabilities.

• District 75 Inclusive Services are not offered in every District 1-32 high school. In order to be matches to one of the programs at these high schools, students must be recommended to receive these services on their IEPs. 
• Explore D75 Special Education Inclusive Services programs online with  MySchools : Click on the "More Filters" button and under "Admissions Method," check the box that says "D75 Special Education Inclusive Services."

Admissions for Students in ASD Nest, ASD Horizon, or ACES Programs

• Students in ASD Nest or ASD Horizon Programs. The Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Nest Program and the ASD Horizon Program are two different specialized programs in District 1-32 schools that serve certain students with autism who have Individualized Education programs (IEPs). Both programs are designed to address the needs of students with ASD by strengthening academic and social skills, but each program has different service delivery models and eligibility criteria. Students who are currently in an ASD Nest or Horizon specialized program in middle school should participate in the high school admissions process. If you will be continuing in a high school ASD program, you will be able to list ASD Nest or Horizon Programs on your application. Learn more about these programs on the  Specialized High School page . 
• ACES Programs provide an opportunity to learn academic, work, and independent living skills in a District 1-32 school. Students who are currently in an ACES specialized program in middle school should participate in the high school admissions process.
• If you will be continuing in a high school ACES program, you will be able to list high school ACES programs on your application.
• Learn more about ACES programs on our  Specialized Programs  page. 
• Explore ASD/ACES programs online with  MySchools. Click on the "More Filters" button and under "Admissions Method," check the box that says "ASD/ACES Program".

Admissions for Students Aged 16-21 Who Are Behind on Credits

Transfer schools  are academically rigorous high schools designed to serve students who are 16-21 years old and want to graduate. If you have dropped out of school or fallen behind on credits, a transfer school can help you get back on track toward graduation; some schools accept students who are 15 years old, and many transfer schools are flexible about who they admit. We support student success in these schools through a matching process during individual admissions interviews.

Interested in a transfer school?

• Reach out directly to the school to learn more.
• You can also get support from  Referral Centers,  which are located in each borough, for more information and counseling.
• Learn more about  transfer schools  and  other options .
• Explore transfer schools and programs online  MySchools . Click on the "More Filters" button and under "Admissions Method," check the box that says "Transfer".

2024 NYC Public Schools Admissions Guide 

View or download the 2024 NYC Public Schools Admissions Guide! This book provides an overview of admissions processes and resources for Infants and Toddlers programs, 3-K, Pre-K, Kindergarten, Gifted and Talented (G&T) programs, middle school, and high school (including Specialized High Schools), including a section on how to use MySchools.

Print copies will be available in 10 languages at schools, early childhood programs, libraries, and other sites throughout September.

NYC Guide to the SHSAT for 2024 Admissions

View or download the NYC Guide to the SHSAT for 2024 Admissions! This book provides an overview of how to prepare to take the Specialized High Schools Admissions Test (SHSAT) and includes practice tests.

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Similar Letters

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• Write down your reason and intent for your application.
• Include or list down the qualifications that you have.
• End on a positive tone.

SAMPLE LETTER

[Letter Date]

[Subject: Normally bold, summarizes the intention of the letter] -Optional-

Dear [Recipients Name],

I am writing to you to inform you of my desire to enter your prestigious school for my high school education. You will find enclosed the necessary documents to support my application. Also, you will find that I am very much qualified to enter your school due to my various merits such as: (insert values here) I look forward to your favorable response.

Sincerely, [Senders Name] [Senders Title] -Optional-

[Enclosures: number] - Optional - cc: [Name of copy recipient] - Optional -

Application letter for high school. Sample letter.

Further things to consider when writing application letters to schools

Application Letters

Application letters are letters that you write to formally request for something from authority, apply for a job, or join an institution. Effective application letters will give a detailed explanation for your interest in the specific item, company, or institution. They showcase your abilities and strengths and illustrate your experience. In most cases, people write application letters to express their interest in receiving a position, attending an institution, or when applying for a visa, for instance. In all scenarios, application letters must be accompanied by the relevant documents. Application letters are the perfect tool to demonstrate something of your personality. Therefore, you should write in a professional tone setting a clear outline that allows the reader to scan the primary data quickly. Introduce yourself and briefly explain your intent and reason for the application. Address the letter with a title or name of the recipient. If your application is for a job or to join an institution, for example, you need to highlight your experience and qualification; if you are applying for a travel visa, make sure to state a clear intention for your travel. End with a positive tone and invite the recipient to contact you.

Letters to Schools

Letters to schools are letters written to institutions designed to provide learning environment and spaces to pupils and students. There are many times when you may feel the need to write to a school administration. Maybe you want to recommend a student or employee or want to apply for an academic program. Perhaps your child has a disability, and you want to make sure that he/she is receiving special education services. Whatever the issue, putting your thoughts in writing avoids confusion since it provides you and the recipient with a record of your request. It is, therefore, crucial to keep a copy of any letter you send. All letters to schools must use the standard business letter style. Start your letter with the proper address and salutation. Introduce yourself and explain the reason for your letter clearly and concisely. Depending on the content of your letter, provide any documentation that gives the recipient reference to the case or clarifies your concerns. Keep the tone polite, respectful, and professional. Close by thanking the recipient for his/her time and with a note of anticipation of positive feedback. Sign off and proofread the final draft before sending it.

These articles may interest you

• Application
• application letter for high school
• high school application letter sample
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Sample Application Letter for School Admission for Child

In this guide, I’ll walk you through a step-by-step process, share a customizable template, and offer personal tips from my experience to help you create an effective application letter.

Key Takeaways Understanding the Purpose : Grasp the significance of the application letter in the school admission process. Personalizing the Content : Learn how to tailor the letter to highlight your child’s unique attributes and potential contributions to the school. Structuring the Letter : A step-by-step guide on the components of the letter. Template Usage : Access to a customizable template to simplify your writing process. Expert Tips : Benefit from insights and tips based on real-life experiences in writing successful application letters.

Understanding the Purpose of the Application Letter

The application letter is your opportunity to present your child in a way that goes beyond grades and certificates. It’s about telling a story, your child’s story, and how it aligns with the values and ethos of the prospective school.

Personal Insights

In my experience, schools are looking for students who will not only benefit from but also contribute to the school’s environment. Hence, understanding the school’s values and ethos is crucial before you start writing.

Step-by-Step Guide to Writing the Letter

Step 1: research the school.

Before you start writing, research the school. Understand its values, what it stands for, and what it seeks in its students. This information will be the foundation of your letter.

Step 2: Start with a Strong Opening

Begin with a compelling introduction that captures the essence of your child’s personality or a significant achievement that aligns with the school’s values.

Trending Now: Find Out Why!

Example : “When Jane solved her first complex math puzzle, it wasn’t just about numbers; it was about problem-solving, perseverance, and the joy of learning – qualities that resonate with [School’s Name] ethos.”

Step 3: Highlight Key Attributes and Achievements

Discuss your child’s attributes, interests, and accomplishments. Connect these with how they can contribute to and benefit from the school.

Tip : Use specific examples to illustrate your points. Real-life instances make your letter more personal and impactful.

Step 4: Discuss the Alignment with the School’s Values

Explain why the school’s environment is the ideal setting for your child’s growth and how their presence can enhance the school community.

Step 5: Conclude Positively

End with a positive note, expressing enthusiasm about the possibility of your child joining the school community.

Template for Application Letter for School Admission

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

[Recipient’s Name] [School’s Name] [School’s Address] [City, State, Zip Code]

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

I am writing to express my child, [Child’s Name]’s, interest in joining [School’s Name] for [Grade/Year]. [Introduction – Briefly introduce your child and mention a standout quality or achievement relevant to the school’s ethos].

[Body Paragraph 1 – Discuss your child’s key attributes, interests, and how they align with the school’s values and offerings].

[Body Paragraph 2 – Highlight your child’s achievements and how they can contribute to and benefit from the school environment].

In conclusion, [Child’s Name]’s passion for [Key Interest] and their [Key Attribute] make them a fitting candidate for [School’s Name]. We are enthusiastic about the prospect of [Child’s Name] becoming part of your school community and contributing to its vibrant atmosphere.

Thank you for considering our application. We look forward to the possibility of [Child’s Name] joining [School’s Name] and contributing to its esteemed legacy.

[Your Name]

Personal Tips from Experience

• Authenticity Matters : Schools can tell when a letter is genuine. Let your child’s personality shine through.
• Be Concise : While it’s important to be thorough, keep your letter concise and to the point.
• Proofread : Typos or grammatical errors can detract from your letter’s impact. Always proofread before sending.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: how do i showcase my child’s unique talents in an application letter for school admission.

Answer : In my application letter, I highlighted my child’s unique talents by giving specific examples of their achievements and creativity, like the time they won a local art competition, which showed their exceptional skills and passion for the arts.

Q: What should I include in the application letter to express my child’s enthusiasm for learning?

Answer : I made sure to include anecdotes of my child’s natural curiosity and eagerness to learn, such as their endless questions about space, which demonstrate their genuine interest in acquiring knowledge.

Q: How can I address my child’s special needs in the application letter?

Answer : In the letter, I openly discussed my child’s special needs, emphasizing how they’ve overcome challenges with resilience and determination, which I believe showcases their strength and character.

Q: Is it important to mention my child’s extracurricular activities in the school admissions application letter?

Answer : Absolutely, I included details about my child’s involvement in sports and music, illustrating their well-rounded character and teamwork skills, which are crucial for their overall development.

Q: How can I make my child’s application letter stand out to the admissions committee?

Answer : I added a personal touch by sharing a heartfelt story about my child’s kindness and empathy during a community service event, which not only reflects their character but also their potential as a valuable community member at the school.

Q: Can I discuss my child’s academic achievements in the application letter for school admission?

Answer : Yes, I showcased my child’s academic prowess by mentioning their consistent honor roll status and their inquisitive nature in class discussions, which highlights their intellectual capabilities and engagement in learning.

Q: How do I explain the reason for choosing a particular school in the application letter?

Answer : I articulated our family’s decision by explaining how the school’s unique approach to education aligns with my child’s learning style and interests, like their emphasis on experiential learning that suits my child’s hands-on learning preference.

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How to Write a Letter for Applying to High Schools

Lane cummings, 27 jun 2018.

When it comes to public high schools, enrollment is often just a matter of having an address within a designated school zone. However, for private or prep schools, applying for enrollment is an entirely different matter. Enrollment depends upon test scores, letters of recommendation, application essays and a glowing letter to the admissions officials. The letter to the schools' boards or admissions departments generally requires that you explain why you wish to attend a particular school. Writing a good letter is crucial for a winning application.

Create the standard business letter format. Type your address in three or four lines at the top left corner of the page. Skip a line and type the date. Skip another line and type the full name of the board and the address of its headquarters in three or four lines.

Skip a line and write "Dear" plus the name of the chairman or director of the board. Skip another line and begin your first paragraph without indenting.

Identify yourself with your full name, explain that you are an applicant to a specific school or schools within the board's responsibility.

State your strongest reason for wanting to attend these particular schools. Be specific, stating programs, classes or activities that these schools offer that directly connect to talents or hobbies that you have or things you're interested in. For example, if a particular school has a strong classics department and you're interested in learning ancient Greek, mention that. Go through all these reasons in two to three paragraphs.

State what you will bring to the school. You want to avoid cliches like saying you're hardworking or highly motivated. Rather, you need to find new ways to express the positive aspects of your character without sounding like every other applicant. For example, if you are in fact hardworking, say something to the effect of, "I believe in conducting a thorough study, often completing more work or reading assignments than what the teacher assigns."

Close your essay with a quote from a famous leader, author or historian that addresses education. For example, Nelson Mandela's quote that "Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world" is suitable or something comparable.

Explore this article

Before you send your letter, make sure and proofread it carefully. Go over it a few times, paying special attention to grammar, tone and the general flow. You want to make sure the letter reads well and gives a glimpse into who you are. Once you're done proofing and editing it yourself, choose a teacher or other school staff member that knows you well, and ask them to look it over. If possible, avoid asking a parent or friend to read it. They may be reluctant to give you honest feedback or try to convince you to add things that don't need to be in the letter.

When the letter is ready to send, make sure you have the correct name and address of who to send it to. More than likely, you will be sending it to the Dean of Students, school counselor or main office. It's also a good idea to find out if the school prefers you to email or postal mail the letter.

• 1 Think Exist: Education quotes

About the Author

Lane Cummings is originally from New York City. She attended the High School of Performing Arts in dance before receiving her Bachelor of Arts in literature and her Master of Arts in Russian literature at the University of Chicago. She has lived in St. Petersburg, Russia, where she lectured and studied Russian. She began writing professionally in 2004 for the "St. Petersburg Times."

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3 High School Student Cover Letter Examples for 2024 

• High School Student Cover Letter
• High School Student No Experience Cover Letter
• Summer Job High School Student
• Write Your High School Student Cover Letter

As a high school student, you’re nearing your first steps into the professional world. You’ve got passion, energy, and a go-getter attitude—all you need is a chance to prove how capable you are. 

Whether you’re angling for a class president position at your school or searching for a part-time job, writing a cover letter to accompany your impressive high school student resume can really help you express your dedication. However, writing your first job application can seem pretty intimidating.

Don’t worry! That’s why we’re here. Start with our high school student cover letter examples and tips, and polish things off with our free AI cover letter generator to impress your target audience and reach for the stars.

High School Student Cover Letter Example

USE THIS TEMPLATE

Microsoft Word

Google Docs

Block Format

Copy this text for your high school student cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue Dallas, TX 75001 (123) 456-7890

August 20, 2023

Mia Moore Woodrow Wilson High School 123 Fictional Lane Dallas, TX 75001

Dear Ms. Moore,

I advocate for nurturing students to become leaders, and Woodrow Wilson High School is a fertile ground for such a realization. I am expressing my interest to become a class president in the upcoming student elections. My decision is backed by a strong vision for our school’s role in fostering a positive and inclusive environment that will empower every student to reach their full potential.

Since joining the school, I have been actively involved in organizing various events. I was the lead organizer for this year’s cultural festival, which achieved a 47% more attendance than last year. From this experience, if elected a class president, I will leverage event mobilization skills to create engaging and enjoyable events that bring us together as a close-knit community.

I have also utilized my graphic design abilities to create eye-catching posters, flyers, and social media adverts for different clubs. In particular, I designed social media banners to create awareness for the annual art exhibition, with posts garnering over 1000 comments within an hour across social media platforms. I firmly believe that effective communication is the key to success, and I will use my creativity and design skills to disseminate important information to all students.

Balancing academics, extracurricular activities, and personal commitments have honed my project management skills. As a class president, I will apply these competencies to work closely with my fellow student council members, ensuring that our ideas and initiatives are effectively executed for the betterment of our school and community.

Thank you for considering my candidacy. I look forward to the opportunity to serve our school and contribute to an even brighter future for all of us. If you have any questions or want to discuss further, do not hesitate to reach out.

Miguel Torres

Enclosures: Resume Application 2 letters of recommendation Personal Statement

Why this cover letter works

• Therefore, it makes perfect sense for your high school student cover letter to emphasize your role in event planning and back it up with the attendance metrics to prove your mobilization competencies.

Level up your cover letter game

Relax! We’ll do the heavy lifiting to write your cover letter in seconds.

High School Student No Experience Cover Letter Example

Copy this text for your high school student no experience cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue Atlanta, GA 30033 (123) 456-7890

Avery Johnson Jamba Juice 123 Fictional Lane Atlanta, GA 30033

Dear Mr. Johnson,

Growing up, I helped my mother with setting the dining table. It put a smile on my face to see everyone enjoy their meal. It is from this childhood passion, which has changed to customer service, I am writing to express my strong interest in the barista position at Jamba Juice.

I have always been captivated by the art of drink preparation and have spent countless hours experimenting with various flavor combinations at home. Moreover, my experience in providing exceptional customer service in my volunteer work at Mercy’s Community Center has allowed me to develop strong interpersonal skills and a genuine commitment to meeting the needs of others.

I am well-versed in creating delicious and visually appealing beverages. Whether it’s crafting the perfect smoothie, juice, or specialty drink, I take great pride in ensuring that each creation is made with the utmost attention to detail and quality. I will also strictly follow food safety guidelines and take personal responsibility for adhering to proper hygiene and sanitation practices.

I believe that working at Jamba Juice will provide me with valuable experiences and skills that will complement my educational journey and future career aspirations. I would be grateful for the opportunity to discuss how my skills and enthusiasm can benefit Jamba Juice in person. Thank you for considering my application.

Diego Chavez

• Your many experiments at home with multiple beverage flavors and food safety knowledge would be perfect examples of skills that you can highlight for your application to sail through.

Summer Job High School Student Cover Letter Example

Copy this text for your summer job high school student cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue Omaha, NE 68101 (123) 456-7890

Benjamin Brown McDonald’s 123 Financial Lane Omaha, NE 68101

Dear Mr. Brown,

Every other weekend, my dad takes us out for a brunch at Mcdonald’s. I always look forward to the treat and the excellent customer service. I would welcome the challenge of being on the other side, serving and meeting customer preferences as a crew team member for the upcoming summer break.

As an order taker at local community event dubbed “Good Neighbor” with a 350+ attendance, I developed strong communication skills and the ability to work under pressure while ensuring accuracy in taking orders. Additionally, I honed my cleaning and sanitization abilities during my volunteer stint at FreshBitez food bank, where maintaining a hygienic environment was of utmost importance.

I also have experience in food preparation at school events which taught me the importance of efficiency and attention to detail. Adding that to my food safety knowledge and excellent timekeeping equips me with unique skill sets to exceed all expectations for this role.

As a crew team member at McDonald’s, I am committed to upholding the restaurant’s reputation for excellence. I am a quick learner and thrive in fast-paced environments, which I believe are vital attributes for success in this role’s high expectations.

Thank you for considering my application. I would be thrilled to discuss my suitability further in an interview. Please find my resume attached for your reference. I am available at your earliest convenience.

Ingrid Hansen

• Telling your story about how it feels every time your dad takes you to McDonald’s for brunch is a great pacesetter to get hired. To add weight to your summer job high school student cover letter, emphasize your order-taking skills when you catered to a 350+ attendance community event.

Related cover letter examples

• Entry Level
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• Social Media Manager

How to Prepare a Fantastic High School Student Cover Letter

Whether you’re still in school or just graduated, you already have a lot more marketable skills than you might think. Your cover letter is how you inform potential employers or the school faculty about them and make them shine.

The key is to focus on the job description and determine what it is that they want. For instance, if you’re applying for a part-time job as a barista, emphasize skills that are key for that role, such as customer service or cash handling. You got this!

Write the perfect greeting and intro

Start by addressing the recipient by name. If you’re announcing your candidacy for class president, find out the name of the student council advisor or faculty advisor and include it here. Applying for a job? Address the hiring manager or recruiter. If you absolutely can’t, a “Dear Hiring Manager” will do.

Move on to expressing why this particular role is special to you. Perhaps you care about your school and want to improve it as a class treasurer or secretary, or you want to work in food service because of your past volunteering at a food bank. 

Mention these things, alongside the company or school name, to show that you care about the position.

Here’s what you should steer clear of—a generic opener that makes it clear that this role is just a means to an end.

Don’t do this!

I’m applying for this job because I need to save money to buy a new car. I can work every other weekend.

The personal connection in this opener makes it clear that this person cares about the student body and has a deep commitment to the well-being of their fellow students, both of which are essential qualities for a class president.

Dive into why you’re a great fit in the body paragraphs

Use these 2-3 paragraphs to connect your skill set to the job description and explain why you’re a great fit. The exact contents depend on the role. 

For instance, if you’re applying to work at a pizza joint, emphasize the multitasking abilities that you’ve honed while organizing a class event. On the other hand, if you were ever a class treasurer, that’s a great thing to mention if you’re going to be handling cash—after all, you’ve already got experience in that.

A good way to make your past successes stand out is to add useful metrics. As an example, talk about how your efforts at promoting the school play resulted in over 30% higher attendance than the previous year.

If you don’t have any metrics, that’s okay—simply use this part of your cover letter to emphasize your strengths.

This is the way!

End on a good note with an impressive closing paragraph

To make a lasting impression, personalize your closing paragraph just as much as you did the rest of your cover letter. 

If you’re applying for a job, make sure to mention the company by name and express why you want to work there. You can also pick a couple of key skills that you’re excited to bring to the role, such as your positive attitude and love for math, if you’re applying to work at the cash register in a supermarket.

It’s important to thank the recipient for their time and express that you’re looking forward to the opportunity to discuss the role during an interview. Make sure to come off as respectful and emphasize how important this role is to you.

This is a poor example of a closing paragraph. The writer assumes that they will be hired due to the shortage of workers, but instead, they leave a poor impression on the potential employer.

Oh, no…

I know you are having trouble finding servers to hire so I hope you can get back to me quickly because I’m ready from next Monday.

Below is a much better approach that establishes a connection with that particular company. The writer comes off as humble and talks about how the job will be a learning opportunity.

Impressive!

Don’t worry—everyone has to start somewhere. Discuss your skills and work experience from school, extracurriculars, and passion projects. For example, if you’ve previously volunteered during a charity event, include it to show that you know how to work in a team.

It’s important to keep things professional. If the job description is informal, you can allow yourself to be a little more casual. However, as a high school student, it’s crucial to show that you’re ready to work with people and avoid using colloquialisms. 

Start by digging through LinkedIn and the company website. You may also be able to find it in the job description or the email you’re sending your application to. If all else fails, you can always call them and ask. Doing this will earn you a lot of brownie points as a high schooler in need of a job.

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High School Student Cover Letter Samples & Examples That Worked in 2024

For high school students who are striving to earn a part-time position, an internship, or any other type of extracurricular work, writing a great cover letter is the first key step to take.

Since many high school students do not have a long work history yet, this can require some extra time and cleverness to frame high-school-level experiences compellingly.

But fret not, in this guide, we teach you exactly how to write an effective cover letter as a high school student. Continue reading to learn all about:

• Crafting a memorable cover letter header as a high school student
• Tailoring your high school student cover letter to be specific to the reader
• Writing an eye-catching introduction for your high school cover letter
• Highlighting your skills and academic experiences as a high school student
• Persuasively concluding your high school student cover letter
• Finding useful resources for job-seeking high school students

Let’s jump into the first step and begin crafting the ideal high school student cover letter!

1. How to craft a memorable cover letter header as a high school student

As a high school student, your top priority when writing a cover letter is to make it look professional.

High school students can often overlook the importance of visual design when writing cover letters, as they are more focused on making the letter’s content sound good.

Yet, a great-looking and professional cover letter format can go a long way in impressing employers.

In your cover letter header, you should include:

• Your name and academic position
• Your contact information
• The name of the company you are applying to
• The address of the company you are applying to

Here is an example of a well-formatted high school student cover letter header

Molly Madison , High School Class President (123) 456-7890 | [email protected] | linkedin.com/in/molly-madison

To: Jackson’s Downtown Boutique & Shoppe Gallery 1234 Street Address Phoenix, AZ

Use artificial intelligence to create your resume — FAST!

2. how to properly tailor your high school student cover letter.

After giving your cover letter an excellent visual structure and flow, your next step is to tailor the greeting and content of your high school student cover letter .

Tailoring a cover letter means making the information as relevant to the reader as possible. For instance, if you are applying to work in an ice cream shop, describing how your skills can be applied to customer service and food safety are good ways to make your letter relevant to the job.

Additionally, you should address your cover letter to the person who is most likely to read and review it, such as a company’s owner or a head manager.

Here are 3 examples of personalized cover letter greetings

Dear Mr. John Doe,

• Dear Hiring Manager John Doe,
• Dear Mr. John Doe & the Hiring Department,

3. How to write an eye-catching introduction for your high school student cover letter

When applying for jobs as a high school student, you are likely not going to have an extensive work history to showcase in your cover letter.

To make up for this, you need to ensure each detail you write is as eye-catching and compelling as possible. It is especially important to pay extra attention to your introduction , as an introductory paragraph can often be the thing that either impresses employers or makes them lose interest.

The best high school cover letter introductions should include:

• A brief overview of your academic history (academic performance, extracurriculars, etc.)
• Any key roles you have held in your academic history (leadership roles, athletics, etc.)
• A brief statement on what you are passionate about (this should be relevant to the role, position, or opportunity you are applying for)

Here is an example of a great introduction from a high school student cover letter

I am a junior at Rowe County High School seeking my first job in the outdoor recreation industry. As a student, I helped to start an Outdoor Program club that now has 30+ members and takes students on chaperoned adventures, such as hiking and camping. Your company is a staple in the local outdoor community and gaining this job would provide me with the opportunity to both practice my passion and learn more about the industry. 

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4. How to highlight your skills and academic experiences as a high school student

With your introduction out of the way, you can now begin writing your cover letter’s body paragraphs.

Many people choose to break up their body paragraphs into smaller, simple sentences. Additionally, bullet points can be used to keep your body paragraphs more organized and easy to skim over.

When writing these body paragraphs, your main goal is to describe your best skills and accomplishments as a high school student. You should select skills and accomplishments that are highly relevant to the position you are applying for.

Here are 6 examples of skills to include in a high school student cover letter

• Communication skills (describe your exact style of communication)
• Leadership and teamwork
• Time management
• Conflict resolution
• Problem-solving
• Critical thinking

Here is an example of how to describe an accomplishment in a high school student cover letter

As a student at Monroe High School, I won the election for Class President two years in a row during my sophomore and junior years. This year, I am serving as the Senior Class President, which comes with greater responsibilities, including management of the school spirit budget.

5. How to persuasively conclude your high school student cover letter

To conclude your high school student cover letter, you must write a persuasive closing statement that encourages the reader to get in touch with you promptly.

Remember to maintain your professionalism in your conclusion as well by including a formal sign-off.

Here is an example of a persuasive closing statement from a high school student's cover letter

I greatly appreciate you taking the time to read my letter and look forward to hearing from you in the near future. As I am still in school, the best hours to reach me are in the early morning between 6 a.m. to 8 a.m. or in the late afternoon from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. It would be my honor to work at your company and I hope to hear from you within the next week about my application.

Many Thanks,

[Applicant Name]

6. Key resources for job-seeking high school students

Before we wrap things up, let's not forget one last crucial element — resources for your job hunt. As a high school student, there's a wealth of tools out there to assist you in navigating this exciting path. Here are some you should definitely bookmark:

• Career counseling: Many high schools provide career counseling services to students. They offer guidance in identifying potential career paths, preparing for interviews, and even finding job opportunities.
• Online job boards:  Websites like Indeed , Monster , or LinkedIn offer a range of part-time, intern, and entry-level positions perfect for high school students. You can filter by your area of interest, location, and other parameters.
• Local resources:  Don't overlook local resources like community job boards, local newspapers, and libraries. They often list part-time jobs in your immediate area, ideal for high school students.
• Networking:  This can be beneficial, even for high school students. Connect with teachers, family friends, and alumni in your desired field for potential job leads and advice.
• Job readiness workshops:  Some communities offer workshops to help high school students prepare for the job market, providing tips on resume writing, interviewing, and soft skills development.
• Volunteer work:  Volunteering can provide valuable experience and skills that employers look for. Websites like VolunteerMatch  or local community centers can point you towards opportunities.

Kickstart your job search by leveraging these resources and step into the professional world with confidence. Good luck!

High School Student Cover Letter FAQ

Your cover letter should not exceed one page — it should be concise and to the point. Around 3-4 short paragraphs are generally sufficient. 

Yes, it's a good idea to follow up if you haven’t heard back after a week or two. You can send a polite email asking about the status of your application. This shows you're genuinely interested in the role. 

That's okay! You can highlight your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, volunteer work, or any skills that are relevant to the job you're applying for. Remember, everyone has to start somewhere! 

Yes, you should tailor your cover letter for each job application. It demonstrates that you've done your research on the company and the specific role, which will impress employers. 

If the job posting doesn't provide a name and your research doesn't reveal who the hiring manager is, it's acceptable to use a general salutation like, "Dear Hiring Manager" or "Dear [Company Name] Team."

Julia Gergelova

Julia is a professional writer, translator and graphic designer. She holds degrees in translation and interpretation, and has international work experience from a number of different countries in Europe as well as China and Panama. Julia formerly taught academic writing and as a graphic designer contributed to outlets such as  The Business of Business . She has a passion for lifelong learning and good coffee.

All student cover letter examples

• Formal Sciences Student
• Humanities Student
• Student Internship
• Natural Sciences Student
• Professions And Applied Sciences Student
• Social Sciences Student
• University Student

All high school student cover letter examples

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High School Student Cover Letter Examples & Writing Tips

Use these High School Student cover letter examples and writing tips to help you write a powerful cover letter that will separate you from the competition.

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High school student cover letter example 1, high school student cover letter example 2, high school student cover letter example 3, high school student cover letter writing tips.

If you’re a high school student who wants to make a big impact on the world, a summer job could be a great way to get your foot in the door.

But before you can get hired, you need to create a stellar cover letter. Check out the examples and tips below to learn how to write a cover letter for a high school student.

Thank you for the opportunity to apply for the role at your company. After looking over the job description, it’s clear that you’re looking for a candidate that is extremely familiar with the responsibilities associated with the role, and can perform them confidently. Given these requirements, I am certain that I have the necessary skills to successfully do the job adeptly and perform above expectations. 

I am a hard-working recent high school graduate (4.3 GPA) who has consistently been praised as focused by my teachers and managers. During the course of my academic career, I also managed accrue nearly 4.5 years of work experience. I had the privilege of working for El Pueblito’s in a server role in my free time, where I learned valuable professional skills such as conflict resolution, team work, multitasking, customer needs assessment, and customer service. Whether working on academic, extracurricular, or professional projects, I apply proven communication, creative thinking, and critical thinking skills, which I hope to leverage into the associate role at your company. 

After viewing my resume, I hope you will agree that I am the type of competent and competitive candidate you are looking for. I look forward to elaborating on how my specific skills and abilities will benefit your organization.

Thank you for your consideration, and I look forward to hearing from you soon. 

I am submitting this letter and the enclosed resume to show my interest in seeking a position at your organization.

I have recently graduated from high school and am seeking an entry-level position at your company. High school has taught me a variety of skills. One of them is the value of teamwork. I have played team sports and participated in event planning at school. This has taught me how to work with a team of diverse people to accomplish a specific outcome. Teamwork is not always easy. I used these opportunities to master the ability to inspire people to work in a team. I was recognized for this ability as I was appointed as captain and team leader in various after-school activities.

I managed to maintain good grades throughout my schooling career. I wouldn’t call myself a natural student. I’ve always had to work very hard to secure my achievements. This was, to me, a valuable life lesson which is that, if you want something you have to work for it. I regard this as one of my greatest strengths. I believe in perseverance and working hard to get anywhere in life.

Now that I’ve graduated, I’m looking forward to moving on to the next phase of my life. I want to start working and study part-time. I know that if you give me the opportunity to work at your organization, I can prove myself to be a dedicated employee. I believe that dedication and commitment are the main drivers of career success. I would enjoy the opportunity to meet with you to describe what skills and abilities I could add to your company. I am also interested in finding out more about your organization to see where I would best fit into it.

Thank you for your time. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

This cover letter serves as my application to be accepted in your institution to achieve academic excellence and build my future. Not only do I believe that I have the qualities that it takes to succeed at your school, but I also believe that the ethos of the school is in line with my own philosophies on education.

I can paint a rosy picture of a student that has all the talents in the world. I can tell you about my past academic achievements and that I participated in an array of sports. I can even tell you about the cultural activities that I excelled at, but it would not be the truth. I achieved outstanding grades and represented my previous school at the cross-country state championships. I also played the lead in our school’s rendition of Romeo and Juliet, but I did not achieve all of this because I am talented. Instead, I achieved it all because I am a hard worker.

From a very young age, I realized that anything that is worthwhile is never easy. I did not grow up in an affluent home, but I grew up in a stable home where my parents instilled in me the value of hard work and perseverance.

Your school has an excellent reputation and I believe that if I apply myself in my academics, sport and cultural activities as I have done in the past, I will make a success and be an asset to the school. Education is a powerful tool, but any tool is only as effective as the person using it. Your school has astounding teachers and your educational philosophy resounds with my own.

I look forward to hearing from you and also becoming a member of the legacy that you have already built over the years.

Use your cover letter to show your maturity

High school students are often still viewed as children, so they need to demonstrate that they are mature enough for the job. Demonstrate your maturity in the cover letter by highlighting examples of leadership skills you have exhibited through sports, volunteering or other extracurricular activities.

Address the specific job position

If you’re applying for a job as a high school student, it can be tempting to simply cut and paste your resume into the body of your cover letter. However, you should never do this because it won’t let hiring managers know why you’re interested in their company. To show that you have a passion for the role and why it interests you, write specifically about what attracted you to this particular company or job description. Be sure to include how your skills would benefit the company as well as any reasons why they should hire someone from your age group.

Be honest about your ability to handle the job

If you’re a high school student applying for a summer job, you’ll need to be honest with yourself and the employer about your ability to handle the responsibilities of this type of position. High school students often make the mistake of applying for jobs they are underqualified for because they overestimate their own abilities. Before you apply, make sure that you can complete all aspects of the job. If not, look for an entry-level position in which your responsibilities are more within your skill set or even better yet work as a volunteer or intern.

Avoid grammatical errors in your cover letter

A high school student’s cover letter is an important opportunity to prove they are the ideal candidate for the job. However, a poorly written cover letter will not leave a positive impression on the hiring manager.

Use proper grammar and spelling in your cover letter, as these two elements can speak volumes about yourself. Proofread your cover letter carefully before submitting it. If possible, have someone else read over your work for any errors you may have missed.

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Applying for High School

Students currently residing in New York City and attending grade 8 or grade 9 for the first time can submit an application for High School, including Specialized High Schools. Applications are available from October 11, 2023 through December 1, 2023.

If you have dual residency, you can apply for high school, but the student must be living full-time in New York City. If your child attends school outside of New York City, the current school must have a New York City address on file as the home address to be eligible.

Submitting an Application

When applications are available, an application can be submitted any of the following ways:

• Online with MySchools .
• With their current school's counselor.
• Visiting a Family Welcome Center .  

Applications are not first come-first served. All applications submitted will be reviewed after the deadline to apply.

Before starting an application, please review the High School Directory to learn about programs available. Information that can be found in the directory includes:

• Admissions Methods and priorities
• School and Program types
• Public transportation options
• School Hours
• Extra curricular activities  

For step-by-step assistance with completing the High School application online, click here .

New School Application

Beginning March 18, families can submit an application to Bard Brooklyn Early College High School . Applications can be submitted through April 19.

This application will not impact any offer from the High School Application, the Specialized High School Application, and any waitlist your child is on currently.

Specialized High Schools

Families can complete a separate applications to apply for the nine Specialized High Schools. A High School application is not required to complete an application for the Specialized High Schools. Students can register for the Specialized High Schools Admission Test (SHSAT) to apply for the following eight programs:

• Stuyvesant High School
• The Bronx High School of Science
• Brooklyn Technical High School
• Staten Island Technical High School
• The Brooklyn Latin School
• High School of American Studies At Lehman College
• High School of Mathematics, Science, and Engineering at City College
• Queens High School for the Sciences at York College  

Families interested in applying for Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School are able to audition for any program of interest. Auditions are completed virtually with all materials uploaded. The deadline to submit materials is December 1, 2023.

For step-by-step assistance with registering for the Specialized High Schools online, click here .

Offers and Waitlists

Offers will be available in Spring 2024. All students attending an NYC DOE public school will receive an offer for high school, even if an application was not submitted. Your child may receive up to three different offers based on the applications submitted. Students may get an offer through the High School application, Specialized High School Admission Test results, and LaGuardia auditions.

All families will get an offer letter through the mail. To view your offer, please do any of the following:

• Log into MySchools . If you did not submit your application in MySchools, you can still see offer information. Ask your child's current school for their Account Creation Code and OSIS number.
• Speak with your current school's counselor to get a copy.
• Visit a Family Welcome Center .  

There are four admissions factor used when determining if a student will receive an offer:

• Choice Ranking: Your child will only receive an offer to a program ranked higher on their application. List your application choices in the order you prefer.
• Seat Availability: The amount of seats a program has versus the amount of applications received. Some programs will receive more applicants than seats available.
• Your child's priority group for the program: Some programs will get priority to students that apply. Living or attending a school in the district or borough may give your child a higher priority for attendance.
• The program's admission method: This is how the program selects students. Some programs will use a random selection of applicants. Other programs will rank students as part of a screening process.  

If your child did not receive their first choice, they will be placed on the school's waitlist. This process is completed for all programs listed higher on the application than the program offered to your child. There is no appeals process for High School admissions.

For more information on waitlists, please review our Waitlist page .

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• Application

Since 1851 Notre Dame San Jose has been providing an exemplary Catholic education to young women in the heart of downtown San Jose. We develop women of impact who are life-long learners, spiritual seekers, justice advocates and community leaders. 

We welcome applications from students who identify as female as well as those who were assigned female at birth and are aligned with the women-centric mission of Notre Dame San Jose. 

Each applicant is evaluated based on academic readiness and mission alignment.

Notre Dame High School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin in the administration of education policies, admission policies, scholarships, loan programs, athletic or other school-administered programs.

Notre Dame does not have a program for international students and does not consider international applicants for admission to our school.

As part of the application process in Ravenna, each applicant will submit a collection of items across three categories:

• Academic components to demonstrate academic strengths and readiness for high school 
• Personal components that provides insight into the student’s character, interests and values
• Family components that recognizes families as partners in their student’s education

Please attend our events during the fall to learn more about the application process and the Notre Dame experience. You can also find us on Ravenna. Email us at [email protected] or call us at (408) 294-1113 ext. 2165.

Notre Dame considers transfer applicants for 10th and 11th grade. We do not accept transfer students into 12th grade.

Please contact [email protected] to learn more about how to apply as a transfer student. 

Transfer Student Requirements:

• A's and B's on transcripts
• Academic letter of recommendation from a high school math teacher
• Academic letter of recommendation from a high school English teacher
• Graded writing sample from the current school year
• Character letter of recommendation from an adult mentor
• Student essays

Notre Dame’s commitment to promoting equity and student wellness begins in a family's experience of the admissions process. Research has evidenced biases within standardized testing as well as the overwhelming anxiety that it causes students. Ultimately, a standardized test score is not an accurate measure of student academic ability or potential. Therefore, the High School Placement Test is not a required component of the application process. 

Notre Dame has a test optional admissions process, which allows students the choice to take the HSPT or to submit an academic sample of work that they feel demonstrates their ability and potential. Students may still opt to take the test and submit the results to Notre Dame. 

Applicants for the incoming freshman class will submit two letters or recommendation:

• Academic letter of recommendation To be completed by a middle school teacher, principal or academic team that can speak to the applicants academic strengths, areas of growth and potential.
• Character letter of recommendation To be completed by a non-family member who can provide insight into the applicant's character, interests and values.

Requesting a letter (for applicants)

Preferred Method

After submitting the application cover sheet in Ravenna and paying the $75 application fee, the application portal will allow students to digitally request a letter of recommendation from a teacher, mentor or coach.

Please contact us at [email protected] if you have any questions.

Alternative Method (Please contact us first if you think you need to use this method.)

Students may print and request a letter of recommendation in hard copy by using these PDF forms:

• Academic letter of recommendation form
• Character letter of recommendation form

Thank you for your interest in Notre Dame High School!  The following are responses to frequently asked questions from applicants.

When should I start the application process?

Students applying to enter as freshmen should submit their application between October and December. The application opens Oct. 3, 2023 and the deadline is Dec. 12, 2023.

Transfer students typically apply between April and June for the fall term, however transferring to Notre Dame is subject to available openings.  Interested students should contact [email protected]  to inquire about the possibility of transferring.

What are the components of the application at Notre Dame?

The completed application serves as a way for students to gather a variety of items that showcase who they are and what they can do.

The academic section of the application includes:

• Middle school transcripts and test scores 
• An academic letter of recommendation
• An example of academic strength and potential - whether that is the results of the High School Placement Test or an example of student academic work .

The personal portfolio includes:

• A character letter of recommendation

The family portfolio includes:

• Demographic information
• A parent statement
• The $75 application fee

Can I submit more than the required number of recommendation letters?

​To complete the application, a student needs to submit one academic letter of recommendation and one character letter of recommendation .

Regarding the academic letter of recommendation,

• ​for eighth graders, the letter should be from a middle school representative (teacher, counselor or principal) who can speak to the applicant as a student
• for transfer students, a letter of recommendation is required from an English teacher as well as from a Math teacher

​Regarding the character letter of recommendation, the letter should be completed by a non-family member who can provide insight into the applicant's character, interests and values.

Should a student wish to submit additional letters of recommendation, the applicant should email [email protected] to inquire about this process.

Should I take the High School Placement Test?

Whether a student decides to submit HSPT scores to Notre Dame for the academic portfolio is a choice for the student and family to make.  Some students test very well and may feel that the test results will showcase that strength.  Some students may be applying to the other high schools and choose to use the test for the admissions process at more than one school.   

Notre Dame, along with the other Catholic High Schools in the Diocese of San Jose that use the High School Placement Test as part of the admissions process, will be administering the test.  Student are encouraged to register to take the test through their first choice high school.  Students wishing to test through Notre Dame will register through the application portal. 

How do I register for the HSPT at Notre Dame?

Applicants may register for the HSPT in Ravenna.

When will I get my High School Placement Test results? 

​When taking the test, students designate which schools they would like to receive the results.  The high schools receive those results directly from the Scholastic Testing Service and use the results as one academic indicator when considering applicants.​  

Notre Dame sends a summary of results by postal mail to families with the admissions decisions in March.

What would I submit instead of High School Placement Test results?

For students who choose not to take the HSPT as part of the application process to Notre Dame, a quality, academic sample should be submitted instead.  Students should identify work that they feel showcases their academic strengths and potential.  The only requirement is that it is the student’s original work and that it can be uploaded digitally to the online application. For more information about the academic sample please carefully read the Academic Sample and Self-Reflection Resource Guide .

Can an applicant submit both an academic sample and take the High School Placement Test?

At this time, applicants are given the choice and must make the choice.  There is not the option to both take the High School Placement Test and submit an academic sample.  Both are good choices and each applicant should choose which option is best for her.

What resources do you provide for students who have a documented learning difference, IEP and/or 504 plan?

The Academic Resources and Accommodations Program at Notre Dame high school provides appropriate and reasonable services to otherwise academically qualified students with disabilities. This is unlike a formal special education program as would be found in a traditional public school. We aim to create opportunities for students to reach their potential, support students to become independent learners, and help students develop a greater understanding of and respect for self. For more information visit our A.R.I.S.E. program webpage .

During the admissions process it is important to disclose the most current and accurate description of the supports and services your child receives. Our two, full-time Learning Resource Specialists work closely with the admissions team to review and evaluate IEP/504 and psychoeducational documentation submitted by families to determine if our resources can meet the specific learning needs of the student throughout their four years at Notre Dame. Upon admission, admitted applicants who have provided documentation receive a list of accommodations and supports that Notre Dame can, and cannot provide.

When will I know if I have been accepted?

​Notre Dame sends admissions decisions to applicants by email in March.  For the Class of 2028, the notification will be on Friday, March 15, 2024 at 5 p.m.  Additionally, a letter formalizing the admissions decision is sent by postal mail.

Will applying for tuition assistance affect my admission?

No.  We are committed to admitting mission-aligned young women who will be academically successful at Notre Dame.  

• The application process​ and decisions​ for admission to the school ​are​ managed by the admissions department.​
• ​The application process and offer of tuition assistance are managed by the business office.  Please visit the tuition assistance page for information regarding process and deadlines.​

Class of 2028 Application Guidelines

Get Started

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Stay informed about upcoming opportunities and events for the class of 2029 and beyond by joining our mailing list.

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Contact us!

[email protected] 408-294-1113 x2165

Dr. Andrea Duwel Director of Admissions

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High School Cover Letter Example

Your high school journey is a time of self-discovery, but it’s also a time to consider your career path and pursue professional and personal happiness. To do that, you’ll need to know how to write a cover letter for high school students. When it comes to writing a cover letter, high school students like you can stand out by crafting a well-composed letter and pairing it with a great high school resume. Check out our high school cover letter examples, tips, and templates to learn more.

Why a profession-specific cover letter matters 

Whether you’re applying for a part-time job, an internship, or a volunteer position, a resume and cover letter for high school students will help you stand out without prior work experience.

A high school student CV and cover letter demonstrate that you’ve done your homework about the application process and are passionate about landing the position you’re applying for.

When writing your high school cover letter, it’s important to clearly explain why you’re a good choice for the job.

Write as if you’re speaking directly to the person or people who will decide whether you get the job. Your aim is to stand out from the crowd and quickly share what you’ve done that makes you right for the role.

Key components of a profession-specific cover letter

Before we get into cover letter examples for high school students, let’s review the key components found in virtually all cover letter templates . Your cover letter should include the following:

• Personalized Greeting: Address the letter to the hiring manager by name; if you can’t find a name, “Dear Hiring Manager” is always a safe bet
• Introduction: Briefly introduce yourself and state the position you’re applying for, then mention how you heard about the job
• Body Paragraphs: This is where you align your skills and experiences with the job requirements — use examples from school projects, extracurricular activities, or any relevant experience
• Specific Industry Knowledge: Show that you understand what the job entails; for instance, if you’re applying for a retail position, mention your customer service skills or any experience you have handling money
• Closing Paragraph: Reiterate your interest in the position and thank the reader for considering your application; note any attached documents, like your CV (check out our CV templates if you don’t have one)
• Professional Closing: End with a professional sign-off, like “Sincerely” or “Respectfully,” followed by your full name

Now, let's look at some CV examples so you can see exactly what your high school cover letter should look like.

High School Student Cover letter format

Your high school student cover letter must follow a professional format that includes the following:

• Header: Put your contact information at the top, followed by the date and the employer’s contact information
• Salutation: Address the hiring manager directly
• Body: Your cover letter needs a clear introduction, two to three body paragraphs, and a conclusion
• Closing: End with a professional sign-off

Keep your letter concise, ideally no more than one page. The recipient doesn’t need your whole life story. They just need to see that you have the skills or experience to succeed in a given role. Use a standard format to ensure that your letter is easy to read. If it isn’t, the hiring manager may not give it a second look.

Sample cover letter for high school students

John Sample 123 Main Street Tampa, FL 33812 [email protected] (555) 123-4567

14 November 2023

Suzy Hires Speedy Burger 456 Broadway Ave Tampa, FL 33811

Dear Mrs. Hires,

I am writing to express my interest in the food service role at Speedy Burger, as advertised on your website. As a high school student at Strawberry Crest High School, I have developed a strong foundation in communication, mathematics, and active listening, and I am eager to apply my skills in a real-world setting. My goal is to contribute positively to Speedy Burgers while gaining valuable professional experience.

Throughout my high school career, I have been actively involved in the varsity football and debate teams, which has equipped me with essential skills like punctuality, communication, time management, leadership, and teamwork. For instance, as a member of the varsity football team, I was appointed team captain, which taught me the importance of leading by example. I believe this experience aligns well with the demands of the food service position I am applying for, especially in areas like problem-solving and customer service.

Additionally, my coursework in language arts, social studies, and algebra has helped transform me into a well-rounded student. I am particularly excited about the opportunity to learn and grow at Speedy Burger because it will give me a chance to exercise these skills in a real-world environment. 

I also look forward to using the teamwork and leadership skills I have acquired as part of my school’s varsity football team in a work setting. I believe I will be a great fit with the existing team and will seamlessly blend into the company culture at Speedy Burger.

I am skilled at using many types of technology, with proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, various operating systems, tablets, and computers. I have utilized these skills in numerous school projects requiring meticulous organization, research, and presentation abilities. I am confident that these competencies will enable me to quickly adapt to and support your company’s needs.

I am enthusiastic about the prospect of joining the team at Speedy Burger and contributing to your success. I am eager to bring my dedication, creativity, and willingness to learn to this role. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of discussing my application with you and can be reached at (555) 123-4567 anytime for an interview.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely, John Sample

Dos and don’ts 

Templates make it easier to compose a great high school cover letter. However, you’ll also need to be wary of a few common mistakes that could make your cover letter for high school students less impactful. Here are some simple dos and don’ts to keep in mind.

• Tailor each cover letter to the specific job and company
• Proofread for spelling and grammatical errors
• Use a professional tone and language
• Repeat everything from your resume
• Use generic phrases like “I’m a hard worker”
• Submit without double–checking the company name and the position you’re applying for

While using high school cover letter templates is a great way to ensure that your application has all the information the company is looking for, you don’t want to just copy and paste the same content for every job. Make sure you tweak your high school student cover letter to reflect the role you’re applying for. 

Additional tips

When crafting your high school student cover letter, make sure to do the following:

• Research the Company: Demonstrate some knowledge about the company to make your cover letter stand out
• Be Authentic: Your cover letter should sound like you, not a template
• Follow Up: If you haven’t heard back within a week or two, it’s okay to send a polite follow-up email
• Ask for Feedback: If possible, have a teacher, counselor, or parent review your cover letter before you send it
• Use Examples: Concrete examples are more impactful than simply stating that you have a certain skill

After you’ve found a high school cover letter template you like, look over some resume examples , too. Remember, you’ll need to pair your cover letter with a great resume that uses a similar format and layout.

The easiest way to make sure your high school resume and cover letter are compatible is to find a matching resume template . Job Seeker has dozens of resume and cover letter templates that are ideal for high school students.

Nail your high school student cover letter with our templates 

Taking the time to perfect your cover letter and resume will help you land that part-time job or internship you’re applying for. However, creating a cover letter for high school students can be a headache, especially if you’ve never written one before. Thanks to Jobseeker’s wealth of resources, templates, and examples, it doesn’t have to be.

Our site features plenty of great tools specially designed to help you master the art of writing a high school cover letter and achieve success. Check out our high school student resume example and craft the perfect resume to go with your new cover letter .

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Sat / act prep online guides and tips, 4 amazing recommendation letter samples for students.

Letters of Recommendation

How important are recommendation letters in a college application? According to William Fitzsimmons, dean of admissions and financial aid at Harvard, they are "extremely important."

If you're a student, examples of great letters of recommendation can help you understand how to get strong letters yourself from your teachers. If you're a teacher, the examples in this guide will inspire you to support your students strongly as they apply to college. Keep reading for four excellent letters from teachers that will get anyone into college , along with expert analysis on why they're so strong.

Important Note: Are you looking for job recommendation letters? If so, check out my great post here!

First, let's understand the role of recommendation letters in your application.

Why are Recommendation Letters Important?

The majority of admissions officers at four-year colleges, especially private schools, emphasize that their process is holistic . They seek to gain a sense of the student as a "whole person," rather than focusing on pieces of who she is based solely on grades and test scores. Since they rarely meet the student in person, the recommendation letters, along with the student's own personal essay, play a huge role in illuminating her intellectual and personal qualities.

That's why recommendation letters from teachers, especially those who know their students well, carry a great deal of weight in applications. A letter that expresses a strong vote of support, as well as highlights a student's impressive academic and personal strengths , can have a powerful effect on that student's chances of admission.

Let's look at some samples of strong recommendation letters, one from an English teacher, another from a physics teacher, the third from a history teacher, and the final one from a math teacher. Then we'll break down exactly why these letters of recommendation are effective.

The first example recommends Sara, a senior who loves to write and read poetry.

Sample Letter #1: Sara the Poet

Dear Admissions Committee, I had the pleasure of teaching Sara in her 11th grade honors English class at Mark Twain High School. From the first day of class, Sara impressed me with her ability to be articulate about difficult concepts and texts, her sensitivity to the nuances within literature, and her passion for reading, writing, and creative expression- both in and out of the classroom. Sara is a talented literary critic and poet, and she has my highest recommendation as a student and writer. Sara is talented at considering the subtleties within literature and the purpose behind authors' works. She produced an extraordinary year-long thesis paper on creative identity development, in which she compared works from three different time periods and synthesized cultural and historical perspectives to inform her analysis. When called upon to give her thesis defense in front of her peers, Sara spoke clearly and eloquently about her conclusions and responded to questions in a thoughtful way. Outside of the classroom, Sara is dedicated to her literary pursuits, especially to poetry. She publishes her poetry in our school's literary magazine, as well as in online magazines. She is an insightful, sensitive, and deeply self-aware individual driven to explore art, writing, and a deeper understanding of the human condition. Throughout the year Sara was an active participant in our discussions, and she always supported her peers. Her caring nature and personality allow her to work well with others in a team setting, as she always respects others' opinions even when they differ from her own. When we held a class debate about gun laws, Sara opted to speak for the side opposite her own views. She explained her choice as motivated by a desire to put herself in other people's shoes, view the issues from a new perspective, and gain a clearer sense of the issue from all angles. Throughout the year, Sara demonstrated this openness to and empathy for the opinions, feelings, and perspectives of others, along with shrewd powers of observation, all qualities that makes her outstanding as a student of literature and burgeoning writer. I am certain that Sara is going to continue to do great and creative things in her future. I highly recommend her for admission to your undergraduate program. She is talented, caring, intuitive, dedicated, and focused in her pursuits. Sara consistently seeks out constructive feedback so she can improve her writing skills, which is a rare and impressive quality in a high school student. Sara is truly a stand-out individual who will impress everyone she meets. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions at [email protected]. Sincerely, Ms. Scribe English Teacher Mark Twain High School

This is a thorough, glowing recommendation for a student that Ms. Scribe clearly knows well. What other features make it stand out as a strong letter of rec?

The Breakdown

Ms. Scribe has a high opinion of Sara and her skills at writing and literary analysis. One way that she expresses this is by using powerful and specific language. She doesn't merely say Sara is a good writer. She says she's articulate about difficult concepts and sensitive to the nuances within literature. She calls her insightful and self-aware with shrewd powers of observation.

These descriptors don't happen by accident. Ms. Scribe took the time to choose her words carefully , and that effort paid off with a strong letter that captures Sara's special qualities.

Ms. Scribe also supports her characterization of Sara with examples . She describes her thesis paper and how she responded to questions thoughtfully under the pressured situation of her thesis defense. She gives the example of the debate on gun laws to illustrate Sara's openness to many different points of view.

In addition to illuminating her intellectual and personal strengths and supporting them with specific examples, Ms. Scribe speaks to Sara's goals for the future. She points out that she is talented at writing, poetry specifically, and that she is committed to continuing to improve as a writer in her future.

This letter, by virtue of its wording, length, and specificity, shows that Ms. Scribe took the time and effort to recommend Sara thoughtfully and with conviction. The fact that she knows Sara well and is committed to helping her application succeed with a thoughtful letter further adds weight to her assessment.

This letter would be a boon to Sara's application, especially if she's applying to study writing or English. She clearly impressed her English teacher and, in return, got a memorable, complimentary letter of recommendation for her college application.

This next example is similarly enthusiastic and detailed. It's for a student applying to an engineering program.

Sample Letter #2: Stacy the Engineer

Dear Admissions Committee, It is a great pleasure to recommend Stacy for admission to your engineering program. She is one of the most exceptional students I have encountered in my 15 years of teaching. I taught Stacy in my 11th grade honors physics class and advised her in Robotics Club. I am not surprised to find out she is now ranked at the top of an extraordinarily capable class of seniors. She has a keen interest in and talent for physics, math, and scientific inquiry. Her advanced skills and passion for the subject make her an ideal fit for your rigorous engineering program. Stacy is a perceptive, sharp, quick individual with a high aptitude for math and science. She is driven to understand how things work, whether they be the old computer hard drives in the school library or the forces that hold our universe together. Her final project in class was especially impressive, an investigation of frequency-dependent sound absorption, an idea that she said was sparked by not wanting to bother her parents with her hours of guitar practice at home. She's been a strong leader in Robotics Club, eager to share her knowledge with others and learn new skills. I have the students in the club prepare lessons and take turns leading our after-school meetings. When it was Stacy's turn, she showed up prepared with a fascinating lecture on lunar nautics and fun activities that got everyone moving and talking. She was our only student teacher to be met with much deserved applause at the end of her lesson. Stacy's personal strengths are as impressive as her intellectual accomplishments. She's an active, outgoing presence in class with a great sense of humor. Stacy's the perfect person to get a group project rolling, but she also knows how to sit back and let others take the lead. Her cheerful nature and openness to feedback means she's always learning and growing as a learner, an impressive strength that will continue to serve her well in college and beyond. Stacy is just the kind of driven, engaging, and curious student that helped make our classroom a lively environment and safe place to take intellectual risks. Stacy has my highest recommendation for admission to your engineering program. She has demonstrated excellence in all that she puts her mind to, whether it's designing an experiment, collaborating with others, or teaching herself to play classical and electrical guitar. Stacy's endless curiosity, combined with her willingness to take risks, leads me to believe there will be no limit to her growth and achievements in college and beyond. Please don't hesitate to contact me at [email protected] if you have any questions. Sincerely, Ms. Randall Physics Teacher Marie Curie High School

Ms. Randall is clearly as much of a fan of Stacy as she is of Mileva Marić. How does she communicate her recommendation?

Ms. Randall plugs for Stacy right off the bat with a statement of outstanding ranking : Stacy is one of the most exceptional students she's had in 15 years of teaching. A statement like this is pretty extraordinary and will make an impact in the mind of its readers. Stacy sounds like a special student, and she chose her recommender well.

Like in the last example, this letter uses strong, specific language , calling Stacy a perceptive and sharp person who has the confidence and good humor to take intellectual risks. Through its accurate and expressive language, this letter helps Stacy come to life in the mind of the reader.

Beyond the evaluation, Ms. Randall gives specific examples of Stacy's academic and personal strengths. She talks about her successful teaching in Robotics Club, her leadership in group projects, and her dedicated practice to teaching herself to play the guitar.

Rather than spreading the letter too thin, Ms. Randall highlights a few core themes. She connects Stacy's love of music with her passion for physics by talking about the frequency-dependent sound absorption project. All the threads tie together in a nice, memorable bow.

This letter is a strong vote of support for Stacy's application to an engineering program. Her physics teacher admires Stacy's skills and goals, and she made it clear that Stacy had her highest recommendation in this letter.

This next example also comes from a teacher who's extremely impressed with his student. It focuses on the student's performance in class and his volunteer work outside the classroom.

Sample Letter #3: William the History Buff and Social Organizer

Dear Admissions Committee, It is hard to overstate the meaningful contributions that William has made to our school and surrounding community. As both his 10th and 11th grade History teacher, I've had the pleasure of seeing William make profound contributions both in and out of the classroom. His school and community service is motivated by a strong sense of social justice, which he informs through a nuanced and sophisticated understanding of historical trends and events. I can say with confidence that William is one of the most caring and driven students I've ever taught in my fifteen years at the school. As a child of immigrant parents, William is especially drawn to understand the immigrant experience. He produced an extraordinary semester-long research paper on the treatment of Japanese-Americans in the U.S. during WWII, in which he went beyond all expectations to conduct Skype interviews with relatives of his featured subjects to incorporate into his paper. William has a great capacity to draw connections between past and present and to ground his understanding of current issues in the context of historical events. He never retreats to a simple answer or explanation, but is comfortable dealing with ambiguity. William's fascination with U.S. and World History and skill for deep analysis have him an exemplary scholar, as a well as a motivated activist driven to promote civil rights and work towards social equity. In sophomore year, William noticed that the college planning seminars students attended included little information for first generation or immigrant students. Always thinking about how institutions can better serve people, William spoke with counselors and ESL teachers about his ideas to better support all students. He helped collect resources and design a college planning curriculum for immigrant and undocumented students to enhance their college access. He further helped organize a group that connected ESL students with native English speakers, stating his mission to be helping ELLs improve their English and increasing multicultural awareness and social cohesion at the school as a whole. William identified a need and worked with students and faculty alike to meet it in an extremely effective and beneficial way. Ever the history scholar, he did plenty of research to back up his ideas. William believes passionately in social progress and working for the common good. His own personal experiences, along with his profound grasp on social history, drive his advocacy work. He is a talented, intelligent student with the charisma, confidence, strong values, and respect for others to make a huge difference in the world around him. I'm looking forward to seeing all the good that William continues to do for his fellow humanity in college and beyond, as well as the excellent work that he will produce at the college level. William has my highest recommendation. If you have any questions, please contact me at [email protected]. Sincerely, Mr. Jackson History Teacher Martin Luther King, Jr. High School

Mr. Jackson's letter makes William sound like a pretty amazing student and person. How does he go about expressing his admiration for William in this rec letter?

Like Ms. Randall did in her letter, Mr. Jackson provides a statement of outstanding ranking for William, calling him one of the most caring and driven students he's ever taught. Considering his long teaching career of 15 years, this says a lot about William as a student and a person.

Also like in the last example, Mr. Jackson focuses on a few core aspects of William's character. He talks about his love of history and how it informs his social activism. He comments on his exceptional historical scholarship, as well as his personal qualities of caring for those around him and working for the social good.

Mr. Jackson also gives insight into William's personal life , explaining how he has a personal connection to his projects and volunteer work as the child of immigrant parents. This letter reveals that William is a thoughtful, motivated individual who connects his own experiences with his learning and desire to contribute to his community.

The letter also showcases William's exceptional accomplishments by giving specific examples of William's research paper and his work supporting the academic and personal needs of ELL students. Mr. Jackson expresses his enthusiastic recommendation while illuminating William's love of learning and strength of character. This letter would be both impressive and memorable to admissions officers considering William for admission to their school.

This next example comes from a math teacher. Let's see what Mr. Wiles has to say about Joe.

Sample Letter #4: Joe the Hard Worker

Dear Admissions Committee, It is my pleasure to recommend Joe, who I taught in my 11th grade math class. Joe demonstrated tremendous effort and growth throughout the year and brought a great energy to class. He has that combination of a positive attitude and the belief that he can always improve that's rare in a high school student, but so essential to the learning process. I am confident that he will continue to display the same commitment and diligence in everything he does. I highly recommend Joe for admission to your school. Joe would not describe himself as a math person. He's told me on several occasions that all the numbers and variables make his mind go fuzzy. Joe did, in fact, struggle to comprehend the material at the beginning of the year, but his response to this is what really struck me. Where so many others have given up, Joe took on this class as a welcome challenge. He stayed after school for extra help, got extra tutoring at the nearby college, and asked questions in and out of class. Due to all his hard work, Joe not only raised his grades, but he also inspired some of his classmates to stay after for extra help, as well. Joe truly demonstrated a growth mindset, and he inspired his peers to adopt that valuable perspective, too. Joe helped contribute to our classroom environment as one where all students can feel supported and able to ask questions. Joe's strong belief in his ability to acquire new skills and improve through practice was likely shaped by his years as a baseball player. He's played all through high school and is one of the team's most valuable players. In his final for our class, Joe designed an impressive project calculating and analyzing batting averages. While he initially described himself as not a math person, Joe reaped the benefits of his tremendous effort and found a way to make the subject come alive for him in a way that he was personally invested in. As a teacher, it is incredibly fulfilling to witness a student make this kind of academic and personal progress. Joe is a trustworthy, reliable, good-humored student and friend who supports others in and out of the classroom. He was a pleasure to have in class, and his positive attitude and belief in himself, even in the face of difficulty, is an immensely admirable asset. I'm confident that he will continue to demonstrate the same diligence, perseverance, and optimism that he showed myself and his peers. I highly recommend Joe for admission to your undergraduate program. Please feel free to contact me with any further questions at [email protected]. Sincerely, Mr. Wiles Math Teacher Euclid High School

While the students featured in the first three examples were top of their class or demonstrated leadership in the school, Joe isn't a top achiever in the traditional sense. However, this recommendation is still a strong one, even if it says he struggled in the teacher's class. What does Mr. Wiles focus on to recommend Joe?

Mr. Wiles writes a strong letter for Joe, with the same kind of enthusiasm and specific examples as the other three letters. Even though Joe may not have gotten the strongest grades in his math class, he found an enthusiastic recommender in his math teacher. Mr. Wiles was extremely impressed with Joe's attitude, effort, and growth mindset , which he demonstrated throughout the year and inspired in his fellow classmates.

Mr. Wiles focuses on Joe's substantial personal strengths, ones that would likely be impressive to his future educators. Even in a subject that may not come naturally to him, Joe is diligent and committed. He's not self-conscious about asking questions or seeking extra help, and he retains a strong belief in himself that he can continuously learn, improve, and acquire new skills.

This letter, like the others, is effective because it is focused, supportive, and backed up with examples. As you can tell from these examples, recommendations can communicate a great deal about a student. Because of this, they can have a powerful impact on a student's chances of admission. So what can teachers and students do to make sure they are sending a strong recommendation letter that will help their chances?

Enthusiasm is key.

How to Get a Strong Recommendation Letter

While these letters are about different students with different interests, they share certain fundamental features. One, they sound excited and enthusiastic. The teachers clearly communicate that they are impressed by these students and eager to help them get into college.

At the same time, the letters don't go overboard because they have examples to back up their assessments. Specific examples and stories are key for backing up the assessment. Plus, they make a letter more interesting and memorable. Rather than just another engineering applicant, Stacy is the student who researched sound-absorption to spare her parents from hours of guitar scales.

Finally, the teachers all discuss their students' personal strengths , along with their academic strengths. They present the holistic view that admissions officers are looking for, along with their strong vote of confidence in the students' future success.

Teachers should incorporate all these features into their letters, and students should help provide them with the raw material to write about. While students should choose a teacher who knows them well and has stories and observations to share, they should also give their teachers a detailed "brag sheet" and let them know what would go into their ideal letter. That way it can be even more personalized and complement the story the student is telling in the rest of her application.

While recommenders may or may not share their letters with students, there should still be open, two-way communication when the student makes her request . That way students and teachers can work together to produce an insightful, enthusiastic, and specific letter of recommendation to send to colleges.

What's Next?

Are you a teacher writing recommendations for your students? Read all about how to write an outstanding recommendation letter for your students , along with what not to include.

Are you or a student you work with applying to a selective school, like Harvard? Learn about what kind of letter she should get for the Ivy League.

Now that you've read these examples of strong teacher recommendation letters, check out these examples of bad ones . Warning: rec letters may appear better than they actually are.

Rebecca graduated with her Master's in Adolescent Counseling from the Harvard Graduate School of Education. She has years of teaching and college counseling experience and is passionate about helping students achieve their goals and improve their well-being. She graduated magna cum laude from Tufts University and scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT.

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How to Write a Strong Letter of Recommendation for College

If you’re a college counselor, coach, teacher, or mentor looking to support your college-bound students, chances are you’ve been asked to write a strong letter of recommendation. Stand-out letters of recommendation can give students a serious leg-up during college admissions. According to a 2024 post from Admit Report , college admissions officers will read as many as than 50,000 applications per admission cycle for a given university.

With that much competition, it can take a lot to help your student stand out. So, what catches an admissions officer’s eye? Strong letters of recommendation.

In that same survey, admissions counselors said letters of recommendation were more important to them than a student’s extracurricular activities, AP test scores, or even class rank. That means it’s worth putting a little extra effort into your next letter. Here’s how to write a college letter of recommendation that will blow the admission committee’s socks off. 

Need more help? Check out Going Merry’s high school counselor hub for email templates, how-to’s, and other resources.

Introduction

The introduction is one of the most important parts of your letter. This is your chance to hook the reader and draw them in. Here’s how to ace one common recommendation letter format. 

1. Open with a formal salutation

Your letter of recommendation should begin like any business letter. Keep in mind that, while common, “Dear Sir or Madam,” can feel gendered or outdated. “To Whom It May Concern,” is acceptable but can feel a little impersonal. If you can, find out the name of the admissions director. If you can’t find a direct contact, simply address your letter to “Dear Admissions Counselor.” Be sure to type on your official letterhead to give your letter an even more professional look.  

2. Introduce the student 

Start your first paragraph with a sentence or two explaining how long you’ve known the student and in what capacity. Were you their baseball coach, English teacher, or high school counselor ? Explain how you met. If possible, use a little descriptive detail to bring this anecdote to life, and mention your first impressions of the student. It’s usually standard to use the student’s first and last name upon first mention, then refer to them by their first name going forward.

3. Establish a personal connection 

Next, add a sentence or two demonstrating your connection to the student. This is one of the most crucial parts of writing a strong college letter of recommendation. Admissions officers are looking for endorsements from people who really know the candidate well. If you don’t have a personal connection to the student that goes beyond simply being their teacher or counselor, that’s okay. Remember, you can always say no and encourage them to ask someone else to write their letter instead.

One of the best ways to establish this connection and help a student stand out is to tell a memorable story that illustrates their character. Include an example of a time when their qualities or skills really shone. Maybe this is a story about how they stepped up in a leadership position, reacted well in a moment of success or failure, or went out of their way to help another student. Make sure it’s specific and personalized.

Use this section to paint a picture of this young person and explain what makes them stand out. 

1. Highlight the student’s achievements  

Use the next paragraph to mention the student’s top accomplishments. Keep in mind that the admissions officer will already have the student’s resume and GPA in front of them, so don’t waste time listing a bunch of achievements. 

Instead, mention a specific example or short anecdote that might add color to a prominent resume item. For example, the admissions officer probably already knows that your student is a varsity basketball player or a debate team captain. But if this is the hardest-working student-athlete you’ve ever coached or the most brilliant debater the school has ever seen, that’s worth a mention.

Another tip: While it can be helpful to use a letter template , try to avoid using the same formula for every student on your list. College admissions officers are often assigned to a particular region. That means the same person will likely end up reading the same high school teachers’ or counselors’ letters year after year. If your letters are practically the same for each student, the admissions officer will notice.

2. Speak to the student’s character 

Now that you’ve mentioned a student’s successes, it’s time to explain what personal qualities led to such success. Try to make this part of the letter flow naturally from the previous section. 

This is your chance to talk about the student’s hard work, magnetic personality, or aptitude for learning. That said, it’s best to avoid generic statements and clichés . The phrases “great work ethic,” and “strong team spirit” show up on thousands of letters each year. Instead, use concrete examples and descriptive detail to bring your student’s character traits to life. 

Instead of “He’s thoughtful,” say “He’s capable of discussing even the most complex topics with humility and nuance.” Instead of “She’s intellectually curious,” say, “She thinks like a scientist, and over the last four years, she’s turned in such thoughtful lab assessments that sometimes I worried she was teaching me more than I was teaching her.” It’s that kind of vivid description and personalization that catches the attention of college admissions counselors. 

Also be mindful of racial biases and gender biases in letter writing . If you’re not mindful, these unconscious biases can sneak into your letter and negatively color the admissions officer’s view of your student.

3. Provide context 

Praise doesn’t mean much without context. Be sure to benchmark your student’s achievements against those of their peers. This kind of context gives college admissions counselors a better understanding of the student’s abilities. It will be easier for them to make admissions decisions when they can clearly evaluate a student’s performance relative to others. 

So, for example, a weak recommendation letter might state that a student “writes well and participates often in class.” A strong recommendation letter might say something like, “I’ve taught more than 2,000 students in my time as an educator and I’ve never met someone with such a knack for the written word. Many young people struggle to describe their inner world in vivid detail, but Henry succeeded in capturing both me and his classmates with his thoughtful, relatable prose.”

Your final paragraph is your chance to remind your reader why this student is so unique and deserving of a spot at this particular school. Be sure to follow these general guidelines:  

1. End on a positive note 

Your final paragraph should provide a brief summary of your recommendation so far and express why you believe so strongly in this particular student’s likelihood of success. It’s standard to include your contact information in the conclusion in case the admissions office has any further questions for you. This could include your email or office phone number — whatever you’re comfortable providing.   

2. Use a formal closing

As with your opening, the closing of your letter should be professional and businesslike. “Best Regards,” is a common closing, though “Sincerely,” or “Respectfully,” will also work.

Guidelines to follow as you write 

Writing a strong letter of recommendation isn’t just about what you write – it’s how you write, too. Here are some guidelines to keep in mind.

• Keep it relatively brief: The audience you’re writing for has to evaluate countless recommendation letters just like the one you’re writing. Be respectful of their time and try to keep your letter to around one page in length.
• Be honest and balanced : While it’s important to emphasize the student’s positive qualities, it’s just important to be honest and balanced in your assessment. Avoid exaggerations or misleading statements.
• Tailor the recommendation to the college: Do some research on the colleges the student is applying to and customize your letter accordingly. Highlight traits or experiences that align with the particular college’s values or programs. This shows that you’ve taken the time to understand the student’s goals and aspirations.
• Avoid cliches: Steer clear of overused phrases and generic statements. Instead, provide original and thoughtful insights about the student.
• Use professional language and tone : The admissions process is serious business. Maintain a professional tone throughout the letter and use appropriate language. Avoid slang or informal expressions.
• Proofread and edit : Take the time to review and edit your letter carefully. Check for any spelling or grammatical errors, and ensure that the letter flows smoothly and is well-organized. Consider asking a colleague to proofread it when you’re done.
• Follow the guidelines : If the college or university provides specific guidelines or requirements for the letter of recommendation, make sure to follow them closely. This may include details on formatting, submission methods, or specific questions to address.
• Give yourself enough time to write: Writing a college letter of recommendation can take hours, days, or weeks depending on who you are and your relationship to the student. Give yourself plenty of time to sit down, write a draft, and revisit it to make sure it’s polished enough to submit. 

Support your students with Going Merry 

Letters of recommendation are one of the most critical parts of the college application process . That’s because the rest of a college application is pretty dry. Grades and ACT scores only say so much about a person, and colleges want to see more than just academic performance. 

The best students are born leaders with courage, drive, and personality. A good letter can bring your student to life for an admissions committee and even help sway their decision. 

As a high school counselor, you may write dozens — if not hundreds — of recommendation letters each year. Fortunately, Going Merry can help take the busywork off your plate so you focus on what matters. 

With Going Merry’s high school counselor resource hub, you can find everything from free email templates and financial aid lesson plans, to thousands of scholarships sorted by amount, location, and eligibility requirements. Sign up now or schedule a demo to find out how Going Merry can streamline your workflow. 

Disclaimer: This blog post provides personal finance educational information, and it is not intended to provide legal, financial, or tax advice.

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