high school student resume cover letter examples

High School Student Cover Letter Examples & Writing Guide

• Updated January 23, 2023
• Published January 23, 2023

Are you looking for a High School Student cover letter example? Read our ultimate High School Student cover letter writing guide and learn from tips, examples, and proven strategies to land a job interview.

If you’re a high school student looking to make a difference in the world, summer jobs can be a great way to get your foot in the door. Crafting a strong cover letter can be the key to making a great first impression.

To help you do that, here are some examples and tips to guide you in writing a cover letter for a high school student. Ensure to highlight your skills, experiences, and qualifications that make you the ideal candidate for the job. Show off your knowledge of the company and the industry, and don’t forget to include your availability for summer work.

Finally, make sure to proofread your cover letter for any typos or grammatical mistakes. With these tips, you’ll be sure to make a great impression.

High School Student Cover Letter

Cover letters are an important part of any job application, and high school students are no exception. Whether you are applying for a part-time job or an internship, a well-written cover letter can help you stand out from the competition and get noticed by potential employers.

In this article, we will provide tips and examples on how to write an effective cover letter for high school student positions. We will cover what to include in your letter, how to structure it, and how to showcase your relevant skills and experience.

By following these guidelines, you will be well on your way to writing a standout cover letter that will help you land your dream job or internship.

High School Student Cover Letter Example 1

Dear [Hiring Manager],

I am writing to express my interest in the [insert job] position at your organization. As a dedicated and hardworking student, I am confident that I would be a valuable asset to your team.

Throughout my high school career, I have consistently demonstrated my ability to manage my time effectively and prioritize my responsibilities. I have excelled academically, maintaining a high GPA while also participating in numerous extracurricular activities, including the debate team and volunteer work at a local animal shelter. These experiences have taught me the importance of teamwork and communication, as well as how to balance multiple tasks and deadlines.

In addition, I am eager to learn and take on new challenges. I have a strong desire to make a positive impact in my community, and I believe that this position would allow me to do so while gaining valuable experience and developing my skills.

I am excited about the opportunity to work with your organization and contribute to its success. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to discussing how I can be a valuable addition to your team.

High School Student Cover Letter Example 2

I am writing to express my interest in your company’s [insert job] position. As a recent graduate of [high school name], I am eager to gain real-world experience and contribute my skills to your team.

Throughout my high school career, I have demonstrated a strong work ethic and dedication to my studies. In addition to consistently earning high grades, I have also taken on leadership roles in various extracurricular activities, such as serving as captain of the varsity football team and organizing school-wide charity events. These experiences have taught me the importance of teamwork, communication, and problem-solving, skills that I believe will be valuable assets to your company.

I am confident that my enthusiasm and determination to learn and succeed will make me a valuable addition to your team. I am excited to begin my professional journey and contribute to the success of your company.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my skills and experience can benefit your team.

High School Student Cover Letter Example 3

My name is [Name], and I am a recent high school graduate from [School Name]. I am writing to express my interest in the [Job Title] position advertised on [Job Posting Website]. With my strong academic background and enthusiasm for the role, I am confident that I have the skills and experience necessary to excel in the position.

During my high school career, I have been involved in a variety of activities that have taught me important skills such as communication, problem-solving, and collaboration. I have held multiple leadership positions in the student body, including Student Body President, and have organized a variety of successful events. Furthermore, I have been involved in extracurricular activities like Model UN, which has taught me the importance of public speaking and diplomacy.

I am excited to join the team at [Company Name] and to contribute to the ongoing success of the organization. I am confident that my enthusiasm, experience, and hardworking nature will help me to be a valuable asset to your team. I am eager to discuss the position and my qualifications in further detail.

Thank you for your consideration.

High School Student Cover Letter Example 4

I am a recent high school graduate and am interested in applying for the summer job you recently posted. With my educational background, I believe that I possess the necessary skills and qualifications to be successful in the position.

I am confident that I would make a great addition to your team. I have a strong background in school, including a 4.1 GPA in my senior year and several awards for academic excellence. Also, I have experience working in customer service, having served as a cashier at a local grocery store for the past two years. Additionally, I am highly organized and detail-oriented, and I am confident that I can handle any tasks that you throw my way.

I am excited to learn more about this opportunity and look forward to hearing from you. Please find my resume attached. Thank you for your time and consideration.

High School Student Cover Letter Example 5

My name is [Your Name], and I am a graduating senior at [High School Name]. I am writing to apply for the [Position Name] position that I saw advertised on [Job Search Site].

I am passionate about [Position Description], and I believe that my skills and experience make me an ideal candidate for the job. My academic accomplishments include [School-Related Achievements], and I have gained valuable experience through my involvement in [Extracurricular Activities]. Additionally, I have served as [Volunteer Roles] at [Organization Name], where I have gained valuable skills such as [Skills Gained].

I am confident that I can bring a great deal of value to the [Position Name] role. My goal is to use my skills and knowledge to contribute to the success of the organization. I am eager to learn and develop my skills further.

I have attached my resume for your review. I am excited to discuss my qualifications and experience with you further. Thank you for your time and consideration.

High School Student Cover Letter Writing Tips

Below you will find some general and specific tips that you can use to your advantage when writing your cover letter.

General Tips:

• Keep the cover letter concise and to the point. Don’t exceed one page in length.
• Use a professional and formal tone. Avoid using slang or overly casual language.
• Use proper grammar and spelling. Proofread your cover letter before sending it.
• Use bullet points to highlight your skills and experiences.
• Address the cover letter to a specific person, if possible.
• Customize the cover letter to the specific job and company.
• Keep the cover letter focused on how you can benefit the company, not on what you want from the job.

Specific tips for a High School Student cover letter:

• Mention your relevant coursework and any projects you completed in school.
• Include any extracurricular activities or leadership roles you held in high school.
• Highlight any part-time jobs or internships you have had.
• Mention any skills you have that are relevant to the job, such as computer skills or customer service experience.
• Explain why you are interested in the job and how it relates to your future goals.
• Provide examples of your work ethic and dedication to tasks.
• Close the cover letter with a professional closing, such as “Sincerely” or “Thank you for considering my application.”

Related posts:

• High School Coach Cover Letter Examples & Writing Guide
• High School Basketball Coach Cover Letter Examples & Writing Tips
• Student Assistant Cover Letter Examples & Writing Guide
• Student Services Coordinator Cover Letter Examples & Writing Guide
• School Superintendent Cover Letter Examples & Writing Guide

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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.

Table of Contents

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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High School Student Cover Letter Example

Show that you're serious about your job search with this professional High School Student cover letter sample. You can use this example for free or revise it in our powerful cover letter builder.

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High School Student Cover Letter Example (Full Text Version)

Liesbeth reenkes.

Dear Sir/Madam,

I have read your advertisement on LinkedIn.com regarding the Summer Camp Counselor position and I believe that my skills and qualities make me a great fit for this role and that it would be a great opportunity for me to learn new things, meet new people, and grow not only personally but also professionally.

To shortly introduce myself, I'm a hard-working and dedicated high school student with a proven track record of exceptional academic results, including a perfect GPA of 3.97 and the representation of school at various competitions and contests where I won multiple awards, such as the 1st prize in the National Economics Competition, 2nd prize in the Human Rights Competition, and 3rd prize in the International Aerobics Contest. I am a pro-active individual who likes to participate in various societies and at school, I'm part of the Aerobics Society, Fitness Society, and Tennis Club.

However, my life is not focused only on education and I deeply enjoy getting a "real-world" experience. My work experience includes a job at FieldCore, Inc. where I worked as an Administrative Assistant. There, I was in charge of various tasks, for example, producing professional presentations, improving the existing office procedures, organizing documents, and arranging meetings but my main duty was to provide professional support to managers and supervisors with any tasks as required.

I am a self-driven person with the ability to work and perform well in team environments and to remain calm in stressful situations. Offering excellent time management skills, a highly professional attitude, and determination to achieve great results, I also have the experience of working as a Class Treasurer and Street Fundraiser. I'm passionate about working with other people and am able to use various software programs like MS Office, ProofHub, Netsuite, Trello, and Slack.

Thank you for your attention.

Liesbeth Reenkes

High School Student

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 23.2 percent of high school students participated in the labor force in October 2021. Besides gaining work experience for your further career growth, having a job can certainly teach you valuable skills, such as teamwork, leadership or cooperation. That said, it is only natural that many high school students are eager job seekers. And there is no better way to land a job than to advertise yourself with a professionally written cover letter.

Milan Šaržík, CPRW

Milan’s work-life has been centered around job search for the past three years. He is a Certified Professional Résumé Writer (CPRW™) as well as an active member of the Professional Association of Résumé Writers & Careers Coaches (PARWCC™). Milan holds a record for creating the most career document samples for our help center – until today, he has written more than 500 resumes and cover letters for positions across various industries. On top of that, Milan has completed studies at multiple well-known institutions, including Harvard University, University of Glasgow, and Frankfurt School of Finance and Management.

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Similar job positions

University Student Humanities Student High School Student Natural Sciences Student Social Sciences Student Professions And Applied Sciences Student Formal Sciences Student Student Internship

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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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High School Student Cover Letter Example

Before you start writing your cover letter, make sure to know how to write your cover letter mainly when you are applying for a High School Student job role. Ensure to emphasize your strengths, academic credentials, and experience if any.

Whether you are writing s sorority cover letter, or putting together a cover letter, and resume for your first job, it could be difficult to get started without knowing the proper tips, and tricks. It would be tougher to write a great teen Cover letter without having any real work experience. And, even if you have experience, it may probably not be related to the job you are applying for now. So how to write a cover letter that will present you as a qualified candidate? We have presented below two High School Student Cover Letter Samples – one for no experience category and the other for those having ample experience! Have a look at them, and pick the right one that suits your requirements!

• Cover Letters

The High School Student job description varies based on the type of organization, the student is planning to apply for! Some of the general duties include – working as assistants to the main professional, assisting various departments with clerical, and administrative tasks, completing data entry tasks, and reporting issues to the management.

What to Include in a High School Student Cover Letter?

Roles and responsibilities.

• Acting as the first point of contact between the customers and the management, organization, or facility.
• Completing front desk operations, and clerical tasks .
• Checking emails, and replying to the emails as needed and appropriate.
• Routing calls to appropriate departments.
• Communicating with customers and acting as a bridge between them and the upper management.
• Providing support to all departments.

Education & Skills

High school student skills:.

• Communication skills to converse well with all levels of management, and people coming from different walks of life.
• Guest service, friendly and professional disposure.
• Hard-working and responsible.
• Fantastic learning skills.
• The ability to use MS Office and relevant software.
• Tech-savvy.

High School Student Education Requirements:

• High school diploma or GED.
• Training or apprenticeship from technical school.

High School Student Cover Letter Example (Text Version)

Dear Mr./Ms.

I am writing you this letter about the job placement you have made for the Business Development Intern. My academic and professional aspirations correspond with the internship’s stated goals, and I am confident that I am qualified for the position.

I’ve taken a couple of courses related to business development and entrepreneurship from online sources like XYZ Ed-tech. I graduated from AAA High School. In addition to receiving a silver medal in academics, I participated in a variety of extracurricular activities during my academic year.

I was Student Council’s cultural secretary. I efficiently managed all the events and festivals that were scheduled throughout my term. I volunteered at PQR Hospital’s 10-day medical camp.

A quick look into my highlighting qualifications-

• Graduated with a GPA of 9.0.
• Accoladed by physicians and management throughout the medical camp.
• XYZ ed-tech provided a scholarship for outperforming the course.
• As cultural secretary, I planned, coordinated, and conducted a wide variety of cultural events.

Your organization is a leading light in your industry. I realize the importance of maintaining a balance between learning and taking leadership. I consider myself a suitable high school intern who will contribute fully as a good team member while honing my capabilities.

I would be delighted to discuss further with you in the weeks to come about the position in your esteemed organization. Should you be requiring any additional information, I would be pleased to share it. Please feel free to contact me. I Appreciate your while and thought in this regard.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

High School Student Cover Letter Example with No Experience(Text Version)

I am writing you this letter about the job placement you have made for a new Graphic designing intern. My academic and professional aspirations correspond with the internship’s stated goals, and I am confident that I’m a great fit for this job.

I’ve taken a few courses related to Logo designing and Graphic designing from online sources like XYZ Ed-tech. I graduated from ABC High School. In addition to excelling in academics, I participated in various extracurricular activities during my academic year. In School Council, I served as Class Secretary. I designed the school magazine’s logo and edited and picked photographs for it. I am proficient in UX design, photo editing, and digital technologies such as HTML, among other things.

• Graduated high school with a 9.5 GPA.
• Accoladed by teachers and administration for designing aesthetically attractive magazine cover pages.
• Won three logo design competitions.

Your company is a shining example in your field. I recognize the significance of striking a balance between learning and taking on leadership. I believe I am an appropriate high school intern who will participate as a good team member while refining my skills.

Want to land your first job while in high school? Go through our High School Student Cover Letter guide and get your foot in the professional world –

• Choose your right high school student cover letter format – Stay professional, make your margins set to one-touch, and go with single or 1.15 line spacing. Also, pick an elegant 11 or 12pt size font.
• Create a professional header – mention your name and full contact address, list your phone number, email, and social media handles, and specify the city and date. Want to score an extra brownie point? Address the hiring manager with his/her name!
• Open with a strong personal greeting, and write a compelling first paragraph – address the employer by name but don’t forget to prefix Dear; and highlight your professional achievement
• Exhibit all values to show them that you are a perfect candidate for this post – boost your additional strengths, wins, and achievements; and use numbers to show your achievements
• Explain why you want this job, more than any other one!

For Game-changing Resumes, refer to our extensive range of High School Student Resume Samples that can be used for no experience, and experienced applicants.

Customize High School Student Cover Letter

Get hired faster with our free cover letter template designed to land you the perfect position.

Related Education Cover Letters

• English (UK)
• Resume Examples

High School Student Resume Examples & Writing Guide

You’re a high school student who wants to land your first full-time job or internship. Show the managers how valuable you are with this great resume for high school students.

You read Catch-22 in English class last year—now you’re living it. Why?

You’re writing a high school student resume to land your first job or internship—but don’t have any experience to show. Luckily, you’re about to learn how to make a resume for high school students so good, they’ll think you’re the valedictorian.

In this guide, you'll see:

• High school resume examples that will help you land your first job.
• A high school resume template that suits your needs.
• A full breakdown of how to write a resume for high school students that gets interviews.
• Best skills to add to your high school student resume. 

Save hours of work and get a job-winning resume like this. Try our resume builder with 20+ resume templates and create your resume now.

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Have you already graduated from high school? Go here:

• High School Graduate Resume

First, let's take a look at three resume examples for high schoolers with varying degrees of work experience.

High School Resume Examples

As a high schooler, you might already have plenty of entry-level work experience. Conversely, you might be looking for your first job ever. Each of these types of resumes requires a slightly different approach. Below are three resume samples to help you visualize your end goal: a complete job application for a high school student with no experience, part-time experience, or plenty of work history.

#1 High School Resume Example With No Proper Work Experience

Jill Kikorski

High School Senior

Personal Info

Phone: 513-365-6607

E-mail: [email protected]

linkedin.com/in/jillkikorski_p

Enthusiastic high school senior with a passion for politics. Seeking to leverage top scores in Social Science (102%) and volunteering experience at a nonprofit voter awareness organization to deliver on all major KPIs as an intern at the Cuyahoga County Government Office.

Cuyahoga Heights High School,

Garfield Heights, OH

Expected Graduation: 2024

Relevant Coursework: AP US History, Intro to Government, AP European History

• Vice president of the student council
• Member of the debate & political science clubs

Student Delegate

Model United Nations

June 2021–November 2023

• Represented two countries for numerous UN committees with pre-set topics for debate.
• Researched the background of the countries and prepared notes on possible solutions to the problems faced.
• Provided strong leadership and guidance to the team, resulting in a top-3 delegation finish.
• Achieved a 95% committee resolution rate.

Volunteer Experience

VoterVoice,

March 2022 - Current

• Delivered speeches to increase voter awareness
• Collected donations for voter education campaigns
• Distributed informational flyers at local events to promote civic engagement
• Strong research and analytical skills
• Effective written and verbal communication
• Public speaking and debate
• Problem-solving
• Negotiation
• Microsoft Office Suite
• Time Management
• Spanish - bilingual

Certifications

• Microsoft Office Specialist Expert, Microsoft, January 2019

#2 High School Resume Sample With Part-Time Experience

Enthusiastic high school senior passionate about delivering exceptional customer service in a fast-paced environment. Achieved a 98% on-time delivery rate, exceeding company standards as a delivery driver. Seeking a cook position at Grillfield to contribute my grilling expertise and dedication to quality food preparation.

• Member of the cooking club

Pizza Delivery Driver

PizzaMia, Garfield Heights, OH

June 2022–Present

• Ensured timely and accurate delivery of pizzas to customers, maintaining high customer satisfaction.
• Implemented efficient route planning, resulting in a 15% reduction in delivery times.
• Demonstrated strong problem-solving skills to address customer concerns and ensure a positive experience.
• Achieved a 98% on-time delivery rate, exceeding company standards.

Grillmaster

Annual Charity Fair, Garfield Heights, OH

September 2021 & 2022

• Led a team of volunteers in preparing and grilling food items for the charity fair.
• Raised $2,000 in charitable donations through engaging food promotions and sales.
• Received recognition for outstanding leadership and culinary skills from event organizers.
• Culinary Arts
• Customer Service
• Route Planning
• Car & Motorcycle Driving
• Problem-Solving
• Effective Written and Verbal Communication

#3 Experienced High Schooler Resume Example

Efficient high school senior with a passion for culinary arts and 2+ years of success working in fast-paced environments. Collaborated with the kitchen team to implement a time-efficient system for grilling, reducing downtime between meal services by 30%. Participated in creating new menu items, resulting in a 20% increase in customer satisfaction. Aiming to bring my strong communication skills and culinary achievements to enhance the dining experience at Wurstfield.

Work Experience

Grill & Doner, Garfield Heights, OH

• Participated in creating new menu items, resulting in a 20% increase in customer satisfaction.
• Collaborated with the kitchen team to implement a time-efficient system for grilling, reducing downtime between meal services by 30%.
• Received recognition for maintaining a consistently clean and organized kitchen workspace.
• Demonstrated exceptional teamwork by consistently achieving a 99% accuracy rate in preparing orders, contributing to a positive and efficient kitchen atmosphere.

January 2021–June 2022

• Food Safety

Now, let’s get started on your high school student resume!

1. Choose the Best High School Student Resume Format

Think of writing your resume for a high school student like a take-home test. The standards for getting an A+ are high.

You need to do your research, use powerful language, and customize your resume for the job you want to land. It won’t be easy—The recruiters will give your resume only a 7-second glance to decide whether you pass or not.

To pass the eye test, make sure your resume isn’t cluttered. Here’s how to make your high school resume format crystal clear:

• Pick a simple resume template . A high school resume template shouldn’t be overdesigned.
• Go with the reverse-chronological resume format , as it is preferred by most recruiters.
• Choose readable resume fonts like Cambria or Times New Roman in 10-12 pt. You want to appear professional and show you’ve done this before.
• Embrace white space by using 1-inch margins and consistent spacing throughout the document.
• Limit your resume length to one page.
• Separate your resume sections . Go with: the resume header , resume profile , education, experience (if you have any), skills, and “additional.”
• Unless instructed otherwise, save your resume as a PDF, rather than DOC . Converting it to PDF ensures your layout works on all software and devices.

Expert Hint: Keep your contact information in the resume header concise. Give your name, professional email address, phone number, optimized LinkedIn URL , and a link to any other of your relevant websites, blogs, or social media profiles. You can also add a catchy resume headline for some extra flair.

2. Write a Catching Resume Objective for a High School Student Resume

Pop quiz! What’s the best way to make your high school student resume stand out?

A pitch-perfect high school resume objective . It’s a short paragraph at the top of your resume that explains what skills will make you a good fit and what you’re hoping to achieve for the company.

• A catchy resume adjective (determined, efficient, enthusiastic).
• Current title (high school senior, high school student).
• One or two accomplishments.
• One sentence explaining what you’re seeking to achieve for the company.

Look at these two high school resume objective examples for reference:

High School Student Resume Objective—Example

High school student graduating next year. Want to gain experience working in an office setting for my college application.

See the difference?

The good high schooler resume example gets to the point—it details the hard work you put in as a student and shows you are knowledgeable in the industry you are applying. Plus, it makes an offer to help achieve the company’s goals.

But if you use the bad example, you’ll be expelled from the applicant pool. It reads generic and provides no value to the recruiter. It doesn’t even use the name of the target organization—you get the feeling the resume is being spammed around to all companies within a 30-mile radius.

Expert Hint: Although the resume objective goes on top of your application, it’s not a good idea to start writing your resume with it. Finish all the other sections first. It’ll make creating a compelling objective much easier.

3. Use Your High School Education to Great Effect

You’ve been in the halls of a school your entire life.

And although it may seem that you have no practical skills and experience… It’s not true. School is where you’ve achieved some of your greatest accomplishments.

Start your resume education section with the basics: list your school name and expected graduation date.

Then, highlight your biggest achievements as a high school student. List any AP or Honors courses you attended under relevant coursework —extra brownie points if they connect with the position you’re applying to. Put your GPA ( especially if it’s above 3.5 ) on your resume since this is the first job you’re applying for or if you’ve recently graduated. And don’t forget about your academic-centered memberships.

Take a look at how this candidate made the education section on the resume for high school students shine with great achievements, and compare it to what you shouldn’t do.

High School Resume Example—Education Section

Cuyahoga Heights High School

Graduation 2024

You get the difference. The bad example just lists a high school and graduation date. It’s less productive than sleeping during class.

The good example shows that you excelled during your time in high school. It signals to the recruiter that you didn’t just get by in high school but achieved and grew—two values much appreciated in the workplace.

4. Add Any Relevant Work Experience to Your High School Resume

You don’t need to have any relevant work experience . Hell, you don’t need to have a resume work experience section at all. But if you have any seasonal or temporary work experience, they will make your resume skyrocket to the top of the pile.

Here’s the best formula to showcase your professional work achievements on your high schooler resume:

• Don’t skim the job ad—read it thoroughly.
• Highlight the skills they are looking for.
• Think about which of them you gained during your previous working experiences.
• Write resume bullets that show those skills and back them up with numbers if you can.

Check these high school resume job descriptions out:

Model Nations

• A student who took part in Model UN Debates at their high school.
• Helped win several as part of the Model UN team.

And again, you’re not expected to have 20+ years of experience at 16 or 18 years old, despite what the internet says. If you’re applying for your first job out of high school, just skip this section and highlight your skills more in the next sections of your high school resume.

Expert Hint:  Writing the perfect resume can seem like a hassle, so cheating can be tempting. But should you relax and let the AI write your resume ? There is nothing wrong with using chatbots for help, but you should develop strong resume-writing skills yourself. They’ll greatly help you in the future.

The ResumeLab builder is more than looks. Get specific content to boost your chances of getting the job. Add job descriptions, bullet points, and skills. Easy. Improve your resume in our resume builder now .

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Nail it all with a splash of color, choose a clean font, and highlight your skills in just a few clicks. You're the perfect candidate, and we'll prove it. Use our resume builder now .

5. Add Important Skills to Your High School Student Resume

Remember the job ad? It’s full of skills your future employer expects you to have. They act as resume keywords for their ATS scans.

An ATS is a software system that recruiters use to weed out applicants whose resumes don’t match the position they are applying to. If you don’t have the right keywords for the position, you’ll likely land in the reject pile automatically. This means you need an ATS-friendly resume .

So, match your skill list with the keywords you find in the job ad. Here are some common examples of skills for a high school student resume:

Skills for a High School Student Resume

• Writing Skills
• Technical Skills
• Marketing Skills
• Management Skills
• Communication Skills
• Problem-Solving Skills
• Project Management Skills
• Analytical Skills
• Workplace Safety
• Critical Thinking Skills
• Time Management Skills
• Active Listening Skills
• OHS Rules & Regulations
• Computer Skills
• Decision-Making Skills
• Creative Thinking Skills
• Administrative Skills
• Leadership Skills

Fair warning, though:

Don’t overload your application with a long list of skills for a resume . No recruiter wants a resume that’s as long as the list of irregular verbs. Pick 5–10 skills, and you’re golden. Also, if possible, try to prioritize hard skills over soft skills . For example, if you’re applying for a receptionist position, use resume keywords like MS Office or your typing speed.

And one more thing. A rather large concern for companies and teen employees is work safety . So, this skill is a rather ubiquitous one and can easily increase the value of your resume.

6. Load Your High School Student Resume With Extra Sections

Every high school student has the same resume sections we explained above. Want to stand out? Add one or two bonus sections to get recruiters to notice you. Choose from:

• Known Languages
• Hobbies & Interests
• Completed Courses
• Publications
• Memberships

Adding 1–3 of them is how you can upgrade your resume as a high school student.

Look at this great example of extra sections:

• Cooking Spanish cuisine
• Watching nature documentaries

You see how the first high school resume template shows key skills and provides additional experience and achievements. This is how you should do it.

Meanwhile, the second candidate doesn’t present anything valuable unless they apply at a Spanish restaurant.

Expert Hint: Don’t forget to learn how to write a cover letter . Most jobs require it—and it’s where you can give more details about your passions and interests.

Double your impact with a matching resume and cover letter combo. Use our cover letter generator and make your application documents pop out.

CREATE YOUR COVER LETTER NOW

Want to try a different look? There's 21 more. A single click will give your document a total makeover. Pick a cover letter template here .

For a high school student resume that passes with flying colors, remember to:

• Use the provided high school student resume template . It’s got everything you need.
• Showcase your achievements with a captivating objective . Highlight them further in the later resume sections.
• Detail your educational background . Don’t forget to add relevant awards and classes you took, along with the school name, city, state, and the expected graduation date.
• Highlight your skills . Refer to the job ad and add relevant hard and soft abilities.
• Write a high school cover letter . A cover letter with no experience is extremely effective at boosting your chances of landing your first job.

And if you’re looking for related guides, check out any of these:

• College Application Resume
• College Graduate Resume
• College Student Resume
• Graduate School Resume
• Internship Resume
• No Experience Resume
• Scholarship Resume
• Student Resume
• Teen Resume

Do you have questions on how to write a great high school student resume with no experience? Not sure how to present your high school education on a resume? Leave a comment. We’ll be happy to reply.

Mariusz is a career expert with a background in quality control & economics. With work experience in FinTech and a passion for self-development, Mariusz brings a unique perspective to his role. He’s dedicated to providing the most effective advice on resume and cover letter writing techniques to help his readers secure the jobs of their dreams.

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• Resume Examples
• High School Student Resume Template & Examples for 2024

High School Student Resume Template & Examples for 2024

Our customers have been hired by:

Whether it’s after-school jobs to save for a car, or weekend jobs to prep for college, you’re eager to crack your knuckles and get to it—ready to write a high school student resume and score that teen job. 

Well, to get the good ones that pay, you’ll need an application that stands out. So let’s find out how to make a high school resume as exciting as summer break.

This high school student resume guide will show you:

• High school student resume examples better than 9 out of 10 other resumes.
• How to write a high school student resume that gets more job interviews.
• Tips on how to put skills and achievements on resumes for high school students.
• How to describe any work experience you have to get any teen jobs you want.

Want to save time and have your resume ready in 5 minutes? Try our resume builder. It’s fast and easy to use. Plus, you’ll get ready-made content to add with one click. See 20+ resume templates and create your resume here .

Sample resume made with our builder— See more resume samples here .

We have resume guides and resume templates no matter which level of education you’ve accomplished:

• College Freshman Resume
• College Graduate Resume
• College Student Resume
• High School Graduate Resume
• High School Resume Templates
• Resume for a Part-Time Job
• Resume for College Applications
• Scholarship Resume
• Student Resume Templates
• Sample Resumes for Different Jobs

Now, let’s get started writing your resume as impressive and incapable of doing wrong as Jackson from Sex Education . And in the meantime, let's see some good and bad high school resume examples that will teach us a lesson!

Highschool Resume Example

Daphne Joeckel High School Graduate +1-123-456-789 [email protected] linkedin.com/in/daphne.joeckel

Motivated and organized High School Grad from Carolina in Puerto Rico seeking employment as an Entry Level Sales Representative to apply my customer service, communication and computer skills to help grow the company’s revenue. Possess a Certification of Information Technology issued by Computers R Us and am proficient in Spanish and English languages.

Cashier Carolina Grocery Store, Carolina, PR May 2019–July 2019

Key Qualifications & Responsibilities

• Ran the cash register, processed payments, bagged groceries, restocked shelves, handled customer inquiries.
• Cooperated with customers to identify their needs then provided advice and recommendations.

Key Achievement:

• Reduced wait times by 40% by quickly identifying common items for faster checkout.

Internship Carolina Computer Shop, Carolina, PR June 2018–August 2018

• Installed software updates on computers and repaired malfunctioned machines while keeping customers up-to-date on progress.
• Troubleshot technical issues by diagnosing hardware problems under the supervision of senior technicians.
• Was able to solve over 20 complex technical issues each week as part of a dedicated team of interns at Computers R Us.

High School Diploma Carolina High School, Carolina, PR August 2015–May 2019

Relevant extracurricular activities

• Member of the Robotics Club where I was responsible for leading weekly meetings discussing robotics trends.
• Sports Enthusiast actively participating in multiple sports tournaments with the school teams.

Academic achievements:

• Received honors in Mathematics, Science, and Technology courses throughout high school years.
• Volunteer work for local organizations including fundraising events for charity projects involving disadvantaged children from impoverished communities building educational resources and providing medical assistance.
• Customer Service
• Communication
• Computer Skills
• Time Management
• Attention to Detail
• Problem Solving
• Microsoft Office Suite

Certifications

• Certificate of Information Technology, Computers R Us, 2019
• Academic Honors in Mathematics, Carolina High School, 2018

Memberships

Member of the Robotics Club, Carolina High School, 2015-2019

• Led weekly meetings discussing robotics trends.
• Represented the school in multiple robotics competitions.
• Spanish-Native
• English-Fluent
• Video editing and graphic design using Adobe Creative Suite.
• Creating music mixes using professional DJ software.
• Playing the piano and guitar.

What’s the Best Format for a High School Student Resume?

Like teachers grading tests, hiring managers scan each resume to see who passes. According to our HR statistics report, hiring managers scan your resume in less than 7 seconds.

Don’t pass that initial glance, and it’s back to the drawing board for you. So—

Use the chronological resume format .

This resume layout keeps your high school resume in order like a Trapper Keeper. Hiring managers and HR staff love this resume format as it’s already familiar.

Here’s what to put on a resume as a high school student:

• Start with the right contact details so the employer is able to get in touch.
• Write a captivating resume objective for your heading statement.
• Document your current high school education thus far.
• Add past or current teenage work experience, if you have it.
• Prove your teen resume accomplishments by using numbers.
• List your student resume skills which match what they’re looking for.
• Include extracurricular activities, volunteer work, and other resume sections.
• Use relevant resume keywords to tailor your resume to the job description.

Also—

To guide the employer’s eyes easily through your resume sections , use plenty of white space and clear section headings.

Choose the best resume fonts to keep it legible and easy to read.

Finally, according to the Trachtenberg School of Public Policy, write your resume in line with the three Cs : make it clear, concise, and compelling. Keep that at the front of your mind as we dive in.

Pro Tip : Save your high school student resume as a PDF. The PDF format guarantees the employer sees it as you intended, no matter which device they choose to view it on.

Not convinced using the reverse-chronological format is right for your high school resume? There are other options. See our guides: Best Resume Format: What Resume Model to Choose? [+ Resume Format Examples]   and  How to Build a Resume

2. How to Put Contact Information on a Resume for High School Students

If there’s one thing you know how to do on a high school resume, it’s your contact information section, right?

Not so fast—

Before you skip this section, know this: you can easily screw this part up.

Avoid a failing resume contact info section by following these tips:

Name (& Subtitle, Optionally)

Write your first name followed by your last name. Optionally, consider adding a subtitle below your name to act as a branding statement, such as “Personable High School Senior.”

Mailing Address

Several jobs in your area may prefer local candidates, for tax purposes, commute time, etc., whether it’s NYC or Riverdale. Check the job ad to see if you ought to add it. Also, if you hand in a physical resume (as opposed to email), add your address.

Email Address

As the preferred means of communication in the modern age, it’s the most crucial contact info you’ll add. Keep it professional (e.g., [email protected] ) instead of your middle school handle (e.g., [email protected] ).

Phone Number

Add your personal cell phone, if you own one, rather than your house phone. Don’t add two numbers on your resume template for high school students, because it’s harder to keep track.

LinkedIn URL

As the premier professional networking platform, you’ll need a LinkedIn profile sooner or later. If you already have one now while you’re in high school… damn, kid, you’re going places!

Social Media

Add relevant social media, like Behance for designers. Facebook and Twitter are rarely useful on a high school resume, but employers often google and find you anyway, these days. Check your online presence to make sure there are no embarrassing pics, and set profiles to private.

Blog or Website

Do you have a personal website, portfolio, or blog? If it’s relevant, add your URL to show it off! Make sure it’s properly hyperlinked on your PDF version so the employer can go straight to it (same with the social media and LinkedIn URLs).

Pro Tip : You know how you listed your cell phone digits? Change your voicemail to be professional. You don’t want to lose out just because you had a corny message (“Sorry, can’t come to the phone right now, probably either wasted or in detention!”)

3. How to Write a High School Student Resume Objective

When I gave a class presentation, I appreciated any fellow classmates snoozing. You know, to feel less nervous.

Don’t pull that same stunt here—

On a resume template for high school students, you need to grab their attention and keep ‘em intrigued with a compelling heading statement.

Now, if you have worked a job during your teenage years already, we normally tell you to write a resume summary .

However, any teen jobs you’ve held aren’t lengthy enough to be considered “experienced,” so do the same as a resume for high school students with no experience—

Write a resume objective .

The objective statement explains your goals and the position and experience you’re hoping to obtain. You’ll emphasize skills to show them you have what it takes to be their next great employee. Add a numbered achievement to prove your worth.

Here are two sample resume objectives for high school students:

High School Student Resume Example—Objective

See the difference in these high school student resume examples?

That wrong one will get you immediately suspended—from the applicant pool. But how about that right one!

You might have a high school student resume with no work experience, but you talked up relevant classroom knowledge. Also, you gave some numbers to verify your claims of greatness. Finally, you used the company’s name so they know you’re not just spamming this resume out to the entire school district.

You’re on your way to schooling the other candidates!

Pro Tip : The resume objective goes first on your high schooler resume, but don’t write it first. Save it for last so you’re able to use the rest of your resume to guide its writing.

Want more advice on writing a career objective on a high school resume for teen jobs? Check out our guide: General Resume Objective Examples [20+Examples of Great Career Objectives]

When making a resume in our builder, drag & drop bullet points, skills, and auto-fill the boring stuff. Spell check? Check . Start building a  professional resume template here for free .

When you’re done, our online resume builder will score your resume and our resume checker will tell you exactly how to make it better.

Highlight Your Education on Your High School Resume

You don’t want your resume to become a dank meme 15 minutes after you send it. Well—

If you write a high school resume with a poor education section, that’s the only way the employer will keep it around.

Here’s how to list   high school on resume   for students:

High Schooler Resume Example—Education Section

I.S. 141 The Steinway High School

Long Island City, NY

Relevant Coursework : Culinary Arts, Food & Nutrition

Expected Graduation : 2020

Membership : National Honor Society

How to Write a High School Resume Education Section

For your high school resume section, include the full name of your high school, the city and state it’s located in, and your expected graduation date. Include your GPA if it's a 3.5 or higher and list any courses that are relevant to the job. AP, Dual Credit, and Honors courses are also a great addition to your high school resume.

In other words, stand out by going above and beyond. Our example above is festooned with extras, and the only thing to remember is to keep it relevant.

Here, we listed coursework relevant for a high school student aiming for a job in food service.

It also shows this candidate is a high achiever with that NHS membership.

That’s an undeniable A++!

Pro Tip : Thinking about adding your GPA to the resume for high school students? Think carefully—if you don’t have as close to a 4.0 as possible, you’re only hurting your chances by adding it.

Got another educational scenario? Check this guide out: Education Resume Section: How to List High School & College Education

5. How to Describe Any Working Experience on a High School Resume

According to the US Department of Labor, the labor force participation of teenagers will decrease by almost 10% between 2016–2024.

But it doesn’t mean you’ll have it easy—

As that article states, teenagers with jobs still account for roughly one-third of all teenagers, so the pool is quite large. On top of that, there are relatively few job positions available which suit teenage employment’s hours, seasonality, and abilities.

So, you’ll have a lot of competition.

How to beat the other high school job candidates?

If you have previous work experience, write a work history section that ranks highest like the valedictorian.

Here are two high school student resume samples:

High School Resume Examples—Work Experience

The wrong one above deserves to be thrown in the Upside Down with the gate shut behind it. It’s missing the choice job duties and numbered professional achievements which make the right one so awesome. Also—

Taken on any online work or freelance gigs ? Or maybe you've tried volunteering?

Add those to your experience section, as well.

Sample High School Resume with No Experience

But what if you have a resume for high school student with no professional experience?

Skip this section and continue below.

Pro Tip : Use a condensed style of writing in your high school resume. Leave out pronouns, conjunctions, articles, and transition words to make it brief but impactful. Do that in every section of your student resume , not just here in your work history.

6. How to Put Skills on a High Schooler Resume

You’ve got mad talent, right? But—

So does every other kid in your high school.

Show the employer you pass the test and they can pass on the rest with a skills section that makes them swoon with delight.

Which resume skills, though?

For starters, make a brief list of basic skill sets you have, like this one below.

Include hard skills and soft skills  on your high schooler resume. Hard skills are those you learn (e.g., Google Docs), while soft skills are those you develop passively over a lifetime (e.g., analytical skills).

High School Student Skills Examples Employers Look For

• Technical Skills
• Management Skills
• Marketing Skills
• Project Management Skills
• Problem Solving Skills
• Analytical Skills
• Critical Thinking Skills
• Time Management Skills
• Active Listening Skills
• Writing Skills
• Creative Thinking
• Decision-Making Skills
• Effective Communication Skills

However—

Cramming your high school resume with just any skills won’t get it crowned prom monarch.

Don’t do it.

Rather, go back to the job ad and use it like the best exam cheat sheet ever.

Here’s a sample prep cook job description for high school student applicants:

• Responsible for receiving food items and supplies as requisitioned and prepares these items for production  [1]
• Responsible for assembling and measuring of ingredients as per standard recipe  [2]
• Notifies and communicate plant hazards to supervisor
• Adheres to established work schedules with regard to work days and job assignment as instructed by supervisor, first or second cook
• Uses various equipment and kitchen utensils while performing assigned task
• Operates equipment in a safe manner and cleans all equipment according to established guidelines  [3]  

If you read each job ad carefully, it’s easy to tailor your skills section to match:

Resume Examples for High School Students—Skills Section

That wrong one above is as lovable as the school bully.

Put skills that don’t matter to them, and the only reactions you’ll get are a roll of the eyes and your resume tossed in the bin.

That right example is how you tailor a resume .

Finally, get along with the ATS .

An applicant tracking system is software larger companies use to sort and manage the dozens of high school resumes they get each day.

Employers first scan student resumes into the program. Next, they search for specific resume keywords for each applicant. Then, they receive a score back like a report card based on each candidate’s match to the job description.

Use keywords which the job ad uses and stay close to the wording of the job description so the ATS scores your resume easily.

Pro Tip : The job description may not include all the skills the HR manager will search for in a candidate. In that case, use Glassdoor to get some insight from current and past employees.

Want more tips for writing the skills section for high school student resumes? See our guide: 99 Key Skills for a Resume (All Types of Professional Skills with Examples Included!) .

7. How to Add Other Sections for an Effective High School Resume

Here’s the thing: every high school student up to this point has those past few resume sections.

You need to stand out like a Mardi Gras outfit in a sea of school uniforms.

With additional resume sections.

Extra sections are like electives which you choose to boost your curriculum (vitae, in this case).

On a resume, the right ones will get you noticed.

Here are great options to add on a sample resume for high school student teen jobs:

High School Student Resume Samples: Extra Sections

1.  Certifications

Official certificates look great on your student resume, making up for your lack of life and work experience. Go for relevant ones, such as a food safety certification for food service professions.

2.  Volunteer Experience

Volunteer working experience on high school resumes are an excellent way to add work experience when you don’t have any—or even if you do. Spent time helping out the local animal shelter? That’s job experience!

3.  Language Skills

You’re required to take that French or Spanish class, so put it to work for you. These days, a second language on a resume for students may just be the clincher that gets you in the door.

4.  Hobbies and Interests

Your pastimes and passions offer the hiring managers insight into you, the human. On top of that, they’re a great way to show your skills in an indirect manner.

5. Extracurricular Activities

Not a normie? Extracurriculars on a resume for high school students make employers’ hearts race. Participation in student government, athletics, the student newspaper, drama class, or academic clubs look great and will put you far ahead of the other candidates.

We’ve got a great guide on the best things to add to a resume and a tutorial on resume sections and categories . Check them out!

Pro Tip : Are you feeling intimidated because you’re just a teen and you haven’t earned all these items yet? Don’t worry. While you’re applying, consider getting some experience, earning a certification, or building new skills. Do a one-off gig on Upwork, for example, to gain your first work experience.

8. How About a High School Student Cover Letter?

A resume without a cover letter is like turning in an algebra test without showing your work—

It won’t do.

More than half of all employers say turning in only a resume will have it graded incomplete .

Always include a cover letter .

Here’s how to write a cover letter for high school students they’ll go nuts over:

• Start your introduction in a compelling way that grabs their attention.
• Lay out your case on why you are the best candidate for the teen job offered.
• Add numbered achievements from past work or school to prove your skills.
• Show enthusiasm, drive, and that you will be thrilled to be part of their group.
• End your high school cover letter with a powerful call to action.

Your high school student cover letter is the first impression you’ll have on them—

Make it as strong as the defensive line of your school’s football team.

Pro Tip : Use Grammarly to check your student resume for typos and grammatical errors. Ask your parents or a teacher to make sure the resume reads right and there are no incorrect dates.

Want to know more high school cover letter tricks that always work? See these articles: Professional Cover Letter Tips and How to Write a Job-Winning Cover Letter in 8 Simple Steps (12+ Examples)

Ready for the interview? Prepare yourself with these guides: Best Interview Tips that Always Work , Interview Questions and Answers , and Questions to Ask at an Interview .

Plus, a great cover letter that matches your resume will give you an advantage over other candidates. You can write it in our cover letter builder here.  Here's what it may look like:

See more cover letter templates and start writing.

Key Takeaway

Hopefully you see now that writing a great resume for teenagers is child’s play.

Let’s summarize.

Here’s how to write a high school student resume:

• Use reverse-chronological format . This resume format is the most familiar high school student resume template for hiring managers; it’s easy for them to read and understand.
• Start with a captivating objective . A professional career objective is tailored to the company, tells them your background, and summarizes your candidacy for the job.
• Emphasize your education . Add relevant high school honors, achievements, and classwork along with your school name, city, state, and expected graduation date.
• List your work experience . Add key wins and accomplishments to prove you were great, rather than merely listing job responsibilities.
• Highlight relevant skills . Include both hard skills and soft skills which the job description dictates, and use resume keywords throughout.
• Include extra sections . Add volunteer work, certifications, languages, hobbies, interests, and extracurricular activities to make your high school resume stand out.
• Edit and proofread . Go through it twice yourself to look for any typographical errors or other mistakes. Ask a friend to proofread it for inconsistencies.

Now THIS is a high school resume that graduates at the top of its class!

Got any questions on how to write a resume for high school students? Not sure how to talk about your teen job skills or high school achievements? Get at us in the comments below, and thanks for reading!

About Zety’s Editorial Process

This article has been reviewed by our editorial team to make sure it follows Zety's editorial guidelines . We’re committed to sharing our expertise and giving you trustworthy career advice tailored to your needs. High-quality content is what brings over 40 million readers to our site every year. But we don't stop there. Our team conducts original research to understand the job market better, and we pride ourselves on being quoted by top universities and prime media outlets from around the world.

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High School Student Cover Letter

High school students often face the daunting task of crafting a cover letter that captures their budding potential. This guide on “High School Student Cover Letter Examples ” aims to demystify the process. It provides practical examples, tailored to highlight the strengths and experiences typical of high school students. Moreover, it provides actionable tips on writing a persuasive cover letter, even when formal job experience is scarce. The guide is designed to equip students with the skills necessary to stand out in the competitive job market.

What is High School Student Cover Letter?

A High School Student Cover Letter is a formal letter that high school students send to potential employers to express their interest in a job and highlight their relevant skills, even if they don’t have much professional experience. It’s an opportunity for students to demonstrate their understanding of the role and how their academic, extracurricular, and personal experiences make them a strong fit for the position.

What is the Best Example of High School Student Cover Letter?

Dear [Employer’s Name],

I am writing to express my interest in the [Job Title] position advertised at [Company Name]. Although I am still in high school, I believe that my academic achievements and participation in [mention extracurricular activities or clubs] have equipped me with valuable skills such as [mention specific skills relevant to the job].

For example, as a member of the [mention a club or activity], I have developed strong leadership skills and learned the value of teamwork and commitment. These experiences, along with my strong work ethic and eagerness to learn, make me a promising candidate for this position.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to your team.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Size: 25 KB

Free High School Student Cover Letters – Copy & Paste

High school student cover letter with no experience.

I’m writing to apply for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name], which I learned about from [where you found the job listing]. Although I’m a high school student with no professional work experience, my academic pursuits and extracurricular activities have equipped me with a wealth of skills that align with this role.

Over the past few years, I have cultivated strong [mention a key skill] skills through my involvement in [describe a relevant school project, club or activity]. Additionally, I have demonstrated a keen ability to [mention another key skill] through [describe another relevant experience or achievement].

I am eager to apply my abilities to a professional setting and believe that this position would provide an invaluable opportunity to do so. I am confident that my [mention skills] and passion for [industry] would allow me to contribute positively to your team.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to further discuss my suitability for this position.

How to Use: Highlight your academic and extracurricular activities that have helped you develop the skills you need for the job, even if you don’t have professional work experience. Make sure to tailor this  no experience cover letter to the specific role and company you’re applying to.

Size: 26 KB

High School Student Cover Letter for Internship

I’m writing to express my interest in the internship position available at [Company Name] which I discovered through [source]. As a high school student, I have always been interested in [industry or field], and I see this internship as a remarkable opportunity to enrich my knowledge and skills.

Over the past few years in high school, I have been involved in [describe relevant extracurricular activities or projects], where I demonstrated my [mention a key skill] skills. Additionally, my role in [describe another activity or project] has honed my [mention another key skill].

I am eager to bring my dedication and drive to your esteemed organization and believe this internship would provide an excellent foundation for my future career. I look forward to the possibility of discussing my application further.

How to Use: Make sure to highlight your relevant academic and extracurricular activities that demonstrate your key skills and your eagerness to learn and contribute in your internship cover letter .

High School Student Cover Letter for Senior

As a proactive senior student at [School Name], I am excited to apply for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I have always been drawn to [industry or field] and see this role as an incredible opportunity to explore my interests professionally.

During my high school years, I have excelled academically, especially in subjects relevant to [industry or field]. Moreover, I have been involved in various [extracurricular activities/clubs/projects] where I have showcased my ability to [mention a key skill] and [mention another key skill].

I am confident that my enthusiasm, commitment, and the skills I have cultivated throughout my high school years make me a strong candidate for this position. I look forward to potentially discussing my suitability further.

How to Use: Highlight your academic achievements, activities that have equipped you with the skills required for the job, and express your enthusiasm for the role.

High School Student Cover Letter for Summer Job

I’m writing to express my interest in the [Job Title] summer position advertised at [Company Name]. As an ambitious high school student, I believe this opportunity perfectly aligns with my skills, interests, and enthusiasm to learn and contribute.

Over my high school years, I have actively participated in [mention specific extracurricular activities or part-time work] that honed my skills in [mention a key skill] and [mention another key skill], which I believe are essential for this role. I’m confident that these experiences, combined with my dedication, will make a positive impact on your team.

I am eager to bring my energy, reliability, and passion for learning to this summer role. I look forward to the chance to discuss my application further.

How to Use: This job cover letter emphasizes readiness for a summer job. Highlight your part-time work or relevant experiences, and your commitment to use the summer job as a learning opportunity.

Size: 24 KB

High School Student Cover Letter for First Job

I am excited to submit my application for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. Although this would be my first formal job, I am confident that my academic achievements and extracurricular experiences have equipped me with valuable skills and a strong work ethic.

In my time at [School Name], I have been actively involved in [extracurricular activities] that have enabled me to develop skills such as [mention a key skill] and [mention another key skill]. These experiences have prepared me to take on the challenges of the [Job Title] position.

I am eager to apply my skills in a professional setting and I am confident that my commitment and enthusiasm make me a strong candidate for this role. I look forward to discussing my suitability further.

How to Use: Highlight your readiness for your first job. Emphasize the relevant skills you have gained through school and extracurricular activities and your eagerness to learn and grow.

Sample High School Student Cover Letter

I am currently a dedicated student at [Your School’s Name] and am eager to apply for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. Despite my limited work experience, I believe that my involvement in school activities and my academic achievements make me a strong candidate for this role.

Throughout my high school years, I have excelled in [mention relevant subjects] and participated in [mention relevant extracurricular activities or part-time work] which have honed my skills in [mention a key skill] and [mention another key skill].

With a positive attitude and a strong drive to learn, I am excited about the prospect of bringing my skills and enthusiasm to your organization. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my application further.

How to Use: This sample letter is adaptable to a range of positions. Just be sure to tailor the highlighted skills and experiences to the particular job you are applying for.

High School Student Cover Letter for Entry Level Job

I am writing to express my interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. As a high school student preparing to graduate, I believe I possess the necessary skills and readiness to succeed in this entry-level position.

I have consistently excelled in [mention relevant subjects] and have been recognized for my [mention a key skill] during [mention relevant activity or project]. Furthermore, my experience as a [mention relevant role] has honed my [mention another key skill], making me ready for a professional setting.

I am eager to translate my academic achievements and extracurricular experiences into success at your esteemed organization. I look forward to potentially discussing my application further.

How to Use: Tailor this letter to your prospective employer by highlighting your academic and extracurricular achievements and demonstrating your readiness to embark on your professional journey.

College Student Cover Letter

I am currently a dedicated student at [Your College’s Name] pursuing a degree in [Your Major]. I am excited to apply for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name] to enhance my classroom learnings with practical industry experience.

Over the course of my academic career, I’ve had the opportunity to develop and refine critical skills such as [mention a key skill] and [mention another key skill]. I’ve applied these skills in [mention any internships, projects, or extracurricular activities] which has prepared me for the challenges of the [Job Title] position.

I am eager to leverage my academic knowledge and practical experiences to make meaningful contributions to your team. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my suitability further.

How to Use: Modify this college student cover letter to align with the requirements of the job you’re applying for. Highlight any relevant coursework or experiences that demonstrate your suitability for the role.

High School Student Cover Letter for Part-time Job

I am a dedicated student at [Your School’s Name] and I am eager to apply for the part-time [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I believe that my time management skills, coupled with my commitment to learning, make me an excellent candidate for this role.

In balancing my academic responsibilities with my extracurricular involvement, I have honed my [mention a key skill] and [mention another key skill]. I am confident that these skills, along with my ability to adapt and learn quickly, will enable me to excel in a part-time role.

I am excited about the prospect of applying my abilities in a professional environment while balancing my academic commitments. I look forward to discussing my application further.

How to Use: This letter emphasizes your ability to manage your time effectively and balance multiple commitments. Highlight relevant skills and experiences and express your eagerness to learn and contribute.

Generic High School Student Cover Letter

I am an enthusiastic and diligent student at [Your School’s Name], eager to bring my dedication and positive attitude to the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I believe that my academic achievements and extra-curricular involvement make me an ideal candidate for this role.

In school, I’ve displayed a strong work ethic, achieving high grades in [mention relevant subjects] and demonstrating [mention a key skill] in [mention an activity or project]. My involvement in [mention an extra-curricular activity] has honed my skills in [mention another key skill], which I am confident would benefit your team.

I’m excited about the opportunity to learn and grow within your company and look forward to discussing my application further.

How to Use: This cover letter is a versatile choice that can be adapted for any job opportunity. Be sure to fill in the key skills and experiences with your personal attributes and achievements.

Basic High School Student Cover Letter

As a motivated student at [Your School’s Name], I am excited to apply for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I am confident that my strong work ethic, combined with my willingness to learn, would make me a valuable addition to your team.

Throughout my high school career, I have excelled acadically and displayed my [mention a key skill] and [mention another key skill] in various activities. I am eager to translate these skills and my enthusiasm into success at your organization.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to further discuss how my qualifications align with your needs.

How to Use: This basic cover letter is suitable for any job type. Highlight your relevant skills and experiences and express your eagerness to apply them in a professional setting.

High School Student Cover Letter for Nursing Job

As a devoted student with a passion for the healthcare field, I am eager to apply for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I believe my academic focus on science and health, along with my volunteer experience in healthcare settings, make me a fitting candidate for this role.

During my time in high school, I have dedicated myself to studying [mention specific courses related to healthcare] and volunteering at [mention healthcare-related volunteering experience], which has strengthened my [mention a key skill] and [mention another key skill].

I am excited to further contribute to the healthcare field and believe your organization provides the perfect opportunity for me to do so. I look forward to discussing my application further.

How to Use: This nursing cover letter highlights your academic achievements and experiences in healthcare. Customize it to highlight your commitment and skills relevant to a nursing role.

School Leaver Cover Letter

As a recent graduate from [Your School’s Name], I am eager to apply my skills and knowledge to the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. I am confident that my dedication to learning and my ability to work well with others make me a promising candidate for this role.

During my time at school, I have excelled in [mention relevant subjects] and demonstrated my [mention a key skill] through my involvement in [mention relevant activities]. This experience, combined with my strong [mention another key skill], has prepared me for a professional setting.

I am excited about the opportunity to transition into the workforce and believe your organization provides the perfect environment for me to do so. I look forward to discussing my application further.

How to Use: This cover letter is ideal for those fresh out of school and stepping into the workforce. Highlight your skills and experiences that demonstrate your readiness for the professional world.

How do you Write a Cover Letter for a High School Student?

Writing a cover letter as a high school student can seem daunting, especially when you might not have a lot of work experience to include. Here are a few key steps to guide you:

1. Start With a Professional Header: Your header should include your name, contact information, and the date you’re writing the letter.

2. Address the Hiring Manager: Research who the hiring manager is so you can address them directly. If you can’t find their name, a simple “Dear Hiring Manager” will suffice.

3. Express Your Interest: Clearly express why you’re interested in the job and how you learned about the position.

4. Highlight Your Skills and Experience: Highlight academic achievements, extra-curricular activities, volunteer work, or any other experience that may be relevant to the job. Showcase the transferable skills you’ve gained from these experiences.

5. Show Enthusiasm: Employers appreciate candidates who are enthusiastic about their company and role. Make sure to express your eagerness to contribute.

6. Close Professionally: Conclude by thanking them for their time and expressing interest in the opportunity to discuss your application further.

Tips for High School Student Cover Letter

A. Focus on Skills: As a high school student, you might not have an extensive work history. However, you can focus on skills gained from your studies, extracurricular activities, and even personal hobbies.

B. Tailor Each Letter: Employers appreciate a tailored application. Make sure to change your cover letter for each application, focusing on the skills and experiences most relevant to each job.

C. Express Passion: Even if you don’t have much professional experience, a clear passion for the industry or role can leave a strong impression.

D. Proofread: Always proofread your cover letter. Errors can leave a negative impression, while a well-written, error-free letter communicates professionalism and attention to detail.

E. Use a Professional Tone: While it’s good to let your personality shine through, remember to maintain a professional tone throughout your cover letter.

By following these guidelines and tips, you can craft a compelling cover letter that effectively presents your skills and potential to prospective employers, even as a high school student.

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16 High School Student Resume Examples Created for 2024

High School Student Resume

• High School Student Resumes by Experience
• High School Student Resumes by Role

High school is one of the best times of your life, but it can also be one of the most difficult when looking for your first or second job. You’ve got to fill out applications, prep for interviews, and write your resume.

Using ChatGPT for resumes  is a cool idea, but can still feel daunting and overwhelming. We’ve all been there, and up until now, there hasn’t been a good resource for high schoolers to help  craft compelling resumes or student cover letters .

We’ve analyzed countless high school resumes to discover  what would get students job interviews in 2024 . While you may want to start with a simple  resume outline , keep reading to find 16 high school resume samples (plus writing tips) that are jam-packed with essential techniques and tricks.

or download as PDF

Why this resume works

• If you choose to use a template, make sure you adjust the  resume’s formatting  so that your text is big enough to read with one-inch margins on the side.
• However, you should write your bullet points like you would for a job. Highlight any responsibilities and accomplishments relevant to the job you’re applying for now.
• For example, if you’re looking for a job in sales, emphasize your ability to work in groups and create a good customer experience.

High School Student No Experience Resume

• If you don’t have work history, include projects and volunteer work instead. Treat them like a job and write bullet points according to your responsibilities.
• Make sure you start every bullet point with active verbs, and always double-check for typos. You’ve got this!
• Include your unique skills, your desired position, and the company you hope to work for to make your objective stand out from the rest!

First Job High School Student Resume

• To remedy that problem, add a  skills section on your resume  to give hiring managers an important overview of your strengths.
• To really highlight your abilities, incorporate the same skills in your work experience, too. Demonstrate how you used your skills to better your workplace, and you can’t go wrong!
• Adding stylistic elements like color and different fonts can help you show a bit of your personality (and make your resume more fun to read). 

Experienced High School Student Resume

• Remember, your resume is a highlight reel, so you need to include what’s most important (like your achievements and relevant metrics). 
• You can adjust your layout, font sizes, and margins, but keep it easy to read. 
• Use a bit of color and some fun fonts, provided it still looks professional. You’ve got this!

High School Senior Resume

• This statement must align with the potential employer’s needs, proving you understand the job requirements and have gone the extra mile to address doubts about your capabilities. As for experiences that might have prepared you for the job, workshops and volunteering programs you’ve participated in are prominent candidates.

Out of High School Resume

• Leisure activities range from soccer, hiking, drawing and sketching, robotics, and photography to journalism. But how do they fit in the picture? Well, a penchant for drawing and sketching could reflect creativity and an eye for detail, while journalism stints could hint at strong communication and critical thinking.

High School Graduate Resume

• Right from the first line of the career objective, you can see the candidate’s passion and willingness to work in this field. Notice how Serai’s love for photography is clearly backed by a previous project for a school newspaper.
• These details will be perfect when Serai’s ready for the AI cover letter generator to bring her application to perfection.

High School Student Scholarship Resume

• Your high school student scholarship resume should vividly show your positive contributions to noble causes, such as offering ADLs to seniors, and emphasize your impact on society.

High School Student College Application Resume

• Ensure your high school student college application resume shows your practical and classwork achievements that emphasize your grand vision to make a positive contribution to society.

High School Student for College Resume

• Before hitting “submit,” always  check your resume  for typos and other minor errors. It’s amazing what you can miss during your first few reviews.
• A good GPA can demonstrate, at least in part, your willingness to work hard. We’d recommend including your GPA only if it’s above 3.5, but anything above a 3 is a good average.

High School Student for Customer Service Resume

• Including projects, volunteer work, or club memberships is a great way to add value to your resume.
• Your resume should focus on your abilities and other activities you’ve engaged in that will show your value.
• Read the responsibilities and qualifications to look for key skills and tasks. Then, incorporate some of those skills and responsibilities into your high school student customer service resume.

High School Student Internship Resume

• For example, if the job description lists responsibilities like writing and analyzing data, include “written communication” and “data analysis” in your skills section.
• One easy way to customize your resume is by focusing your  resume skills  on things that apply to the internship. 
• Make sure you keep your resume professional and to the point. You don’t want to include anything too personal about your beliefs, religion, politics, or personal information.
• For example, you can list “volunteering at local church,” but avoid saying “fasting every weekend.” It doesn’t show off relevant skills and is a bit too forward for a resume.

High School Student Office Worker Resume

• Good projects include anything that demonstrates your leadership abilities or desire for knowledge. Senior projects, personal blogs, or even being on a sports team are all good examples to include!
• Add work experience directly under your contact information and name, then add any relevant projects if you’re low on space. 
• While there are plenty of  resume writing tips , your resume should be as unique as you. Don’t get so caught up in what you think you “should” do that your resume is bland and cookie-cutter. 

High School Student Sales Resume

• Numbers demonstrate your value, and they’re useful tools for the Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) software that hiring managers use to sort through job applicants.
• Trust us, and incorporate metrics into at least 80% of your bullet points!
• For example, you know that different  resume templates  can change your resume’s appearance, but different templates can also stretch or streamline your content. 
• Mess with multiple templates to see what your content will look like—you may find a template that allows for more room, or one that allows you to highlight your skills better.

High School Student Athlete  Resume

• Think of a time you proved you were the MVP on your team—Did you lead your team to a championship? Perhaps you made the game-winning shot in a crucial, nail-biting game?

High School Student Music Resume

• When you include hobbies like songwriting or your interest in classical music in your high school student music resume , it conveys to your recruiter that you’re super dedicated and passionate about your craft.
• You can also include hobbies that are different, too. For example, if you enjoy experimenting with new recipes from around the world, that can show you’re ready to give new genres a whirl or that you understand that music—while art—is still supposed to be fun and adventuresome.

Related resume guides

• Entry Level

High School Student Cover Letter

About this sample

A High School Student cover letter is a professional document that is used to introduce yourself to a potential employer and highlight your skills and experience as a student. This template is optimized to get interviews by clearly outlining your relevant qualifications and showcasing your ability to perform well in a professional setting. With skills such as strong work ethic, attention to detail, and adaptability , you can demonstrate your potential as a high school student and showcase your ability to apply these skills in a professional setting. By using this template, you can help your cover letter stand out from other applicants and increase your chances of getting an interview.

Here's how Rezi AI Cover Letter Writer works

Create a resume with a targeted job description.

Enter the highlighted details of the cover letter

Click "AI Writer Ready"

High School Graduate Resume Examples & Templates

• 30% higher chance of getting a job
• 42% higher response rate from recruiters

Our customers have been hired at: * Foot Note

Graduating from high school is a significant accomplishment, and now is the time to leverage your academic achievements, extracurricular activities and work experiences to create a compelling resume for your future endeavors. 

A well-crafted resume can help you stand out from other applicants when applying to colleges, internships or jobs. 

In this guide, we’ll provide you with high school graduate resume examples and tips to create a professional resume that effectively showcases your accomplishments and qualifications.

Start by editing this high school graduate resume template, or explore our extensive library of professional resume templates for more options.

High school graduate resume example (text version)

NATHAN CASTILLO

PHOENIX, AZ 85054

(555) 555-5555 | [email protected] 

RESUME OBJECTIVE

Highly motivated high school student with a keen interest in software engineering, equipped with strong analytical and critical thinking skills. Excelled in various programming courses and competitions, showcasing an aptitude for algorithmic problem-solving and software development. Proven ability to adapt to new technologies and methodologies with a proactive approach to continuous learning. Seeking opportunities to apply technical expertise and contribute to real-world projects while pursuing further education in computer science.

HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA  

North High School

Phoenix, AZ, Expected in June 2024

• Clubs: Coding Club, Robotic Club and Tech Entrepreneurship Club
• Math Olympiad Winner, FIRST Robotics Competition participant
• Technology literacy
• File and document management
• JavaScript, Python and HTML
• Communication
• Critical thinking
• Time management

PROFESSIONAL SKILLS

Programming Proficiency

• Proficient in Java, Python and JavaScript, with hands-on experience developing applications and solving algorithmic problems.
• Achieved a 98% average score in programming assignments throughout high school.
• Developed a web-based inventory management system for a local charity, reducing inventory processing time by 30%.

Problem-solving Skills

• Demonstrated ability to analyze complex problems and devise effective solutions through logical reasoning and critical thinking.
• Won first place in the regional programming competition, solving 90% of challenges within the time limit.
• Implemented an optimized algorithm for a Sudoku solver, reducing solving time by 50%.

Team Collaboration

• Proven track record of collaborating efficiently with team members to achieve project goals.
• Led a team of five students to develop a mobile app for tracking daily water consumption, resulting in over 500 downloads within the first month of launch.
• Received recognition for exceptional teamwork in the school’s robotics club, contributing to winning the state-level robotics competition.

WORK HISTORY

SELF EMPLOYED  

Math Tutor | Phoenix, AZ | June 2023 – Current

HONEYWELL  

Summer Intern | Phoenix, AZ | June 2023 – August 2023

VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE

Homeless Shelter Outreach Program

• Volunteered at a local homeless shelter, serving meals to 100 residents and assisting with shelter operations every week.

Environmental Conservation Project

• Raised awareness about the importance of conservation through educational materials and social media outreach, reaching over 1,000 individuals.

Essentials of a standout high school graduate resume

Contact details.

Add your contact information to the top of your resume; otherwise, hiring managers won’t know how to contact you for an interview. Include your full name, city, state and ZIP code, followed by your phone number and professional email address. Add your LinkedIn profile and professional website (if you have them) last.

Resume summary

Your resume summary is where you introduce yourself and highlight your top qualifications for the job in three to five sentences.

Your high school graduate resume should include a professional summary with job-relevant skills and one or two accomplishments from your academic career or prior work experience. 

If you do not have any prior work experience, we recommend using a resume objective instead. Here is an example of an objective statement for a high school graduate’s resume:

“Recent high school graduate with strong academic performance and excellent communication skills seeking an entry-level position to gain valuable work experience, develop professional skills and contribute to a dynamic team. Quick learner, hardworking and motivated to succeed in any task. Committed to professional growth and eager to contribute to a challenging and dynamic work environment.” 

It is important to let potential employers know what skills you bring to the table. An excellent high school graduate resume will feature a mixture of hard skills and soft skills related to the school, internship or role you are applying for. 

Hard skills are job-related abilities learned through training or at work. In contrast, soft skills are characteristics or personality traits that speak more about how you approach your responsibilities. 

A high school graduate may have a variety of skills that can be valuable in the workplace, such as:

• Communication skills: Oral and written communication skills developed through coursework, presentations and group projects.
• Problem-solving skills: Experience identifying and solving problems, whether it be through class assignments or personal experiences.
• Time management skills: Experience juggling multiple responsibilities, such as schoolwork, extracurricular activities and part-time jobs.

The job description is the best place to find relevant skills that the employer wants to see on your resume. If you have limited work experience, you can list skills that you developed during your academic career. 

Work history

When writing the work history section of a high school graduate resume, focus on any relevant work experience, internships or part-time jobs that you have held. 

Start with your most recent job and work backward in reverse chronological order, focusing on professional accomplishments in addition to daily tasks and responsibilities.

If you do not have any formal work experience, focus on any relevant volunteer work, leadership roles in clubs or organizations, or any freelance or entrepreneurial endeavors you have pursued.

For more guidance on detailing your professional experience, read up on how to write work experience on a resume for tips from career experts.

The education section of a high school graduate resume should be concise and straightforward, providing the recruiter or hiring manager with the necessary information about your educational background.

Start with your highest level of education, which in this case is your high school diploma or equivalent. List the name of your high school, its location and the date of your graduation. If you have any relevant coursework, honors or awards, include them in this section. 

For example, if you took advanced courses in a particular subject area or received recognition for academic achievements, you could list them here.

If you plan to pursue higher education, you can also include your future plans in this section. For example, if you plan to attend college in the fall, you could include the name of the college, your intended major and any scholarships or grants you have received. 

See why My Perfect Resume is a 5-star resume builder

Action verbs for a standout high school graduate resume.

If you take a look at our high school graduate resume sample, you’ll notice that it has a lot of action verbs at the beginning of each statement. Pack your resume with the right words using some from our list below:

• Contributed
• Demonstrated
• Implemented
• Participated
• Communicated
• Researched 

You can edit our high school graduate resume templates in our Resume Builder for expert insights and professionally written content suggestions.

Top skills for your high school graduate resume

Make sure the resume skills you include on your high school graduate resume are relevant to the job description and what the employer is looking for in a candidate. Here are some high school graduate resume skills examples you might consider:

• Problem-solving 
• Leadership 
• Adaptability
• Attention to detail 
• Computer skills
• Customer service 
• Organization
• Time management 

Browse our 800+ resume examples for real-world resume samples for different job titles, industries and career levels.

Certifications to include on a high school graduate resume

Include any certifications or licenses on your high school graduate resume by creating a separate section for them and placing it under your education. List them out using bullet points. 

Here are a few examples of certifications a high school graduate might have that they can include on their resume: 

• CPR and First Aid Certification 
• Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) Certification 
• National Career Readiness Certificate (NCRC)
• OSHA 10-Hour General Industry Certification
• Google Digital Marketing Certification
• Red Cross Lifeguard Certification 

Remember to only include certifications that are relevant to the role you are applying for.

Pair your resume with a matching cover letter

High school graduate resume faq, what is a simple objective for a high school graduate resume.

A simple objective for a high school graduate resume could be: “Seeking an entry-level position to apply communication and critical thinking skills, gain valuable work experience and contribute to the success of the organization.”

This objective statement is concise and straightforward, highlighting your desire to start your professional journey and contribute to the organization you’re applying to. 

It shows your eagerness to learn and grow in a new role while emphasizing your commitment to making a positive impact. 

Remember to tailor your objective statement to align with the specific job or industry you’re targeting.

How do you indicate that you are a high school graduate on a resume?

You can include a section dedicated to your education to indicate that you are a high school graduate on your resume. 

Here’s an example of how you can format your education section:

High School Diploma [Year]

[Name of High School]

You can also add any relevant information about your high school experience, such as honors, awards or relevant coursework. 

If you have any certifications or additional training related to your high school education, you can include them in this section as well.

What is the best resume format for high school students?

The functional resume format is typically the best option for high school students.

This resume format highlights your skills and achievements rather than focusing on your work experience. 

It’s suitable for high school students with limited work experience but want to showcase their relevant skills and accomplishments.

You can divide the resume into sections like “Skills,” “Education,” “Extracurricular Activities” and “Volunteer Experience.”

Read our guide on how to write a resume for detailed steps on writing the best high school graduate resume. You can also review the high school graduate sample resume on this page for more inspiration.

How do you write a resume if you just graduated from high school?

If you’ve just graduated from high school, you can still create a strong resume that showcases your skills, achievements and potential. Here are the steps you can follow to write a resume as a high school graduate:

• Start with a strong objective or summary statement that highlights your strengths, skills and career goals.
• Create an “Education” section and list your high school diploma, including the name of your high school, location and graduation date. 
• Create a “Skills” section and list any skills you have that are relevant to the job or industry you’re applying for.
• Create an “Experience” section and list any work experience you have. If you don’t have any work experience, you can include any relevant volunteer work, internships, or extracurricular activities you participated in during high school.

See what to put on a resume for additional details about each section and tips from career advice experts. 

How long should a high school graduate resume be?

A high school resume should generally be one page long. Since high school students typically have limited work experience and achievements, it’s important to keep the resume concise and focused on the most relevant information. 

A one-page resume is easier for recruiters and hiring managers to read and can help you make a strong first impression.

Remember, the goal is to showcase your best qualities and demonstrate your potential as a candidate in a clear and concise way.

Do’s and don’ts for your high school graduate resume

• Use measurable achievements to describe your abilities and academic experience. 
• Use action verbs to make an impact on your resume. For example, instead of saying “worked at a restaurant,” you could say “assisted with food preparation, served customers and maintained cleanliness in a fast-paced restaurant environment.”
• Tailor your resume to your target job. A customized resume is an excellent way to stand out to potential employers and land an interview.  
• Use keywords from the job description throughout your resume.
• Format your high school graduate resume so that it is easy to read by ATS software and human eyes.
• Don’t lie about your academic or professional experience and skills.
• Don’t boast that you’re the “best student ever.” Instead, provide concrete examples of relevant skills such as teamwork, critical thinking or computer skills. 
• Don’t include irrelevant personal information such as your ethnicity and age.
• Don’t include irrelevant skills and work experience.  
• Don’t forget to proofread. A resume with errors is unprofessional.

Interview tips for high school graduates

Research the organization..

A few days before your job interview , do your due diligence and check the organization’s website. Read through their mission statement and vision and learn more about their culture. What do they stand for? How happy are their current employees? Can you see yourself working for them? 

Practice your answers.

Put together a list of questions that the interviewer might ask and practice your answers with someone you trust or in front of a mirror.

 Some commonly asked questions during job interviews include:

• Where Do You See Yourself in 10 Years?
• What Motivates You To Do A Good Job?
• What Are the Most Important Rewards You Expect to Gain From Your Career?

It’s always a good idea to prepare answers for some possible behavioral interview questions the hiring manager might ask, such as:

• How have you motivated others?
• What’s the Toughest Challenge You’ve Had and How Have You Handled It?
• Describe a Time When You Used Written Communication to Make a Point.

Prepare questions to ask during the interview.

Turn your interview into a conversation by asking the hiring manager questions about the organization, culture and expectations. There’s a high chance that they’ll open the floor for you at the end of the interview, so write a list of questions to ask, such as:

• Can you provide more details about the day-to-day responsibilities of this position?
• What are the key qualities or skills you are looking for in the ideal candidate?
• How would you describe the company culture and values?
• What opportunities are there for professional development and growth within the company?

Gather references.

Have professional references ready during your interview. It comes in handy, especially if the hiring manager offers you the job on the spot. Make a list of two former colleagues and a former manager willing to speak highly about your abilities and performance.

How we reviewed this article

Since 2013, we have helped more than 15 million job seekers. We want to make your career journey accessible and manageable through our services and Career Center’s how-to guides and tips. In our commitment to bring you a transparent process, we present our Editorial Process .

• Seattle Pi. Article. Miles, Sally. Skills Most Required for Success After High School
• The Balance. Article. Doyle, Alison. First Resume With No Work Experience Example
• Edmentum. Article. Seven Essential Life Skills for High Schoolers to Build Before Graduating

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4.5/5 stars with 100 reviews

Elizabeth Muenzen, CPRW

Career advice expert.

Elizabeth is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) and a member of the Professional Association of Résumé Writers & Careers Coaches. She is passionate about delivering information that empowers job seekers to achieve their professional goals.

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How to Write a Cover Letter in 2024 : Examples + Guide

Learn how to write a cover letter describing the skills and achievements that prove you’re the right candidate for the job. Check out our step-by-step cover letter writing guide, examples and tips to write a letter that hiring managers can’t ignore.

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As seen in:

See how to write a cover letter for a job, including:

What is a cover letter, and why is it important?

How to write a cover letter, cover letter examples, cover letter checklist.

Key takeaways

Cover letter writing FAQ

Want to skip the reading and finish your cover letter in 15 minutes?

We also offer an incredible tool, our Cover Letter Builder ! It automates the writing process into a series of easy-to-answer prompts.

A cover letter is a one-page document sent alongside a resume or CV that summarizes your professional experience and explains why you’re an excellent fit for the job.

It consists of contact details, a greeting, three to four paragraphs and a formal signature.

Your cover letter should:

• Include two to three examples of your top achievements.
• Tell a story of your skill level and career path.
• Explain why you’re a good fit for the role and company.
• Include any relevant details you can’t fit in your resume or CV.

A great cover letter can pique a hiring manager’s interest. 83% of recruiters will interview candidates with great cover letters! If you’re serious about a job, include one.

Here, we’ll break down the process of how to write a cover letter for a resume in six easy steps.

Pick a cover letter template

Cover letter templates are a great tool to jump in and start writing! Templates save you time and effort because the formatting and design of your cover letter are already in place.

Find a template design you like, and just plug in your information!

Professional graphic designers create our cover letter templates to look sharp and modern. Best of all, they’re designed to pass applicant tracking systems (ATS), which most companies use to scan your cover letter for keywords .

Write a professional header

Your cover letter’s header should include:

• Location (city and state)
• Phone number
• The date of when you plan to send the letter
• Name and job title of the hiring manager
• Name and address of the company you’re applying to
• Your current job title (optional)
• Your LinkedIn page (optional)
• Links to your professional social media accounts (optional)

Greet the hiring manager

Addressing the hiring manager by name is a great way to show professionalism and attention to detail.

Avoid addressing the recipient with “Dear Sir or Madam,” which is outdated and impersonal.

It’s always best to address them by their title and name. For example:

Good cover letter greeting examples:

“Dear hiring manager,”

“Dear [XYZ Company] team,”

“Dear Customer Acquisition Hiring Manager,”

Weak cover letter greeting examples:

“To whom it may concern,”

“Dear sir,”

“Dear madam,”

Write a compelling opening paragraph

Your opening paragraph should concisely state who you are and your interest in the position in no more than one or two sentences.

If a current employee at the company has referred you, you should mention it immediately in the opening paragraph. This way, the hiring manager will pay more attention to the accomplishments stated in your letter.

A few key elements that should appear in your opening paragraph are your:

• Profession/current job title.
• Desired position.
• Motivation for applying.

Compare these cover letter opening paragraph examples:

Good example of a cover letter opening paragraph

“After seven years working in marketing as a brand manager in multinational companies like P&G and Unilever, I want to use my negotiation and extensive knowledge of retail operations to expand your company’s market as a sales representative.”

Why this cover letter opening works:

In just one sentence, this applicant informs a potential employer of their years of experience, area of expertise, the role they wish to pursue and the skills to back up their career aspirations.

Weak example of a cover letter opening paragraph

“Hello. I am Lester Peterson. I hope you are doing well. I am writing to you because I want to apply to your company. I am a determined professional with all the qualities needed to excel in this role.”

Why this cover letter opening doesn’t work:

This opener sounds informal, and instead of showing examples of his qualifications, the applicant opts for empty statements that need more convincing detail.

Prove your value in the body paragraphs

Your cover letter’s body consists of one or two paragraphs where you offer more context to your career accomplishments .

Because the cover letter is a companion to your resume, you should mix up the language and descriptions you use. Expand instead of repeat!

Try to spin the details of your resume into a story. Narrate the challenges and opportunities during your career that led you to accomplish, for instance, an increase in sales, gaining a valuable client or leading a big project.

Check out these cover letter body paragraph examples for different approaches you could take depending on your unique situation:

Body paragraph example focused on career accomplishments

“In my previous teaching role, I carved out 10-minute slots in my senior class to do SAT prep testing, resulting in having the district’s highest SAT score average in English. My dedication to my student’s needs has always been my priority, and students responded with increased participation in the portion of the class allotted for the syllabus topics. After being named Teacher of the Year, I organized a continuing education and mentorship program for newly graduated teachers in the school district.”

Body paragraph example focused on skill set

“Throughout my career as an accountant, I have acquired skills in various areas of accounting and finance. In my first years, I worked in the public sector, developing budgets between $50,000 and $2 million and ensuring accounting records complied with federal and state regulations. Eventually, I moved to work in private equity firms. I gained firsthand experience in financial analysis in tech investments and monitoring funds’ investments, preparing all financial statements and presenting to investors and stakeholders.”

Body paragraph example focused on career goals

“After graduating from Columbia School of Social Work and volunteering in various non-profit organizations focused on at-risk youth and women’s shelters, I’m eager to put my skills to work as a counselor in the court system. My understanding of vulnerable children’s needs and challenges has inspired me to continue my career supporting children through their caregivers’ or their court proceedings.”

If you find your body paragraph is becoming too long, use bullet points to break up blocks of text.

Body paragraph example with bullet points:

“In my current role as sales lead, I’ve attracted several local businesses in various industries and brought financial gains to our company and clients. Notable achievements in this capacity include:

• Adding 14 new accounts to our portfolio.
• Improving client retention rate by 47% over four years.
• Negotiating and renewing longer contracts with current clients, increasing net revenue by 11%.”

If you want your cover letter to impress a hiring manager, your body paragraph must be full of job-relevant skills and achievements — and written like a pro.

Our Cover Letter Builder will suggest over a dozen body paragraph examples you can choose from to wow employers.

You can edit these content suggestions with quantifiable achievements and keywords from the job ad to make your cover letter unforgettable.

Make my cover letter now

Write a closing paragraph with a call to action.

Your closing statement should be concise and direct, leaving the reader excited to learn more about you.

Make sure your closer is:

• One or two sentences long.
• Direct about your eagerness to fill the role.
• Encouraging the reader to set up an interview.
• Polite and thankful.

Good example of a cover letter closer

“Let’s discuss my plans to contribute to XYZ Company’s mission to impact women professionals in their search for investment opportunities and financial education resources as Head of Marketing Operations. Thanks for your time in reading my application.”

Why this cover letter closing works:

This closer proves the candidate wants to have a serious discussion with a manager by getting specific. It offers both value and respect to the hiring manager.

Weak example of a cover letter closer

“All in all, you won’t likely find a better candidate than me. My qualifications and experience will knock it out of the park. Let me know when you can meet with me for an interview.”

Why this is a weak cover letter closer

Although supremely confident, this statement lacks substance, and the tone is off-putting. It’s demanding instead of polite and friendly.

Sign off and mention any enclosures

Your cover letter’s sign-off consists of two words at most. Plenty of signatures will make you sound like a pro, and others you should avoid.

Good cover letter sign-offs

Keep it formal and professional with these signature lines:

Most sincerely,

Best regards,

Kind regards,

Thank you for your consideration,

Respectfully,

Bad cover letter sign-offs

Avoid informal phrases you would use with friends:

Take it easy,

Have a great day,

Yours truly,

Warm wishes,

Affectionately,

Thx, or any other abbreviation

If you need to include additional documents beyond your resume –– like a portfolio of your work or letter of recommendation –– add a double space below your signature at the end of the cover letter. Then write “Enclosure:” for one document; “Enclosures:” for two or more documents. Below this, list each enclosure you are including.

Enclosures example:

Sincerely, Tom Smith

Enclosures:

• Letter of recommendation

The best way to get inspired to write a good cover letter is by looking at solid examples written for the same role you’re applying for.

Check out our collection of cover letter examples for various industries and job titles for inspiration to write your stellar letter.

Here are six of the most-searched cover letter examples in our database:

Sales Associate

Customer Service Representative

Administrative Assistant

Assistant Manager

You’ve written a great cover letter; now is the time to run through this checklist to ensure your letter is the best it can be.

• Did you choose a cover letter template that complements your resume?
• Did you include a cover letter heading with your name, professional email, phone number, date and links to relevant social media profiles?
• Did you greet the hiring manager by name in your salutation?
• Does your opening paragraph grab the reader’s attention, disclose your current job title, desired position and motivation for applying?
• Do your body paragraphs prove your value and include skills and quantifiable achievements relevant to the role you’re applying for?
• Did you describe how your experiences align with the job requirements?
• Do you convince the hiring manager that you’re passionate about the company you’re applying to?
• Did you close your cover letter by suggesting a job interview, thank the reader, and use a formal signature?
• Did you ensure there are no spelling and grammar mistakes?

To recap the main points of how to write a good cover letter, keep these tips in mind:

• Write a fresh, custom cover letter for every job you apply to.
• Keep it to three to four paragraphs under one page.
• Use your cover letter to expand on details in your resume and tell a story.
• Ensure your document is free of errors.

Since your cover letter matters as much as your resume, you want to take this seriously! That’s why you should consider using our best tool for the job, the Cover Letter Builder .

The builder will suggest prewritten text tailored to the job you’re applying for. You can select it and customize it in your cover letter. Our career experts wrote these phrases to ensure you sound professional and capable.

Best of all, since the builder automates the process, you can complete your letter in just a few minutes!

Build my cover letter now

How do I write a cover letter for an internship?

When writing a cover letter for an internship, you should:

• State the internship position for which you’re applying.
• Mention the required skills and keywords from the internship advertisement.
• List any relevant coursework or projects that show you are a capable candidate.
• Explain your motivations and career aspirations.
• Emphasize what the company can gain from your unique abilities.

How do I format a cover letter?

Cover letters follow a standard business letter format. You must include the following sections to format a cover letter accurately:

• Date, your contact information and the recipient’s information.
• Address the hiring manager.
• Include a one- to two-sentence opening paragraph.
• Write one or two body paragraphs (you can use bullet points) to showcase your qualifications.
• Closing statement with a call to action for an interview.
• A sign-off like “Best regards,” or “Sincerely,”
• Your name and signature.

What is the best cover letter template?

The best cover letter template is the one that provides you with a visually attractive but practical design. You want something clean and readable, not flashy or distracting.

Our builder features 25+ expert-approved templates that are fully customizable!

You can change the fonts and colors, adjust margin size and even include additional sections to discuss availability, relocation and employment gaps.

What are some cover letter mistakes?

Double-check that your document avoids these common cover letter mistakes :

• Avoid including paragraphs that are too long . You should always have a paragraph that is at most five sentences. It’s too wordy! Instead, consider bullet points in your body paragraph to break down your text into easy bite-sized statements.
• Don’t write the exact phrases you have on your resume . In your cover letter, you need to expand on the details you list in your resume, not repeat them. Try to bring the details of your resume to life by turning them into a story.
• Remember to include numbers to illustrate your achievements . Numbers capture attention. Using dollar amounts, numbers, or percentages gives verifiable proof of your success, and employers will notice!
• Never send your cover letter using your current company’s email . Recruiters will perceive it poorly, and employers may monitor company emails. Use a personal, professional email instead.
• Don’t discuss salary . Only mention money if explicitly asked to state your desired salary by the job post. Never include information about your current salary. Some states have made it illegal for recruiters and hiring managers to ask about salary history.
• Don’t make a generic cover letter for all your job applications . Each job you apply to deserves a fresh, tailored cover letter. Pay attention to the job post or ad details to better understand what the employer wants to hear!

Make my cover letter

Related content

Cover Letter Basics

Surefire Cover-Letter Technique: Incorporating Problem-Solving Stories

Cover Letter Format Should Match Your Resume

About the Author

Gabriela Hernandez • CPRW, Career Advice Expert

Gabriela Hernandez is one of LiveCareer's resident writers. She graduated from the University of Puerto Rico with a degree in Journalism. Throughout her career, she has tackled copywriting, blog articles, journalistic writing, academic writing, resume writing, and even prose and verse.

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*The names and logos of the companies referred to in this page are all trademarks of their respective holders. Unless specifically stated otherwise, such references are not intended to imply any affiliation or association with LiveCareer.

How to Write a Cover Letter: A Comprehensive Guide with Examples (2024)

Crafting a compelling cover letter is the first step towards landing an interview. It’s usually the first impression an employer gets before even seeing your resume, and it will help to set the tone and establish your personality before getting into your qualifications and suitability for the position.

Whether you're applying for a job, internship, or generally submitting your resume for consideration, understanding how to write a cover letter can significantly enhance your chances of success.

What is a Cover Letter?

A cover letter is a formal document accompanying your resume that introduces yourself to potential employers, highlighting your qualifications, experiences, and interest in a specific job or internship. It offers you the opportunity to showcase your personality and passion for the role in a more personalized manner than a resume alone.

Cover Letter Format

The format of a cover letter typically follows a standard business letter structure. It includes your contact information, the date, the recipient's contact details, a salutation, body paragraphs, and a closing. Ensure that your cover letter is concise, well-organized, and visually appealing, using a professional font and maintaining consistent formatting throughout.

As your cover letter will often be sent as an email, check this guide on how to write an email for some general tips on subject lines, email greetings, structuring the main content, and signing off.

Cover Letter for a Job

When applying for a job, a cover letter for your resume is often expected, and it serves as your initial introduction to potential employers. It should be customized for each position, showcasing how your skills and experiences fit the job requirements. A well-crafted cover letter can distinguish you from other applicants and increase your chances of securing an interview, especially if you can show that you’re genuinely aligned with the company’s goals.

Cover Letter for an Internship

For internship applications, a cover letter is equally essential. It allows you to convey your enthusiasm for the opportunity, relevant skills, and willingness to learn. Even if you have limited professional experience, your cover letter can highlight academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and relevant coursework that demonstrate your potential value to the organization.

Writing a Cover Letter

Let’s get into how to write a cover letter, step by step:

Step 1: How to Address a Cover Letter

When addressing your cover letter, it's essential to find out the name and title of the hiring manager or recruiter whenever possible. Addressing the letter to a specific individual adds a personal touch and demonstrates your initiative. A quick note on how to address a cover letter without a name. If you're unable to identify the recipient, you can use a general greeting such as "Dear Hiring Manager" or "Dear [Company Name] Recruiting Team."

Step 2: What to Include in a Cover Letter

Writing a compelling cover letter requires careful attention to detail and a strategic approach. Begin by thoroughly researching the company and the position to tailor your letter accordingly. Highlight your most relevant experiences and accomplishments, using specific examples to demonstrate your qualifications. Keep your language professional, yet engaging, and avoid using generic templates or clichés. Instead, strive to make a memorable impression that sets you apart from other candidates by showing you understand what the company is about.

Structure-wise, a well-written cover letter should include the following elements:

Introduction : Start by stating the position you're applying for and how you learned about it. Express your enthusiasm for the opportunity and briefly introduce yourself.

Body Paragraphs : Use one or two paragraphs to highlight your relevant experiences, skills, and achievements. Provide specific examples that demonstrate your qualifications and fit for the role. Tailor your content to align with the job description and company's needs.

Closing Paragraph : Summarize your interest in the position and reiterate your enthusiasm for the opportunity. Thank the employer for considering your application and express your willingness to discuss further in an interview.

Closing : End your cover letter with a professional closing, such as "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by your name and contact information.

By using this kind of cover letter template, you can keep a clear and structured approach whilst also easily adjusting your content each time to customize it for each specific contact.

Before you send

Remember maintain professionalism throughout and always proofread your cover letter before you send it off. Check this quick list of cover letter dos and don’ts so you can ensure you’ve done everything you can and haven’t made any glaring errors along the way.

Note for students: While it may be reasonable to apply for internships with your university email, it probably won’t come across as particularly professional for proper job applications. Contacting an employer from a free email account with a funny name you made when you were an adolescent also won’t be particularly impressive. You may want to use a service like Inbox.com and create a business email account that shows you’re a serious professional.

Cover letter examples

Here are some short cover letter samples that you can use as templates for your own letter. Note that although the content should be adapted both to you and to the company you’re applying to, a similar structure applies in all cases.

1. Marketing Manager Cover Letter:

Dear [Hiring Manager's Name],

I am writing to express my interest in the Marketing Manager position at [Company Name], as advertised on [where you found the job posting]. With over five years of experience in marketing strategy development, campaign management, and brand positioning, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team and drive results for [Company Name].

In my previous role at [Previous Company], I led cross-functional teams to develop and execute innovative marketing campaigns that resulted in a 30% increase in brand awareness and a 25% boost in lead generation. My ability to analyze market trends, identify customer insights, and leverage data-driven strategies has consistently delivered impactful results and exceeded organizational objectives.

I am particularly drawn to [specific aspect of the company or job description], and I am eager to bring my expertise in digital marketing, social media management, and content development to support [Company Name]'s mission of [mention company mission or values].

Thank you for considering my application. I am enthusiastic about the possibility of joining [Company Name] and contributing to its continued success. I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience and can be reached at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address].

Sincerely, [Your Name]

2. Software Engineer Cover Letter:

I am writing to apply for the Software Engineer position at [Company Name], as advertised on [where you found the job posting]. With a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science and three years of hands-on experience in software development and coding, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team and develop innovative solutions for [Company Name].

In my previous role at [Previous Company], I played a key role in designing and implementing scalable software solutions that optimized workflow efficiency and enhanced user experience. My proficiency in programming languages such as Java, Python, and JavaScript, coupled with my strong problem-solving skills, has enabled me to deliver high-quality software solutions that meet and exceed client expectations.

I am impressed by [specific aspect of the company or job description], and I am eager to leverage my technical skills and passion for innovation to support [Company Name]'s goals of [mention company goals or objectives].

Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to further discuss how my background and expertise align with the needs of [Company Name] and am available for an interview at your earliest convenience. Please feel free to contact me at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address] to schedule a discussion.

3. Graphic Designer Cover Letter:

I am thrilled to apply for the Graphic Designer position at [Company Name], as advertised on [where you found the job posting]. With a strong background in visual communication, brand identity development, and multimedia design, I am excited about the opportunity to bring my creativity and expertise to your team and contribute to [Company Name]'s success.

In my previous role at [Previous Company], I collaborated with cross-functional teams to create visually compelling designs that effectively communicated brand messages and engaged target audiences. My proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, coupled with my attention to detail and passion for design, has allowed me to deliver innovative solutions that align with client objectives and exceed expectations.

I am particularly drawn to [specific aspect of the company or job description], and I am eager to leverage my design skills and artistic vision to support [Company Name]'s mission of [mention company mission or values].

Thank you for considering my application. I am enthusiastic about the possibility of joining [Company Name] and contributing to its creative endeavors. I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience and can be reached at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address].

What is a cover letter for a job?

A cover letter for a job is a formal document submitted alongside a resume during the application process. It introduces the applicant to the potential employer and highlights their qualifications, experiences, and interest in the specific job position.

What is a cover letter for a resume?

A cover letter for a resume is a document that accompanies a resume when applying for a job. While the resume provides a summary of the applicant's skills and experiences, the cover letter offers additional context and insight into their suitability for the position.

What is the purpose of a cover letter?

The purpose of a cover letter is to introduce the applicant to the potential employer, showcase their qualifications and experiences, and express their interest in the job position. It allows applicants to personalize their application and demonstrate their enthusiasm and suitability for the role.

What does a cover letter look like?

A cover letter typically follows a formal business letter format, including the sender's and recipient's contact information, a salutation, body paragraphs, and a closing. It should be well-organized, concise, and visually appealing, with a professional tone and consistent formatting.

How long should a cover letter be?

A cover letter should be concise and to the point, typically no longer than one page. It should provide enough information to highlight the applicant's qualifications and interest in the position without overwhelming the reader with unnecessary details.

What should be in a cover letter?

A cover letter should include the sender's and recipient's contact information, a formal salutation, an introduction stating the position being applied for and how the applicant learned about it, body paragraphs highlighting relevant qualifications and experiences, and a closing expressing gratitude and interest in further discussion.

How to Start a Cover Letter

To start your cover letter effectively, consider using a strong opening sentence or attention-grabbing statement that immediately captures the reader's interest. You can mention a mutual connection, reference a recent company accomplishment, or highlight a specific aspect of the job that excites you.

How to End a Cover Letter

Ending your cover letter on a high note is crucial to leave a lasting impression. In the closing paragraph, reiterate your interest in the position and express your gratitude for the opportunity to apply. Convey confidence in your ability to contribute to the company's success. Finally, use a professional closing, such as "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by your name.

Updated: April 10, 2024 at 4:33 PM

Published: April 10, 2024 at 4:33 PM

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