Are you staring at a blank document, wondering how to write a cover letter that actually gets noticed? You're not alone. 73% of UK students struggle with cover letter writing, according to recent Graduate Outcomes data from HESA (Higher Education Statistics Agency). Whether you're applying for student accommodation, internships, or your first graduate role, a compelling cover letter can be the difference between landing your dream opportunity and getting lost in the pile.

At Student Tenant, we've helped thousands of students secure quality accommodation across the UK, and we know that strong communication skills – starting with your cover letter – are essential for student success. By the end of this guide, you'll know exactly how to structure a winning cover letter, what employers really want to see, and how to avoid the common mistakes that kill 90% of applications before they're even fully read.

Why Your Cover Letter Matters More Than Ever in 2025

The UK job market has become increasingly competitive for students and graduates. Recent data from the Office for National Statistics shows that graduate unemployment rates fluctuate significantly, making it crucial for students to stand out from the crowd. Your cover letter serves as your personal marketing document – it's often the first impression you make on potential employers, landlords, or academic institutions.

Here's what the numbers tell us:

  • 67% of hiring managers spend less than 2 minutes reading each cover letter
  • Applications with tailored cover letters are 40% more likely to receive callbacks
  • 84% of successful candidates customise their cover letter for each application

Understanding What Employers Actually Want

Before diving into the writing process, it's essential to understand what decision-makers are looking for. Based on extensive research and feedback from UK employers, here are the key elements that make cover letters effective:

Relevance and Personalisation: Generic cover letters are immediately obvious. Employers want to see that you've researched their organisation and understand how you can contribute specifically to their goals.

Clear Communication: Your ability to express ideas clearly and concisely reflects your professional communication skills. This is particularly important for international students who may be concerned about language barriers.

Evidence of Skills: Rather than simply listing qualifications, successful cover letters demonstrate skills through specific examples and achievements.

The Essential Cover Letter Structure That Works

1. Header and Contact Information

Start with your contact details at the top:

  • Full name
  • Professional email address
  • UK phone number (for international students, include country code)
  • LinkedIn profile (if relevant)
  • Date
  • Employer's contact information

2. Professional Salutation

Always address your letter to a specific person when possible. If you can't find a name, use "Dear Hiring Manager" rather than outdated phrases like "To Whom It May Concern."

3. Opening Paragraph: Hook Them Immediately

Your opening paragraph should accomplish three things:

  • State the specific position you're applying for
  • Mention where you found the opportunity
  • Present your strongest selling point or most relevant qualification

Example: "I am writing to apply for the Marketing Intern position advertised on your company website. As a final-year Business student at University of Manchester with hands-on experience managing social media campaigns that increased engagement by 150%, I am excited to contribute to your digital marketing team."

4. Body Paragraphs: Prove Your Value

This section should contain 1-2 paragraphs that:

  • Highlight relevant experience and achievements
  • Connect your skills to the job requirements
  • Show knowledge of the company or organisation
  • Demonstrate your potential contribution

Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure specific examples of your accomplishments.

5. Closing Paragraph: Call to Action

End with confidence and professionalism:

  • Reiterate your interest in the position
  • Mention that you've attached your CV
  • Request an interview or next steps
  • Thank the reader for their consideration

Step-by-Step Cover Letter Writing Process

Step 1: Research Thoroughly

  • Study the job description and identify key requirements
  • Research the company's values, recent news, and culture
  • Identify specific examples from your experience that match their needs
  • Find the hiring manager's name through LinkedIn or company website

Step 2: Create Your Outline

  • Opening hook that grabs attention
  • 2-3 key points you want to emphasise
  • Specific examples that demonstrate each point
  • Connection between your goals and theirs

Step 3: Write Your First Draft

Focus on getting your ideas down without worrying about perfection. Use active voice and specific, measurable examples wherever possible.

Step 4: Edit and Refine

  • Check for spelling and grammar errors
  • Ensure consistent formatting throughout
  • Verify all company and contact information is accurate
  • Read aloud to check flow and clarity

Step 5: Customise for Each Application

Never send the same cover letter to multiple employers. Customisation should include:

  • Company name and specific role title
  • Reference to company-specific information or recent news
  • Tailored examples that match job requirements
  • Appropriate tone for the industry and company culture

Common Cover Letter Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake 1: Generic Templates

47% of cover letters are immediately recognisable as templates. Personalisation is non-negotiable in today's competitive market.

Mistake 2: Repeating Your CV

Your cover letter should complement, not duplicate, your CV. Use it to tell the story behind your achievements and explain your motivations.

Mistake 3: Focusing on What You Want

Instead of explaining what the role offers you, focus on what you can offer the employer. This shift in perspective makes your application much more compelling.

Mistake 4: Poor Formatting

Inconsistent fonts, spacing, or layout can distract from your content. Keep formatting clean and professional.

Mistake 5: Exceeding One Page

Unless specifically requested otherwise, keep your cover letter to one page. Hiring managers appreciate conciseness.

Industry-Specific Cover Letter Tips

For Student Accommodation Applications

When applying for student housing or dealing with landlords:

  • Emphasise reliability and financial stability
  • Mention references from previous landlords or university
  • Highlight your commitment to property care
  • Include guarantor information if required

For Graduate Roles

  • Connect academic projects to practical applications
  • Highlight transferable skills from part-time work or volunteering
  • Show enthusiasm for learning and professional development
  • Demonstrate cultural fit with the organisation

For Internships

  • Emphasise eagerness to learn and contribute
  • Highlight relevant coursework or projects
  • Show long-term interest in the field or company
  • Mention specific skills you hope to develop

Digital Age Considerations

Email Cover Letters

When sending cover letters via email:

  • Use a clear subject line (e.g., "Application for Marketing Intern - [Your Name]")
  • Keep the email body concise and professional
  • Attach both cover letter and CV as PDF files
  • Use professional file names (e.g., "JohnSmith_CoverLetter_Marketing.pdf")

Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)

Many companies use ATS to screen applications automatically:

  • Use standard fonts like Arial or Times New Roman
  • Include keywords from the job description
  • Avoid complex formatting or graphics
  • Save as both PDF and Word formats when possible

Leveraging Your Student Status

As a student, you have unique advantages that experienced professionals don't:

  • Fresh perspectives and current knowledge
  • Enthusiasm and energy for new challenges
  • Flexibility and adaptability
  • Strong theoretical foundation from recent studies

Don't apologise for being a student – instead, position your student status as an asset that brings value to the organisation.

Quality Assurance Checklist

Before submitting any cover letter, use this checklist:

Content Quality:

  • Addresses specific job requirements
  • Includes quantifiable achievements
  • Shows knowledge of the company
  • Maintains professional tone throughout

Technical Details:

  • Correct spelling and grammar
  • Consistent formatting
  • Appropriate length (one page)
  • Professional contact information

Customisation:

  • Company name and role title correct
  • Specific examples relevant to position
  • Appropriate tone for industry
  • Personalised salutation when possible

Taking Action: Your Next Steps

Writing an effective cover letter is a skill that improves with practice. Start by drafting a master template that includes your core achievements and experiences, then customise it for each specific application.

Remember, your cover letter is often your first opportunity to make a lasting impression. Whether you're applying for student accommodation, internships, or graduate positions, the principles outlined in this guide will help you create compelling applications that get results.


Ready to take your student journey to the next level? At Student Tenant, we understand that securing quality accommodation is just the first step in your academic success. Our platform connects students with verified, quality accommodation across the UK, giving you the stable foundation you need to focus on your studies and career development.

Book a free consultation with Student Tenant today and discover how we can help you find the perfect student accommodation to support your academic and professional goals.