How Long Should a Cover Letter Be? (Complete 2025 Guide)
TL;DR — How Long Should a Cover Letter Be?
Best length: 250–400 words, one page max.
Structure: 3–4 short paragraphs (intro, body, closing).
Internships/fresh grads: 200–300 words (focus on enthusiasm + skills).
Research/academic roles: Up to 450–500 words if needed.
Too long? 600+ words feels overwhelming, 1000 words is a deal-breaker.
Recruiter preference: Clarity, relevance, and brevity always win.
How Long Should a Cover Letter Be?
Why cover letter length can make or break your application
When it comes to job applications, length really matters. A cover letter that’s too short can make you look rushed or unprepared, while one that’s too long risks losing the recruiter’s attention before they even reach your closing line. Hiring managers skim hundreds of applications, and the way you structure your words directly impacts whether your letter gets read, skimmed, or skipped.
Answer Upfront
The ideal cover letter length is 250–400 words — short enough to hold attention, but long enough to showcase your skills and motivation. Think of it as a focused, one-page pitch: three to four clear paragraphs that tell your story without repeating your entire résumé.
Related: CV vs Cover Letter
Promise: What You’ll Learn in This Guide
In this guide, you’ll learn:
The ideal word count for a professional cover letter in 2025
How recruiters and hiring managers actually view length
Common mistakes that make letters too short or too long
Real-world examples for different scenarios: internships, full-time jobs, research proposals, and fresh graduates
Practical tips to cut down or expand your letter to the perfect length
By the end, you’ll know exactly how to write a cover letter that’s long enough to impress but short enough to be read.
Why Cover Letter Length Matters
When writing a cover letter, it’s not just what you say — it’s how much you say. The length of your letter plays a critical role in whether recruiters actually read it or move on to the next application. Here’s why:
Recruiter Attention Span
Recruiters spend an average of 7–8 seconds skimming each application before deciding if it’s worth a deeper read. A cover letter that’s overly long will almost always be skimmed — or worse, skipped. On the other hand, a letter that’s too short may signal a lack of effort or genuine interest. The right balance ensures you capture attention without overloading.
ATS Systems and Keyword Balance
Many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to filter applications. Cover letters that are too short often miss essential keywords tied to the job description, while overly long ones risk diluting those keywords in fluff. A well-structured letter of the right length increases your chances of passing through ATS scans and reaching a human reviewer.
First Impressions in Competitive Hiring
Your cover letter is often the first impression an employer has of you. Length directly affects readability: concise, structured letters project professionalism, while rambling letters can feel unfocused. In a competitive job market, recruiters favor candidates who communicate clearly and respect their time.
Pull-out Stat: 68% of recruiters prefer cover letters under one page.
The Ideal Cover Letter Length
Quick Answer
The ideal cover letter length is 250–400 words, neatly fitting on a single page. That usually comes out to 3–4 concise paragraphs:
A strong introduction that hooks the reader
A focused middle section highlighting skills and achievements
A brief paragraph aligning your experience with the role
A closing statement with a clear call-to-action
This structure ensures your letter is long enough to showcase value but short enough to hold attention.
Why This Length Works
Recruiter preferences: Most hiring managers expect one page and will skim past anything longer.
Hiring manager expectations: Clear, concise writing reflects strong communication skills.
Word count balance: 250–400 words hits the sweet spot for keyword inclusion without overwhelming the reader.
Formatting Tips for Maximum Impact
Font size: 11–12 pt in professional fonts (Calibri, Arial, Times New Roman).
Margins: Standard 1-inch margins for clean spacing.
Line spacing: Single spacing, with a blank line between paragraphs for readability.
Alignment: Left-aligned text, professional header with your details at the top.
Related: Cover Letter Font Size
These formatting choices not only keep your cover letter visually neat but also make it easier to skim — which recruiters appreciate.
Pro Tip: Think of your cover letter as a one-page elevator pitch. Enough to grab attention, not a full autobiography.
Cover Letter Length by Situation
The right cover letter length varies depending on the type of role. Here are tailored guidelines with real examples so you can see how they look in practice:
Standard Job Applications
Recommended Length: 250–350 words (3–4 paragraphs).
Why it Works: Balanced, professional, and recruiter-friendly.
Example (Excerpt):
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am excited to apply for the Marketing Coordinator position at BrightWave Media. With three years of experience in digital campaigns and a track record of improving click-through rates by 27%, I bring both creativity and data-driven strategy to the table.
In my current role at Pixel Agency, I launched a cross-channel campaign that reached 2M users and directly generated $250,000 in new revenue. I believe this combination of hands-on execution and strategic planning makes me a strong fit for BrightWave’s mission to expand its digital presence.
I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to your team.
Related: Top 5 Cover Letter Examples for Every Person Looking for a Job
Internships or Fresh Graduate Roles
Recommended Length: 200–300 words (shorter, more focused).
Why it Works: Shows enthusiasm and transferable skills without overloading.
Example (Excerpt):
Dear Internship Coordinator,
As a senior at NYU majoring in Computer Science, I am eager to apply for the Summer Software Engineering Internship at TechNova. Through coursework in algorithms and database management, as well as my capstone project building a mobile app for campus events, I have developed a strong technical foundation.
Beyond academics, I led a student team in the HackNY challenge, where we designed a prototype that won first place for usability. I am excited to bring this same energy and problem-solving ability to TechNova’s engineering team.
Thank you for considering my application.
Research Proposals & Academic Roles
Recommended Length: 350–500 words (longer acceptable).
Why it Works: Provides depth and academic alignment.
Example (Excerpt):
Dear Selection Committee,
I am writing to apply for the Postdoctoral Fellowship in Environmental Policy at Columbia University. My research examines the intersection of climate adaptation strategies and community resilience, with a focus on urban populations in coastal regions. This aligns closely with Columbia’s ongoing work in sustainability and climate risk management.
During my PhD at Stanford, I published three peer-reviewed articles in Global Environmental Change and presented at the International Climate Policy Summit. My work integrates qualitative field studies with quantitative modeling, providing actionable insights for policymakers.
I am eager to continue this line of research under the mentorship of Dr. Hayes and contribute to Columbia’s pioneering Climate Futures Lab.
Niche or Senior Roles
Recommended Length: 350–450 words max.
Why it Works: Demonstrates leadership and impact without rambling.
Example (Excerpt):
Dear CEO and Hiring Committee,
With over 15 years of experience in enterprise sales leadership, I am excited to apply for the VP of Sales position at HorizonTech. In my current role at Alpha Solutions, I scaled annual revenue from $12M to $45M within five years by building high-performing teams and implementing a consultative sales strategy.
I thrive in high-growth, fast-paced environments and have led global teams across three continents, consistently exceeding aggressive sales targets. At HorizonTech, I see the opportunity to drive market expansion while mentoring the next generation of sales leaders.
I welcome the chance to discuss how my vision and results-driven approach can help HorizonTech achieve its ambitious growth goals.
Common Mistakes With Cover Letter Length
Even with the best intentions, many applicants fall into common traps when it comes to cover letter length. Avoiding these mistakes can make the difference between your application being read or rejected.
Too Short: Looks Rushed and Uncommitted
A cover letter that’s under 150 words often comes across as careless or lazy. Recruiters may assume you aren’t serious about the role, especially if your letter feels like a copied-and-pasted formality.
Too Long: Recruiter Won’t Finish Reading
On the other hand, a 600–1,000 word cover letter is almost guaranteed to be skimmed or skipped. Hiring managers don’t have the time to read essays — they want concise evidence of fit.
Rambling or Repeating Resume Content
Your cover letter should complement your résumé, not duplicate it. Many candidates waste space by rehashing bullet points word-for-word. Instead, expand on one or two experiences to explain why they matter for the role.
Overstuffing With Keywords
While it’s smart to include relevant job description terms, overloading your letter with keywords makes it robotic and hard to read. Recruiters value natural storytelling more than a “checklist” of phrases.
Pull-out Tip: Keep it short, specific, and skimmable. Aim for one page, three to four paragraphs, and sentences that get straight to the point.
How to Cut Down a Long Cover Letter
Struggling with a draft that’s too long? You’re not alone. Many candidates overwrite because they want to showcase everything. The key is to trim strategically while keeping your strongest points intact. Here’s how:
Use Strong Verbs, Remove Filler Words
Replace weak phrases like “was responsible for managing” with punchy verbs like “led,” “delivered,” or “spearheaded.” This not only shortens your sentences but also makes your accomplishments sound more impactful.
Example:
❌ I was responsible for managing a team of 10 people who worked on marketing campaigns.
✔ Led a 10-person team to deliver successful marketing campaigns.
Stick to One Main Example per Paragraph
Trying to cram three different achievements into one section dilutes the impact. Instead, choose one strong, relevant example and expand on it with context, actions, and results. This keeps your cover letter focused and readable.
Convert Lists Into Bullets (When Appropriate)
If you need to highlight multiple items — like skills or tools — don’t bury them in long sentences. Use bulleted lists to make your letter skimmable while cutting down word count.
Example:
Instead of: “I have experience in project management, stakeholder communication, agile methodologies, and data analysis.”
Write:
Project management
Stakeholder communication
Agile methodologies
Data analysis
Prioritize Relevance Over Completeness
Not every detail of your career belongs in the cover letter. Focus only on what matches the job description and what will resonate most with the recruiter. Think of it as a highlight reel, not a full autobiography.
Pro Tip: A well-cut cover letter isn’t missing anything — it’s simply edited for clarity and impact. Recruiters will appreciate your ability to communicate efficiently.
Examples of Cover Letter Lengths (By Type)
To make cover letter length easier to visualize, here are real-world examples across different situations. Notice how the tone and detail shift depending on the application type.
Internship Example (≈250 words)
Dear Internship Coordinator,
I am writing to apply for the Marketing Internship at CreativeEdge Agency. As a junior majoring in Communications at UCLA, I am eager to apply my coursework in brand strategy and digital storytelling to real-world projects.
During my studies, I developed strong research and writing skills through projects analyzing consumer behavior and creating mock campaigns. I also served as the social media lead for the Student Marketing Club, where I grew our Instagram following by 40% in one semester. These experiences taught me how to blend creativity with data-driven decisions.
I am especially drawn to CreativeEdge because of your reputation for innovative campaigns that connect with Gen Z audiences. I believe my academic foundation, coupled with my passion for emerging trends, would allow me to contribute meaningfully to your team.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to learn and grow at CreativeEdge this summer.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Also Check: Cover Letter for High Scholl Students
Job Application Example (≈300 words)
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am excited to apply for the Project Manager position at Apex Solutions. With over five years of experience leading cross-functional teams, I specialize in delivering complex projects on time and under budget.
At my current role with Horizon Tech, I managed a $2M product launch involving 25 stakeholders across engineering, marketing, and operations. By introducing agile workflows, I reduced project delays by 30% and boosted team efficiency. Beyond execution, I pride myself on building trust with clients, ensuring alignment between business goals and project outcomes.
I am particularly inspired by Apex Solutions’ commitment to sustainable innovation. My background in implementing eco-friendly supply chain practices aligns with your mission, and I am eager to bring my leadership skills to advance your upcoming green initiatives.
I would welcome the chance to discuss how my expertise in project management and process improvement can support Apex’s continued growth.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Research Proposal Example (≈400–450 words)
Dear Fellowship Committee,
I am applying for the Research Fellowship in Public Health at the University of Chicago. My proposed study examines the link between urban housing insecurity and mental health outcomes among young adults.
During my doctoral work at Johns Hopkins, I investigated the effects of neighborhood-level poverty on childhood asthma rates, resulting in two peer-reviewed publications in Health & Place. This project combined GIS mapping, survey analysis, and interviews, giving me a strong interdisciplinary foundation.
My proposed fellowship expands this research by focusing on young adults facing eviction or unstable housing. I plan to integrate quantitative data from city health departments with qualitative interviews from community organizations. This approach will shed light on both systemic challenges and individual experiences.
I believe this work aligns closely with the University of Chicago’s Health Disparities Initiative and can contribute meaningful data to inform local policy. I am particularly eager to collaborate with Dr. Reynolds, whose work on housing interventions has shaped my research trajectory.
With your support, I aim to generate findings that not only advance academic understanding but also help shape actionable public health strategies.
Thank you for considering my application.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Fresh Graduate Example (≈280 words)
Dear Hiring Manager,
As a recent graduate with a B.A. in English Literature from the University of Michigan, I am excited to apply for the Editorial Assistant position at Riverbend Publishing. My academic background, combined with internship and campus experiences, has prepared me to thrive in a fast-paced publishing environment.
During my internship at City Press, I assisted editors with manuscript reviews, fact-checking, and preparing author correspondence. I also gained hands-on experience with content management systems and learned how to balance deadlines with accuracy. Additionally, I served as editor-in-chief of the campus literary journal, overseeing a team of 12 and curating content from over 200 submissions.
What excites me most about Riverbend Publishing is your dedication to amplifying diverse voices. As someone passionate about inclusive storytelling, I would be thrilled to support your editorial team in bringing powerful narratives to print.
I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my skills and enthusiasm align with Riverbend’s editorial vision.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Expert Insights: Recruiter Preferences in 2025
Recruiters’ expectations for cover letters continue to evolve, but one theme remains constant: brevity wins. In 2025, with AI tools speeding up hiring processes and applications flooding inboxes, hiring managers have less time than ever to read through long, unfocused letters.
Most Hiring Managers Skim, Not Read Fully
Studies show that recruiters spend under 30 seconds on the average cover letter, often skimming for keywords, structure, and overall professionalism. A concise, well-organized letter makes their job easier and leaves a stronger impression.
Preference for Brevity and Clarity
Clarity now outranks complexity. Recruiters appreciate candidates who can get to the point quickly, demonstrate fit, and close with a call-to-action — all within a single page. Overly wordy letters suggest weak communication skills, which can be a red flag for roles that require client-facing or leadership communication.
Industry-Specific Expectations
Finance & Law: These fields typically expect more formality, detail, and polished phrasing. A 350–450 word cover letter is common.
Creative & Tech Roles: Recruiters value creativity and brevity. Letters closer to 250–300 words often feel fresher and more approachable.
Academia & Research: Slightly longer letters (400–500 words) are acceptable to demonstrate scholarly depth.
Recruiter Insight: “Less is more. If you can explain your value in 300 words, you’ve shown me you know how to communicate clearly — and that’s exactly the kind of skill I want on my team.” — Senior Recruiter, Tech Industry
FAQs — Cover Letter Length
Is a 600 word cover letter too long?
Yes. A 600-word cover letter feels lengthy for most job applications. Recruiters often prefer concise, one-page letters around 250–400 words. While some academic or research roles may accept more detail, 600 words risks losing the reader’s attention before your key points are made.
What is the best length for a cover letter?
The best cover letter length is 250–400 words, fitting on one page. This gives enough room to explain your skills and motivation without overwhelming the recruiter. Three to four paragraphs are ideal: introduction, relevant experience, alignment with the role, and a closing statement.
Is 400 words ok for a cover letter?
Yes. A 400-word cover letter is perfectly acceptable as long as it’s structured and relevant. Aim for concise sentences, clear examples, and no filler content. As long as it stays under one page, 400 words can strike the right balance between detail and brevity.
Is a 1000 word cover letter too long?
Absolutely. A 1000-word cover letter is closer to a personal essay and will almost always go unread. Recruiters typically skim applications, so keeping your letter under 500 words is essential. Save longer explanations for interviews or supplemental academic/research materials.
How long is the Goldman Sachs cover letter?
Goldman Sachs typically expects a one-page cover letter (300–400 words). Like other competitive finance roles, it should be highly professional, concise, and tailored to the role. Applicants are advised to avoid generic content and instead highlight achievements and experiences that directly match Goldman Sachs’ values and requirements.
Do recruiters check for ChatGPT?
Some recruiters and companies are starting to use AI-detection tools, but most focus on clarity, personalization, and relevance. A well-written letter that feels authentic matters more than whether you used ChatGPT. Personalizing your examples and avoiding generic AI-like phrasing will make your cover letter stand out.
Conclusion
When it comes to cover letters, length matters more than you think. A well-balanced letter signals professionalism, clarity, and respect for the recruiter’s time.
The sweet spot is 250–400 words, fitting neatly on one page. Shorter letters (200–300 words) work best for internships and fresh graduates, while slightly longer ones (350–500 words) may be acceptable for research or senior roles. Anything beyond that risks losing attention.
Think of your cover letter as a focused pitch — not an autobiography. Keep it clear, concise, and tailored to the role.
