A letter of intent for an internship is a document that communicates an individual’s interest in an internship opportunity at a company. Students and graduates will use the letter to introduce themselves and outline why they’re an ideal candidate for the position. The letter usually describes the applicant’s educational and professional goals, relevant work experience, skills, and enthusiasm toward joining the company.

How to Write
Sample
Writing Tips
- Addressing the Letter
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How to Write

A letter of intent should be written to summarize the applicant’s qualifications, demonstrate their enthusiasm, and explain why an internship position could help them fulfill their long-term goals. What’s needed for the letter to achieve these goals can be found in the guide below.

Personal Information

The applicant must state the date, their name, and their address in the top-left portion of the letter, followed by the name and address of the recipient.

Introduction

The first paragraph should introduce the applicant and inform the company of the individual’s interest in the internship. If the letter is in reference to a specific internship position, it should be mentioned here. The opening can also outline the individual’s educational pursuits or recent accomplishments.

Body

One to two paragraphs will make up the body of the letter. Applicants can draw attention to their academic experiences, work history, goals, and personal skills and qualities. They should also try to demonstrate their familiarity with the industry, the company, and the internship position.

Additionally, the body paragraphs will explain why the applicant is an ideal candidate and how an internship could mutually benefit both sides.

Conclusion

The concluding paragraph will restate the applicant’s interest in the position and include a message expressing gratitude for the company’s time and attention. It should also mention how the applicant can be contacted for a follow-up discussion.

Salutation

A letter of intent must be closed with a formal salutation, such as “Sincerely,” “Regards,” or “Respectfully.” If the letter is to be printed, the applicant’s handwritten signature will be required.

Sample

Download: PDF, Word (.docx), OpenDocument

INTERNSHIP LETTER OF INTENT

Date: [DATE]

[APPLICANT NAME]
[APPLICANT STREET ADDRESS]
[APPLICAT CITY, STATE, ZIP]

[RECIPIENT NAME]
[RECIPIENT STREET ADDRESS]
[RECIPIENT CITY, STATE, ZIP]

Dear [RECIPIENT NAME],

I am submitting this letter to express my interest in the [INTERNSHIP POSITION] internship at [COMPANY NAME]. After graduating from [SCHOOL NAME], I am eager to utilize the knowledge and abilities I’ve achieved to gain hands-on work experience. I am confident that my background in [RELEVANT EXPERIENCE] combined with my passion for [PERSONAL OR ACADEMIC PASSION] make me an ideal candidate for the position.

As proven by my [GPA] GPA, I am a highly motivated learner with a persistent desire to advance my education. This fact is further evidenced by my pursuit of a [DEGREE TITLE] degree in [FIELD OF STUDY] at [UNIVERSITY PROGRAM]. I’ve also been described as well-organized and detail-oriented, which I believe are essential traits for success in this internship.

My participation in the [GROUPS OR ACTIVITIES] allowed me to develop a deeper understanding of [RELEVANT KNOWLEDGE] and hone my efficiency in the field. I also volunteered as a [VOLUNTEER POSITION], during which I was responsible for [VOLUNTEER TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES].

I am excited to join a professional team and contribute to its success. If given the opportunity, I am confident that my enthusiasm and dedication will be valuable to your organization. Should you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact me at [PHONE NUMBER] or by email at [EMAIL ADDRESS]. Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,

[APPLICANT NAME]

Signature: ___________________

Writing Tips

The below tips should be kept in mind when writing an internship letter of intent:

The letter shouldn’t reiterate information already present in the applicant’s resume. Rather, it should elaborate on what they’ve learned and how their personal and educational background aligns with the company’s objectives.
Companies will want to know what motivates and challenges the applicant.
Applicants should mention any relevant groups or activities they’ve participated in outside regular study.
If the applicant values certain aspects of the company or its internship program, they should express this information in the letter.
A letter of intent should demonstrate the applicant’s desire for the position and excitement at advancing their education as an intern.

Addressing the Letter

Instead of addressing the letter to a general department, it’s best to address it to the hiring manager or the person responsible for evaluating internship applications. Applicants should make sure the recipient’s name is spelled correctly. Additionally, titles like “Mr.” or “Mrs.” should be avoided if the recipient’s gender is unknown.

Letter of Intent for Internship