Mastering the art of writing professional business letters is crucial for students entering the workforce. These letters serve as a formal means of communication, demonstrating professionalism, clarity, and respect. From applying for internships to networking with potential employers, a well-crafted business letter can significantly impact your opportunities. This article provides 24 business letter samples tailored specifically for students, covering a range of scenarios.
Each example is designed to illustrate proper formatting, tone, and content. We’ll explore different types of business letters, including cover letters, thank-you notes, letters of inquiry, and letters of recommendation requests. By studying these templates, students can gain confidence in their writing abilities and learn to effectively communicate their skills and experiences to a professional audience. Remember to adapt each template to your specific situation and always proofread carefully before sending.
24 Business Letter Samples for Students
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Sample 1: Internship Application Letter
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email][Date]
[Hiring Manager Name]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]Dear [Hiring Manager Name],
I am writing to express my interest in the internship position at [Company Name], as advertised on [Platform]. As a [Your Year] at [Your University] majoring in [Your Major], I am eager to gain practical experience in [Industry].
[Body of letter detailing skills and relevant experience].
Thank you for your time and consideration. I have attached my resume for your review and welcome the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further in an interview.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name] -
Sample 2: Thank-You Letter After Interview
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email][Date]
[Interviewer Name]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]Dear [Interviewer Name],
Thank you very much for taking the time to interview me for the [Position Name] position at [Company Name] yesterday. I enjoyed learning more about the role and the team.
[Body of letter reinforcing your interest and relevant points discussed].
I am very interested in this opportunity and believe my skills and experience align well with the requirements. Thank you again for your consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name] -
Sample 3: Letter of Inquiry for Job Shadowing
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email][Date]
[Contact Name]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]Dear [Contact Name],
My name is [Your Name], and I am a [Your Year] at [Your University] majoring in [Your Major]. I am writing to inquire about the possibility of job shadowing someone in your [Department/Area of Interest] department at [Company Name].
[Body of letter explaining your interest and what you hope to learn].
Thank you for considering my request. I am available to meet with you at your convenience to discuss this further. I can be reached at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email].
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name] -
Sample 4: Request for Letter of Recommendation (Professor)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email][Date]
Professor [Professor’s Last Name]
[Professor’s Department]
[University Name]
[University Address]Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request a letter of recommendation in support of my application to [Program/Position] at [Organization]. The deadline for submission is [Date].
[Body of letter reminding the professor of your time in their class and highlighting relevant skills].
I have attached my resume and a personal statement for your reference. Please let me know if you are able to write a letter for me. If so, I can provide you with more details about the program/position and the specific qualities they are seeking.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name] -
Sample 5: Letter of Apology (Late Assignment)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email][Date]
Professor [Professor’s Last Name]
[Professor’s Department]
[University Name]
[University Address]Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I am writing to sincerely apologize for the late submission of my [Assignment Name], which was due on [Original Due Date].
[Body of letter explaining reason for lateness and taking responsibility].
I understand the importance of meeting deadlines and I take full responsibility for my failure to do so. I would appreciate it if you would consider accepting the assignment. Thank you for your understanding.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name] -
Sample 6: Letter of Complaint (Service)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email][Date]
[Customer Service Department]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]Dear [Customer Service Department],
I am writing to express my dissatisfaction with the service I received on [Date] at your [Location]. I experienced [Describe the problem clearly and concisely].
[Body of letter detailing the negative experience and desired resolution].
I hope you will take my complaint seriously and take steps to prevent similar issues in the future. I look forward to your response and a resolution to this matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name] -
Sample 7: Letter of Request (Information)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email][Date]
[Contact Person Name, if known, or Department]
[Organization Name]
[Organization Address]Dear [Contact Person Name or To Whom It May Concern],
I am writing to request information regarding [Specific information you are seeking].
[Body of letter explaining why you need the information and how you plan to use it. Be clear and specific in your request].
I would greatly appreciate it if you could provide me with this information by [Desired Date]. Thank you for your time and assistance.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name] -
Sample 8: Letter of Introduction (Networking)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email][Date]
[Contact Name]
[Job Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]Dear [Contact Name],
My name is [Your Name], and I am a [Your Year] student at [Your University] studying [Your Major]. I was referred to you by [Name of Person Who Referred You], who suggested I reach out to learn more about your work at [Company Name].
[Body of letter explaining your interest in their field and company. Mention specific things you admire about their work or the company. Express your desire to learn from them].
I would be grateful for the opportunity to speak with you briefly about your career path and any advice you might have for someone entering the field. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name] -
Sample 9: Request for Information about Scholarship
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email][Date]
[Scholarship Committee]
[Organization Name]
[Organization Address]Dear [Scholarship Committee],
I am writing to inquire about the [Scholarship Name] scholarship. I am a [Your Year] student at [Your University] majoring in [Your Major], and I am very interested in applying for this scholarship.
[Body of letter asking for specific details about the scholarship requirements, eligibility criteria, application process, and deadline].
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name] -
Sample 10: Letter of Resignation from a Part-Time Job
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email][Date]
[Manager’s Name]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]Dear [Manager’s Name],
Please accept this letter as formal notification that I am resigning from my position as [Your Job Title] at [Company Name], effective [Your Last Day of Employment].
[Body of letter expressing your gratitude for the opportunity and highlighting what you’ve learned. Keep it positive and professional].
Thank you for the opportunity to have worked at [Company Name]. I have learned a great deal during my time here. I wish you and the company all the best in the future.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name] -
Sample 11: Request for Clarification
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email][Date]
[Recipient Name]
[Recipient Title]
[Organization Name]
[Organization Address]Dear [Recipient Name],
I am writing to request clarification regarding [specific topic or issue needing clarification], as outlined in [document, meeting, or situation where the confusion arose].
[Body of letter detailing the specific points that need clarification, using clear and concise language. Explain why you need the clarification and how it will help you].
I would appreciate it if you could provide me with the necessary information to better understand this matter. Thank you for your time and assistance.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name] -
Sample 12: Thank You Letter for a Guest Speaker
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email][Date]
[Speaker’s Name]
[Speaker’s Title]
[Speaker’s Organization]
[Speaker’s Address]Dear [Speaker’s Name],
On behalf of the students and faculty of [Department/Program Name] at [University Name], I am writing to express our sincere gratitude for your insightful presentation on [Topic of Presentation] on [Date].
[Body of letter highlighting specific points you appreciated from the presentation, the impact it had on the students, and the value of their expertise].
Your time and expertise were greatly appreciated. Thank you again for sharing your knowledge with us.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name] -
Sample 13: Letter of Interest for a Research Opportunity
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email][Date]
Professor [Professor’s Last Name]
[Professor’s Department]
[University Name]
[University Address]Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I am writing to express my strong interest in potential research opportunities in your lab at [University Name]. I am a [Your Year] student majoring in [Your Major], and I have been consistently impressed by your work on [Professor’s area of research].
[Body of letter detailing why you are interested in their research, relevant coursework or skills you possess, and what you hope to gain from the experience. Mention any specific publications of the professor’s that you have read].
I have attached my resume for your review. I would be grateful for the opportunity to discuss potential research opportunities with you. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name] -
Sample 14: Letter Requesting Volunteer Opportunity
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email][Date]
[Volunteer Coordinator Name, if known, or Department]
[Organization Name]
[Organization Address]Dear [Volunteer Coordinator Name or To Whom It May Concern],
I am writing to inquire about volunteer opportunities at [Organization Name]. I am a [Your Year] student at [Your University], and I am eager to contribute my time and skills to a meaningful cause.
[Body of letter explaining why you are interested in volunteering at that specific organization, what skills you can offer, and your availability. Mention any specific areas you are interested in volunteering in].
I would appreciate the opportunity to learn more about your volunteer program. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name] -
Sample 15: Letter to a Company Requesting a Donation for a School Event
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email][Date]
[Contact Name, if known, or Company Name]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]Dear [Contact Name or To Whom It May Concern],
My name is [Your Name], and I am a student at [School Name]. I am writing to you on behalf of the [Club/Organization Name] to request a donation for our upcoming [Event Name] on [Date].
[Body of letter describing the event, its purpose, the benefits it provides to the school/community, and how the donation will be used. Mention any sponsorship opportunities or recognition the company will receive].
Any contribution you could make would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for your time and consideration. We look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name] -
Sample 16: Letter of Recommendation for a Student (From Professor)
Professor [Your Name]
[Your Department]
[Your University]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email][Date]
[Recipient’s Name]
[Recipient’s Title]
[Organization Name]
[Organization Address]Dear [Recipient’s Name],
It is with great pleasure that I recommend [Student’s Name] for [Position/Program]. I have had the opportunity to know [Student’s Name] as a student in my [Course Name] class at [University Name].
[Body of letter detailing the student’s strengths, skills, and accomplishments. Provide specific examples and anecdotes. Highlight their work ethic, attitude, and potential].
I am confident that [Student’s Name] would be a valuable asset to your organization. I highly recommend them without reservation. Please feel free to contact me if you have any further questions.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
Professor [Your Name] -
Sample 17: Letter of Introduction (To a Potential Mentor)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email][Date]
[Mentor’s Name]
[Mentor’s Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]Dear [Mentor’s Name],
My name is [Your Name], and I am a [Your Year] student at [Your University] studying [Your Major]. I am writing to you because I am deeply impressed by your work in [Specific area of the mentor’s work] and I am seeking mentorship in this field.
[Body of letter explaining why you are interested in being mentored by this specific person, detailing your career goals, and what you hope to gain from the mentorship].
I would be honored to have the opportunity to learn from you and gain guidance on my career path. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name] -
Sample 18: Letter of Thanks for Sponsorship
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email][Date]
[Contact Name, if known, or Company Name]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]Dear [Contact Name or To Whom It May Concern],
On behalf of [Organization Name], I would like to express our sincere gratitude for your generous sponsorship of our recent [Event Name].
[Body of letter explaining how the sponsorship helped make the event successful, the positive impact it had, and the recognition the company received].
Your support is greatly appreciated. Thank you again for your commitment to [Organization’s Mission/Cause].
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name] -
Sample 19: Letter of Interest to Join Club
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email][Date]
[Club President Name, if known, or Club Name]
[Club Name]
[School Name]Dear [Club President Name or To Whom It May Concern],
I am writing to express my interest in joining the [Club Name] at [School Name]. I am a [Your Year] student and have a strong interest in [Club’s Focus].
[Body of letter explaining why you want to join the club, what skills or experience you can bring to the club, and your enthusiasm for the club’s activities].
I would be grateful for the opportunity to attend a meeting and learn more about the club. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name] -
Sample 20: Formal Complaint to Landlord
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email][Date]
[Landlord’s Name or Property Management Company]
[Landlord’s Address]Dear [Landlord’s Name or Property Management Company],
I am writing to formally complain about [Describe the issue clearly and specifically – e.g., persistent leaky faucet, noisy neighbors, lack of heating] in my apartment at [Your Apartment Address].
[Body of letter detailing the history of the problem, the dates it occurred, its impact on your living situation, and what actions you have taken to address it. State your desired resolution clearly].
I request that you address this issue promptly and effectively. I look forward to your response and a resolution to this matter. I expect a reply within [Number] days.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name] -
Sample 21: Cover letter For Scholarship Application
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email][Date]
[Scholarship Committee]
[Organization Name]
[Organization Address]Dear [Scholarship Committee],
I am writing to express my enthusiastic interest in the [Scholarship Name] scholarship. As a [Your Year] student at [Your University] pursuing a degree in [Your Major], I am deeply committed to academic excellence and dedicated to making a meaningful contribution to [Relevant Field].
[Body of letter detailing your academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, financial need, and how the scholarship will help you achieve your goals].
I am confident that I possess the qualities and aspirations that align with the values of the [Scholarship Name]. Thank you for considering my application. I have attached all the necessary documents for your review.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name] -
Sample 22: Letter Request to Set-up Informational Interview
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email][Date]
[Contact Name]
[Contact’s Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]Dear [Contact Name],
My name is [Your Name], and I am a [Your Year] student at [Your University] studying [Your Major]. I am reaching out to you because I am highly interested in learning more about the field of [Specific Field] and your experience at [Company Name].
[Body of letter explaining how you found their contact information, what you admire about their work or the company, and your desire to learn more about their career path and the industry. Request a brief informational interview].
I understand you are busy, but I would greatly appreciate the opportunity to speak with you for a brief informational interview. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name] -
Sample 23: Letter of Complaint About a Grade
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email][Date]
Professor [Professor’s Last Name]
[Professor’s Department]
[University Name]
[University Address]Dear Professor [Professor’s Last Name],
I am writing to respectfully inquire about the grade I received on the [Assignment Name] in your [Course Name] class. I received a [Grade Received], and I would like to understand the reasoning behind the grading and see if there is an opportunity for reconsideration.
[Body of letter detailing why you believe your work deserves a higher grade, citing specific points from the assignment that you feel were well-executed. Be respectful and avoid blaming the professor].
I am committed to improving my understanding of the material, and I would appreciate any feedback you can provide. Thank you for your time and consideration. I am available to meet with you during your office hours or at another convenient time.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name] -
Sample 24: Letter of Appreciation for Assistance
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email][Date]
[Recipient’s Name]
[Recipient’s Title]
[Organization Name]
[Organization Address]Dear [Recipient’s Name],
I am writing to express my sincere appreciation for your assistance with [Specific task or assistance received] on [Date].
[Body of letter explaining the impact their assistance had on you or the situation, highlighting the specific qualities or actions you appreciated. Be genuine and specific in your gratitude].
Your help was invaluable, and I am very grateful for your time and expertise. Thank you again for your kindness and support.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Conclusion: These 24 business letter samples offer a valuable starting point for students looking to improve their professional communication skills. Remember to adapt these templates to your specific needs and always proofread carefully before sending any business letter. Effective written communication is a key skill for success in any field.
