UK Cover Letter Templates & Structure (2026)
The exact structure UK recruiters expect - one page, 200-300 words - with copy-adaptable templates for the three most common situations.
Use the structures below for shape, never for wording, recruiters recognise copied template sentences instantly. Replace every bracket with your own specifics: numbers, project names, outcomes only you can claim. Or skip the manual work and let Vouch's free generator interview you and fill the structure with your own stories.
Template 1: applying with direct experience
The straight-fit letter
Use when your background maps clearly onto the role.
Dear [name, or "Hiring Manager"],
I am applying for the [role] position at [company]. In [X] years as a [your role] at [employer], I have [your single most relevant achievement, with a number], which is why the focus on [specific thing from the job advert] in this role caught my attention.
Two things from my background map directly onto what you are looking for. First, [requirement from the advert]: [one-sentence proof with a specific outcome]. Second, [second requirement]: [one-sentence proof]. At [employer], this meant [concrete result the company cared about].
I would welcome the chance to talk about how I could bring the same results to [company]. I am available for an interview at your convenience.
Kind regards,
[Your name]
Template 2: career change
The transferable-skills letter
Lead with the overlap, address the switch head-on in one line.
Dear [name],
I am applying for the [role] position at [company]. I am moving into [new field] from [X] years in [old field], and the overlap is stronger than it first looks: [the single strongest transferable skill, evidenced with a number or outcome].
In [old field] I [achievement 1 with specifics], and [achievement 2]. The core of both, [the underlying skill: e.g. explaining complex things simply, managing competing stakeholders, shipping under deadline], is exactly what [role] demands. I have also [concrete step you took toward the new field: course, project, qualification].
I would value the chance to show how that experience translates. Thank you for considering my application.
Kind regards,
[Your name]
Template 3: graduate / no direct experience
The evidence-over-experience letter
Projects, placements and part-time work count - if you attach outcomes to them.
Dear [name],
I am applying for the [role] graduate position at [company]. I have just completed a [degree] at [university], where [most relevant project or result, with a concrete detail: grade, scale, outcome].
What I lack in years I make up in evidence. [University project / placement / part-time job]: [what you did and what came of it]. [Second example]: [outcome]. Both taught me [the skill the advert asks for], which I understand is central to this role.
I am keen to bring that energy to [company] and would welcome an interview. Thank you for your time.
Kind regards,
[Your name]
UK conventions checklist
- One side of A4 maximum, 200-300 words. See the full length guide.
- British English spelling: organised, specialise, programme.
- No photo, on the letter or the CV.
- Name the company and role explicitly; generic letters are discarded.
- Mirror two or three keywords from the advert, recruiters and ATS software both scan for them.
- Email applications: skip full postal addresses, "Kind regards" + name is enough.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best cover letter format for UK applications?
One page, 200-300 words, three to four paragraphs: an opening that names the role and why you, a middle that proves two or three relevant achievements with specifics, and a short close with a call to action. British English, no photo, no full postal address needed for email applications.
Should a UK cover letter be formal?
Professional but human. "Dear Hiring Manager" is acceptable when no name is given, though a named contact is better. Avoid both stiff Victorian phrasing ("I beg to apply") and over-casual openers. Match the tone of the company's own job advert.
Do I need a different cover letter for every job?
Yes. Recruiters and applicant tracking systems both spot generic letters. At minimum, change the opening paragraph, the two achievements you highlight, and the keywords to match each job description. Tools like Vouch automate this tailoring from one interview about your experience.
Is it OK to use a template at all?
Templates are fine for structure, never for wording. Hiring managers read hundreds of letters and recognise copied template sentences instantly. Use the structure below, but fill it with your own specifics: numbers, project names, outcomes only you can claim.