Cover letter for IT roles: short templates (email) + full version

In IT, a cover letter is not mandatory for every application. But it can help in common situations:

• you’re a junior (or have limited experience) and need to add context
• you’re switching stack or coming back after a gap
• the role is a strong match and you want to highlight “why you” quickly

The key is short, specific, and evidence-based. Don’t turn it into an essay.

TL;DR

• In most cases, a short message (4–8 lines) is enough.
• Don’t repeat your CV; add “why this role” + 2–3 proofs.
• Personalize using the job description (responsibilities + stack).
• Close with a clear next step: quick call, portfolio review, small task.

Quick checklist (before you send it)

• You mention 1–2 concrete points from the job description.
• You include 1–2 relevant links (GitHub/portfolio), not a link dump.
• Your last line asks for a next step (availability + what you can show).
• You don’t claim skills you can’t defend in an interview.

Role-specific CV pages (to strengthen your application)

Your CV and projects matter more than the cover letter. Start with the general CV structure, then use the role guide that matches your target: Backend, Frontend, Full stack, DevOps / SRE, Data, or QA / Testing.

A structure that works (short)

1. Context: role you’re applying to
2. Fit: 2–3 proofs
3. Motivation: one honest sentence
4. Links: 1–2 max
5. Closing: next step + availability

Template 1: short message (ATS / portal)

Hi! I’m applying for the [ROLE] position and I’m especially interested in [2–3 responsibilities / parts of the role].

Recently I worked with [STACK] and delivered [1 verifiable result]. I also improved [area] which led to [outcome].

Link: [GitHub/Portfolio] (relevant project: [Project name])

If helpful, I can jump on a quick 15–20 min call this week and walk through what I did on [topic].
Thanks,
[NAME]

Template 2: email application

Download template: DOCX · TXT

Subject: Application — [ROLE] — [NAME]

Hi [Name/Team],

I’m applying for the [ROLE] position. From the description, I’m particularly interested in [X] (and [Y]).

In short, I:
- [proof 1: impact + context + tech]
- [proof 2: impact + context + tech]
- [proof 3 (optional): ownership / quality / collaboration]

CV attached.
Links: [LinkedIn] · [GitHub/Portfolio]

If it makes sense, I’d be happy to do a short call to clarify scope and next steps.
Best,
[NAME]

Template 3: junior / internship

For juniors, projects and learning signal matter a lot.

Hi! I’m applying for [ROLE / Internship]. I’m early-career, but I have relevant projects in [STACK] and I can show fast progress.

Project 1: [name] — [1–2 lines what it does] (stack: …)
What I learned / how I approached it: [1–2 lines]

Project 2: [name] — [1–2 lines]

Link: [GitHub/Portfolio]

I’m available for a short task or a 15 min call to walk you through the projects.
Thanks,
[NAME]

Template 4: switching stack / career change

The goal is to explain the transition without sounding defensive.

Hi! I’m applying for the [ROLE] position. My background is [context], but for the last [X months] I focused on [new stack] and built projects aligned with similar requirements.

Relevant highlights:
- [proof 1: project / delivery]
- [proof 2: learning applied in practice]

Link: [GitHub/Portfolio]

I’d love to do a quick 15–20 min call to align on expectations and fit.
Best,
[NAME]

Useful closing lines

• “I can share 1–2 relevant project examples.”
• “I’m happy to do a small take-home task to confirm level.”
• “I’m available for a quick call in [time window].”

Common mistakes

• Too long: it won’t be read.
• Generic copy/paste: recruiters spot it fast.
• Vague claims: “hard worker”, “passionate” without proof.
• Too many links: keep it focused and clean.

Pair it with a strong CV

The cover letter doesn’t replace your CV. If you want a solid structure, use our IT CV template.

And if you’re in the offer stage, use Salary Insights and the salary negotiation checklist.

FAQ

Should I attach the cover letter as a PDF?

You can, but in most cases the email body is enough. A PDF is useful when explicitly requested.

Does it matter when applying via an ATS?

Yes, but keep it short. Many ATS views show only the first lines.

Sources

• Europass — Create a cover letter: https://europass.europa.eu/en/create-europass-cover-letter
• MIT CAPD — Career Handbook (application/interviews/communication): https://capd.mit.edu/resources/career-handbook/