Application Letter in English: Definition, Structure, Tips, and Example
Do you want to apply for a job, internship, or training program in English? One important document you may need is an application letter.
An application letter is a formal letter that you send when you want to apply for a job, internship, scholarship, or certain program. This letter introduces who you are, what position you want, and why you are suitable for the position.
In this post, we will learn what an application letter is, its structure, useful expressions, and a simple example in English.
An application letter is a formal letter used to apply for a job or position.
What Is an Application Letter?
An application letter is a letter written by someone who wants to apply for a position. It is usually sent together with a CV or resume.
The purpose of an application letter is to tell the employer about your background, skills, experience, and interest in the position.
Application Letter or Cover Letter?
In many situations, people use the terms application letter and cover letter in a similar way. Both are formal letters used when applying for a job.
In simple English, you can understand it like this: an application letter helps you explain why you are interested in the position and why you are a good candidate.
Generic Structure of an Application Letter
1. Sender’s Address
Your name, address, phone number, or email address.
2. Date
The date when you write the letter.
3. Receiver’s Address
The name, position, company, and address of the person or company.
4. Greeting
Formal greeting, such as Dear Mr. Bryan or Dear Hiring Manager.
5. Body of Letter
Your purpose, background, skills, experience, and interest in the position.
6. Closing
A polite closing, signature, and your name.
Useful Expressions for an Application Letter
Opening:
- I am writing to apply for the position of ...
- I would like to apply for the position of ...
- I am interested in applying for ...
Showing skills or experience:
- I have experience in ...
- My background in ... has prepared me for this position.
- I believe my skills are suitable for this position.
Closing:
- I look forward to hearing from you.
- Thank you for your time and consideration.
- I would be happy to discuss my application further.
Example of Application Letter
Application Letter Example
Paijo Suloyo
25 Melati Street
Bandung, West Java
paijosuloyo@email.com
May 20, 2026
Mr. Bryan
Human Resources Manager
Taylor, Inc.
Jakarta
Dear Mr. Bryan,
I am writing to apply for a position in the Engineering Department at Taylor, Inc. I am very interested in this position because my educational background and training are related to computer science and engineering.
I am currently completing my Bachelor of Science in Engineering at North Carolina State University. During my study, I have learned many subjects related to engineering, computer applications, and programming. I have also participated in a professional training program at Computer Systems International in Raleigh.
Through the training program, I gained practical experience in several departments. Most recently, I worked as a programmer trainee in the Engineering Department. This experience helped me improve my problem-solving skills and understand how computer applications can support engineering work.
I believe that my academic background, training experience, and interest in computer applications make me a suitable candidate for your company. I would be happy to provide more information about my qualifications if needed.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
Paijo Suloyo
Structure Breakdown
Body: The writer explains his education, training, and experience.
Closing: The writer thanks the reader and says that he is waiting for a response.
Tips for Writing an Application Letter
- Use formal and polite language.
- Mention the position you want to apply for.
- Explain your background, skills, or experience briefly.
- Do not make the letter too long.
- Check your grammar, spelling, and punctuation.
- Use a clear closing sentence.
Do not copy the example exactly for a real job application. Change the name, position, company, skills, and experience based on your own situation.
Practice Questions
Try to answer these questions first. Click each question to see the answer.
1. What is an application letter?
An application letter is a formal letter used to apply for a job, internship, scholarship, or certain program.
2. What is the purpose of an application letter?
The purpose is to introduce yourself and explain why you are suitable for the position.
3. What position does the writer want to apply for?
The writer wants to apply for a position in the Engineering Department.
4. Mention two things that should be included in an application letter.
Examples: the position you apply for, your background, your skills, your experience, and your closing statement.
5. Why should you not copy the example exactly?
Because a real application letter must match your own identity, skills, experience, and the position you want.
Conclusion
An application letter is an important formal letter for applying for a job or position. A good application letter should be polite, clear, and relevant to the position. By learning the structure and example above, you can start writing your own application letter in English.
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