Cover Letter Template UK – Free Examples (Word & PDF)
Use this free cover letter template UK (United Kingdom): fill it in online, download it as Word or PDF, and follow our step-by-step guide – where to send it, whether it needs notarizing, what to attach and mistakes to avoid.
| Country | 🇬🇧 United Kingdom |
|---|---|
| Document type | Jobs & HR |
| Format | Word, PDF & fill in online |
| Cost | Free |
| Time to complete | about 5 minutes |
| Notarization | Not required |
| Length | One page |
| Sign-off | Yours sincerely / Yours faithfully |
What is this letter for?
A UK cover letter (or covering letter) accompanies your CV and shows the employer how you meet the person specification. Keep it to one page, address the hiring manager by name if possible, and give evidence of your skills with short examples. Do not include a photo, your date of birth or other personal details.
Where do you send it?
Upload it with your CV on the employer’s portal or attach it to your email.
Does it need to be notarized?
Not required. Not applicable.
Step-by-step process
- Read the person specification and list essential criteria.
- Match each criterion with an example.
- Write a tailored opening and closing.
- Check spelling and the hiring manager’s name.
- Save as PDF and submit with your CV.
What you need before you start
- The job advert and person specification
- Two or three examples matching the criteria
- Right to work in the UK
How to use this template
- Click each yellow field inside the letter and type your details directly (Enter jumps to the next field).
- Read the text through; the “Edit” button lets you change any sentence.
- Click “Word”, “PDF” or “Copy”, then sign and send.
Free template : cover letter template UK
Your full name
Address line 1
Town, Postcode
Phone | Email
Today’s date
Hiring manager name
Company name
Company address
Re: Application for Job title – ref. Reference
Dear Recipient name,
I am writing to apply for the role of Job title advertised on Website. With number years’ experience in field, I believe I meet the requirements set out in your person specification.
In my current role at Employer, I achievement with figures. I have also second example that matches a key criterion.
I am particularly interested in Company name because specific reason. I have the right to work in the UK and can start notice period / date.
Thank you for considering my application. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss it at interview.
Yours sincerely,
Your full name
Letter variations
Graduate opening
As a recent graduate in [[subject]] from [[university]], I completed [[placement/project]] where I [[result]].
Speculative application
I am writing to ask whether you have any opportunities in [[area]]. I have [[experience]] and admire [[Company]]’s work on [[project]].
Checklist before you send
- ☑️ Job title and reference correct
- ☑️ Examples match the person specification
- ☑️ Right to work mentioned
- ☑️ Correct sign-off
- ☑️ PDF named Firstname-Lastname-Cover-Letter
⚠️ Disclaimer: this template is for general guidance only and is not legal advice. Always check the requirements of the organization you are writing to before sending it.
🏛️ Official sources
Always check the latest rules on the official website before sending.
Common mistakes to avoid
- ❌ Generic letter.
- ❌ American spelling and phrasing for a UK employer.
- ❌ Wrong sign-off (sincerely vs faithfully).
Tips before you send it
- Match your examples to the person specification.
- Use British spelling.
- Send as PDF unless asked otherwise.
Frequently asked questions
Should I include a photo on my CV in the UK?
No, photos are not expected.
How long should a UK cover letter be?
One page, three to five paragraphs.
Should I mention salary?
Only if the advert asks for your expectations.
How do I end a UK cover letter?
“Yours sincerely” if you know the name, “Yours faithfully” if you start with “Dear Sir or Madam”.
Where do I send this letter (cover letter template UK)?
Upload it with your CV on the employer’s portal or attach it to your email.
Does this letter (cover letter template UK) need to be notarized?
Not required – Not applicable.