cover letters nursing jobs

How to Write a Nursing Cover Letter That Stands Out + Examples

• Do You Need One?
• What to Include
• 6 Common Mistakes
• Cover Letter Template
• Cover Letter Example
• Don't Forget It!

You're not alone if you think writing a nursing cover letter is intimidating. However, a great cover letter may be the difference between landing the job or having your application ignored. 

Keep reading for expert advice regarding the importance and benefits of writing a nursing cover letter and common mistakes to avoid, and some examples you can use!

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Do You Need Nursing Cover Letters?  

The cover letter is your chance to highlight your past experience and let the hiring manager know why you believe you're the best fit for the role. The hiring manager will quickly notice you are motivated and enthusiastic about the job prospect. 

It's also your first chance to show your articulation and communication skills. A well-crafted cover letter makes an impression that instantly sets you apart from other applicants. 

Benefits of Writing a Nursing Cover Letter

Most candidates don't take the time to create a cover letter. In the world of online applications, attaching one is usually optional and feels like extra work. So many applicants fill out the bare minimum and move on to the next job posting. 

Stand out from the competition - Write a killer cover letter. 

Why you should take the time to create your cover letter

• Increase chances your application is reviewed
• Highlight your accomplishments, skills, and qualifications
• Showcase your personality and communication skills
• Make a great first impression
• Show your interest in the position/company

Your resume is important, but the cover letter sets the tone for your entire application. Check out our Ultimate Guide to Nursing Resumes to learn more about current resume etiquette and trends.

Writing a nursing resume can feel overwhelming. It’s no easy task! Nowadays, nursing resumes must be able to pass through resume reading software before it even reaches a recruiter. That’s why we’ve put together THREE nurse resume templates to cater to your unique professional needs and employment situation.

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What to Include in Your Nursing Cover Letter

Did you learn how to write business letters in school? Have you forgotten everything about how to format them? You’re not alone - we’ve got your back here at Nurse.org. 

Let's go through the basic format of a nursing cover letter that can be used at any stage of your professional development, including entry-level and specialty changes. 

The header is simple; it’s just contact information for both you and the hiring organization. The basic format is:

Phone Number

Email Address

Street Address  

• City, ST, Zip Code

Hiring Manager (Use name if possible)

• Healthcare Organization 

The best advice here is to find out the hiring manager's name so you can personalize the greeting. 

How to find out the name of a hiring manager:

• If you have a connection in the organization, ask who will review your application. 
• Review the company website or LinkedIn to find the manager or director for the position. 
• Call the Human resources department. This can be hit or miss, but it's worth a shot if you haven't found the right person. 

Generic greetings should be your last resort. If you've tried and still can't find the name, "Dear Hiring Manager" or "Dear Nursing Recruitment Team" will work. You'll wow them with the rest of your letter. 

Paragraph #1: Opening

In the opening paragraph, identify the position you're applying for and briefly state why you're a good fit. HR and hiring managers often look at resumes for several positions, so this is a chance to remind them that you are applying for X opportunity. It signals the hiring manager to read the rest of your letter and resume with that position in mind. 

Paragraph #2: Background & Qualifications

Your qualifications paragraph is the most important one in your cover letter. Briefly summarize your background, skills, and traits that make you the perfect candidate for the position in about 2-3. Use keywords from the posted job description that complement your skill set. You can also use bullet points to make this paragraph stand out.

Note for new grads: All of your background experience is valuable. Suppose you don't have healthcare-specific work experience. In that case, you can highlight customer service skills, eagerness to learn new processes, and highlights from nursing school clinical experiences. 

Notes for nurses transitioning to new specialties: Give a brief career synopsis and highlight the skills you think will best transfer to the new specialty. Emphasize strengths that align with the job position posting. 

Paragraph #3: Compliment the Organization

Your final paragraph shows you're serious about the position. Research the organization and state why you want to join their team. You can find great information and keywords to use on the job post or their website.

Closing the Nursing Cover Letter

Your closing sentence is brief and invites further conversation. Restate your contact information and Invite the hiring manager to discuss the role further. Then, add in a final closure and your signature. Congratulations,  your letter is complete!

The closure should be respectful and professional. Examples include

• Respectfully
• Sincerely yours
• Yours truly
• With warm regards
• Best regards

How to List Your Nursing Credentials

It’s easy to get confused about how to list your nursing credentials. The correct way to sign your name with credentials is:

[Name], [Highest level of education completed], [License type], [Certifications]

Jane completed an associate degree and is a Registered Nurse without other certifications (yet). Her signature is Jane Doe, ADN, RN

If Jane goes on to complete her BSN and Pediatric certification, her signature changes to: Jane Doe, BSN, RN, CPN

We’ve got templates below to help you get started, but first let’s review some common mistakes you should avoid. 

6 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing Your Nursing Cover Letter   

Writing a great nursing cover letter may seem daunting, but the process does get easier with practice. Here are a few common nursing cover letter mistakes and pitfalls to avoid.

1. Leaving Grammatical Errors and Typos

Most programs have some spell and grammar check capabilities, but don't rely on them alone. Websites such as grammarly.com offer free proofreading and grammar review. Make sure to review that all names are correctly spelled.

2. Using a Generic Greeting

Do your research to find the hiring manager’s name. If you can’t find it, open the letter with “Dear Hiring Manager.” Avoid “To whom it may concern” at all costs. 

3. Forgetting to add Keywords

Read the job description carefully. Find keywords that relate to your experience and use them throughout the cover letter. 

4. Not Following Instructions

Follow any specific requirements listed in the job description or application website. If the listing says to upload your cover letter as a PDF, save your document as a PDF before submitting it. 

This is your first test to see if you pay attention to detail and follow directions. Don't fail before you even get started!!

5. Using the Same Cover Letter for Different Jobs

Each position and organization are unique; don’t repeatedly use the same letter. However, you also don't need to start from scratch each time! 

Save your cover letters as you write them so they’re available to edit next time. Highlight different skills if needed. Make it personal to the new position by including keywords from the job listing.

6. Forgetting to Proofread and Edit

Notice how #1 and #6 are almost identical? It’s on purpose - proofreading is the most critical aspect of writing. Here are some tips to help you make sure your cover letter is perfect:

Read your letter out loud. Does it make sense? Do any of the sentences sound strange when you read them out loud? 

Walk away . Putting a bit of time between writing and finalizing your edits can make a world of difference in the final draft.

Enlist a friend. Ask a  trusted friend, career advisor, or faculty member to read the letter before you hit send. 

Nursing Cover Letter Template

Here’s everything your nursing cover letter should include.

City, State, Zip Code

Healthcare Organization Name

Telephone Number

Email address

Dear (Mr. Mrs. Ms.) ________,

Dear Nursing Recruitment Team,

Opening: 2-3 sentences that express your excitement. Name the exact position you are applying for and the organization. Briefly state why you are the best fit. 

Background & Qualifications: 2-4 sentences to highlight your applicable certifications, achievements and strengths. You may use bullet format to draw attention to this section.

Compliment the Organization: 2-3 sentences to show you’ve researched the organization and position. Highlight organizational values that align with yours.

Closing sentence: Thank the hiring manager for taking time to review your application. Invite them to contact you to arrange an interview. 

With warm regards, 

Your Name, (credentials)

Example Nursing Cover Letter

(718) 555–0100

[email protected]

123 Main Street; 

City, ST 12345

August 01, 2023

Hailey Johnson

Human Resources

Mercy Healthcare

123 Broadway Ave;  City, ST 12300

Dear Ms. Hailey Johnson,

I am excited to apply for the Registered Nurse residency program at Mercy Healthcare. I recently graduated with my Bachelor of Science in Nursing and believe the skills and knowledge gained during nursing school will be highly valuable to your team.

I received excellent clinical reviews throughout nursing school and graduated with honors. I have excellent time-management skills and look forward to further developing hands-on skills through clinical practice. My ability to coordinate tasks and collaborate with others allows me to provide excellent patient care. 

Mercy Healthcare is well-known for patient-centered care and shared governance. I look forward to making a difference in patients’ lives through compassion, dedication, and excellent nursing care. 

Thank you for considering my application. I can be reached at (718) 555–0100 or [email protected] to arrange an interview and further discuss my qualifications.

Ava Smith, BSN, RN

Don't Forget Your Cover Letter!

Always, always, always attach a cover letter to your job applications. These templates should help you get started. Attaching a cover letter immediately sets you apart from the candidates who do not take the time to write or attach one. Highlight your strengths and show the hiring manager that you’re serious about the position. Then start prepping your answers to  common interview questions for when you get that call.

Joleen Sams is a certified Family Nurse Practitioner based in the Kansas City metro area. During her 10-year RN career, Joleen worked in NICU, inpatient pediatrics, and regulatory compliance. Since graduating with her MSN-FNP in 2019, she has worked in urgent care and nursing administration. Connect with Joleen on LinkedIn or see more of her writing on her website.

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• English (UK)

• Cover Letter Examples

How to Write a Nursing Cover Letter: Examples for 2024

Don’t let your career fall into a coma. Learn how to write a standout nursing cover letter that lands interviews. I’ll help you provide the best care for your nurse cover letter.

After scrolling through the never-ending job boards, you’ve found the nursing job of your dreams. They’ve got excellent pay, great doctors and medical staff to work with, and a career ladder you can visualize climbing.

All that stands in your way to get that interview is the perfect nursing cover letter.

In this article, you’ll get:

• Two nurse cover letter samples, one for an experienced nurse and an entry-level nursing student cover letter.
• Step-by-step advice on writing nursing cover letters to land you more clinic and hospital interviews.
• An experienced or new grad nurse cover letter template for you to copy and use to make your cover letter for nursing jobs in just 15 minutes.

Save hours of work and get a cover letter like this. Pick a template, fill it in. Quick and easy. Choose from 20+ cover letter templates and download your cover letter now.

Create your cover letter now

What users say about ResumeLab:

I had an interview yesterday and the first thing they said on the phone was: “Wow! I love your cover letter.” Patrick I love the variety of templates. Good job guys, keep up the good work! Dylan  My previous cover letter was really weak and I used to spend hours adjusting it in Word. Now, I can introduce any changes within minutes. Absolutely wonderful! George

Looking for other cover letter examples for positions in healthcare and well-being? See:

• Dentist Cover Letter
• EMT Cover Letter
• Esthetician Cover Letter
• Healthcare Cover Letter
• LPN Cover Letter
• Medical Assistant Cover Letter
• New Grad Nurse Cover Letter
• Physician Assistant Cover Letter
• Physical Therapy Cover Letter
• Social Work Cover Letter

To begin, let’s take a look at two different nurse cover letters examples:

Nursing Cover Letter Examples

First, I’ll show you Edward’s experienced nursing cover letter. He’s applying for a job that calls for a registered nurse who knows how to take accurate measurements and readings and administer appropriate treatment plans.

Take a look at Edward’s nurse cover letter sample to see how he rocks it:

#1: Mid-Level Nursing Cover Letter Example

Edward Welch 

Registered Nurse (RN)

Nevada State Licence #NV54998

775-270-8127

[email protected]

linkedin.com/in/edwardwelch

June 23, 2024

Donald Raines

Director of Nursing

Shamus T. Knight Memorial Hospital

360 Camden Street

Reno, NV 89501

Dear Mr. Raines,

I’ve been a registered nurse for over 3 years at University Medical Center in Las Vegas. Having recently moved back home to Reno, I was excited to find a job opening on your medical staff as an RN at Shamus T. Knight Memorial Hospital. With my well-rounded expertise in pain management techniques, reviewing laboratory data for anomalies and problems, communicating with patients, and assisting in the emergency room, I’m certain I would make a valuable addition to the nursing staff as a registered nurse.

The job ad mentions you are seeking an RN capable of accurately and efficiently evaluating patients for medical signs and symptoms, as well as initiating the appropriate responses. As a staff nurse at LV-UMC, I successfully evaluated and identified patient responses to treatment and signs of illness. During my employment there, I effectively managed a caseload of 15 per day while helping our nursing team achieve Magnet status recognition. I know I will bring that same level of dedication and commitment to work at STK.

I am sure that I’d love working at your hospital in particular, as I greatly respect the staff and the research conducted here. I’d be honored to become part of the nursing family at Shamus T. Knight Memorial Hospital.

Could we arrange a sit-down or phone call to discuss how I could help Shamus T. Knight Memorial Hospital lessen its workload while increasing the quality of care?

Edward Welch, RN 

This registered nursing cover letter example will jolt the head nurse awake like a defibrillator. It tackles all the points from the job ad, showcasing Edward as a nursing master.

But what about a cover letter with no experience?

Meet Esmeralda. She hasn’t worked as a nurse before, having only studied at university and completed the LPN exam. However, her entry-level nurse cover letter still talks up her medical skills and knowledge in a compelling way. Here it is:

#2: Entry-Level Nursing Cover Letter Example

Esmeralda Welch

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

Nevada State Licence #NV54999

775-270-8128

[email protected]

linkedin.com/in/esmewelch

Head of Nursing Staff

As a medical student with a newly earned LPN certification, I want to apply for the licensed practical nurse position at Shamus T. Knight Memorial Hospital. As I finish my bachelor’s degree in nursing, I believe I have the book knowledge and classroom hours needed to be a perfect entry-level nurse candidate at your medical center.

According to the nursing job description, you are looking for an LPN capable of administering non-RN treatments, evaluating patient symptoms and reactions, and assisting the RN charge nurse in all aspects of general patient care. During my college studies and throughout my licensed practical nursing certification program, I learned about many medical topic clusters, including pharmacology, patient care, hygiene and nutrition, ambulatory care, and proficiency with EHRs.

I would love the opportunity to chat about the nursing unit’s upcoming objectives and current roadblocks and show you how my friendly attitude, willingness to learn, and medical knowledge make me a top contender for the LPN position.

Esmeralda Welch, LPN 

Esmeralda’s nurse cover letter shows she has the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in her role, even without professional experience.

Now I’ll show you how to write your own cover letter for nursing jobs:

How to Write a Nursing Cover Letter

Nursing jobs demand an in-depth understanding of medical procedures, patient care, and strong interpersonal skills to address patient needs effectively. Your nursing cover letter must demonstrate your expertise in medical practices, empathy, and capacity to provide compassionate patient care.

Here’s how to write a cover letter for nursing jobs:

1. Format the Nursing Cover Letter Professionally

Your ICU or graduate nurse cover letter has to make a great first impression. And not only with the words you include but also with how you format the cover letter .

Here is how the cover letter outline should go:

• Align all the text to the left, from your address at the beginning to your signature at the end.
• Choose the best font for a cover letter that’s easy to read and matches your nurse resume template .
• Use single-line spaces in the body of your RN or LPN cover letter, and leave room for a one-inch border around the edges.
• Structure the application letter into clear parts. An introduction, main body, and a closing. Aim for 3–4 paragraphs.
• Ensure the length of your cover letter for nurse jobs doesn’t exceed a single page.

A good cover letter can set up a resume perfectly, but a bad one can tank your application before your resume even gets read. The key is to keep it friendly but concise; anything more than a page is way too much. A brief summary of your skills and experience and how they relate to the job is more than enough. Your resume will go into more detail on your work history, so all you’re looking to do is match up enough key attributes from the job description that a hiring manager will want to look further.” Michael Green Vice President at Nelson Frank

2. Start With a Proper Nursing Cover Letter Heading

Adding address and personal details onto a cover letter is about as straightforward as it gets. But at the same time, an error here is as bad as an error in the hospital documentation.

Use this template for reference:

Nursing Cover Letters Sample Header Template

[ Full Name]

[ Your Job Title ] (Optional)

[ Your License Number (If Applicable)

[ Phone Number ]

[ Email Address ]

[ LinkedIn URL ]

[ Writing Date ]

[ Head Nurse’s Full Name ]

[ Head Nurse’s Title ]

[ Medical Facility Name ]

[ Medical Facility Street Address ]

[ City, State, Zip Code ]

Always make sure to triple-check each entry in the header. You wouldn’t want to miss the opportunity for an interview just because you accidentally made a typo in your email address.

Expert Hint: Avoid Hello , Hi , Dear Sir or Madam , and To Whom It May Concern phrases. They come off as lazy, generic, and spammy. Don’t know the recipient’s name? Look on the hospital’s website, or browse LinkedIn for clues.

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Want to try a different look? There's 21 more. A single click will give your document a total makeover. Pick a cover letter template here .

3. Introduce Yourself in the First Paragraph

The first paragraph of a nursing cover letter needs to be like a shot of adrenaline. The person reading it has to want to know more about you instantly. It’s not an easy job, but so is nursing. I’ll show you how to start a cover letter for a nurse practitioner:

Nursing Cover Letter Sample: Introductory Statement

Dear [Name of Head Nurse, Medical Director, etc.] :

It excited me to come across the [Nursing Job Position] position at [Name of Hospital, Lab, or Clinic] . As a [Current Nursing Job Title] with [###] years of experience with [Nursing Skills, e.g., Cardiac Care, Emergency Room Care, Infection Control, Patient Charts, Pain Management, OR Procedures, Surgery Prep, Patient Evaluations, etc.] , At my previous workplace, I [Quantified Achievement] . I’m sure I’m the right candidate for this job.

This template works wonders because it’s relevant, specific, personalized, and brief. It clearly states the position you’re applying for, gives the reader an overview of who you are and how many years of experience you have, what’s your proudest achievements, and lists multiple vital skills from the job posting.

Also, look at the tone of voice. It’s formal and exudes confidence with excitement.

Expert Hint: Most nurses report burnout as the reason for quitting their previous job . Before you apply somewhere, research the hospital/clinic so you don’t end up harming your mental health.

4. Describe Your Nursing Skills & Work Expertise

In the second paragraph of the nursing cover letter, show them how you’re the dream candidate they’re searching for. Go to the job posting and scroll down to where it says “job requirements.”

There, you’ll find nursing skills in the form of job keywords , you’ll want to target on your cover letter.

Check out this easy, fill-in-the-blank example:

Sample Cover Letter Nursing: Middle Paragraph

I see you’re seeking a [Name of Nursing Job Position] with knowledge in [State a Particular Medical Skill or Two Mentioned in the Job Ad] . As a [Name of Current or Former Medical Job Title] at [Name of Current or Former Lab, Hospital, or Clinic] , I diligently handled [Responsibilities, e.g., Operating Room Procedures, Maternal Care, Lab Testing, ICU Operations, Exams and Treatment, etc.] . I am confident that I will bring that same expertise and level of care to [Hospital, Clinic, or Laboratory Name] .

If you have several work accomplishments you wish to showcase on your nursing cover letter, you can do so by including a couple of bullet points . This can often help you save space and create a more impactful short cover letter .

Expert Hint: If you’re applying for a leadership nursing position, mention your leadership achievements. Transformational leadership style has a positive impact on nurses’ job satisfaction, which in turn reduces burnout and improves work quality.

5. Describe Why This Hospital or Clinic is the Best Place for You

The hospital administration and nursing manager want to know that you’ll fit in well with the workplace culture. So, compliment them in the final paragraph of your nursing cover letter. 

It’s important because anyone would prefer to hire a nurse who wanted to work at this specific hospital, rather than one just wanting a nursing job anywhere. Show them you care. Let them know you’d be a perfect addition to the nursing staff.

End your cover letter for nursing jobs by making them feel special. Here’s another nurse cover letter template to use as a guide:

Nurse Cover Letter Example: Motivation Statement

I admire [Clinic or Hospital Name] ’s focus on [Give a Point or Fact About the Hospital or Clinic That Interests You, e.g., Research, Values, Quality of Care] . This is truly admirable and inspiring, and it easily is in line with my own values. I know that working at [Hospital or Clinic Name] as the [Name of Nursing Position] would be a perfect opportunity for me to learn, develop, and help others.

6. End the Nursing Cover Letter With an Effective Sign-Off

One of the most efficient ways to increase your chances of getting a callback is to request a callback. And that’s no placebo trick—you can trust me on that.

Add a short and sweet call-to-action and follow it with “Sincerely”, adding your name, and repeating your contact details. Here’s a simple closing template on a sample cover letter for nursing jobs:

Nursing Cover Letter Example: Call-to-Action & Complimentary Close

Could we make time for a quick video chat, phone call, or face-to-face to discuss how I could help [Hospital or Clinic Name] as a new nursing staff member?

[Digital Copy of Signature]

[First & Last Name, Post-Nominal Letters]

[Phone Number]

[Email Address]

Expert Hint: Are you applying for a specific nursing position? See our RN cover letter and CNA cover letter guides.

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Nail it all with a splash of color, choose a clean font, highlight your skills in just a few clicks. You’re the perfect candidate and we’ll prove it. Just pick one of 21 resume templates and get started now .

Here are the main things to remember when writing a cover letter for nursing jobs:

• Address the head of nursing directly in your nursing cover letter salutation.
• Introduce yourself and quickly summarize your professional medical accomplishments and skills.
• Show the hospital administrative staff that you are a perfect match to the candidate they requested in the nursing job description.
• Let them know your motivation in joining the hospital with some praise and enthusiasm.
• Ask for a meeting or phone call to end your experienced or new grad nursing cover letter.

Do you have a question on how to write a nursing cover letter? Need ideas for how to come up with accomplishments on a cover letter for nursing positions? Head down to the comment section below to ask a question, and I’ll reply as soon as possible!

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At ResumeLab, quality is at the crux of our values, supporting our commitment to delivering top-notch career resources. The editorial team of career experts carefully reviews every article in accordance with editorial guidelines , ensuring the high quality and reliability of our content. We actively conduct original research, shedding light on the job market's intricacies and earning recognition from numerous influential news outlets . Our dedication to delivering expert career advice attracts millions of readers to our blog each year.

Career expert who has been sharing his expert knowledge since 2017. His advice will guide you smoothly through all recruitment processes: from job hunting to getting a promotion. Christian offers comprehensive advice on career development and each step of the job search, from start to finish and beyond. His guides cover looking for new jobs, sending application documents such as resumes and cover letters, acing interview questions, and settling into the new position. Since 2017, he has written over 200 in-depth, meticulously-researched career advice articles in collaboration with the most renowned career experts in the world. Hundreds of thousands of readers visit Christian’s articles each month.

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Nursing Cover Letter

Impress employers and land your dream job with our comprehensive guide and Nursing Cover Letter example. Download for free!

By Bernard Ramirez on Oct 21, 2024.

Fact Checked by Ericka Pingol.

What is a Nursing Cover Letter?

A Nursing Cover Letter is a crucial document accompanying a nurse's resume when applying for a job. It serves as an introduction to the candidate and provides an opportunity to highlight relevant skills, experiences, and qualifications that make them an ideal fit for the position.

The purpose of a Nursing Cover Letter is to grab the attention of the hiring manager and convince them to review the applicant's resume in detail. It allows the nurse to showcase their passion for quality patient care, knowledge of healthcare practices, and ability to work effectively in a team.

A well-crafted Nursing Cover Letter includes several key elements. It starts with a professional greeting and an introduction that states the specific position the candidate is applying for. The body of the letter should focus on the nurse's qualifications, emphasizing relevant experiences and skills that align with the job requirements. The nurse can highlight their educational background, certifications, and any specialized training they have received.

The cover letter should also mention notable achievements or awards, such as excellent patient outcomes or recognition for outstanding performance. It's important to convey enthusiasm for the opportunity and a genuine interest in the organization or healthcare facility. Lastly, the closing paragraph should express gratitude for considering the application and include a request for an interview. The nurse can provide their contact information and indicate their availability for further discussion.

Nursing Cover Letter Template

Nursing Cover Letter Example

How does this work?

This template will help you create a standout cover letter by guiding you through each section. Follow these simple steps to complete your personalized Nursing Cover Letter.

Step 1: Download the template

Click the link provided to download the Nursing Cover Letter template. Then, save the file to your computer for easy access.

Step 2: Fill in your personal information

Start by entering your name, address, phone number, and email address at the top of the template. Be sure this information is accurate, as it will be used for future communication.

Step 3: Customize the body of the letter

Personalize the content of the letter to match your skills and experiences. Highlight your nursing background, qualifications, and any certifications like advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) or trauma nursing core course (TNCC) that fit the job description. Adjust any wording to make it specific to the job you're applying for.

Step 4: Review and finalize

Proofread the entire letter to ensure there are no errors. Once everything is correct, save the final version and prepare it for submission along with your resume.

When would you use a nurse cover letter?

Nursing Cover Letters are essential when applying for nursing positions. Here are a few instances where this template would be beneficial:

Job applications

A cover letter is essential when applying for a new nursing job. You can use it to create a tailored letter highlighting and aligning your qualifications and clinical skills with the job requirements. It helps you stand out from other applicants and demonstrates your interest in the position.

Career transitions

If you are transitioning to a new nursing specialty or moving from a different healthcare setting, a cover letter can explain your motivation for the change and emphasize relevant transferable skills. The template can guide you in crafting a compelling narrative to support your transition.

Nursing internships or residencies

When applying for nursing internships or residencies, a cover letter is an excellent opportunity to showcase your passion for learning and gaining practical experience. The template can assist you in highlighting your educational background, clinical rotations, and related projects or research.

Networking or referrals

If you have been referred to a nursing position by a colleague or have made a professional connection, a cover letter can help you introduce yourself and express your interest in the opportunity. The template can be a starting point for crafting a personalized letter incorporating a referral or networking connection.

Career fairs or nursing conferences

You can submit your resume and cover letter to potential employers during career fairs or nursing conferences. Using the template, you can create a professional cover letter that succinctly conveys your skills and experiences, making a strong impression on recruiters.

Remember, while a template provides a solid structure, it is crucial to customize it to match your unique qualifications and the specific job requirements you're applying for. Tailoring the content and personalizing the letter will help you effectively communicate your suitability for the position and increase your chances of securing interviews and job offers.

Benefits of this application letter for nursing job PDF

Here are some reasons and benefits that you can gain from using this template:

It saves you time.

By using a template, you can save time in formatting and structuring your own Nursing Cover Letter. The template provides a ready-made framework, allowing you to focus on customizing the content to match your qualifications and the job requirements.

It offers comprehensive guidance.

The template guides what information to include and where to place it in your cover letter. It ensures you cover all critical sections, such as the introduction, qualifications, achievements, and closing, resulting in a comprehensive and well-rounded letter.

It helps you showcase key points.

The template prompts you to highlight key points such as your qualifications, skills, and experiences. It encourages you to tailor these points to match the specific job requirements, increasing the relevancy of your cover letter.

Hints & tips

When writing a Nursing Cover Letter, consider the following hints and tips to enhance its effectiveness:

1. Research the employer

Conduct thorough research on the organization or healthcare facility you're applying to. Gain insights into their values, mission, and specific job requirements. Incorporate this knowledge into your cover letter to demonstrate your genuine interest and alignment with their goals.

2. Customize your letter

Tailor your cover letter to each specific job application. Highlight the qualifications and experiences most relevant to the position. Instead, avoid generic statements and focus on showcasing how your skills match the employer's needs.

3. Keep it concise and use a professional tone

Be concise and to the point, keeping your cover letter within a single page. Use short paragraphs to make it easy to read. Highlight the most significant accomplishments and qualifications that make you a standout candidate.

4. Use a professional tone

Maintain a professional and enthusiastic tone throughout your letter. Be confident in your abilities, but avoid sounding overly boastful. Emphasize your passion for nursing and patient care.

5. Showcase relevant experiences

Highlight your nursing experiences that directly relate to the job requirements. Discuss clinical rotations, internships, or specialized training you have completed. Provide specific examples of how your skills and experiences have positively impacted patient outcomes or contributed to a team's success. If you have gaps in your employment history or other potential concerns, briefly address them in your cover letter. Provide a concise explanation and focus on the skills and experiences you gained during that time.

6. Proofread, edit, and follow the application instructions

Avoid spelling and grammatical errors by thoroughly proofreading your cover letter. Use editing tools or ask a trusted colleague to review it. A well-written and error-free letter demonstrates attention to detail and professionalism. Carefully follow any application instructions provided by the employer. Submit your cover letter and resume in the requested format (PDF, Word, etc.) using the preferred method (email, online application portal, etc.).

Commonly asked questions

Yes, they are essential in nursing because they allow you to introduce yourself and explain why you're a good fit for the registered nurse position. They help highlight your skills and experience, making your application stand out to employers.

A letter of recommendation for a nursing application is a written statement from someone, like a professor or supervisor, who can vouch for your skills, work ethic, and qualifications. It supports your application by showing you're well-suited for the nursing role.

To write a cover letter for a nursing faculty position, introduce yourself, explain why you're interested in the role, and highlight your teaching experience, nursing skills, and background. Remember to mention your qualifications and how you can contribute to the program.

Yes, there are many Nursing Cover Letter examples available online. These examples can help you format your letter and show what information to include to make your application stand out.

Related Templates

Popular Templates

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Covering letters

Did you know many employers admit they won't consider cvs if they are not accompanied by a covering letter, don't risk being overlooked; follow our advice and tips to make sure your covering letter ticks all the right boxes and encourages the recruiter to shortlist you., covering letters - the basics.

If you're responding to a job advert that simply asks you to submit your CV,  or are sending out a speculative CV, then you will definitely need a covering letter. 

A covering letter introduces you as a candidate and acts as an opportunity for you to highlight your key skills, strengths and attributes, convincing the reader that you're a good match for the job.

Unlike your CV, which is a relatively factual document, you can write more personably in a covering letter, allowing for your personality, interest, enthusiasm and passion to shine through. 

It’s important to tailor your covering letter to the job you’re going for, using the job advert, person specification, job description and company values to guide you.

How to write your CV, including suggested layout and CV example. 

Top Tips 

• Try to arrange an informal visit or informal chat to find out more about the role before you apply. Reference this in your covering letter.
• Take time to carefully tailor your covering letter to your target job and employer.
• Explain your reasons or genuine motivation for applying. 
• Back up any claims with evidence or context. (E.g. "I have good organisational skills, efficiently managing my own caseload and appointments on a daily basis")
• Make it clear you’ve done your research and understand the role, field, employer, etc.
• Echo the employer’s organisational values, vision or mission statement where possible.
• Submit a stand-alone CV without a covering letter 
• Write more than a page of A4 if possible.
• Duplicate all information contained within your CV. Instead, highlight the most important or relevant elements.
• Be vague. (E.g. Instead of saying "I've worked in a wide range of settings," say, "I've worked in a wide range of settings including oncology, community, and urgent care.")
• Focus on how the job would benefit you. Instead, focus on how you could benefit the employer.

Structuring your covering letter

There’s no set format for a covering letter, but you may wish to use the structure below as a guide.

Introduction

Explain which job you’re applying for, and where you saw the advert.

Section 1  

Introduce yourself and tell your prospective employer a bit about you. 

You could give a very brief overview of your career and current role and/or share your story about why you became a HCA / nurse, or why you decided on the job role you did. 

Alternatively, if you’re changing your career path, explain why. 

Section 2 

Demonstrate why you are a good match for the job.

Study the job advert and person specification if there is one, and identify approximately 3 of the most important criteria needed for the role. Demonstrate how you meet these criteria using evidence and examples, and focusing on your achievements.

Section 3 

Demonstrate your knowledge of the company / field / job / sector and why you want to work for them. Explain what you would bring to the team/department, and/or why you’d fit in with their industry, culture or values.

Thank them for taking the time to read your letter and CV. Let them know your availability for a call back.

Need feedback on your covering letter?

If you're an RCN member  and you need to write a covering letter to apply for a job, you can e-mail us at  [email protected]  to receive feedback via email within 10 working days. Please include: 

• Your RCN membership number and postcode (or date of birth and postcode)
• The job advert and/or Person Specification for the job you're applying for
• Whether you have any deadlines or time pressures (we will do our best to comply)
• A copy of your CV if you want this checked too.

Have a look at our other resources:

• Job applications and Supporting Statements
• Interview skills for nurses and healthcare professionals
• CPD and Searching for courses
• Career Crossroads

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