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Writing a cover letter for a finance internship can feel challenging, especially if you’re new to the industry. However, it’s also an opportunity to showcase your enthusiasm, analytical skills, and understanding of the financial sector. A strong cover letter should go beyond listing your academic qualifications; it should demonstrate your passion for finance, your ability to think critically, and your eagerness to contribute to a dynamic team.
In this article, you’ll find a variety of finance internship cover letter examples, along with expert tips and a step-by-step guide to help you create a standout application. We provide templates and tailored advice specifically designed for finance roles, so you can confidently write a professional cover letter that catches the attention of hiring managers and sets you apart from other candidates.
Sample Cover Letter for a Finance Internship
To give you a headstart on your application, we’ve included a sample finance internship cover letter below. This example will provide a clear framework for organising your letter and demonstrate how to highlight your relevant skills, academic background, and passion for the finance industry. Note how the candidate effectively communicates their qualifications while maintaining a formal and professional tone throughout.
Kevin Knight
246A Lawrence Drive
Manchester M3 7GJ
07912 345 678
kevin.knight@example.com
17 November, 2024
Freda Jones
Bose
Manchester M60 3TT
freda.jones@bose.co.uk
Dear Ms Jones,
I am writing to express my interest in the Finance Internship opportunity at Bose. With a recent degree in Finance from the University of Manchester, I have developed a solid foundation in financial analysis, accounting, and investment management. I am eager to apply these skills and learn from your team, contributing to your continued success.
Throughout my academic career, I have gained hands-on experience in financial analysis through coursework and independent projects. I developed detailed financial models, performed company valuations, and analysed market trends using tools such as Excel and Bloomberg. Additionally, my role as Treasurer for the University Finance Society gave me the opportunity to manage budgets, track expenses, and oversee financial reporting for various student-led events.
What excites me most about this internship is the opportunity to work with a globally recognised company like Bose, known for its innovative financial solutions. I am confident that my strong analytical mindset, attention to detail, and eagerness to learn will enable me to contribute effectively to your team.
My strong analytical and communication skills, coupled with my passion for finance, make me a strong candidate for this opportunity. Thank you for considering my application. I am excited to discuss my qualifications further.
Sincerely,
Kevin Knight
How to Write a Finance Internship Cover Letter Step by Step
In this section, we’ll guide you through writing a standout cover letter for a finance internship. From writing a captivating opening to concluding with a compelling call to action, we’ll cover every step to help you present your qualifications in the most effective way. Our detailed advice will ensure you address the expectations of hiring managers in the finance industry while demonstrating your enthusiasm and aptitude for the role.
By following our expert tips, you’ll be equipped to create a cover letter that sets you apart from other candidates and brings you one step closer to securing your desired internship in finance.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you write an effective finance internship cover letter:
Step 1: Analyse the internship role and company
Before you start drafting your cover letter, take a step back and really dive into the finance internship role you’re applying for. Review the job description carefully to get a clear sense of the skills and experiences the employer values most. Identify key responsibilities—such as financial analysis, market research, or budgeting—and think about how your own background aligns with these tasks.
Beyond just the job itself, take some time to explore the company’s culture, values, and industry standing. Research their latest financial projects, reports, or partnerships, and consider how your interests and skills can contribute to their current goals. This research will help you craft a more personalised cover letter that speaks directly to the company’s needs and better prepares you for a potential interview.
Step 2: Add a contact section to your cover letter
Start your cover letter by including your contact details at the top. Write your full name, address, phone number, and email address, ensuring this section matches the contact information on your CV. Next, include the date of writing. In a new paragraph, list the recipient’s details. If possible, address the letter to a specific person—using their name adds a personal touch and demonstrates your attention to detail and research. This thoughtful approach helps your cover letter stand out and sets a professional tone from the start.
Dom Webster
52 Park Row
Edinburgh, EH2 0YR
07912 345 678
dom.webster@example.com
17 November, 2024
James Brown
Mashreq Bank
Edinburgh, EH2 09UH
contact@mashreqbank.co.uk
Step 3: Address the recipient of your finance cover letter
Make your cover letter more personal by using an appropriate greeting based on the recipient’s details. If you know the hiring manager’s name, use it in the greeting—this shows you’ve done your research and are genuinely interested in the position.
If the recipient’s name isn’t listed, using a more general greeting is perfectly fine. Avoid outdated options like “To Whom It May Concern.” Instead, use “Dear Hiring Manager” or “Dear [Company] Recruitment Team,” which are both professional and widely accepted when you don’t have a specific name.
Dear Mr Brown,
OR
Dear Hiring Manager,
Step 4: Set the tone with a strong cover letter introduction
Your cover letter introduction is your first opportunity to make a strong impression, so starting with confidence and enthusiasm is crucial. In just a few sentences, clearly state the finance internship you’re applying for and highlight the key qualifications that set you apart.
This is your chance to show why you’re excited about the role and how your academic experience aligns with the company’s needs. If you’re early in your career and lack direct experience, focus on relevant coursework, financial projects, or any internships that have exposed you to the finance world. Whether it’s your skills in data analysis, financial forecasting, or your understanding of financial regulations, demonstrate your passion for the field and explain how your skills will contribute to the company’s success.
I am excited to apply for the finance internship at Millenium, as I am eager to build on my academic background in financial analysis and data modelling. During my studies at the University of Edinburgh, I gained practical experience through an internship at Barclays, where I developed market research and financial reporting skills. I am particularly drawn to your innovative approach to sustainable investing, and I believe my skills align well with the needs of your team.
OR
I am writing to apply for the finance internship at Oanda, where I can apply my academic training in finance and accounting. As a second-year student at the University of Oxford, I have gained hands-on experience through projects like managing a student-led investment portfolio, which outperformed the market by 13%. I’m excited about the opportunity to contribute to Oanda and further develop my skills in financial analysis and reporting.
Step 5: Emphasise your skills and experience
After your introduction, use the next section of your cover letter to highlight why you’re an ideal fit for the finance internship. Since you’re applying for an internship, it’s likely that you don’t have extensive professional experience, so focus on how your academic background or any relevant projects make you a strong candidate. Align your qualifications with the job description by emphasising key skills the employer seeks, such as financial analysis, data modelling, or market research. If you’re unsure how to present your qualifications without much work experience, you can refer to guides on how to write a cover letter with no experience for tips on how to frame your strengths.
Finance employers often look for skills like proficiency in Excel/Python, financial modelling, and attention to detail. If possible, quantify your impact to make your application stand out. For example, you could highlight how you streamlined a financial process in a student project or how your analysis contributed to better decision-making in an investment portfolio. Showing measurable results proves you can apply your knowledge in the real world.
I am eager to apply for the finance internship at Lenovo, where I can leverage my academic background in finance and hands-on experience from various university projects. During a recent investment portfolio project at the University of Manchester, I analysed market trends, made strategic investment recommendations, and contributed to a 10% return. This experience allowed me to develop key financial analysis and decision-making skills, which I believe align well with the responsibilities outlined in this internship.
In addition to my project work, I am proficient in Excel and have developed strong skills in financial modelling, data analysis, and financial reporting through my corporate finance and accounting coursework. My internship at LG Electronics further enhanced my practical understanding of financial processes as I assisted with creating financial reports and budgeting forecasts. With my solid academic foundation and enthusiasm for finance, I am confident I can contribute effectively to your team.
OR
I am excited to apply for the finance internship at HSBC, as I believe my strong academic background and hands-on experience make me a great fit for this role. As a finance student at the University of Oxford, I have worked on numerous projects that involved financial analysis and data modelling. In a recent university project, I analysed financial data to support investment decisions, providing insights that led to a 17% increase in the portfolio’s performance.
Additionally, I have developed proficiency in Excel, financial forecasting, and report preparation through both my coursework and a summer internship at Barclays. I assisted with financial reporting, analysing trends, and providing actionable recommendations to senior management. My attention to detail, analytical mindset, and passion for finance make me confident that I can contribute meaningfully to your team and gain valuable experience during this internship.
Step 6: Conclude your finance internship cover letter
End your cover letter with a polite and concise conclusion that reinforces your interest in the finance internship. Thank the recruiter for considering your application and express your excitement about the opportunity to join the team. Mention that your CV is attached for further details and express your eagerness to discuss how you can add value to the team during an interview.
Choose an appropriate closing phrase depending on the formality of the company: “Sincerely” is ideal if you’re addressing a specific person, “Yours faithfully” is suitable for a more formal greeting, and “Kind regards” offers a slightly more casual but still professional tone. Don’t forget to include your full name to finalise the letter.
Thank you for considering my application for the finance internship at HSBC. With my strong analytical skills and academic background in finance, I am confident I can contribute to your team. My CV is attached for your reference, and I look forward to discussing how I can add value to your company.
Kind regards,
Mark Rice
OR
I appreciate your time and consideration in reviewing my application for the finance internship role. With my strong foundation in financial analysis and my enthusiasm for gaining hands-on experience in the industry, I believe I am well-equipped to contribute to your team. Please find my CV attached for further details, and I would be delighted to discuss how my skills can add value to your firm during an interview.
Yours faithfully,
Dylan Cooke
Step 7: Edit and format your cover letter
Once you’ve drafted your cover letter, review it thoroughly for any spelling, grammar, or punctuation errors. In the legal field, precision is key, and a well-written, error-free cover letter will demonstrate your professionalism. Take advantage of online spell-check tools, or better yet, ask a colleague or trusted friend to proofread your letter for a fresh perspective.
Equally important is the overall presentation. Ensure your cover letter is neatly formatted and easy to read. Stick to recommended professional fonts such as Arial or Times New Roman. Pay attention to spacing and margins to ensure the letter looks well-organised. A clean, well-structured cover letter not only demonstrates your attention to detail but also leaves a positive impression on the reader.
Boost Your Intern Application With a Strong CV
So, you’ve created your cover letter—now it’s time to make sure your intern CV complements it perfectly. Your cover letter is your chance to highlight your enthusiasm and fit for the finance internship, but your CV plays a crucial role in showcasing your academic achievements, relevant skills, and any hands-on experience. Together, they create a complete picture of your qualifications and potential as an intern.
Using a professional CV and cover letter builder can help you put together an application that stands out. These tools make it easier to showcase your analytical skills, financial knowledge, and problem-solving abilities in the most effective way, ensuring your application leaves a strong impression on hiring managers.
Frequently Asked Questions for Finance Intern Cover Letters
Should I customise my cover letter for each finance internship application?
Yes, it’s essential to customise your cover letter for each application. Take the time to research the company and its values, understanding their approach to finance and business. This allows you to align your skills and experiences with their specific needs and goals, demonstrating your genuine interest in the role and how you can contribute to the firm’s success.
How long should my finance internship cover letter be?
Your finance internship cover letter should be concise and to the point. Typically, cover letters are one page long, but without professional work experience, your letter may be shorter—and that’s perfectly fine. If you’re unsure about the ideal length, you can check out our guide on how long should a cover letter be for more details.
Should I include references in my finance internship cover letter?
It’s generally not necessary to include references in your cover letter. Instead, you can mention that references are available upon request or provide them in a separate document if requested by the employer. Focus on your skills, experience, and enthusiasm in the cover letter itself.
What skills should I highlight in my finance internship cover letter?
For a finance internship, key skills to highlight include analytical thinking, attention to detail, proficiency with financial software (e.g., Excel, Power BI), knowledge of financial principles, and communication skills. If you’ve worked on any case studies, projects, or assignments that demonstrate these abilities, make sure to mention them.
Write a Compelling Finance Internship Cover Letter
Stand out in the competitive finance industry by creating a personalised and impactful cover letter. Our intuitive cover letter builder helps you highlight your strengths, from academic accomplishments to key skills, while offering plenty of templates and expert tips to get you started. Whether you’re applying for your first internship or looking to build on your experience, this tool allows you to craft a tailored letter that will grab the attention of recruiters and set you apart from other candidates.
*The names and logos of the companies referred to above are all trademarks of their respective holders. Unless specifically stated otherwise, such references are not intended to imply any affiliation or association with myperfectCV.