How To Write A Computer Science Cover Letter (With Example)

Updated 12 September 2023

Individuals interested in computer science can find various job opportunities in different sectors, including information technology (IT), retail and healthcare. When applying for a computer science position, a cover letter along with a well-written resume may increase your chances of getting the job. Knowing how to create professional-quality cover letters for computer science positions helps you highlight in-depth information about your relevant skills, qualifications and experience. In this article, we explain how to write a computer science cover letter, provide a helpful template and share a sample to help you create your own.

Please note that none of the companies, institutions or organisations mentioned in this article are associated with Indeed.

How To Write A Computer Science Cover Letter?

Here are some helpful steps to write a computer science cover letter:

1. Review the job description

Before you start writing your cover letter, carefully research and review the job description to find important skills and educational requirements. This helps you customise your cover letter and add relevant information. Research the company to personalise your cover letter and create a favourable impression during the hiring process. Determine the company's goals and explain how your skills can help in achieving them.

2. Select the right format

Consider selecting a professional format for your cover letter. Using the correct format aids your efforts to write an easy-to-understand letter. Select a layout that allows you to highlight all the important information relevant to the role. Divide your cover letter into different sections, including contact details, a brief introduction, skills, qualifications, gratitude and your signature. Aside from this, select a professional font style, size and colour palette. Also, ensure the text has a consistent alignment throughout your cover letter.

3. Add your contact details

Begin your cover letter by listing your current contact information. Include your full name, email address, phone number and location. You can also add a relevant degree or certification. This section provides recruiters with ways to contact you in the future. Below this header, add the date of writing and the company's name. Here is a helpful example header section of a cover letter:

Prachi Singh, BTech Computer Science
+91 9877765676 | prachisingh@email.com | Dehradun, Uttarakhand

13 January 2023

BizStar Ad Agency

4. Include a salutation

Before introducing your skills and qualifications, add a professional salutation to greet the recipient. Mentioning the first and last name of the hiring manager personalises your cover letter. You can also use "Dear Hiring Manager" if you do not know their name. Here are a few examples of salutations to show you how to write a professional greeting:

Dear Neha Gupta,
Dear Hiring Manager,

5. Introduce yourself

After greeting the recipient, introduce yourself and your goal. Write a professional introduction that convinces hiring managers to read the rest of your cover letter. Highlight your skills and accomplishments that explain why you are a suitable candidate for the role. Mentioning proficiencies that differentiate you from other candidates and better illustration of your values to the company is also beneficial.

6. Highlight relevant skills and qualifications

List your most valued skills, qualifications and accomplishments in the second paragraph. Adding keywords from the job posting increases your cover letter's relevance. Consider quantifying your achievements by providing concise numbers and percentages. You can also highlight qualifications that demonstrate your ability to succeed in the position. Computer science candidates often benefit from detailing essential technical skills in their cover letters.

7. Make your cover letter unique

Briefly explain why you are a suitable fit for the role. List the skills and abilities that make you unique. Add any additional certifications or degrees in computer science to prove your proficiencies. Consider showing your enthusiasm to work in this industry.

8. End with a closing paragraph

Add a closing paragraph to end your cover letter. Keeping it formal and professional often assists your efforts to create a positive impression. Show gratitude and thank the hiring manager for their time. You can also add a call to action to show your interest in the role. Use formal words, such as Sincerely or Best regards, as a complimentary close and end your cover letter by adding your professional signature.

9. Proofread your cover letter

After writing your cover letter, proofread and review it to identify possible errors. Make sure the content is accurate and free from any spelling, punctuation or grammar mistakes. You can use a proofreading tool to identify and correct such errors. Asking a family member or friend to review your letter is also a great way to find mistakes that you may have overlooked. Remove irrelevant information and make your cover letter specific to the job role. When emailing it, check that you have attached the right links and files before sending.

Cover Letter Template For Computer Science Candidates

Here is a helpful template that you can use to write your cover letter:

[First name] [Last name], [Degree or certification if applicable]
[Phone number] | [Email address] | [City], [State or Union territory]
[Date]
[Company Name]

Dear [Hiring manager's first name] [Hiring manager's last name],

[Express excitement for the position, including the role title and the company name.] [Introduce yourself by explaining why you are applying for the job, how the job aligns with your career goals and what specifically draws you to the company.]

[Explain your relevant experience and qualifications without repeating what is in your resume.] [Highlight one to two relevant achievements with facts and data when possible.] [Explain why you would be a good fit for the company.] [Optional: address employment gap or career transition.]

[Express gratitude]. [Summarise qualification]. [Restate interest in the role]. [Call to action + availability and preferred contact method].

[Complimentary close],

[Signature]

Sample Cover Letter For Computer Science Candidates

Here is a sample cover letter you can use as an inspiration to write your own when applying for a role involving computer science:

Shakshi Roy, MSc in Computer Science +91 8767876766 | shakshiroy@email.com | Kolkata, West Bengal

23 January 2023

ProApps Technologies

Dear Kunal Singh,

My name is Shakshi Roy and I am a Subject Matter Expert (SME) with more than five years of experience in computer science content development and quality analysis. I am writing to express my interest in the computer science SME position at ProApps Technologies. I have mastered my skills to work on core subjects and prepare classroom materials. I received my MSc in computer science degree with 72% from a recognised university.

During my previous job as an Assistant Professor at Kolkata Technical University, I helped students learn about various technical concepts, including software development and programming languages. In addition, I believe my freelance experience as an SME makes me a good fit for this position. I have assisted several businesses in creating informative computer science lessons and courses. I used my content development skills and theoretical knowledge to publish over 100 blog posts and help readers resolve their queries. I enjoy working with different clients and professionals to create factually correct and engaging content.

Thank you for taking the time to read my cover letter and consider my application. I am looking forward to learning more about your organisation and becoming a part of this creative team. With a proven track record of content creation and valuable SME experience, my skills and credentials can be a great asset to your organisation. Please review the attached portfolio and samples to evaluate my skills.
Yours sincerely,
Shakshi Roy