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Social Work Intern Cover Letter Examples

With our social work intern cover letter examples and writing tips, you can increase your chances of landing a job interview!

Gabriela Hernandez
Written by Gabriela Hernandez
Last Updated: July 29, 2025
Social Work Intern coverletter exampleUse This Cover Letter

TABLE OF CONTENTS

  1. Free Social Work Intern Cover Letter Example
  2. Build a Strong Social Work Intern Cover Letter in Minutes
  3. How to Write a Social Work Intern Cover Letter
  4. Similar Social Work Intern Cover Letter Examples
  5. Social Work Intern Resume Examples
  6. Related Resources

Free Social Work Intern Cover Letter Example

Use this free cover letter template as a starting point. Fill in the blanks with your details and follow the instructions to write a job-winning cover letter.

Your name

[City, State ZIP Code]

[Your Email Address]

[Your Phone Number]

[Today’s Date]

[Hiring Manager’s Name]

[Company Name]

[OPTIONAL: Department Name]

[Company Address]

[City, State ZIP Code]

Dear [Mr./Ms. Hiring Manager or Recruiter last name],

This section is your opener and should contain your ‘purpose’ or interest statement that explains why you would be interested in the job posting or the company. Make sure to reference keywords and statements from the job description.

This section is your opener and should contain your ‘purpose’ or interest statement that explains why you would be interested in the job posting or the company. Make sure to reference keywords and statements from the job description.

The body paragraph (s): should contain skills and qualifications related to the job, i.e., provide a narrative example of how your job-related skills were obtained/honed. Your goal here is to match the skills to the employer’s needs. Justify how your career experiences could fit into the position and the organization.

The end paragraph: is the closer that would signify a ‘call to action’ by reiterating an essential qualification for the position you possess and an appreciation for the employer’s consideration.

Closing statement: Thank the employer/recruiter for their time.

Sincerely,

— Your Full Name

Want your social work intern cover letter to stand out more? Take advantage of our cover letter templates and customize an eye-catching cover letter.

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How to Write a Social Work Intern Cover Letter

Before you start writing your cover letter, check out the image below to understand what information to include in each section of your letter.

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Now that you've got an idea of the cover letter basics let's dive into the details of optimizing your letter to land a specific role.

STEP 1

Format your cover letter’s header correctly

Start your social work intern cover letter with a header with essential information, such as the date, recipient name and a polite greeting. This header follows the standard business letter structure and sets a professional tone.

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Strong cover letter header example:

May 09, 2025

 

Ms. Laura Mitchell, Hiring Manager

Community Action Agency

890 West Adams Street

Chicago, IL 60607

 

Dear Ms. Mitchell,

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Weak cover letter header example:

Date: 13/22/2023
To whom it may concern,
Fredrick Jackson
Phone: 555-123-9876
Email: fredrickjackson88@email.com
123 Seasame St.
Apt 10B
Brooklyn, CA 11231
Disneyland Corporation
Attention: Mrs. Simpson
987 Elm Road
Los Angeles, NY 90210

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PRO TIP

Using the recipient's name in the greeting demonstrates attention to detail and personalizes your letter. Try to avoid generic salutations like “To Whom It May Concern.“ For more options, explore our guide on addressing a cover letter when you don't know the recipient's name.

STEP 2

Introduce yourself in the opening paragraph

Introduce yourself to employers in the first paragraph of your cover letter by sharing characteristics like your current profession, key skills or any other relevant qualification. Aim to sound authentic when stating your interest in the social work intern position.

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Strong opening paragraph example:

As a recent graduate with a Bachelor's in Social Work, I am eager to apply for the Social Work Intern position at Community Care Center. My education equipped me with crucial skills in case management, particularly demonstrated when I organized a volunteer program that increased community service participation by 40%. I am motivated to contribute my passion for outreach and advocacy to your esteemed organization.

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Weak opening paragraph example:

Hi there, I'm writing to you because I'm super interested in the social work intern role at Caring Hearts Associates. I've got some experience and skills too, so I'm keen.

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PRO TIP

A great way to begin your cover letter is by sharing that a current or former employee has recommended you. Approach this topic tactfully by copying our examples of referral cover letter opening paragraphs.

STEP 3

Share relevant achievements in the body paragraph

Your cover letter's body paragraph should be chock-full of relevant achievements and skills. However, avoid repeating what you said in your resume. You can also take this opportunity to show recruiters you're a great cultural fit in the company by sharing more details about who you are as a person.

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Strong body paragraph example:

During my tenure as a volunteer at the local shelter, I effectively handled cases involving at-risk youth, increasing successful interventions by 30%. My problem-solving abilities were key in navigating complex social situations to improve client well-being. I also honed my communication skills, ensuring clear, empathetic interactions. These experiences underscore my commitment to and readiness for a social work internship at your esteemed organization.

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Weak body paragraph example:

I am interested in the social work intern role because I need experience in this field. My studies in social work have been somewhat beneficial, but I haven’t had much real practice yet. I believe if I had a chance, I could learn a lot and improve. I lack specific skills but am open to learning.

STEP 4

Finish by encouraging next steps

Finally, you'll finish your cover letter with a closing paragraph summarizing your top strengths and interest in an interview. Use a professional sign-off and sign your name. Done!

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Strong closing paragraph:

With a deep commitment to empowering individuals and a proven background in compassionate support, I am eager to bring my skills to the internship program at Hope Outreach Services. I am confident that my counseling coursework will make a meaningful impact. I appreciate your time and consideration and hope to discuss how I can contribute to your team during an interview. Thank you for this opportunity.
Best regards,
Michael Tan

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Weak closing paragraph:

I'm really interested in the social work intern position and I think I would be okay at it because I like interacting with people. If you decide I might work out for your team, I hope to hear from you soon. Thanks for considering my application.
Best wishes,
Emily

After completing this step-by-step guide, you'll be able to write a compelling cover letter for any social work intern role. However, don't waste your time with word processors like Word or Google Docs; take advantage of the pre-formatted cover letter templates and content suggestions our Cover Letter Builder offers. You'll be able to create a custom cover letter in minutes!

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Top Skills to Include in Cover Letter Examples for Social Work Intern

Your social work intern cover letter is great for sharing more relevant skills. Here are some of the most in-demand skills for a social work intern. Ensure you mention both soft skills and hard skills that show you're a well-rounded candidate.

  1. Empathy
  2. Active Listening
  3. Case Management
  4. Crisis Intervention
  5. Advocacy
  6. Cultural Competence
  1. Child Welfare Knowledge
  2. Community Resources Familiarity
  3. Client Assessment
  4. Documentation Skills
  5. Confidentiality Adherence
  6. Collaborative Work

Find more personalized content suggestions like these in our Cover Letter Builder. When you enter your job title and pick a unique writing style, the Builder will generate a custom cover letter in minutes!

Related Resources

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About the Author

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Gabriela Hernandez • CPRW, Career Advice Writer

Gabriela is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) and member of the Professional Association of Resume Writers & Career Coaches. She focuses on helping job seekers improve their professional resumes to highlight their unique skills and experience. Gabriela holds a B.A. in journalism from the University of Puerto Rico and offers more than four years of specialized experience helping candidates navigate the complexities of today’s online job market, with a strong focus on resume optimization and effective self-presentation.

Read more stories by Gabriela

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