You want your cover letter to strike the perfect balance between being professional and showing some personality. But how do you achieve this?
If you write too formally, your tone may come across as stiff. If you're too casual, it may sound overly conversational.
While modesty is always valued, how can you confidently present your skills without sounding arrogant or boastful?
This guide will help you find the right balance, ensuring your cover letter is both professional and personable, while focusing on the key job requirements.
Cover letter examples for finance intern
Explore additional finance intern cover letter samples and guides and see what works for your level of experience or role.
By Experience
Junior Finance Intern
- Emphasise practical experience in legal drafting and project finance, as showcased through relevant roles at Barclays and Norton Rose Fulbright.
- Highlight educational achievements and specialised training, such as the Advanced Project Finance course from the London School of Economics, to underscore a strong foundational knowledge in the field.
- Include specific accomplishments and awards, like the Drafting Excellence Award, to demonstrate recognised expertise and a proven track record in drafting project finance agreements.
- Showcase volunteer experience with Pro Bono Law Centre to illustrate a commitment to community service and enhancing access to legal services, aligning personal passions with professional responsibilities.
Senior Finance Intern
- Relevant Experience: Elsie highlights her leadership role in developing a financial education program, which showcases her capability to lead projects and drive impactful results in a strategic planning context.
- Achievements: The cover letter mentions several awards and recognitions, such as the Best Presentation Award and Dean's List, which demonstrate Elsie's excellence in strategy and communication, valuable for a Strategy & Planning Internship.
- Technical Skills: A strong emphasis on data analysis and analytics tools, such as Excel, aligns with the analytical demands of a strategy and planning role, displaying Elsie's technical proficiency and problem-solving ability.
- Strategic Insights: Experience in crafting a sales strategy that led to a significant sales increase highlights Elsie's strategic thinking and her ability to make data-driven recommendations, crucial for a planning intern position.
By Role
Finance Intern in Investment Banking
- Highlighted the "Data Analyst Certification" by the Data Science Institute, which is crucial for roles requiring precision in algorithm application and economic trend analysis, aligning with the needs of a dynamic financial setting like the New Development Bank.
- Emphasised leadership experience as a "Research Project Leader" at the Green Economy Coalition, which showcases the ability to drive community engagement and influence policy changes, critical for sustainable development initiatives.
- Included experience in coordinating seminars and workshops, enhancing students' understanding and experts' engagement in sustainability, which demonstrates effective communication skills and the ability to reach a diverse audience.
- Pointed out participation in the "Sustainable Finance" course at the London School of Economics to underline the ability to integrate environmental considerations into financial practices, which is particularly pertinent to the New Development Bank's mission.
Finance Intern for Non-Profit Organisations
- Tailored Skills: The cover letter effectively highlights relevant skills such as spreadsheet analysis, database management, and communication skills, which are crucial for a finance role in an arts organisation.
- Industry-Specific Education: Arthur mentions his education in Accounting and additional courses like "Introduction to Nonprofit Accounting," demonstrating a robust understanding of fiscal management in arts settings.
- Practical Experience: The cover letter showcases practical experience as a Finance Volunteer and Event Coordinator, detailing achievements like increasing event profitability and attendance, which are vital metrics for success in such roles.
- Passion for Arts and Community: Arthur’s passion for integrating finance with performing arts and his involvement in community projects reflect a genuine interest in contributing to an arts organisation beyond just a financial perspective.
Finance Intern in Retail Industry
- Clearly Defined Role Title: The candidate uses a clear and specific role title – "FP&A Professional | Budgeting & Analysis Enthusiast" – to indicate the focus and sector of their expertise, which makes it easy for the reader to understand the candidate’s professional background and goals quickly.
- Specific Achievements and Impact: The cover letter highlights quantifiable achievements, such as reducing overhead by 15% and enhancing precision by 20% in financial forecasts, which provides concrete evidence of the candidate's impact and effectiveness in prior roles.
- Relevant Skill Set: Skills like "Microsoft Excel," "SAP," and "Financial Analysis" are prominently mentioned, aligning with a Financial Planning & Analysis professional's expectations and ensuring that the candidate meets technical requirements of the role.
- Certifications and Continuous Learning: The inclusion of specific courses like "Financial Modelling and Forecasting" and "Project Accounting for Cloud Environments" demonstrates the candidate’s commitment to keeping skills current, which is valuable for a field that relies on up-to-date analytical methodologies and technologies.
Finance Intern in Healthcare Sector
- Highlight relevant certifications such as the Certified Financial Modelling & Valuation Analyst (FMVA), emphasising expertise in financial modelling, valuation, and complex analysis critical for financial analysis roles.
- Underscore significant achievements like the coordination of major financial workshops and optimising financial processes, showcasing leadership and impact in financial education and operational efficiency.
- Emphasise strong analytical and communication skills by detailing experience in advising students on budgeting strategies and managing volunteer teams, which align with the necessary competencies for financial analyst roles.
- Illustrate passion for financial innovation and healthcare by citing previous experience and interests that demonstrate a commitment to using data-driven insights for strategic decision-making and community impact.
Finance Intern for Corporate Sector
- Emphasise your role as a Workshop Leader and Course Facilitator, showcasing your teaching and training experience, which is essential for an Associate Consultant Trainer position.
- Highlight your achievements in Financial Modelling and Valuation, such as being a "Financial Modelling Champion" and your professional certification, which underscore your expertise and passion.
- Include your initiative in developing and implementing educational content and innovative tools, demonstrating your ability to enhance learning experiences and engagement.
- Mention your volunteering experience with the Finance Foundation, illustrating your commitment to expanding financial education and community engagement.
Finance Intern in the Public Sector
- Highlight the specialised certification in Azure AI Engineer Associate by Microsoft, emphasising readiness for advanced AI-driven cloud solutions.
- Emphasise experience in leading AI/ML projects and facilitating workshops that showcase practical skills in managing diverse teams and enhancing technology adoption.
- Showcase achievements in enhancing data processing efficiency and increasing technology engagement, demonstrating tangible impacts on project success.
- Underpin the cover letter with a clear passion for Machine Learning and Sustainable Technology, aligning personal interests with industry trends.
Finance Intern in Manufacturing Industry
- Highlighting the completion of the 'Advanced Financial Modelling' course from the Corporate Finance Institute demonstrates expertise in financial projections and valuations, essential for the Financing & Debt Management role.
- Showcasing experience in securing additional funding through lender relationships effectively emphasises the candidate's commercial acumen and ability to enhance financial resources.
- Detailing achievements in cost reduction and improved project timelines underlines critical skills in efficiency and resource management, key for advancing projects within the EV and renewable sectors.
- Emphasising voluntary involvement as a Community Finance Educator reflects a strong commitment to enhancing financial literacy, aligning well with the commitment to sustainable and community-centred initiatives.
Finance Intern in Real Estate
- Relevant Experience: Highlighting experience as a Volunteer Coordinator and Student Project Manager showcases strong organisational skills, leadership capabilities, and familiarity with coordinating and executing projects, which are essential for a Customer Success Specialist role.
- Education and Certifications: The Bachelor of Science in Business Management and the Certificate in Property Management demonstrate a solid educational foundation and specialised knowledge, aligning with the property technology sector.
- Technical Skills: Professed skills in data analysis and Microsoft Office, as well as designing a database system, underline the candidate’s capability to utilise technology effectively, a key component in the role.
- Achievements and Awards: Notable achievements like the Student of the Year Award and Volunteer Leadership Award highlight a strong track record of success and recognition, underscoring dedication and impact in previous roles.
Finance Intern in Technology Sector
- Relevant Internships: The cover letter effectively highlights practical experience as a Start-Up Financial Analyst and Tech Ecosystem Researcher, demonstrating direct relevance and hands-on knowledge within the investment sector, particularly in tech environments.
- Specific Skillset: Key skills such as Financial Analysis, Market Research, and Data Modelling are prominently listed, underscoring expertise critical to the Investment Analyst role.
- Academic Background: The Bachelor's degree in Finance from a UK university presents a solid academic foundation, complemented by specific courses enhancing financial data modelling and technology ecosystem analysis capabilities.
- Achievements and Certifications: Notable achievements like the Student Investment Challenge Winner and certifications from respected institutions effectively showcase initiative, excellence, and a commitment to continuous learning pertinent to investment activities.
Finance Intern in Energy Sector
- Highlight Relevant Experience: The cover letter emphasises roles directly applicable to the job, such as the Data Analysis Collaborator and Energy Systems Research Assistant, showcasing Alice's proven track record in the energy sector.
- Certification and Education: Referencing courses like "Machine Learning for Energy Systems" and "Advanced Python for Data Analysis" demonstrates continuous learning and technical proficiency, essential for a Data Analytics Engineer role.
- Proficiency in Tools and Languages: Skills in Python, MATLAB, and R are prominently featured, illustrating the candidate's versatility and ability to manage complex data-driven tasks within energy systems.
- Passion and Volunteering: By including volunteer work and passions in renewable energy, the cover letter communicates a dedication to sustainability and a commitment to industry advancements, aligning with the values of potential employers in the energy sector.
Finance Intern in Insurance Industry
- Role-Specific Experience: The cover letter effectively highlights relevant roles, such as the Finance Project Leader, that directly demonstrate skills essential for a finance position, showcasing leadership and analytical ability.
- Technical Skills: It mentions proficiency in Python and Excel, which are critical tools for data processing and financial analysis, adding value to technical competency.
- Achievements and Recognition: By listing accolades such as the Financial Forecasting Competition Winner and Student Leadership Award, the cover letter establishes credibility and competence in finance-related pursuits.
- Passion and Interests: Incorporating interests like Financial Technologies and Data Analytics indicates a proactive approach to staying updated with industry trends, displaying a keen interest in continued learning and innovation.
Finance Intern in Consulting Firms
- Relevant Experience: Emphasising previous roles like 'Financial Analysis Project Lead' and 'Research Assistant - Financial Markets' that directly relate to the financial and analytical responsibilities of a Banking Sectors Intern.
- Educational Background: Highlighting the 'Bachelor of Science in Economics' from the University of Sheffield underscores a solid foundation in relevant concepts and theories integral to the role.
- Skills and Tools: Demonstrating expertise in financial modelling and spreadsheet proficiency will resonate well with financial firms seeking analytical precision and technical capabilities.
- Specific Achievements: Mentioning accolades like being 'Awarded Top Contributor in Economics Research' adds a layer of credibility and distinction to the application.
Finance Intern in Hospitality Industry
- Emphasising specialised certifications such as the "Treasury Management Certification" with the Association of Corporate Treasurers underscores expertise in global cash management, which is crucial for a Treasury Intern.
- Highlighting involvement in projects like the "Successful Transition to New Treasury System" demonstrates the candidate's ability to adapt and integrate new systems efficiently, an essential skill in a dynamic financial environment.
- Showcasing teamwork and leadership through roles such as "Leader of Undergraduate Finance Competition" illustrates strategic thinking and teamwork capabilities, important for collaborative roles in finance.
- Discussing experience in resolving banking queries quickly, as seen in the Treasury Management Volunteer role, reflects strong communication skills and problem-solving capabilities.
Finance Intern for Startups
- Highlighting the "Investment Operations Certificate" from the Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment can demonstrate specialised knowledge in operational finance, crucial for a Financial Operations Specialist role.
- Emphasising experience in "ESG reporting" and completion of "Advanced ESG Strategies" course illustrates a commitment to sustainability, aligning with industry trends and expectations in the financial sector.
- Focusing on achievements such as "Spearheaded Fundraising Analysis" and "Enhanced Report Efficiency" showcases a history of surpassing targets and improving operational processes, valuable traits for strategic financial roles.
- Mentioning volunteer work as a "Financial Literacy Program Facilitator" underlines skills in communication and education, indicating the ability to engage stakeholders and simplify complex financial concepts.
Finance Intern in E-commerce
- Highlighting Experience in Team Coordination: Experience as a Team Coordinator at ASOS, boosting team efficiency and ensuring smooth communication, aligns well with the organisational aspects of an Executive Assistant role.
- Emphasising Analytical Skills: Demonstrated ability to gather and analyse data, as seen in the role with Alibaba Group, is crucial for strategic initiatives and decision-making processes.
- Showcasing Bilingual Proficiency: Fluency in English and Chinese supports effective communication, valuable in global e-commerce contexts.
- Recognising Relevant Academic Background: Pursuing a Bachelor's in Business Management, alongside e-commerce certification, offers a strong foundation for strategy and business roles.
Finance Intern in Agriculture Sector
- Robust Experience: Demonstrates significant experience in coordinating and volunteering for research projects, which is crucial for the role of Research Analyst.
- Relevant Education: Holds a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science, aligning closely with the research and analytical requirements of climate finance and sustainable agriculture.
- Proven Analytical Skills: Highlights proficiency in data analysis and advanced tools like Microsoft Excel, SPSS, and QGIS, essential for data-driven decision-making in this field.
- Effective Communication: Emphasises written and verbal communication skills, showcasing abilities in report preparation, stakeholder engagement, and educational content creation.
Finance Intern in Entertainment Industry
- Highlighting the experience in volunteer coordination showcases leadership and organisational skills, valuable for a Revenue Transaction Specialist role where managing resources and teams is crucial.
- Mentioning the Certified Excel Specialist certification reinforces technical proficiency, which aligns with the financial and data management aspects of the role.
- Emphasising customer service excellence reflects a commitment to fostering positive customer interactions, an essential aspect for enhancing business relationships and revenue processes.
- Showcasing achievements in communication programs indicates the applicant’s ability to improve team collaboration and information dissemination, vital for effective finance coordination.
Finance Intern in Pharmaceutical Industry
- Emphasising relevant experiences such as the role as a Supply Chain Data Analyst at Linde Group, where specific achievements in data analysis and process improvements are highlighted, showcases hands-on expertise in the field.
- Including courses like "Supply Chain Data Analytics" and "Excel for Supply Chain Management" that directly align with the desired role demonstrates ongoing commitment to skill enhancement and relevance to the industry.
- Highlighting specific accomplishments, such as the "Data Analytics Award" and "Excel Hackathon Winner," provides concrete evidence of proficiency and success in data analysis and supply chain optimisation, making the candidate stand out.
- Integrating passions related to the field, such as "Environmental Sustainability" in supply chains, shares personal motivations aligning with industry trends and organisational goals, adding a dimension of personal commitment to professional pursuits.
Finance Intern cover letter example
Charlie Thomas
Glasgow, UK
+44 1234 567890
help@enhancv.com
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to express my interest in the Finance Internship opportunity at your esteemed organization. With a robust academic background in Accounting & Finance from the University of Glasgow and a proactive role in leading financial initiatives on campus, I am keen to bring my quantitative skills and analytical prowess to your team.
During my tenure as Treasurer at the Glasgow University Students' Representative Council, I managed a budget exceeding £100,000 and implemented a new ledger system that enhanced our financial reporting speed by 25%. This achievement is a testament to my ability to apply strategic thinking and excel proficiency to real-world financial challenges. Additionally, my leadership in the Finance Club, where I spearheaded a virtual stock portfolio, resulted in returns surpassing the market average by 10%.
I am eager to leverage my experience in finance and budgeting alongside my passion for sustainable investing in contributing effectively to your team. I would be grateful for the opportunity to discuss how my skills align with your department's goals. Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to the possibility of an interview.
Sincerely,
Charlie Thomas, Aspiring Finance Intern
The key to this cover letter’s success:
- Mention specific achievements and quantifiable results, such as managing a significant budget and improving financial reporting speed, to demonstrate practical experience and effectiveness in similar roles.
- Highlight relevant leadership experiences, such as leading a finance club or project, to showcase initiative and ability to drive successful outcomes in a team setting.
- Align personal interests with the company's goals, such as sustainable investing, to demonstrate a genuine interest in the organization’s initiatives and align with its values.
Importance of cover letters in the United Kingdom
Cover letters are a vital part of professional job applications, helping shape recruiters' first impression of your profile.
Here’s why they’re important:
- Indicates your genuine interest: A well-researched cover letter reflects your knowledge of the company and role.
- Professionalism from the outset: Employers expect your cover letter to be structured, polite, and formal. If you wish to add a more personalised touch, be sure to address your recipient directly.
- Capture the recruiters' attention: For most roles, candidates tend to have rather similar experience, which is why you should use your cover letter to explain what is unique about your profile.
What UK employers expect from a cover letter
A great cover letter can set you apart when applying for jobs in the UK.
Follow these tips to ensure you make a strong impression:
- Research thoroughly: Spend time delving into the company’s website, social media, and industry news to understand their projects, awards, and future plans. The more specific your knowledge, the better you’ll be able to demonstrate your suitability for the role.
- Reflect their values: Every UK company has its own set of values that guides their culture. Once you’ve identified them, make sure your cover letter reflects how your values and work ethic align with theirs. If they’re known for integrity, emphasise your commitment to ethical practices.
- Tailor your skills: Focus on aligning your most relevant skills with the job description. Look for key terms and priorities mentioned in the advert, and make sure to provide examples of how you excel in those areas.
How to format a finance intern cover letter
Before diving into the content, the structure of your cover letter should include the following elements:
- Your address and contact details
- The employer’s name and address
- Date
- Salutation or greeting
- Opening or introductory paragraph
- Middle or body paragraphs
- Closing paragraph
- Sign-off and signature
When it comes to the best font choice, consider modern options like Lato, Rubik, Raleway, Volkhov, Chivo, or Bitter as alternatives to Arial or Times New Roman.
Your cover letter should be single-spaced, with approximately 1-inch (2.5 cm) margins all around (our templates are set up automatically with this spacing in mind).
Ensure your CV and cover letter use the same font for consistency, and always send them as a PDF to prevent edits and maintian formatting.
Lastly, while Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS—the software used to match your application to set requirements) won't read your cover letter, recruiters certainly will, so make sure it stands out.
How to write your finance intern cover letter salutation
Imagine you're a hiring manager reading through countless cover letters—which would catch your attention: being addressed directly by name, or reading 'Dear Sir or Madam'?
The first option shows you've made the effort to learn about the company and the role.
To find the hiring manager's name, try LinkedIn, check the company's website, or even reach out to the organisation on social media.
How to write your finance intern cover letter intro
It's never a bad time to show enthusiasm about the role, company, or team in your cover letter introduction.
Begin by sharing one or two aspects that genuinely excite you about the position—whether it's the company culture, specific responsibilities, or the team's past achievements.
Your enthusiasm demonstrates that you'll bring a strong work ethic, are eager to contribute, and are motivated to succeed.
Cover Letter Intro
As a dedicated finance student with a keen interest in sustainable investment, I am drawn to the opportunity for a finance internship at [Company Name], particularly inspired by your commitment to integrating ethical practices within your investment strategies.
RIGHT
How to write your finance intern cover letter body
As you reach the body of your cover letter, you might wonder what to write in it.
Our advice? Don’t just copy your CV—choose your greatest achievement and tell its story.
Focus on how you got there using hard and soft skills, describe your involvement, and quantify the results with concrete outcomes.
Remember, recruiters aren’t looking for an epic tale of your career—they want something concise, relevant, and directly addressing their needs.
Cover Letter Body
During my penultimate year at university, I embarked on a project where I successfully led a team of peers in a simulated investment challenge. This experience was part of a financial markets module, and it required strategic decision-making skills and analytical prowess. My team was tasked with managing a virtual portfolio of £500,000, and through a combination of risk assessment and market analysis, we achieved a portfolio growth of 12% over six months—outperforming the runner-up by 5%.
The challenge allowed me to hone my quantitative analysis skills, as I took the lead in evaluating potential investments using various market indicators and financial models. Moreover, my role involved presenting our strategy and results to a panel of industry professionals, which strengthened my ability to communicate complex financial concepts effectively. This achievement not only marked one of the top performances in the module but also reinforced my passion and commitment to a career in finance, as I witnessed the tangible results of our analytical efforts.
RIGHT
How to write a closing paragraph
When ending your cover letter, you have two options:
Option one is to promise how you’d contribute to the organisation—whether that’s improving a target or achieving a specific goal—or how the company could help you grow professionally. Always emphasise the tangible impact you can deliver.
The second option is to close by asking when you can expect to hear back from the hiring managers, whether for an update or to arrange an interview.
Cover Letter Closing
In conclusion, I am eager to bring my analytical skills, academic knowledge, and enthusiasm for finance to your esteemed company as an intern. I am confident that my dedication and passion will make a valuable contribution to your team. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss my candidacy further and am available for an interview at your earliest convenience. Thank you for considering my application; I am looking forward to the possibility of discussing how I can contribute to your team.
RIGHT
Conclusion
Your cover letter is an opportunity to showcase your personality and skills to potential employers. Start by addressing the hiring manager by name and tailoring your content to reflect the role’s requirements.
Include a specific example of your greatest achievement to illustrate your suitability for the position, while also expressing your enthusiasm for the company. Remember to format your letter professionally, ensuring it aligns seamlessly with your CV.
