Hello, future Erasmus+ participant! Yes, I’m talking to you — the one who is currently flipping through tabs looking for the perfect cover letter template as the deadline is fast approaching. We’ve been there and we know how you feel.
The honest truth about cover letters that no one has told you:
Your first paragraph will either save or bury your application. You only have 30 seconds to catch the coordinator’s attention! If your first paragraph starts with the words ‘My name is…’, close the document and start over. Seriously.
Formality does not mean boredom. Remember that teacher whose lectures you never missed? He spoke academically, but you hung on every word. That’s how your letter should read — professionally, but with a character that makes you want to read more.
‘Wall of text’ = “Thank you, next”. Have you ever seen a person’s reaction to an email without paragraphs? That’s it. Your email needs to breathe. Short paragraphs, clear transitions, logical structure. Make it a pleasure to read your email even at 8 am with an unfinished cup of coffee.
‘I want to improve my English’ is the fastest way to rejection. Every second person writes this. Every single one. Every single one. Instead, tell us about the course in international law that will perfectly complement your degree. Or about the biotechnology lab that only that university has. Details make all the difference.
Your story should be about the future, not the past. Don’t waste precious space on retelling your CV. Tell us how Erasmus+ will become a bridge between who you are now and who you dream of becoming in 5 years. It touches a nerve.
End with a bang! The last paragraph is your chance to leave a lasting impression. Tell us how you plan to apply your new knowledge not only to yourself, but also to your community, university or country.
Extra tips from an insider that work:
- Write a draft, set it aside for a day, and re-read it. Believe me, you will be surprised how many things you will want to change.
- Let a friend read it who is not shy about criticising. Your mum will say that everything is perfect – find someone who will ruthlessly emphasise your weaknesses.
- Personalise it for a specific university. Mention its values, traditions, and unique courses. It’s like using a person’s name in a conversation – incredibly effective.
- Avoid clichés like the plague. ‘Since childhood, I have dreamed of…’, “This is a unique opportunity…” — cross out ruthlessly.
- Double-check all dates, titles, and contact names. A mistake in the name of the programme and your letter is in the trash, even if the rest of the text is brilliant.
Remember that moment when you read a book to the end and thought: ‘Wow, that was awesome’? Your cover letter should give you that same feeling. It doesn’t just open the door to Erasmus+ — it shows that this door is made just for you.