Nursing Cover Letter Writing Guide (Examples and Tips)

A cover letter for a nursing job is crucial in showcasing your qualifications and standing out in the competitive UK healthcare landscape. Beyond being a formal introduction, a well-written cover letter is a personal narrative that complements your CV, offering a deeper insight into your skills, experiences, and genuine passion for the nursing profession. 

In this guide, we explore the significance of a cover letter in the nursing job application process, emphasising its role in conveying your unique qualities. We delve into the importance of tailoring your letter to the specific job and aligning it with your CV to present a cohesive and compelling picture of your candidacy.

Nurse cover letter example

This example of a good nursing cover letter showcases Jo Brown’s proficiency as a nurse and outlines her achievements in attaining a prominent role in the healthcare sector. This Columbia cover letter template adheres to a straightforward design, aligning with her nurse CV.

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What to include in a nursing cover letter? 

Similar to a good CV, a nursing cover letter must be tailored to the particular position you're pursuing. The structure of a cover letter is simple; make sure to include certain sections by consulting the checklist provided below:

How to start a cover letter for a nursing job

The introduction ought to serve as a brief yet impactful summary of your qualifications, reflecting the crucial aspects outlined in your CV's personal profile and relevant soft skills. This section engages the reader's attention and forms a compelling initial impression. If you are aiming for a nursing job, whether as an entry-level nurse or more specialised, make sure to clearly communicate this objective in your opening statement.

Example:

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my keen interest in the entry-level nursing position at NetCare, as advertised. Recently graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, I am eager to embark on my nursing career and contribute to the exceptional patient care provided by your esteemed institution.

For additional tips, consult our article on how to start a cover letter. 

How to write the body of a nursing cover letter 

Demonstrate your enthusiasm for the position and the company by emphasising essential skills and accomplishments from previous roles. Clearly state why you are the ideal candidate, aligning your skills, experiences, and aspirations with the specific nursing position.

For a structured approach, consider a two-paragraph body:

Example:

Throughout my academic journey and clinical experiences, I have honed essential nursing skills, including effective communication, patient assessment, and compassionate care delivery. I am enthusiastic about applying these skills to contribute to the high standards of healthcare at your institution.

In my capacity as a nursing student, I actively participated in transformative initiatives within clinical settings, showcasing a dedication to continuous improvement. Through strategic collaboration and a focus on mentorship, I aimed to foster a positive and supportive atmosphere. These efforts resulted in enhanced team morale and contributed to a measurable improvement in patient satisfaction scores.

How to end a nurse cover letter 

Conclude your cover letter by encapsulating your excitement for the position and expressing confidence in your ability to contribute significantly to the company's success. Extend gratitude for the reader's time and consideration, and finish with a professional sign-off that reflects your eagerness to further discuss your qualifications during an interview.

Example:

I am eager to bring my skills and dedication to your healthcare team, leveraging my nursing background to contribute to the outstanding patient care for which your institution is renowned. Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my qualifications align with the needs of the entry-level nursing position at your esteemed healthcare facility.

Sincerely, 

Sally Williams

How to write a nursing cover letter with no experience 

Writing a nurse cover letter with no experience can be challenging, but it's important to focus on highlighting your relevant skills, enthusiasm, and willingness to learn. If possible, draw attention to your education and any transferable skills.

Example:

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my sincere interest in the entry-level nursing position at NetCare, as advertised. As a recent graduate with a nursing degree from the University of Manchester, I am eager to contribute my skills and passion for patient care to your esteemed healthcare team.

During my academic journey, I completed rigorous coursework, gaining a solid foundation in nursing principles and healthcare practices. While my formal nursing experience may be limited, my dedication to learning, adaptability, and strong communication skills make me a well-rounded candidate for this position. I am particularly drawn to NetCare for its commitment to putting patients first, and I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team.

I am confident that my academic achievements, coupled with my passion for patient advocacy, make me a valuable candidate for the nursing role. I would welcome the chance to discuss how my skills and enthusiasm align with the needs of your healthcare facility in more detail. Thank you for considering my application.

Sincerely,

Sarah Johnson

Learn more about this in our writing guide to crafting a well-structured cover letter or refer to our healthcare CV example for more inspiration.

Key takeaways

A cover letter is not merely a document to fulfil a formality, but rather an opportunity to connect with the recruiter or hiring manager on a more personal level. By adhering to these guidelines, you can craft a good nursing cover letter, enhancing your likelihood of securing your desired position. Thorough proofreading is essential during this process to guarantee that your cover letter not only captures attention but also adeptly conveys your qualifications and passion for the job or industry.

Next steps?

We offer diverse cover letter templates and CV examples tailored to match your career goals. If you need assistance, our Writing Service can make the process easier.

FAQ 

How long should a nursing cover letter be?

A nursing cover letter should typically be one page long, concise and focused on key qualifications and experiences. Refer to how long a cover letter should be.

What kind of font should you use for a cover letter?

Use a professional and easy-to-read font, such as Arial or Calibri, in a size between 10 and 12 points. However, it does depend on the cover letter itself as well as the chosen CV example.  

What should a nursing cover letter include?

As seen above, make sure to include your contact information, a salutation, an introductory paragraph, body paragraphs highlighting relevant experiences, a closing paragraph expressing interest, and a professional closing.

How do I write a cover letter for the NHS?

Make sure to tailor the letter to the specific role and demonstrate alignment with NHS values. Furthermore, emphasise your commitment to patient care, knowledge of NHS values, and relevant experience.