Write a cover letter for a South African job application.

Four-part cover-letter structure

1. Opening: name the exact job and reference number.
2. Fit: connect two important requirements to evidence from your work, study, projects or volunteering.
3. Motivation: explain why this role and organisation make sense for you.
4. Close: thank the reader and state that your CV is attached.

Fictional example for a first job

Dear Hiring Manager

I am applying for the Junior Administration Assistant position, reference JAA-104. Through my college projects and volunteer work at a community event, I developed accurate record-keeping, email and spreadsheet skills.

For our final group project, I maintained the task register, checked submission documents and followed up before deadlines. I would welcome the opportunity to bring the same organised approach to your team while continuing to learn.

Thank you for considering my application. My CV is attached.

Yours sincerely
Nomsa Dlamini

This is fictional. Replace it with your own role, reference and true evidence.

Adjust it for your situation

• General worker: focus on reliability, safety, physical requirements and relevant practical tasks.
• Graduate: use projects, vacation work, leadership, practical modules and tools.
• Learnership: connect eligibility, motivation and evidence that you will complete both learning and workplace duties.
• Career change: name the transferable evidence and explain the move directly without apologising for it.

Send it correctly

Save the letter as PDF unless the advert asks for Word, use a clear filename, and follow the requested subject line. See how to email a job application and compare your CV with the free South African template.

Questions people ask

Is an application letter the same as a cover letter?

The terms are often used for the same short letter sent with a CV. Follow the wording and requirements in the advert.

How long should it be?

Keep it to one page and usually three or four short paragraphs.

Should I use “Dear Sir/Madam”?

Use the named contact when the advert gives one. Otherwise use a professional neutral greeting such as “Dear Hiring Manager”.

Do I need one for every job?

Send one when requested or when the application allows it and you can add useful context. Tailor it to the specific role rather than reusing a generic letter unchanged.

More free guides

Z83 form guide · How to write a CV · Free CV template · Cover letter · Interview questions · Learnerships · Salary and offers · Job-scam checks · CV vs job ad review

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The SA Job Kit includes the job market playbook, 4 editable Word CVs, cover letter frameworks, interview answers and salary scripts in Rand. See what’s inside.