Cover Letter Rubric
Initial Grade: _____ Final Grade: _____ of 75 points
A. Overall Style/Appearance _____x3=_____ 5 Cover letter is written in correct business format (information aligned to left side of page, paragraphs are single spaced with a double space in between each). Letter is addressed to an individual and has professional opening and closing. Length, font, and point size are appropriate. Document is signed. 4 Letter uses correct business format with minimal error or omission of information 3 Letter has formatting errors or is missing information 2 Cover letter may appear unprofessional 1 Cover letter lacks business format and structure B. Introductory Paragraph _____x3=_____ 5 Paragraph tells why you are contacting the person/identifies the position and mentions how you heard about the position. It is clear that the applicant researched the company. 4 Paragraph includes appropriate information; however, reader is not enticed to read further. 3 Paragraph is bland or includes information that is not important to the reader. 2 Paragraph does not identify the position you are seeking or tell how you heard about the job. 1 Paragraph missing or incomplete. C. Middle Section _____x3=_____ 5 Paragraph(s) summarize why you are a match for the company and comments are backed up by well chosen specific references. Paragraph identifies why you are interested in the job. 4 Paragraph(s) identifies some qualifications but is vague. 3 Paragraph does not relate skills to the job you are applying for. 2 Paragraph(s) do not explain your background or strengths. 1 Paragraph(s) missing or incomplete. D. Concluding Paragraph _____x3=_____ 5 Paragraph concludes with confidence. It indicates a specific information on when you will contact the company to follow up. Closing thanks reader for his/her time. 4 Paragraph concludes with confidence and indicates next steps. Paragraph may be vague. 3 Paragraph assumes reader will follow up – does not indicate next steps. 2 Paragraph does not refer the reader to a resume or mention any plan for follow up. 1 Paragraph missing or incomplete. E. Typos/Spelling Errors/Word choice _____x3=_____ 5 Quality of writing/Word choice is excellent. Letter contains no or extremely minor mechanical errors. 4 Letter contains few errors. Sentences are concise and direct. 3 Sentences may be wordy, choppy, or include awkward phrases. 2 Letter includes mechanical errors that are distracting or word choice is awkward throughout. 1 Letter is difficult to read due to word choice or mechanical errors.